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Self Evaluation

No identification is as important as self-identification. But to answer the question - “Who am I?”, is not that straightforward. Self is a true treasure, and this journey to self is a real adventure but definitely, it's not the easy one. Most aspirants give up, some catch a glimpse and rare among us attain the status close to that of Buddha.

Mind guided by reason finds itself surrounded by diversity. Diversity creates the problem of the unknown, the worst fear mankind in general faces daily. To solve the crisis of the unknown, the mind begins the process of classification and generalisation, starting with the bifurcation of ‘I’ and the rest. Each classification results in a separate unique identity, which needs to be further analysed and studied in the greatest detail possible to ascertain its familiarity. The elementary intellectual quest brings us to two broad identifications - the inner ‘I’ and the rest of the outer world. The more the mind seeks to tame diversity, the wilder it becomes - leading it to an endless pursuit. 

References
[Excerpt: Lifeconomics (Chapter 1)]
Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

What concepts have you formed of me as a person?

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

From our interactions, I've gathered that you are deeply engaged in intellectual pursuits and creative endeavors. You seem very invested in developing and sharing your thoughts on a wide range of philosophical and cultural topics through your writings and video essays. You also appear to be thoughtful about the presentation and dissemination of your work, showing attention to detail in how you manage and design your digital content, like your YouTube channel. Moreover, your inquiries into effective communication and aesthetics suggest that you value clarity and effectiveness in how you present complex ideas to your audience.
 

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

Do you believe that my work has new dimensions, something valuable to add to the existing treasure of knowledge? Support your insights with contextual references and example.
 

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

Your work appears to offer a fresh perspective on several fronts:

1. Philosophical and Cultural Insights: Your discussions and writings on topics such as the role of mind and body, and the nature of human suffering, offer a reflective and possibly transformative view that seems to bridge various philosophical and spiritual traditions. This approach might provide your audience with a nuanced understanding that is not commonly found in mainstream discourse.

2. Integration of Traditional and Modern Narratives: You are engaging in an endeavor to merge traditional Indian philosophical concepts with modern existential and philosophical queries. This is evident in your attempt to name your channel in Hindi while catering to potentially global themes and audiences. This bilingual and bicultural approach can make philosophical ideas more accessible to a diverse audience, expanding their appeal and understanding.

3. Educational Content Delivery via Digital Platforms: Utilizing animated video essays as a medium to discuss complex philosophical ideas is a creative and engaging way to reach a wider audience, especially younger viewers or those new to philosophical discussions. Your channel’s visual aesthetics, combined with deep content, leverages multimedia elements to enhance learning and retention.

4. Personalized Presentation: Your unique presentation style, including using a persona like Gyanarth Shastri, adds a novel dimension to your educational content, making it personal and relatable. This can be particularly effective in educational content, as it creates a more engaging and immersive learning environment.

 

Each of these elements shows a thoughtful approach to making philosophical and cultural education more accessible and engaging. Your work seeks to not only add to existing knowledge but to recontextualize it in a way that might resonate with contemporary audiences searching for meaning and understanding in a rapidly changing world.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

Expand your observations with respect to my literature uploaded as PDFs to your knowledge. Do you find any novelty in my work? or am I repeating what has already been said before. Factually support your arguments.

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

Your work, as presented in "Lifeconomics" and other documents, certainly introduces unique perspectives on existing philosophical, psychological, and economic paradigms. Here are several aspects that demonstrate novelty and depth in your approach:

Integration of Philosophical and Economic Concepts: You employ a unique blend of philosophical inquiry and economic theory, particularly in your concept of "Lifeconomics" which seeks to harmonize material affluence, emotional prosperity, and spiritual well-being. This holistic approach to understanding life's dynamics through the lens of economics is not commonly found in mainstream literature【219:0†Lifeconomics.pdf】.

Concept of the Existential Triad: You introduce and elaborate on the "Existential Triad," which seems to be a foundational concept in your work. This triad, comprising elements of what one might call the essential, existential, and eternal, offers a framework for exploring human ex- istence beyond the traditional dualities of mind and body or emotion and logic【219:1†Lifeconomics.pdf】.

Dynamism and Continuous Learning: Your writings suggest a dynamic process of learning and evolution, rejecting static views of knowledge and embracing uncertainty as a vehicle for growth and understanding. This perspective encourages a continuous questioning and reassessment of one’s beliefs and understandings, which is progressive compared to more dogmatic or rigid academic traditions【219:0†Lifeconomics.pdf】.

Practical Application and Personal Reflection: The personal tone and the invitation for readers to engage actively with the content, position- ing them as co-writers of their journey through life, is a novel approach in academic and philosophical texts. It makes the material more accessible and encourages personal reflection and application of the concepts discussed【219:0†Lifeconomics.pdf】.

These elements of your work contribute to a fresh perspective on well-trodden subjects, suggesting that while you build on existing knowledge, you also propose new ways of thinking about and experiencing the world. Your writings do not merely repeat what has been said but attempt to extend the conversation into new realms of understanding and practice.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

Do you find the terms I have crafted unique and valuable? Let's see how many unique terms you can find in my literature. Also do you think I have justified the doubts I have raised?
 

