Friday, 12 December 2025

Exploring the answers within

Writing this reminded me of the Mahabharat's Yaksha prashna, a Q&A between Yudhishthir and Yaksha.

Here are some of my questions and their answers. 

Q. What's the ultimate joy of life?

A. It lies in creating, expressing, experiencing, and evolving. Yes, think about it.

Q. What is confidence?

A. The ability to talk to oneself with compassion.

Q. What do you love in a movie?

A. Character development throughout the movie. So, don't forget to add this element to your own story. 

Q. What makes you grateful?

A. Staring at the blue sky that isn't blue in reality. But why grateful? because the eyes are such a beautiful instrument that sees vibrant colours.

Q. What is love?

A. Seeing yourself in others.

Q. What is Art?

A. Art is the science, yet not discovered by science. (the logical me)

A. Creative representation of emotions. (the philosopher me)

Q. Why reading?

A. Reading gives food for thought, satisfaction to the soul, and ideas to write on.

Q. Any mantra?

A. Yes. Remind yourself to stay calm while riding on success, and remind yourself to rise from the ashes of failure. 

Q. Why do we work?

A. The human race started painting and collecting wood not just for survival but also to express their creativity. Can we apply the same today?

Q. Why do we have a memory?

A. Because the same event will be seen differently if viewed from different phases of life. 

Q. One underrated social skill?

A. People remember you by how you treated them. And how you treat others is a direct reflection of how you treat yourself.

Q. Why are words so powerful?

A. Words have no power of their own. The arrangement, intensity, and intention poured into them power them.

Q. What to follow in life?

A. No one, no philosophy. I try to follow my conscience.

Q. What drives us to live?

A. PURPOSE and HOPE.

Q. Manual for life?

A. Not there. Being 'patient with your questions' makes it a lil easier :)

~The Stormy Ink









 

Tuesday, 12 August 2025

Why we need Entertainment?

Do you watch movies? Do you gossip? Come on, this post isn’t meant to embarrass you for doing that. We all do that.

to binge on popcorn or ice cream. 

For fun, to relax, to take a break from work. 

Could there be a deeper reason? What we call entertainment often serves a much deeper psychological purpose. 

We watch to seek answers to our questions. 

Entertainment can't be just about having a fun time binge-watching episodes.  

Watching movies or listening to stories is mind's sincere attempt to seek answers to those questions. 

Movies let us live through characters, explore “what ifs,” and test emotional responses without real-life risk. They answer hidden questions like, What would I do in that situation? or Does love really conquer all?

For some of us, gossip is a source of entertainment.

By knowing what's going on in other's lives, are we seeking a solution to our problem?

Aren't we? 

Gossip might seem shallow, but it’s a form of social learning. By observing other’s mistakes, successes, and scandals, we subconsciously collect strategies for our own lives.

So, bottom line: Entertainment isn't  just an escape. It's a way to seek. 

But like our elders say, "Ati Sarvatra Varjayete."

Ok bye! heading to continue my movie...

P.S. Do you like caramel popcorn or masala ones?

                                      


Saturday, 8 February 2025

The Three Keys 🔑

 

The 3 Keys to Unlock the Doors No One Talks About


1) How selective ignorance is bliss?

As a generation that is called Z, we have zillions of information. Yes!, A  problem of abundance.  Huge huge data in disguise of seemingly important information. 

Now, the question isn’t just “Is it important?” but the real question is “Is it important to me now?”

The information is at our fingertips anytime, mostly from anywhere. So, as you look around, you realize that the time is the real currency of this age. We all know it but how to practically use this currency?

Selective ignorance is the rescue we need.

Once you understand this information isn’t important, don’t fall into the pit of consuming it. We feel tempted to check what’s going on in someone’s life. And as everybody is an influencer nowadays, things have become more voyeuristic. If something does not resonate with you at this point then ignore it. Doesn’t this approach lead to dogma? No, because Selective ignorance does not mean closing yourself off to new ideas or urgent matters. 

It’s about conscious awareness

You actually know what you’re ignoring and why. It’s like saying, “This isn’t for me right now.” This approach is flexible and evolves with your priorities. It is about reducing the thought we give upon it. 

Every piece of information you consume has an emotional footprint. Even if it seems insignificant, it can subtly shape our mood, values, and daily decision-making. This is why selective ignorance is about not just saving time but also guarding your emotional and cognitive health.

