Need for rational outlook

The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Nara Chandrababu Naidu, who is renowned as a high-tech leader who put Hyderabad on the global map with a slew of initiatives, has apparently opted out of the prestigious Sixth Indian Science Congress, citing 'Vaastu Dosham.’ The session was held at Acharya Nagarjuna University, (ANU), Guntur. (Hans India, Jan 20).

Here is an extract from The Supplement to "The Journey of My Life," an informative autobiography of Andhra Kesari Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu, the first Chief Minister of Andhra State, in 1953. (Compiled by his prodigy and disciple Tenneti Viswanatham. Page, 216).

"There was rejoicing everywhere in the Andhra districts in connection with inauguration of the Andhra Province.

However, Prakasam received several letters from prominent astrologers suggesting that the inaugural function should not be fixed on 1st October, as scheduled but either a day earlier or a date later. There was a spate of letters on the subject. However, there were objections from the officers for change of date on the plea that the original date would facilitate maintenance of accounts. "Prakasam expressed his opinion that it was hardly the time to administer the states on the basis of astrologers' forecasts. Since the astrologers' objection pertained to his own future, but not the progress of the Province, Prakasam did not bother to attach much importance to them. He commented that none could be a minister for ever, even if the inaugural ceremonies were conducted on an auspicious day fixed by all the astrologers. He added that he would not say 'no' to the date fixed by the Central Government."

It is well-known that Prakasam's Ministry fell after 13 months. He was sympathetically asked, "Pantulugaru, you are pulled down, for your rigidity and adherence to principles. Why do not you compromise and adjust to the changing circumstances? Where do you go from here? There is no house of your own?" Prakasam was characteristic in his reply: “Arhe! When many streets and colonies are named ‘Prakasam Street/Nagar,’ why should I have a separate house?”

Prakasam was an embodiment of Sthitaprajnata! And this is one of the many an excellent examples. This reminds the scene from Shakespeare's Julies Caesar: "Beware of Ides (15th) of March" was the warning by the Soothsayer. "O Caesar, read mine first, for mine's a suit/That touches Caesar nearer; read it, great Caesar". Caesar retorts:

"What touches us ourself shall be last served."

It is reported that the organisers and participants were not happy with the CM skipping the historic session. Eminent scientist Swaminathan, known as the Father of Indian Green Revolution "Expressed his disappointment at the absence of the Chief Minster saying that he wanted to discuss with him several matters." He is one of the most respected figures in the Comity of Scientific world. If the CM was so particular about the Vaastu, he could have either persuaded the organisers to shift the venue, at least, just for the inaugural session; but he was more concerned with his Vaastu than the future of thousands of budding Scientists.

CM's attachment for Vaastu is being regularly reported. Though the fixed date for the bifurcation of the State was June 2, 2014, he took oath of office on June 8. The venue was shifted from ANU. At every step in governance, he is advised by the some astrologer or a Vaastu specialist to follow a particular path. Despite opposition from all wise counsels, he is going ahead with the construction of capital in the seismic and cyclone-prone areas of Thulluru in Guntur/Krishna districts’ border.

If Vaastu is scientific or sentimental or symbolic or all, the three, nothing prevents the CM from instituting or creating a regular department in the Secretariat, and order every file to be circulated through the department. This can avoid the last minute changes in any programme.

This is to urge the CM not to entrust the administration to the astrologers and Vaastu Pandits. I hasten to add that I am a firm believer. Let Sri Naidu summon the courage and conviction of Andhra Kesari: every step a firm believer; but attached little importance to superstition.

By: K C Kalkura