Venkataramanan Ramasethu

Durga Puja, with its deep roots in Bengali culture, marks not just the annual worship of the Goddess Durga but a spiritual awakening that transcends the material. It is a celebration of feminine power and cosmic strength, deeply intertwined with the rhythms of nature, especially embodied in the Khaas Phool (Kans Grass) that blossoms around this time. These fields of swaying white plumes, act as harbingers of Durga's arrival, spreading across Bengal's landscapes as a reminder of the cyclical renewal of life and the eternal struggle between good and evil. The Upanishads speak of Shakti, the divine feminine energy that sustains the cosmos, and this finds its fullest expression during Durga Puja. The festival is not merely a religious observance but a union of nature, philosophy, and the arts. The Vedas too, in their hymns, glorify the concept of Rta, the cosmic order, which Durga, as the supreme protector, ensures by defeating the asuras, forces of chaos. Bengal, a lan

In life, there is a delicate balance between the love we receive from our mothers and the love we share with our wives. Both are pivotal figures, offering us unwavering support, care, and dedication. Our mother brings us into the world, nurturing us from our earliest moments. She shapes us, molding us with her wisdom, guiding us through life’s challenges, and instilling in us the values we carry forward. In her, we find the foundation of our existence. Similarly, a wife enters our life with equal depth of care, creating a world around us. Her love is different, not because it is lesser, but because it is equally profound in its purpose. While a mother prepares us for life, a wife walks alongside us through it. She not only shares in our dreams and ambitions but also bears the weight of sacrifices that often go unnoticed. Her efforts make a house a home, her patience becomes our anchor, and her silent support sustains our endeavors. Yet, there is a disparity in how these two roles are p

The message captured in this image carries profound meaning about the nature of individuality and the pressure of comparisons, especially when it comes to children. The analogy of the sun and the moon highlights the unique beauty and purpose of every individual. Just as the sun and moon have their distinct roles in the cycle of time, children too have their own timelines to shine and succeed. This thought provokes reflection on the importance of nurturing a child's personal journey without the weight of external expectations or societal pressures. Every child has their own strengths, passions, and rhythm, which will reveal themselves in due course, much like how the sun illuminates the day, and the moon lights up the night. The sun and the moon don’t compete, and similarly, comparing a child to others can stifle their own light and potential. Understanding this concept can foster a nurturing environment where children are encouraged to thrive on their own terms, free fr

Getting Old Is Mandatory, Feeling Old Is Optional Ah, the inevitable march of time! It’s that one appointment in life we just can’t cancel, no matter how many wrinkle creams we slather on or how many meditation classes we attend. The hair starts to gray, wrinkles creep in unannounced, and before you know it, what used to take five minutes now takes five hours. Yes, getting old is mandatory — like a software update you can’t ignore. But here’s the catch: feeling old? That’s totally up to you! Sure, your body might be dropping some hints — creaky joints, groaning bones, the occasional "What did I come into this room for?" moments. But does that mean you have to feel old? Absolutely not! Feeling old is as optional as whether or not you reply to those “Happy Birthday” messages on Facebook. Once upon a time, your idea of a great night was staying out till 3 AM, and now, a “wild” night involves staying awake past 10 PM to finish that Netflix series. Does that make you o

Saddened to learn of the passing of Dame Maggie Smith at the age of 89. A true legend of British stage and screen, she leaves behind an extraordinary legacy. Best known for her iconic roles as Professor Minerva McGonagall in Harry Potter and the Dowager Countess Violet Crawley in Downton Abbey, Dame Maggie's career spanned eight decades, earning her two Oscars and eight Baftas. Her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, shared the heartbreaking news, revealing that she passed away peacefully in hospital with family by her side. A fiercely private person, she will be deeply missed by her loved ones, including her five grandchildren. Tributes have poured in from co-stars and fans alike, with Hugh Bonneville describing her as a "true legend" and Rob Lowe calling her "unforgettable." Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed her as a "national treasure" whose work will be cherished for generations. Dame Maggie's brilliance a

