During 13th 18th December I was on business/holiday tour.
Went to Baddi in Himachal Pradesh via Chandigadh and visited my client's Chocolate factory. The new industrial town is buzzing with activity. Industrial houses from all over the country opend up their shop to lap up the incentives offered by Himachal Pradesh Government.
Went to Parwanoo, in Himachal Pradesh to argue a case before the income tax department. Met a nice, courteous, decent and straight forward officer. My job was done in no time. It is nice to see such young men, and I felt India indeed is in safe hands of the next generation. Today's youth need to be reminded , that there is a great world out there beyond money( Thanks to Gurucharndas in India Unbound)
Visited Amristhsar, by travelling 4 hours on wonderful roads and greenery. Golden Temple the abode of devotion and service and the ultimate of Sikh religion. It is very well maintained and devotees are disciplined and well behaved the organisers should be congratulated for maintaining the decent surroundings.
Jalianwala Bagh the standing monument of the then rulers' cruelty is well maintained and one suddenly goes down deep into the history , offering tributes to Uddam Sing, the famous patriot linked to this part of history, who took vow to avenge the brutal act but actually killed Sir Michale O'dwywer instead of the real criminal Genral Dyer
From there went to Waagha the border post on Indo Pak borders in northern India. At 5.00 PM every day crowds gather to watch the parade by raising slogans. I think this type Hangama creates pseudo patriotism and promotes intolerance in the gullible public.Organisers ask you to raise your slogan mongering and booing while our neighbour's flag is honoured and national anthem is sung. Is it true patriotism?
I am reminded of Anatole France, QUOTE " THOSE WHO HAVE GIVEN THEMSELVES THE MOST CONCERN ABOUT THE HAPPINESS OF PEOPLE , HAVE MADE THEIR NEIGHBOURS VERY MISERABLE"
Jalandhar seems to be rich town with lots of business activity, and the villages of Punjab is expecting a good harvest this season with Sarson ka saag and makki ki roti waiting in the kitchens. Amrood ( mana jaama kaayalu) orchards and sugar cane fileds are abundant. I had an occasion to visit the native village of the cab driver who guided me in this tour, and meet the elders of his family and get their blessings and good wishes.
It is a short and purposeful trip to me, and I thank my client and friend Mr. Devabhaktuni Durga Prasad who organised this tour and foot the bill
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