“বাজলো তোমার আলোর বেণু”--- শুভ মহালয়া

When Life has you feeling Down, Keep these Words in Mind...

Severe earthquake rocks Sikkim, 18 killed

A severe earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter Scale rocked Sikkim on Sunday evening resulting in at least 18 deaths and injuries to several others. The epicentre of the quake was 64 km from Gangtok in Sikkim, causing major damages in the area.

Seven people have been killed in Sikkim and five people are reported dead in Nepal. Two persons were reportedly killed in Nalanda and Darbhanga districts of Bihar, out of which one died in a stampede following the tremors. Four persons were also reported dead in Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri and Siliguri in West Bengal. Officials say that at least 33 people are reported to have been injured.

The casualty figures are expected to rise as reports from the smaller villages and towns of Sikkim pour in.

The earthquake struck on Sunday at 6:10 PM and tremors were felt in many parts of Bihar including the state capital, Patna, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh also. Mild tremors were also felt in Delhi and other parts of North India.

Aftershocks measuring 6.1 and 5.3 on the Richter Scale were also felt around Sikkim 20 minutes after the earthquake.

Speaking to CNN-IBN, the DGP of Sikkim said that many buildings were damaged. He also said that roads were blocked and people were stranded on roads. He said that Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Chamling has called for an emergency meeting.

Arvind Kumar, Principal Resident Commissioner of Sikkim, said that there was excessive damage in the northern parts of Sikkim. He also said that the rescue operations had started in the area.

There were also reports of landslides following the earthquake in areas around Sikkim and also Darjeeling. Two major landslides have been reportd from Sikkim's capital, Gangtok cutting off the Naitonal Highway. Several duildings have also been damaged in Gangtok.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh also spoke to the Sikkim Chief Minister and offered all help. The Prime Minister also directed Cabinet Secretary Ajit Seth to call for an emergency meeting.

There were reports of damages from Bihar and West Bengal too. Two buildings collapsed in Katihar in Bihar. The NTPC power plant in Kahalgaon in Bihar has also been shut down because of the earthquake following which North Bihar was under power crisis.

Mobile connectivity has also been affected in the quake-hit areas.

Severe damage is expected in areas of Nepal adjoining Sikkim. Parts of the wall of the British Embassy in Nepal have collapsed due to the earthquake in Sikkim.

Two Indian Air Force aircraft have been sent from Hindon to Bagdogra while one aircraft has been sent from Palam. One aircraft from Kolkata has left for Bagdogra with personnel of National Disaster Rescue Force along with all equipment. They will be taken from Bagdogra to Gangtok by road which is being facilitated by BSF and West Bengal Government.

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police has launched search and rescue operations in Pegong area of north Sikkim which has been "badly affected" with two ITBP buildings also collapsing after the state was rocked by the earthquake. The 9th NDRF battalion based in Bihta, Bihar has been requisitioned for relief work in Sikkim.

The helpline number for West Bengal is 033-22143230.

Getting Over A Break Up...!!!

If you've just had a break-up and are feeling down, you're not alone. Just about everyone experiences a break-up at some point, and many then have to deal with heartbreak — a wave of grief, anger, confusion, low self-esteem, and maybe even jealousy all at once.

Millions of poems and songs have been written about having a broken heart and wars have even been fought because of heartbreak.

What Exactly Is Heartbreak?

Lots of things can cause heartbreak. Some people might have had a romantic relationship that ended before they were ready. Others might have strong feelings for someone who doesn't feel the same way. Or maybe a person feels sad or angry when a close friend ends or abandons the friendship.

Although the causes may be different, the feeling of loss is the same — whether it's the loss of something real or the loss of something you only hoped for. People describe heartbreak as a feeling of heaviness, emptiness, and sadness.

How Can I Deal With How I Feel?

Most people will tell you you'll get over it or you'll meet someone else, but when it's happening to you, it can feel like no one else in the world has ever felt the same way. If you're experiencing these feelings, there are things you can do to lessen the pain.

Here are some tips that might help.

Let It Out

• Share your feelings. Some people find that sharing their feelings with someone they trust — someone who recognizes what they're going through — helps them feel better. That could mean talking over all the things you feel, even having a good cry on the shoulder of a comforting friend or family member. If you feel like someone can't relate to what you're going through or is dismissive of your feelings, find someone more sympathetic to talk to. (OK, we know that sharing feelings can be tough for guys, but you don't necessarily have to tell the football team or your wrestling coach what you're going through. Talk with a friend or family member, a teacher, or counselor. It might make you more comfortable if you find a female family member or friend, like an older sister or a neighbor, to talk to.)
• Don't be afraid to cry. Going through a break-up can be really tough, and getting some of those raw emotions out can be a big help. We know this is another tough one for guys, but there's no shame in crying now and then. No one has to see you do it — you don't have to start blubbering in class or at soccer practice or anything. Just a find a place where you can be alone, like crying into your pillow at night or in the shower when you're getting ready for the day.

