opportunities unlimited case studies(1)

Successful Men

Opportunities Unlimited

1

OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED

SUCCESSFUL MEN- WOMAN

ACHIEVERS

SUCCESSFUL CAREER

CASE STUDIES OF THEIR LIVES

LESSONS DRAWN

chances

Efforts –Trials- courage

BY

R. JAGANNATHAN

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Opportunities Unlimited-a strangeword for many youths who have graduated and waiting

for decent jobs and work environment. Except in IT-sector-Opportunities Unlimited

stands meagre chance in other fields-That is the assumption we make. I have come across

many bright people with adequate qualification waiting at the door in many countries

although this tendency is slowly changing in India and China.

Numbers in the developed countries measures success. This cannot be applied to

developing countries. Two-third of the mankind is in Asia. India and China alone

constitute the bulk of the population exceeding 200 crores.

How to become successful in this environment-be it in Industry or Business or Career?

The task of managing Industry, Business or one’s Career is not easy to day. Competition,

Copying, Fake products, fraudulent methods, political intervention, Godfathers, imitation

- are rampant to day. If any one visit main bazaars of leading cities– he can easily see the

truth in the statement. Can we able to evolve a successful strategy or principles in the

above circumstances?

There is tendency among young people to choose the jobs, which their colleagues have

chosen or which are popular at that point of time. Those jobs get saturated and a feeling

of desperation creep in their mind. Our Case Studies show that People are highly

successful in odd jobs.

Opportunity Unlimited present to these people the fields unexplored through case

studies of successful people - in fields like Arts and Crafts, Fine Arts, Construction,

Automotive Repair, Paint, Computer Field, Electrical and Electronics, Food Services and

Products, Tour Operation, Home Improvement and Repair, Music Lessons, Professional

Services, Sitting Services, Sports and Fitness Pet Care etc to give confidence and strength.

These men and women come from ordinary families. Their struggle, undaunted when

faced with disappointment and the measure of success they achieved will form the basis

or the Turning Point for this book. What should I do to succeed in Business or Industry

in countries like India and China? What should be the approach of Businessmen and

Industrialists to build up mass base in these countries?

We will analyze each case and try to evolve some common factors for success.

At the end of each chapter I have given quotation from Bhagavad Gita to inspire us and

give strength to face the challenges ahead of us.

R. Jagannathan.

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CONTENTS

Introduction. Page 2

Case Studies:

1. Unpaid Apprentice to Technical Director. (Technical) 4

2. Kitchen to Factory. (Industry) 6

3 Failed School Final Lad -Wellknown Publisher. (Small Scale) 8

4. Handicap Only the Body Not the Mind. (Disabled) 10

5. Alcoholic Anonymous. (Social) 13

6 The Nightingale Of India. (Fine Arts) 15

7. Embar the Musical Discourse Master. (Fine Arts) 17

8. Auto Riksha Driver to Boeing Mechanic. (Mechanical) 19

9. Parakalan- The Successful Tour Operator. (Commercial) 21

10. A Dream of 2 Young doctors turned to 50 Bed Hospital. (Health) 23

11. An Orphan Turned into Successful Priest. (Social) 25

12. Aswatha Turned Into A Carwasher. (Small Scale) 27

13. Viji- The Brave Woman. (Social) 29

14. Semmangudi- The Doyen of Carnatic Music. (Fine Arts) 31

15. Chief Chef Namakkal Srinivasan. (Food Products) 33.

16. Padmashree Malathi Hollar (Social) 35

17. Vishranthi Home (Social) 37

18. Swami Vimukathananda (Social) 39

19. Padmanabhan-With 6 Girl Children (Social) 41

20. Jaya- interesting baby Sitter (Social) 43

21. Famida the Wonder Girl (Social-Handicapped) 45

22. Jamal- Auto Collision Repairer (Social-Small Scale) 47

23. Rengappa- The Civil Contractor (Civil) 49.

24. Rashid – The Painter. (Civil) 51

25. Tanjore Painting (Art & Culture) 53

26. MTR- The Fast Food People (Food & Food Products) 55

27. VG- The Provision Stores (Provisions) 57

28. Horoscope Exchange Center (Social) 59

29. Thangamani- The Cottage Industry Girl 61

30. Brinda-Social Service Organizer. (Social) 63

31. G.D.Naidu-Construction for Destruction (Industry) 65

32. MU.VA to Dr. MU.VA (Education) 67

33. Vasundara- The Beautician (Small Scale) 69

34. Gayathri Shankar- Violinist (Fine Arts-Social) 71

35. THI.JA.RA- The Short Story Writer. (Social) 73

36. Pitchu Sasthrigal – The Astrologer (Astrology) 75

37. Shivaji Ganesan- the Jewel among Actors. 77

38. Tutorial Colleges. 79.

39. Three Ys’ and Prabhu Book Stores. 80

40. Amateur Dramatic Group. 82

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41. Indian Handicrafts. 84

42. People Doctor-Ranganathan. 86

43. B.P.Setty – Loyal to the core. 88

44. 4-Orphans and Folk Dances. 90

45. Temples of India-Source for Arts, Culture & Small Business. 92

46. Tributes to Practical Men- GK-The self-made man. 94

47. Tributes to Practical Men- Sridharan the Idealist. 96

48. Tributes to Practical Men- Raghuveeran in a Hurry. 98

49. Tributes to Practical Woman- Chithi- True to Indian Tradition. 100

50. Tributes to Great Masters- Adi Sankara 105

51. Tributes to Great Masters- Yathiraja Ramanuja. 107

52. Lessons Drawn from case Studies; A- Career. 109.

53. Lessons Drawn from case studies: B- Business. 126.

54. Lessons drawn from case studies- C- Industry. 137.

******************************

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Case Study 1. (Professional)

UNPAID APPRENTICE TO TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

(Jaga was born in middle-class family-one among five. He was an ordinary student in

High school and in Intermediate. Turning point came to him-after a stint in Electrical

Engineering-ended abruptly – when he decided to study Textiles. )

1950- the year is important in the career of Jaga. It was in that year that he got himself

admitted in P.S.G. Institute of Technology and chose Textile Technology. It was not a

well thought out choice-just a passing decision made due to frustrated experience at

Madras – Electrical Engineering was a tough subject for him - unable to cope up with, he

returned back to Trichy abruptly.

Although the conservative family circles were against his choice for fear of unknown

subject and chances of getting into Government Service being poor, he was very adamant

to try the new field.

This was the first Turning Point in his career. He came out first in the Diploma

Examination. But getting jobs in Textile Mills was very tough on those days. Mill-owners

believed that experienced Fitters and wrapping clerks are preferable than the diploma

candidates for the supervisory positions.

Family circumstances prevented him in sitting idle-he has to earn. He collected the

addresses of Spinning Mills in South-India and sent his application to them. Many mills

replied that there is no suitable position for him. At last a call came from a Coimbatore

Mill to join as Fitter Apprentice. To work as Fitter- a first class Diploma Holder? – Little

bit hesitation but decided to take up the job – a second Turning Point in his career.

A beginning was made for a strong foundation. He struggled to learn the intricacies of

erection of machines, settings and maintenance. He rose to the position of Shift

Supervisor in a period of 2-years.

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Getting bored with the same type of activities every day – he decided to try his skill of

preparing appealing applications. He saw an advertisement in The Hindu for the post

Spinning Master and applied-never bothered whether he is fit for the post. Surprisingly he

got a call from the mills to join as Assistant Spinning Master. This is the third Turning

Point in his career.

(Later he came to know that the opening was for a new Mills by Birlas and they wanted a

person experienced in erection and commissioning and also effective supervision of

production process)

After an uneventful career for more than 10-years- at the age of 40, fourth Turning Point

came to him. He had applied to a Box Number in the Hindu for the post of Spinning

Superintendent for a Textile Mills and completely forgotten about it. A year later, a call

came from the Mills to join for a New Mill to be started at Malaysia by Birlas. Delighted

with the offer he grasped the opportunity for the first overseas assignment.

Thereafter he erected a second unit in Malaysia, Spinning Mill in Sri Lanka, NRI Mills in

India etc. He was Technical Director for a number of Spinning Mills in India.

Analysis:

From a salary of RS. 1.50 per day to M$ 3000 per month in 1970 is a remarkable

achievement.

He had 4-Turning Points in his career and he effectively utilized all of them. Apart from

the above his decision to take up the Fitter position, thereby had a strong foundation in

erection and maintenance is the main point for his successful career.

The application writing is an art. He very effectively used them to get openings. Later

this factor-refined - made him to write many popular Textile Books.

Strong Foundation.

Effective utilization of opportunities.

Art of application writing and presentation.

Wise man to whom pain pleasure is alike and who is not tormented by these contacts

becomes eligible for immortality- Bhagavad Githa.

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Case Study-2 (Entrepreneur)

KITCHEN TO FACTORY

( Ramesh and Varadhan had acquaintance when working for a Multi National Abrasive

Company. They became close friends. Ramesh is a B.Tech in Textiles and MBA from

P.S.G College of Technology-Coimbatore. Varadhan is a M.Tech. in Chemical

Engineering. Getting bored with the present Job, they decided to start their own. )

Ramesh was working, as Marketing Trainee while Varadhan was Production Engineer in

the Multi-National Abrasive Factory at Bangalore. Two years they served the Company

well. They used to meet very often in Clubs, Canteen and Social gatherings and exchange

ideas. In one such meeting they discussed the idea of coming to-gether and start a factory

in a small scale to manufacture abrasives.

Varadhan is well versed in the Production Technology of abrasives and Ramesh is well

versed in Marketing and knows where the products can sell and the competitors in the

field. They decided that the product they manufacture should be import-substitution and

with very few competitors. They landed on Sponge Wheels (PVA- wheels) used by the

watch case manufacturers in and around Bangalore. This is the first Turning Point for

them.

An understanding was reached between them that one should quit the job and concentrate

in bringing the trial product out. Ramesh opted to quit with his parent’s approval while

Varadhan stayed-to help many obstacles to be faced in bringing out marketable abrasive

wheels. This is the second Turning Point.

They chose the Kitchen of Ramesh house-which was available at that time to conduct

trials and to manufacture the proto type PVA Wheels- instead of renting any building-

this is the third Turning Point.

After struggling for a year they succeeded in bringing out marketable product. They

decided to shift the Kitchen Factory to an industrial shed to start bulk manufacturing of

PVA wheels. The advantage of this unit was- hitherto Watch -Case manufacturers have to

import these wheels in bulk quantities from Japan. The imported wheel costed RS. 900/-

includes the shipping and other costs. Bulk of the finance went to import of these wheels.

Ramesh & Varadhan named the factory as METSHINE. An astute marketing man

Ramesh – is -priced the product at half the price of imported one and made arrangement

to supply monthly and at regular intervals. Quality being equal to that of the imported

wheels, Customers started switching to Metshine.

To day two third of the requirements of PVA-wheels is met by Metshine. Apart from the

main product, the Factory diversified into watch related products including Soaps.

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Ramesh & Co joined as partners of another company – watchcase-manufacturing

company. The partners of the watch case company needed fresh talents for the growing

watch case Industry and in order to enhance the capacity they wanted to invest additional

machinery

After an in-depth study of the deficiency of machinery in the Factory, they decided to

add automatic press-brought from Delhi. New designs were added using computerized

AUTO CAD software. At the same time there started revival of Watch Manufacturing

Companies like HMT, TITAN, WESTAR.

Orders started pouring in for this factory. This is the fourth Turning Point. To day one is

supportive of the other and the future is bright for these Entrepreneurs.

Analysis:

Providence made these youngsters to meet. They utilized the opportunity to exchange

ideas and the visions they had. It was a bold decision to quit a well-paid job in an MNC

company.

Decision that one should stay in the job and the other to concentrate in bringing out the

product was very correct. During the course of trials ready solutions were available to

them from various sources.

It was right decision to diversify into related products. Indian market is such that if one

succeeded with a particular product, skilled worker was whisked away to copy and make

money-thereby increasing the competition, pricing, credit etc.

Correct combination- one a marketing man and the other production man.

Bold decision to quit the well-paid job.

Correct choice of the product.

Right time to diversify.

Intellect is determinate and directed singly towards one ideal; whereas the intellect of

undecided wanders in all directions, after innumerable aims- Bhagavad Githa

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Case study-3 (Entrepreneur)

FAILED SCHOOL FINAL LAD

BECAME THE FOUNDER OF WELL KNOWN

PUBLISHING HOUSE

(Vanathi Thrunavukarasu – Well-known Publisher of more than 10,000 titles of famous

Authors in Tamil came from Nagarathar Community of Devakottai. At the age of 7- He

went to Burma in 1935 to stay with his father and study. He was forced to return back to

India due to the start of second world war- covering the entire 3000 miles by walk.)

He continued his study at Devakotai. He failed in S.S.L.C. Having lost every thing in

Burma his family were living middle class life –pinned their hope on this lad. Failure

shocked his mother. At that time Arasu took an oath before his mother that he will prove

himself a useful member of the family and create a name for himself. He wrote to his

friend at Madras- Soma Swaminathan (later this chap also became famous in the

Publishing field) requesting him to get a job at Madras.

Soma Swaminathan and other youngsters were friends – playing every day in the

morning Badminton and Arasu is one among them. This boyhood friendship became the

breadwinner for Arasu. Soma called him to Madras – this is the first Turning Point for

Arasu. Soma and Chinna Annamalai are all members of Tamil Pannai-later this pannai

produced famous Publishers and Writers in Tamil.

Arasu joined at Tamil Pannai –where Rajaji, Ma. PO. Si, Poet Namakkal Kavi wrote for

it and Papers were published in support of Independence -fully supporting Mahathma

Gandhi, Nehrus’ call for Total Independence of India from British Rule. To see and

watch their works were thrilling experience for Arasu

But this job lasted for only one year- all Devakottai people were sent out due to some

problem. This enabled these members to start their own business. This is the second

Turning Point for Arasu.

Arasu joined Sakthi Publication. Here he worked along with L. Ramanathan (He became

famous writer and Publisher- in the name of Tamil Vanan)

Both Tamil Vanan and Arasu joined later Kumudam – now the famous weekly magazine-

but Arasu left the same after few months due to difference with Tamil Vanan.

Arasu’s craze to start a Tamil Magazine enabled him to start children’s magazine- Jill-Jill.

Kalki-the famous Writer, Patroit, freedom fighter, Editor advised Arasu to go in for a

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Press. At the same time the now famous Kannadasan-who was unknown to the world also

started ‘ Thendral ’ maazine.

Jill Jill was priced at four annas at that time. This magazine produced many children

writers. The advice of Kalki was always the thought for Arasu-to start a Printing Press

and Publishing house. It was a blessing in disguise for Arasu to leave his dearest friend-

Tamil Vanan –since Arasu could concentrate on his own dream of becoming a Publisher

of his own. This is the third Turning Point for Arasu

After much trial tribulation finally the now famous Vanathi Publication became a reality.

The first publication of Vanathi is ‘ Ven Pura’ by R.S. Mani – a detective novel. There

was great demand for such type novels at that time. Later Vanathi published books on

self-improvement, historical novels, Social Novels, Aanmeekam-religious Books etc.

Rajaji’s Vyasar Virundu, Kalki Novels. Kanchi Acarya’s ‘ Deivathin Kural ‘ etc gave

very good name to Vanathi and Thirunavukarasu.

The people of Tamil Nadu and the Government recognize Thirunavukarasu. Writers

considered themselves recognized only if their works were published by Vanathi. Such is

the name created by the hard work and quality printing by Vanathi.

Analysis:

Undaunted by the failure in School final Arasu was determined to succeed. His boyhood

friendship helped him at crucial time. He stood firmly when ideas of his friend were

different to leave him to start his own. He was receptive of ideas and suggestions. He

wanted to peruse well-established principles in his business inherited from his father. He

adjusted his works according to the time and environment.

Failure is the stepping stone for success.

Friendship and brotherhood.

Noble tradion in Publication field.

He who is unattached to everything and meeting with good and evil, neither rejoices nor

recoils, his mind is stable. – Bhagavad Githa.

Case study- 4 (Commerce)

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HANDICAP IS ONLY THE BODY NOT THE MIND

(Struck by Polio the child - Varathakutty lost the sensitivity of both the legs. Undaunted

he crawled to School and came out first in his school in School final examination. He

continued his study and finished B.Com in first class. Due to his handicap-State Bank

refused him job in spite of his passing the interview. But he finished his C.A.He was

awarded Doctorate by Italian University and today he is well-known Auditor and Public

figure in Chennai)

Born in a Vaishnavite Iyengar family young Varuthu’s father –Sri T.P Srenivasachary –

was a scholar in Vedanta and working at Kanchi Vardarajaswamy temple. He and his

grand parents encouraged Varuthukutty to forget about his handicap and face the world

boldly by concentrating in his studies and make up the loss. Varuthu learnt the famous

Tamil Vedam-Nalayiram Divya Prabhandam by heart. His friends and brother gave him

helping hand. When he was studying for the degree course his friends did a yeomen

service by taking him in Electric Train to college and bringing back

Childhood passed normally for Varuthu-thanks to his families who were all very

sympathetic to him. They encouraged him to forget his handicap and move normally and

cultivate mental strength. His friends were also did the samething.

In spite of tall talks- Public still looked the handicapped persons at a low level only. But

Dr. Radhakrishnan-who was President of India at that time helped this boy to pay his

school fees from his own salary. Many people helped him to get scholarship upto his CA-

class. This is the first Turning Point in his life.

When he finished his degree exam- many private companies refused him job-pointing out

his handicap. Even the State Bank of India refused him the job in spite of Medical

certificate.

When he was knocking the doors of many Auditors in Chennai they all refused to take

him as their junior. It was Auditor P.V. Vijayaraghavan who boldly took him as his junior.

He gave lot of encouragement and hope for this young junior. This is the Second

Turning Point.

Varuthu got married in 1980 at Tirupathi. She helped him in his daily activities including

the Lion’s club in which he was Secretary and an important member. This is the Third

Turning Point

Now let us look what Varuthu has achieved:

He organized a procession of all handicapped persons to travel in their 3-wheeler from

Kanyakumari to Chennai and formed District level handicapped Association to lookafter

the interests of its members. This event created awareness among public that handicapped

persons are also human beings and normal in all other aspects.

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He helped to provide three wheelers to thousands of handicapped persons. He was an

important member of Exnora- a movement for Clean City-clean environment.

He was President of Rotary Club-District 3230 and also became the Co-Chairman. He

was appointed a member of the Government body of Handicapped Association and

Adviser for the rehabilitation of handicapped people’ organization.

The Chief Minister - Dr. Jayalalitha, awarded him the title of Change Makers.

Many titles poured in for Varuthu. Varuthu-not only well-settled in life but also helping

lakhs of handicapped persons to earn a decent living. He was selected as one among 100-

Achievers in this century by Dinamani – magazine. He is also editing the magazine for

handicapped persons- Udavikkaram.

Analysis:

Handicap is not a hindrance for anyone if he is willing to forget it and face the challenge

Boldly. Varuthu’s determination to study well and qualify to face the world with

authority made him to achieve his aspirations. His family members and friends helped

him in this task. They showed that sympathy is not only in words but also in action.

Varuthu – not satisfied with his own success- helped similar persons to earn decent living.

Handicap is not in mind.

Strong will and determination-path for success.

Help yourself and help others.

Sympathy not in words but in action.

Surely none can ever remain inactive even for a moment; for everyone is helplessly

driven to action by nature-born qualities- Bhagavad Githa.

Case study- 5 (Social)

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ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

(Mr. A (name concealed at request) was a normal young man but was shy, He passed his

technical exam and was employed at Bangalore in a well-known Electronic Company. He

was the eldest child in a family of 5 and comes from very orthodox Iyengar family.

Liberated from the strict disciplinary life at home he found the freedom overtake him

soon by involving in drinks. He tells rest of the story himself. )

Srirangam is a well-known Vaishnavite Place. In 1940s people who lived around the

temple were all mostly employed in South Indian Railway. They belonged to Iyengar

community. I was born in one such family. I lost my mother at a very young age and was

brought up by my father-a very orthodox man under strict disciplinary conditions.

I was born - when my father was 45-years old. My school days passed on without any

significant events. After the death of my mother my father didn’t marry for some time.

Problem started when my father re- married. He was always afraid that if he is not strict

in discipline- his children might go astray. I did not like this attitude.

When I got a job at Bangalore I was very happy. I can lead my own life. This is the first

Turning Point in my life. Soon I found that the work environment is very conducive and

I became a Supervisor and also elected as the Secretary of INTUC-Labor Association of

the Factory. Slowly power started corrupting me. I started moving with elite circles

where Drinks moved freely.

Due to the style of living I adopted, I could not send money to my father-though I know

that the family needed my income badly. Helpless and guilty conscious I am -. I started to

drink with friends.

My father arranged my marriage. This is the second turning point. For some time my

marriage life went on smoothly. Once my wife came to know my drinking habits, trouble

started. She is a village girl. When she saw Bangalore life- she was carried away. But

things went on normally till I got my first child – a girl.

Needs of family grew so also my drinking. There was trouble with management and I

was forced to quit the job after a stint with a Company at Delhi, I joined a Company at

Chennai as Marketing Manager. I used to travel very often and stayed at Star hotels. Elite

businessmen visited for business and in their company my drinking habit grew fast.

I continued to drink in the house also. I took lot of leaves and stayed in the house to drink

and gave false excuses. Management took seriously my absence and I lost the job again.

Now I have become a drunkard. I started beating my wife suspecting her fidelity. My

family life was shattered and I did not know where to go.

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Left jobless and growing children at my side – I was praying God to save me. At that

time my Sister cameforward to rescue me. This is the third Turning Point in my life

Helped by my brother-in-law and sister I saw a New Hope. He took me one day to the

lecture of Chinmayandha. I was so captivated by his emotional spiritual appeal – I was

able to see a New World again. My brother-in-law took me to Alcoholics Anonymous –

an organization meant for people like me.

The President of AA used to address our gathering- starting-, as I am a drunk. He used to

tell as how God came to the rescue of desperate people like him when the whole world

was lost to them. That night I had a dream that Lord Venkateswara came and assured me

that good days are to come shortly. This is the Fourth Turning Point.

I started attending the lectures of Chinmaya. Gyana and Bakthi grew very strongly in me.

I wasted my life all these years. After making arrangements for the family I resigned to

be a sanyasin and joined Chinmaya mission and went to Rishikesh School to undergo

training in Veda and Yoga. I am now completely transformed.

Footnote: The family of A is now well settled. 2-Sons are in States and 2-daughters are

happily married.

Analysis: It was a misfortune some children deprived to get mother’s care when it was

urgently needed. Strict Discipline sometimes drives the children to extremism. There is

always hope for desperate people – only if they identify the demon in them and prepared

to face the challenge with courage. They will at the end succeed.

Some times strict discipline imposed on child will have the opposite effect.

Drink to a certain extent helps to conceal the deficiency in man but in the long

run it is a killer.

Drunkards should have a strong will and courage to come out of it.

Society has a responsibility to help such people to reform.

As the waters of different rivers enter the ocean; which full on all sides remains

undisturbed, likewise he in whom all enjoyments merge themselves attains peace; not he

who hankers after such enjoyments – Bhagavad Githa

Case study- 6 (Arts & Culture)

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THE NIGHTINGALE OF INDIA

(BHARAT RATHNA, The Nightingale of India, Singer of par-excellence- that is

M.S.Subulakshmi. Born in 1916 at Madurai in Tamil Nadu, MS-underwent her training

under her mother- who was famous Veena Vidhvamsini at that time. When she was only a

student, her first gramophone record was released. Her voice captivated the audience

and the record had record sales. Thereafter she had only ascendance. But it was

Sadhasivam who brought refinement in her singing and nurtured)

Nehru after hearing the singing of MS said that before this princess-he is only an ordinary

person. Gandhiji wanted to hear the bhajan ‘ Hari Thum Haro from MS and it was

recorded at Madras and flown to Delhi- that was way back in 1940s – when Air Travel

was not much in vogue at that time. The whole world knows her. MS sang at UN.

Audience was spell bound and listened her singing with rapt attention. What was the

secret behind her singing success and voice culture?

MS came from ordinary family. Her mother Shanmugavadivu though a famous veena

player at that time lived poor life. But she was bent to give her daughter proper training in

Carnatic Music. Childhood for MS was spent in playing and singing. She used to sing

along with her mother during festivals. She did not pursue her studies.

After her first gramophone record had record sales she was invited to Madras to sing

before Sabha audience. She met Sadhasivam while travelling to Bombay. That meeting

finally ended in marrying him. This is the first Turning point in her career.

Sadhasivam was a nationalist at core. Besides that he decided to carve out a unique path

for MS. MS underwent training under Experts like Musiri, Semmangudi, Rajagopala

Sarma, Papanasam Sivan and Hindi from Rabindra Rai. The practice will start in the

early morning around 4. O’ clock.

Before marriage MS acted in few pictures. Sadasivan wanted to utilize her talents by

making a film MEERA. In Meera MS emotionally involved with that character and

people who saw the picture later started to call MS as Meera- such was the impact Meera

Bhajans created in the mind of audience. Gandhi saw this picture at the instance of Rajaji

and was so overwhelmed – he made it a point to sing Meera bhajan at every prayer

meeting he held. This is the second Turning Point in her career.

MS totally devoted to her husband and left everything to him. Sadasivam played major

part in shaping MS and was responsible for her position to day. Before every concert he

made MS to practice in the house and arranged the sequence of songs to be sung in the

Sabha. He will study the type of audience and their taste and accordingly the Katcheri

will be composed.

He made MS ready and assemble one hour before start of the concert at the hall.

Punctuality was very important to them. MS name spread through out the continent. Both

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MS and Sadasivam donated the entire money to worthy causes. Gadhiji’s Fund

collections swelled because of MS. She made hundreds of charity concerts.

MS is a legend. 2-people influenced her life greatly – Kanchi Periaval-Chandrasekara

Saraswathi Swami and Sathya Sai Baba. Once when she was touring America – just a

few hours before a concert her voice created a problem. She was very much worried and

upset and thought only one person- Kanchi Acharya. Miracle does happen- her voice

cleared for the concert and it was a success.

MS was fortunate that her husband lived with her till his 90-years-thus helping her. The

exceptionally moral conduct that she built for her, her implicit obedience to her husband

and the perfect understanding between them are all the factors critical for her success in

life.

In her career wealth earned wealth well distributed. She has given crores of rupees for

needy persons and rehabilitated many destitute families. Kalki Gardens, in which she

lived, was an important place to which many distinguished visitors made it a point to call.

The Sun cannot be compared with any one. Its glory is unique. Its helping tendency is

unlimited to even a small little flower. So also MS- the legend.

Analysis:

An ordinary girl became a legend in her lifetime. God gifted her sweet voice through

which she enthralled millions of people. It is not fluke but hard work, disciplined life

coupled with unfailing loyalty to her husband moulded her into one of the finest Singer of

all times. There always some one behind one’s success and in her cases undoubtedly her

husband.

Opportunities present only rarely in a lifetime. Intelligent use of it will make a man or

woman great.

Gifted Voice.

Hard Practice.

Disciplined Life, unfailing loyalty.

Influence of great masters.

On earth there is no purifier as great as knowledge; he who has attained purity of heart

through a prolonged practice of Karmayoga automatically sees the light of Truth in the

self in course of time. BHAGAVAD GITHA

Case study- 7 (Arts & Culture)

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EMBAR- MUSICAL DISCOURSE MASTERIO

( Embar Vijayaraghavachariar is still the legend in Musical Discourse Field. Gifted

voice, extraordinary and in-depth knowledge in literary, cultural and religious fields –

He dominated the stage for more than 3-decades. He made the Musical Discourse as an

art. He formed the trio-Kirupanandha Variar, Sengalipuram Anantharama Dikshathar

and Embar-in 20th Century. )

Born in 1909 to Mr. Chidambaram Rengachariar- the then famous Musical Discourse

Master Embar inherited the rich tradition from his father and grand father. At that time

Music, Musical Discourse, Instrument Music etc were all called Oriental Studies. After

finishing matriculation Embar joined- the present Annamalai University- previously

Meenakshi College and passed the degree in Vedantam, Sahithyam, Grammer, Sanskrit

and Tamil literature.

Professor Dandapani Dikshathar was so impressed with the extraordinary knowledge of

Embar arranged to improve his skill further. Embar had his musical lessons from

Sundaram Pillai- father of the famous Singer Chidamabaram Jayaraman. Embar’s brother

was also well-versed in music. Thus the two joined together and carved out a path for

themselves- Sangeetha Katha kalakshebam or Musical Discourse.

Subjects flowed fluently for Embar- be it Vaishnavite or Saivite or about Thyagaraja or

Social. No distinction, no set of principles – all are equal for Embar- be it Ramanujar,

Swami Desikar, Ramakrishna Parmahamsa, Nandanar.

People sat more than 3-hours-spell bound when Embar discoursed. I was 16 when I first

attended Embar’s discourse. On that day the subject was- Drowpathi Vasthrabaharanam.

When Embar was enacting the scene of Drowpathi’s cries and her emotional appeal to

Lord Krishna- the entire crowd-more than 1000-people gathered cried and wept- such

was the impact of Embar discourse.

Embar’s repertory includes Story of Ramalinga Swamikal, 63- Saivite Nayanmars,

Naalayiram Divya Prabhandam and Sree Bhashyam by Periavachan Pillai,

Mahabharatham, and Ramayanam, Thiagaraja, Bhagavatham and other Vaishnavite and

Saivite literature.

Embar was awarded scores of titles by many organizations and Governments. Kanchi

Acharya conferred on him the title of Thiagamani.

Embar formed a team with his brothers Mr. Raghunathan and Mr. Narasimhan and

invariably they accompany him in his discourses.

Started as a schoolteacher in a School at Sirkazi- Tanjore Embar made the way as the

foremost exponent of Hari Katha and gave to this art the dignity and poise.

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Embar spent his wealth in renovating many temples in South India. He went abroad to

collect money for renovating the Tiruvarur Temple. To keep the tradition and protect this

unique art he trained many people under him.

To day Hari -Katha is helping many young people to have a decent living. Postgraduate

students have started spreading Hari-katha- thanks to the effort of Embar and the trios.

Analysis:

Hari Katha is an Oriental Art and is divine. Sage Narada is the exponent of this Art.

Embar followed his family tradion by sticking to this line. He enhanced its glory by

studying deep in the subject of Oriental Languages and mastered them. Along with

proficiency in languages he underwent training in Carnatic Music to make the Hari Katha

a successful career.

Family tradition is a valuable treasure.

Proficiency in Languages and cultures

Liberal at heart and partaking of wealth.

Exploiting the rare field.

He who is happy within himself, enjoys within himself the delight of the soul, and even

so is illuminated by the Inner Light; such a yogi (person) attains permanent peace-

Bhagavad Githa

Case study- 8 (Professional)

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AUTO RIKSHA DRIVER TO BOEING MECHANIC

( Patu came to Bangalore from his village as a raw stuff. His brother-in-law found him a

job at Mico as fitter. Day he worked at the factory. Evening he drove Autoriksha- to help

his family. Fortune smiled on him when he got a chance to work in Middle East as a

mechanic. Enterprising man he is he utilized the opportunity to join the American

Aircraft Company-Boeing)

A dropout from Military Patu spent his time idle in his village. Patu is the second in his

family of 8. Rest of 6 is all girls. Family circumstances forced him to move to Bangalore

at the invitation of his brother-in-law. This is the first Turning Point in his career. He got

an opening at MICO- a spark-plug company as Fitter-trainee. Unable to cope up with the

meager income he drove Autorikshaw in the evening to earn extra income.

Patu did not keep quite in the house. He joined ITI- course for Fitters and Mechanics and

got certificate to that effect. He would sleep only 5-6 hours in a day and the rest of the

day was busy for him. Slowly he started to feel confidence in him.

Often his father called him to solve the house problems. Be it was arranging marriage of

his sisters or settling disputes over land. Not much property behind him it was an uphill

task. He decided to break the family tradition and agreed to marry them to-whom so ever

ready to come forward – only condition he should earn and comes from respectful

family-irrespective of caste.

