Latest news with #Prahlada
Hans India
5 days ago
- Science
- Hans India
Rome was not built in a day, says junior ‘missile man'
A missile scientist's day involves designing, testing and manufacturing systems, potentially including writing codes, analyzing data and debugging integrated systems. They are involved in preparing for launches, inspecting rocket engines and conducting experiments. In one word, they are the architects of a missile system. Yes, the proverb is a reminder that great things don't happen overnight. The adage highlights the importance of patience, persistence and consistent effort in achieving worthwhile goals. Whether you build a project, develop a skill, a relationship or even a personal goal it takes a good number of years, maybe ages. Dr. Prahlada Rama Rao, of 'Akash', 'Creator' and the drone 'Destroyer' fame, feels that it encourages individuals to be patient and persistent in their efforts, reminding them that success often comes because of gradual progress and continuous hard work. There are no shortcuts. The project 'Akash' took 15 long years. During that period the entire crew spent sleepless nights and missed their heart beats during the period. The precision in targeting the enemy drones is the classic feature of 'Akash', The entire world is in awe of its power, while the enemy is yet to recover from coma. Dr Prahlada, as he is fondly addressed, felt that the relentless effort put in emphasizes the importance of appreciating the journey and the effort required to achieve something meaningful rather than just focusing on the outcome. Recalling his childhood days, he points out that he comes a humble family, which could not afford his higher education pursuits. Money can impact academic success, while excessive emphasis on it could overshadow other crucial factors like intrinsic motivation, hard work and the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake. According to him money is not the sole determinant of a student's achievement. After his engineering from Indian Institute of Sciences, Bangalore, in 1971 he joined Defense Research Development Laboratory (DRDL) as a young scientist, along with six more young engineering graduates, who called themselves FG-7 (friend's group of 7). They remain so till date. He earned a three-digit salary and could not dream of owning a bicycle or afford to travel by auto. RTC buses were the only viable mode of transportation. Money was a scarce commodity. However, the spirit to prove themselves was very high and the entire group proved their mettle as scientists of exceptional merit. He says he is indebted to the extraordinary and humble 'Missile Man', Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, his mentor, friend, philosopher and guide. Dr Prahlada said that ambitious projects and achievements require time and dedication, and that rushing or expecting immediate results were exercises in futility. Important assignments, especially those concerning the country's defence and security, cannot be done in a short period of time. A missile scientist's day involves designing, testing and manufacturing systems, potentially including writing codes, analyzing data and debugging integrated systems. They are involved in preparing for launches, inspecting rocket engines and conducting experiments. In one word, they are the architects of a missile system. More important is communication and collaboration as they work with engineers, scientists and technicians often communicating complex technical information in a clear and conscientious manner. To put it in a nutshell, a missile scientist's day is a blend of scientific enquiry, engineering expertise, and practical application. They are often working on complex projects with high stakes, requiring a strong attention to detail and a collaborative spirit. Missile scientists address a range of potential failures. They should be ready with solutions to trouble shooting problems. If resources are stretched too thin, the delays over-run the over-all performance that can lead to unsuccessful attempts. In typical style, he added that 'Tough times don't last but tough people do'. He was overwhelmed to see the success of his baby 'Akash' and grateful to the love the country showered on DRDO scientists. Dr Rao is a fascinating combination of a person with a scientific brain and a jolly demeanor. He possesses a sharp mind for details and logic but is easy to talk to. His approach to problems is systematic and methodical and are laced with a dash of wit and humour. He makes decisions based on evidence and logic but also has a rational, empathetic and understanding side that helps him connect with others. As friends grow and evolve their interests and varying priorities, geographical distance can make it difficult to maintain regular in person interactions, but he says family and friends are essential for a man's achievements and successes. Dr Prahlada Rama Rao is down-to-earth, practical and infectiously enthusiastic. He embodies a unique blend of intellectual rigour and joyful spirit, making him a delightful companion and an invaluable asset to the country.
The National
10-03-2025
- General
- The National
Holi 2025: When is the Hindu festival of colour and how is it celebrated?
