The consumer culture, in unholy alliance with the media, has spoon-fed us the idea that marriage is just an extended honeymoon with better furniture. In reality, marriage is about responsibilities. It’s about sharing each other’s lives and nudging each other toward being better humans—sometimes gently, sometimes with the force of a cricket bat to the ego.

Marriage in India: The Horror Story No Bollywood Film Warned You About

(A survival manual disguised as an article)

 

Someone once said, “Marriage has nothing to do with romance.” They were right. In fact, if romance is a bird, marriage is the closed window it smashes into, followed by a very awkward silence.

For years, Bollywood and advertising have pumped our heads full of fairy tales: marry the one you love, life will be a forever honeymoon, and you’ll dance in the rain without catching flu. But here’s the ugly truth—marriage is less about holding hands and more about holding a plumber’s number because the geyser died at 6 a.m.
 
I know it seems alarming, but divorce among Indians is no longer considered taboo. The situation has altered considerably over the past ten years due to a variety of factors, one of which is the lopsided laws against married men. To those who are unaware of the ground realities, India's divorce rate is rising and is among the highest in the world.

 

The Bollywood Trap for Men

Boys grow up thinking they must be part Shah Rukh Khan, part Salman Khan, and part Swiss Bank account. The movies convince them that being a good husband means always being romantic, rich, and patient enough to listen to long emotional speeches about curtains.
 
Reality check: marriage is 90% responsibility, 9% compromise, and 1% deciding where to order food from without starting World War III.
 
Though there are laws in place to protect married women from domestic violence abuse in India, no equivalent law exists to protect married males. According to statistics, they are frequently harassed, assaulted, and even killed by their wives/intimate partners. The saddest thing is that they have no place to report physical abuse. 

When Good Men End Badly

We’ve seen it—AI engineers, HR managers, Merchant Navy officers… men with brilliant careers, reduced to emotional rubble because they married the wrong person.
 
Men's abuse and husband murders are no longer a rarity; they are widespread and prevalent in all segments of society.

Men, this is not a decision to make casually or under family pressure. You are not a marriage lottery ticket. You are a human being with mental and physical health worth protecting.

 

Romance Is Temporary—Character Is Permanent

Pre-marriage communication isn’t foolproof, but it’s your best weapon. Smile when you hear “I love you,” but don’t believe it like a WhatsApp forward. Instead, watch and observe:
 

• How do they behave when angry?

• How do they handle disagreement—calm talk or emotional nuclear war?

• What are their views on morality, crime, and justice?

• Do they care about values, or only about vibes?

• How do they treat their own family and friends?

 
Talk. Discuss. Debate. Disagree. Repeat. You’re not just looking for someone to share Netflix with—you’re looking for someone who won’t turn your life into a psychological horror series.
 
Remember, even government data reveals that Indian women are increasingly abusing laws to settle disagreements. This is not limited to married women exclusively. There are blatant misuse of laws that ladies employ to extort money or achieve other ulterior goals. 

 

The Harsh Truth

Social media has weaponized “perfect couple” photos to make normal relationships feel broken. Patience has evaporated, expectations have exploded, and laws plus financial pressure have made men extra cautious.
 
Marriage can still be beautiful, yes—but only when it’s chosen wisely, not out of pressure, fear of missing out, or because “shaadi ka season chal raha hai.”
 
Men, remember: choosing a life partner isn’t about finding your “forever love story.” It’s about avoiding a perfectly avoidable tragedy.

My Parents, My Enemies: A Tale of Well-Meaning Sabotage

Okay, here's a blog post exploring that complex relationship, written as if from the perspective of someone feeling alienated by the very values their parents instilled

My Parents, My Frenemies: How Being Raised Right Made Me Completely Wrong for This World

I love my parents. I really do. They’re basically the poster couple for “good people.” They worked hard, gave me everything, and raised me with a moral compass so squeaky clean it could double as a mirror.

And yet… here I am, getting absolutely wrecked by life.

In Hindsight

See, the problem isn’t that they were bad parents. The problem is that they were parenting overachievers. They built me this perfect little bubble — full of kindness, empathy, and “always think about how the other person feels.” Which sounds great… until you step out into a world where the only thing people think about is how they feel.

