Editorial May 2024
| Dear Readers,
As Mother’s Day dawns upon us, it brings a special opportunity to celebrate and honor the incredible women in our lives who embody the essence of motherhood. Whether they are our biological mothers, adoptive mothers, grandmothers, aunts, sisters, or mentors, these women have shaped our worlds with their wisdom, strength, and, most profoundly, their unconditional love. Today, we take a moment to reflect on the countless sacrifices made by mothers. From the sleepless nights to the lifelong commitment of nurturing and guiding, a mother’s love is the cornerstone upon which we build our character and values. This day is not just about the flowers and gifts; it’s about acknowledging the emotional and physical labor that goes into raising a child. In this issue, we not only wish a heartfelt ‘Happy Mother’s Day’ to all mothers but also extend our gratitude. Thank you for your endless patience, boundless affection, and the lessons you impart. You are the unsung heroes of our society, the gentle yet resilient force that molds the future. Let us all take this day to express our love and appreciation for the mothers in our lives. May we recognize their profound influence not just today, but every day. Happy Mother’s Day to all the wonderful mothers reading this—may your day be filled with the love and joy you so richly deserve. Allow me to use this occasion to pay tribute to my mother on a personal level. As Mother’s Day approaches, I can’t help but think back on her amazing insight and wisdom. Though your formal education concluded after the 5th grade, your intelligence and understanding were profound, rivaling those of a Ph.D.-level professor. She was born with a natural aptitude to navigate the complexity of the world with style and intelligence. Even though you are no longer among us, I still follow your lessons and love you every day. I will always be grateful for the lessons you taught me and the unwavering love you showed me. Mom, happy Mother’s Day in paradise. Your talent and spirit endure. In this May edition of Desh-Videsh magazine, we joyfully commemorate Gujarat Foundation Day, marking the establishment of our vibrant state on May 1, 1960. Celebrating Gujarat Foundation Day often brings back cherished memories for me. It’s a time to reminisce about the Mahagujarat movement, known locally as Mahagujarat Andolan. In 1956, there was a political movement demanding the creation of Gujarat for Gujarati-speaking people from the bilingual Bombay state of India. Gujarat’s formation on May 1, 1960, was the result. This milestone invites us to reflect on Gujarat’s rich heritage, its dynamic growth, and the indomitable spirit of its people. Celebrating the past, we stride confidently into the future. I wrote a rather long article for our cover story, The Modi factor: India 2024 and Beyond. I am not going to talk too much in this editorial. I hope you get goosebumps reading this article, just as much as I did when I wrote it. I hope you also share my love and passion for Modi ji and India.If you agree or disagree with this or any other article in Desh-Videsh, please send your positive feedback to editor@deshvidesh.com. If you want to be anonymous, please let us know. We are also thrilled to feature a compelling article by our promising new writer, Sabrina Liyaquat, entitled “Kangana Ranaut: From Bollywood to Politics.” Sabrina deftly examines the intriguing journey of Kangana Ranaut, an Indian cinema icon who has ventured into the turbulent waters of Indian politics. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Sabrina examines how Kangana’s cinematic prowess and outspoken persona have paved her way into a political career, highlighting the challenges and triumphs faced by celebrities in the political arena. This piece not only provides a deep dive into Kangana’s career transition but also sparks a broader discussion on the intersection of entertainment and politics. Join us in welcoming Sabrina’s fresh perspective and analytical prowess to our magazine. Dr. Mohini Shinde, our passionate about India and Indian culture writer, highlights Rabindranath Tagore, a luminary in literature and the arts, whose birth anniversary on May 7th prompts widespread celebration. Born in 1861, Tagore’s influence pervades not just Indian culture but also the global intellectual and artistic landscape. Tagore himself translated his seminal work, “Gitanjali,” from Bengali to English, earning him the 1913 Nobel Prize in Literature and making him the first Asian laureate. This honor celebrated his “profoundly sensitive, fresh, and beautiful verse,” which notably bridged Eastern and Western literary traditions. Tagore’s legacy is a testament to the enduring power of cultural exchange and intellectual pursuit. In this month’s edition, we also talk about the sublime world of Dhrupad, one of the oldest forms of North Indian classical music, in our feature article “Dhrupad: Unveiling the Celestial Symphony.” This piece explores the ethereal qualities and deep spiritual roots of Dhrupad, tracing its origins back to the ancient Sama Veda. Through expert insights and historical context, the article illuminates how Dhrupad not only preserves but also elevates the sacred echoes of Vedic chants. The narrative captures the essence of Dhrupad as more than music—it’s a meditative journey into the soul of sound itself, offering a profound connection to the cosmic dance of creation. Our new writer, Vasini Shyama Charan Jha, a trained Indian classical dancer, adds to the richness of our exploration with her well-penned article. Vasini’s deep understanding of rhythmic and expressive nuances brings a unique perspective to the narrative, bridging the realms of dance and music. Her background in classical dance enables her to decode and vividly describe the intricate interplay between movement and melody in Dhrupad, offering readers a holistic view of this ancient art form. Vasini’s eloquent writing not only informs but also invites readers to feel the pulse and sway of Dhrupad’s timeless tradition.
Raj Shah Desh-Videsh Media Group |
