[Assam] FA Ahmed : a staunch patriot Suren Ram Phookun
FA Ahmed : a staunch patriot Suren Ram PhookunThe State of Asom from where Fakhruddin Saheb began his active involvement in the freedom struggle can rightly feel proud to have nurtured a great son of the country and a true representative of its composite culture. A staunch patriot, an able administrator, a farsighted statesman and a champion of all progressive causes, his was a life of service and sacrifice and of complete dedication to the ideals of secularism and mutual goodwill. He occupied a position of great eminence in our public life and worked tirelessly towards strengthening the bonds of national unity and solidarity. During the communal riots of Allahabad, Maulana Asad Madani and Maulana Abdul Rauf, the MLC (UP), wanted to visit Allahabad to be of some assistance to the local Muslims. They sought the permission of the UP government through Ahmed Saheb and it was readily granted. The Maulana sent their programme at Allahabad railway station, they were surprised to be accosted by police officers, who on their own, told them that they had been deputed by the government to assist them in their task and had made arrangements for their transport and stay. These gentlemen innocently believed the police officers and thanking the UP government for this consideration, unsuspectingly boarded a car brought by the police officers. When the car left the city limits, they enquired as to where they were being taken. The police officers said that as a precautionary measure they had made arrangements for their stay in a bungalow belonging to the Army outside the city. After a while, the car stopped in front of the huge gate of the Central prison, Naini. Now both these Maulanas realised that they had been taken for a ride. They asked the police officer : Is this the army bungalow? The police officer sheepishly replied : Both of you are under arrest. The Maulanas did not enquire the reason for their arrest because they were in the company of these very police officers right from the moment they had set foot in Allahabad and thus had little opportunity to commit any offence. They walked into the prison gracefully. When this incident was brought to Ahmed Sahebs notice he was surprised and indignant. He lost no time in contacting the then Union Minister of Home Affairs, Sri YB Chavan, and made it amply clear that the arrest of Maulana Asad Madani, then an MP, in the midst of communal riots at Allahabad, would infuriate Muslims and demanded the immediate and unconditional release of both the Maulanas. Both were later released honourably and unconditionally. Late Ahmed served the nation as an Union Minister from 1966 to 1977 during which he held important portfolios, like power, education, industries, internal trade and company affairs and food and agriculture. He was then sworn in as the fifth President of India on August 24, 1974 marking the climax to a long and a distinguished political career. His elevation to the highest office of India was surely a true recognition of his immense contribution towards the country. He was an ardent advocate of nationalism and a true symbol of secularism. All throughout his life he strived to forge a cohesive Indian nation by propagating a secular spirit. He wanted to make the nation breathe fresh air, invigorate the entire national environment with progressive outlook. The ideals of late Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed are of great relevance in the present Indian context where the evil forces of communalism are cropping up in various parts of the country. Our rich and secular tradition and heritage are really facing a tough time. The Ram Janambhoomi-Babri Masjid issue had led to a series of communal outbursts in several parts of India. The unbridled growth of these communal passions has shaken the very foundation of our secular and democratic structure. The nation has been threatened with these divisive force. Against this unnerving situation, the life and ideals of the Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed can very well inspire the nation to derive strength and hopes in restoring the lost glory and the missing fabric of national life. All of us know that every right thinking and politically aware person during the pre-swaraj days, irrespective of caste, creed and religion did not think for a second time to join movement of India. Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed was no exception. He became a satyagrahi in response to the call of Mahatma Gandhi during 1940-41 and was imprisoned for a year. Only a few weeks after he was released he was again taken to the jail and was detained till 1945. FA Ahmed first entered Parliamentary politics as a member of the Assam Legislative Assembly in 1937. He was a sitting member of the Assembly till 1945. FA Ahmed was the Minister of Finance and Revenue in the first Coalition Ministry formed under the leadership of the late Gopinath Bordoloi. During his tenure he reduced land revenue taxes and introduced
Re: [Assam] Request for Articles for Luitor Pora Mississippi magazine
All Asom Sahitya Sabha Well Wishers: Asom Sahitya Sabha, North America Branch I like to remind you that we want to keep the tradition of publishing the Luitor Pora Mississippi going along with the Assam Convention held on 4th of July weekend. You are welcome to contribute articles regardless of your affiliations are. What counts is your effort and goodwill to Assam and her culture. You are specifically requested to author an article/poem/short story/essay/travel experience/pictures or anything realting to North East India either in English or Assames and mail to Rabin Mahanta, 3718 Bartons Lane, Sugar Land, Tx. 77479 asap. I have tentatively set March 31 , 2007 as a deadline for your articles so that the editing work can be finished on time. For articles in English, Word files would be preferred for everyone. However, Assamese articles should be handwritten. Please let me know if you have any questions. Your positive response will help us produce a high quality Luitor Pora Misssissippi edition for 20076. Thanks in advance, Dhanyabad !!! Regards: Rabin Mahanta Pesident, Asom Sahitya Sabha-North America Branch Sugar Land, Tx Phone (281)980-1989 __ - It's here! Your new message! Get new email alerts with the free Yahoo! Toolbar. - The fish are biting. Get more visitors on your site using Yahoo! Search Marketing.___ assam mailing list assam@assamnet.org http://assamnet.org/mailman/listinfo/assam_assamnet.org
[Assam] Fwd: Re: [Assam Society] No future t o sovereignty demand Ranen Kumar Goswami
I did not read the article, as I usually don't most of this kind of material that appear on desi-rags so routinely. I saw Chitta's and Sandip's comments indicating their approval of and common cause with the writer. I thought Jugal's comments would put in perspective the quality of the arguments made in the article. cm Comment: DomainKeys? See http://antispam.yahoo.com/domainkeys X-Yahoo-Newman-Id: 12609498-m-1 X-Apparently-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] X-YMail-OSG: RVv4baAVM1le9JQC5JAZkiY5XxNmBbf45pgN1OFUukZGY7ARxl4EqxVI44dUVs9QYbTH0seN8YZAT_GkUg5HUzfQtScBLcSZPNFVJfufGEQKSBeoADh.7aizcpUUzB8Ns3L.P99_bP2kH1M- To: [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED], assamonline@yahoogroups.com, [EMAIL PROTECTED], Assam Foundation [EMAIL PROTECTED] X-Originating-IP: 68.142.206.135 X-eGroups-Msg-Info: 1:0:0:0 From: J Kalita [EMAIL PROTECTED] X-Yahoo-Profile: jugalkalita Sender: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Mailing-List: list [EMAIL PROTECTED]; contact [EMAIL PROTECTED] Delivered-To: mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] List-Id: AssamSociety.yahoogroups.com List-Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2007 08:29:24 -0800 (PST) Subject: Re: [Assam Society] No future t o sovereignty demand Ranen Kumar Goswami Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] X-Yahoo-Newman-Property: groups-email-ff I am not sure of the point of this article. Once a region/country/nation loses its sovereignty, it can never regain it? Is that the point. India lost its sovereignty to the British in a legal fashion where papers were signed and sovereignty given over to the British. So, India should have never regained sovereignty in 1947? Poland lost its sovereignty many times over its history, to the Swedish, to the Germans, to the Russians. Didn't