 I believe that every piece of data on the internet holds the potential to lead to a conclusion, something AI is already doing. So why, my friend, are we scrolling endlessly as if we are the algorithm ourselves?So, before watching random vlogs on the internet ask: “Does this serve me or is ignorance bliss here” The idea is best understood when practised. 

The principle of opportunity cost can also be connected well with selective ignorance. Every moment spent on irrelevant information is a moment taken away from something meaningful. The practice of selective ignorance naturally leads to the joy of missing out (JOMO). The contentment that comes from knowing you’re not chasing every trend or piece of information. 

By choosing what to ignore, you free yourself from the pressure to be everywhere and know everything, creating space for deeper focus, genuine connections, and meaningful pursuits.

2)    A lesson worth learning

A profound and practical truth about human behavior and self-growth: People often pay for external structures like yoga classes, gym memberships, or life coaches, not just for the knowledge, but for the discipline, accountability, and focus these frameworks provide. 

The simplicity of this concept lies in the realization that these qualities can be cultivated internally without external expenses, provided we have the awareness and determination to do so. Give this exact prompt to your mind: “I’m aware that people pay for discipline, and if I can build it by myself, I will be richer”

3)    Money

Money is something that troubles almost all the students. We either feel a lack of it or feel guilty about spending our parent’s money. Ask simple questions:

  • Where to spend? Identify key areas of spending. This helps to segregate.
  • What are my leisure activities? Everyone must have their leisure list because it is essential! Isn’t it?  I’m making mine too keeping a few things in mind: must be based on real joy and not out of peer pressure. Exciting-challenging endeavors i.e. experimenting with safety gears. This also makes us responsible. Use pocket money to make responsible decisions.
  • How much expense in leisure is acceptable? Fix as per your budget and stick to it. You can also balance a deficit month with a surplus one. Thoughtful management of leisure spending brings a deeper, more fulfilling sense of joy.
  • How to manage it?

o   Set a Limit: Decide on a spending cap and stick to it. For purchases exceeding this limit, give yourself a buffer period to reflect before making the decision.

o   Track all big expenses.

o   Affirmation! Listen to me or rather repeat “Money is an exchange, it comes easy and goes easily. I manage it well and I use it wisely.” You may call it a prompt if you find self-help a bit annoying.

o   Pro tip: Don’t get confused between liquid investments (easily accessible and exchangeable resources) and emotional investments (purchases with sentimental value or rarity, such as gold, collectibles, or memorabilia like M.S. Dhoni's autograph).  Evaluate Emotional vs. Practical Value: Ask yourself, “Will I regret this purchase if I need funds in the future?”

Conclusion

The doors to clarity, discipline, and fulfillment are not locked to keep you out. They’re waiting for you to find the keys. By mastering the silent art of selective ignorance, cultivating inner discipline, and managing your resources wisely, you can unlock pathways to success that others overlook. Remember, the real magic lies not just in what you pursue, but in what you consciously choose to leave behind. Every step forward begins with the choice to turn the right key. The question is: Will you pick up the keys and walk this path?

-The Stormy Ink

By Aashi Gupta

Monday, 8 July 2024

Into The Wild


[The book and movie 'Into The Wild' is based on the true story of solo traveller Chris McCandless who went on to live in an abandoned bus in Alaska in pursuit of quenching his adventurous spirit. Living a life raw and wild]

 Yesterday, had an argument with one of the family members. thought of quitting home? Nah! Perhaps never, but what if someone actually does that? Leaving not just family but almost all human relations? I am referring to Christopher McCandless. Here I'm taking the liberty to present my views and to explore the interpretation of the movie 'Into the Wild'.

Was it his resentment towards his quarrelsome parents who knowingly/ unknowingly ruined the childhood of both their children? Or was it his dream to live the life of Mowgli that drifted him into the wild?

The answer will be subjective.

The fact that his story is real and people have risked even losing their lives just to see that magic bus where Chris lived in the wild is unimaginable. Later the bus was removed. If I ask why only we recall Chris? But not the one who lost his life in the quest to see that magic bus. Chris died while living a life we all have fantasized about at some point. Some people say that he was a brave man who pursued his dream. Some say that he was a stupid who went into the wild unequipped, and underprepared. Anything that was 'over' in his journey was his confidence to survive in the wild. Man takes action based on what he thinks to be correct at that time. It is the time that determines the correctness of the decisions. What matters the most is the freedom to make one's own decisions. If he would have survived, we would be celebrating his arrival. Children would read about his story of perseverance in the textbook. Unfortunately, the story ends with an SOS message by Chris.  