சுதேசமித்ரன், முன்னோடியான தமிழ் நாளிதழ், 1882 ஆம் ஆண்டு தேசியவாதம், சமூக நீதி, மற்றும் முன்னேற்றத்திற்கு தனது வாழ்நாளை அர்ப்பணித்த பாரம்பரிய சீர்திருத்தவாதியும் தீர்க்கதரிசியும் ஆன ஜி. சுப்பிரமணிய ஐயர் அவர்களால் தொடங்கப்பட்டது. 1855 ஆம் ஆண்டு தஞ்சாவூரில் பிறந்த ஜி. சுப்பிரமணிய ஐயர், தன்னுடைய வாழ்க்கையை நிரந்தரமாக இந்தியாவின் விடுதலைப் போராட்டத்துக்கும் சமூக சீர்திருத்தத்துக்கும் அர்ப்பணித்தவர். 'தி இந்து' நாளிதழின் நிறுவன ஆசிரியராகத் திகழ்ந்த அவர், பின்னர் 'சுதேசமித்ரன்' வில் முழுமையாக கவனம் செலுத்துவதற்காக அங்கிருந்து பிரிந்தார். அவர் செய்தியாளர் முறைகளின் மூலம், நீதியின்மை மற்றும் பின்வாங்கும் ஆட்சிக்கு எதிராக எழுத்துக்களை ஆயுதமாகக் கொண்டு போராடி, தைரியமிக்க, கெடுபிடியற்ற பத்திரிகையமைப்பை முன்னேற்றினார். ஜி. சுப்பிரமணிய ஐயரின் இந்திய விடுதலை இயக்கத்தில் தீவிர ஈடுபாடு, 'சுதேசமித்ரன்' நாளிதழில் வெளியாகிய அவரது கருத்துரை மூலம் வெளிப்பட்டது. இவை பெரும்பாலும் பிரிட்டிஷ் ஒடுக்குமுறையை கடுமையாக விமர்சித்து, சுயாட்சி முக்கியத்துவத்தை விளக்கின. அவரது எழுத்த

Swadesamitran, a pioneering Tamil newspaper, was founded in 1882 by the visionary and social reformer G. Subramania Iyer, a man who dedicated his life to the ideals of nationalism, social justice, and progressivism. Born in Thanjavur in 1855, G. Subramania Iyer was not only a journalist but also an ardent supporter of India's freedom struggle and a firm believer in social reforms. He was the founder-editor of The Hindu newspaper as well, before parting ways with it to focus entirely on Swadesamitran. Through his journalistic endeavors, Iyer wielded the pen as a weapon against injustice and colonial oppression, setting an exemplary standard of fearless, ethical journalism. G. Subramania Iyer’s deep involvement in the Indian independence movement was evident through his editorials in Swadesamitran, which often critiqued British colonial rule and highlighted the importance of Swaraj (self-rule). His writings inspired a sense of political

Beetroot is a vibrant, nutrient-rich vegetable that offers a myriad of health benefits, making it a valuable addition to your daily diet. Its deep red hue is not just visually appealing but also a sign of its richness in essential nutrients. One of the most notable components of beetroot is its high content of nitrates, which have been shown to support cardiovascular health. Consuming beetroot regularly can help lower blood pressure, improving overall heart function and reducing the risk of heart disease. This vegetable is also packed with antioxidants, particularly betalains, which are responsible for its deep color and help combat oxidative stress in the body. These antioxidants work to neutralize harmful free radicals, protecting your cells from damage and supporting overall cellular health. Regular consumption of beetroot may also improve endurance and athletic performance, as the nitrates help enhance blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles during exercise. Beetroot

We are immensely proud to share that our son, Vaibhav, pursuing his BA Honours in Journalism, Digital Media, and English at Christ University, Bangalore Central Campus, has successfully had his letter to the editor published in the Deccan Herald newspaper, Bangalore edition today—on his very first attempt! This was part of an assignment at his college, and his dedication truly shines through. We are grateful for all your blessings and good wishes that have helped him reach this milestone. Blessed Life  Venkataramanan Ramasethu & Sanchayeeta Venkataramanan  Kolkata

