DEATH AND ITS SUPERFICIAL RITUALS

One day when Jacob and I were standing at our gate, we noted a lot of women and a few men folk going hurriedly to a nearby house. Women were clad in their home attires sporting their ‘Mekkamothiram’ an old fashioned ear ring, which Latin ladies used to wear on their upper ear lobes. The men wore their dhotis with, an ordinary towel, thrown lightly over their shoulders. We were very curious to know what was happening. Our curiosity which was aroused to a great extent finally got an answer. Lawrence Suryapally, the head of their family was sinking. We immediately informed ‘Ammachi’ about the sudden situation. She went along with Rajamma to see him. There was a lugubrious air when Jacob and I went in. Lawrence’s cousin, Devassy Kelanthara, was praying aloud “Easo, Mariam, Ouseph...e” and the ladies gathered responded by saying “Yenikku Kuttayirikkename” (Be with me.) The chanting of prayer reverberated through the room. I gazed at him; he was breathing heavily, a harsh and awful noise. I wondered why people crowd around him darkening the room and denying fresh air to his gaping mouth. I pushed open the door; it creaked. His young wife Mariam’s face was full of anguish and pain; tears welled up in her eyes. She was sore, had not slept a wink. The heartrending slender sobs of the small children were twittered like the buzzing of bees. Lawrence’s sister, Vilama, casually came from Kumbalangi to visit her ailing brother. She was dumbstruck and collapsed on a chair and burried her head in her hands; crying softly, tiredly and tears rolling down her cheeks. I gazed other weeping women; their close relations. The son was at his side bending over him occasionally wetting his lips with water. Lawrence mumbled amid deep gasps. He was asking his ten year old son to look after the family well. He broke down at this request by his father; he moved to a corner of the room tears rolling down his cheeks and he was wiping it away with one end of his dhoti. I saw ‘Appachan’ consoling him by patting him on his shoulder. He told him, “He should have the courage to face the stark realities of life and trust in God Almighty.” I heard somebody say that Lawrence had one son and three daughters.  All of them were minors. ‘Ammachi’ was trying to console their young daughters. I heard one old man who seemed very concerned, asking someone in a hushed tone, “How the household is to survive?” I went closer to have a close look at the dying man. Lawrence could not complete his prayer; he was trying to take in air with so much difficulty. It was his last struggle for existence on earth before long he would be gone. The parish priest came and performed the last sacrament, “the anointing of the sick.” The priest waited solemnly for the last moment. It was time for him to depart. The chanting of the prayers became louder. We too joined in. Lawrence took two slow gulps of air, after a minute he took a deep breath which was his last breath. Lawrence’s body lay still, he is dead and gone forever. But the veteran fisherman, who ventured out into the deep backwater, which shimmered in the morning sunlight, on his tiny canoe, donning a big round hat made of bamboo reapers and cadjan leaves atop his head, holding a traditional fishing rod or angler made of the long, light, flexible and sturdy ‘Choonda’ palm stick, which is fixed a line, and which  hooked big fish like  the Black Marlin, and Shark. Who can forget him? He is still alive in the minds of his kith and kin, and the neighbous in his village.

Death usurped his life; death had her day. Jacob and I were amazed at how the ‘Jeevan’ (life) or ‘Athmavu’ (Spirit) left? Was it through the mouth? Did we miss any moment? Is there any panacea for the illness of death? I am still curious to know if there is any weight loss to the human body when the ‘Jeevan’ (life) or ‘Athmavu’ (spirit) leaves the body. In other words what could be the weight and mass of the life or spirit? Is it the same for young and old alike? What about other beings on earth? What do scientists say about that?

As a rule of Mother Nature what begins has to end. Human life is very short and we require making the best of it. However, I learned, “”

I know from my experiences with the stark realities of life, “Parting is a painful and an agonizing experience, and sharing of pain, sorrow and agony will reduce pain, sorrow and agony. However, sharing of joy and happiness would double joy and happiness;”

Time alone can heal their wound. The bereaved family will have to move forward gripping on hope, courage and with a desire for survival.

         

The funeral was arranged as usual. Those days the parish of the Latin Catholics was at Edacochi therefore their dead used to be buried in their parish cemetery, which too was at Edacochi. It was a big ordeal for their kiths and kins to carry the dead body in a large canoe across the island especially during the times of turbulence. Why should one undertake all these pains which were an unnecessary task? The Latins used to go to the Syrian Church to participate in Holy Mass; Holy Communion; Anointment and other matrimonial rites. If so, why should only their dead bodies was taken to Edacochi? They too are human beings. I wondered why the priests and their hierarchy made such differentiation. A few years later a new church, St. Joseph’s Church, was established and their cemetery was also commissioned in spite of serious protests by a few locals. However, Anthappan Thattasseri was the first one buried in the new cemetery without giving much propaganda to the opponents. It was a relief for the Latin community. I have noticed that old people came, one by one, to visit a grave that would soon be theirs too.

I always wondered why people built expensive tombs for their dead with their names, and dates of birth and death chiseled into the stone. Many of us do not remember the names of our great ancestors who lived five generations back. Then, why do we fasten burden for the future generations to come.

Tomb made of cement is a hurdle for the worms, maggots and flies which feed on the cadaver in their endeavour to convert it into organic soil. It would be a better proposition to utilize the money spent on these elaborate and flamboyant tombs for the causes of the poor and the needy. One should not fall a prey to the commercial interests of the Church.

Cremation of the body in Indian tradition is better than burial in the ground since it is inexpensive; causes less pollution, and a solution to the space constraints. This is not at all the practice in the Christian community here. Nevertheless, I would like to mention that late Shri. Dominic Jose Kuruvinakunnel’s (founder of Casino Hotel, Wellingdon Island and other group of hotels in Kerala) cremation was an epoch-making event. His cremation in an electric crematorium had created ripples and opened a new debate on this issue. The Catholic Church should move with the time and tide.

I too prefer the cremation of my body in Indian tradition without any pomp and show in the electric crematorium at Ravipuram in Kochi to burial in a cemetry.

Excerpts from

MEMOIRS

An autobiography

by

Joseph J. Thayamkeril

Lawyer, Kochi, Kerala, India.

josephjthayamkeril.blogspot.com

josephjthayamkeril@google.com

josephjthayamkeril@gmail.com

KUMBALAM, "A GOD'S OWN ISLAND."

