Feature Story
March Madness!
Today is the first day of March and I smile as it's a special month for me.I was born on 13th March and am amused when people cringe at the number thirteen(it also was a Friday!) It adds a bit of mys…
Shakespeare Wali!
I had a very troubled relationship with Shakespeare since the time I came to know of him. Much of it stemmed from the fact that he was prescribed reading not just in school but also what my dad consi…
Prince among Patriots!
Every year on or about 23rd January there is a deluge of articles, quotes and stories on Netaji Subhash Bose. In my hometown, the district administration goes into a frenzy, as one of the tallest pa…
The Power Of Positive Affirmation
Bhagwad Gita, Chapter 6, Verse 34, Arjuna tells Krishna चञ्चलं हि मन: कृष्ण प्रमाथि बलवद्दृढम् |तस्याहं निग्रहं मन्ये वायोरिव सुदुष्करम् || (The mind is very restless, turbulent, strong and obstin…
Bali Jatra: Return to Roots
Today is Kartik Purnima. For Odias and especially for people in Cuttack, it is a joyous occasion, as the famous Bali Jatra starts from today with great fanfare. I am in the fervor of excitement as th…
The Habishiali Widows of Puri!
Dying with dignity for widows in Orissa still means being cremated in accordance with traditional Hindu rituals. The sea-facing Swargadwar in puri town, literally meaning the gateway to heaven, dr…