Remembering Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar on his birth anniversary, a towering figure of the Bengali Renaissance and the 'Father of Bengali Prose.' Born on 26th September 1820, his progressive ideas on reform and education had a profound impact on 19th-century India, and his rich legacy continues to guide us today. Vidyasagar, whose original surname was Bandopadhyaya, adopted the title Vidyasagar when he became a law graduate, symbolizing his immense knowledge as the “Ocean of Wisdom.” His contributions were vast: author, thinker, activist, social reformer, and above all, a true humanist. Two stories from his life capture his humility and profound wisdom. Once, while traveling to give a lecture, he shared a train ride with a young man unaware of his identity. The young man, seeking a coolie for his suitcase, was advised by Vidyasagar to carry it himself and save the money. When the young officer refused, deeming it beneath his dignity, Vidyasagar quietly carried the sui

We are thrilled to announce that The Sankara Nethralaya Academy (TSNA) has been honored with the prestigious Best Institution Award for Allied Health Sciences - PG Programs by the Tamil Nadu Dr MGR Medical University. This recognition underscores the relentless commitment to excellence in education, research, and healthcare services that TSNA, along with Sankara Nethralaya, has upheld over the years. Sankara Nethralaya, renowned as a global center of excellence in ophthalmic care, has been a source of hope for millions of patients worldwide, offering world-class eye care services with the highest standards of ethical medical practices. Complementing this is The Sankara Nethralaya Academy (TSNA), the educational wing, which has consistently nurtured and trained healthcare professionals across various disciplines. TSNA’s comprehensive programs in Allied Health Sciences (AHS) have consistently produced top-tier professionals, who are now recognized across the globe for their e

Nico Slate’s biography of Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, The Art of Freedom, provides a vibrant and thoughtful portrait of a woman who was far ahead of her time. Through an empathetic yet critical lens, Slate takes us through Kamaladevi’s life, highlighting her relentless energy and vision for a modern India. Slate's account isn’t just another retelling of history but a fresh and reflective exploration of a personality that shaped a significant part of India’s freedom struggle. Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay is often overlooked in mainstream historical narratives, even though she contributed immensely to the creation of modern India. Slate draws from a vast array of resources, including Kamaladevi’s own writings, numerous biographies, letters, official documents, and recollections from those who worked alongside her. The richness of this material is deftly woven into a narrative that breathes new life into her story. Slate’s focus isn’t solely on adding new information but rather

Honoring the timeless legacy of S. P. Balasubrahmanyam on his death anniversary. A musical genius whose voice touched millions of hearts across generations, SPB’s contributions to Indian cinema and music transcend boundaries. With over 50,000 songs in 16 languages, he created unforgettable melodies that became the soul of countless films in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi. His passion for music, which began as a young boy in Nellore, evolved into an illustrious career, earning him six National Awards, countless state honors, and prestigious accolades like the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and the Padma Vibhushan. SPB’s record-breaking achievements, including recording 28 songs in a single day, are a testament to his unmatched talent and dedication. Though we lost him in 2020, his legacy continues to resonate in the hearts of music lovers worldwide. His voice is immortal, and his melodies will forever echo in the annals of Indian music. #RememberingSPB #MusicalLege

Kolkata’s iconic tram service, which has been in operation for over 150 years, is facing discontinuation, except for a short heritage route from Maidan to Esplanade. Tram enthusiasts, however, are planning to protest against this decision, aiming to preserve this part of the city’s history. Kolkata remains the only city in India where trams still run, symbolizing a significant chapter in urban transportation. Trams were first introduced in 1873 as horse-drawn carriages, becoming electric by the early 20th century. Over time, they became an essential mode of transport in Kolkata, renowned for their eco-friendly and non-polluting nature. As the city’s transportation network expanded, roads became congested, leading to concerns about the slow pace of trams amidst increasing vehicular traffic. While trams offer an average speed of 20-30 kmph, which is similar to the speed of many vehicles in the city, critics argue that their presence causes traffic jams during peak hours. Desp

