DESTRUCTIONS MENTIONED IN QURAN

I had set up studying Surah Al Anam (Chapter 6 of Quran) and writing about it today. It had been a long while since I had covered 5 chapters in Quran and tried to bring out what it taught us all.

When I came to Verse 6 of the Surah, it went as follows :

Have they not seen how many generations We destroyed before them which We had established upon the earth as We have not established you? And We sent [rain from] the sky upon them in showers and made rivers flow beneath them; then We destroyed them for their sins and brought forth after them a generation of others.

Having read that, I wanted to know how many generations of people were actually destroyed by Allah when they disobeyed the commands of the Lord and the teachings sent upon the people through various Prophets spread over several periods of time.

I knew about the Story of Noah and his Ark, which is mentioned in the Bible and Quran. In fact, most of us know about how an entire land was destroyed by floods for making mockery of the Allah’s commandments. I had a faint idea of the Land of Sodom, though not the detailed account of it. And I wanted to know about it and other accounts of destruction mentioned in Quran.

I searched up and found the Story of Lut and his people, the Story of Ad and Ubair, the Story of the people of Pompeii. Most of the accounts taken from the respective references have been kept verbatim and important verses have been chosen to keep it short and concise. For in-depth study, the links mentioned alongside can be referred to.

I am taking up the well-known story of Prophet Noah at the end, and we will study that too in detail for our knowledge and for those who know nothing about it.

DESTRUCTIONS MENTIONED IN SURAH ANAM AND VARIOUS VERSES OF QURAN

People of Lut and the city which was turned upside down

Prophet Lut was sent as a messenger to one of Prophet Ibrahim's neighbouring communities. These people, as the Qur’an tells us, practiced a perversion unknown to the world up to then, namely sodomy. When Lut told them to give up this perversion and brought them Allah's warning, they denied him, refused his prophethood, and carried on with their perversion. In the end, these people were destroyed by a dreadful disaster.

The city where Lut resided is referred to as Sodom in the Old Testament. This is where the word ‘sodomy’ comes from. Being situated at the north of the Red Sea, this community is understood to have been destroyed just as it is written in the Qur’an. Archaeological studies reveal that the city is located in the area of the Dead Sea (referred in ancient history also as ‘Lake of Lut’) which stretches along the Israel-Jordan border.

We also (sent) Lut: He said to his people: “Do ye commit lewdness such as no people in creation (ever) committed before you?

For ye practise your lusts on men in preference to women : ye are indeed a people transgressing beyond bounds.”

And his people gave no answer but this: they said, “Drive them out of your city: these are indeed men who want to be clean and pure!”

But we saved him and his family, except his wife: she was of those who legged behind.

And we rained down on them a shower (of brimstone): Then see what was the end of those who indulged in sin and crime!

(Surat al-Araf: Verses 80-84)

(This incident also has mention in the Old Testament of Bible)

The destructions and warning and incidents of the destructions brought upon on the people of Sodom, is clearly mentioned in various verses of Surah Al Qamar , Surah Ash Shuara , Surah Al Araf , Surah Al Ankaboot, Surah Al Hijr, Surah Adh Dhariyat, Surah Hud,

Scientific evidence of Destruction of the Destruction of the people of Sodom and Gomarrah (where Prophet Lut lived) :

National Geographic makes the following comment on December 1957;

The mount of Sodom, a barren wasteland, rises sharply above the dead sea. No one has ever found the destroyed cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, but scholars believe that they stood in the Vale of Siddim across from these cliffs. Possibly flood waters of the Dead Sea engulfed them following an earthquake. (6)

People of Pompeii

Yes, “no change will be found in Allah’s way (rules)”. Everybody, who stands against His laws and rebels against Him, is subject to the same divine law. Pompeii, the symbol of the degeneration of the Roman Empire, was also involved in sexual perversity. Its end was similar to that of the people of Lut.

The destruction of Pompeii came by means of the eruption of the volcano Vesuvius.

The removal of Pompeii from the face of the earth by such a disaster was not purposeless. The historical record shows that the city was exactly a center of dissipation and perversity

It was no more than a single mighty Blast, and behold! they were (like ashes) quenched and silent. (Surah Yaseen)

Reference:

http://www.islamicity.com/science/QuranAndScience/destruction/GeneratedFilesnoframe/ThePeopleofLutandTheCitywhichwasTurnedUpsideDown.htm

People of ‘Ad and Ubair and the Atlantis of Sand

Another people who were destroyed and who are mentioned in various Surah of the Qur’an is ‘Ad, who are mentioned after the people of Nuh (Prophet Noah). Being sent to ‘Ad, Prophet Hud summoned his people, just like all the other prophets had done, to believe in Allah without ascribing partners to Him and to obey Him, the prophet of that time. The people reacted to Hud with animosity. They accused him of imprudence, untruthfulness, and attempting to change the system their ancestors had established.

In Surah Hud, all that passed between Hud and his people is told in detail;

To the Ad People (We sent) Hud, one of their own brethren. He said: “O my people! worship Allah! ye have no other god but Him. (Your other gods) ye do nothing but invent!