Kumbalam Village is a cluster of tiny islands with sylvan surroundings, namely Kumbalam, Panangad (including Madavana and Udayathumvathal), Cheppanam and Chathamma. These Islands are popping out in the Vembanad ‘Kayal,’ Lake, and the shores of which are washed by the gentle waves of the backwaters. In olden times, Kumbalam desom was a seat of higher learning in the Vedas, a significant military base, a military training centre, and a hub for trade. It is situated on the Muzuris-Kollam (Kodungallur-Quilon) inland-navigation route through which Megasthenese (B.C. 98), Pliny (A.D.23-79,) Ptolomy-2 (A.D.126-161), Marco Polo (A.D.1290-93) and other foreign travelers cruised this region, and making this location geographically significant. It is a potential destination for tourists. Kumbalam was the prominent among the ancient Vendanat asylums and was one of the most significant among the sixty-four ‘Gramams’, Brahmin settlements in Chera Empire. At present, it is one of the major developing sub-urban islands situated seven kilometers South-west of Ernakulam in the City of Cochin. There are a lot of similar Islands on that stretch, further to the east as well as to the west, south and north. The four lined National Highway (NH-47), and the service roads on either side pass through the north-western side of Panangad Island and south-eastern portion of Kumbalam Island. The Ernakulam-Thiruvananthapuram railway line via, Alleppy also passes through the Kumbalam Island.  Kumbalam has a major railway station too. It is the southern gateway to the commercial City of Cochin for people coming from Alleppy and the other southern districts of Kerala State. It is also a significant landmark in the National Highway and Southern Railway maps. The Islanders occupying the southern areas, who previously enjoyed the stillness of night, have now started to adjust to the demented shrieking of sirens from trains moved fast tearing the countryside  and the hum of heavy traffic on National Highway-47 that lulls them to sleep.

Kumbalam, a sub-urban island, and part and parcel of the agglomeration of Greater Cochin Development Authority (G.C.D.A.,) situates on the south-western side not far from the border of the Corporation of Cochin. Panangad Island situates on the south-eastern side of Kumbalam and the other two Islands, Cheppanam and Chathamma are placed at a stretch further east. These tiny Islands comprised in Kumbalam Village were a part of the erstwhile Chera Empire. The 9^th and 10^th centuries of early Kulasekhara rule constitute a “Golden Age” in Kerala history. Rama Varma Kulasekhara Perumal (1090-1102 A.D) was the last king of Mahodayapuram who was defeated by Chola King Kulottunga, and burned down the city of Mahodayapuram. Rama Varma Kulasekhara Perumal moved his base to Kollam and attacked Chola capital and Chola king Kolottunga was defeated (1100 A.D.) and he regained freedom for Chera country. In the meanwhile, his matrilineal nephews took control of his empire. He voluntarily moved to Kollam. Through the stories that were narrated to us by our grandparents, I was familiarized with Oli Desavazhi Nambuthiri, my ancestors, who were in the governing council of the King. He and his ‘Nair’ forces, escorted the Chera King and his entourage with all their enormous wealth up to the entrance of River Pampa enroute to Kollam. Rama Varma Kulasekhara Perumal (1090-1102 A.D.) mentioned in Rameswarathkoil inscription is therefore regarded as the founder of Venad Kingdom. Oli Nambuthiri, the ‘Desavazhi’ of Kumbalam, my ancestors, used to renew their century old allegiance and friendship with the erstwhile Chera King (King of Venad,) who was domiciled at Kollam. Then they moved to their palace at Padmanabhapuram, Later, His Excellency Anizham Tirunal Marthanda Varma, the   Maharajah of Travancore shifted his headquarters to Kawadiyar Palace at Thiruvananthapuram. Venad attained the status of an independent kingdom during his reign.

In the beginning of 12^th century Kumbalam became a part of the princely State of Cochin.  In 1755, Ramayyan Dalawa, at the instance of His Highness Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma, Maharaja (1729-58) of the erstwhile state of Travancore, annexed Karappuram (Cherthala Taluk,)  and then Kumbalam became the southern boundary of the State of Cochin. Still there are boundary stones, laid with the inscription “KO-THI” in Malayalam (“KO” on the northern side and “THI” on southern side of the stones popping out in the mid backwaters,) situated in between Kumbalam and Arookutty to demarcate the boundary of erstwhile states of Kochi and Travancore. Later, on July 1, 1949, Kochi merged with the princely State of Travancore and was renamed as Travancore-Cochin (or “Thiru-Kochi” in Malayalam) with the written understanding that the capital shall be at Trivandrum and the High Court shall be at Ernakulam. Subsequently, both Travancore-Cochin and the former district of Madras Presidency, namely Malabar joined together to form what is the present Kerala State on November 1, 1956, which is the domain of the ‘Malayalis’ in the Union of India. Therefore, the history of Kumbalam cannot be different from the rest of Kerala State and the rest of the Indian peninsular region and the sub-continent.  Kumbalam has made its own special contributions to the geographical, historical, political, economic, social and cultural aspects of life.

         

Kumbalam, the main Island, is a narrow strip of land. It is about four kilo-meters in length and an average of about one kilo-meter in width. It is one of the major developing Islands of Kumbalam Village. “Ramada Resorts”, a five star Resort, has erected their edifice on the waterfront at the southern-tip of the Kumbalam Island. Its landscape and the view across are breathtaking. “The Choice Foundation” too has opened their head office in the adjoining waterfront with sprawling lawns and an infinity pool. Our virgin island is now a prime area for big time investors. The islands comprising Kumbalam Village are Kumbalam (literally meaning an island with a pot-belly); Panangad (a land afforested with ‘Choonda’ palms); Cheppanam (originally a sheltered island afforested with red mangrove, Red ‘Kandal’, Rhizophora applicata or mucronata;) and Chathamma (a land of demons or a land where you can see a variety of water birds). Panangad situates on the South-east of Kumbalam. Cheppanam and Chathamma are smaller sheltered Islands placed at a stretch further east. Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) situates in the north-western area of Panangad Island abutting National Highway-47. A few housing projects have come up in Panangad Island.

