Category Archives: Writing

Adulting 101: Navigating Toxic Workplaces and Colleagues

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The next edition of my Adulting 101 series is about workplace toxicity. For those reading this series for the first time, this series talks about how young adults can adjust to being adults. As young adults enter the workforce, they often face many challenges, from adapting to new responsibilities to navigating complex office dynamics. One of the most significant hurdles many encounter is dealing with toxic workplaces and colleagues.

So what constitutes a toxic workplace? A toxic workplace is characterised by an unhealthy and unproductive environment that negatively impacts the well-being and performance of its employees. This can manifest in various ways. Bullying and harassment, including verbal or physical abuse, intimidation, or humiliation by colleagues or supervisors, lack of communication and transparency because of poor communication, unclear expectations in decision-making processes or excessive workloads, unrealistic deadlines, and constant pressure to perform. Other ways may take the form of unsupportive management including managers who are unresponsive, unsupportive, or dismissive of employee concerns, a culture of gossip, rumours, and backstabbing that creates tension and mistrust or unfair treatment, favouritism, or bias towards certain employees based on personal relationships or demographics. Failure to recognise and appreciate employees’ efforts and contributions, an unhealthy and cutthroat competition that fosters a culture of aggression and sabotage, poor work-life balance with expectations of long working hours, constant availability, and neglect of personal life and a lack of or limited opportunities for professional development, training, and career advancement.

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How does one read the signs and red flags of a toxic workplace? To identify a toxic workplace, it is essential to be aware of the signs and red flags.

  • High Turnover Rate: If there is a high rate of employee turnover, it may indicate underlying issues with the work environment.
  • Negative Office Gossip: If colleagues frequently discuss negative aspects of the workplace or each other, it can create a toxic atmosphere.
  • Unhappiness and Burnout: If employees appear unhappy, stressed, or burnt out, it may be a sign of a toxic work environment.
  • Lack of Open Communication: If management or colleagues are unresponsive or secretive, it can indicate a lack of transparency.
  • Unfair Treatment: If you witness or experience unfair treatment, such as favouritism or bias, it is a significant red flag.

So how does one go about protecting themselves if they find they are in a toxic work environment? If one finds oneself in a toxic workplace, it is crucial to take steps to protect their well-being and career. Here are some strategies to help one navigate these challenging environments.

  • Document Everything: Keep a record of incidents, including dates, times, and details of what happened. This can be useful in case one needs to report issues or seek support.
  • Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries with colleagues and management to maintain a healthy work-life balance and avoid over-committing.
  • Seek Support: Build a network of trusted colleagues, mentors, or friends who can offer emotional support and guidance.
  • Prioritise Self-Care: Make time for activities that promote physical and mental well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies.
  • Look for Resources: Familiarise oneself with company policies, HR procedures, and employee assistance programs that can provide support and guidance.
  • Consider Reporting Issues: If one experiences or witnesses harassment, bullying, or other serious issues, report them to HR or management.
  • Start Job Hunting: If the situation becomes unbearable, it may be time to explore new job opportunities.
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Another aspect of a toxic workplace is having toxic colleagues. Dealing with toxic colleagues can be particularly challenging. So how can someone who is not very experienced recognise certain behaviours and characteristics? Here are some key indicators to look out for:

  • Negativity and Cynicism: Toxic colleagues often focus on problems rather than solutions and frequently badmouth their colleagues or the company.
  • Manipulation: They may make false statements, issue implicit threats, or exceed their competency limits.
  • Rudeness and Disrespect: Toxic colleagues can be confrontational, aggressive, and rude, creating an unbearable work environment.
  • Lack of Cooperation: They may resist collaboration and teamwork, making it difficult to work together effectively.
  • Self-Serving Behaviour: Toxic employees are often selfish, only willing to perform actions that benefit them directly, regardless of the impact on others.
  • Lack of Accountability: They rarely keep promises and refuse to take responsibility for their actions.
  • Gossiping and Trash-Talking: Spreading rumours and speaking negatively about others is a common trait of toxic colleagues.
  • Passive-Aggressive Behaviour: They may use sarcasm, ridicule, or negative body language to undermine others.
  • Micromanaging: Some toxic colleagues may be control freaks, constantly asserting control over others and imposing their opinions.
  • Unrealistic Expectations: They may set unrealistic goals or deadlines, leading to unnecessary stress and pressure on others.
  • Avoidance of Responsibility: Toxic colleagues often shift blame to others or make excuses for their own mistakes.
  • Negative Impact on Team Morale: If a colleague’s behaviour consistently affects the mood and productivity of the team, it may be a sign of toxicity.