Be Kind to Yourself

• Remember what's good about you. This one is really important. Sometimes people with broken hearts start to blame themselves for what's happened. They may be really down on themselves, exaggerating their faults as though they did something to deserve the unhappiness they're experiencing. If you find this happening to you, nip it in the bud! Remind yourself of your good qualities, and if you can't think of them because your broken heart is clouding your view, get your friends to remind you.
• Take good care of yourself. A broken heart can be very stressful so don't let the rest of your body get broken too. Get lots of sleep, eat healthy foods, and exercise regularly to minimize stress and depression and give your self-esteem a boost.
• Do the things you normally enjoy. Whether it's seeing a movie or going to a concert, do something fun to take your mind off the negative feelings for a while.
• Keep yourself busy. Sometimes this is difficult when you're coping with sadness and grief, but it really helps. This is a great time to redecorate your room or try a new hobby. That doesn't mean you shouldn't think about what happened — working things through in our minds is all part of the healing process — it just means you should focus on other things too.
• Give yourself time. It takes time for sadness to go away. Almost everyone thinks they won't feel normal again, but the human spirit is amazing — and the heartbreak almost always heals after a while. But how long will that take? That depends on what caused your heartbreak, how you deal with loss, and how quickly you tend to bounce back from things. Getting over a break-up can take a couple of days to many weeks — and sometimes even months.

Some people feel that nothing will make them happy again and resort to alcohol or drugs. Others feel angry and want to hurt themselves or someone else. People who drink, do drugs, or cutthemselves to escape from the reality of a loss may think they are numbing their pain, but the feeling is only temporary. They're not really dealing with the pain, only masking it, which makes all their feelings build up inside and prolongs the sadness.

Sometimes the sadness is so deep — or lasts so long — that a person may need some extra support. For someone who isn't starting to feel better after a few weeks or who continues to feel depressed, talking to a counselor or therapist can be very helpful.

So be patient with yourself, and let the healing begin.

আর মাত্র ২১ দিনের অপেক্ষা...

Love of the great is like sand-bank (Boror piriti balir baadh)

(Background: This article was written in December 30, 1927 in Attoshakti magazine. Rabindranath Tagore gave a speech on "Ultra-modern - Oti-adhunik - Bangla Literature" at the reception honoring him at the Presidency College of Calcutta. It was published on December 20, 1927 in "Banglar Kotha.".This article by Nazrul was in response to some comments Rabindranath made in that speech. 
In response to Nazrul's article Birball, that is, Sri Promoth Choudhury, wrote in Attoshakti on February 3, 1928. The title of Birball's typically humorous article was "Bango-Shahitte Khuner Mamla." This piece is also included in Nazrul Rochonaboli, Vol. 4, pp. 441-445. There is indication in this article that Nazrul actually had misunderstood Rabindranath's comment. There is additional indication that Rabindranath's reference was to someone else.
However, Nazrul's article leaves an impression that his reaction was not based on merely misunderstanding, as their relationship was very intimate. As much as he revered his Kabi-guru Rabindranath, apparently Nazrul was deeply hurt by his poet-master. This article may explain the background of his poem "Daridro" (poverty), which you might like to read after you read the article. Also, interestingly, in Promoth Choudhury's article there is no reference to issue of poverty toward which Nazrul has expressed his deepest sensitivity.
Later in other articles and poems, especially after realizing his misunderstanding about his master-poet, Nazrul paid his unreserved homage to his Kabi-guru, such as in article "Amar Shundor" as late as in 1942. He also wrote poems "Tirtho Pothik" in 1935 revering Rabindranath; Vol. 3, p. 539. His poem was in response to an affectionate letter he received from Rabindranath. Nazrul also wrote "Rabi Hara" at the death of Rabindranath; Vol. 3, p. 541.]

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I was then a political prisoner at Alipur central jail. The crime: one time, seeing the way the mother of the king eating her son, I angrily called her "witch" (daini)...

One day the assistant jailer came and delivered the news: "What else now, you have been awarded the Nobel Prize. Rabi Thakur has dedicated his 'Boshonto' drama to you."

Standing by me were few more poetry-loving political prisoners. They laughed at the news more than I did: not overjoyed, but with disbelief.

But one day that fairy-tale did turn out to be true. The World Poet did really branded the "the mark of bad omen" (olokhkhoner tilok-rekha) on my forehead.

It was really "the mark of bad omen", because since then my closest friends turned their backs on me. Those who praised my writings ten times, now they started maligning (ninda) the same writing fifteen times. For me, the blessing turned into a curse (bore shap).

While still inside the jail, I started getting hints that the Indus river-like jealousy was gaining momentum. I did not believe, especially when I heard that a elder-brother-like poet-friend was leading this powerful, unholy alliance. I used to enjoy his boundless affection. Our intimacy was known not merely between ourselves, but also whole country knew about it through his homage to my works in his celebrated poetry and prose.

Those who always make hullabaloo as the worshippers of truth and beauty, when their minds get filled with hatred and prejudice, that's truly sad.

Hearing what I was hearing my tears dried up in my eyes. Only I realized how much my heart suffered at that outer gain. I cried in silence: My Gurudev, why did you inflict this on me? ...

I did not merely respect the World Poet, I have revered him wholeheartedly, like a devotee adores his deity. From my early age, I have paid homage to him by offering bouquet and incense in front of his picture. I used to be ridiculed by so many for this.