it regain it? So, the premise of this article doesn't make much sense to me. What's lost can be regained. The papers that were signed to accept the lost of sovereignty can be overwritten by new papers that give sovereignty back. It's sophistry to say sovereignty can never be regained. Histoy is a moving thing. Countries are born and die. In the past decade or so, the Soviet Union and the Yugoslov Union died and more than ten countries came into existence, i.e., regained sovereignty. Montenegro became a new nation just months ago, Kosovo will in a few years. In Asia, East Timor became a country a few years ago, Bangladesh became one a few decades ago. So, it is intellectual hypocrisy to write about only one side of the issue. Jugal --- Pradip Kumar Datta mailto:pradip200%40yahoo.com[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: No future to sovereignty demand Ranen Kumar GoswamiWhen guns pass for rationale and a thirst for innocent blood its basis, the conclusion that comes out is sure to stand on its head. Asom-India conflict is a poison fruit such a conclusion has borne. Add to it another half-baked wisdom from the distorted pages of our history, Asom was never a part of India. The heady cocktail is the theory of a sovereign Asom. Asom was never a part of India and its forced inclusion in the country has created the Asom-India conflict. The United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) tries to shove this lesson of history down the throat of Asomiya people. Did Asom not have any ties with India in the past? Renowned intellectual Dr Shiva Nath Barman has reminded us of our mythological links. Asom had links with the mainland India from time immemorial. Kamrup king Bhagadatta fought for the Kauravas in the battle of Mahabharata and laid down his life. Krishna married Rukmini and Sankardev has immortalised the tale in his Rukmini Haran Kabya. Bhim married Hidimba. Arjuna married Chitrangada who was a princess from Manipur. Madhabdev wrote, Dhanya Dhanya Bharat Borish (Hail! O Bharat). Sankardev added a chapter to his Bhakti Ratnakar, the title and content of which was Bharatbarsha Prasansha (In praise of Bharatbarsha). From time immemorial, Asom has remained culturally and spiritually united with the mainland India. The country was never under one administrative umbrella till the British came. Most of the States were independent, Asom being one of them. The British brought all these States under one centralised administration. Todays political unity of Indians is an outcome of the anti-British freedom struggle. The people of Asom joined this struggle and paid their share of the price for freedom with their life and blood. The political identity of being Indians that they carry in their Asomiya souls is the result of their participation in this struggle. This identity they have earned for themselves, no one has imposed it on them. Asom has lost her political independence much before the Treaty of Yandaboo signed on February 24, 1826. Because, about four years ago, the Burmese army captured upper Asom and Guwahati. According to Dr Surya Kumar Bhuyan, June 21, 1822, the day the Burmese occupied Asom was the last day of her independence. In fact, it was the last day
Re: [Assam] Fwd: Re: [Assam Society] No futu re t o sovereignty demand — Ranen Kumar Goswami
C'da, I too did not read the article till after reading your's and Jugal's comments. I really did not read anything written the way Jugal describes it - may be it was an implication (but it could just be me). There may have been that intellectual hypocrisy, but the author did make some excellent points explaining why reasons that the ULFA and others commonly say is the basis of their struggle, actually are either wrong, don't hold water, or are really impractical. Perhaps, you might want to read it after all. :) http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/details.asp?id=feb1007\edit1 --Ram On 2/11/07, Chan Mahanta [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I did not read the article, as I usually don't most of this kind of material that appear on desi-rags so routinely. I saw Chitta's and Sandip's comments indicating their approval of and common cause with the writer. I thought Jugal's comments would put in perspective the quality of the arguments made in the article. cm Comment: DomainKeys? See http://antispam.yahoo.com/domainkeys X-Yahoo-Newman-Id: 12609498-m-1 X-Apparently-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] X-YMail-OSG: RVv4baAVM1le9JQC5JAZkiY5XxNmBbf45pgN1OFUukZGY7ARxl4EqxVI44dUVs9QYbTH0 seN8YZAT_GkUg5HUzfQtScBLcSZPNFVJfufGEQKSBeoADh.7aizcpUUzB8Ns3L.P99_b P2kH1M- To: [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED], assamonline@yahoogroups.com, [EMAIL PROTECTED], Assam Foundation [EMAIL PROTECTED] X-Originating-IP: 68.142.206.135 X-eGroups-Msg-Info: 1:0:0:0 From: J Kalita [EMAIL PROTECTED] X-Yahoo-Profile: jugalkalita Sender: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Mailing-List: list [EMAIL PROTECTED]; contact [EMAIL PROTECTED] Delivered-To: mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] List-Id: AssamSociety.yahoogroups.comhttp://assamsociety.yahoogroups.com/ List-Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2007 08:29:24 -0800 (PST) Subject: Re: [Assam Society] No future t o sovereignty demand — Ranen Kumar Goswami Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] X-Yahoo-Newman-Property: groups-email-ff I am not sure of the point of this article. Once a region/country/nation loses its sovereignty, it can never regain it? Is that the point. India lost its sovereignty to the British in a legal fashion where papers were signed and sovereignty given over to the British. So, India should have never regained sovereignty in 1947? Poland lost its sovereignty many times over its history, to the Swedish, to the Germans, to the Russians. Didn't it regain it? So, the premise of this article doesn't make much sense to me. What's lost can be regained. The papers that were signed to accept the lost of sovereignty can be overwritten by new papers that give sovereignty back. It's sophistry to say sovereignty can never be regained. Histoy is a moving thing. Countries are born and die. In the past decade or so, the Soviet Union and the Yugoslov Union died and more than ten countries came into existence, i.e., regained sovereignty. Montenegro became a new nation just months ago, Kosovo will in a few years. In Asia, East Timor became a country a few years ago, Bangladesh became one a few decades ago. So, it is intellectual hypocrisy to write about only one side of the issue. Jugal --- Pradip Kumar Datta [EMAIL PROTECTED] pradip200%40yahoo.com wrote: No future to sovereignty demand — Ranen Kumar GoswamiWhen guns pass for rationale and a thirst for innocent blood its basis, the conclusion that comes out is sure to stand on its head. Asom-India conflict is a poison fruit such a conclusion has borne. Add to it another half-baked wisdom from the distorted pages of our history, 'Asom was never a part of India'. The heady cocktail is the theory of a sovereign Asom. Asom was never a part of India and its forced inclusion in the country has created the Asom-India conflict. The United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) tries to shove this lesson of history down the throat of Asomiya people. Did Asom not have any ties with India in the past? Renowned intellectual Dr Shiva Nath Barman has reminded us of our mythological links. Asom had links with the mainland India from time immemorial. Kamrup king Bhagadatta fought for the Kauravas in the battle of Mahabharata and laid down his life. Krishna married Rukmini and Sankardev has immortalised the tale in his Rukmini Haran Kabya. Bhim married Hidimba. Arjuna married Chitrangada who was a princess from Manipur. Madhabdev wrote, Dhanya Dhanya Bharat Borish (Hail! O Bharat). Sankardev added a chapter to his Bhakti Ratnakar, the title and content of which was Bharatbarsha Prasansha (In praise of Bharatbarsha). From time immemorial, Asom has remained culturally and spiritually united with the mainland India. The country was never under one administrative umbrella till the British came. Most of the States were independent, Asom being one of them. The British brought all these States under one centralised administration. Today's political unity of Indians is an outcome of the anti-British freedom struggle. The
[Assam] Non-competiton agreements?
