GOODBYE 2024

Welcome 2025

As the last day of December gently passes, we stand on the threshold of a new beginning. These moments feel like a pause—a chance to reflect on all that 2024 brought into our lives. The joys we celebrated, the challenges we endured, and the lessons we learned have all shaped us.

Let this last day of the year be the day to let go. Release the burdens of resentment, the weight of regret, and the pain of what didn’t go as planned. Free your heart from what no longer serves it, so you can step into 2025 lighter, stronger, and more at peace.

Welcome the new year with open arms, a hopeful spirit, and a heart full of gratitude. May 2025 bring you growth where you need it, healing where it’s overdue, and opportunities that align with your deepest dreams.

Remember, the year ahead is a gift waiting to unfold. You have the power to write a new chapter filled with kindness, courage, and endless possibilities. So as we bid farewell to 2024, let’s carry forward the love and wisdom it left behind while embracing the promise of brighter days ahead.

Life is too short to carry the weight of anger, resentment, or grudges. It’s too fragile to let stress steal our moments of peace or let pain block our path to joy. Forgiveness isn’t just an act—it’s a gift we give ourselves, a release that allows our hearts to breathe again.

Let 2025 be the year of rebuilding, reconnecting, and rediscovering what it means to live freely and fully. May we all find our strength, our purpose, and our peace in the days ahead.

Here’s to letting go, moving forward, and welcoming 2025 with hope and determination. May it be a year of peace, purpose, and joy for you.

HUMOROUS SHORT STORY

All for a loincloth

A hermit lived in a little hut on the bank of a river. His only possession was a loincloth.

Every day after his morning dip in the river he would hang his loincloth out to dry.

One afternoon he found that a rat had made a hole in the loincloth.

The next day the rat made another hole in it. The hermit went to the village and brought a cat. The rat fled. 

But now the hermit had to feed the cat and so whenever he went to the village to beg for food he would beg for milk too.

The people gave willingly but the hermit knew they could not really afford to give him milk every day. He decided to get a cow.

A rich man gave him one. Now the hermit did not have to beg for milk but he needed fodder for the cow. So he began to beg for fodder.

One day he thought, "Why not till the land around the hut? Then I won’t have to beg for fodder." So he began to till the land.

The yield was so great he had to hire labourers to help him. Then he thought, "I spend all my time supervising the labour. If I had a wife she could help me in this task." So he married. And had children. In course of time he became a wealthy landowner. 

One day a man asked him why he had given up his simple life to become a landowner and a householder.

He said, "It was the only way I could keep my  loincloth," said the former hermit sadly.

THE WARRIOR QUEEN OF KASHMIR

Didda 

Whenever a throne was up for grabs, there was always intense competition among the youngsters of royal families as one had to be better than others to be a king. To be a queen, one had to be really extraordinary because one faced even greater challenges than a king. One such extraordinary personality was Didda of Kashmir who ruled for over 50 years despite being lame. 

Didda was born to the Lohara Dynasty, which ruled the area around modern-day Poonch in Jammu and Kashmir. She suffered from a birth disability that caused her to limp and this led to her facing ridicule from the elders and other children in the palace.  Her only support was a maid called Valaga who helped her move around. Didda was an exceptionally gifted and determined child. She used to participate in races despite her disability. She was very intelligent and a good orator. Despite her good qualities, nobody wanted to marry a lame girl. Finally, she was married to Kshemagupta, the king of Kashmir. 

After her marriage, Didda realised that Kshemagupta neglected the affairs of the state and administration was in disarray. She started to get involved in the matters of the court. In this, she faced stiff resistance from the courtiers including the prime minister, whose daughter was Kshemagupta's first wife. Despite the resistance, Didda gained so much power that the coins issued at the time were in her and Kshemagupta's joint name. 

After Kshemagupta's sudden death, the courtiers put pressure on Didda to commit sati along with the other queens. She had to make preparations for this but at the last moment, she avoided death by having a trusted minister make petitions to save her for the sake of her minor son. She also got her son Abhimanyu, crowned as king. Didda governed the state as a regent. When a series of revolts broke out in the kingdom, Didda put them down with great ruthlessness. Though Didda personally led her troops with great bravery, the uprisings never completely died out because most of the state officials could not accept being ruled by a woman, that too a lame one. 

After Abhimanyu came of age, he was encouraged by the courtiers and his newly married wife to rise against Didda. Eventually, he forced Didda out of the palace and she renounced the world. Abhimanyu died shortly afterwards, and the kingdom one again descended into chaos. Didda came back to take up the command of the state and became a regent for her grandson Bhimagupta. She worked hard to put the administration of the state back on track. When three of her grandsons including Bhimagupta died in quick succession, some started accusing Didda of practising witchcraft and causing these deaths. 