Indeed, at least on the bald head of one such Rabindra-hater, the cruel mark of this devotion is shining forever. One day the responsibility of the trial of this devotion ended up at the court of my object of adoration.

My respected poet and writer Manilal Gangopadhdhay disclosed the incident right in front of the Poet (Tagore). The Poet smiled and said: "Wow, I won't have to worry about myself any more!"

After that we have met many times; we also had conversations. I read before him a few of my poems ... of course, at his request. Sometimes, quite auspiciously I received great praise from him. In those spontaneous and bubbling praises, I never sensed any lack of sincerity or a half-hearted effort to make me feel good.

If I ever sat far away due to my shyness, quite affectionately he drew me near. I felt that I was accomplished, as if I was receiving blessings.

Sometimes when I did not visit him for an extended period of time, he himself used to send for me. So many times he asked me to live in his Topobon. As a hapless, I never have been able to sit near his feet and receive enlightenment from him - my entire life was spent in unworthy pursuits.

So many times he has complained to me in so many ways: "You are shaving your beard with sword!; One day people will send you to the Guesthouse!" etc.

I observed that while my pride was beaming through my face, there were other famous poets whose faces were darkening. Gradually, the best friends and well-wishers of my life turned into my adversaries. It's almost three-four years now, these well-wishers have been have been showering their rebuke on me, but apparently their appetite still remains unsatisfied. Wow! I have never imagined that the rebuke and malice could have so many styles and ways.

Letters every Saturday! And, what kind of lowly sarcasm and slang to rebuke collected from the fish market. On this carpet of rebuke spread just for me, I was probably the greatest emperor.

The pile of abuse (gali) showered on me made a record. ... Every week, bags full of such abusive mail. I bore it all. My consolation was that what else can be expected when a small insect tries to acquire a bull. O fool, you are a vegetarian poet without tooth or nail - why is such prodigality on your part? How can you afford to show patriotism? Instead of gulping winds in the garden of flower-faces, observing the yawning of flowers, singing "come on, the love bud!", you went to pinch the King's back! Now you are in jail, have already enjoyed hard labor, endured hunger-strike, decorated yourself with iron-chain! You got your chains and books - one by one - confiscated. What kind of amusement (roshikota) is this? Why all this trouble?

Suddenly one day I realized that storm is brewing in Benu-bon (bamboo-clusters) of literature. In a twinkling of an eye the flute of music transformed into monster's bludgeon. Run! Run! However much euphemistically I call it Benu-bon, when it becomes stormy, bamboo-cluster shows its true color - which rascal would disbelieve that?

Poor "youth" literature! It's like mobilization of seven brave warriors to kill the boy Obhimonnu! All the kids gathered around. Frequent clapping, saying: "Hey, you want to go to see the bamboo-works? Come quickly." Was it only the beating of the seven brave warriors? The infantry behind them was only worse. No attention to dust, mud, dung, or soil - no consideration to taste or decency - everyone just kept throwing whatever they had at the victim .

There is really no honor being beaten by real warriors. However, didn't the lowliness of those hired hands from outside really turned the Benu-bon of literature into bamboo-clusters by the ponds?

I am now used to the abuses of police. There is a limit to their abuse. However, WHEN ABUSE IS DELIVERED BY THE LITERARY PEOPLE, THERE IS TRULY NO LIMIT. They really become more cruel and rough than those fault-finding polices. They are like the bees, unsettled from their hives. You can't hide from their bites, even under water.

I somehow escaped and fled from the nastiness of politics. I thought now I will overcome my past agony by deeply inhaling the fresh air of literature. Nope. Who knew that the literary circles are nastier than the political ones?

It's my fate. I have no escape. One day I suddenly woke up at the heavy presence of seven heroes (shoptorothi). What's the matter?

I came to know that my crime is that I am young! I was told that the youth loves me; they adore my writings.

Quite timidly, I submitted: How is that MY crime? Many voices roared: That is your crime. You are young and the youths are dancing around you.

I said: Somehow, I can't be scared into growing old right away. We have to wait some years to make that happen. Also, those who dance at my tune, why don't you make them dance to your tune? Everything will be solved. Why bother me?

I heard in the background that I am regarded as the guard of the precocious Obhimonnu (youth). If you can be finished, it won't take too long to overcome him.

Let's see...

So far I did not take all these seriously, and did not reciprocate those arrow of smoke with smokes - neither of stove nor of cigarette. I thought this is battle between kings - I better stay away at distance. However, when elephants fight, smaller creatures are not spared. So, I have to save myself too. There is no heroism in taking it lying down.

Those who have been expressing disgust at politics, I myself was taken aback by their sudden attraction to those bamboos of Benu-bon, let alone what might the outsiders be thinking.

One also has to admire the way bamboos were being hurled. Instead of targeting any individual's head, it was being hurled at the group or party. That way your bamboo won't miss or go waste. Bravery, indeed! So far, like a defeated one I bore everything in silence. But often inaction is misinterpreted as submission. That's why now individual heads are being targeted not with arrows, but with bamboos.

Of course, you can try to make a few holes in a bamboo to make it play like a flute. Yet, its roughness and the hurt it inflicts tell you that it is a bamboo, not a flute.