ANyone has any idea about this non-competition contracts between a company and its employees. I recently signed one at my new workplace (even though technically I am not their employee) . I have been worrying sick that does it make me their bonded labor - or that I have to leave town to seek another employment -since I cannot work within 25 miles of their center for next 2 years - if I leave. Also does it mean if they do not give me the agreed upon pay (by inserting some new clauses -like less students/student absent - less pay) is their contract null and void. Also since technically I am not their employee (they signed a contract with my visa sponsor - for me to work at their tutoring company) - is it (non-compettion contract) valid for me. If I leave tomorrow only for any reason - does it mean I have to leave town -to seek new job? Umesh PS: I got this info on the net: Agreement letter: https://www.legaldocs.com/docs/non-com1.mv http://www.ilrg.com/forms/nocompet.html FAQ: http://www.myemploymentlawyer.com/non-compete-covenant-FAQs.htm Umesh Sharma 5121 Lackawanna ST College Park, (Washington D.C. Metro Region) MD 20740 1-202-215-4328 [Cell Phone] Ed.M. - International Education Policy Harvard Graduate School of Education, Harvard University, Class of 2005 weblog: http://jaipurschool.bihu.in/ website: www.gse.harvard.edu/iep - The all-new Yahoo! Mail goes wherever you go - free your email address from your Internet provider.___ assam mailing list assam@assamnet.org http://assamnet.org/mailman/listinfo/assam_assamnet.org
[Assam] A ‘different’ kind of visit to Assam
We just came back from Assam from a short trip. Trips are always short, even though we spent a few days more than usual. This trip was a bit different as it was one of the most fulfilling ones we have had. We ignored the usual frustrations with erratic power supply, or the fact that phone service is just as bad, or of the traffic congestions etc, etc. This time we availed the opportunity to visit a few places where a few people are making a big difference in the lives of many. *Snehalaya* Some of you must have already heard of Snehalaya and of Fr. Lukose of Don Bosco. Chandan da had introduced netters to Snehalaya and about the excellent work that Fr. Lukose and some volunteers (including a young lady from California) are doing. Snehalaya has several centers in Guwahati, and is basically a shelter for abandoned or runaway children who have no place to go. The centers provide food, shelter, and clothing for these children. Many of the older children go to school during the day. The center also provides a place where the children get involved in extra-curricular activities, such as, learning to cook, singing and dancing, reading and writing, and generally try to take care of themselves. Fr. Lukose and his small band of volunteers pick up these children from the streets of Guwahati and bring them to their shelters. During our visit, the children sang a beautiful song, welcoming us, and the girls danced to a song that was beautifully choreographed. The glint of hope in the eyes of those children managed to put a big lump in our throats and made us wonder whether we had let our lives go by just like that. *Parijat** Academy*** * * We were introduced to Parijat and its founder Uttom Teron through a video presentation by Ankur Bora of Austin (at Rajen Barua's home). So, we made plans to visit the academy at Guwahati. Alpana also made sure to pack some children's books, puzzles, and flash cards. These we understand (later) were a big hit with the children. The academy now has 54 young children, and 8 (mostly volunteers) teachers. The entire Teron family has put their hearts and souls in making sure that the poor and unfortunate in the surrounding 7 tribal villages have a place where their children can get some basic education. As it was the year-end, we could not, of course, meet any of the children, but we could hear their laughter and playfulness through the thin, mud walls of the couple of classrooms. The Teron family also invited us to a fabulous lunch (baali-bhat) – cooked outside, and we ate under the trees. This was just out of this world, and their hospitality knew no bounds. Alpana tried to hone in some new skills by trying out dhaan-jara etc. We are also trying to organize an agricultural project for the future, so that the academy can earn some operating expenses in the long run and the children can get some hands-on experience.. Parijat is located in Gorchuk, Pamohi in Guwahati. Here is their Web site again (we had got this address from Ankur before): http://www.parijatacademy.org/ *Ashadeep* Mukul and Anjana Goswami run Ashadeep, a rehab for mentally challenged women. They have several centers, and even a day school. The women are housed in a safe and secure environment. Besides some mental-health help, the women are taught some basic survival skills, where possible. Both Mukul and Anjana, along with their small group of people, work tirelessly and often way into the night. I have kept in touch with Mukul for a number of years. He has related some of the most poignant stories of mental illness. Many of the people working at Ashadeep (including the Goswamis) often cannot draw a paycheck, but there is a tacit understanding and the urge to help out each other when necessary, but all the while making sure the rehab is run smoothly. We visited their locations at Silpukhuri and Fatasil, Guwahati. Here is their Web site: http://www.giveworld.org/ashadeep/ashadeep_profile.htm *Amar Ghor* * * As some of you may be aware Amar Ghor is a shelter for elderly women. Ms. Rini Kakati wrote about this shelter some time ago in this forum. The shelter was established by Ms. Suchibrata RoyChoudhury (daughter of Sri.Ambikagiri RoyChoudhury). This is probably the first of its kind in Assam, and it was an eye-opener to realize that Ms. RoyChoudhury had the foresight to establish such a center. Many of the women in the center are able live there comfortably, and without being a burden on their families. One wishes there were many more centers like this throughout Assam. Right at the beginning, we mentioned that the trip was 'different'. It was different because of the many experiences we encountered when visiting these places. It was also different, as we realized that there are still a set of people in Assam who are willing to put others before self, and that too with lifetimes of commitments. We are sure there are many more unsung heroes out there, and this is just a small
Re: [Assam] A different kind of visit to Assam
thats a lovely account! Umesh Ram Sarangapani [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: We just came back from Assam from a short trip. Trips are always short, even though we spent a few days more than usual. This trip was a bit different as it was one of the most fulfilling ones we have had. We ignored the usual frustrations with erratic power supply, or the fact that phone service is just as bad, or of the traffic congestions etc, etc. This time we availed the opportunity to visit a few places where a few people are making a big difference in the lives of many. Snehalaya Some of you must have already heard of Snehalaya and of Fr. Lukose of Don Bosco. Chandan da had introduced netters to Snehalaya and about the excellent work that Fr. Lukose and some volunteers (including a young lady from California) are doing. Snehalaya has several centers in Guwahati, and is basically a shelter for abandoned or runaway children who have no place to go. The centers provide food, shelter, and clothing for these children. Many of the older children go to school during the day. The center also provides a place where the children get involved in extra-curricular activities, such as , learning to cook, singing and dancing, reading and writing, and generally try to take care of themselves. Fr. Lukose and his small band of volunteers pick up these children from the streets of Guwahati and bring them to their shelters. During our visit, the children sang a beautiful song, welcoming us, and the girls danced to a song that was beautifully choreographed. The glint of hope