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itplccacoordinator / December 16, 2020 Posted by : editor

In your opinion, what global problem or issue deserves more attention than it currently receives? Why should more time and money be invested in this cause?

Religious conflicts or religious wars or holy wars are the wars that occur due to the distrust or conflicting views related to a particular subject between groups of people of different religions. Religious conflicts have always been one of the most crucial global issues of all time. Keeping India under consideration, India has more ethnic and religious groups than most other countries. So, it is obvious that the chances of having religious conflicts in India are more than that of any other country. However, we all are well aware of the fact that India has always been among the top five countries when it comes to the frequency of having religious conflicts. Historically, India touts itself as a secular country that has a vast number of religions wherein, all the religions are treated equally. Well, at least in theory, it is. Unfortunately, in reality, it is much different and worse than ever expected.

India has had a vast number of religious conflicts to date. However, the ethnic conflict in Assam, the Sikh- Hindu conflict in Punjab, and the consistent Hindu- Muslim conflicts have been the most famous ones until today. The state of Assam consisted of four disparate groups, the Bengali Hindus, the Bengali Muslims, the Assamese, and the tribal group. The conflicts among these groups originated due to the superiority of the Bengali Hindus. Because of their educational advantage over Assamese, they were better suited to man the growing administrative and professional machinery, whereas, the Bengali Muslims were peasants. Since the Bengali Hindus were more educated, they were the first priorities in the job sector, whereas the Muslims were pushed under consideration. The Bengali Hindus were granted a lot of powers and authorities and were given access to everything, but the Bengali Muslims did not enjoy this freedom. They were suppressed by the Bengali Hindus. This partiality made the Muslims angry due to which the riots began among the Bengali Hindus and Bengali Muslims, where the Muslims defended and stood up for themselves, for their rights and freedom. At a time like this, where the Bengali Hindus and Muslims were fighting over their powers, the tribal group was struggling to come to their standards and compete. Due to these differences, the situation worsened. This was one of the biggest and the worst religious conflicts of India which attracted a lot of attention towards the public. However, there was no public or government involvement in such a crisis time as well. As time passed by, the powers were distributed among everyone equally due to the increasing Bengali Muslim population, which is a result balanced the Bengali Hindus and Muslim population. But since these conflicts persisted for a long time, it affected the economy of Assam. But if there would have been any kind of efforts made by the public or the government during this crisis time, then the situation would have come under control and there might have been comparatively a less amount of economic loss.

Coming to the Sikh- Hindu conflicts in Punjab, it was another devastating conflict that left everyone in shock.  There were mounting communal tensions between Hindus and Sikhs in the state. Although religious symbols were used for the mobilization of Sikhs and the secessionist slogan of Khalistan (a sovereign state of Sikhs) had been raised, the Sikh’s charter of demands, drawn from the Anandpur Sahib Resolution, had strong economic and political components, unlike in Assam where the issue of aliens had sidelined economic demands of Punjab which led to violent clashes. In Punjab, Sikhs were a majority and Hindus a minority. The religious demands made by the Sikhs included a greater radio broadcast time and a separate legislative act for the Sikh shrines. These demands were fulfilled and were granted to the Sikhs after the approval of the new Delhi. There were even many economic demands made by the Sikhs which included a greater share in their part. Due to the fulfillment of demands, the Hindus faced a lot of inconveniences and this tempered them. A good bond was shared between the Hindu traders and the Sikhs. However, it is unlikely that these links would have automatically led to political action without the mediation of political parties. This mediation did not simply reflect the emerging socio-economic divisions; it deepened them. Since the political parties, like congress, were involved in this conflict, the situation persisted for a really long time because the Congress party would not sort out and settle the situation until and unless they would have any kind of political or electoral gain. However, Congress could not dominate the entire case for a long time and hence, as time passed by, the situation settled down by itself. Again, in this conflict as well, there was no major role or any kind of effective involvement from the government’s side. Due to this ignorance, Punjab faced a very big amount of economic loss.

Lastly, comes the Hindu- Muslim conflicts, which till today persists. Of all the religious and ethnic issues in contemporary India, history has cast its deepest shadow on Hindu-Muslim relations. The most critical contemporary phase of this history was the partition of 1947. The recent Hindu-Muslim conflicts have been over the new citizenship law of India. The law makes religion a criterion for nationality in India’s citizenship law for the first time. It creates an expedited path to citizenship for migrants from three countries — Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan — who illegally entered India by 2014, provided they belong to six religions. The religions are Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, Sikhism, Jainism, and Zoroastrianism. However, the Muslims are offended by this law and are completely against it. This law has been controversial and has led to many protests and riots on the streets of Delhi because the law has sparked a backlash on several levels. When India became independent in 1947, its founders sought to create a secular nation where all religions were welcome — in contrast with Pakistan, which was conceived as a home for the subcontinent’s Muslims. By giving preference to certain religions in citizenship law, the government is moving away from that ethos. As a result of this preference, the Muslims feel alienated. However, there has been no major involvement from the government in this controversy as well.

