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NAVY “WISDOM”
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures WHY GIRLS MARRY VS WHY BOYS MARRY Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresERRORS OF THE PAST
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresHUMOR IN UNIFORM
Zhukov told the soldier to put one foot on the stool and watch attentively. Then – Zhukov began polishing the soldier’s boot – showing the soldier exactly how to polish boots. After a few minutes – the boot was shining. Zhukov then gave the brush to the soldier and told the soldier to polish the other boot to the same level ofshine.
LEADERSHIP – FOUR TYPES OF OFFICERS – VON MANSTEIN MATRIX HOW TO CATEGORIZE HUMAN RESOURCES VON MANSTEIN MATRIX Management Musings by Vikram Karve _____ OFFICER LIKE QUALITIES (OLQ) FOUR TYPES OF OFFICERS _____ Here is an article I wrote long back (during my IAT Pune Teaching Days) – around 30 years ago – in the 1990’s. I am sure it is applicable even today. Why MY FAVOURITE RUSKIN BOND STORY RUSKIN BOND Today – 19 May – is the birthday of one of my favourite writers – Ruskin Bond On this occasion – here is a blog post on my favourite Ruskin Bond story – The Night Train At Deoli _____ PROLOGUE My “love life” is a story of “unrequited love”.I fell in love with many girls. But sadly – INSTITUTIONS OF THE BRITISH RAJ The Lawrence Military Asylum founded by the famed imperial consul Henry Lawrence, was the earliest and most influential institution established to redeem orphans and other poor white children by transferring them to the hills. It was a military-style boarding school in the Indian highlands for the sons and daughters of Britishsoldiers.
PCMC MUST ENABLE EX-SERVICEMEN PROPERTY TAX REBATE FOR For PCMC PLEASE ENABLE PROPERTY TAX EXSERVICEMEN REBATE FOR ONLINE PAYMENT Ex-Servicemen (Maji Sainik) are given 50% rebate in Property Tax by PCMC. For availing this rebate, Ex-Servicemen have to put up an application, complete various formalities, and get a sanction letter issued. However, even after issue of 50% rebate sanction letter - theproperty
WHY DO SOME PEOPLE HIDE THEIR REAL IDENTITY ON THE SOCIAL Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures NAVY SHIP ANNOUNCEMENTS Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresNAVY “WISDOM”
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures WHY GIRLS MARRY VS WHY BOYS MARRY Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresERRORS OF THE PAST
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresHUMOR IN UNIFORM
Zhukov told the soldier to put one foot on the stool and watch attentively. Then – Zhukov began polishing the soldier’s boot – showing the soldier exactly how to polish boots. After a few minutes – the boot was shining. Zhukov then gave the brush to the soldier and told the soldier to polish the other boot to the same level ofshine.
LEADERSHIP – FOUR TYPES OF OFFICERS – VON MANSTEIN MATRIX HOW TO CATEGORIZE HUMAN RESOURCES VON MANSTEIN MATRIX Management Musings by Vikram Karve _____ OFFICER LIKE QUALITIES (OLQ) FOUR TYPES OF OFFICERS _____ Here is an article I wrote long back (during my IAT Pune Teaching Days) – around 30 years ago – in the 1990’s. I am sure it is applicable even today. Why MY FAVOURITE RUSKIN BOND STORY RUSKIN BOND Today – 19 May – is the birthday of one of my favourite writers – Ruskin Bond On this occasion – here is a blog post on my favourite Ruskin Bond story – The Night Train At Deoli _____ PROLOGUE My “love life” is a story of “unrequited love”.I fell in love with many girls. But sadly – INSTITUTIONS OF THE BRITISH RAJ The Lawrence Military Asylum founded by the famed imperial consul Henry Lawrence, was the earliest and most influential institution established to redeem orphans and other poor white children by transferring them to the hills. It was a military-style boarding school in the Indian highlands for the sons and daughters of Britishsoldiers.
PCMC MUST ENABLE EX-SERVICEMEN PROPERTY TAX REBATE FOR For PCMC PLEASE ENABLE PROPERTY TAX EXSERVICEMEN REBATE FOR ONLINE PAYMENT Ex-Servicemen (Maji Sainik) are given 50% rebate in Property Tax by PCMC. For availing this rebate, Ex-Servicemen have to put up an application, complete various formalities, and get a sanction letter issued. However, even after issue of 50% rebate sanction letter - theproperty
WHY DO SOME PEOPLE HIDE THEIR REAL IDENTITY ON THE SOCIAL Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures STORY OF A “BUTTERFLY” Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures PART 1 : “GUNNYSACKING” GUNNYSACKING – GASLIGHTING – AND – IMPOSTER SYNDROME Musings of a Veteran by Vikram Karve _____ PART 1 Dear Reader – in the beginning – let me tell you a story: _____ Once upon a time – there was a docile man – who used to work in an office. He was a very meek and obsequious person The docile man’s boss IF YOU HAVE TO LIVE YOUR LIFE AGAIN Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures WHY DIDN’T SHE COME…? Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures WHY GIRLS MARRY VS WHY BOYS MARRY Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures DO YOU HAVE A “PSYCHIC INCOME”…? Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresERRORS OF THE PAST
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures DO YOU WANT TO JOIN THE DEFENCE SERVICES : PART 3 Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresVIKRAM KARVE
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresHUMOR IN UNIFORM
HUMOR IN UNIFORM SMART OFFICER versus GOOD OFFICER Story by Vikram Karve _____ I have observed that there are two types of Officers in the Navy (and Defence Services): 1. SMART OFFICERS 2. GOOD OFFICERS _____ Here is a story to illustrate the difference between the two kinds of officers: SMART OFFICER versus GOOD OFFICER Story byVIKRAM KARVE
Writing by Vikram Karve from Pune India. MARRIAGE MEMORIES. Dear Reader – today – 30 May 2021 is our 39 th Wedding Anniversary.. We – my “Better Half” and Me – we got married on the 30 th of May 1982 – and today – we have completed 39 years of married life.. Ours was an arranged marriage – a rather lacklustre, boring and unromantic marriage – except for a few passionate NAVY SHIP ANNOUNCEMENTS Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures MILITARY “WISDOM” Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresERRORS OF THE PAST
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures WHY GIRLS MARRY VS WHY BOYS MARRY Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresHUMOR IN UNIFORM
Zhukov told the soldier to put one foot on the stool and watch attentively. Then – Zhukov began polishing the soldier’s boot – showing the soldier exactly how to polish boots. After a few minutes – the boot was shining. Zhukov then gave the brush to the soldier and told the soldier to polish the other boot to the same level ofshine.
MY FAVOURITE RUSKIN BOND STORY RUSKIN BOND Today – 19 May – is the birthday of one of my favourite writers – Ruskin Bond On this occasion – here is a blog post on my favourite Ruskin Bond story – The Night Train At Deoli _____ PROLOGUE My “love life” is a story of “unrequited love”.I fell in love with many girls. But sadly – INSTITUTIONS OF THE BRITISH RAJ The Lawrence Military Asylum founded by the famed imperial consul Henry Lawrence, was the earliest and most influential institution established to redeem orphans and other poor white children by transferring them to the hills. It was a military-style boarding school in the Indian highlands for the sons and daughters of Britishsoldiers.
PCMC MUST ENABLE EX-SERVICEMEN PROPERTY TAX REBATE FOR For PCMC PLEASE ENABLE PROPERTY TAX EXSERVICEMEN REBATE FOR ONLINE PAYMENT Ex-Servicemen (Maji Sainik) are given 50% rebate in Property Tax by PCMC. For availing this rebate, Ex-Servicemen have to put up an application, complete various formalities, and get a sanction letter issued. However, even after issue of 50% rebate sanction letter - theproperty
WHY DO SOME PEOPLE HIDE THEIR REAL IDENTITY ON THE SOCIAL Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresVIKRAM KARVE
Writing by Vikram Karve from Pune India. MARRIAGE MEMORIES. Dear Reader – today – 30 May 2021 is our 39 th Wedding Anniversary.. We – my “Better Half” and Me – we got married on the 30 th of May 1982 – and today – we have completed 39 years of married life.. Ours was an arranged marriage – a rather lacklustre, boring and unromantic marriage – except for a few passionate NAVY SHIP ANNOUNCEMENTS Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresERRORS OF THE PAST
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresHUMOR IN UNIFORM
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures WHY GIRLS MARRY VS WHY BOYS MARRY Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures LEADERSHIP – FOUR TYPES OF OFFICERS – VON MANSTEIN MATRIX HOW TO CATEGORIZE HUMAN RESOURCES VON MANSTEIN MATRIX Management Musings by Vikram Karve _____ OFFICER LIKE QUALITIES (OLQ) FOUR TYPES OF OFFICERS _____ Here is an article I wrote long back (during my IAT Pune Teaching Days) – around 30 years ago – in the 1990’s. I am sure it is applicable even today. Why MY FAVOURITE RUSKIN BOND STORY RUSKIN BOND Today – 19 May – is the birthday of one of my favourite writers – Ruskin Bond On this occasion – here is a blog post on my favourite Ruskin Bond story – The Night Train At Deoli _____ PROLOGUE My “love life” is a story of “unrequited love”.I fell in love with many girls. But sadly – INSTITUTIONS OF THE BRITISH RAJ The Lawrence Military Asylum founded by the famed imperial consul Henry Lawrence, was the earliest and most influential institution established to redeem orphans and other poor white children by transferring them to the hills. It was a military-style boarding school in the Indian highlands for the sons and daughters of Britishsoldiers.
PCMC MUST ENABLE EX-SERVICEMEN PROPERTY TAX REBATE FOR For PCMC PLEASE ENABLE PROPERTY TAX EXSERVICEMEN REBATE FOR ONLINE PAYMENT Ex-Servicemen (Maji Sainik) are given 50% rebate in Property Tax by PCMC. For availing this rebate, Ex-Servicemen have to put up an application, complete various formalities, and get a sanction letter issued. However, even after issue of 50% rebate sanction letter - theproperty
WHY DO SOME PEOPLE HIDE THEIR REAL IDENTITY ON THE SOCIAL may i say-social media ia again a necessary evil, to build up on hobbies like writing, sports, blogging , poetry, music,discussing social issues, and a host of other intersts not related 2 one`s daily day jobs.at the same it has become imperative to hind the dtails of professions bcos of securitu, safety and health concerns for bankers, police personnel, defence forces and related civilians SHOPPING | VIKRAM KARVE Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresDO YOUR WORK
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures WHY GIRLS MARRY VS WHY BOYS MARRY Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresNAVY “WISDOM”
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresTHE “PUNTER”
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresMONSOON ROMANCE
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures RESTITUTION OF CONJUGAL RIGHTS Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures HUMOR IN UNIFORM : NAVY FOOD MEMORIES HUMOR IN UNIFORM NAVY FOOD MEMORIES _____ Two Stories by Vikram Karve 1. “WORST” FOOD IN THE FLEET 2. “ACR” DINNER Hilarious Memories of my Delightful Navy Life by Vikram Karve _____ Part 1 – THE WORST FOOD IN THE FLEET One thing I found good about the Navy was that – the Food served in Wardrooms was excellent – both JUNE | 2021 | VIKRAM KARVE | PAGE 2 5 posts published by Vikram Karve during June 2021. DECCAN QUEEN. Today June 1 – is the birthday of the iconic railway train the DECCAN QUEEN. Introduced on June 1, 1930 – the Mumbai Pune Deccan Queen was India’s first superfast train, first long-distance electric-hauled train, first vestibule train, the first train to have a ‘women-only’ car, and the first train to feature a dining car.CRAZY LOGIC
“Post Hoc, Ergo Propter Hoc” Fallacy Musings by Vikram Karve _____ Here is a story illustrating the “Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc” Fallacy. _____ HOW TO KEEP THE TIGERS AWAY _____ A Wise Old Man returned home after a long vacation. His house had become very dirty.So –
VIKRAM KARVE
Writing by Vikram Karve from Pune India. MARRIAGE MEMORIES. Dear Reader – today – 30 May 2021 is our 39 th Wedding Anniversary.. We – my “Better Half” and Me – we got married on the 30 th of May 1982 – and today – we have completed 39 years of married life.. Ours was an arranged marriage – a rather lacklustre, boring and unromantic marriage – except for a few passionate NAVY SHIP ANNOUNCEMENTS Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures MILITARY “WISDOM” Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresERRORS OF THE PAST
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures WHY GIRLS MARRY VS WHY BOYS MARRY Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresVIKRAM KARVE
Writing by Vikram Karve from Pune India. MARRIAGE MEMORIES. Dear Reader – today – 30 May 2021 is our 39 th Wedding Anniversary.. We – my “Better Half” and Me – we got married on the 30 th of May 1982 – and today – we have completed 39 years of married life.. Ours was an arranged marriage – a rather lacklustre, boring and unromantic marriage – except for a few passionate NAVY SHIP ANNOUNCEMENTS Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures MILITARY “WISDOM” Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresERRORS OF THE PAST
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures WHY GIRLS MARRY VS WHY BOYS MARRY Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures SHOPPING | VIKRAM KARVE Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresERRORS OF THE PAST
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures WHY GIRLS MARRY VS WHY BOYS MARRY Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresDO YOUR WORK
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures STORY : SKIP THE BOOZE Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresTHE “PUNTER”
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresMONSOON ROMANCE
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures RESTITUTION OF CONJUGAL RIGHTS Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures JUNE | 2021 | VIKRAM KARVE | PAGE 2 5 posts published by Vikram Karve during June 2021. DECCAN QUEEN. Today June 1 – is the birthday of the iconic railway train the DECCAN QUEEN. Introduced on June 1, 1930 – the Mumbai Pune Deccan Queen was India’s first superfast train, first long-distance electric-hauled train, first vestibule train, the first train to have a ‘women-only’ car, and the first train to feature a dining car. HUMOR IN UNIFORM : NAVY FOOD MEMORIES HUMOR IN UNIFORM NAVY FOOD MEMORIES _____ Two Stories by Vikram Karve 1. “WORST” FOOD IN THE FLEET 2. “ACR” DINNER Hilarious Memories of my Delightful Navy Life by Vikram Karve _____ Part 1 – THE WORST FOOD IN THE FLEET One thing I found good about the Navy was that – the Food served in Wardrooms was excellent – bothVIKRAM KARVE
Writing by Vikram Karve from Pune India. MARRIAGE MEMORIES. Dear Reader – today – 30 May 2021 is our 39 th Wedding Anniversary.. We – my “Better Half” and Me – we got married on the 30 th of May 1982 – and today – we have completed 39 years of married life.. Ours was an arranged marriage – a rather lacklustre, boring and unromantic marriage – except for a few passionate NAVY SHIP ANNOUNCEMENTS Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresHUMOR IN UNIFORM
Zhukov told the soldier to put one foot on the stool and watch attentively. Then – Zhukov began polishing the soldier’s boot – showing the soldier exactly how to polish boots. After a few minutes – the boot was shining. Zhukov then gave the brush to the soldier and told the soldier to polish the other boot to the same level ofshine.
INSTITUTIONS OF THE BRITISH RAJ The Lawrence Military Asylum founded by the famed imperial consul Henry Lawrence, was the earliest and most influential institution established to redeem orphans and other poor white children by transferring them to the hills. It was a military-style boarding school in the Indian highlands for the sons and daughters of Britishsoldiers.
MOVIE THAT INSPIRED YOUTH TO JOIN THE MILITARY Sharing an interesting article from a Veterans Group, duly abridged and edited for reading on digital screens. Link to source post is given at the end of the article. _____ A picture that moved It was the spring of 1961. Fifteen-year-old Arvind Bhat was invitedVIKRAM KARVE
Writing by Vikram Karve from Pune India. MARRIAGE MEMORIES. Dear Reader – today – 30 May 2021 is our 39 th Wedding Anniversary.. We – my “Better Half” and Me – we got married on the 30 th of May 1982 – and today – we have completed 39 years of married life.. Ours was an arranged marriage – a rather lacklustre, boring and unromantic marriage – except for a few passionate NAVY SHIP ANNOUNCEMENTS Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresHUMOR IN UNIFORM
Zhukov told the soldier to put one foot on the stool and watch attentively. Then – Zhukov began polishing the soldier’s boot – showing the soldier exactly how to polish boots. After a few minutes – the boot was shining. Zhukov then gave the brush to the soldier and told the soldier to polish the other boot to the same level ofshine.
INSTITUTIONS OF THE BRITISH RAJ The Lawrence Military Asylum founded by the famed imperial consul Henry Lawrence, was the earliest and most influential institution established to redeem orphans and other poor white children by transferring them to the hills. It was a military-style boarding school in the Indian highlands for the sons and daughters of Britishsoldiers.
MOVIE THAT INSPIRED YOUTH TO JOIN THE MILITARY Sharing an interesting article from a Veterans Group, duly abridged and edited for reading on digital screens. Link to source post is given at the end of the article. _____ A picture that moved It was the spring of 1961. Fifteen-year-old Arvind Bhat was invited SUPERSEDED OFFICERS SURVIVAL GUIDE PROLOGUE Earlier – Military Officers were quite sensitive about Rank and Seniority – especially Senior Officers. On being superseded and “passed over” for promotion – most Officers did not like to serve under their erstwhile Juniors. So – most Superseded Officers would honorably quit uniform – the moment they were “passed over” for promotion and PCMC MUST ENABLE EX-SERVICEMEN PROPERTY TAX REBATE FOR For PCMC PLEASE ENABLE PROPERTY TAX EXSERVICEMEN REBATE FOR ONLINE PAYMENT Ex-Servicemen (Maji Sainik) are given 50% rebate in Property Tax by PCMC. For availing this rebate, Ex-Servicemen have to put up an application, complete various formalities, and get a sanction letter issued. However, even after issue of 50% rebate sanction letter - theproperty
TUMHARE MUH MEIN “GHEE SHAKKAR” Tumhare Muh Mein “Ghee Shakkar”. From time to time I am invited to deliver a “Guest Lecture” at a premier inter-service Training Institution IAT Pune where I spent a large part of my career on the faculty. (In fact, I am going to IAT next week to deliver some lectures). This reminds me of a few hilarious anecdotes which happenedwhen I
MILITARY PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL MADE SIMPLE Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresHUMOR IN UNIFORM
Military Style “Justice” is the theme of Chapter 8 of Catch-22 – which describes Cadet Clevinger’s Trial – a profound satire on institutional justice in general – and military justice in particular. Clevinger, an Aviation Cadet at Cadet School, is under the command of Lieutenant Scheisskopf, an ambitious officer. NAVY CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresDO YOUR WORK
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures “ORDERED” TO “VOLUNTEER” AND HAVE A “GOOD TIME” Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures STORY : SKIP THE BOOZE Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresHOME BUYING TIPS
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresPOTATO ICE CREAM
POTATO ICE CREAM A Recipe from POTATO DISHES compiled by the Pusa Institute Ladies’ Association Recipe and Book Review by Vikram Karve _____ POTATO ICE CREAM – RECIPE Boil one litre of milk on a gentle fire till it thickens and becomes half of the original quantity. Boila
WHY GIRLS MARRY VS WHY BOYS MARRY Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresHUMOR IN UNIFORM
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures DO YOU WANT TO MURDER YOUR HUSBAND…? Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresCRAZY LOGIC
“Post Hoc, Ergo Propter Hoc” Fallacy Musings by Vikram Karve _____ Here is a story illustrating the “Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc” Fallacy. _____ HOW TO KEEP THE TIGERS AWAY _____ A Wise Old Man returned home after a long vacation. His house had become very dirty.So –
VIKRAM KARVE
Writing by Vikram Karve from Pune India. MARRIAGE MEMORIES. Dear Reader – today – 30 May 2021 is our 39 th Wedding Anniversary.. We – my “Better Half” and Me – we got married on the 30 th of May 1982 – and today – we have completed 39 years of married life.. Ours was an arranged marriage – a rather lacklustre, boring and unromantic marriage – except for a few passionate NAVY SHIP ANNOUNCEMENTS Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresHUMOR IN UNIFORM
Zhukov told the soldier to put one foot on the stool and watch attentively. Then – Zhukov began polishing the soldier’s boot – showing the soldier exactly how to polish boots. After a few minutes – the boot was shining. Zhukov then gave the brush to the soldier and told the soldier to polish the other boot to the same level ofshine.