It touches when Christopher says " how important it is in life not necessarily to be strong, but to feel strong... to measure yourself at least once. To find yourself at least once in the most ancient of human conditions. Facing the blind death stone alone, with nothing to help you but your hands and your own head." Feeling strong is the first step in becoming strong. 

What's the point of living in a so-called secure world when it isn't so? 

How important it is to not necessarily to be secure, but to feel secure in the arms of your home. Humans developed caves to get shelter. It is that shelter that has manifested into the modern-day society we live in today. 

Learnings:

  • Taught me the side effects of being an extremist. Learnt 'What not to do' more than 'what to do'. The equilibrium between monotony and adventure, between sanity and craziness, between life and death. Life is about finding that sweet spot.
  • Many times, we make plans so strict that we neglect the scope of adventure. So the next time an uncertain wave comes in, take a breath and enjoy the splash.


Some beautiful lines from the movie:

"The fragility of crystal is not a weakness but a fineness." Just as how we celebrate with flowers, not with stones.

"People soften by the forced reflection caused by loss."

"The core of man's spirit comes from new experiences.”

"As the last line says 'happiness is only real when shared." 

The movie is a sure-shot way to rediscover one's concept of freedom. Christopher did what he felt was right. After a fair contemplation session do what feels right for you.  ________________________________________________________________________________

-Aashi Gupta 

Saturday, 11 November 2023

Gratitude: A Practical Guide

 Gratitude: A Practical Guide 

On July 20th, 2022, I found myself compelled to grab my pen and document my thoughts in my diary: gratitude is the best feeling in the world. But why did I feel such a strong urge to express this sentiment? Let's dive deeper into the significance of gratitude.

What is Gratitude?

Gratitude is the beautiful feeling of being blessed, a perspective that allows us to see the bright sides of life. It's a sensation we often experience without even realizing it. Picture this: a power outage in your area, sweat dripping down your forehead. Then, after nearly two long hours, electricity suddenly returns. Can you feel that immense sigh of relief? That deep sense of thankfulness to the individual who invented electricity? That, my friend, is what gratitude is all about!

Gratitude is pure and genuine thankfulness. It goes beyond the superficial usage of the words "thank you." It's a profound expression of appreciation that goes much deeper than a mere formal bow. Gratefulness is an attitude of greatness, a transformative force that can enrich every aspect of our lives.

Why Do We Need to Learn Gratitude?

Gratitude not only enhances our happiness, but it also fosters acceptance of our present situations and circumstances. When we practice gratitude, it creates a ripple effect of kindness and positivity. Just as we appreciate our surroundings, they respond in a similar manner. Gratitude has the power to improve our overall perception of people, things, and situations. It replaces our complaining attitude with a more positive and grateful outlook. Embracing gratitude allows us to find joy in even the simplest moments and opens our hearts to the beauty that surrounds us. Let's choose gratitude and experience a transformation in our lives.

Gratitude: Practicing Versus Imposing

Are you tired of mindlessly counting or writing down things you "should" be grateful for? Does it feel like an imposed obligation rather than a genuine feeling? Well, you're not alone. There is a difference between simply going through the motions of gratitude and truly experiencing it.

Imagine reluctantly writing down statements like "I am grateful for having good food" without actually feeling it. How frustrating would it be to see a conflict between what is written on paper and what is going on in your mind? It's time to break free from that pattern.

Let's acknowledge the truth: we don't feel grateful all the time, and that's okay. It's perfectly normal to occasionally feel the need to vent or complain. Following a rigid regime of gratitude won't help us.

So what is the best way to practice gratitude, then? It starts with acceptance. Gratitude originates from accepting things as they are. Picture it as putting on a pair of spectacles that allows you to see the vibrant colours and blessings that often go unnoticed. The more we embrace this perspective and actively thank every bit of life, the better we become at it.

Rather than forcing yourself to scribble down a list of things, let's focus on truly seeing the beauty and blessings around us. Let gratitude emerge naturally as we recognize the goodness in our lives. It's time to shift our perspective and appreciate every little joy that comes our way.

Fun Ways to Practice Gratitude

• Adding a Creative Reminder: A hand band, a piece of music, a memorable photo, or even a sketch on your desk can become an indicator that reminds us to think and act with gratitude. These indicators will also help us reflect on what’s going on in our minds.

