The Style Whisperer: Transforming Wardrobes, Transforming Lives
Rise of Oyindrila Ray Ghosh
By Rameez Makhdoomi
In the world of fashion, few roles are as critical as that of a stylist. Fashion stylists are responsible for
creating looks that turn heads, define trends, and make celebrities stand out. Rameez Makhdoomi
chats with Oyindrila Ray Ghosh, India’s top celebrity fashion stylist who has made a name for herself
in an industry that millions can only dream of being a part of.
From being a two time TEDxSpeaker, fashion designer, influencer, columnist, marketing and branding
expert to having India’s top Bollywood stars and entrepreneurs as clients, Oyindrila is a force to reckon with in the fashion industry.
From humble beginnings in New Delhi, Oyindrila has always had a passion for fashion from a young
age.Oyindrila’s journey to success was not easy, and she had to start from the bottom as an outsider
with contacts in the fashion industry working her way up. However, her hard work and dedication paid
off, and today, Oyindrila is a celebrated fashion stylist, known for her signature style and ability to
create unique and eye-catching looks. Her clients include some of the biggest names in the Indian entertainment industry and global luxury, fashion and lifestyle brands.
Oyindrila’s approach to styling is all about bringing out the individuality of her clients. She aims to utilise the power of fashion and style not only to transform wardrobes but also enhance her client’s
personality, confidence and life. She works closely with each of her clients to understand their
personality, style, and preferences, and creates looks that reflect their unique identity.
Oyindrila’s work has been featured in numerous magazines and publications, and she has won
several awards for her work in the fashion industry. She has also become a role model for young
women who aspire to make it in the fashion world, inspiring them with her journey to making it in a
competitive industry like fashion.
One of Oyindrila’s most notable achievements was her work with Bollywood actress Mouni Roy for an
ad campaign. The looks created were praised by fans and the actress looked like a princess in every
outfit.
When asked about her secret sauce to be a successful celebrity stylist, she also emphasises on the
importance of listening to her clients and working closely with them to create looks that they feel
confident and comfortable in.
Oyindrila is constantly pushing the boundaries of fashion and styling with her unique perspective. Her
talent, drive, and passion has made her a sought-after stylist in the industry. Oyindrila’s future looks
bright, and she shows no signs of slowing down. There is no doubt that Oyindrila will continue to be a
force to be reckoned with in the world of fashion and an inspiration to youngsters from outside the industry you aspire to make it in the world of fashion.
What is more important and what life purpose lies in ?
The people have lost the meaning and purpose of life and have devoted themselves towards an artificial life. Life means to be authentic and real, all the time to spread love and compassion towards others. Life is to explore the beauties and besties protect the natural laws to induce positivity and harmony in the world. Life is dynamic, practical and also not permanent, everyone in this world has to die which is the ultimate truth. People live their lives as they have never to leave this world. The cruelty is at peak in the world. No body cares about human rights violations. It is the time where human has no value, everyday thousands and thousands innocent are being killed around the globe. This can never be the purpose of life to live like.
As we see the current global situation which is worst in all circumstances you can see wars and others illegal, legal conflicts causes innocent killing, illegal harassment as live example Afghanistan, Palestine, Seria, Ukraine and many other countries involve in spreading international terrorism across the globe.
In life ethics is very important and we lack ethics in today’s education system. Practically if we see there is no one institution in the world who is genuinely working on ethical principles, Moral obligations etc. This is one of the important aspect which encourages the morality and humanity into thinking ideologies to live in peace. People have lost their ethical and moral characteristics. The concept of oneness is no where existing in the world. This is the peak time of inhumanity and injustice going on around the globe.
A common man everywhere is suffering; lets do individual approach to work on spreading love and compassion to recover peace and prosperity around the globe. It becomes the responsibility of every individual to recognise their responsibilities and follow on them continuously and aware others about the same. Life purpose meets up when you talk humbly and take care of all around you. There are people who worship and assume themselves as patrons of God, the political and Religious leaders such arrogance has to be shunned and true love promoted.
But in real sense they are owls to destroy the garden. The real meaning lies in service to humanity.
The biggest problem is people think only about themselves. They don’t care about others. To create a we feeling among the general public is very important issue to save this world before it is too late. We are one and will serve as one will fight as one will grow as one is the actual purpose to save humanity and natural laws. Collectively we can change and can bring a positive impact to build a strong and prosperous Nations.
Life is a precious gift of God and a beautiful small journey. Live it the fullest and enjoy the beauty and Nature around you. Respect and help everyone in need without expecting anything in return. Begin to spread love and compassion around you. Life is very short no one has to live forever, Do what God allows you to do and forbid what God denies to do.
Syed Irfan Hashmi a Freelance Journalist & Socio-Political Activist appeal all Global Leaders, common masses kindly look of the situation around the globe and do the needful to save humanity and morality principles which are daily being murdered without any hindrance. Be the ambassadors of peace spread love and compassion to prevail peace and harmony in the world.
Let’s together build a green and prosperous world all around. Let’s protect our earth. Let’s change our thoughts to change the world with love, peace and harmony.
The power of the Indian democratic system manifests in our Parliament, which weathered the Indian freedom struggle from colonial rule and witnessed many historical milestones. The existing building served as independent India’s first Parliament and witnessed the adoption of the Constitution of India. Thus, conserving and rejuvenating the rich heritage of the Parliament building is a matter of national importance.
An icon of India’s democratic spirit, the Parliament building sits at the heart of the Central Vista. India’s present Parliament House is a colonial-era building designed by British architects Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, which took six years to construct (1921-1927). Originally called the Council House, the building housed the Imperial Legislative Council. The Parliament building witnessed the addition of two floors in 1956 to address the demand for more space. In 2006, the Parliament Museum was added to showcase the 2,500 years of rich democratic heritage of India. The building had to be modified to a large extent to suit the purpose of a modern Parliament.