Didda was old by now and her biggest concern was finding her successor. She devised a novel method to choose the person who would be required to perform the difficult task of ruling Kashmir after her. She assembled all the princes she was considering and put a heap of fruits in their arms as they could. Naturally, this caused a competition among the princes to gather the most fruits. In this confusion, Didda's brother's son Sangramraja gathered the most fruits without getting into fights like the other princes. When Didda asked him how he managed it, he explained that he caused the other princes to fight among themselves and while they were busy, he simply picked up most of the fruits. A pleased Didda promptly appointed him her successor and ensured a peaceful transition after her. 

Kashmir's history before and after Didda is a tale of endless treachery, deceit and ruthlessness. Kings were crowned and deposed in quick succession. The populace also suffered greatly under corrupt officials. Didda's reign of more than 50 years stands out as a period of stability amidst several anarchy. She was a sound administrator and a courageous general who led her troops from the front. Above all, she was a survivor who never gave up even when the odds seemed totally against her.

INDIAN MATHEMATICIAN

D. R. Kaprekar

Indian mathematician D. R. Kaprekar is best remembered for his discovery of the Kaprekar constant in 1976. The constant is the number 6174.

Take any four-digit number in which not all digits are alike. Arrange the digits in descending order and then reverse them to make a new number. Subtract the new number from the first number. If this process is repeated with the difference, eventually in about eight steps, the constant 6174 is arrived at.

Example: 4527

7542 - 2457 = 5085

8550 - 0558 = 7992

9972 - 2799 = 7173

7731 - 1377 = 6354

6543 - 3456 = 3087

8730 - 0378 = 8352

8532 - 2358 = 6174

7641 - 1467 = 6174

STATES OF CONSCIOUSNESS

Dreams 

The human brain is a very complex organ that remains active even when we are asleep, and creates vivid experiences that we call 'dreams'. 

What are dreams? In simple words, dreams are a natural phenomenon that occurs during our sleep, primarily because of the Rapid Eye Movement (REM) stage. 

The mysterious occurances of dreams are studied from scientific and psychological perspectives, and it is believed that dreams occur because of various neurological, psychological and environmental factors. 

In 'The Interpretation of Dreams', a book published by Sigmund Freud in 1899, Freud introduces the theory of unconscious to dream Interpretation. According to the father of psychoanalysis, dreams are formed because of two mental processes. The first process involves unconscious forces that construct a wish and are expressed by a dream. The second process is a form of censorship that forcibly distorts the expression of wish. 

Freud viewed all dreams as forms of 'wish fulfilment', and he stated in his work, 'The Interpretation of Dreams', that "My presumption that dreams can be interpreted at once puts me in opposition to the ruling theory and in fact to every theory of dreams..."

He believed that dreams are the window to a person’s subconscious mind and they can reveal the individual’s unconscious desires, thoughts and motivations. 

Freud had his perspectives and ideas on the occurrence of dreams, but apart from these perspectives, there are various other theories on why people dream, and some of these ideas behind the occurrence of dreams are:

● Memory consolidation: Dreams help to consolidate memories, especially during REM sleep. The brain's activity while dreaming is similar to processing the memories whilst you are awake. 

● Increase in dopamine and acetylcholine levels: During REM sleep, the levels of dopamine and acetylcholine Increases, which leads to hallucinations. 

● Emotional processing: It is believed that dreams help you process and manage your emotions. That is why at times when you are stressed or anxious, you tend to have vivid dreams, and sometimes even nightmares. 

● Sorting through thoughts are feelings: This is another theory behind why dreams occur. It is often believed that dreams help you sort through your complicated thoughts and feelings. 

● Blocking of stimuli: Dreams can help the brain block the stimuli that can interfere with your memory and learning. 

How long does a dream last?

The longevity of dreams can vary. They can last for a few seconds or even for about 20-30 minutes. Sometimes people tend to remember their dreams when they are awakened during the REM phase. Some studies also reveal that an average person has about three to five dreams per night, and some may have even seven. But these dreams are often forgotten. 

BALANCED MINDSET

Maturity 

Maturity is a mindset, not an age. While society often associates maturity with getting older, the truth is that maturity has more to do with how you think, react, and handle life’s challenges than with the number of years you’ve lived. Maturity is about the choices you make, the way you approach situations, and the level of responsibility you take for your actions. It’s a mindset that can be developed at any age, and it’s what truly defines your character.

One of the key elements of a mature mindset is the ability to see beyond yourself. Mature people understand that the world doesn’t revolve around them, and they consider the perspectives and needs of others when making decisions. This doesn’t mean they always put others first to the detriment of their own well-being, but they have the wisdom to balance their needs with those of others. They recognise that actions have consequences, not just for themselves but for those around them, and they act with this awareness in mind.

