Tomichan Matheikal's blog

The Taj Mahal seen through the wall of the Agra Fort. Through the prison of the heart. For a historical story of mine related to the Mughals and their horrifying ways: http://matheikal.wordpress.com/2010/05/29/the-saga-of-a-warrior/

Baba Ramdev, Anna Hazare, thousands of their supporters (i.e., thousands of Indians) are demanding a corruption-free India, corruption-free politics in the country. How many of these thousands of Indians trying to save the country from corruption have paid bribes to get their job done?  Is paying bribe an act of helplessness?  Or is it an act of convenience? The above cartoon is from The Hindu [11 June 2011]. The Sunday Magazine of the same issue of The Hindu carries an article by Harsh Mander on the cover. Mander tells the story of a young DM who tried to rid his district of corruption.  He faced staunch opposition from the politicians of all levels including the local sarpanches.  Finally when he was about to win his war, he was transferred and all his efforts were scuttled. You can read Mander's article here: http://www.thehindu.com/arts/magazine/article2090149.ece Corruption is deeply rooted in the Indian psyche, in the collective unconscious of the country. ...

When we climbed back to the top of the hill we were met by a young boy who offered us a peep at the Kanchenjunga Peak through his telescope.   The charge was Rs10 per peep.   I must add that his telescope was indeed of good quality; the glory of the Kanchenjunga came alive through its lenses.   For the full text please log on to http://matheikal.wordpress.com/2011/06/08/mamata-in-action/

The Kanchenjunga as seen from the top of a tea garden in Darjeeling For the text on this: Please log on to http://matheikal.wordpress.com/2011/06/08/mamata-in-action/