“India is the mother of democracy. It is also the foundation of global democracy. Democracy is our ‘Sanskaar’, idea & tradition,” Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi has said in his first address from India’s new Parliament building on May 28, 2023 in a ceremony which began with an early morning havan and multi-faith prayer ceremony.
Earlier, PM Modi installed the sacred ‘Sengol’ in the Lok Sabha chamber, right next to the Speaker’s chair, after performing puja. He was handed over the historic ‘Sengol’ by Adheenams before it was installed by the prime minister in the new Parliament building.
After initial deliberations about the shape of the building, a circular shape was finalised by both the architects, Herbert Baker and Sir Edwin Lutyens as that would give the feel of a colosseum design for the Council House. It is popularly believed that the unique circular shape of the Chausath Yogini temple in Morena, (Madhya Pradesh) had inspired the design of the Council House, though there are no historical proofs for this.
The Parliament House building construction was started in 1921 and commissioned in 1927. It is almost 100 years old and a Heritage Grade-I building. Over the years, the parliamentary activities and the number of people working therein and visitors have increased manifold. There is no record or document of the original design of the building. Therefore, the new constructions and modifications have been done in an ad-hoc manner. For example, two new storeys constructed in 1956 over the outer circular part of the building hid the dome of the Central Hall and changed the facade of the original building. Further, the coverings of Jaali windows have reduced the natural light in the halls of two houses of the Parliament. Therefore, it is showing signs of distress and over-utilization and is not able to meet the current requirements in terms of space, amenities and technology.
The present building was never designed to accommodate a bicameral legislature for a full-fledged democracy. The number of Lok Sabha seats has remained unaltered at 545 based on the delimitation carried out on the basis of 1971 Census. It is likely to increase substantially after 2026 as the freeze on total number of seats is only till 2026. The seating arrangements are cramped and cumbersome, with no desks beyond the second row. The Central Hall has seating capacity only for 440 persons. When the Joint Sessions are held, the problem of limited seats amplifies. Due to limited space for movement, it is also a huge security risk.
Over the period addition in services like water supply lines, sewer lines, air conditioning, fire-fighting, CCTV, Audio Video system, which were not originally planned, have led to seepages and destroyed the overall aesthetics of the building. The fire safety is a major concern as the building is not designed according to the present fire norms. Numerous new electric cables have been put up which are potential fire hazard.
The new building is triangular in shape, mostly because the plot of land that it is built on is a triangle. According to architect Bimal Patel, the shape is also a nod to the sacred geometry in different religions. Its design and materials are meant to complement the old Parliament, with the two buildings expected to function as one complex.
The new Parliament building has three storeys and a built-up area of 64,500 sqm. The Lok Sabha chamber will have 888 seats, up from the existing 543, with the option of expanded seating up to 1,272. The Lok Sabha will be used for joint sittings of both Houses in the absence of a Central Hall, which was the fulcrum of the old building.
The building has three ceremonial entrances on three sides for the President, the Vice-President, the Lok Sabha Speaker and the Prime Minister. The entrance for the public, including visitors for the Parliament tour, is likely to be on Parliament Street, near the Press Trust of India building, where a temporary reception has been functioning throughout the construction period.
Built using green construction techniques, the new building is supposed to reduce electricity consumption by 30 per cent, compared to the old one. Rainwater-harvesting and water-recycling systems have been included. It has been designed to be more space efficient, and meant to function for the next 150 years, according to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
As per building codes, since Delhi is in seismic zone-V, the building is primed to be earthquake-safe. While arguing against the legal challenges to the project, the government had said the existing Parliament building was at risk from earthquakes.
The new Lok Sabha chamber has a peacock theme, with designs drawn from the national bird’s feathers carved on the walls and ceiling, complemented by teal carpets. The Rajya Sabha chamber has been decorated with the lotus as its theme, with red carpets. In both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, two MPs will be able to sit on one bench and each MP will have a touch screen on the desk.
The Rajya Sabha chamber can accommodate 384 Members of Parliament (MPs), as opposed to the existing capacity of 250. The increased capacity of both chambers is meant to cater to any future increase in the number of MPs following delimitation.
For the interior and exterior of the building, construction materials have been brought in from across the country, including sandstone from Sarmathura in Dholpur and granite from Lakha village in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Similarly, the wood used in the decor is from Nagpur and craftsmen from Mumbai have led the wooden architecture design. Bhadohi weavers from Uttar Pradesh have made the traditional hand-knotted carpets for the building.
The 16-foot-tall bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi, which has been the site of numerous protests and gatherings by MPs and photo-ops for students, will remain on the lawn between the old and new buildings. The statue, which was installed at the main entrance of the Parliament in 1993, was shifted during construction. Made by Padma Bhushan-awardee sculptor Ram V Sutar, the statue now faces the old building, near the entrance used by the Lok Sabha Speaker.
The building is replete with national symbols, including the national emblem — the Lion Capital of Ashoka — that weighs 9,500 kg and is 6.5 metres in height, and is visible from a distance. To support this massive bronze sculpture, a structure of 6,500 kg was constructed on top of the central foyer. At the entrance, the Ashoka chakra and the words ‘Satyameva Jayate’ have been carved in stone.
Before being selected as the site for the new Parliament building, the 9.5-acre plot opposite the old Parliament House was earmarked for “recreational use” in the Delhi Masterplan 2021. While it was supposed to be developed as a park, in reality the site was used for parking and to house utilities for the Parliament complex. The Delhi Development Authority changed the land-use of the plot to “Parliament House” in March 2020.
When the G20 summit is held in Kashmir for the very first time in May of 2023, people from all over the world will be there to witness this historic event. This momentous event is going to provide a forum for the leaders of the world to discuss and find solutions to the challenges that face the entire world. Additionally, it is going to emphasize the grandeur and potential of the region. Because of Kashmir’s deep cultural past and breathtaking natural surroundings, tourism has always been an important economy in the region. The gathering of the G20 will provide an opportunity to draw attention to the natural beauty of the area and to promote the region’s potential as a tourism destination. After many years of upheaval, the summit will help attract attention to the efforts that the people of Kashmir have been making to repair their lives and their economy. These efforts include rebuilding their homes and their businesses.
