Goodbye Mr Ratan Tata

 Today, while we mourn the loss of a remarkable man we also celebrate a life that left an indelible mark on millions, transcending boundaries of industry, nation, and humanity.

Mr. Ratan Tata, a name synonymous with integrity, vision, and compassion, has left us—but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Ratan Tata was not merely an industrialist; he was a visionary leader who reshaped India's corporate landscape. Under his stewardship, the Tata Group grew from a national conglomerate into a global powerhouse, with operations spanning over six continents & 100 countries. But numbers and accolades tell only a fraction of the story.

What truly set him apart was his unwavering commitment to doing business with a heart- he truly was a man in a million. He believed that a company’s true value lay not just in spread sheets & profits, but in its impact on people’s lives. He built schools, hospitals, and institutions that have touched countless souls, and his philanthropic initiatives are woven into the fabric of Indian society.

A man of few words but profound actions, Mr. Tata led by example. His humility, despite his towering achievements, endeared him to people from all walks of life. Whether it was the creation of the world’s most affordable car, the Tata Nano, or his generous support to disaster relief efforts, Ratan Tata’s mission was always clear: to serve humanity while remaining low key.

In an age where many prioritize personal gain, he reminded us that wealth and power come with duty & responsibility. Even in the face of adversity, he remained calm, focused, and compassionate—a true statesman of industry and society.

One of the most well-known and touching anecdotes about Ratan Tata is his personal involvement with the families affected by the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. After the tragic events in November 2008, when terrorists attacked multiple locations in Mumbai, including the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, which is owned by the Tata Group, Ratan Tata went far beyond what most corporate leaders would have done.

Instead of merely focusing on the financial losses or repairing the hotel, Mr. Tata personally visited the families of all the victims, including not only the guests and high-ranking employees but also the vendors, security personnel, and even small-time workers like flower sellers who had been affected by the tragedy. He ensured that all these individuals were taken care of, both financially and emotionally.

But beyond the boardrooms and business headlines, Ratan Tata was a deeply loving & compassionate soul. His quiet acts of charity, his care for his employees, and his dedication to causes that uplift the underserved, showed the depth of his empathy. He gave voice to those who had none and always extended a helping hand to those in need. He was a leader who understood that real power lies in making life better for others.

Today, the world bids goodbye to a legend. But even as people, and especially his family and loved ones, grieve, we must remember that Ratan Tata's life was a gift to the world. His principles, his kindness, and his vision for a better world will continue to light our path.

“His life was gentle; and the elements

So mixed in him, that Nature might stand up

And say to all the world, THIS WAS A MAN!”

― William Shakespeare, Julius Caesar

Rest in peace, Mr. Tata. You may have left this world, but you will always live on in our hearts and in the legacy, you leave behind.

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Chris Gaynor

My first job

 Not many of you would know that before I went into teaching    , I worked for about 2 years at Geep Flashlight Industry  ALLAHABAD CIVIL LINES  NOSTALGIC MEMORIES

I was in the Administration department working directly in the office of the Additional General Manager NH Naqui.

I had been extremely fortunate to be recommended by Miss Daphne Clarkson who was the PA of the Chairman M R Shervani.

I must say that I owe a lot of what I know about all forms of Leadership and Management to that job. 

I was in my early twenties- very skinny and I probably looked 16.

However Mr Naqui was an extremely strict man and I was told no one lasted in his office as he was demanding , he worked late hours, came in on weekends and holidays and was merciless in his dealings.

Now I survived two years so that says something !

There was a young lady working alongside me Philomena McGowan ( Medley) and the two of us managed Mr Naqui and his office .

My work was varied in nature- from looking after his correspondence with various departments and senior managers in the company to arranging for his meetings with  officials in various departments in Allahabad. 

That would be Income Tax of which he was a retired commissioner , the Nagar Mahapalika, the Telephone department, the Commissioner's office, various police departments , a few banks and innumerable other offices.

Then there was the lower courts where i would go to hand over and collect important  confidential documents and that was quite a challenging assignment for umpteen reasons.

There were  also a lot of his personal files and correspondence with companies in  which he had shares etc.

The work was exacting , tiring but challenging and exciting. 

He shouted and screamed at times and I learned to take it in from one ear and let it out from the other. I got thick skinned to his  sniggers and sarcastic remarks . He was impatient and yelled at all and sundry . Rumour had it that he was feared wide and far.

However I found him to be good hearted and not as bad as people made him out to be.

I learnt the art of good correspondence . I learnt the importance of sticking to dates and times and or overall organization of meetings and trips - he was often travelling . 

I learnt how to file and produce documents when asked for and so much more.

There were no computers back then so I became rather adept at typing. 

My telephone skills were great too.

Within the short span of two years I was promoted from a Jr Admin Asst to an Assistant. That usually took 4 to 5 years ! 

My salary was a princely Rupees 475. I went to work by cycle.

I also had to visit the various offices as mentioned. I had the opportunity to present people with Torches and cells ! Also calendars and diaries. 