O my people! I ask of you no reward for this (Message). My reward is from none but Him who created me: Will ye not then understand?

And O my people! Ask forgiveness of your Lord, and turn to Him (in repentance): He will send you the skies pouring abundant rain, and add strength to your strength: so turn ye not back in sin!”

They said: “O Hud! No Clear (Sign) that hast thou brought us, and we are not the ones to desert our gods on thy word! Nor shall we believe in thee!

We say nothing but that (perhaps) some of our gods may have seized thee with imbecility.”

He said: “I call Allah to witness, and do ye bear witness, that I am free from the sin of ascribing, to Him, Other gods as partners! so scheme (your worst) against me, all of you, and give me no respite. I put my trust in Allah, My Lord and your Lord! There is not a moving creature, but He hath grasp of its fore-lock. Verily, it is my Lord that is on a straight Path.

If ye turn away,- I (at least) have conveyed the Message with which I was sent to you. My Lord will make another people to succeed you, and you will not harm Him in the least. For my Lord hath care and watch over all things.”

So when Our decree issued, We saved Hud and those who believed with him, by (special) Grace from Ourselves: We saved them from a severe penalty.

Such were the Ad People: they rejected the Signs of their Lord and Cherisher; disobeyed His messengers; And followed the command of every powerful, obstinate transgressor.

And they were pursued by a Curse in this life - and on the Day of Judgment. Ah! Behold! for the 'Ad rejected their Lord and Cherisher! Ah! Behold! removed (from sight) were 'Ad the people of Hud!

(Surah Hud: Verses 50-60)

The people who showed animosity to Hud and rebelled against Allah, were indeed destroyed. A horrible sandstorm annihilated ‘Ad as if they had “never existed”.

And the 'Ad, they were destroyed by a furious Wind, exceedingly violent. He made it rage against them seven nights and eight days in succession: so that thou couldst see the (whole) people lying prostrate in its (path), as they had been roots of hollow palm-trees tumbled down! (Surat al-Haaqqa: 6-7)

The details of disaster are also mentioned in some verses of Surah Al Qamar, Surah Al Ahqaf.

Scientific Proof :

At the beginning of 1990, there appeared press-releases in the well-known newspapers of the world declaring “Fabled Lost Arabian city found”, “Arabian city of Legend found”, “The Atlantis of the Sands, Ubar”. What rendered this archaeological find more intriguing was the fact that this city was also referred to in the Qur’an. Many people who, since then, thought that ‘Ad recounted in the Qur’an were a legend or that their location could never be found, could not conceal their astonishment at this discovery

Reference:

http://www.islamicity.com/science/QuranAndScience/destruction/GeneratedFilesnoframe/ThePeopleof145AdandUbartheAtlantisoftheSands.htm

Noah and his Ark

For many generations Noah's people had been worshipping statues that they called gods. They believed that these gods would bring them good, protect them from evil and provide all their needs. They gave their idols names such as Wadd, Suwa', Yaghuth, Ya'auq, and Nasr. They thought that these gods were possessed.

{They (idolaters) have said: "You shall not leave your gods nor shall you leave Wadd, nor Suwa, nor Yaghuth, nor Ya uq nor Nasr (names of the idols)."} [Surah Nuh : Verse 23]

Originally these were the names of good people who had lived among them. After their deaths, statues of them were erected to keep their memories alive. After sometime, however, people began to worship these statues. Later generations did not even know why they had been erected; they only knew their parents had prayed to them. That is how idol worshipping developed. Since they had no understanding of Allah the Almighty Who would punish them for their evil deeds, they became cruel and immoral

When Noah approached the people of his land to accept and follow in the Oneness of Allah, he was rejected and mocked at.

{Indeed We sent Noah to his people (he said): "I have come to you as a plain Warner that you worship none but Allah, surely, I fear for you the torment of a painful Day." the chiefs of the disbelievers among his people said: "We see you but a man like ourselves, nor do we see any follow you but the meanest among us and they too followed you without thinking. And we do not see in you any merit above us in fact we think you are liars.}[Surah Hud:25-27]

Noah appealed to them: {O my people! I ask of you no wealth for it, my reward is from none but Allah. I am not going to drive away those who have believed. Surely, they are going to meet their Lord, but I see that you are a people that are ignorant. O my people! Who will help me against Allah, if I drove them away? Will you not then give a thought? And I do not say to you that with me are the Treasures of Allah nor that I know the unseen, nor do I say I am an angel, and I do not say of those whom your eyes look down upon that Allah will not bestow any good on them. Allah knows what is in their inner selves (regards to Belief). In that case, I should, indeed be one of the Zalimeen (wrongdoers, oppressors).}

[Surah Hud: Verses 29-31]

Noah continued to call his people to believe in Allah for nine hundred fifty years. Allah the Almighty said: {Indeed We sent Noah to his people and he stayed among them a thousand years less fifty years (inviting them to believe in the Oneness of Allah (Monotheism) and discard the false gods and other deities)} [Surah Al Ankabut: Verse 14]

Noah saw that the number of believers was not increasing, while that of the disbelievers was. He was sad for his people, but he never reached the point of despair.