The fact that the G20 summit will be held in Kashmir is indicative of the region’s growing geopolitical significance, not only within the region but also throughout the world. When the people of Kashmir attend the summit, they will have the opportunity to engage in conversation with individuals from all over the world and to present the diverse customs, practices, and history that are unique to their region. The world’s leaders will have the opportunity to discuss and find solutions to a variety of global concerns at the summit, including climate change, poverty, and inequality. In order to find solutions to the most pressing issues that the international community is currently confronted with, the leaders of the most significant economies in the world are going to get together in Kashmir. The meeting will take place on April 17
In addition to this, the fact that the G20 summit will be hosted in Kashmir will provide the economy of the region a significant boost, which is something that was not previously mentioned. The presence of delegates and journalists from all over the world in Kashmir will be beneficial to the promotion of the region as a destination for tourism, business, and investment. The people of Kashmir will stand to gain from these fresh opportunities, which will also make a contribution to the region’s economy and ensure that it continues to expand. The fact that Kashmir will serve as host to the G20 meeting will help to dispel the unfavorable stereotypes that are typically associated with the region. The summit will play an important role in bringing to light the rich culture of the region, as well as the peaceful coexistence of its several distinct communities and the region’s potential to become a hub for innovation, education, and technology. The decision to hold the G20 summit in Kashmir symbolizes a critical turning point in history and offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase the grandeur and potential of the region to the rest of the world. The summit will bring together the leaders of the world in order to discuss and find answers to the challenges that are now plaguing the entire world. In addition, the summit will open up new doors of opportunity for the people of Kashmir. This significant event will help debunk the unfavorable stereotypes associated with the region and will demonstrate the potential of the region as a centre for innovation, education, and technology.
World University of Design organises First International Sculptors Symposium
Delhi 28 Marchh: World University of Design organised the First International Sculptors Symposium, presenting 10 Artist (3 International Artist and 7 Indian Artists) along with 10 Young sculptors as assisting artists from reputed art universities of Jamia Millia Islamia, Delhi College of Art, and Chandigarh University. Entitled “TATTVA” the International Sculptor Symposium is curated by Prof Rajan Shripad Fulari, Dean, at the School of Visual Arts, WUD, Sonipat. The event started from Tuesday, March 14th to Tuesday, March 28th, 2023.
TATTVA is one of its own kind of symposium which aims to bring art of sculpture close to the public.
As part of this Symposium, ten sculptors, Including some senior sculptors from Indian Contemporary Scenario, are stationed at WUD Campus from different parts of India and the world. The sculpture’s creation in the symposium will be exhibited on the university campus and open to the public for interaction and dialogue. This opportunity will be of great interest for students to have firsthand experience to learn in person.
TATTVA is an element or aspect of reality conceived as an aspect of deity, forming the basis of human experiences. Tattva is also an inseparable part of Indian philosophy with various schools of thought defining it in their own way. Further in context with Indian philosophy of TATTVA is also fundamental in bringing together the five elements in nature through Visual Arts and Sculptures being one of its forms. Keeping the sculptural tradition in India and arriving at new idioms in Contemporary Art is an attempt at WUD with this first International Sculptors Symposium.
The symposium opened on March 14th, 2023, with WUD Vice Chancellor Prof (Dr) Sanjay Gupta as the Chief Guest. Reaffirming the role of Art and how it touches lives of those around it, Prof Gupta said, “Art and Design connects the social fabrics in context with day today life which even crosses boundaries, and makes people curious to explore and deal closely with new avenues. This International Sculptors Symposium will be aligned on the same lines.”
TATTVA aims to bring together artists from different countries including India so that an exchange of ideas, conversation and dialogue can take place and provide an active opportunity to WUD students to make the most out of it, which is in line with university’s orientation in the years to come. This opportunity will provide a platform to artists participating to develop networks, exchange perspectives, understand use of different mediums, learn and exchange different techniques and most importantly build friendships and open doors for further collaborations.
Participating Sculptors and their profiles from India and Abroad includes Mr. Adwaita Gadanayak from Odisha, (Director General, NGMA), Ms. Canan Zongur from Turkey, Ms. Ana Maria Aurelia from Romania, Mr. Luka Radojevic from Montenegro, Mr. Tutu Pattanair from Delhi, Mr. Tridip Dutta from Assam, Mr. Robin David from Madhya Pradesh, Mr. Prashanta Mukherjee from Delhi, Mr. Vishal Bhatnagar from Chandigarh and Mr. Bolla Srinivasa Reddy from Telangana.
1. Adwaita Gadanayak: Adwaita Gadanayak was born and brought up in Neulapoi village of Dhenkanal district in Odisha. Gadanayak pursued art education from BK College of Arts and Crafts and completed his masters from Delhi Art College. Gadanayak also studies art at Slade School of Fine Arts in London. He is a celebrated sculptor and received many awards: National Lalit Kala Akademi Award in 1993; Odisha Lalit Kala Akademi Award in 1999 etc. The sculptor’s most famous projects include Gandhi’s Dandi March statue in Rajghat, Police memorial in Delhi, Subhash Chandra Bose and also his works have found place in London as well. Gadanayak served as Director General of National Gallery of Modern Art.
2. Ana Maria Aurelia Negara: Ana Maria Negara born on August 9, 1984, in Braila, Romania, she get a PhD in visual arts at the University of Arts “George Enescu” University with the thesis “Tradition and modernity in contemporary sculpture”, and she made a master class sculpture (2008-2010) after a B.Sc. (2008), with the same specialization at the “University of Arts” George Enescu “Iasi, Romania. In 2010, Ana Maria was admitted as a member of the” Union of Professional Artists (UAP) in Romania. Ana is a well acclaimed sculptor internationally.