I got the job done and he liked it.

Above all I had a private office which I shared with his secretary , a phone on my desk and a peon too! What more could I ask for. 

I look back to those wonder years with pride.

The skills I learnt have stood me in good stead over the years. 

God bless you Mr Naqui. RIP.

Indiscipline in schools

 Early morning reflections

Arrogance in Schools: The Consequences of Indiscipline and Entitlement

In many modern schools today , there is a frighteningly  unsettling trend toward fostering arrogance, entitlement, and indiscipline among students. This problem is being exacerbated by a growing emphasis on a casual approach , uncalled for leniency and overprotectiveness, often in the name of promoting freedom or self-expression. While it’s crucial for schools to provide love, kindness, and support to nurture students, it is equally important to keep them grounded in reality and teach them the true value of humility, respect, accountability and responsibility.

Entitled and undisciplined students tend to grow into adults with similar traits, contributing to a culture where selfishness and arrogance flourish. This cycle must be interrupted in schools, as the classroom is a powerful environment for shaping character. It is a delicate balance: children should feel valued, encouraged, loved and safe, but they should not feel that their actions carry no consequences or that school rules are mere suggestions to be flouted at will . It is imperative that parents play their part as well 

Some schools today adopt overly permissive approaches under the guise of modern educational philosophies. 

While it’s true that Victorian-era discipline, with its harsh punishments and rigid authority, is outdated, this doesn’t mean discipline itself should be abandoned. 

On the contrary, a structured and respectful form of discipline—let’s call it instructional discipline—is vital. It sets clear expectations and boundaries, guiding students toward responsible  and accountable behavior while still allowing room for creativity and individuality.

Discipline, when applied consistently and fairly, helps students understand the importance of accountability and consequences. It ensures that freedom is paired with responsibility. 

Without this fine balance, students often  develop an inflated sense of entitlement, believing they are owed things without effort, or that they are exempt from the rules that govern others.

In short, schools must strike a balance between nurturing and disciplining students. 

By doing so, they foster not only kind, well-rounded individuals but also responsible, humble citizens. If we allow discipline to slip in favor of trendy philosophies, we risk producing adults who are not only entitled but also disconnected from the responsibilities of a respectful and harmonious society.

As psychologist Dr. Jordan Peterson wisely said, “If you think tough men are dangerous, wait until you see what weak men are capable of.” Strong discipline creates strong character, and that is something the world desperately needs.

Planning to buy a trap

 It happened last summer, and although it made us a trifle apprehensive, we passed it off as a stray incident. There were two dark guys near our garage. 

When I saw them that day,it was dusk. Not wanting to seem scared, I said nothing .

It happend again last evening . They were there- apparently friends- hanging around near our garage once again. 

They were strolling around as if they owned the place. 

I am not someone to take such things lying down, and detest being indirectly intimidated, so I casually walked in and told my wife what had transpired. 

Her look was enough to tell me to 'man up', and besides she was cooking so I saw no help coming from that direction. 

Not wanting to engage in dangerous hand to hand combat, in case it came to that , I picked up the hockey stick   behind the door and strode out manfully. 

That hockey stick has only seen one game, but that's another story.

By the time I walked out they had vanished.

I was a trifle relieved, because I am not exactly very brave or a warrior of any sort .

 I also wear spectacles, am not young , it was dusk and I am a bit  overweight - I trust you get what I am saying - my wish had come true- they had gone- vamoosed ! 

However , this morning, as I opened the door and went out to feed the two stray cats that have adopted us, something told me I was being watched. I was immediately on high alert .

One guy was hiding behind the large trash can and peering at me. His accomplice was  obviously in the vicinity because I know that these guys work in pairs. 

I rushed back in , picked up the hockey stick, rushed out in attack mode - shouting. 

My manly presence - the hockey stick held menacingly in my  right hand and the warrior like yell, was enough to see them scoot like cowards.

I chased them down a narrow path  for about 10 meters , as I was determined they knew who was boss. Also to ensure that they never returned for fear of more serious repercussions. I smiled to myself in satisfaction.  This was a sweet victory .

I was breathing heavily . In the dim light I searched for my spectacles that had fallen down in the meele. 

Thankfully I hadn't stamped them . My slipper strap had broken as well but I needed a new pair in any case . 

With a sense of relief and triumph , and my heart still thumping ,I went upstairs to inform my wife that she needed to fear no longer - they would never return. 

These field rats are really a pain. Hope I don't see them again.

In any case am planning to buy a trap!

More like my cat

 This is a short post. 

Definitely not a story.

No it's not part of my upcoming book. 

It's not funny or even slightly humourous. 

It's not a sad reflection of life.

It's nothing super interesting or highly intelligent 

It's not about my favourite topics like ALLAHABAD CIVIL LINES  NOSTALGIC MEMORIES The Bishop's School, Pune etc.

It's not about my walks around the lake,  being chased by ducks. 

Not about me getting older and wiser. Definitely not about my weight gain and diets.

