Mastermind and Mind Master

Reads as identical words, isn't it? Not really. Both are different verses, giving different syntheses under a common theory, though they use the same words. This is called a constituent transposition (Metathesis) or a semantic shift, as the words swap and point to completely different ideas.

Mastermind

We might hear this word humpty number of times, but more often in a negative context or commitment to a wrongful act. Indeed, it refers to an extraordinary intelligence and skill that no ordinary man could even imagine. In case of planned strategies - which may be good or bad - the primary intention of the investigating authorities would be to identify the persona - the mastermind - behind the strategy.

Though I do not like it, I am compelled to use the theory of conspiracy when it comes to combating terrorism and its unsung heroes. Though every nation have their own investigating agencies, they seek the help of INTERPOL, an agency that helps trace the root of any serious act with its network across all nations.

On the positive side, we know any huge project requires technical and academic excellence that provides the finishing touch, ties the knot and sets it in motion. That person - the provider of the answer at a critical moment - is called the mastermind behind the entire project.

In both the cases discussed above, we should not forget that more than knowledge and education, it is the intelligence at the crucial hour that testifies to the mastermind.

Mindmaster

Before I write a few lines under the above title, I seek the apologies of Sri Viswanathan Anand, Chess GM and his fan followers who have written a book under the same title 'Mind Master'. Though I have not fully read the book, a few hints here and there may differ from my text penned here.

The human body carries out its daily routine as directed by the brain as a whole. What will be the action of the mind or body if the brain is dead? Totally inactive. A person is said to be active as long as he experiences emotions, thinks and does his actions, thinks mentally and is in motion.

A person's thoughts vary from time to time depending upon his age and environment. Each moment keeps his brain busy and force and focus to think about something necessary or unnecessary. As a youth, he may primarily think about his education and a job, profession or business. This kindles his wishes for excelling in his/her field of choice. Their focus and concentration under proper guidance elevate them to higher levels to acquire academic or technical skills and excel in them.

Of those who venture into their excellence, a few dedicate themselves in a more disciplined way, giving their soul and energy. They fully control their mind and focus it on their goal. Here they overcome their external pleasures - which is called Karma Yoga in Hinduism - and achieve their destiny. Such practice is called the meditative strategy, making them Mindmasters.

These Mindmasters have everything - including their sensual pleasures - under their control and become exceptional leaders and prominent persons in society.