When you see someone more deserving of playing flute are now swirling bamboo sticks, it makes one feel sad, but it also make feel like laughing.

I saw in today's "Banglar Kotha" that the person who took up the generalship on behalf of the hundred sons of blind Dhritorashtro to humiliate Ponchopandob is none other than the valiant Kobiguru - adored like Bhishmo by both sides of us - and he has consented to this lynching. The Bhishmo of Mahabharata did not consent to this, but the Bhishmo of greater Bharata did - this is even more agonizing for this age.

Regarding me as the patron and guard of Obhimonnu (representing the youth), the poet-master himself did not desist from throwing arrows. He has said: I have done wrong by using the word "khun" for blood (rokto) so much.

I offer my adoration at the feet of the Poet: he himself wear toupi (cap) and pajama. Why should we be the target of his displeasure when we wear those - that I don't understand.

I am not the first to use Arabic or Persian words in poetry. Long before me Bharatchandra, Rabindranath, Shatyandranath have done the same.

I am observing a trend for some time. Many Hindus from the aristocracy wear pajama- sherwani-toupi, even lungi. No one ridicules them for that; indeed, their attires are then ennobled as "oriental". When the same attires are used by Muslims, they become "Mian Saheb." If there is competition between a Maulana and the saint Narada about beard, the outcome as to who would win is difficult to predict; yet, there is no end of mockery and sarcasm.

Indeed, I have been consciously avoiding toupi-sherwani-dari to escape the kind of treatment usually offered to a "Mian Saheb". Still, I have no respite.

From now on, I might use "bicharaloy" instead of "adalot", but what shall I call najir, peshkar, ukil, or mokhtar?

Kobiguru's argument about long-lasting usage is obsolete. He himself has written a poem, in which he has used "utaro ghomta". We are accustomed to "ghomta kholo". I might have been faulted if I myself wrote "utaro ghomta". However, whatever is the linguistic origin of "utaro", who can deny that the use of it at that particular context has enhanced the beauty of the lyric? Indeed, only to enhance the sound of my expression and to add beauty and unique rhythm, with delight, I use Arabic-Persian word. Indeed, so many times Kobiguru himself has praised its value and worth in his discussions.

Today we feel that today's Rabindranath is not the same Rabindranath we have always known. Some grammar-experts in the background are making him speak like this.

I use "khun" in my poems, not to add Muslim or Bolshevik color. May be, nowadays, the Poet does not like either of these colors - may be that might be the reason of his convulsion (akhkhep).

I have used, not just "khun", but so many other Arabic-Persian words that are in current usage in Bangla. I do believe that the world poetry has a Muslim pattern (dhong). I don't know that this pattern has ever taken away anything from the beauty of our literature. Even late Ajit Chakravarty has profusely admired this pattern.

Dressing Bangla literature with a couple of Iranian attires does not make it an outcaste, rather it appears quite beautiful.

Almost half of our culture's decoration today has this Muslim pattern. Any artist or literary person (shilpi) would recognize the need for this external form and beautification. Sage Malobiya may not recognize it, but Rabindranath, Abanindranath would recognize so.

Moreover, the "khun", for which Kobiguru has become upset, is routinely being used in our "color box". And, that's also not limited to killing (khun kora) or to be killed (khun howa). I also see destruction (khun-kharabi) of hearts and that's not just in the Muslim neighborhoods.

I wrote a song: "udibe she Robi amaderi khune rangiya punorbar" [That sun will rise again with red hue of our blood].

Unfortunately, I recited it before poet-master the other day, and that may have caused him to bring it up. He prefers "rokto" to "khun". So that line should have been: "udibe she Robi moderi rokte rangiya punorbar". It would have been okay too; however, it would have lost half its intensity. Anywhere I have used the word "khun," it is the way used in patriotic songs or fiery poems. Where "roktodhara" would have been appropriate, I did not force "khundhara" there. However, I did not use "rokto-kharabi"; either I wrote "rokta-rokti" or "khun-kharabi".

Poet-master feels that the meaning of "rokto" is much broader. It fits into love poetry as well. But it needs some touch of "hue" (raag). As "khun" does not flow on lover's cheek, so is the case with "rokto" - unless, of course, one bites his teeth into the cheek. We don't play "khun-khuni" with our lovers, but "khun-shuri" (teasing; argument) is quite common.

Not just the poet-master, but also many other contemporary writers forget that half of Bangla poetry-lovers are Muslims. They don't seek toupi-chapkan from these writers; they desire the tune of Serang parallel to violin, the tune of nightingale in a garden (bagicha) parallel to cuckoo in an orchard (phul-bon).

Those who feel that due to this matter Mahabharata has been violated should become members of Hindu-circles than literary circles.

Observing the poet-master, who left new treasure of vocabulary by creating new words outside the existing dictionaries, I become amazed at his fear of new words. It seems that there are many individuals and aspects behind this rage. It also appears that my adversaries within the literary circle has heaped lies before him against me that has poisoned his attitude. Otherwise, my passion for Arabic-Persian words is not new; nor is poet-master's acquaintance with me or my poetry. How is it that such matter has not come up before?

