Power, Progress, and Politics: Samna (1974)

Power, Progress, and Politics: Samna (1974)

Cinema often mirrors society, but few films hold up a reflection as piercing as Samna. Directed by Dr. Jabbar Patel and written by Vijay Tendulkar, this 1974 Marathi political drama transcends its genre. It is not merely a tale of power, progress, and politics—it is a meditation on the eternal struggle between ambition, development, and the human conscience.

The Duel of Ideals

At the heart of Samna lies the confrontation between two unforgettable characters: Hindurao Dhonde-Patil, embodied by Nilu Phule, and the Master, portrayed by Dr. Shriram Lagoo. Their exchanges are not mere dialogues but philosophical duels that compel the audience to confront uncomfortable truths.

Dhonde-Patil, proud of the empire he has built—factories, schools, hospitals, jobs—asserts with conviction: “We drained our blood and sweat to bring prosperity here.” To him, this is fact, not arrogance. The Master counters gently: “Pride itself can be a fact. And if one does not know the truth, any claim may appear as pride.”

This subtle tension captures the essence of the film: the fragile line between progress and pride, between reality and illusion.

The Rise and Hollowing of Power

Dhonde-Patil’s journey begins with vision and hard work. He gains power, brings development, and seeks more power. Yet service gradually disappears from his mission. Power itself becomes the end. When Maroti Kamble resists, he is eliminated.

Externally, Dhonde-Patil radiates authority—immaculate attire, diamond rings, silver-handled cane. Internally, however, he is hollowed out. Power gnaws at his soul. In solitude, he confesses to the Master: he is unhappy at home, friendless among his people, and buries his loneliness in relentless work.

It is a haunting admission—the loneliness of a man who has everything, yet nothing.

The Fall

The Master, once an idealist, demands justice for Kamble’s murder. An inquiry follows. Dhonde-Patil is found guilty. Police take him away. His empire slips from his hands, and he watches helplessly as the edifice he built crumbles.

Why did his downfall occur?

• Because of his opponents?
• Because of the justice system?
• Because the Master raised the right question?
• Or because power gained through wrongful means devoured his soul?

The answer lies in all these factors. Yet the deepest truth is this: a person’s true end comes not when society condemns him, but when he betrays his own soul.

A Mirror for Our Times

Samna is more than a film—it is a timeless allegory. It reminds us that progress without morality is hollow, that pride can masquerade as fact, and that power, when divorced from service, corrodes the very spirit of its wielder.

In an age where development and ambition are celebrated, Samna whispers a warning: the greatest downfall is not external defeat, but internal betrayal.

—Dr. Mahendra Ingle, Pune, March 6, 2026

#ValueBasedLeadership #EngineeringHeartBeats

मराठी भाषा गौरव दिन

 मराठी भाषा गौरव दिन

“अमृततेही पैजा जिंके” अशी माझी माय मराठी! आमचे पहिले बोबडे बोल उमटले ते या माय मराठीचे. “ये रे ये रे पावसा” म्हणत भिजत खेळलो, “श्रवणमासी हर्ष मानशी हिरवळ दाटे चोहीकडे” म्हणत नाचलो, “या बाळांनो या रे या” म्हटल्यावर खेळ सोडून धावलो. “कुठे बुडाला पलीकडे तो सोन्याचा गोळा” असे विचारत बालपणातून तरुणपणात प्रवेश केला.

शांताबाई, विंदा यांनी प्रेमाचा अर्थ उलगडून सांगितला. पाडगावकरांनी या जन्मावर, या जगण्यावर शतदा प्रेम करताना, “या ओठांनी चुंबून घेईन हजारदा ही माती.. अनंत मरणे झेलून घेईन इथल्या जगण्यासाठी..” हे सांगत मातृभूमीच्या ऋणाची आठवण करून दिली. तात्यासाहेबांचे गणपतराव बेलवलकर, कानेटकरांचे लाल्या वेड लावणारे ठरले. भाऊसाहेबांच्या ययाती ने मानवी मनाच्या अमर्याद इच्छांची ओळख करून दिली. नेमाडेंच्या पांडुरंगाने ग्रामीण जीवनाचा संघर्ष दाखवला. व पू नी मानवी मनाचा ठाव घेत जीवनाचा अर्थ उलगडवला तर मिरासदार आणि शंकर पाटील यांनी पोट धरून हसवले.

