Category Archives: Writing

Impact of Social Media on Our Lives

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Social media has become an integral part of modern life, shaping how we communicate, share information, and perceive the world around us. With the advent of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, social media has transformed from a mere communication tool to a dominant force influencing various aspects of our lives.

Social media usage has skyrocketed over the past decade. According to recent statistics, approximately 69% of adults and 81% of teens in the U.S. engage with social media platforms regularly. This widespread adoption has made it increasingly difficult for individuals to disconnect from these platforms, leading to concerns about addiction and dependency.

As of 2024, there are over 2.5 billion social media users in the Asia Pacific region, making it the largest market globally for social media engagement. Approximately 97.3% of social network users in Asia access these platforms via mobile devices, spending an average of two to four hours daily on social media. Countries like South Korea lead with a social media penetration rate of 93.4%, followed by Hong Kong at 86.2%. India ranks high with a substantial user base, being the second-largest country in terms of absolute numbers of social media users, following China.

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In Singapore, the social media penetration rate is 85%, ranking it 10th globally for social media adoption relative to its total population. The number of active social media users in Singapore is approximately 4.3 million, and Singaporeans spend an average of 2 hours and 14 minutes daily on popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, with users averaging about 6.9 different social media accounts, which is higher than the global average of 6.7 accounts per user.

India has a rapidly growing number of social media users, with estimates suggesting that there are around 500 million active users, making it one of the largest markets for social media globally. Indian users are increasingly engaging with platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, and the country also sees significant use of local platforms. Users in India spend an average of about 2 hours and 30 minutes daily on social media with the majority of users falling within the age group of 18 to 34 years, but older demographics are also becoming more active on these platforms.

Social media is designed to be engaging and addictive. Platforms utilise algorithms that promote content based on user interests, often leading to excessive scrolling and prolonged usage. This engagement activates the brain’s reward centre by releasing dopamine, reinforcing the behaviour and making it challenging for users to moderate their consumption.

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Despite its challenges, social media offers several benefits that enhance our lives. Social media provides a platform for individuals to connect with friends and family across distances. It fosters community building by allowing users to join groups based on shared interests or experiences. This connectivity can be especially beneficial for marginalised groups seeking support and understanding. Social media serves as a powerful tool for disseminating information quickly. It has become a primary source for news updates and educational content. Users can access resources related to health, wellness, and mental health support through various platforms. For instance, many people find comfort in sharing their health journeys on platforms like Instagram or TikTok, creating spaces for peer support. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok also encourage creativity through visual storytelling. Users can express their thoughts, feelings, and artistic talents in innovative ways. This self-expression can enhance individual identity and foster a sense of belonging within online communities.

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While social media has its advantages, it also presents significant drawbacks that can adversely affect users’ lives. Numerous studies have linked social media use to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. A systematic review indicated that adolescents who spend more than three hours daily on social media are at a higher risk for negative mental health outcomes. The constant exposure to curated images can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, particularly among young women who may compare themselves unfavourably against unrealistic beauty standards.

The anonymity provided by social media can lead to harmful behaviours such as cyberbullying. Victims often experience severe emotional distress due to online harassment, which can contribute to long-term psychological issues. The prevalence of negative interactions online underscores the need for better moderation and support systems within these platforms.

Excessive social media use can lead to physical health issues as well. Sedentary behaviour associated with prolonged screen time contributes to obesity and related health problems. Additionally, disrupted sleep patterns due to late-night scrolling can further exacerbate mental health challenges among users.

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Social media’s influence extends beyond individual mental health and affects social interactions. Social media has altered how we communicate with one another. While it facilitates instant communication, it may also diminish face-to-face interactions. Many individuals report feeling more comfortable communicating online than in person, which can hinder the development of deep interpersonal relationships. The curated nature of social media often leads users to experience FOMO — anxiety over missing out on experiences shared by others online. This phenomenon can lead to feelings of isolation and dissatisfaction with one’s life circumstances.

The impact of social media on our lives is profound and multifaceted. While it offers significant benefits in terms of connectivity and access to information, it also poses serious challenges related to mental health, physical well-being, and social interactions. As society continues to navigate this digital landscape, it is essential to strike a balance between harnessing the positive aspects of social media and effectively addressing its negative consequences. By fostering awareness around responsible usage and advocating for necessary changes within these platforms, we can work towards a healthier relationship with social media that enriches our lives rather than detracts from them.

