Venkataramanan Ramasethu

John Keats, a luminary in the rich constellation of English Romantic poets, graced the world with verses that transcend time and space. Among his revered oeuvre, a particular gem shines with an undiminished lustre, casting a profound influence on world literature. It is in his celebrated poem "Ode on a Grecian Urn," that Keats inscribes the immortal lines: "When old age shall this generation waste,   Thou shalt remain, in midst of other woe   Than ours, a friend to man, to whom thou say'st,   "Beauty is truth, truth beauty,—that is all   Ye know on earth, and all ye need to know." These lines are not mere words; they are a clarion call to the eternal and the sublime. Keats, in his fleeting life, grappled with the ephemeral nature of human existence. Yet, in this temporality, he found an immutable truth: the enduring beauty of art and the transcendent nature of aesthetic experience. As the world marched on from the 19th century, carryin...

In the heart of every literary enthusiast, there exists a place untouched by the ravages of time, a quaint town that resonates with the simplicity of life and the richness of human emotions. This magical place is Malgudi, brought to life by the legendary Indian author R.K. Narayan. His masterpiece, "Malgudi Days", is not just a collection of stories; it's a celebration of humanity, a canvas where every color of human emotion is painted with the delicate brush of Narayan's words. The Essence of Malgudi Malgudi, a fictional town in South India, is as real in the hearts of its admirers as their hometowns. The streets of Malgudi, lined with the shade of ancient trees and echoes of temple bells, are more than geographical expressions; they are pathways to nostalgia, to a time when life was slower, and perhaps, a bit more meaningful. The characters that inhabit this town are not mere fictional entities but are reflections of ourselves, our neighbors, and our fri...

In the heart of a bustling city or a quaint village, under the bright lights or the soft glow of lanterns, the stage whispers tales of magic, reality, and dreams. Theatre, a celestial art form, transcends time and space, inviting us into a world where every emotion is magnified and every story is sacred. For students and enthusiasts alike, pursuing a career in theatre is not just a choice—it’s an embrace of a life rich in creativity, passion, and profound human connection. The Timeless Allure of Theatre Theatre has always been the beating heart of culture and civilization. From the ancient amphitheaters of Greece to the grand opera houses of Europe, from the vibrant street plays of India to the innovative black box theatres of modern cities, theatre has continuously evolved, yet its essence remains untouched. It's an art that celebrates the complexity of human emotions, the depth of societal issues, and the endless possibilities of imagination. Pursuing Passion: Theatre...

In the vast mosaic of career choices, there’s a path less trodden but immensely rewarding—film studies. Imagine an odyssey where light, sound, and story intertwine, where each frame is a canvas of human emotions, and every script a reflection of life. This is the world of film studies, a realm not just for aspiring filmmakers but for those who seek to understand the deeper undercurrents of society and self through the lens of cinema. The Magic of Cinema: More Than Entertainment At the heart of film studies lies a profound understanding of cinema as an art form, a cultural artifact, and a social commentary. It's not merely about learning the technicalities of filmmaking but delving into the anatomy of storytelling. When you embark on this journey, you aren't just learning to operate a camera or edit a scene; you’re learning the language of emotions, the dialect of dreams. Academic Canvas: Exploring Multidimensional Perspectives As an academic discipline, film studies...

"The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost is one of the most iconic and frequently misunderstood poems in American literature. The poem, published in 1916 in his collection "Mountain Interval," delves into the complexities of choice, individualism, and the ambiguity of decision-making. Through its vivid imagery and contemplative tone, Frost weaves a tapestry of thought that resonates with readers even a century later. The poem begins with a traveler standing in a yellow wood, confronted with a fork in the road. This natural setting, serene and contemplative, is typical of Frost’s work, echoing the rural New England landscape that often served as his muse. The yellow wood, suggestive of autumn, adds an element of change and transience. This setting is not just a physical crossroad but also a metaphor for the crossroads in life. The poem’s structure, consisting of four stanzas with five lines each, follows an ABAAB rhyme scheme. This regular pattern adds to the...

Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” is a novel that transcends time, not just for its narrative but for its profound lessons. Among them is a quote that resonates deeply in the corridors of human understanding: “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view... Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it.” This powerful statement offers a blueprint for empathy and understanding, inviting us into a world where we genuinely strive to see through the eyes of another. The first part of Lee’s quote, “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view,” prompts us to pause and reflect. It’s a reminder that our perception of others is often superficial, shaped by our prejudices, biases, and limited experiences. To understand someone, we must be willing to step out of our comfort zones and see the world as they see it. It’s about active listening, open-mindedness, and suspending our judgments. T...

