Editorial January 2012

January 2012

Dear Readers,

First, let me begin this column with an apology. Last Issue, I did not give you my usual personal antidotes. I will not go into the details of why, but last month was not one of the best months for our family. But with blessings from God and well wishes from family members and extended family members, I am back – new and improved and I have brought new hopes along with the New Year.

So speaking of the New Year, on behalf of the entire Desh-Videsh team, I would like to wish you and your family a healthy, happy and prosperous new year.

In this issue, Ranjani discusses the importance of significant resolutions in “New Hopes and Promises for the New Year.” She prioritizes family, health and wealth as the top categories in which we should strive to improve.

Our cover story covers Bollywood legends that passed away in the last few months. My generation, those who grew up in India in the 50s, 60s, and 70s, know these Bollywood legends dearly and will miss them – especially Jagjit Singh who passed away at a very early age.

In another article, we discuss parenting and take away some parenting lessons from The Bhagavad Gita. Hindus as well as non-Hindus find that The Bhagavad Gita is embodied with deep philosophy, spirituality and divinity and is much more than just a book. Gandhiji noted its importance when he said, “The Gita is the universal mother.” A child can learn many things from the Gita in much the same way as he or she learns from his or her mother. In much the same way, a parent can gain insight and tips on effective parenting from this spiritual work.

Continuing with the same thought, it is our pleasure to report about an inspiring project conducted by a school in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. They assigned their students to write poetry based on their readings of The Bhagavad Gita. Over the next few issues, we will share some of the best poems submitted by their students.

Let me close this column by saying:

Om sarveshaam swastir bhavatu, Sarveshaam shantir bhavatu
Sarveshaam poornam bhavatu, Sarveshaam mangalam bhavatu
Sarve bhavantu sukhinah, Sarve santu niraamayaah
Sarve bhadraani pashyantu, Maakaschit duhkha bhaag bhavet

Auspiciousness be unto all; Peace be unto all;
Fullness be unto all; Prosperity be unto all.

May all be happy!
May all be free from disabilities!
May all look to the good of others!
May none suffer from sorrow!

Peace Peace Peace

Raj Shah
Managing Editor
Desh-Videsh