          Census Report 2011: Area according to Type of Land: Kumbalam is a Grade I Grama Panchayath and Village. The total number of plots is 1952 and total area is 2079.62 Hectres (corresponding to 513667 cents or 5136.67 Acres.) There are 823 plots of wet lands having an area of 449.45 Hectres (corresponding to 1110.14 Acres); and 1129 plots of dry lands having an area of 1630.17 Hectres (corresponding to 4026.53 Acres.) Forest area is nil. The total area of the panchayath roads is 10 .35 Acres. The price of land is five lakh rupees per cent. The total length of the National Highway passing through this village is 3.5 kilometers. Kumbalam is situated at 9.916667 degree North latitude and at 76. 3 degree East longitude. The total number of panchayath wards is 19. Kumbalam Panchayat area comes under the Palluruthy Block Panchayath, Ernakulam District Panchayath, Trippunithura legislative constituency and Ernakulam parliamentary constituency.

As per the Census Report of 1901, the total population of Kumbalam Village was 7472 out of which 3754 were males and 3718 were females. The total number of cows was 3057, calves 91; buffalos 4 and sheep 91.

Census India Report of 2011: Population of Kumbalam Grade I Grama Panchayath and Village:  The total population of Kumbalam Village is 29193 out of which 14406 are males and 14787 are females. The total number of literates is 25853 out of which 12976 are males and 12877 are females. 62. 97% of the total population are Hindus (religions and all castes put together,) 12.42% are Muslims and  24.33% are Christians and others 0.28%.

Population of Children with age of 0-6 is 2518 which is 8.63 % of total population of Kumbalam (CT). In Kumbalam, Female Sex Ratio is 1026 against state average of 1084. Moreover Child Sex Ratio in Kumbalam is around 1005 compared to Kerala state average of 964. Literacy rate of Kumbalam is 96.15 % higher than state average of 94.00 %. In Kumbalam, Male literacy is around 97.98 % while female literacy rate is 94.37%. 

The number of scheduled castes is 2438 and scheduled tribe is 48. The number of scheduled caste houses is 778 and they all have potable water connections but only 665 houses are electrified. It is unfortunate that only 5 houses have latrine. (The state government and the panchayath should render necessary financial help to them to have such significant amenity.) 

The total number of buildings is 7225 out of which normal houses are 7207. There are 912 huts. (These hut dwellers require interest free financial help, from the government and panchayath, which shall be allowed to be repaid in reasonable instalments.) There are 6 unnumbered buildings as well.

Boundaries: These clusters of Islands are bound by the Vembanad ‘Kayal’, Lake. Thevara and Konthuruthy Islands within the limits of Corporation of Kochi; and Nettoor Island under Maradu Municipality situates further north. Udayamperoor Panchayath situates further east. Aroor, Edacochi and Edacochi and Palluruthy Islands under Corporation of Kochi position further west. Willington Island on the north-west and Perumbalam and Arookutty Islands comprised in Alleppy District situates further south. 

Excerpts from

 MEMOIRS

by

Joseph J. Thayamkeril
josephjthayamkeril.blogspot.com memoirs

josephjthayamkeril@gmail.com

KUMBALAM

Kumbalam Village is a cluster of tiny islands with sylvan surroundings, namely Kumbalam, Panangad (including Madavana and Udayathumvathal), Cheppanam and Chathamma. These Islands are popping out in the Vembanad ‘Kayal,’ Lake, and the shores of which are washed by the gentle waves of the backwaters. In olden times, Kumbalam desom was a seat of higher learning in the Vedas, a significant military base, a military training centre, and a hub for trade. It is situated on the Muzuris-Kollam (Kodungallur-Quilon) inland-navigation route through which Megasthenese (B.C. 98), Pliny (A.D.23-79,) Ptolomy-2 (A.D.126-161), Marco Polo (A.D.1290-93) and other foreign travelers cruised this region, and making this location geographically significant. It is a potential destination for tourists. Kumbalam was the prominent among the ancient Vendanat asylums and was one of the most significant among the sixty-four ‘Gramams’, Brahmin settlements in Chera Empire. At present, it is one of the major developing sub-urban islands situated seven kilometers South-west of Ernakulam in the City of Cochin. There are a lot of similar Islands on that stretch, further to the east as well as to the west, south and north. The four lined National Highway (NH-47), and the service roads on either side pass through the north-western side of Panangad Island and south-eastern portion of Kumbalam Island. The Ernakulam-Thiruvananthapuram railway line via, Alleppy also passes through the Kumbalam Island.  Kumbalam has a major railway station too. It is the southern gateway to the commercial City of Cochin for people coming from Alleppy and the other southern districts of Kerala State. It is also a significant landmark in the National Highway and Southern Railway maps. The Islanders occupying the southern areas, who previously enjoyed the stillness of night, have now started to adjust to the demented shrieking of sirens from trains moved fast tearing the countryside  and the hum of heavy traffic on National Highway-47 that lulls them to sleep.

Kumbalam, a sub-urban island, and part and parcel of the agglomeration of Greater Cochin Development Authority (G.C.D.A.,) situates on the south-western side not far from the border of the Corporation of Cochin. Panangad Island situates on the south-eastern side of Kumbalam and the other two Islands, Cheppanam and Chathamma are placed at a stretch further east. These tiny Islands comprised in Kumbalam Village were a part of the erstwhile Chera Empire. The 9^th and 10^th centuries of early Kulasekhara rule constitute a “Golden Age” in Kerala history. Rama Varma Kulasekhara Perumal (1090-1102 A.D) was the last king of Mahodayapuram who was defeated by Chola King Kulottunga, and burned down the city of Mahodayapuram. Rama Varma Kulasekhara Perumal moved his base to Kollam and attacked Chola capital and Chola king Kolottunga was defeated (1100 A.D.) and he regained freedom for Chera country. In the meanwhile, his matrilineal nephews took control of his empire. He voluntarily moved to Kollam. Through the stories that were narrated to us by our grandparents, I was familiarized with Oli Desavazhi Nambuthiri, my ancestors, who were in the governing council of the King. He and his ‘Nair’ forces, escorted the Chera King and his entourage with all their enormous wealth up to the entrance of River Pampa enroute to Kollam. Rama Varma Kulasekhara Perumal (1090-1102 A.D.) mentioned in Rameswarathkoil inscription is therefore regarded as the founder of Venad Kingdom. Oli Nambuthiri, the ‘Desavazhi’ of Kumbalam, my ancestors, used to renew their century old allegiance and friendship with the erstwhile Chera King (King of Venad,) who was domiciled at Kollam. Then they moved to their palace at Padmanabhapuram, Later, His Excellency Anizham Tirunal Marthanda Varma, the   Maharajah of Travancore shifted his headquarters to Kawadiyar Palace at Thiruvananthapuram. Venad attained the status of an independent kingdom during his reign.