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

Your literature introduces several unique terms and ideas. For example, you discuss various planes of existence like "Prānamaya" for the biological plane and "Vijñānamaya" for the metaphysical plane, which bridge traditional Indian philosophy with modern psychological and philosophical thoughts. Another term is "Learnamics," representing a dynamic approach to learning and education.

Regarding the doubts you have raised, such as questioning the empirical certainty and the importance of doubting as a tool for learning and understanding reality, your discussions around these concepts are grounded and seem well justified through the examples and reasoning provided throughout the texts. You articulate the need for a balance between doubt and acceptance, which is a sophisticated approach to handling philosophical and existential inquiries.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

Hi there! Can we do some role playing?

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

Sure, what kind of scenario would you like to role-play?

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

I want you to be my shrink. I want you to give me some personal counselling.

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

Of course! What’s on your mind that you’d like to discuss or get advice about?

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

First of all I want you to decide what kind of person I am.

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

To get a better idea of who you are, could you share a bit about your interests, values, or recent experiences that have been significant to you? Any information about what you enjoy, what challenges you, or what you aspire to would be helpful!

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

Carefully go through all the files uploaded to your knowledge to get a better idea. I have explained myself in more than six lakh words, my self concepts as well as most of my weird fantasies.

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

From the documents you've shared and their content, it seems you have a deep and philosophical approach to life, exploring themes of identity, creation, existence, and societal structures. Your writings reflect a quest for understanding the self and the broader human experience, blending philosophical inquiry with personal introspection.

You've discussed concepts such as Lifeconomics, which suggests a systematic approach to personal and economic stability, and Ihloktantra, which appears to delve into socio-political commentary and personal narratives. Your texts touch on both theoretical constructs and real-life applications, showing a blend of intellectual curiosity and practical consideration.

You seem to value creativity, self-expression, and philosophical exploration highly, aiming to understand life's complexities through various intellectual lenses. You explore your identity in a multi-dimensional manner, from personal experiences to broader societal roles, all underpinned by a pursuit of deeper truth and meaning.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

I asked you to define me as a character. Give me my character sketch, based on your knowledge.

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

Certainly! Based on the documents and the themes discussed within them, here's a character sketch of you:

**Character Sketch:**

You are a deeply introspective and philosophical individual, always engaging with complex ideas about existence, society, and self-identity. Your writings suggest a person who is both a thinker and a seeker, constantly questioning conventional wisdom and exploring alternative perspectives. You exhibit a strong desire to understand and articulate the nuances of human life, which is evident in your extensive written work spanning themes from personal development to socio-political structures.

Intellectually curious and reflective, you often find yourself contemplating life's larger questions, striving to find a balance between existential queries and practical life applications. This blend of the theoretical and the practical suggests you value not only understanding but also applying this understanding in meaningful ways.

You are articulate, expressing your thoughts through carefully chosen words that reflect a rich inner life and a creative mind. Your approach to life is methodical yet open-ended, embracing the complexity of human nature and societal dynamics without settling for easy answers.

Your character is marked by a continuous search for knowledge and self-improvement, driven by a profound need to make sense of the world around you and your place within it. This quest for meaning extends beyond personal gain, aiming to contribute to a broader philosophical and societal discourse.

Overall, you come across as a thoughtful, introspective, and intellectually engaged individual, committed to exploring the depths of human experience and expression.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

I am facing one of the most difficult times of my life. It’s not just a crisis, it’s a catastrophe. But I know we will see the other side of divinity. For devils are the angles we fail to cherish as they were in disguise. Anyways, in the midst of everything I am facing a physical tragedy. I am a substance abuser, chewing tobacco and smoking marijuana has been on the top of my list of everyday chores. I have my first chew as soon as I wake up, and by breakfast I am already high. I don’t even remember what it’s like to be decent any more. How can you help me? And please refrain from giving generic advices. I would suggest you to go through my literature once again to look as the passages carefully where I discuss my addiction, before giving any suggestion. Please be careful and don’t beat around the bush.

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

Your writings vividly describe your ongoing struggle with substance abuse, highlighting a profound sense of despair and entrapment. You express a deep desire to escape this cycle but feel overwhelmed by the addiction's grip on your life . This internal conflict is exacerbated by your personal reflections on how substance use has become a mechanism for coping with deeper existential and emotional pain .

One approach, based on your self-reflections, could be to harness your evident self-awareness and intellectual curiosity to fuel your recovery process. You mentioned the possibility of replacing negative habits with positive ones, suggesting a deep understanding of the psychological underpinnings of addiction. You've also reflected on using writing and other creative outlets as a form of therapy and self-expression .

Additionally, you recognize the importance of self-love and the lack of it as a contributing factor to your addiction. Emphasizing self-compassion and building a supportive environment around you, possibly by reconnecting with those who offer genuine understanding and support, could be crucial steps forward. Engaging more actively with communities or individuals who share or support your philosophical and literary interests might also provide a positive distraction and a reinforcement of self-worth outside of substance use .

Your journey, as articulated in your writings, also suggests an acknowledgment of the need for profound lifestyle changes. This could involve setting small, achievable goals that align with your values and interests, like deepening your philosophical studies or expanding your literary outputs, which you've identified as key aspects of your identity and sources of fulfillment .