Maturity also involves emotional regulation. Life is full of situations that can trigger strong emotions, whether it’s frustration, anger, sadness, or joy. Mature people do not let these emotions dictate their actions. Instead, they have the ability to manage their feelings, staying calm and composed even in difficult situations. This emotional stability allows them to make decisions based on logic and reason rather than being driven by impulsive reactions.

Another important aspect of maturity is the willingness to take responsibility for one’s actions. Mature people do not shy away from accountability. They understand that every choice they make has a consequence, and they are willing to own those consequences, whether positive or negative. This sense of responsibility extends to their relationships, work, and personal goals. They don’t blame others for their mistakes or failures but instead look within to understand how they can improve and grow.

Maturity also means being able to learn from experiences. Life is a series of lessons, and mature people approach each experience as an opportunity for growth. Whether a situation goes well or poorly, they reflect on what happened and think about how they can apply those lessons in the future. This mindset prevents them from repeating the same mistakes over and over because they are continually evolving and becoming better versions of themselves.

Patience is another hallmark of a mature mindset. Mature people understand that not everything happens on their timeline. They are able to wait for the right moment, knowing that some things take time to develop. This patience extends to how they interact with others as well. They don’t rush to judgment or react hastily but take the time to consider all aspects of a situation before making decisions.

Maturity is also reflected in how someone handles conflict. Mature people don't avoid conflict but approach it with a problem-solving attitude. They don’t engage in petty arguments or seek to “win” at all costs. Instead, they focus on finding resolutions that are fair and constructive. They communicate openly and honestly, seeking to understand the other person’s point of view while also expressing their own.

In essence, maturity is about growth. It’s about recognising that life is a journey of learning, and that every experience, good or bad, is an opportunity to become wiser, stronger, and more compassionate.  Mature people don't ’t cling to rigid ideas or behaviours; they are flexible and open to change because they understand that growth requires adaptation.

Maturity isn’t something that automatically comes with age. Some young people exhibit remarkable maturity, while some older individuals may still struggle with impulsiveness and self-centredness. The difference lies in mindset. Choosing to be mature means choosing to live with responsibility, empathy, and a commitment to personal growth. It’s a way of thinking and living that allows you to navigate life’s challenges with grace and wisdom, making choices that reflect not just who you are, but who you aspire to become.

TRADITIONS AROUND THE WORLD

 Christmas Symbols

Christmas has its traditional symbols-Santa, presents, a decorated tree and carols. Some countries, however, have different symbols. Here are some of them:

Sweden: The Yule Goat has been a Swedish Christmas symbol, dating back to ancient pagan festivals. However, in 1966, the tradition got a whole new life after someone came up with the idea to make a giant straw goat, now referred to as the Gävle Goat. According to the official website, the goat is more than 42 feet high, 23 feet wide, and weighs 3.6 tons. Each year, the massive goat is constructed in the same spot. Fans can even watch a livestream from the first Sunday of Advent until after the New Year when it is taken down.

Philippines: Every year, the city of San Fernando holds Ligligan Parul (or Giant Lantern Festival) featuring dazzling parols (lanterns) that symbolize the Star of Bethlehem. Each parol consists of thousands of spinning lights that illuminate the night sky. The festival has made San Fernando the "Christmas Capital of the Philippines".

Iceland: For 13 days, each night before Christmas, Icelandic children are visited by the 13 Yule Lads. Children place their shoes by the window. In the morning, they'll either have received candy (if they're good) or be greeted with shoes full of rotten potatoes if they're bad!

Norway: Their Christmas season, called "julebord", begins on December 3. Norwegians celebrate in bars and restaurants throughout the month. December 23 is called Little Christmas, and rituals include making a gingerbread house, and eating risengrynsgrøt (hot rice pudding).

Holland: Sinterklaas is the Dutch name for Saint Nicholas, the man recognized by children for his long white beard, red cape, and red miter. Children put a shoe by the back door and wake up on Christmas morning to find treats like gingerbread men, marzipan, and chocolate letters.

Austria: The alpine country has a legend that a devil-like creature called Krampus joins their St. Nicholas festivities on December 6. Children are asked for a list of their good and bad deeds: Children who have been good over the year are rewarded with sweets, apples, and nuts, while children considered bad could get a rude surprise from Krampus on Christmas morning.

KNOW YOUR ENGLISH

What is the meaning and origin of the expression ‘bucket list’?

A ‘bucket list’ consists of a list of things that you have never done, but would like to before you leave this world. It comes from the idiom ‘kick the bucket’, meaning ‘to die’. 

A ‘bucket list’ is your personal wish list, and it may include anything — climbing Mt. Everest, going sky diving, getting a picture taken standing in front of the Taj, eating your favourite dish in a well­ known hotel in the city, having a conversation with a famous author, winning a chess tournament etc. These are mostly things that you have not experienced or achieved till now, but would like to before dying. 

