27 December & ‘Jana Gana Mana": The National Anthem of Unity and Identity in India

27 December holds a special significance for us since it happens to be the birthday of my wife and therefore I was wondering how could I make it special  this year. This thought helped me to dig into history to try and resonate this day as something special. This led me to the understanding of the historical significance of this day for India. It was on this day, 27 December 1911, that for the first time “Jana Gana Mana", which was later to become our national anthem, was sung during the Indian National Congress session in Calcutta (now Kolkata). 

India's national anthem, "Jana Gana Mana," penned and composed by the legendary poet Rabindranath Tagore (https://khened.blogspot.com/2020/05/rabindrnaath-tagore-tribute-to-polymath.html)

is not merely a song or an exceptional piece of poetry; it is an embodiment of the nation's rich cultural tapestry and a hymn that resonates with the collective spirit of the people of India. The journey of this profound anthem, from its inception to its establishment as the national song, showcases the deep connection it shares with the people of India.

Although "Jana Gana Mana" was first sung on December 27, 1911, during the Indian National Congress session in Calcutta (now Kolkata), little did Tagore know that his composition would go on to become an integral part of India's national identity and that it will be adopted as the national anthem. The true recognition of "Jana Gana Mana" as the national anthem came after a long debate in the Constituent Assembly of India, which officially adopted it as the national anthem when the Republic of India was proclaimed - 26 January 1950. The adoption of this anthem was not just a formal acknowledgment; it was a declaration of the values and diversity that bind the nation together.

The impact of "Jana Gana Mana" goes beyond its melodious tune and eloquent lyrics. The anthem encompasses verses in praise of India's diverse geography, cultures, and people, fostering a sense of unity in its diversity. It is a celebration of the spirit that transcends regional, linguistic, and religious boundaries, making it a poignant representation of the composite culture of India.

The anthem's connect with the people is evident in its widespread acceptance and participation during national events, school assemblies, and public gatherings. This was evidenced when the world witnessed that extraordinary moment, which unfolded during the India Pakistan World Cup Cricket match in Ahmedabad. A massive gathering of over 100,000 people in the crowd were seen singing with extreme pride the national anthem along with the Indian team. The video capturing the collective rendition of "Jana Gana Mana" serves as a unifying force, instilling a sense of pride and patriotism among Indians and therefore it was no wonder that it went viral across social media platforms. It exhibited the power of the national anthem to evoke strong emotions, symbolizing the shared history, struggles, and triumphs of the nation. 

"Jana Gana Mana" has become a cultural icon, weaving itself into the fabric of India's national consciousness. Its verses capture the essence of India's journey towards independence and its ongoing pursuit of unity, justice, and liberty. The anthem is not merely a musical composition; it is a living testament to the resilience and unity of the Indian people.

Rabindranath Tagore's "Jana Gana Mana" stands as a timeless anthem that transcends time and space, resonating with the hearts of millions. From its humble origins to its status as the national anthem, the song has left an indelible mark on the collective identity of India. Its impact lies in its ability to evoke a sense of pride and unity, making it a cherished and revered symbol that unites the diverse tapestry of the nation. 

This post is a birthday gift to my wife, who turns 55 today, which costs cipher and stands a sure chance to be dimmed in the light of other possible materialistic gifts she is sure to receive from her father and siblings. Hailing from the rustic background - and that too from the state of north Karnataka - I grew up in an ambience where modern style ostentatious celebrations of birthdays with cutting of birthday cakes etc. were non starters and even if celebrated, it was a visit to a temple followed by seeking blessings from parents and elders and that tradition I have continued when it comes to celebrating my birthday. 

May our national anthem continue to unite us and help us celebrate the grandness of this vast and diverse nation which is poised to regain its supremacy in the comity of nations in the decades to come. 

Jai Hind

December 14: Max Planck’s Quantum Theory Enters Scientific Lexicon in 1900

This day - 14 December - marks a historic day when the groundbreaking Quantum Theory was firmly birthed by German Scientist, Max Planck in 1900. Earlier, Planck had presented his preliminary ideas of quantised energy at a meeting of the German Physical Society on October 19, 1900, which he thought was simply a ‘lucky guess’. He, therefore, set about deriving a decisive formulation on the quantised energy and came out with a comprehensive version of his Quantum Theory that he introduced before the German Physical Society (Deutsche Physikalische Gesellschaft) in Berlin on December 14, 1900. In attendance was the distinguished audience that consisted of fellow physicists and scientists who played a crucial role in the reception of his groundbreaking ideas on quantum theory and helping it enter into the scientific lexicon. Planck published this paper, under the title “On the Law of the Energy Distribution in the Normal Spectrum”, in the journal "Annalen der Physik" (Annals of Physics) in 1901. It is in recognition of his December 14 presentation before the German Physical Society that 14 December has been etched in the annals of history as the day when Quantum Mechanics was born. 