in the eyes of those children managed to put a big lump in our throats and made us wonder whether we had let our lives go by just like that. Parijat Academy We were introduced to Parijat and its founder Uttom Teron through a video presentation by Ankur Bora of Austin (at Rajen Barua's home). So, we made plans to visit the academy at Guwahati. Alpana also made sure to pack some children's books, puzzles, and flash cards. These we understand (later) were a big hit with the children. The academy now has 54 young children, and 8 (mostly volunteers) teachers. The entire Teron family has put their hearts and souls in making sure that the poor and unfortunate in the surrounding 7 tribal villages have a place where their children can get some basic education. As it was the year-end, we could not, of course, meet any of the children, but we could hear their laughter and playfulness through the thin, mud walls of the couple of classrooms. The Teron family also invited us to a fabulous lunch (baali-bhat) cooked outside, and we ate under the trees. This was just out of this world, and their hospitality knew no bounds. Alpana tried to hone in some new skills by trying out dhaan-jara etc. We are also trying to organize an agricultural project for the future, so that the academy can earn some operating expenses in the long run and the children can get some hands-on experience.. Parijat is located in Gorchuk, Pamohi in Guwahati. Here is their Web site again (we had got this address from Ankur before): http://www.parijatacademy.org/ Ashadeep Mukul and Anjana Goswami run Ashadeep, a rehab for mentally challenged women. They have several centers, and even a day school. The women are housed in a safe and secure environment. Besides some mental-health help, the women are taught some basic survival skills, where possible. Both Mukul and Anjana, along with their small group of people, work tirelessly and often way into the night. I have kept in touch with Mukul for a number of years. He has related some of the most poignant stories of mental illness. Many of the people working at Ashadeep (including the Goswamis) often cannot draw a paycheck, but there is a tacit understanding and the urge to help out each other when necessary, but all the while making sure the rehab is run smoothly. We visited their locations at Silpukhuri and Fatasil, Guwahati. Here is their Web site: http://www.giveworld.org/ashadeep/ashadeep_profile.htm Amar Ghor As some of you may be aware Amar Ghor is a shelter for elderly women. Ms. Rini Kakati wrote about this shelter some time ago in this forum. The shelter was established by Ms. Suchibrata RoyChoudhury (daughter of Sri.Ambikagiri RoyChoudhury). This is probably the first of its kind in Assam, and it was an eye-opener to realize that Ms. RoyChoudhury had the foresight to establish such a center. Many of the women in the center are able live there comfortably, and without being a burden on their families. One wishes there were many more centers like this throughout Assam. Right at the beginning, we mentioned that the trip was 'different'. It was different because of the many experiences we encountered when visiting these places. It was also different, as we realized that there are still a
[Assam] Fwd: November issue of Posoowa published
nice pics and articles. Any comments on unreasonalble approaches article which talks about Sony chief's work ethics as well. I read the Sony founder's book Made in Japan when I was in high school . My father had purchased it while running an iron scrap (junk) business. Morita was CEO of a different kind --he loaded his TVs himself (if need be) into trucks in US. His son seems more easy going (from recent news) ? Umesh J Kalita [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: To: [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED] From: J Kalita [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Sat, 10 Feb 2007 12:45:53 -0800 (PST) Subject: [Assam Society] November issue of Posoowa published Hello everyone, The November issue of Posoowa has been published. Please go to http://www.assam.org/newsletter to read the November issue as well as the previous issues. We want to publish the December issue within a week, and the January issue within a couple of weeks. Please send me any material you would like to publish: short articles, photographs, paintings, poems, and anything else. __._,_.___ Messages in this topic (2) Reply (via web post) | Start a new topic Messages | Files | Photos | Links | Database | Polls | Members | Calendar We appreciate your contribution to Assam Society of America! Change settings via the Web (Yahoo! ID required) Change settings via email: Switch delivery to Daily Digest | Switch format to Traditional Visit Your Group | Yahoo! Groups Terms of Use | Unsubscribe Visit Your Group Give Back Yahoo! for Good Get inspired by a good cause. Y! Toolbar Get it Free! easy 1-click access to your groups. Yahoo! Groups Start a group in 3 easy steps. Connect with others. . __,_._,___ Umesh Sharma 5121 Lackawanna ST College Park, (Washington D.C. Metro Region) MD 20740 1-202-215-4328 [Cell Phone] Ed.M. - International Education Policy Harvard Graduate School of Education, Harvard University, Class of 2005 weblog: http://jaipurschool.bihu.in/ website: www.gse.harvard.edu/iep - The all-new Yahoo! Mail goes wherever you go - free your email address from your Internet provider.___ assam mailing list assam@assamnet.org http://assamnet.org/mailman/listinfo/assam_assamnet.org
[Assam] [Iepgraduates-list] New Harvard President
Controversies lead to positive change? Harvard's first female president now in place. Umesh Fernando M. Reimers @harvard.edu wrote: Date: Sun, 11 Feb 2007 21:06:04 -0500 From: Fernando M. Reimers @harvard.edu To: @gse.harvard.edu Subject: [Iepgraduates-list] New Harvard President Dear all, With the appointment of Drew Gilpin Faust as Harvard's 28th President we are witness to a change of great significance in the history of this University and of Higher Education. That the best candidate for this job was recognized to be a woman. This appointment of the first woman ever to be selected to lead this University should remind all of us that positive social change, albeit often slow in coming, is possible. May this inspire all of us as we continue to expand educational opportunity around the world. http://www.news.harvard.edu/gazette/2007/02.15/99-president.html Fernando ___ Iepgraduates-list mailing list @gse.harvard.edu http://gse.harvard.edu/mailman/listinfo/iepgraduates-list - The all-new Yahoo! Mail goes wherever you go - free your email address from your Internet provider.___ assam mailing list assam@assamnet.org http://assamnet.org/mailman/listinfo/assam_assamnet.org
Re: [Assam] A 'different' kind of visit to Assam
Bless your hearts, Alpana and Ram. We are proud of your efforts. c-da At 7:58 PM -0600 2/11/07, Ram Sarangapani wrote: We just came back from Assam from a short trip. Trips are always short, even though we spent a few days more than usual. This trip was a bit different as it was one of the most fulfilling ones we have had. We ignored the usual frustrations with erratic power supply, or the fact that phone service is just as bad, or of the traffic congestions etc, etc. This time we availed the opportunity to visit a few places where a few people are making a big difference in the lives of many. Snehalaya Some of you must have already heard of Snehalaya and of Fr. Lukose of Don Bosco. Chandan da had introduced netters to Snehalaya and about the excellent work that Fr. Lukose and some volunteers (including a young lady from California) are doing. Snehalaya has several centers in Guwahati, and is basically a shelter for abandoned or runaway children who have no place to go. The centers provide food, shelter, and clothing for these children. Many of the older children go to school during the day. The center also provides a place where the children get involved in extra-curricular activities, such as , learning to cook, singing and dancing, reading and writing, and generally try to take care of themselves. Fr. Lukose and his small band of volunteers