By being aware of these signs, young adults can identify toxic colleagues early on and take steps to protect themselves and maintain a healthy work environment. Here are some tips to help one navigate these situations:

  • Stay Calm and Professional: Maintain a calm demeanour and professional attitude, even in the face of provocation.
  • Avoid Engaging: Refrain from engaging in gossip, arguments, or negative conversations that can escalate the situation.
  • Focus on One’s Work: One should concentrate on their tasks and responsibilities, and avoid getting distracted by toxic behaviour.
  • Set Clear Expectations: Communicate one’s expectations and boundaries clearly with colleagues to avoid misunderstandings.
  • Seek Mediation: If conflicts arise, consider seeking mediation from a supervisor or HR representative to resolve the issue.
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Communication is key while handling toxic colleagues. Some effective communication strategies are:

  • Identify and Understand the Behaviour: Recognise the specific behaviours causing issues and keep track of incidents. This helps in addressing the root cause of the toxicity.
  • Private Discussion: Approach the toxic coworker in a private setting to discuss observations and concerns. Listen actively to their perspective without interruption, as it may uncover underlying personal or professional issues.
  • Set Clear Expectations and Boundaries: Communicate the expected behaviour and the consequences of not meeting those expectations. Ensure the coworker understands the impact of their actions on the team and the organisation. Set firm boundaries that define acceptable behaviour in the workplace.
  • Focus on Behaviour, not the Person: When addressing toxic behaviour, focus on specific actions rather than attacking the individual personally. This helps in maintaining a constructive and non-accusatory tone.
  • Use Specific Phrases to Defend Oneself: One should learn specific phrases to respond to toxic comments, such as acknowledging the comment without engaging or redirecting the conversation to a more productive topic.
  • Maintain Professionalism: Stay calm, patient, and professional in interactions with toxic coworkers. This helps in avoiding personal involvement in conflicts and maintaining a clear perspective on the situation.
  • Set Boundaries and Limit Interactions: Establish clear boundaries and limit interactions with toxic coworkers to professional matters. Avoid engaging in gossip or negative talk, and keep conversations brief and to the point.
  • Seek Support: If the situation becomes too challenging, seek help from supervisors, HR, or colleagues. This can provide additional guidance and support in managing the toxic coworker.
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Young adults can build a support system at work to counteract toxic colleagues. They should build strong, positive relationships with colleagues and superiors who share their values and work ethic. This network can provide emotional support and help them navigate challenging situations. They should understand the motivations and behaviours of toxic colleagues. This can help them develop strategies to deal with them effectively and maintain a healthy work environment. They should also implement coping mechanisms such as focusing on their work, taking breaks, and practising self-care to maintain their mental well-being. They should minimise interactions with toxic colleagues and avoid engaging in gossip or conflicts. Instead, they should model a positive presence and maintain their integrity.

If necessary, one should involve their manager or HR in addressing toxic behaviour. They can help resolve issues and create a more positive work environment. One should also establish clear boundaries with colleagues and management to maintain a healthy work-life balance and avoid over-committing. Young adults should also practice self-care by taking care of their physical and mental health by eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. This helps them stay resilient in the face of toxic behaviour. Lastly, one should always try and tap into a support network. Express gratitude to supportive colleagues and use them as a reality check to ensure one is not overreacting to toxic behaviour. They can also provide valuable advice and help one stay focused on one’s work. By building a strong support system, young adults can better navigate the challenges posed by toxic colleagues and maintain a healthy and productive work environment.