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Social media has profoundly influenced our perception of reality, shaping how we view ourselves, others, and the world. This influence is multifaceted, encompassing positive and negative aspects that impact our mental health, self-perception, and social interactions. One of the most significant ways social media affects our perception is through the presentation of curated lives. Users often share only their “highlight reels,” showcasing moments of joy, success, and beauty while omitting the mundane or challenging aspects of life. This selective sharing creates a distorted view of reality where everyone appears to be living a perfect life. As Dr. Jazayeri notes, this phenomenon can lead individuals to compare themselves unfavorably against these idealized portrayals, fostering feelings of inadequacy and unhappiness.

The use of filters and photo editing tools further exacerbates this distortion. Social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat allow users to present an enhanced version of themselves that may not reflect their true appearance. This constant exposure to filtered images can skew perceptions of beauty and success, particularly among adolescents who are still forming their identities. Research indicates that when teens encounter these unrealistic standards, they may struggle with self-esteem issues and body image dissatisfaction.

Social media’s impact on self-perception is profound. Users often develop a digital persona that may differ significantly from their real-life identity. A study from Cornell University highlights discrepancies between how individuals perceive themselves and how others perceive them based on their social media posts. This misalignment can lead to feelings of alienation and confusion about one’s identity, as individuals grapple with the difference between their online persona and their authentic self.

The psychological ramifications of social media use are increasingly concerning. Studies have linked excessive social media engagement with anxiety, depression, and loneliness. For instance, a study found that participants who limited their social media use reported significant reductions in feelings of loneliness compared to those who continued their habits. The constant need for validation through likes and comments can create a cycle of dependency that undermines mental well-being.

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Beyond personal identity and relationships, social media also influences collective perceptions of right and wrong. The rapid spread of information—both factual and misleading—can shape public opinion in ways that may not align with reality. Social media platforms serve as echo chambers where users are exposed primarily to viewpoints that reinforce their existing beliefs, potentially leading to polarization and misinformation.

As we look toward the future, several trends may shape the evolution of social media. There is growing advocacy for stricter regulations on social media platforms regarding user safety and mental health considerations. Initiatives may include implementing warning labels about potential mental health risks associated with excessive use or harmful content exposure. There is a growing recognition of the need for digital literacy education that empowers users to critically assess the content they consume and share. By fostering awareness about the curated nature of social media, individuals may become more adept at distinguishing between reality and illusion.

Educating users about responsible social media use is crucial in mitigating negative impacts. Digital literacy programs could empower individuals to evaluate content and recognise unhealthy patterns in their usage critically. As user preferences shift, new platforms may emerge that prioritise user well-being over engagement metrics. These platforms could focus on fostering genuine connections rather than promoting addictive behaviors.

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Social media companies are beginning to face scrutiny regarding their role in shaping perceptions. Efforts to mitigate harmful effects—such as Instagram’s suppression of likes—are steps toward creating healthier online environments. However, these measures must be part of broader strategies that prioritize user well-being over engagement metrics. As users become more aware of the impacts of social media on their lives, there may be a shift towards more mindful usage patterns. This could involve setting boundaries around social media consumption or seeking out platforms that promote authenticity over perfection.

The influence of social media on our perception of reality is profound and complex. While it offers opportunities for connection and self-expression, it also poses significant challenges related to mental health, self-perception, and social dynamics. As we move forward in this digital age, it is crucial to cultivate a balanced relationship with social media—one that recognizes its potential for both positive engagement and detrimental distortion. By fostering awareness and encouraging responsible usage, we can work towards a healthier interaction with these powerful platforms that enrich our understanding rather than diminish it.

Poem: Before the First Page

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There’s a unique thrill that comes with holding a new book in your hands, a feeling that’s hard to describe yet so familiar to every reader. The weight of the book, the crispness of its pages, and the possibilities it holds stir a sense of anticipation like no other. Each unread chapter is a promise, waiting to transport you to a world you’ve yet to explore. This moment — right before you turn the first page — is filled with hope, wonder, and the excitement of what might be discovered within. Today’s poem captures this fleeting, magical moment.

