Our Motherland - The Great INDIA

STATES AND CAPITAL States Capital Andhra Pradesh Hyderabad Arunachal Pradesh Itanagar Assam Guwhati Bihar Patna Chhattisgarh Raipur Goa Panaji Gujarat Gandhinagar Haryana Chandigarh Himachal Pradesh Shimla Jammu and Kashmir Summer Capital: Jammu Winter Capital: Srinagar Jharkhand Ranchi Karnataka Bangalore Kerala Thiruvananthapuram Madhya Pradesh Bhopal Maharashtra Mumbai Manipur Imphal Meghalaya Shillong Mizoram Aizwal Nagaland Kohima Orissa Bhubaneswar Punjab Chandigarh Rajasthan Jaipur Sikkim Gangtok Tamil Nadu Chennai Tripura Agartala Uttaranchal Dehradun Uttar Pradesh Lucknow West Bengal Kolkatta   Union Territory Capital Andaman & Nicobar Port Blair Chandigarh Chandigarh Dadra and Nagar Haveli Silvassa Daman and Diu Daman Delhi Delhi Lakshadweep Kavaratti Pondicherry Pondicherry      Presidents of India Dr.Rajendra Prasad (Jan. 26, 1950 to May 13, 1962) Dr.Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (May 13, 1962 to May 13, 1967) Dr.Zakir Husain (May 13, 1967 to May 3, 1969) Varahagiri Venkatagiri (May 3, 1969 to July 20, 1969)(acting) Justice Mohammed Hidayatullah (July 20, 1969 to August 24, 1969)(acting) Varahagiri Venkatagiri (August 24, 1969 to August 24, 1974) Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed (August 24, 1974 to Feb. 11, 1977) B.D.Jatti (Feb. 12, 1977 to July 25, 1977)(acting) Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy (July 25, 1977 to July 25, 1982) Giani Zail Singh (July 25, 1982 to July 25, 1987) R.Venkataraman (July 25, 1987 to July 25, 1992)   Dr.Shanker Dayal Sharma (July 25, 1992 to July 25, 1997)   K. R. Narayanan (July 25, 1997 - July 25, 2002)   A P J Abdul Kalam July 25, 2002 - July 25, 2007   Pratibha Patil July 25, 2007 - till date  Prime Ministers of India Jawaharlal Nehru Aug. 15, 1947 - May 27, 1964 Gulzari Lal Nanda May 27, 1964 - June 9, 1964 (Interim) January 11 -  24, 1966(Interim) Lal Bahadur Shastri June 9, 1964 - January 11, 1966 Indira Gandhi Jan. 24, 1966 to March 24, 1977 Jan. 14, 1980 to Oct. 31,1984 Morarji Desai March 24, 1977 to July 28, 1979 Charan Singh July 28, 1979 - Jan. 14, 1980 Rajiv Gandhi Oct. 31,1984 to Dec. 1,1989 V. P. Singh Dec. 2,1989 - Nov. 10, 1990 Chandra Shekhar Nov. 10,1990 - June 21, 1991 P. V.  Narasimha Rao June 21, 1991 to May 10, 1996 Atal Bihari Vajpayee May 16 to June 1, 1996 H. D.  Deve Gowda June 1, 1996 to April 21, 1997 I. K. Gujral April 21, 1997 - Nov. 28. 1997. Atal Bihari Vajpayee March 19, 1998 - May 22, 2004   Dr. Manmohan Singh May 22, 2004 - till date National Animal of India Tiger is scientifically known as Panthera tigris. It is a member of the Felidae family and the largest of the four 'big cats' of the Panthera genus. On an average, a tiger is about 13 feet in length and 150 kilograms in weight. The pattern of dark vertical stripes that overlay near-white to reddish-orange fur is the distinct recognition of a tiger. By nature, the tiger is a keen predator and carnivore. The Panthera tigris is a native of the eastern and southern Asia. Known as Lord of Jungles due to its grace, agility, power and endurance, Tiger is also the national animal of India. Choice of Tiger as National Animal Tiger was chosen as the National animal of India due to its grace, strength, agility and enormous power. As the tiger is also considered as the king of Jungle, it was an obvious choice for the National Animal category. Since time immemorial, the tiger has been considered as a Royal Animal. Often, The Tiger as the National Animal of India symbolizes the power, strength, elegance, alertness, intelligence and endurance of the nation. Declining Population of Tiger There is a steep fall in the population of tigers in the world. Due to illegal smuggling of Tiger Skin and other body parts, there are very few tigers left in the world today. According to the World Census of Tigers, there are only 5000 -7000 tigers in the world today. Out of which, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, China and Myanmar claim to have a population of 3000 to 4500 and India alone claims to have a population of 2500 to 3750. In India, out of the eight known races of the Panthera Tigris species, the Royal Bengal Tiger, is found throughout the country except in the north-western region. Project Tiger in India Due to the extreme threat of extinction of the tiger species from the country, the Indian Government launched Project Tiger in 1973. Project tiger was focused to preserve the remaining tiger population in the country and increase the breeding of the species so that new population could be added to the existing one. Under this Project, 23 tiger reserves were established throughout the country, covering an area of 33,406 sq. km for providing safe and comfortable shelter to the tigers in the natural environment. By 1993, there was much improvement in the tiger population in the country. However despite the increase in population, the population of tigers in the country is still not satisfactory compared to the effort and money put in the project. This is due to the illegal poaching of the tigers and negligence of authorities towards the alarming situation of the tiger population in the country. National Anthem of India National anthem can be described as a patriotic musical composition of a country, which reminds and praises the history, traditions and struggles of its people. At the same time, it has to be recognized as the official national song, either by the nation's government or by convention through use by the people. The national anthem of India is 'Jana-gana-mana', composed originally in Bengali, by Rabindranath Tagore. It was adopted as the national anthem of India, in its Hindi version, by the Constituent Assembly, on 24th January 1950. 'Jana-gana-mana' was first sung on 27th December 1911, long before Indian gained independence, at the Calcutta Session of the Indian National Congress. The complete song consists of five stanzas. As for the playing time of the full version of the national anthem, it will take up approximately 52 seconds. A short version, consisting of first and last lines of the stanza (playing time approximately 20 seconds), is also played on certain occasions. National Anthem In Hindi Jana-gana-mana-adhinayaka, jaya he Bharata-bhagya-vidhata. Punjab-Sindh-Gujarat-Maratha Dravida-Utkala-Banga Vindhya-Himachala-Yamuna-Ganga Uchchala-Jaladhi-taranga. Tava shubha name jage, Tava shubha asisa mage, Gahe tava jaya gatha, Jana-gana-mangala-dayaka jaya he Bharata-bhagya-vidhata. Jaya he, jaya he, jaya he, Jaya jaya jaya, jaya he! Translation In English Thou art the ruler of the minds of all people, Dispenser of India's destiny. The name rouses the hearts of Punjab, Sind, Gujarat and Maratha, Of the Dravid and Orissa and Bengal; It echoes in the hills of the Vindhyas and Himalayas, Mingles in the music of the Yamuna and Ganga And is chanted by the waves of the Indian Sea. They pray for thy blessings and sing thy praise. The salvation of all people is in thy hand, Thou dispenser of India's destiny. Victory, victory, victory to thee. The Story Behind Translation Jana Gana Mana was translated, from Sanskrit to English, by Rabindranath Tagore and the music on this English Translation was set in Madanapalle, a small