Navigating a toxic workplace and dealing with toxic colleagues can be a daunting task, especially for young adults entering the workforce. By recognising the signs and red flags of a toxic workplace, taking steps to protect yourself, and learning to navigate challenging situations, one can minimise the negative impact on their well-being and career. Remember, everyone deserves a healthy and supportive work environment, and it is essential to prioritise their well-being and take action to create a positive and productive workspace.

Unveiling the World’s Most Expensive Cities: A Global Perspective

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In our increasingly interconnected world, the cost of living has become a crucial factor in determining the quality of life and economic opportunities available to individuals and families. From the bustling metropolises of Asia to the cultural hubs of Europe and the financial powerhouses of North America, certain cities stand out as the most expensive places to call home.

According to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) Worldwide Cost of Living Survey for 2023, Singapore and Zurich, Switzerland, share the top spot as the world’s most expensive cities. This prestigious yet costly ranking is determined by analyzing the prices of over 200 goods and services across 173 cities worldwide, providing a comprehensive assessment of the cost of living.

The top 10 most expensive cities in the world for 2023 are:

  1. Singapore and Zurich, Switzerland (tied for first place)
  2. Geneva, Switzerland, and New York, USA (tied for third place)
  3. Hong Kong
  4. Los Angeles, USA
  5. Paris, France
  6. Copenhagen, Denmark, and Tel Aviv, Israel (tied for seventh place)
  7. San Francisco, USA
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Singapore’s position as the world’s most expensive city is a testament to its remarkable economic growth, strategic location, and unwavering commitment to urban development. This island city-state has consistently ranked among the top three most expensive cities for over a decade, holding the number one spot for nine out of the last eleven years.

Several factors contribute to Singapore’s high cost of living, including its limited land area, robust housing demand, and thriving business environment. The city’s reputation as a global financial hub and its strong currency have also played a role in driving up costs. Despite the high prices, Singapore continues to attract expatriates and multinational corporations, drawn by its efficient infrastructure, low crime rates, and business-friendly policies.

While living in one of the world’s most expensive cities can offer unparalleled opportunities and experiences, it also presents significant challenges. Housing costs, in particular, can be a major burden, with sky-high rents and property prices often forcing residents to compromise on living space or commute long distances.

Transportation expenses, including fuel, public transit, and vehicle maintenance, can also strain household budgets. Additionally, the cost of essential goods and services, such as healthcare, education, and utilities, can be substantially higher in these cities, further exacerbating the financial strain on residents.

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Despite the challenges, many individuals and families find ways to navigate the high costs of living in these cities. One common strategy is to prioritise housing in more affordable neighbourhoods or suburbs, sacrificing proximity to the city centre for lower housing costs. Others opt for shared living arrangements, such as renting rooms or apartments with roommates, to split expenses.

Careful budgeting and financial planning are also essential for managing the high costs associated with these cities. Residents may need to make trade-offs between discretionary spending and essential expenses, prioritizing necessities while finding creative ways to enjoy leisure activities and entertainment within their means.

Despite the high costs, the world’s most expensive cities continue to attract people from all walks of life, drawn by the promise of economic opportunities, cultural richness, and a vibrant quality of life. These cities often boast thriving job markets, world-class educational institutions, and a diverse array of cultural attractions, making them appealing destinations for professionals, students, and those seeking new experiences.

Additionally, the prestige associated with living in these cities can be a powerful draw, as they are often perceived as global centres of influence, innovation, and sophistication. For some, the high cost of living is a trade-off for the opportunity to be part of these dynamic and cosmopolitan environments.

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While no Indian city features in the top 10 most expensive cities globally, several major metropolitan areas in the country rank among the pricier locations for residents and expatriates alike.

Mumbai, India’s financial capital, is often cited as one of the most expensive cities in the country. According to the EIU’s Cost of Living Index, Mumbai ranks 118th globally, making it one of the more expensive cities in South Asia.