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Before the First Page

The book rests in my hands, its weight so light,
Yet within it, whole worlds are hidden from sight.
The cover is smooth, its spine uncreased,
A story untold, a curiosity teased.

My fingers hover on the edge of page one,
With anticipation rising, it’s just begun.
Will there be wonders, adventures untold?
Or secrets and sorrows, quietly bold?

I imagine the characters, not yet known,
Lives that will merge with my own.
Will I find heroes or friends that stay,
Long after I’ve turned the last page away?

The scent of new pages, the rustle they make,
Whispers of journeys my heart will take.
A treasure of words awaits to be found,
In every chapter, new worlds abound.

In this moment of pause, before I begin,
I wonder what stories will soon pull me in.
The joy of a book is the joy of the unknown,
Where every new story becomes your own.

Festivals of India: Mahashivaratri

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Often referred to as “The Great Night of Shiva,” Maha Shivaratri is one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism, dedicated to Lord Shiva, the deity symbolising creation, preservation, and destruction. This festival is celebrated annually on the 14th night of the dark fortnight in the month of Phalguna, which comes in February or March, marking a time for spiritual reflection, devotion, and celebration. The festival’s origins are steeped in rich mythology and tradition, and its observance varies widely across different regions of India and among Hindu communities worldwide.

The origins of Maha Shivaratri are deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. Several legends recount the significance of this festival. One prominent legend states that Maha Shivaratri commemorates the night when Lord Shiva performed the ‘Tandava’, a cosmic dance symbolising creation, preservation, and destruction. This dance is believed to represent the rhythm of the universe and is a vital aspect of Shiva’s divine nature. Another significant narrative is that Maha Shivaratri marks the wedding night of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Their union symbolises the balance between masculine and feminine energies, representing harmony in the cosmos. This aspect makes Maha Shivaratri particularly special for married couples who seek blessings for their relationships. According to another legend, it was on this night that Shiva manifested himself in the form of a Lingam, a representation of his divine presence. This event signifies his infinite existence and connection to creation.

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Maha Shivaratri has been celebrated for centuries, with its roots tracing back to ancient Hindu civilisation. The festival reflects a broader cultural significance beyond mere religious observance; it encapsulates themes of transformation, renewal, and spiritual awakening that resonate across various aspects of life.

Maha Shivaratri holds profound spiritual importance for devotees. The festival is seen as an opportunity for spiritual growth and introspection. Devotees believe that observing rituals during this time can lead to purification of the mind and soul, helping them overcome obstacles in life. Fasting and prayer during Maha Shivaratri are believed to cleanse devotees’ hearts and minds. Many observe strict fasts, consuming only water or milk throughout the day before breaking their fast at dawn on the following day. The festival fosters a sense of community among participants as they come together for prayers, chanting, and singing devotional songs or bhajans. It serves as a reminder of shared beliefs and collective spirituality.

The festival is celebrated with great fervor across India, with regional variations reflecting local customs and traditions. In northern states like Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, devotees flock to temples such as Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi and Kedarnath to participate in elaborate rituals. The night is marked by all-night vigils where devotees chant “Om Namah Shivaya” while offering milk, honey, and bel leaves to Shiva Lingams. In South India, particularly among Brahmin communities, rituals begin early in the morning with special prayers or pujas at temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees often perform Rudra Abhishek, bathing Shiva Lingams with sacred substances like milk and honey. The night is spent in meditation, bhajans, and discussions about Shiva’s teachings.

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In Maharashtra, celebrations often include processions featuring traditional music and dance. Temples are beautifully decorated, attracting large crowds who engage in communal prayers. In West Bengal and Odisha, Maha Shivaratri is celebrated with unique cultural performances such as folk dances that narrate stories from Shiva’s life. Devotees also prepare special dishes as offerings during this time.

Maha Shivaratri transcends geographical boundaries. In countries with significant Hindu populations such as Nepal, Mauritius, Fiji, and Trinidad & Tobago, festivities take place with similar fervor. In Nepal’s Pashupatinath Temple—one of the holiest sites for Hindus—thousands gather to participate in rituals throughout the night. Indo-Caribbean communities also observe this festival with solemnity in over 400 temples worldwide.

