The Bengali tape-jama was more than a child’s summer dress – it was a beautifully practical expression of Bengal’s climate, culture and childhood. Made from breathable cotton and often adorned with delicate embroidery, it embodied comfort and simplicity. Its decline reflects changing aspirations and fashion, raising a poignant question: in embracing novelty, have we forgotten the wisdom of simplicity?
On a foggy Assamese winter morning, Pehi brings together two unlikely companions – bold, spicy duck and gentle, sweet ash gourd. Their playful banter unfolds as they simmer into a perfect curry, revealing a delightful metaphor for relationships: opposites need not compete; with patience, softness and balance, they can blend beautifully and bring out the best in each other.
The piece explores how modern communication often suffers from a lack of genuine listening. True communication requires more than speaking—it demands empathy, curiosity, patience and attention to both words and unspoken emotions. Whether within families or between citizens and governments, listening without judgement creates understanding, trust and healthier relationships.
The human heart possesses an astonishing, almost terrifying capacity to carry grief across decades, yet it remains extremely fragile when caught in the relentless, indifferent