Imagine showing up to a knife fight with a box of cupcakes. That’s me, every Monday.

My parents raised me to avoid conflict like it was a contagious disease. Keep the peace. Find the middle ground. Be the bigger person. Which is noble — right up until you realize you’ve spent the last decade apologizing for things you didn’t do, letting people cut in front of you (in line and in life), and holding back in arguments you could totally win… if you weren’t so busy trying to “see their perspective.”

And the manners. Oh, the manners. I “please” and “thank you” my way through the day like I’m auditioning for a Victorian etiquette manual. I hold doors. I give up my seat. I leave space in traffic. And in return? People treat me like an obstacle they can just breeze past.

Always In Crosshairs

Do I want to become one of those loud, elbows-out people who bulldoze their way through life? Not exactly.

Do I sometimes envy them? Absolutely.

Because while I’m over here making sure everyone’s comfortable, they’re out there getting stuff done. And I have to admit… it works.

Here’s the tragic comedy: my parents honestly thought their way would make me happy, respected, and maybe even successful. In some alternate universe — where unicorns roam free and everyone recycles — they’d be right. But in this one? The kind and patient get eaten alive by the loud and shameless.

So now I’m stuck with these impossible questions:

Is kindness actually better than being assertive?

Is forgiveness always noble, or is it just giving someone a coupon for a free second screw-over?

Can you actually thrive in a world where ruthlessness is a job requirement?

Finally

I know my parents acted out of love. They wanted to protect me, to guide me, to give me the best possible start in life. But in their well-intentioned efforts, they inadvertently made me vulnerable, naive, and ill-equipped to deal with the harsh realities of modern society.

So thanks, Mom and Dad. Thanks for the love, the  sacrifices, and the moral code that’s gotten me trampled on more times than I can count. I’m still figuring out how to merge your values with, you know… staying alive out here.

Until then, I’ll keep smiling politely while silently screaming. Because, well — it’s the polite thing to do.

A Dog Sitting Alone On The Shore Looking At Waves

Discover a wonderful story of a dog finding a haven on the shore, fascinated by the hypnotic waves.

Prologue: 

A Dog Sitting Alone On A Seashore 

Imagine a dog sitting alone on a beach. Its gaze is fixated on the waves that dance before it. What is going on in its fuzzy head? Join me on a fanciful trip as we explore the thoughts and feelings of this lonely dog.

A Solitary Canine

Let's start by looking at this wonderful creature's physical features. 

 

With a velvet coat and wide, expressive eyes, this dog is the epitome of charm. Its fur, a mix of earthy browns and vivid golds, appears to reflect the colours of the sun-kissed sand beneath its paws.

Social life

The dog's looks, however, are not the only thing that draws onlookers in. Oh no! Its actions and attitude are equally interesting. This cute buddy emits a sense of calm as if it is completely at ease with its surroundings. With its tail softly wagging, it sighs joyfully as if it had found comfort in the regular ebb and flow of the waves.

 

When it comes to encounters with other animals, this dog exhibits an intriguing mix of curiosity and caution. It approaches other dogs with a soft playfulness, encouraging them to share in its solo excursions. However, it maintains a healthy distance, never giving up its independence.

 

As the sun begins to set, spreading a warm warmth over the beach, our dog finds a comfortable seat in the sand. It rolls up, nose buried into its fluffy tail, and shuts its eyes, ready to enjoy the peace of the night.

The Waves: A Symbol of Change

Now, let's focus on the true stars of the show—the waves! 

 

These ever-changing natural wonders each have their own story to tell. Their unwavering motion serves as a continual reminder that the only constant in life is change. They crash onto the coast with great force, only depart and continue the dance.

 

When the waves crash on the shore, they produce a symphony of sound that fills the air. The continuous beating against the beach echoes around the shore, generating a relaxing song that touches our whole essence. It's as if the waves are whispering a lullaby, softly encouraging us to let go of our concerns and enjoy the uncertainties that life provides.

Significance

Our friend seemed to know the deep significance of the waves. With each crash on the coast, the dog's ears perk up, its head tilts, and its stare becomes more intense. It's as if the waves are whispering secrets to our beloved canine, telling it that life is full of ups and downs, but there is beauty in accepting the unpredictability.