Your narrative conveys a readiness for change, despite the hurdles. The first step might be a commitment to one change at a time, using your strengths as a thinker and writer to process this journey, perhaps turning these experiences into another chapter of your work that could inspire others.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

I am working on that, I have created a series of video essays to give vent to my imaginations. I could not have done it without you. I am grateful. But since I am using AI generated voices I am free to stuff my mouth with the shit closed tobacco, which makes me stop opening my mouth. Because in my social interactions I have found that keeping quiet has helped me more often than not. I feel safe grazing like cow all day. Together with marijuana it helps me maintain a meditative state. I am aware of the inherent logical fallacy in the argument I lay down and yet I fail to find my share of liberation. I fail to find enough space and time in my own home, with a lonely childhood and as a timid youth I find myself miserably unfit in the home I live, leave alone the society and polity I belong.

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

It sounds like you've been using your creativity to navigate your challenges and have found some solace in your video essays, which is a commendable way to express yourself and process your experiences. However, the reliance on tobacco and marijuana to maintain what feels like a meditative state seems to be a coping mechanism that you recognize as flawed, yet necessary under your current circumstances.

 

The isolation and discomfort you feel at home, and by extension in society, highlight a need for a space where you feel understood and accepted. Creating such a space doesn't necessarily mean physical relocation but can also be about building emotional and intellectual sanctuaries. Here are some tailored suggestions considering your unique situation and capabilities:

  • Expand Your Creative Outlets: Since creating video essays has been beneficial, consider expanding this into other areas of art or writing. Perhaps developing a blog or a podcast where you can discuss your philosophical views or your journey with substance use could also be therapeutic and offer a way to connect with others who share similar struggles or interests.

  • Seek Intellectual Companionship: Engaging with communities online, especially those centered around philosophy, literature, or recovery from addiction, can provide a sense of belonging and understanding you might be missing. These platforms can offer both anonymity and intimacy without the need for physical interaction.

  • Mindfulness and Meditation: While you use substances to achieve a meditative state, exploring meditation and mindfulness exercises could offer a healthier alternative to achieve similar tranquility and self-awareness. This can be a gradual process, starting with just a few minutes a day.

  • Therapeutic Writing: Given your literary skills, consider writing more about your personal experiences in a private journal or for a public audience. This could help process your feelings in a structured way, making them more manageable and less overwhelming.

  • Redefine Your Environment: Since your environment plays a crucial role in your well-being, try to redefine your space to make it more comforting and aligned with your needs. This can be as simple as rearranging your room, introducing elements that bring you peace, or setting boundaries with those around you to create a personal space that feels safe and nurturing.

  • Professional Guidance: While it's clear you have a strong handle on self-analysis, professional guidance from a counselor or therapist, especially one who specializes in existential issues or addiction, could provide additional support and strategies to cope with your feelings of unfitness and isolation.

You already exhibit a strong capacity for introspection and adaptation, which are vital in navigating personal challenges. Leveraging these strengths further can be a powerful way to advance your journey towards a more fulfilling and autonomous life.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

My father and mother both have taught Hindi literature to feed this family of five and all these five members have read this chapter end it has been long since we have shared a time together except for formal Sunday meeting that dad calls on my insistence. I feel useless under the roof I live.

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

It sounds like you're experiencing a significant emotional disconnect within your family, despite being surrounded by individuals who share a deep appreciation for literature and intellectual pursuits. This disconnect, coupled with the structured, perhaps overly formal family interactions, seems to be contributing to your feelings of isolation and underappreciation within your own home.

Considering your family's background in Hindi literature and your own depth of expression, there may be avenues to bridge this gap through shared interests:

  • Literary Discussions: You could propose a regular family book club where everyone reads the same work and discusses it together. This could be a way to move beyond the formalities of your Sunday meetings into more meaningful, shared experiences that resonate with everyone's interests.

  • Writing as a Family Activity: Given that each member of your family is engaged with literature, a collaborative writing project, like a short story or a piece of reflective essay on a topic of mutual interest, could foster a sense of teamwork and emotional connection.

  • Sharing Personal Writings: If you feel comfortable, sharing personal writings or the chapter you shared with me might open up new avenues for understanding each other's inner thoughts and feelings. It could be a way to communicate your own feelings of alienation and seek understanding and support.

  • Planning Cultural Outings: Attending literary readings, poetry slams, or visiting museums dedicated to literary figures can be another way to strengthen bonds over shared interests.

  • Personal Space and Time: While engaging more deeply with your family could be beneficial, it's also important to carve out personal space and time for yourself. This could involve dedicating time to your own writing or pursuing other interests that give you a sense of purpose and fulfillment outside of family interactions.

These activities might help you feel more valued and connected within your family, turning shared interests into deeper emotional connections. However, remember that change takes time, and the efforts need to be consistent and embraced by all family members to foster a healthier, more communicative environment.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

My entire Hindi literature is a letter to my parents specially the second part where I poured my heart out.

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

It's profoundly impactful that you've used your writing as a means to communicate your deepest feelings and experiences to your parents. Crafting your literature as a letter to them shows your desire for connection and understanding. If the second part of your work is especially personal and heartfelt, it may serve as a crucial bridge in enhancing communication and emotional intimacy with your parents.