Book Review: Circles of Freedom: Friendship, Love and Loyalty in the Indian National Struggle In Circles of Freedom, T.C.A. Raghavan weaves together a remarkable narrative about friendship, love, and loyalty set against the backdrop of India’s tumultuous journey toward independence. The book is not just about the political movements that shaped India, but also about the personal relationships that were intertwined with the larger nationalistic cause. Through the lens of historical figures, the book offers a closer look at the emotional and social aspects of India's freedom struggle. One of the standout elements of Circles of Freedom is the balance between the personal and political. Raghavan captures how individuals involved in the freedom movement were not just political beings, but also friends, lovers, and family members, bound together by shared ideals and dreams. The emotional core of the book lies in the sacrifices these relationships endured for the sake of a lar

Anant Pai, fondly known as Uncle Pai, was born 94 years ago in Karkala. At the young age of 15, he moved to Mumbai to pursue his studies. Eventually, he began his career at the books division of The Times of India. In 1967, Pai's deep passion for Indian culture and education led him to create Amar Chitra Katha—a revolutionary comic book series focused on Indian history, mythology, and cultural stories. The inspiration for Amar Chitra Katha came from an incident where participants in a quiz competition could answer questions on Greek mythology but failed to identify the mother of Lord Rama. This realization that young Indians lacked knowledge of their own rich heritage fueled Pai’s mission to create accessible, engaging content for the younger generation, ensuring that they would grow up with a strong sense of cultural identity and pride. Pai's Amar Chitra Katha quickly became a household name, retelling tales of Indian epics, saints, and historical figures. Beyond t

Anthony Iannarino's "The Only Sales Guide You’ll Ever Need" delivers a powerful blueprint for success in the world of sales. The book starts by highlighting the importance of mindset, emphasizing that success begins with cultivating resilience, growth, and a positive outlook. Iannarino argues that in sales, it's not just about the product but about the value you bring to your clients. He stresses the importance of creating value over competing on price and suggests adopting a consultative selling approach, where the focus is on problem-solving and uncovering true client needs through meaningful conversations. Building trust and credibility is a key theme throughout the book, as Iannarino explains that transparency and expertise are essential in fostering long-term relationships. He also underlines the power of a compelling value proposition, urging salespeople to differentiate themselves in a crowded market by clearly communicating the unique benefits they

Nigel Warburton’s A Little History of Philosophy offers a fascinating, concise journey through the world of Western philosophy, spanning from ancient Greece to modern times. With its accessible style, the book breaks down complex ideas, making them understandable for readers of all ages and backgrounds. Warburton shines a spotlight on key philosophical questions, such as the nature of reality, the role of reason, and the importance of ethics, weaving these themes through the works of major philosophers like Socrates, Descartes, Kant, and others. Central to the book is the idea that philosophy is about questioning our assumptions and using reason to make sense of the world. Warburton shows how philosophy isn’t just an academic subject but a practical approach to understanding human existence. He delves into various schools of thought, including materialism, idealism, dualism, and ethics, making each chapter an insightful introduction to fundamental topics like the nature of

In "Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More Than Peers," Gordon Neufeld and Gabor Maté highlight the crucial role of parental attachment in a child’s emotional and psychological growth. A strong bond with parents provides children with safety, guidance, and the foundation to thrive. The book warns of the dangers of peer orientation, where children seek validation from peers instead of parents, leading to behavioral issues and disconnection. To prevent this, parents must nurture meaningful connections by spending quality time, being emotionally available, and setting loving boundaries that provide structure. Role modeling positive behaviors and maintaining open communication are also essential to fostering trust and ensuring parents remain the primary influence in their children’s lives. By following these principles, parents can help their children develop into confident, well-adjusted individuals, anchored by a secure attachment. #ParentChildBond #E