पू. लं. चे चितळे मास्तर, हरी तात्या, राव साहेब, अंतु बरवा, नारायण  ही घरातील माणसेच वाटली. जी एं चा सुवर्ण मृग आजही गूढ प्रदेशात घेऊन जातो. वाळिंब्यांचा चार्ली चॅपलिन डोळे पाणावतो. इनामदारांचे त्रिंबकजी डेंगळे आणि यशवंतराव होळकर  रक्ताचा प्रवाह वेगवान करून अंगावर शहारे आणतात. अण्णाभाऊ साठे यांचा फकीरा आणि नारायण सुर्वे यांचे माझे विद्यापीठ जीवन शिक्षण देतात.

साने गुरुजींच्या शामच्या आई  वर आचार्य अत्रेंनी चित्रपट काढून तिला सर्वांचीच आई बनवली. रणजित देसाईंचे श्रीमान योगी  हातात घेतल्यावर महाराजांचे अस्तित्व जाणवते. शिवाजी सावंतांच्या छावा ने शंभू राजांच्या बलिदानातून जगायचे ते कशासाठी आणि मरायचे ते कशासाठी याचे  भान दिले. ज्ञानेश्वरांच्या पसायदानातून  “जो जे वांछिल तो ते लाहो” अशी विश्वात्मक प्रार्थना उमटली. तुकोबांनी “जे का रंजले गांजले , त्यासी जो म्हणे आपुले, तोची साधू ओळखावा, देव तेथेची जाणावा ” म्हणत ईश्वरभक्तीचा सुगम मार्ग दाखविला.

या सर्व थोर विभूतींनी माय मराठीची सेवा करून तिला समृद्ध केले. त्यांच्याप्रती आजच्या दिवशी कृतज्ञता व्यक्त करतो. अभियांत्रिकी स्पंदनांच्या निर्मितीतून माय मराठीची सेवा करण्याची संधी मला मिळाली हे माझे परम भाग्य आहे.

आपणा सर्वांना मराठी भाषा गौरव दिनाच्या हार्दिक शुभेच्छा!

डॉ. महेंद्र इंगळे, पुणे, फेब्रुवारी २७, २०२६

 

 

The Mango Tree of Gratitude

The Mango Tree of Gratitude

My book Value-Based Leadership: Engineering Dreams, Inspiring Souls is no longer just a creation of mine—it has become a living entity. It is finding its own way, carrying me to places of serenity and sacredness, and connecting me with people whose lives are deeply rooted in values.

What began as a parent–child relationship has now transformed. The book has grown, and like any child reaching maturity, it must be allowed to flourish independently. I have placed it in the hands of destiny, trusting it to unfold naturally. Each time it leads me to new places and people, I feel it is expressing gratitude back to me.

During my recent two-day journey through Panchgani, Mahabaleshwar, and Tapola, I experienced such blessings. At the Moral Re-Armament Centre in Panchgani, I had the privilege of a brief interaction with Hon. Raj Mohan Gandhi over the book. 

Later, at Tapola—nestled amidst the serene Sahyadri hills and graced by the flowing river Koyana—I was felicitated under the gentle shade of an almond tree for my other book. The ceremony was led by Dr. Shashikant Jawale, former Civil Surgeon and now a devoted preacher of Sahaj Yoga as taught by Sri Mataji Nirmala Devi, along with Shri Somanath Kharde, former Paper Technologist. Surrounded by the family members, the moment became a heartfelt celebration of togetherness and reverence.

These moments feel like the sweet mangoes of a tree I once planted. Just as a mango tree bears its fruit in time, my book now bears fruits of joy, connection, and gratitude. I am simply savoring these blessings—humbled by the journey, and delighted by the destiny it continues to shape.