There came a day when Allah revealed to Noah that no others would believe. Allah inspired him not to grieve for them at which point Noah prayed that the disbelievers be destroyed. He said:

"My Lord! Leave not one of the disbelievers on the earth. If you leave them, they will mislead Your slaves and they will beget none but wicked disbeliveers." [Surah Nuh:Verse 27]

Allah the Exalted ordered His worshipper Noah to build an ark with His knowledge and instructions and with the help of angels. Almighty Allah commanded:

We revealed to him: "Build the Ship under Our supervision and as We reveal. When Our command comes and water bubbles up from the earth, load into it a pair of every species, and your family-except for those among them against whom the word has already gone ahead. And do not address Me concerning those who do wrong. They shall be drowned." [Surah Hud:Verse 37]

{As he was constructing the ship, whenever the chiefs of his people passed by him, they made a mockery of him. He said : "If you mock at us, so do we mock at you likewise for your mocking. And you will know who it is on whom will come a torment that will cover him with disgrace and on whom will fall a lasting torment.} [Surah Hud :38-39 ]

{So it was till then there came Our Command and the oven gushed forth (water like fountains from the earth). We said: "Embark therein, of each kind two (male and female), and your family, except him against whom the Word has already gone forth, and those who believe." And none believed him except a few.} [Surah Hud : 40]

O Earth! Swallow up your water, and O sky! Withhold (your rain). The water was diminished (made to subside) and the Decree (of Allah) was fulfilled (the destruction of the people of Noah). And it (the ship) rested on Mount Judi, and it was said: "Away with the people who are Zalimeen (polytheists, and wrongdoing)!}

{O Noah! Come down (from the ship) with peace from Us and blessings on you and on the people o\who are with you(and on some of their offspring), but (there will be other) people to whom We shall grant their pleasures (for a time), but in the end a painful torment will reach them from Us.}

[Surah Hud:verses 41-48 ]

This is how another community of people who had gone astray from the part of Allah were destroyed.

Scientific evidence :

In recent times, the discovery of a large amount of evidence concerning Nuh's Flood has come to the attention of the world's most prominent archaeologists and historians. The Flood, believed to have occurred around 3000 B.C., destroyed an entire civilisation and allowed an entirely new one to be founded in its place. That evidence of the Flood was preserved for thousands of years provides a deterrent to those people who have come after this punishment of the wicked.

Many excavations have been carried out to study the flood, which was localised on and around the Mesopotamian Plains. Digs in the region have encountered traces of a flood in four main cities on the Mesopotamian Plain: Ur, Erech, Kish and Shuruppak. Excavations in these cities have shown that these cities were hit by flooding around 3000 B.C.

Reference :

http://en.islamstory.com/prophet-nuh.html

http://www.miraclesofthequran.com/historical_06.html

All those regions who wronged, mocked the prophets and refused in the oneness of GOD and committed acts of immorality in large numbers, were destroyed by God through various disasters, which wiped them off the land. So let us all save ourselves from the wrath of Allah and follow the Right Path, the path of Siratul –Mustaqeem. Ameen.

MUSIC IN ISLAM

Music is prohibited in Islam. The only permissible instrument is the 'Daf' (flat and round- similar to a drum, but with only one side).  'Daf' is akin to the 'Dafli' in India. The version used here has the twin metallic circular dics at the sides, adding a tingling sound to the heavy sound of the instrument. The version used in Gulf is flatter and bigger and mostly without the metallic dics. Though music is prohibited, beautiful recitation of Quran is part of Islamic culture. It is called the 'Qiraat'. When you hear a 'Qiraat' of some Hafiz (one who knows the entire Quran by heart)- the octaves, balancing of low and high pitch and controlling of breath, the best of best singers appear nothing. It is that amazing ! And when a Qiraat or Nasheed (religious song) is accompanied by a beautiful voice, then the entire effect is breath-taking ! And no music (not even a Daf) is required as the words flow with such musical perfection.... Subhanallah!

If on one hand, 'Qiraat' (beautiful and rhythmic recitation of Quran) is highlighted, then why is Music banned by itself? Now there is a philosophy to it...

The main purpose of prohibiting music is the effect it has. You go into another make-believe world, oblivious to the surroundings around you. You might forget your duties and are likely to even forget to remember God. Similar to the effect an intoxicating thing has on a person! Haven't we seen people with plugs into their ears all the time? Such people play their music so loud and get so lost, they cannot hear or see anything sometimes. Some meet with accidents, especially in a crowded city like Mumbai where you hang and travel, cross railway lines to save time etc. We even see some extra smart dudes driving with blaring music and going 'high' on it, singing along alongwith bullying others or knocking someone down, just like the effect 'drinking and driving' has!

Another answer lies in the point -Music is more attached to earthly ups and down! The purpose in Islam is not to get too attached to worldly life as this is just a transitory place. We should strive towards betterment of our afterlife. And Islam doesn't believe in rebirth. You are born, you die and will be brought back to life on the Day of Judgement, when you will atone for your actions. And based on that, your afterlife will be decided. Actually our afterlives start immediately after we die wherein we start paying for our actions from our graves itself.