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The rituals performed during Maha Shivaratri are diverse yet share common elements. Devotees typically fast throughout the day leading up to the night celebrations. Some consume only water or milk while others may choose to abstain from food altogether. Rituals involve offerings made to Shiva Lingams consisting of milk, honey, ghee (clarified butter), fruits, flowers, and bel leaves—considered sacred to Lord Shiva. The chanting of mantras such as “Om Namah Shivaya” plays a central role during worship sessions both at home and in temples. Many devotees stay awake throughout the night engaging in prayers, singing bhajans or participating in discourses about Lord Shiva’s teachings. In various regions, cultural performances including dance dramas depicting stories from Shiva’s life add vibrancy to the celebrations.

Several myths enhance the richness of Maha Shivaratri’s narrative. One myth recounts how Lord Shiva vanquished Tripurasura—the demon representing ignorance—on this auspicious night. This victory symbolises triumph over darkness and ignorance. Another popular tale involves Markandeya—a devotee who was destined to die young but was saved by Lord Shiva when he embraced him as a child amidst death’s approach. Legends often highlight Lord Shiva’s compassion towards his devotees; many stories illustrate how he intervenes to protect those who sincerely seek his blessings during Maha Shivaratri.

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Maha Shivaratri stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Hindu culture—a celebration that encompasses devotion, spirituality, community bonding, and deep-rooted traditions. As devotees across India and around the world honour Lord Shiva through fasting, prayer, cultural performances, and communal gatherings on this auspicious night, they not only pay homage to their deity but also embrace themes that resonate universally—transformation, renewal, love, and spiritual awakening. The festival serves not just as a religious observance but also as an opportunity for individuals to reflect on their lives while seeking blessings for personal growth and harmony within their families and communities. Through its myriad forms of celebration—from temple rituals to vibrant cultural expressions—Maha Shivaratri continues to inspire millions each year with its profound significance rooted in ancient mythology yet relevant in contemporary society.

Short Story: The Tapestry of Love

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In the quaint village of Aldergrove, nestled between rolling hills and a shimmering lake, the air was always fragrant with the scent of blooming wildflowers. The village was a tapestry of vibrant colours, where every house had its own story and every corner held a memory. Aldergrove was known for its annual Festival of Hearts, a celebration dedicated to love in all its forms. This year, however, the festival would be unlike any other, as it would bring together the lives of several villagers in unexpected ways.

Clara Thompson was a single mother who poured all her love into her son, Jamie. At ten years old, Jamie was a bright and curious child with an insatiable thirst for adventure. Clara worked as a seamstress, her hands often stained with fabric dye and her fingers calloused from years of sewing. Despite their modest means, Clara created a warm home filled with laughter and creativity.

One evening, as they prepared for bed, Jamie asked, “Mom, do you think love is like magic?” Clara smiled softly. “In many ways, yes. Love can make ordinary moments feel extraordinary.” “Like when you make my favourite pancakes?” Jamie grinned. “Exactly! And remember how we helped Mrs. Jenkins with her garden? That was love too.” Jamie nodded thoughtfully. “Can love be strong enough to make people better?” Clara’s heart swelled with pride. “Absolutely. Love can heal wounds and mend broken hearts.”

Max was a golden retriever with a heart as big as his bark and belonged to Clara and Jamie. He was more than just a pet; he was Jamie’s confidant and Clara’s source of comfort after long days. One sunny afternoon, while Clara was busy sewing in the garden, Jamie raced outside with Max by his side. “Mom! Look what I found!” he exclaimed, holding up a small bird that had fallen from its nest.

“Oh dear,” Clara said, rushing over. “We need to help it.” Together, they created a makeshift nest and placed the bird inside. Max watched intently, his tail wagging gently as if he understood the importance of their mission. As days passed, they nurtured the bird back to health. Jamie named it Pip and felt an overwhelming sense of love for his new friend. Max seemed to share this bond too; he would sit by Pip’s side, offering warmth and protection.

