Whether it was luck or not, the fact that the movie 3 Idiots was being screened at a regular theater in Des Moines was a good thing. It was better that I agreed to go see it (I am averse to seeing a three hour movie, especially a Hindi movie). It was a good decision.

Amir Khan has been pressing many social issues of late. Among the top has always been one of education. I think Amir made a strong appeal with this movie. Perhaps I feel it so because of my own experiences. Both from pursuing my passions (though late in my life) as well as trying to influence my children. It is not that parents and elders are myopic but the economic contexts in which they grew up and what they still perceive as existing have shaped their views. There is some truth to their conventional wisdom. Pursuing one's passion may bring intrinsic happiness but anything more requires that your skills and knowledge in this pursuit outshines everyone else. Otherwise you have a great hobby! So, it is essential that you have an alternate livelihood. Let us look at a few examples.

Jimmy Carter - US President - Engineering
Shashi Tharoor - Minister/Diplomat - Writer - Ph. D. Law and Diplomacy
Vijay Iyer - Jass Pianist - Ph. D. in Physics


So, my point is pursue your passion but also have a backup plan!