Latest news with #AutobiographyofaYogi
Time of India
13-06-2025
- General
- Time of India
Air India plane crash: Bird hit, engine failure, or flap issue? Exact reason for AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad may take a year to confirm
Shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad airport, Air India flight AI-171 crashed, killing all 241 on board. Two videos of the aircraft moments before the crash have surfaced on social media, raising key questions about what went wrong. Aviation experts and former airline officials are analysing the clips and suspect a possible dual engine failure as one of the main causes. Experts question unretracted landing gear The aircraft's landing gear remained extended even as it climbed past 400 feet, something pilots say is unusual. "Within 5 secs of lift off, pilots normally put the landing gear up," said Capt Amit Singh, an air safety expert told TOI. Capt Manoj Hathi, a former Air India official, added, "As soon as a positive rate of climb is reached, the landing gear is retracted." Landing gear left down during climb increases drag and slows down the aircraft, making it harder to gain altitude. In normal conditions, retracting the landing gear is one of the first actions pilots take after ensuring a stable climb. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Moose Approaches Girl At Bus Stop In Phnom Penh - Watch What Happens Happy in Shape Undo Possible engine failure, fuel issues or bird hit A major concern raised is why the gear stayed down. Capt Singh explained, "In case there is a distraction the pilots could forget to put the gear up. The distraction could be dual engine failure, bird hit or combination of both. The plume of dust as the aircraft crosses the runway end shows it was low on power and possibly a dual engine problem." Capt Hathi echoed the possibility: "It's possible that a dual engine flame-out was the reason the landing gear could not be retracted. Dual engine failure could occur due to bird ingestion or fuel contamination. Looking at the trajectory and body angle of the aircraft, it appears as if the aircraft has stalled because of loss of speed." Live Events You Might Also Like: Plane crash a result of human karma, not just fate, says ex-Puducherry L-G Kiran Bedi quoting 'Autobiography of a Yogi' Other pilots, who spoke off record, also pointed to a rare dual engine failure — a situation with only seven recorded cases in the past 70 years. Did Air India flight suffered a bird hit? Gujarat has seen 462 bird strike cases in five years, with Ahmedabad airport reporting the highest number, according to Civil Aviation Ministry data shared in Parliament in December 2023. A TOI report from September 2023 also noted a 35% increase in such incidents in Ahmedabad, with 38 bird strikes recorded in 2022–23. In a 2009 case, a bird hit occurred at 2,700 feet when a flock of seagulls was sucked into the engines. In contrast, the recent Air India flight was flying much lower, leaving the pilots with little time or height to react. MAYDAY call and aircraft behaviour hint at emergency The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed that a MAYDAY call was issued just seconds after take-off. Experts say this reinforces the engine failure theory. The aircraft is seen in videos flying low over a densely populated area. Moments before the crash, it appears the pilots raised the aircraft's nose, possibly to avoid hitting buildings — a move that may have caused further loss of airspeed. "Even if the pilots had not pulled up the nose it would have continued to glide, descend and eventually crash," Capt Singh said. Questions over flap settings during take-off Flaps, which are critical for lift during take-off, have also come under scrutiny. While some pilots believe the flaps were not deployed, others argue the video footage shows otherwise. The exact status will be confirmed only after detailed analysis. Investigation underway, final report due in one year India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the investigation, following international norms under Annex 13 of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). A preliminary report is expected within 30 days, but it is up to the Indian authorities to decide whether to make it public. The final report, which includes a complete analysis of causes and contributory factors, will be released by June 12 next year. Annex 13 makes clear that the main goal of such investigations is not to assign blame, but to prevent similar accidents in the future. (The article originally published in TOI)
Time of India
13-06-2025
- General
- Time of India
Plane crash a result of human karma, not just fate, says ex-Puducherry L-G Kiran Bedi quoting 'Autobiography of a Yogi'
Quoting Yogananda: Accidents and imbalance in vibratory field 'Most tragic. Most unfair. Most gruesome' Live Events Social media users question timing and sensitivity of Bedi's remarks You Might Also Like: Air India plane crash leaves 241 passengers dead, one lone survivor Air India Plane Crash in Ahmedabad (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel Former Puducherry Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi has said that the tragic Air India crash in Ahmedabad on June 13 may be viewed not just as an aviation mishap but as a reflection of deeper, collective karmic forces. Citing Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda, Bedi shared a spiritual perspective on accidents, highlighting the concept of humanity's shared karmic vibrations.'Swami Yogananda believed that plane crashes and other accidents are not necessarily due to a predetermined fate or 'acts of God,' but rather a result of the collective karmic vibrations of humanity,' Bedi wrote. The comment was posted in response to the fatal crash of Air India's Ahmedabad-to-London flight on Friday, which led to multiple casualties and left aviation authorities probing the to the passage Bedi quoted from Yogananda's book, large-scale tragedies are often not random but may emerge from a disturbance in the world's vibratory field — a disturbance caused by selfish human actions and thoughts. 'While individuals might have their own karmic influences, a crash's impact is often a result of broader karmic forces at play,' Bedi added, 'It's Swamiji's view. And everyone's choice to accept or reject.'Yesterday, expressing grief, Bedi called the Ahmedabad crash 'most tragic, most unfair, most gruesome,' and reflected on the uncertainty of life. 'Not known yet what caused it? This is all about the unpredictability of life. None of us know what comes tomorrow.'She also quoted American musician Kanye West to underline the point: 'Nothing in life is promised except death.'While Kiran Bedi's post found resonance among some, several social media users criticised her remarks as ill-timed and insensitive, especially in the immediate aftermath of the user responded, 'Madam, I don't know about what you have written. But what I believe is accidents happen due to some technical snag.' Another user wrote, 'With all due respect ma'am, those who lost their dear ones are absolutely not up for these lectures. Swamiji must also have said that humanity must be respected at all costs.'Critics argued that while philosophical interpretations have their place, the focus at this time should remain on the victims, their families, and the ongoing Air India flight bound for London had taken off from Ahmedabad on June 12 when it reported technical difficulties shortly after takeoff. The aircraft crashed onto a medical college hostel near the airport. The exact cause is under investigation. More than 200 people lost their lives in the crash.