Dr. Mahendra Ingale @ Pune on Feb 26, 2026

#ValueBsaedLeadership #EngineeringHeartBeats

 

The Ripple Effect of Inner Change

The Ripple Effect of Inner Change

I was delighted to present a copy of my book, Value Based Leadership, to Mr. Fernandez, Centre Head, and Mr. Viraj, Coordinator of Initiative of Change (IoF), at Panchgani.

In the book, I write:

The Panchgani Centre: A Living Laboratory  

Nestled in the serene hills of Mahabaleshwar, the Panchgani Centre was founded as part of the global Moral Re‑Armament movement. Over the decades, it has welcomed leaders, workers, students, and seekers of reconciliation. Its philosophy rests on four timeless values: Purity, Honesty, Unselfishness, and Love (PHUL).

Training here is not about techniques alone—it is about character. Silence, reflection, dialogue, and service form the pillars of its approach. The belief is simple yet profound: when individuals transform themselves, they can transform organizations and societies.

Programs at Panchgani range from youth camps to corporate workshops, from leadership dialogues to community retreats. Participants engage in storytelling, collective reflection, and experiential learning. Trainers act not as lecturers but as facilitators, guiding individuals to discover their own inner compass. The rhythm of the Centre—its sessions, meals, and shared service—creates an atmosphere where values are lived, not merely taught…..

It was a true privilege to engage in such an enriching interaction with Hon. Raj Mohan Gandhi, whose steadfast support and inspiration continue to strengthen the mission of IofC, and with Smt. Ushadevi Gandhi. Their presence and profound insights brought remarkable depth to the experience, serving as a powerful reminder that leadership rooted in values has the enduring ability to inspire generations.

Dr. Mahendra Ingale @ Panchgani on Feb 24, 2026

#ValueBasedLeadership #EngineeringHeartBeats

Witnessing Destiny at Palledio Ballewadi Central

Witnessing Destiny at Palledio Ballewadi Central

The words on the invitation were simple yet profound:

“Come! Witness Your Destiny Take Shape!”

And indeed, I did.

 A Journey of Welcome

At Palledio Ballewadi Central (PBC), my journey began with the KARMA Valet Parking Team, who received my car with courtesy. From there, I was guided to the podium‑level reception lobby, warmly welcomed, and my unit confirmed as 2502. The atmosphere carried not just efficiency, but respect—a reminder that hospitality is the first step in shaping destiny.

The Mock Floor: A Vision of Living

On the third floor, I entered a spacious lobby with four lifts, one reserved as a fire lift. The entrance itself was striking—an elegant black matte door with digital lock and video door phone, a symbol of modern security and design.

Inside, the guest room opened onto a terrace, offering a panoramic view of Pune city. Fixed glass panels and invisible safety nets ensured safety without compromising openness. It was a vision of balance—between freedom and protection, between aspiration and assurance.

The hall carried red stickers from House to Home (H2H), marking areas for customisation. Here was a philosophy of choice: the ability to shape one’s home according to personal vision. Though the vitrified tiles were elegant, I resolved to upgrade to marble‑finished tiles, embracing refinement.

The kitchen, with its right‑angled platform and thoughtful provisions, reflected functionality with grace. The kids room and bedrooms were inviting, but the en suite master bedroom stood apart: expansive UPVC sliding windows with granite seating, his and her wardrobes, laminated wooden flooring, and a state‑of‑the‑art bathroom. It was not merely a room—it was a sanctuary, a self‑contained space of comfort and dignity.

The Bare Shell: Truth Behind the Walls

The bare shell unit revealed the unseen craftsmanship: waterproofing layers, plumbing and piping, block partitions tied to RCC walls with wire mesh, and the meticulous six‑to‑seven‑layer finishing process of plaster, putty, and paint.

Here, transparency met trust. I witnessed upgraded amenities being delivered—geyser inlets/outlets, flush valves, video door phones, shower drains replacing conventional ones. This was not just construction; it was commitment. The generosity of VJ delighted me, reminding me of my own teaching on “Delighted Customers.” Promises kept, and promises exceeded—this is the foundation of value‑based leadership.