Max Planck's paper presented a significant departure from the extant classical physics, particularly the well-established centuries-old Newtonian principles. Classical physics operated on deterministic laws, assuming a continuous and predictable nature of matter and energy. However, the phenomena observed at the atomic and molecular levels defied explanation by classical physics. Planck's paper explained the blackbody radiation spectrum, resolving issues that classical physics couldn't address. Planck's quantum theory introduced the concept of quantized energy, suggesting that energy is not emitted or absorbed continuously but in discrete packets or "quanta." This departure from classical continuity was a radical shift, challenging the deterministic worldview of classical physics. The implications were profound, as it forced scientists to reconsider the nature of matter and energy interactions at microscopic scales. 

It is interesting to note that Einstein, initially, had reservations about the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics and his preference for determinism led to differences with pioneers like Niels Bohr, which are well recorded in the debates that the two stalwarts had on this subject, in the early days of Quantum theory. Notwithstanding the same, quantum theory revolutionised science and technology, influencing fields beyond physics. His paper led to the development of quantum mechanics as a definitive subject. This paradigm shift became the catalyst for a series of monumental developments, with pioneers like Niels Bohr, Paul Dirac, Werner Heisenberg, Erwin Schrödinger, and others expanding and refining quantum mechanics to shape the understanding of particles and their behaviour at the atomic and subatomic levels. 

The giant leap from Newtonian determinism to the probabilistic realm of quantum mechanics was pathbreaking primarily because Newton's laws were immensely successful in describing macroscopic phenomena, but they fell short when applied to the microscopic world. Planck's work laid the groundwork for a new understanding of particles' behaviour, acknowledging inherent uncertainties and probabilities in their states and movements. 

In the vast tapestry of scientific discovery, Max Planck stands as a luminary whose revolutionary insights into the quantum realm laid a robust foundation for transformative advancements in electronics, communications, and information technology. Planck's quantum mechanics became the cornerstone upon which subsequent generations of scientists built, propelling humanity into the digital age.

 The electronics landscape, intricately connected to the quantum world, underwent a metamorphosis thanks to the profound understanding derived from Planck's work. Riding on the shoulders of the scientific giants who advanced quanta, and mechanics, the realm of semiconductors emerged, culminating in the invention of the Nobel-winning semiconductor transistors and the ubiquitous Integrated Circuit (IC). This miniature marvel, a testament to human ingenuity helped solve the tyranny of numbers - vacuum tubes - that now form the backbone of modern electronic devices, from computers to smartphones. Enter the era of Silicon Valley, starting from the formation of the Shockley Semiconductors company, which helped the founding of Fairchild Semiconductors. Fairchild Semiconductor, and its famous ‘treacherous eight’ founders, proved to be the leaders in Silicon Valley and their company in turn birthed many other companies in Silicon Valley including Intel, which developed the microprocessor that heralded a new dawn in computing. The seamless and continuous integration of Planck's quantum principles with electronic engineering paved the way for faster, more powerful, and increasingly compact computational devices. The world witnessed an unprecedented leap in information technology, as processing speeds skyrocketed and computing power became accessible to the masses.

The marriage of information technology with the internet, itself a product of advanced communication technologies, has shaped the interconnected world we inhabit today. Fiber-optic communications, lasers, and emerging quantum computing owe their existence to the foundational concepts laid down by Planck. The intricate dance of electrons at the quantum level finds resonance in the swift transmission of data through optical fibres, enabling the seamless connectivity that defines our digital age.

As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, we owe a debt of gratitude to Max Planck. His intellectual courage and vision propelled us from the confines of classical physics into an era where quantum mechanics is not just a theoretical construct but a driving force behind our technological marvels. Planck's legacy, embodied in the tiny particles and packets of energy he unveiled, continues to resonate in every keystroke, every download, and every electronic pulse that shapes our modern world. December 14, 1900, therefore marks not just a date in history but a cosmic birth of ideas that have fuelled a technological revolution, and for that, we stand in eternal tribute to Max Planck, the architect of the quantum age.