The expression was coined and made popular by Justin Zackham, the man who wrote the screenplay for the Hollywood film, The Bucket List, starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman. 

Publishing more than 5000 posts on my blog! That’s one more item to add to my bucket list.

What is your bucket list?

A CLEANER AND GREENER TOMORROW

Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles (EVs) are like magical cars that run on electricity instead of petrol or diesel. They are becoming increasingly popular in India and all around the world.

What are Electric Vehicles? Electric vehicles, also known as EVs, are a special kind of car. Instead of a traditional petrol or diesel engine, these cars use electricity to move. They have big batteries inside them, just like the one in your remote control car, but much bigger!

How Do They Work? EVs work fascinatingly. They have an electric motor that gets its power from the big battery. When you press the accelerator pedal, the electric motor starts turning the wheels, and the car moves. It’s like a silent and super-fast toy car.

Why Are EVs Important? EVs are essential for many reasons. First, they are much better for the environment. When regular cars use petrol or diesel, they produce harmful gases that make the air dirty and cause climate change. EVs, on the other hand, produce zero emissions because they run on clean electricity.

Cost-Efficient: Electric cars are also cost-efficient in the long run. Though they might be a bit more expensive, they save money because electricity is cheaper than petrol or diesel. Plus, you don’t need to change the oil, and EVs have fewer moving parts, so they don’t need as much maintenance.

Help Reduce Noise Pollution: EVs are incredibly quiet, making them great for cities. Traditional cars can be noisy, but with electric cars, you can enjoy a peaceful drive without the loud engine sounds.

Charging an EV: You need to charge an EV, just like charging your tablet or phone, to make it go. You can do this at home by plugging the car into a special socket or finding charging stations around the city. Some EVs can go a long way on a single charge, just like your toy car, lasting a long time with fresh batteries.

Electric Cars in India: Electric vehicles are catching on in India too! Many car companies are making electric cars, and you can see them on the roads. The Indian government also gives incentives and support to promote EVs to make our air cleaner.

So, electric vehicles are like the heroes of the car world, helping to fight air pollution and make the world a cleaner and greener place. They are not only cool but also kind to the planet. 

DO YOU KNOW

Why is the foam of a shampoo always white irrespective of the colour of the shampoo?

To understand this better, let’s use an analogy. When a balloon is deflated, it is opaque with its colour very much visible. As we go on inflating the balloon, it becomes lighter in colour. If we continue to inflate the balloon without bursting it, there will come a point when it will become almost white. The same is the case with the bubbles that form in the foam of a shampoo. The pigments in the shampoo become so thin when mixed with water that the visible light gets scattered. The light rays get reflected in several directions after striking a surface (bubbles in this case) much like how the sky appears white or grey at times. Also the dye that is used in colouring a shampoo is highly diluted, which means that when further diluted with water, the colour becomes much lighter. 

The scattering of light in case of the foam happens as the light has to pass through several bubbles, which means several surfaces. The light spreads in multiple directions making it almost impossible for the human eye to detect colours. The same thing happens with soap bars, body washes, hand washes etc.

CALMING THE CHAOTIC MIND

Meditation 

Ancient texts liken meditation to the process of taming a wild elephant, where the elephant is tied with a wrong rope for many days until, it finally settles down. Gradually training it and eventually getting rid of the rope, this trained wild elephant that represents the human mind can now be put to purpose. 

First developed in India thousands of years ago as a part of the Indian philosophy, meditation aims to achieve a mentally clear, emotionally calm and stable state, often viewed as the first step towards spiritual awakening and enlightenment. 

Since time immemorial, India has been known for its spirituality and is internationally known for its gift of meditation and yoga to the world. Hence, it is unsurprising to see tourists from across the world heading to the Indian subcontinent for an authentic meditative journey. There are different types of meditation techniques, below mentioned are some of them:

Chakra healing meditation: Chakra, a Sanskrit word that means a disk or a wheel, finds its presence in the meditative mise-en-scene since the ancient Hinduism meditative practices talk of the presence of hundreds of varying chakras or wheel like energy networks in the human body. However, there are seven core chakras that are situated along the spine from the sacrum at the bottom up to the crown at the top of the head, namely the root chakra (muladhar), the sacral chakra (svadhishthan), the solar plexus chakra (manipura), the heart chakra (anahat), the throat chakra (vishuddh), the third eye chakra (ajna) and lastly the crown chakra (sahasrar). It is believed that when any of these chakras are blocked, energy gets stuck and manifests as discomfort. Hence, the objective of this meditation is to activate the chakras and form a balance between them with regular training of the mind that involves control over one’s breath and encourages positive imagination. 