As a passionate book aficionado, I’ve curated this list of personal favorite recommendations from across India’s diverse literary traditions. These are works that, in my opinion, offer an unforgettable glimpse into the rich cultures, languages, and histories that make up our vast country. However, I fully acknowledge that individual preferences and sensibilities will vary. Literature, after all, is a deeply personal experience, and what resonates with one may not hold the same allure for another. My intent here is to share stories that have touched me deeply, while also recognizing that each reader’s journey through literature is unique. Here’s a look at the novels that I believe should be read at least once in a lifetime: Bengali Literature "Pather Panchali" by Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay: A deeply moving portrayal of rural Bengal, this novel follows the journey of Apu and his family, reflecting the simplicity of life while exploring themes of hardship, hope, an

J. Krishnamurti’s The Awakening of Intelligence represents a profound exploration of the nature of thought, meditation, and the human mind’s relationship with reality. The book, structured through dialogues, reflects Krishnamurti's deep engagement with thinkers from various traditions, across different continents, emphasizing the universality of human dilemmas and the search for meaning. The statement “Printed words have no life, but you can give life to the printed word if you are serious” reveals Krishnamurti’s belief that the essence of any written philosophy or teaching lies not in the words themselves but in the transformative impact they have on the reader. His teachings often focus on self-inquiry and the awakening of intelligence—an intelligence that transcends mere intellectualism and touches the core of being. The Awakening of Intelligence is more than just a text; it is a guide for inner inquiry. Krishnamurti discusses themes like meditation, truth, education

🌸 Celebrating International Daughter's Day 2024 🌸 On this special day, Sunday, September 22, we honor the joy, strength, and invaluable contributions of daughters everywhere. While a single day may not be enough to express our boundless love, it’s a moment to recognize their role in shaping our families and society. 💖👧 The most precious gift we can offer is empowerment – ensuring equal opportunities in education, employment, and leadership. Let's continue to raise awareness about gender equality and support every girl's journey toward a brighter future. Together, we stand against age-old customs that have held back our daughters and embrace a world where they can thrive. 🌟 💫 Celebrate, empower, and cherish your daughters today and every day! 💫 #DaughtersDay2024 #EmpowerOurDaughters #CelebrateHer #GenderEquality #GirlsCanLead #DaughtersOfTheWorld #ProudParents #EqualOpportunities #LoveAndEmpowerment Venkataramanan Ramasethu

In the opening Test against Bangladesh at Chepauk, Chennai, which concluded on September 22, 2024, India found itself in a precarious position at 144/6. Enter Ravichandran Ashwin, who walked to the crease with the weight of expectations and the team in dire need of a rescue. What followed was a resolute and masterful century by Ashwin, alongside Ravindra Jadeja, to pull India out of trouble and push the score to a respectable total. Reflecting on this gritty knock, Ashwin shared how he's liberated himself from both external and internal pressures that once dictated his approach to the game. “I now just want to play cricket with a smile on my face,” Ashwin revealed. His unbeaten century was a testament to not just his skill but his newfound mental freedom. The 38-year-old veteran has learned to separate his emotions from the pressures that once influenced his performance. In the past, Ashwin admitted, he would often react to even the smallest provocations, be

In a stirring display of grit and determination, Rishabh Pant has made a triumphant return to cricket after facing one of the most challenging setbacks of his career—a near-fatal road accident. Known for his aggressive batting style and sharp wicket-keeping, Pant's comeback is a testament to his unwavering spirit and passion for the game. Pant's career came to a sudden halt in December 2022, when he was involved in a horrific car accident near Roorkee, Uttarakhand. His car collided with a divider on the Delhi-Dehradun highway, causing severe damage. Rishabh suffered multiple injuries, including fractures and ligament tears, raising concerns about his future in cricket. The accident was a significant blow, with fans and cricket pundits unsure whether the young cricketer would ever fully recover to play at the highest level again. Some cricket journalists had prematurely written him off, suggesting that he might never wield the bat or don the wicket-keeping gloves aga

