Against the Tide chronicles Lt. Cdr Bijay Nair’s inspiring journey from growing up in Mumbai’s underworld-dominated slums to becoming a decorated Naval Officer. Blending humour, emotion and patriotism, the autobiography explores resilience, determination, camaraderie, sacrifice and the psychological toll of war, offering readers a compelling glimpse into the life of a Fauji.
With wit and self-deprecating humour, the author explores the unexpected life lessons of catastrophic hair fall. From developing forensic-level observation skills to embracing spiritual detachment and finding comfort in billionaire Jeff Bezos’s baldness, she turns a frustrating experience into a humorous reflection on ageing, acceptance, impermanence and learning to laugh at life’s little battles.
The article examines how women often normalise physical discomfort, postpone medical appointments and continue fulfilling responsibilities despite illness. Highlighting research on diagnostic delays and societal conditioning, it questions whether women neglect their health or are conditioned to dismiss their symptoms. It makes a powerful case for listening to women before their suffering becomes an emergency.
The article explores Goddess Kali’s origins, symbolism and significance in Hindu mythology and worship. It delves into her association with time, death, destruction, transformation and divine feminine power, while highlighting her evolution from a fierce deity to the beloved Mother Goddess, revered through various traditions, rituals and temples, particularly in eastern India.
The article reflects on a tragic Durga Pujo stampede in Kolkata that claimed 20 lives and injured several others. Amid changing festival regulations and undiminished celebrations, the tragedy exposed serious concerns about crowd management, safety and emergency response. It captures the collective grief of a community whose most cherished festival became a day of irreversible loss.
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.
This article examines how Disney princess stories shaped our understanding of romance, often teaching women to associate love with suffering, rescue and external validation. Through modern princesses like Mulan, Merida and Moana, it explores the shift towards self-worth, emotional independence and healthier relationships built on mutual respect rather than the desperate need to be chosen.
This article challenges myths around exercising during menstruation, offering a gynaecologist’s perspective on balancing fitness with self-care. Through practical workout examples, it explains how women can adapt exercise to their energy levels and symptoms, emphasising that menstruation need not mean rest or intense training, but listening to the body.
At Kerala’s Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple, the fierce Kaavu Teendal ritual challenges conventional ideas of devotion through blood, blades and profane songs. Rooted in legends of Bhadrakali and Kannaki, the festival transforms anger into divine power, challenges caste boundaries, and reveals a Mother Goddess who embraces humanity in its rawest form.
My maternal aunt (Mami) hired temporary domestic help in the kitchen because their regular staff had gone home for a month-long vacation. The new help’s