Connections and Community

In conversation with the team, I discovered familiar ties—graduates from engineering institutes I knew, one the son of a former colleague. Such encounters reaffirm the truth that bonds form easily when rooted in shared journeys. After four decades in engineering, I felt once again the joy of connection, whether in professional spaces or casual encounters.

The day concluded with warm hospitality, snacks, and photographs. I offered my regards to the VJ Pariwar, grateful for a fruitful and memorable experience.

Dreaming Ahead

I carry a dream: on a rainy day in 2028, standing on the terrace of my 25th‑floor home, watching the Mula River in full flow, I will stretch out my hands to the clouds—drawing them into my hall, embracing destiny fulfilled.

Closing Reflection

My visit to Palledio Ballewadi Central was more than an inspection of walls and fittings. It was a journey into values—hospitality, transparency, choice, and trust. It was a reminder that homes are not built merely of concrete and steel, but of promises honored and dreams nurtured.  The dreams that reflect the union of engineering precision and human aspiration, of structure and spirit, of destiny and design.

In witnessing destiny take shape, I also witnessed leadership in action—the kind that delights customers, builds communities, and inspires futures.

Dr. Mahendra Ingale @ Pune on Feb 21, 2026

#ValueBsaedLeadership #EngineeringHeartBeats

A Blessed Offering at Mahaavatar Babaji Matha

 A Blessed Offering at Mahaavatar Babaji Matha

Today, at Mahaavatar Babaji Matha in Nanded City, Pune, I was blessed by the divine presence of Shri Gurushri. With reverence, love, and gratitude, I offered him a copy of my book Value-Based Leadership.

Shri Gurushri is not only the Mathadhipati (Head) of the Math but also a seeker whose journey inspires countless devotees. His vast personal library holds thousands of books on spirituality and philosophy. Years ago, he wandered in the Himalayas in search of a guru, and through divine guidance, he was led to Pune. With the support of devoted followers, he began building the sacred ashram Shri Kshetra Paramdham (Tapovan Parisar) at Arudewadi on the Pune–Nasik highway. He also established Shri Swami Samarth Maharaj Math and Mahaavatar Babaji Math in Nanded City, Pune

Years ago, while driving through Khed Ghat, I noticed a roadside board pointing to the Mahaavatar Babaji Ashram. Drawn by curiosity, I visited the site—a serene landscape with a simple shed adorned with banners and photographs. Among the photographs, one image drew my attention—the publication of a book on Babaji, offered at the auspicious hands of a sage clad in white, his long beard radiating serenity. That sage was Shri Gurushri. 

Later, when I met Shri Gurushri at Nanded City Matha, he graciously gifted me a Marathi translation of The Voice of Babaji (Babajinchi Divya Vani)—a trilogy dictated by Babaji himself to V.T. Neelakantan, a prominent journalist, and S.A.A. Ramaiah, a devoted disciple of Babaji. The book was extraordinary. Babaji, who is revered as an immortal yogi and is believed to continue residing in the Himalayas, revealed his divine wisdom through these dictations.

My own spiritual journey was shaped by Autobiography of a Yogi (Yogi Kathamrut in Marathi) by Paramhansa Yogananda. These books deepened my understanding of Babaji and nurtured my practice of prayerful intuition. In times of struggle, I would pray to Babaji, and his guidance helped me make calm, wise decisions. This practice evolved into my decision-making framework—Decision Making with Intuition Integrated With Prayer—which I incorporated into Value-Based Leadership.

Presenting my book to Shri Gurushri felt like fulfilling a sacred duty. I believe this work was born through Babaji’s blessings, and offering it at the hands of his disciple was an act of gratitude. Shri Gurushri, though not directly initiated by Babaji, walks the divine path Babaji has shown.

As I placed the book in his hands, my heart overflowed with joy and thankfulness. It was not merely a gesture—it was a prayer, a tribute, and a moment of communion with the lineage of wisdom that continues to guide seekers like me.