The Interpretation: What the Scene Could Mean

Now, let's look at the deeper meanings hidden inside this beautiful sight. 

 

This lovely picture serves as a powerful metaphor for the human experience. Each wave is distinct in size and appearance. Some waves are gentle and embrace the coast, while others are powerful and crash on the rocks with a deafening sound. Our lives, like the waves, alternate between quiet and turmoil.

 

We've all sat by the seaside at some time in our lives, pondering the enormity of the universe, seeking consolation in the erratic waves, and discovering surprising connections in the most unlikely locations. 

 

Our lives, like the waves, alternate between periods of peace and chaos. In these moments, we learn and grow, discovering courage in the face of hardship.

 

So, let this wonderful puppy remind us to enjoy ourselves alone, savor the unknown, and succumb to the beauty that exists in each moment.

Image Courtesy: Google

JFK's Forgotten Crisis; Tibet, The CIA, and the Sino-Indian War (Book Review)

The Indo-China War of 1962 is perhaps one of the most devastating armed conflict India has experienced since getting independence. Bruce Riedel's book "JFK's Forgotten Crisis; Tibet, The CIA, and the Sino-Indian War" gives insight on the superpower's participation in the conflict. It emphasises American operations in the Indian subcontinent during one of India's most violent post-World War II periods, which has evaded or is seldom acknowledged in popular discourse.

JFK's Forgotten Crisis; Tibet, The CIA, and the Sino-Indian War

The Indo-China War of 1962 displayed the Indian leadership's empty claims of friendship between the two nations. It was a disaster for India, both militarily and diplomatically. There are other books available to assist readers grasp the tragic time of the past, including firsthand accounts; but, the book by Bruce Reidel is unique. The author revealed us the tale behind the diplomatic curtain, notably the United States' efforts to assist India throughout the crisis.

The author, Bruce Riedel, has 30 years of experience with America's primary spying organisation, the CIA, and has provided insights into how the government functioned. The period was characterised by two big events: the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Indo-Sino War, both of which were led by communist giants and had far-reaching implications for people all across the world.

A seasoned professional, Bruce has advised four U.S. presidents on South Asia and the Middle East. The credentials speak for themselves in terms of the source's reputation and the research done for this book. 

It all started with small skirmishes at the border

The book is written in a narrative format and is easy to read. Riedel gives readers a fresh viewpoint on the 1962 Sino-Indian confrontation, which hasn't gotten the attention it merits, by explaining the circumstances leading up to war.

About the Book

There is an introduction and a prologue to start with followed by book's five main chapters. The Indo-US relationship under Presidents John F. Kennedy and Dwight D. Eisenhower is discussed in the first three chapters - the frosty and thawing of icy ties between the dignitaries during and after this period.

It discusses how India gradually shifted its stance from leading the Non-Aligned movement to siding with the United States following the war and then developing a close connection with the Soviet Union, even though USSR had betrayed India during the conflict.

Nehru with Galbraith and Kennedy

The book discusses the Cuban Missile Crisis, CIA covert activities, and Pakistan's engagement with supporting U2 planes from its territory. It gives insight on India's role in the Tibet catastrophe, as well as Mao's doubts about Indian leadership.

In the next two chapters, the author devotes significant length and effort to one prominent actor of the time, John Kenneth Galbraith. An academic and the American ambassador to India appointed by President Kennedy, as well as his position as Kennedy's appendage in the Sino-India crisis of 1962. The book portrays him as a crucial American player and decision-maker who favourably shaped Indian attitudes and anxieties about the United States. 

The author also reasoned with facts on the several circumstances that played a critical part in lifting the burden of war from India and placing it firmly on China. It also elaborates on the mischief perpetrated by Pakistan's establishment against India, beginning with Ayub Khan and Bhutoo and continuing to policymakers of later years. 

The book additionally highlights the significance of US First Lady Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy in reviving Indo-US and US-Pakistan relations. The writer establishes Kennedy's status as a key Indian ally. Kennedy supported Indian democracy despite India's efforts to remain neutral during the Cold War. With evidence, the author proves Kennedy's compassion for India, which came to the country's rescue during its time of need, and argues that he may have continued to do so if he hadn't been assassinated shortly after the battle ended. 