INSTITUTIONS OF THE BRITISH RAJ The Lawrence Military Asylum founded by the famed imperial consul Henry Lawrence, was the earliest and most influential institution established to redeem orphans and other poor white children by transferring them to the hills. It was a military-style boarding school in the Indian highlands for the sons and daughters of Britishsoldiers.
MOVIE THAT INSPIRED YOUTH TO JOIN THE MILITARY Sharing an interesting article from a Veterans Group, duly abridged and edited for reading on digital screens. Link to source post is given at the end of the article. _____ A picture that moved It was the spring of 1961. Fifteen-year-old Arvind Bhat was invited SUPERSEDED OFFICERS SURVIVAL GUIDE PROLOGUE Earlier – Military Officers were quite sensitive about Rank and Seniority – especially Senior Officers. On being superseded and “passed over” for promotion – most Officers did not like to serve under their erstwhile Juniors. So – most Superseded Officers would honorably quit uniform – the moment they were “passed over” for promotion and PCMC MUST ENABLE EX-SERVICEMEN PROPERTY TAX REBATE FOR For PCMC PLEASE ENABLE PROPERTY TAX EXSERVICEMEN REBATE FOR ONLINE PAYMENT Ex-Servicemen (Maji Sainik) are given 50% rebate in Property Tax by PCMC. For availing this rebate, Ex-Servicemen have to put up an application, complete various formalities, and get a sanction letter issued. However, even after issue of 50% rebate sanction letter - theproperty
TUMHARE MUH MEIN “GHEE SHAKKAR” Tumhare Muh Mein “Ghee Shakkar”. From time to time I am invited to deliver a “Guest Lecture” at a premier inter-service Training Institution IAT Pune where I spent a large part of my career on the faculty. (In fact, I am going to IAT next week to deliver some lectures). This reminds me of a few hilarious anecdotes which happenedwhen I
MILITARY PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL MADE SIMPLE Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresHUMOR IN UNIFORM
Military Style “Justice” is the theme of Chapter 8 of Catch-22 – which describes Cadet Clevinger’s Trial – a profound satire on institutional justice in general – and military justice in particular. Clevinger, an Aviation Cadet at Cadet School, is under the command of Lieutenant Scheisskopf, an ambitious officer.VIKRAM KARVE
Writing by Vikram Karve from Pune India. MARRIAGE MEMORIES. Dear Reader – today – 30 May 2021 is our 39 th Wedding Anniversary.. We – my “Better Half” and Me – we got married on the 30 th of May 1982 – and today – we have completed 39 years of married life.. Ours was an arranged marriage – a rather lacklustre, boring and unromantic marriage – except for a few passionate NAVY SHIP ANNOUNCEMENTS Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresHUMOR IN UNIFORM
Zhukov told the soldier to put one foot on the stool and watch attentively. Then – Zhukov began polishing the soldier’s boot – showing the soldier exactly how to polish boots. After a few minutes – the boot was shining. Zhukov then gave the brush to the soldier and told the soldier to polish the other boot to the same level ofshine.
INSTITUTIONS OF THE BRITISH RAJ The Lawrence Military Asylum founded by the famed imperial consul Henry Lawrence, was the earliest and most influential institution established to redeem orphans and other poor white children by transferring them to the hills. It was a military-style boarding school in the Indian highlands for the sons and daughters of Britishsoldiers.
MOVIE THAT INSPIRED YOUTH TO JOIN THE MILITARY Sharing an interesting article from a Veterans Group, duly abridged and edited for reading on digital screens. Link to source post is given at the end of the article. _____ A picture that moved It was the spring of 1961. Fifteen-year-old Arvind Bhat was invited SUPERSEDED OFFICERS SURVIVAL GUIDE PROLOGUE Earlier – Military Officers were quite sensitive about Rank and Seniority – especially Senior Officers. On being superseded and “passed over” for promotion – most Officers did not like to serve under their erstwhile Juniors. So – most Superseded Officers would honorably quit uniform – the moment they were “passed over” for promotion and PCMC MUST ENABLE EX-SERVICEMEN PROPERTY TAX REBATE FOR For PCMC PLEASE ENABLE PROPERTY TAX EXSERVICEMEN REBATE FOR ONLINE PAYMENT Ex-Servicemen (Maji Sainik) are given 50% rebate in Property Tax by PCMC. For availing this rebate, Ex-Servicemen have to put up an application, complete various formalities, and get a sanction letter issued. However, even after issue of 50% rebate sanction letter - theproperty
TUMHARE MUH MEIN “GHEE SHAKKAR” Tumhare Muh Mein “Ghee Shakkar”. From time to time I am invited to deliver a “Guest Lecture” at a premier inter-service Training Institution IAT Pune where I spent a large part of my career on the faculty. (In fact, I am going to IAT next week to deliver some lectures). This reminds me of a few hilarious anecdotes which happenedwhen I
MILITARY PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL MADE SIMPLE Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresHUMOR IN UNIFORM
Military Style “Justice” is the theme of Chapter 8 of Catch-22 – which describes Cadet Clevinger’s Trial – a profound satire on institutional justice in general – and military justice in particular. Clevinger, an Aviation Cadet at Cadet School, is under the command of Lieutenant Scheisskopf, an ambitious officer. NAVY CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresDO YOUR WORK
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures “ORDERED” TO “VOLUNTEER” AND HAVE A “GOOD TIME” Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures STORY : SKIP THE BOOZE Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresHOME BUYING TIPS
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresPOTATO ICE CREAM
POTATO ICE CREAM A Recipe from POTATO DISHES compiled by the Pusa Institute Ladies’ Association Recipe and Book Review by Vikram Karve _____ POTATO ICE CREAM – RECIPE Boil one litre of milk on a gentle fire till it thickens and becomes half of the original quantity. Boila
WHY GIRLS MARRY VS WHY BOYS MARRY Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresHUMOR IN UNIFORM
Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures DO YOU WANT TO MURDER YOUR HUSBAND…? Vikram Karve. A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie AdventuresCRAZY LOGIC
“Post Hoc, Ergo Propter Hoc” Fallacy Musings by Vikram Karve _____ Here is a story illustrating the “Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc” Fallacy. _____ HOW TO KEEP THE TIGERS AWAY _____ A Wise Old Man returned home after a long vacation. His house had become very dirty.So –
VIKRAM KARVE
Writing by Vikram Karve from Pune India HUMOR IN UNIFORM – BREAKFAST AT SEAMarch 22, 2020
“EGGS TO ORDER” FOR THE “SEA-DOLL” A SPOOF BY VIKRAM KARVE In the 1970’s – around 45 years ago – when I served on Navy Warships – at sea – the steward would wake you up in the morning with a cup of tea – and – he would ask you: “SIR – “EGGS TO ORDER”…?” This was the first decision an officer had to make during the day – what type of eggs to eat for breakfast… On most ships the choice ranged from simple Boiled Eggs or Fried Eggs – to the more elaborate “Masala” Scrambled Eggs on Toast, Cheese Omelette, French Toast etc In the 1970’s – Eggs were served with ham, bacon, sausages etc – when we had flexible Sea Rations for Officers. But later – with the advent of “authorised rations” for officers – these items (ham, bacon, sausages, salami, cold cuts, luncheon meat etc) disappeared from Navy Breakfast Menus. One of my friends from the erstwhile Supply and Secretariat (S&S) Branch once quipped – the most important decision a Naval Officer had to make at Sea during the entire day was: “WHAT TYPE OF EGGS SHOULD I ORDER FOR BREAKFAST…?” During my visits to New Zealand – I saw that the most popular Breakfast dish was EGGS BENEDICT – which basically consists of toasted halves of English Muffin topped with Poached Eggs, Hollandaise Sauce and Ham, Bacon, Spinach etc Here is a picture of “EGGS BENEDICT” _EGGS BENEDICT – POACHED EGGS, HAM, BACON, SPINACH ON TOASTEDMUFFIN_
In the “Eggs Benedict” picture above – the creamy yellow egg yolk seems to have escaped from the white of the poached eggs and spread all over imparting its delicious taste. Here is a picture of a POACHED EGG with the Egg Yolk intactand enclosed.
POACHED EGG
Looking at Poached Eggs reminded me of a story from my Navy Days. Yes – when I saw those yummy Poached Eggs adorning the Eggs Benedict during my recent New Zealand visit – I was reminded of this hilarious ‘POACHED EGGS’ anecdote in the Wardroom of a Navy Frontline Warship many years ago – around 32 years ago – in the1980’s.
(WARDROOM
is
Navy Parlance for OFFICERS MESS)
POACHED EGGS FOR THE “SEA DOLL” – A SPOOF BY VIKRAM KARVE When I served at sea in the Navy – around 45 years ago – in the 1970’s – warships were classified into 3 types – and – this made it necessary to have separate ‘streams’ for training. Accordingly – Officers and Sailors would be assigned to one of the ‘streams’ and be trained for selected equipment in that ‘stream’ – and appointed on ships of relevant stream for whichthey were trained.
THE THREE BASIC ‘STREAMS’ WERE: * “A” STREAM COMPRISING THE LATEST “WESTERN ORIGIN” SHIPS LIKE LEANDER CLASS FRIGATES. * “B” STREAM COMPRISING OLDER “WESTERN ORIGIN” SHIPS. * “C” STREAM COMPRISING THE LATEST SOVIET (RUSSIAN) ACQUISITIONSHIPS.
“A” STREAM Ships comprised brand new “Western Origin” Ships like the comfortable Leander Class Frigates of British Design. As you know – the ‘British Navy’ is called the ‘ROYAL NAVY’
So – “A” STREAM Ships were “Royal” too – with snobbish stiff-upper-lip “Royal Culture” – and consequent ‘class distinctions’ between Officers and Sailors. On the other hand – “C” STREAM Ships of “Eastern Origin” (Soviet Union/Russia) – with their Socialist Egalitarian Design – these ships were comparatively ‘Spartan’ as far as ‘creature comforts’ were concerned – the focus being on densely ‘packing in’ maximum equipment – with lesser emphasis on ‘creature comforts’ and cozy habitability. Life on “C” STREAM ships was austere and grueling as compared to “A” STREAM ships. “C” STREAM OFFICERS enviously called “A” STREAM SHIPS as “HOTEL SHIPS”. Another advantage of “A” STREAM Ships was that – those days – “A” STREAM“ Western Origin” ships were based at Mumbai (then called Bombay) On the other hand – most “C” STREAM “Eastern Origin” Ships were based at Visakhapatnam (Vizag) – which – in those days – in the 1970’s – was a “one street town” (_Of course – now – Visakhapatnam is a modern vibrant metropolis and a beautiful city_) I was lucky to be allotted “A” STREAM So – I enjoyed myself thoroughly on my first two ships – both were “A” STREAM frontline warships of the premier Western Fleet. Both the ships I served on in the 1970’s were comfortable FRIGATES – and both ships were based in Mumbai (then called Bombay). After a few years – I was expecting to be appointed on a “A” STREAM ship once again. But – someone in Naval Headquarters (NHQ) got some crazy ideas about “cross-pollination” and “cross-fertilization” – so – I landed up on a “C” STREAM ship. My ship was a frontline DESTROYER – at that time – the most powerful and modern warship in the Navy – with state-of-the-art weapon systems and equipment. Of course – though not as austere as earlier “C” STREAM ships – my new ship was not as comfortable as her contemporary “A” STREAM _“Hotel Ships”_. My new ship was “first of its class” – built in the erstwhile SOVIET UNION – and – in the true spirit of egalitarian socialist “comradeship” – there was no separate galley (kitchen) for officers. So – food for officers was cooked in the common galley along with sailors’ food – and the food had to be carried by stewards all the way down the alleyway to the wardroom which was quite far away from the ships’ galley. Hence – the stewards had a tough time – especially while sailing – when the full complement of officers would descend in the wardroomfor meals.
To make matters worse – our ship was designated “Flagship” most of the time – with an additional complement of “Fleet Staff” also eating in the wardroom. Thus – the wardroom – which was already strained catering to the ship’s officers – had to provide for “supernumeraries” aswell.
During one such sailing – we were sitting for breakfast. I noticed a new Commander from the Fleet Staff – he seemed to have been newly posted to the Fleet Staff. I looked at the Commander. He seemed to be a “stiff-upper-lip” Royal Navy Style“SEA-DOLL”
He was certainly from the“A” STREAM. The steward asked us: “EGGS TO ORDER, SIR…?” Now – during sailing – in view of the fact that the food had to be carried to the wardroom from common ship’s galley which was quite far away – generally – THERE WERE JUST TWO CHOICES IN“EGGS TO ORDER”
You either had “BOILED EGGS” Or – you had a “MASALA OMELETTE” I ordered my customary _“Masala Omelette”_. The “Sea-Doll” Commander said to the steward: _“POACHED EGGS” __– I will have “Poached Eggs”…” _ I smiled and said to myself: _“HA HA – “POACHED EGGS” – HA HA – ON THISSHIP…!!!”_
This guy was certainly a snobbish type from the “A” STREAM Maybe – he had even commanded one of those “Hotel Ships”. After some time – the steward placed an “Omelette” in front of me _(as I had ordered)_. And – to my amusement – the steward placed an “Omelette” in front of the “Sea-Doll” Commander too. The “Sea-Doll” Commander looked at the “Omelette”. Then – the “Sea-Doll” Commander angrily said to theSteward:
_“I ORDERED ‘POACHED EGGS’ – NOT AN ‘OMELETTE’ – TAKE THIS ‘OMELETTE’ AWAY AND GET ME ‘POACHED EGGS’ …”_ The Steward took the “Omelette” away. After some time – another Steward placed Two _‘BOILED EGGS’_ in front of the snooty Commander. On seeing the ‘Boiled Eggs’ – the snooty “Sea-Doll” Commander shouted at the Steward: _“I DON’T WANT BLOODY ‘BOILED EGGS’ – I ORDERED ‘POACHEDEGGS’ …”_
This was going to be interesting – so – I decided to watch thefun.
There was still time for Morning “Both Watches”. So – I ordered another ‘Omelette’ – and – I waited in eager anticipation – for events to unfold. After a long wait – a Steward landed up with two _“BULLS EYE”_ EGGS – Soft ‘Fried Eggs’ – and – the Steward placed the Soft ‘Fried Eggs’ in front of the Commander. The astounded Commander had a look at the Soft ‘Fried Eggs’. The ‘high and mighty’ Commander barked at the hapless Steward: _“WHAT THE HELL IS THIS…? _ _THESE ARE ‘FRIED EGGS’. _ _DON’T YOU KNOW WHAT ‘POACHED EGGS’ ARE…? _ _CALL THE BLOODY ‘CHIEF STEWARD’…”_ The Chief Steward duly landed up. The snobby “Sea-Doll” Commander scolded the Chief Steward: _“DON’T YOUR STEWARDS AND COOKS KNOW WHAT A ‘POACHED EGG’IS…? _
_I HAVE ORDERED ‘POACHED EGGS’. _ _AND – THESE BUGGERS GOT ME AN ‘OMELETTE’. _ _THEN – THEY GOT ME ‘BOILED EGGS’._ _AND – NOW – THEY GOT ME BLOODY ‘FRIED EGGS’ . _ _THEY ARE GIVING ME ALL TYPES OF EGGS – EXCEPT ‘POACHED EGGS’…”_
The Chief Steward tried to explain: _“SIR – ON THIS SHIP – WE HAVE A COMMON GALLEY…”_ But – the ‘stuck-up’ Commander shouted at the Chief Steward: _“DON’T GIVE ME BULLSHIT – JUST GET ME ‘POACHED EGGS’ – DO YOU UNDERSTAND…?”_ I finished my second ‘Omelette’ – and coffee – but the ‘Poached Eggs’ had still not arrived. “Both Watches” Muster was piped – so I excused myself – and Ileft the wardroom.
I do not know what happened after that – whether the snooty Commander got his ‘Poached Eggs’ or not. But – a hilarious thing happened next morning. The moment the snobbish “Sea-Doll” Commander arrived and sat down for breakfast – a Steward opened the wardroom fridge. And – from the fridge – the Steward took out a pair of cold “Poached Eggs”. _(THESE SPECIALLY MADE “POACHED EGGS” FOR THE SNOBBISH “SEA-DOLL” COMMANDER – THEY HAD BEEN PREPARED THE PREVIOUS NIGHT AND KEPT IN THE FRIDGE…) _ The cold soggy “Poached Eggs” were placed in front of the snobbish “Sea-Doll” Commander. I looked at the stale cold crumpled soggy “Poached Eggs”. The refrigerated shrivelled “Poached Eggs” looked most “unappetizing” – to say the least. The “high and mighty” Commander looked at the hideous shriveled cold “Poached Eggs”. From the expression of nausea on his face – I thought that he was going to throw up and vomit on seeing those horrible unpalatable cold “Poached Eggs”. The “Sea-Doll” Commander ordered the Steward: _“TAKE THESE HORRIBLE “POACHED EGGS” AWAY – AND GET ME AN “OMELETTE”__…”_I smiled to myself.