From the above situations, it is clear that religious conflicts take up the evil side which not only results in the economic loss of the government but it also results in individual losses. I believe that more involvement should be there in such conflicts because due to lack of public and government involvement, results in the loss of the entire country as a whole. These conflicts also create barriers between various ethnic groups which sometimes become unbreakable and these barriers will result in distrust among people. This distrust will hence result in even more religious conflicts which will worsen the condition of the country. These things might also go out of hand if they are not taken care of at the initial stages. Some people think that it is better to stay off the hook at all times, assuming that staying off the hook would do more good. In reality, it would cause more harm than good. We as the public, in such situations, should raise our voice against the wrong thing, and together we should unite to educate ourselves and our fellow citizens about what is right and wrong. The public involvement should be peacefully executed. We should encourage our fellow citizens to unite together and support each other instead of going against each other. If we as the public do not get involved in such conflicts, even after being aware of our losses then we are no good to society. We need to stand up for ourselves, for others, and for our country as a whole. Even the government should take up some measures well in advance to avoid such situations.

Shivanshi, 11 A, Ekya ITPL

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itplccacoordinator / March 26, 2024

The Hot Garlic Soup Inspired by ‘The Last Leaf’ by O. Henry

Sue and Johnsy, two young artists, shared a small flat on the third storey of an old house.
Johnsy fell ill in November. She was diagnosed with pneumonia. She would lie in her bed, gazing out of the window. Sue sent for the doctor. The doctor said to Sue, “Johnsy’s condition is not so serious yet. It seems she is unable to recover because she has lost the will to live.”
Sue became extremely worried for Johnsy’s well-being and mental health. She tried to make Johnsy interested in the things around her, but Johnsy never replied with more than a noncommittal hum.
One day, Sue was painting when she heard Johnsy counting backwards. Sue looked out of the window and saw an old ivy creeper climbing on the brick wall. The ivy was shedding its leaves in the strong gust of the wind.
“They are falling faster now,” whispered Johnsy. “Three days ago there were so many leaves. Only five are left now.”
“It is autumn,” said Sue, “and the leaves will fall.”
“When the last leaf falls, I will die” said Johnsy with finality. “I have felt this for the last three days.”
“Oh, that’s nonsense,” replied Sue. “Why do you believe your fate is tied to those old ivy leaves?”
“Human life is fleeting, just like those ivy leaves,” said Johnsy. “I got sick just as the ivy started shedding its leaves. It must be an omen. The last leaf will fall, and I will slip into slumber forever.”
Sue sat on Johnsy’s bed, kissed her and said, “You are not going to die. Plenty of people fall sick in autumn, and they recover soon enough. Do you want some soup?”
“I don’t want any soup. My time is almost up, I’m sure of it,” murmured Johnsy.
Sue decided to change tactics. She was not going to give up on Johnsy.
“It is true that human life is somewhat fleeting, but that’s exactly what makes life valuable. Do you not want to see what life has to offer before you slip into slumber? Will you not miss the cool breeze waking you up, the warm embrace of sunlight? Do you want to give up the feeling of the paintbrush gliding over the canvas?” Sue quavered.
“Look beyond the ivy to that tree over there,” Sue continued. “Even that tree is shedding its leaves, but it is also growing new leaves. It is going to live for many more years, just like you.”
Johnsy contemplated for a while. Then, she looked out of the window and smiled.
“Perhaps I will have some hot garlic soup. You made me realise that life is worth living after all.”
Written by Aahana,
from grade 9A

itplccacoordinator / March 22, 2024

Importance of Literature in a Classroom.

"Literature is one of the most interesting and significant expressions of humanity" - P.T.Barnum

We as humans are social beings. We can't imagine our lives to be solitary. Literature facilitates us to understand and communicate with one another in society. It helps us explore the world around us and is a medium to express our views and experiences. So it is of vital importance that the students are introduced to literature at a young age.

Literature is necessary for students as it helps them to develop imagination, improves vocabulary and language skills and even enhances creativity. Literature helps them understand the world outside their home and school.

It is disheartening to see that literature is often not put on the same pedestal as other technical subjects like Math or Science. where it shouldn't be the case.