Yes, a simple song of life and good values and religion can do no harm and is acceptable. But without excessive music. What I want to highlight is that with a good sound and 'sur' and tone and right octaves, music is not even essential. I've heard such kind of 'nasheeds'. But then Music should be basic and not too loud to take you into too much materialism. There are several schools of thought within Islam on this subject. You will find a lot of Islamic music on one hand, while some others totally prohibit.

In my opinion (and what a Muslim scholar would agree with) -A well educated person or an intelligent person knows the difference between moderation and excess. But for the common man, who does not know, for him/her if an excess or loud or large doses of something can destroy, then better to prohibit the smaller dose. Because he/she would not know the defining line between moderation and excess. That is a deeper philosophy.Hence the key to everything is ' seeking knowledge' and learning, which is highlighted in many places in Quran, irrespective of Gender. Hence, in the first Chapter of Quran itself ((Surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow) )) , lot of stress is laid on education and it prohibits people from wishfully thinking or propagating religion in their own way! -''And there are among them unlettered people, who know not the Book, but they trust upon false desires and they but guess.'' (Al-Baqarah 2:78)

So may Allah guide us to the Right Path and help us differentiate between good, bad, moderation and excess!

IMPORTANCE AND ETIQUETTES OF A MARRIAGE (NIKAH)

Marriage is an Important act in Islam. It is ‘Sunnah’ for all, including Islamic priests. Every act of marriage, from sending a proposal to accepting it to the requirements during a Nikah ceremony to Rights of husband and wife over each other and their children and property are clearly defined in Islam. But through this article I just wish to highlight the Importance of Marriage, Rules of Sending and Accepting Proposals and actual Nikah.

The Importance of Marriage is highlighted through the below Surahs of Quran :

"It is He who created you from a single person, and made his mate of like nature, in order that he might dwell with her (in love)"  (Surah 7, Al Araf, The Heights: 189)

"It is He who created man from water: then has He established relationships of lineage through marriage:
for Thy Lord has power (over all things)." (Surah 25, Al Furqan, The Criterion: 54)

"And among His signs is this, that He created for you mates from among yourselves that ye may dwell in tranquility with them, and He has put love and mercy between your (hearts): verily in that are signs for those who reflect." (Surah 30, Al Rum, The Romans: 21)

  

SELECTING A SPOUSE :

What are the points one should consider in selecting a spouse ?

The first thing we should look for when marrying is how committed the person is to Islam. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wassallam) said, "A woman is normally sought as a wife for her wealth, beauty, nobility, or religiousness (adherence to Islam), so choose a religious woman and you will prosper." (Muslim) "A woman is married for four things, i.e., her wealth, her family status, her beauty and her religion. So you should marry the religious woman (otherwise) you will be a loser."(Bukhari) "The whole world is a provision, and the best object of benefit of the world is the pious woman. (Muslim)

The same holds true when looking for a husband, as our beloved Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wassallam) said, "When someone with whose religion and character you are satisfied, asks to marry your daughter, comply with his request. If you do not do so, there will be corruption and great evil on earth." (Tirmidhi)

Of course, both parties have to agree to marry one another and they cannot be forced to marry one another. Our Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wassallam) said, "A woman whom has been previously married has more right concerning herself than her guardian, and a virgin’s consent must be asked about herself" (Bukhari and Muslim)

 THE WEDDING CEREMONY (NIKAH)

Components of a Nikah are :

1. “ Consent”:

Narrated Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, "A matron should not be given in marriage except after consulting her; and a virgin should not be given in marriage except after her permission." The people asked, "O Allah's Messenger! How can we know her permission?" He said, "Her silence indicates her permission." (Bukhari and Muslim)

This is further clarified as below :

Narrated Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) I said, "O Allah's Messenger! A virgin feels shy." He said, "Her consent is expressed by her silence." (Bukhari).

Here the word virgin refers to a previously unmarried girl. Her permission must be sought before selecting a groom for her. A matron refers to a previously married (but divorced /a widow). Such a lady should be consulted before marrying her as she is capable of deciding what’s best for her. There is a provision for widows and divorcees to be re-married, but it should be completely her choice as there are legal concerns (rights on her children and inheritance of a deceased husband).

2. “ The Walee (Woman’s  Guardian)”:

The Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wassallam) said, "There is no nikah except with a wallee."(Ahmad, Abu Dawood, Tirmidhi)

A walee / guardian / legal representative is required for a girl. The reason for this is to ensure that all rights due to a woman in marriage (especially ‘Mahr’ and others) are duly given to her. It also enables her to take a sound decision by cross reference through her guardian, who wills good for her.

But a walee is not required  nor compulsory  for a male, who is considered sensible enough to take his own decisions. He may take guidance, but not a a guardian.

3.“ Two Witnesses”:

The Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wassallam) said, "There is no marriage except with a wallee and trustworthy witnesses." (Sahih - Bayhaqee) Also, "There is no marriage except with a wallee and two witnesses." (Sahih Al-Jaamiâ)

Just like any law, even today, a witness is very crucial so that tomorrow nobody denies having married.