As my “C” STREAM friends used to say: “C” STREAM IS A GREAT LEVELLER. But one thing was sure: _“Camaraderie” was much better on “C” Stream Ships. __Yes: _
_A TOUGH SHIP IS ALWAYS A HAPPY SHIP._VIKRAM KARVE
Copyright © Vikram Karve 1. If you share this post, please give due credit to the author VikramKarve
2. Please DO NOT PLAGIARIZE. Please DO NOT Cut/Copy/Paste this post VIKRAM KARVE., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.DISCLAIMER:
* This story is a fictional spoof, satire, pure fiction, just for fun and humor, no offence is meant to anyone, so take it with a pinch of salt and have a laugh. * All stories in this blog are a work of fiction. Events, Places, Settings and Incidents narrated in the stories are a figment of my imagination. The characters do not exist and are purely imaginary. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.COPYRIGHT NOTICE:
No part of this Blog may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the Blog Author Vikram Karve who holds the copyright. COPYRIGHT © VIKRAM KARVE (ALL RIGHTS RESERVED) _Link to my source post in my Blog Academic and Creative WritingJournal Vikram
Karve: http://karvediat.blogspot.com/2017/12/humor-in-uniform-eggs-to-order.html_ VIKRAM KARVE., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. This is a revised updated re-post of my story POACHED EGGS posted online by me Vikram Karve in my Academic and Creative Writing JournalBlog earlier at
urls: HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2016/02/HUMOR-IN-UNIFORM-POACHED-EGGS.HTML and HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2016/06/FOODIE-HUMOR-IN-UNIFORM-POACHED-EGGS.HTML and HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2016/11/FOODIE-HUMOR-IN-UNIFORM-EGGS-TO-ORDER.HTML and HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2017/03/NAVY-FOODIE-HUMOR-EGGS-TO-ORDER-FOR-SEA.HTML and HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2017/06/FOODIE-HUMOR-AT-SEA-EGGS-TO-ORDER.HTML AND HTTPS://KARVE.WORDPRESS.COM/2018/10/12/EGGS-AT-SEA/ AND HTTPS://KARVE.WORDPRESS.COM/2019/03/25/FOOD-HUMOR-AT-SEA-POACHED-EGGS/etc
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| Leave a Comment » HUMOR IN UNIFORM – THE “INDISPENSABLE” SENIOR ENGINEERMarch 21, 2020
PROLOGUE
On a prominent place on my bookshelves – proudly stands one of my “ancient” books – a novel on the most famous Naval Mutiny – “MUTINY ON THE BOUNTY” The book is titled CAPTAIN BLIGH AND MR. CHRISTIAN – the author is Richard Hough – a distinguished historian – who took a new fascinating and controversial look at the Mutiny. (The memorable 1984 Movie THE BOUNTY directed by Roger Donaldson and starring Mel Gibson and Anthony Hopkins is based on this book) In this book – the author comments: _Captain Bligh was an excellent “Foul Weather Commander”._ _But – he was not as good as a “Fair Weather Commander”_. Bligh was unsurpassed as a Captain in adversity – when the going wastough.
But – surprisingly – when the going was good – when things seemed to be going smoothly – he seemed “out of depth”. During my Navy days – I too saw such hard taskmasters – tough “Sea Dogs” – who were excellent leaders in adverse circumstances and tough operational situations at sea. But – these same tough “Sea Dogs” were not that adept at “peacetime soldiering” ashore – they hated pushing files in Headquarters and were misfits in shore based offices. Here is a “memoir” involving one such tough “Sea Dog” Captain – the Commanding Officer of my first ship. This story happened around 45 years ago – in the 1970’s… THE “INDISPENSABLE” ENGINEER HILARIOUS MEMORIES OF MY WONDERFUL NAVY DAYS A SPOOF BY VIKRAM KARVE The Senior Engineer was going crazy. The Senior Engineer was going crazy because his boss – the Engineer Officer – Commander (E) – would not give the Senior Engineer anyleave.
“Senior” – as the Senior Engineer Officer was affectionately called – had not gone on leave for even a single day since he joined the ship almost six months ago. At sea – there was no leave – since the ship was sailing – and the Senior Engineer was indispensable. In harbour – Commander (E) denied leave to the hapless Senior Engineer on the pretext that there was repair and maintenance to bedone.
At sea – while the Senior Engineer slogged below decks in the heat and grime of Engine Room in his overalls – the Commander (E) would sit in spotless whites playing bridge in the wardroom along with the other “unemployed” officers like “Pusser” (the Supply Officer), “Schoolie” (the “Education” Officer) and “Quack” (the Ship’s Doctor). In harbour – the Commander (E) made Senior’s life hell by making him do all the tough and dirty work on board ship – while Commander (E) spent most of his time ashore networking with senior officers in the Headquarters to build his career and generally having a good time. Commander (E) was a cruel man – a sadist. A “pen-pusher” landlubber self-styled Marine Engineer who had spent most his naval career pushing files in Delhi – Commander (E) was always dressed in spotless whites and never wore the customary overalls which Engineers wore on board ships. He spent most of his time in his cabin and in the wardroom. Some witty sailors joked that Commander (E) probably did not even know where the engine-room was located. Commander (E) had come all the way from Delhi just to “earn” his all important “Sea ACR” – the vital performance appraisal report for his “criterion” sea appointment. The moment one year sea-time was over – Commander (E) would be back at his comfortable desk in Delhi – and thanks to his first-rate Sea ACR – he would be wearing one more stripe on his shoulder. And from then onwards – it would be smooth sailing – and it was just a matter of time before he became an Admiral. Yes – once this crucial sea-time was over – he would “manage”everything.
Like all sadists – Commander (E) was a blustering braggart – a “gasbag” who put on an outward show of brashness – but the reality was that – deep inside – he was terribly insecure. Commander (E) was insecure because he was professionally clueless. In order to cover up his lack of technical knowledge – Commander (E) had made sure he was assigned a good Senior Engineer to do all thedirty work.
Commander (E) knew that all he had to do was to take charge of his of meek Senior Engineer so that everything ran smoothly. This would ensure that Commander (E) got an excellent ACR which would clear his way for future promotions. Now suddenly the Senior Engineer wanted a few days leave to go home for an urgent domestic commitment. And there was this long sailing coming up. Commander (E) dreaded sailing without the Senior Engineer – lest he be exposed if something went wrong. In fact – Commander (E) refused to give leave to Senior in harbour too – as Commander (E) was afraid that his technical ignorance would be discovered by the Dockyard Officers. “30 days leave…? On a frontline warship…? Are you crazy…?” bellowed Commander (E) when he saw Senior’s Leave Application. “Sir – my sister’s marriage has been fixed. I just got a telegram yesterday.” “But 30 days leave…?” “Sir – I have to arrange everything. I am the only brother.” “Bullshit. A Senior Engineer can’t be absent for a month.” “Please, Sir. I have to be there for the marriage.” “You just submit your leave application to me. I’ll see about what to do about it later. You go down to the Engine Room and get the ship ready for sailing. What happened to the defects on the boiler…?” “Sir – Dockyard is working…” “You should do it yourself – you bloody “shammer”…”“Sir, but …”
“But…? What…? Don’t stand there looking lost – like a clueless clot – with your thumb in your bum – and your brain at neutral. Go and get on with your job…” the Commander (E) shouted at the Senior Engineer. The hapless Senior Engineer got on to the job – and got the shipready for sea.
A few days later – after they returned from the Sea Sortie – the Senior Engineer asked Commander (E) about his leave application. “All you can think about is your leave. Have you prepared the defect list…?” Commander (E) yelled. “Defect list…? Which defect list…?” Senior asked. “The bloody refit defect list…” “Sir – the refit is 6 months away.” “So…? I want see the defect list first. Only after that will I look at your leave application.” “Sir – it will take me at least one week to prepare the defectlist.”
“So…? You do it.” “Sir – I have to go on leave right now. My sister’s marriage isnext week.”
“What do you mean you _“HAVE TO”_ go on leave…? You bloody impertinent bastard. This is the bloody Navy. In the Navy – _“LEAVE IS A PRIVILEGE__” – __“LEAVE IS NOT A RIGHT” –_ Do you understand…? In any case – there is no chance of any leave for you right now. I have just come to know that there is an important sailing coming up. So just bugger off and get on with your job.” “Sir – Please – Sir. Try to understand. How can I be missing from my sister’s wedding…?” “That’s your problem. You should have thought about all that before you joined the Navy. That’s the problem with you “dope-entry” chaps – you buggers are civilians in uniform.” “Sir, I want to see the Captain.” “You’ll see my bloody arse. Now – you get out of here – go to the Engine Room and get on with your job…” Commander (E)thundered.
Senior Engineer did not go to the Engine Room. He went straight to the Wardroom. He needed to talk to someone. He saw “Guns” – the Gunnery Officer – sitting in the Wardroom. It was only 11 o’clock – but Guns already had a glass in his hand. On Saturdays – the bar opened at 12 Noon – but “Guns” had such a formidable fearsome personality – that no steward would dare to refuse him a drink – whatever the time of the day or night. Just the previous evening – “Guns” had ordered the ship’s barber to shave off the Gangway Quartermaster’s moustache for beingslack on duty.
In fact “Guns” had half the moustache of the terrified Gangway Quartermaster shaved off in public near the gangway. Sailors were petrified of “Guns” – and even most officers steered clear of him. As per his usual style – “Guns” was drinking rum. A bottle of rum – an ice box – and a jug of water were placed on the table before him. On seeing the Senior Engineer enter the wardroom – “Guns” said to the Senior Engineer: “Come, Senior – have a drink…” _(As I told you – the Senior Engineer Officer was affectionately called “Senior”)_ Senior liked “Guns”. Though “Guns” was a fearsome tyrant – he had somehow taken a liking to the rather docile Senior Engineer. The steward was alert. When “Guns” was around – sailors were on their toes. He knew Senior’s drink. A glass of beer was placed before Senior. “Sir – today – I am thinking of having rum…” Seniorstammered.
“That’s good – bloody good…!!! So you are becoming a true-blue sea-dog. Here – take the bottle – and pour some rum into your beer – don’t worry – rum and beer – no fear…!!!” Guns said. Senior took a big gulp of beer. Then he topped up the glass with rum. He swirled the glass to let the beer and rum mix properly – and then he took a huge gulp of the concoction – “down the hatch”. Guns looked at Senior curiously – and said: “Come on, Senior – get it off your chest.” The Senior Engineer said: “Sir – Commander (E) is not giving me leave for my sister’smarriage…”
“I know. Commander (E) was boasting to the XO – your Commander (E) was telling the XO how he was screwing the hell out of you. Both of them are bastards. They are hand-in-glove. So you can forget aboutyour leave…”
“Sir – but I have to go for my sister’s marriage.”“Then skip.”
“Skip…?”
“Just pack your bags and push off.” “Sir – you are telling me to break ship – to go Absent Without Official Leave – AWOL. I will be MARKED ‘RUN’ – and then – I will be caught and I will be punished.” “So what…? You take the punishment like a man. You have to decide your priorities for yourself. You decide what is more important for you – attending your sister’s marriage – or cowering before that bloody Commander (E)…” “Sir – I am feeling scared.” “Don’t worry. Have some more Rum – it will give you “DUTCH-COURAGE”…” the Gunnery Officer “Guns” said – and he topped up Senior’s glass with neat rum. Senior took a big gulp of rum. He felt better – a bit high – the cobwebs in his head began toclear.
The Senior Engineer kept drinking neat rum – and began feeling better and better – as the increasing amount of alcohol in his veinsraised his spirits.
After an hour or so – it was almost 12 noon. The Wardroom Mess Secretary – the Ship’s Communications Officer (SCO) – he arrived in the wardroom to make arrangements for the Saturday afternoon Pre-Lunch Drinks (PLD). Suddenly – Commander (E) barged into to wardroom. He was stunned to see his Senior Engineer sitting in the wardroom with a glass of rum in his hand – drinking away to glory. “What the hell are you doing here…? Just go down to the engine-room right now. That’s a bloody order. And there is no liberty for you till further orders…” Commander (E) shouted atSenior in anger.
“Screw your liberty – I am going on leave…” Senior Engineerslurred drunkenly.
On hearing these defiant words from his normally docile subordinate – for a moment – Commander (E) was dumbstruck. Then – Commander (E) recovered his wits – and he said to Senior Engineer in a threatening manner: _“If you don’t go to the engine-room right now, I will have you arrested and locked up…”_ “You go and “hop”…” Senior said mockingly to Commander (E). The Senior Engineer was in “full form” after drinking a copious amount of neat rum – the alcohol in his veins was making him feelbraver and braver.
Seeing the situation going out of control – the SCO quietly left thewardroom.
Things were turning nasty – and the SCO did not want to be a witnessto the fracas.
Besides – he had to inform the Captain immediately – because – after all – like all SCOs on ships – he was the Captain’s spy inthe wardroom.
By the time the Captain came down to the wardroom – the situation had blown up – and Senior Engineer was seen menacingly moving towards Commander (E). The Senior Engineer was waving the empty bottle of rum dangerously atCommander (E).
“Guns” was trying to restrain the Senior Engineer. “Stop it…” the Captain shouted in his commanding voice, “What the hell is going on…?” “Sir – Commander (E) is not giving me leave for my sister’s marriage…” Senior Engineer said, looking at the Captain. “I know…” the Captain said. “Sir – that’s not true. I want this insubordinate officer punished…” Commander (E) said to the Captain. “We will see about that later. First – you tell me why are you not giving your Senior Engineer leave to attend his sister’s marriage…?” the Captain asked Commander (E). “Sir – there is a sailing programme…” Commander (E) said. “So…? Is he indispensable…? Suppose he drops dead tomorrow – what will you do…? It will take at least a month to get a relief Senior Engineer. Are you telling me that the ship cannot sail if there is no Senior Engineer…? Just tell me – what the hell are you doing on board this ship as Engineer Officer…?” the Captain said sternlyto Commander (E).
There was silence in the wardroom. The Captain looked at Commander (E) – and said: _“Now you listen carefully, Commander (E). I am approving one leave application today – either Senior’s – or yours. You decide who is more indispensable – you – or your Senior Engineer. Either – he goes on leave – or – you go on leave…”_ A few hours later – Senior Engineer was seen crossing the ship’s gangway – with a bag on his shoulder – on his way home – on a month’s leave – to attend his sister’s marriage. The “Technical Incompetence” of Commander (E) was thoroughly exposed during the sailing. In fact – the Engine Room Artificers (ERAs) created false alarms from time to time – and they made sure that Commander (E) was in atizzy.
In due course – the and Engine-Room Sailors had really put Commander (E) in a “spin”. The Engine-Room Sailors liked Senior Engineer – and wanted to teach Commander (E) a lesson for treating Senior so shabbily. For the entire sailing – by creating one “defect” after another – the Engine-Room Sailors kept Commander (E) in a state of confusion, anxiety and panic – resulting in the clueless Commander (E) being frequently summoned to the bridge by the Captain – who bullshitted the hell out of the Commander (E) for the frequent“defects”.
When Senior Engineer returned from leave – the Captain summoned himto his cabin.
“We had a lot of problems during the last sailing…” the Captainsaid.