3. Bolla Srinivasa Reddy: Srinivasa Reddy obtained his Diploma in Sculpture from the College of Fine Arts, JNTU (now JNAFAU), Hyderabad followed by a Post Diploma in the same at Faculty of Fine Arts, M S University of Baroda. He is the recipient of Junior Fellowship by the Government of India, and National Award by Lalit Kala Academi. He has successfully exhibited his works in many galleries in India and abroad over the last few decades. Well known as sculptor in Contemporary Indian Art and profound teacher.
4. Canan Zongur:Canan is highly commended and sought after as a sculptor for her public art works in stones. She has had an outstanding career as a teacher following formal study in art and sculpture. She has a doctorate from The Institute of Fine Arts at the DokuzEylül University, Turkey where she specialised in studies of the shaping of stone in 20th-century sculpture. Currently she is Professor of Fine Art at Ordu University, Turkey. Here Sculptures can be seen in various institutes in India too.
5. Luke Raojevic: Luke has an international art career as sculptor. He started from his hometown in Montenegro, and he continued to create and participate in art events worldwide. Joy of combining different materials and styles challenged him to make attractive and intriguing sculptures. Endless inspiration he finds in history, religion, science, love, Beside individual projects, he made several cycles of artworks which are called: “Trinity, Time, The secret of Jerusalem and Homo sapiens”. His sculptures found placement in many public areas, private properties, and business spaces.
6. Prashanta Mukherjee: Prasanta born – 1959 at Jamshedpur, India. He did his B.F.A. Sculpture in 1988 and also M.F.A. Sculpture in 1990 both from M.S.U. Baroda, India. He has been part of many national and international workshops. Also a recipient of many Scholarships, received a Fulbright Fellowship in 1999. Fellowship from Kanoria Center for Arts, Ahmedabad, India. 1990-1991 Study Grant From TISCO, India for doing post-graduation in sculpture, 1988-1990. Prashanta is also associated with various educational institutes in teaching assignments being a wonderful sculptor and teacher.
7. Robin David: Robin David is a renowned name among contemporary sculptors who played an important role in reviving the importance of sculpture in Madhya Pradesh. Robin David, who has been associated with the establishment of Bharat Bhawan, Bhopal, the multi art centre. David has made his invaluable contribution in establishing the international identity of this multicultural institution. Considered to be one of the pioneer artists in conducting various international sculptures symposium across India.
8. Tridib Dutta: Tridib Dutta is an Indian sculptor known for his innovative and contemporary approach to sculpture. He completed his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Sculpture from the Government College of Arts and Crafts, Assam. Tridib Dutta is a highly respected and influential figure in the Indian Art World, known for his unique and innovative contributions to the field of sculpture. His works are highly regarded for their unique style and exceptional craftsmanship. He continues to create art that reflects his love for nature and his passion for sculpting being based in the remote area of Jorhat in North-East.
9. Tutu Pattnaik: Tutu Patnaik is a Indian sculptor very well known across the world for his monumental sculptures. He completed his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Sculpture from the Faculty of Visual Arts at Banaras Hindu University. He went on to pursue a Master of Fine Arts degree in Sculpture from Delhi College of Art. Pattnaik is known for his innovative sculptural techniques and styles. The most acclaimed sculptures can be seen in various institutes around the world.
10. Vishal Bhatnagar: Vishal Bhatnagar youngest among all is a renowned Indian sculptor who is known for his exceptional artistic skills and unique approach to sculpture. Bhatnagar pursued his education in sculpture at the Government College of Art in Chandigarh, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. He then went on to obtain a post-graduation degree in sculpture from I.K.S. University Khairagarh, where he further honed his artistic skills. His sculptures are often characterized by their intricate details and intricate designs.
About World Design University (WUD) is India’s first university dedicated to educating students in the creative domain of Art and Design. Seated in the heart of the educational hub of India – Rajiv Gandhi Education City, Sonipat, Haryana – WUD plays the role of a harbinger of a revolution in the education system in India. It is the torchbearer of breaking stereotypical educational patterns and has facilitated the shift of studies pertaining to design from being solely vocation-oriented to academic-oriented; thereby offering substantiated degrees (under section 2(f) and 22(l) of the UGC Act) to its students instead of mere diplomas and certificates.
Established in 2018, World University of Design is a young university offering a myriad of programmes at undergraduate, post graduate and doctoral levels across disciplines like Architecture, Design, Fashion, Communication, Visual Arts, Performing Arts & Management. Equipped with the largest portfolio of design courses in India, the university offers a number of cutting-edge programs in computers & design, transportation design, animation & game design, UI/UX, film & video, built environment & habitat studies, design management, art education, curatorial practice etc.(KNB)
Poverty has several consequences, which can differ in scope for residents of developed and developing countries. The outcome of poverty can be more severe for certain social groups within a society.
• The social consequences of poverty include family issues, impacts on social and cultural lives, and higher rates of crime and victimisation.
• The economic consequences of poverty are a lack of social mobility, problems with housing and homelessness, and a segregated society.
• Poverty can negatively impact health in a number of ways.
• Child poverty can have serious consequences on children’s education and development.
Poverty is one of the calamities that Allah swt has decreed should happen, either to a specific person or a family or a society. Poverty has negative effects on people’s beliefs and conduct. Immoral behaviour becomes widespread to a large extent because of poverty, as a means of meeting people’s needs, so theft, murder, zina and sale of haraam things become widespread.
Undoubtedly these things have a negative effect on individuals and societies.
