POLLUTION AND EVOLUTION

In the Middle Ages people grew old faster some time back; now we see more younger-looking people. When I was very young, like a child, a 35-year-old man or a 40-year-old man would look very old. Now we don’t see that. They are looking much better and they are in better condition, physically also. It is a big improvement!

Those days what you see: only fat people or absolutely skinny people; very fit people were very rare to see. And look at the progress of athletics also: Eugene Sandow is supposed to be the first bodybuilder and the strong man – he won’t stand a chance in today’s competitions. Our Olympic records are much higher than they used to be when it started. Humanity is improving.

I’ve said some different things: now we are successful in creating different types of pollution: just compare with the time when there was absolutely no pollution: people were dull, not that intelligent and they were growing old faster as well. Now more pollution: people are very intelligent, science is taking leaps and bounds, improving; and people are looking younger and better and more fit. So, pollution is not that bad – as people keep saying.

Another example: go back to the cavemen time, when we could not even light a fire; what were we doing? Running naked, no social structure, no ideas; then by some good fortune a fire was lit; and as the smoke entered – see the mind open (smiling). Then you see, how we were progressing then. Pollution may be a criterion of our progress.

but we need oxygen?

Guruji: the more oxygen you will take – oxidation will take place: you will grow older faster. Just compare with the most polluted place in a big city and go to a village with no pollution and look at the people: they will have many wrinkles, grey hairs, and will look old. But in that polluted area you will find so many young-looking people. We need to do some comparative study here. Pollution may be the only solution. And, when you are crossing the most polluted area of the city, you need to hold your breath: that will give you the added benefit of practicing pranayama (smiling) – remember that!

maybe it’s also about education: it was not so widespread in medieval times?

Guruji: with pollution increasing, education is getting better.

so what do you think: in comparison to the medieval times, will we live up to 100 years?

Guruji: people will live longer – that is for sure. I remember reading one old story of Victorian times: there was a knock on the door and I’ve opened the door; and an old man of 35 was standing there. Now nobody will say that “old man of 35” was standing there. It was a Victorian times story. I think we are in a good time!

yes, I agree: when we see the school photos – youngsters of our age but five years back were looking like adults; and nowadays even the 11th class are looking like children!

Guruji: this is good.

also, there were fewer vegetarians in medieval times?

Guruji: now more, it is in fashion now. Maybe that also is working.