In the context of India, the digital saga and IT have played a transformational role in benefitting its citizens. In the dynamic landscape of India's digital revolution, the impact of quantum mechanics is palpable, albeit indirectly. The foundational principles laid down by Max Planck and the subsequent development of quantum mechanics have played an instrumental role in shaping the digital infrastructure that underpins millions of financial transactions in the country. From computers to smartphones, which are inextricably linked to our daily lives, these devices rely on the principles of quantum mechanics to function efficiently.

 In the context of financial transactions, quantum-inspired advancements in information technology have become indispensable. The development of secure communication protocols, encryption algorithms, and data transmission methods draws inspiration from the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics. Quantum cryptography, for instance, explores ways to enhance the security of digital transactions, ensuring that sensitive financial data remains safeguarded against potential threats.

 Moreover, the computational power derived from the principles of quantum mechanics has influenced the development of algorithms that optimize financial operations. Quantum computing, though in its infancy, holds the promise of revolutionizing complex calculations, risk assessments, and data analysis in the financial sector. As this technology matures, it could potentially streamline and enhance the efficiency of digital financial transactions on an unprecedented scale.

 India's ambitious journey towards a digital economy, often referred to as "Digital India," is intricately intertwined with the technological advancements inspired by quantum mechanics. The adoption of digital payment systems, mobile banking, and online financial platforms has surged, transforming the traditional landscape of financial transactions. Quantum mechanics, through its impact on information technology, has been an unsung hero in enabling the infrastructure that facilitates seamless, secure, and efficient digital financial interactions.

 In conclusion, the quantum revolution initiated by Max Planck in the early 20th century has left an indelible mark on India's digital transformation. The principles of quantum mechanics, manifested in the technological advancements of information science and quantum-inspired computing, have become integral to the fabric of Digital India. As millions engage in financial transactions through digital platforms, they unknowingly participate in a technological symphony shaped by the quantum world, a testament to the enduring and far-reaching impact of Max Planck's groundbreaking ideas.

Image: Courtesy  Wikipedia 

 

13 December, “The Tragedy of Commons”, & Panchatantra

 

It was on this day, 13 December, that ecologist Garret Hardin published an influential essay titled "The Tragedy of the Commons," in the journal “Science” in 1968. His essay explores the concept that shared resources, when open to everyone, are often overused and depleted. It highlights the dilemma of individual interests conflicting with the common good, leading to environmental degradation. Today, this concept remains relevant in addressing issues like overpopulation, resource depletion, and environmental sustainability. Lessons include the need for responsible resource management, regulatory measures, and global cooperation to avoid the tragic consequences of unchecked exploitation.

 Garrett James Hardin was an American ecologist and professor of human ecology, who was born on April 21, 1915. Hardin's background included academic achievements in the fields of biology and ecology. He obtained his Bachelor's degree in Zoology from the University of Chicago in 1936 and later earned a doctorate in microbiology from Stanford University in 1941. Throughout his career, he worked as a professor of biology and human ecology at various institutions, including the University of California, Santa Barbara.

 Hardin's work extended beyond the realm of biology, and he became known for his writings on ethics, ecology, and resource management. In his essay “Tragedy of the Commons”, Hardin advocated the idea that individuals, acting in their self-interest, could deplete shared resources, leading to a "tragedy" where everyone suffers due to the overexploitation of the commons. This he argued would lead to detrimental consequences for the entire community. He presented a compelling argument about the overuse of shared resources, using the metaphor of a common pasture that is open to all for grazing. Hardin's essay sparked significant debate and discussion in the fields of ecology, economics, and environmental science. It also created debate and discussions on population growth, environmental ethics, and the management of common-pool resources. While Hardin’s concept did face criticism and alternative viewpoints, it remains a key idea in discussions about sustainable resource management and the challenges of addressing collective action problems, particularly in countries like India. With a large population, resources such as water, land, and energy are under significant pressure. The tragedy of the commons underscores the importance of efficient and sustainable resource management to prevent overexploitation and depletion.

 Hardin passed away on September 14, 2003, leaving a lasting impact on ecological and ethical discourse through his contributions to the understanding of common-pool resource dynamics.