Allah swt tells us that some of the mushrikeen used to kill their children, the apples of their eyes, either because of the poverty in which they were living or for fear of poverty that might befall them. Allah swt says of the first case (interpretation of the meaning):
“kill not your children because of poverty — We provide sustenance for you and for them” [al-An’aam 6:151]
And He says of the second case (interpretation of the meaning):
“And kill not your children for fear of poverty. We shall provide for them as well as for you. Surely, the killing of them is a great sin” [al-Isra’ 17:31]
In al-Saheehayn there is narrated the story of a woman of the Children of Israel who, when she needed money and felt under pressure, she could not find anyone but her paternal cousin who wanted to have his way with her in return for giving her money. Then Allah swt saved her from that after she reminded him of Allah swt and told him to fear Him.
Whatever the case, it is well known that poverty leads to crimes and corruption. Many nations suffer from it and are looking for solutions to this problem, but to no avail, and there is no solution except in Islam, which brought rulings for all people until the Hour begins.
Secondly:
The means that have been prescribed by Islam to solve the problem of poverty and combat it are as follows:
1 – Teaching people to believe truly that provision comes from Allah swt and that He is the Provider (al-Razzaaq), and every calamity that Allah swt decrees is for a reason, and that the poor Muslim should be patient in bearing his calamity and strive to relieve himself and his family of poverty.
Allah swt says (interpretation of the meaning):
“Verily, Allah swt is the All Provider, Owner of Power, the Most Strong” [al-Dhaariyaat 51:58]
“And no moving (living) creature is there on earth but its provision is due from Allah swt. And He knows its dwelling place and its deposit (in the uterus or grave). All is in a Clear Book (Al Lawh Al Mahfooz — the Book of Decrees with Allah swt)” [Hood 11:6]
“Who is he that can provide for you if He should withhold His provision? Nay, but they continue to be in pride, and (they) flee (from the truth)” [al-Mulk 67:21]
“And indeed We have honoured the Children of Adam, and We have carried them on land and sea, and have provided them with At Tayyibaat (lawful good things), and have preferred them above many of those whom We have created with a marked preferment” [al-Isra’ 17:70]
It is because of these beliefs that a man should bear with patience whatever befalls him of the calamity of poverty, and turn to Allah swt alone in seeking provision, and accept the decree of Allah swt, and strive to earn a living.
It was narrated that Suhaib al-Roomi (may Allah swt be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allah swt (peace and blessings of Allah swt be upon him) said: “How wonderful is the situation of the believer, for all his affairs are good. If something good happens to him, he gives thanks for it and that is good for him; if something bad happens to him, he bears it with patience, and that is good for him.” Narrated by Muslim (2999).
Allah swt says (interpretation of the meaning):
“Truly, your Lord enlarges the provision for whom He wills and straitens (for whom He wills). Verily, He is Ever All Knower, All Seer of His slaves” [al-Isra’ 17:30].
Ibn Katheer (may Allah swt have mercy on him) said:
The words of Allah swt “Truly, your Lord enlarges the provision for whom He wills and straitens (for whom He wills)” tell us that He, may He be exalted, is the Provider, the Withholder and the Bestower, Who deals with His creation as He wills. He grants independence of means to whomsoever He wills and makes poor whomsoever He wills, with wisdom in that. Hence He says “Verily, He is Ever All Knower, All Seer of His slaves” i.e., He knows and sees who deserves to be rich and who deserves to be poor.
In some cases wealth may be a means of letting people get carried away in sin and poverty may be a punishment. We seek refuge with Allah swt from both. Tafseer Ibn Katheer (5/71).
2 – Seeking refuge with Allah swt from poverty.
The Sunnah relates to us what the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah swt be upon him) used to do and what he taught his ummah to do, which is seeking refuge with Allah swt from poverty, because of the effect that it has on a person, his family and his society.
It was narrated that Muslim ibn Abi Bakrah said: My father used to say following every prayer: (O Allah swt, I seek refuge with You from disbelief, poverty and the torment of the grave), and I used to say them too. My father said: O my son, where did you get this from? I said: From you. He said: The Messenger of Allah swt (peace and blessings of Allah swt be upon him) used to say that following every prayer.
Narrated by al-Nasaa’i (1347); classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Nasaa’i.
It was narrated from ‘Aa’ishah (may Allah swt be pleased with her) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah swt be upon him) used to say in his prayer: (O Allah swt, I seek refuge with You from sin and heavy debt).” Someone said to him: “How often you seek refuge from heavy debt!” He said: “When a man gets into debt, he speak and tells lies, and he makes a promise and breaks it.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari (832) and Muslim (589).
3 – Encouragement to work and earn a living, and to travel in the land to seek provision.
Allah swt says (interpretation of the meaning):
“He it is Who has made the earth subservient to you (i.e. easy for you to walk, to live and to do agriculture on it); so walk in the path thereof and eat of His provision. And to Him will be the Resurrection” [al-Mulk 67:15]
“Then when the (Jumu‘ah) Salaah (prayer) is ended, you may disperse through the land, and seek the Bounty of Allah swt (by working), and remember Allah swt much, that you may be successful” [al-Jumu’ah 63:10]
It was narrated from al-Miqdaam (may Allah swt be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah swt (peace and blessings of Allah swt be upon him) said: “No one ever eats any food better than that which he has earned with his own hands. The Prophet of Allah swt Dawood (peace be upon him) ate that which he earned with his own hands.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari (1966).
It was narrated from al-Zubayr ibn al-‘Awwaam (may Allah swt be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah swt be upon him) said: “If one of you were to take a rope and bring firewood on his back and sell it, thus preserving his dignity, that is better for him than asking of people who may give to him or withhold from him.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari (1402).
4 – Making zakaah obligatory on the wealth of the rich
Allah swt has granted the poor a share of zakaah, which is to be given to the poor to keep, and is to be given until he becomes independent of means and is no longer poor.