• Intentional Fasting: Intentionally and occasionally abstaining from things that make our lives too comfortable can make us realize the importance of the elements that catalyse our existence. For example, fasting makes us more grateful for food; purposefully avoiding something results in thankfulness. However, this should not be done excessively and unnecessarily. There lies a difference between starving and fasting. And gratitude is all about being at peace with the present.

• Confessing: Showing thankfulness to the people whom you are grateful for will not only give you the joy of expressing but also strengthen your relationships. Writing a thank you letter or just mentioning what you feel can bring you into the gratitude zone.

• Poetries: If creating a typical list of “I am grateful for…” feels mundane, then this poetry method is for you. Start reading poems on gratitude. To take it a step further, compose your own poems and symphonies. This is an incredible way to practice gratitude.

• There are many more ways to practice gratitude, such as a gratitude journal, gratitude jar, and so on. The most creative one is the one created by yourself. So let’s start discovering our own ways. Until then, utilize the above-mentioned tools.

How to Start?

Appreciating nature and its beauty is a quick way to embark on your gratitude journey. Begin by observing your surroundings and contemplating how your life would be without them. Recognize how each element of this ecosystem selflessly supports and sustains one another. From the flowers to the oceans, the fire to the mountains, and the animals and beyond, every element offers joy. It is now your turn to express gratitude, to say "thank you," and acknowledge that you are fortunate to be here and happy to have this life.

Conclusion:

Gratitude is an incredibly fascinating concept, but it's important to remember that its true power cannot be fully understood through reading alone. Its true essence is felt when we practice it willingly, without any pressure. Gratitude stems from a sense of acceptance and thankfulness. It's crucial to acknowledge that we won't feel grateful at all times, and that's perfectly okay. Instead of being hard on ourselves, it's more important to be genuine and authentic. The simple rule is to express gratitude whenever we genuinely feel it. May you have a grateful, peaceful, and joyful life. Be grateful!

-Aashi Gupta


Thursday, 24 August 2023

Born To Win: A Pact With Self.

Born to Win


In a world filled with hurting pins,

I rise above, for I am destined to win.

While some are keen on settling in,

I have a fire within, confidently built-in.


Problems, like milestones, pave my way,

I embrace them all, learning day by day.

They shape me, mold me, and make me strong,

Fueling my determination all along.


As the night unfolds its gentle embrace,

I find solace in its tranquil grace.

I cherish the darkness, the dreams it brings,

For in its stillness, my spirit truly sings.


With unwavering faith, I strive and persist,

Knowing that my purpose cannot be dismissed.

Each step I take, every endeavor I pursue,

I am born to win, and that truth shines through.


So let the doubters doubt, let the skeptics sneer,

Their disbelief only fuels my inner cheer.

For deep within, I hold the unwavering belief,

That I am born to win, and greatness is my motif.


In this journey called life, I seize the night,

Embracing challenges with all my might.

For in the face of adversity, I will thrive,

For I am born to win, and winning self is my win!

-Aashi Gupta

Thursday, 10 August 2023

Exploring the application of IPC to Mahabharata

Disclaimer: This blog explores the imaginative application of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) to events in the Mahabharata, with the intention of blending legal provisions with creativity and not intending to offend religious sentiments.

Exploring the application of IPC to Mahabharata

Image source: wallpaperaccess.com

This blog is insipred by blog published on Finology legal titled “Whatif IPC existed in the times of ramayan?”Let’s prepare the chargesheets of the Different characters of Mahabharata based on IPC sections!

Incident 1: Duryodhana’s Attempts on Bhim and Pandavas’ Lives:

Duryodhana’s attempts to kill Bhim with poisonous food. He also attempted to set Lakshagrah on fire in order to kill pandavas . Both the events would be charged under IPC Section 307 for attempt for murder.

Incident 2: Polygamy:

 Shantanu’s marriage to two women and Draupadi’s marriage to five men could be seen as the offense of polygamy and polygandry respectively under IPC Section 494, which prohibits marrying again during a spouse’s lifetime.

Incident 3: Harassment of Draupadi:

The troubling event of harassment of Draupadi by Duryodhana and Dushashan Section 354A criminalizes any act by a person that assaults or uses criminal force against a woman to harm her modesty.

Incident 4: Mama Shakuni’s Abetment:

Shakuni’s constant encouragement of Duryodhana’s wrongdoing could be considered abetment, covered by IPC Sections 107-120. Section 109 states that abetment carries the same punishment as the actual offense.

