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Showing posts from September, 2025

Unplanned

In contemporary society, planning permeates nearly every aspect of our lives. A significant portion of the population exhibits a reliance on meticulous planning, often stemming from an apprehension of uncertainty. We meticulously plan our diets, travel itineraries, career paths, academic examinations, public addresses, lectures, weddings, and birthday celebrations, among countless other endeavours.   While planning is an undeniably valuable tool, excessive adherence to it can be detrimental. It is imperative to cultivate adaptability and preparedness for unforeseen circumstances.   Numerous literary works and online resources extol the virtues of planning. However, this discourse aims to explore the concept of the unplanned in an unstructured manner. Consequently, should this note appear disorganized or disjointed, it is a deliberate reflection of its unplanned genesis. The Unplanned Fast Trek Our trekking expedition in Pune was entirely spontaneous. We arrived at the locati...

The Problem of One

  Cricket's profound grip on India is undeniable, often transcending the realm of sport to become a cultural and emotional cornerstone. This deep-seated passion, ignited in childhood from humble beginnings to grand stadiums, acts as a powerful unifying force across the nation. During high-stakes matches, families gather, their collective hopes and anxieties mirroring every boundary scored and every wicket taken. Beyond the confines of living rooms, cricket seamlessly integrates into the social fabric, fueling animated discussions and forging shared memories among diverse groups, from casual acquaintances to lifelong friends. This pervasive influence was remarkably evident, even in Ladakh, a region more renowned for its serene landscapes and ancient monasteries than its sporting culture. In the heart of Leh, a cricket-themed cafe stood as a testament to the sport's unparalleled reach. What made this establishment particularly striking was its operation by women, a significant de...

Temple

Temples hold a pivotal position within Indian society, exhibiting significant variations in scale and architectural design. They can range from a single stone beneath a tree, serving as a farmer's place of worship, to expansive structures like the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu.   The fundamental question arises: what constitutes a temple? Is there a universally accepted definition?   Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru famously referred to dams as "temples of modern India" during the inauguration of the Bhakra Nangal Dam on the Sutlej River.   Jhunjhunu, a district nestled in the vibrant state of Rajasthan, stands as a testament to a profound legacy, deeply rooted in the intertwined heritage of valiant warriors and diligent farmers. This unique confluence of courage and cultivation has shaped the very fabric of its communities, imbuing them with a distinct character that resonates through generations.   One of the most striking manifestations of this ...