pick up these children from the streets of Guwahati and bring them to their shelters. During our visit, the children sang a beautiful song, welcoming us, and the girls danced to a song that was beautifully choreographed. The glint of hope in the eyes of those children managed to put a big lump in our throats and made us wonder whether we had let our lives go by just like that. Parijat Academy We were introduced to Parijat and its founder Uttom Teron through a video presentation by Ankur Bora of Austin (at Rajen Barua's home). So, we made plans to visit the academy at Guwahati. Alpana also made sure to pack some children's books, puzzles, and flash cards. These we understand (later) were a big hit with the children. The academy now has 54 young children, and 8 (mostly volunteers) teachers. The entire Teron family has put their hearts and souls in making sure that the poor and unfortunate in the surrounding 7 tribal villages have a place where their children can get some basic education. As it was the year-end, we could not, of course, meet any of the children, but we could hear their laughter and playfulness through the thin, mud walls of the couple of classrooms. The Teron family also invited us to a fabulous lunch (baali-bhat) - cooked outside, and we ate under the trees. This was just out of this world, and their hospitality knew no bounds. Alpana tried to hone in some new skills by trying out dhaan-jara etc. We are also trying to organize an agricultural project for the future, so that the academy can earn some operating expenses in the long run and the children can get some hands-on experience.. Parijat is located in Gorchuk, Pamohi in Guwahati. Here is their Web site again (we had got this address from Ankur before): http://www.parijatacademy.org/http://www.parijatacademy.org/ Ashadeep Mukul and Anjana Goswami run Ashadeep, a rehab for mentally challenged women. They have several centers, and even a day school. The women are housed in a safe and secure environment. Besides some mental-health help, the women are taught some basic survival skills, where possible. Both Mukul and Anjana, along with their small group of people, work tirelessly and often way into the night. I have kept in touch with Mukul for a number of years. He has related some of the most poignant stories of mental illness. Many of the people working at Ashadeep (including the Goswamis) often cannot draw a paycheck, but there is a tacit understanding and the urge to help out each other when necessary, but all the while making sure the rehab is run smoothly. We visited their locations at Silpukhuri and Fatasil, Guwahati. Here is their Web site: http://www.giveworld.org/ashadeep/ashadeep_profile.htmhttp://www.giveworld.org/ashadeep/ashadeep_profile.htm Amar Ghor As some of you may be aware Amar Ghor is a shelter for elderly women. Ms. Rini Kakati wrote about this shelter some time ago in this forum. The shelter was established by Ms. Suchibrata RoyChoudhury (daughter of Sri.Ambikagiri RoyChoudhury). This is probably the first of its kind in Assam, and it was an eye-opener to realize that Ms. RoyChoudhury had the foresight to establish such a center. Many of the women in the center are able live there comfortably, and without being a burden on their families. One wishes there were many more centers like this throughout Assam. Right at the beginning, we mentioned that the trip was 'different'. It was different because of the many experiences we encountered when
Re: [Assam] Sikh tycoon going home to clean up politics
interesting effort. I was told that soon NRIs would be allowed to hold dual-citizenships and can vote in India. Anyway if you are a millionaire (USD) then even US govt laws change -- u can get Green Card in 6 months -so coming back is easy -if it doesn't work out in India :-). Umesh [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Netters I'm sure the following news would be of considerable interest to us NRI/As. Bhuban From The Times February 10, 2007 Made in Britain â the Sikh tycoon going home to clean up politics to not show photographer information -- to not show image description -- to not show enlarge option -- Jeremy Page in Punjab If there is an Indian dream, then Jasbir Khangura has lived it. In 1966, when he was two, his family left their dairy farm in Punjab to live in Britain, where his father set up the first Indian restaurant in Southall. Jasbir became a British citizen, studied at Isleworth Grammar and the University of Oxford, and forged a career in the hotel business, eventually becoming a millionaire. Today he owns two detached houses in Hounslow, a successful IT company and the only five-star hotel in the Punjabi city of Ludhiana. In his spare time, he likes to meet friends at All Bar One in Chiswick, watch Arsenal play or walk his Labradors, Dennis and Rocky (named after Dennis Bergkamp and David Rocastle, the former Arsenal players). He is, in short, the ultimate British Indian success story. But 40 years after his journey from Punjab began, Mr Khangura has taken an extraordinary step that opens a new chapter in the Indian émigré story. He has given up his British passport and become an Indian citizen again to run in local assembly elections in Punjab on Tuesday. âBy entering Indian politics, Iâll die ten times poorer â and probably earlier,â he told The Times as he cruised between election rallies in a silver Mercedes. âPeople say itâs a sacrifice, but I donât see it that way,â he said, gesturing at the potholed streets and farmers labouring barefoot in the fields. âPoliticians need to set standards for people to follow. Weâve got to bring more accountability to Indian public life.â Mr Khangura, a Sikh, is leading the way among a growing number of nonresident Indians (NRIs) who are trying to break into the notoriously closed and criminalised world of Indian politics. NRIs have poured millions of pounds of investment into India since its market reforms began to deliver Chinese-style growth. Now they are demanding a greater say in government to protect their investments and to clean up a corrupt and inefficient bureaucracy. Those without Indian citizenship are still denied voting rights (dual citizenship is illegal), but they can fund parties and canvass relatives and friends. Nowhere is that more evident than in Punjab, an agricultural state of 24 million people that accounts for many of the 30 million NRIs worldwide. About 50,000 have come to Punjab for the election and more than one billion rupees (£12 million) of campaign funds have come from overseas. âFor the first time, NRIs are making the presence felt in elections,â said Harish Puri, an expert on Indian politics. âThey are doing it because of Indiaâs rising status, because it has become more respectable â and more worthwhile.â Chander Parkash, 57, is one of about 250 NRIs from Britain, Canada and America who have returned to support the Khangura campaign. He moved to Britain in 1975 and earned a small fortune running an Indian restaurant, convenience stores and properties in Hampton, West London. âWhat weâve learnt in the UK â the real meaning of democracy â weâd like to implement here,â he said. As a British citizen, he cannot vote, but he has organised rallies, including one on Thursday that attracted 1,000 people. Mr Khangura hopes to rid his birthplace of the corruption that has left much of it without a functioning sewerage system, or reliable electricity and water supplies. He is standing as the Congress Party candidate for his native constituency of Qila Raipur, which has a population of 275,000, mainly farmers. Congress has controlled the 117-seat assembly since 2002, but has never won in Qila Raipur, which has been held for the past ten years by Jag-dish Garcha, of the Shiromani Akali Dal party. The contest is brutally intense, with all the mud-slinging, dirty tricks and razzmatazz characteristic of Indian elections. Mr Khangura accuses his 73-year-old opponent of duping, bribing and intimidating voters to further his business interests in the drugs, liquor and real estate sectors. Mr Garcha accuses Mr Khangura of fraudulently declaring himself bankrupt in Britain and of secretly filming pornographic films in the bridal suite of his hotel. âHeâs only been active here in the last few months,â said