town in Andhra Pradesh. As to the story behind this translation, in 1918 Tagore was invited, by controversial Irish poet James H. Cousins, to spend a few days at the Besant Theosophical College (BTC). James was serving as the principal of the college, at that time. On February 28, while attending a gathering of students at BTC, Rabindranath sang the Jana Gana Mana in Bengali. Suddenly, he thought of translating the song in English. A few days later, in Madanapalle, Tagore wrote down the English translation of the song. Cousins' wife, Margaret, who was an expert in Western music, set down the music for this English version. The framed original English translation is still displayed in the library of Besant Theosophical College in Madanapalle. National Bird of India The Peacock, Pavo cristatus (Linnaeus), is the national bird of India. Emblematic of qualities such as beauty, grace, pride and mysticism, it is a multihued, swan-sized bird, with a fan-shaped crest of feathers, a white patch under the eye and a long, slender neck. Much in contrast to the natural phenomenon, the male specie of the bird is much more strikingly stunning than its female counterpart. The male bird, peacock, flaunts a gleaming blue breast and neck and a spectacular bronze-green train of around 200 elongated feathers. It is capable of extending its tail erect like fan as ostentatious display. The elaborate courtship dance of the male, fanning out the tail and preening its feathers is a beautiful sight. On the other hand, the female bird, peahen, slightly smaller than its male counterpart. Brownish in color, the female bird also lacks the train visible in the male specie. Peacock is predominantly found in the Indian sub-continent, ranging from the south to east of the Indus river. Jammu and Kashmir, east Assam, south Mizoram and the whole of the Indian peninsula also is home to this impeccable bird. The bird lives in jungle lands near water and is thus, chiefly found in the wilds in India (sometimes, domesticated in villages as well). Peacock is illustrated in pictures accompanying Indian Gods and Goddesses. The sacred bird of the India, the bird was once bred for food, but now hunting of peacocks is banned in India. It is protected not only by a religious sentiment, but also by parliamentary statute. Peacocks have been given full protection under the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Apart from India, it is also involved to the cultures prevalent in Far East, Ancient Persia, Greek and Christian. While the figure of peacock features in various Islamic religious buildings, the bird is symbolic to 'Resurrection of Christ' in Christianity. Coming back to Hinduism, peacock is portrayed as the image of the God of thunder, rains and war, Indra. People believe that, when a peacock extends its tail erect like fan for an enchanting and mesmerizing demonstration, it indicates that rainfall is on the cards. Though this might sound strange, but the fact is somewhat true. On seeing the dark clouds, peacock outspreads its tail and starts dancing in rhythmic fashion. Its dance movement has been incorporated in most of the Indian folklore, including Bharatha Natyam. In southern part of India, peacock is considered as a 'vahana' or vehilce of lord Muruga. Features Of Peacock The male specie, peacock, is characterized with a 2.12 m (7.3 ft) length, in full breeding plumage, and weighs about 5 kg (11 lbs). The female bird - peahen, on the other hand, is about 86 cm (34 in) long and weighs about 3.4 kg (7.4 lbs). Adoring the glistening blue-green plumage, the Indian peacock has an extension of feathers on its back. Each feather is exemplified with an eye at its end. The Indian peahen is a mixture of dull green, grey and iridescent blue, with the greenish-grey color outweighing. The bird is mostly found in the dry semi-desert grasslands, scrub and deciduous forests and feeds on mainly seeds, but some also eat insects, fruits and reptiles. National Calendar of India The Saka calendar used as the official civil calendar in the country is the National Calendar of India. It is used in India besides the Gregorian calendar by the Gazette of India, news broadcasts by All India Radio, calendars and communication document issued by control of Government of India. The Saka calendar, often referred as the Hindu calendar is originally named as Saka Samvat. It is also used for the calculation days of religious significance in the Hindu Religion in the country. You will always find a Saka calendar alongside a Gregorian Calender in an Indian Home. Formation of Saka Calendar In the Indian civil calendar, the initial period is the Saka Era. The Calendar is said to have begun with King Salivahana's accession to the throne. It is used as a reference for most astronomical works in Sanskrit literature written after 500 AD. The calculation of 'thitis' i.e. dates in this Calendar are done in accordance with the actual positions of Sun and Moon in the universe. In the Saka calendar, the year 2009 AD is 1932. Adoption of Saka Calendar as National Calendar The current national calendar of India i.e. the Saka Calendar was adopted as the National Calendar in 1957 by the Calendar Reform Committee which also made efforts to coincide the astronomical data and harmonize the usage of this calendar after rectification of some local errors. It came into usage from March 22, 1957 according to the Gregorian calendar which was actually Saka Era, Chaitra 1, 1879 according to the Saka Samvat. It was adopted as the National calendar in order to synchronize the usage of 30 different kinds of Calendar used in India at that time. An Overview of the Saka Calendar Saka Calendar is said to have begun from the vernal equinox of A.D. 79. The usage of the Calendar began from aka Era 1879, Chaitra 1, which corresponds to A.D. 1957 March 22. The Saka Calendar is similar to the Gregorian calendar on the terms that even the Saka calendar has a normal year of 365 days and a leap year has 366 days. In a leap year, an intercalary day is added to the end of Chaitra month of the year. There are 12 months in Saka Calendar which are named as Vaisakha ,Jyestha ,Asadha ,Sravana, Bhadrapada, Asvina , Kartika Margasirsa , Pausa , Magh, Phalgura ,Chaitra. National Flag of India The National Flag of India, also called the 'Tiranga', was adopted during an ad hoc meeting of the Constituent Assembly of the country. The meeting was held on the 22nd July 1947, twenty-four days prior to India's independence from the British (which took place on 15th August 1947). Based on the flag of the Indian National Congress, which was designed by Pingali Venkayya, the flag is also the war flag Indian Army, hoisted daily on military installations. The heraldic description of Indian National Flag is Party per fess Saffron and Vert on a fess Argent a "Chakra" Azure. Design National Flag of India has been designed in such a way that it forms a horizontal tricolor, with the colors - saffron, white and green, in equal proportions. The deep saffron (kesari) color is at the top; white is in the middle, while dark green forms the bottom. The ratio of the width of the flag to its length is 2:3. In the centre of the white band of the flag is a navy blue wheel, comprising of 24 