Also in Eldergrove lived two best friends, Mia and Lily. They had grown up together, sharing secrets under the old oak tree and dreaming about their futures. Their friendship was built on trust and shared experiences—like the time they helped each other through heartbreaks or celebrated each other’s successes.

One day at school, Mia confided in Lily about her struggles with self-doubt. “I don’t know if I’m good enough for the art competition,” she admitted. Lily took Mia’s hands in hers. “You are amazing! Remember last summer when you painted that mural? It was beautiful!” Mia smiled but still felt uncertain. “What if I fail?” “Then we’ll paint another one together,” Lily replied confidently. Inspired by Lily’s unwavering support, Mia decided to enter the competition. With each stroke of her brush during practice sessions at home, she felt Lily’s encouragement fueling her creativity.

As the Festival of Hearts approached, excitement buzzed through Eldergrove like electricity. Clara decided to create something special for Jamie—a quilt that represented their love and experiences together. “Mom! Can I help?” Jamie asked eagerly. “Of course! Let’s gather some fabric that reminds us of our favourite memories,” Clara suggested.

They rummaged through old clothes and scraps from previous projects. Each piece told a story: the blue from Jamie’s first birthday shirt, the floral pattern from Clara’s favourite summer dress, and even a patch from Max’s old blanket. As they worked side by side, Clara realized that this quilt would not only honour their bond but also symbolize all forms of love in their lives—friendship, family, and loyalty.

However, life in Aldergrove wasn’t without its challenges. A sudden storm swept through the village days before the festival, causing damage to homes and gardens alike. Clara’s heart sank when she saw their beloved oak tree—the one where Mia and Lily had shared countless memories—had been uprooted.

The community came together to help each other rebuild. Clara joined forces with her neighbours while Jamie helped organise games for children to lift their spirits amidst the chaos. During this time of hardship, Max became a beacon of comfort for everyone. He would visit each family affected by the storm, offering warmth and companionship that reminded them that love could shine even in dark times.

Finally, the day of the festival arrived with clear skies and radiant sunshine illuminating Aldergrove like a fairy tale setting. The streets were adorned with colourful banners and flowers; laughter echoed as families gathered to celebrate love in all its forms. Clara unveiled the quilt at the festival’s main event—a showcase of talents where villagers shared stories through art and music. As she presented it to Jamie on stage, tears glistened in her eyes.

“This quilt represents our journey together,” she said softly. “Every patch is filled with love—love for each other, our friends, our community, even our loyal Max.” The crowd erupted in applause as Jamie hugged his mother tightly. In that moment, he understood that love wasn’t just magic; it was also resilience and unity.

The festival continued with games and performances showcasing friendships forged over the years—the bonds between parents and children strengthened by shared experiences—and even between pets who brought joy into their owners’ lives.

Mia revealed her artwork at the competition—a stunning mural depicting all forms of love in Eldergrove: families holding hands under an oak tree; friends laughing together; pets playing joyfully beside their owners. When Mia won first place for her mural that day, she dedicated it to Lily for always believing in her dreams despite her fears.

As night fell over Eldergrove and lanterns lit up like stars above them, families gathered around bonfires sharing stories about love—the kind that transcends time and space; that heals wounds; that brings joy amidst sorrow; that binds communities together.

As the festival drew to a close under a sky full of twinkling stars reflecting on Lake Eldergrove’s surface like diamonds scattered across velvet cloths—Clara held Jamie close while Max lay at their feet contentedly watching over them both—she whispered softly into his ear: “Remember this day always—love is not just something we feel; it’s something we do.” Jamie nodded solemnly but with excitement bubbling inside him—he knew now more than ever how powerful love could be—not just between mother and son or friends—but within everyone around them too!

And so it was that in Aldergrove—a village woven together by threads of affection—the tapestry of love continued to flourish through generations—reminding all who lived there that no matter what challenges life may bring—the bonds formed through kindness would forever endure!

Mumbai Memories: The Lost Art of Letter Writing

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When was the last time you either wrote a letter to someone or received a letter from someone? I haven’t received one or written one in decades. The only letters I receive these days are bills or notices. But this is the digital age where everyone connects with others online or virtually.