 Speaking on the subject of “The Tragedy of Commons” and its adverse impact on society, and its extraordinary significance in modern times, I am reminded of the importance of incorporating social science and moral values, particularly through teachings like those found in stories such as Panchatantra, to counteract the potential consequences of degradation and abuse of common assets in an increasingly selfish and materialistic world.

 Panchatantra, a collection of ancient Indian folktales and animal fables, is attributed to the illustrious Hindu Scholar, Vishnu Sharma. He is believed to have composed Panchatantra around 200 BCE to 300 CE, Panchatantra is a Sanskrit work that has transcended centuries, cultures, and borders. Its stories have been translated into numerous languages and continue to captivate readers worldwide.

 The Panchatantra consists of a series of interconnected fables, typically featuring animal characters. The stories are framed within a narrative structure where a wise teacher imparts valuable life lessons to young princes. Each tale imparts moral, ethical, and practical wisdom, often exploring themes such as diplomacy, governance, friendship, and ethical decision-making.

 The Panchatantra stories are rich in moral teachings. In today's world, where rapid population growth and increased demands strain shared resources, these stories offer timeless wisdom on responsible behaviour, ethical decision-making, and the consequences of selfish actions. Many Panchatantra tales emphasize the interconnectedness of all living beings and the environment. In the face of contemporary environmental challenges. exacerbated by a growing population, these stories can promote ecological awareness and sustainable living practices. The tales often feature kings and rulers facing complex challenges. In the context of modern governance and leadership, the Panchatantra provides insights into effective decision-making, diplomatic skills, and the importance of considering the well-being of the entire community.

 The Panchatantra reflects the cultural heritage of India. Preserving and promoting this ancient wisdom helps maintain a connection with cultural roots while offering practical insights for navigating the complexities of modern society. The adaptability of Panchatantra stories allows them to resonate with diverse audiences. Through various retellings, adaptations, and educational initiatives, these tales can address contemporary issues related to resource management, community harmony, and ethical conduct.

 In conclusion, the Panchatantra, with its enduring stories and moral lessons, provides a valuable resource for addressing the challenges posed by a growing population and the associated stresses on shared resources, leading to what Hardin called “The Tragedy of Commons”. By integrating its teachings into education and cultural awareness, societies can benefit from the timeless wisdom embedded in these ancient fables for the larger good of the society to which we all belong - Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Images : Courtesy Wikipedia 

 

Mahaparinirvan Divas: Tribute to Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar on his Death Anniversary

Today, 6 December, marks the death anniversary - Mahaparinirvan Divas - of the venerable Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, the Father of the Indian Constitution and a champion who advocated for the rights of the Dalits and marginalised in India. Millions of followers of Dr B R Ambedkar flock to the city of Mumbai at the Chaitya Bhoomi, the cremation place of Dr Ambedkar to pay their reverence to their iconic leader. His erudition and tireless efforts for the rights of his people and those of the marginalised section of Indian society have left an indelible mark on our nation, shaping the foundation for social justice and equality. 

 On this solemn occasion, it is time for us to reflect on his enduring legacy, acknowledging the pivotal role he played in crafting the constitutional framework that continues to guide our diverse and vibrant democracy. In remembrance, we honour his unwavering commitment to social justice and his profound impact on the collective conscience of our nation. 

 Ambedkar's journey from being a Dalit himself to becoming a key architect of the constitution is an inspiring narrative of resilience and determination. His academic brilliance and profound understanding of social issues enabled him to articulate the principles of justice, liberty, and fraternity that form the bedrock of our constitutional ethos. 

Beyond the constitutional realm, Ambedkar tirelessly advocated for the upliftment of the downtrodden, working to eradicate untouchability and promote education as a means of empowerment. His efforts paved the way for significant social reforms, challenging deeply entrenched prejudices and inequalities.

As we observe the anniversary of his passing, it is an opportune moment to reflect not only on his legislative contributions but also on the broader social transformation he envisioned. Dr. Ambedkar's teachings continue to inspire movements for equality and justice, reminding us of the ongoing struggle to build a society where every individual, regardless of caste or creed, can live with dignity and opportunity.

Images: Courtesy Wikipedia 

Here is a link to my blog, written on his birth anniversary, which chronicles the life and works of Dr BR Ambedkar. 

https://khened.blogspot.com/2023/04/tribute-to-dr-bhimrao-ramji-ambedkar.html