Allah swt says (interpretation of the meaning):
“As-Sadaqaat (here it means Zakaah) are only for the Fuqaraa’ (poor), and Al Masaakeen (the poor) and those employed to collect (the funds); and to attract the hearts of those who have been inclined (towards Islam); and to free the captives; and for those in debt; and for Allah swt’s Cause (i.e. for Mujaahidoon — those fighting in a holy battle), and for the wayfarer (a traveller who is cut off from everything); a duty imposed by Allah swt. And Allah swt is All-Knower, All-Wise” [al-Tawbah 9:60]
“And those in whose wealth there is a recognised right
25. For the beggar who asks, and for the unlucky who has lost his property and wealth (and his means of living has been straitened)” [al-Ma’aarij 70:24, 25].
5 – Encouragement to give charity, set up waqfs and sponsor orphans and widows
Allah swt says (interpretation of the meaning):
“So keep your duty to Allah swt and fear Him as much as you can; listen and obey, and spend in charity; that is better for yourselves. And whosoever is saved from his own covetousness, then they are the successful ones” [al-Taghaabun 64:16]
“and whatsoever you spend of anything (in Allah swt’s Cause), He will replace it. And He is the Best of providers” [Saba’ 34:39]
“And whatever good you send before you for yourselves (i.e. Nawaafil — non obligatory acts of worship: prayers, charity, fasting, Hajj and ‘Umrah), you will certainly find it with Allah swt, better and greater in reward” [al-Muzzammil 73:20]
It was narrated that ‘Adiy ibn Haatim said: I heard the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah swt be upon him) say: “Whoever among you can shield himself against the Fire, even with half a date, let him do so.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari (1347) and Muslim (1016).
It was narrated that Sahl ibn Sa’d said: The Messenger of Allah swt (peace and blessings of Allah swt be upon him) said: “I and the one who sponsors an orphan will be like this in Paradise” – and he gestured with his forefinger and middle finger, holding them slightly apart.
Narrated by al-Bukhaari (4998). Muslim (2983) narrated a similar report from the hadeeth of Abu Hurayrah.
It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah said: The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah swt be upon him) said: “The one who strives to help widows and the poor is like the one who strives in jihad for the sake of Allah swt and the one who prays at night and the one who fasts during the day.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari (5038) and Muslim (2982).
6 – Prohibition on riba (usury), gambling and deceit in selling
Allah swt says (interpretation of the meaning):
“O you who believe! Fear Allah swt and give up what remains (due to you) from Ribaa (from now onward) if you are (really) believers.
279. And if you do not do it, then take a notice of war from Allah swt and His Messenger but if you repent, you shall have your capital sums. Deal not unjustly (by asking more than your capital sums), and you shall not be dealt with unjustly (by receiving less than your capital sums)” [al-Baqarah 2:278-279]
“O you who believe! Intoxicants (all kinds of alcoholic drinks), and gambling, and Al Ansaab (stone altars for sacrifices to idols etc) and Al Azlaam (arrows for seeking luck or decision) are an abomination of Shaytaan’s (Satan’s) handiwork. So avoid (strictly all) that (abomination) in order that you may be successful” [al-Maa’idah 5:90]
It was narrated from Abu Hurayrah that the Messenger of Allah swt (peace and blessings of Allah swt be upon him) passed by a pile of foodstuff; he put his hand in it and found that it had gotten wet. He said, “What is this, O seller of the foodstuff?” He said: It got rained on, O Messenger of Allah swt. He said: “Why don’t you put it on top of the food so that people can see it? Whoever deceives (people) does not belong to me.” Narrated by Muslim (102).
That is because if these things are done and become widespread among people, it means that some are taking people’s wealth unlawfully, and people may lose all their wealth because of them. Hence the texts clearly forbid them.
7 – Encouragement to help the needy and support the weak
It was narrated that al-Nu’maan ibn Basheer said: The Messenger of Allah swt (peace and blessings of Allah swt be upon him) said: “The likeness of the believers in their mutual love, mercy and compassion is that of the body; when one part of it is in pain, the rest of the body joins it in restlessness and fever.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari (5665) and Muslim (2586).
It was narrated from Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allah swt be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah swt (peace and blessings of Allah swt be upon him) said: “He is not a Muslim who eats his fill when his neighbour goes hungry.” Narrated by al-Bayhaqi in al-Shu’ab (9251) and by others. Classed as hasan by al-Albaani.
In Muwatta’ al-Imam Maalik (1742) it is narrated from Yahya ibn Sa’eed that ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab met Jaabir ibn ‘Abd-Allah swt who was carrying some meat with him. He said: What is this?
He said: O Ameer al-Mu’mineen, we desired meat so I bought some meat for a dirham.
‘Umar said: Would one of you want to fill his belly apart from his neighbour or his cousin? What don’t you pay heed to the verse “You received your good things in the life of the world, and you took your pleasure therein” [al-Ahqaaf 46:20]?
In conclusion: This is a brief look at poverty, which points to some of its bad effects. The Muslim knows that poverty and richness, and whether things are given to one or withheld, are all subject to the decree of Allah swt. So he bears hardships with patience when they come, and he thanks Allah swt, may He be exalted, for good times when he finds them. But he is required to work and seek to earn a living so as to relieve himself and his family of poverty. But if someone is unable to do that because of health reasons or problems in his land, then Islam relieves him of poverty by means of zakaah and charity that are given by the rich. This is the share of their wealth that the poor are entitled to.
Environmental Pollution; Death Staring us in the Face
By Syed Mustafa Ahmad
In today’s world, there are many burning issues like poverty, human rights violations, global warming, green house effect, environmental pollution, etc. But here, I will discuss about the environmental pollution. It can be defined as the addition of some unwanted substances in the environment, which are harmful for both living and non living. It is not a recent phenomenon but it is the process of many centuries. The previous decade witnessed some of the hottest years of the century. It is visible in the decreasing of the ground water level in India, flooding of many areas, the bushfires of Australia, the melting of glaciers in the fragile Himalayan region, the thinning of ice cover in Antarctica, the extinction of species, the vulnerability of species, the huge storms, the spreading of deadly diseases, etc. If this is the situation, then what are the causes responsible for this global problem. Let us try to know more about this.