Vipassana meditation: Vipassana means 'insight' in Pali, the sacred language of Theravada Buddhism. It is one of the oldest Buddhist meditation practices and is believed to have come directly from a discourse attributed to the Lord Buddha himself. A gentle yet very thorough technique of training the mind, Vipassana includes a cluster of exercises like sati (mindfulness) and samatha (calm), developed through practices such as anapanasati (mindfulness of breathing) which are meant to make an individual more and more aware of their life experiences and directing careful attention towards certain painful, happy and other general aspects of their own existence to gain insight into the true nature of their reality. 

21 December is observed as World Meditation Day. 

THE LAND OF BLACK MAGIC

Mayong

Mayong, a quaint village in the Morigaon district of Assam, is a sacred destination steeped in mysticism and history. Located on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra River and near Kaziranga National Park, Mayong is famously referred to as the ‘Land of Black Magic’. The village finds mentions in epics like the Mahabharata, where it is said that Bhima, one of the Pandavas, acquired extraordinary strength through tantric practices performed in this region. 

The name Mayong has various interpretations. One belief attributes it to the Sanskrit word maya, meaning ‘illusion’ or ‘magic’, symbolising the village’s association with mystical practices. Another suggests that ma-yong in the Dimasa language means ‘elephant’, reflecting the region’s historical significance as an elephant habitat. 

For centuries, Mayong was renowned as a hub of sorcery and tantra. The Mayong Central Museum and Emporium preserves ancient manuscripts and ritual tools, while local legends speak of spells for healing and supernatural feats. Visitors are drawn not only by its mysterious past but also by the serene beauty of its Brahmaputra-fed landscapes and proximity to Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary.

WORLD’S FIRST X-RAY

Hand of Rontgen's wife

In 1895, Wilhelm Conrad Rontgen, professor of physics, University of Wurburg in Germany, was doing experiments with electrical discharges in evacuated glass tubes. 

Late in 1895, Wilhelm Rontegen was alone at night doing his experiments, this time in the dark and noticed a glow was produced on the wall, which he knew was not caused by fluorescence or visible light. He named these new, unidentified rays 'X' or if you prefer; X-rays. 

After several months of playing with his discovery he noticed that the objects placed in the path of rays cast shadows and created images on the wall. Soon after, he used a photographic plate and had his wife, Frau Rontgen, place her hand in the path of the X-rays, creating the world’s first X-ray picture. 

In 1901, Wilhelm Rontgen was awarded the very first Nobel Prize for this discovery. 

TRADITIONAL JAPANESE LONGBOW

Yumi 

The Yumi, a traditional Japanese longbow, is a symbol of both ancient craftsmanship and marital prowess. This elegantly designed bow, often referred to as the "bow of samurai," has a rich history dating back centuries. It’s unique asymmetrical shape, with one limb longer than the other, allows for powerful and accurate shooting. 

Craftsmen dedicated to the art of Yumi-making meticulously select materials select materials such as bamboo and wood, ensuring flexibility and strength. The bowstring, traditionally made from hemp, is a testament to the bow's durability. Used in Japanese archery, or Kyudo, the Yumi embodies discipline and precision. 

Today, the Yumi is not only a revered artifact of Japan’s heritage but also a symbol of cultural resilience. It stands as a reminder of the nation's deep-rooted reverence for tradition and the enduring legacy of the samurai. 

WAH USTAD WAH

Zakir Hussain

(March 9, 1951 - December 15, 2024)

Zakir Hussain blurred cultural boundaries to emerge as a global icon in a career spanning decades, playing a pivotal role in helping Indian music leave a mark on the world stage.

Born in music: The eldest son of legendary tabla artiste Ustad Alla Rakha, Hussain was born in 1951 in Mumbai and was taught how to play the instrument by his father. He began performing by the age of 7.

Wunderkind makes waves: Hussain began his professional career at the age of 12, accompanying India’s classical music legends for various shows. He started performing globally in his teens, playing alongside stalwarts like Pandit Ravi Shankar and Ustad Ali Akbar Khan.

Imprint on world stage: By 18, he was regularly performing internationally and eventually went on to work with the likes of Grateful Dead drummer Mickey Hart, George Harrison of The Beatles, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, jazz musician Herbie Hancock and virtuoso guitarist John McLaughlin. Moving beyond the tradition: In 1973, he formed the band ‘Shakti’ with jazz guitarist John McLaughlin. The band introduced a new sound to the world by ,combining Indian music with elements of jazz. Their first studio album in 46 years, ‘This Moment’, won three Grammys in 2024.

An eye for innovation: His ventures like Tabla Beat Science, a fusion of Indian classical music with electronic and world music, and orchestral works such Symphony Orchestra of India showcased his drive to innovate while respecting his roots. 