It is even more saddening when some firefly (jonaki poka) far below the sphere of sun (robi-lok) shows brags of poetic talents. Are the devotees only those nasty fellows who are agitating his beautiful and tranquil mind by constantly backbiting against others? And are those of us who do not visit him frequently now among his adversaries?

My appeal to the poet-master: it's alright if he wants to be the general of the Dhritorashtro. But it is our hope that he would not lower himself by harboring unfounded suspicions about us due to the instigation of those people.

Those caretakers (panda) who are the nearest to the temple of worship are not necessarily the best of the devotees of the deity (devta).

One more thing about which some explicit words from the poet-master would be most welcome and beneficial.

The tone of his recent writings gives an impression that our cursed poverty has become target of sarcasm.

It's well-known that he does have the wealth to doubt our poverty and suffering as fake. We also know that, except the suffering of poverty - the greatest of all suffering, he is more or less familiar with all other kind of sufferings. That is why even though such a thought was agonizing, but did not make upset me.

How the new writers (poets) have to struggle with extreme poverty to survive, sometimes without food and other times with little food, the poet-master, due to the blessing of Luxmi, is not experienced with that. I pray to God that he never has to find that out. The poet-master has never visited the cottages of writers like us - not that such visit would have been demeaning for him - otherwise he would have seen how severe is the misery of our daily life. We are almost hiding ourselves in corners of our villages in this condition of misery. Far from engaging in propaganda from places to places, sometimes we feel ashamed to step outside our home. It becomes increasingly difficult to hide those holes in our dresses with patches. It is becoming increasingly uncomfortable to sit among the educated and the gentlemen, as if we are to be faulted for this. The more the outer poverty whips our inside, the more this soul becomes rebellious.

Is it not possible that it is that shame of poverty that holds me back from visiting the poet-master? Is the thought unrealistic that looking at this unkempt character the guards at the door of his musical gathering won't even let me in?

If the holy ones curse the poor devotee because he could not join the pilgrimage, then the devotee can only blame his fate.

My humble submission to him - throw all the arrows you like, I might be able to bear it; but please don't add salt to our wounds by being sarcastic at our very personal suffering from poverty. That cruelty would be difficult to bear.

I have one more supplication at the feet of poet-master. With your affection and your right as our master, help us to realize if we have done anything wrong. We will respect your guidance without hesitation. However, when he is surrounded by only those who know merely ugly sarcasm and abuse without his reproach, then our head stoops low in shame and pain. The honor of the world-poet/king - the sphere of sun (robi-lok) - is far above such mud-throwing.

The novelist-king, Sharatchandra, rebuked me (or whatever) before these "Saturday letter-writers" (I don't know whether it's true or not) - he, at least, never belittled our poverty. Since he has always treated unfortunate people's pain and suffering with so much greatness, now his position is approximating the sphere of sun (robi-lok).

One day I heard a story from the novelist Shurendra Gangopadhdhay that Sharatchandra, with the income from the books he has written, will build a shelter for all the stray dogs. Those dogs that tire themselves roaming the streets in search of little food will find food and shelter there - free of charge. Somehow Sharatchandra has come to know that those stray dogs were writers in their previous life, now are born as dogs. I heard that he has even prepared a will to that effect.

Hearing this, so many times I bowed my head in respect and said: Sharat Da, you are really a great person. We, the writers, ARE the caste of dogs. Some of us die in hunger like dogs and others die fighting with each other. He (Sharat) seems to have that sixth sense; he has seen the avatar (holy)-dimension of the writers (in these dogs).

That's why I have just one prayer today: if there is incarnation, I wish I never be born in this land as a poet. If I am born in this land, I would rather like to return as a dog in the shelter of Sharatchandra. At least, I won't have to worry all the time for just a little food.


Translated by: Mohammad Omar Farooq (11/8/99)

Love Marriage Vs. Arranged Marriage

Whenever we talk of Indian wedding we try to equate it with arrange marriages. In India the social structure is such that we associate Indian marriages mainly with arrange marriages. Most of us have the feelings that arrange marriage is the concept of Indian society. But history tells us that arranged marriages use to happen even in the Victorian age. The history of England tells us that most of the kings and queens had arranged marriages. In India arrange marriages originated when child marriages was customary in the country. Caste system gave birth to arrange marriages, as the upper caste families didn't want their children to marry outside their community and caste. The concept of love marriage was a taboo in ancient India as India always had a tradition of arranged marriages. But after World War II and industrial revolution people's perception started changing and they became familiar with the concept of love marriages. In India the influence of the British culture gave rise to love marriages. The idea, which was once a taboo, became more open and acceptable in the Indian society. But this change was seen only among the educated and high society Indians. The rural parts of the country remained ignorant and unaware of love marriages. In spite of the social changes arranged marriage persisted.