First is industrialization. The heavy machinery creates havoc in the environment. The chimneys produce the toxic gases. The effluents or the hot waters from the industries go into the seas. They destroy the ecosystem of the marine life, which eventually disturb the ecological stability or balance of the environment. Moreover, the other wastes produced by the industries are dumped without any scientific watch. In Delhi, the dumping site is as big as a mountain. It kills animals, human beings, spreads diseases, wastes energy, litters the landscape, etc. In our valley, we also witness the same situation. There is no planning on the part of the government to decompose the wastes in a scientific manner.
Second is deforestation. Deforestation results in rain deficiency on the one hand and droughts on the other hand. It is being reported that a large part of the Amazon forests is cleared due to continuous felling of trees. In our valley, the smugglers are hand in glove with the government in looting our precious resources. Everyday we come across the news that smugglers are caught red-handed in this and that part of the valley. It has given rise to the loss of the habitats of the wild animals. The end result is the human-wild conflict. Overall, the continuous felling of trees has brought a lot of harm to the environment. Trees keep the ecological balance of the environment. When they are cut ruthlessly, there are cent percent chances of environmental pollution.
Third is the continuous rise in the plying of vehicles on the already narrow roads. Every day, new vehicles appear playing on the roads. First, the roads are not so wide to drive comfortably. The result is that many lives are lost. The fuel used in the majority of vehicles is non-renewable. It means that it won’t last forever. Moreover, these vehicles produce the toxic gases that disturb the environment on the large scale. Acid rain is a good example of this. Slowly and steadily, the ground is prepared for the environmental pollution.
Fourth is that we waste energy. The bulbs are on without any purpose. The taps drip through out the day and night. The vehicles are washed with the drinking water. The engines of the vehicles are not stopped at the red light. Food is wasted on most of the functions. Mobile phones are on without any purpose. The televisions and radios are running day and night without any listeners. Refrigerators, washing machines, vacuum cleaners, etc., are on without any real purpose.
Last is that we are unaware about the importance of the environment. We take things for granted. We don’t have such kind of mindsets that may help us to ponder over the diversities in the environment. We never bother to respect the endowments bestowed upon us by the Creator of the universe. We come to senses when it is too late. This approach of ungratefulness is very dangerous. It is necessary to have compassion towards the environment. It pays and will pay if we remain little bit diligent.
A lot of damage has been done. Now, there is need to carry out the mission of the real construction. We have to remain careful in not destroying the environment further. There is an urgent need of this mindset. We can’t be so complacent. Let us pledge that every person at his or her individual level will try his or best to protect the environment.
Naveen Patnaik (born 16 October 1946) is an prominent politician of India serving as the current and 14th Chief Minister of Odisha. He is among the iconic leaders of India. He is also the President of the Biju Janata Dal, a writer and has authored three books. He is the longest-serving chief minister of Odisha and as of 2023, one of the longest-serving chief ministers of any Indian state, holding the post for over two decades, and only the third Indian chief Minister after Pawan Chamling and Jyoti Basu to win five consecutive terms as Chief Minister of an Indian state.
He is Chief Minister of Odhisa since 23 years and destined to be longest Chief Minister of India.
His life is full of accolades and noteworthy accomplishments which make him one of the tallest figures of India.
Patnaik was born on 16 October 1946 in Cuttack to Biju Patnaik, former Chief Minister of Odisha, and his wife, Gyan Devi .He was educated at the Welham Boys’ School in Dehradun, and later The Doon School.At Doon, he was a classmate of Sanjay Gandhi and three years junior to Rajiv Gandhi, who later became prime minister.After school, he went to the St. Stephen’s College of Delhi University, and obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Naveen Patnaik is iron man of Odhisa and India. He has also an intellectual mind of par excellence.
Patnaik is a writer and had for the most part of his youth been away from both politics and Odisha, but after his father Biju Patnaik’s demise, he entered politics in 1997 and a year later founded the Biju Janata Dal, named after Biju Patnaik, which won the state election with the BJP as its alliance and formed the government in which Patnaik became Chief Minister. His mild mannerism, “Stand against corruption” and “Pro-poor policies” have resulted in the development of a huge support base in Odisha, which has voted him to power in the last five consecutive terms. Like his father, he has managed to control the bureaucracy and transformed it into a machine for the development of the state.
His Honest, dedicated spartan personal lifestyle and detachment from material possessions has been liked by the people of the state.He is also one of the founding members of Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage.His elder sister is the writer Gita Mehta.
Undoubtedly, Naveen Patnaik is towering personality of India under whose leadership Odhisa has transformed into oasis of development.
Under his great leadership,
each one of the 4.5 crore Odias is the catalyst of change.
Naveen Patnaik is synonym of progress and prosperity.
Hosting of the prestigious Men’s Hockey World Cup in Odisha for the second time, industrialisation and attracting investment, growth of self-help groups, ST transformation, Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana, KALIA, Millet mission and other initiatives of the state government under great leadership of Naveen Patnaik are applauded by one and all.
He has bagged prestigious awards and global recognitions. The United Nations in 2019, complimented Naveen for his government’s proposal of reserving 33% of seats for women in the National Parliament as well as in the state’s Legislative Assembly.
Naveen Patnaik is undoubtedly the precious diamond of Indian politics.
The suicide rate in Kashmir is increasing with each passing day. In the past week, four cases of suicide have been reported across the Kashmir valley. A study done by one of the government agencies claimed that around 127 people died by suicide in the Kashmir valley in last 16 or 18 months. The data by the State Disaster Response Force reveals that 365 attempts of suicide were recorded. Out of them , 238 survived after taking extreme steps.