Literature includes different types of texts like stories and fables, myths

and legends, poetry and drama or even informational texts that help them explore other subjects. It prepares students to read and understand the real world.

There are one too many benefits of including literature at a young age. It is like an exercise for the brain, keeping an individual mentally active and stimulated.

Exposure to cultures from different countries brings in a sense of respect and tolerance, a feat possible through literature. It motivates one to appreciate different lives and their ways and also to graciously disagree with something that may not be right. The different characters the students are introduced to become a source of inspiration. They start to imagine themselves in varied situations. they learn different solutions to problems they come across.

More importantly, reading is fun and literature develops an inclination toward reading and makes them self-learners.

It can be concluded that literature is a gateway to nurturing a child’s life skills more than any assignment or task

can ever do.

Written By:

Shruthi Prakash

English Educator - Primary

Ekya Schools BTM Layout

itplccacoordinator / March 22, 2024

A Day to Remember: Juniors Bid Goodbye to Seniors with a Spectacular Farewell Party.

As the academic year draws to a close, emotions run high at our beloved school. The time has come for the juniors to express their gratitude, love, and affection for their departing seniors.

And what better way to do this than by throwing an unforgettable farewell party?

The air was buzzing with excitement as the juniors meticulously planned every detail to make it a night that their seniors would cherish forever.

The audio-visual room was transformed into a place of nostalgia and celebration, adorned with decorations to welcome the seniors. Each performance was filled with energy, enthusiasm, and dedication. Each video played, spoke volumes about the memories shared and the bonds formed throughout their academic journey, blanketing the atmosphere with a mix of joy, laughter, and a hint of bittersweet anticipation.

Our seniors were all dressed up to the nines for the occasion with the girls in a blue and white saree and the boys in black suits.

But how did all of this come to be? I am a grade 11 student and let me take you through behind the scenes of this event and how we prepared for this event.

  • Many girls formed a group and decided to dance to “Paint It Red” and “All Is Well”. Everyone’s efforts are to be appreciated as they come up with new steps and formations. Well-coordinated teamwork led to an amazing performance that got everyone cheering.

  • Meanwhile, my batchmate, Lara,  and a few teachers were preparing to sing songs dedicated to the seniors. Lara sang a melodious rendition of “When You Believe” and the teachers sang a medley of songs which got the seniors singing along as well!

  • The boys planned on dancing to the song “Galti Se Mistake” and their performance was full of creativity and humour. The choreography was inspired by the original music video of the song and they worked hard together and taught each other the steps. This performance got everyone giggling and cheering so loud!

  • It did not end with the students, even the teachers chose to step into this grand celebration. They danced on a variety of songs and each song made the seniors hoot louder. Even though they had a very busy schedule they would still take time and dedicate it to the dance practice during after-school hours. Huge kudos for their coordination and effort!

  • Mohana and Arshia came up with a very engaging script which had the attention of the audience. A small game was organised for the students where they had to write something good about one of their batchmates. Everybody put their hands together and made 32 crowns of appreciation for their seniors. A video of the seniors was made including photos and videos of their dearest memories. Last but not least, our teachers also prepared a video message for the seniors bidding farewell and wishing them the best for their future endeavours.

The day finally came. The 10th of February came. It was the day - the day for which we had been preparing for days. The graduation.

The place was set, the background screen was ready, the mic was ready and the sound system was ready. Our seniors came one by one and the auditorium was filled with chatter until the anchors came in and the event started.

After a few minutes, the head boy gave a heartfelt speech, followed by the chit game of affirmations then Lara’s beautiful performance.

The girls donned black kurtis and sunglasses and danced to “Paint It Red”, which got a round of applause. The seniors loved the “Galti Se Mistake” dance by the boys for its creativity and comedic execution and what made it better was the shorts with shirt and tie combination. The dance finale was to the song “All Is Well” which got the audience cheering for the dancers with lots of enthusiasm.

Then a video filled with the memories of the seniors was shown which made most of them emotional. The dance which everybody was eagerly anticipating started - it was our beloved teachers who completely rocked the stage with their amazing performance.

Then a few teachers gave a very emotional message followed by songs dedicated to their students. The event came to an end with video messages by the teachers,  a crowning ceremony and high tea.

In conclusion, the event was successful, and enjoyed by all the students - juniors, seniors and teachers. It wouldn’t have been possible without everyone’s contribution and teamwork. It was an emotional roller coaster for everyone and a day which will never be forgotten.