“I know, Sir. My ERAs told me. But Sir – you don’t worry. I will get everything shipshape…” Senior said. “That’s good…” the Captain said. “May I go, Sir…?” Senior asked permission to leave. The Captain looked at Senior Engineer for some time. Then – the Captain said to the Senior Engineer: “There is one more thing. Your Commander (E) has had a very rough time and he needs some rest. I am thinking of sending Commander (E) on long leave. Can you manage on your own…?” “Of course – I can manage the Engine-Room Department on my own. Please send Commander (E) on long leave. Sir – “NOBODY IS INDISPENSABLE”…” Senior Engineer said, tongue-in-cheek. “Yes. NOBODY IS INDISPENSABLE…” the Captain laughed, “NO ONE IS INDISPENSABLE…”VIKRAM KARVE
Copyright © Vikram Karve 1. If you share this post, please give due credit to the author VikramKarve
2. Please DO NOT PLAGIARIZE. Please DO NOT Cut/Copy/Paste this post VIKRAM KARVE., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.DISCLAIMER:
1. This story is a fictional spoof, satire, pure fiction, just for fun and humor, no offence is meant to anyone, so take it with a pinch of salt and have a laugh. 2. This story is a work of fiction. Events, Places, Settings and Incidents narrated in the story is a figment of my imagination. The characters do not exist and are purely imaginary. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.COPYRIGHT NOTICE:
No part of this Blog may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the Blog Author Vikram Karve who holds the copyright. COPYRIGHT © VIKRAM KARVE (ALL RIGHTS RESERVED) This Story was written by me 7 years ago in the year 2013 and earlier Posted Online by me Vikram Karveon 03 Aug 2013
8/03/2013 12:47:00 PM in this blog at url: HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2013/08/NO-ONE-IS-INDISPENSABLE-NAVY-YARN.HTMLand
HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2014/06/HUMOR-IN-UNIFORM-NOBODY-IS-INDISPENSABLE.HTMLand
HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2015/04/HUMOR-IN-UNIFORM-INDISPENSABLE-ENGINEER.HTMLand
HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2016/04/HUMOR-IN-UNIFORM-IN-NAVY-LEAVE-IS.HTMLand
HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2016/06/HUMOR-IN-UNIFORM-ARE-YOU-INDISPENSABLE.HTMLand
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HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2017/03/HUMOR-IN-UNIFORM-NO-ONE-IS.HTMLAND
HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.COM/2017/07/LIFE-AT-SEA-INDISPENSABLE-ENGINEER.HTMLAND
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| Leave a Comment » REMEMBERING ADMIRAL BENOY ROY CHOWDHURY – AN ENGINEERPAR EXCELLENCE
March 21, 2020
_Sharing an evocative obituary of a distinguished Navy Veteran written by Commodore Srikant B Kesnur (with permission of the author)_ AN ENGINEER PAR EXCELLENCE – REMEMBERING BENOY ROY CHOWDHURY BY CMDE SRIKANT B KESNUR The nation lost an illustrious son and the Indian Navy an eminent veteran with the passing away of retired Vice Admiral Benoy Roy Chowdhury AVSM, VrC a few days ago, on 28 Feb 20, at the CMRI Hospital Kolkata. He was 90. Affectionately called Bilu (the moniker I will be using in this piece) or Biloo, the Flag Officer had a distinguished career in the Navy and was a hero of the 1971 war. The bare details of his CV are impressive enough. Born on 22 Jul 1929, he was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 01 Sep 51 in the Engineering branch. Bilu was an apprentice at Railway Workshop at Jamalpur (Bihar) before he passed the Navy exam and subsequently went to UK for dagger course. (_NOTE__. Those days Bengalis largely went to engineering from Shivpur, Jadavpur etc. and normally landed up topping the engineering courses in UK. Dagger engineers’ courses were only for Royal Navy. But when they found Indians topping they reluctantly allowed Indians to join those courses too.)_ He moved up the professional ladder tenanting many appointments ending in the very senior rank of Vice Admiral. He was a recipient of the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) for distinguished service of exceptional order and the Vir Chakra (VrC) for gallantry in the 1971 war, becoming the first Engineering Officer to be honoured with a VrC. He also, subsequently, became the first engineer to attend the prestigious RCDS course in UK and this when the Navy used to get a vacancy only every alternate year for the said course. Remembered fondly as a ‘good person’, he was also an avid Golfer and Captained Naval Team as well as that of RCGC Kolkata. He took early retirement in mid 1980s and moved to ONGC as Member Technical. His near contemporary (five years junior to him) and another eminent Engineer Officer, VICE ADM IC RAO (Retd) recollects that ‘He was an outstanding Naval Engineer who brought glory to the Indian Navy AS ENGINEER OFFICER OF INS VIKRANT DURING THE WAR for liberation of Bangladesh. He was a wonderful person and a great personality. We will all miss him in the Naval fraternity’. It is, therefore, fitting that his contribution as Cdr E of Vikrant is recounted, especially for many of my younger friends in the Navy and for those outside the Navy who may not be aware of it. But, before that, a small incident to describe the kind of man he was. In end 1970, a Greek Merchant ship ‘Ampuria’ ran aground off Porbandar. Cdr Chowdhury with 8 sailors was directed to board the ship to try and remove the oil (fuel) before the ship broke up in high seas. Due to sea state and bad condition of the ship, Ampuria’s Captain gave the order to ‘abandon ship’. Bilu told his men to leave if they wished but ‘he was staying behind’ to finish the task. Needless to say, his eight men stayed with him till they could do the needful. This was leadership and courage of high order. BILU SAVED THE COUNTRY SEVERAL CRORES OF RUPEES AND PREVENTED OIL POLLUTION OF THOUSANDS OF TONS BY HIS DERRING-DO IN THE SALVAGE OF THE SHIP. In 1971, in the months prior to the war, the Naval headquarters had decide to deploy the aircraft carrier Vikrant, in the Bay of Bengal, correctly estimating that the East would be the decisive theatre of war. As war clouds loomed, some worries enveloped the Naval planners. One of the boilers of Vikrant had become inoperative and the other three boilers were playing truant. Being of British make, normal repairs would have entailed getting expertise and replacements from Britain and elaborate time in harbour, a luxury the planners did not have. The ideal solution was new water drums for the boilers, something beyond indigenous capability at that time. While the elaborate details of how this was addressed is contained in the Navy’s official history for the period 1965 to 1975, titled ‘Transition to Triumph’ authored by the late VAdm GM Hirananadani (incidentally Fleet Operations Officer, Western Fleet during the war) and some other books of that period, suffice it to say that Bilu and his team with some innovations ensured that other three boilers were restored to near maximum efficiency. But with the A 1 boiler still down, the speed of Vikrant was limited to only 14 knots. At this speed she would not only not be able to operate her aircraft but also be very vulnerable to submarine attack. (_NOTE__. For the completely uninitiated launching and recovery of aircraft on the Carrier requires certain amount of wind on deck – relative wind – which is a function of the true wind conditions and the ship’s speed. Axiomatically, therefore, a ship needs to steam at higher speeds, usually more than 20 knots, to generate the winds that enable flying in all conditions.) _ Also, with only three boilers there would have been no supply of steam to the catapult which enabled flying operations. This speed restriction naturally worried everyone from the Navy Chief, Admiral SM (Charles) Nanda, to the FOCinC Eastern Command VAdm N Krishnan, the ship’s Captain Capt Swaraj Parkash and the Squadron Commanders of the Carrier borne aircraft Lt Cdr Gigi Gupta (Sea Hawk Squadron, also called the White Tigers) and Lt Cdr Ravi Dhir (Alize squadron, also called the Cobras). That’s when Bilu and his men showed their mettle. With some backing from the CNS, CinC and the Captain, they decided to make the boiler operational notwithstanding some risks associated with it. Cracks on the surface of the water drum of the boiler was one of their big worries – if they had burst, superheated steam would have engulfed the boiler room and other machinery spaces resulting in catastrophic consequences. To digress a little here, having commanded two ships with steam turbine propulsion or steam ships as they are called in the Navy, I can confidently state, without disrespect to other branches, that the Engineering sailors who serve on them are a class apart. THE ENGINEERING SPACES ON THESE SHIPS OFFER JUST ABOUT THE TOUGHEST WORKING CONDITIONS AND YET THE SPIRIT, CAMARADERIE AND THE JOSH THAT THESE GUYS BRING TO THE TABLE IS UNBELIEVABLE. I remember an incident where a Brigadier fresh from Siachen, undergoing NDC, had embarked INS Vindhyagiri, the ship I commanded for a sea sortie. After a walk around of the Engine and Boiler rooms he declared “I will any day prefer to be in Siachen then here… hats off to your guys”. Indeed, Stokers (navy phrase for these blokes) are a class apart and can be said to be in frontlines of combat every day at work. Thus, Bilu and his Engineering team (ably led by his Senior Engineer, Lt Cdr B Bhushan, who also rose to be VAdm later) carried out several innovations and repairs at sea and away from base port without falling back to the original manufacturers – the Brits, to keep the other boilers going at full load (which would have enabled aircraft operations under marginal conditions) and to repair the A1 boiler. This included putting a steel strops (bands) around the boiler, adjusting the safety valves to accept greater risk, leaving the boiler room unmanned (or sparsely manned) but monitored at all times, adjusting the oil flow to the boilers from a control valve near upper deck and numerous other technical measures. These not only required supreme technical skill and competence, but also leadership, ability to convince your men and in turn faith in their ability to do the job without flinching and the gumption to take calculated risks anchoredin self-belief.
Bilu was the perfect man for the job. He had immense experience having done two stints earlier on Vikrant – as the Senior Engineer and the Flight Deck Engineer Officer – and knew exactly what was entailed As Swaraj Parkash, his Captain, recollected later “With his past experience and professional competence, Bilu’s contribution to decision-making at this crucial juncture was important”. Vice Adm Krishnan, put it succinctly, when he remarked “My worry about the condition of machinery was mitigated by the fact that the Engineer Officer of the ship was Bilu Chowdhury.….I had seen him close at work…. and was aware of his professional competence….WHEREAS SO MANY TECHNICAL OFFICERS WERE AGAINST, IT BILU EXUDED CONFIDENCE AND NEVER BAULKED AT THE IDEA OF STEAMING VIKRANT’. In the words of the Naval Chief Nanda, ‘Bilu went about his job in his customary, professional, enthusiastic and thorough manner’. IN FACT, IT IS CHARLES NANDA’S DESCRIPTION OF BILU AS ‘AN ENGINEER PAR EXCELLENCE’ THAT PROVIDES THE TITLE FOR THIS OBIT. The rest, as they say, is history. The Seahawks and Alizes embarked in August ‘71 and from then on carried out extensive work up. All the boilers were flashed up and Vikrant was able to steam at more than 20 knots. They were kept under the eagle’s eye of the Engineering department and issues and situations attended to promptly. Vikrant turned out to the decisive factor in the war and the lynchpin of the maritime operations of the Eastern Front which resulted, THROUGH AIR STRIKES, in heavy bombardment of east Pakistan cities and ports of Chittagong, Cox’s Bazaar, Khulna, Chalna, Mongla, destruction of their airfields, power house, wireless stations, fuel tanks, port and other infrastructure, interdiction of their Navy and merchant marine ships including smaller gun boats and tugs, control of contraband and virtual throttling of the then East Pakistan from sea. THIS, IN TURN, LED TO THE EVENTUAL DÉNOUEMENT OF SURRENDER AND MORE THAN 90000 PRISONERS OF WAR AS THERE WAS NO ESCAPE FROM THE SEA FOR THEM. As Hiranandani states ‘In retrospect Vikrant’s contribution to naval operations were beyond anyone’s expectations. VIKRANT STRETCHED EVERYTHING AND EVERYBODY TO THE LIMIT TO LAUNCH AND RECOVER AIRCRAFT In addition to the achievements of the air strikes, Vikrant’s assistance in contraband control was invaluable. Without Vikrant, the limited number of ships that constituted the Eastern Fleet could not have coped with the task.” In fact, even as the war raged and the Vikrant was leading the assault, Bilu was handling machinery problems such as what frequently obtain on board ships. One of the more prominent ones which again caused some worry was the flooding of the forward machinery space which occurred when one of the condensers of the turbo generator needed repairs. In peacetime, this would only have been attempted in harbour after shutting down machinery. This repair was attempted at sea despite the inlet and outlet valves being 20 feet below the waterline and operated by rod gearing. The danger of water gushing past the loosened plate of the turbo generator suction filter was real if some of the valves malfunctioned and this is what happened. Again, the situation was resolved by some deft leadership allied with excellent technical skills and smart use of 1000 ton pump in the machinery space to pump out water and carry out repairs. VIKRANT’S AIR OPERATIONS WOULD NOT HAPPENED BUT FOR BILU AND HIS BRAVE MEN. Often, in the heat of war and the dust of the aftermath we forget the contribution of the silent many – the ones who operate behind the scenes. In the Navy, the nature of our job is such that we all fight together from the ship; hence the saying that we swim or sink together. Bilu illustrated this wonderfully well and the Vir Chakra that he was awarded and the encomiums showered on him wasrichly deserved.
VAdm Benoy Roy Chowdhury is survived by his wife Mrs Mina Chowdhury and nephew Mr Pradipta Bose. In fact Meena and Bilu eloped to get married. His mortal remains were consigned to the flames on 29 Feb 20. However, the memory of his heroic exploits will remain forever. HIS SPIRIT WILL HOVER AS A GUARDIAN ANGEL AT KOCHI WHERE THE NEW INDIGENOUS AIRCRAFT CARRIER (IAC 1) TO BE CALLED VIKRANT IS SLOWLY TAKING SHAPE. UNLIKE THE EARLIER INCARNATION, THIS VIKRANT WILL BE A PROUD “MADE IN INDIA’ PRODUCT SHOWCASING OUR INDIGENOUS PROWESS AND OUR METTLE IN SHIPBUILDING, ASSIDUOUSLY BUILT OVER THE YEARS. HOWEVER, THE TRADITIONS THAT THIS SHIP WILL IMBIBE WILL BE FROM ITS PREDECESSOR AND HER GALLANT CREW – PEOPLE LIKE SWARAJ PARKASH, GIGI GUPTA (BOTH MVC) AND RAVI DHIR AND BILU CHOWDHURY (BOTH VRC) AND SEVERAL OTHER MAGNIFICENT MEN WHO FLEW FROM ITS DECK OR TOILED BELOW DECKS TO SHOW THE WORLD AND OUR COUNTRYMEN THE DIFFERENCE THAT THE AIRCRAFT CARRIER MAKES TO THE OUTCOME OF WAR. RIP BILU SIR. AND SALUTE. 15 MAR 20. SOME PHOTOGRAPHS BELOW PS. The author wishes to acknowledge some inputs and information given by Navy Foundation Mumbai Chapter (NFMC) and, more importantly, Shri Probir Roy who has an encyclopaedic knowledge of matters Navy. In fact, the book written by his father and another illustrious Navy officer late Vice Admiral MK Roy “War in the Indian Ocean’ brings out that Bilu Chowdhury while being in the senior echelons of Marine Engineering at Naval Headquarters in the early eighties had accompanied Dr Raja Ramanna and VAdm Roy to the erstwhile Soviet Union twice for discussions on leasing nuclear submarine from that nation. That possibly is the subject for some more research. PS 2. All quotations and much information has been taken from the official History book of the Navy referred in the article as well as the autobiographies of Adm SM Nanda and Vice Adm N Krishnan. (_Author : Commodore Srikant B Kesnur) _ —————————— Photos of Vice Admiral Benoy Roy ChowdhurySHARE THIS:
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IS “JOB SATISFACTION” A MYTH…?March 17, 2020
_Why do you work…?_ _Do you work because you enjoy your job…? _ _Or – do you work – because the money you get “on the job” enables you to achieve whatever you want to accomplish “offthe job”…? _
_In short – do you work so that you can enjoy your leisure…? _ IS “JOB SATISFACTION” A MYTH…? MUSINGS OF A VETERAN BY VIKRAM KARVEWHY DO YOU WORK…?
In today’s world – it is naive to assume that people work primarily to achieve professional fulfillment and job satisfaction. As a matter of fact – they seem to work because – WHAT THEY GET “ON THE JOB” ENABLES THEM TO ACHIEVE WHATEVER THEY WANT TO ACCOMPLISH “OFF THE JOB”. At the lower levels in an organisation people work for survival – but at middle levels – MOST PERSONS WORK FOR THEIRLEISURE.
YES – MOST PEOPLE WORK SO THAT THEY CAN ENJOY THEIR LEISURE.Think about it.
Don’t we all work so that we can enjoy our leisure…? You slog 5 days a week – so that you can enjoy the 2 days of weekend that you get off. Do you work because you enjoy doing the job…?Not at all.
You work for the money they pay you – so that – whatever the money that you earn from working – you can use that money to enjoy your leisure – once your basic needs are met. I have observed this factor especially in many youngsters working in IT, ITES, BPO and many other industries – who wait for the weekend – to enjoy what they have earned by “toiling” in the “sweatshops” for the entire week. Then – they blow up what they have earned during the week having a ball in the weekend. Some call it “unwinding” YOU “WIND” YOURSELF UP DURING THE WEEK – slogging away doing something you do not enjoy doing. AND THEN – YOU “UNWIND” YOURSELF DURING THE WEEKEND – doing something that you enjoy doing.You wind.
And then – you unwind. It is like clockwork – as if you are a clock to wind andunwind…!!!
OF COURSE – THERE A VERY FEW LUCKY PERSONS WHO SEEM TO HAVE FOUND THEIR METIER IN THEIR JOBS AND GENUINELY ENJOY THEIR WORK. IN MOST CASES – WHILE “ON THE JOB” – EMPLOYEES HAVE TO “PRODUCE” – AND THERE IS NO TIME FOR ANY ENJOYMENT. Both Competition and Compensation levels are higher than ever before – and – the chief casualties of this competitive work environment are those traditional so-called motivators like “jobsatisfaction”.
Today – a typical professional may no longer have an undivided loyalty and commitment towards his job. Therefore – it is incorrect to believe that an employee’s work life is spent entirely in the pursuit of “job satisfaction”. Perhaps – AN EMPLOYEE IS NOT ACTIVELY SEEKING JOB SATISFACTION – AS MUCH AS ASPIRING TOWARDS OTHER IMPORTANT NEEDS AND CONSIDERATIONS LIKE OWN CAREER PROGRESSION, STANDARD OF LIVING, QUALITY OF LIFE, MATERIAL GAIN AND PERSONAL GRATIFICATION. _FOR MOST PEOPLE – THEIR JOB IS A MEANS TO ACHIEVING THEIR DESIREDENDS_.
DOES JOB SATISFACTION IMPROVE JOB PERFORMANCE…? One of the typical propositions held by most people connected with Human Resource (HR) Management is that job satisfaction is positively associated with job performance. But in actual fact – DOES JOB SATISFACTION LEAD TO IMPROVED JOBPERFORMANCE…?
DOES A “SATISFIED” EMPLOYEE ALWAYS “PRODUCE” MORE…? It may be wrong to presume and take for granted a fictitious linkage between job satisfaction and employee productivity in all cases. In some cases – you may be shocked to find that while the so-called “job satisfaction” was increasing – the productivity of the individual was declining. The reason behind this apparent paradox is the mistaken concept that a satisfied employee will devote his dedicated attention to his work. A “SATISFIED” OR “HAPPY” EMPLOYEE MAY BEGIN TO DEVELOP AN ATTITUDE OF SELF-COMPLACENCY – and – an overall sense of well-being – and – consequently – his temperament may become one of ignorant submission and passivity – rather than one of positive action and active involvement. I have observed this behaviour among employees in many organisations – particularly in government and public sector organisations – where employment is secure – and – where seniority is more important than performance in career progression. As a result – it is not too uncommon to see that the productivity of the employee does not always closely follow his upward satisfactioncurve.
Another important aspect of this situation is the rate of CONSTRUCTIVE CONFLICT. If properly used and suggestively applied in the organizational context – the managerial implantation of a limited degree of constructive conflict does indeed shake these smug people and “satisfied” employees out of their lethargy – and enables them to achieve a certain individuality of action. Viewed from the perspective of the organization – the KEY ISSUE is not having satisfied, happy employees – but MAXIMIZING PRODUCTIVITY – the bottom line being increasing PROFIT and achieving ORGANISATIONAL GOALS. Yes – that is what the organization has to decide and prioritize – WHAT IS MORE IMPORTANT: DOES THE ORGANISATION WANT TO PAMPER EMPLOYEES OR MAXIMIZEPRODUCTIVITY…?
DOES THE ORGANISATION WANT TO HELP EMPLOYEES IN ACHIEVING THEIR PERSONAL GOALS OR IS IT MORE IMPORTANT TO ACHIEVE ORGANISATIONAL GOALS…? IS THERE A CONGRUENCE BETWEEN “JOB SATISFACTION” AND “JOBPERFORMANCE”…?
DO “SATISFIED” EMPLOYEES ALWAYS “PRODUCE” MORE…? THE MYTH OF “JOB SATISFACTION” AN INDIVIDUAL’S NEED CONSISTS OF TWO COMPONENTS:* APPETITE
* DESIRE
With changing value systems – it may be wrong to believe that increased satisfaction means increased motivation as propounded by various conventional theories of motivation (Maslow’s Need Hierarchy, for example). Here it is vital to understand that “NEED” comprises two components: “APPETITE” and “DESIRE”. APPETITE corresponds to that part of each hierarchical level of need – the non-satisfaction of which can be expected to normally inhibit or deter progress up the hierarchy of needs. DESIRE corresponds with the greedy, relatively unjustified part of each hierarchical level of need – the satisfaction of which should not be viewed as necessary prerequisite. With changing values – and – by habit and custom – YESTERDAY’S DESIRES BECOME TODAY’S APPETITE. THE EFFECT OF EXTRINSIC “MOTIVATIONAL TECHNIQUES” LIKE JOB SATISFACTION WILL EVENTUALLY BE TO INCREASE NEED SATISFACTION THRESHOLD LIMITS AND DRAW MORE ENERGIES TOWARDS THE SATISFACTION OFDESIRES.