In the poignant words of Émile Zola, "We are like books. Most people only see our cover, the minority read only the introduction, many people believe the critics. Few will know our content." These words resonate with a profound truth about the human experience, encapsulating the journey of self-discovery, perception, and the often misunderstood depth of our being. The Cover: First Impressions and Judgments Just like a book judged by its cover, we often find ourselves subject to the swift judgments and categorizations of the world. Our covers—the clothes we wear, the way we speak, the color of our skin, or even the places we come from—become an easy shorthand for others to decide who we are. These superficial assessments are akin to someone glancing at a book's cover and deciding its worth without delving deeper. This surface-level appraisal, although human nature, sadly misses the intricate stories etched within us. The Introduction: Skimming the Surface A for...

In the kaleidoscope of life, we often find ourselves wearing different hats, juggling roles that paint the canvas of our existence with varied hues. As I sit down to reflect upon my own journey, I realize how each role I play interlaces to form the intricate balance of my life. I am a husband, a father, an optometrist, a blogger, a creative writer, and a cinephile. Each of these identities molds me, challenges me, and blesses me in ways more profound than I could have ever imagined. The Anchor of Love: Being a Husband As a husband, I find myself anchored in love. It’s a role that has taught me the essence of companionship and the beauty of growing together. Each day, I witness the power of love and understanding. The shared laughter, the silent understanding, and the unwavering support make this journey not just rewarding but also a testament to the power of togetherness. The Joy and Responsibility of Fatherhood Fatherhood has been an odyssey of boundless joy and enormous r...

In the pantheon of literature, few works have stood the test of time with such unwavering fortitude as William Shakespeare's "Hamlet." It is a play cloaked in mystery, woven with threads of raw emotion, and stitched with the complexities of the human psyche. This masterpiece, a jewel in the crown of English literature, continues to captivate and challenge audiences and readers alike. The Enigmatic Prince: A Study of Complexity At the heart of this tragedy is Prince Hamlet of Denmark, an enigma wrapped in a riddle. His character is a paradoxical blend of intelligence and madness, morality and vengeance, inaction and impulsiveness. Shakespeare paints Hamlet as a young man engulfed in existential crisis, grappling with the weighty concepts of life, death, and the morality of revenge. A Ghostly Catalyst: The Spark of Vengeance The play unfurls with a spectral encounter; the ghost of Hamlet's father reveals the poison-tinged truth behind his untimely death, ign...

In the heart of Northern India lies a city that transcends the boundaries of time, a sanctuary where the spiritual and the temporal interweave to create a blend of unparalleled depth. This city is Banaras, also known as Varanasi, a place that doesn’t merely exist on the map but thrives vibrantly in the hearts of countless souls across the globe. My connection with Banaras is not just a journey; it's an odyssey that has reshaped my spirit and bestowed upon me a profound upliftment that words can barely encapsulate. As my feet first touched the ancient cobblestone paths of Banaras, I felt an indescribable surge of emotions. The city, with its labyrinthine alleys and the echoing chants from the ghats, seemed to whisper ancient secrets. The Ganges, flowing with a serene yet powerful current, seemed to wash away the veneer of worldly concerns, revealing a raw, unfiltered connection with the divine. Every sunrise at the ghats presented a celestial spectacle. As the first rays...

In the eastern heart of India lies Kolkata, a city draped in the enchantment of history, culture, and the hum of unending stories. To the South Indian community, whose roots have intertwined with this city's soul from time immemorial, Kolkata isn’t just a geographical location; it’s an emotion, a chapter of their identity etched deep in their hearts. The saga began in the pre-independence era when the first South Indian settlers, in search of better prospects and driven by the colonial pull, ventured into the then Calcutta. They were welcomed by the city’s embracing diversity, and soon, a cultural symbiosis bloomed. The city, renowned for its intellectual prowess and cultural renaissance, became a fertile ground for these new inhabitants. The iconic Howrah Bridge stood not just as an emblem of Kolkata’s architectural marvel but as a symbol of the bridge of understanding between diverse cultures. As India unfurled its tricolor in the post-independence dawn, more South In...

In the realm of spirituality, few names resonate as profoundly as Bhagwan Ramana Maharshi. Born in 1879 in Tamil Nadu, India, Ramana Maharshi's life and teachings continue to echo through the corridors of time, offering insights that transcend geographical boundaries, cultural divides, and generational gaps. The Early Calling At the tender age of 16, Ramana Maharshi experienced a profound and spontaneous awakening. This awakening wasn't an outcome of rigorous spiritual practices or learned from a guru but came from within, signaling the direct, unadorned path to self-realization he would later impart to the world. The Essence of His Teachings Ramana Maharshi's teachings revolve around the central concept of self-inquiry, encapsulated in the simple yet profound question: "Who am I?" This inquiry isn't an intellectual pursuit but a tool for diving into one's own consciousness, leading to the realization that the true self is not the body, the min...