Re: [Assam] A 'different' kind of visit to Assam
Thanks for your kind words, C'da. However, what little we dois literally nothing compared to what these people are self-lessly doing for others. We wanted to highlight just that again. These institutes were rare in Assamwhen we were growing up. These people who are running and working tirelessly in these institutes are souls with a higher calling andcame to this earthfrom a different plane than many of us, (excusemybringingspiritual stages/belief here). But however you put it, they aretheheroes of Assam.And even if one isn'tinclined in spiritual beliefs, it can be readily agreed that support for the unfortunateamongst us onlymakes practicalsense. Thanks again. With best regards, - Alpana From: Chan Mahanta [EMAIL PROTECTED]To: "Ram Sarangapani" [EMAIL PROTECTED], ASSAMNET assam@assamnet.orgCC: Partha Gogoi [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED],Chan Mahanta [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED],Lukose Cheruvalel [EMAIL PROTECTED]Subject: Re: [Assam] A 'different' kind of visit to AssamDate: Sun, 11 Feb 2007 20:37:32 -0600 Bless your hearts, Alpana and Ram. We are proud of your efforts. c-da At 7:58 PM -0600 2/11/07, Ram Sarangapani wrote: We just came back from Assam from a short trip. Trips are always short, even though we spent a few days more than usual. This trip was a bit different as it was one of the most fulfilling ones we have had. We ignored the usual frustrations with erratic power supply, or the fact that phone service is just as bad, or of the traffic congestions etc, etc. This time we availed the opportunity to visit a few places where a few people are making a big difference in the lives of many. Snehalaya Some of you must have already heard of Snehalaya and of Fr. Lukose of Don Bosco. Chandan da had introduced netters to Snehalaya and about the excellent work that Fr. Lukose and some volunteers (including a young lady from California) are doing. Snehalaya has several centers in Guwahati, and is basically a shelter for abandoned or runaway children who have no place to go. The centers provide food, shelter, and clothing for these children. Many of the older children go to school during the day. The center also provides a place where the children get involved in extra-curricular activities, such as , learning to cook, singing and dancing, reading and writing, and generally try to take care of themselves. Fr. Lukose and his small band of volunteers pick up these children from the streets of Guwahati and bring them to their shelters. During our visit, the children sang a beautiful song, welcoming us, and the girls danced to a song that was beautifully choreographed. The glint of hope in the eyes of those children managed to put a big lump in our throats and made us wonder whether we had let our lives go by just like that. Parijat Academy We were introduced to Parijat and its founder Uttom Teron through a video presentation by Ankur Bora of Austin (at Rajen Barua's home). So, we made plans to visit the academy at Guwahati. Alpana also made sure to pack some children's books, puzzles, and flash cards. These we understand (later) were a big hit with the children. The academy now has 54 young children, and 8 (mostly volunteers) teachers. The entire Teron family has put their hearts and souls in making sure that the poor and unfortunate in the surrounding 7 tribal villages have a place where their children can get some basic education. As it was the year-end, we could not, of course, meet any of the children, but we could hear their laughter and playfulness through the thin, mud walls of the couple of classrooms. The Teron family also invited us to a fabulous lunch (baali-bhat) - cooked outside, and we ate under the trees. This was just out of this world, and their hospitality knew no bounds. Alpana tried to hone in some new skills by trying out dhaan-jara etc. We are also trying to organize an agricultural project for the future, so that the academy can earn some operating expenses in the long run and the children can get some hands-on experience.. Parijat is located in Gorchuk, Pamohi in Guwahati. Here is their Web site again (we had got this address from Ankur before): http://www.parijatacademy.org/ Ashadeep Mukul and Anjana Goswami run Ashadeep, a rehab for mentally challenged women. They have several centers, and even a day school. The women are housed in a safe and secure environment. Besides some mental-health help, the women are taught some basic survival skills, where possible. Both Mukul and Anjana, along with their small group of people, work tirelessly and often way into the night. I have kept in touch with Mukul for a number of years. He has related some of the most poignant stories of mental illness. Many of the people working at Ashadeep (including the Goswamis) often cannot draw a paycheck, but there is a tacit understanding and the urge to help out each other when necessary, but all the while making sure the rehab is run smoothly. We visited their
Re: [Assam] agreements? Credentials matter!
It seems tutoring companies and sales and marketing companies are the few which have such contracts (?) Also, it seems that college background/credentials do matter. So far ALL my jobs in US have had some Harvard connection - most had staff which was a graduate or a student of Harvard. Like www.belldc.org where I worked last year - this new job is also in a company founded by Harvard graduates - while they were still studying at Harvard. I will be working in this area http://www.google.com/maps?q=Great+Falls,+VAsa=Xoi=mapct=image about 2 hours commute from where I stay now. Might have to shift residence -fortunately one of ex-roommates stays a mile from my workplace. Umesh umesh sharma [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: ANyone has any idea about this non-competition contracts between a company and its employees. I recently signed one at my new workplace (even though technically I am not their employee) . I have been worrying sick that does it make me their bonded labor - or that I have to leave town to seek another employment -since I cannot work within 25 miles of their center for next 2 years - if I leave. Also does it mean if they do not give me the agreed upon pay (by inserting some new clauses -like less students/student absent - less pay) is their contract null and void. Also since technically I am not their employee (they signed a contract with my visa sponsor - for me to work at their tutoring company) - is it (non-compettion contract) valid for me. If I leave tomorrow only for any reason - does it mean I have to leave town -to seek new job? Umesh PS: I got this info on the net: Agreement letter: https://www.legaldocs.com/docs/non-com1.mv http://www.ilrg.com/forms/nocompet.html FAQ: http://www.myemploymentlawyer.com/non-compete-covenant-FAQs.htm Umesh Sharma 5121 Lackawanna ST College Park, (Washington D.C. Metro Region) MD 20740 1-202-215-4328 [Cell Phone] Ed.M. - International Education Policy Harvard Graduate School of Education, Harvard University, Class of 2005 weblog: http://jaipurschool.bihu.in/ website: www.gse.harvard.edu/iep - The all-new Yahoo! Mail goes wherever you go - free your email address from your Internet provider. Umesh Sharma 5121 Lackawanna ST College Park, (Washington D.C. Metro Region) MD 20740 1-202-215-4328 [Cell Phone] Ed.M. - International Education Policy Harvard Graduate School of Education, Harvard University, Class of 2005 weblog: http://jaipurschool.bihu.in/ website: www.gse.harvard.edu/iep - Now you can scan emails quickly with a reading pane. Get the new Yahoo! Mail.___ assam mailing list assam@assamnet.org http://assamnet.org/mailman/listinfo/assam_assamnet.org
Re: [Assam] A 'different' kind of visit to Assam
Alpana-ji,
You are right. These brave folks are idealists drawing pleasure in helping
others. Your visit and accounts will inspire others to follow in their
footsteps (and support these organizations.)