The MYTH OF “JOB SATISFACTION” exerts severe pressures upon both the employer and the employee. The employer convinces himself that he must provide satisfaction on the job – and the employee rationalizes his behaviour and anticipates satisfaction. In this two-faceted pressure approach – the entire organization and all stakeholders suffer from unwanted conflicts, unfulfilled expectations, and unkept promises._Dear Reader: _
_Do you work for “job satisfaction” – “on the job”…? _ _Or – do you work – to earn money – which enables you to have a good quality of life – after working hours – “off the job” – and enables you to enjoy your leisure…?_VIKRAM KARVE
Copyright © Vikram Karve 1. If you share this post, please give due credit to the author VikramKarve
2. Please DO NOT PLAGIARIZE. Please DO NOT Cut/Copy/Paste this post VIKRAM KARVE., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.DISCLAIMER:
All Stories in this Blog are a work of fiction. Events, Places, Settings and Incidents narrated in the stories are a figment of my imagination. The characters do not exist and are purely imaginary. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.COPYRIGHT NOTICE:
No part of this Blog may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the Blog Author Vikram Karve who holds the copyright. COPYRIGHT © VIKRAM KARVE (ALL RIGHTS RESERVED) _Link to my original post in my Blog Academic and Creative WritingJournal Vikram
Karve: http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2017/11/do-you-work-for-job-satisfaction.html_ This is an abridged and revised version of one of my early writings on Human Resource (HR) Management. I wrote this article more than 25 years ago, in the year 1992, and I have posted this article online a number of times including at urls: http://creative.sulekha.com/human-resource-management-the-myth-of-job-satisfaction_354574_blogand
http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2011/07/job-satisfaction-and-motivation-myth.html and http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2014/07/clockwork-careers-job-satisfaction-myth.html and http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2016/06/job-satisfaction-paradox.html and http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2017/02/why-do-you-work-for-money-or-for-job.html etcSHARE THIS:
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| Leave a Comment » WHY DO TOP BRASS FIGHT LIKE KILKENNY CATS…?March 17, 2020
Sharing an interesting article from a Navy Veterans Forum – as received. (author unknown/anonymous) As written by retired Navy Commodore…!!! Military Top Brass Were Fighting LikeKilkenny Cats
There once were two cats of Kilkenny, Each thought there was one cat too many, So they fought and they fit, And they scratched and they bit, Till excepting their nails And the tips of their tails, Instead of two cats, there weren’t any. In the Supreme Court, on 05 Dec 2019, Attorney General KK Venugopal linked the power tussle between the CBI Top brass to a fight between the “Kilkenny Cats”. The expression has come to mean a fight to an assured death. The origin of self-destructive catfights was probably an allergy topower and excess.
My storytelling in the Indian Navy will not be complete without mentioning Top Guns of Indian Navy fights like Kilkenny cats to become“ADMIRAL”.
The fight was started by Admiral Ramdas with the help of local mouse Admiral Vishnu, to conquer the crown from Admiral S Jain. The fight ended with the sacking of Admiral Vishnu when he failed to win fight against DCNS. The gist of the incident reported in the press is summarised for Modern day leadership, to understand and accept, that no one is responsible for the degradation of our authority. We are collectively responsible for same. The prime minister approved Admiral Bhagwat’s dismissal and transferred Defence Secretary Ajit Kumar just before he set off for a year-end holiday to the Andamans. Giving the marching orders to a service chief for the first time in Independent India’s history, the government said a series of actions from Admiral Bhagwat “were in deliberate defiance of the government.” The unprecedented and much-publicized row between the government and the admiral began after the Cabinet appointments committee appointed Vice-Admiral Harinder Singh as deputy chief of the naval staff. Refusing to accept the Cabinet order, Admiral Bhagwat went public with his opposition to the government’s decision. While defense analysts say the government has set a bad precedent by sacking a service chief, Niloufer Bhagwat, the admiral’s lawyer wife, accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party of playing communal politics. “The removal of a service chief on the reasons put forward by the government is totally illegal and unwarranted,” Niloufer Bhagwat told on Wednesdaynight.
“The prime minister and the defense minister have behaved like the kings in school books stories who were beheaded for having opposing viewpoints,” she said. By sacking Admiral Bhagwat on the appointments issue, she said the Vajpayee government has violated the Navy Act of 1957. “It is sad and tragic that Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Defence Minister George Fernandes refused to listen to the rational viewpoints submitted by the naval chief,” Niloufer Bhagwat, who is a well known Bombay lawyer, said. Former generals and defense analysts blame both the government and Admiral Bhagwat for precipitating the crisis. While the government did not act wisely on the issue, they say the naval chief was foolish to go public with his complaints. “The naval chief acted in excess of his authority. He should not have gone to the press and television by blasting the government on the appointments issue,” Major General Ashok Mehta (retd) told. When the admiral declined the Cabinet appointment and returned the file, the government sent it back to him to reconsider Vice-Admiral Harinder Singh’s appointment. A senior official at the Institute of Defence Studies and Analyses said the defense ministry consulted experts before sacking the admiral. “The Cabinet appointments committee is a political body headed by the prime minister. The government had no other option but to sack the naval chief because he repeatedly questioned this apexbody,” he told.
Defense ministry officials said there was no political motive behind Admiral Bhagwat’s removal. One senior defense ministry officials disclosed that the government had ‘encouraged’ Admiral Bhagwat to ‘voluntarily quit’ to settle the controversy. “But he precipitated the crisis and took the matter to the court. The government could not continue to behave like a passive spectator when the controversy raged between him and the bureaucracy,” he said. Even as the controversy resulted in Admiral Bhagwat’s removal, questions are being raised whether the Cabinet appointments committee was furnished with the full facts of the case. On two occasions in recent months, the Delhi high court passed strictures against the defense ministry for not acting “in accordance with the law” and acting “unreasonably and irrationally” while making out cases of senior-level appointments in the Indian Air Force. Both judgments pertained to Air vice Marshal P K Ghosh who challenged the appointments committee’s decision to promote Air Marshal S Raghavan, ignoring his claim of seniority andsuitability.
It is not the first time chiefs of the service staff have had conflicts with the government in power. The first such incident occurred in 1959 when the then army Chief General K S Thimmayya resigned on the issue of appointments and promotions of armypersonnel.
But General Thimmayya withdrew his resignation after Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru amicably settled the controversy. In 1992, members of Parliament demanded the removal of the then army chief, General S F Rodrigues when he declared that the governance of the country under Prime Minister P V Narasimha Rao was ‘very bad’ in an interview to The Pioneer. General Rodrigues was compelled later to apologize to the government and Parliament for his remarks againstthe government.
Vice-Admiral Sushil Kumar, flag officer commanding-in-chief, Southern Command, Cochin, has succeeded Admiral Bhagwat as naval chief. Admiral Bhagwat was served with the order terminating his services with immediate effect at about 1730 hours in his office at South Block. Minutes later, Vice-Admiral Sushil Kumar took charge as the new naval chief. Admiral Bhagwat left office without ceremony. A guard of honor, normally associated with an outgoing chief of staff, was denied to him. In a related move, Defence Secretary Ajit Kumar was transferred to the department of industrial policy. TR Prasad took over as the newdefense secretary.
The government said the services of Admiral Bhagwat, who was to retire in September 1999, were terminated because he had been taking a series of actions in deliberate defiance of the established system of Cabinet control over the defense forces. “The government is fully conscious of the gravity of such a decision and is aware that it might give rise to uninformed speculation. It is necessary, therefore, to clarify that adequate, careful and serious consideration was given to the matter at the highest levels,” the statement said. I will conclude with a Chapter from the book “ The Admiral I Knew _ A true story of Admiral Ronald Lynsdale Pereira” on MattersMilitary., page 176
Navy had 15 Rear Admirals (RA) vacancies and maybe two or three vacancies were up for grab out of total 20 odd candidates! However before the board was convened, the NHQ got a message from Mr. TP Singh secretary to the home minister Giani Zail Singh stating that one Captain IJS Khurana must make it to RA. When the list was put up for Prime Minister Approval who was holding the portfolio of Defence Minister also, without Khurana’s name. Mrs. Gandhi approves it but with the remark _” I don’t know what the Admiral’s coterie is upto?
When the file came back to NHQ and Admiral saw the remark, he sat down to give a three-page reply on his letter pad stating, “ All promotions are strict as per merit and no pressure whatsoever from any quarter is entertained to interfere with the functioning of Navy and least of all promotions and postings. We work with honesty and never compromise on integrity and words to that effect. When the file went back to PMO, the PM was livid and very annoyed with the Admiral, as the written remark stays on file forever! Yes, she contemplated to sack the Admiral and told the defense secretary in so many words, who walked out without saying anything at that juncture. Words were sent to Admiral Barboza to be prepared to take over as the“Chief”.
Admiral Barboza said that I will not accept it in these circumstances. PM was informed by the defense secretary that in case she went ahead with the sacking of the Admiral, she will have serious problems on her hand there may be mutiny in the Navy, as well as other two services as more than 2500 officers, have been impacted by Admiral Inspirational leadership while he was Deputy Commandant National Defence Academy inthe early ’70s.
She stands to lose more than to gain. Imagine Dr. Man Mohan Singh mishandled VK Singh, Chandrashekhar promoting Ramdas and George Fernandes sacked Vishnu Bhagwat when theirGovt. was weak.
Indira Gandhi could not sack Ronnie Sir, when she was not only in majority but a very powerful PM, she dare not that was the standing ofAdmiral Pereira.
The Indian Armed Forces are not likely to recover any time soon. In fact, the situation is likely to get worse. This is because the destruction is not of government property like ships, tanks, and aircraft but of the only asset that the Military Officer has – MoralFibre.
When the Officer loses his moral fiber, he is not in the military anymore. He only dresses like a Military Officer. I hear arguments like, “the officers and men come from the same decaying Indian Society”. We don’t expect them to be honest, “when there is muck all around”. All these arguments arecompletely flawed.
When a person joins the Academy as a Cadet, he is exposed to a culture which is completely different from the other careers that he canchoose.
If the same person were to choose Engineering, IT, Medical, Mass Media, Bollywood etc., he is in effect a part of the same decaying, scheming society that is run by the Mafia and Black money where cheating is the norm. Everything the military man does is different. He stays separate from civilian populations. His mess is different. He dresses differently. His eating habits are different. He excels in table manners. His hospitals will be of better standards. He has no problem with the availability of bread and water. His cantonment will be the most beautiful and cleanest place in town. His justice system is different and more efficient. More importantly, his work is different. Often 24x7x365. He can be recalled from leave if required. In disturbed areas or in times of war, he may not return home to his family. He also gets a gun salute at his funeral and flags will be flown athalf-mast.
The Military man is made of different stuff and needs to be different. How is it that an “honest” Cadet turns into a “thief” Generalin 30 years?
In fact, I am willing to stick my neck out by stating that there are a lot more thieves in the higher ranks that have come out in the media. These are NOT aberrations any more. It is a trend. A disturbing trend, indeed. The fish rots at the head first. So it is with the Armed Forces. (In this piece, Generals also include Admirals and Air Marshals. There are many more corrupt Generals than the latter two, hence the generalization). To win the war on corruption, the country needs to sort out the Generals first. Thieving: It is often believed that Generals do not follow the rulebook.
Punishment: Generals are often not punished for their misdemeanors or professional misconduct. Punishment is restricted to middle levels like Brigadiers and Colonels. Enough cases come to my mind. The loss of INS Andaman and Vindhyagiri in peacetime did not see any Admirals sink. The Kargil war did not see any Generals get the boot. The crash of 482 MiGs over the last 40 years has not grounded any Air Marshal. ACRs: If a junior officer is ambitious to make it to Flag Rank, only two options are available. Either he has to be the son of a senior military or government officer or he has to hitch a ride on the shoulders on a General by becoming his Staff Officer or ADC. The other attributes in the ACR do not matter. To have an outstanding ACR, you need to please only one person – your boss. The military is the only career in the world where you can start only at the bottom. A person can never join the military at the level of a Brigadier or a Colonel. The reverse is possible. Enough military men have joined as Vice Presidents, General Managers, and Directors etc. Some have become entrepreneurs. I know of a JCO who is now an MD and employs 200 people. A few have joined politics. While a military man can join any profession he chooses, the reverse will almost certainly end in failure. Imagine hiring a Vice President from a top MNC Bank and making him the GOC of a Strike Corps or a Carrier Captain. The poor chap wouldn’thave a clue.
The military man, by nature of his training, is vastly superior and is often the last resort for any assistance. Military Veterans are expected to do something respectable once they hang their boots. They are expected to join professional bodies, give opinions, lecture on strategic issues, guide the youth, work for the underprivileged etc. Instead, we find that they have no qualms about pimping for arms lobbies and all kinds of nefarious activities. Flag Officers should be banned from positions in the Government and Private Sector. Give them a decent pension till they kick the bucket. If they want to make money as honest citizens, please leave the Military as Colonels. Land/Estates: Senior Officers have suddenly become dalals when it comes to land deals. The Adarsh, Sukhna land scams are well known. There are other areas too where defense land has been grabbed by private parties only because the lording General was hand in glove with vested interests. Apart from the odd Colonel in Adarsh, all the Officers involved are Flag Officers. In fact, there are 3 Service Chiefs in the Adarsh Scam. “At no time did they know what Adarsh was about,” says one Chief. Really? How innocent? Speaks volumes, about their situational awareness. These senior officers had the power to punish and dismiss personnel. Now they themselves are being marched before a Judicial Commission. Statutory Complaints and Court Cases: Ask any Major General or equivalent. He will say that the military is a glorious profession. And when he is not promoted further, all hell breaks loose. A glorious profession suddenly becomes the worst profession in town. Generals too miss promotions and choice appointments. What follows is a flurry of complaints and court cases. Why be a bad loser and wash dirty linen? Not getting promoted does not mean the end of life. But it shows our senior officers as selfish, self-serving individuals. Generals are supposed to be held in awe. His every word is a Command. An order may even lead a jawan to his death. However, jawans, these days are quite a news-conscious. They see their Generals spread-eagled on the front covers of national magazines. The Generals’ lack of morals greatly affects the morale of his juniors. In the future, jawans may begin to question every word of their senior officers. In fact, the next war may have already been lost. The situation is critical. The next generation of Generals may well imbibe Tagore’s: “Where the mind is without fear and the head isheld high”.
“What matters is this: Being fearless of failure arms you to break the rules. In doing so, you may change the culture and just possibly, for a moment, change life itself.” —Malcolm Mclaren Field Marshal Chetwode says: _‘The honor, welfare, and well-being of your men come next always and every time. Your own welfare and well-being come last always andevery time. _
Sometimes over the years, the meaning of these words fades away and is forgotten; that is when trouble can raise its ugly head. ‘I am sorry if this piece has hurt honest Generals. I am sure there would be a fewstill left.
Journey with armed forces ended on 15 Nov 1996 on a very high note. In my farewell lunch, had blessings of 25 top guns from militaryleadership and MOD.
Notwithstanding these problems in our society. A career in the Indian Armed forces are the best, no MNC can match it. I have been Top Gun on both sides with a couple of years of experience working with US and Israel companies. Gratitude to Family and Friends of Armed forces.SHARE THIS:
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| Leave a Comment » THE “LITERARY” CADETS – “SHANGHAIED” AND “SHIPPED”March 16, 2020
PROLOGUE
In Nautical Parlance – “SHANGHAI”means to enroll or
obtain (a sailor) for the crew of a ship by unscrupulous means, as by force or the use of liquor or drugs. The practice of SHANGHAIING dates back to the 1800s and the age of sailing ships. Ships needed crews – but working conditions on ships were so bad that crews were often obtained by trickery, bribery, force and outright kidnapping – or by getting a man drunk till he passed out or by drugging him to sleep – and then – abducting him on board the ship. When the man woke up after a few hours the ship would be sailing on the high seas – and the hapless“SHANGHAIED”
sailor
could do nothing except complete the voyage. The nautical term “TO SHANGHAI”may
have its origins in view of the fact that SHANGHAI (China) was the most common destination of the ships for which such abducted sailors were forcibly conscripted by unscrupulous methods to collect crews for ships sailing from England/America to Shanghai which was considered the most long, risky and difficult sea voyage for which it was difficult to assemble crews since sailors were not willing to sail for such and long, hard and dangerous voyage. The meaning of the has since become more generic and in broad terms the word “SHANGHAI”means to induce or
compel someone to do something by trickery. STORY OF “LITERARY” CADETS – “SHANGHAIED” AND “SHIPPED” TO THE LITERARY FESTIVAL HUMOR AT THE LITERARY FESTIVAl A SPOOF BY VIKRAM KARVE MILITARY LIFE – A CRAZY AFFAIR Many years ago – much before I joined the Navy – when I was in school – I read a book called CATCH-22 I am glad I read this inimitable war novel – which marvelously brought out the rather bizarre aspects of military life. “CATCH-22” helped me understand military life – and it saved me from going crazy during my long navy career. While I was in the Navy – almost every moment – I saw similar characters – and parallel situations – like those in Catch-22. Life in the military is a crazy affair – universally – and I marvel at the ingenious way in which Joseph Heller has portrayed this “craziness in uniform” in his all-time classic World War II novel“Catch-22”.
Now – even after my retirement – whenever I come across “Faujis” and “Faujans” – I realize that nothing much has changed in the military – and – in fact – things in the “Fauj” are going even crazier day-by-day. Well – in Military Parlance – “Fauj” is a generic term for the Military – Army, Navy and Air Force – and hence – a “Fauji” is a Military Man – and a “Faujan” is a Military Wife. (By the way – it was an Army Wife who introduced me to the term“Faujan”…).
Coming back to “Catch-22” – let me tell you about a hilarious vignette that I witnessed a few years ago at the Pune International Literary Festival _aka__ _PILF “ORDERED” TO HAVE A “GOOD TIME” But – before I do that – I shall briefly summon up an amusing anecdote from Chapter 3 of “Catch-22” – which has a remarkable similarity to the incident I am going to describe. A “pen-pusher” Colonel from Rear-Headquarters comes to a frontline airbase – and the Colonel peremptorily orders Combat Officers to attend USO entertainment shows. The Military Bureaucracy back home has organized these USO shows to raise the morale of the officers fighting the war. However – the combat-weary officers are least interested in watching these boring USO shows. The officers just want to survive the war – complete their required combat missions – and go home in one piece at the end of their tourof duty.
The only thing that will “raise the morale” of these warfighting officers is “orders shipping them home” – not USO entertainmentshows.
So – in a “role reversal” – as per directives of higher-ups who have arranged these USO Troupes – the Colonel orders all Officers to attend these USO shows in full strength in order to “boost the morale of the artists” of the USO troupes. The Colonel assembles all officers and gives them a “pep talk”. Referring to the USO troupe artists – the Colonel says: “…these people are your guests – they have traveled over three thousand miles to entertain you. How will they feel if nobody wants to go out and watch them…? What’s going to happen to their morale? … I WANT EVERY ONE OF YOU WHO ISN’T SICK ENOUGH TO BE IN A HOSPITAL TO GO TO THAT USO SHOW RIGHT NOW AND HAVE A GOOD TIME – AND THAT’S AN ORDER…” The Officers were not interested in attending the USO show. But – they were being “ordered” by the Colonel to go to the USO show and have a “good time” Yes – the Colonel was ordering his officers to “enjoy a boring event” – like the USO show – just to boost the morale of theartists.
Ha Ha Ha – what an irony: INSTEAD OF THE ENTERTAINERS BOOSTING THE MORALE OF OFFICERS – THE OFFICERS ARE ASKED TO BOOST THE MORALE OF THE ENTERTAINERS. The Colonel was not concerned about the morale of his own troops. He was more interested in the morale of the artists (who had come all the way to boost the morale of the soldiers by entertaining them by a USO show in which the troops were least interested). Ha Ha – the demoralized Officers were being ordered to boost the “morale” of those who had come to raise the Officers’ morale. It is true – IN THE MILITARY – YOU CAN BE “ORDERED” TO HAVE A“GOOD TIME”.
Such incidents happened many times during my Navy days – when we were ordered to attend events which we were least interested in watching – just to boost the “morale” of those who had come toraise our morale.