spokes, which represents the Ashoka Chakra, seen on the abacus of the Sarnath Lion Capital of Ashoka. The diameter of the chakra approximates to three-fourth of the width of the white band of the flag. Significance The preamble of the flag code of India describes the significance of the colors and the chakra in the 'Tiranga'. It was amply described by Dr. S. Radhakrishnan in the Constituent Assembly that unanimously adopted the National Flag. Dr. S. Radhakrishnan explained: "Bhagwa or the saffron colour denotes renunciation of disinterestedness. Our leaders must be indifferent to material gains and dedicate themselves to their work. The white in the centre is light, the path of truth to guide our conduct. The green shows our relation to soil, our relation to the plant life here on which all other life depends. The Ashoka Wheel in the center of the white is the wheel of the law of dharma. Truth or satya, dharma or virtue ought to be the controlling principles of those who work under this flag. Again, the wheel denotes motion. There is death in stagnation. There is life in movement. India should no more resist change, it must move and go forward. The wheel represents the dynamism of a peaceful change.." Flag Code After 52 years, the citizens of India are free to fly the Indian National Flag over their homes, offices and factories on any day. On 26th January 2002, the flag code was changed, giving Indians the freedom to proudly display the national flag any where and any time. However, there are still some rules and regulations upon how to fly the flag, based on the 26th January 2002 legislation, which should be followed by the citizens. These rules and regulation includes certain dos and don'ts, which have been explained below. Do's The National Flag may be hoisted in educational institutions (schools, colleges, sports camps, scout camps, etc.) to inspire respect for the Flag. An oath of allegiance has been included in the flag hoisting in schools. A member of public, a private organization or an educational institution may hoist/display the National Flag on all days and occasions, ceremonial or otherwise, consistent with the dignity and honor of the National Flag. Section 2 of the new code accepts the right of all private citizens to fly the flag on their premises. Don'ts The flag cannot be used for communal gains, drapery, or clothes. As far as possible, it should be flown from sunrise to sunset, irrespective of the weather. The flag cannot be intentionally allowed to touch the ground or the floor or trail in water. It cannot be draped over the hood, top, and sides or back of vehicles, trains, boats or aircraft. No other flag or bunting can be placed higher than the flag. Also, no object, including flowers or garlands or emblems, can be placed on or above the flag. The tricolor cannot be used as a festoon, rosette or bunting. National Flower of India Lotus, botanically known as the Nelumbo Nucifera is the national flower of India. The Lotus plant is basically an aquatic plant with wide floating leaves and bright aromatic flowers which grow only in shallow waters. The Lotus plant has floating leaves and flowers. It has long aerated stems.. The lotus flowers are extremely beautiful with an overlapping proportional motif of petals. It is considered to be a sacred flower and occupies unique position in the art and mythology of ancient India. This flower has been an auspicious symbol of Indian culture since time immemorial. Choice of Lotus As National Flower The Lotus Flower symbolizes divinity, fertility, wealth, knowledge and enlightenment. It is also regarded as a symbol of triumph as it can survive to regerminate for thousands of years. Lotus represents long life, honor, and good fortune. Untouched by the impurity despite growing in mud, the flower is also meant to symbolize the purity of heart and mind. It holds additional significance for Hindus, as it is regarded as the symbol of many Gods and Goddesses and is often used in religious practices. It was because of these noble meanings and cultural significance that made the founding fathers of modern India enshrine the lotus in the Constitution as the National Flower. Cultural Significance of Lotus From ancient times the lotus has been considered to be a sacred symbol in Asian traditions representing sexual purity. It is also regarded as the symbol of purity and divinity by several religions. Hindus relate it to their Almighty, Vishnu, Brahma, Lakshmi and Sarasvati who are often depicted sitting upon this pious flower. As Lotus also stands as the symbol of divine beauty, it is used as a symbol to describe the beauty of Lord Vishnu by referring him as the 'Lotus-Eyed One'. In the Hindu Mythology, the unfolding petals of Lotus signify the expansion of the soul. As the Lotus carries piousness despite growing from the mud, it is said to represent a caring spiritual promise. The Buddhists consider the Lotus Flower to be sacred and auspicious as the flower stands for faithfulness in their religion. The lotus plant has also been cited as a sacred flower extensively in the ancient Puranic and Vedic literature. Lotus Trivia Apart from India, Lotus is also the national flower of Vietnam. In Egypt the Lotus Flowers are considered to auspicious because they are regarded as the symbol of Sun God. Lotus seeds are medicinal in nature and are used for the treatment of kidney, spleen, and heart ailments. They are also considered beneficial in the treatment of Leucorrhea, palpitation and insomnia. Lotus seeds are also used as antidotes in mushroom poisoning. The seeds, leaves and tubers of the Lotus Flower are edible. National Fruit of India Mango, cultivated in India since times immemorial, is regarded as the National Fruit of the country. Described as the "Food of the Gods", in the sacred Vedas, the fruit is grown almost in all parts of India, except the hilly areas, but is mainly available in the summer season only.. There are more than 100 varieties of mangos in India, in a range of colors, sizes, and shapes. The common names used in context of the fruit are, Mangot, Manga, and Mangou. The eact origin of the term 'mango' is not known. It is believed to have come from the Portuguese term 'manga', which is probably from Malayalam 'manga'. Mango finds a mentioned in the Indian history as well. In fact, the famous poet Kalidasa is known to have sung its praises. Apart from that, ancient Greek King Alexander the Great and Chinese pilgrim Hieun Tsang have been said to have savored its taste. Historical records also mention the instance of Mughal Kinf Akbar planting 100,000 mango trees in Darbhanga, known as Lakhibagh. Mangos, liked for their sweet juice and bright colors all around the world, are known to be rich in vitamin A, C, and D. Description Mangoes are available in different sizes, ranging from 10 to 25 cm in length and 7 to 12 cm in width. In terms of weight, a single mango can be as heavy as 2.5 kg. The fruit come in a wide variety of colors, such as green, yellow, red, and even various combinations of all these colors. Mango has a flat, oblong seed in the center, which is covered by the sweet pulp. Covering the pulp is a thin layer of skin, which is peeled off before eating the fruit. When ripe, the unpeeled fruit gives off a distinct, resinous sweet smell. Varieties A large number of mango varieties can be found in India. the most popular ones include 'Alphonso' (also called 'Hapoos'), 'Amrapali', 'Bangalora', 'Banganapalli' (also known as 'Benishaan'), 'Bombay', 'Bombay Green', 'Chausa', 'Chinna Rasalu', 'Dashaheri' ('Daseri'), 'Fazli', 'Fernandian', 'Gulabkhas', 'Himayath' (a.k.a. 