Indian Express
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Virat Kohli's playbook for life: 3 books that shaped his mindset beyond cricket
Written by Chanakya Chandrupatla Virat Kohli, one of cricket's most celebrated players, made his debut for the Indian Cricket Team on 18th August 2008—the same year he was picked by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League. Known for his explosive batting, unmatched fitness, and aggressive tactics, Kohli has consistently kept opponents on the back foot, challenging their abilities at every turn. Beyond the cricket field, Kohli is also an avid reader who often shares books that have influenced his mindset and personal growth. Here are some of his top recommendations: The 'Autobiography of a Yogi' A spiritual classic published in 1946, this autobiography delves into the teachings of Kriya Yoga and the life of Yogi Paramahansa Yogananda. Kohli has mentioned in interviews that the book had a profound impact on his life, calling it a must-read for those open to challenging their thoughts and ideologies. Yogananda was among the first Indian spiritual teachers to settle in the United States, and his book has sold over four million copies worldwide. Notably, he was also one of the first prominent Indians to be hosted at the White House by President Calvin Coolidge. Detox Your Ego: 7 easy steps to achieving freedom, happiness and success in your life The book speaks about one's ego and how does it stop one from performing at their best. The book takes you on a ride and talks the importance of self-discovery. The author talks bout steps to eliminate ego and the ways to achieve freedom, happiness and success in one's life. Kohli said that the book has helped him to control his emotions and stay grounded. The books talks about how a leader should guide without having ego. The book proposes ' Leadership without ego '. It guides the reader by suggesting seven steps to lead a happier, freer and more enhanced life. A fascinating exploration of cross-cultural inspiration, this book aligns with Kohli's own journey of growth and adaptability. It features 70 prominent Indians and Italians sharing their experiences, highlighting the importance of mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and peak performance. Through personal anecdotes, the book showcases the mutual influence between the two cultures, making it a compelling read for those interested in global perspectives. ( Chanakya Chandrupatla is an intern at the Indian Express )
Hindustan Times
04-05-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
The top of the tree response to crises
In the present day and age, human beings have been displaying so much variety in their mindset that it is safe to presume that we have somewhat evolved. One of the major differentiators of a society's progress is the ability to think originally, with creativity and hopefully with empathy too. Any and every crisis that our nation faces, howsoever gruesome or painful it may be, actually represents an opportunity for our leadership to show its true mettle. It also provides you and me, common citizens, with a chance to prove how level-headed and equanimous we can be, even in the face of terrible times. Yet, how facile it is to slide down the mega winding slide of cynicism and doubtfulness! Swimming upstream is not everybody's cup of tea, but when the chips are down, and when everyone around us seems to be full of venom and vile, some of us have to go against the tide. And if highly intellectual, experienced, responsible individuals do not do so, then why expect the rest of humanity to rise to each challenge? There's a saying attributed to the revered Guru Nanak Dev which basically means that we should agree with others (when the cause is noble). This sense of agreement with another and indeed willingness to not allow the ego to interfere with better sense is a sign of inner victories that are essentially intangible. But to spiral downward and hurtle towards lowly thoughts and reckless speech (or texts) against others is not a victory in any form. Present day citizens of India must appreciate and understand the spirit behind the teachings of its great saints like Guru Nanak. Paramhansa Yoganananda, author of 'Autobiography of a Yogi', strongly emphasised the fact that humankind has much opportunity in life to take decisions as per dynamic challenging situations that confront us. And the use of right thinking, discerning, will power is what human beings must prioritise. Thus, to vent anger against a particular community or nation is not the sign of a healthy collective mindset. All nations must display foresight and understanding before exercising violent or even aggressive options. But for that, leaders have to raise the levels of their own consciousness and be statesmanlike in their demeanour and mindset. Sadly, there is no figment of such level headedness in evidence upon today's global firmament. A large-hearted response is expected of mature individuals in personal confrontations as well. But the top of the tree approach is rarely visible even among those donning positions in the top echelons of the proverbial ladder. Relationships break down on the slightest of pretexts at times but a saner, more reasoned thought process might avert many such diabolical debacles. In the present day context, it is worthwhile to refrain from forwarding unsubstantiated and potentially inflammatory posts. The unthinking 'straight forward' type of guy, who has been highlighted in these columns before is the one to watch out for. An hour or so later, some sensible group member will point out that a post which has already been forwarded many times was actually a deep fake post. The damage has been done by then, almost irrevocably. Heads of communities, of institutions, and even of families, are almost as much saddled with the onus of remaining balanced, as are leaders of nations. With the bizarre brigade running riot on social and anti-social media channels, my vote is with a calming influencer than with one who is prone to running amok. Let's endeavour to be saner , cooler, calmer voices, even in times of strife.