The media report on which the commission took suo-moto cognizance mentioned that 20,000 people have attempted suicide due to the socio-political turmoil in the Valley. About 3,000 of them have died and most of them were in the 16- 25 age group.
Other report mentions that 575 cases of suicide attempts have been admitted in the SMHS Hospital alone . In the entire State, at least one suicide is recorded every alternate day and there is hardly a hamlet or mohalla that has been untouched by more than one incident of suicide attempts. Quoting a psychiatrist, the report said that the incessant violence in the valley has devastated the psyche of the Kashmiris and stress-related diseases have grown manifold across the social spectrum, driving people mostly youngsters increasingly to suicide.
Most suicidal individuals give warning signs or signals of their intentions. The best way to prevent suicide is to recognize these warning signs and know how to respond if you spot them. If a friend or family member is suicidal, you can play a role in suicide prevention by pointing out the alternatives, showing that you care, and getting a doctor or psychologist involved.
Major warning signs for suicide include talking about killing or harming oneself, talking or writing a lot about death or dying, and seeking out things that could be used in a suicide attempt such as weapons and drugs . These signals are even more dangerous if the person has a mood disorder such as depression or bipolar disorder , suffers from alcohol dependence and previously attempted suicide or has a family history of suicide. All must come forward in preventing suicides. It is a challenge and it needs to be dealt with proper guidance. Doctors feel that awareness among youngsters need to be increased across the Kashmir valley. Doctors also say that there is a suicide contagion that needs to be prevented.
Marriage is one of the most pious and highly revered occasion across the cultures and faiths, a mystical union of souls that binds together two people for the entire life. But owing to the variegated intrusions it has witnessed is more of a concern in the current times. Are we losing the plot? Kashmiri wedding traditions are unique. There are several things which makes Kashmiri wedding traditions quite distinctive from the traditions of other communities. However, this holy union has underwent swath of changes and its essence is fading at fast pace. Arrange & engage in cooking delicious meals ‘wazwaan’ but it should be simple as possible. Don’t add unimportant things to it in order to show dignity & shower impression on other. These things get noticed all the time & are put before one & other in a more complex way as ‘demand’. Dowry, being one of them is a necessary social evil. To get hitched is good but why to hiccup others. These given utmost attention & preference are nothing but ‘Biddah’ (unnecessary increments). Which results in trauma to parents & suicidal bag for others. We should care about the other members of society. In a society, we live in interdependence and any change favouring vague will automatically force every single individual to go with it. However, exceptions can’t be termed out. On a positive note, two souls can interpret and preferably can change two families without wasting time & notes.
A Bond defining Togetherness and Tradition Marriage ceremony is an important social duty performed by the families and it takes shape in presence of huge social gatherings. Plenty of people are invited in the dinner parties by the families of both bride and groom by strictly following rituals from the pre-wedding to post wedding ceremonies. Starting with matching the horoscope of the bride and the groom (sitaar). Our people stress on checking the compatibility between the family of the bride and the groom, check the backgrounds of each other’s family, reputation and status (Family Tree). Most likely a Middle man/woman fixes the dates of the wedding after matching the horoscopes and then the two parties agree to go with it. After that several steps are followed in the pre-wedding period like Vaana, Livun, Wanwun, Manzirat, Duribat,Devgon etc.
Vaana: Vanna is formal engagement or commitment ceremony that takes place after the two parties agreed to form the alliance. Vaana takes place in front of an idol, which is followed by the meeting of parents and other elderly persons from the family of bride and the groom. The two parties meet in a temple and exchange flowers that symbolizes the formalization of the ceremony. The bride’s family invite the groom party for a meal that comprises traditional Kashmiri food. Cash, dry fruits, candies and a pot containing nabad (misri) is sent by the bride’s family to the groom’s house.
Livun: Cleansing of the houses of both the bride and the groom before wedding. The participation of all female members in the Livun is customary.
Wanwun: It is the next part of the pre-marriage rituals and is held a few days before wedding. Wanwun are actually music sessions that are held every evening at both and are attended by the relatives and neighbours of both sides. However, these things are now-a-days not being performed at some hard religious followers. Message is spreading but it will take time to make people concisely conscious.
Maanziraat: The ceremony that take place a day before the wedding is the most depressing night, full of futile activities. All nonsensical things are performed that night. Further, coming on the ceremony, it begins with krool khanun, a ceremony for decorating the main entrance of both the houses. Then an elaborate bathing of the bride, then ‘henna’ or ‘maanz’. Women are invited in the ceremony and are served special Kashmiri meals & kehwa with saffron.
Apart from these the other parts of Kashmiri wedding traditions in the pre-marriage session include; Bariyan, sending of thaals, sending of phool ka gehna (ornaments made of flowers), mehendi (decoration of Bride’s hand, palm and feet with Mehndi), Diugun, Sanzvaru and Devgon. These things are really burden on a poor family. A poor girl rejects marriage proposals because of these factors. This type of marriage system in Kashmir has become a hell of fire. People wedded through such ceremonies rarely last for years. They only sow poison for other fellows and also in person end with the same fate – living dead.
Reviving the Charm again
Then, it comes to the reception of baarat; the groom and his party by the bride’s family, First, Vidai: (the farewell of bride from her home) and then welcoming the newly-weds at groom’s house. The newly wedding is also followed by some post-wedding rituals like, Satraat, Phirlath, and Roth Khabar. On a lighter note, these things make no sense in real sense. They only add burden to the poor families. This is the cause ‘love marriages’ are preferred over ‘arranged’ one’s viz. court marriages etc. to avoid extra time consumption in fixing dates and other futile deals. “Baje kore henz czhopei gye ankaar”- but marriage is a commitment (solid union). What I want to say is that, “get married but let always way open for other’s & never try to show off.” Please carry your daughter or son’s marriage in a social way, leaving a moral print for others to follow. Arranging feasts & squandering all along is letting us all down. Simply trying to be simple won’t be a problem.