Love or arranged marriages is still a debatable topic in the Indian society. People still debate on the issue, which one is better. What should be the basis of the marriage love or social norms? We are still confused about these issues. Education and media played a vital role in changing the perception of the Indian mind. As people started thinking beyond the social customs and traditions of arranged marriages. They realized that they have the right to choose their life partner without any kind of social pressure. It is after all their life. They can decide without having to rely on parents, relatives and matchmakers. This change in the mental set up of the people gave birth to love marriages. Now in India people are open to love marriages. It is no more forbidden in the society. In our country we are having both love and arranged marriages. If we start comparing love and arranged marriages we will see that both has certain pros and cons. But the common factor in both the concept is physical attraction. When a man and a woman go out on their first date physical attraction is the deciding factor. Same in case of arranged marriage where the relation starts only after the girl or boy likes each other. But there are certain things, which are found in love marriages and not in arranged. Like spending time together and getting to know each other. Because when you have decided to spend the life together it is important you know the person. There should be metal compatibility and understanding among both of you. And this happens when you spend time together. On this people may argue that even after knowing each other for so long than why people get divorced after marriage. It is because when two people are in love they are at their best to impress each other. They behave, they talk and they wear what the other person likes. But it is after marriage that you get to know the real person. There are couples who are still discovering each other even after twenty years of their marriage. This is the actual beauty of a relationship where everyday you discover a new thing about your partner.

In case of arranged marriages the relation starts when the girl and the boy get to know each other in a couple of meeting before the final commitment. Before deciding anything the parents check the family background and financial stability. Which is also very important. As most of the people have an idea that those who go for arranged marriages are not in an advantageous position but it's not so you may get the right person for whom you have been waiting. Even in love marriages after many years of courtship people find their partner not suitable and they break up. So it is not about spending time together but successful marriage is all about understanding and respecting each other's feelings, love and concern. It is argued that love marriages offer more independence and freedom as compared to arranged marriages since both of them knows each other so the social pressure and family pressure is less. If you know somebody before marriage it allows partners to have better respect and understanding for each other's needs and desires. In love marriages expectations are more compared to arrange marriages, as they know each other and want their partner to act in the best possible manner.

Arranged marriages, offer more protection, security to the women. As the parents decides the family. Parents make use of maturity and wise decision while choosing suitable spouses for their children. The mature decision of parents sometimes helps to make the right choice. But it doesn't mean that arranged marriages are ideal marriages. Even in an arranged marriage there is a different sort of social pressure. Social evils like dowry, caste system, matching of horoscopes and community issues are taken at such extreme levels that people don't support arranged marriages. So whether it is love or arranged ultimately it is up to the individual to decide, which one to go for. Love or arranged both is based on empathy, responsibility, commitment, love and concern. So it's not just about initial love and attraction it needs a lot of dedication and effort to sustain a marriage. So there is nothing like an ideal marriage it's all about the way you perceive your marriage. After all you should be happy with your life partner irrespective of love or arranged marriage.

Happy Teachers Day...!!!