'Imam Pasand'), 'Himsagar', 'Jehangir', 'Kesar', 'Kishen Bhog', 'Lalbaug', 'Langda' ('Langra'), 'Mallika', 'Mankurad', 'Mulgoa', 'Neelam', 'Pairi', 'Pedda Rasalu', 'Rajapuri', 'Safeda', 'Suvarnarekha', 'Totapuri', 'Vanraj' and 'Zardalu'. Cultivation Frost-free climate is best for the growth of Mangos. If temperatures drop below 40? F, even for a short period, the flowers and small fruits already grown on the tree can get killed. In other words, warm and dry weather is required for the cultivation of the fruit. This is it available in the summer season only. Mango can grow well in large containers and a greenhouse as well. Mango trees are shady in nature.. They grow very fast and can reach a height of as much as 65 ft. The life of mango trees is generally very long and some specimens are known to be over 300 years old and still fruiting. National Song of India Composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterji in Sanskrit, the song Vande Mataram was primarily conceived to serve as a motivation to the people in their freedom struggle. Though it was penned down in 1876, the first publication emerged in the year 1882 in 'Anandamatha' amidst doubts of a ban by the British Raj. Sharing an equal status with Jana-gana-mana (National Anthem of India), the song was first sung in the 1896 session of the Indian National Congress. Vande Mataram served as a voice against British rule during the freedom struggle. Initially, people with patriotic fervor flocked the streets of Calcutta and other metropolis, shouting the slogan 'Vande Mataram' or 'Hail to the Mother (land)!' Terrified by the impending danger, British banned the expression of song and imprisoned freedom fighters, who disobeyed the command. Vande Mataram initially served as the National Anthem of India, but later Jana-gana-mana was adopted as the anthem of independent India. This was because the Muslim sect in India felt that the song was biased, as it depicted the nation as 'Ma Durga', a Hindu Goddess. Though Vande Mataram aptly illustrated the pre-independence national zeal and passion, it was espoused as the National Song of India. In the following lines, we have provided the wordings of the National Song of India and its English translation. National Song Of India Vande maataraM sujalaaM suphalaaM malayaja shiitalaaM SasyashyaamalaaM maataram || Shubhrajyotsnaa pulakitayaaminiiM pullakusumita drumadala shobhiniiM suhaasiniiM sumadhura bhaashhiNiiM sukhadaaM varadaaM maataraM || Koti koti kantha kalakalaninaada karaale koti koti bhujai.rdhR^itakharakaravaale abalaa keno maa eto bale bahubaladhaariNiiM namaami taariNiiM ripudalavaariNiiM maataraM || Tumi vidyaa tumi dharma tumi hR^idi tumi marma tvaM hi praaNaaH shariire Baahute tumi maa shakti hR^idaye tumi maa bhakti tomaara i pratimaa gaDi mandire mandire || TvaM hi durgaa dashapraharaNadhaariNii kamalaa kamaladala vihaariNii vaaNii vidyaadaayinii namaami tvaaM Namaami kamalaaM amalaaM atulaaM SujalaaM suphalaaM maataraM || ShyaamalaaM saralaaM susmitaaM bhuushhitaaM DharaNiiM bharaNiiM maataraM |" English Translation Mother, I bow to thee! Rich with thy hurrying streams, bright with orchard gleams, Cool with thy winds of delight, Dark fields waving Mother of might, Mother free. Glory of moonlight dreams, Over thy branches and lordly streams, Clad in thy blossoming trees, Mother, giver of ease Laughing low and sweet! Mother I kiss thy feet, Speaker sweet and low! Mother, to thee I bow. Who hath said thou art weak in thy lands When the sword flesh out in the seventy million hands And seventy million voices roar Thy dreadful name from shore to shore? With many strengths who art mighty and stored, To thee I call Mother and Lord! Though who savest, arise and save! To her I cry who ever her foeman drove Back from plain and Sea And shook herself free. Thou art wisdom, thou art law, Thou art heart, our soul, our breath Though art love divine, the awe In our hearts that conquers death. Thine the strength that nervs the arm, Thine the beauty, thine the charm. Every image made divine In our temples is but thine. Thou art Durga, Lady and Queen, With her hands that strike and her swords of sheen, Thou art Lakshmi lotus-throned, And the Muse a hundred-toned, Pure and perfect without peer, Mother lend thine ear, Rich with thy hurrying streams, Bright with thy orchard gleems, Dark of hue O candid-fair In thy soul, with jewelled hair And thy glorious smile divine, Lovilest of all earthly lands, Showering wealth from well-stored hands! Mother, mother mine! Mother sweet, I bow to thee, Mother great and free! National Tree of India The national tree of India, banyan is a very huge structure, long and deep roots and branches symbolize the country's unity. One can find banyan trees in throughout the nation. The huge sized tree acts as a shield, protects from hot sun. This is the reason why the tree is planted near homes, temples, villages and roadsides. In the rural parts of the country, banyan tree is considered as the focal point of the Panchayats and the gathering place for village councils and meetings. The tree is also considered sacred by the Hindus of India. With high medicinal value, banyan is often used as a herb to treat and cure many diseases. Given below is the description of banyan, the national tree of India. Importance In The Indian Culture The tradition of worshipping 'sacred' trees is prevalent among the people following Hinduism, since ages. Rig Veda and Atharva Veda stipulate that trees should be worshipped, for their inevitable role in human life. Banyan is considered one among the sacred trees. In the Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva is sometimes depicted sitting in silence, under the banyan tree, with the saints sitting at His feet. With its seemingly unending expansion, the banyan tree symbolizes eternal life. In Hindu culture, the tree is often called 'kalpavriksha', a Sanskrit word, which means 'a divine tree that fulfills wishes'. Married Hindu women worship the banyan tree to lead a long and happy married life. Features Banyan tree is characterized by a tangle of branches, roots and trunks. The tree is deeply rooted, which may spread across several acres. It is huge in size, thereby giving protection from hot sun. The tree bears fruits that look like figs. The fruits, which appear red in color when matured, are not edible. The dark green leaves of the tree are large and leathery. This is the reason why, the leaves are used as animal fodder. The flowers produced by the tree often attract wasps, for pollination. An old banyan tree can reach more than 656 feet in diameter and can be as tall as 98 feet. The rubber, produced from the sticky milk of banyan tree, is used for gardening. Trivia The name 'banyan' is derived from Banias, who rested under the trees to discuss their strategies regarding business. The widest tree in the world - the Great Banyan - is located in Kolkata. The tree is about 250 years old. Historical records say that Alexander the Great camped under a banyan tree that was large enough to provide shelter to his army of 7000 men. In many parts of the world, the wood and bark of the banyan tree are used for making paper. People even make use of the roots of the tree to make ropes, in order to secure wood bundles. The sap produced by banyan tree is often used to produce shellac, a strong adhesive. It can also be used to make surface-finisher. Women in Nepal crush the root of the banyan tree with a paste to make a herbal product, which is used by them as a hair and skin conditioner. In India and Pakistan, the twigs of banyan tree are sold as toothpicks in order to promote dental health. Banyan tree is well known for its medicinal uses. Its sap is a medicine for treating external skin inflammations and bruising, dysentery, toothaches and ulcers. Its bark and seeds are used to produce a herbal tonic that can cool the body. Diabetic patients are also treated by the tonic made from banyan tree.    