Atul Writes

  Patriotism Is for Sale! The country has fallen into the hands of capitalists. An individual’s dignity, reputation, and freedom of expression are gradually being measured in terms of market value. Through the nexus between capitalists and the government, the value of an ordinary person’s life is being determined. Those who possess money and power have the authority to make decisions; while those who lack such power are forced to let others determine the value of their freedom, labour, and very existence. To conceal this entire mess, nationalism, religion, and sometimes patriotism are brought to the forefront. Patriotism is a natural sentiment in the hearts of citizens. But when it is used to silence those who ask questions, suppress dissent, and protect the interests of those in power, it ceases to be genuine patriotism—it becomes a political commodity. The situation today seems to have reached a point where the slogan is: “Patriotism Is for Sale!” Whoever wants it can buy it; bu...

Sant Kabir Das was one of the greatest saints, poets, and social reformers of medieval India. He strongly opposed caste discrimination, religious rituals, superstition, and religious hypocrisy. His teachings emphasized humanity, equality, love, truth, and self-realization. 1. Birth and Early Life There is no completely certain historical information about Kabir's birth. According to popular tradition, he was born in the 15th century in or around Varanasi. According to tradition, Kabir was brought up by a Muslim weaver couple named Niru and Nima. He grew up in a simple working-class environment and was associated with weaving throughout his life. His experience of ordinary people's lives had a strong influence on his poetry and philosophy. 2. Kabir and His Guru According to the Bhakti tradition, Sant Ramananda was Kabir's spiritual teacher. However, historical details about their relationship are debated. Kabir did not restrict himself to any single religious tradition. He q...