Indian Express
25-04-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Beyond the Courtroom: Fali Nariman's legal legacy
'The characteristic features of Indian culture have long been a search for ultimate verities and the concomitant disciple-guru relationship' – these are the first words of Autobiography of a Yogi written by Indian spiritual leader Paramahansa Yogananda, originally published in 1946. Close to eight decades later, a manifestation of these very words came to public notice in the relationship between the late Fali S. Nariman, a towering figure in Indian Jurisprudence and Subhash Sharma, his trusted lieutenant for nearly 40 years. In fact, Sharma had read out a 1952 speech of Yogananda to Nariman five hours before the eminent lawyer breathed his last on February 21 last year. 'I started crying after reading the speech…looking at me, Fali started weeping too,' Sharma told The Indian Express. Months after his death, Sharma meticulously curated a book with a selection of Nariman's most influential speeches. 'Beyond the Courtroom' showcases the vast breadth and depth of Nariman's constitutional expertise through his illuminating lectures and articles. It even goes a step further outlining the jurists views on the state of Indian Democracy. From making arguments on why a new constitution is impossible today, to stating why a strong opposition is needed for the betterment of democracy, this book covers a wide range of subjects. 'The first lesson about written constitutions is that they don't function on their own. A special effort must be made by their custodians – those entrusted with their functioning – to work them,' reads a chapter titled 'The Silences in our Constitutional Law'. This chapter stood out as it speaks about how the Silences of the constitution were interpreted and in turn its provisions broadened by the Judiciary. This reinterpretation, argued Nariman, has made the document a 'dynamic, living' one. Nariman speaks about the evolution of Article 368 of the constitution (power of Parliament to amend constitution) to drive home the point of the dynamism of the constitution and bringing to the fore the tussle between the Parliament and the Judiciary. He begins with how within a year of the constitution being brought into force, the Parliament passed the first amendment of the Constitution which dispensed with the payment of compensation for taking over large estates (zamindaries). Article 31A and 31B were introduced which provided that legislations for agrarian or land reforms were outside the protection of the fundamental right to property. 'Article 31 B was an innovation,' says Nariman, as it protected enactments included in the ninth schedule of the constitution from being declared void on the basis of infringement of fundamental rights. In 1971, he points out, came more amendments, all meant to further limit the power of the constitution and increase that of the parliament by limiting which laws Courts could declare void if passed in contravention of fundamental rights. Nariman traces the history of this tussle all the way to the Basic Structure Doctrine in 1973 where it was finally decided by a 13 judge bench held that the power of the Parliament to amend the Constitution couldn't alter its 'basic structure'. In the next chapter Nariman says: '…the only final interpreter of the Constitution is the judiciary' pointing out the active role that he feels judges must play in bringing life to the document. Divided into five sections (Nation, Judiciary, Constitution, Law and Arbitration), the book also offers advice for young lawyers, tackles ethical questions and is sprinkled with quips throughout – usually towards the end of each chapter. 'Paramhansa used to think Mahatma Gandhi was a prophet…for me, Nariman was a prophet,' Sharma told The Indian Express. 'I've always felt this deep spiritual connection with him. I can't put a finger on it, but I always somehow felt close to him.' Sharma is a well-known name in the legal circles and has been the devoted gatekeeper for Nariman's offices. As his junior since 1986, Sharma's name appears in virtually every case handled by Nariman. It was Sharma who would be the first point of contact for lawyers or litigants to Nariman's office since the veteran neither carried a cell phone nor directly accessed his email account. Sharma considers it a stroke of serendipity that he got a chance to work with Nariman. After the book was published in early 2025, he kept a copy on the shrine of Yogananda – who was revered by both – in Forest Lawns, Los Angeles.