CONSTITUTION OF INDIA   The Constitution of India was drafted by the Constituent Assembly. The Constituent Assembly held its first sitting on the 9th December, 1946. It reassembled on the 14th August, 1947, as the sovereign Constituent Assembly for the Dominion of India. The proposed Constitution had been outlined by various committees of the Assembly like: a) Union Constitution Committee b) The Union Powers Committee c) Committee on Fundamental Rights. It was after a general discussion on the reports of these Committees that the Assembly appointed a Drafting Committee on the 29th August, 1947. The Drafting Committee, under the Chairmanship of Dr. Ambedkar, embodied the decision of the Assembly with alternative and additional proposals in the form of a 'Draft Constitution of India which was published in February, 1948. The Constituent Assembly next met in November, 1948, to consider the provisions of the Draft, clause by clause. After several sessions the consideration of the clauses or second reading was completed by the 17th October, 1949. The Constituent Assembly again sat on the 14th November, 1949, for the third reading and finished it on the 26th November, 1949, on which date the Constitution received the signature of the President of the Assembly and was declared as passed. The provisions relating to citizenship, elections, provisional Parliament, temporary and transitional provisions, were given immediate effect, i.e., from November 26, 1949. The rest of the Constitution came into force on the 26th January, 1950, and this date is referred to in the Constitution as the Date of its Commencement. Preamble: WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a SOVEREIGN SOCIALIST SECULAR DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC and to secure to all its citizens: JUSTICE, social, economic and political; LIBERTY of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship; EQUALITY of status and of opportunity; and to promote among them all FRATERNITY assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation; IN OUR CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY this twenty-sixth day of November, 1949, do HEREBY ADOPT, ENACT AND GIVE TO OURSELVES THIS CONSTITUTION. Purpose of Having a Preamble: The Preamble to our Constitution serves two purposes: - A) It indicates the source from which the Constitution derives its authority; B) It also states the objects, which the Constitution seeks to establish and promote. The Preamble seeks to establish what Mahatma Gandhi described as The India of my Dreams, "…an India in which the poorest shall feel that it is their country in whose making they have an effective voice; …an India in which all communities shall leave I perfect harmony. There can be no room in such an India for the curse of untouchability or the curse of Intoxicating drinks and drugs. Woman will enjoy as the same rights as man." Fundamental Rights: Indian Government have provided six basic rights to every citizen India. So, as to provide a democratic environment for the peopel of India to live in. Here, we are describing each fundamental right in detail to help you in understanding our constitution. The Fundamental Rights embodied in the Indian constitution acts as a guarante that all Indian citizens can and will lead their lifes in peace as long as they live in Indian democracy. These civil liberties take precedence over any other law of the land. They include individual rights common to most liberal democracies, such as equality before the law, freedom of speech and expression, freedom of association and peaceful assembly, freedom of religion, and the right to constitutional remedies for the protection of civil rights such as habeas corpus. In addition, the Fundamental Rights for Indians are aimed at overturning the inequities of past social practices. They have also been used to in sucessfully abolishing the "untouchability"; prohibit discrimination on the grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth; and forbid trafficking in human beings and also the forced labor. They go beyond conventional civil liberties in protecting cultural and educational rights of minorities by ensuring that minorities may preserve their distinctive languages and establish and administer their own education institutions. Originally, the right to property was also included in the Fundamental Rights; however, the Forty-fourth Amendment, passed in 1978, revised the status of property rights by stating that "No person shall be deprived of his property save by authority of law." Freedom of speech and expression, generally interpreted to include freedom of the press, can be limited "in the interests of the sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality, or in relation to contempt of court, defamation or incitement to an offence" Here we have defined the six fundamental rights as per the constitution of India:- 1. Right to Equality 2. Right to Particular Freedom 3. Cultural and Educational Rights 4. Right to Freedom of Religion 5. Right Against Exploitation and 6. Right to Constitutional Remedies Fundamental Duties: These Fundamental rights have been provided at the cost of some fundamental duties. These are considered as the duties that must be and should be performed by every citizen of India. These fundamental duties are defined as: It shall be the duty of every citizens of India: - ?       To abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag and the National Anthem; ?       To cherish and follow the noble ideals which inspired our national struggle for freedom; ?       To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India; ?       To defend the country and render national service when called upon to do so; ?       To promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood amongst all the people of India transcending religious, linguistic and regional or sectional diversities; to renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women; ?       To value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture; ?       To protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wild life, and to have compassion for living creatures