He himself practiced the same by marrying the Sister of her brother-in-law. People

critzised him. He was very firm in his conviction and worked in this fashion for few years.

He carved out his path on the lines of one of his close relative that went to Malaysia.

From that time he started to think of opportunity to go abroad.

At the job level in his factory due to hard work he was elevated to supervisory position.

Mico is a German Concern manufacturing automobile parts- Spark plug. It was doing

very well and demand for people from Mico grew.

In 1970s –Middle East started to look for Indian Technicians to man their Industries.

Opportunity came to Patu and he grasped the same. Thus he had his second Turning

Point.

There are some people who were very successful in living without family though married.

Patu was one. He was able to adjust his life. This enabled him to save much and send

home for the study of his children. Some People are fortunate toget reliable person to

look after the family in his absence. Patu got such person by way of his brother.

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Life was sailing well for him and his family. Another opportunity presented to Patu.

Boeing-the Aircraft Manufacturer offered him the mechanic job at Seattle- USA. It was a

golden opportunity and finally settled down at States.

He made it a point toget his family also by his side. It was not easy for him-since he was

only a Mechanic and temporary. He struggled for 15-years and finally in 1990s he was

able to get them. To day all his 3-daughters were all married and settled down at States.

He voluntarily retired from the Company. The compensation package made him to

purchase a flat and carve out a new career. He chose to be a Purohit-that is conducting

marriages, ceremonies, performing religious functions like SathyaNarayana Pooja at

homes, Astrology and Predictions, Santhi Homams etc.

Analysis:

Giving higher education alone is not a guarantee for a successful career. This lad passed

only the School final examination (some people question this also) But he had a vision-

amidst bleak future he should face the reality- that was hard work that required and he

was prepared for it. He had a Godfather-in his brother-in-law who was ready to provide

him shelters till he reaches a stage to look after him.

He educated himself along with earning- that was an asset, which got him the first

overseas assignment. He was looking for opportunities for betterment and grasped the

same when they presented.

Hard work.

Updating his skill.

Bold decisions.

One should lift oneself by one’s own efforts and should not degrade oneself; for one’s

own self is one’s friend, and one’s self is one’s enemy – Bhagavad Githa

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Case study- 9. (Automotive)

PARAKALAN- THE SUCCESSFUL TOUR OPERATOR

(Unable to bear the repeated beatings young Parakalan ran away from home to etch a

livelihood for him. Not much education to help him he joined as Bill Clerk in a Hotel at

Karur-TrichyDist. Not satisfied he became a bus Conductor. For well over 15-years he

worked as Driver, Conductor etc. Break came to him when he purchased a van)

52 year old Parakalan belongs to a well-respected family from Serangulam in Tanjore

Dist. He is the youngest among 6-brothers and 2-sisters. His Father –Mr. Ramanujam

Iyengar – a well known personality in Srirangam lived upto 92-years. Boyhood years

passed on normally for Parakalan. His mother brought him up. When he could not

complete his school final his brother called him to Srirangam.

At that time his family was passing through lean period. Since Parakalan is the youngest

he has to do all the household works. He had no time to continue his studies. All brothers

and sisters were living joint-family life. In Hindu joint family life preference is always

given to earning members. Parakalan was not fortunate to get that.

If he returned late he will get beatings. If he failed to do a particular job he will get

beating. Beatings, beatings all the way- Young Parakalan started to feel that it was all

because he was not earning. One day he decided to leave the house and look for a job.

Without informing to anyone he ran away from the house. His destination was to Karur

near Trichy. He heard that at Karur job opportunities were brighter. He took odd jobs like

bill-collector in a hotel, clerk in Provision shops etc.

Finally he landed as Bus Conductor in a Bus Company. This was the first Turning Point

In Parakalan’s life. He worked for 2-years. He used to get Rs.40 per month and inspite of

poor salary he will send half of the amount to his family. Such was his devotion to his

family. He earned the respect of his family. During this period he learned car and bus

driving.

His brother recalled him to Trichy. There he got a Bus Conductor job in a well-known

Private Company. This is his Second Turning Point. 15-years he worked as Conductor

and Driver. During this period he got married to Sumathi. Sumathi gave encouragement

and strength to Parakalan to think further.

He decided to go in for a second hand van to take employees to the nearby BHEL Factory.

BHEL later rented his van on monthly basis. This was his Third Turning Point in his

life. The company-on account of his sincerity and punctuality – helped him to purchase

2-more Vans.

Now Parakalan was Owner of a fleet of Vans. He decided that he has to work very hard

to fulfill his ambitions- to clear the loans towards the Vans and to educate his son and 2-

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daughters to highest level so that they don’t struggle like him. His wife stood behind him

like a rock.

In morning shift he would drive the van to take the employees to Factories. On holidays

he will take the employees on conducted tours to nearby famous Shrines. He not only

became familiar with all those places but also got experience as a Guide.

Life became now easier for him and his family. In 1996- he decided to try as an

independent Tour Operator. To be a Tour Operator is a tough job. He should be

familiar with the places and road map, he should carry Cook to look after the Pilgrims

food and coffee needs. He must arrange place for them to stay. The job requires perfect

planning, advance reservation and good public relation.

This was a first experience. By nature Parakalan is soft and good mannered. Added with

this he knows the taste of Pilgrims. By hygienic food and as a guide and van driver

himself – he soon started to attract people wishing to visit Temples of interest.

As on today Parakalan has conducted more than 100-conducted tours. People appreciate

him as the most trusted Person. They are perfectly satisfied with the food and place of

stay-apart from the main purpose of Dharshan of all deities to their hearts content- the

requirement of a successful Tour Operator.

Analysis:

Poor education is not a handicap if we are not brooding over it. For a man or woman born

God has carved out a path and only the person should click it to activate. For further

success – we need a good family environment understanding and learn the intricacies of

the job, good public relationship. Parakalan got all these qualities.

Failure is a stepping stone for success.

Grid and determination is the key for success.

Learn while you earn.

Good Public Relationship.

He who looks upon well-wishers and neutrals as well as mediators, friends and foes,

relatives and objects of hatred, the virtuous and the sinful with the same eye, stands

supreme – Bhagavad Githa

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Case study-10 (Medical)

A DREAM OF 2-YOUNG DOCTORS

TURNED INTO 50-BED HOSPITAL

(2-Young Doctors met at a Coffee Shop by chance. Both belonged to different specialties.

One offered his clinic run by him to the other. That was the starting point of a dream to

build a multi specialty Hospital at Bangalore. Their struggle for funds and innumerable

difficulties faced by them are all past episodes. To day Ananya Hospital stands

majestically giving succor to thousands of Patients. )

It was 1978. Young Balaji was offered a MBBS seat at Hubli. He was reluctant. He

preferred Textiles- his father’s specialty. But his father’s idea was different. He told him

that in his family’s tree there is no Doctor and insisted that he should join MBBS course.

That was the first Turning Point in his career.

He went on to complete his MD in Pathology. After a stint as a Lecturer in a Medical

College, he got opportunity to serve in a Hospital in Saudi Arabia. This is the second

Turning Point in his life.

After serving 4-years there he returned to India to serve as Associate Professor and Head

of the Dept at Rajarajeswari Dental College Bangalore and Consultant to some Hospitals.

On the other hand his friend and now the Managing Director Ananya Hospital- Mr.

Rajasekar took his MBBS degree from Bangalore and DLO from Mysore (ENT). He

worked 6-years in Kerala and later shifted to Bangalore to work as Consultant at

CHIKITSHA – an ENT Clinic.

In 2001 – both Balaji and Rajasekar met. At that time Rajasekar was having a Clinic. He

invited Balaji to join in his Clinic to man the Pathological Lab. This is the thirdTurning

Point for both of them.

There are some other famous Consultants in the place where these people were having

Clinic. Soon they became well acquainted with each other. Balaji and Rajasekar not

satisfied with the present work started to think loud- to dream for a 50-Bed Hospital-

dream because it will cost staggering 50-million rupees.

How to raise such an amount and how much each individual have to invest? A million-

dollar question.

Slowly this idea got attraction among his other Doctor friends.

Dr Ravi Prakash is a Pediatrician and having lucrative Practice.

Dr.Chavan is a well-known Surgeon and having his own Clinic

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Mr. Sharma-a friend – non-Doctor but is having popular High School and a well to do

man-got attracted to this idea.

A meeting was held among these 5-friends and it was decided that they should join as

Partners and explore the possibility of starting the Hospital- a fourth Turning Point

It was decided that each should invest around 12-lakhs and also to Approach State Bank

of India for loan. The initial cost of the Project was Rs.30-million.

To arrange Rs.12-lakhs by each individual was an uphill task since all of them belong to

middle-class family and were having commitment to their family. The Cause is a worthy

one-that is the positive factor to raise the money. Soon Friends and Relatives came

forward to help them.

After these people raised the required contribution, State Bank of India came forward and

approved the loan. Thus ANANYA HOSPITAL was born.

To day it is attracting many Patients and they return back well cured and satisfied.

Charges are very moderate. Patients are very happy and comfortable with all the Doctors

who pay personal care to them and very kind to them. One Patient was heard to say that

he had a rebirth in this hospital after losing the hope of survival.

During the course of running the Hospital, Doctors saw middle class Patients facing

difficulties in paying the hospital fees. To-help such patients they started a Trust-, which

will meet part of the cost of needy patients. The Trust is also having a Plan to start a

Nursing School.

Analysis:

Sometimes Dreams bring big fortune provided one is determined to work hard towards

achieving and making it a reality. In case of these young Doctors they had vision and a

noble cause to serve needy Patients. Sincerity of Purpose and hard work behind them

were their trump card to attract the attention of their Friends and Relatives.

The reward for their hard work, frustrated experiences, sleepless nights is the Ananya

Hospital- a succor to innumerable Patients.

Opportunities grasped.

Well prepared to face the challenges.

Healthy relationship with Friends and Relatives.

The mind is restless no doubt; but it can be brought under control by repeated practice of

meditation and by the exercise of dispassion –BHAGAVAD GITA

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Case Study-12 (Religion)

AN ORPHAN TURNED INTO

A SUCCESSFUL PRIEST

(KITCHA- alias- Krishnaswamy was left as an Orphan when his Parents died. His

relatives gave him asylum. Unable to educate him, he was left to find his livelihood by

doing odd jobs. He used to sell Calendars during festival days, Crackers during

Deepavali and so on. He used to assist houses where death occurred by bringing Priest

for doing last rites. On one occasion the Priest failed to turn. Kicha turned into a Priest

to complete the last rites and was rewarded. That is the starting point for a lucrative

Career)

When Krishnaswamy was 10-years old both his father and mother passed away and

Kitcha was left as orphan. His uncle took this boy but he too was very poor. He could not

educate him and left to earn his lively hood by doing odd jobs.

Kitcha worked for his neighbors by meeting all their requirements – going to Bazaar,

posting letters, going to laundry etc and whatever they offer- cash or food – he took

gladly.

But he had one ambition that he should come up in life and lead a decent life.

Towards that goal-he started working. In 1940s during New Year beginning calendars

and diaries would sell like hot cake. Kitcha was engaged by a Firm to sell their products.

He used to travel to places where festivals were held annually like- Thiagaraja Music

Festival at Tiruvaiyaru, December season at Madras, Vaikunda Ekadasi Festival at

Srirangam.

Calendar sales will be very brisk during these periods and Kitcha would get handsome

commission. This gave confidence in life. He soon started to work as Salesman. By

nature he is very active- only 6-hours sleep in night-rest of the period he will go on to do

something. With always smiling face-he became popular in his locality.

His parents belonged to Priest family. He learnt many Sanskrit slokas and customs in

Hindu religion and utilized his sparetime by going to wealthy families and doing

Lakshmi Pooja and earn extra income.

He got married in 1956. The girl belonged to a Pundit family. Unable to cope up with the

additional expenses Kitcha started to think further opportunities available. Soon he

realized that more than the marriages, People-especially Non-Brahmins like Chettiars and

Naidus find difficulties in getting Purohits and materials to perform the last rites of their

dearest souls passed away (like cremating the bodies)

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He found that he could work along with the Purohits and helps to procure the materials

needed. He got good commission. He started to get good income through this job.

On one such occasion he arranged funeral service for a wealthy man who passed away.

Relatives and family were waiting but the Priest did not turn up. Embarrassed Kitcha

decided to act as Priest. Since he knew the necessary procedures and mantras-it was not

difficult for him. All assembled persons and the family praised him and he was rewarded

well. That was the starting point for Kitcha to carve a career for him.

People heard the timely help rendered by him and soon he got calls from many families.

He decided to officiate only Death ceremonies- since People were very particular that the

departed soul should rest in sleep peacefully and won’t mind to spend any amount to that

effect. There were not many competitors in this field.

Kitcha decided that his sons should not suffer like him and educated them and one son

went to States and other son is working as Bank Manager. In spite of his sons asking his

father to retire, he is not stopping. You can see him at Ammamandapam officiating as

Priest to perform the rites to the departed souls. (Kitcha respects his Profession, which

gave him new lease of life)

Analysis:

No job is mean. Being born in a conducive environment alone you cannot reach

respectable position. It requires hard work both physically and mentally. In those days

people who work, as Purohits were looked down by the Society – more so who were

officiating the ceremonies connected with death. Kitcha broke that tradition and showed

the world that he can also be a respectable member of the Society.

Born, as orphan is not the end of the world.

All jobs are respectable and noble.

Good nature, habits, timely help and smiling face attract clients.

Know that all beings are evolved from God and God is the source of entire creation and

into Him again it disappears. – Bhagavad Gita

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Case study-13 (Automotive)

ASWATHA – THE CAR WASHER

(A Vagabond, aimless Lad with all unwanted qualities – That was Aswatha when he was

19-years old. He used to run away from house very often. He joined the company of

similar persons and was condemned by the family for his activities. Unable to bear the

scolding he left the house once for all. Providence landed him to a good Samaritan-who

took him in his fold)

I was living in rented house at Bangalore. The house owner was a lady. She had 3-boys

and 2-daughters and her husband was a Police Inspector. She lost her husband when she

was around 50. The elder son was employed in Postal Circle. The other 2-boys always

gave lot of problems. Education did not attract them. Irregular school attendance, Picture-

going along with bad circles, smoking etc attracted them.

I used to hear lot of quarrels among them. Their mother used to tell me that the boys used

to steal money for going to picture. On one occasion her jewelry was also stolen. They

have become headache for her and slowly she was sinking.

These boys did not care about what happening in the house and always they had what

they wanted.

The agony and pain finally killed their mother.

Unable to stand the questioning of their elder brother, the two boys decided to quit the

house once for all. The Elder among them went to a place-Bellary while the younger

Aswatha also went in the same destination.

Soon Aswatha found that life was not as easy as he had. No formal education at hand it

was very difficult for him to get even a petty job. He used to sell cinema tickets in black

market and somehow managed to etch a livelihood.

One day he was caught in this act and landed in jail.

Ramakrishna Mission came to his rescue. After he got released from jail, by chance he

heard the lecture of the Swamiji of RK-mission. This was the turning point in his life. He

approached the mission to help him to come out from the desperate situation.

Swamiji took pity on this lad and admitted him in the Technical School. There he learned

the basic mechanical skills. Apart from this he also learned to get up at 5.00 AM, attend

Prayers and doing social services as directed by the mission.

Aswatha became a new man- confidant to face the challenges. During his social service

work he came across a car garage. About 50-60 cars always stood there for washing. He

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approached the owner with the certificate of the mission and got the job as Car washer

using automatic machines.

At the beginning he used to get meager salary but soon his efficiency and skill were

recognized. He became the Chief Supervisor.

Not sitting pretty he approached the mission to get a loan for starting his own garage. The

mission agreed in view of his record with the mission.

He opened his garage with most modern car washing equipments in a good locality. His

efficiency, punctuality and the training he had with the mission soon attracted many

clients.

He is now happily married and living a decent life.

Analysis:

Good birth alone is not enough- one should be brought in good surroundings, healthy

habits and emphasis of character developments. Parents should not shower undue love

towards children-which will spoil them. Some missions are doing excellent service in

uplifting desperate people.

Opportunities are plenty to get spoiled.

Repentance and determination to lead a new life.

Equip with some skill to take off.

The unreal has no existence and the real never ceases to be; the seers of truth have thus

perceived the reality of both – Bhagavad Gita

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Case Study- 14 (Social)

VIJI – THE BRAVE WOMAN

(It happened when I was in America. I got a call informing the sudden passing away of

my brother’s son due to heart attack. All our thoughts went to Viji - the 28-year old wife

of Suresh. How she is going to face the future? How to console her. What way we can

help to reduce the shock)

Viji got married to my brother’s son Suresh in the year 1990. At that time Suresh was

doing business in Computer parts. Suresh was brought up in a strict orthodox Hindu

family tradition that he opposed from the beginning. His father’s wish were that he

should also join Govt. Services like him and lead a secured life.

Suresh ambition was different. He thought that doing business alone he could fulfill his

ambitions –to lead a life with Car, TV and so on. When the business was moderate he got

married to Viji.

Viji is the eldest among the 3- children – one sister and one brother. Viji’s parents come

from very orthodox family. His father is an accountant in TVS-firm. Viji was studying

Plus Two when his father was looking alliance for her- that is when she was 18-years old.

The alliance clicked with Suresh. Viji is a shy girl, well brought up in Hindu tradition.

Always smiling she was able to adjust with my brother family and at the sametime

helping her husband both at home and to some extent at office.

Soon they had one son and one daughter.

In the meantime Suresh built up his business-utilizing the economic boom prevailing at

that time. He was successful in some adventure, which gave confidence to plunge more

vigorously in business. One Bindu Madhavan met him and gave a very rosy picture about

coal business.

Bindu Madhavan’s association was a turning point in Suresh life. He changed his life

style when money started flowing in coal business without realizing it is only temporary

and lot of risk involved in it. Bindu Madhavan was a clever fellow. Without investing

anything, he dragged Suresh to invest large amount of money by taking credits from bank

and other sources.

The wind sailed smoothly for sometime. One fine morning Bindu Madhavan showed his

color and deserted Suresh. But Suresh was confident that he can handle independently

and did so for sometime. During this period he fulfilled all his ambitions- a car, AC, and

so on and that of his family.

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Then came the recession and his outstanding receivable soared to 1.8 million rupees so

also his debt. Worry started to grip him resulting severe heart attack and he succumbed to

it.

On Viji’s part she lived very happily with Suresh for 10-years. He fulfilled all her desires

when fate suddenly struck her severely on April 2002. She was dazed and felt suddenly a

vacuum around her.

She realized that acceptance of what has happened is the first step to overcoming the

consequences of any misfortune. 2- courses opened to her. One is to wind up and go

along with her parents and the other to stay with her in-laws and take over husband

business, educate her children, look after the aged in-laws.

She opted the second course- a bold and brave decision.

She passed her B.Com during the period when her husband was alive. Her husband used

to involve her in his business. Her Father-in-law decided to work along with her - inspite

of his health and age. All these factors gave confidence to her. Soon she attended the

STD-business and added X-rox machine. She closed down the Coal business and her

father-in-law helped her to recover the dues.

She fulfilled her husband’s wishes by admitting her son in a Central School, her daughter

in the best school. She also joined both of them in music school and both of them are

doing fine. She is now the tower of strength to her parents-in law. -Who also suffered

severe shock in loosing their only Son.

She developed a deep driving desire to conquer worry. She understood that life is too

short to be little. She concealed her sorrow within herself so that it should not affect her

parents and in-laws. Only course open to her is to concentrate her husband’s business and

develop it. She did.

Analysis:

Some time over ambition kills the foundation itself as in the case of Suresh. There are

crooks who should be identified and cast them away-which Suresh failed to do. Viji

understood very early after the loss that she should accept the inevitable and in the

interest of her children should rise up to face the challenge ahead of her. Success comes

to those who are bold and brave.

In business there are ups and downs.

One should be prepared to face both.

When confronted bold and brave decision pay.

Watch the crooks in business.

There is no quick way to be success in business.

Just as boyhood, youth and old age are attributed to the soul through this body; even so it

attains another body. The Wiseman does not get deluded about this –Bhagavad Gita.

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Case Study- 15 (Fine Arts)

SEMMANGUDI- THE DOYON OF

CARNATIC MUSIC

(From early age I am always fascinated and attracted towards Carnatic Music. I

attended The Thiagaraja music festival at the age of 12. At that time a young man with

tuft used to accompany and sing along with his Guru – Maharajapuram Viswanatha Iyer-

that is Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer. Both would make the audience spell bound with their

enthralling music of par excellence)

Semmangudi is no more to day. I heard the sad news of his demise. (1-11-03) He of

course lived a full life of 95-years. But the Carnatic Music world lost one of its illustrious

sons. Sangeetha Kalanidhi, Doyen of Carnatic Music, Pithamaha among Carnatic Music-

the title goes on and on. Our successful Men will not be complete without this Patriarch

of carnatic music.

To-day much younger generation is learning Carnatic music and adopted it as their

profession. To all of them Semmangudi is role model.

Semmangudi started his first gurukula training under his maternal uncle- violin Krishna

Iyer then under vidwan Sakharama Rao and finally under the famous Maharajpuram

Viswanatha Iyer. Gurukula method of training requires lot of patience, strict adherence of

purity and tradition. It requires immense effort in voice culture, early morning practice

etc.

It was under Maharajapuram that Semmangudi got refined and lustre added to the

alapana and swaram. Semmangudi followed his master wherever he sang and joined him

in singing. Maharajapuram encouraged this lad to carve out his own path without copying

his style. This advice did marvelous effect in Semmangudi.

Some people are fortunate to have golden voice but Semmangudi did not belong to this

category. This handicap requires immense effort to make a concert popular and imbibe

the satisfaction of the rasikas and Semmangudi effortlessly fulfilled their admiration and

longings.

Semmangudi was fortunate to get recognition at a very early age from both audiences and

from Senior Vidwans. He was clubbed along with many eminent maestros – Ariyakudi,

Maharajpuram, Madurai Mani Iyer, and GNB.

I attended one of his consorts at Tiruvaiyaru. He sang Salakalalla in Arabi – the

masterpiece of Semmangudi. The entire audience listened with rapt attention and at the

end of the song he got prolonged ovation. Even to day that song is ringing in my ear.

Semmangudi was invited by the Travancore King to be the Principal of Swathithirunal

Music College at Trivandrum. This became a turning point in his career. He noted and

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edited the compositions of Swathi Thirunal for publication and popularized them at the

stage.

Semmangudi trained a legion of disciples belonging to three generations. The famous

M.S.Subulaxmi was a disciple under him. It was he who enriched her style and repertoire.

He used to captivate the audience from the very first song- be it – Vathabi Ganapathim

or Ellalo or Sree Laxmivaraham.

Semmangudi used to say that a lifetime is not enough to explore what we have inherited

from our ancestors. This advice is hold good for the younger generation to day. Why

knock at the door of saturated professions. Here is a field vast open for you. The deeper

you go into this journey the more endless it is and you can unearth new treasures.

Semmangudi’s lifetime saga is a lesson for to-days youngsters. At a very early age if you

deduct the inner talents in you and try to bring it out – the probability of success is in

your side.

Analysis:

Old Gurukula System is still the best in some fields like Oriental Studies. Oriental culture

– Music, Compositions and Dance are unexplored fields where your hard work and

efforts are the assets.

Hard Practice.

Good Guru.

Good voice.

Good repertoire.

The soul is never born nor dies; nor does it become only after being born. For it is unborn,

eternal, everlasting and ancient; even though the body is slain, the soul is not.

Bhagavad Gita.

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Case Study: 16 (Food Service)

CHIEF CHEF- NAMAKKAL SRINIVASAN

(I remember Namakkal Srinivasan- He was the Master Chef during my marriage. His

name was so popular in ester years that marriage without Namakkal was only ordinary

marriage. Rich People sought after him for any function. He made Food Preparation and

Catering as Art)

To day the Madras Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology is training

Youngsters for degree in that course. Star Hotels employ these people with fat salary.

Some People start their own Fast Food Chain. There is heavy demand for these people

through out the world.

My mind goes back to 40s and 50s. Among the Chefs in those times Namakkal was

standing as towering personality. He was an Institution himself. People who worked

under him became famous Cooks and there were many such people who are still living to

day to cherish his memory.

Before India obtained Independence and some time after also Oriental Culture, Fine Arts

and many other fields were given boost and nurtured by Kings, Mirasdars, Rich People,

Madathipathis, and Temples. Occasion like Marriages and Temple functions became

showpiece for them to maintain their stature among them. Tanjore and Trichy Districts in

Tamil Nadu are famous in this respect.

In all these houses- Namakkal was well known and patronized. What was the secret

behind his success? - I enquired many people who were intimately connected with him.

Namakkal style was carved out for each occasion. Here is an example.

In those days marriage was conducted for 5 –days. Guests will be treated with feast of

food, music and dance and also fire-works. If Namakkal was the Chief Chef invariably

Ariyakudi would be the Singer; T.N.Rajarathnam Pillai on Nadaswaram and Kumari

Kamala was the Dancer.

Here is the Namakkal menu for each day.

On all the 4-days one sweet, Idli, Vadai and Pongal would be the breakfast.

Noon meals would comprise of Sambar, 2- Kari, one kootu, one Pachadi, Chips, Rasam,

Applam, Payasam, one sweet and Curd bath.

Each day Sambar, Rasam, Kari, Sweet and Payasam will be different.

Planning for the items would be done meticulously by Namkkal 15-days before the

marriage.

Only the best of Vegetables, Rice, Ghee, Milk would be selected under personal

supervision of Namkkal. Namakkal would have his own team of Assistants and Caterers

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who knew the Guests’ taste and for all of them their appreciation was more important

than the amount they get.

A Question may be asked why this field is given attention when people are crazy over

Information Technology and Computer Science. Time is changing and so also is the

attitudes and preferences. Cooking and Catering Technology has become a privileged

sector to day. It is a 3-year course today.

Namakkal hate the word contract. He considered that Food and Catering is an art and

should be treated as such. But today this is vanishing; people want to give contracts and

never bothered about taste or quality.

Analysis:

Even before the M.I.F.C. Institute was established to train Master Chefs, Namakkal was

the institution himself- there are hundreds of person trained by him spread over Tamil

Nadu, Andhra and Karnataka. Food and Catering Technology has been given an honored

place in our academic curriculum.

Simplicity of approach.

Perfection in work.

Willing to share the experience.

Patronized by Society.

I am the pure odor in the earth and the brilliance of fire; nay I am the life in all beings and

the austerity in men of ascetics. Bhagavad Gita.

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Case Study: 17 (Social)

PADMA SREE MALATHI HOLLER

(I met this lady at Syndicate Bank, Bangalore. Malathi Holler – A Shining star of what

firm determination and immense efforts can lead to overcome handicap and succeed in

life. Having lost the senses below her hip due to Polio at the age of 2 and was left at

Andhra Mahila Sabha without any hope of recovery – Malathi overcame her handicap by

doing everything by sitting in wheel chair including car driving. A Star par excellence)

When Malathi received her Padma Sree award from the President of India in wheel chair

there were standing ovation from the distinguished guests. Behind this highest honor

there is a saga of hard struggles, frustrations, trials, disappointments and at last success.

Born at Bangalore Malathi had a very high temperature at the age of 2 and lost the

sensitivity below the hip. It was too late to cure (Many parents failed to give polio drops

to their child immediately after it was born and it was left to the child to face the

consequences of their negligence). Having failed to all types of treatment she was left to

the care of Andhra Mahila Sabha at Madras- a Social service Organization for women.

17- years she lived there. She faced 25- operations. During her stay at the Mahila Sabha

she realized that she has to live with the handicap and determined to accept and overcome

it - The first turning point in her. She learned to move in – tri-cycle wheel chair. She

vigorously practiced Yoga and movement therapy. She emotionally used to tell that she

gave her body untold suffering- by operations, exercises and so on –.

She returned to Bangalore in 1975 to study at Maharani College for Women and took her

degree. Although she used to feel about her handicap, she was determined to drive away

that feeling and wanted to do achieve something. She consoled within herself that she has

every right to live happily and normally. She took the first step in joining Sports.

She took part in 100-meter, 200-meter race, discus throw, Javelin throw, Shot put and

swimming. She won 153 Gold medals, 18 Silver and 8- bronze medals in All India

Competitions. She is the National Champion since 1981.

Syndicate Bank gave her Job at Bangalore under Sports Quota and with degree

qualification at her side – She is a respected Officer of that Bank. Ever smiling and

helping the needy Malathi is an asset to that Bank.

Malathi used to get up at 4.30 AM. The day starts with one hour warm up exercise. Then

One hour Swimming. After returning from Office visit to the Handicapped Children

Home to cheer the boys and girls.

Malathi feels there is no Coach in India for the handicapped (Paraplegics Games) In her

case she had to practice herself. She participated in International event in 1988 at Korea.

She came at 8th rank. She won 2-gold medals at Denmark in 1989.

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She got Arjuna award in 1996, women of the year award from U.S.A in 99, Dasara award,

Rajyostava award from Karnataka Govt, Margatharisi award, Ekaliva award, Prathibha

Sree, Pathibha Rathna and so on.

Malathi is staying with her brother- who helped her in all her personal needs till she was

able to do herself. She has not married.

Malathi says that her handicap is God’s gift to her – otherwise she will be one among the

millions and her life will be UN-noticed.

She says that it is important to achieve something in life- to achieve that it is immaterial

whether you are walking or running or in wheelchair.

She regrets that unlike in Foreign Countries- there are no separate lanes in the markets or

in Public Places and Wheel Chair facilities or Rest rooms for handicapped persons.

Analysis:

In an earlier article I pointed out that handicap is only the body not the mind. Malathi

proved that handicap is not also in the body-provided you are willing to forget it and

effectively used it to do whatever it can. Grim determination to succeed under adverse

conditions and used the success and fame to help similar people is noble qualities, which

are rare even in normal people to day.

Life without achievement is a waste.

Accept your handicap, forget it and proceed.

Prepare to help similar persons.

The mind is restless no doubt and difficult to curb, but it can be brought under control by

repeated practice of meditation and by the exercise of dispassion – Bhagavad Gita.

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Case Study: 18. (Social)

VISHRANTHI HOME

(Old Age is inevitable in our life. Some are fortunate to have loving children to take care.

But in many cases it is not so. For the size of the population we have Old Age homes are

only a drop in ocean. Practically there are no such homes in rural areas to cater to the

needs of people who are below poverty line. Savithri Vaidy is an exception)

An ordinary woman from a middle class family- Savithri Vaidy without any political

contact or financial support from multi-nationals is able to built and run successfully

Vishranthi Home is a matter to be deeply thought off by today’s educated class

searching for job opportunities.

Savithri started her career humbly in Social service. She learned her lessons from daily

happenings around her. She has to live a hard life to achieve success in her endeavor.

During her formative period she practically saw Elders thrown out of house by their

children, in some other cases there is no issues to care of them, in other cases people

squandered their wealth, left with nothing and on the roads.

My son due to pressure from his wife cunningly got transferred my properties and

thrown me out- cried one lady to her.

My only son led an unprincipled life with all the vices and finally succumbed to

them- I am left alone cried another lady.

We both are working and we are unable to look after the needs of aged parents during

the period when they are in office- lamented the working couple.

These are from urban areas. In rural areas the story is different.

Mostly the aged people are small farmers living in thatched hutments. I visited one such

hutment. The state of affairs is very pitiable. There is no person to attend their needs

since both men and women go to the fields early morning itself and return very late in he

evening. No nutritional food and for days they have not bathed.

Old age is bound to come in one’s life. It is inevitable. In western countries both the Govt

and people in general understand the difficulties and made safeguards to look after them

kindly. Here the question of numbers does not arise. It is only attitude, compassion and

awareness among Political leaders that are required. Even 0.5% of the budget is set apart

for for Vishranthi Homes millions of people will be benefited.

What Political leaders failed to do so- people like Savithri Vaidy are doing – What we

can do to her is to help her by liberal donations, gifts etc.

