Let's talk about a Catastrophe..Part I

Caring sets us apart. The chord of the Human heart is empathetical. So much so the mind, the heart teaches us to look around, see things and ponder upon. The acts follow naturally. By the way, I am talking about charity here. A way which brings contentment to us on the realization that even the world outside our doors are serviced by us.

Like common sense however, Charity is not common to all. At times people put charity after Roti (Food), Kapda (Clothing), Makaan (Shelter).Those who follow Hindu Mythology, would understand the concept of Tyaag. Taking some pains in order that some others get benefited; shedding your precious belongings for others sake; Spending sleepless nights so that others have a peaceful sleep; or as far as the contemporary times go, putting the need of the Team first, and self later. In ancient times, charity was supposed to be duty.Or if anyone believes the tale of the Lord of the Rings, charity came from not holding the devious Ring, but setting it ablaze in the lavas of Mordor and destroying it.

Unfortunately, the time in which we live, Charity is either Corporate compulsion or insidious fashion.

Speaking of Corporate compulsions, I want to bring in the topic of CSR or Corporate Social Responsibility to the table. Corporates run half Marathons, goes into Walk-a-Thon for Cancer support, or very philanthropic deeds of Warren Buffet, or Bill gates and Melinda gates or our beloved Mr Premzi's recent $2 Billion dollar act of Education reform package in India; everyone wants to be part of the race. It is great.

But the pertinent question here is do we want to be the part of the race because everyone else is running? Or Charity runs in our veins?

Example: I got a call from an NGO to contribute to the welfare for old age homes. I said no at first. Later on I saw a couple of colleagues got rewarded at office for contributing to the same NGO. I then followed suit too. Clearly, the purpose was NOT Charity, but recognition.

Take even greater examples: The star ensemble of various movies in bollywood or the sports' newly crown Jewels in India participating in Kaun Banega Crorepati( A popular Game show hosted by Amitabh Bachchan) to raise funds for the deprived children or poor families. Were they offering Charity or promoting their latest flicks or heralding their rise a Sportsmen for better Sponsorships? Nevertheless, KBC's TRP was on a rise!! Alas Charity!!

So the purpose is everything but Charity.

Hooligans will however say, who cares how the money is raised! The triumph lies in the fact that the money is raised for Charity.

(To be continued on Part II)