Teachers Day In Different Countries

By country

Country	Date of Teachers' Day	Notes
Afghanistan	Saur 3	Schools have a holiday, but students and teachers gather to celebrate at schools with special traditional food, cookies, music and presents to the teachers
Albania	March 7	In 1887, the first secular school which taught lessons in Albanian was opened on this day in the small city of Korçë. All schools had previously functioned under the supervision of the Catholic Church in northern and middle Albania; the Orthodox Church in the south did not allow any Albanian schools.
Algeria	February 28
Argentina	September 11	To honor the work of Domingo Faustino Sarmiento after he died.
Armenia	First Sunday in October
Australia	Last Friday in October	On Australia’s celebration of World Teachers’ Day, the NEiTA Foundation and the Australian Scholarships Group (ASG) is proud to announce the national teaching recipients of the ASG Community Merit Awards. World Teachers’ Day was started by UNESCO and is celebrated in more than 100 countries around the world each year. On its 40th anniversary this year, it represents a significant token of the awareness, understanding, and appreciation displayed for the vital contribution that teachers make to education.
Azerbaijan	October 5	Between 1965 and 1994, the first Sunday of October. Since 1994, on October 5, it has coincided with the World Teachers' Day (est. 1994 by UNESCO).
Bahrain	February 28
Belarus	First Sunday of October
Brunei Darussalam	September 23	To commemorate the birth date of the 28th ruler of Brunei, Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III, also known as the 'Architect of Modern Brunei' who amongst others had emphasized on the importance of education to his subjects by introducing policy of 'free' education whereby the citizens are charged very nominal fees for attending schools. This policy have now been followed by the current 29th ruler who have since extended the policy further.
Bhutan	May 2	Established and marked on the birth anniversary of the third King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who introduced modern education in the country.
Bolivia	June 6
Brazil	October 15	A decree regulating the elementary schools in Brazil. The celebration gained popularity throughout the country, and October 15 was officially designated Teachers' Day in 1963.[4]
Bulgaria	October 5	On 29.09.2006, October 5 was recognized as Teacher's Day by the government.[5]
Chile	October 16	In 1967, September 11 was chosen as "Día del Maestro" ("Teacher's Day"). The date was moved to December 10 in 1975, because on that day in 1945, the Chilean poet Gabriela Mistral received the Nobel Prize. In 1977, the date was renamed to "Día del Profesor" (also "Teacher's Day") and was moved again, to October 16, to honor the founding of the Colegio de Profesores de Chile (Teachers' Association of Chile).[6]
Colombia	May 15	This day marks the appointment of San Juan Bautista de la Salle as the patron of teachers. The story was in 1950 when Pope Pius XII granted this approval for championing the causes of modern education. The holy founder understood the education of children as an obligation of all. Usually in schools of his time (1651–1719) only accept young people towards politics or diplomacy. Juan Bautista said the principle of free and universal education. That same year in Colombia, the President of the Republic declared that date as Teacher's Day.
China (Mainland)	September 10	In the People's Republic of China, there are some activities for the students to show their appreciathe teachers, such as presenting gifts including cards and flowers.
Czech Republic	March 28	The birthday of John Amos Comenius. Czech students nominate the teachers whose approach most motivates and inspires them to the competition Zlatý Ámos (Golden Amos). The coronation of "Golden Amos" take place yearly on March 28.[7][8]
Ecuador	April 13	Celebrated on this date in honor to Juan Montalvo, Ecuadorian teacher who planted in young minds the seeds of development.
Egypt	February 28
El Salvador	June 22	Observed as a national holiday.[9][10]
Estonia	October 5
Germany	October 5
Guatemala	June 25	It's a celebration in honor of the teacher Maria Chinchilla who died during violent actions at a riot against the government.
Hong Kong	September 10	Before 1997, Teachers' Day was on September 28, following the tradition from the Republic of China since the 1950s. After the handover to the People's Republic of China, the day was changed to September 10, which is when the PRC celebrates the holiday.
Hungary	First Sunday of June
India	September 5	It is the birthday [5 September 1888 ],of the second President of India, academic philosopher Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan. It is considered a "celebration" day, where teachers and students report to school as usual but the usual activities and classes are replaced by activities of celebration, thanks and remembrance. At some schools on this day, the responsibility of teaching is taken up by the senior students to show appreciation for their teachers.
Indonesia	November 25	National Teachers' Day is commemorated on the same day as the birthday of the Indonesian Teachers' Association, the PGRI. National Teachers' Day in not a holiday, and it is celebrated by having a ceremonial activity in recognition of certain teachers, head masters, and school staff.
Iran	May 2	Commemorating the martyrdom of Dr. Morteza Motahari on May 2, 1979.
Iraq	March 1
Jamaica	May 6	Teachers' Day is normally celebrated on May 6 or the first Wednesday in May.[11] In celebration of Teachers' Day, it is common for students and parents to bring teachers gifts. Additionally, most schools are closed early (half-day).
Jordan	February 28
Lithuania	October 5	Between 1965 and 1994, the first Sunday of October. Since 1994, on October 5, to coincide with the World Teachers' Day (est. 1994 by UNESCO).
Lebanon	March 9	Between March 3 and March 9.
Libya	February 28
Malaysia	May 16	This date was chosen because on the same day in 1956, the Federal Legislative Council of the Federation of Malaya endorsed the Razak Report, one of four reports of the Education Committee regarding education in Malaysia. The document, known as the Razak Report after Tun Abdul Razak who was Education Minister at the time, became the basis of education in Malaysia ever since. Although it is not an official school holiday, celebrations are usually held on May 16, or earlier, if it falls on a Saturday or Sunday.
Mexico	May 15
Republic of Moldova	October 5
Mongolia	First weekend of February
Morocco	February 28
Nepal	Full moon day of nepali month Ashad	The full moon day is also called 'Ashad sukla purnima' and the day usually falls in mid-July. Teacher's day is called "Guru Purnima" in Nepali. Students pay homage to the teachers, offer them foods and flowers and receive blessings from the teacher. "Guru devo bhava:" a Sanskrit phrase with meaning "Teacher is God" is still widely accpeted. Teachers are given the highest degree of respect.
New Zealand	October 29	In 2010 teachers are being encouraged to march against recent cuts in govt ECE funding by marching in Auckland on Sunday 31st.
Oman	February 28
Pakistan	October 5	It recognizes the importance of teachers and attributes progress to the quality of teachers in Pakistan's Educational System.