It must have been in similar style that: CADETS WERE ORDERED TO GO TO THE LITERARY FESTIVAL– TO BOOST THE “MORALE” OF THE AUTHOR – WHO HAD WRITTEN A BOOK – TO BOOST THE “MORALE” OF THE CADETS. “SHANGHAIED AND SHIPPED” TO THE LITERARY FESTIVAL As I told you earlier – a few years ago – I attended the Pune International Literary Festival – a truly delightful event. ON THE LAST DAY OF THE LITERARY FESTIVAL – A SUNDAY AFTERNOON – THERE WAS A BOOK LAUNCH OF A “MILITARY NOVEL” ON CADET LIFE. The author is an accomplished creative writer – a successful novelist – and – in her earlier days – she was a prolific writer of short fiction – and I loved reading her stories published in manymagazines.
Also – the author is a “Faujan” (Military Wife – or rather – a Veteran Military Wife). So – who better than a “Fauji” Army General to launch her book (a “Literary” General). Oh yes – for the book launch – along with the “LITERARY” GENERAL – there was a “Creative” Police Officer too – who regaled the audience with yarns from his police academy days. Well – the book launch was at 3 PM in the afternoon – and we sat eagerly in the hall – waiting for the event to start. Suddenly – we saw one of the organizers going berserk – a young girl – who frantically asked us to move forward as she screamedcrazily:
“WE NEED 300 CHAIRS – THE CADETS ARE COMING – THE CADETS ARE COMING – 300 NDA CADETS ARE COMING…” I am sure you know that “NDA” is the acronym for the elite “National Defence Academy” located at Khadakwasla near Pune. The panicky shouts of the girl: “NDA CADETS ARE COMING – NDA CADETS ARE COMING…” this reminded me of the Hollywood Comedy Movie that I had seen 50 years ago in the 1960’s: “THE RUSSIANS ARE COMING – THE RUSSIANS ARE COMING…” I was flabbergasted. NDA Cadets – in a Literary Festival – it was unbelievable. Why on earth would NDA Cadets want to waste a precious Sunday afternoon at a Literary Festival – when they could enjoy their well-earned “liberty” – gallivanting on Main Street (MG Road) or Fergusson College (FC) Road – or “birdwatching” in a Mall – or watching a movie in a Multiplex…? NDA Cadets on a Sunday afternoon at a Literary Festival…?It was baffling.
There could be two possible explanations for this. VERSION 1: _(Highly Unlikely)_ NOWADAYS – THINGS HAVE CHANGED FROM YESTERYEAR – AND – NDA IS FULL OF “LITERARY” CADETS. Now – these budding “litterateurs” were extremely keen to spend their Sunday afternoon liberty time attending a Literary Festival rather than having a good time hanging out in Pune or sleeping intheir cabins.
VERSION 2: _(Most Likely)_ THE “LITERARY” GENERAL HAD “DESIRED” THAT HE WANTED TO SEE A “HOUSE-FULL” – HE WANTED THE ENTIRE HALL PACKED WITH “CAPTIVE” AUDIENCE – WHEN HE LAUNCHED THE BOOK. So all Cadets enjoying their Sunday afternoon siesta in their cabins were rudely woken up – and – they were rounded up – and “shanghaied” into a bus – which brought them straight to the Literary Festival venue in time for the book launch – to fill up the hall with a “captive audience” A witty young “faujan” sitting next to me commented that cadets were being given a taste of the “fauji” life they were going to face later as officers – when they would be on duty 24/7 – even in salubrious peacetime stations – and most of their Sundays would beruined
We waited with trepidation for the onslaught of cadets – but there were no cadets visible even till 3:15 PM. It seems that punctuality is no longer the hallmark of the defenceservices.
The organizers waited for some time – and – at 3:20 – they decided to start the event. However – the “Literary” General and “Faujan” Author wanted the NDA Cadets to be present when they launched the book. So – the “Faujan” Author spent time in “small talk” about how her “Fauji” husband had inspired her to write about CadetLife.
It was quite clear who was the “protagonist” in her novel – maybe the “Fauji” husband wanted vicarious creative fulfilment – and he had asked his accomplished “Faujan” wife to write his “slice of life” story. Around 15 minutes later – well past 3:30 PM – the NDA cadetsarrived.
When asked why NDA Cadets had arrived more than 30 minutes late – we were told a “Tall Story” that the NDA bus had broken down midway. Maybe the NDA bus had really broken down – but this was quite unlikely in view of the high standards of vehicle maintenance in the Military – especially NDA. Or – more likely – it had taken a considerable amount of time to search and round up “volunteers” – to have a “good time” at the literary event – since most cadets must have gone into hiding – trying to escape from being “shanghaied” to the literaryfestival.
This second explanation seems more likely – since – instead of the much touted figure of 300 cadets – there were just around 50 “literary” cadets – who the NDA authorities had finally managed to “capture” and “shanghai” to the literary event. _(It is also possible that some cadets may have “escaped” to Pune City when the bus broke down midway on its journey to the literaryfestival)._
The noisy cadets – dressed in the prescribed “mufti” civil uniform – soon settled down – and the book launch began in right earnest – and the book was released from its gift wrapping. The “Faujan” Author spoke about her book – and her earlier one – both stories based on cadet life in the premier military academies– NDA and IMA.
The “Literary” General narrated “memoirs” of his NDA days. Not to be left behind – the “Creative” Cop harked back to his Police Academy days. It seemed that these reminiscences certainly struck a chord with the “captive” audience – who were probably “enjoying” similar experiences during cadet training at the academy. Suddenly – the “Faujan” Author saw a “celebrated” novelist sitting in the audience. The “Faujan” Author invited the “celebrated” writer on stage. The “celebrated” Writer told us that – many years ago – he too had been selected for NDA by the Services Selection Board (SSB) – but – he was rejected on medical grounds. The Writer lamented that had he been medically fit – he would have joined the “XXX” course of NDA – and – he wondered what rank would he have achieved had he joined the NDA. A smart young man in the audience stood up and he said that he was from the same “XXX” course – and he informed us that was aLieutenant Colonel.
The “Literary” General commented to the “Celebrated” Novelist that – maybe his getting medically rejected was a “blessing indisguise”.
I wonder what the “Literary” General implied…? Was the “Literary” General saying that the Writer would not have been able to achieve much in the Army (“Fauj”)…? Or – was the “Literary” General saying that – being a Published Author is much better – than being a run-of-the-mill “Fauji” Army Officer…? The cadets were listening intently. Or – at least – the cadets were making a pretence of attentiveness– because:
_WHEN YOU ARE A CADET – YOU EVEN LEARN TO SLEEP WITH YOUR EYES WIDEOPEN_.
The “Faujan” Author read out interesting excerpts from her novelon cadet life.
Then – there was a quiz for the cadets – and winners were given autographed copies of the book. And – all of a sudden – the organizers announced that time was up – and the next event was about to begin in the same hall. And so – the literary event ended. All’s well that ends well. THE EX-NDA NAVY VETERAN AUTHOR I walked down to the lawns to attend another event of interest to “Faujis” – a book reading by a Retired Naval Officer who was the first Indian to circumnavigate the world solo under sail. Yes – this redoubtable Navy Officer had achieved this awesome maritime conquest of sailing around the globe in a sailboat all alone – solo – and the Navy Commander had written a fascinating account of his adventures on the high seas during his solo circumnavigation of the earth in a boat. I thought the NDA cadets would be interested in hearing the Navy Veteran narrate his nautical adventures first-hand from his book – especially since the Veteran Naval Officer was an ex-NDA cadet. But – the NDA cadets were nowhere to be seen. The NDA Cadets had attended the book launch of a “Faujan” MilitaryWife Author.
But – these same NDA Cadets were conspicuous by their absence at the Book Reading by an ex-NDA Navy Veteran – who was narrating his fascinating experiences at Sea – while circumnavigating the globesolo under sail.
Maybe – the NDA Cadets were not attending this ex-NDA Navy Veteran’s book reading – because they had not been “ordered”to do so.
But – the NDA Cadets had attended the Military Wife’s book launch because they had been “ordered” to do so. In the Military – you blindly obey “orders” – you never use your discretion – even in literary matters. Since the NDA Cadets were not “ordered” to attend the ex-NDA Navy Veteran’s book reading – most probably – the NDA Cadets had rushed to Pune City to enjoy what was left of the Sunday“liberty”.
Or – maybe – the NDA Cadets had been “shanghaied” right back into the bus – and transported back to NDA – now that their “Mission Book Launch” was over. Also – I had expected the “Literary” General to attend the book reading session of his “brother” ex-NDA Navy Officer and listen to his fantastic seafaring exploits. However – I saw “Literary General” driving off arrogantly in his“staff car”.
The ex-NDA General had no time for his fellow ex-NDA Officer who had written a fascinating book on his Navy adventure sailing alone on the high seas circumnavigating the globe. Maybe – the “Literary General” had to attend to his more pressing Sunday Evening “Duties”. Introspecting of the conspicuous absence of the ex-NDA General, NDA Cadets and ex-NDA Officers at their fellow ex-NDA Naval Officer’s book reading – and that too – a book on a Real Life Naval Adventure – I wondered: _WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO ALL THAT “CAMARADERIE” – THAT EX-NDA OFFICERS BOAST ABOUT…?_ Hey – I am digressing. This story was about military life – “humor in uniform” – about how you are “ORDERED” TO “VOLUNTEER” – like the NDA cadets who apparently had been commandeered and transported to the Pune International Literary Festival –“SHANGHAIED” AND “SHIPPED” – to the book launch – and – “ORDERED” TO HAVEA “GOOD TIME”.
In the Literary Festival – on the one hand – I observed the languid NDA cadets – and in contrast – I looked at the lively College Students of the same age group. And – I realized – that – though the world has moved on ahead – the Military is still stuck in the past Yes – the Defence Services seem to be stuck in an antiquated “time warp” – at least culturally. I was reminded of many such episodes in my Navy life – when we too were “detailed” to “volunteer” – and I must tell you about them – but not now – maybe some other time – right here – inmy blog.
That’s the beauty of Military Life – you learn to have a “good time” – even when you are “ordered” to do so. And – if you are thinking of joining the Armed Forces and having a life in uniform – do read “Catch-22” – it will save you fromgoing crazy.
VIKRAM KARVE
Copyright © Vikram Karve 1. If you share this post, please give due credit to the author VikramKarve
2. Please DO NOT PLAGIARIZE. Please DO NOT Cut/Copy/Paste this post VIKRAM KARVE., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.DISCLAIMER:
* This story is a fictional spoof, satire, pure fiction, just for fun and humor, no offence is meant to anyone, so take it with a pinch of salt and have a laugh. * All Stories in this Blog are a work of fiction. Events, Places, Settings and Incidents narrated in the stories are a figment of my imagination. The characters do not exist and are purely imaginary. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.COPYRIGHT NOTICE:
No part of this Blog may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the Blog Author Vikram Karve who holds the copyright. COPYRIGHT © VIKRAM KARVE (ALL RIGHTS RESERVED) Link to my original post in my Blog Academic and Creative Writing Journal Vikram Karve: http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2016/08/humor-in-uniform-ordered-to-have-good.html VIKRAM KARVE., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. This is a revised re-post of my story SHANGHAIED TO THE LITERARY FESTIVAL posted online by me Vikram Karve earlier in my blog Academic and Creative Writing Journal on Sep 10, 2015 at url: HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2015/09/HUMOR-IN-UNIFORM-SHANGHAIED-TO-LITERARY.HTML and revised and reposted at url: https://karve.wordpress.com/2017/08/17/humor-in-uniform-how-to-shanghai-and-ship/and
HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2016/05/HUMOR-IN-UNIFORM-LITERARY-FAUJIS.HTMLSHARE THIS:
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| Leave a Comment » WHAT IS A “MUTINY”…?March 16, 2020
MUTINY
_Musings of a Navy Veteran by Vikram Karve_ PART 1 – WHAT IS A MUTINY…? You must have heard of the famous MUTINY ON THE BOUNTYand probably
read books and seen the movies made on this mutiny too. Mutinies have happened on various Navies of the world from timeimmemorial.
What is a mutiny…? Section 42 of the Navy Actdefines Mutiny
as given below:
_Section 42 in The Navy Act, 1957_ _42. Mutiny defined.—Mutiny means any assembly or combination of two or more persons subject to naval law, the Army Act, 1950 (46 of 1950), or the Air Force Act, 1950 (45 of 1950), or between persons two at least of whom are subject to naval law or any such Act,—_ _(a) to overthrow or resist lawful authority in the Navy, regular Army or Air Force or any part of any one or more of them or any forces co-operating therewith or any part thereof; or_ _(b) to disobey such authority in such circumstances as to make the disobedience subversive of discipline or with the object of avoiding any duty or service against, or in connection with operations against,the enemy; or_
_(c) to show contempt to such authority in such circumstances as to make such conduct subversive of discipline; or_ _(d) to impede the performance of any duty or service in the Navy, regular Army or Air Force or any part of any one or more of them or any forces co-operating therewith or any part thereof._ —————————————————— As per the above definition – mutiny requires involvement of two or more persons subject to Naval/Military Law – so – it is a collective activity. Apart from the Mutiny on the Bounty mentioned above – there have been many famous Naval and Military Mutinies – some of which have changed the course of history – like the mutiny of the Russian BATTLESHIP POTEMKINin 1905
which is considered the first step towards the RUSSIAN REVOLUTIONwhich happened in
1917.
It is believed that the ROYAL INDIAN NAVY MUTINYin 1946 by
sailors made the British realize that they could not rule India any longer and hastened the process of granting Independence to India. _(That is why this Mutiny is also called a War of Independence)_ The Indian Navy has been relatively free of mutinies except for the TOPASS MUTINY . _The infamous “Topass Mutiny” of 1970 occurred when some sailors in the Western Fleet refused to clean latrines_ _– after the abolition of the Navy’s Topass branch._ _(The term __TOPASS__ or
topaze was first applied to the offspring of Portuguese men and South Asian women. At one time these Euro-Asians formed a sizeable proportion of the population of Goa and other Portuguese colonies. Many assumed their father’s religion and profession as soldiers. Referred to as ‘black Christians’, they were highly valued in infantry and artillery units)_ _The “Topass” Sailors perform the more menial tasks for the crew._ _The Topass Mutiny led to the repeal of the unpopular decision to abolish the Topass branch._ Bad man-management led to a similar type of mutiny on board the cruiser Mysore in 1972. Whereas – the Topass Mutinyled to the repeal
of the unpopular decision to abolish the Topass Branch – the Mysore Mutiny resulted in the appointment of a Board of Inquiry – as a result of which a large number of participants were sacked. It was also the end of career for a number of senior and promising officers._References:_
_For further details please read the article by __Admiral JG Nadkarni__ on __Modern
Day Mutiny __ (url
link ahead) -> __https://m.rediff.com/news/1998/mar/14nad1.htm_ Article on History of Indian Navy->
url
-> https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/india/in-navy-history.htm _An internet search revealed another interesting article on the subject (url link ahead) -> __https://www.deccanchronicle.com/opinion/op-ed/200317/can-indian-navy-afford-a-mutiny.html_ During my long service in the Navy – we did not hear of any mutiny. There may have been isolated incidents of indiscipline – but not amutiny.
The 3 Naval Mutinies mentioned above (RIN/Topass/Mysore) had a limitedeffect.
The RIN MUTINY
probably
hastened the process of granting Independence to India. And – the TOPASS MUTINYled to the repeal
of the unpopular decision to abolish the Topass branch. However – some Naval Mutinies have had significant effect and even have altered the course of history. PART 2 – FAMOUS NAVAL MUTINIES Famous NAVY MUTINIES(that changed
History)
* The Mutiny on the Bounty * The Potemkin Mutiny * The Hermione Mutiny * Henry Hudson and the Discovery Mutiny* The Kiel Mutiny
* The SS Columbia Eagle Mutiny The 1789 MUTINY ON THE BOUNTY saw a rebellious crew hijack their ship and build their own island community. Led by the Master’s Mate (Second-in-Command) Fletcher Christian – the Mutineers forced their Master (Commanding Officer) Captain Bligh and 18 loyalists into a small launch and abandoned them at sea. _(Captain Bligh would go on to weather two more mutinies during his long naval career). _Now in command of the Bounty, the mutineers sailed to various islands in the South Pacific in search of a safe place to hide. Finally – in January 1790 – the mutineers settled on Pitcairn – an isolated island in the South Pacific. The last of the mutineers died on Pitcairn in 1829 – but descendants of Bounty mutineers still live on the island to this day. The POTEMKIN MUTINY was sparked by a mundane argument over food – the Potemkin Mutiny became one of the pivotal events in the 1905 Russian Revolution. The revolt occurred during the Russo-Japanese War when the 700 crewmen of the battleship Potemkin were given poor quality food. When they protested – they were told to eat their food or face extreme punishment – the sailors rebelled. The crew killed nearly half the ship’s officers in a bloody shootout before commandeering their ship Potemkin. Russia’s Black Sea fleet was soon mobilized to crush the mutineers – but their crews were sympathetic to the plight of the Potemkin sailors – and refused to fire on them. The Mutineers sailed for 11 days before finally surrendering the battleship in Romania. Most of the crewmen remained in exile there – but some returned to Russia and were arrested and executed. The Potemkin Mutiny was a significant influence on the 1917 revolution that led to the creation of the Soviet Union. The HERMIONE MUTINY on Royal Navy Ship Hermione – on 21 September 1797 in the Caribbean – was probably the bloodiest mutiny in British Naval History. Furious at the draconian punishments meted out by their Captain – the sailors – many drunk on rum – launched a coordinated attack on their superiors. The mutineers stabbed their Captain to death in his cabin and then proceeded to brutally slaughter several officers. The mutineers sailed to Venezuela and agreed to hand over Hermione over to the Spanish in exchange for asylum. Hermione would go on to sail under the Spanish flag until 1799 – when the British Royal Navy Ship HMS Surprise recaptured it in a daring nightraid.
In 1610 HENRY HUDSON led his ship DISCOVERY to the frozen waters of modern-day Canada in an attempt to find a new western route to Asia. Their ship became lodged in pack ice, forcing them to spend a treacherous winter ashore. By time the ice had finally cleared in early 1611 – the men’s morale was dangerously low. Hudson wanted to continue his mission – but he had alienated his crew – many of whom believed the Captain was hoarding food. Starving and desperate to return home – the crew mutinied. After commandeering the ship – the Sailors forced Hudson, his Son and 7 other men into a small boat – and abandoned them in the Hudson Bay. The mutineers then steered Discovery toward England – but along the way most of them succumbed to disease. The fate of Hudson and his fellow castawaysremains a mystery.
The KIEL MUTINY in the German Navy sparked the German Revolution and the end of World War I. The mutiny began in October 1918 when Germany’s exhausted sailors learned of a plan to launch a last-ditch attack against the British Royal Navy. The sailors were unwilling to take part in what they saw as a suicide mission – crews refused to prepare their ships for battle. The mutiny proved contagious and similar uprisings soon sprang up throughout Germany. Within a matter of days the German war effort crumbled and Kaiser Wilhelm II abdicated his throne – paving the way for the eventual rise of the WiemarRepublic.