In offering my book, I offered my gratitude; in receiving it, Shri Gurushri affirmed the timeless bond between leadership and spirituality. This moment reminded me that true leadership is not about authority—it is about service, humility, and alignment with divine guidance.

May every act of leadership be rooted in values, and may every seeker find strength in prayerful intuition.

Dr. Mahendra Ingale @ Pune on February 19, 2026

#ValueBasedLeadership #EngineeringHeartBeats 

 

हर हर महादेव! शिवजयंतीचा जयघोष!

 हर हर महादेव! शिवजयंतीचा जयघोष!

शिव जयंतीच्या सर्वांना हार्दिक शुभेच्छा!

आजचा दिवस म्हणजे पराक्रम, स्वाभिमान आणि स्वराज्याच्या प्रेरणेचा उत्सव!

छत्रपती शिवाजी महाराजांनी दाखवलेले धैर्य, दूरदृष्टी आणि जनतेप्रती असलेली त्यांची  बांधिलकी आजही आपल्याला मार्गदर्शन करते.

त्यांच्या जीवनातून आपण शिकतो—

·      जगावे ते कशासाठी आणि मरावे ते कशासाठी याचे भान

·      स्त्रियांविषयीचा मातृभावयुक्त आदर

·      अन्यायाविरुद्ध उभे राहण्याचे धैर्य

·      लोककल्याणासाठी नेतृत्व करण्याची जबाबदारी

·      संस्कृती, परंपरा आणि स्वाभिमान जपण्याची प्रेरणा

महाराज हे मूल्याधिष्ठित जीवन जगून स्वतःच्या आचारणातून धडे घालून देणारे अद्वितीय राजा होते.

स्वतःच्या जीवना पेक्षा स्वराज्याचे उद्दिष्ट अधिक मौल्यवान मानणारे अनुयायी निर्माण करणारे, सत्तेसाठी नव्हे, तर सेवेकरिता राज्य उभारणारे ते राजे होते.

समोर बलाढ्य शत्रू असताना थेट युद्ध शक्य नाही हे जाणून त्यांनी गनिमी काव्याची युद्धनीती अवलंबली आणि विजय मिळवला. प्रसंगी दोन पावले मागे जाऊन तह करणारे राजकीय धुरंधर, आणि योग्य वेळ आल्यावर गमावलेले किल्ले पुन्हा ताब्यात घेणारे दूरदृष्टीसंपन्न राजे म्हणजे छत्रपती शिवाजी महाराज.

त्यांचे जीवन म्हणजे प्रेरणेचा दीपस्तंभ! स्वराज्य, स्वाभिमान आणि जनतेच्या कल्याणासाठी अहोरात्र झटणारे राजे, ज्यांनी इतिहासात अमिट ठसा उमटवला असे राजे!

हर हर महादेव!

तेजस्वी सूर्य, आकाशाखाली

पराक्रमी राजा उभा राहिला!

 

सिंहासनासाठी, वैभवासाठी नव्हे

तर जनतेसाठी उभा राहिला!

 

छत्रपती शिवाजी महाराज हे ते नाव

सुवर्णाक्षरांनी कोरले गेले हृदयामध्ये भाव!

 

रामायण–महाभारतातील ऐकत कथा

राजमातेच्या सहवासात राजा घडत होता!

 

हर हर महादेव! रणघोष घुमले  

सैनिकांच्या डोळ्यांत तेज चमकले!

 

तानाजी, मुरारबाजी पराक्रमी वीर

बाजी प्रभू तलवारींसह रणधीर!

 

प्रतापगडावरिल शत्रू मदमस्त

अफजल तेथेच झाला ध्वस्त !

 

रणनीती, पराक्रम, अद्वितीय तेज

राजाचे शौर्य अतुलनीय, विशेष!

 

स्त्रियांचा सन्मान केला  

राजा चरित्राने उजळला!

 

जीवनातील प्रत्येक क्षण

राजाच्या प्रेरणादायी ठरला!

 

हर हर महादेव! जयघोष घुमतो

राजाचा पराक्रम सदैव झळकतो!

 

महेंद्र इंगळे, पुणे, फेब्रुवारी १९, २०२६