Delhi, the nation’s capital, follows closely behind at 120th place, with high housing costs and a thriving expatriate community contributing to its relatively high cost of living.

Other major Indian cities like Bengaluru (135th), Chennai (146th), and Kolkata (156th) also feature in the rankings, reflecting the diverse economic landscapes and varying costs of living across the country.

It’s important to note that these rankings are based on a basket of goods and services tailored to expatriate and international business traveller lifestyles, which may not fully reflect the cost of living for residents.

Several key factors contribute to the high costs of living in these cities, including:

  • Housing and Real Estate: Limited land availability, high demand, and robust real estate markets drive up housing costs, making rent and property prices a significant expense for residents.
  • Currency Strength: Cities with strong currencies, such as Singapore and Zurich, often experience higher costs for imported goods and services, contributing to an overall higher cost of living.
  • Expatriate Demand: Cities with large expatriate populations and multinational corporations tend to have higher costs associated with goods and services catering to these communities.
  • Taxes and Regulations: Local taxes, regulations, and policies can impact the cost of goods, services, and housing, influencing the overall cost of living in a city.
  • Transportation and Infrastructure: Well-developed transportation systems and robust infrastructure can drive up costs, particularly in densely populated urban areas.
  • Cost of Goods and Services: The prices of essential goods and services, such as healthcare, education, and utilities, can vary significantly across cities, impacting the overall cost of living.

While the high costs of living in these cities can be daunting, many residents find that the benefits of living in these dynamic and vibrant environments outweigh the financial challenges. Access to world-class amenities, diverse cultural experiences, and robust job markets can make the trade-off worthwhile for those who can afford it.

However, cities must strike a balance between maintaining their appeal and ensuring that the cost of living remains manageable for a diverse range of residents. Affordable housing initiatives, public transportation improvements, and policies that promote economic inclusivity can help mitigate the financial strain on residents and ensure that these cities remain accessible to a broader population.

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The world’s most expensive cities are a testament to the global diversity of economic landscapes, cultural influences, and quality of life aspirations. While the high costs of living in these cities present significant challenges, they also offer unparalleled opportunities and experiences that continue to draw people from around the world.

As we navigate the ever-changing global economic landscape, it’s essential to recognize the factors that contribute to these high costs and explore strategies to ensure that these cities remain accessible and inclusive. By striking a balance between economic growth, urban development, and affordability, we can create vibrant and sustainable communities that offer a high quality of life for all residents, regardless of their financial means.

World Hepatitis Day

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Every year on 28 July, the world comes together to commemorate World Hepatitis Day, a global health observance that aims to raise awareness about viral hepatitis and its devastating impact on individuals, communities, and healthcare systems worldwide. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to address this silent epidemic and work towards a future free from the burden of hepatitis.

Hepatitis, derived from the Greek words hepar or liver and it is or inflammation, is a term used to describe a group of viral infections that primarily affect the liver. Hepatitis can be caused by viral infections, autoimmune disorders, drugs, alcohol, or other toxins. There are five main hepatitis viruses – hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E – each with its unique mode of transmission, symptoms, and potential for causing chronic liver disease.

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Hepatitis A and E are typically spread through contaminated food and water, while hepatitis B, C, and D are transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, or other body fluids. Hepatitis D virus, HDV is unique in that it can only infect individuals who are already infected with the hepatitis B virus, as HDV requires the HBV to replicate. While some forms of hepatitis, like hepatitis A, are acute and self-limiting, others, like hepatitis B and C, can lead to chronic infections that can progress to life-threatening complications, including liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.

The impact of viral hepatitis on global health is staggering. According to the World Health Organization, WHO, an estimated 354 million people worldwide are living with chronic hepatitis B or C infections. These viral infections are responsible for approximately 1.3 million deaths annually, making them a leading cause of premature mortality worldwide.