In the beginning of 12^th century Kumbalam became a part of the princely State of Cochin.  In 1755, Ramayyan Dalawa, at the instance of His Highness Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma, Maharaja (1729-58) of the erstwhile state of Travancore, annexed Karappuram (Cherthala Taluk,)  and then Kumbalam became the southern boundary of the State of Cochin. Still there are boundary stones, laid with the inscription “KO-THI” in Malayalam (“KO” on the northern side and “THI” on southern side of the stones popping out in the mid backwaters,) situated in between Kumbalam and Arookutty to demarcate the boundary of erstwhile states of Kochi and Travancore. Later, on July 1, 1949, Kochi merged with the princely State of Travancore and was renamed as Travancore-Cochin (or “Thiru-Kochi” in Malayalam) with the written understanding that the capital shall be at Trivandrum and the High Court shall be at Ernakulam. Subsequently, both Travancore-Cochin and the former district of Madras Presidency, namely Malabar joined together to form what is the present Kerala State on November 1, 1956, which is the domain of the ‘Malayalis’ in the Union of India. Therefore, the history of Kumbalam cannot be different from the rest of Kerala State and the rest of the Indian peninsular region and the sub-continent.  Kumbalam has made its own special contributions to the geographical, historical, political, economic, social and cultural aspects of life.

         

Kumbalam, the main Island, is a narrow strip of land. It is about four kilo-meters in length and an average of about one kilo-meter in width. It is one of the major developing Islands of Kumbalam Village. “Ramada Resorts”, a five star Resort, has erected their edifice on the waterfront at the southern-tip of the Kumbalam Island. Its landscape and the view across are breathtaking. “The Choice Foundation” too has opened their head office in the adjoining waterfront with sprawling lawns and an infinity pool. Our virgin island is now a prime area for big time investors. The islands comprising Kumbalam Village are Kumbalam (literally meaning an island with a pot-belly); Panangad (a land afforested with ‘Choonda’ palms); Cheppanam (originally a sheltered island afforested with red mangrove, Red ‘Kandal’, Rhizophora applicata or mucronata;) and Chathamma (a land of demons or a land where you can see a variety of water birds). Panangad situates on the South-east of Kumbalam. Cheppanam and Chathamma are smaller sheltered Islands placed at a stretch further east. Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) situates in the north-western area of Panangad Island abutting National Highway-47. A few housing projects have come up in Panangad Island.

          Census Report 2011: Area according to Type of Land: Kumbalam is a Grade I Grama Panchayath and Village. The total number of plots is 1952 and total area is 2079.62 Hectres (corresponding to 513667 cents or 5136.67 Acres.) There are 823 plots of wet lands having an area of 449.45 Hectres (corresponding to 1110.14 Acres); and 1129 plots of dry lands having an area of 1630.17 Hectres (corresponding to 4026.53 Acres.) Forest area is nil. The total area of the panchayath roads is 10 .35 Acres. The price of land is five lakh rupees per cent. The total length of the National Highway passing through this village is 3.5 kilometers. Kumbalam is situated at 9.916667 degree North latitude and at 76. 3 degree East longitude. The total number of panchayath wards is 19. Kumbalam Panchayat area comes under the Palluruthy Block Panchayath, Ernakulam District Panchayath, Trippunithura legislative constituency and Ernakulam parliamentary constituency.

As per the Census Report of 1901, the total population of Kumbalam Village was 7472 out of which 3754 were males and 3718 were females. The total number of cows was 3057, calves 91; buffalos 4 and sheep 91.

Census India Report of 2011: Population of Kumbalam Grade I Grama Panchayath and Village:  The total population of Kumbalam Village is 29193 out of which 14406 are males and 14787 are females. The total number of literates is 25853 out of which 12976 are males and 12877 are females. 62. 97% of the total population are Hindus (religions and all castes put together,) 12.42% are Muslims and  24.33% are Christians and others 0.28%.

Population of Children with age of 0-6 is 2518 which is 8.63 % of total population of Kumbalam (CT). In Kumbalam, Female Sex Ratio is 1026 against state average of 1084. Moreover Child Sex Ratio in Kumbalam is around 1005 compared to Kerala state average of 964. Literacy rate of Kumbalam is 96.15 % higher than state average of 94.00 %. In Kumbalam, Male literacy is around 97.98 % while female literacy rate is 94.37%. 

The number of scheduled castes is 2438 and scheduled tribe is 48. The number of scheduled caste houses is 778 and they all have potable water connections but only 665 houses are electrified. It is unfortunate that only 5 houses have latrine. (The state government and the panchayath should render necessary financial help to them to have such significant amenity.) 

The total number of buildings is 7225 out of which normal houses are 7207. There are 912 huts. (These hut dwellers require interest free financial help, from the government and panchayath, which shall be allowed to be repaid in reasonable instalments.) There are 6 unnumbered buildings as well.

Boundaries: These clusters of Islands are bound by the Vembanad ‘Kayal’, Lake. Thevara and Konthuruthy Islands within the limits of Corporation of Kochi; and Nettoor Island under Maradu Municipality situates further north. Udayamperoor Panchayath situates further east. Aroor, Edacochi and Edacochi and Palluruthy Islands under Corporation of Kochi position further west. Willington Island on the north-west and Perumbalam and Arookutty Islands comprised in Alleppy District situates further south. 

Excerpts from

 MEMOIRS

by

Joseph J. Thayamkeril
josephjthayamkeril.blogspot.com memoirs

josephjthayamkeril@gmail.com

GENERIC MEDICINES: AVAILABILITY

A generic drug is equivalent to its brand name counterpart, but is usually much less expensive. A generic drug must have the same active ingredients, route of administration, dosage form, strength, and indications as the original brand product. The generic drug may differ from the original in non-essential characteristics such as color, taste and packaging. Generic drugs are deemed to be as safe and effective as the brand name product. Generics cannot be sold until after the drug patent expires on the original brand name product. Patents typically expire 20 years from the date of filing. During this period of patent protection, only the original manufacturer can research, develop and sell the brand name drug. When the patent expires, other manufacturers can submit an abbreviated new drug application (ANDA) to the FDA for approval to market the generic version.