For Parijaat Academy Assam Foundation is also providing support and here in
DC (and in Texas) www.ashanet.org is trying to find ways to get involved more.
Umesh
Alpana B. Sarangapani [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
Thanks for your kind words, C'da.
However, what little we do is literally nothing compared to what these people
are self-lessly doing for others. We wanted to highlight just that again. These
institutes were rare in Assam when we were growing up.
These people who are running and working tirelessly in these institutes are
souls with a higher calling and came to this earth from a different plane than
many of us, (excuse my bringing spiritual stages/belief here). But however you
put it, they are the heroes of Assam. And even if one isn't inclined in
spiritual beliefs, it can be readily agreed that support for the unfortunate
amongst us only makes practical sense.
Thanks again.
With best regards,
- Alpana
-
From: Chan Mahanta [EMAIL PROTECTED]
To: Ram Sarangapani [EMAIL PROTECTED], ASSAMNET assam@assamnet.org
CC: Partha Gogoi [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED],Chan Mahanta [EMAIL
PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED],Lukose Cheruvalel [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Subject: Re: [Assam] A 'different' kind of visit to Assam
Date: Sun, 11 Feb 2007 20:37:32 -0600
blockquote, dl, ul, ol, li {padding-top:0;padding-bottom:0;}
Bless your hearts, Alpana and Ram. We are proud of your efforts.
c-da
At 7:58 PM -0600 2/11/07, Ram Sarangapani wrote:
We just came back from Assam from a short trip. Trips are always short, even
though we spent a few days more than usual.
This trip was a bit different as it was one of the most fulfilling ones we
have had. We ignored the usual frustrations with erratic power supply, or the
fact that phone service is just as bad, or of the traffic congestions etc, etc.
This time we availed the opportunity to visit a few places where a few people
are making a big difference in the lives of many.
Snehalaya
Some of you must have already heard of Snehalaya and of Fr. Lukose of Don
Bosco. Chandan da had introduced netters to Snehalaya and about the excellent
work that Fr. Lukose and some volunteers (including a young lady from
California) are doing.
Snehalaya has several centers in Guwahati, and is basically a shelter for
abandoned or runaway children who have no place to go. The centers provide
food, shelter, and clothing for these children. Many of the older children go
to school during the day. The center also provides a place where the children
get involved in extra-curricular activities, such as , learning to cook,
singing and dancing, reading and writing, and generally try to take care of
themselves.
Fr. Lukose and his small band of volunteers pick up these children from the
streets of Guwahati and bring them to their shelters.
During our visit, the children sang a beautiful song, welcoming us, and the
girls danced to a song that was beautifully choreographed.
The glint of hope in the eyes of those children managed to put a big lump in
our throats and made us wonder whether we had let our lives go by just like
that.
Parijat Academy
We were introduced to Parijat and its founder Uttom Teron through a video
presentation by Ankur Bora of Austin (at Rajen Barua's home).
So, we made plans to visit the academy at Guwahati. Alpana also made sure to
pack some children's books, puzzles, and flash cards. These we understand
(later) were a big hit with the children.
The academy now has 54 young children, and 8 (mostly volunteers) teachers.
The entire Teron family has put their hearts and souls in making sure that the
poor and unfortunate in the surrounding 7 tribal villages have a place where
their children can get some basic education.
As it was the year-end, we could not, of course, meet any of the children,
but we could hear their laughter and playfulness through the thin, mud walls of
the couple of classrooms.
The Teron family also invited us to a fabulous lunch (baali-bhat) - cooked
outside, and we ate under the trees. This was just out of this world, and their
hospitality knew no bounds.
Alpana tried to hone in some new skills by trying out dhaan-jara etc.
We are also trying to organize an agricultural project for the future, so
that the academy can earn some operating expenses in the long run and the
children can get some hands-on experience..