Written By:

Stutee Samantray

(Grade 11, Ekya BTM)

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#ParentBlogger:Family time with Family Ties Program

In this virtual schooling, Ekya has newly come up with the family ties program every week. My family loves this activity as it involves hands-on experience, fun, exploring and learning activities. I eagerly wait every week for the family ties activities. The school makes sure that they don't repeat the activities, every week they come up with different ideas. They share 2 activities a week, which includes reading, healthy drink, craft, art, videos on self awareness etc... My son enjoys doing these activities with me, his father and his brother. We share many things while we are into this, also it's an opportunity to teach my son while we learn. After this program, my son loves to prepare smoothies. He has become independent and makes excellent smoothies these days. Thank you Ekya!                                          3 D Butterfly Life Cycle activity by Sehej and Sujan  From, Ms.Suhasini.S (Parent of Sehej, Grade 3, Ekya ITPL)

#HARRY POTTER AND THE AGE OF GRIMS OF THE GREAT – A snippet by Utkarsh Vyas, Grade 5, ITPL

The scar was a topic Harry refused to discuss. Or rather ignore. His defeat of Voldemort seemed to be a century ago.

Harry felt a lot more like a Slytherin. He had agreed to something new. He felt like he wanted something new, something that will earn him the glory he wanted and deserved… but he’d have to earn it. 

Even though he was now forty years old, his birth month was not exactly far away… in fact, today was the twenty-seventh of July, and his birthday was on the thirty first.

He missed it all, fooling around in the dormitory, with Ron Weasley, Neville Longbottom, Seamus Finnigan, and Dean Thomas. 

Seamus would currently be doing a report on dark arts that Harry had ordered him to do.

You see, Harry was the head of the Auror Department in the Ministry of Magic, now run by Aaron Babington.

Harry missed Hogwarts, even the detentions that he so often ended up in during his last and sometimes first few years at Hogwarts. Of course, most of the time, he tried to do the right thing.

He missed all the teachers in the castle that had always been his one true home.

Then there was a knock on the door of the house. Ginny went to open it, but when she did, she found nothing but the copy of the latest MAGIC SCRIPT, the local newspaper. 

TERROR IN ST. CRISTONBERG

‘The most respected hospital in the whole world,’ says Nurse Laura Carter, ‘just gets broken into by some bloke in a stupid cloak with a wand that looks as though you can squeeze it faster than clay? What cannot be wrong? My blames go to the government!’ The nurse clearly is not happy with someone who calls himself Grimsof the Great. This ‘Grimsof’ has shown a lot of criminal history … his wand is the cause of devastation amongst families whose loved ones could have been in St Cristonberg.

Harry read, then wondered aloud, ‘What is this?’ The answer, Harry did not need, as he already knew it. This was an outrage or a scandal for sure, but Harry knew that this is what will help him to earn glory again.

Harry worked the next full night, and he called Ron and Hermione. ‘I don’t get why you wish to be involved in this business,’ said Hermione on their third day of work. She got the answer from the annoyed look that Harry gave her.

Then, on the fourth day, Harry found a crucial detail: it was stated in Grimsofs’ magical profile that he had done most of his now rising crime in a place in Russia call Hemslovf. Harry, even in his wildest dreams, had never heard of this place.

So, Hermione found out more about the place, and soon enough, it was decided that Harry, Ginny, Ron, and Hermione will go to Hemslovf to stop Grimsof from wrecking something else.

Ron, Harry, Hermione, and Ginny were all outside the house, and each holding hands to apparate to Russia.

 So, as they all wished each other luck, they apparated a few thousand kilometers from where they were originally standing.  

In one second, they were in a place that looked as though there was a dark wizard rampage just yesterday. Harry would have tried to cook up even worse descriptions for the place if not for a sudden black bubble in the sky. Out of nowhere, a few million more came, and they formed a circle, and a portal formed… A caped figure emerged from the portal.

Grimsof had a green cape. His wand also obviously didn’t look like it could be squished like clay. His hair was straight upwards and his shoes really went well with his black and red robes.

A horrifying cackle filled the air, and no one was able to escape his deadly stare as he said, ‘So, you all have come to here to stop me? Ahh, slim chance…’

‘Yeah right… you and who else?’ Ron piped up. 

‘I alone am a death trap!’ Grimsof snapped.

‘All right then,’ said Harry as he pointed his wand and shot a spell. It was dodged.

‘NOT TODAY!’ And then there was a blast coming from Grimsof’s wand which Harry deflected. A fierce battle ensued and Harry finally deflected a spell towards Grimsof and in one loud scream, where Grimsof was once standing, there was dust everywhere.

Grimsof was defeated.   

By Utkarsh Vyas

5 B, Ekya ITPL

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