Generic drugs have lower research costs and increased market competition and those substantial savings are passed on to the patient. However, generic drugs still must meet strict FDA requirements with respect to quality, performance, labeling, manufacturing, and bioequivalence. By law, generic drugs must have the same active ingredients as the brand name product, and they can be expected to have the same effect when used in place of a brand name drug.

India may be famous for its generic drugs but patients seeking medicines like rifampicin (Tuberculosis or TB,) lamivudine (HIV/AIDS,) artemisinin (Malaria,) oxytocin (Reproductive Health,) fluoxetine (Mental Health,) and metformin (Diabetes) may not find generic drugs (having no brands) easily in shops across the country. The price of branded ones available is prohibitive, and not affordable to the common man.

This is the gist of a study published in the latest edition of the Journal of Global Health that looked at the availability of essential six medicines, in 124 private pharmacies across the state, including Mumcai. The study done by researchers at Newcastle University in UK and in Mumbai, found that the policy to open up the market has generated a large number of medicines, but there are still not enough availability in pharmacies.

“There has n’t been adequate governmental intervention with regard to sales practices by pharmaceutical companies. The Hathi Committee had years back recommended that medicine strips mention the generic names in big and in bold print and brand names in smaller print, but this recommendation has not been implememted.” Pure generic versions of drugs are not available in most cities.

It is the bounden duty of the government and the medical authorities concerned to focus their attention to see that Generic Medicines are made available throughout the country at affordable costs to the common man.

I am really perturbed by the recent escalation in the prices of Allopathic medicines. This is observed especially in the life-saving drugs that are imported; the medical lobby is looting the public. The medical drug authorities concerned should keep a strict vigil on them and should be penalized heavily. We are proud to know that our scientists are successful in sending economical missions like “Chandrayan” and “Mangalyan.” It is much more significant to achieve self-sufficiency in matters of nutritious food, clothes, shelter and medical drugs for our people. We have brilliant and dedicated scientists, doctors and pharmacists; the government should provide funds liberally and encourage them to invent and manufacture the required medicines at affordable prices to the common man. It is not advisable to import medicines from abroad and get exploited in the bargain. Try to avoid middlemen. I am of the opinion that it is the duty of the government to maintain not only the quality and quantity of a product but also to control the price of medicines and all other goods sold in market. In any event, the MRP (Maximum Retail Price) shall not exceed double the cost price of a product and would ensure that businessmen shall not loot the public.

Excerpts from

MEMOIRS

An autobiography

by

Joseph J. Thayamkeril

Lawyer, Kochi, Kerala, India.

josephjthayamkeril.blogspot.com
josephjthatamkeril@gmail.com

KUMBALAM, MY NATIVE VILLAGE

Kumbalam Village is a cluster of tiny islands with sylvan surroundings, comprising Kumbalam, Panangad (including Matavana and Udayathumvathal,) Cheppanam and Chathamma. Kumbalam is situated at 9.916667 degree North latitude and at 76.3 degree East longitude. These Islands are popping in and out of the Vembanad ‘Kayal,’ Lake, and the shores of which are washed by the gentle waves of the Vembanad Backwaters. In olden times, Kumbalam desom was a seat of higher learning in the Vedas, a significant military base and a military training centre, and a hub for trade. It is situated on the Muzuris-Kollam (Kodungallur-Quilon) inland-navigation route through which Megasthenese (B.C. 98), Pliny (A.D.23-79,) Ptolomy-2 (A.D.126-161,) Marco Polo (A.D.1290-93) and other foreign travelers cruised this region, and making this location geographically significant. It is a potential destination for tourists. Kumbalam was the prominent among the ancient Vendanat asylums and was one of the most significant among the sixty-four ‘Gramams’, Brahmin settlements in Chera Empire. At present, it is one of the major developing sub-urban islands situated six kilometers South-west of Ernakulam in the City of Cochin. There are a lot of similar Islands on that stretch, further to the east as well as to the west, south and north. It is also a significant landmark in the National Highway and Southern Railway maps. The four lined National Highway - 66/544, (old NH-47 Salem-Kanyakumari 640 KM,) and service roads on either side pass through the north-western side of Panangad Island and south-eastern portion of Kumbalam Island. The Ernakulam-Thiruvananthapuram railway line via, Alleppy also passes through the Kumbalam Island.  Kumbalam has a major railway station too. The Islanders occupying the southern areas, who previously enjoyed the stillness of night, have now started to adjust to the demented shrieking of sirens from trains moved fast tearing the countryside  and the hum of heavy traffic on National Highway-66/544 that lulls them to sleep. Kochi Water Metro Project, a subsidiary Kochi Metro Rail Project,hais envisaged water metro services to facilitate transport facilities to tourists and commuters from Vytttila Hub hetty to nearby Islands like Kumbalam and from there to Paravur via Fort-cochin and another one to the High Court Jetty. One major metro boat jetty is being built at Kumbalam north, which would, definitely, ease the road traffic congestions and avert accidents at major junctions in the city of Cochin.

 

Kumbalam, a sub-urban island, and part and parcel of the agglomeration of Greater Cochin Development Authority (G.C.D.A.,) situates on the south-western side not far from the border of the Corporation of Cochin. Panangad Island situates on the south-eastern side of Kumbalam and the other two Islands, Cheppanam and Chathamma are sheltered islands placed at a stretch further east.

Kumbalam Village was a part of the erstwhile Chera Empire. In the beginning of 12^th century Kumbalam became a part of the erstwhile princely State of Cochin. In 1947 it becam a part of Union of India. Later, on July 1, 1949, Kochi merged with the princely State of Travancore and was renamed as Travancore-Cochin (or “Thiru-Kochi” in Malayalam.) Subsequently, both Travancore-Cochin and the former district of Madras Presidency, namely Malabar joined together to form what is the present Kerala State on November 1, 1956, which is the domain of the ‘Malayalis’ in the Union of India.