The SS COLUMBIA EAGLE MUTINY happened during the Vietnam War. In March 1970 2 Sailors held their Captain at gunpoint and commandeered the supply ship Columbia Eagle. Abandoning most of the crew in lifeboats – the two mutineers changed course and steered toward the neutral nation of Cambodia – and the mutineers informed authorities that they had seized the ship and its cargo of 10,000 tons of napalm as an act of protest against the Vietnam War. Initially given asylum – the two mutineers found themselves prisoners – one was later released and surrendered at the U.S. embassy – while the other escaped and was reportedly executed by the guerrillas in 1971. SS Columbia Eagle was returned to American authorities. _Reference: Famous Naval Mutinies_
_Click the link below to read more…_ _https://www.history.com/news/6-famous-naval-mutinies_
Link to My Source Blog Post : What is Mutiny…? : https://karve.wordpress.com/2020/02/10/what-is-mutiny/SHARE THIS:
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| Leave a Comment » MUSINGS OF A VETERANMarch 15, 2020
ZEST FOR LIFE
RETIREMENT MUSINGS BY VIKRAM KARVE Around 36 years ago – in the 1980’s – when I was travelling by the Deccan Queen – I was pleasantly surprised to see my uncle whowas in the Army.
He was delighted to see me too. I changed my seat – so that I could sit next to him on the 3 hour journey from Pune to Mumbai. He told me that he had retired from the Army on superannuation a few days ago as a Major General. Then – he said that he had taken up a job in Pune – in the industry – and – he was going for a Training Course. “Training…? You are undergoing training at this age…?” I askedhim, surprised.
“Well – I am only 56…” he said. _(Those days Major Generals retired on superannuation at the age of 56 – later the age of superannuation was increased by 2 years for all officer ranks – and now – Major Generals retire at the age of 58)_ “You are 56 – and – you want to take up a new job…?” I askedhim.
“Why not…? I still feel young – and – I want to work – in fact – I am most enthusiastic about this new job – there is so much I want to do…” “Which firm are you joining…? I asked him. He told me the name of the industrial firm – it was a famous and reputed organization – probably the largest in Pune – or even inIndia.
“Oh – that’s great…” I said, “so – what are you joiningas…?”
“DGM – Deputy General Manager – I will be working in HR andTraining…”
“You are joining as a mere DGM…?” “Yes – why are you looking so surprised…?” “You were heading a premier military training establishment…” Isaid.
“That was before I retired. Now – I have to unlearn all my military training and begin afresh. And – by the way – I am only 56 – and it is never too late to start learning…” he said. He talked with passion about his new job in “Civvy Street”. I was impressed by childlike enthusiasm. Despite having “retired” – he had a “zest for living”. I had a few classmates who worked in the same industrial firm which myuncle had joined.
A few weeks later – we had a get-together of classmates – and – I asked them about my uncle. They were full of praise for him – the way he had rejuvenated the training in that organization – his MBWA _(Management By WalkingAround)_ Style.
_(Most Senior HR Executives never walked on the Shop-Floors talking toWorkers)_
My friends said that all workers were all really impressed by my uncle – his positive approach and style of working. Those days – I was on a ship based in Mumbai – so – whenever my ship was in port – I often came down to Pune on weekends. On one such visit – I happened to see my uncle getting down from hiscompany bus.
Yes – he was travelling in his company bus. _(his company was known to be rather “egalitarian”)_ A person who was used to Staff Cars during his Army Career – he had no qualms commuting to work by modest Bus. Also – those days – in Pune – the “industrial off” was onThursdays.
So – and all industries worked on Saturday and Sunday. Hence – though it was a “weekend” for me – for my uncle – itwas a working day.
I ran across and greeted my uncle. He was happy to see me too. “So – have you come to Pune on weekend…?” he asked me. “Yes…” I said, “And you…? How come you are getting downhere…?”
“I wanted to do some shopping – then I will walk home…” hesaid.
_(His home was around 3 Kms away)_ “Let’s have a cup of tea…” I said. “Of course – where…?” he said, enthusiastically. “How about Café “Good Luck”…?” “Great choice – nothing to beat a good cup of Irani Chai…” We walked down to Café “Good Luck” – and soon – we were sitting at a window table relishing the delicious tea. I pulled out my cigarette packet. “Wow – “Benson and Hedges”…?” my uncle exclaimed. “We get them “Duty-Free” on board ship…” I said – and – I offered him a cigarette. “Well – actually speaking – I have quit smoking a long time ago – but then – this is a special occasion – I think it calls for a smoke – so – I will make an exception…” my uncle said – and he took a cigarette from the pack I had proffered towards him. He spoke excitedly – about his work – about his plans to introduce new innovations in training – about his visits to campuses for recruitment – he really seemed to be enjoying his job – and he was eagerly looking forward to implementing all his ideas and doing goodwork.
I told him that my classmates were full of praise for him and appreciated his working style. My uncle seemed pleased on hearing this – and – he said to me: “I am so happy that youngsters like my work – but – you must ask them for honest feedback too – so that I can continuallyimprove…”
“Yes – I will ask them and tell you…” I said to him. “I wouldn’t mind meeting them informally – youngsters have great ideas and I can always learn from them…” he said. I said that I would arrange a “party” on my next visit – and he heartily agreed to come. After tea – we parted – and – I saw my uncle walk away with a spring in his step at such a brisk pace – a speed that even youngsters would find it difficult to walk. I was truly amazed at his “zest for living”. Yes – even after his “superannuation” from the Army – instead of “calling it a day” and living a “retired” life – he was enjoying his “second innings” with a childlike enthusiasm – enjoying – “living” – every moment of his life. Yes – despite his advancing years – he really had a “zest forlife”.
A few days later – I got a telephone call. “There is sad news…” the voice at the other end said. “Grandfather…?” I asked. _(my old grandfather was bedridden with prolonged illness)_ “No. It is your Uncle…” the relative on the phone said. “Which Uncle…?” I asked him. “The one who was in the Army…” he said. “What…? The one who was a Major General and is now working in “XXX” company…?” I asked. “Yes. He died last night…” he said. “But how is that possible…? I met him a few days ago. We had tea together. He was “hale and hearty” and very cheerful. In fact – I was going to have a party for him with my classmates – and he had promised to come. How could he die so suddenly…?” I asked him. “He died peacefully in his sleep. They say it was a heart attack…” he said. “Oh My God – it is very sad – I can’t believe it…” I said. “His funeral is a 5 PM in the evening…” he said. “I am starting right now – I will be there…” I said. There were a large number of people to pay respects to the departed soul – his Army Colleagues – mostly Veterans and a few “Top Brass” – a large number of coworkers from his company – friendsand well-wishers.
I felt very sad.
He was not ready for death. He wanted to do so many things in life. He had such a “zest for living”. He did not want to die.He wanted to live.
But – death snatched him away. However – looking at it from another angle – he died happy. He had not “hung up his boots” (as they say) He “died with his boots on”…!!! He died when he never expected to die. He must have gone to sleep thinking about the exciting things he was going to do the next day. But – he never woke up to do those heartening things he was lookingforward to doing.
Is there a happier way to die than this…? Isn’t it best to die when you still have a “zest for life”…? _I too want to die when I still have a zest for life._ _I don’t want to live when I have lost the zest for living._ Dear Reader: What about you…?PART 2
CONTINUED FROM MUSINGS OF A VETERAN – PART 1 – ZEST FOR LIFE _During my days in the Navy (the Military Navy) – which is considered to be a “dangerous” profession – I never had thoughtsof “death”._
_And now – as a Navy Veteran – in the relative “safety” of retirement – thoughts of “death” sometimes come to my mind._ _Quite ironic – isn’t it…?_ _And – during those moments when I think of death – I indulge in philosophical ruminations on life and death…_ RUMINATIONS ON LIFE AND DEATH BY VIKRAM KARVE AM I READY FOR “DEPARTURE”…? At the end of Part 1 “Zest for Life” – I had concluded: _“I want to die when I still have a zest for life._ _I don’t want to live when I have lost the zest for living…”_ Now – let me introspect. At this very moment – as a “young” senior citizen in my mid 60’s – I still have a “zest for living”. But – how long will my “zest for living” last…? As you grow old – just like a machine cannot always remain in “tip top” condition – your body also ages and becomes old – and you start having age-related health issues. There are “aches” and “pains” – and – you can’t do all the things you could easily do in your younger days. I love to eat – but my teeth are no longer in the best of condition to eat all types of food that I used to eat earlier – and I have tobe careful.
I have to wear reading glasses – and rest my eyes from time to time – to avoid “dry-eye”. I have to take care not to over-exert myself and exercise moderately. But – all said and done – I still have a “ZEST FOR LIFE” I haven’t sunk into “GERIATRIC DEPRESSION” – though – once in a while –“GERONTOPHOBIA” creates negative thoughts within me – especially when I see old people in misery. I have heard many such miserable old people lament: “OLD AGE IS A CURSE” All this makes me say to myself: “I WANT TO DIE WHEN I STILL HAVE A ZEST FOR LIFE – and – I DON’T WANT TO LIVE WHEN I HAVE LOST THE ZEST FOR LIVING…” And then – I ask myself: “AM I READY FOR “DEPARTURE” FROM THIS WORLD…?” Let me introspect and try to answer this “moot question”. THERE ARE 3 ASPECTS TO YOUR LIFE:1. Your WORK LIFE
2. Your SOCIAL/FAMILY LIFE 3. Your PERSONAL LIFELet me start with my “WORK LIFE” Am I ready for “departure”…? On the “career” front – my professional career is over – and – I am “useless”. I was not a “job hopper” – I spent my entire “working life”in the Navy.
A few years ago – I retired from the Navy on attaining the age of “superannuation”. Please note – I did not take voluntarily “pre-mature retirement” – but – I was honourably “pensioned-off” – since I had reached the “age of superannuation” – an age beyond which I was considered “useless” (superannuated). I have done whatever I was supposed to do in my vocation – and now – work-wise – I am redundant and “useless” – as far as my professional expertise is concerned. My “expertise” is no longer valued or required by anyone. So – I have nothing left to offer in my “trade-craft”. As far as my “profession” is concerned – I have done whatever I had to do – I have nothing left to do – and – I am ready for “departure” from this world. Yes – “professionally” – I am ready for “departure”. SO – AS FAR AS MY “WORK-LIFE” IS CONCERNED – I AM READY FOR “DEPARTURE”…!!! Now – let us see my status on the “FAMILY” FRONT – am I ready for “departure”…? As far as my family is concerned – my so-called “worldly” obligations are over. Both my children are pursuing their own professions and living their own independent lives. My children are self-sufficient. They no longer require me – nor do they need my assistance. In fact – I suspect that they consider me a “nuisance”. As far as my “Better Half” is considered – I have provisionedquite well for her.
In fact – strictly from the “materialistic” point of view – she will be much “better-off” after my “departure” – thanshe is now.
Moneywise – she will get a generous “family pension” – my savings – my investments – benefits of my insurance policies – and – of course – our house etc etc To put it in a nutshell – she will inherit “all my moveable and immovable property” – and “materialistically” – she will be quite well-off after my “departure” Of course – immediately after my “departure” – she may experience a bit of “administrative inconvenience” – she may miss me “administratively” for the various “jobs” and “chores” that I do as a dedicated “househusband” and her “manager” – paying bills, banking/financial management, daily household shopping etc. etc. – but – since she is intelligent and capable – and she is a quick learner – so – I am sure that she will be able to manage all her affairs very efficiently in due course. Emotionally – I really don’t know whether she will miss me too much – since ours is not a “love” marriage. I am quite a “solitary” person – especially after retirement – a “recluse” – a “loner” – but – unlike me – my “Better Half” is “gregarious” by nature – and hence – she fosters good relationships – she is so emotionally involved with her children/mother/sister/friends/relatives etc. etc. – that – she will forget me pretty quickly – and – she won’t miss me at all. To elucidate this point – let me give you an illustrative analogyfrom literature.
If you have read the inimitable novel CATCH-22 – in Chapter 31 – is vividly described – the story of MRS. DANEEKA – wife of DOC DANEEKA – who is declared “dead”. At first – on hearing the news of her husband’s “death” – Mrs. Daneeka is distraught. But soon – money starts flowing in – huge insurance amounts, widow’s pensions, various gratuities, ex-gratia payments, allowances and various types of monetary benefits – a substantial fortune – and – Mrs. Daneeka realizes that – STRICTLY FROM THE FINANCIAL POINT OF VIEW – SHE IS MUCH BETTER-OFF WITH HER HUSBAND DEAD –RATHER THAN ALIVE.
While – financially – she is cheered by her new measure of wealth – socially – not only does she gain sympathy – but she also experiences a new feeling of freedom. So – Mrs. Daneeka quickly overcomes the “grief” of her husband’s death – and – she moves on in life. In fact – sometime later – comfortably well-settled with her newfound wealth and social status – she appears to be pleased that her husband is dead. Just like the “happily ever after” story of the “bereaved” Mrs. Daneeka – I feel that it will be a similar story for my “Better Half” after I “depart”. In fact – I have seen this happen to many women – who become “better off” after their husbands “depart”. So – once my “Better-Half” becomes “Better-Off” (pardon the pun) – yes – when she becomes “better off” – hopefully – she will forget me pretty quickly – move on in life – and she won’t miss me at all. In fact – no one will miss me after I “depart”. Thanks to my “abrasive” personality, moody behaviour and petulant nature – very few people get along with me – in fact – no onelikes me.
Some may “tolerate” me – but no one “likes” me. My relatives don’t like me – and – I have no friends. The only “person” who loved me was my pet dog Sherry – but sadly – she passed away to her heavenly abode some time ago. In fact – Sherry loved me so much (and I loved her dearly too) – that she would have missed me terribly – if I had “departed”when she was alive.
But – as far as humans are concerned – no one will miss me after I“depart”.
HENCE – FROM THE “SOCIO-FAMILIAL” POINT OF VIEW – I AM READY FOR “DEPARTURE”…!!! _So – both from the “work/career” and “social/family” points of view – I have no “utility value” left – I have nothing left to offer – and – I am ready for “departure”._ Now – LET ME SEE WHETHER I AM “READY FOR DEPARTURE” ON THEPERSONAL FRONT.
Have I done whatever I had to do…? Have I nothing left to offer…?Let me think.
I have just one thing left to offer – my unwritten thoughts – my stories – the stories germinating and perambulating in my mind – the stories in my mind – waiting to be told. Yes – I have to tell the world all the stories germinating and resonating eagerly inside my brain – waiting to come out. That is the only thing left for me to do now – to tell my untoldstories.
I have to write all the stories in my mind and post them on my blog. That is all I have left to offer to this world – all my “unwritten writings” dwelling in my mind – my stories – my thoughts – my“wisdom”.
And once I have written all my stories and posted them on my blog – I will be truly ready for “departure”… Now – this is a mammoth task – because I have got so many untoldstories to tell.
So – Dear Reader – let me get busy – and let me write all the stories germinating and perambulating in my mind. And once I finish writing all my “unwritten stories” – and once I finish posting my stories on my blogs for everyone to read – as my legacy for posterity – then – I will be ready for “departure”. SO – FROM THE “PERSONAL” POINT OF VIEW – I AM NOT YET READY FOR “DEPARTURE”…!!! ONCE I FINISH WRITING ALL MY “UNWRITTEN STORIES” – I WILL BE READY FOR “DEPARTURE”._Dear Reader:_
_Tell me – are you ready for “departure”…?_VIKRAM KARVE
Copyright © Vikram Karve 1. If you share this post, please give due credit to the author VikramKarve
2. Please DO NOT PLAGIARIZE. Please DO NOT Cut/Copy/Paste this post VIKRAM KARVE., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.DISCLAIMER:
* This story is a fictional spoof, satire, pure fiction, just for fun and humor, no offence is meant to anyone, so take it with a pinch of salt and have a laugh. * All Stories in this Blog are a work of fiction. Events, Places, Settings and Incidents narrated in the stories are a figment of my imagination. The characters do not exist and are purely imaginary. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.COPYRIGHT NOTICE:
No part of this Blog may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the Blog Author Vikram Karve who holds the copyright. COPYRIGHT © VIKRAM KARVE (ALL RIGHTS RESERVED) Link to my source blog post in my blog: https://karve.wordpress.com/2017/08/16/philosophical-ruminations-of-a-veteran-am-i-ready-for-departure/ COPYRIGHT © VIKRAM KARVE (ALL RIGHTS RESERVED) Part 1 of this blog post ZEST FOR LIFE was written by me sometime ago and posted online by me at urls: http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2017/04/zest-for-life.html and https://karve.wordpress.com/2017/04/16/zest-for-living/ and the full blog was posted at urls: http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2017/04/are-you-ready-for-departure.htmland
https://karve.wordpress.com/2017/04/21/musings-of-a-veteran-are-you-ready-for-departureSHARE THIS:
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| Leave a Comment » HAVE I OUTLIVED MY “UTILITY”…?March 15, 2020
When you are a senior citizen – there are times when you feel lonely, depressed and unwanted – and you wonder whether you have outlived your “utility” and you are considered “useless” by society and everyone around you. This is how I am feeling right now. I feel that I have lost my “utility value” and I am“unwanted”.
So – I am posting a piece that reflects my inner feelings. I wrote this blog post around 6 years ago – in August 2014 – whenmy pet dog SHERRY
was
very ill.
Yes – Sherry fell ill in May 2014 – and her condition started deteriorating day by day. Around 7 months later – in December 2014 – SHERRYpassed
away and went to her heavenly abode. We nursed her for over 7 months – from 5 May 2014 – when she fell ill – till her last day in December – 17 December 2014. As I told you a few moments ago – I am feeling lonely, depressed and unwanted – and – I am wondering if I have lost my “utility value” and become useless. So – I thought that I would post this article which I wrote when Sherry was ill – you can gauge my emotions during those sad days. _(I wrote this blog post around 6 years ago in August 2014 – when Sherry was alive – but she was very ill – so you can gauge my emotions during those sad days. __Sherry passed away and went to her heavenly abode on 17 December 2014__…) _ Here is a picture of Sherry clicked in December 2012.MY DOG AND ME
_POIGNANT PONDERINGS OF A PET PARENT BY VIKRAM KARVE_MY DOG AND ME
Till Sherry came into my life – I did not know that a human could get so deeply emotionally attached to an animal. I never imagined that I would start loving my pet dog Sherry sodearly.
And – I never expected that Sherry would love me so devotedly and become an inseparable part of my life. For over 8 years – Sherry had been a tough healthy high-spiriteddog.