4. “ The Mahr (Dowry)": 

Allah says (what means): "And give to the women their dowry with a good heart, but if they out of their own good pleasure remit any part of it to you, take it and enjoy it without fear of any harm." (Al-Nisa 4:4) 

The mahr can be of any amount, The Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wassallam) said, "Look for one even if it was an iron ring." (Bukhari and Muslim)

The woman is not obliged to give the man anything at the time of the wedding, as is done in some cultures. So those who take ‘Dowry’ are disobeying Islam. This is what a ‘biddah’ is all about. But we keep harping on non-issues!

OTHER RULES REGARDING MARRIAGE :

Etiquettes of sending and accepting a marriage proposal :

1) Trying for a proposal for a girl where already some groom has been finalized (engaged) or marriage proposal is under consideration :

The Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wassallam) decreed that one should not try to cancel a bargain already agreed upon between some other persons (by offering a bigger price). And a man should not ask for the hand of a girl who is already engaged to his Muslim brother, unless the first suitor gives her up, or allows him to ask for her hand. (Volume 7, Book 62, Number 73: Narrated Ibn 'Umar)  

This will ensure unnecessary enmity and confusion are not created between people.

2)   Seeing the would-be bride :

The man has permission to see her face before agreeing to marry as the Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wassallam) said, "Go and look at her (the woman you are considering marrying) because this will help your time together to be strengthened." (Ahmad)

The Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wassallam) said, "Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him not have a private audience with a woman without her mahram." (Ahmad)

He should marry as soon as he is of suitable age :

Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alyhi Wassalam) has said, "O youthful people, if any of you have the means to, he should get married, as it lowers the eyesight and protects the private parts. Those who have not the ability to do so should fast, as it will be a shield for him." (Bukhari and Muslim). 

All those who are sufficiently earning or have a decent means of income from some lawful business should get married. The above hadith is directed at men, as they are the ones who intiate a proposal based on their ability. Hence it is important for a man to be married soon so that he does not go astray. This fact is highlighted by adding that if you are not able to marry for some reasons, it is better to fast. This is said as a fasting person’s desires are weakened.

The same directions are given to a girl’s parents to having her married at the soonest, as soon as a suitable groom approaches with a proposal. The means of deciding on a decent groom is as below:

The prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wassallam) has also said, "When someone with whose religion and character you are satisfied, asks to marry your daughter, comply with his request. If you do not do so, there will be corruption and great evil on earth." (Tirmidhi)

Here again it is emphasized that if a religious and person with good character approaches with a marriage proposal, then the parents should consent, else there will be lots of wrong things happening as a consequence. What this means is not too difficult to comprehend.

It is often observed that if a boy likes a girl and approaches her parents, parents let a lot of factors like ego come in between and often end up rejecting the proposal, even if there is consent from the girl’s side also. The reasons could be many, a few being as below:

1) The boy and girl like each other, which has hurt the parent’s ego and just to keep their ego, they will not accept a boy from a different region, society etc even though he might be a kind and religious man.

2) The boy is from another caste. Islam does not differentiate between people on the basis of caste. It is prohibited in Islam and is a 'Biddah' (innovation).

3) The boy is from another order. There is only one right way in Islam, but now everyone seems to follow Islam in different variations, all thinking they are right. Better way to follow Islam is not to listen to views of various so-called maulvis, but reading and following Quran and Hadiths. This has sadly become a means of rejection of proposals, which is sad.

There could be other silly reasons, but as Allah states that this might lead to evil in the land. How’s that possible?

a) The boy and girl might decide to wait, and in the interim     
anything can happen

b) They might decide to run away.

c) The boy may lose hope and become depressed and fall ill

d) Or some person might lose sanity and take some weird step.

These are a few examples to quote.

If we follow all that Islam tells us instead of listening to people's / so-called learned people's views (which also vary as per the situation they are in), then we will be happy humans on the Right Path.

It is advisable to teach our children the real teachings of Islam, instead of camouflaging details to suit our egos. A few Islamic leaders have not revealed everything to all due to which there is a lot of ignorance today. In earlier days of illiteracy and non-awareness, people relied on such so-called religious leaders, only a few of who were genuine. But sadly today also, they have engrossed us in confusion over who's right and wrong, instead of just passing down the teachings without adding their opinions. And we, as learned individuals, have to refer the actual guides - Quran and Hadith. And if our understanding of certain issues is not too good, then we should refer to a genuine scholar of Islam.

Reference : 

http://nikah.com/marriage/concerning_marriage.asp

Revive and renovate - Municipal schools and hospitals!

Education is getting costlier in Mumbai. In suburbs, 95% schools are pvt n not even govt aided ones (like in main parts of Mumbai) at reasonable rates. International style schools which are being started by big corporates charge anywhere from 25K to 1 lacs per year. At such times, municipal aided schools should help the not-so-well off people. I remember the night school near Mumbai Central where many workers used to study at night. But slowly the municipal schools, which were a hope for the poor and lower middle class, are slowly dying in Mumbai. In other states, Municipal schools and getting a job in it, are considered good and respectable. But Mumbai is becoming more and more commercial and rich-oriented. Without education, no state country has a future and free education to poor and needy is a must.