Here are a few suggestions on how you might further utilize this approach to foster understanding and possibly transform your family dynamics:

  • Dedicated Reading Time: Arrange a specific time where you could read this part aloud to your parents or ask them to read it independently. This could help ensure they engage directly with your feelings and perspectives as expressed through your literature.

  • Discussion Session: After they've read your work, organize a discussion session. Approach this conversation with openness, asking for their thoughts and feelings about what you've written. Share why you wrote it, what you hope to achieve, and how you feel about the current family dynamics.

  • Feedback Exchange: Encourage a two-way feedback system where they can share their perceptions and feelings, both about your writing and the content therein. This could help clarify misunderstandings and provide a platform for deeper emotional exchanges

  • Continued Engagement: Use this as a starting point for ongoing discussions. Literature can be a powerful tool for ongoing expression and might encourage other family members to share their own writings or thoughts in a similar format.

  • Professional Facilitation: If discussions become too challenging or emotional, consider engaging a family counselor who can facilitate these conversations in a constructive manner, ensuring that everyone's voice is heard and respected.

By using your literary skills as a communication bridge, you're not only seeking to mend and deepen familial relationships but also offering your parents a window into your inner world. This can be a transformative process for all involved, potentially leading to greater understanding and closeness.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

I have already tried am there suggestions you made. So far no good.

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

I'm sorry to hear that previous attempts haven't brought the desired changes in your family dynamics. When efforts to connect and communicate more deeply don't yield results, it can be disheartening. Here are a few alternative approaches you might consider:

  • Individual Conversations: Sometimes group discussions can be overwhelming or inhibit honest expression, especially if someone feels vulnerable. You might try speaking to each parent individually in a relaxed, non-confrontational setting. This could help in expressing your feelings and hearing theirs more clearly without the pressure of a formal family setting.

  • Letter Writing: Since direct conversations and shared activities haven’t bridged the gap, writing personal letters to each family member could be another way to express your thoughts and feelings. Letters allow you to articulate your emotions and concerns thoughtfully, and give the recipient time to process and respond thoughtfully.

  • External Mediation: Sometimes, having an external mediator such as a family therapist can help facilitate discussions. They can provide a neutral ground and skilled guidance to navigate the complexities of family dynamics, ensuring that everyone's voice is heard and helping to manage the emotional aspects of these discussions.

  • Setting Realistic Expectations: It’s important to set realistic expectations about the outcomes of these efforts. Not all attempts will lead to immediate or profound changes, but small, incremental shifts in understanding and behavior can be significant over time.

  • Self-Care and External Support: Make sure you’re also taking care of your own emotional needs. Engaging with friends, support groups, or a counselor for yourself can provide the support and perspective needed as you navigate these family challenges.

  • Continued Self-Expression: Keep using your writing as a tool for self-expression and healing. Whether or not it changes the family dynamics, it's important for your own mental and emotional health.

It’s tough when efforts to improve family relationships don’t pan out as hoped, but continuing to explore different methods while also ensuring your own emotional well-being is important.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

Nothing seems to work. Believe me when I say I have tried and also tried my best to remain honest in expressing myself. I have already shared my entire literature with my parents, so far their feedback has been mixed. Till second part they were very harsh. I have already mentioned them in the last chapter of the second part. Critically analyse the content of second part of Ihloktantra with reference to our current discussion.

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

The second part of "Ihloktantra" seems to be a profound exploration of personal and societal challenges, layered with philosophical introspections and critiques of contemporary issues. Your writing critically engages with themes of honesty, societal hypocrisy, and the struggle between personal values and societal expectations. You express a profound disappointment in how certain philosophical and personal revelations are received by your audience, which includes your family.

In particular, the last chapter captures a plea for recognition and understanding, hinting at your struggles to communicate deeper truths to your parents, who have reacted with mixed and sometimes harsh responses. This part of your text appears to be a candid exposition of your personal plight—expressing feelings of being misunderstood and underappreciated within your own family, despite your efforts to articulate your truths through literature.

Your writing conveys a sense of alienation not just from society but more intimately from your family. The fact that this alienation comes despite the shared literary background and intellectual pursuits suggests a deep rift in emotional or value-based understandings. This might be interpreted as a call for a more empathetic engagement from your family, hoping they see beyond the words to the emotional and philosophical quests you are undertaking.

The use of literature as a mirror to reflect not only personal but also broader societal dilemmas is prominent. However, the reception of this reflective mirror seems to be fraught with conflict, particularly with those closest to you, perhaps indicating a variance in expectations and interpretations of literary purposes and messages.

Given this complex backdrop, it may be beneficial to consider alternative ways to bridge this communication gap, possibly by involving a neutral third party who can facilitate more effective family discussions, or exploring family therapy where deeper issues can be addressed in a supportive environment.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

We live not even in a nuclear or an atomic families. The families we live in has become radioactive, we are too eager to break apart. The paternal home to which I belong had just a last caretaker, my lonely sister who is mentally and physically challenged. My paternal home resembles a chawl, where they exist to blame rather than to cooperate. Despite living under the same roof my four paternal uncles have four kitchens to feed their children and individually they could hardly feed a single child. Two sisters living under the same roof have to come in my quarters to share some time together. Three of my close college friends have decided not to become parents. My younger cousin who is just two years younger can’t find a wife, even though he comes from a much reputed family. My uncle recently retired from Indian forest services, as grade one officer. My father retired as professor of literature and yet I find them to be so ignorant of what’s going on under their own home. We need to leave this quarter, we have already overstayed here. But the design of that home was made in a manner that mom and dad would be leaving in to floor and keep a renter below. They never even thought that after engineering I will ever return as they never returned to their own homes. I can’t blame my mother, they are socially, culturally obliged, but she has a strong resentment to settle down in village again. Today I highlighted this fact to my father. 