And suddenly – Sherry fell ill – very ill – and as she lay in a critical condition on the examination table in the veterinary clinic – a frail skeleton – almost a lifeless shadow of her former self – the veterinary doctors painted quite a dismal picture – her blood reports were haywire, she had severe pancreatitis, her abnormal sugar levels indicated she had diabetes – so she could not be operated upon for her severe PYOMETRA – things looked bad, very bad – it seemed that her chances of survival werequite bleak.
They gave us two choices: * Put her to sleep (Euthanasia or “mercy killing”) * Try our best to save her life and put in all our efforts and resources to nurse her out of her severe illness While the first choice was being contemplated – I looked atSherry.
Sherry looked at me. I cannot forget the poignant loving look in her eyes. I could read through the language of her eyes that Sherry wanted to live – the yearning look in her eyes indicated that she wanted to bewith us.
We too wanted Sherry to be with us for as long as possible. So we chose the second option – to try our best to save her life and nurse her back to health – and the next few days passed in a daze – daily visits to the veterinary clinic for Sherry’s treatment, her strict diet, her medicines, her twice a day injections of insulin – constantly sitting with Sherry, feeding her, talking to her and comforting her. It was on one of these days – late at night – while comforting Sherry who seemed to be in agony – while I was sitting with her and cuddling her – I switched on the TV – and what I saw was incredible – a fantastic coincidence. The scene in the movie on TV was a mirror image of what I was doing atthat moment.
Here – Sherry had put her head on my lap and I was lovinglycaressing her neck.
And on the screen – there was an old man and a dog sitting in exactly the same manner – and the man was lovingly fondling the dog exactly as I was fondling Sherry. Was it sheer coincidence, a quirk of serendipity – or was it an enigmatic message for me…? The scene on the TV screen before me was the episode of _“Candy and his Dog”_ from the movie _“Of Mice and Men”_.OF MICE AND MEN
One of the most poignant books I have read is _“OF MICE AND MEN”_ –
a novella written by JOHN STEINBECK – winner of the NOBELPRIZE IN LITERATURE
in 1962.
OF MICE AND MEN was published in 1937 and it was John Steinbeck’s first successful book that brought him fame as an author. The novella “Of Mice and Men” has been enacted as a play on stage. “OF MICE AND MEN”has also
been made into a movie _(which I was watching that evening on TV)_. The setting of the story is a ranch in California during the GreatDepression.
The narrative describes the volatile life on the ranch and the precarious relationships between human beings on the ranch – friendships and tensions between the migrant ranch workers (farmhands) themselves and also between the farmhands and the owners. One of the book’s major themes – and its most poignant sub plot – revolve around Candy and his dog.CANDY AND HIS DOG
It is said that a dog is a man’s best friend. This statement aptly describes the relationship between Candy and hisdog.
Candy has had his dog since he was a pup. His dog is his only friend and companion. Candy has been alongside his dog for all of the dog’s life – and he has had a close relationship with his dog. Candy remembers the time when he first got the dog. He always proudly tells everyone that his dog was the best sheepdog. Unfortunately – Candy’s dog – once a tough healthy impressive sheep herder – has now become blind, toothless, rheumatic, weak – and is in frail health due to old age. A dominant ranch worker says to the ranch boss – and to the other ranch-hands present – that Candy’s dog is so old that he can hardly walk, the dog has no teeth, the dog is blind and deaf, the dog cannot chew, so Candy feeds him milk – and he asks the ranch boss to tell Candy to shoot his old dog. All of them tell Candy that his dog is of no good to Candy – and the dog isn’t any good to itself too – since the animal is in misery due its old age infirmities – so why doesn’t Candy shoot the dog and relieve the dog of his suffering…? The ranch boss says that the dog is no good and remarks sarcastically: _“…I wish someone would shoot me if I got old and (became) acripple…”_
All the ranch workers suggest that it would be best to shoot Candy’sold dog.
After hearing everyone – the ranch boss decides that since the sick old dog is a useless burden – it would be best to end its suffering by shooting it dead. Candy is unable to “let go” – and he tries his best to hold on to his old blind, deaf and disabled dog for as long as possible. Candy reminisces and tells everyone about the dog. He describes the time when he first got the dog and mentions that it was the best sheepdog he has ever seen. Candy harks back to the time when both he and the dog were useful and of great value to the ranch – he was the best ranch handyman – and his dog was the best sheepherder. Now – Candy is crippled – as he has lost a hand in an accident – and he has become too old for vigorous work on the farm. And – Candy’s dog is in a similar situation – blind, deaf, disabled and too old to be of any use. Candy has had his dog since he was a puppy. His dog is his only friend and companion on the ranch – especially after Candy is crippled after losing his hand the accident. Candy pleads with everyone not to shoot the dog and begs to save thedog’s life:
_“…I am so used to him…I had him for so long…I had him since he was a pup…I herded sheep with him…You wouldn’t imagine if you look at him now – but he was the best sheep dog I have everseen…”_
But no one listens to his pleas – and the dominant worker called Carlson takes Candy’s dog outside to be shot and buried. Candy’s dog is “put to sleep” – and Candy is heartbroken when he hears the gunshot. UTILITY VALUE – FATE OF THE “USELESS” WHO HAVE OUTLIVED THEIRUSEFULNESS
The “mercy killing” of Candy’s Dog symbolizes the helplessness of valueless persons. The dog is a metaphor for Candy himself – old and crippled and not of much use to anyone. Maybe – for Candy – the fear he feels for his dog’s death is parallel to his own fear that when he has fulfilled his purpose and he is no long effectual – when he has outlived his utility – he too will be disposed of as readily as his dog. The story of Candy’s dog serves as a harsh reminder of the fate that awaits anyone who outlives his usefulness. To summarize – in the novel “OF MICE AND MEN” – John Steinbeck has portrayed a poignant situation: _The hapless ageing ranch worker Candy realizes that both he and his dog have “outlived their utility” – when he helplessly watches the cruel way in which his beloved dog is treated._ Candy’s dog was once a great sheepherder. But now the dog has become blind, deaf and disabled due to old age. The dog can no longer herd sheep. Candy’s dog has lost its usefulness – the dog no longer has “utility value”. So – since the dog has become “useless” – the dog is shotdead.
Candy finds himself in the same position as the dog. Candy realizes that just like his dog has lost its “utility value” – Candy himself has lost his “utility value. Candy is anxious – and he is worried about his own future – and he speculates whether he would be fired from his job. If they could get rid of a “useless” dog – what prevents them from getting rid of a “useless” worker…?ME AND MY DOG
There was a time when I was the sole breadwinner for my family. I provided for my family and I was “useful” to them. I worked as a Naval Officer and I was “useful” to the Navy. Today – after my retirement – as far as the Navy is concerned – I am a retired “Veteran” – and – I am not “useful” to the Navy anymore. Also – now – after my retirement – I am no longer the “breadwinner” of the family – and – my wife and children are financially independent. So – as far as my family is concerned – in the “material sense” – I am “useless”. As I told you earlier – I have a dog called Sherry. Once upon a time – Sherry was a great guard dog. Unfortunately – Sherry has been ill for the past few months. Today – Sherry is a blind diabetic dog – she has diabetes – and she has lost her vision due to her diabetes. Like Candy’s Dog – Sherry too has lost her “utility value”as a guard dog.
So – aren’t we in the same situation as “Candy and his Dog” – so poignantly described in John Steinbeck’s masterpiece novel “Of Mice and Men”…? I am “useless” – thanks to my retirement. Sherry is “useless” – owing to her illness. Me and My Dog Sherry – both of us have lost our “utility value”. Yes – both of us – Sherry and I – we have outlived our“utility”.
And – both of us have become “useless”. Is that why we are holding on to each other with so much love andaffection…?
_(I wrote this blog post around 6 years ago in August 2014 – when Sherry was alive – but she was very ill – so you can gauge my emotions during those sad days. Sherry passed away and went to her heavenly abode on 17 December 17 2014__…)_VIKRAM KARVE
Copyright © Vikram Karve 1. If you share this post, please give due credit to the author VikramKarve
2. Please DO NOT PLAGIARIZE. Please DO NOT Cut/Copy/Paste this post VIKRAM KARVE., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.DISCLAIMER:
All stories in this blog are a work of fiction. Events, Places, Settings and Incidents narrated in the story are a figment of my imagination. The characters do not exist and are purely imaginary. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.COPYRIGHT NOTICE:
No part of this Blog may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the Blog Author Vikram Karve who holds the copyright. COPYRIGHT © VIKRAM KARVE (ALL RIGHTS RESERVED) Link to my source blog post in my Blog Academic and Creative WritingJournal Vikram
Karve: https://karvediat.blogspot.com/2018/04/me-and-my-dog-sherry-poignant-memories.html VIKRAM KARVE., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Earlier Posted by me Vikram Karve under the title MY DOG AND ME in my academic creative writing journal blog at 8/03/201401:31:00 PM
at
url: HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2014/08/MY-DOG-AND-ME.HTMLand as a
part of the consolidated post on Pet Dog Parenting at url: HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2014/09/PET-DOG-PARENTING-VERSUS-OWNERSHIP-TIPS.HTML and HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2014/11/ME-AND-MY-DOG.HTML and HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2017/07/MY-DOG-AND-ME-POIGNANT-PONDERINGS-OF.HTML AND HTTPS://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.COM/2018/04/ME-AND-MY-DOG-SHERRY-POIGNANT-MEMORIES.HTML AND HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.COM/2017/07/MY-DOG-AND-ME-POIGNANT-PONDERINGS-OF.HTML AND HTTPS://KARVE.WORDPRESS.COM/2019/06/14/NOSTALGIC-MUSINGS-OF-MICE-AND-MEN/etc
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| Leave a Comment » WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF “DATING”…?March 15, 2020
DATING – IN A NUTSHELL Are you thinking of “Dating” someone…? Don’t “Date” unless you want to “Mate”. Yes – in a nutshell – that is my advice to you: DON’T “DATE” UNLESS YOU WANT TO “MATE” You don’t agree with me…? Looks like you are “out of date” on “Dating”. Let me give you a “refresher course” on “Dating”….DATING GUIDE
_Romantic Musings By __Vikram Karve _ WHAT IS “DATING”…? A “girl” asked me out on a “date”. Since – I am “out of date” on “dating” – I decided to re-check the meaning of the term “dating”. So – I “Googled” the word “Dating” – and the top hit was the Wikipedia Page on “Dating”. Here is the “definition” of “Dating” from the Wikipedia Page on Dating (accessed on 07March 2016):
_Dating is a part of the human mating process – whereby – two people meet socially for companionship – beyond the level of friendship –__ or with the aim of each assessing the other’s suitability as a partner in an intimate relationship or marriage._ Later – there is an elaboration: _One of the main purposes of dating is for two or more people to evaluate one another’s suitability as a long term companion orspouse._
From the definition of “dating” above – I surmise that: The principal objective of “Dating” is – “to assess the suitability of the “Dating Partner” – for an “Intimate Relationship” – or as a “Prospective Wife/Husband” THE AIM OF “DATING” IS TO ASSESS THE “SUITABILITY” OF THE “DATING PARTNER” FOR TWO PURPOSES: 1. FOR AN “INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP”. 2. AS A “PROSPECTIVE WIFE/HUSBAND”. So – in the light of the definition of dating – I reflected on the “moot question”: _“Should I accept the girl’s “dating proposal” and go out on a “date” with her…?”_ Well – let me ruminate on the two salient aspects of the “dating” definition: 1. DATING FOR MARRIAGE. 2. DATING FOR AN “INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP”.DATING FOR MARRIAGE
I am married.
In fact – I am “much married” for more than 37 years and 9 months to the same wife. And – I do not intend to divorce my wife and marry the “girl” who has asked me out for a “date”. Actually – even if I want to marry the “girl” – it may not be feasible – since my wife may not be very eager to divorce me. So – why should I waste time and resources “assessing” the girl’s “suitability” as a “prospective wife” – when I know that marrying her is not possible. Now – does the “girl” want to “date” me in order to assess my “suitability” as a “Prospective Husband”…? Well – you will have to ask her that. DATING FOR “INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP”I am married.
And – I am a conservative prude. Yes – Dear Reader – I am a “Puritan” Prude who believes in being totally faithful and loyal to my spouse and who thinks that infidelity and adultery are immoral sins. So – as far as having an extra-marital _“INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP”_ is concerned – it is out of the question – and – the less said the better. CAN I GO ON A “DATE” WITH THE “GIRL”…? Now – let me come back to the “moot question”: A “girl” has asked me out on a “date”. Should I accept the girl’s “dating proposal”…? Should I go out on a “date” with her…?” As far as going on a “date” with the “girl” is concerned – in light of the definition of dating – for me – both objectives of “dating” don’t seem to befeasible:
* I CANNOT MARRY THE GIRL – SINCE I AM ALREADY MARRIED _(LegalHurdle)_
* I AM NOT INCLINED TO HAVE AN “INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP” WITH THE GIRL – OWING TO MY CONSERVATIVE MORAL VALUES _(Ethical Hurdle)_ So – due to legal and ethical considerations – for me – both options are closed – yes – “MARRIAGE” and “INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP” – both not feasible with the girl who is asking meout on a date.
So – sadly – for me – the pleasure of “dating” is ruledout.
CAN YOU TAKE YOUR WIFE OR HUSBAND ON A DATE…? Well – you may console me and say: “Why don’t you take your wife out on a “date”…?” Come on – don’t be crazy. Do you want me to assess the “suitability” of my own wife for an “intimate relationship” – after being married to her for over 37 years and Nine months…? A “DATELESS” LIFE So – in a nutshell: “DATING” IS RULED OUT FOR ME – BOTH INSIDE MARRIAGE AND OUTSIDE MARRIAGE.Yes:
NO “INTRA-MARITAL” DATING FOR ME.and
NO “EXTRA-MARITAL” DATING for me. In fact – in my entire life – I have never had the experienceof “dating”.
Yes – there was no “PRE-MARITAL” DATING for me during mybachelor days.
I HAVE HAD “ZERO DATES” IN MY LIFE – NO _“PRE-MARITAL” _DATES – NO _“INTRA-MARITAL”_ DATES – AND – NO _“EXTRA-MARITAL” _DATES. Yes – I have had a “zero dating life”. And sadly – I am destined to live a “dateless” life.MORAL OF THE STORY
Let me summarize and recap the 3 salient aspects of “Dating”: * “DATING”IS A PART OF THE HUMAN “MATING” PROCESS. _So – __Don’t “Date” unless you want to “Mate”…_ * THE PRINCIPAL OBJECTIVE OF “DATING” IS “TO ASSESS THE SUITABILITY OF THE “DATING PARTNER”FOR AN “INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP” OR AS A PROSPECTIVE WIFE/HUSBAND…” _So – Don’t “Date” someone unless you are considering having an “Intimate Relationship” with that person or are serious about “marrying” that person__…__ _ * “DATING” YOUR OWN SPOUSE IS INFRUCTUOUS. _Do you want to assess the suitability of your own husband/wife for an “Intimate Relationship” or as a prospectiveHusband/Wife…?_
AFTERTHOUGHT
_Dear Prospective Girlfriends:_ _All that I have written above is “theory”._ _I don’t practice what I preach._ _So – if you ask me out on a “date” – I would be most delighted to accept your dating proposal._ _Come – Dear Girlfriend – shall we go out on a “date”…?_VIKRAM KARVE
Copyright © Vikram Karve 1. If you share this post, please give due credit to the author VikramKarve
2. Please DO NOT PLAGIARIZE. Please DO NOT Cut/Copy/Paste this post VIKRAM KARVE., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.DISCLAIMER:
* This story is a fictional spoof, satire, pure fiction, just for fun and humor, no offence is meant to anyone, so take it with a pinch of salt and have a laugh. * All Stories in this Blog are a work of fiction. Events, Places, Settings and Incidents narrated in the stories are a figment of my imagination. The characters do not exist and are purely imaginary. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.COPYRIGHT NOTICE:
No part of this Blog may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the Blog Author Vikram Karve who holds the copyright. COPYRIGHT © VIKRAM KARVE (ALL RIGHTS RESERVED) VIKRAM KARVE., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS IS A REVISED VERSION ON MY STORY POSTED ONLINE EARLIER IN MY ACADEMIC AND CREATIVE WRITING JOURNAL VIKRAM KARVE BLOG ON March 8,2016 at
url: HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2016/03/DATING-GUIDE-SHOULD-I-GO-ON-DATE.HTML and HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2016/09/DATING-GUIDE-WHAT-IS-DATING.HTML and HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2017/03/CAN-MARRIED-PEOPLE-DATE.HTML and HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.IN/2017/08/ARE-YOU-OUT-OF-DATE-ON-DATING.HTML and HTTPS://KARVE.WORDPRESS.COM/2017/08/29/DONT-DATE-UNLESS-YOU-WANT-TO-MATE/ AND HTTP://KARVEDIAT.BLOGSPOT.COM/2018/02/DATING-GUIDE-GO-ON-DATE-ONLY-IF-YOU.HTML AND HTTPS://KARVE.WORDPRESS.COM/2019/05/22/DATING-DONT-DATE-UNLESS-YOU-WANT-TO-MATE/etc
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VIKRAM KARVE
VIKRAM KARVE
A creative person with a zest for life, Vikram Karve is a retired Navy Officer turned full time writer and blogger. Educated at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi, The Lawrence School Lovedale and Bishops School Pune, Vikram has published two books: COCKTAIL a collection of fiction short stories about relationships (2011) and APPETITE FOR A STROLL a book of Foodie Adventures (2008) and is currently working on his novel and a book of vignettes and short fiction. An avid blogger, he has written a large number of fiction short stories, creative non-fiction articles on a variety of topics including food, travel, philosophy, academics, technology, management, health, pet parenting, teaching stories and self help in magazines and published a large number of professional research papers in journals and edited in-house journals and magazines for many years, before the advent of blogging. Vikram has taught at a University as a Professor for 15 years and now teaches as a visiting faculty and devotes most of his time to creative writing and blogging. Vikram Karve lives in Pune India with his family and muse - his pet dog Sherry with whom he takes long walks thinking creative thoughts. Vikram Karve Academic and Creative Writing Journal: http://karvediat.blogspot.com Professional Profile Vikram Karve: http://www.linkedin.com/in/karve Vikram Karve Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/vikramkarve Twitter: @vikramwkarve EMAIL: vikramkarve@hotmail.comPERSONAL LINKS
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RECENT WRITING VIKRAM KARVE * Humor in Uniform – Breakfast at Sea * Humor in Uniform – The “Indispensable” Senior Engineer * Remembering Admiral Benoy Roy Chowdhury – An EngineerPar Excellence
* Is “Job Satisfaction” a Myth…? * Why do Top Brass Fight Like Kilkenny Cats…? * The “Literary” Cadets – “Shanghaied” and “Shipped” * What is a “Mutiny”…? * Musings of a Veteran * Have I Outlived My “Utility”…? * What is the purpose of “Dating”…?* Cocktail
* The “Quid Pro Quo” Marriage * Ethics and Divorce – CATWOE Model * World Sleep Day Story – Sleeping Beauty * How to Murder your Husband – Short Story*
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