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A liver silently performs over 500 vital functions every single day to keep us alive. That’s why prioritising liver health is so important. The benefits of a healthy liver include living longer. Viral hepatitis still kills over a million people every year. Combined, hepatitis B and hepatitis C cause 1.1 million deaths and 3 million new infections every year. 350 million people are living with a chronic viral hepatitis infection and 3,000 people die from hepatitis every day. That’s one hepatitis death every thirty seconds. Over 8,000 new hepatitis B and C infections occur each day. That’s over 5 infections every minute. If the current trajectory continues, viral hepatitis will kill more people annually than malaria, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS combined by 2040.

Every 30 seconds, someone dies from a viral hepatitis-related illness. However, with the existing prevention, testing and treatment services that are available every hepatitis-related death is preventable. Hepatitis can affect anyone, but it has a disproportionate effect on the people and communities most underserved by health systems.

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Hepatitis infection is silent and liver health awareness is low. Most symptoms only appear once the disease is advanced, resulting in a huge volume of undiagnosed people living with hepatitis. Even when hepatitis is diagnosed, the number of people who go on to receive treatment is incredibly low. Most people discover they have hepatitis B or C after many years of silent infection, and only when they develop serious liver disease or cancer. Even after diagnosis, the level of treatment and care for people living with hepatitis is astonishingly poor. Only 10% of people with chronic hepatitis B are diagnosed. Only 22% of those receive treatment – that’s just 2% of the total global health burden. Only 21% of people with hepatitis C are diagnosed. 62% of those diagnosed receive treatment to cure them – just 13% of the total global health burden.

The establishment of World Hepatitis Day can be traced back to 2007 when the World Hepatitis Alliance, a non-profit organisation dedicated to addressing the global hepatitis crisis, launched the first-ever global awareness campaign on hepatitis. The date of 28 July was chosen to commemorate the birthday of Dr. Baruch Blumberg, a Nobel Prize-winning scientist who discovered the hepatitis B virus and developed the first hepatitis B vaccine. In 2010, the World Health Assembly, the decision-making body of the WHO, officially designated 28 July as World Hepatitis Day, recognising the urgent need for a coordinated global response to address the growing burden of viral hepatitis.

Since its inception, World Hepatitis Day has served as a platform for governments, healthcare organisations, patient advocacy groups, and individuals to raise awareness, promote prevention, and advocate for improved access to testing, treatment, and care for those affected by viral hepatitis. To eliminate hepatitis and achieve the WHO’s ambitious targets by 2030, simplified primary care services for viral hepatitis should ensure that all pregnant women living with chronic hepatitis B have access to treatment and their infants have access to hepatitis B birth vaccines to prevent infection. 90% of people living with hepatitis B and/or hepatitis C are diagnosed, and 80% of diagnosed people are cured or treated according to newer expanded eligibility criteria. Hepatitis C can be prevented by adequately screening all donated blood and ensuring safe injection practices in health care settings, at home and especially among people who inject drugs.

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Key priorities for the future include strengthening immunisation programmes by ensuring universal access to hepatitis B vaccination, particularly the birth dose, which is crucial for preventing mother-to-child transmission and protecting future generations from chronic hepatitis B infection. Scaling up access to affordable and reliable hepatitis testing and treatment services, particularly in resource-limited settings, is essential for reducing the burden of viral hepatitis and preventing its long-term complications. Combating the stigma and discrimination associated with viral hepatitis is critical to encouraging individuals to seek testing and treatment, and promoting their overall well-being and social inclusion. Implementing evidence-based harm reduction strategies, such as needle and syringe exchange programs, is vital for preventing the transmission of hepatitis B and C among people who inject drugs. Achieving a hepatitis-free future requires a coordinated and collaborative effort involving governments, healthcare providers, civil society organisations, and communities, working together to address the multifaceted challenges posed by viral hepatitis. Continued investment in research and innovation is essential for developing new diagnostic tools, more effective treatments, and ultimately, a cure for viral hepatitis.

As we commemorate World Hepatitis Day each year, let us renew our commitment to addressing this global health crisis and work towards a future where no one suffers from the devastating consequences of viral hepatitis. Through collective action, sustained advocacy, and an unwavering dedication to public health, we can turn the dream of a hepatitis-free future into a reality.