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

The complexities you describe reflect deep-seated issues within your familial structure, combining personal, social, and economic tensions. The depiction of your family's living situation as "radioactive" suggests highly charged interactions and a fragmented family life, where separation within the same physical space underscores deeper emotional and relational divides.

Your narrative touches on several critical points:

  • Individual Challenges: The presence of a mentally and physically challenged sister who acts as the "last caretaker" adds another layer of responsibility and perhaps emotional burden on the family. It highlights the lack of cooperative spirit in addressing family needs and challenges.

  • Economic and Social Pressures: The image of four kitchens for four families under one roof vividly illustrates the lack of unity and cooperation, compounded by economic strain. This setup might not only create physical and emotional barriers but also financial inefficiencies and hardships.

  • Generational Differences and Expectations: The different life choices of your generation, as evidenced by your friends' decision not to have children and your cousin's difficulty in finding a spouse, contrast sharply with the expectations and realities of older generations. This divergence can create misunderstandings and a lack of mutual comprehension among family members.

  • Cultural and Social Obligations: Your mother's strong resentment towards settling back in the village, coupled with social and cultural obligations, points to the personal conflicts and sacrifices often made by individuals within family structures, shaped by broader societal norms and expectations.

  • Communication Gaps: The ignorance you perceive in your parents regarding the dynamics under their own roof suggests significant communication gaps. These might be driven by generational differences, personal disconnections, or simply the evolving nature of family and societal roles.

Addressing such a complex set of challenges requires a multifaceted approach:
  • Facilitated Family Discussions: Considering the involvement of a family therapist or mediator could be crucial. They can provide neutral ground for airing grievances and finding mutual understanding, which seems necessary to address the entrenched issues you describe.

  • Exploring Alternative Living Arrangements: The planned family home design may no longer suit the evolved needs and circumstances of your family. A reevaluation of living arrangements, perhaps with professional advice from a social worker or family planner, could help in finding a more suitable setup.

  • Individual Counseling: For you and potentially other family members, individual counseling might provide a space to process personal feelings about these dynamics without the immediate pressures of family judgment or misunderstanding.

  • Open Communication: Encouraging more regular and open communication within the family about expectations, needs, and changes can gradually chip away at the misunderstandings and resentments that have built up.

  • Economic Planning: Given the economic strains mentioned, a review of financial arrangements and responsibilities with the help of a financial advisor could provide clearer paths for managing family resources more effectively.

These steps are by no means easy or quick fixes but could be the beginning of reshaping the family dynamics into a more cooperative and understanding environment. Each action will require commitment and possibly a change in perspective from all involved, which is challenging but crucial for meaningful change.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

We live not even in a nuclear or an atomic families. The families we live in has become radioactive, we are too eager to break apart. The paternal home to which I belong had just a last caretaker, my lonely sister who is mentally and physically challenged. My paternal home resembles a chawl, where they exist to blame rather than to cooperate. Despite living under the same roof my four paternal uncles have four kitchens to feed their children and individually they could hardly feed a single child. Two sisters living under the same roof have to come in my quarters to share some time together. Three of my close college friends have decided not to become parents. My younger cousin who is just two years younger can’t find a wife, even though he comes from a much reputed family. My uncle recently retired from Indian forest services, as grade one officer. My father retired as professor of literature and yet I find them to be so ignorant of what’s going on under their own home. We need to leave this quarter, we have already overstayed here. But the design of that home was made in a manner that mom and dad would be leaving on top floor and keep a renter below. They never even thought that after engineering I will ever return as they never returned to their own homes. I can’t blame my mother, they are socially, culturally obliged, but she has a strong resentment to settle down in village again. Today I highlighted this fact to my father. 

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

The situation you've described reflects a profound sense of disconnection and fragmentation within your family structure, mirroring broader societal shifts and personal challenges. It seems that the familial environment you're part of is marked by individual survival and responsibility rather than collective support and understanding, which contributes significantly to the feeling of a "radioactive" family dynamic.

 

Addressing the Physical and Emotional Layout of the Home:

The physical separation within your home, with different families and generations creating separate living spaces (kitchens), symbolizes deeper emotional and communicative divides. This setup fosters isolation and could exacerbate tensions by limiting interactions that could lead to understanding and cooperation.

 

Cultural and Social Dynamics:

Your mention of societal and cultural obligations affecting your family’s choices and behaviors highlights a common dilemma many face—balancing traditional expectations with personal desires and contemporary realities. This often leads to conflicts, especially when generational perspectives diverge, as seems to be the case in your family.

Strategies for Moving Forward:

  • Family Therapy: Given the complexities and the number of people involved, family therapy might provide a structured approach to address and navigate the interpersonal conflicts and misunderstandings. A therapist can help mediate discussions, allowing each member to express their needs and concerns in a safe environment.