Incident 5: Eklavya and Discrimination:

Guru Dronacharya’s refused to teach Eklavya because he belonged to Nishada community. This does not directly violate IPC, but it resonates with the spirit of our evolving society, which seeks to eliminate discrimination, especially in education, as protected by our constitution.

Incidrnt 6: Abhimanyu’s Capture:

The capture of Abhimanyu during the Chakravyuh battle could be likened to “wrongful confinedment” defined under Section 339 of the IPC. False imprisonment is wrongfully obstructing a person to prevent proceeding him in any direction beyond a circumscribed limit.

Conclusion: The Mahabharata is a captivating account of mythology that offers profound insights into human nature, ethics, and morality. Applying legal concepts enhances our understanding of the complexities of law and its implications. It’s fascinating to see how the epic’s characters and their actions can be analyzed through the framework of modern legal principles, showcasing the timeless relevance of both the story and the law in shaping our society and values.

 By examaining the epic of Mahabharata through the lens of Indian Penal code we can observe the evolution of societal norms and legal principles, showing how our understanding of justice has evolved over time. As we delve into this creative thought experiment, we can reflect on the intersection of history, culture, and the law.

The interpretation and scope of crimes is subject to the dynamics of our society. How certain actions could be interpreted differently in different contexts.

-Aashi Gupta


Saturday, 22 July 2023

A Greedy Hunter: The Tale of the Patient Lizard

 Yesterday when I woke up I found that my floor had become a gathering place for an unusual number of flies, buzzing around lazily. But what caught my attention, even more, was a tiny lizard sitting calmly amidst the swarm of flies, praying on the them. I picked up my broomstick, intending to shoo the lizard away. It went away momentarily, seeking shelter in a crevice. However after sometime my attempts to deter it seemed to be in vain, the lizard was no more afraid of me. As the day passed, I couldn't help but observe the lizard's behavior with curiosity. It would patiently wait, analyzing the flies' movements, before pouncing on its prey. 

Did the lizard have emotions? Could it feel satisfaction from its success or disappointment when it missed a catch? While it was challenging to fathom the lizard's emotions, It seemed greedy in its pursuit of flies, almost risking its own life just to satisfy its hunger.


In conclusion, the encounter with the lizard left me with more questions than answers. Did animals truly have emotions? Perhaps the lizard's persistent actions shows resemblance to a person with insatiable greed. Or maybe, it was simply following its instincts, unaware of any underlying emotions. The mysteries of the natural world continue to unfold, reminding us that every creature, big or small, has a unique story to tell.

-Aashi Gupta

Sunday, 9 July 2023

The Beauty of a Poetry

Poetry is like a deep dive into the fathomless ocean of human emotion.   I read the poetry "An elementary school classroom in a slum" by Stephen Spender, an English poet, who tried to draw a picture of slum children sitting in the school. Though the sight of the English slum school is different from that of where I live. Yet the poem gives the equal burn to me,  equal sorrow for slum children as it gives to any Englishman. Poetries don't need a compass.

1) Universal applicability is the element that makes poetries famous around the globe. Read and enjoyed by all men and women.   

Remember Robert Frost's "The road not taken": a brilliant example of universal applicability.     

2) The second element that provides wind to the wings of poetry is a "pun"

Poems are instruments to experience human emotion. Imaginations differ but the true essence remains constant.   

3) The rhyme at the end of the line gives a  satisfying feeling like that of having a dessert delight after a meal. 

collaboration of the reader's imagination with the poet's idea is what we call a poetry 

 to sum up, all the above-mentioned elements, let's make one right here:

The poetry of life will swing 

until the last breath

it will swing high and low 

Sometimes it may glow

Sometimes it may blow 

But the only thing to know is to 
 
keep going, go. 

-Aashi Gupta

Perspectives on life

 Life can be seen and experienced in various ways, and different people may have different perspectives on its nature and purpose.

Some may perceive life as a war to be fought, a constant adventure filled with challenges and obstacles to overcome. For them, life might require resilience, determination, and the willingness to fight for what they believe in.

On the other hand, some may view life as a struggle to suffer, perceiving it as a journey filled with pain and hardship. These individuals might find solace in enduring difficulties, finding meaning in their ability to persevere and grow through adversity.