Savithri says that her home is for people who can afford and also for pay and utilizes.

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Here we can see people given shelter for temporary people- who can stay for one or two

months when their children go abroad, for some delivery of their daughter.

There is a section Nursing Care where aged-people who cannot walk or restricted

movement. Medical attention is given to them. For this section Help Age India is helping

Section Shadow caters to the needs of young girls who are having problems in their

homes; husbands left them in lurch etc.

Section Malarchi educates orphaned children.

You can imagine how much Savithri might have struggled to establish and develop the

above institutions. She says it is beyond description.

We need such homes in every nook and corner of the country. There is tremendous

opportunity for educated people to enter this line and do service to the society.

Analysis:

Savithri’s efforts are worthy for emulation by us. If a middle class woman can do so

much people who are more fortunate than her can do wonders and transform this country

for old people to live with dignity and self-respect.

Educated class should enter this line and Public awareness should be created. Political

Leaders should help such an effort.

Efforts towards Noble Causes are bound to succeed.

Old aged People are honored Citizen of this Country.

Give them your love and affection which they need more than money.

What is action and what is inaction? Even men of intelligence are puzzled over this

question. Therefore I shall expound the truth about action, knowing which you will be

freed from its evil effect (binding nature) – Bhagavad Gita.

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Case Study: 19 (Moral Science)

SWAMI VIMUKTHANANDA – HEAD OF

VIVEKANANDA YOUTH WING

(Ramakrishna Mission is doing immense service for the causes of down trodden and in

the field of education and Social Service. Swami Vimukthananda speaks about the youth

wing and its aim and achievements. He says that there is fire in every young person –only

thing it is sleeping and we have to rekindle it. Once it is done it will release enormous

energy – when channeled – surely that country will prosper)

Tiruppalathurai – a place on the Trichy – Karur route in Tamil Nadu. There stand the

imposing buildings of Ramakrishna Ashram. Hundreds of destitute children learn and

stay there and the Ashram has provided roof for them- otherwise they would have been

left on the road.

Children get up early morning at 4.00 AM. 5-minutes prayer and they go for bath. They

wear spotlessly clean wares. After morning breakfast attend the School. In the evening

they are taught and encouraged in Sports. After a brief discourse or moral lessons they

take night food and recede to bed.

It is not a regimented life for the children. They are encouraged in Fine Arts, Drama,

Music, Drawing, Sports and vocational courses in mechanical, electrical, computer and

other professions. They are taken on excursions to various historical places and are

encouraged to participate in national and internatioal levels.

People studied in this Ashram are spread over throughout the world – working as Doctors,

Engineers, Scientists, and Administrators. Swami Vimukthananda is the Head of the

Vivekananda Youth Wing. Swamiji explains the aim of the youth wing. He says that

every young man should live for a noble cause. He should carve out a path that should

make him as an Adharsha Purusha.

He should rekindle the fire in himself to devote his time apart from office and family

works to worthy causes in 1. Aanmeekam (Virtues as adorned by GOD) 2. Education and

3. Social Works.

The day should begin with a Prayer to the Lord- thanking him for given an opportunity to

be in this world and take a vow that he will make this day a useful day. He should share

the fruits of his prayer with others.

The Youth wing arrangements for regular meetings of new members. The first week is

devoted in bringing out the hidden talents in him. Each member should place a Quotable

Quote, which he liked and explains why he liked it.

The second week is devoted to Person whom the member liked the reason for it and the

benefit he got from such persons.

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The third week is devoted to the Social life- the things good he saw in his surroundings

and the fourth week some of the worst and bad situations he faced.

By such interactions with members he is fully aware about the happenings in and around

him and makes him to think and contribute to solve problems.

Can we not do it independently? Why such an organization?

Today’s Youth wanders without any aim. There is no one who can guide. He involves

himself in a closed circuit- with 2 or 3 of his close friends. He should come out from this

closed circuit and understand that there is so much he can do – which will be useful to

him, his family and to the Society at large.

Society and the Government should understand the aspirations of youth and give them a

helping hand. Youth energy is like an untamed river. Once it is tamed and channeled it

can do wonders for the prosperity of the country- Says Swami.

Analysis:

It is quite true that our country has not exploited the enormous energy and talents of

Youth. In our country more than 40% of the population is Youth. Their energy and

talents should be recognized and utilized and what the Ramakrishna Ashram is doing is

well-timed, noble cause. There should be hundreds of such organizations- not connected

with politics in every corner of the country.

Youth Power is a powerful force to reckon with.

If released it can generate enormous energy.

Channalize it – the result will be marvelous.

Treating alike victory and defeat, gain and loss, pleasure and pain, get ready for the fight,

then; fighting thus you will not incur sin – Bhagavat Gita

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Case study: 20 (Social)

PADMANABHAN- THE COURAGEOUS

FATHER OF 6 GIRL CHILDREN

(Padmanabhan was Typist in revenue dept of TN-GOV- with a meager salary. God gave

him a gift of 6- children- all girls. Born in strict orthodox family- a man with 6-girl

children would be doomed to suffer. Marrying them would be a Hercules task. Even a

king under such situation will be poor man. Padmanabhan determined that he would

work hard- 20-hrs in a day to give a decent life to her daughters. )

Padmanabha Iyengar was born in a poor middle class family and is the second son to his

parents. His father could not educate him much. He stopped with SSLC and learned

shorthand and Typing. People with Typing and Shorthand qualification will easily get

Government Jobs in 50s and 60s.

As per customs he got married to Janaki- who also come from poor middle class family.

In those days salary for typists will be poor. Unable to cope up with the poor salary

Padmanabhan worked part time with Advocates.

His day starts with getting up early morning. He will work with Advocate-1 from

morning 7.0 AM to 9 AM, then go to office. In the evening he will work with Advocate.

2 from 6.0 PM to 9PM.

God always tests only people like Padmanabhan. One by one he got 6-children- all girls.

The 7th child is only boy.

Society always looks upon people like Padmanabhan in a lower order. It will not keep

quite with that- it will also give its own share of troubles and watch his progress.

Padmanabhan determined that he should give the best education to his daughters. Wealth

may not be in his hand but he can educate them by working hard and earn. He also asked

his wife to study HINDI and she passed Visharat and got a job in a school as Hindi

Teacher.

Fortunately Padmanabhan’s daughters were fair. They were very intelligent and studied

well and got scholarships. This to a great extent eased Padmanabhan worries.

Post-graduate with good personality of the daughters attracted the attention of some good

and rich families and there was no difficulty in getting his first two daughters married.

His Sons-in-laws came from good families and they helped other daughters to get good

jobs.

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Padmanabhan, on the advice of his friend invested some savings in Infosys shares long

time before. He got them at par. During the boom period, these shares swelled to Rs.12,

000 per share.

He never dreamt that his investments of Rs.10, 000 will soar to Rs.12 – lakhs now. It is a

God sent help for him. When his 5th daughter got medical seat, he decided to sell a few

shares. Thus he was able to fulfill the ambition of his daughter.

His son like his daughters is also very intelligent. He decided that he should get a seat in

IIT by merit. Towards that goal he prepared himself from SSLC on wards. The boy did

get a seat in mechanical engineering and came-out with distinction. American University

offered him M.S seat with Scholarship.

The boy studied and took Ph.D. and is employed in States. He got married-of course

(arranged marriage) and both are earning.

Padmanabhan and his wife used to visit States once in 3-years to be with their

grandchildren. In spite of his son calling them to come to States and settle with them,

Padmanabhan preferred to stay at Srirangam alone with his wife. He feels that what he

got today were all Lord Renganatha’s blessings.

To day Padmanabhan – aged 80 lives along with his wife peacefully. His daughters’ well-

settled in life will visit them in rotation and give company.

Analysis:

From humble beginning Padmanabhan was able to manage during the formative period

because of his hard work. He understood that it is the only the asset he had and utilized

every minute to earn. His parents did a good thing to educate him in Short hand and

Typing. It is a saying- God will test a man to maximum but at the same time indirectly

help him- in Padmanabhan’ case – fair and intelligent daughters and son- who understood

their father’s hard struggle to educate them.

Hard Work.

Intelligent and fair daughters.

Helping Son-in-laws.

Devotion to God.

When one thoroughly dismisses all cravings of the mind, and is satisfied in the self

through (the joy of) the self, then he is called stable mind – Bhagavad Gita.

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Case Study: 21. (Sitting)

JAYA- INTERESTING BABY SITTER

(Recently when I had been to the States I had many interesting experiences. Some of them

will be very useful to our conditions. I went to my relative house. There I met my relative

who is a housewife cum Baby Sitter. She earns substantial amount to pay the house rent)

Our relative invited us for a Dinner. We asked why dinner? She gave the reason that in

daytime she is going to a Doctor friend house to look after their 2-year old daughter. Both

husband and wife are doctors working in different places and hence the necessity for a

reliable lady. Since Jaya is their Client – they preferred her. The work starts at 8.0 AM

and ends at 5.0PM.

It all happened to Jaya by chance. She went to States as housewife only. In India she

studied up to SSLC only. For first 2-years she remained in the house only. When she had

heavy fever she went to this Doctor. This Doctor couple came from Andhra. This contact

grew further and they became family friends. Jaya’s husband used to officiate as Priest

and conduct Satya Narayana Pooja and other functions in their house.

In the meantime Doctor Couple had a daughter. When the daughter attained the age of

two- Wife of the Doctor- who is also a Doctor wanted to go for work. She asked Jaya

whether she could look after their daughter. The child also very much attached to Jaya

and her husband. Jaya agreed- thus started the career of Baby Sitting for Jaya.

Morning she cook and keep ready breakfast and meals for her husband and her husband

leave her at Doctor house. Evening he will pick her. There was not much difficulty in her

job since the girl is intelligent and attached towards them. The Doctor paid her 1000

dollars per month.

A similar case I heard in Madras. Sundari was working in a private company before her

marriage. After marriage she stopped going for work. Her husband is an executive in a

private company. He has to leave at 7.0 AM and will return only late in the evening. They

have only one child. Sundari studied BA.

In course of time they purchased a house near vandalur. During a social meeting they met

their neighbor- they are Doctors (Husband and wife) They have one boy-2 year old. They

approached Sundari whether she can look after their child. They will drop the child with

meals and can pickup him in the evening.

Since Sundari also is having similar child of the same age group, she accepted. Soon

other neighbors came to Sundari and what started in small way grew in to regular Baby

Sitting Center. She was paid decently by her clients.

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Many such centers are there in metropolitan cities. What required is physical work, good

and kind approach to the children under there care. Education is only secondary.

Opportunity knocks at the door of housewives living in remote areas in the city and they

can earn while remaining in their house.

Latchu was a brilliant boy-stood first in School final, rank in plus 2 and was to join in

MBBS course. Unfortunately he was given paid seat only. He had to pay nearly 2-lakhs

per annum for fees and other expenses, which his family could not afford. By chance he

saw an advertisement in paper for a caretaker for handicapped boy.

Latchu met the Parents of the handicapped boy. The boy was completely paralyzed below

the hip. He should be lifted and placed in wheel chair or for toilet. The boy is a grown up

one-aged 18-years. His father is a Director of a Paper Mill and earning very well. They

agreed that Latchu will lookafter the boy after attending the medical college. In addition

to that he agreed to coach the boy for taking degree in native medicine.

In return the boy’s father agreed to meet his entire fees and also when he is in the house

his boarding expense. This arrangement worked for the benefit of both of them. Both

completed the degree, later Latchu took his MS and is well settled. He never forgot the

timely help rendered by the boy’s parents and the boy also became a Doctor in

Auyurveda and is able to stand on his own.

Analysis:

The three examples are from different walks of life. Even if you are not having money-

still you can come up in life provided you look insight. In all the above cases the capital

invested is hard physical work which every one is having. Some use them and are

rewarded.

Capital invested is hard physical work.

Timely thinking and acting upon it.

Providence’s help.

The truth about action must be known and the truth of inaction also must be known; even

so the truth about prohibited action must be known. Action is always mysterious. -

Bhagavad Gita

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Case Study: 22. (Arts and Crafts)

FAMIDA- THE WONDER

(Born to a Doctor Couple Famida was weighing less than 2-kilos. Not only that- she can

sit or walk and cannot speak. Her Parents though very much upset decided that they

should help her daughter what is humanly possible including the best medical attention.

Since both are Doctors they started physiotherapy treatment within few days. They

appointed a Teacher for Physio-theraphy for speech. The result in due course of time

paid rich dividends. - Famida soon won many gold medals in Dance, Painting and

Sports.)

When Dr. Rashida heard that the child that she delivered her beautiful girl is weighing

only one and half kilos and that she is mentally impaired, cannot crawl, sit or walk she

was dazed.

Dr Rashida was doing birth control operation to a patient – when she felt some pain. She

was carrying and passing through 7th month. She was admitted in a nearby hospital where

this thing happened.

Soon she recovered from the shock, both she and her husband also a Doctor decided that

they should give to this child the best things in life including best medical attention both

by themselves and by external agencies. There is no point in crying and desperate- they

thought and realized that it is going to be a challenge.

Physio- therapy exercise started for the child Famitha from one month onwards through

an experienced Specialist. The progress was dead slow. At the age of 1- they saw a slight

progress. They saw movement in the leg whenever some songs are played.

It took 5-years- when the girl started to walk. She started to eat using her hand at the age

of 6. At 9 – she was given dancing excersises. Seeing the interest of the girl in dancing

she was taught regular dance. The parents saw some drawings the girl made and admitted

her to Arts and Painting Institute. The girl was given Physiotherapy in Speech. The girl

responded well.

The hard efforts put by the parents and the girl did not go as waste. Soon the girl started

to win and bring prizes in painting, dancing and in sports. During this trying period the

parents saw the determination, courage and intelligence of their daughter. Like them the

girl also took up the challenge and ready to face the world as normal girls are doing.

The girl started to speak and write. She passed Aerobics and Drawing examinations. At

the age of 21 the girl took up teacher job at the Institute of Mentally retarded and hearing

impaired. She started to learn Cooking from her mother. She is able to dress herself

suitable to particular occasion.

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Famitha’s efforts drew the attention of the Govt of India and she was awarded President

medal for best Achievers in 2001. She performed dance program at Kansas City, USA.

She participated in Special Olympics at North Carolina- USA and won many gold medals.

She also won bronze medal in World Poster Competition. Her achievements are

continuing.

When interviewed the girl’s Parents told that they realized that their responsibility is

greater than the child to make is progress is. They were not ashamed or disheartened.

They allowed the child to mingle with other normal children by inviting them at regular

intervals for a party. They made them to sing and dance and give them presents through

the girl- thereby creating a bond of love and affection.

Never they critizesed the girl for bad performance or for acts not normal They took the

girl to cinemas, music and dance performances and created a feeling in the mind of the

girl that she is as normal as any other girl. This attitude of the parents created tremendous

impact on the girl. The Girl to day acknowledges the tremendous efforts put up by her

Parents and with tears the girl say that they are her God.

Whenever I used to go to Madras I often meet similar girl residing in the same compound

of my brother-in-law’s flat. I used to narrate the examples of girl like Famitha to her and

her parents. I told them that apart from prayer and other physical efforts some more

efforts are needed for the girl to become normal. Recently when I visited Madras I saw

very good progress of the girl. Famitha has really done wonders not only for her but also

for others.

Analysis:

In many of my case studies I am emphasizing that handicap is not the body but mind.

Famitha’s case confirms my conviction. It is misfortune that some people face such

situations. Instead of brooding over it they should work hard along with the girl to put her

in normal course. God will reward such people with hidden talents and Parents should

bring them out.

World is not lost by misfortune.

Parents need redoubled efforts.

Conducive environment must be created.

Talents within must be appreciated and encouraged.

I am the source of all creation and everything in the world moves because of me;

knowing thus the wise, full of devotion, constantly worship me.

Bhagavad Gita

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Case Study: 23 (Automotive)

JAMAL – AUTOMOTIVE COLLISION

REPAIRER REFINISHER

(When I was very much worried as to how I can renew my Luna license- which according

to RTO to be condemned, my friend directed me to go to Jamal. Jamal garage was full of

damaged cars and two wheelers. Hardly with two boys the deft hand of Jamal removes

the dent, weld, repaint and so on. Jamal tells the story as how came into this line. )

When I met Jamal with my two wheeler he immediately recognized me as his father’s

boyhood friend. He welcomed me and phoned his father whom I met 40-years before. We

studied from Primary class and unto pre-university and left in different directions.

Bhasha- that is Jamal’s father came immediately and we both emotionally surcharged and

immensely happy to meet after nearly 40-years.

Bhasha narrated his story. Pointing to Jamal he told he is well settled in life because of

this young man whom he thought would not come up in life.

Bhasha family consists of 4-sons and 6 daughters. Bhasha could not finish his

undergraduate course due to family reason, soon joined as Government servant working

in RTO office as lower division clerk. He wanted that both his sons and daughters should

study well and unlike him should become Advocates, Doctors and Scientists.

Jamal had different idea. For him mathematics was a stumbling block. From very early

age he was fascinated over cars and two wheelers. He used ride his friend’s scooter. On

one occasion he took his friend’s scooter and went on a trip. To his ill luck his scooter

was hit by a bullock cart and was damaged. Both the rear and front portion mudguards

heavily dented.

Jamal instead of brooding over it brought the scooter to his house. With few hand tools

he sat and slowly worked on removing the dent. Throughout the night he worked and

finally he brought the scooter to its original condition. For the painting he had a novel

idea. He purchased the Ferrari Sticker and pasted over that portion.

When he returned the Scooter to his friend-who is a Ferrari lover- was immensely pleased

with the new look of the Scooter. This was his first experience for Jamal. Bhasha was

watching his work and decided that there is no point in compelling Jamal to study and put

him in a nearby Garage.

Natural inkling towards Automotive soon made Jamal to learn repairing and

reconditioning of of all types of vehicles. His father was working in RTO office. Both

Jamal and Bhasha thought that there is gold in damaged cars repairing.

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With Rs.10, 000 as his investment Jamal started his garage. He specialized only in

repairing accident involved cars and two wheelers. Mostly he worked on Tata-Sumo

vehicles and was very successful. Soon his customer base swelled and money was

flowing.

Jamal did not forget to fulfill his father’s ambition. He educated his brothers and Sisters.

They are Advocates, Doctors, and Engineers. Sisters are happily married and well settled

in life. Bhasha proudly recollected the story of his son Jamal.

In many of my case studies I am emphasizing that no Profession is mean. Jamal case

again proves that. In America Universities are offering courses on Auto Collision Repair

and Refinishing. The course consists of many specialties – Structural Damage repair,

Structural Auto Welding, Collision repairs Updated, Computerized measuring, Mix and

apply paint, Defects-causes and cures, Preparation and Spot Painting, Mix and adjusting

colors, Letter, Stripping and designs, Refinishing Updates and so on.

Damage estimating and Computerized estimations are very popular and many students

become proficient in software specific computerized automotive damage-estimating

programs.

When I saw my Luna with new look and new registration certificate I cannot but admire

the deft hands of Jamal.

Analysis:

In 50s and 60s there were very few cars and two wheelers on the road. Today the

conditions are different. India’s production of cars and two wheelers stands third in the

world. Middle class families invariably posses atleast two two wheelers and higher

income groups with cars. Hence people like Jamal can have permanent jobs on their hand.

Talents must be spotted and encouraged.

Total devotion to the work is vital for success.

There is gold in automotive field.

He who sees inaction in action, and action in inaction is wise among men: he is a yogi,

who has performed all actions- Bhagavad Gita.

Case Study: 24 (Civil Contractor)

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RENGAPPA- THE CIVIL CONTRACTOR

(When I returned from Malaysia I wanted to construct first floor to my house. My friend

strongly recommended Rengappa. Rengappa at that time has turned into Civil Contractor

from Head Maistry. Un assuming, always punctual, humble and perfectionist- that was

Rengappa. There is no wonder that what I earned in Malaysia, he earned much more that

in India)

Rengappa, the strong, hefty man as he was - started his career as Mason. With not much

education behind him but hard work as his asset he soon attracted the attention of Civil

Contractors. Rengappa learnt quickly the mixing technique of cement and sand for

various applications from his father who was also a mason.

Rengappa used to accompany his father when he goes to purchase bricks, wood for doors

and steel rods for the roof. Thus he was able to identify the quality of these products.

He used to sit along with his father when estimates for the building were prepared- thus

slowly picking up the very important requirement for a contractor. His father taught him

that he should not be over ambitious in this field. Moderate profit is more than enough-

his father used to repeatedly imbibe on the minds of Rengappa.

Another thing he learnt that on every Saturday his father would settle the wages of labor

working under him- whether he was left with something or nothing. This attitude helped

his father to get good labor and loyalty.

His father was very amenable to his client. If the client - not satisfied with particular

work, he would do it again without charging any thing. Rengappa molded himself on the

model of his father.

My first contact with Rengappa was in 1970s- when I wanted to construct first floor to

my building. Rengappa took me to few buildings he has constructed and I was satisfied

with his work and gave the contract. I used to travel very often; hence I left everything to

him. Believe me- he finished 10-square building within 3-months and handed over it to

me.

He charged me moderate amount and the construction was really good- equal to that of

any multi-national company’s work. Apart from the quality of work, his public

relationship was excellent. He never gave any problem to my neighbor. He instructed his

workers that my neighbor's compound should be cleaned every day before they leave so

also that of mine.

The material that he uses for the work will always Standard ones and the selection of

wood – that is so vital for any building – would be well seasoned.

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Wall Finishing and painting is a specialized work. However strong the construction may

be it is the finishing that ultimately enhances the beauty of the house. Although Rengappa

has not studied much in this regard but he appraised him with all latest techniques and

will apply the same.

Another notable feature in Rengappa Construction is the utilization of space. In

metropolitan cities like Bangalore the land cost is very high. Aware of this factor

Rengappa – would give all the facilities to his clients within the space available.

One day I asked Rengappa – what savings he has made for his family. I was surprised

when he showed some buildings and shops that he owns and the rent he is receiving out

of them. I was astonished that what I have toiled to earn in assignments abroad he was

able to do much more than that by remaining in his own place.

Analysis:

Civil Engineering is a field where there is great opportunity to build a lucrative career.

Both qualified and non-qualified persons have places in this field like Rengappa. Only

thing for success is again your hard work, updating with latest developments, quality of

workmanship and above all good public relationship.

Learn, practice, and master the intricacies.

Quality should be the byword.

Good behavior, Respect and modesty – the key to success.

He, who has mastered his senses, is exclusively devoted to his practice and is full of faith,

attains Knowledge: having had the revelation of Truth, he immediately attains supreme

peace – Bhagavad Gita.

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Case Study: 24 (Painting)

RASHID- THE PAINTER

(When I met Rashid at Madras Airport I was very much surprised. He immediately came

and paid his respects. Noticing my surprise he told me that he has come from Dubai on

vacation and returning back. He is working there as Painter. He gratefully acknowledged

my initial help and chance given to him to become a successful Painter. )

Way back in 70s I used to give my house- painting job to one Anthony. Though slow he

was doing job to my satisfaction. But on one occasion I had difference of opinion with

him and was looking for alternative.

One day this young lad of hardly 18-years knocked at my door and requested me to give

him the painting job. The house was also due for painting. I was hesitant first but decided

to give him the job inspite of his little experience in this field. The factor weighed in me

was – I used to use Plastic Emulsion – which can spread and adjust evenly if the brush is

used by inexperienced hands.

Since he is quite raw in the field I went along with him to purchase the materials. When I

visited the Shop I was astonished to know that Painting is an art. Right from the choice of

suitable colors, brushes and preparing the house for Painting – Painting is a full time job

and a good Profession.

Since Rashid was doing the Painting independently for the first time I decided to assist

him. He brought two youngsters along with him to assist him in his work. The total area

to be painted was 20- squares. That had to be done without disturbing our daily activities

–cooking, sending children to schools etc.

Rashid was a very active young man and He wanted to do every thing himself – like

lifting the table or rearranging the articles to make way for painting. He trained his boys

also to handle glass items, radios and TVs gently. He used to cover things so that paint

will not damage them. These qualities impressed me.

First I asked him to scrap the old painting and fill up all the cracks. We sat together and

selected the colors to be painted for different rooms. I asked him to paint the bedroom

first since even if it is not even – we can pass it on. The first wall he painted looked raw. I

gave him encouragement to try second quoting and finally he was able to do the job well

in third quoting. Once his hand is able to adjust the brush to give required pressure, then

there was no difficulty to progress further.

It took one week to complete the painting work. At the end all ended well. Both Rashid

and also people saw the work was satisfied. Immediately my neighbor called him and

gave his house painting work. The boy progressed well.

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I had a brief discussion with him at the airport about his overseas work. He said that he is

working for a multi-national company as Painter. He is the team Leader. The company

has annual contract to pain offices, shopping complexes, Flats. He is provided with

modern equipment like compressor, painting spray guns, automatic ladder etc.

Each divide the work on area basis and finish the work within stipulated time. For good

work they get encouragement by way of additional cash. One time meal is free. He says

that he enjoys the work and by the grace of God he is able to maintain his family in India

very well.

He profusely thanked me for giving opportunity to paint and the initial trial and error

experience.

In States and other Western Countries Painting of Offices and other important buildings

are left with Professionals. There are many companies who exclusively engaged in this

work. Perfection from start to end is the byword for these companies. In India also

metropolitan cities are adopting this method. There is great demand for people like

Rashid through out the world.

It is high time that in India Vocational training is given in this field so that many people

can find employment.

Analysis:

Timely encouragement brings forth hidden talents. First experience may not be fully

satisfactory but given time and help these people will be useful to the Society. There are

similar jobs like this- Plumbing, Electrical wiring etc. They should be given periodically

orientation course so that they can up-date their knowledge.

Raw stuff is easier to mould.

Encouragement and tolerance vital for bringing hidden talents.

Systematic approach and orderly work will enhance reputation.

Offering the fruits of action to God, the Karma Yogi attains everlasting peace in the

shape of God-realization, whereas, he who works with a selfish motive, being attached to

the fruits of actions through desires, gets tied down – Bhagavad Gita

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Case Studies: 25. (Arts & Culture)

TANJORE PAINTINGS

(India’s Arts and Culture is unique. It has place for every type of skill. To exhibit these

skills there are various forums like Temples, Palaces, Art Galleries. There were

Maharajas to patronize such arts. The famous Ravi Verma- the Master Artist came from

Prince family of the then Travancore. Like wise Tanjore Paintings were encouraged by

the kings- who ruled the Chola Nadu. Rich in color and colorful beads and ornaments

these paintings find unique place in India’s heritage)

I was ignorant about the beauty and cost of Tanjore Painting. I used admire the paintings

of Ravi Verma – whose paintings are Hindu Gods and Goddesses which we will keep in

our pooja rooms or hang on the main halls. My Friend in Sri Lanka asked me to get one

Tanjore Painting.

Thus started my acquaintance with Tanjore Paintings. I was guided to go to Srirangam

where I can see such paintings. I was able to locate the shops and came to know that there

only very few people who knew the secrets of Tanjore Paintings. Original Tanjore

Paintings cost Rs.6000 and upwards.

When my daughter wanted to get trained in Tanjore Painting – my interest and

knowledge about this unique art grew. I went in search of a Master who can teach this Art.

Finally I located one Mr.Ramanujam. Ramanujam has got lot of collections and also has

done many paintings himself.

I spent sometime with him. Elaborate preparations are required for this Art. Selection of

base, cloth, conditioning of cloth, selection of drawings for sketch, selection of gum,

selection of colors, beads and articles of jewelry to be pasted, gold foils etc forms the

main items.

He says that he has clients all over India and the demand for Tanjore Painting is growing.

There is lot of foreign buyers. He says your creative mind can enhance the beauty of the

painting. Educated girls and housewives can easily learn this art and can earn substantial

amount in their sparetime.

My daughter admitted herself in the course. It took her one month to learn and comeout

with a painting- Lord Krishna along with gopies. That painting hangs on the walls in my

house.

There is good demand in countries like Sri-Lanka, Malaysia and USA for such types of

Painting. Initial effort in procuring the materials may be time consuming but once you

have all of them ready you can prepare 8-10 paintings in the course of one month. You

can treat it as hobby or full-time job if you are serious. - The choice is yours.

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The beauty of Tanjore Painting is it’s three-dimensional effect plus the liberal use of

colored stones, pearls and beads. In olden days they were using vegetable colors but now

they use postal colors. Gold foils are used for both painting and the frames.

You can see Tanjore Paintings in Tanjore Art Gallery or Srirangam Temple. In variably

in every house you can see atleast one Tanjore Painting. It is a prized possession.

Analysis:

I am emphasizing in this book that opportunities are unlimited in fields like Art, Culture,

and Painting. Tanjore painting unlike other paintings is different and unique art. If

anyone master the technique he or she can have a profitable career plus immense

satisfaction in the creations.

Unique artistry.

Solid effect.

Life presentation.

Beautiful appeal.

The senses are said to be greater than the body; but greater than the senses is the mind.

Greater than the mind is the intellect; and what is greater than the intellect is He (the Self)

Bhagavad Gita

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Case Study: 26 (Food and Food Products)

MTR- THE FOOD PEOPLE

(When you visit Bangalore you will not miss Mavalli Tiffin Room near Lal Baug. The

first time I visited this place was way back in 1960s. It was and it is still famous for its

Rava Idlis. You have to wait for more than half to one hour to get a place there. Its

growth is remarkable. They maintain the same standards even to day though generation

has passed. )

MTR is a shining example of how people are successful in odd jobs. Through out in India

and abroad MTR means food products, ready to eat foodstuff, instant foods etc. I know

these people and the younger generation that are manning this company for the past 45-

years.

One Chan Sheriff took me to this hotel at Bangalore. He also ordered Rava Idlis –famous

and specialty of this hotel. I was very much impressed with spotlessly clean hotel and the

waiters who are very kind and active. They specially bake the Rava paste, which contains

ingredients like pepper, coriander leaves, green chilies, coconut pieces etc. Plenty of side

dishes are also served with the main item like Chutney Powder, ghee, Chutney and

specially prepared sambar.

All tables order only Rava Idli- such is the taste and the stuff. No wonder MTR-means

Rava Idli. It is not only this item this hotel is famed for but also the personal care they

take in serving delicious foods to the taste of Clients. I was told once they were supplying

Coffee in Silver Tumbler.

The growth of this undertaking is phenomenal. They understood that it is not only the

hotel that can attract Clients but the House- Wives should be attracted. They wanted to

make their work easy by supplying them ready to cook items. Initially they introduced

Gulab Jamoon Mix.

This found immediate response from all homes. Sweet Preparation is little bit time

consuming and also to get the correct taste you have to try several recipes. When Guests

are invited invariably our custom is to serve sweet item first. MTR- Gulab Jamoon Mix

found to come to the help of housewives.

Thus started the ready Mix items. Tamarind Rice, Channa-Masala, Kari Powder, Sambar

Powder, Mysore Rasam Powder and so on occupied in all Provision Shops and

departmental stores through out India and also in USA

MTR- started in 50s, as a moderate Tiffen Center now is famous for its food products.

Recently they hit upon the idea of ready Ice Cream kiosks- to supply at incredibly low

price of Rs.5/- per cup. They designed the machines for this and you can see these

machines in every city in India.

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They not only supply the machine and products but also impart training to young and

needy persons in preparing ice creams. Many people are gainfully employed and earn

decent return.

What is the secret behind the success of people like MTR, Kamat Group of Hotels and

similar brands? It is their ways of understanding the Clients tastes and offer effective

solutions to reduce the time and energy.

Every thing is going fast in the present day environment. The Housewife is burdened

with sending the children to School-with something to eat. Next She has to lookafter her

husband. The core starts from morning 5.30 AM to night 10.PM. She gets tired. Any

relief given to her is welcome to her. Here MTR and other companies come to the relief

of these people. No wonder then, they are popular.

Saravana Bhavans, Shanti Sagars, Kamats, MTRs are and innumerable Fast Food Kiosks

serve that section of Society where both husband and wife are employed and where

people want change.