‘Wah Ustad’, An Icon beyond the stage: The iconic ‘Wah Taj’ tea ad featuring him playing the tabla against the backdrop of the Taj Mahal became a cultural phenomenon in the 1990s and propelled him to household fame. The voice-over complimenting Hussain with “Wah Ustad, Wah!” became an oft used term for many an occasion, cutting across societal and generational divides.

Awards and accolades: He was conferred with the Padma Shri (1988), Padma Bhushan (2002) and Padma Vibhushan (2023). He also won four Grammys, three of them this year. He was also awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, recognising his excellence in Indian classical music and the National Heritage Fellowship, the highest award for traditional artists in the US.

DO YOU KNOW

Why do we build snowmen?

Building snowmen has been a winter pastime for centuries, especially around Christmas when snowy landscapes feel magical and festive. The tradition of crafting figures out of snow dates back to medieval Europe, where people embraced this chilly, artistic fun. One of the earliest records of a snowman appears in 1380 manuscript called the Book of Hours, showing that building snow figures has a long and frosty history!

During the Renaissance, snowmen became a way to showcase creativity, as artists sculpted elaborate snow figures to impress their communities. In the Netherlands, entire villages would come together to build "snow families" for celebration, turning the snowy streets into mini art galleries. 

Interestingly, snowmen also gained popularity during hard winters when snow was in abundance. It was free, plentiful and perfect for shaping into cheery figures, giving people a way to express their holiday spirit. By the 19th century, snowmen became a Christmas tradition worldwide, thanks to illustrated Christmas cards and stories featuring cheerful snowmen that captured imaginations and spread joy. 

A snowman once stood in a row, with a carrot for a nose, all aglow. Kids laughed and they played, until he started to fade - then he vanished with one final throw!

So next time you build a snowman, remember- you're part of a festive tradition that spans centuries!

KICK-START YOUR DAY

The power of morning routines 

In the hustle and bustle of life, the idea of a morning routine might seem like a distant dream. However, setting up a morning routine can be a game-changer, helping you tackle the day with confidence and purpose. Let’s explore why it matters and how you can create your own morning rituals inspired by successful individuals who swear by their morning routines. It turns out, establishing a solid morning routine can set the tone for a successful and fulfilling day. 

Morning routines are like the secret sauce to a productive and positive day. Your morning sets the tone for the entire day. A well-crafted morning routine helps you start each day on your terms, fostering a sense of control and positivity. It’s a chance to prioritise self-care, set goals, and cultivate habits that contribute to your overall well-being.

The Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, known for his wisdom and leadership, started his day with a series of personal reflections and gratitude. He spent quiet moments contemplating the day ahead, reminding himself of his purpose and focusing on what truly mattered. This simple routine helped him maintain a calm and resilient mindset, crucial for navigating the challenges of ruling an empire.

Elon Musk, the tech visionary behind Tesla and SpaceX, begins his day at the crack of dawn. His morning routine includes tackling critical emails and setting priorities for the day. Musk believes this early start helps him stay ahead of the curve and maintain focus on his ambitious goals.

Oprah Winfrey, media mogul and philanthropist, emphasizes the importance of mindfulness in her morning routine. Starting her day with gratitude, journalling and meditation, Oprah sets a positive tone that carries her through her busy schedule. This intentional start allows her to approach challenges with a clear and centered mind.

The Indian cricket captain, Virat Kohli, is known for his intense dedication to fitness. His mornings often begin with a rigorous workout routine, contributing to his physical and mental resilience on the cricket field.

Former PepsiCo CEO, Indra Nooyi, kickstarts her day at 4 a.m. with a morning walk. This time allows her to reflect and plan ahead, setting the stage for a day of strategic decision-making.

How to Develop Your Morning Routine:

Now that you’re convinced of the magic morning routines can bring, here’s how to create your own:

1. Early Rise: Start small. Try waking up 15-30 minutes earlier than usual. This gives you a head start and sets a positive tone for the day. Don’t overwhelm yourself. Begin with small, achievable steps. 

2. Personalise Your Routine: Your morning ritual should resonate with you. If you enjoy music, incorporate it into your routine. Tailor it to align with your interests and goals.

3. Reflect and Set Intentions: Take a moment to reflect on your goals and set intentions for the day. What do you want to achieve? This helps create a sense of purpose.

4. Physical Activity: Whether it’s a quick stretch, yoga or a brisk walk get your body moving. Physical activity boosts energy levels and enhances mood.

5. Mindful Moments: Incorporate mindfulness or meditation to calm your mind. Even just a few minutes of deep breathing can make a big difference.

6. Fuel Your Body: Eat a nutritious breakfast to fuel your body and brain. It’s like giving your engine the right kind of fuel to kick-start your day.

7. Consistency: Stick to your routine even on weekends to create a habit.

8. Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments. This positive reinforcement fuels motivation and instils a sense of achievement.