There are also those who see life as a joy to be enjoyed, focusing on finding happiness, fulfillment, and contentment in their experiences. They may prioritize pursuing pleasure, cultivating positive relationships, and embracing moments of joy and gratitude.

For some, life is a story to narrate, a unique journey full of experiences, lessons, and personal growth. They may see themselves as the authors of their own narratives, shaping their lives through their choices, actions, and the stories they tell.


Alternatively, life can be seen as a puzzle to decode, a complex and intricate mystery waiting to be unraveled. These individuals may approach life with curiosity and a thirst for knowledge, seeking understanding, and attempting to find solutions to the mysteries and questions that arise.

The concept of "balance" is often regarded as an important philosophy to apply in life. It suggests finding a middle ground between extremes, neither living on the razor's edge nor retreating into a bubble of comfort. It entails navigating the challenges and uncertainties of life while maintaining equilibrium and avoiding excessive suffering or complacency.

Another philosophy that can be valuable is "patience with questions." Embracing uncertainty and being open to questioning can foster a mindset of continuous learning and growth. It acknowledges that not all questions have immediate answers, but the act of seeking and questioning can lead to personal development and the cultivation of a seeker's attitude.

Understanding that our negative deeds often stem from inner grudges or disturbances can help us develop empathy and compassion for ourselves and others. 

 Ultimately, we may find our own meaning and purpose in life, and these perspectives can evolve and change throughout their individual journeys.

One line that resonate with all philosophies is that courage is the language of life.

-Aashi Gupta

Thursday, 23 March 2023

Finding joy in simplicity

 

 It was a wintry day. My friend and I were returning from our tuition classes. Our brains were still working on memorizing the class formulas. Suddenly, I noticed something. In a  slow-motion, cloudy-filter , I saw a girl firmly holding her rubber chappals. She jumped in the air, flipping her hair and hit the shuttle with a burst of laugh on her face. The sight was exhilarating.

 

The next day, I visited that place. Their home, a tin hut, was just next to the construction site where her mother was working. I asked her mother if she was there. She gave her daughter a call. She arrived. I handed her the badminton rackets thinking that I was bringing something that would enhance her enjoyment of the game. However, her words made me question my own understanding of what it means to find happiness and fun.She looked at me, sensing my confusion, and explained, “You see, fun is not about the things you have or the money you spend. It’s about the moments you create and the joy you find in the simplest of things. I don’t need fancy rackets to enjoy playing badminton. I can use anything I find, even if it’s just a rubber slipper, and still have a great time.”

Speechless and stunned I am standing there like a statue. 

Now as I look back on that wintry day and the encounter with the girl, I am grateful for the unexpected lesson she taught me. She was a reminder that happiness and fun can be found in the simplest of things, and that true fulfillment comes from embracing the beauty of life, one moment at a time. I discovered that she had an incredible ability to see beauty in the simplest of moments.

-Aashi Gupta

 

 

 

 

 


Saturday, 4 February 2023

A contract with CLAT

A contract with CLAT 📜


Prima facie offer seemed captivating 😃

so, we summoned all our dreams💭

And posted the letter of acceptance.✉️

We entered into a contract.📝

Hard Work was sine qua non.🚧

Blood,🩸sweat,💦toil💪 were the consideration we paid

Skipping mock was a breach of contract.📑

Excuses were void ab initio.🚫

Negligence in reading was punishable with low mock marks.

Making same mistakes again and again was a criminal offence.🦹‍♂️

Practice was our affidavit.

Witness of patience was cross examined.

Verdict was announced !

shhh!! silence

Jury said that👩‍⚖️

life belongs to those 

who walk on fire🔥and sleep on saar🌊

If those who were timid are now courageous, the contract is valid. 

-Aashi Gupta

Saturday, 24 December 2022

Life is a roller coaster

"Life is a roller coaster" I conclude , everytime i get an adernaline rush due to extreme jubilation or due to extreme grief.
With having full knowledge of how it is going to be like , we step into this roller coaster of life and then complain- why this time is so hard.
I find it ridiculous when I remember my pastself worrying over exams, presentation in clsaa, whatif the the topics I haven't studied will come in exams. Was that even a thing to be worry about. As we grow up we witness different dimensions of life.
I love to solve the mess i create.
I love to face the harships,
I love to laugh  on my past self worrying about small things.(which I would call harships at that time)
Past achievements or harships seem tiny when we have something more elephantine on our way. Life is always going to be like this, bigger troubles-turning better version of ourself.Talking so much about life, I haven't seen it too closely,I am just an eighten with miniscule experience of what we call as life.