கவிதை : காசு கயமை உயிர்

காசு தான் உலகம் என்றிருப்போரே
கயமை தனம் செய்கிறார்கள்
தூசு இந்த உயிர்கள் என்போர்
துஷ்டத்தனம் செய்கிறார்கள்

சென்னையில் ஒரு பதிவர் குழுமம்

சென்னையில் ஒரு பதிவர் குழுமம் அமைக்கிறார்கள் என்று கேள்விப்படுகிறேன்.

பதிவர் சந்திப்பு 27/03/10

இரண்டாவது லோகோ, ஊரின் பெயரை சொல்வது போல இருக்கு. நல்லது!



சேரிடபில் ட்ரஸ்ட் ஆக அமைத்தால் நல்லது. உதவி புரிவோர்க்கு 80G போன்றவை கிடைக்கும்.

பெங்களூருக்கு ஒரு குழுமம் அமைக்கலாம்! ஹி ஹி என்னை தலைவர் அப்படின்னு எல்லாம் கூப்புடாதீங்க!

சென்னை இணைய எழுத்தாளர் குழுமம் - அதன் கிளைகளாக ஒவ்வொரு ஊரிலும் துனைக்கிளைகள் ஆரம்பிக்கலாம் அல்லவா?

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Regards
Vijayashankar

உட்கட்சி பூசல் - தேர்தல்

உட்கட்சி பூசல் இல்லாத கட்சி உண்டா?

இங்கு பெங்களூரில் கார்பரேசன் தேர்தல்... எங்கள் ஏரியாவில் இருவர் ( பெரிய ஆட்கள் - பணம், செல்வாக்கு ), காங்கிரசில் நிற்க கேட்டு சீட்டு இல்லாமல் சுயேட்சையாக நிற்கிறார்கள். பாவம், கிருஷ்ணா ரெட்டி! வோட்டுக்கள் பிரியும், அடுத்தபடியாக நிற்கும் ஜே.டி.எஸ் ஆள் ( கோழி கறிக்கடைகாரர் ) வெற்றி பெறும் நிலைமை இருக்கு.

அட்ஜஸ்ட் செய்தால் பார்டி வெல்லும். தனி மனித செல்வாக்கு இங்கே அடிபடுகிறது.

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Regards
Vijayashankar

உண்மையான அழகு

உண்மையான அழகு பார்ப்பவர் கண்ணில் இருக்கு. அதை மறுக்க முடியாது. உலக பெரிய முதன்மை பணக்காரர்கள் வரிசையில் நான்கு இந்தியர்கள். இது போதும் உலகில் வளம் மிகுந்த நாடு என்று பறை சாற்றிக்கொள்ள. சிம்பிளாக இருப்பது நம் வழக்கம். நீங்கள் வெளிநாட்டில் ( ஏன்  நானும்  கூடத்தான்  ) குப்பை  கொட்டியதால்  இந்திய  மீது  இது ஒரு  இழி  மோகம்  ஆகிவிட்டது . ஆத்தூர்  செந்தில்  குமார் , திருச்சியில்  ஒரு  செந்தில் என அமெரிக்காவில்  வாழ்ந்த  இந்தியர்கள்  புலம்  பெயர்ந்து  நாட்டுக்கு  உழைப்பது  உங்களுக்கு  தெரியவில்லையா? ஏன்  நான்  இன்னும்  டெவலப் ஆன நேசன் என்று சொல்லப்படுகிறோம், இந்த  தாழ்வு  மனப்பான்மையால்  தான்!

இந்த  மாதிரி  பேசுபவர்களை  கேட்டு  தான்  அமெரிக்கா  மோகம்  குறைந்து  இந்திய  வந்து  சேர்ந்தேன். மீண்டும்  மீண்டும்  அதை கேட்பது  புளித்த  மோர்  போல இருக்கு.

தொடர்புடைய   பதிவு

***
இனி அமெரிக்காவில் இப்போது நிறைவேறயுள்ள ஒரு முக்கியமான இன்சூரன்ஸ் திட்டம் பற்றி. மூன்று கோடி மக்கள் பயன் பெற போகிறார்கள்.

அமெரிக்காவில் வேலை செய்யும் கம்பெனிகள் தான் இந்தியர்களுக்கு முழு இன்சூரன்ஸ் கட்டுது ( குறைந்த பட்சம் 90% ). இந்திய வம்சாவளியினர் சொல்வதை நம்ப வேண்டாம்.

பத்து டாலர் ( இன் நெட்வர்க் ) கோ பே குறைத்து கட்ட இருபது டாலர் பெட்ரோல் செலவு செய்யும் மக்களை அறிவேன்.

மூன்று கோடி மக்கள் முக்கியமாக கறுப்பினத்தவர் ( ஆப்ரிக்கன் அமெரிக்கன்ஸ் ) மற்றும் ஸ்பானியர்கள் ( மெக்சிகன்ஸ் ) இன்சூரன்ஸ் இல்லாமல் க்வேகளிடம் சென்று கஷ்டப்படுவதை ஒபாமா பார்த்துள்ளார். 

இது நிச்சயமாக நல்ல திட்டம். இதை முதல் படியாக எடுத்துக்கொள்ள வேண்டும் என்று சொல்கிறார்கள் நண்பர்கள். இந்தியாவிலும் இதே மாதிரி நல்லது நடக்கும் வாய்ப்பு உண்டல்லவா?

யார் தடுக்கிறார்கள்.... பண முதலைகள்... அதிக லாபம் சம்பாரிக்கும் டாக்டர் கூட்டங்களும், மருந்து கம்பெனிகளும்..

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Regards
Vijayashankar

சாமியார்களை தேடி

By சுகி சிவம்

கடவுள் வேறு... மனிதன் வேறு என்று நினைப்பது வழிபாட்டில் ஆரம்ப நிலை. 

கடவுளும் நானும் வேறு வேறாக இருக்க முடியாது என்பதைப் புரிந்து கொள்ளுதல் 

ஆத்ம நிலை. 

இந்தப் புரிதல் நிகழ்ந்தவர்களை 'ஸ்வாமி' என்று கொண்டாடுவது நமது பண்பு.

பகவான் ரமணர், ராமகிருஷ்ணர், சிவானந்தர், வள்ளலார், மணிவாசகர், 

நூற்றாண்டு கண்ட காஞ்சி மகா ஸ்வாமிகள் 

ஆகியோர் நமது மரியாதைக்குரிய முன்னோடிகள்.

இந்த உயர்நிலை தொடமுடியாத ஞானக் குட்டைகள், எந்த உழைப்பும் இன்றி வசதி, 

மரியாதை, சுகபோகங்களை அடைய சாமியார்களாக வேஷம் போட்டனர்.

ஜோதிடர், அருள்வாக்கு, தாயத்து, தகடு, மருத்துவம், ஏவல், பில்லி சூனியம், 

தனவசியம், ஆவி யுலகத் தொடர்பு என்று பலப்பல தலைகளுடன் பவனி வரும் 

ராவண சாமியார்கள்... மெலிந்து நலிந்த ஜனங்களாகிய ஜானகிகள் விழுந்து விழுந்து 

இவர்களை வணங்கும் விபரீதம்.. தன்னம்பிக் கையின் தலையில் இடி விழச் செய்து, 

முதுகெலும்பை முனை முறித்துப்போட்டு, 

மூச்சு விடுவதானாலும் சாமியைக் கேட்டுத்தான் விடவேண்டும் 

என்று பக்தர் களைப் பயமுறுத்தி வைத்திருக்கிற பயங்கரம்...

பலநூறு சாமியார்களோடு பழகிய நான் சொல்கிறேன்... 

