Satire is  one of my favourite forms of humour, sharp enough to cut through the target's skin and funny enough to make people unfortunate enough to be in terrible positions due to the target's actions to laugh, and remind them what they are fighting for. Khushwant Singh, born on this day in 1915, was exceptionally gifted at this. I'd go as far as saying he was probably India's premier satirist. 

His quotes not only made people laugh, they presented reality as it was to people without having to rely on hyperbole. This short article is my tribute to the man who was never afraid of writing what he wanted to write about, one who saw the injustice and increasing inequality around him and couldn't keep quiet. Here's some of his favourite quotes that I believe everyone must be acquainted with. 

1. The Do-er must do only when the receiver is ready to receive, otherwise the effort is wasted: 

This one is one of my favourite Singh quotes because it is a philosophy that I've come to terms with over the years. I was one of those people who was never ready to receive, until one day I was. Life hasn't been the same since then. 

2. Love is an elusive concept and means different things to different people: 

This quote is so relevant even in modern context it is hilarious. 

3. We are of the mysterious East. No Proof, Just Faith. No Reason, Just Faith. 

Also a personal favourite, this is both an appreciation of our lands as well as a criticism. No proof, just faith, the magic of our land. Whether for the good or bad. Hope, happiness, regression, everything has no rhyme or reason in the mysterious east. 

4. The last to learn of gossip are the parties concerned: 

Like really, don't talk behind people's backs. 

5. Morality is a matter of money, the poor cannot afford it and the rich do not need it. 

This is my favourite Khushwant Singh quote. A recent Oxfam report suggests that the 1% of the country hold 73% of the wealth. The rest of us are left running for the trees to cover only to find that the trees have been chopped down by the rich to build their shelters and are defended by governments, guards and conditions. The same people will go one to dictate moralities to us while also not believing in it themselves so they can have the illusion of keeping the sheep under control. Rise above the conditioning, rise above the hate, know who benefits when you lose. 

It's absolutely fantastic that a visionary like Khushwant Singh so astutely observed these in his time.