-Aashi Gupta 
 

Friday, 29 April 2022

What is language?

Language and the Paradox of Linguistic Diversity in India

Language is a vehicle of human culture. It is a living organism, constantly evolving and accommodating coinages from sister languages. The mother tongue holds a unique place, standing as a witness to the passage of time, while other languages serve as windows through which we perceive the world.

In India, we have been burdened by the paradox of language. English, in particular, has become a segregating force. Surprisingly, a rickshaw driver is considered literate if he can read and write in any language mentioned in constitution but that wouldn't help him getting done his insurance paperwork, he will have to consult someone who is proficient in English, leading to a disparity in opportunities. While linguistic diversity enriches Indian culture, it can also foster linguistic elitism and create an inferiority gap.

If a person speaks something, he has certain pictures in his mind related to the words he is speaking. The listener also has pictures related to those words. But the images in the speaker's mind may differ from the images in the listener's mind. It means the meaning of the same word is different for different people. We can conclude that everyone has a distinct language of their own because the visuals in everyone's head are different. However, we have common images regards almost all of the things that makes it easy to communicate. 

In conclusion, language serves as a remarkable tool to comprehend human thought processes, yet the more we explore its intricacies, the more we encounter confusion. Embracing linguistic diversity can enhance our understanding of one another while fostering a harmonious coexistence.

Aashi Gupta
(Language puzzles me more than space.)

Wednesday, 27 April 2022

What keeps our values alive ?

 Have you ever wondered why we have  "M G road" in almost every city in our country?

 why do we have so many statues and symbols of great personalities?

 why do we remember them?

what picture comes to our minds when we say Mahatma Gandhi Road?

When I think of Mahatma Gandhi Marg, the picture that comes to my mind is where Gandhiji is walking on the way with his stick. This MG Marg reminds me of the importance of walking which is good from both fitness and environmental perspective. Walking was a prominent part of Gandhi's life. 


When I say Bhagat Singh Square, my soul is immediately filled with courage and confidence. when I say Braj Vihar colony, I imagine a place where everybody is living peacefully. All this happens at a very subconscious level. we don't pay attention to these in our daily lives but these names keep our values alive. It gives us a message to inculcate their attributes in our lives.

This small effort has a big impact on our society. It inspires us to learn something from their lives.

History offers us lessons and some mysteries that may never be revealed.

So instead of discussing past people, let's discuss their ideas, their work, their impacts, and how they did it.

let the mysteries be in their place, grab the learnings, and impart them in our actions.

Because it is ideas that rule the world, not the leaders. Think 

-Aashi Gupta

Thursday, 10 March 2022

Savitribai Phule

 Imagine!

your most respected teacher is on her way to school.  How would you react?

either you will gently greet them:- good morning, good evening accordingly

or you will hesitate and quickly walk away if you are a backbencher sort of student. 

 but let me open the curtains of the nineteenth century.....

The teacher is on her way to school. suddenly people start throwing pebbles, garbage, and even feces at her.  " I am doing a sacred task of teaching my young sisters, the stones pelted at me are like flowers," she said.

she is the reason why schools are open to everyone. She made it possible for all girls and guys to be able to study together in co-ed. She even started night schools for laborers, (who would work during the daytime and study at night.) She initiated PTMs. Her efforts bring about a revolution in history and resulted in a transformation in the education sector. 

she is Savitribai Phule.

lessons from the life of Phule;-

👉what does it take to be fearless:- the courage to question the existing system.

👉 The change will always be criticized until it becomes a routine.




 

Saturday, 15 January 2022

Lost Spring: A poetry to light the blind.

Lost Spring


{She works in the bangle factory, he works in glass factory. But who and why?}

In the race of charm,

we ignored the harm 

to those little tattered hands,

who worked hard to get a piece of bread

And we lived the life of pinks and reds

while they starved on stone beds 

The flowers of childhood withered 

in the furnaces.

The eyes which lost their bright 

who stole their blossom?

In the hunt for sapphires

we let them juggle in fire 

In the greed of wealth,

we kicked them to sacrifice their health.

In the race of materialism,

have we forgotten humanism?

                                        -Aashi Gupta 

                                        The Stormy Ink

Exploring the answers within

Writing this reminded me of the Mahabharat's Yaksha prashna, a Q&A between Yudhishthir and Yaksha. Here are some of my questions and...