Padmanabhaswami alias P. Swami alias “one of the Gods” hit the headlines of all leading national dailies last week. For the very reason that we have been aware of. Acquisition of wealth. So far US$ 18.5 bn. This is nothing new for us. It has become an every day event. Unlike A. Raja, Kalamadi, and Kani, P. Swami did not ask for it. Very strange for an Indian god to act this way. It raises suspicions about His nationality.
Earlier, when this news of wealth flashed, a revengeful Karunanidhi wanted to sue P. Swami for wealth acquisition with a misunderstanding that He is a brother of Subramanian Swamy. The infamous duo of Lokpal Bill – Anna Hazare and Baba Ramdev – are also considering agitation against P. Swami’s wealth. Anna, as usual, plans to fast and Baba is already looking for outfits at Lifestyle – women’s section. Honestly, I have trouble relating any of their deeds to Gandhi’s principles. Both are only an inch short of becoming opportunistic terrorists who threaten democratically elected government to do things in their own favor. To my understanding, fast unto awareness and not threat is Gandhian. Apparently, modern Gandhians don’t seem to understand.
Now the important question crops up. Who owns P. Swami’s wealth? Duh, P. Swami of course. Interestingly, Indian law – no wonder – recognizes Idols or so-called Gods as Juristic. An entity other than human beings to which the law, by itself, attributes a personality. It doesn’t stop there. The Supreme Court adds that Gods hold rights and duties. They can own and dispose of property, receive gifts, sue, and be sued. As if Gods have nothing else to do. What would P. Swami, the God, do with US$ 18.5 bn? Would he spend his wealth for a cause? Or would he become a mortal being finding pleasures around the corners? Or all His wealth will again be back into the vaults like that of Sai Baba’s?
I am going to keep my eyes open in airports, resorts, shopping malls, spas and liquor boutiques. I am likely to run into P. Swami any day from now.
Are there any other better ways can a man spend his newly found wealth?
