The rain had been falling relentlessly for days. It wasn’t the gentle monsoon drizzle that Punjab’s farmers awaited for their crops. This was different—angry clouds had burst their fury, and the Sutlej and Beas swelled beyond their banks. Smaller streams like Ghagar turned into raging torrents. Eleven districts were submerged, the fertile paddy fields that […]
The Affectionate Title of “Old Man” to the Commanding Officer in the Army: Tradition, Origin, and Enduring Relevance
In military tradition, few terms carry as much warmth and respect as the affectionate reference to a commanding officer as the “old man.” Though it may sound casual or even irreverent to an outsider, within the regiment it conveys reverence, loyalty, and trust. Its meaning lies not in age, but in responsibility, leadership, and the […]
The Mystery of Being Present at Many Places at the Same Time!
Human life is bound by the laws of space and time. Our bodies can exist only at one place in one moment. Yet, the mind – subtle, limitless, and mysterious – often defies these limitations. We all have experienced moments when someone we love suddenly comes into our thoughts, and soon after, we hear from […]
My Four Prayers!
Before closing my eyes each night, I follow a small, deeply personal ritual. It is simple, private, and almost childlike in its innocence—but it brings me peace. I offer four prayers: one each for my daughters, one for my son, and finally one for all creatures on this Earth. Each prayer I repeat eleven times, […]
Trust, The Silent Language of the Heart!
Trust — The Silent Language of the Heart We often think of trust as something that naturally exists between friends, family, or colleagues — something easily given to those we know. But real trust is far more intimate than simply recognizing a face or sharing a cup of tea. True trust lives in the quiet […]
The Buck Stops at Me, A Leadership Philosophy across all walks of Life!
Leadership and the Burden of Command: A Lesson from the Parade Ground to the Boardroom! During my time in the Indian Army, one defining moment etched itself deeply into my conscience—a piece of advice, simple yet profound, given by a senior officer as I was being promoted to Commanding Officer of my regiment. He looked […]
Whispers of Mind!
“No one knows what lies in another’s heart. But what if… for a few days, everyone did?” PART I: A Family That “Had It All” The Mehra family of Lucknow was the perfect joint family. At least, from the outside. A palatial house, three successful sons, daughters-in-law who hosted kitty parties, kids studying abroad or […]
Three Bodies of a Human!
The Three Bodies of a Human Being in Hindu Philosophy (Sthūla, Sūkṣma, and Kāraṇa Śarīra) 🪔 Introduction Hindu philosophy views the human being not merely as a physical form, but as a layered composition of matter, energy, and consciousness. According to the Vedantic tradition, the human being consists of three bodies (Sharīra-traya): 1. Sthūla Śarīra […]
Stay Connected!
When boredom wraps you in silence tight, And joy feels small, lost from sight— When sorrow knocks, but no one’s near, To lend a word, to wipe a tear… Connect. Find someone, speak your soul, Let conversation make you whole. If family’s far, seek out a friend, And if not them, a stranger can mend. […]
Meditation Beyond Religion: How Music Awakens the Soul of Believers and Non-Believers Alike
Introduction: A Universal Need Beyond Belief Meditation has long been associated with religion — sacred chants, scripture reading, prayer rituals, or visualizing a divine form. But what about those who don’t identify with a religion? Or those who believe in a higher power but don’t follow rituals or scriptures strictly? I asked myself this question, […]
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