         

Kumbalam, the main Island, is a narrow strip of land. It is about four kilo-meters in length and an average of about one kilo-meter in width. It is one of the major developing Islands of Kumbalam Village. “Ramada Resorts”, a five star Resort, has erected their edifice on the waterfront at the southern-tip of the Kumbalam Island. Its landscape and the view across are breathtaking. “The Choice Foundation” too has opened their head office in the adjoining waterfront with sprawling lawns and an infinity pool. Our virgin island is now a prime area for big time investors. The islands comprising Kumbalam Village are Kumbalam (literally meaning an island with a pot-belly); Panangad (a land afforested with ‘Choonda’ palms); Cheppanam (originally a sheltered island afforested with red mangrove, Red ‘Kandal’, Rhizophora applicata or mucronata;) and Chathamma (a land of demons or a land where you can see a variety of water birds). Panangad situates on the South-east of Kumbalam. Cheppanam and Chathamma are smaller sheltered Islands placed at a stretch further east. Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) situates in the north-western area of Panangad Island abutting National Highway-66/544. A few housing projects have come up in Panangad Island.

 

BOUNDARIES: Kumbalam, a cluster of Islands, is bound by the Vembanad ‘Kayal’, Lake. Nettoor Island under Maradu Municipality is placed on the north. Thevara and Konthuruthy Islands within the limits of Corporation of Kochi are positioned on the north-west and north. Willington Island situates further on the north-west. Vembanad Backwaters lies in between Kumbalam Islands (Cheppanam & Chathamma) and Udayamperoor Panchayath which is located on the east. Aroor in Alleppy District, and Edacochi and Palluruthy Islands under Corporation of Kochi are sited on south-west and west respectively and this stretch is separated by sprawling Vembanad Backwaters. Perumbalam and Arookutty Islands comprised in Alleppy District situates further south and beyond the vastness of Vembanad Backwaters. It is the southern gateway to the commercial City of Cochin for people coming from Alleppy and other southern districts of Kerala State.

         Excerpts from

MEMOIRS

An autobiography

by

Joseph J. Thayamkeril

Lawyer, Kochi, Kerala, India.

josephjthayamkeril.blogspot.com
josephjthatamkeril@gmail.com

RESERVATION OF QUOTAS FOR WOMEN IN PARLIAMENT

I am of the firm opinion that reservation of special quotas in the assemblies and parliament for women would result in inefficiency and corruption. These are not the training centers to groom speakers or rulers or statesmen. It is meant for the selfless, meritorious, experienced, exceptionally brilliant, talented and mature persons with character and integrity, who are successful in one or more fields. They alone should be accommodated in the Parliament and Assemblies where very important businesses are transacted. The immature and unqualified spouse and children or close relative of a deceased Member of Parliament or Legislative Assemblies should not be chosen to contest election or by-election on sympathetic grounds. Moreover the term of a Member of Parliament or Assemblies or a minister should be limited to two terms. One should realize that there is no dearth for competent persons; be it for the post of the Prime Minister or other important posts in this country.

“Devils rush in where angels fear to tread.” The parliament and assemblies should not be the abode of criminals, inefficient people and corrupt persons. The executive, the legislature and the judiciary shall be accountable to the people of this country, the real sovereign. The corrupt ministers, leaders and judges shall be dealt with all seriousness. Substitution of parliamentary form of government with presidential form could also be seriously considered.

Reservation should be confined to local bodies; the panchayath, the municipality and the municipal corporations, which are the stepping stones to higher levels.

At this juncture, I would like to mention that merit alone should be the criterion for appointments to the higher levels of government posts in the executive and the judiciary and to higher levels of teachers to IITs, AIIMS, IIMs and other advanced courses. Reservation should be confined to the first appointment at the lowest level alone; otherwise it would result in inefficiency and would demoralize the candidates appointed on the basis of merit.

Excerpts from

MEMOIRS

An autobiography

by

Joseph J. Thayamkeril

Lawyer, Kochi, Kerala, India.

josephjthayamkeril.blogspot.com
josephjthatamkeril@gmail.com

GENDER EQUALITY

Gender equality is the state of equal ease of access to resources and opportunities regardless of gender, including economic participation and decision-making; and the state of valuing different behaviors, aspirations and needs equally, regardless of gender. According to UNICEF, gender equality "means that women and men, and girls and boys, enjoy the same rights, resources, opportunities and protections.

It is the vision of United Nations that men and women should be treated equally in social, economic and all other aspects of society, and to not be discriminated against on the basis of their gender. Gender equality is one of the objectives of the United Nations Ubiversal Declaration of Human Rights. World bodies have defined gender equality in terms of human rights, especially women’s rights, and economic development.

Their rights, responsibilities and opportunities will not depend on whether they are born male or female. Gender equality means fairness of treatment for women and men, according to their respective needs.

 

The movement towards gender equality began with the suffrage movement in Western cultures in the late-19th century, which sought to allow women to vote and hold elected office. This period also witnessed significant changes to women’s property rights. The women’s movement gave them equal pay for equal work. 

Equal rights for women in marriage, divorce, and property/land ownership and inheritance are essential for gender equality. The Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) has called for the end of discriminatory family laws. In 2013, UN Women stated that "While at least 115 countries recognize equal land rights for women and men, effective implementation remains a major challenge.

I sincerely hope that the 21^st century will open an era for further growth and development of new laws and regulations  in the realm of gender equality.

          

Excerpts from

MEMOIRS

An autobiography

by

Joseph J. Thayamkeril

Lawyer, Kochi, Kerala, India.

josephjthayamkeril.blogspot.com
josephjthatamkeril@gmail.com

GENDER DISCRIMINATION IS THE LAW OF NATURE

I remember an incident on the Island which was shrouded in an aura of mystery. Two dead bodies surfaced on the banks of the Vembanad Lake. I gathered that when the body was submerged under water, the air in the lungs is replaced by water. The bacteria in the digestive system and the chest cavity would start to produce a lot of gases like, Methane and Carbon dioxide enough to bring it to the surface of water to float as a balloon. It takes at least twenty four hours to float.