Analysis:

Fast Food is becoming the order of the day in all metropolitans cites. The School timing,

Office timing etc make Fast Food Centers a necessity but important part of middle

income group These kiosks not only supply tiffin but also used as outlet for fast food

products. Many people are gainfully engaged in this line.

Clean healthy stuff.

Conducive environment.

Quick and fast service.

Client taste fully respected.

Of these the best is the man of wisdom, ever established in identity with Me and

possessed of exclusive devotion. For I am extremely dear to the wise man and he is

extremely dear to Me – Bhagavad Gita

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Case Study: 27 (Provision Stores)

VG – THE PROVISION STORES

(Well known for more than 40-years in Bangalore – VG is synonymous with Quality and

always cheaper by 5-10% than other Provision shops. Affectionately called the Kaka

Shops – they are manned by Keralite Muslims. I used to admire the efficient and quick

service it offers to customers. Articles purchased in this and similar shops are cheaper

with assured quality. No wonder then it is ever popular among customers)

Housewives will be angry in Bangalore if we for convenience sake purchase few articles

from outside instead of VG Stores. There is reason behind their anger- they are not

assured of quality or price. From a small safety pin to Rice or wheat in bags – every thing

is available in this shop.

From first to 15th every month there will be minimum of 20- customers waiting to

purchase and take home few articles. There are others who give a list and ask them to

deliver at their doors. No body will be waiting for more than 15-minutes – their list will

be ready to take home.

Likewise you fix the time; your articles will be promptly delivered at that time. If you

don't like a particular item it will be taken back, exchanged or cash returned – what the

Super markets in America are adopting – these people without any neither management

study nor education offer to Clients.

Simple People- these Kakas are very kind to Customers, speak their own language-

though it is foreign to them and mingle with them in all social activities. Both VG and I

are familiar faces in our area. I used ask them what is the secret behind their success

compared with innumerable provision shops.

It is very simple sir! The owner told me. We open the shop promptly at 6.00AM. Our first

act is to offer prayers to God- to help them in satisfying the Customers and give them

good health to serve them.

We have specialized our jobs. There are 2-people who take care of purchases. They have

got three wheelers and cycles. They will go to whole sale markets, select the best quality.

We note down the articles, which we are not having - but are required by Customers

every month, and immediately we stock them.

There are 2-people sittings in cash counter to facilitate quick disposals. There are 4-

people who keep ready the Customers list and 4 for taking the same and deliver to their

house.

There are 6-people who attend to the needs of customers.

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All these people are provided with dormitory accommodation, food and salary. Mostly

we pick them from our own areas since we can trace them if there is any problem with

them.

Have got very special scheme for this people. Apart from regular salary we pay them

certain % on the sales they have done in a month (or maximum customers they have

attended) these make them very attentive and attract Customers and attend them very

quickly.

During festival times they are offered extra cash incentives and one a year they are

offered with new cloths.

Inspectors before check every item and after they are purchased for adulteration,

duplicate inferior quality and so on. These Inspectors are rotated so that no underhand

dealings are allowed. Thus Customers get consistent quality Provisions. No wonder then

for the rush of Customers to this shop.

Similar Policy is adopted by Saravana Bhavan in Chennai. Prices are incredibly low with

well-packed quality stuff. You can return if you don’t like or want to exchange. Recently

there is spurt for these shops and new educated people are entering this line- a welcome

change.

Analysis:

Though you can not see many shops like VG or Saravana Bhavan it is a welcome change

for Customers. Departmental Stores concept and private shops like VG are different.

People like VG are part and parcel of the life of their clients where as departmental stores

are on commercial basis-where no attachment to the Clients. Customers need both.

Quality Products with less price.

Prompt and quick attention of Clients requirements.

House delivery.

Return if you don’t want with money back guarantee.

He who sees Me present in all beings and all beings existing within Me, never loses sight

of Me, and I never lose sight of him. – Bhagavad Gita

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Case Study: 28 (Matrimonial Bureau)

HORESCOPE EXCHANGE CENTER

(Wanted bride for X- PGD in Industrial Management, Fair Clean habits- Job at WIPRO:

Requirements Employed girls with BE/MCA, Age below 25, Good looking, good family

background – Such advertisements are regular features in many leading Papers and

Private Exchange Centers. Horoscope Exchange centers are very popular in Chennai

and other metropolitan cities)

When I was seriously looking for a boy to my daughter the first thing I did was to get one

printed form available in all places, filled it and sent to few matrimonial exchange

bureaus.

I promptly received few horoscopes. Like wise many people who are having sons or

daughters of marriageable age approach these people and invariably it clicks. Almost

every Hindu marriage is settled on the basis of horoscope concurrence. In 50s and 60s

individual person was handling this and he was paid handsome commission.

From 80s onwards full time people are involved and specialized centers are opened

exclusively for exchange of horoscopes. DOT.COMs also have come up. Computerized

horoscopes are very popular. Even Girls and boys exchange particulars and photos

through computer, discuss threadbare before tying the knots.

I met one of my friends whom after retirement has entered in this field. He has opened

big ledger like books A, B, C and State wise, Boys and girls horoscopes and kept all

particulars of eligible boys and girls. A minimum registration fee is collected from clients

and sends once in 15-days brief letter about boys and girls.

From the list the parents have to select and their horoscopes are sent for matching.

Further action is left with respective parents. He says as an average of 30-40 horoscopes

is registered and about 30-40% cases alliances are getting settled.

If they are happy he is invited for the marriage and gets some presentation. More than

those wider contacts are established which are helpful to him. He says on an average of

Rs.6000 to Rs.10, 000 he gets after meeting all the expenses.

Apart from marriage alliances these people keep Xerox machines STD Booth and

Stationary items to boost the income. Recently they have added Ice cream vending.

If the Customer wants they act as agent for advertisement in leading Newspapers and

magazines. A typical advertisement is like this:

Vadoolam vadagalai tiruvonam B.Com. ICWA final 23/153 cm Bank employed bride

seeks professionaly qualified fair grooms below 29 well settled at Chennai only

vadagalai Box No. O43.

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Another advertisement reads like this:

Alliance invited from vadagalai non-bharadvajam bride for boy 27/167 thiruvadirai,

Engineering graduate working in US. Reply with horoscope and family details to Box

No.75.

The climate in this field has changed dramatically after the Information Technology

boom. Now both boys and girls are working abroad and both are earning well. Hence the

demand for people working abroad has got premium- they prefer alliances among them.

Recent survey shows that demand for brides have outstripped and girls have choice to

suit them unlike in earlier days. Another trend noticed is inter-caste marriages. Nowadays

these are very common. Previously marriage among widows or divorcees is very rare.

The trend has changed. Today these Marriage bureaus help through advertisement and

personal counseling is very successful in such type of marriages.

In general Matrimonial Bureaus are having good business. They act as contact men,

counseling and middlemen.

Analysis:

In India arranged marriages are invariably done after horoscopes consultation and

matching. Majority of these marriages is successful. Even divorcees find good partners.

Matrimonial bureaus have become part of our Society.

One man shows.

Should have pleasing personality.

Reliable and respectful persons are preferred.

Of all embodied beings that appear in all the species of various kinds, Prakriti or Nature

is the conceiving Mother, while I am the seed-giving Father- Bhagavad Gita.

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Case study: 29 (Cottage industry)

THANGAMANI- THE COTTAGE INDUSTRY GIRL

(When my doorbell ranged – I saw Thangamani standing. Uncle do you want Idly, Dosa

for breakfast? Time is morning 7.00; Uncle- I am having all types of pickles; in the

evening- Sir-Phenyl, Agarbathi, washing soap and so on. I used to admire such type of

people. Life to them is a walking industry)

For the last 5-years I am seeing this young lady catering to the needs of bachelors, office-

going people and some time relieving the house wives from the boredom of daily routine

cooking jobs with breakfast, noon meals or night tiffin.

Thangamani is the 6th daughter for her parents-who- now no more- were very poor. At

the age of 20 she was married to a person-whom she found a drunkard and spent-thrift.

He was working as assistant to a Cook-Contractor. Unable to cope up with this person,

Thangamani left him to stand on her own legs.

She took a one-room tenement in a cluster of houses and began her life helping

neighboring housewives by assisting them in kitchen or washing cloths etc Life used to

be very hard for her.

One day she met a new comer in that area. Like other people Thangamani started to help

her also. She was the President of Lady’s wing of Lions Club. Seeing the plight of this

lady she came forward to help her by suggesting this type of cottage industry. She also

arranged venture capital from Lions Club.

At the beginning there was Luke warm response. Undaunted she worked herway.

Experience taught her to prepare the food products according to the taste of Customers.

For instance for Idly- she started to offer Chutney, Chilly Powder, Onion Sambar, Chilly

paste, Onion paste etc. Business started to pick up- from mere 10-idly sales to soon 50-80

idylls.

Life started to look bright to this girl. She got the requisite encouragement. She was

prompt in repaying the loan. Hence the Lions Club was prepared to help her further.

Though she studied upto 10th standard, her hard physical effort prompted her to explore

other areas connected with her present business.

Some housewives suggested to her to prepare-Vadam –made out of rice paste. In South

India this type of side item is very popular especially in marriage parties, as side dish to

patients recuperating from illness. To make it requires hard physical work. Preparing the

paste itself is highly technical. Next small small quantity of the paste should be made into

a round thin layer on a plantain leaf and baked.

The baked- Vadam- as it is called is to be removed from the leaf and Sun-dried. It is then

packed- 50 or 100 in numbers.

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In marriage parties it will be fried in oil and served. For Patients who are recuperating

this will be roasted sans oil and served.

Initially Thangamani found the process very tough. Many people returned the item

rejecting it as not according to their taste. But slowly she learnt the art of preparing the

paste. In course of time her clients appreciated this item and now it is her regular business.

Not stopping with the above items she started other items which are of daily requirements

to housewives like:

Dal Powders: like red-gram; coriander; curry-leaf etc

Pickles: Mango, Lime, Onion etc.

For People like Thangamani there is always hope to live with respects through this type

of cottage industry.

Analysis:

For persons like Thangamani- the asset is her physical energy. If you are prepared to use

it there are various sources opened to her -–This type of cottage industry belongs to

consumable items and there are always demands for these items. If quality is maintained

with consistent competitive price you are on the move.

Solid Physical effort.

Support of housewives.

Lions Club helps.

Eagerness to learn.

He alone who is able to stand, in this life before casting off this body, the urges of lust

And anger is a Yogi; and he alone is a happy man. –Bhagavad Gita


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BRINDA SUBRAMANIAN-THE SOCIAL SERVICE

ORGANIZER

(When I see young street urchins and rag pickers I used to get emotionally surcharged.

Even after 50-years of independence we are unable to solve the child poverty problem.

But some voluntary organizations are doing their best to give them helping hand. One

such organization started by Brinda Subranaian is doing yeomen service to uplift such

children)

For the developing countries like India and China Children protection and care have

assumed important problem to be solved. As population increases this problem is

growing in the same proportion. 40% of the children are undernourished and below

poverty line. More than 60% of them have not gone to school.

There is no time for any Government to come to the rescue of these people. Of course

laws are passed, funds are allotted but still the problem remains as it is. Social Service

Organizations are doing good services but they can be counted in a vast country like

India.

Brinda Subramanian enters here. With her organization – Makkal Sahaya Vani – she is

able to do much to the cause of destitute children, children run away from parents,

children being tortured by their employers.

Makkal Sahaya Vani is a voluntary organization. The main aim of this organization is to

protect the child and make them live respectful life. This is done through counseling,

direct help and with the assistance of various similar organizations.

Phone No 1098- Bell Rings. Brinda answers with kind voice. On the other end a mother

cries- that her child has not come home from School. Immediately message is conveyed

to all Police Stations in that locality. Voluntary organizations are alerted. In a matter of 2-

hours the child is located in a park weeping. Brinda takes care of the child and hand him

to its parents.

The work does not stop there. She goes to the root of the problem and through counseling

point out the mistakes of the parents. She visits periodically that house- that all is well

there.

1098- Bell Rings- Police hand over a child whom is the victim of rape. Brinda acts

immediately and send the girl to her friend’s organization for medical attention,

counseling and her stay. Like this many problems concerning the children are attended

quickly.

Brinda used to visit Railway Station to find children- who ran away from homes and are

stranded, pick them up and do all the follow up measures-like contacting their parents,

advises and accommodate them till their parents take them home.

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There is strict law in States that Parents should move with their sons or daughters in

friendly and sympathetic approach and should not beat or torture them. If the children

complain to the Police, they act quickly – punishing the parents with jail sentence or

taking away the child to be handed over to Caretaker homes.

I vividly remember one incident happened in California when I was there. A young girl

was found missing and when her parents complained to Police- they moved swiftly in all

directions. Helicopter was roaming to find any clue. More than 40 volunteers started

searching the nearby areas.

In a matter of 6-days they found that the girl was raped, murdered and kept on treetop 7

KM away from her house. Police also found the murderer-who was none other than their

neighbor. He was sentenced to death and executed in electric chair.

Any children living in America can contact the Police if they found any trouble and

Police render excellent service to redress their grievances including counseling the

parents and the children.

Analysis:

We need organization like Brinda’s in every city and more and more volunteers should

come forward to assist such organizations. Government should help these organizations

by providing building, vehicles, mobile phones and financial assistance.

Bold and voluntary effort.

Selfless service.

Coordination with other similar organizations and their help.

Police Support.

Constantly chanting my names and glories and striving for My realization, and bowing

again and again to Me, those devotees of firm resolve, ever united with me through

mediation, worship Me with single minded devotion- Bhagavad Gita

Case Study: 31 (Industry)

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G.D.NAIDU- CONSTRUCTION FOR

DESTRUCTION

(When I was studying at Coimbatore, I used to pass through the building at Avanashi

Road where G.D.Naidu housed his Research Laboratory. Prominently displayed-, which

you can even, see to day the word - Construction for destruction. Born in a poor

agricultural family in 1893 Doraiswamy left the school in the 3rd standard itself. He

became famous Industrialist by sheer hard work and deep thinking power. )

Doraiswamy Naidu belonged to agricultural family. When he was studying 3rd standard

he decided that this education is of no use to him and quit the school. For next 10-years

he worked along with his father and assisting him in agricultural work. During this period

he enriched his knowledge by reading Tamil books, newspapers and magazines.

When he saw some empty medicine bottles thrown from medical stores- he found by

selling Painkiller drugs to nearby villages he can earn money. Through the help of a

Teacher he wrote to the English Company requesting to give the agency of this product.

Thus started his experience in business.

One day an Englishman was passing through his village in motorcycle. His cycle gave

problem and asked Doraiswasmy to bring some old cloth and kerosene. The boy saw how

the Englishman was repairing the motorcycle. He admired the skill and decided that he

should also learn and do similar repairs.

After 4-years of toil Doraiswamy purchased the same motorcycle and dismantled all the

parts and reassembled the same. It gave immense pleasure for him and also valuable

experience. His interest in Automobiles grew and he joined in a bus company owned by

an Englishman as Driver cum Fitter.

He earned the good will of the Englishman. Appreciating the interest and skill of this lad,

the Englishman gave a bus to him and asked him to use for his livelihood and also gave

some money on loan. Doraiswamy was plying this bus between Pollachi and Palani. Thus

he became an Entrepreneur in a young age.

A novel idea struck him- why not collect Bus drivers and Conductors and form a Union

and purchase buses and ply in Coimbatore. Thus born the United Motors Service- the

famous name- UMS Service. He was the founder and himself was driving the bus. He

became very popular among his colleagues. He not only shared his profit with them but

also helped some of them to start their own services.

Ordinary Doraiswamy soon became Transport Owner. He traveled widely abroad-

particularly to Japan, Russia and States. He was so impressed with the developments

there he decided to offer quality products from Indian markets.

He wanted to prove that we are not inferior to them in manufacturing Industrial Parts and

started his own workshop to manufacture automobile parts. He developed a new type of

shaving blade that will last any number of shavings- far superior than 7`o clock blades.

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He was the father of present day automatic shaving razor. Many European companies

tried to secure the patent from him. He developed UMS-Radios, Clocks and other

products, which were either imported or manufactured with Japanese collaboration. He

started manufacturing small electronic items and motors required for Tape Recorders.

GD. Naidu was not born rich. When he wanted to purchase the motor cycle- he toiled to

earn and was working in hotels as server. It took 4-years for him to save Rs.400/- to

purchase the above cycle.

When he encountered heavy losses in Cotton ginning business- he never sunk – he

wanted to work hard and apply his ideas to reality. The same case when all motor

companies faced bleak feature- he made drivers and conductors owners and turned the

tide.

Many times I saw him demonstrating before audiences new products and before them he

used to break them. At that time I could not understand why he was doing this. Many

people like me also thought like this and some used to call him – eccentric. But he was

not. He wanted to impress that unless the products are destructed you cannot master the

technology and you will be able to produce either a new product or improve the present

one.

Analysis:

Naidu proved to younger generation that you need not have money to achieve your ideas

and dreams. If you prepared to work hard towards that goal- money problem will

automatically solved It is sheer will-power and undaunted courage that propel you to

achieve some thing tangible. Industrialists are not born but are made.

Learn even the minute details while learning.

Do the job yourself.

Use your hands and brain.

Think not that you are inferior.

Yoga is difficult of achievement for one whose mind is not subdued; by him, however,

who has the mind under control, and is ceaselessly striving, it can be easily attained

through practice. Such is My conviction. – Bhagavad Gita.

Case Study: 32 (Education)

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MU.VA –TO DR. MU.VA

(M. Varadarajanar –affectionately called Mu-Va in Tamil. He was also born in an

ordinary family with meager resources. He started his career as lower division clerk in

Government. Salary was very poor and working time longer. But he resolved that he

should study while earning and took Tamil. He passed several examinations in that

subject and took his Doctorate in Tamil Literature)

Is it possible for any one to raise from lower division clerk to Vice-Chancellor of

University? Yes! That is Dr. Mu.Va. Born in an ordinary family with poor resources,

MuVa could not continue his studies from School level. He has to earn to keep his family

going.

He joined as LDC in government department. For LDC the salary paid on those days was

very much less- below Rs.40 per month. The working hours was also long and who ever

above him calls he has to come to the office. Right from sweeping the floor to dusting the

tables the clerk is expected to do.

MuVa underwent all these ordeals. Very often his health failed. For any other person

such situation would have wrecked him but MuVa was not molded in such category. He

visualized that if he has to rise then he should study. In those days all people will prefer

English since if you know English you can raise to highest position.

MuVa followed a different path. He took Tamil and went on to pass on many

examinations. This landed him to Teacher position. As Tamil teacher MUVa created a

new path for himself. He started to read many novels in both Tamil and English and soon

started writing short stories, which received warm reception.

MuVa trained many students who are later become famous in many fields. As Teacher he

did not stop- started research in Tamil literature and came out with rare findings. This

earned him Doctorate in Tamil. He became Professor and later became Vice- Chancellor

of Madras University.

What propelled him to this position? With failing health on one side and work on other

side it was not easy for any one to study higher studies at home. For any thing to achieve

you require a set of goal-vision and you have to work hard to reach it. Obstacles will be

there but you have to surmount them- under no circumstances you should leave your

effort abruptly-MUVa used to tell his students.

I attended one such meeting when he visited our college. I never expected that this man is

so simple, he sat with me and discussed some of the present day dilemma of Students.

They are crazy to go to Engineering and Medical when there are treasures in our own

language.

It is no wonder that Government and People honored him with many titles. MuVa’s

novels are based on common man and his life. Hence they became popular among people.

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Besides earning MUVa helped many people financially- since he himself suffered and

know the suffering of people. During his term as vice-chancellor he did a yeomen service

to Tamil. He was responsible for conceiving separate Tamil University-, which is now a

reality.

Analysis:

MuVa showed to this world especially to our younger generation that you could earn

reputation and also wealth from any field. In MuVa’s period to study and choose a career

in Tamil was very risky. The life history of Bharathi, Thiru VI Ka and others lived poor

life though they earned fame. Mu VA fully understood the shortcomings in such career.

His approach was different- he did not stop in writing novels and stories but also worked

hard to read and qualify in higher studies.

Study while you earn.

There is no limit for studying.

Set before you a vision.

Work to achieve your vision.

Having subdued his mind and body, and given up all objects of enjoyments, and free

from craving he who performs sheer bodily action does not incur sin – Bhagavad Gita

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Case Study: 33 (Beauty Parlor)

VASUNDARA- THE BEAUTICIAN

(Is Beauty Parlors are meant for rich people only? No-says Vasundara – who is a very

popular Beautician in Chennai. It is also a Profession like any other field. In To-day’s

world time is very precious especially for office going people, college girls and business

people. These Parlors cater to the needs of such people. These Parlors are no longer a

luxury but part of present day life)

When I was young my grandmother used to drag me, asked to sit before her. I was having

long tuft at that time. She would apply Gingelly oil all over my body and my head. She

would gently apply pressure by tapping all over my head and pour oil in my eyes also.

Though it may be irritating I used to enjoy this process. Weekly 2-days- Wednesday and

Saturday is oil day for every child in our house.

Not only the physical application but also Diet control also applied. On such days only

Pepper Sambar and Rasam are allowed. Monthly once we have to take 2-spoonful of

Castor oil to clear our stomach. From time immemorial these practices are applied. But

today they have been neglected and given a go by.

Here enters Vasundara and people like her. This popular Beautician says- in olden day’s

only men was earning and mostly ladies were only housewives. Today education has

spread to women and also 55% of the population is opposite sex. Both men and women

are earning to lead a contented life.

Working life is different. There is no time to do all such things adopted before. Necessity

makes them to visit beauty parlors. Not only massages are applied, any facial corrections

are required they are attended. Customers are allowed to relax while the work goes on.

Experts do massages in scientific manner. Customer gets a feeling that she is in a

different world. Her tension and pressure are reduced and when she comes out from the

parlor fully a refreshed lady.

Vasundara says in olden days people hub each other. Till you attain age you are helped

and hugged and in various other methods your body gets a touch feeling. It is a sort of

touch therapy. By such action pleasant shock is experienced which is very good for the

body development.

But today people think such actions are uncultured and bad manners and frown away. In

Parlors you get such feeling when elderly girls apply shampoos and other medicinal herbs

to your body and face. Facial massage imparts new energy and vitality.

When I was young my grand mother would call me and ask me to apply pressure to her

foot, and toes using my legs. I observed that she gets pain relief and bless me.

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In modern day Parlors call this as Pedicure. When you are being massaged in points like

hands and leg you get the same feeling as my grand mother got.

I have seen in States parlors exclusively for Nails trimming and beautifying. In India

almost all girls visit Beauty Parlors just on the marriage day reception to get new

hairstyle and facial beauty enhancement with new looks.

Parlors have become a vital place for metropolitan cities. They are no more luxury. It is

just like visiting Doctor for medical check up. Vasundara says that present daygirls lacks

harmones like Melodeon which keeps the body young. To compensate new medicines

have come and you can get treated in Parlors.

Analysis:

Beauty Parlors are no more luxury. It is a Profession. There are Institutions in India and

abroad to get special training in this art and start a useful career. People like Vasundara

are very popular because the present day girls feel visiting Parlors is a must to improve

their look and also get the vital relaxation from pressure of work.

Beauty Parlors are necessity.

It is a Profession.

A relaxation center.

He who looks on all as one; on the analogy of his own self, and looks upon joy and

sorrow of all with similar eye – such a yogi is deemed the highest of all- Bhagavad Gita

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Case Study: 34 (Music)

GAYATHRI SHANKAR- THE VIOLINIST

(Handicap is not the body but the mind- instead of treating them as one of our own

normal person and give encouragement and appreciation we feel pity. This is wrong.

Handicapped people have achieved for more success than normal persons have. One

such person is Gayathri Shankar – born without vision. Today she is a renowned Artist

both in vocal and violin)

There are People who inspire us by their courage, conviction and undaunted pursuit

towards excellence. Many depressed persons raise up on seeing and hearing their

experience and carved a path for themselves. We are fortunate to have person like

Gayathri Shankar.

Born without eyesight this young girl worked her way to success. We can imagine how

her parents and herself would have felt about the handicap. But Gayathri and her mother

did not see it in that light. There always an Inner Light which is always bright and take

you to the path of glory.

Gayathri and her mother found this light in Music. Her mother determined that her

daughter should set her goal to become a musician. Right from the age of 4 she taught her

music lessons. She herself an artist in All India Radio, natural instinct helped both mother

and daughter to make the job easy.

Unfortunately Gayathri lost her mother at a very young age. But her mother was reborn in

her Sister-in-law who took Gayathri under her care, gave full support and help in

pursuing music. She had training under various vidwans like Someswara Rao. Her first

appearance on stage was at the age of 8.

She joined Kalakshetra- Adayar and was encouraged by Rukmini Devi-the Founder.

Seeing her interest in Violin also, she was put under Violin Masters. Lalgudi Jayaraman-

the Violin Masterio took her as his disciple – a turning point in her career.

Due to practice of music Gayathri lessons from the age of 4 she did not join in any school

till the age of 15. She realized that education is vital for her growth and studied using

Braille, passed her BA Degree.

Marriage to a normal girl is itself an experience for parents. In such circumstances will

there be any one who can come forward to marry handicapped persons? Yes- Gayathri

got a loving husband in Shankar

Shankar resigned his job and decided to help Gayathri in her pursuit for excellence in

Music. He accompanied her to Music Sabhas and also attended all her needs. He used to

encourage her and help her in household duties.

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Soon Gayathri Shankar got recognition as good singer and violinist. Many Sabhas invited

her for concerts. She participated in the Government wing of Music and Fine Arts

Academy `s Yuva Utsav and was awarded Elam Thendral.

Titles started pouring for young Gayathri. Madras Lions club awarded her Isai Chudar

title, Shanmugananda Sabha Bombay awarded Gana Kokilam and so on.

Gayathri sang for Disabled Persons mingled with them and shared their aspirations. She

set herself as an example of how people like her can overcome the shortcomings and live

like a normal person. What they need is encouragement of their talents without

enlightening their shortcomings.

We need hundreds of such Gayathri`s to become beacon light for this Society.

Analysis:

Some are born with silver spoon but not all. With ever increasing population and less

than 40% of them below poverty line, under nourishment – disability and shortcomings

are natural. Normal People have bounden duty to come to their help. What they need is

not charity but recognition of their talents and treated as normal persons.

Vigorous pursuit of the Goal.

Undaunted Courage.

Helping Hand by close relatives.

Encouragement of Masters in their field.

I am the supreme goal, supporter, lord, witness, abode, refuge, well wisher seeking non

return: origin and end, resting place, store house and imperishable seed.

Bhagavad Gita

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Case Study: 35 (Short Stories)

THI.JA.RA- SHORT STORY WRITER

(Short Story Writing is an art. Many People have built lucrative career in this field. Thi

Ja Ra alias T. Janakiraman was a well-known writer in this field. Besides employed in

All India Radio as Chief Officer – Educational Broadcasting Section, he has contributed

many popular short stories and novels to Tamil literature)

During my college days I used to read lot of Tamil Novels and short stories. Magazines

like Ananda Vikatan, Kalki and Kalai Magal have enriched Tamil literature by

encouraging young talents in this field. Some well-known People were Devan,

Chandilyan, Laxmi, Thi JA RA, Kalki Bunkim Chandra Chatterjee, Sarath

Chandra Chatterjee and so on.

Originally known as Thiagaraja Sasthri – Thi JA RA has carved a unique path in Short

Story writing. Born in Tanjore District, he started his career after finishing his college

education as Teacher at Kumbakonam and Tanjore. He used to contribute short stories to

college magazines from 1943 onwards. Thus it continued till his end.

Bengali Novels in our time are very interesting and thought provoking. Apart from it they

are closely linked to Bengali life. They are gems in our culture and literary field. Thee JA

Ra felt that these novels should be translated into Tamil and made available to Tamil

People. The result is what we such novels among us.

Thee. JA. Ra wrote in several popular magazines - short stories, novels some of them are:

Novels: Amrutham (1944), Malar Manjam (1961), Moka Mul (1964), Semparuthi (1968),

and Nalapakam (1983)

Short Stories: Kottu Melam (1954), Akbar Sasthri (1963), Kamalam (1963), and Sakthi

Vaidiyam (1978)

He got Sahithya Academy award and Prize for his short story Sakthi Vaidiyam.

Thee JA RA works are based on the life and style of Cauvery Delta People. Tanjore is the

seat of Carnatic music. No wonder then Thee JA RA’s works encircled this divine music-

example Moka Mul.

He set his own style, which is appreciated, by the Tamil literary world. Any short story or

novel writer should be able to understand the deep relationship in middle class family and

reflect their sorrows and joys, their emotions and Thee JA Rae novels reflected these

fully.

Thee JA Ra died in 1982 but his name is living among us. After reading the short stories

of people like Thee JA Ra we many times felt that we should also attempt to write. We

leave our effort abruptly unable to know how to start.

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Writing and reading are an art. Some people like Devan are gifted people to whom they

flow effortlessly. But we can also be successful if we follow some hints given by

wellknown people like Thee JA Ra.

You must have a small notebook with you. You note down interesting happenings in that

day. Short stories should not exceed more than 6-8 pages. The start itself should attract

the readers to go through the entire story. For instance one short story started like this:

Am I politic? Asks the host of Garter Inn in Shakespeare’s Merry wives of Windsor;

Am I subtle? Am I a Machiavel? (Short story about Machiavelli: The Man and the

reputation by Ernest O. Hauser- Reader’s Digest selection)

Start like this creates deep interest of what we are going to learn about this man who is

blue print for aggression and dictatorship. The center point is about Machiavelle and the

entire episode revolves around him. Many stories will have an end but some are left to

the readers reasoning. Thee Ja Ra’s stories will start like the above creating deep interest

of what he writes. Thee JA Ra live with us through his novels and short stories.

Analysis:

Opportunities unlimited are presenting one more interesting career to the readers. Short

Story writing and novels are a unique field not exploited fully. Today scores of

magazines are on the stand and these magazines need good writers. If you have interest

and talent you can build a successful career.

Short stories and novels are part of our life.

Start to write.

Be authentic.

Imbibe dignity in the story.

Avoid vulgarity.

Whatever celestial form a devotee chooses to worship with reference, I stabilize the faith

of that particular devotee in that very form- Bhagavad Gita

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Case Study: 36 (Astrology)

PITCHU SASTHIRGAL – THE ASTROLOGER

(Whenever we are in trouble we rush to Astrologer to know what sort of future we have to

face. Astrology has become part of our life. Ptolemy system written in Greek reached

India around 500 AD - it was adopted after combining with local customs as the

backbone of faith. Though Scientist will dismiss Astrology – yet even Western World

believe in it. No wonder then People like Pitchu Sasthrigal left his traditional job and

involved in Astrology)

It was around 1964 I went to Pitchu Sasthrigal at Bangalore to consult him regarding my

father-in-law’s health. After seeing the horoscope of his elder son Sasthri told us that the

end is approaching and advised us to perform Mrithyunja Jabam – but the chances are

dim. After few days my father-in-law died.

There were few more incidents like this which made me to approach often Pitchu

Sasthrigal and his predictions came true. To quote one such incident- I left my job in

anger without alternative job on hand. Very much worried I rushed to Sasthri. After

studying my horoscope deeply he told me that within a week I am getting a job which

proved correct.

In his room he kept Almanacs as old as 75 years. You go to him for writing child

horoscope or your past, present and future or matching horoscopes for marriage- you

name it – he would sincerely work on it and keep ready the same.

His job did not stop with it; he would offer suitable remedy, which in most cases helped

to ward off the crises. You have to wait an hour or so for him to attend your work.

Always I used to see 4 or 5 people sitting to place their problems and hear from him the

position.

Originally Christianity and Islam rejected Planetary influence as offensive to God’s

omnipotence. But modern Astrology reborn again. USA is investing lavishly in Astrology.

President Ronald Reagan became a regular client of Hollywood Astrologer- John Quigley.