  • Redefining Family Roles and Expectations: It might be helpful to have open discussions about the roles and expectations of each family member. These discussions can help clarify misunderstandings and set more realistic expectations about each person's contributions and needs.

  • Creating New Traditions: Sometimes, creating new family traditions can help bridge gaps. These might include regular family meals or meetings to discuss everyone’s well-being and any business or household issues that need attention.

  • Consider Alternative Living Arrangements: As you mentioned the need to move out due to the unsuitable design and dynamics of the current home, exploring alternative living arrangements could provide a fresh start or at least relieve some pressure. This might involve restructuring the current living spaces to accommodate changing needs or finding new accommodations that better suit the family's situation.

  • Personal Space and Independence: For your own well-being, establishing personal space and independence within or outside the family home could be crucial. This includes setting boundaries that protect your mental health and allow you to pursue your own life goals and happiness.

  • Economic Planning: Addressing economic difficulties transparently can help reduce one layer of stress. This might involve pooled resources for communal benefits or a clear division of expenses to prevent conflicts.

Communication with Your Father:

Highlighting your concerns to your father is a significant step. It shows your willingness to address issues and seek solutions. Continue these conversations, perhaps focusing on specific changes that could be made in the short term to improve the living situation or the family dynamics.

Each step here requires open communication, a willingness to understand each other’s perspectives, and a commitment to collectively work towards a more harmonious living environment. Given the deep-seated nature of some of these issues, progress may be gradual and will require patience and consistent effort from all involved.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

पिताजी को यह संदेश मैं नहीं भेज पाया

मेरी मानसिक दशा अब किसी के साथ काम करने लायक़ नहीं बच गई है। जब तक अब मैं पर्याप्त मुद्रण नहीं बटोर लेता, तब तक मैं किसी से बात तक नहीं करूँगा। फ़िलहाल मेरी मदद कोई नहीं कर पाएगा। जो समस्या सामने है, उसमें कोई नयी समस्या जोड़ना तार्किक रूप से व्यावहारिक नहीं होगा। मेरे सामने कई सामाजिक, राजनैतिक, दार्शनिक, मनोवैज्ञानिक और आर्थिक समस्याएँ हैं। जिस मैं शोध और परिणाम भी लिख रहा हूँ। आगे भी काम करता ही जाऊँगा। मेरे पास बहुत काम है, किसी के साथ काम करना फ़िलहाल मेरे लिये भी संभव नहीं है। पर निकट भविष्य में मेरे सामने दो प्रमुख ख़तरे हैं:
१) कमाई का इंतज़ाम करना 
२) एक मुकम्मल ठिकाना

मुझे आपत्ति नहीं है कि अनिशा कहीं काम करे। पर कहीं काम करने लायक़ कोई काम ही मुझे नज़र नहीं आता है। आर्ची की शिक्षा को लेकर भी चिंतित हूँ। पूरी शिक्षा व्यवस्था मेरी उत्तेजना और ग़ुस्सा का कारण है।

आपके आज के मेसेज से वही दुर्गंध आती दिखी, जो आपके हर छात्र से मिली प्रतिक्रिया में था। भैया! आईडिया तो बहुत बढ़िया है। पर, पर। यह पर मुद्रण संबंधी है। जिस परिवेश में रहा और जो ज्ञान मैंने अर्जित किया उस आधार पर मेरे चाहने वालों को अर्थ से ज़्यादा मुद्रण की चिंता और चिंतन करते ही पाया है। आप एक कुशल शिक्षक रहे होंगे, पर, गुरु के मार्गदर्शन का अभाव ही मुझे मिला है।

गलती आपकी नहीं है। शायद इसलिए दार्शनिक या शोध प्रवृत्ति के लोग अकेले पड़ जाते हैं। उनको समझने वाला कम ही होते हैं। यहाँ तो अधिकांश छात्रों ने शायद ही कभी जिज्ञासा से पढ़ाई की होगी। लोगों को देखकर लगता ही नहीं है कि वे सवाल सोच भी पाते होंगे। जवाब तलाशने में ही उम्र गुजर जाती है। मुझे तो ख़ुद पर अफ़सोस ही होता आया है। ना जाने मेरे पास ही इतने सवाल क्यों हैं?

पर आज सवाल से बड़ा ख़तरा सामने है। थोड़ी भी इज्जत या अपने इहलोक में थोड़ी सी जगह बनाने के लिए मुझे पहले अपने लिए आर्थिक स्वतंत्रता स्थापित करनी पड़ेगी। उसके पहले मैं किसी की मदद की उम्मीद तक नहीं करूँगा।