The literary landscape of Tamil Nadu, a state with an ancient and rich literary tradition, has been significantly shaped by the works of Sujatha Rangarajan and Balakumaran. These two luminaries have not just etched their names in the annals of Tamil literature but have also profoundly influenced the writers who followed and deeply touched readers around the globe. Born as Rangarajan in 1935, Sujatha Rangarajan was an engineer by profession, but it was his literary pursuits that made him a household name. Sujatha's writing was versatile, encompassing different genres including science fiction, short stories, and essays. His contributions were not just confined to literature; he was a pioneer in popularizing science and technology in Tamil. Sujatha introduced a new style of storytelling. His narratives were crisp, and he had the unique ability to demystify complex scientific concepts, making them accessible to the common man. He played a crucial role in popularizing scien...

In Indian mythology, few characters are as complex and compelling as Karna from the epic Mahabharata. His life is a poignant tale of loyalty, valor, and the often-cruel play of destiny. Karna’s story isn’t just an integral part of Indian culture; it has also resonated in international literature, capturing the imagination of writers and scholars across the world. Karna was born to Kunti, the mother of the Pandavas, before her marriage. Fearing societal censure, Kunti set the baby adrift in a basket on a river. The child, blessed with an armor (‘Kavach’) and earrings (‘Kundal’) by his father, the Sun God, was found and raised by Adhiratha and Radha, a charioteer's family. This twist of fate deprived Karna of his rightful place among princes. Despite his royal blood, he was often subjected to scorn because of his perceived lowly birth. The burning desire to prove his worth and achieve what he believed was rightfully his shaped much of Karna's life. Karna's skills ...

In the vast expanse of Indian cinema, few have wielded their pen and directorial baton with as much skill, audacity, and heart as K. Balachander, fondly known as Iyakunar Sigaram (the Peak of Directors). His work not only revolutionized Tamil cinema but left an indelible mark on the broader landscape of Indian film. Let's delve into the profound impacts of K. Balachander, exploring how he shaped legends, pushed boundaries, and became an emblematic figure in world cinema. K. Balachander’s journey in cinema started in the early 1960s. His entry was not just a fresh chapter in his life but also for Tamil cinema. He brought with him a new wave of storytelling, characterized by bold themes, complex characters, and a mirror to society’s underbelly. Films like "Aval Oru Thodar Kathai" and "Apoorva Raagangal" broke away from the conventional, introducing narratives that questioned societal norms, gender roles, and the status quo. Perhaps one of Balachander’s...

The Birth of an Icon In 1972, the cinematic landscape was irrevocably altered with the release of Francis Ford Coppola's The Godfather. Based on Mario Puzo's best-selling novel, this masterpiece didn't just redefine the gangster genre; it left an indelible mark on global cinema. From storytelling techniques to character development, its influence is as vast as it is profound, echoing through decades of films across the world. The Godfather Trilogy: A Cinematic Revolution Storytelling and Character Development Coppola’s narrative style in The Godfather trilogy brought a level of depth and complexity previously unseen in mafia-themed movies. The characters were not mere caricatures of good and evil. Instead, they were multi-faceted, with motivations and vulnerabilities that resonated with audiences worldwide. This nuanced approach to storytelling encouraged filmmakers to explore the grey areas of morality, influencing countless gangster films that followed. Cinema...

“The reading of all good books is like a conversation with the finest minds of past centuries.” – René Descartes Throughout history, literature has been a mirror reflecting our collective souls, a tapestry woven from the threads of human experience, and a compass guiding us through the tumultuous seas of existence. It’s not merely words on paper; it’s a living, breathing entity that has shaped humanity, molded societies, and whispered truths across the corridors of time. In this exploration, we delve into the profound impact of literature on humanity, tracing its indelible mark from ancient scrolls to the digital pages of our era. The Foundation of Civilizations: Myth, Legend, and Lore In the infancy of human civilization, stories were the bedrock upon which societies were built. Ancient myths and legends, whether etched on Sumerian tablets or recounted in the Homeric epics, were not just entertainment. They were the sinews that held communities together, imparting moral le...

Indian classical music, a tradition steeped in history and spirituality, has transcended its geographical roots, influencing a myriad of artists and genres across the globe. Its deep, meditative ragas and intricate rhythms have not only shaped the music of its native land but have also cast a profound impact on the global music scene, weaving a tapestry of cultural amalgamation and creative innovation. The influence of Indian classical music first became prominently visible during the 1960s when artists like George Harrison of The Beatles embraced the sitar, an Indian stringed instrument, integrating its mesmerizing sound into Western pop music. This marked the beginning of a unique fusion where the East met the West, creating ripples in the world of music. Jazz, known for its improvisational nature, found a kindred spirit in Indian classical music. Legendary jazz musicians like John Coltrane and Miles Davis were profoundly influenced by the melodic structures and rhythmic ...