Similarly, Municipal run hospitals in Mumbai city have gone from bad to worse. Many hospitals are in dilapidated condition. A normal person, living in decent surroundings, going there for treatment, will become more ill instead of better. And some people, get more infections, instead of good health in many municipal hospitals. Nair Hospital used to be a good hospital when I was a kid. Wonder what's the condition there now. Medical students, are affliated to Municipal / Govt Hospitals and the best of doctors are supposed to be linked to such hospitals due to a Govt job and other facilities. But there is no lure in Mumbai for respectable govt / municipal jobs like teachers, doctors etc. Their standard is getting lower by the day. The aids for such schools and hospitals are vanishing! We are slowly forgetting the lower income class from our lives altogether!

Apart from schools and hospitals, another important thing which affects the rich and poor alike in Mumbai and neighbouring areas is - Water. Inspite of a good and wonderful rainfall in Mumbai, often even resulting in overflowing lakes and floods, sadly Mumbai has no major water -harvesting plants / projects !!! If water harvesting was put into place by the Municipality / State Govt, Mumbai will not only have sufficient water to meets its internal need, but will be able to supply water to neighbouring areas in Maharashtra also.

Education, Health and Water- these are the main things which Mumbaikars seek from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), not anything else! Apart from that, we need garbage disposals, good roads, hawker-control, pavements to walk (not for shopping, except in special hawker-zones!). But Municipal Corporation has written off poor people almost totally and other areas are not properly managed. Municipality has nothing to with regional / religion / community issues. We need good amenities - that's it! 'Baaki sab bakwas'!

SAFE TIPS FOR INVESTMENT

Being a banker, I am several times asked about how and where to invest. And many people ask me about good Mutual Funds also. Though this has not been my main domain in banking, recently on being asked I've done quite a bit of research on it, and come to the conclusion that the Mutual Funds which give you lesser returns generally attract less risk. But to get really good returns, one should keep the money for at least 3 years in it. As of now, due to rising rates of Gold, the Gilt Funds should be a good option for people.

But my own experience says that no matter how lucrative any Mutual Fund or Company share/ stock appear, remember that they are both market driven... If you can track 'em and remember to withdraw them at the right time, then only opt for them. But if you are saving for your future (by saving pennies from your hard earned money), better to put your money in Insurance Policies (they are of several types - from 'Life' to 'Moneyback' to 'Children's Plan' to 'Fixed income' after certain age/ time period, just like a Pension) or Fixed Deposits. Market driven funds are more suitable for people looking for making some quick bucks in addition to what they already have or safely saved.

But best option, where you will lose no money is - Fixed Deposits. Here you can invest fixed amount for a time period or monthly small amounts till whenever you want (these are called Recurring Deposits), where monthly an amount fixed by you, say, Rs 2000/-, Rs 5000/- or more is debited from your account and keeps getting added to the deposit. Or invest into fixed lump sum amounts as and when you have them. You can later utilise it fully or partly, whenever you want. For people who don't want the interest portion (especially Muslims), you can monthly make a donation to charity from your savings accounts which will nullify your interest amount plus additionally cover your Zakat amount. There are several Charity organisations which will be happy to receive your donation. According to me, best charity is for Children's education. Especially, of street children and orphans. Intially, I also was hesitant to invest in Fixed Deposits as there is interest involved in them. When I learnt this way out, I realised I hadn't saved much. Loose money kept in savings accounts, usually gets spent !

For working people of private companies, where you won't be getting a pension after retirement, please opt for Voluntary PF to your existing PF. That's the best way to save. For example, your automatic PF contribution from salary is Rs 1150/- (plus an equal amount from employer), you can ask your HR to additional deduct Rs 3000/- or Rs 5000/- or any other amount from your salary. You will get a lesser salary in hand, but will be happy several years later or when you quit.

Another safe way to invest is in Real Estate. But liquid cash is always better investment than assets, which require to be sold. And in emergencies, you end up getting a worse deal. Also house bought for staying in, cannot be considered as an Investment. You will not sell a good house bought in a good locality with dreams, and in which you are living in, just because market value increases. In such a case, you will only move to a not-so-good locality. And such a step will be required only in dire circumstances. Hope no one goes through such phase in life. But if you invest in an extra house for selling later or earning through rent, then yes, its an asset for you.

But spread your investments in various types. Even Gold is a good option. But remember, if you are buying gold for personal use, do not consider it as investment. You wouldn't want to snatch and sell off a beautiful gold ornament of any woman in your house just because you will fetch good money for it in the market, unless it is done for need. What is purchased for investment, should be treated as such and kept aside for it. And Muslims, please do not forget that hoarding gold attracts Zakat also. So do not forget to give in charity what's due of it.

Happy Safe Investing!