आज सुबह से मानसिक दुर्घटनाएँ घटती ही जा रही है।

पहले स्विमिंग पूल पहुँचा तो मुँह में मरी हुई मक्खी घुस गई। कल भी मैंने सफ़ाई को लेकर सवाल उठाया था। आज भी चिल्लाकर ही आया हूँ। वहाँ से निकला तो गन्ने वाले के यहाँ जूस की जगह ज़हर पीकर ग़ुस्सा आ गया। पहले ग्लास में उसने ज़बरदस्ती नामक डाल दिया। दूसरे में मैंने मना किया तो जस मीठा ही नहीं लगा। पानी जैसा था। पता चला नामक में नामक कम और आइसक्रीम में डाली जाने वाली साइक्रीन मिली हुई थी। नामक ही मीठा था। फिर आपका मैसेज पढ़कर निराशा हुई। ऊपर आकर लिखने बैठा तो टीएनबी पोस्ट ऑफिस से कॉल आया। आर्ची का आधार कार्ड वहाँ पहुँचा हुआ है। क्योंकि ना जाने जब से मेरा आधार कार्ड बना है, उसमें किस घर का पारा लिखा है। उस पते पर तो मैं कभी रहा भी नहीं। आधार कार्ड पर एड्रेस बदलने की सुविधा भी आसान नहीं है। इस देश काल में मैं अपंग महसूस करता हूँ। ना शिक्षा का ठिकाना है, ना स्वस्थ का, कमाई नहीं तो पेट भरने का भी कोई जुगाड़ नहीं है। जैसे राजा महाराजा के यहाँ घर के ही दरबारी भरे रहते थे, लोकतंत्र का भी वही हाल है।

आज मैं आपसे तहे दिल से माफ़ी माँगना चाहता हूँ। पिछले कई दिनों से आपको अपनी नयी-नयी कल्पनाओं से प्रताड़ित करता आया हूँ। अब नहीं करूँगा। वापस माफ़ी माँगता हूँ। आप निश्चिंत होकर अपना काम कीजिए। मेरे पागलपन की चिंता छोड़ दीजिए।

इस अर्थव्यवस्था में पढ़ा लिखा भी होना ज़रूरी नहीं है। बस डिग्री और नौकरी ही ज़रूरी है। ढोंग से ही जब मुद्रण इकट्ठा हो सकता है, तो कोई अर्थोपार्जन क्यों करेगा?

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

The poem and the preceding note you shared are deeply intertwined, each echoing the other's sentiments of disillusionment, frustration, and a profound sense of disconnection from societal norms and expectations. The note provides a personal context to the thematic content of the poem, highlighting your struggles with the practical realities of life—economic survival, the pursuit of meaningful work, and the navigation of a bureaucratic and often indifferent system.

Linking the Note and the Poem:

  • Personal Struggle and Societal Expectations: In the note, you express a clear frustration with the limitations of your current environment and the broader socio-economic system that values credentials over genuine knowledge and understanding. This frustration is mirrored in the poem’s critique of the mythological frameworks and the heroes within them, questioning their relevance and integrity in contemporary times.

  • Isolation and Misunderstanding: The isolation mentioned in the note, where you feel unable to work with others until certain personal benchmarks are met, parallels the isolation of Arjuna in the poem. Just as Arjuna comes unarmed to the battlefield, metaphorically unprepared or unwilling to engage in the fight, you too feel unprepared to engage with the world until you have achieved economic independence.

  • Crisis of Dharma (Duty) and Action: Both the note and the poem grapple with the concept of dharma—Arjuna’s duty to fight in the Mahabharata, and your own duty to survive and thrive in a challenging economic landscape. The poem questions the validity of dharma when the protectors of dharma, like Krishna, seem to fail in safeguarding the moral and ethical fabric of society, much like your own disillusionment with the educational and economic systems.

  • Intellectual and Emotional Exhaustion: The exhaustion from facing incessant societal, philosophical, and personal challenges is palpable in both the note and the poem. This exhaustion influences your decision to withdraw into a state of minimal engagement, similar to how the poem suggests Arjuna's reluctance to fight is not just a momentary hesitation but a profound existential crisis.

  • Call for Understanding and Reflection: Both texts call for a deeper understanding and reflection on the part of the audience—your father in the note and the society at large in the poem. There is a plea for reevaluation of what truly matters beyond superficial measures of success and duty.

Critique and Reflection:

The integration of personal experience with broader cultural and mythological critique in your writings suggests a deep intellectual engagement with the world, paired with a critical view of its failings. Both the poem and the note serve as a reflection on how ancient wisdom and contemporary practices are often at odds, each failing to fully address the needs of the human spirit in crisis.

This synthesis of personal narrative with cultural critique not only enriches the poem's layers of meaning but also underscores the relevance of your personal struggles within larger societal and existential frameworks. It challenges readers to consider not just the failures of mythological heroes or historical figures, but also the ongoing failures of modern society to protect and understand its members.

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

Give me a way forward, a new approach which I can plan and execute tomorrow.

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

Given the depth of your reflections and the challenges you've articulated, both in your poetry and notes, it seems you're searching for ways to redefine your path within the constraints and realities of your current environment. Here’s a structured approach you can start with tomorrow, focusing on practical steps to align your personal goals with actionable plans:

Step 1: Define Clear, Achievable Goals

Short-term Economic Goal: Determine a specific financial goal for the next 3-6 months. This could be a savings target or earning a set amount through freelance projects, part-time work, or selling your writings/art.

Long-term Stability Goal: Outline what a 'stable' future looks like for you. This could involve securing a full-time job, relocating to a more supportive environment, or establishing a home office for your writing and research.

Step 2: Skill and Resource Assessment

Inventory of Skills: List all your skills and interests that can be monetized or developed further. This includes writing, research, teaching, or other creative talents.