Certainly not about my hair cuts, my family or my nature walks.

Have I bored you enough ? 

Well if you're still reading this, then you are one of my super sweet relatives,  friends, colleagues or old boys who believe that ' maybe' he has some surprise to give us on this Sunday afternoon.

Well I do.

I think I am becoming more like my cat!

Well leaving you to judge.

My hair has begun to turn the colour of her fur and I have had to cancel that ! 

I take naps during the day on weekends- one or two.

Have become a trifle lazy.

Quite bossy as well.

Don't fancy being cuddled to often.

Not keen on posing for photographs

Look unkempt at times.

Often go into the garden and stare aimlessly into the bushes and trees.

More into dry food - gravy occasionally 

I like treats 

Am becoming a bit of a loner - though not yet a recluse

Love to curl up on the sofa

A dark cool bedroom in the afternoon is what I crave.

Love putting my head into the fridge !

My nails have started growing faster

Need hair  cuts more often.

I can stare you down .

Love small meals .

Irritable at times - especially when hungry .

Your thoughts are welcome. !

Wars in the world

 The newspapers and journalists are seemingly fatigued with constant reporting on wars in the world. This war fatigue is affecting readers as well, as everything seems to be playing out in predictable slow motion.

Audiences around the world are tuning out of war coverage due to burnout, as they feel powerless to change anything. 

There are endless important issues like climate change  ,economic instability, education and social justice issues, which are unfortunately not getting sufficiently highlighted. 

Instead we are being bombarded umpteen times a day by 24/7 news channels, social media platforms and outlets about the two main wars playing out.

 Sadly, invasions, escalations and death have become the most newsworthy items.

The whole world is denouncing  the Israel - Palestine conflict. So also the Russia - Ukraine conflict.

At the United Nations , various UN bodies, The human rights Council and tThe general assembly have openly reproached Israel for the death and destruction. 

Amnesty International have condemned violence on both sides.

The Human rights watch, The European Union and The Arab League continue to attempt to mediate while chastising &  calling on both sides to show restraint to prevent further death and destruction .

The same bodies have denounced Russia while disapproving of further escalation of the war with Ukraine. 

Both Russia and Ukraine have been rebuked by Nato, the G7 and others. 

With what result?

It is apparent that Russia, Ukraine,  Palestine and Israel are all intent on having their way with even bothering to heed advice from all quarters 

They have shown scant respect for the United Nations and the diplomatic efforts of the UN Secretary General and umpteen special envoys.

Humanitarian workers have also been targeted.  

Sanctions and resolutions have been taken with a pinch of salt and the Security Council looks like a toothless tiger that can do little but growl .

The International criminal court has launched investigations but apparently no one cares .

Various peacekeeping operations have failed and geopolitical tensions have surfaced time and again.

Third part mediation seems the way forward and in fact ,the only way to drive some sense into this looming catastrophe.

Possibly if the Arab League, European Union and African Union work together,  they may be able to ensure that better sense prevails thus preventing an open conflict that pulls everyone into a third world war .

When will better sense prevail?

FROM TURMOIL TO TRANQUILITY

 "From Turmoil to Tranquility: A World Transformed"

We live in a world of restless strain,

Where dog eats dog- where  shadows feign,

Backstabbers weave their silent plots,

Land mafias  take, whether it’s their or not.

 

The roads are raging, tempers flare,

With brazen queue breakers, who never care.

Noise and anger fills the air,

And hyperarousal breeds despair.

Eyes dart, scanning every place,

Hypervigilance sets the pace.

We’re always waiting, always poised,

For threats we’ve learned, we can’t avoid.

Paranoia whispers near,

Breeding doubt, instilling fear.

Who’s a friend? Who’s a foe?

In this fractured world, we never know.

Dramatic swings of mood and mind,

Take us high, leave us blind.

Joy one moment, grief the next,

We’re pulled apart, we feel perplexed.

Argument is the common tongue,

Where battles fought are never won.

Delusions cloud the truth we seek,

The strong are fierce, the gentle weak.

Judgment fails, the lines are blurred,

And coping feels so much deferred.

We falter in this frenzied state,

Impaired, we bow beneath the weight.

Yet somewhere in the noise and din,

A whisper calls us from within.

Amidst the clamor and the fight,

A flicker grows into a light

For even in this world so wild,

The heart still bears the soul of a child.

What if we stood, refused to fall,

Extended grace, embraced it all?

A smile - in place of harsh retorts,

Forgiveness -  rather than retorts.

A world where kindness shapes our stride,

Where peace and patience override.

Where Road rage turns to gentle pace,

And backstabbers find their saving grace.

The land grabbers learn to give, not take,

And hearts once hard begin to break—

Open, soft, and filled with care,

For those around them, unaware.

We choose this path, this road of light,

And in the darkness, burn so bright.

For in this world, we still have choice—

To lift each other, raise our voice.

The storms may rage, but we stand tall,

With open hearts, we conquer all.

In unity, we’ll rise above,

To build a world of peace and love.

mg