Moor’s Almanac sold 4,00,000 copies in 1803. France produced 200 Authors on

Astrology between 1850 to 1943. Germany was devoted to Astrology during 1930s.

India’s independence struck at midnight- an auspicious time fixed for power transfer.

In this troubled world, emotionally charged people need some strength to bear the

pressure and reduce the same. If we know the future to a certain extent- we can readjust

our life according to it or well prepared to face the same. Here Astrology comes into

picture. Astrologers used to say that if predictions are to be correct you must know the

exact time of your birth. The planetary positions will change if we cannot give the date of

birth correctly.

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Pitchu Sasthrigal used to devote long hours to calculate the correct time and date of birth.

Once he is satisfied then only he will write the horoscope and predictions. I have seen

many Politicians visiting him, many renowned persons approaching to perform

Navagraha Poojas etc.

There is an exclusive magazine devoted to Astrology- Astrological Magazine of India

coming from Bangalore edited by B.V.Raman – renowned Astrologer which is very

popular all over the world.

Prof. NR Tiruvenkatacharya- Scientific Astrologer says: Life is no accident in space. It is

ordered by laws. So we can plan to meet events by an appreciation of these laws. God

gifts man with intelligence, the power of activity and capacity to enjoy the fruits of action.

Mutable signs endow the persons born under their domination with gift of intelligence.

The cardinal signs confer on him the ability to act. Fixed signs are the sources of man’s

capacity to reap the fruits of his past Karma.

Astrology is a field still not exploited properly. Opportunities exists for educated people

in this line provided you get experienced and read hundreds of horoscopes and their past

and present positions and be sincere and honest in your approach. Pitchu Sasthrigal was

one such person whom many people approached because his predictions were close to

happenings in life.

Analysis:

Astrology is a technology, which made the facts of life inspiring, mysterious and

practically useful. The movements of planets and their effects in one’s life create

astonishing effects. For instance the Saturn’s effect in every stage of one’s life can be felt

so also the star of wealth. Human tendency is such that if they cannot decide, they turned

to something completely outside their normal lives and in many cases to Astrology.

Astrology is a Profession.

Astrology gives hope.

Predictions are useful but not always hundred percent correct.

He who is happy within himself, enjoys within himself the delight of the soul, and even

so is illuminated by the Inner Light; such a Yogi identified with Brahma attains Brahma-

who is all peace – Bhagavad Gita.

Case Study: 37 (Cinema)

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SHIVAJI GANESAN- JEWEL AMONG ACTORS

(It was 1950s when Parasakthi picture was released. At that time I was studying at

Coimbatore. Crowds thronged to the theaters to see this picture. It was for one man

whose fire brand oration in Tamil that kept the crowd spell bound. The Picture ran for 2-

years continuously. Shivaji Ganesan – the name to reckon with in Film World)

Born in a poor family Ganesan did not study much. He worked in Drama troops in sundry

jobs. Attracted by Dravidian ideals he worked for Dravida Kazagam. This organization

believed that Hinduism is based on illogical superstitions, irrational and archaic ideas that

are not relevant in the present day world.

Many youngsters like Ganesan were attracted to this movement mainly to CN. Annadurai,

M.Karunanidhi and EVR. Anna and MU.KA are brilliant Orators in Tamil. Drama and

Cinema are two wings of DK and they made full use of both to propagate their ideology.

Soon Anna and Mu.Ka found Ganesan a useful Artist. Anna saw the drama in which

Ganesan worn the mantle of Shivaji. He was so impressed with the role- from that day

onwards Ganesan was called Shivaji Ganesan.

It was Parasakthi that gave breakthrough for Shivaji. Added to the lyrics of Karunanidhi,

Shivaji dominated the picture as restless youth who want to free the Society from doing

cruelty to women in the name of God. His rendering the long lyrics-full of fire- of

Karunanidhi that propelled him to Stardom instantaneously.

Similar Pictures appeared for few years but Ganesan soon found that such pictures have

no feature, turned to character acting. Now matured and refined he left the DK- later

DMK- to set his own path. This followed some memorable performances in the pictures.

Shivaji Ganesan studied the stories deeply and involved in the character given to him and

portrayed it true to life. Acting came to him spontaneously. As he progressed he reduced

the long oration and converted into expressions.

Take the picture- Thillana Mohanambal – He turned into Nadeswara Vidwan- the way

he held that instrument- the way his lip movement and bodily movements – all created

lasting impressions to the crowd. No wonder that this picture became popular.

In Rajapart Rangadurai – Ganesan reflected the joys and pathos of a Drama Actor who

found that time is changing to the disadvantage of Stage Acting.

In the mythological picture Karnan – His portrayal of Karnan brought dignity to that

character.

In Pasa Malar - subtle thread between brother and sister and the emotional relationship

between them was well defined by Shivaji - It was a memorable performance.

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As he grew older his acting ability also grew and he readjusted himself. In every picture

he acted there were distinct stamp of Shivaji. He was compared with Marlon Brando. Be

it a middle class Brahmin – Vietnam Veedu or Devar Magan Shivaji displayed varied

talents.

Four decades of acting and still retaining the power- Shivaji created a place in Indian

cinema which cannot be fulfilled in the years to come. He was a simple man. Fame never

corrupted him. Always punctual to the shooting, adjusting with young aspirants and

helping them – Shivaji lived among them.

Cinema is a field many young people are aspiring and it is a good Career. But you must

be careful in chalking out a role for you- not necessarily acting. There are Institutes to

train in all aspects of Theater. For example in States you can obtain diploma or degree in

Theater.

Syllabus runs like this: 1) A glimpse into the exiting world of theater from the point of

audience, the actor and the man or woman behind the Screen. 2) An introduction to

acting methods and exercises. 3) A lecture course surveying the history, theory and

techniques of motion picture with emphasis on form, content and social impact of each

medium.

Analysis:

Indian Cinema is fully matured and is attracting people from all walk of live. In 30s and

40s Actors and Actresses were frowned by the Society. With the advent of TV educated

people enter this line boldly and find useful employment- both full time and part time.

Apart from acting there are other fields like News Reading, Anchoring, Voice

Substitution etc need talented people.

Luck plays initial part in entering Cinema field.

Once entered talent substitute to retain the place.

Other fields like Photography, Editing, Graphics are open.

I am gambling among deceitful practices, and the glory of the glorious. I am the victory

of the victorious, the resolve of the resolute, the goodness of the good- Bhagavad Gita.

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TUTORIAL COLLEGES

(Two pioneers evolved the concept of Tutorial education for failed candidates in

Matriculation and degree courses in India – Trichy Tutorial College by Raman and

Parthasarathy Tutorial College by Parthasarathy. Both quit as Lecturers and boldly

started Tutorial education. Students admired the printed colored question and answer of

past examination papers and the notes on each subject. )

To day we are seeing around us scores of Tutorial Colleges in every small town. Apart

from these colleges Private Teachers are taking classes for SSLC and Degree Courses

and students throng to these places. They are not necessarily failed candidates but want to

improve some particular subject to earn good mark.

Institutes are there for coaching students for competitive examinations like common

entrance test for engineering and medical courses, Bank Officers Examination and so on.

In olden days students taking tutions were considered below average and were frowned

by parents. That concept has changed. Frequently there are complaints now that in

regular classes teachers are not teaching lessons properly and asked them to take tuition

at home.

Whatever may be the reason Tutorial Education has opened lucrative career for this

generation. Students find Mathematics and Science subjects very tough and Teachers

coaching in these subjects earn good income.

I vividly remember my meeting Raman of TTC (in 50s) He first worked as Lecturer in

National College- Trichy (In those days St.Joseph College, National College and Bishop

Heber College were the only 3- colleges in Trichy and students from nearby Districts

thronged to these colleges) Slightly limping Raman was brilliant in English and was very

popular among students.

Unlike these days scoring marks in public examinations were very tough and Failed

students percentage was more than passed. Failed students were dark about their future.

To whom they can go to improve their shortcomings? Raman came forward to fill up this

void and started the Trichy Tutorial College in a rented building.

In all aspects the college looked as regular college with a difference- the students had

printed materials before hand and it was easy to follow the Lecture. Apart from this

Raman judged that most of the questions were repetition of past 10-years papers. He

prepared guides with answers for questions of 10-year papers. No wonder the results

were astonishing. The success rate was more than 90%.

Following the success of TTC- Parthasarathy also resigned and started PTC. Both

occupied the center stage for more than a decade and many students who studied in these

colleges occupied important positions in Government. Tutorial education has come to

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stay and they are doing well. In recent years there is subtle change in this concept with

the advent of boom in Information Technology and Computer education.

Many students who are studying in Degree courses take Computer and Information

Sciences by private study to get additional qualification. Institutes like TTC conduct them

and the popular one is NIIT. Unlike in olden days for really hard working students there

are various courses available for specialization.

Pioneers like Raman and Parthasarathy who are founders for Tutorial Education are being

remembered even today. Their efforts to uplift average and failed students are well

rewarded today by the number of institutions in all cities doing their job.

In States there are institutions to teach English and Mathematics for non-American

students particularly Asian. Kumaon is one such institute founded by Japanese. Here the

students from 2nd standard to 8th standard are coached in English adopted by America

(Slightly different than English-England - both in pronunciation and spelling). May be

they are off springs of Raman and Parthasarathy concept.

Analysis:

Tutorial Education is another wing of college education. It is equally important one and

for really hard working teachers and lecturers there is career here to earn additional

income. It is meant not only for failed students but also to improve your knowledge in

particular subjects and score high marks and ranks. For competitive examinations these

institutes are doing useful services.

Raman and Parthasarathy are Pioneers in Tutorial education.

A beacon light for average and failed Students.

To improve your rank and marks.

To come out successful in competitive examinations

Constantly chanting My names and glories and striving for My realization, and bowing

again and again to Me, those devotees of firm resolve, ever united with me through

meditation, worship Me with single-minded devotion. Bhagavad Gita.

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THREE YS’ AND PRABU BOOK STORES

(When I started my career at Bangalore, on Saturdays and Sundays I used to visit the

second hand booksellers at Majestic Circles- the main purpose was to find out any

Textile Books. I was very much benefited by such visits since I was able to find many

useful textile books, which built my career on sound footing. In later years I used to visit

Sabna Stores, Gangaram, International Book House and Higinbothams. But the rise of

Prabu Book House in my area attracted my admiration. It is a model for young people to

enter into this business)

Three brothers, who were studying along with my sons at National English School,

Bangalore after completing their School Final decided to start a small Bookshop in our

area. Higher education did not attract them. They come from average middle class family.

Their parents were having already a Flour Grinding Mill in our area.

These boys would attend the Mill in turn and were very popular because of their pleasing

personality and attending quickly the customers. Indirectly- without knowledge they have

built good clientele.

They approached the Principal of National School and explained their wish. The

Principal on account of they being Old Students promised to help them. He supplied the

list of books required by the School and directed the Students to get the book from these

People. Thus born the Prabu Book Stores.

Soon due to hard work of these youngsters Prabu Book Stores built good customers.

They assigned their duties in such a way that one man would remain in the shop on all

hours taking a turn. One will visit the nearby Schools and canvass orders, the second will

go to Bazaars to purchase books at discounted prices and the third will look after the sales.

For nearly 9- months in a year the books and stationary sales will be brisk and the

business was doing well for these people. What need appreciation about these boys is

their timely additions they make according to prevalent conditions. They added Rubber

Stamp making, Xerox machines, spiral binding etc needed for Project works of university

students. These additions paid rich dividend.

They found the shop was too crowded to manage all these things. They were also

growing. Hence they decided to take another shop to exclusively for Computer,

Electronic Typing, Color Xerox, Spiral binding etc. This change improved their business

tremendously.

The Elder among them decided to enter a different field. He took the agency of Nilgris

Products and opened another shop by name Sweet Chariot. Dealing mainly food

products, cakes, pastries, Breads and allied products, Sweets and branded goods in chips

and other items – this shop caught the imagination of Office going people, birthday

parties, Christmas parties etc.

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Now three brothers, three shops each independently managed by each of them – all are

doing well. What I saw 25 years before – the same smile and courtesy are still found in

them. Age made no difference to them – all united yet independent they pull together.

Books- shops are very popular in every city. Second hand books are still very popular and

you can get very rare books which are not available in regular shops. Many people have

made fortunes in them. It is a good business and many educated youths can think of taking

this career.

Recently - seeing the success of people like Prabu Book Stores, many Schools directly

purchase the books from Publishers and sell to their students thus depriving the business

of these small business people. We find that they are much more costly and not a desirable

trend.

Education is now reaching to the masses. More and more publishing firms are coming out

with books to help the Students and this field is expanding rapidly. There is plenty of

scope for Shops like Prabu Book Stores and the future seems to be bright.

Analysis:

When three youngsters are able to achieve success in a new field the present generation is

fully equipped with talents to start such business without depending on Government or

private employment. There is gold in second hand books and only they need exploitation.

Books are going to be the Teachers of tomorrow.

Book selling is a good business.

Timely additions are important to sustain the growth.

Second hand books have good market.

Built up clientele is very important to stay in this field.

On earth there is no purifier as great as Knowledge; he who has attained purity of heart

through prolonged practice of Karmayoga automatically sees the light of Truth in the self

in course of time. Bhagavad Gita.

Case Study: 40. (Drama)

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AMATUER DRAMATIC GROUP

(Humor in life is the biggest vitamin tablet in this fast moving world. Both children and

elders enjoy Charlie Chaplain pictures even today. In India there is no picture made

without comedy – interwoven with the main theme. With the advent of Cinema Drama has

been pushed back. Inspite of the success of Cinema some devoted people still conduct

Dramas and are highly successful. There is career here for adventurous youngsters. )

We can 50s and 60s as the golden era of drama in India. There were many renowned

groups who staged successful dramas and elite crowd thronged to see them. Mention can

be made of Cho Ramaswamy, Manohar and YGP.

I had occasion to see the drama Lankeswaran at Trichy in which Manohar acted as

Ravanan. It is a story of Ramayana differently told. What Manohar could not get

recognition in cinema he got here as the best drama artist- no wonder this drama was

staged every corners of South India and in Madras it ran 100 days.

Another notable person who contributed to theater art is Cho Ramaswamy. His drama

Mohamed Bin Tuglak received similar ovation from Public and saw more than 100 days

run at Madras.

Prior to the advent of this renaissance in Drama – the themes for dramatic groups were

based on metrology like Mahabharatham and Ramayana. It was MR. Radha and NS

Krishnan who adopted Social themes for Drama. Dramas like Ratha Kaneer and Nalla

Thambi became very popular. But Professional Drama started to wane by 60s.

Some young men decided to give life to theater art. They decided instead of full time in

drama field they could perform as Amateur artists. While remaining in service these

people conducted dramas on Saturdays and Sundays. One such group was Amateur

Dramatic group founded by the Y.G.Parthasarathy.

YGP as he is affectionately called was working as as executive of India coffeehouse and

later in All India Radio. Through the efforts of YGP and Pattu Amateur Dramas became

very popular. YGP decided that People need relaxation and hence gave priority to humor

and social themes rather than serious mythological themes. This brought dramatic change

in the attitude of People.

Some of the memorable dramas staged by this group were- Under Secretary, Kannan

Vandhan, Paritchaikku Neramachu, Arthamulla Mounangal, Flight 172 and so on. Like

this he produced more than 100 dramas some of them became famous in Cinema.

YGP group introduced many new people and they became famous as Cinema Actors and

Actresses. Some of them are YG-Mahendran, Mouli, Nagesh, Srikanth, Ragini, Cho and

Sandya (Mother of Jayalalitha- the present Chief Minister)

YGP and his wife Rajalakshmi have done yeomen service to Amateur Drama field and to

education. Padma Seshadri Bala Bhavan at Chennai is a standing monument for their

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work YGP is considered as father of Amateur Dramas. Govt. recognized his service by

awarding him Kalai Mamani title.

A Wing of this institute- Bharat Kalachar traveled throughout the world with young troop

and conducted dramas portraying the glory of India’s culture. YGP acted in Cinemas also

and some of the characters caught the attention of the public.

YGP started a school for Drama and theater arts for youngsters.

Analysis:

YGP is a shining example for youngsters that by remaining in Government service you

can still achieve success or by joining such group you can build up a good career.

Opportunity Unlimited presents one more field that has not exploited fully. There is

plenty of scope for humorous dramas today.

Drama is the stepping stone to become a good Actor or Actress.

Amateur Drama has got a unique place.

Humorous dramas relieve tension and give relaxation.

Whoever offers to Me with love a leaf, a flower, a fruit or even water, I appear in person

before that disinterested devotee of sinless mind and delightfully partake of that article

offered by him with love. -–Bhagavad Gita.

Case Study: 41 (Handicrafts)

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INDIAN HANDICRAFTS

(Recently I visited my village in connection with Rathothsava (Chariot) festival. I saw the

decorations made on the car (Ratham) New colorful cloth hanging – 15 to 20 feet high on

all four sides (Thombai), domes made with well designed Hindu religious motifs in

bright colors attracted the attention of all. I enquired where these are made. I was

astonished to learn that there is one family in Madurai who alone can make this type of

works)

Opportunity Unlimited wanted to present the Readers with variety of jobs and ideas that

are not fully exploited. One such field is Indian Handicraft. Indian Murals and motifs are

5000 years old- one study points out. Mostly theme for them is our Puranas particularly

Ramayanam and Maha Bharatham.

There is plenty of Handicrafts industries in all States of India each State has got its own

style and art. Temples are the main encouraging factor for the development of Handicraft

industry. Idol making in metal and stones stands unique in our Country. Metal idols from

Swamimalai near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu can be found all over the world.

Stone idols from Mamallapuram near Chennai can be found in most of the temples in

India and have traveled all over the world. Temples also encourage Kumkum; camphor

industries, flowers and garlands, Cloths, oil, ghee industries and innumerable products

and thousands of people find useful employment.

One Product that attracted me very much is the Cloth hangings ( Thombai) as they are

called- with attractive and colorful motif on it used on the Car of the Car festival. I was

surprised to learn that one family who alone makes such hangings for all the temples. He

is Mr. Subramanian of Madurai. They make decorated Umbrellas for temple; Hangings-

studded with Pearls and different colored glass beads.

Subramanian says that his entire family is involved in this business. The secret of making

is passed on from generation to generation right from Nayak rules. He says that his

forefathers were treated on the same footings like the King’s ministers. They were

awarded many titles and prizes for their works.

To make Hangings for the Cars are very delicate affair. There are different sizes of Cars

used by Temples. They are not uniform- the height ranging from 20 feet to 50. Hence

measurements have to be taken on the spot. Then they draw the designs in paper. Next

they cut Silk and Cotton clothes according to the designs. No paint is used and all the

designs are made of colored cloths only.

The designed Paper is pasted on the cloth and using the colored threads they stitch the

cloth. Designs and Pictures are chose according to the deity of each temple to which these

are made. While stitching they use disinfectants on the threads so that moths will not

damage the cloth and the life will be longer. It may take 2-3 months to complete the order

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for one chariot. Apart from Hangings Shamianas for marriage and other festivals,

Umbrellas for temples and 5-star hotels- are other products being made by these people.

Similar to the Thombai craft another rare craft is the art of Garland making. At

Madras- Chinthathripet is very famous for this art. Normally flowers like roses; jasmines

are used for making garlands. But the lives of these garlands are very short. Innovations

are made in garland making. V.I.P garlands are made using sandal wood beads,

cardamom and Badam. These garlands will cost from Rs.500 to Rs.5000.

Life size garlands are made for Super Stars in Cinema field and political leaders by their

fans. Garlands ordered for marriages are designed with sandal beads and the couple’s

name inscribed with beautiful designs. Garlands are made for special occasions. Garland

Business is growing very fast and one field where educated people enter.

Analysis:

Cottage Industries are making good progress in India. For dynamic person with

innovative skill – this field is very ideal. There are number of rare items that can be made

and there is export potential for such items. Educated class should enter in this field and

develop the same using modern technology.

Thombai craft is ancient.

Like wise Garland making.

This field is wide open.

Of the mighty I am the might, free from passion and desire: in beings I am the sexual

desire not conflicting with virtue or scriptural injunctions. – Bhagavad Gita

Case Study: 42 (Medical)

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PEOPLE DOCTOR- RANGANTHAN

(In our long history after Independence there are many People who contributed their

might to improve the common man’s life. Their contributions are selfless and

spontaneous. They never bothered about publicity. Their works remain in the memory of

common man even today- when statues are raised for much less important persons. One

such man was Dr. Ranganathan of Trichy.)

I had many occasions to meet Dr. Ranganathan – in one way he was my relative. My

brother-in-law was suffering acute stomach pain and local Doctor advised him for

operation for ulcer. He came to me for advice. I asked him why not we have second

advice and confirm. I took him to Dr.Ranganathan- my family Doctor. He received us

with a smile. No operation is necessary my boys- take this medicine you will be all right.

He was hundred percent correct and the pain never repeated.

Do you know how much he charged? Hardly Rs.5/- Everyday morning there will be not

less than 25-30 people waiting to see him for different ailments and all will return home

highly satisfied with the treatment. He will not charge for most of them.

At sharp 10’o clock you can find him in the Trichy Municipal Office. He was Chairman

of Trichy Municipality for more than 3-terms. Any one can walk into his room to get

redress. Every one whether poor or rich will be attended. Back in the house another 25-50

patients will be waiting.

A fragile man with shriek voice attending multifarious of duties was really astonishing.

He was not only a Doctor but also a Politician- he worked for Congress- very honest and

uncorrupted leader of the masses.

Dr. Ranganathan did yeomen service to improve Trichy. Many health centers were

opened by the Govt. at his behest. He improved the main Library and added many

newspapers and books. Many temples were renovated by his effort. Particularly the now

famous temples- Samayapuram and Gunaseelam.

Wearing simple Gandhian Cloths Dr. Ranganathan did not keep any car for himself and

lived in a rented building provided by St.Joseph College authorities. He will attend all

marriage functions without fail if invited. Kamaraj and other political leaders respected

him for his services to the poor mass.

I vividly remember one occasion – my brother got ill with high fever. Worried we took

him to Dr. Ranganathan- it was midnight. With out grumbling with the same smile he

came out, opened his dispensary, and gave injection and medicine. Next day he visited

our house and enquired about my brother. This was not because he was my brother. He

will bestow the same attention to every one.

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I used to see him every day at the house of another Congress Leader Mr. Arunachalam.

Arunachalam was a chronic Asthma patient and was my neighbor. His first act will be to

check his health, then only Politics.

Rarely a personality can be seen in these days - A Doctor combined with Politician doing

justice for both the roles. Rarely can be seen an honest persons in Politics. Shaw wrote

that Politics is dirty and fit to be called as dirty drain. That is true even today. Yet there

are persons like Dr. Ranganthan who are different.

Unfortunately their names vanish once they leave this world. But their lives are roll

model to young persons who want to enter politics.

Analysis:

A Doctor and Politician doing justice for both roles are rare but worthy of emulation.

Redressing the ailments and at the sametime attending to the civic needs of common

citizens is the best service any one can do and Dr. Ranganathan was fortunate to have

such opportunities in his life. We need many more persons like his Doctor.

A Doctor and Politician role model for present young generation.

Honesty and Simplicity gain respect from masses.

Shun Publicity- you are elevated.

The Karmayogi, who is contented with whatever is got unsought, is free from jealousy

and transcended all pairs of opposites (like joy and grief) and is balanced in success and

failure, is not bound by his action. – Bhagavad Gita.

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Case Study: 42 (Technical)

B.P.SETTY- LOYALTY TO THE CORE

(I was very fortunate to work under this young man- Padmanabha Setty. He was General

Manager of Davangere Cotton Mills and Chandrodaya Mills at that time. He gave me

opportunity to work under him as Manager of Chandrodaya Mills. Sharp at 9.0 clock he

will enter the Mills, take thorough round of all sections along with me, then and there

solve my problems and cheerfully will leave to attend his other works – a fine gentleman

and for the Mills a loyal worker. )

In a fit of anger I resigned my job at Bangalore – newly married and not knowing where

to go. I was praying God to show me a way. In came a call the next morning from Mr.

Padmanabha Setty to meet him at Bangalore. I was very much surprised since I did not

know him and never approached him for a Job.

When I met him- he was a lean man almost the same age of mine. He explained that he

was looking for a good Manager for his sister Mills and his friend recommended my

name and hence his call. What a coincidence- nay the Grace of God – a very timely call

which influenced my career to a great extent.

Every day he will visit the Mills. He will never utter a single word during the round.

Many workers wished to talk to him but he will ask them to meet me and discuss. Later

he will call me to his office and ask me the problems and my advice. In 99% he will

uphold my views and gave me full freedom to implement my ideas.

I was fortunate that I got opportunity at the earliest to show my skill. New German

machine came; it was the latest with advanced technological features like unit system of

joints, photoelectric stop motions etc with 4-fold production capacity. German Erector

was supposed to erect and hand over the machine. Due to pressure of work he was not

available for 4-months and management was very much upset.

I approached Mr.Setty and asked permission to take up the erection work myself. There

were objections from the office side. Mr. Setty discussed the matter with me and asked

my plan and ideas of the machine. Just prior to the arrival of the machine I got complete

catalogues of latest machines from Germany sent by one of my friend. I found that this

new machine was also included.

Impressed with my explanations and procedures Mr. Setty took full responsibility on him

and asked me to proceed with the erection. I was able to complete the erection and when I

took the trial run he was with me. The trial run was highly successful. His prestige

enhanced and I was able to live up to his expectation.

There were several occasions when I have to face resistance from my colleagues and on

all occasions he stood behind me. In the course of 6-months production increased by

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more than 40%, quality improved and our yarns were fetching premium price in the

market. On his recommendation I got 4-increments.

During my tenure as Manager I learnt a lot from Mr.Setty. Electricity cost per Kg- both

that day and progressive and norm; labor cost per Kg – both that day and progressive;

stores cost that day and progressive, packing cost that day and progressive- are some of

the items that gave grip for effective management.

After 3-years of best service I left Mr.Setty with good will to take up new assignment at

Malaysia. We used to correspond often and one day I received the sad news of his murder

at the Mill premises by errand workers while on duty. It was a shock and personal loss for

me - since I owe many positions because of the training I got from him.

I used to wonder why such bright people were snatched away by cruel fate. But young

people can learn lot of lessons from people like Mr.Setty to improve their career.

Analysis:

Many more Settys’ are required for industrial development of each State in India. Selfless

and loyal to the management to the core people like Padmanabha Setty has contributed

lot for good governance. For this cause they have to shed their life. Such dynamic

persons strengthen management Principles.

Brilliant Personality.

Loyalty to the Core.

Scientific Management Principles.

Encouragement to youngsters.

Innovation and Refinement.

Just as boyhood, youth and old age are attributed to the soul through this body; even so it

attains another body. Wise man does not deluded about this- Bhagavad Gita.

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Case Study: 43 (Folk Artist)

4-ORPHANS AND FOLK DANCES

(India is a land of Culture with its varied languages and customs. Hidden behind this

canopy are hundreds of tales depicting heroism, love, affection, pathos and joys. 56% of

population belong to rural India. They have created Folk Dances and Dramas to

entertain simple rural folks during festivals. Four orphans decided to peruse their career

in this field)

Sevashrams in India are doing excellent services by providing shelters for orphans and

old age homes throughout India. I had occasion to visit some of the ashrams. In one such

occasion I met one Mr.Gopalaswami. He was about 80. I was attracted towards him

because of his Bhagavathar hairstyle.

We sat near a Banyan tree and Mr. Swami recalled his youthdays. He did not recollect as

to how he came to this Ashram but he grew along with it. When he was about 25- he

started to think that he has to contribute to the Ashram which has looked after him so

well all these years. 3-like minded persons were also thinking like him.

They decided to form a troop and stage a musical folklore during the marriamman

festival. They prepared a script-helped by a folklore artist of the village. They selected a

theme from Ramayana. They approached the Matron of the Ashram and appraised her of

their desire. The Matron agreed to help them.

To stage folklore drama during festival and in rural surrounding you need lot of items.

The dress should be gorgeous, you need swords, artificial jewelry, Headgear with

embedded stones etc. This will cost considerable money. The next is the script and songs.

The lyrics should be powerful and to the taste of the common people.

Gopalaswamy can sing and also utter the dialogue crisply and forcefully. Among other 3-

one can don Sita’s role. By nature shy and feminine face he was ideally suited. So also

another man for Rama’s role. Rural people will appreciate animals and their mischief.

Hence Hanuman will invariably introduced.

Gopalaswamy recalled how nervous they were. The D-day approached. They staged their

first folk drama. Loud music accompanied with drums like Tharai, Thambattam and

Thavil – Sampoorna Ramayanam play was staged. Throughout the night the drama

went on and about 500 people watched the drama and at the end they got standing

ovations. Gift of Rs.100/- was presented to them- on those days 100 was very big amount.

When they handed that amount to the Matron, she accepted the same with happiness and

pleasure. Sweet was distributed to all the inmates. Gopalaswamy said from that day they

staged more than 100 dramas. He recalled that his colleagues all passed away one by one

and he alone remains.

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Gopalaswamy says that there is still life for Folk Arts and Folk Artists. All over India

Folk Dramas are staged and mostly the themes are from our puranas. N.S.Krishnan- the

ester years comedian tried to introduce Social themes but after him it stopped.

In those years you should have loud voice to reach to all gatherings since there was no

mike at that time. For light Petromax light was only available. To travel from one place to

another bullock carts was the mode.

During festival days they used to get from RS. 2000 - 3000. But today everything has

changed. Mike is available, colorful light to enhance the visual appearance, play back

singing all make easy to stage dramas. But the support from people is declining lamented

Gopalasawamy.

I have seen Peacock dances, horse dances etc by Folk Artists which are very interesting

to watch. Puppet shows are also popular in villages. The themes for all the folk arts are

invariably mythological. Street Shows (Theru Kuuthu) are very popular in both villages

and small cities. After the introduction of TV- these arts are declining. For people who

want relaxation and free air – these dramas can fill the gap. Will our educated youths

work for renaissance of these arts?

Analysis:

Street Dances and Village Shows are the cultural heritage of India. But this unique Art is

declining. With some modifications and renovation these arts can be revived. There is

plenty of scope for educated youths to enter in this field. Using computerized graphics we

can make these shows attractive and can draw Foreigners.

India lives in villages.

These shows belong to Villagers.

New ideas and innovations can stop the declining of these arts.

I am the subduing power of rulers; I am righteousness in those who seek to conquer. Of

things to be kept secret, I am the custodian in the shape of reticence; and I am the wisdom

of the wise. – Bhagavat Gita.

Case Study: 45 (Small Business)

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TEMPLES OF INDIA- SOURCE FOR ARTS

CULTURE AND SMALL BUSINESS

(Recently I visited about 90 temples in South India. It was an inspiring, educational and

at the same time a pilgrimage visit. The Architecture, the Paintings, Contribution for

ecology, encouragement to Indian Arts like Dance, Discourse, encouragement to Small

business like Pooja Stalls, Potteries, Pandals etc are shining examples of how India’s

ancient Seers have worked out the Life Style of their disciples)

One American admired that India is built around its Temples. It is true. Right from the

days of Indus Civilization Temples are the center focus and around them the development

of Commercial activities.

Architecture: There is distinct difference in the Temple Architecture between different

regions. For instance Kerala Temples are cone shaped with Single Khalasas on top where

as Tamil Nadu Temples are Gopuram Style with 5 to 7 Khalasas on top. Kerala Temples

are plain with no deities or dolls on the Gopuram structure whereas in TN we can see

different deities with rectangular Entrance of each tier at the front and back.

In variably Kerala Temples are Square Type with Verandah on all four sides. Two

entrances- Front and back - and a tank at the back entrance or at the side can be seen. On

both sides of the main entrances a broad street is formed with houses on both sides.

Adjacent to the main entrance is row of shops.

In contrast is Tamil Nadu Temples. If we enter the main Gopuram entrance you can

observe first the Bali Peetam and Dwajasthambam. Next you can see a small temple for

Garuda or Nandi or Vinayakar. It leads to a long corridor or hall with pillars and another

entrance for the Sanctum Sanctorum in which the main deity is installed. Around the

Main Mandap will be open space on all four sides. Four walls cover the temple.

