Kolkata’s Durga Pujo is an emotion woven with nostalgia, culture, art and devotion. From Kumartuli’s artisans and heritage Bonedi Bari rituals to spectacular contemporary pandals, the festival celebrates creativity, community and womanhood. Beyond the festivities lies a deeper love for Uma, who embodies both the tenderness and indomitable strength of every woman.
ASI Babita Singh Reporting becomes a lens to examine the invisible ways women are silenced – through emotional abuse, humiliation, unpaid labour, financial control and expectations. This personal reflection explores how women can disappear within prescribed roles while appearing perfectly fine. It asks a crucial question – are women truly heard, respected and free?
Ganesh Chaturthi has a deep connection with nature. Traditionally, idols were made from shadu clay and natural dyes. Today, eco-friendly celebrations promote clay idols, natural colours and smaller sizes that dissolve easily. Plantation drives, cleanliness campaigns and water conservation initiatives further reinforce the festival’s message of respecting and protecting the environment.
The piece argues that India’s decline is not solely the fault of governments or leaders, but also of citizens who have quietly accepted corruption, injustice, poor infrastructure and moral compromise. As we celebrate 80 years of Independence, it calls for collective accountability, integrity and active citizenship rather than silence, adjustment and blame.
The passage highlights the power of democracy and the importance of citizens raising their voices against injustice. It emphasizes that protests, dissent, questioning authority, and demanding accountability are fundamental democratic rights. The growing assertiveness of Gen Z demonstrates that young people can challenge institutions and bring important issues to national attention.
A mother reflects on her daughter’s first recitation competition and the deeper lessons of success and failure. While effort is valuable, outcomes are never guaranteed. Children must learn that rejection does not define their worth. Resilience, self-worth, and celebrating life despite setbacks are far greater achievements than winning alone.
The Public Provident Fund (PPF) is a government-backed savings scheme that offers guaranteed returns, tax-free earnings, and long-term financial security. With low investment requirements, flexible deposits, and the Exempt-Exempt-Exempt (EEE) tax benefit, PPF is an excellent choice for building wealth, retirement savings, and achieving financial stability with minimal risk.
A mother reflects on recent crimes involving young adults and fears for her own son’s safety, choices, and relationships. While questioning parenting, communication, and societal influences, she firmly states that nothing justifies violence. Ultimately, she voices every parent’s deepest hope, that their child leaves home each day and returns safe, alive, and unharmed.
Where do we draw the line between humour and harm? This thought-provoking piece explores the recent Pranit More controversy, public reactions, and the questions it raises about comedy, accountability, and respect.
In a world driven by algorithms, visibility often masquerades as authenticity. This thought-provoking piece explores the growing divide between becoming a “muse” – memorable, magnetic and genuine, and becoming “content” -constantly visible, curated and consumable. As social media reshapes identity, it asks whether we are truly living or simply performing.