The Mystic East Meets the Literary West From the verdant valleys of Kashmir to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, India has always been a land of profound mysteries and captivating folklore. This enigmatic charm has not only shaped the cultural and spiritual landscape of the subcontinent but has also left an indelible mark on the literary imaginations of English writers around the globe. The Epics Resurrected At the heart of this influence lie the two great Indian epics: the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. These ancient texts, replete with complex characters and intricate narratives, have been a source of inspiration for countless English authors. One can see echoes of the moral dilemmas faced by Arjuna in the Mahabharata in the internal conflicts of characters penned by writers like W. Somerset Maugham and Graham Greene. Mythology Reimagined Contemporary authors like Neil Gaiman and J.K. Rowling have also dipped their quills in the ink of Indian mythology. Gaiman's “Amer...

From Colonial Confinements to Post-Independence Liberation The journey of content and creative writing in India, woven through its colonial and post-independence eras, is a rich tapestry reflecting the nation's tumultuous history, cultural diversity, and engagement with international literature. This evolution, deeply intertwined with India’s struggle for freedom and subsequent self-discovery, offers a fascinating window into how writing styles, themes, and linguistic preferences have shifted over time. Colonial India: Confluence and Resistance The British colonial period (1858-1947) was marked by a confluence of English literary influences and traditional Indian narratives. This era witnessed the emergence of English-educated Indian writers who began to merge Western literary forms with indigenous storytelling. Figures like Rabindranath Tagore, who later won the Nobel Prize in Literature, exemplified this blend by weaving together the lyrical essence of Indian culture ...

Satyajit Ray, an emblematic figure in world cinema, has cast an indelible impression on filmmakers globally. His unique cinematic language, deeply rooted in Bengali culture, and significantly influenced by Rabindranath Tagore and the ethos of Kolkata, has become a cornerstone for artistic expression in cinema worldwide. The canvas of Ray’s films transcends boundaries, yet remains intimately tied to its Bengali origins. Ray's artistry was not just in the stories he chose but in how he told them. His oeuvre is a blend of poetic realism and a profound humanism that resonates universally. He had the extraordinary ability to delve deep into the human psyche, to lay bare emotions in their most primal form. This universality in his storytelling makes his work transcend cultural and geographical barriers, influencing filmmakers from different corners of the world. The impact of Rabindranath Tagore on Ray is palpable. Tagore's literary genius and his humanistic approach to a...

Utpal Dutt, a luminary in the realms of cinema, art, literature, culture, and theatre, left an indelible mark on the world with his multifaceted talents. Born on March 29, 1929, in Barisal, British India (now Bangladesh), Dutt's journey through the world of creativity was nothing short of remarkable. Throughout his career, he displayed an unwavering dedication to his craft, and his works continue to influence generations of artists. Here we will explore the significant contributions of Utpal Dutt and the profound influence of William Shakespeare in his creations, particularly in the Indian context. Utpal Dutt's artistic journey commenced with his involvement in theatre during his college days at St. Xavier's College, Kolkata. He showed early promise as an actor and playwright, laying the foundation for his illustrious career. His initial exposure to the works of William Shakespeare ignited a lifelong fascination with the Bard's creations. Shakespeare's impact on Utp...

The poetry of Rabindranath Tagore and the writings of William Shakespeare, though separated by centuries and continents, each offer a profound exploration of the human condition, emotions, and philosophy of life. They delve into the complexities of love, the nuances of human nature, and the eternal questions that have perplexed humanity through the ages. Rabindranath Tagore, a Bengali polymath and a luminary in the realm of Indian literature, was the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913. His poetry often reflects a deep spiritual quest and a yearning for a harmonious unity with the cosmos. Tagore’s poetic expressions are grounded in a philosophy that sees the divine in every aspect of the natural world. One of Tagore’s most celebrated works, "Gitanjali," is a testament to his profound spiritual outlook. His poems here express an intimate relationship with the divine, not in a distant, theological sense but in an immediate, heartfelt mann...

It’s been 20 years since I first set foot in the City of Joy, Kolkata, a place that captivated my heart instantly and continues to do so. Kolkata isn’t just a city to me; it’s an emotion, an integral part of my identity, woven into the fabric of my everyday life. This is a small tribute to that remarkable and amazing connection. Kolkata greeted me with open arms, a city buzzing with life, yet carrying a soulful serenity. The Victorian-era architecture mingling with modern structures, the iconic Howrah Bridge standing tall, and the quaint tramlines crisscrossing the city, all painted a picture of a place rooted in history yet evolving with time. It was love at first sight. My connection with Bengali culture deepened as I delved into its artistic and literary heritage. Rabindranath Tagore’s poetry resonated with me, teaching me lessons about life and love. The melodious Rabindra Sangeet became a part of my daily playlist, soothing my soul with its lyrical beauty. Even today, ...