Big Boss Season 5

Till last week I was supporting Amar Upadhyay but disappointed by him this week... but at the end of it all, I feel Siddharth (Sid) has stood the test n emerged little mature n gained gud experience in life. He's shown spine in the right places. So I think we can overlook his past mistakes. Mehek is my second choice. Amar was gud but failed to cash in on it by being undecided n nervous at times and especially so since past week. Not gr8 quality in a man. Akashdeep Saigal (Sky) is a 'typical tapori' but of the lowest degree. A kind of person who can anger the most silent n calm of ppl. Juhi was gud n had nice chances but befriended the wrong ppl n has been quiet wen they're wrong.. so I boil it down to 3 - Sid, Mehek and Amar (considering his silent demeanour n decency). Tomorrow I gotta vote first time in the show to make the final choice. My sis is for Sid n collecting votes for him (esp 'like' the gaddi task n stealing the throne n giving it back to Sky on Tuesday episode).... I further boil it down to Sid n Mehek! Wat dya feel ?

But overall this year, Bigg Boss has been a big disppointed wherein Big boss has allowed flouting of house rules with little interference. People have fought non-stop and stooped to 'rasta kinda language'. Till last year what was considered bad is now good. Violence and bad words were taken seriously by the show organisers, not any longer. Discussing nominations was an offence and contestants were given punishment for it. This year most fights were the results of openly discussing nominations. Last year, Veena Malik was made to apologize for doing a jig on the dining table, but this year I saw a glimpse of Pooja Mishra doing the same, without anyone batting an eyelid! Kamal Khan was evicted over small fights and not taking part in tasks, but Sky has openly refused the tasks and fought endlessly through each episode! Not only that, this year contestants have disrespected Big Boss hosts and even big boss's orders and some even questioned the punishments instead of taking them sportingly as part of the game. After all these people are getting paid by the number of episodes they manage to remain, though they fool the viewers to believe as if money and prize was nothing for them and they value friendships and blah blah....

Another reason for this year's Big Boss being unwatchable was that almost all contestants are from the Ad or TV industry and mostly know each other and their backgrounds, so they have not much to get to know each other. They keep fighting with each other referring to things they know about each other. Previous episodes had people from all walks of life and this creates curiosity among the contestants themselves, often discussing and talking about themselves and sharing their life's experiences. Earlier there were people of all backgrounds and ages and we had all types. This year mostly all are same types. And since there wasn't much 'masala' in the episodes, bitchy fights were all that caught a few attention, so the organisers just kept quiet, I guess! I've watched very few episodes this year. But my conclusion is that 'Sky is the most disgusting person I've seen'. Even the Dolly Bindra and Raja Chaudhary types fight to their worst and then other times okay to deal with. But with Sky, you can rightfully say that 'the sky is the limit'. ;-)

A New Year ?

Yet another year arrives! And every year we have more and more things to debate on to prove we are one-up than others! Just like new inventions, we have newer debates.... religious, political n general. When a 'New Year' (this too has is now debatable) comes, we look back on the year that was.... the best and the worst that the year brought. And we look forward to what the coming year has to give. We make resolutions (keep some and break some !) and plans and wish all will be the best in the coming year.

So many things are linked with the new English year (there is a reason for calling it English) this time. Since some past few years, many 'doomsday predictors' have been saying that the world with end in 2012 (a movie was made to cash in on it!). And some predict that there will be wars to bring the world to an end in 2012. I'd seen headlines on a Marathi newspaper a few months back, stating that the mini rebellions in middle east and elsewhere are equal to earlier wars as the definition of wars have changed over the period of time. Maybe it's right in way. But linking it to the world coming to an end in 2012, is not agreeable by me. For me, I still believe, like the Quran states, that the knowledge of Last Day lies with the Almighty alone.

This year we had some religious leaders questioning us on what are we wishing each other for? This ain't our New Year. Yes, I agree. Islamic New Year is the first of Muharram month (though sadly only a handful wished good things for me on that day!), 'Gudi Padwa' is the Marathi New Year, Diwali marks the new year of the Gujaratis and some other Hindus, 'Onam' is Keralite new year, 'Pongal' is Tamilian new year, while for Parsis its 'Pateti'.... the list goes on... So what is the Calender we are following? The English (or Christian) one. We accept and follow the English calender for uniformity in the world. A lot of things, including our age is calculated on the basis of the English calender else lunar months being smaller, we would be a few years more older !!! So if we do that, we should accept that a new calender year has changed instead of getting all flared up and branding people who wish others. The best and diplomatic way to wish is 'Happy New English Year' to your non-Christian friends. This has been a growing trend this year. I got a few sms to that effect this time from Hindu friends as well. This is definately a better move than boycotting wishing each other altogether!

I do not accept any other religion beliefs or become a non-Muslim if I wish anyone on Christmas or Diwali or New Year. I am just respecting their sentiments and being part of their happiness as I am part of a society. And I know that we cannot live as islands by ourselves. We are part of a whole world and our actions should make others look upto us and make others say - ''Who is this examplary person and which community is he/ she part of? I respect him/ her and his religion for that." A maulana said something against Santa Claus recently, though many Christians as well as those who are well-read very well know that Santa Claus has no religious significance in Christianity. It was added later for children and has many legends or history behind how his existence become part of Christmas. The people who point fingers at others in the name of religion, often trying to prove they are right themselves, are violating many religious laws themselves (and some of them do not know the actual history of things). They make posters, put their own pictures on it, the local buses have their huge pictures when their rallies are to happen (Islam is against picturesque representations!). We follow what suits us and discard what doesn't. Aren't we making a mockery of religion just to prove we are right and others are wrong?

