Monday, August 27, 2012

Changing times....

1. The new horizon.

Finally, official clearance has been given for helicopter services to the Sabarimala pilgrim. If everything goes right, the services will commence this upcoming season. I suppose it'll not be too long for the pilgrims' progress on the proposed rope way too! Such steps were stonewalled in the past by vested interests fearing that it would be a dead give away of the man made 'makarajyothi' seen in the direction of 'ponnambalamedu' hill in the vicinity, on the first day of the Malayalam month of 'Makaram'.

What the naysayers didn't realise all these years and wisdom seems to have now dawned on them is that Lord Ayyappan, the deity, does not require gimmicks to sustain his popularity among the millions of pilgrims! The new facilities would definitely ease the congestion on the roads but one needs to wait and watch as to when the entire system would be set in place.

For the purists, of course, it's a retrograde step. In their opinion, a 'darshan' of the Lord should only be after the mandatory 45 days of abstinence and prayer, followed by the long trek of almost 50 kms through Erumeli!


2. Adieu Neil Armstrong.

On 21 Jul '69, the moon came into our backyard when Neil Armstrong set foot on it with his famous words, "A small step for man, but a giant leap for mankind". Over the years, he'd reiterated that he was misquoted and what he'd actually said was, "A small step for a man, but a giant leap for mankind". What actually had shown through was the man's humility despite his great achievement because he was only too aware that the feat could be pulled off thanks to the collective efforts of the scores of scientists and technicians who worked round the clock to convert 'dream' to 'reality'.

And it also showcased man's quest of knowledge and his curiosity to unravel the unknown!

RIP Neil Armstrong, you shall be remembered by the entire world and by generations to come for being the chosen one to step foot on the moon, first! My humble prayers for a hero.


3.  Adieu AK Hangal saab.

A frail man who epitomised the grandfather, father and uncle through the numerous roles that he'd donned on the silver screen. I, for one, can never forget his grieving visage in 'Sholay' - the blockbuster of all times!

He'd gotten into the tinsel world when he was 50 but quietly plodded on with singular dedication and love for his work, notching up an impressive body of work despite advancing age and the attendant vagaries. It's indeed sad to know that he died penniless and that his pride did not permit him to seek help from the others. People of his stock are dwindling and very rare to find.

RIP Hangal saab, you shall always be remembered for your dedication to work. My humble prayers. 

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