இவர்களில் பலர் நம்மைப் போல சாதாரணமானவர்களே!

நம்மைப் போல் ஆசாபாசங்கள் உள்ள சராசரிகள். 

சிலசமயம் நம்மைவிட ஆசாபாசம்மிக்கவர்கள்!

தன் சங்கீதத்தால் ஜனங்களை வைகுந்தம் கூட்டிச் செல்லவல்ல 

ஒரு சாமியாரின் காலை நேரப் பணி - ஆர்வமாக ப்ளூ ஃபிலிம் பார்ப்பது!

சென்னையில் பிரமாண்டமான ஆசிரமம் வைத்திருந்த சாமியாரின் 

பெரிய சட்டைப் பாக்கெட்டுக்குள் பல எம்.பி-க்கள் குடியிருந்தார்கள்.
விரல் அசைத்தால் விபூதியும் குங்குமமும் வரவழைக்கும் விற்பன்னர்களைப் 

பற்றிப் பேசிப் பேசி மாய்ந்துபோகிற என் அருமை நண்பர்களே.. 

உங்களிடம் ஒரே ஒரு கேள்வி! சகலத்தையும் சிருஷ்டிக்கவல்ல நமது சாமியார்கள், 

கட்டடங்கள் கட்டும்போது காசு கேட்டு உங்களிடம் கையேந்துவது ஏன்? 

விபூதியும் குங்குமமும் வரவழைப்பதற்குப் பதில் சிமென்ட் டும் செங்கல்லும் 

வரவழைக்க வேண்டியதுதானே?

மந்திரத்தில் மாங்காய் வரவழைத்து, தெருவில் வித்தை காட்டிவிட்டு, 

சாப்பாட்டுக்கு நம்மிடம் கையேந்தும் கண்கட்டி வித்தைக்காரனுக்கும் 

இவர்களுக்கும் என்ன வித்தியாசம்? அவர்கள் பயந்து பயந்து பிச்சை கேட்பார்கள்; 

இவர்கள் பயமுறுத்திப் பிச்சை கேட்கிறார்கள்.

''மந்திரங்களை முறையாக ஜெபித்தால் சித்திகள் தாமே வரும். ஆனால், 

இதனால் எந்தப் பயனும் இல்லை. முக்திக்கு இவை தடை! 

உணவு சாப்பிட்டால் மலம் உண்டாகும். யாராவது மலம் உண் டாகவேண்டும் 

என்று உணவு கொள்வார்களா? அப்படித்தான்... 

இறை வழிபாட்டால் சித்திகள் உண்டாகும். ஆனால், 

யாராவது சித்திகளுக்காக வழிபாடு செய் வார்களா?'' என்றார் பகவான் ராமகிருஷ்ணர்.

நாம் நமது சுயநலத்தால், பேராசையால், பலவீனத்தால், 

போலிச் சாமியார்களின் காலில் கிடக்கி றோம். மதத்தின் நன்மை கருதியும், 

மனிதனின் நன்மை கருதியும் இந்த விஷயத்தில் மறுபரிசீலனை மிக மிக அவசியம் 

என்று பணிவோடு, ஆனால் உறுதியோடும் திடமான பக்தியோடும் சொல்கிறேன்.

இந்த அவலங்கள் கடல் கடந்தும் நடக்கின்றன. 

சிங்கப்பூரில் ஒரு குருக்களை வேலையைவிட்டு நீக்கிவிட்டார்கள். ஏன் தெரியுமா? 

பெண் பக்தர்களுக்கு அவர் மந் திரித்துக் கயிறு கட்டிவிடுவார். 

இதில் என்ன தப்பு? பெண்கள் இடுப்பில் அவரே கட்டிவிடுவார். 

இதுதான் திரிசமம்! இவர்கள் குருமார்களா... குரூரமானவர் களா? யோசியுங்கள்.

தன்னைப் பார்க்க வந்த திரு மணமான பெண்ணை உற்றுப் பார்த்த 

காமச் சாமியார், ''ஆஹா.. நீ என் போன ஜென்மத்து மனைவி அல்லவா! 

இந்த ஜென்மத்திலும் நீ என்னுடன் இருக்கக்கடவாய்'' என்று திருவாய் மலர்ந்தார்.

உறவும் பிறப்பும் அர்த்தம் அற்றது என்று இந்த ஜென்மத்து உறவு களையே 

உதறவேண்டிய ஞானி கள் போன ஜென்மத்து உறவைப் புதுப்பித்துக்கொள்வது 

நியாயம் தானா?

புகழ் அடைவதற்குரிய எந்தவிதமான தகுதிகளும் அற்ற இயலாமை மிக்க பலர் கடவுளோடு

தங்களைத் தொடர்புபடுத்தி பிற ரிடமிருந்து தங்களை உயர்ந்தவ ராகக் காட்டிக்கொள்ளும் 

மன நோய் உள்ளவர்கள் என்று சைக் கியாட்ரிஸ்டுகள் கூறுகிறார்கள். 

இத்தகைய மனச்சிதைவுடைய மன நோயாளிகளே சாமியார்களாகத் 

தங்களைப் பிரகடனப்படுத்துகிறார்கள். வக்கிர மனம் படைத்த சில சாமியார்களும் உண்டு.

உண்மையில் நல்ல துறவிகள், மக்கள் தங்களைத் தேடி வருவதைத் தவிர்ப்பார்கள். 

தமது சக்திகளை வெளிப்படுத்தவும் விளம்பரப்படுத்தவும் விரும்பமாட்டார் கள். 

தங்களைப் பிறர் வணங்கு வதைக்கூடத் தவிர்த்துவிடுவார் கள். 

அப்படிப்பட்டவர்களைத் தேடினாலும் அகப்படமாட்டார் கள். 

அவர்கள் அடிமலர்களுக்கு ஆயிரம் கோடி நமஸ்காரங்கள்!

பணம் கொடுக்கிற சாமியார்களை மீடியாதான் பெரிதுபடுத்திவிட்டது. 

கவுண்டமணி - செந்தில் மாதிரி (அவர்கள் சிறந்த கலைஞர் கள். 

என்னை அவர்கள் மன்னிக் கட்டும்) 

அடித்துக்கொள்கிற சாமி யார்களின் சண்டைகளால் தங்களுக்குப் புகழ் சேரும் என்று 

இந்த மதத்தின் கௌரவத்தைப் பலர் காற்றில் விட்டுவிட்டார்கள். 

இவர்களை வழிகாட்டிகளாகக் கருதி, 

ஏமாந்து போகாதீர்கள்.

இவர்கள் போலியாக அன்பு காட்டுவார்கள். 