Your morning routine is your secret weapon in the pursuit of success. It’s not about perfection but progress. By adopting positive habits, you set the stage for a day filled with purpose and accomplishment. Draw inspiration from global icons and our very own Indian leaders. Rise with determination, shine with gratitude, and conquer your goals – your success story starts every morning.

EACH ONE IS A MASTERPIECE OF GOD

Everybody deserves to be somebody

The reception clerk in a posh hotel looked down at a small man who had just asked for a room. The customer looked so unimpressive that the clerk told him immediately that no rooms were available. About that time the hotel manager came out of his office to the desk, recognised the man and called the clerk aside. He whispered to her that the man asking the room was Pierre Monteaux, who, for many years, was the distinguished conductor of the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra. 

The clerk came back to the desk, apologised, and said, "Why, of course, sir, we can take care of you! Why didn't you tell me you were somebody, Mr Monteaux?"

Whereupon Maestro Monteaux emphatically told the clerk, "Madam, everybody is somebody." And he quickly turned to leave the hotel. 

Never be afraid to help others in their time of need, nor ever treat others with scorn; whoever they be. You never know when you may need that shoulder to lean on. It is said, "Every time you mistreat someone, you reveal the part of you that lacks love and needs to heal." Yes, everybody is somebody because each one is a masterpiece of God, moreover, a child of God. Everyone deserves respect. 

Too many of us, in our daily life, fall into the shameful pattern of ranking people especially by their looks, and judging someone as nobodies! Let us treat people the way we want to be treated, and talk to people the way we want to be talked to. Likewise, let us all try to be somebody who makes everybody feel like somebody!

YOUNGEST WORLD CHESS CHAMPION

Gukesh Dommaraju

Dressed in his usual understated style, Gukesh Dommaraju entered the chess hall with a calm demeanor that belied the stakes at hand.

Adjusting his collar twice with a mild flourish, à la Rajinikanth, he exuded a quiet confidence. With eyes closed and muttering a mantra under his breath, the 18-year-old was ready to plunge into history.

Four hours later, the world watched as Gukesh became the youngest World Chess Champion, outpacing Garry Kasparov's record by four years.

Gukesh's strategy of relentless pressure throughout the match, coupled with his ability to capitalize on Ding's momentary lapse, proved to be the winning formula. With a score of 7.5-6.5, Gukesh dethroned Ding and became the 18th World Chess Champion. As his father paced nervously during the final game, the world held its breath. And when the final move was played, Gukesh's calm exterior finally cracked into a radiant smile.

"I've dreamt of this moment for ten years. To see it come true is indescribable," he said after the victory, his voice quivering with emotion. His eyes glistened as he embraced his parents, the two people who had sacrificed the most for his success.

The journey to the pinnacle of chess was anything but smooth for this lanky teenager from Chennai. Gukesh's triumph over reigning champion Ding Liren in a dramatic 14th game wasn't just a victory for him but also a celebration of the sacrifices his family made to support his dreams.

Born to parents hailing from Andhra Pradesh, Gukesh's chess journey began at age seven, and by 13, he was already making headlines. His parents, Dr. Rajinikanth, an ENT surgeon, and Padma, a microbiologist, quickly realized their son's extraordinary talent.

They made significant sacrifices to nurture his budding career. In 2017, Dr. Rajinikanth took a bold step: he paused his medical practice to travel the globe with Gukesh, often on a tight budget, as the young prodigy chased the chess master halo. Meanwhile, Padma became the family's primary breadwinner, ensuring their home stayed afloat while supporting her son's dreams.

"We believed in Gukesh, but belief alone isn't enough. It's about perseverance, and as a family, we are committed to that," said Padma, reflecting on their journey. There were moments of doubttimes when funds ran low and when defeats felt heavier than victories. But the family's faith in Gukesh's talent never wavered.

Gukesh's demeanour at the board has earned him admiration across the chess world. Known for his unflappable poker face, he remains calm in even the most nerve-wracking situations. His mantra? Focus and discipline.

"Wherever I play, my goal is simple: to stay focused and win," Gukesh said in an earlier interview. This mindset was on full display in Singapore, where he capitalized on a rare blunder by Ding Liren in the final game to clinch the title.

But beyond his calm exterior lies a young man who faced enormous pressure. Losing a critical game as a 12-year-old at an international tournament brought him to tears. It was a stark reminder that the road to greatness is paved with heartbreaks. Yet, each setback only strengthened his resolve. His parents' unwavering support and his relentless work ethic laid the foundation for his championship run.