Parijat is located in Gorchuk, Pamohi in Guwahati. Here is their Web site
again (we had got this address from Ankur before):
http://www.parijatacademy.org/
Ashadeep
Mukul and Anjana Goswami run Ashadeep, a rehab for
Re: [Assam] A 'different' kind of visit to Assam
Lot of success stories in an otherwise damp situation. We must highlight those and bring a silver lining on the clouds. C'da's visit to 'Kolajan' was another good effort. Actually what I would like to suggest is that, we should at least for once visit whole length and breadth of Assam and NE and see for ourselves the grounds. A few days back in a marrigae reception I overheard vetaran ex-MP Mr. Bedabrata Baruah speaking of enterprises that has given more employment. Wild Grass at Kaziranga is giving employment to only local people, because outsiders are not suitable for a service industry. If it's a manufacturing unit, no choice but to bring in labour from outside, as locals detaste such jobs. That way hospitals, tourism, IT, telecom, insurance, media publicity, etc. are ideally suited for real development of local people. Same way we should try to develop industries which will be dear to our local tastes and values. Sports is another industry we can easily develop. In the ongoing National Games, tiny Manipur has dominated the charts so far with 19 Golds. Shows the prowess of North east. -bit offshoot of the subject though...got carried away may be.!! -manoj On 2/12/07, Chan Mahanta [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Bless your hearts, Alpana and Ram. We are proud of your efforts. c-da At 7:58 PM -0600 2/11/07, Ram Sarangapani wrote: We just came back from Assam from a short trip. Trips are always short, even though we spent a few days more than usual. This trip was a bit different as it was one of the most fulfilling ones we have had. We ignored the usual frustrations with erratic power supply, or the fact that phone service is just as bad, or of the traffic congestions etc, etc. This time we availed the opportunity to visit a few places where a few people are making a big difference in the lives of many. *Snehalaya* Some of you must have already heard of Snehalaya and of Fr. Lukose of Don Bosco. Chandan da had introduced netters to Snehalaya and about the excellent work that Fr. Lukose and some volunteers (including a young lady from California) are doing. Snehalaya has several centers in Guwahati, and is basically a shelter for abandoned or runaway children who have no place to go. The centers provide food, shelter, and clothing for these children. Many of the older children go to school during the day. The center also provides a place where the children get involved in extra-curricular activities, such as , learning to cook, singing and dancing, reading and writing, and generally try to take care of themselves. Fr. Lukose and his small band of volunteers pick up these children from the streets of Guwahati and bring them to their shelters. During our visit, the children sang a beautiful song, welcoming us, and the girls danced to a song that was beautifully choreographed. The glint of hope in the eyes of those children managed to put a big lump in our throats and made us wonder whether we had let our lives go by just like that. *Parijat Academy* * * We were introduced to Parijat and its founder Uttom Teron through a video presentation by Ankur Bora of Austin (at Rajen Barua's home). So, we made plans to visit the academy at Guwahati. Alpana also made sure to pack some children's books, puzzles, and flash cards. These we understand (later) were a big hit with the children. The academy now has 54 young children, and 8 (mostly volunteers) teachers. The entire Teron family has put their hearts and souls in making sure that the poor and unfortunate in the surrounding 7 tribal villages have a place where their children can get some basic education. As it was the year-end, we could not, of course, meet any of the children, but we could hear their laughter and playfulness through the thin, mud walls of the couple of classrooms. The Teron family also invited us to a fabulous lunch (baali-bhat) - cooked outside, and we ate under the trees. This was just out of this world, and their hospitality knew no bounds. Alpana tried to hone in some new skills by trying out dhaan-jara etc. We are also trying to organize an agricultural project for the future, so that the academy can earn some operating expenses in the long run and the children can get some hands-on experience.. Parijat is located in Gorchuk, Pamohi in Guwahati. Here is their Web site again (we had got this address from Ankur before): http://www.parijatacademy.org/ *Ashadeep* Mukul and Anjana Goswami run Ashadeep, a rehab for mentally challenged women. They have several centers, and even a day school. The women are housed in a safe and secure environment. Besides some mental-health help, the women are taught some basic survival skills, where possible. Both Mukul and Anjana, along with their small group of people, work tirelessly and often way into the night. I have kept in touch with Mukul for a number of years. He has related some of the most poignant stories of mental illness. Many of the people
Re: [Assam] A different kind of visit to Assam
Dear Ram Da, Alpana Ba, It's great. Your visit might have helped those ppl in some way or the other. Please keep it up. Regards Mridul Ram Sarangapani [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: We just came back from Assam from a short trip. Trips are always short, even though we spent a few days more than usual. This trip was a bit different as it was one of the most fulfilling ones we have had. We ignored the usual frustrations with erratic power supply, or the fact that phone service is just as bad, or of the traffic congestions etc, etc. This time we availed the opportunity to visit a few places where a few people are making a big difference in the lives of many. Snehalaya Some of you must have already heard of Snehalaya and of Fr. Lukose of Don Bosco. Chandan da had introduced netters to Snehalaya and about the excellent work that Fr. Lukose and some volunteers (including a young lady from California) are doing. Snehalaya has several centers in Guwahati, and is basically a shelter for abandoned or runaway children who have no place to go. The centers provide food, shelter, and clothing for these children. Many of the older children go to school during the day. The center also provides a place where the children get involved in extra-curricular activities, such as , learning to cook, singing and dancing, reading and writing, and generally try to take care of themselves. Fr. Lukose and his small band of volunteers pick up these children from the streets of Guwahati and bring them to their shelters. During our visit, the children sang a beautiful song, welcoming us, and the girls danced to a song that was beautifully choreographed. The glint of hope in the eyes of those children managed to put a big lump in our throats and made us wonder whether we had let our lives go by just like that. Parijat Academy We were introduced to Parijat and its founder Uttom Teron through a video presentation by Ankur Bora of Austin (at Rajen Barua's home). So, we made plans to visit the academy at Guwahati. Alpana also made sure to pack some children's books, puzzles, and flash cards. These we understand (later) were a big hit with the children. The academy now has 54 young children, and 8 (mostly volunteers) teachers. The entire Teron family has put their hearts and souls in making sure that the poor and unfortunate in the surrounding 7 tribal villages have a place where their children can get some basic education. As it was the year-end, we could not, of course, meet any of the children, but we could hear their laughter and playfulness through the thin, mud walls of the couple of classrooms. The Teron family also invited us to a fabulous lunch (baali-bhat) cooked outside, and we ate under the trees. This was just out of this world, and their hospitality knew no bounds. Alpana tried to hone in some new skills by trying out dhaan-jara etc. We are also trying to organize an agricultural project for the future, so that the academy can earn some operating expenses in the long run and the children can get some hands-on experience.. Parijat is located in Gorchuk, Pamohi in Guwahati. Here is their Web site again (we had got this address from Ankur before): http://www.parijatacademy.org/ Ashadeep Mukul and Anjana Goswami run Ashadeep, a rehab for mentally challenged women. They have several centers, and even a day school. The women are housed in a safe and secure environment. Besides some mental-health help, the women are taught some basic survival skills, where possible. Both Mukul and Anjana, along with their small group of people, work tirelessly and often way into the night. I have kept in touch with Mukul for a number of years. He has related some of the most poignant stories of mental illness. Many of the people working at Ashadeep (including the Goswamis) often cannot draw a paycheck, but there is a tacit understanding and the urge to help out each other when necessary, but all the while making sure the rehab is run smoothly. We visited their locations at Silpukhuri and Fatasil, Guwahati. Here is their Web site: http://www.giveworld.org/ashadeep/ashadeep_profile.htm Amar Ghor As some of you may be aware Amar Ghor is a shelter for elderly women. Ms. Rini Kakati wrote about this shelter some time ago in this forum. The shelter was established by Ms. Suchibrata RoyChoudhury (daughter of Sri.Ambikagiri RoyChoudhury). This is probably the first of its kind in Assam, and it was an eye-opener to realize that Ms. RoyChoudhury had the foresight to establish such a center. Many of the women in the center are able live there comfortably, and without being a burden on their families. One wishes there were many more centers like this throughout Assam. Right at the beginning, we mentioned that the trip was 'different'. It was different because of the many
Re: [Assam] Article on Assam Asom
Dear Netters Here is the email of the Hon'ble President of India: [EMAIL PROTECTED] All concerned people should send mails to him highlighting this would be historical blunder. Regards M.Phukan Buljit Buragohain [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Here is an article about Assam Asom from Assamiya Khabor as attach file. Buljit - Heres a new way to find what you're looking for - Yahoo! Answers ___ assam mailing list assam@assamnet.org http://assamnet.org/mailman/listinfo/assam_assamnet.org - Heres a new way to find what you're looking for - Yahoo! Answers ___ assam mailing list assam@assamnet.org http://assamnet.org/mailman/listinfo/assam_assamnet.org