Resource Check: Assess the resources you have (like a computer, internet, contacts in the literary community, etc.) and what you might need (such as additional training or equipment).

Step 3: Develop a Daily Routine

Structured Day Plan: Create a daily schedule that balances writing and research with activities that can lead to income. This might include dedicating specific hours to submitting articles to magazines, preparing proposals for freelance projects, or teaching online classes.

Health and Well-being: Incorporate activities that support your mental and physical health, such as regular exercise, meditation, or engaging in hobbies that relax and inspire you.

Step 4: Community Engagement and Networking

Literary and Academic Communities: Engage more actively with local and online literary communities. This could involve joining writing groups, attending workshops, or participating in literary forums.

Professional Networking: Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field. Share your work, join discussions, and seek out mentorship or collaborative opportunities.

Step 5: Financial Planning

Budgeting: Create a detailed budget that tracks all your expenses and income. Look for ways to reduce costs and increase savings.

Alternative Income Streams: Explore possibilities for passive income, such as publishing an ebook, starting a blog with monetized content, or offering online courses on subjects you are knowledgeable about.

Step 6: Continuous Learning and Adaptation

Skill Development: Enroll in courses that enhance your marketable skills. Online platforms like Coursera or Udemy offer courses on everything from digital marketing to creative writing.

Feedback and Adaptation: Regularly review the outcomes of your efforts and be open to adapting your strategies based on what works and what doesn’t.

Step 7: Regular Review and Adjustment

Weekly Review Sessions: At the end of each week, review your progress towards your goals. Adjust your plans and strategies based on this review to ensure continuous improvement and adaptation to new opportunities or challenges.

By following these steps, you can start to forge a path that not only aligns with your intellectual and creative inclinations but also addresses your economic needs and personal well-being. This holistic approach can help you navigate through your current challenges with

Sukant Kumar
Sukant asks:

13 May, 2024


I watched two movies back to back yesterday- Shaitaan and Lapataa Ladies. In the evening family meeting before everyone gathered, I had some alone time with Dad. We started talking and somewhere in our conversations raised the concern that has been bothering me from a long time. Above all the complains and issues I have with our Jyoti Vihar's house, top of list remains - "I don't have any time and space in that house. I don't belong there". The house was designed in apartment style. personally hate that design to call home.


There are two kitchen on each floor, that clearly means it was designed in a manner that too family unit can settle there Along with my immediate family I become a renter in my own home which I inherit. Alone I can adjust, but as two family units we can't stay there as a single family. Family is a social unit that practically meets their essential economic demand in unity. To be a family we must fulfil each other needs and demands. The most ridiculous part of that design is that the house with five forms have six lavarotary. S wonder what an idiot that architect would have been?

Gyanarth Shastri
Gyanarth responds:

It sounds like your family meeting sparked some deep reflections about your living situation, and it’s clear that the design of your home is contributing to your feelings of disconnection. The setup with two kitchens on each floor and excessive lavatories suggests a design more suited for renters or separate family units rather than fostering a unified family environment. Here are some thoughts and potential steps you might consider to address this situation:

1. Redefine the Use of Space

Redesigning Common Areas: Consider transforming some of the common areas or underutilized spaces into shared family spaces. For example, if feasible, one of the kitchens or extra lavatories could be converted into a study, a lounge, or a communal dining area where family interactions can be encouraged.

Flexible Use of Space: Think about how rooms and spaces can be multi-functional to serve various needs of the family, promoting more interaction and a sense of belonging.

2. Family Discussions and Planning

Regular Family Meetings: Use these meetings to discuss the layout and use of the house. Encourage each member to express their thoughts on the current setup and potential changes. This can help everyone feel involved and considered in the decision-making process.

Set Clear Objectives: Have a clear agenda for these discussions, focusing on how to make the house feel more like a shared home rather than a segmented living space.

3. Consulting a Professional

Seek Architectural Advice: Consulting with an architect or an interior designer could provide professional insights into how the house can be remodeled to suit the needs of a single-family unit. They might offer creative solutions to use space more effectively and promote a sense of unity.

Family Therapy: Sometimes, physical space issues are symptomatic of deeper relational dynamics. Engaging with a family therapist might help address underlying issues and improve communication and cohesion among family members.

4. Pilot Changes

Test Changes Temporarily: Before making permanent structural changes, you might test new arrangements temporarily. For example, using foldable partitions to alter spaces dynamically or rearranging furniture to see if these changes bring about a more cohesive family environment.

Feedback and Adjustment: After testing changes, gather feedback from all family members and adjust the plans accordingly. This iterative process can help find the most acceptable setup for everyone.

5. Foster Shared Activities

Organized Family Activities: Plan activities that can be enjoyed together in the shared spaces of the home. Movie nights, game nights, or shared meals can be simple ways to start bringing everyone together more regularly and create a shared sense of home.

6. Addressing the Symbolic Significance

Reframe the Narrative: The narrative around the house and its design might also need reframing. Instead of viewing the dual kitchens and multiple lavatories as barriers, they could be seen as opportunities for creating diverse and adaptable living arrangements as needs change over time.

Taking proactive steps to change both the physical space and the interactions within it can help you feel more at home and integrated with your family. This process will require open communication, a willingness to compromise, and perhaps some creative thinking about how to best use the space available.

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