Perhaps the statement above gives an insight into the origin of rumours. The information shifts from one person and reaches another. In the process, what we all succeed in doing is passing on false information from one person to another. Just like in the game of Chinese Whispers, till the message reaches the last person, it remains just the opposite. But how many of us are really bothered? Well, we all seem keen to have filter coffee but certainly not ready to filter information.

Let us focus on gossips and 'backbiting' sessions that we so often indulge in. Is there truth in such talks? Are we genuinely concerned about the people we talk about? When we strike a conversation, do we ever try to place ourselves in the victim's shoes?

I am convinced that in life, the people who are usually spoken about must either be famous or stand out in the crowd. They are extraordinary and an envied lot. I am sure the prefixed 'extra' to 'ordinary' demands a lot for

one to be referred as such. Only a few of us have that charisma to climb 'ladders' in life. The only reason everyone tries to dig out their past and highlight their flaws is to prove that after all, they too are human. Nothing is great about them. Those who are victims of rumor monger's mischief can take solace in and perhaps one way of looking at rumours positively. This brings to mind my mother's take on rumors: When people start bothering about you, take it that you are rising.

Now, that sounds very soothing to the ears. What about the mental state? Can one handle rumors so easily? whichever way you look at it, rumours not only upset an individual's mental state but also lowers confidence levels. Talking of rumors, an incident that took place in my room comes to mind. I was seated on the bed deep in thought

It was only the arrival of tea that brought their talks to a halt. But just for a fleeting moment. They were soon at it.That is when a thought struck. No matter how misplaced our take on other people's lives may be, we go on and on. Knowingly or unknowingly we become a part of gossip and give credence to the rumors. That it is our nature to dislike some set of persons is common but why revel in false accusations? There are people who give out false information just to look important in the gossiper's radar. Even if what they have to say is harmful to a person's character, so be it. It is none of their concerns.

A question to ponder is how serious can rumors get? Well, it depends on how a person takes it. The big shots are hardly vexed about it. Bollywood craves for it. And love gossip sections have become a hit in newspapers. Is that not the reason Page 3 survives and others have become celebrities overnight?

However, in real life, it is not that simple. Things become dreadful for individuals when lies are peddled in their name. Now, you think twice before revealing any information.