Let us live and let live, set us spread love and happiness and cheer and joy. And yes, not to forget spreading knowledge, which is a gift of God. Because sharing knowledge is an act of charity (sadqa). And then watch how may emulate and adore you for it. But at the same time, let not little knowledge make us arrogant and proud as Pride and Arrogance are hated by the Almighty. And little knowledge, we all know, is a dangerous thing!

May 2012 bring a changed and tolerant person in us all. And may Allah bless us with knowledge and guide us all on the way to Righteousness (Siraatul Mustaqeem). Ameen!

Saved by God !

This happened almost two weeks back. I usually iron my clothes in my room. That particular day I took the iron to another room in the house to iron my clothes. I put the iron plug in the electric socket and there was a fire spark, which turned to fire in few seconds. I screamt, but stood watching it to keep tab on the fire. I was fumbling for words watching it expand and move upwards with force. I didn't know how to stop it, and at the same time scared and wondering what to do. Nor could I remove the pin-plug from the socket. Then as if by magic, the fire went till a certain level and started to diminish as if sensing my inner wishes. All this happened within a minute. My Dad had rushed and stood facing me and then tapped on my shoulder to pull me out of my shocked state and pacify me! My mom was worried and wondering aloud what happend to me, she appeared behind my dad. They thought that I got an electric shock and were happy to see me safe. They could not see the electric board behind them where the little by little dimishing fire was still on!

I was almost stammering while pointing to the switchboard and telling my Dad to look there. There were shocked to see the almost blackened switchboard and the fire which was almost out now! The fire extinguished by itself and dad then switched off the button and pulled out the three pin plug and guess what...... !!! One metal pin had almost melted with the intensity of the electric fire. So what caused the fire to die down so meekly with the opposite intensity with which it had raged? Almost 10-12 inches above the switched board at a slight angle is a big frame of 'Dua-e-Qunoot'

Transliteration of Dua-e-Qunoot:

"Allah humma inna nasta-eenoka wa nastaghfiruka wa nu'minu bika wa natawakkalu alaika wa nusni alaikal khair, wa nashkuruka wala nakfuruka wa nakhla-oo wa natruku mai yafjuruka, Allah humma iyyaka na'budu wa laka nusalli wa nasjudu wa ilaika nas aaa wa nahfizu wa narju rahma taka wa nakhshaa azaabaka inna azaabaka bil kuffari mulhikun"

Translation of Dua-e-Qunoot:

"O' Allah! We implore You for help and beg forgiveness of You and believe in You and rely on You and extol You and we are thankful to You and are not ungrateful to You and we alienate and forsake those who disobey You. O' Allah! You alone do we worship and for You do we pray and prostrate and we betake to please You and present ourselves for the service in Your cause and we hope for Your mercy and fear Your chastisement. Undoubtedly, Your torment is going to overtake infidels".

The fire had almost flamed and reached till the frame (known as 'toghra' in urdu) and then before it could touch it, it died down all of a sudden. Thanks to Allah for saving my life and of any harm coming to my parents, who were with me at that time.

The error was traced to the iron itself next day by the electrician as all parts seemed to be intact in the switchboard (another wonder!) though it was blackened from outside and fire came from within and the pin in the socket had also melted.

God is Great and greater are the duas / verses He has blessed us with!

BODYGUARD - An emotional review

Watching BODYGUARD is a learning or touching experience if you see it that way (forget the weak screenplay)... Watch it if you are an emotional person. What I learnt from the movie:

1) Many people play with people's emotions through internet, by hiding their own details/ identity, including fotos n face and talking of romance. Finally they may / may not reveal their identity in the end for genuine or fake reasons. But if one of them is sincere n genuine, he /she often keeps waiting n ends up hurt.

2) Salman's character shows so much sincerity and loyalty towards his duty and any and everything he does in life - even love. It touches your heart. Its rare to find such people in life. So if you find them, don't let them go... tomorrow you might repent.

His role in the movie reminded me of his character in Bandhan, where he is totally dedicated to his sister and accompanies her to her husband's house as part of her dowry since childhood.

3) No matter how rich and influential a person or how beautiful his daughter, if the girl does not find a groom at the right age and remains unmarried, her father's situation over the period of time changes from asking someone if he can marry his daughter TO asking any person if he can accept ('apnana') his daughter. N then too his tongue falters. It makes you cry. N this is so true in Asian society where at every step a girl is questioned for her remaining unmarried for no fault of hers.

4) The little boy's guilt on behalf of his mother is also quite touching. He wants to rectify his mother's fault and yet does not want others to know about it. It melts your heart.

5) And as Salman Khan proves- we love people because of what they are and their qualities and their love for us, and not because of their appearance or age or any other factor.

All of these things have left a deep mark on me and left me thinking and wondering and emotional too. In all, I found the movie sweet and helped me sort certain things/ doubts / people in life.

Footnote:
Kareena's clothes are excellent. It brings the long kurta back in fashion teamed with various combos - jeans, patiala salwar, harem pants and a simple salwar..

(The foto here is from a very touching scene from the movie where Salman does not even know who he is talking to!)