Bradley Stoke Fall

Airbus Filton Early Winter

The Dharma of Friendship

The concept of Dharma, originating from Sanskrit, lacks a direct equivalent in Western terminology. It encompasses notions of duty, virtue, ethics, and morality, often invoked in discussions surrounding our obligations towards others. Whether it be the responsibilities of a parent, the duties of a teacher to their students, or the principles guiding interpersonal relationships, Dharma is intricately woven into our social fabric.

In the modern era, the proliferation of social media platforms like Facebook has blurred the lines between genuine friendships and superficial connections. Amidst a vast network of online "friends," true companionship is scarce, often limited to a select few individuals whom we can genuinely rely upon – those we can count on a single hand.

However, even within this small circle, upholding the principles of Dharma can be challenging. Today's relationships, including friendships, are characterized by a heightened emphasis on individual freedom and autonomy. We prioritize personal choice and expression, sometimes to the extent of distancing ourselves from even well-meaning guidance, including that of our closest friends.

Navigating these dynamics requires delicate balance. While the essence of friendship remains relevant, its application is contingent upon the space granted for dialogue and mutual understanding. Yet, in instances where attempts at constructive criticism are met with resistance or disdain, one may find themselves marginalized, relegated to the sidelines of the relationship.

In such circumstances, the once-vibrant bond may dwindle to mere digital exchanges, devoid of genuine connection or emotional resonance. The convenience of platforms like WhatsApp or Facebook may sustain the semblance of friendship, but beneath the surface lies a hollow shell of what once was.

Diwakar

Diwakar possessed a striking handsomeness, but it was not the worn-out Turkish towel that accentuated his appearance. Instead, it served as a modest shield, concealing the peculiar abundance of hair that adorned his body. This unique choice of attire, worn exclusively within the confines of his home, hinted at a vulnerability seldom revealed beneath his affable demeanor and formidable eyebrows. Little did I know, the encounter with this enigmatic individual would soon unveil layers of complexity and intrigue.

December and January enveloped Hyderabad in a modest chill, a far cry from the biting cold of Koraput. Although heavy fog occasionally descended, veiling the cityscape in an ethereal haze, it rarely impeded daily routines. On one such misty morning in early January, I found myself gasping for breath, pushing my limits along the steep incline toward Gachibowli sports village. Despite the invigorating rhythm of my morning jog, the weight of unfulfilled aspirations and the relentless struggle to secure meaningful employment lingered like an oppressive shroud.

As I battled the incline, the specter of despondency clung to me, casting a pall over my endeavors. Each step forward felt like a futile attempt to outrun the persistent gloom that enveloped me. Eventually, defeated by the weight of my own thoughts, I begrudgingly retraced my path homeward, my spirit no lighter than before.

Amidst the tumult of my professional uncertainties, I sought solace in the structured pursuit of knowledge, enrolling in a part-time postgraduate program in computer sciences at Hyderabad Central University. Determined to maximize my time on days devoid of classes, I eagerly embarked on a quest for potential opportunities. Thus, after a hastily consumed breakfast, I set out to rendezvous with Uma, buoyed by the prospect of a promising lead.

Uma, a jovial figure, awaited me at the local typewriting institute, his demeanor exuding warmth and camaraderie. With characteristic efficiency, he wasted no time in broaching the subject that had drawn us together, igniting a dialogue that promised to unravel new avenues of possibility.

"Have you had the chance to meet Diwakar?" Uma inquired, his tone laced with anticipation.

"Diwakar?" I echoed, momentarily puzzled by the name.

"The one associated with Satyam, operating out of IIIT in Gachibowli," Uma clarified, his enthusiasm palpable.

"I've heard of him, but we haven't crossed paths," I admitted.

"He's ventured into entrepreneurship and might have an intriguing opportunity for you. Why not pay him a visit? I can provide you with his address," Uma suggested, extending a lifeline in my quest for employment.

Grasping the address from Uma's outstretched hand, I hastened towards Diwakar's residence, the prospect of potential employment propelling my steps. Along the way, I mentally rehearsed my qualifications, experiences, and aspirations, determined to make a favorable impression. The journey was brief, the distance negligible, yet each stride carried the weight of my hopes and aspirations.

Upon arriving at the apartment, I found Diwakar on the verge of departure, his demeanor mirroring the description Uma had provided. However, in that moment, appearances mattered little to me. All that occupied my thoughts was the desperate yearning for employment, regardless of its remuneration.

Violabilis

Violabilis is a French word signifying something that is “capable of being violated”. Inviolability, its antonym, captures the essence and sanctity wrapped around friendship. Friendship holds a sanctity that should ideally cannot be violated, if it does it wasn’t a true friendship after all.

Scrutiny of public figures

Scrutiny of public figures is not essentially intrusive, as these figures owe their fame & recognition to the general public, and therefore attempts to investigate and know their private lives are needed in a free economy, as they give key insights into the private lives of those individuals, eventually helping us to understand how that shapes the individual’s public life, and therefore his disposition towards us.