Gukesh's win adds another jewel to Chennai's illustrious chess legacy. The city, home to former World Champion Vishwanathan Anand, has long been India's chess capital. Anand himself was effusive in his praise: "Congratulations! This is a proud moment for chess, for India, and for me personally." Gukesh's school, the Velammal Group, which also nurtured talents like R. Praggnanandhaa, celebrated his victory as yet another testament to its commitment to fostering young talent. His success has also ignited a renewed interest in chess among India's youth, with clubs and academies reporting a surge in inquiries. India's new chess king didn't just break records; he inspired a nation. Only a year ago, at 17, Gukesh clinched the FIDE Candidates title, setting the stage for this epic showdown against Ding. Despite the odds, he showed remarkable confidence, declaring himself ready for the challenge. Gukesh's story is one of grit, discipline, and the unwavering support of a family that believed in him. His win not only cements his place in chess history but also highlights the sacrifices and determination it takes to reach the top.

As India celebrates its youngest-ever World Chess Champion, the message is clear: dreams, when nurtured with passion and perseverance, can indeed become reality. And for Gukesh, this is just the beginning of a legacy that promises to inspire generations.

MASTERING THE COURT

Basketball 

Basketball is a very popular sport enjoyed by millions of people around the world. From professional players to young kids just starting out, a basketball game offers a fun and exciting way to stay active and competitive.

Basketball was invented by Dr. James Naismith in December 1891 in Springfield, Massachusetts, USA. The first game was played with a soccer ball and two peach baskets as goals.

The concept of dribbling wasn’t originally a part of basketball. When the game was first created, players could only pass the ball, and it was only later that dribbling became a fundamental skill.

The National Basketball Association (NBA) was founded in 1946. There are currently 30 teams in the NBA, with famous teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics and Chicago Bulls.

The three-point line:- This was introduced to the NBA in the 1979-1980 season. The first player to make a three-point shot in an NBA game was Chris Ford of the Boston Celtics.

The free-throw line is 15 feet away from the basket in the NBA. Players get awarded free throws after certain fouls, and the opposing team must stay behind the three-point line during these shots.

The NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, commonly known as March Madness, is one of the most exciting events in college basketball. It features a single-elimination format, and the championship game is held in April.

Basketball has been part of the Summer Olympics since 1936. The United States has been highly successful in Olympic basketball, winning numerous gold medals.

The official ball used in NBA games is manufactured by Spalding. It has a distinctive orange colour and is made of leather.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all times, Michael Jordan won six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls and earned five MVP awards.

The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) is the premier professional women’s basketball league in the world. It was established in 1996.

Basketball players need to be quick on their feet – the average NBA player runs about 2-3 miles per game!

The 2022 Tokyo Olympics marked the 30th anniversary of the debut of basketball as an official Olympic sport!

THE LORD’S WAY

Timeless appeal of Krishna’s character to modern youth

Krishna is a comprehensive role model, offering timeless wisdom that is applicable in addressing challenges of today.

Krishna, a central figure in Hindu philosophy and mythology, embodies numerous qualities that make him an ideal role model for today's youth. His teachings and actions, as depicted in ancient scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita, offer valuable insights for navigating modern challenges. Few of them are highlighted here which can be imbibed by the youth of today to excel in their lives.

Leadership and Duty: Krishna's guidance to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra emphasizes the importance of fulfilling one's responsibilities, even in difficult circumstances. This lesson is particularly relevant for youth facing career decisions and societal pressures.

Ethical Decision-making: Krishna's discourse on dharma (righteous living) provides a framework for making ethical choices. In an era of complex moral dilemmas, this guidance can help young people develop a strong moral compass.

Emotional Intelligence: Krishna's ability to understand and manage emotions, both his own and others', demonstrates the importance of emotional intelligence. This skill is crucial for personal relationships and professional success in today's interconnected world. 

Adaptability: Throughout his life, Krishna adapts to various roles - from cowherd to statesman. This flexibility is a vital trait for youth navigating a rapidly changing global landscape. 

Inclusivity and Equality: Krishna's interactions with people from all walks of life, regardless of caste or status, promote inclusivity and equality. These values are essential in addressing contemporary social issues. 

Balance in Life: Krishna's philosophy of karma yoga advocates for balancing action with detachment from outcomes. This approach can help youth manage stress and maintain perspective in a high-pressure society. 

Creativity and Innovation: Krishna's unconventional problem-solving methods, such as his strategies during the Kurukshetra war, encourage creative thinking - a crucial skill in today's innovation-driven world. 

Self-realization: Krishna's teachings on self-knowledge and spiritual growth offer guidance for personal development, helping youth find purpose and meaning in life. 

Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution: Krishna's role as a mediator and diplomat provides lessons in negotiation and peaceful conflict resolution, skills vital in both personal and professional spheres.

Environmental Stewardship: Krishna's close association with nature, particularly in his youth, can inspire environmental consciousness among today's youth, addressing urgent ecological concerns. 

By embodying these qualities, Krishna serves as a comprehensive role model, offering timeless wisdom that remains relevant and applicable in addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by today's youth.