Holi, the Hindu festival of colour, is celebrated around the world, marked by raucous parties where people throw and smear coloured powder on each other. The festival, the celebrations for which begin on March 14 in many parts of India, signifies the arrival of spring and, for many Hindus, the triumph of good over evil. Held in March on the full moon night known as Phalgun Purnima in the Hindu calendar, the date changes slightly every year. While the first night is usually dedicated to more sombre rituals, it's on the second day that the vibrant celebrations begin. Across India and Nepal, for instance, streets will be filled with colours as powdered dyes are thrown by people at each other and coloured water is sprayed for raucous fun. Revellers are often advised to moisturise their hair and skin well, to avoid the dye from staining the skin and clothes worn do not usually survive the day. The celebrations are deeply rooted in tradition and observed now for hundreds of years. There are varying accounts of the festival's origins but it has been celebrated in the Indian subcontinent for centuries, as documented in ancient Indian literature. According to Indian historian Sushma Jansari, a faculty member at The British Museum, there are three main myths associated with Holi. One of the most popular stories concerns the Hindu deity Vishnu and his devotee Prahlada, she writes on the museum's blog. According to one version of this story, Prahlada was the son of an evil king named Hiranyakashipu, who demanded that everyone should worship only him. Prahlada refused to worship his father and instead continued to pray to Vishnu. Holika, Hiranyakashipu's sister, grew angry at Prahlada because of his devotion to Vishnu and decided to kill him. She had been previously blessed by the gods so that she would not be harmed by fire, so she tricked Prahlada into sitting on her lap while she sat in a fire. Prahlada survived this ordeal because he prayed to Vishnu, while Holika perished. Holi, the name of the festival, is thus derived from the name Holika. In different parts of India and Nepal, bonfires are lit on the first night of the festival to signify the demise of evil. Another story is linked to the god Krishna's love for Radha, Jansari writes. Krishna's skin was dark blue because a demoness had tried to poison him when he was a baby, and Krishna was worried that Radha wouldn't like him because of his appearance. His mother, Yashoda, playfully suggested that he smear some brightly coloured powder on Radha's face. After Krishna did this, Radha fell in love with him and they were later married. Some people also believe the Holi colours came from Krishna mischievously throwing coloured water on his subjects, which became part of the celebrations. In different parts of India, where it's a national holiday, Holi is adapted to various cultures. In the state of Uttar Pradesh, for instance, women playfully hurl sticks at men, who use shields to protect themselves. In parts of Punjab, Holi fairs are held and can go on for days, while in the north-eastern state of Manipur, young people perform a group folk dance called thabal chongba on full moon night, and celebrations usually last for six days. The fun and games with colours, however, are followed everywhere. Holi is also a big festival in Nepal, where it is a national holiday. Holi celebrations have gone truly global, thanks to the Indian diaspora. Colour marathons, where participants are doused with coloured powders, have become popular around the world. Some critics, however, say these events destroy the religious significance of the festival. In the UAE, for example, the festival is usually marked by concerts and outdoor parties. This year, however, as Holi falls during Ramadan, many celebrations were held earlier in the month. Restaurants are also cashing in on festivities, launching special Holi menus and deals. Here are some to try. The Indian restaurant at Taj Dubai is serving a curated menu featuring both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. It includes samosa rose dahi bhalla, pani puri and sev papdi chaat as well as an assortment of traditional homemade sweets and festive mocktails. A live sitar player will serenade guests as they tuck in and all guests will walk away with commemorative takeaway gifts. March 14, from 6pm until midnight; Dh249 per person; Taj Dubai, Business Bay; 04 438 3222 Known for its Punjabi food, Dhaba Lane is offer a shot of thandai, a cold drink prepared with exotic nuts and spices, and three gujiyas or sweet pastries, for Dh20. Both commonly associated with Holi, the milk-based thandai is flavoured with rose petals, dry fruits and spices, while gujiyas are shaped like dumplings and made of flour and stuffed with roasted dried fruits, grated coconut and semolina. March 10 to 14, all day; Dhaba Lane branches in Karama, Garhoud, JLT and Al Nahda; 04 358 3554 This homegrown pure vegetarian restaurant known for serving North Indian cuisine is splashing flavour and colour for Holi. All visitors will receive complimentary thandai shots as a welcome drink, with the special menu featuring festive treats and desserts, from jalebi to rabri and gujiyas. Guests who order from the Holi menu will also receive a free kebab platter. March 14, 9am until midnight; Chatori Gali's Dubai branches in Al Barsha, Silicon Oasis and Karama; 054 582 6378 Serving food from across the Indian sub-continent, all visitors to The Permit Room during Holi will receive a free thandai and two gujiyas. All guests will be greeted with splashes of colour, the hallmark of Holi, as they dig into the restaurant's offerings, from burrata chaat to truffle Amritsari kulcha and Mushroom Achaar. March 14 to 16, all day; Majestic City Retreat, Dubai; 054 791 1796 A thali menu awaits diners at this restaurant in Park Hyatt Dubai featuring both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Dishes include Jodhpuri kachori chaat, tandoori prawn, Rajasthani lamb curry and chicken biryani, all served alongside creamy dal makhani, bhurani raita and a selection of Indian breads. March 14 to 16, all day; Dh150 for vegetarian and Dh175 for non-vegetarian thali; Park Hyatt Dubai; 04 602 1814