Both the corpses seemed to be well dressed and looked quite decent. A whisper here, an insinuation there spread like wild fire.  The excited local people gathered around the shore. One of the spectators concluded that it could have been a case of suicide. They might have jumped into the Vembanad Lake from a running train at the Venduruthy Bridge in Cochin. A politician appeared at the scene, made his presence felt, and vanished into thin air. A sensible person, very soft spoken, asked if anybody informed the police. As I was curious I went to have a closer look at the corpses. I saw the cadaver of a man lying face down in the water. I sighted a profile of his closely cropped hair and a side view of his moustache. The other body rested face up. It was the corpse of a woman. I gazed at her up turned face and long braided hair floating on the water. She wore a sari and blouse. I wondered at the way the corpses rested. My curiosity and reasoning could not wait.

I hastened home and asked my mother, who was reading an absorbingly interesting magazine, the question that haunted me.  Why was the man’s corpse face down and the woman’s face upwards? She lifted her head from the pages of a glossy magazine that was flapping in the breeze. Cocking a quizzical eyebrow she asked to narrate the incident. She knew I would not compromise on any answer. As usual, after carefully ascertaining the facts, she found the answer promptly, to all of my queer questions. She said, “It was the Law of Nature that made such discrimination.” She went on to explain in answer to all my queer questions. “The human sexes differed in a lot of ways. The features of each of the sexes differed; the woman is frail and inferior to the man in muscle power and therefore, man is the tougher human who assumed the role of the protector of the family. The woman’s body is designed for special purposes like pregnancy, child birth, feeding the new born, looking after them and imparting a wealth of knowledge to meet the challenges in future. Therefore, there are differences in the appearance of their corpses in water too.” Nevertheless, the difference in gender shall not affect gender equality.

A woman should hold herself up with dignity and pride on being bestowed the gift of motherhood.  This is a boon of Mother Nature. I have noticed that in palmistry, it is the right hand which is read for men and the left hand for women. This is the principle adopted by Palmists and the Chirologist. In Thumb Impression Astrology, ‘Nadi Jyothisha,’ the same guideline is adopted. The hormonal changes (from estrogen to progesterone) in a woman’s system trigger mood changes in them. On these occasions they may experience difficulties to take up challenges. Moreover the women might not get the safety and security of their homes in certain other environments. Undoubtedly, due to the great virtue of patience that most women possess, they are best suited for certain careers like teaching, medicine, nursing, airhostesses or receptionists. I often wonder why there aren’t major quotas for such category of occupations or professions reserved for women.

However, I have come across courageous, resourceful and determined women, who have overcome all these barriers, attained their dreams and held responsible positions in life by their own merit. 

Excerpts from

MEMOIRS

An autobiography

by

Joseph J. Thayamkeril

Lawyer, Kochi, Kerala, India.

josephjthayamkeril.blogspot.com
josephjthatamkeril@gmail.com

“THANNERMUKKOM SALT WATER BARRIER” AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS

Kuttanad Region in the state of Kerala, South India, is the area with the lowest altitude in India. This Region has an area of almost 500 square kilometers. It is one of the few places in the world where paddy farming is carried out below sea level.

Torrential rain water springs from the Western Ghats (Sahyadri Mountains and hills) descends through four major Rivers - Achankovil, Pampa, Manimala and Meenachil, into the Vembanad Lake in the Kuttanad Region. The 1252 meter long “Thanneermukkom Salt Water Barrier” was constructed across the Vembanad Lake as a part of the Kuttanad Development Scheme to prevent tidal action and intrusion of brine into the Kuttanad lowlands during summer. It is the largest mud regulator in India. This Barrier essentially divides the Vembanad Lake into two parts. The northern portion with a continuous chain of lagoons running parallel to the Arabian Sea coast, with perennial brackish water entering through Kochi estuary and two other estuaries further north, namely Crangannur and Chetwa; and the southern portion of the Barrier with fresh water fed by the four rivers. This Barrier has helped the farmers in the Kuttanad Region by freeing the area from salinity, and facilitating cultivation of three paddy crops: Virippu, Mundakan and Puncha, every year. It was believed that Kuttanad Region, the rice bowl of Kerala, would make the state self-sufficient in its staple diet, rice/paddy.

Although the Bund has initially improved the quality of life of farmers; the Barrier badly affected the ecosystem; and it prevented natural cleansing of the rivers and canals with brine, causing severe environmental problems. Unfortunately, the authorities concerned did not realize that much of the nourishing food for the plants in the rivers and the Vembanad Backwaters would be trapped by the Barrier, and fish that used to eat those plants too suffered. Moreover, the construction of Thanneermukkom Barrier and other dams in the Sahyadri Mountains and hills like Edamalayar and Idukki Dams lessened fresh water availability at the estuary regions, which made the Arabian Sea more salty and fewer fish could survive in it. The depletion of fresh water in the Arabian Sea has affected the quantity of fish.  This in turn made the fishermen who catch fish for their living suffer. 

Presently, the pollution level is very high in the Kuttanad Region. The River Pampa carries in its course all waste materials from Sabarimala in the Sahyadri Mountains, where a popular holy shrine is located. Devotees throng each season to worship Lord Ayyapan. Here sanitation facilities for pilgrims are comparatively poor. The river is highly polluted due to this.  Large amounts of waste materials including human excreta and toxic waste deposition and non-biodegradable waste like plastic is high in this region as River Pamba joins Vembanad Lake at this point. Another aggravating problem in the Kuttanad Area is lack of properly designed sanitation system. The number of households having proper sanitation facilities in this Region is   few. This leads to pollution of backwater in this area.  Stagnation of water bodies is yet another matter for serious concern due to the construction of new roads and land formations without any foresight.

Large hectares of land are under paddy cultivation in the Kuttanad Area. The agriculturists use a lot of chemical fertilizers and toxic pesticides on a large scale. Presence of toxic waste in the rivers, canals and backwaters is causing a serious threat to the environment and gravely upset the ecological balance. Severe degradation of the aquatic environment led to health hazards of people inhabiting in this area. It is significant to have access to adequate potable water, a basic human right. The number of medical cases reported including epidemic break-outs and cancers are high in this Region.

Thanneermukkom Bund has disrupted the harmony of Arabian Sea with the Vembanad Backwaters and Rivers, and has caused unforeseen problems like the lush growth of floating weeds or algae, on the surface of stagnant water bodies, like African ‘Payal,’ and ‘Katapa Payal,’ water hyacinth. These algae which are thrown out of the paddy fields in Kuttanad Region during the monsoon season, have become a menace to fishermen casting their nets in the delta regions like “Kumbalam, the God’s Own Island,”  and its adjacent and adjoining delta areas.  Reclamation of ponds, canals and paddy fields, blocking natural streams and closing large drains is also causing damage to the environment.