The practice of letter writing dates back to ancient civilisations. The earliest known letters were written on clay tablets in Mesopotamia around 2500 BCE. These early communications were primarily administrative or commercial in nature. As societies evolved, so did the form and function of letters. In ancient Rome, letters became a vital tool for personal communication among the elite. Figures like Cicero and Pliny the Younger wrote extensively, using letters to convey thoughts, share news, and maintain relationships across distances. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century further revolutionized letter writing by making writing materials more accessible.

The 18th and 19th centuries marked the golden age of letter writing. This period saw a flourishing of epistolary literature, where novels were crafted in letter form, allowing authors to explore characters’ inner thoughts and emotions intimately. Famous works such as Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” and Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” utilised this format effectively.

During this time, letters became essential for maintaining long-distance relationships. People would pour their hearts into beautifully crafted missives, often adorned with elaborate stationery. The art of penmanship was highly regarded, with individuals taking pride in their handwriting styles.

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The advent of the internet and mobile technology has drastically altered how we communicate. Emails emerged in the 1990s as a faster alternative to traditional mail, quickly gaining popularity for both personal and professional correspondence. Social media platforms further accelerated this shift by enabling real-time communication. As a result, the frequency of letter writing has diminished significantly. The convenience of texting and emailing has led many to view letter writing as outdated or unnecessarily time-consuming. The fast-paced nature of modern life has also contributed to a decline in letter writing. People often prioritise efficiency over thoughtfulness; quick messages have replaced carefully considered letters. The younger generations who have grown up with digital communication may not fully appreciate the emotional depth that a handwritten letter can convey.

Growing up, my grandfather, tatha was a prolific letter writer and maintained correspondence with many relatives and friends across India and the world. Tatha was very old school, a product of colonial education and a very proper person. He is the sort of person who would dress up for meals and would insist on the proper mealtime etiquette at all times. From the time my sister and I were toddlers, he would insist on speaking with us only in English and that too in proper British English. That is why both of us have a fairly good grasp of the language.

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My earliest memories are of him pounding away letters to family and friends on his typewriter. In those days, domestic letters would come as a blue inland letter. Very rarely, you would see people writing on paper and sending it in an envelope. And you had to write within the space provided. The postman would come to our home in the early afternoon and as soon as he received a letter, he would read it and if it was also meant for my grandmother, ammama, he would share it with her and then start composing a reply on his typewriter. This would be repeated for every letter he received. He would not take more than 24 hours to reply and would have a ready stock of inland letters, paper, envelopes and stamps. This continued even after he retired and moved to Bangalore. From Bangalore, we also became the recipient of regular letters from him and ammama.

My mother was the letter writer in our family and would reply to tatha and ammama with my sister and me writing a few lines at the end, squeezing in as much as we could in the meagre space we got. She is the oldest of four sisters and when we were young, two of her sisters lived in the Middle East. So her correspondence with her sisters was through aerogrammes, Also known as an air letter, an aerogramme was a lightweight, foldable, gummed paper that functioned as both the letter and the envelope. Again, you had to write within the space provided and squeeze in everything you wanted to share with them. Some people even added physical photos inside the aerogramme.

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I too had a period when I wrote a lot of letters. That was my penpal phase when I used to correspond with a few people across the country. That lasted perhaps for about six months when I was about 17-18 and whittled down to one penpal to whom I wrote until both of us got married. I recently reconnected with her and it was good to go back to old friendships. Of course, today we talk on Whatsapp, and sometimes I miss getting special paper and envelopes and sitting down to write a long letter to her telling her all about what happened in life since the last letter. Ah, memories!

After reading this post, if you have the urge to write a letter to someone, remember that writing letters can also provide therapeutic benefits. The act of putting pen to paper allows one to articulate their thoughts and feelings more deeply than they might in a text message or email. This process can be particularly beneficial during times of stress or grief, offering an outlet for reflection and emotional processing. Studies have shown that expressive writing can improve mental health by reducing anxiety and enhancing overall well-being. Crafting letters, whether to loved ones or even to oneself, can serve as a form of self-care that promotes mindfulness and emotional clarity.

In our fast-paced digital world, the lost art of letter writing offers an opportunity for deeper connections and meaningful communication. While technology continues to shape how we interact, embracing handwritten correspondence allows us to slow down and reflect on our thoughts and emotions.