உங்கள் பிரச்னை யைத் தீர்ப்பேன் என்பார்கள். 

கணவன்-மனைவியைக்கூடப் பிரித்து வைப்பார்கள். 

பணம் பெரிய விஷயமல்ல என்பதுபோல் உபதேசங்கள் செய்து உங்கள் பணத்தை, 

உழைப்பை, நேரத்தை உறிஞ்சிவிடுவார்கள். 

உள்ளத்தை ஊனமாக்குவார்கள். தம்மை விட்டு விலகினால் கேடு வரும் 

என்று மிரட்டுவார்கள். 

பயப்படாமல் கடவுள் பெயரைச் சொல்லி வெளியே வாருங்கள்.

பெண்ணின் திருமணம், மகனுடைய வேலை வாய்ப்பு, பணக் கஷ்டம், 

தீராத நோய்கள்.. இவை உலகத்தின் பொதுப்பிரச்னைகள். 

இதைக் கடவுளிடம் பேசிக்கொள் ளலாம். கதவுகளை விரியத் திறந்து வைத்திருக்கும்

கடவுளை நம்பாது அறைக்கதவை அடைத்து வைத் துக்கொள்ளும் அரைகுறை சாமி

களை நம்புவதா? ஞானசம்பந்தர் பாடிய கோளறு பதிகம் காலையும் மாலையும் 

பலமுறை படியுங்கள்.. 

கோளும் நாளும் உதவிகள் செய்யும்; 

உங்கள் துயரங்கள் தீரும். சத்தியம்!

- ஆனந்த விகடன் பொக்கிஷத்தில் வந்ததை ( 19 வருடம் முன் )- நண்பர் அனுப்பினார்! 

Finally I got a job says one Indian student in USA

[This blog post is written by Naveen, an MS Student in Industrial Engineering from Arizona State University (ASU), graduating in Spring 2010. He started his serious job hunt from end of Fall 2009 ( Sept - Nov ) and landed up with a full time job by second week of March 2010. In this post he shares his experience about the job search in this tough economy. Hope this post will be useful for hundreds of people looking for job at this time of recession. Has it come up or what?]

Finally I got a job. What a relief!! Most importantly the job profile matches my career aspirations. I would like to share how I did the job search so that some of you who might have got their hopes down during these tough times can get their hopes high and search for jobs positively.

I began the job search by the end of the penultimate semester. I used to look up at the job postings at Career Services website of our University, and apply for jobs that fit my qualifications. I went for Career Fairs. I even applied to jobs which were not accepting applications from Foreign students. I did that just to ensure the continuity of applications. I made it a routine to apply for at least 5 jobs a week.

In the beginning I used to apply for any job with the same resume, and almost the same cover letter. There was no response for such applications. Later, after I applied for around 10 jobs, and when my last semester in school started, I began to worry, and started losing hope. I went to resume critique sessions organized by Career Services of my University. It helped me a lot. I was able to understand why my resume was not worth of any interest for any employer. My resume lacked information of achievements during my previous work and Masters, a good structure, and it did not convey exactly what kind of position I am looking for, and what my passion was. My cover-letters too lacked this information.

Taking the advice from the resume critique sessions, I changed my resume and applied again. I also continued to go for resume critiques whenever they were organized even after that. There was some changes required every time after the critique. It helped me make my resume better.

It is also important to update your profile in Social Networking Websites like LinkedIn. I got my profile updated with all the details that I could give regarding my strengths. I also got recommendation from my supervisor. The more recommendations you have in your profile, the higher the chances of attracting the recruiter to you.

I did not try networking much. I was lucky to get a job without doing that, especially in such testing times. But this is a very important thing to do to get job nowadays. It increases the chances for you to be called for an interview. If you try really hard, you can get email id's of recruiters of most companies if you use google search. I was able to get some email id's that were not provided in the Career Services Website, or company websites where jobs were posted just by using google search. It might be available in career services website of other universities. Contacting the recruiter directly and conveying your interest to them is a good tool to boost your chances.

"Do not worry, when you dont get called for an interview after many applications." I know its a very easy thing to say. I worried a lot. But, I also analyzed why I was not getting called. You would get answers to it. For my case, my resume was'nt good for the job profile, cover-letter was not very informative about my achievements, and I did not follow up with recruiters regarding applications. Perseverance and learning from mistakes are really important for job search.

I had the chance of attending an interview last semester. I was not selected for it. But I could learn from that experience. Even though I felt like I should have been selected for it, what I could understand from the failure is I could put more effort in preparation for interviews next time, so that I have better answers, especially for behavioral ones.

This time, when I got the interview call, I made it sure that I was prepared for any kind of questions asked in the interview. I wrote down possible questions, and also wrote down good answers to it. The answers should contain descriptions of Situation, Action, and Results. The employer would want to know how we handle different types of situations in work environment, and would be happy to hear good examples from your past experiences.

I took a notepad along with me for the interview, so that I could write down important points when the interviewer explains about the work, or describes a problem. I could also write down questions that I might have, that I can ask the interviewer later, when it is my turn to ask. This would impress the interviewer. It would make them feel that you are an organized person, and you have great interest in the job that you are interviewing for.

It is important to be cheerful throughout the interview, and never show any signs of nervousness. It is also important to behave in a professional way. If there was a question to which I did not know a answer, I never hesitated to say "I do not know". I would say "I am keen to learn about it", or "I am not sure, I can give it a try."

It is important to ask for business cards from each and every interviewer. You would need it to follow up with them later. I sent a thank you mail to all the interviewers after I came back from interview.

All my efforts payed off, and now I have a job that I really want to do. But, I am not stopping here. I will keep applying for jobs till I start working for this job.

So as a summary what I would suggest for job search and interview processes are:

For Job Search

1. Keep updating resume; use different resumes for different job profiles; keep getting critiques for resume and coverletter.
2. Have your profile in all important job boards like Monster, Career Builder, Indeed, SimplyHired, Dice etc. Update it whenever required.
3. Get recommendations in LinkedIn profile.
4. Follow up with recruiters after application.

For Interview

1. Make sure you know about the company and job description thoroughly. Have questions prepared to ask interviewer.
2. Prepare well: Focus on only those skills that are required for the job. Write down and practice answers to behavioral questions
3. Take notepad to note down questions you need to ask
4. Dress up well: Good Suit and Tie.
5. Ask for business cards from interviewers
6. Follow up, and send thank you notes to all interviewers.

Hope this will help some of you to get a job. There are a lot of websites that would give you more information about job search strategies. Try them. Persevere, and don't give up. Good luck to all!!

--
Regards
Vijayashankar