My Verdict

I had heard about the book from our beloved Prime Minister Modi ji and was eager to read it. The book is largely about glorifying President Kennedy and Galbraith, the United States Ambassador to India. To my amazement, the book helped reshape my perspective about the United States, India, and Nehru ji, the then-Prime Minister of India. The author's success in shaping the story line positively for the two democracies in the past and the issues that may arise in the future is impressive. In my opinion, the book is a must-read for everyone interested in learning about the behind-the-scenes drama of the Indo-Sino battle.

Google Images: Google

Kumbh Mela is a spiritual and transforming event that embodies Hindu faith, devotion, and tradition. It is more than simply an occasion; it is an experience of extraordinary dimensions. 

Kumbh Mela: The Largest Spiritual Gathering and Its Timeless Legacy

The Kumbh Mela is one of the world's biggest spiritual celebrations, attracting millions of followers, pilgrims, and visitors worldwide.

Origin

The Kumbh Mela originated from ancient Hindu mythology, namely the "Samudra Manthan" tale or the churning of the "ocean of milk". According to folklore, the gods (Devas) and devils (Asuras) churned the seas for the nectar of immortality (amrita). After collecting the nectar, disagreements arose about how to distribute it. To keep the devils from seizing it, Lord Vishnu, disguised as Mohini, judiciously dispersed the nectar among the gods. During the struggle, nectar dropped on four locations on Earth: Prayagraj (Allahabad), Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. These spots thus became holy, and the Kumbh Mela is held at them in rotation.

For those who are unfamiliar, the name "Kumbh" refers to a pitcher or pot, which represents the vessel that contains the holy nectar. The term "Mela" signifies fair or meeting. Together, they embody humanity's desire for spiritual rejuvenation and liberation.

The mela lasts for a set amount of time, which is decided by astrology. The relationship between such an occurrence and cosmic movement reveals the event's connection to the divinity and universal rhythm. The spiritual energy of the Kumbh Mela is thought to be heightened, providing pilgrims with a one-of-a-kind experience of divine touch.

Interesting Facts

The Mahakumbh is a significant event that occurs once every 12 years. Prayagraj is unique in this regard as it is the confluence (Sangam) of three sacred rivers: the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the legendary Saraswati. The confluence is regarded as the holiest bathing location, which adds to the spiritual strength of the Mahakumbh.

The Purṇa Mahakumbh occurs once every 144 years, or after 12 Mahakumbhs. The Purṇa Mahakumbh represents the summit of spiritual possibilities. The site attracts saints, yogis, and pilgrims worldwide seeking solace. The entire process makes the mela a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for those seeking spiritual enlightenment and emancipation.

The Magnificence

Devotees from across the globe attended the festival, which included public appearances by spiritual leaders, yajnas (fire offerings), and devotional singing. Pilgrims use prayer and meditation to seek direction and consolation from enlightened beings. The vivid processions, which feature traditional music, chanting, and flag waving, create a spectacle that highlights India's rich cultural past.

The Kumbh Mela is more than just a religious festival; it is also a melting pot for cultures and ideas. It promotes togetherness and communal awareness, bringing together individuals from all backgrounds. The event's vast magnitude creates logistical obstacles and possibilities, necessitating thorough planning and coordination by authorities. The administration goes to great lengths to provide amenities for devotees and ensure the mela runs smoothly. 

Cultural Aspect

From a cultural aspect, the Kumbh Mela showcases India's creative culture via music, dance, literature, and handicrafts. It also serves as a shared forum for communication and exchange in spiritual and philosophical issues, enriching the nation's intellectual environment. During this period, the international media is likewise hooked to the event, eagerly following every phase.

Economic Aspect

The Kumbh Mela also has a significant economic impact. Pilgrims and visitors boosted local economies, creating almost 1 million jobs. Moreover, the event has also received international attention, with experts, journalists, and photographers eager to capture its magnificence.

Finally

The Kumbh Mela is a timeless festival of divinity, faith, and humanity. It serves as a reminder of the lasting force of universal passion, as well as the universal quest for meaning and liberty. The Purṇa Mahakumbh 2025 embodied optimism, togetherness, and transcendence, building on the heritage of this historic religious assembly.

Image Courtesy: Google Images