Sufism

The term used in the Islamic texts for Sufism is Tasawwuf. The origin of this term is interpreted by Historians in different ways. Some believe that it is derived from the term ṣafā, which in Arabic means "purity". According to some scholars, it is derived from suf, meaning wool, referring to the coarse woollen clothes worn by the Sufis. And, some historians derive sufism or Tasawwuf from suffa, that is, the platform outside the Prophet Mohammad’s mosque, where a group of close followers assembled to learn about Islam.

The Sufi movement was a socio-religious movement, which stood against the growing materialism in religious institutions. The Sufis did not attach importance to namaz, hajj and celibacy. The union of the human soul with God through love and devotion was the essence of the teachings of the Sufi Saints. So, the term Sufism is synonymous to the ideology which believes that purity of thought and conduct would draw us closer to the God. The Sufis emphasised on seeking salvation through intense devotion and love for God by following His commands, and following the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad whom they regarded as a perfect human being.

The best part of the sufi movement was the idea to inculcate a humanistic attitude amongst people. They had spread the message of social and religious equality and harmony. This message of love and harmony makes the ideology of sufism meaningful even today.

For a detailed video on Sufism or the Sufi Movement, click on the link below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hqo2EJWKxPk&t=60s

Zabti or Dahsala System

Zabti or Dahsala System was a systematic way of revenue collection, introduced by the finance minister of Akbar, i.e. Raja Todar Mal, in the year 1580-82.

Under the Dahsala System, the state conducted the careful survey and calculation of crop production as well as prices of those crops for a period of last 10 years.

On the basis of this calculation, 1/3rd share of the average produce was demanded as the state's share. The tax was fixed on each crop in cash.

Apart from calculations, the account records were also maintained in detail for the convenience of the peasants as well as the state.

For a detailed description of Dahsala System, click on the link given below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3MEjTy0_46g

Indian Constitution is a lengthy document which highlights the aspirations of millions of Indians. It protects us, empowers us and guides us in the best possible way. Constitution Day reminds us of many sacrifices, efforts and dreams of our freedom fighters who wished to make India an independent country where people would enjoy human rights and breathe in an open democratic set up.

Wish you all a very Happy Constitution Day.


Check out this link and see how much you know about the Indian Constitution:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0caIg2da7E8

The Rohingya Crisis

The Rohingyas are a Muslim minority group residing in the western state of Rakhine of Myanmar. The Rohingya people are considered as the "Stateless Entities", as the Myanmar government does not recognize them as an ethnic group. Thus, they lack legal protection in the country. The government of Myanmar, which is predominantly a Buddhist country, denies the Rohingya citizenship and are classified as resident foreigners or associate citizens.

In Myanmar, Rohingyas are regarded as refugees from Bangladesh, and face strong hostility in the country. The Rohingya people have been regarded as the most persecuted people on earth. Lakhs of Rohingyas have fled the destruction of their homes and persecution in the northern Rakhine province of Myanmar.

To save themselves, the Rohingyas often try to enter Southeast Asian States illegally which may pose internal security threat in these countries. But at the same time, many communities and countries are
extending their helping hands on humanitarian grounds.

To have a complete picture of The Rohingya Crisis, click on the given link below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhzTdXW_48w&t=84s

Clothing Pattern of Women in Victorian England

Women in Victorian England were taught from their childhood to be docile, dutiful, submissive and obedient to men. Pain and sufferings were considered as an integral part of womanhood.  Beauty was the only significant aspect of their personalities.

For this beauty, girls had to wear stays and tightly fitted corsets to give them a perfect shape and slim look. Tightly laced, small-waisted women were admired as elegant, attractive and graceful. It created the image of submissive Victorian women.

Though they looked beautiful and truly attractive, but it wasn't easy. The tight corsets created many health issues:

• Restricted body growth
• Hampered blood circulation
• Muscles remained underdeveloped
• Spine got bent
• Acute weakness

But most of the women accepted the clothing pattern as it was considered as their womanly duty to look attractive and bear pain. 

For a detailed video on the topic, click on the given link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IiO9VuLeZZA&t=168s

Problems Faced by the Weimar Republic.

When Germany was defeated in the First World War, the country was left with political instabilities. King Kaiser William II fled to Holland to save his life. To get hold of the situation, National Assembly met at Weimer to establish a republic. This Weimar Republic had to face several challenges –

1. Weimar Republic was blamed by its countrymen for accepting the treaty of Versailles. According to the treaty,

a.      Germany lost colonies to France, Poland, Denmark, Lithuania                            

b.      Loss of iron and coal fields

c.       Demilitarization of Germany

d.      Compensation of £ 6 billion was imposed

2. The Weimar Republic was blamed not only by common people, but other political parties like the Communist Party of Germany also highlighted the weaknesses of the Republic. This political radicalism posed a threat to the existence of the Weimar Republic.

3. The Weimar Constitution itself had inherent weaknesses. E.g., the provision of proportional representation meant formation of coalition government because of no clear majority. It led to political strife within the government.

4. Economic crisis was another challenge to Weimar Republic. The huge war indemnity depleted the nation’s gold reserves. The value of German currency (Mark) reduced considerably, leading to Hyper-inflation. Later, dependence on the US loans proved disastrous after the Great Depression of 1929.

5. The political and economic crises led to devastation, starvation, unemployment, criminal activities and humiliation all over Germany. Germans felt insecure in their own country.

Click here for a video on Weimar Republic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BsxQFBaqAig&list=PL8Ci_R5xvsFgC7i95LumGtWJzRbOyLjQ2&index=6

Budget 2018

Budget reflects a planned economy. It refers to an estimate of revenue and expenditure for a particular time period. With budget we allocate our resources judiciously for various sectors of the economy. 

The ruling government in India lays down the statement of income and expenditure every year, which is declared in the Parliament of India. Finance Minister owes the responsibility of reading out the Budget speech in the Parliament.

The Budget is read out every year on the first day of February.

Click on the link given below and know your Budget of 2018:

Easy explanation of Indian Budget 2018