Vembanad, the second largest brackish-water lake in India, stretches over 24,000 hectares in area and contributes to over 50% of the total area of backwaters in Kerala, forms a significant component of coastal ecosystem due to their immense biodiversity values in aquatic ecology and socio-economic services to coastal population. Vembanad Lake provides a habitat for many of decapods crustaceans as breeding and nursery grounds. Crustacean fishery is one of the major resources of Indian estuaries that include the commercially important shrimps, prawns and crabs. The Bund prevented the migration of shoal of fish from salt water (Arabian Sea) into fresh water (Kuttanad Region,) and vice-versa for spawning, growth and development and thereby causing depletion in quantity of fish. Some fish like Pearl Spot (Karimeen) and Giant Fresh Water Prawn (Konch) lay their eggs in brackish water. Likewise, varied fish in brine like Sea Prawn and Indian Oil Sardine that used to come to the backwaters as part of the ‘Chakara,’ laid their eggs in fresh water.

It is, therefore, suggested that the government may consider and open Thanneermukkom Bund/Barrier on an experimental basis, to counteract the effect of toxic waste and other pollution levels by allowing brine to enter the canals and streams in the Kuttanad Region. The paddy research stations at Mankombu and other areas may also make earnest efforts to invent or develop salt resistant paddy varieties for cultivation in Kuttanad Region.  This will, no doubt, reduce pollution levels and help in the growth and development of fish in the common pool, the Vembanad Lake and its estuary regions at the mouths of the Arabian Sea.

Excerpts from

MEMOIRS

An autobiography

by

Joseph J. Thayamkeril

Lawyer, Kochi, Kerala, India.

josephjthayamkeril.blogspot.com
josephjthatamkeril@gmail.com

MY HELPLESSNESS

Ouseph Palliparambil was brought from Thuravoor by my great grandfather to carry on the business of   extracting coconut oil. An oil-presser was used to extract coconut oil from copra. His son, Kurien, took over the business.  He married Annamma and had a few children. People in the locality used to say that they are a nice couple; and their life was going smoothly. Jacob and I used to visit the oil-presser occasionally.

All on a sudden Kurien’s son, Anthappan, became insane. Kurien’s heart thundered hard at the thought of his son. The family kept it a closely guarded secret. When he started to become violent Kurien and his wife Annamma approached ‘Appachan,’ my father, to seek his advice on what is to be done. I vividly recall their arrival; his hair tousled, shirt open; he was sore and had not slept a wink. My eyes took in Kurian then darted to his wife, Annamma, who was fragile and haggard with longing for her son. She was biting the edge of her towel loosely thrown over her body to keep herself from bursting into tears. She said, “Did we abandon the Lord and that explained the tribulations that were being inflicted upon us.” She wanted to say something more but her words choked as if a lump in her throat.

After carefully ascertaining the facts from Kurien and Annamma, Appachan had a flurry of consultations with his doctor, and then ‘Appachan’ arranged to send their son to a Psychiatrist at Ernakulum. Months and years passed by. Since there was no progress in his mental state, his parents took him to the Ayurvedic Physician at Kumbalam for consultation. In spite of having the medicines prescribed by him there was no encouraging result seen. Sanku, the trusted aide of my Appachan said, “Life is not always perfect. Like a road, it has many bends, ups and downs, but that’s its beauty.”

          One morning when Jacob and I went to Kurien’s house, we noticed Anthappan lying in the courtyard. He opened his mouth and drooled. We spotted a coconut trunk buried in the soil next to him. One of his legs was put into a hole made out in the trunk and the hole sealed by hammering a wedge. By doing so he could not remove his leg on his own thereby making him immobile. This was done to curb his violent nature triggered occasionally by his insanity. On seeing us he called out to us in a mournful voice, “‘Mone’, dear son, please remove the wedge so that I could be free.” Then he started crying in an eerie voice for a minute. Suddenly a ghostly smile creased on his sullen face. Next moment he became quieter than a lamb. Then a pall of gloom surfaced on his face and he sank into a reverie. We felt very sorry for him. We were so helpless. He could not eat or drink or even attend to his morning chores comfortably. We reported the matter immediately to ‘Ammachi’ and in turn to‘Appachan’. ‘Appachan’ was pacing up and down the length of the room. Suddenly he stopped, having made up his mind, and he sent word for Kurien who came, remained silent. ‘Appachan’ reached out and touched Kutien lightly on his shoulder. Kurien, his voice breaking, tried to justify his action. He scratched his head in despair, and then riveted his eyes on the ceiling and his lips were quivering. He said, “He did not want to dump the responsibility of looking after his son on government hospitals or other mental asylum.” He found no other way of keeping him in restraint so he had to resort to this crude form. Kurien, so fragile, his lips quivered at its edges when he said, “He wanted to look after Anthappan himself.” I noticed tears swelling in Kurien’s eyes. Finally he agreed to bind him to a long iron chain so that he gets a little more freedom. ‘Appachan’ said, “The end justifies the means.” Kurien did it in good faith and with good intentions. Anthappan was totally frustrated and sought our help to free him again. It was neither fair nor proper to restrain his freedom of movement but everybody was helpless in the matter. Before long, God Almighty helped him escape the bondages of life through his premature death.

I had occasion to see other insane people, I have seen epileptic eruptions too. I saw an epileptic patient, who shrieked and fell down on his face; and frothing at the mouth.

I realized that people preferred to hide insanity and epileptic disorders from public notice. They were apprehensive about the after effects of it being made public mainly in connection with the future of the other children in the family. There was an element of fear and anxiety of not obtaining a suitable marriage alliance for their children especially in the case of their girl children. They were worried and frightened that they would be ostracized from the society. It is the duty of the government and the society to make people aware that these illnesses are curable, if checked out at the right time. These patients are to be advised to get proper medical care and attention, when they show the primary symptoms of the illness. 

Nowadays, medical expenses are very prohibitive. Therefore, it is the duty of the government to provide free medical care and attention to such patients.

Excerpts from

MEMOIRS

An autobiography

by

Joseph J. Thayamkeril

Lawyer, Kochi, Kerala, India.

josephjthayamkeril.blogspot.com
josephjthatamkeril@gmail.com