Adjacent or opposite side of the main Gopuram will be a long street with houses on both

sides called Agrahara in which people belonging to the temple live. Adjoining to the

walls will be Shops.

Eco Friendly the temples grow flowers around the temple to be used for Pooja Purpose.

In many temples Gosalas or Cowsheds are there to maintain Cows. Apart from flowers

plantain trees and coconut trees are also grown.

The Temple is outlet for oil industries, ghee, camphor and many other items. It provides

employment to various categories of workers like Tailors, Carpenters, Metal industries,

Painters, Masons, small food stalls etc.

Temples provide temporary residence for Visitors and also source of encouragement for

Oriental arts like Bharatha Natyam, Musical Discourses etc. Instrument music like

Nadhaswaram find permanent place in Temples.

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On festival days children enjoy rides on giant rotating Wheels, horse chairs –raatinam –

as it is called and scores of interesting entertainment items. Brisk sales of food items,

Bangles, make up items; towels, Toys and scores of house hold items are the regular

features during the festival days.

Hospitality to the guests by providing shelters and food is a notable practice during the

festival days. Temples provide permanent lively hood to many people. In addition

agricultural products find a market here. Arts like Kolam, Pandals, Flower decorations

and above all Social service find outlet here. Temples are not only heritage of India but

also a useful provider of job opportunity.

Analysis:

Our Ancestors carefully planned for future generation a sound and constructive path for

the developments of various sections of our Society through these Temples. They provide

for place for Social gatherings and marriages, fillip to Arts and Crafts, Music and Dances

and other innumerable activities. Young generation should maintain and develop these

heritages.

Temples are the center of activities for various Sections of our Society.

Commerce is strengthened.

Arts and Culture is given a fillip.

Music and Dance is encouraged.

Backbone for Handicraft and vintage Arts.

If there be the effulgence of a thousand Suns bursting forth all at once in the heavens,

even that would hardly approach the splendor of the Mighty Lord- Bhagavad Gita.


MOHAN- THE WATCHMAN

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(When I moved into my new flat – Mohan whom I knew for the past 5-years approached

me for a job as watchman. This man’s story is little bit different from other regular

security persons. He was involved in an accident resulting in head injury and was

operated. Sometimes he will behave very curiously and violently- otherwise a very

reliable person. As a result of this behavior he lost the job when he met me)

With the advent of multi-storied buildings and flats security assumed important matter for

the residents. Sensing the upsurge many organizations sprang up in all cities. Mostly

retired military personnel and police persons are employed. Some time’s private person

whom the residents know well is also employed.

Usually they are full time employees with a small room to stay along with their family

and the salary will range from Rs.700 for part time to 4000- full time depending upon the

number of flats contained in the building. Their main duty is switch on the borewell

motors according to the schedule and the common lights, to safeguard the vehicles parked

inside and restrict the entry of outsiders.

Mohan’s service is a part time job- from 8 PM to 8AM. In morning he used to work in

the Temple restricting the entries and orderly movement of devotees. The job requires no

skill but regularity of attendance and timing of works is very important. Since he used to

float these things - he was finding difficulty in getting jobs elsewhere.

Our building is a small one containing 18-flats. We cannot afford to contribute heavy

maintenance charge and we restrict the work with Single watchman whose main duty is

to close the doors at 11 PM and open around 4 AM for the milk vendors. He has to switch

on the pump in night and morning.

Mohan ideally suited for our work. Though he is married he never stayed in his house. He

preferred to stay in our flats only. We never objected this since many times he will attend

in day also. Apart from this we used to get entry in the temple quickly on crowded days

when he is attending duty there.

What made curious to include him in this study is- his mental problem at times? A well to

do person suffering with this problem, unable to find useful employment in Govt. or

Private enterprises and live like any other man.

Many times he used to get depression and in that mood he will quarrel with the residents

and they wanted to remove him but next morning he will forget about the incident so also

the residents. On such occasions I used to pacify both parties. Otherwise he is sincere,

honest and helpful to all the residents.

I studied deeply about his personal life. Poor man he did not get any compensation out of

the accident. Many political parties utilized his services but after the elections are over he

will be back to nil.

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In temple also- though he was working more than 5-years he did not get permanent job.

But with all these inequalities he is cheerful and faces this world boldly. I used to admire

his devotion to God and the Employer. Every year he will take Alagu Kavadi to Lord

Murugan on Sashti Day. He will hang on from moving pole by chain hooked on his body.

It is one of the toughest offer to Lord and for this you should be pure –refrain from all

acts not liked by God- such as smoking, drinking and sexual acts. We used to see him

afresh with renewed vigor after fulfilling this vow.

Analysis:

There is scope for every one to live honorably in this world if he is sincere and honest.

God will show a way for depressed people like Mohan to earn and Society also should

look after such people with kindness and forgiveness.

God looks after simple folks.

Society has a responsibility to mentally depressed people.

Honesty and Sincerity pays.

I am the beginning and the middle and the end of of all creations. Of Sciences I am the

science of the soul, or metaphysics: in debutantes I am the right type of reasoning.

Bhagavat Gita. Case Study: 47 (Social)

RAMANUJAM- THE DONOR

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(On the recommendation of my relative I employed Ramanujam in my shop. He stopped

with school final. A very fair looking boy he worked sincerely for a year. One day he

came to me to request me to relieve him since he got employment elsewhere. I completely

forgot this man. After 15 years he came to me to spare some amount. I was shocked to see

him- very thin, graying. He told me that he has donated his kidney for want of money and

that he is broken)

Ramanujam is the 6th child to his parents. Education does not attract him. He tried his

hands in various fields for some years but could not find satisfaction. His marriage

brought ruin. While his other brothers are well off this man on account of indecision and

wavering type went down.

He donated blood several times to earn some money. Unable to cope with burden of

family he started to get money through appeal. He registered for donation of organs.

One day he got a call from the hospital to rush in. A family was returning from

pilgrimage tour by car. Near Hosur was hit by a lorry and all people travelling in the car

got severe head injuries. The family belonged to wellknown liquor merchant of

Bangalore. Ramanujam met the Father of the boy who was seriously injured – this boy

needed urgently a kidney to survive.

His father was crying. He recalled that his son wanted to become a famous cricketer like

Gavaskar and later wanted to work in Space station like ISRO. When he saw him in a

pool of blood he was dazed- added to his woes the kidney failure. Holding Ramanujam’s

hands he cried to save him.

Ramanujam saw the boy. His eyes were wide open, seemed to be alert with some

movement. Ramanujam thought about his family. While coming out from the house his

youngest son wanted new uniform, his daughter wanted to join in dance class and he has

pledged all the jewels of his wife. Sensing that her husband is going to do something she

cried not to take any hasty decision.

On one side he needs money to fulfill the desires of his family and on the other side the

cries of the boy’s father to save his son. All along he was leading a wretched life without

use to any one. The biggest blunder he made is not studying – atleast trades course to

develop his skill.

Ramanujam thought that this is the best opportunity to do a useful service and agreed to

donate one kidney. It was a momentous decision. You should have courage and

conviction to sacrifice since the society in which he is living is not so advanced to

appreciate such acts of bravery. Even his wife would not permit him.

As he lay after the operation on the table - pale but with some satisfaction on his face.

The parents of the boy whom Ramanujam donated his organ stood silently tears rolled-

here is a man who has saved their son from sure death- what they are going to do in

repaying – no amount of money can buy such act of bravery and sacrifice.

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After recouping Ramanujam tried to do some odd jobs but people who heard his story

instead of sympathizing with him started looking him down. He was not successful in his

attempts and after some time he was back to the old stage. His health also started

deteriorating. The parents of the boy whom he donated his kidney turned him back when

he approached them for help. They said that the chapter is closed after onetime payment.

I felt pity on this man. A man very fair, sincere and honest unable to thrive in this world

because of lack of education. Society also forgot this man’s sacrifice and spurned him

away as if he is untouchable.

We must learn lesson from western world in the matter of appreciating and helping

persons doing supreme sacrifices to save people on the verge of death. They are our

assets. Add love to such men- you produce hundreds of such brave men. Add justice to

such men- they will be ever grateful to you. Put them altogether you have a new society-

transformed into New Hope and vision.

We need hundred such Ramanujams for saving many people.

We need a Society to help such Ramanujams to be rehabilitated.

Analysis:

Organ donation is a good and noble act and should be voluntary. It should not bait poor

people by showing money power. Ramanujam lost many jobs because firstly due to

neglecting education when his family was in a position to provide- Secondly his

switching jobs frequently. His sacrifice is overshadowed by all these qualities but Society

should not forget the spirit behind such sacrifices.

Education is vitally important when you can afford.

Organ donation is a noble act to save somebody.

Society should help the donor to live honorably.

Men possessing a demoniac disposition know not what is right activity and what is right

abstinence from activity. Hence they posses neither purity nor good conduct nor even

truthfulness. Bhagavad Gita

Case Study: 48. Social.

TRIBUTE TO PRACTICAL MEN- 1

G.K – THE SELF MADE MAN

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(When I lost G.Krishnan- affectionately called GK –I cursed this world. Why some people

we dearly love are snatched from us by cruel death? Soon I overcame the depression by

looking insight. Life is never just a being- it is relentlessly flowing on through our parents

first, then we live through our children and so on. The beauty that men like GK created

cannot be dimmed by death. He lives through his grandsons. )

It was Jan 1995. I received greetings from my close friend and relative GK for the New

Year. He informed me that his Son has come from America on vacation after completing

his MS. I imagined the joy and strength he got with the arrival of his son. He was about

to undergo Angio-plasma surgery for enlarging the blood vessels to the heart. He assured

me that it is only routine and nothing to fear. What a courageous man he was!

On 10th I got the shocking news of his death- succumbing to this treatment. First I was

dazed unable to believe- only 2-days before I saw him hale and health. I know that at

every stage of life people sustain losses- and grow in the process. I felt acute pain for this

loss because personally I was very much benefited by his association. He looked after my

family when I went to Malaysia to earn.

He looked after the publication works of my Textile Books and many of my interests- all

with affection towards me without expecting any return. Apart from the above he created

in me interest in our religion. I observed his progress at close quarters from his child

hood.

Unable to continue beyond his matriculation due to family circumstances he studied

Shorthand and Typewriting. After serving few firms he joined BEL at Bangalore as

Typist in account section. Promotions in public sector undertaking are invariably given to

degree holders. Krishnan realized that he should get his degree first. After Office hour he

studied at evening college and took B.Com degree. The hurdle for promotion was over.

Next he thought about family. If he want to give good education to his offspring he must

marry a working girl and he married a girl of his choice from BEL. Life was very smooth

sailing for GK He associated with Guruvayoor Temple Mandali of BEL and saw a

Temple built for Guruvayoorappan at BEL. He made me to involve in the functions of

this temple.

He used to take family and me to tours to various pilgrimage centers in South India. His

meticulous planning and arrangement for stay and all that participated in these tours

appreciated food and the comforts provided. To cheer up he will conduct Bhajan or

singing devotional songs during the journey thus making the journey enjoyable.

Pilgrimage trips were regular features mainly because of his association. What I

wondered and got inspiration from him was his every year visit to Sabarimala. In 60 and

70s- Ayaappa pooja and visit to Sabarimala were very tough. For 45-days you should

observe strict control of your senses, diet restrictions and totally devoted to Lord Ayappa.

The process will be complete when with Erumudi by visit to the Temple in Kerala-

Sabarimalai. You have to walk all the way from Pampa- to Sabarimala - 14 KMs.

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GK visited Sabarimalai number of times. He used to consult me on important personal

matters and on one occasion I asked him whether he would settle down at States with his

son? Emphatically he said no. I will always be here doing Bhajans, Poojas and working

for the welfare of the Association members- he said.

Simple with clean habits, morally very strong with selfless service GK lived for a

purpose. Younger generation should emulate the qualities of this Self- made man.

Analysis:

GK understood his limitations and worked hard to improve it by higher studies instead of

wasting his spare time. This gave opportunity for promotion to Deputy Manager level in

a Public Sector Undertaking. He utilized his time for propagation of Bhakthi within

himself to purify himself first. His life history is a lesson for people who look forward a

guide to improve self.

Understand the limitation.

Work for improving.

Set your thoughts towards higher ideals and work towards them.

The unreal has no existence, and the real never ceases to be; the seers of truth have thus

perceived the reality of both. – Bhagavad Gita

Case Study: 49

TRIBUTES TO PRACTICAL MEN-2

SRIDHARAN- THE IDEALIST

(Tragedy struck me again in 2000 – I lost my younger brother- hardly 58-years old. I

cannot call him my brother but a close friend and well - wisher. At the time of his death

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he was occupying highest post of Deputy Chief Engineer in Tamil Nadu Electricity Board.

I was not able to bear this loss. He taught me- why should we seek beauty when beauty is

evanescent?)

Just one month before this tragedy we met each other at Egmore railway station- at his

request. The long absence of contact between us pained both of us and we wanted to

come close again. I saw him look a different man-absence of Tilak at his forehead, with

visible Grey hair, little bit worried but with the same smile and wit.

This boy- I can say emphatically grew on my lap. I used to rush him to nearby Doctor

when he used to suffer convolutions (Mantham) when he was a child. When he was

studying at high school I was away from house but he opposed irrational things

vehemently. No particular attachments to religious customs he grew in totally secluded

surroundings. But he was a bright student.

It was during his college career that we came closer. He was suffering with acute pain

and Doctor diagnosed it due to hernia and advised immediate operation. He pleaded for it

with household people but nobody took it seriously and opposed it. Finally he came to me

and I arranged the operation at Madras. From that day onwards he treated me with

reference and respect. My word was final for him.

There were various incidents that cemented our ties closely. I was following his progress.

He entered the services early - having obtained his B.E. Degree in Electrical Engineering

in 60s. His punctuality, ability to solve complex problems, attention paid to Consumers

and above all obedience and respect to higher officers earned him very good name in the

Board. Promotion was a natural phenomenon.

Officially though he earned good reputation, personally he was very wavering type. He

could not make any decision quickly and even after deciding he used to brood over it

whether he made correct things or not. Perhaps this indecision took heavy toll of his

health in later years.

In the middle of his career I saw in him a sudden change. From atheist in nature he turned

into ordent devotee of Lord Narayana. He learnt Divya Prabandam and Vedam and every

day he visited the Satyanarayana Temple and participated in all religious activities. What

made him to change? Some said that the premature death of his child might be the cause.

For more than 10-years he lived like the above. At the fag end of his official career he

turned a full cycle and left all religious activities, concentrated on meditation. He joined

one mission at Madras - which advocates such course. This mission eschews all Hindu

rituals including the age-old practice of Tilak on your forehead. His entire family joined

in this mission.

I met him twice thereafter. I found that he was passing through enormous tension within

himself – Whether what he was doing is correct or not. He conducted his second

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daughter’s marriage at the Mission –casting away all the religious activities associated

with Hindu Marriage.

Thereafter there was complete silence from his end. I received one day a sudden call from

him. I jocularly asked whether he remembers us. Emotionally charged he replied that

how can he forget for all the help and service I rendered to him and wanted me to meet

him at the earliest. I observed that he was passing through some strain.

I met him as I said earlier at Egmore Railway Station. We had long chat-exchanging

information and incidents of our younger days and also about cricket. He came to me a

worried man but left cheerfully. That was the last time I saw him. I rushed when I heard

his sudden death. I saw his face- complete with peace and calm-no signs of tension and

pain.

A flower has withered. I was not able to control myself. It is a saying that a man comes to

this world with his fist clinched but when he dies his hand is wide open. When the flower

was blooming we responded with love- and now that beauty faded a love that waned.

Analysis:

I feel that the art of living is to know as to when to hold fast and when to let go. In case of

Sridharan- he understood this concept late and by the time he was just coming out from

depression death has overtaken him- probably he let it go earlier. Life goes on for rest of

us and I understood that we have to make the best use of it.

His life totally loyal to his Employer.

Austere and Clean habits.

Steadfast adherence to principles.

The soul is never born nor dies; nor does it become only after being born. For it is unborn,

eternal, everlasting and ancient; even though the body is slain, the soul is not-

- Bhagavat Gita


TRIBUTES TO PRACTICAL MEN-3

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RAGHUVEERAN- IN A HURRY

(Adi Sankara said that – death and birth is a cycle - we are left with little time -use it to

sing the glory of Govinda- the path for salvation. But we are human and we use it to

uplift ourselves. What we suffer at young age we want to compensate when we start

earning and in this process we never set a boundary – the result is loosing the asset itself.

Raghuveeran succumbed to this process at very young age of 38.)

When I heard the death of this young man at the age of 38 – I was stunned. It is not fair I

cried. A brilliant businessman suddenly put an end to. What a cruel fate for otherwise a

very healthy person just making a career in big business.

Raghuveeran’s earlier stint at College was not that success as his father wished to be. As

a young boy his mind was restless. He wanted to enjoy all the best things in life.

Education and studies did not attract him. His ideas were different. Somehow he finished

his B.Com.

Thereafter he worked as Medical Representative for sometime. He was always restless

and wanted to do something. His aim was to follow his uncle as role model. His uncle

was working at that time in Malaysia.

The strict discipline at home was frowned by him and he wanted to come out from this

circle to carve a separate path. The Period from 88 onwards was Computer age. He

wanted to enter this field- not as learning computer language but as Seller of Computer

accessories.

He started this business in a small way at the house itself-which was in the Bazaar itself.

He stocked Computer ribbons, diskettes, Stationaries etc and supplied to Banks and

Public Sector Undertakings. Initially he was over ambitious – that led to wrong business

tactics – later he corrected himself.

The business was growing well and money started coming. Next he wanted to try his

hand in interior decoration- a field unknown to him. He was a failure in this job. A

turning point came to him around 1998- When he met one Mr. SM. SM by that time

poked his nose in many fields like Cloth Merchant, Whole Sale Merchant etc and finally

landed in Coal business.

SM is a clever fellow- he will not shed a single pie from his pocket but revolve round

other man’s money. Raghuveeran was attracted towards this man because his style of

living. Impatient and over ambitious to become a rich man in a short period-

Raghuveeran fell to the trap of SM.

SM gave rosy picture of Coal business and the luxuries it can buy for him. Importing

Coal from Indonesia and sell the same to Paper Mills and Sugar and Cement business – a

very simple and effortless way of earning – that in a nutshell the coal business explained

SM. He induced RV to arrange bank loan to plunge into this business.

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On his advice RV purchased Maruthi Van, accommodated SM into his business, and

reorganized his office. Now Computer business looked very small one for him. Coal

business paid very well for sometime. They enjoyed luxury life for some time. They

never expected the bear period of Indian economy.

SM was a cunning businessman. He felt the depression that is coming and left RV-

leaving him to face the situation alone. RV was also confident that he can handle this

business alone and in fact he was successful for short period. Soon his customers failed to

pay the bills and the debt started mounting.

For sometime he kept the worry himself but soon it started to work on him. Just one

month before his death he took one insurance policy for Rs.5-lacs for his children – a

Pointer of the impending tragedy.

I left for US for a 6-month stay. I met him before I left. He was cheerful and promised to

look after my interests during my absence. It was the last time I saw him. He used to

share with me all his troubles and successes but in this coal business he never consulted

me.

Had he survived he could have built a good business house. But fate has overtaken him.

He was in a hurry to achieve something but hurriedly left us. At times we quarrel with

our fate but it is useless because it is not subject to negotiation, change or compromise.

The spirit that he exhibited at a very young age will carry the younger generation forward

for a better future.

Analysis:

The logic of business success rests on careful step by step process. There is no short cut

to success; it has to be earned in a hard way. If some body achieves otherwise it is only

fluke or temporary phenomena or mirage. In Reghuveeran case he did achieve but could

not sustain it and fate has overtaken him.

In 100 experiments even one is success it can bring fortune.

You should set a limit as to how far you can go in business.

Measure every step and its limitation.

We do not even know which is preferable for us- to fight or not to fight; nor do we know

whether we will win or whether they will conquer us – Arjuna in Bhagavat Gita


TRIBUTES TO PRACTICAL MEN/WOMEN

CHITHI- TRUE TO INDIAN TRADITION

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(For more than 65-years this lady – we call her as Chithi - served her family with

affection and total loyalty. Married at the age of 17 as second wife to a 45-year man, she

began her career with 4-children ready to welcome her to the home. From that day

onwards it was a saga. Never she showed tiredness in bringing these children and her

own son- no distinction between them. When I saw her face at the time of her death - no

signs of strain, peaceful and with satisfaction that she has done her duty- a True Indian

woman.)

Alamelu – from a lower middle class family - was a second daughter to her parents- born

in a village in Tanjore District in the year 1922. Her father was working in a temple in the

village. Due to family condition she could not study much but her parents taught her all

things required to be a house woman.

In those days there was a practice in Brahmin families to have second wife even if first

wife is alive or if first wife died early- to look after the children left by first wife. In

variably the girl is chosen from poor families and the girls were also ready to do so

irrespective of the age of the man.

Alamelu was one such girl. She married Gopalan of 45-years old and it was an arranged

marriage. Gopalan lost his first wife 2-years before. He tried to manage to bring up the

four children from first wife. He was a Railway employee and could not cope up of both

duties-office and at home. He found a simple, innocent girl in Alamelu.

Thus when she entered the house 4- children waiting to welcome her. Present day women

would have turned back in such a situation but Alamelu was molded in a different cast.

She knows her responsibility and willing to forego the comforts for the sake of her family

and the children.

It is not the aim of this book as to how she suffered and the ordeals she faced by her in

bringing up the children but how she took up the challenge as a young girl and in the end

succeeded in her mission. She loved the children and attached herself with the children so

much- the children never saw their mother’s face but treated Chithi as their real mother.

We all know to create such an environment in a house requires lot of skill and ability and

adjustments-which even highly qualified women may find very tough – but this simple

village girl was able to do – speaks volume about the Society in which she was brought

up.

In course of time Alamelu had also one son. In many cases we have seen that once you

have your son- you will loose interest with other children. But in case of Alamelu it was

not like that. Even her own son will call her only as Chithi. She never showed partiality

and treated all the children alike. For the children sake she got beatings from her husband

several times but she bore all such things cheerfully. She became part and parcel of the

house.

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Hospitality is the byword of Hindu Tradition. As head of the house you are required to

look after the guests, relatives and host of others whom her husband has got close

relationship. In addition ceremonies have to be attended. The cores in Hindu Joint Family

system keep busy all the time and you have no time to attend to your personal life.

Besides that you have to sacrifice many things in life including jewelry at times of need.

The system calls for loyalty, adherence of strict discipline and control of your passions

and ambitions.

Chithi fulfilled all that are required of her from the age of 17. Her busy schedule did not

end with the passing away of her husband. She helped many families and many times

looked after my family also. She never complained about anybody including those who

did injustice to her.

Humanity needs people like Chithi- an ideal of caring and kindness extending to all and

every age and every living being. Their memories will live in the midst of simple and

innocent people and there are hundreds of such people living in the remote villages of

India-serving the humanity silently.

Analysis:

Women hood in India is a symbol of tolerance, perseverance, patience and above all total

loyalty to the family. This is more pronounced in the case of those who are second wives.

They have to bear additional responsibility in bringing up the first wife’s children. Every

action of theirs is watched by the Society. This put enormous strain on them.

Sober and Patience is the byword to succeed when confronted with a family of

children.

Every step you make- you should place it firmly.

Looking back-you have achieved more than what you dreamed.

Absence of pride, freedom from hypocrisy, non violence, forbearance, straightness of

body, speech and mind, devout service of the preceptor, internal and external purity,

steadfastness of mind and control of body, mind and the senses- they are close to Me.

Bhagavat Gita.

TRIBUTES TO GREAT MASTERS

ADI – SANKARA

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(At one point of time we need to revitalize our energy- especially when we grow old. To

help us in our search two Acharyas- Adi Sankara and Ramanuja have shown us the path

for our salvation. Adi Sankara was not only a great thinker but also an inspired

champion of Hinduism and foremost missionaries in our country. Born at a time when

humanity was faced with several attractive philosophies Sankara brought his life-giving

philosophy of Advaita-Nondual Brahman of the Upanishads)

Whenever I am troubled or idle I used to go through my book collections. At one stage

they were Textile Technology books but as I grew I found interest–in managerial,

detective novels and magazines. Later I found solace in - religious, philosophic and other

social books. I fixed timings for the subjects. I fixed morning hours for reading religious

books along with prayers.

At one point of time we need to revitalize our energy- especially when we grow old. To

help us in our search for peace, prosperity and success Our Teachers have shown a path.

Of them two Acharyas- Adi Sankara and Sri Ramanuja are outstanding.

It was a vast program that Sankara had to accomplish in a span of twenty two effective

years; for at the age of 32 he had finished his works in this world and folded up his

manifestation among the mortals of the world. One such work is Bhaja Govindam, which

always stands as guide to me whenever my mind goes astray and seeks solace.

The musical rhythm in the stanzas of Bhaja Govindam makes it easy even for children to

remember and repeat. For us these poems can remove all our delusions. These slokas are

addressed to seekers as a book of instruction to help them walk the path straight to their

goal. In nutshell - Bhaja Govindam enunciates:

At a point of time- after you got educated, entered the job, married, bequeathed children

and their life are well settled- you get a period of vacuum – a Question will arise –

For when death comes to erase you out of existence in this world- of what use is your

science to you? Of what use of the money you earned all along?

Of what charm is the art that you have mastered? Will it come to your help in reducing

your suffering?

Of what helps is the knowledge of grammar then- you learnt? Is it going to avert the

impending death?

While living our endeavor is to understand and master the secret of life, the reality behind

them and gain his true identification with it. He must be able to meet death not as a

moment of annihilation but as a springboard to propel into the land of God-, which is

eternal, peaceful and filled with joy.

The great Acharya was both erudite scholar and commentator of the three foundational

texts of Vedanta but also founder of six matas or devotional modes of Lord. These maths

known as Sankara Maths are doing yeomen services in the field of Spiritual, Educational

and Health to common man.

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You may ask me a question as to why you have drifted your objective of Opportunities

unlimited and landed on Spiritualism – which is out of context. In order to achieve

success in your effort you may sometime caught into fatigue and suddenly you will feel

that all your efforts are going into waste. That is the point of time Spiritualism will give

a helping hand. - Especially the meditation aspect.

Meditation if properly understood is a synthesis and harmony in which diverse

conflicting tendencies are brought into one epicenter and slowly they vanish and in its

place a bigger form assumes – that form – you call it – as Brahman –the primal energy.

When it is inactive it is called Brahman- when it is active it is called Sakti. Meditation

harmonizes the Sakti in you. (KUNDALINI)

Adi Sankara showed us the way to come out of depression and suffering. Pen alone or

Army alone is not enough to win a war you need moral courage and Sankara showed

himself to be a great organizer, farsighted diplomat, courageous hero and tireless servant

of common man.

Selfless and unassuming this Great Man is a colossus among great masters. We are proud

that Bharat produced such a gem in our midst and we pay our humble tribute to this

Master.

TRIBUTES TO GREAT MASTERS

YATHIRAJA RAMANUJA

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(120-years of eventful life with service to all the people of all castes with revolutionary

ideas and offering simple form to attain eternal bliss- Saranagadi – to the Ultimate a

votary of Sri Sampradaya, Propagator of Vishishtadvaida – philosophy – Sree Ramanuja

stands tall among the Saints and Philosophers of Bharat. A brilliant administrator and

very keen intellect Ramanuja introduced Temple reforms to see that all temples function

to the benefit of the devotees. Above all he opened the gates of temples to all castes)

Dale Carnegie- in his book- How to stop worrying and start living quotes: –

The turbulent billows of the fretful surface leave the deep parts of the ocean undisturbed;

and to him, who has a hold on vaster and more permanent realities, the hourly

vicissitudes of his personal destiny seem relatively insignificant things. The really

religious person is accordingly unshakable and full of equanimity, and calmly ready for

any duty that the day may bring forth.

Immanuel Kant said, “ accept a belief in God because we need such belief ” Why not we

link with the inexhaustible motive power that spins the universe.

From time to time Bharat produced gems that kept her high- decidedly different – leading

the nations in Spiritual renaissance and awakening. Adi Sankara, Ramanuja , Madwa

and Caitanya –all appeared when decadence crept in Society. It was in such chaotic

intellectual atmosphere People like Ramanuja brought life-giving philosophy, which is

understood by common man.

Any nation which is morally stand high along with development of Science, Technology

and Industries need not worry about the calamities, wars, hunger, threats and other form

of destructive tendencies. The same applies to its people. To achieve moral development

we need Spiritual development. To attain such development – The above Acharyas

appeared on the stage.

It is a not a coincidence that both Ramanuja and Sankara born on Panchami Day. They

supplemented each other in instilling Spiritual awakening among us- One a great intellect

and the other with great heart. Ramanuja felt for the down trodden and initiated simple

ceremonies and form of worship. He opened the door to the highest spiritual worship for

all castes.

Ramanuja was a great reformer and it was he who liberated the down trodden who did

not have the privilege and opportunity to study the Vedas and follow the rituals

prescribed for liberation by invoking the Narayana Mantra for salvation of all these

people.

Philosophy, theology, ceremonies and rituals are several means of achieving certain

results for the benefit of the Society and Ramanuja tried to reform if some became

hindrance. To Ramanuja - God is full of love, grace and beauty. He thought that God

needed men and men needed God. The individual soul according to Ramanuja made by

God out of his own essence, returned to Him ultimately and lived in full communion with

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him –but was always distinct (Vishishtadvaidam) Jeevathma and Paramathma are

separate, jeevathma under the control of Paramathma and Paramathma is Supreme.

Whole-hearted surrender to the Lord is a simple form (Saranagadi) suggested by

Ramanuja to the mankind to reach Him and ultimately He will absorb you in Him.

Several times I faced challenges in my life- personally and officially. On those times I

sincerely prayed to Him to show me a way out. He never let me down. (Saranagadi)

What makes a man - Hindu, Christian or Muslim to be true religious? It is not his

intellectual acceptance of the doctrines or the conformity to certain rule but loving God

with all his heart and his neighbor as himself. This is the essence of Ramanuja’s teaching.

Many people in their anxiety to come up in life stuck up in the middle, unable to move

forward- sometimes think to put an end to this wretched life. To them Ramanuja’s

message is- the blackest moments we live through can only last a little time- there

will be brightest moments waiting to come in.

Ramanuja traveled widely, tried all doctrines, and practiced them before finding an

answer to his search. Finally he is able to establish the philosophy of Vishishtadvaida –

The Supreme Being (Almighty) and Jeevathama (His creations).

LESSONS FROM CASE STUDIES

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A. 10- COMMANDMENTS- CAREER

We have presented to you the case studies of 50- persons drawn from various walks of

life. These persons belonged to ordinary families - thus they truly represent India. It is

possible that you may fit in any one of them. Each individual’s saga of struggle is briefly

analyzed and the salient points are pointed out.

It is just possible that every individual can find useful employment in many untapped

Sectors like Small Scale Industries, Sports, Arts and Culture, Pets, Baby Sitting, Floral

Arts, Astrology, Horoscope Exchange Centers, Social Service, Painting, Automobile

Repairing, Fast Foods, Book Shops and Stationary, Provision Stores and so on.

What are the basic qualifications that are required to achieve success in these fields? The

answer is simple-

Leadership with difference: We will give examples from our studies to prove our points.

Leadership with difference:

Take the case of the Youngsters in Kitchen to Factory. These youngsters were not

satisfied with building a career in Multi-National Company like Grindwell – Norton –

instead wanted to be entrepreneurs themselves. Choice of Partners is vital for success of

any enterprise. In this case one is a Technologist and other a marketing man.

Their approach is one of abundant caution- first in a small scale they tried and made the

product, then after actual trial in various places and perfectly satisfied about the quality

equal to Grindwell Norton they decided to move into the Factory and till then only one

was working.