Veteran Malayalam actress Kaviyoor Ponnamma, fondly known as the "Amma" of Malayalam cinema, has left us with an unmatched legacy of maternal roles. From her early portrayal as a mother at just 22 to being a beloved on-screen mother to legendary actors like Mohanlal, Sathyan, Mammootty, and Prem Nazir, her contributions to cinema are irreplaceable. With over 400 films, her unforgettable performances in films like Kireedam, Bharatham, and Thenmavin Kombath will remain etched in our hearts forever. May her soul rest in peace. #KaviyoorPonnamma #AmmaOfMalayalamCinema #MalayalamCinema #LegendaryActress #Mollywood #CinematicLegacy #RIPKaviyoorPonnamma #Mohanlal Venkataramanan Ramasethu

Influence isn't about climbing the corporate ladder; it's about connecting with those around you. When you earn the right to be heard, the influence you can have is remarkable, no matter your position. Clay Scroggins and Andy Stanley’s "How to Lead When You're Not in Charge" offers seven essential lessons for cultivating influence without formal authority: 1. Self-Leadership: Leading others starts with leading yourself. By mastering self-leadership, you earn credibility and the ability to influence, even without an official title. 2. Positivity: A positive mindset, even in tough situations, can elevate your team's energy and morale. Your optimism is a tool for influence. 3. Critical Thinking: Thinking critically allows you to challenge assumptions and make informed decisions. This skill earns you the respect and trust of others. 4. Rejecting Passivity: Don’t fall into a passive mindset. Instead, take proactive steps to influence and create positive

As a film connoisseur, I find the adaptation of remarkable theatre classics into full-length feature films to be a fascinating intersection of two powerful art forms. Each of these adaptations brings the essence of the stage to the screen in its own unique way, offering a new medium through which the audience can experience timeless stories. The 1951 adaptation of Tennessee Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire, directed by Elia Kazan, stands out for its raw portrayal of the psychological and emotional complexities of the characters, effectively translating the intensity of the stage to the film. Franco Zeffirelli’s Romeo and Juliet from 1968 is another noteworthy adaptation, remaining faithful to the original Shakespearean text while visually immersing the audience in a vibrant Renaissance setting. Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman, brought to the screen in 1985 by Volker Schlöndorff, captures the tragedy of Willy Loman’s existence and the elusive nature of the American Dream with a ha

As a film connoisseur, I have encountered numerous cinematic experiences that resonate deeply with the human soul, but few possess the emotional gravity of the following masterpieces. Each of these films leaves an indelible mark, immersing the viewer in themes of loss, suffering, resilience, and the raw intensity of human emotion. Here is a selection of the most emotionally demanding films ever crafted, which also happen to be some of my personal favorites: 1. Schindler’s List (1993) – Steven Spielberg’s Holocaust drama transcends mere storytelling, capturing the harrowing atrocities of war through the redemptive arc of a man who defies his moral corruption to save innocent lives. It is, without question, a cinematic triumph of both sorrow and hope. 2. Grave of the Fireflies (1988) – This Japanese animated gem confronts the devastating effects of war on the innocent with a poignancy that few films, animated or otherwise, can rival. The tale of two siblings navigating the desolation of

The quote, “Teachers won’t make you smart. Mentors won’t make you rich. Trainers won’t make you fit. People can help you, but growth is your responsibility,” offers a powerful and thought-provoking insight into the nature of personal development. It emphasizes the importance of taking charge of one’s own journey, regardless of the external support available. Let's break this down further: Teachers Won’t Make You Smart Teachers provide knowledge, guidance, and wisdom. They expose us to new ideas, challenge our thinking, and help shape our understanding of the world. However, their role is limited to offering tools and resources. A teacher can inspire, but the acquisition of wisdom and intelligence is not a passive process. Learning is not something that happens to you, but something that you must engage in. To truly become “smart,” one must actively take in the information provided by teachers and apply it. Intelligence is cultivated through curiosity, critical thinking,