Panama	December 1	To commemorate the birth date of Manuel José Hurtado, who is known as the father of Panamanian education due to his promotion of modern universal education through the establishment of the first public schools and teachers' colleges in what is know Panama—then part of Colombia, aiming to break the vicious cycle of ignorance and poverty that ailed the vast majority of the population. He went on to be named Director-general of Public Instruction of the State of the Isthmus.[12]
Paraguay	April 30
Peru	July 6	During the independence of Peru, libertador don José de San Martín founded the first Normal School for Menby means of a resolution passed by Marquis of Torre-Tagle on July 6, 1822. Many years later, on 1953, the then president Manuel A. Odría decreed Teachers' Day to be commemorated on the 6 of July.[13]
Philippines	October 5	By Presidential Proclamation No. 479 [14] to honor more than 500,000 teachers nationwide. However, in thePhilippines Teachers' Day is actually celebrated in schools between the months of September and October (mainly elementary and secondary levels). Teachers are presented with orchid corsages by students. Groups of students representing various grade levels perform short skits or song and dance numbers, or read poetry for their teachers in front of fellow schoolmates in school-wide activities. These activities are planned by senior students in the Student Council who coordinate the activities well in advance. For Filipino-Chinese schools, a program is usually organized by students for teachers on September 27, while September 28, considered as the actual Teachers' Day, is a school holiday where both teachers and students are allowed to rest. September 28 was chosen because it is known as the birthday of famous Chinese philosopher Confucius.[15]
Poland	October 14	On this day is the anniversary of creation the Commission of National Education, created in 1773 from the initiative of King Stanisław August Poniatowski
Qatar	October 5
Romania	October 5 ?
Russia	October 5	Between 1965 and 1994, the first Sunday of October. Since 1994, on October 5, to coincide with the World Teachers' Day (est. 1994 by UNESCO).
Saudi Arabia	February 28
Serbia	October 5
Singapore	First Friday of September	An official school holiday. Celebrations are normally conducted the day before, where students usually get half a day off.
Slovakia	March 28	The birth date of John Amos Comenius.
South Korea	May 15 since 1963 in Seoul and 1964 in Chunju city	Originally it was started by a group of red-cross youth team members who visited their sick ex-teachers at hospitals. The national celebration ceremony had been stopped between 1973 and 1982 and it resumed after that. On the celebration day, teachers are usually presented with carnations by their students, and both enjoy a shorter school day. Ex-students pay their respects to the former teachers by visiting them and handing a carnation. Many schools now close on Teachers' Day because of the rampant bribery implicit in the expensive gifts often given to teachers. Schools can use the day to have an outing for the teachers.
Sri Lanka	October 6
Spain	January 29
Syria	March 18[citation needed]
Taiwan(Republic of China)	September 28	The Republic of China uses this day to honor teachers' virtues, struggles, and contribution not only to their own students but also to society in general. People often make use of the day to express their gratitude to their teachers, such as paying them a visit or sending them a card. This date was chosen to commemorate the birth of Confucius, believed to be the model master educator in ancient China. In 1939, the Ministry of Education established the national holiday as August 27, the attributed birthday of Confucius. In 1952, the Executive Yuan changed it to September, stating that it was calculated to be the precise date in the Gregorian calendar. The festival celebration occurs in the temples of Confucius around the island, known as the "Grand Ceremony Dedicated to Confucius" (祭孔大典). The ceremony begins at 6 AM withdrum beats. 54 musicians dress in robes with blue belts, 36 (or 64) dancers dress in yellow with green belts. They are led by Confucius's chief descendant (currently Kung Tsui-chang) and followed by ceremonial officers. Three animals—the cow, the goat, and the pig—are sacrificed. The hairs plucked from these sacrificed animals are called the Hairs of Wisdom. In addition, local education institutes and civil offices award certain teachers for their excellence and positive influence.
Thailand	January 16	Adopted as Teachers' Day in Thailand by a resolution of the government on November 21, 1956. The first Teachers' Day was held in 1957. Most Thai schools close for the day, but many international schools in the country don't recognise this day. There are very few public or official commemorations. It's just to give the teachers a well-deserved break during the long second term in Thai schools.
Tunisia	February 28
Turkey	November 24	Mustafa Kemal Atatürk thought and stated that "New generation will be created by teachers." . Atatürk was also considered as Prime Teacher (Turkish: Başöğretmen), because he adopted a new alphabet for the newly founded Turkish Republic on 1923.
Ukraine	the first Sunday of October
United Arab Emirates	February 28
United States	National Teacher Day is on Tuesday during Teacher Appreciation Week, which takes place in the first full week of May (May 3, 2011)	Students often show appreciation for their teachers with token gifts (giving teachers presents etc.). TheNational Education Association describes National Teacher Day as "a day for honoring teachers and recognizing the lasting contributions they make to our lives".[16] The NEA gives a history of National Teacher Day:[17] The origins of Teacher Day are murky. Around 1944 Wisconsin teacher Ryan Krug began corresponding with political and education leaders about the need for a national day to honor teachers. Woodbridge wrote to Eleanor Roosevelt who in 1953 persuaded the 81st Congress to proclaim a National Teacher Day. NEA along with its Kansas and Indiana state affiliates and the Dodge City (Kan. ) local lobbied Congress to create a national day celebrating teachers. Congress declared March 7, 1980, as National Teacher Day for that year only. NEA and its affiliates continued to observe Teacher Day on the first Tuesday in March until 1985, when the National PTA established Teacher Appreciation Week as the first full week of May. The NEA Representative Assembly then voted to make the Tuesday of that week National Teacher Day. As of September 7, 1976, September 11 was also adopted as Teachers' Day in the U.S. state ofMassachusetts. Currently, Massachusetts sets the first Sunday of June as its own Teachers' Day, annually.
Uzbekistan	October 1
Vietnam	November 20	This holiday allows students to express their respect to their teacher. Students begin preparing a week in advance, and many classes usually prepare literature and art to welcome teachers' day, while other students prepare foods and flowers for the parties held at their schools. Students usually visit their teachers at their homes to offer flowers and small gifts, or organize trips with their teachers and classmates. Former students also pay respect to their former teachers on this day. The holiday has its origins in a meeting between educators in communist bloc nations in Warsaw in 1957. It was first celebrated in 1958 as the Day of the International Manifest of Educators; in 1982 the day was renamed Vietnamese Educators' Day.
Yemen	February 28
Mauritius	October 5

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