In the case of Tirunavukarasu of Failed School Final Lad to Well-known Publisher it

was promise to his mother that motivated him and propelled him to be an independent

Publisher- but before that he worked hard in various publishing firms and understood the

business thoroughly before entering the field.

In case of Parakalan of Successful Tour Operator it was the urge to earn without being

burdening the family that landed him to learn driving and he used the experience to carve

out a career for him.

It was combinations of talents of Three Ys’ again that made Prabu Book Stores a

popular bookstores in Bangalore. Here education has nothing to do but initiative and

Leadership that counted. Condemned as useless boy Aswatha showed remarkable power

of resilience to take up the job of Car Washing. Affluent Society in Bangalore needed

such a man and he grasped the opportunity presented to him.

Our first factor for Success is Leadership with difference.

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2. Use your insight and Skill:

The next important quality for success is understanding, developing and maintaining your

skill. Every person born has got his own skill. For instance the newborn baby

automatically search for his/her mother for breast milk. A little grown up turn up the

feeding bottle to the correct position before it starts sucking the milk.

As you grow the skill does not grow automatically. You must search insight, find,

identify and develop the same. Take the case of Semmangudi- the Doyen of Carnatic

Music – At the very young age he showed keen interest in Classical Music. Though his

voice does not suit he decided that his career lies in this field and devoted wholeheartedly

in learning and practicing.

Similarly Tanjore Painting. You have to learn, practice, practice this Art from scratch

and once you learn the rudiments of this art and master the technique then this field is

wide open for development and innovation. You must understand the taste of Art

Lovers and adjust yourself to the times. For instance Calendars previously lacked the

appealing power but with the dawn of lamination and digital camera real life size pictures

are incorporated in this field. This concept can be applied to Tanjore Paintings also.

Insight allows seeing beyond the present. Astrologers develop this line to cast horoscopes

and predict our past, present and future like Pitchu Sastrigal. This is the Art of

Observation. A Person’s true nature cannot change with situations. It will be totally

consistent. The better you know that person you can accurately predict as how he will

react to the situation. So also the Stars and their positions.

Insight calls for wide opening of your senses. This process requires watching, observation

and listening. Once you develop this skill you can become the best anchorman in TV-

Shows. Kushbu in Jaya TV-serial- Jackpot -Quiz program- watch her as how she

closely observe the participants reactions – represents the model of our above statement

It is not only observations alone that will make your career success but also should be

closely centered on the subject you watch. My Grand son came from States to stay with

me for vacation. He was so attracted to the Title song of Sahana – with in a few days he

was able to sing that song exactly. I saw him observing and listening that song keenly

before attempting to sing. I can call this Aggressive Observation. You develop this skill-

you will reach a measure of success.

In understanding your skill you have to develop suitable environment. For instance if you

want to be successful as a Singer- you must leave your involvement in other fields like

playing football or cricket and visit Music Sabhas, listening Audio Cassettes of great

masters and study the literatures connected with music. Total Devotion to the subject is a

must for successful career.

Insight and developing your skill are key factors for success.

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3. Grasp the Opportunity when presented – do not let it go from your hand.

Every one will get one or two opportunities to push through in life. This may come at any

time in the life cycle. If it comes when you are young- you are lucky. In most cases it will

come. Wise men will grasp and hold it. Invariably they succeed in life and with their

success they are able to provide all the comforts the family needs.

Take the case of Jega- from Apprentice to Technical Director. Although he was well

off with Manager position at Kota, when call came him to serve in Malaysia he readily

accepted. He weighed the option. The salary was 3 times higher and the tag, as Foreign

Returned- all will enhance his reputation. To serve 3-years at Malaysia is to serve 9-years

in the present Company in India. What will be the management attitude for 9 years- will

they be consistent? Will he maintain the same result all those years? It is doubtful. But 3-

years-definetly yes.

Pattu in Auto Rickshaw Driver to Boeing Mechanic was leading a hard life at

Bangalore. Day he was working in Mico, night driving the Auto Rickshaw - A very

tiresome schedule. He wanted to give best education to his daughters and was looking for

an opportunity. The Middle East boom presented to him such an opportunity and he

grasped it. He did not stop with that- from there he moved to States to serve in Boeing

aircraft Company. He was able to provide all the comforts to his family. Besides that he

was able to get jobs for all his daughters in States.

Correspondence is one of the most frequent opportunities you have - to present yourself

to the outside world. Presenting your bio-data- prepared to catch the eye with out any

spelling or typing error – not long or short but at the same time not missing the essentials-

is one important tool you have to create strong impression. In case of Jega this skill

earned him the job at Malaysia.

Impression is another key factor to attract opportunity. It may not produce immediate

result but once you leave the place it will make the other man to think about you and soon

you will get a call. This has happened to me many times. I applied a Consultant Job in a

Textile Mills at Madurai. I met one Mr. Ramachari- owner of the Mills. At the end he did

not give any assurance. But within a week I received the call from him asking me to take

up the position.

Luck is yet another factor to get opportunity. Luck will not come automatically- you

have to work harder for it. K.K. Birla is the son of GD. Birla. They have built Industrial

Empire in India and abroad. I was working in his group in Malaysia. It was their first

overseas Textile Mill venture. He was very particular that it should be the best in that

country. As head of my section I wanted to impress upon him that we could also produce

the quality yarn as good as Japanese yarn

We worked very hard to erect all the machine in time took trial run. In some machines the

automatic controls did give problem. I advised my assistants to stand near the control and

turn the mechanical control immediately if they face any problem. When Birla took round

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all the machines were working and turning good quality materials. He was highly

impressed and that impression got me the Manager Job later. Every one of us was aware

that some machines the automatic controls gave lot of trouble. Here luck was invited –

not came automatically.

The same case is with Jega. If he has not applied to the advertisement calling Spinning

Master Post he would not have got the A.S.M. Post. The luck for him existed in his

application.

There is a story in Hindu mythology about the luck. A Rishi fed up with the life of

Minister in the Kingdom wanted to leave the job to do penance in forest. He realized that

the king would not leave him unless he creates a situation, which will anger the king.

When the durbar was going on the minister sitting by the side of the king suddenly rose

and kicked the head - gear of the King. For a while the king got wild but in a few minutes

all saw a serpent came from the headgear. The king wondered the foresight of the

minister and for saving him, the minister was rewarded with Chief Minister post – how

luck plays its part even though you are not interested.

Legitimate Flattery: Often this tool will bring luck. Legitimate flattery is the one that

makes the person you are flattering look good and at ease with you. It will open up free

conversation between both and achieve the purpose for which you met. I wanted to get a

job for my Doctor Son at Saudi Arabia- at that time Saudi Jobs was very attractive. I

collected all the addresses of the Agents. I gave a ring to one Agent by name John -

praised him for securing good jobs, lauded his service and told the purpose. My son

received a call from the agent with in a week to attend an interview at our place itself.

3. Grasp the Opportunity when it was presented- does not let it go.

Tools: Correspondence, Impression, luck and legitimate flattery.

4. Hard work and Practice:

There is a saying that there is nothing equals hard work associated with practice to

succeed in life. This is true in most cases. M.S.Subulakshmi – The Nightingale of India

became famous on account of her hard practice of Music in her house. Her husband Sri

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Sadhasivam was very particular about this. Before every Performance he will sit with her

and the practice session will go on 2-hours.

In the case of Malathi Hollar – She practiced yoga daily for 2 hours, joined sports and

with continuous practice won gold medals in spite of her handicap. She underwent 25

operations and acknowledged that she gave untold suffering to her body before realizing

that she has to live with the handicap. Even after successful career, she used to practice

yoga after returning from office and with a visit to Handicapped Children Home to cheer

them.

Padmanabha Iyengar realized that with 6-girl children his salary is not sufficient and

worked in his spare time as typist with an advocate. He realized that hard work is the only

asset he is having and utilized every minute usefully.

In case of Famida- the wonder girl – Her parents have to put very hard effort to bring

up the child born mentally impaired. She cannot crawl, speak or move. She has to

undergo physio-theraphy treatment from one month onwards. After nearly one year of

struggle the child started little movement. She has to undergo Speech therapy to speak.

Ultimately the hard efforts put up by the parents and Famida paid dividends. Famida won

gold medal in Painting and recognition.

In all the above cases people turned the crises into opportunities. They never dealt the

position in terms of disasters. Instead they turned the misfortune into opportunity to

redouble their efforts to come out of the situation and stand erect and taller. Viji did not

sunk when her husband died of heart attack but decided to face the challenge boldly.

When earthquake destroyed all their homes during Gujharat Earth Quake – People of

Kutch faced the situation gallantly. They swept into action, arranged temporary shelters

and camps, removed the debris and rebuilt their homes in short period.

Shed fear of Failure to succeed. Many people loose all hopes of survival and swept

away by fear. I can quote two well-known examples as how fear killed 2- Great Actors of

Easter years- N.S.Krishnan and Thiagaraja Bhagavathar. Public knew both of them.

They earned enormous money between 1940-46. Involved in Laxmikanthan murder case

they were sentenced to life imprisonment.

They came out after independence and after hard fought out legal struggle. While NSK

realizing the changed conditions, adjusted himself to the new situation but MKT

succumbed to the situation and died after failure of his films. Fear of failure is common

but those who take advantage and harness the energy released from such failures are able

to move up the ladder easily.

Cast away upsets by small things. It is very important for hard work to cast away

small upsets by small things or despise and forget them. When I was offered unpaid

apprenticeship while my colleague was paid I was upset but I determined to work hard

and accepted the post on the hope that I can learn the rudiments of erection and

maintenance of machinates.

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Every body will be worried- my poor pay, my inability to purchase a good house with

garden and lawn, my inability to purchase a car, my wife is not attractive and so on and

they continue to live on forever with the above worries. If you think they are trivial and

small things to worry – you will be propelled to do great things in life. In many places

our case studies have shown this clearly. Aim for big things you will land up on

something that will give satisfaction to you.

Pattu never thought that he will go to America to earn and become American citizen

but he relied on his hard work and willingness to work long hours.

Parakalan never worried about his level of education but relied on his hard work and

willingness to undertake any job to earn which landed him as Owner of Tour

Operator.

Mu.Va started his career as lower division clerk but work hard to pass many

examinations in Tamil, moved up to Teacher and then Professor and finally got

Doctorate and vice-chancellor.

G.D.Naidu never went up to middle school but became well known Industrialist by

his hard work and ability to face failures boldly and turn them as tool for success.

Our Fourth Key Factor for Success is Hard Work and Practice. The tools for them

are:

Turn crisis into Opportunities.

Shed fear of failure.

Cast away upsets by Small things.

5. Appreciate other Men Talents, Pick the best from them but be yourself:

Many People will ask me as to how I got interest in writing so many Textile Books. I will

let you know the secret. I am having habit of collecting booklets and printed catalogs

from Machinery Makers to understand about their machines. When I was studying my

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Textile Technology course I purchased one old book- Textile Mechanics by Taggard-an

Englishman.

Later when I entered the job I found that the book was outdated but very useful. I was

having lot of upto-date materials on the subject, which if published on the line of Taggard

would be useful to all. I was not having required money to do so. At that time

Taraporewala & Sons were famous Book Publishers and Distributors. I approached them

with my manuscript. They readily agreed to print it. The book was appreciated by all in

the Textile Industry. For me- Taggard was my Guru.

Take the case of the famous Play back Singer TMS (T.M.Soundarajan). He initially set

a pattern of Singing like Thiyagaraja Bhagavathar – soon he attracted the attention of

Cinema world but later set his own style.

Ravi Verma – The Artist Prince of Kerala is held in high esteem by all over the

world and many Artists follow his pattern but many variations from it.

Tanjore Painting is providing job opportunities to many people but many variations

from it.

Many firms are having roaring business of Fast Food Products like MTR.

You can find in all Metropolitan Cities - small business like Thangamani’s thriving.

Gandhiji appreciated MS song Hari Tum Haro so much it was flown by air to him.

The Point I wish to stress is that you should use their talents or skills to your advantage

but be yourself. MLV- followed the pattern of GNB in singing but is herself and was

highly successful. Sudha Raghunathan of to day follows the pattern of MLV but she is

herself and she is highly successful.

In every action of you-while you appreciate or set the model along – the one point is take

the best of them but modify to suit your originality – never copy the style since success

comes only to your talents. Life’s biggest failure is that people don’t do what you want to

do and how to control the impressions of you.

Key Factor- Appreciate and Take the best from others but be yourself.

6. Struggle, Struggle, Relax, and Struggle till You Achieve Your Goal.

Most of us have a tendency to leave our efforts in the middle if we find the same difficult.

We start some other and leave the same. Such people will always find darkness and

frustration.

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Ask these Questions.

Should I really fight this or not?

What are the Consequences of this fight? And the result it will produce?

Am I prepared to be honest?

Once you are sure begin your struggle. Brinda Subramanian did this. Brinda- The

Social Service Organizer. She established the Makkal Sahya Vani to take care of

destitute children, children run away from home. It was hard struggle but ultimately she

succeeded in her effort. Scores of Children are living here, having good food, cloth and

education – otherwise they would bee street urchins.

Rashid – The Painter was able to succeed in Middle East on account of the hard work

he put when he was provided with an opportunity.

Gayathri Shankar- for Gayathri - born without sight– her mother set her goal to

become Musician. Right from the age of 4 music lessons were started. At the age of 15

she passed her matriculation and continued to study and obtained degree. In addition to

oral music at Kalakshethra she learnt Violin and specialized in this field. Titles came to

her automatically- because of the hard work and struggle she put.

I will give you few tools that will make to work and achieve results.

Learn skills that will help you to move higher.

Aswatha- the Car Washer –was a spoilt boy but one day he got a chance to wash a

car and he was paid good amount. He realized his skill and started to make the same

as his profession.

Thi-Jha- Ra –was highly successful as short story writer and found useful

employment in All India Radio and rose to very good position.

Avoid-Bad Habits that interfere with your work.

Learn to control the anxiety of the job and concentrate.

Relax in the middle.

Step-1: Take deep breath through your mouth, hold it for sometime, then release it

through your nose slowly. This you can do at any place, at any time and in the

middle of your work.

Step-2: Don’t sit in one position for longtime and always in erect posture. Just

change your posture with some movement.

Step-3: If you are tired or worried –just recollect the happy incident on that day and

dwell on that for sometime.

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Step-4: Study the exercise and see what amount of relaxation you get and modify if

necessary.

Step-5: When you do the exercise make sure that you are alone and close the door.

Step-6: When - ever I get frustrated I always turn to God. I used to ask- why this

incident or happenings to me. I will pray sincerely to him to bring me out of this situation.

This inward prayer has given me enormous strength to move forward. In Karma Yoga of

Bhagavad Gita Lord Krishna says- Do your duty honestly and sincerely and leave the

rest to me. This has helped me in my career to succeed.

Why does religious faith bring us such peace, clam and fortitude?

The answer is simple:

1. Prayer helps us to put into words exactly what is troubling us.

2. Prayer gives us a sense of sharing our burdens, of not alone.

3. Prayer makes us to act.

Once you are released from your trouble new energy fills in you driving out the old just

like new blood replaces the old in our body in a continuous manner.

Finally- do not give importance to unjust criticism and worry about it.

7. Don’t Say YES when you want to say NO:

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I read a very good book by Herbert Fensterheim and Jean Baer on the above subject,

which fits apt for us. Normally we are very shy and accept anything in order not to offend

the other person. Many times it lands us into very embarrassing situation.

Many people used to approach me for job in Textile Mills as if I am running Employment

Bureau. Sometimes many influential people also come to me. Feeling delicate I used to

promise them. This quality used to create in me enormous tension and take away most of

time without any fruitful results. After reading the above book I started to be assertive. I

have not lost any friendship on account of this change- in fact I was appreciated for my

forthrightness.

Take the case of G.D. Naidu. All along his life he was assertive. This quality in later

years helped him to float a Transport Company, establish modern workshop, to produce

high quality blades.

Eswaran of Easun Eng. Co –was able to establish an Engineering Co to recondition

Machine Tools on account of this quality.

Shivaji Ganesan – was able to create an everlasting impression by characterizing this

quality in various roles he played.

There are some ways of travelling through life: 1) Obey 2) To bargain the best possible

deal for life 3) To shut all doors and concentrate only on yourself 4) In search of

knowledge.

The type- Obey – dances to the tunes of others – Their chances of success of these people

will be average.

The- type-Bargain – will always be successful in life.

The type- Shut all doors- will be isolated and their chances of success will be less than

20%.

The type-Search for Knowledge- will create everlasting impressions in life.

If you want to say: Don’t say Yes when you want to say No – you must shed your fear

first. People, who fear for every thing cannot take decision, cannot assert themselves and

cannot command. We have seen in many of our studies as how bold people have

achieved their goal – Jaya- the baby Sitter, Viji-the brave girl etc. by asserting what

they feel correct.

Once you start to cultivate the above habit slowly you will see that you are transformed

into a positive man prepared to take the risks in your life. It is said that those who are not

much worried about their birth or caste or the past but stand erect, depend upon his skill

and boldly say Yes when he is correct earns the respect of the Society.

Gandhiji admitted his weakness and that of his wife. This gave chance for him to correct

himself. He became world famous.

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Tools for this Key Factor:

1. Learn to be sober in excercising your assertion. Earn the respect.

2. Don’t hurt the feeling of other man when you say No.

3. Once you said Yes - work to make your word correct.

4. At every point of time evaluate the result achieved – if the result is on the positive

side, proceed- if negative – analyze and change.

5. Evaluate your present position, study the options and set your goal.

People in all my case studies possess such qualities and hence they are successful.

Take the case of Chief Chef- Namakkal. He used to assert himself in preparing the items

for the occasion and work hard to present the same to the taste of the guests. He never

compromised on the quality.

The same cases of MTR- the Fast Food people. Even today they maintain the quality of

Rava Idli the same as it was 50-years before and people throng to them.

Three Ys’ – Prabhu Book stores maintain the same hospitality and service even today.

8. Dream for Bright Future- before you go to bed- work hard to make it realize.

The one quality that gives immense relief and satisfaction to me that is - once I start

trying to sleep I always dream about many good incidents happened that day. If I go to a

discourse like Embar and if I am attracted I used to think that I am the hari-katha

exponent and dream about it before I get sleep.

If I am moved emotionally by MSS songs I think that I am a good singer and start to

think about it- I will get excellent sleep.

Many times my sons used to blame me that I have not utilized the wealth that I earned – I

could have purchased a bigger house and other amenities. My grandchildren also used

to feel that I have not provided garden to the house, play ground for them to play.

Whenever I go to bed I used to dream that I have provided all these things to them and

very soon I will be on the way to a good sleep.

Take the case of 2- Young Doctors – Their Dream for 50 bed Hospital. They dreamt

for this hospital worked towards it and succeeded in establishing this hospital at

Bangalore.

Andal (One of 12 Vaishnavite Saints) dreamt that she will marry Lord Renganatha and

she did marry Him.

Raghuveeran dreamt to earn in as much as possible in short period and provide all the

comforts to his family and he did achieve.

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Pattu dreamt to go to States and wanted to take all his children and provide them

comfortable life- he achieved it.

Dream is one form of relaxation and removing worry from your mind. In a way it is a

stimulus to revitalize your nerves to face the future boldly. Pleasant dreams are always

welcome change. It helps to forget the bad things happened to you.

Joe- the 11-year old boy – hit by a car – 2-months in traction with broken thy bone –

dreamt that he wants to be a Pilot, play football and base ball worked hard with all

handicaps and achieved all that he dreamt. Many of our case studies dreamt to achieve

their dreams and they did achieve them.

Bharathi- the wellknown Poet of South India dreamt so many things for India and atlas

part of them are realized. I never dreamt that I would be able to visit States- except that I

have visited many other countries but at the age of 73 - I got the opportunity to visit-

thanks to my daughter.

Dream for pleasant things- work hard to make it true.

9. Cultivate Friendship and try to win over them:

What is the most valuable possession one should have? I asked my Swamiji.

Emphatically he said Friendship. He quoted the friendship between Lord Krishna and

Arjuna – as a result we got the priceless Gem- Bhagavat Gita.

The friendship between Rama and Guha, Rama and Vibhishana, and Rama and

Sugriva is the epicenter of Ramayana.

To cultivate Friendship with some one is not that much easy as it appears. We have seen

that childhood friendship stops when we grow old. High School friendship stops when we

come out of the school and so also the collegiate. What remains with us at the end is very

few.

To make it everlasting and beneficial to us we have to work hard on it. There are certain

principles that can attract people to you. You may ask me the question of what use it will

be to me? There is lot.

Pandavas were able to recover their land because of the friendship of Krishna.

Rama was able to win the war because of the friendship of Sugriva, Guha and Vibishana.

The friendship of America, Britain and Soviet Union enabled them to win the Second

World War.

In all the above cases we see a thin cord running- a) One appreciates the other man’s

talent and recognize it. b) Mutual criticism is avoided and c) Common approaches to

solve a problem.

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In all our case studies we see this thin cord running. Without the Public appreciation no

performance will be successful. MSS, Semmangudi, Shivaji Ganesan respected and

cultivated the friendship of all and hence they stand taller.

When I was in States, when I go out in the morning I used to receive a friendly Hallow!

from whomever I meet on the way. This made me to be at ease and begin my day in a

friendly note.

In my first overseas service all my Assistants came from different parts of India- a

Bengali, a Sindhi, a Maharashtrian, a Marwari and a Kannada. To create a well-knit team

to make our tasks successful I should first get their loyalty not by compulsion but

emotionally and wholeheartedly. To achieve this at the initial stages I arranged the

weekly get together in rotation.

Whenever I was successful and praised by the management I shared the success with

them including the monitory benefits.

When they committed mistakes I took them on me and never shown to higher

management. These all are only small acts but they created confidence in me and total

loyalty and a cohesive team.

While I was serving at Malaysia I used to cultivate friendship with my counter part Mill

Managers- Chinese and Japanese. This friendship has helped me in many ways officially.

Our finishing machines didn’t arrive in time and I have urgently to deliver our yarn to

one important potential customer. My friendship with my friend-Chinese Manager helped

me to solve this problem.

Take the case of G.D.Naidu- He offered shares of his company to all the drivers and

conductors and this act made his company a highly profitable one at the time of

depression.

The pleasing personality of Vasundara- the beautician –and her friendly suggestions

attracted lot of customers to her parlor.

Though Thangamani marriage was a failure- she was able to stand on her own leg

because of her vast customers base.

VG-Provision Stores-is able to attract large customers because of their friendly approach,

honest and sincere service.

Uneducated Rengappa was a successful Civil Contractor because of his total

commitment to satisfy his Clients.

Jaya’s friendship with Doctor family earned her the baby-sitting job.

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Friendship cultivated in hospital has helped to save a life. My son fell down from first

floor in between a narrow 3 feet lane and I rushed him to an orthopedic hospital. He was

admitted as an in-patient. Daily we will visit the hospital. My son cultivated very good

friendship with the Doctor attending on him

At that time a patient was admitted with serious blood injuries and lost lot of blood on

the way. He needed blood of very rare group. Fortunately the Doctor attending my son

requested my son who is having the same blood group to spare blood and the life of the

Patient was saved.

Cultivate Friendship and develop it.

10. Keep your energy and spirit always up:

Every one of us believes that our heart is working continuously and if it stops we will be

dead. This is not medically correct. Actually our heart works 9-10 hours only out of 24

hours- the remaining period is rest period for the heart. (The rest is not long one but short

and intermittent)

In my official career I will take compulsory nap for an hour in the after noon after food.

This rest will boost my brain to tackle any difficult problem. For 3-days I was struggling

to process Polyester in my mill but in one section the material failed to come in the form

it is required. I solved this problem by mixing combed cotton-, which is the ultimate

mixture - before carding stage instead of after carding. This idea struck me after a good

nap in the afternoon.

Dale Cornegie suggests the same in his book- How to stop worrying and start living.

He says Rockefeller lived 98-years- the secret behind this – his habit of taking a half-hour

nap in the office every noon.

Henry Ford looked fresh and young even at the age of 80-because of his habit of regular

nap and rest.

Our forefathers have provided a system to preserve the energy and relaxation by all

people irrespective of all castes- they have given us temples, mosques and churches.

Always these temples are constructed with specific design and place. Temples will

invariably at one end of the village and inside the temple with big open corridors

(Praharams) on all four sides.

The approach is one of scientific outlook. People will have to walk certain distance to

reach the temple and by taking the walk along the corridors. This gives very good

exercise to the body and fresh air. Invariably this walking is fixed after the dharshan of

the deity.

There is certain secret in this system. Once you enter the sanctum sanctorum of the

temple, you forget about your worries and pressure and concentrate on the presiding deity.

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The presiding deity will be decorated with flowers and ornaments giving sweet smell and

the presence of various metals create some healthy waves inside the room. The lighting

of lamps and camphor, agarpathis produce healthy smokes - which if inhaled will cleanse

the bad odor.

In order to produce healthy air plants are cultivated and developed around the temples.

Another lesson the temples teach us is cleanliness – not only the body but also the places.

You have to enter the temple only after you take a bath. You cannot liter, as you like

inside the temples – thus teaching an orderly life-giving importance to relaxation,

cultivating friendship and off loading all your worries.

Over populated country like us needs such a system to reach the common man and people

below poverty line.

I have seen many people telling me that they are now relaxed and peaceful after visiting

the temples, mosques and churches.

Dale Carneige also suggests “ Let’s fill our minds with thoughts of peace, courage, health

and hope for -our life is what our thoughts make it ”

Many times I used to brood over the injustices done to us by many people. I observed

that whenever such thinking arises I invariably suffer in health-some ailment creep in. I

also found that time was running fast and I was unable to perform certain duties. I

decided I should banish all these thought from my mind and take things easy. I saw

marvelous change in me- no health problem, plenty of time to fulfill my tasks and

cheerful.

My brother lost his life at the age of 58 because of worry only. While he was very

confident of himself at the office, he used to worry on many things at home.

Raghaveeran lost his life because of the set back in coal business.

MK. Thiagaraja Bhagavathar died early because of the lost reputation as Actor.

N.S.Krishnan similarly died because of the worry.

It is therefore vitally necessary to banish worry to get renewed energy. For every problem

there is always a solution. By worrying and brooding over it- is not going to solve the

same.

10- COMMANDMENTS FOR SUCCESS

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CAREER

1. Leadership with difference.

2. Use your insight and skill.

3. Grasp the opportunity when presented- does not let it go.

4. Hard work and Practice.

5. Appreciate Other Men Talents- Pick the best but be Yourself.

6. Struggle, Struggle, Relax, and Struggle till you reach your goal.

7. Don’t say YES when you want to say NO.

8. Dream for a bright Future – Work hard to make it realize.

9. Cultivate Friendship – Try to win over them.

10. Keep your Energy and Spirit always up.

LESSONS DRAWN

B. BUSINESS

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Indian business and Industrial scenario is entirely different both in look and concept.

Even among them there is distinct difference between rural and urban. Different castes,

different languages and customs make it even harder to evolve successful solutions to

common problems. Apart from the above religion takes precedence over all other things.

Villages: Villages in India are small conclaves having about 100 to 200 families mostly

centered around temples or mosques or churches. They are mostly caste based. Only

essential items are sold like Provision, Vegetables etc. Information technology is

spreading fast in every village- changing this scene and medical and cloth shops are

springing up.

Next Small Towns: The above scene is much improved in Small Towns. Apart from

Provision, Vegetables and one or two cloth shops - in small towns we can find cluster of

the above shops and in addition medical shops, Hair cutting saloons, Electrical and

electronic shops and repair shops, 2-wheeler repair shops, Cycle rental shops, Shoe mart,

slaughter house, stove repair shop etc are invariably present.

These towns will have population ranging few thousands.

Mostly these shops will be located in tiled buildings and tea stalls in thatched sheds.

Business community is not bothered about the look or get up of the shops but concentrate

on items sold. Mostly these shops are attached to the houses so that the family can

participate in the activities in turn.

Business is based on tradition and caste system but this is slowly changing with the

spread of education and technology.

Capital is pumped only on items sold and limited credit system is in force.

In small towns business is done on rented shops with attention paid on look and

appearance on moderate scale.

B. SUCCESSFUL BUSINESSMEN

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1. Get Experience first before you start any business.

My own case is an example for the above. While I was working as Mill Manager I

wanted to be a Mill Owner by starting a small Spinning Plant. At that time License for

Mills is very difficult to get – License Raj was running in India and only influential

people corner the same.

The urge in me to start something my own never subsided. I got an opportunity to start a

small business –a Temple in a nearby place constructed 4-shops and selection was made

by chits. My name appeared first. I thought this is a God sent opportunity and wanted to

do something. I started a petty shop business.

Simultaneously in another street I started a Coffee works to provide employment to my

relative. For sometime both were working very well. Since I was employed as Mill

Manager I had no time to visit these shops constantly only a casual visit in the evening. I

discovered the person that I employed- brought from my village – shifted his loyalty to

some other person and many things were stolen from the shop. Before things go out of

my hand I closed this petty business.

The area in which I started the Coffee shop was already having 3-shops started long back

and they were having very good clientele. My People could not win over them and the

sales were poor. Apart from this we were ignorant about the Coffee trade- powder for

hotel, powder for house, powder for marriages etc. Finally I was forced to sell the

business.

In later part of my career I tried my hand on Yarn Twisting. Due to general economic

slump in 90s this attempt also failed. All these failures are due to inexperience in the lines.

Apart from this- there is the general tendency in the Society that Brahmins are not fit to

do business resulting lack of encouragement from the community. When we earn good

salary and enjoy the benefit of good life- why takes risk in business? This is the tendency

among this community. We start therefore with handicap and one or two failures kill the

urge – we stop our effort.

As against this – Kitchen to Factory – people succeeded because they tried in a small

way in the kitchen. Only after one year of hard struggle and fully confident that their

product is equal to the well-known Company they released it to the Market. Family also

stood behind these people.

G.D.Naidu before venturing into business first purchased the old motor-cycle,

dismantled and reassembled – thus gaining the first hand knowledge in mechanics and

automobile.

Iswaran of Easun Engineering Company started a cycle repair shop and worked himself

and later started reconditioning of machine tools.

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TVS – the wellknown automobile giant started in a humble way. TV-Sundaram Iyengar

first started a cycle shop at Madurai and started a small transport company with one or

two bus only.

People will argue that you require luck in business. They show many examples to prove

their point. Of course Yes but it will not come of its own accord and we have to work

hard to get it. If we wait for luck without doing anything- nothing will happen.

Mr. Naidu was also having along with me a petty shop doing coconut business. It was

fetching average business only for him. While I closed my business, Naidu continued

because of necessity- he has not studied much and his family was in business. He was a

hard worker and used to go by cycle to purchase coconuts at whole price and sell in retail.

He found that there is good business in plantain leaves and started in a small way. Luck

cheered on him and he got good orders from hotels and marriage parties and soon unable

to cope up with one shop he took another shop exclusively to sell plantain leaves. Here it

is his hard work plus luck made him a successful businessman.

After I returned from Malaysia I published a Book on Polyester Blends. The book was

moving very slowly. At that rate even after 3-years it will be difficult to get my

investment back. I thought that it is better to give a sole selling agency to some one in the

field. Luck cheered on me and I got one and within a year all my copies were sold.

This agent became a close friend of mine and through him I was able to publish many

Textile Books. Like-wise I wanted to write Tamil books about Computer. I prepared my

manuscript and with it I met Vanathi Publishers. Again luck played its part and they were

so impressed – they readily agreed to publish.

1. Get Experience first before you start any business.

Luck plays its own path but work hard to get it.

No business is trivial –wealth is hidden in every one.

2. Choice of Business:

There is plenty of business available in populated country like India for all level of

people. But every thing will not click for every one. First we should decide how much

each business is going to cost, how much we can invest and what amount of capital we

can bring in from outside sources. What is the skill required?

We should categorize them into:

A. Low Cost business.

B. Medium type.

C. High Cost.

A. Some Low Cost business:

1. Grocery Shop.

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2. Beetle Leave Shop.

3. Newspapers stalls.

4. Book Lending Library.

5. Electrical Appliances repair

6. Two-Wheeler repair shops.

7. Plumber.

8. Spectacle watch repair shops.

9. Display board Painting.

10. Second hand Paper buying.

11. Pooja Articles.

12. Bangle shops.

13. Plantain leaves.

14. Coconuts.

15. Fruit stalls.

16. Cool Drinks.

17. Ice Cream Vending.

18. Snack stalls.

19. Tailoring shops.

20. Flower shops.

21. Book Binding.

22. Mutton stalls.

23. Bags repair shops.

24. Retail Rice Merchant.

25. Hair cutting saloon.

26. Sweet meat stall.

All these businesses are

One man business with

One or two helpers.

The investor should

know the skill of the

trade and should himself

handle or do the work.

Mostly manual labor

oriented.

Choice of place is

important.

Good business ethics and

customer service is

important.

Source of supply is very

important.

Good relationship with

neighbor essential.

Quality of work is

important.

Time Factor vital.

Requires low capital

Banks are helping to

meet any fixed

expenses and also

floating finance.

Profit margin is low

Borrowed Finance

should be of very low

interest.

Repayment should be

timely.

Medium Size Business:

1. Clothe Shops. 2. Fashion wares. 3. Ready made Garments.

4. Provision Stores. 5. Fast Food. 6. Sweet meat stalls.

7. Hardware shops. 8. Oil merchants. 9. Whole Sale merchant.

10. Commission Agent. 11. Grains Merchant. 12. Electrical shops.

13. Electronic Shops. 14. Automobile Accessories. 15. Computer accessories.

16. Browsing Centers. 17. Book Stores and Stationary. 16.

Big Business Houses.

1. Furniture Mart. 2. Jewelry Shops. 3. Hotels.

4. Lodging Houses. 5. Petrol Bunks. 6. Car Dealers.

7. Two-wheeler Dealers. 8. Sari Houses. 9. Cinema Halls.

10. Kalyan Mandaps. 11. Bars. 12. Idol Making.

13. Rice & flourmills. 14. Tiles & Sanitary Wares. 15. Timber Merchants.

16. Printing Press. 17. Publishing House.

Unlike developed countries Business strategy in India is different. Mostly business is

caste based – Chettiars for Hotels, Provision stores, Pawnshops: Brahmins- Hotel; Jains –

Pawn shops and Jewelry; Pillai and Naidu- Cloth, hardware etc. But this picture is slowly

changing.

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In big towns recent additions are Computer education, STD and Xerox shops, Photo

developing centers and browsing centers.

In the succeeding pages we will try to present some basic things to make the business

successful in our environment. These concepts are taken from our case studies, also from

our culture and religion.

3. People and you.

Suppose you want to open a General Stores in a small town in Karnataka. You must first

understand the people first. Kannadikas are religious people and have faith in

Satyanarayana Pooja. It is better to perform the opening ceremony with Satyanarayana

Pooja, inviting the surrounding people to attend the ceremony and offer a token gift of

Lord Satyanarayana.

In Tamil Nadu People prefer to do pooja for Vinayaka to remove all the impediments

coming in the way. In Andhra they prefer Balaji. In north they worship Hanuman to give

strength and wisdom.

The next thing is to know the crooks in that area. I remember when I started a small shop

that a Netha (Leader) used to visit all the shops and collect extortion money from us. By

ignoring him it will be very difficult to do business.

There are preconceived people who even before you start your business they will write

off you and your business. Your own kith and kin will discourage you and prefer easy

going with Govt. job.

Reading people is very important aspect of any business. It makes you to know what is

around you that can be used as advantage. You must observe closely on matters that

affect your business and should have a vision and farsightedness. Take the case of

Ambani of Reliance Industries. When he started his career in business he was only a

merchant selling cloths.

He understood that to develop his business he should share the fruits with common public

and offered shares to them. He employed persons who can reach to the public, speak to

them and very sincere to keep up his promise. He had a vision and plan for next 10-years

and strive hard to reach.

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10- commandments in Business

a. Listen to People who want to say some thing: People tend to tell you lot more if

you show some interest. For instance in case of Raghuveeran – Tributes to

Practical Men – He was advised against taking Sethu Madhavan as Partner and even

the coal business which involved lot of risks. But he never listened – costing his life

itself.

b. Observe at close quarters: If you visit Sari Shops- ladies while selecting the saris

will usually speak out the latest trends and prices. They will also tell the latest fashion

and colors and if you are a shrewd businessman you can learn lot from them and

improve your business.

I know one businessman who started a Petty Shop adjoin a Fast Food Restaurant.

First he was dealing only biscuits, chocolates, sweets and cigarettes. People used to

ask him whether he is having Surf Excel Rs.1.50 packet. Next time he stored the same.

Then came Paan Parak, Candles, Nescafe small pockets, tea pockets and so on. From

a mere Rs.50/= per day sales it went up to 200 to 300 per day. All due to his close

observation of People of what they demand.

c. Shrewd Businessmen will talk less: Businessmen should talk less and listen to

customers with smile. I know a case –Parakalan the Auto Driver. People will always

go to him first for Auto though 4 or 5 Autos will be standing. It is because of his

positive approach. He will talk less; never bargain for the charges but at the end will

appeal to the senses of the people who traveled. He always got more than others.

d. Act don’t React: Nowadays we find lot of young people visiting all houses for sales

of many articles, newspaper and so on. I saw many of them returning empty handed

and some unable to answer the questions of potential customers. This is because when

the client opened the door they start talking about their products. If they have listened

a few minutes the interest of the client much time could have been saved and perhaps

they might have got some business.

Example- 1: One Salesman approached my neighbor with a product of Vacuum

Cleaner. He persisted him to listen him. This neighbor has got no carpet, Sofa

Sets or much furniture and a middle class family. He thinks that Vacuum Cleaner

is a luxury item, which will be idle for most of the time. The Salesman wasted his

time for half an hour returning empty handed. He never listened. My neighbor

always closed the door when Sales People visited his place because of this

experience.

Example- 2: A Salesman approached me with a 3 in 1 item- Automatic Lighter

when power failed, a radio and cassette Player. I was looking for one such item

since recently my auto light item went out of order and getting it repaired is a

waste. I know the market Price of this product (around Rs.2000/-) this man quoted

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Rs.2500/- but after bargaining I purchased this for Rs.1800/- both of us were

benefited – a successful businessman!

This man approached me at right time, talked less, demonstrated the utility of the

items and got away with the deal.

Example –3: In my area there are plenty of Provision shops but only in one shop-

V.G. Stores - there will always be rush at all times. The reason is very simple.

The workers in that shop talk less, attend to customers immediately and

reasonable price- 5% cheaper than other shops with assured quality.

e. Don’t involve in Politics:

Indian Politics of late is wrought with criminalization and unwanted elements

have entered. The Chief Election Commissioner himself has made such a

statement. In India there is a tendency that business community is deeply involved

in Politics for the purpose of lobbying for the benefit of the community. This is

not a healthy trend. Business and Politics are at opposite poles.

Discretion is better part of valor. If you are away from politics – you must create

such an environment to the Public – people belonging to various parties will be

your customers and at times of crisis all will come to your help. If you belong to a

particular party there is every chance that you get the wrath of other parties.

I remember a case where two of my friends got different treatments at the time of

an agitation of a Political Party. They wanted implementation of a particular

language at all levels –shunning English. They started pulling down English name

boards and ransacked the shops. One friend belonged to a particular party; the

other not involved in Politics. While the former shop was ransacked the later one

escaped the wrath.

f. Be Discreet:

The success of a business depends upon how discreet you are in choosing the

place, your potential customers and the business itself. Take the case of

Vasundara – the Beautician. She opened the business at a vantagepoint in

Chennai, chose the Beauty Parlor business, understood the necessity of giving

relief to office going women folk. She is now very popular.

Jamal- the collision repairer- chose this business because for the last 10-years

Auto sales in India touched the peak and there are more vehicles than men

walking on the roads. Accidents also increased along with the development. So he

is assured of business.

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g. Sincerity, Honesty, Integrity- Pay and attract Customers:

While I was in States I went to Ralph’s –the biggest Supermarket in America to

purchase few items. When I went home I found that I have left my purse

somewhere. It contains about 100-dollars- fairly a big amount. I was very much

upset. I decided to go first to Ralph’s. When I approached the Manager, he

promptly gave the purse and asked me to count. I was very happy and admired the

sincerity and efficiency of this big store and its people.

My wife and her friend went to Majestic Circle to purchase some jewels in

Avenue Road, Bangalore. While returning my wife’s friend left her hand bag with

the jewels she purchased in the Auto Rikchah -, which they found after returning

home. They were very much upset and lost hope of getting it back. They took a

chance to contact the Majestic Police Station. The Inspector informed that the

Auto Driver has just handed over the bag and asked them to collect it –This Auto

Driver is very popular in Bangalore because of his honesty.

There is lot of persons in our case studies who came up in life because of these

qualities. Rashid- the Painter; Parakalan- the Tour Operator; Varathakutty-

Handicap is only the body not the mind: Viji- the Brave Woman; Chief Chef-

Namakkal; Rengappa- the Civil Contracter; Thangamani and so on

In business these qualities will pay in the long run.

Recently I purchased a night light from a shop in Trichy. The Owner told me that

the transformer used is having one-year warranty. For about 2-months it worked

well but suddenly it went out of order. My relative checked and told that the

Transformer has gone. I stopped using the above for 2-months.

I wanted to take a chance - to take this light to the shop. I was having only his

visiting card-no bill, no warranty card. I doubted whether he would accept it for

replacement. The owner is a young boy of about 24. To my surprise he

immediately accepted and within half an hour he replaced and that light is

working even after a year. I thought that this boy has bright future ahead.

I wish to recall one incident: The Nightingale of India- MSS. She was touring

US. Her consort was fixed in New York before elite audience. Just before 2-hours

she found that her throat gave trouble and was afraid about the performance. She

prayed to Kanchi Sankaracharya sincerely. To her surprise half an hour before the

consort her throat cleared and she gave a memorable performance and at the end

received standing ovation from the gatherings.

My friend purchased one Air Cooler from a firm, which boasted itself as the best

business house with branches in several cities. The cooler is a wellknown brand

with 2-year warranty. It gave trouble with in 3-months – The moving apron did

not rotate and cool never came. He phoned several times to the Firm and there

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was no response from them. He visited in person – then they sent one man to

check. He came checked and said that the motor driving the apron should be

replaced. The firm refused to replace the motor and wanted to charge for the

motor. My friend was very angry. What is the purpose of warranty? This incident

spread among his neighbors and the firm lost many potential customers. Here the

integrity of the firm is in question.

As against this my experience is different. While I was in States we purchased a

tube light in a Supermarket. We have to assemble and fit the same. Out of 2- one

worked and the other failed. We took the same to the firm. They immediately

replaced. Like wise - one leg of a chair purchased a year before was broken. We

took the chair to the firm with the receipt. It was immediately replaced with a new

one.

Customers are treated with respect and each customer is treated as individual –

not clubbed together. Integrity in business is very important and once this

impression is created it will go a long way to attract customers. In India we lack

this quality resulting loss of business.

h. Customer Satisfaction:

There is a famous Jewelry Shop in Trichy- Gopaldas & Co. I used to visit this

shop along with my grandfather for purchasing. The way the Owner (Elderly man)

used to receive us is a lesson for many young people. First he will ask us to sit on

the carpet; he himself will sit along with us. He will enquire about the welfare of

all our family members and make us comfortable before talking the purpose of

our visit.

This Gopaldas company has got clients spread all over India in thousands. If you

ask a client as to why he prefers this company –he will say that they are golden

touch people – any jewel purchased from them will bring prosperity – such is the

impression it has created

This quality is the basic thing any potential business people must learn. Next by

gentle talk know the Customer background. Offer him what he want and if you

have alternate thing –better than the item – suggest him- don’t thrust it –

I have seen that many business people think that they are more knowledged

people than the Customer and show it to the customer. Once I visited a cloth shop

to purchase a dhoti. I am a Textile man and understood that the particular variety

is a mixture of cotton and polyester. The Shop Owner argued that it is 100%

cotton. Later when he learnt about my background- he was very much ashamed.

There is some business people who at the first sight itself impress the customer.

My friend used to go often to Bangalore to stay with his sons. While going he will

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always take 2-kgs of butter. He will always purchase the item from one particular

shop when there are few more shops adjacent. I asked him why this preference?

He said that the first time when he took the item due to heat the butter got melted.

Next time the Shop Owner voluntarily offered to pack it with the dried leaf of

Plantain stem. The butter was in tact. My friend appreciated this gesture. Once

satisfied, the customer is always satisfied.

Take the case of V.G.Stores in our case study – people thronged to this shop for

purchasing Provisions and other house hold articles because of complete customer

satisfaction- quality products, correct weight and quick disposal.

MTR-The Fast Food people – maintain the same quality for years, their clean

habits and environments and innovation. Hence Customers visit this place and

always you have to book the table in advance.

I visited in States – 99 cents Shop. Any article kept there is priced only 99-cents-

from toys to kitchen towels: from wallpaper to cotton swabs; Film rolls to

Stationers – anything is charged 99-cent only- a True innovation in selling. Such

shops exist in every city in States.

i. Passion for Excellence:

Once you cultivate this habit- I only stock the best at affordable price – no matter

my margin is less- soon you will realize that there are elite circles to visit your

shop and will be a permanent customer. Why Lays-Potato chips are popular- they

are very crisp, no over fried or color difference- same quality always.

Once Customers were invited to this factory and asked to pick less or over fried

chips from where they are made- they could not find one- such is the passion for

excellence they maintain – no wonder then they are very popular.

Customers are aware for one original popular item there is one duplicate item and

once if they find that your shop is dealing such items- you stand to loose your

business in very short time.

To create and sustain Superior performance- take exceptional care of your

customers. This is what Saravana Stores in Chennai is doing. Anything you

purchase they are much cheaper, quality well maintained and new new items are

introduced to meet the demands of customers.

Take the case of Kamat Group of Hotels in Karnataka. They maintain the same

standard in all the branches- is in big towns or small towns. To verify this

statement I tasted Masala Dosa at Yathra Niwas at Bangalore and Kamat

Restaurant near Ramnagar- on way to Mysore. The quality was the same in both

places.

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Visit the Raymond shops in any place in the country- the price and quality will be

the same so also Reliance. People like the above have got passion for excellence

How to achieve this? First the main man who makes or purchase should be well

versed and well trained. When at work his mind should be free from other worries

and be healthy, totally devoted to the task. The Owner should take care of his and

his family and he should be a permanent member of the team.

Second the articles purchased to make the item should be very good quality and

from reliable source. At every point strict check for quality testing introduced.

Never mix spoilt items with good ones. Be consistence in quality. Be prepared to

take back if the customer complaints and refund him the full amount.

Listen carefully the suggestions offered by the Customers. Try in small measure

and assess its impact before adopting in bulk. If successful don’t fail to reward the

Customer.

Always think of improving to reach- the Passion for Excellence goal.

j. Wooing the Customer:

If you visit the bazaar in a city there are many medical shops but only in one or

two shops only there will always be crowd. Take the Ranganathan Street in

Chennai. There are many cloth shops but in two or three shops only there will

always be crowd. Why? These shops know the art of wooing the Customers.

In my flats daily many people visit to cater breakfast. But Customer prefers only

one or two. Why?

There are plenty of Provision Stores but we visit one particular shop to cover our

monthly requirements why?

We place order for jewelry to one particular shop always during occasions why?

The reason is simple. These people have created confidence in you. The items you

purchase bear the stamp of quality, reasonable price and excellent customer

relationship.

Wooing the Customer is an art. All Children Food Products like Horlicks,

Ovaltine, Viva etc periodically attach free gifts like Table Tennis Bat, Ping-Pong

balls, Net etc to attract Children and through them their parents.

Some Companies announce if you purchase one, you take another free. While I

was in States I saw many Customers carry Lays Potato chips – 2 packets – If you

purchase one, another is free.

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Bubble-gum brands always carry stickers to attract children.

If you purchase a Sari, blouse piece is attached with it.

Bata many times offer School Bag for purchase of some articles.

Indian Companies are adopting various methods to woo the Customers. Prizes are

announced which include cash, cars, TVs, DVDs and gold coin. These are one

time attraction. In the long run to build your business on sound footings you need

permanent Customers. Gopaldas, Sapna Book Stores, Vanathi Publishing,

Saravana Stores, MTR and many others are having such customers. What make

them to attract such customers?

It is their integrity, honesty and respect given to the Customer. They become part

and parcel of the family of Customers and participate in all their functions

whether it is marriage or death. This bond is carried forward by the succeeding

generations.

We gave you some factors for success in Career. We now sum up some factors

for success in business.

1. Get experience first before you start any business.

2. Choice of your business.

3. People and You.

4. 10- Commandments in business:

a) Listen to people-their view.

b) Observe at close quarters.

c) Talk less.

d) Act – do not react.

e) Don’t involve in Politics.

f) Be discreet.

g) Sincerity, honesty and integrity.

h) Customer Satisfaction.

i) Passion for Excellence.

j) Wooing the Customer.

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C - Success in Industry

(We have seen many case studies in career and business and the factors leading to

success and evolved some common factors for success. They are very simple and basic

but success in Industry is little different and complex since Men, Material and

Management is all involved.)

Not all people are successful in Industry. Industrialists are a class themselves. But there is

no harm in attempting if you have willed. Take the case of Bill Gates. He was an ordinary

student but he did not complete his studies. He along with his friend Paul Allen spent his

full time in Computer- the result is Microsoft. He turned his passion for computer into a

giant company.

1. Where there is a will there is a way. Bill Gate is an example.

G.D.Naidu was an ordinary man coming from poor agricultural family. He did not study

much but he became famous, as Industrialist- his passion for innovation was responsible.

I know many Naidus who were owners of many Textile Mills in Coimbatore. They were

my well wishers. Their forefathers have carried bags of cotton and struggled before they

became Mill Owners themselves.

TVS- the well-known Group started with one or two buses only before they became

Owners of fleet of buses and lorries.

Dhirubai Ambani started the Reliance with second hand flat knitting machine in a rented

shed at Ahmedabad.

Ford of Ford Motors was working in a Company before he invented the engine to run on

gasoline, which revolutionized Automobile Industry.

TV-Ramasubbaiyer- the Founder of Dina Malar Tamil Daily struggled hard to establish

this paper at Trivandrum first to protect the interests of Tamil people of Kanyakumari and

Nanchil Nadu.

The list goes on. All of these people have one common quality- Will Power. Although

they earned well in those days- wealth did not corrupt them. They shared with others. I

remember very well one incident in my life.

I was working as paid apprentice in Balausbramania Mills, Coimbatore whose owner is

one Krishnaswamy naidu. While appointing me he told that he would not gave the

salary to me but will send the same to my parents every month. My boarding and lodging

and pocket expenses will be paid by the company- such is the value he attached to family

life.

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In the middle Deepavali came. I wanted to take a token purchase of cloth but no money

and did not approach the management. To my surprise just a few days before Deepavali,

Mr. Naidu called me and handed a bag containing cloth for my parents and me. I wept

before him- such great hearts were in our country. Compare this with another case.

Mercantile Credit Corporation. Many poor and middle class people put all their

savings in this company - 50-years old and a reputed one at that time. There was no

problem till 1998 and people went on renewing their deposits. There were some internal

problems with the Directors and suddenly this company collapsed. Lakhs of people were

deprived of their hard-earned savings and many families were ruined.

Where is Krishnaswamy Naidu and where are these cheaters like Vadivelu?

The first factor for Success is strong will.

2. Change, change-not the Industry but your style of management:

I was attending the first International Fair on Information Technology and Software

development at Bangalore in 1998. While visiting the stall of Infosys Technologies LTD

I participated the conference meeting addressed by its Chairman- N.R.Narayana Murthy.

Mr. Murthy was comparing the ATM facilities introduced by Citi Bank, ICICI Bank etc.

with the normal banking system of Cash withdrawal by manual system.

One of low-income colleagues of Infosys was using the ATM facilities installed by the

ICCI bank at the Electronic City campus. Mr. Murthy asked him the benefit of such

facility. After all the wellknown features he said that the machine did not discriminate

against him unlike in manned counters by showing preference towards his elegantly

dressed software Engineers.

It did not show any fatigue in transaction even after 24-hour working. The cost of

transaction of withdrawal from manned counters is Rs.50 as against Rs.12 at ATM, while

through internet it is only Rs.5/- If the bank pass on the benefits to customers, they can

spread banking business to rural and village areas for the benefit of poor people.

Most of Taxi Drivers are from UP. They are so far away from their native place they

used to meet after many years. A Video conferencing pilot project was arranged between

these drivers and their families at their villages so that they can see all the relatives chat

with them and spend happy moments. Both sides were so elated-distance is dead for them.

Once the internet spreads the nook and corner of Indian villagers, the Govt. takes

seriously to use it at all level- then the Poor people of India need not go to city to get the

basic services like - filing applications for land transaction, loans and certificates which

the IT -kiosks can handle from the village itself.

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Thus it makes us to change for better, adopt better techniques, reduce the cost improve

the product and so the cycle goes on. I tell you a pipeline Story:

One hundred years ago in America it was virtually impossible for average person to

become a millionaire. In 1900 the average wage in America was 22 Cents per hour. The

average worker earned between 300 to 400 dollars per annum. Only 6% of Americans

graduated from high-school level. 8000 cars only were on the road and 144 miles of

paved roads. 80% of American earnings were spent on food, shelters and clothing. Life

expectancy is only 45%.

After 100 years- (2001) the average American earning is $45,000 dollars per annum.

There are more cars in that country than the people. Every house has 2-TVS, cell phones

and Computer with Internet connection. Life expectancy is 75%- more disposal time,

more career options and so on. This is the fact and the impression but inside in all – a

startling truth is revealed- Most of the nation’s families are living paycheck to

paycheck.

Remove the assets like car and furniture the average family has zero assets.

Unlike America Eastern and Asian countries value fixed assets like house, land and

jewelry. The real wealth of the Nation lies here. To achieve this the average people

should be a millionaire. Is it possible? Yes. In India and other Asian and Eastern

countries this is actually happening.

For the last few years wealth is distributed to all the 3-sections of the society- Rich,

middle class and poor people. Great social changes are taking place and how this is made

possible?

1. Dramatic increase in the middle income group with increase in rich drop in poor

income group.

2. Wider dispersion of disposable income.

3. Synthesis of East and West by Globalization.

3. Use your brain and two hands:

This is exactly Indian Software industries are doing for our Country. From half a billion

per annum in 1993 it has exceeded 5- billion today and slated to grow to 50 billion in

2008. We get revenue of 35000 dollars per employee while we spent 5000 dollars per

employee.

Now similar industry is with us- biotechnology. To day it is in infant stage only. Our

Ancient Seers have made tremendous researches and have kept the secrets somewhere-

either in palm leaves or in some homes. Bring it out- go hunt for them and you will be a

millionaire.

Bright ideas come from home:

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Two fresh MBAs from J.L.Kellog Graduate School of Management at Northwestern

University in USA set up ethinicgrocer.com on line grocery shop that sells more than

30000 ethnic products. The idea came to Parminder Singh through his Sister-in-law who

went on complaining that she has to travel all the way to purchase from shops in Pioneer

Street in Los Angeles.

Parminder 29, Subhash Bedi met at business school and dreamt of starting out their own.

They worked on grocery idea and studied the Indian grocery chain market and how the

goods reach the consumers. They pooled their savings and with loan from Bank leased a

ware house with the bar code technology they made a perfect distribution operations. The

venture was a highly successful one.

Recently I went to a small town in Cuddalore near Pondicherry on pilgrimage tour. Since

the temple opens only at 4.30 PM after lunch we found a hospitable couple offering their

residence to have some respite. I saw bundles of gloves piled up in the room and two

girls were stitching gloves using 2- sewing machines. I asked my host about this.

He was working with Anglo-French Textiles in Pondicherry and after retirement doing

this business and his customers are Whirlpool, TVS and others. He purchases wholesale

dyed knitting cloth from Tirupur in Coimbatore and make free size hand knitted gloves.

He said that his elder son is employed in marketing this product while his younger son

handles the accounting. What a brilliant idea! They owe one maruthi van and employs

network of people in surrounding towns.

If you visit Bangalore’s Fabmart – an Internet based company. There are 10,000 CDs,

audiocassettes and more than 4000 books- a virtual shopping mall. You can play enjoy

and take the CDs of your choice and the books, daily 20-30 items are sold and the peak

touches 150. These people resigned their well-paid job in Wipro and started their own

Dot.com.

4. Work hard and welcome suggestions and help:

I was advising one Textile Mills in Bangalore. The present owner took the management

from previous person and wanted to improve the operations to prevent sustained losses

and my job was to assist the management in these tasks.

For nearly 2-years we toiled hard since the machinery installed were low productive

machines and the cost of labor and raw material were steadily going up. At last we were

able to see no profit no loss situation when suddenly the Owner decided to sell the mill-

at a very disadvantage price- the land alone – in the heart of Bangalore is worth millions.

Inspite of my repeated request he was firm on his decision.

After 2-years I met this gentleman at Singapore – he said that he made terrible mistake in

selling the mills against my advice - the new owner sold one acre of land for multi-story

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building and got handsome amount. Using the amount he changed all the machines to

latest high production machines- thus improving the quality and productivity.

This gentleman still could not establish any Textile Mill in India because of ill advice

and failure to welcome suggestions.

Take the case of GD.Naidu- He welcomed suggestions from co-drivers and conductors

and was able to run the best transport service at Coimbatore.

Easwaran of Easun Engineering company always listened the suggestions of his workers

and awarded bonus for profitable suggestions.

Before you become a boss of your organization you must look insight- how much hard

you can work and your work habits.

My friend established a workshop to manufacture automobile accessories. The place is

little away from his residence and to avoid delay in opening the shop in time he handed

over the keys to one of his workers. Taking advantage of the Master's’weakness this man

took his own time to open the shop resulting poor turn out

Like wise in many establishments for lack of direct supervision productivity suffers and

unwanted elements take advantage of the situation resulting in the failure of the

enterprise.

It is therefore vitally necessary to know your capacity for hard work and your weakness

before you think of doing something. For instance I will be very active in the morning

hours- can solve any difficult problems but as the day passes it will be tough for me to

think unless I take a nap for 2-hours in the after noon.

5. Organize your work and don’t make your employee feel tired:

I have worked under Indian, British and American management systems. All these

systems have got many flaws in dealing with their employees. One is very suspicious; the

other depends on few individuals and the last hire and fire policies. It is not possible for

any single individual to shoulder the entire responsibilities of his organization on his head.

You have to collectively work with others. In doing so you should not always after them

and watching their works.

I was working in a Textile Mill at Bangalore. Three brothers were managing the affairs of

the mill- Rama, Lakshmana and Bharatha (names concealed). Early morning around 6.00

AM Lakshmana will take a round of the mills when I should be present. Next around

10.00 AM Bharatha will take a round of the mill when I should be present. The same

questions and the same answers.

After 4.00 PM Rama will call me for discussions over a cup of coffee and snack and the

discussions will go in till 9.00 PM – when Rama leaves for home.

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Even Sundays are working days when the management will invite outside Consultant to

check our technical and other problems. How long you will be able to carry on like this.

No wonder then staff migrations were always very heavy in these types of mills.

There is another type of management:

I was working as Consultant for a Textile Mill and monthly 4-days I used to visit the

mills. I will be at the mills exactly at 9.00AM. My job was to go through the production

and quality records and offer suggestions to improve them and in the evening to meet the

managing Director for discussions- if he calls.

Here the Managing Director is the Supreme Authority and without his instruction nothing

should be done even in Technical matters- the Manager has to take his instructions only.

Power has not been distributed - even to his Son. Sometimes I used to meet him in the

evenings at his request but many times that I returned without meeting him. Progress in

such mills will always be poor- there is no confidence of the management on their staff.

It is vitally necessary for you first to organize your work in systematic manner and even

if you are not present the show must go on. Every employee has got his own talent

whether he is educated or not – learn to appreciate the same make him comfortable and

work in healthy surroundings.

6. Imbibe in every employee the spirit of loyalty to the organization:

Loyalty to the organization is more important than to an individual. Individual may come

and go but the organization will remain forever. In dealing with your employee this

aspect must be given top priority. I failed in my first business venture because my

employee instead of showing loyalty to the business chose to be loyal to individual.

Instead of supporting me – against selling the Spinning unit at Bangalore, the General

Manager and Resident Director were loyal to an individual resulting the loss of most

valuable property for the Individual.

Instead of loyal to the business some people want loyalty to them. I know a well-known

case of a popular Textile Consultant in Ahmedabad in did 60s. He used to advise some

mills in South India and some Mill Owners were very crazy over him as if he is going to

bring windfall to them.

This gentleman had a habit of shifting important staffs from one mill to another. He never

bothered about the talents of local mill people. In most cases he was a failure and after a

year he will be removed from consultancy and along with him the entire staff brought by

him. He wanted loyalty to him-not to the organization.

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When I took charge of my overseas assignment I had under me important staffs brought

from various regions in India- Sindi, Bengali, Marwadi, South Indian, Maharashtrian etc.

Their culture, language and customs were different. In the first meeting I told them that

they should forget their background and think they have come to establish themselves as

Spinning Experts equal to Japanese. Technical excellence is the only religion that should

bind them. This had telling effect and we proved ourselves as the best pick up from India.

When G.K.Devarajulu Naidu of the famous Lakshmi Mills at Coimbatore joined the

organization at 18-years his father wanted him to work as apprentice and he has to be in

the mill at 7.00 AM and attend night shifts. He should take food only in the canteen along

with colleagues. Such is the discipline in which he was brought up.

These qualities later made him to establish various Industries and were a very respected

man in the industrial map of India.

7. Manage with Confidence, Delegate what you can:

A Successful Industrialist or CEO is the one who extracts the best from his employees

and reward whenever they deserved. He will not take credit for what has been achieved

but pass on the same to his employees. Always his table will be clean with no pile of

papers or files.

I remember how Mr. Krishnaswamy Naidu owner of Balasubramania Mills was

managing the affairs of the Mills. All daily routine regarding the administration was left

with the Office Manager. All mill affairs were left with the Mill Manager. Every day in

the evening both Managers will meet him and take instructions regarding financial affairs.

As against this there is another type:

This Managing Director never delegated his authorities and every thing he should decide.

The Mill Manager cannot act individually- not even a minor setting. Like wise even if

you have to spend Rs.100/- you have to take his permission. No wonder then he has to

look every year a Manager.

Delegation is the process of building up people. It takes a very confident person to be a

good CEO or Mill Owner- confidence in the people- confidence in him and his capacity.

I know one Managing Director who wanted to go through every individual letter coming

to the mills, initial it and send to the Manager- in most cases he himself decides- what is

the use of the Manager in such organization?

Mr. Ranganath Somani was managing a Mill in Kota- Rajasthan remaining in Bombay.

He delegated the authorities in such a way that all Technical affairs of the mill were

looked after by the Mill Manager, all Financial affairs by the financial Manager and only

in exceptional cases they have to take orders from him. He used to call all the executives

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to Bombay once in a month to discuss with him on matters requiring his intervention. The

Mill was showing excellent results.

FINAL COUNT DOWN

We have gone through several successful case studies – Career, Business and Industry

and also tried to analyse the factors leading to their success. This is not a closing chapter

but the beginning to all of us irrespective of age or gender. Man has to pass through

different stages in his struggle for survival and he needs a string to get the required

strength and this book tries to be his side.

You have got a Power of your own- no matter how poor you are or how rich. Harnessing

that power into a potential energy is within yourself Search, search – you will find it out.

Don’t be afraid to take risk- failures will be there but try for one or two times and if it

costs too much look for alternative.

Carry the people along with you- you can not be a lonely traveller.

Believe in the capacity of other people- shun egoism and encourage wherever they

deserve

Accept criticisms if they are genuine- but be firm if you are right.

Live for a cause and do something that keep your name in this world – all other things

will be forgotten including your name itself

Life is to live peacefully and gracefully.

************************

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Leadership & Management