Short Story: From Shadows to Light

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Shweta and Ranveer had just returned from their honeymoon in Bali, the tan lines still fresh on their skin and the memories of sunset beaches and endless laughter echoing in their minds. The hustle and bustle of New Delhi seemed a stark contrast to the serene island life they had just experienced. Their return to the rhythm of daily life meant going back to their jobs—Shweta to her dynamic role as a journalist and Ranveer to his high-paced marketing position at an MNC.

Living with Ranveer’s parents, Nidhi and Rajesh, in their spacious family home in South Delhi, came with its own set of challenges. Rajesh, a recently retired Public Works Department engineer, ruled the household with an iron fist, while Nidhi, a once-talented artist, had been relegated to the shadows, her creativity stifled by conservative family expectations.

Shweta, who had grown up in a liberal household where her parents encouraged her dreams and ambitions, was appalled by the dynamics she witnessed between Nidhi and Rajesh. It was a household where respect and equality seemed foreign concepts, especially when compared to her relationship with Ranveer, which was built on mutual respect, support, and love.

One evening, as the family gathered for dinner, Shweta noticed how Rajesh dominated the conversation. He spoke over Nidhi, dismissing her opinions with a wave of his hand, reducing her to a silent presence at the table. The scene was all too familiar, repeated daily, with Nidhi’s voice never heard.

“Nidhi, pass the salt,” Rajesh ordered, not even looking at her. “Yes, Rajesh,” Nidhi replied quietly, her eyes downcast as she complied.

Shweta exchanged a glance with Ranveer, who squeezed her hand under the table, a silent acknowledgement of their shared discomfort. The stark contrast between their relationship and his parents’ was glaringly obvious.

Later that night, Shweta couldn’t contain her frustration. “Ranveer, it’s heartbreaking to see how your father treats your mother. She deserves so much more.” “I know, Shweta,” Ranveer sighed. “But my father’s always been like this. It’s hard to change someone who’s set in their ways.” Shweta’s resolve hardened. “Maybe we can’t change him, but we can empower her. She needs to find her voice again.”

The next morning, Shweta found Nidhi in the kitchen, preparing breakfast. She approached her mother-in-law with a warm smile. “Ma, can I help with anything?” she offered. Nidhi looked up, surprised. “Oh, Shweta, you don’t need to. You must be busy with your work.” “I’d like to spend some time with you,” Shweta insisted. “You know, Ranveer told me you used to be an artist. I’d love to see some of your work.” Nidhi’s face lit up momentarily before the usual shadow of resignation fell over her features. “That was a long time ago, dear. I haven’t painted in years.” “But why?” Shweta pressed gently. “You shouldn’t give up on something that brings you joy.”

Nidhi hesitated, glancing around as if expecting Rajesh to appear and chastise her. “It’s complicated, Shweta. Rajesh and his family didn’t think it was appropriate for me to continue with my art.” Shweta felt a surge of indignation but kept her tone calm. “Ma, it’s never too late to start again. Art is a part of who you are. You should reclaim that.”

Over the next few weeks, Shweta made it her mission to empower Nidhi. She started by talking to Ranveer, enlisting his support. “Ranveer, we need to create an environment where your mom feels safe to express herself,” Shweta explained. “We can set up a small studio space for her in the spare room.” Ranveer nodded, his eyes reflecting Shweta’s determination. “I’ll talk to Dad, try to get him to see reason. But you know how stubborn he can be.” Shweta smiled, appreciating his support. “We’ll take it one step at a time.”

The following weekend, Shweta and Ranveer transformed the spare room into a cosy art studio. They bought canvases, paints, brushes, and easels, creating a space that invited creativity. When they unveiled the studio to Nidhi, she was overwhelmed with emotion. “Shweta, Ranveer, this is… I don’t know what to say,” Nidhi stammered, tears of gratitude in her eyes. “Say you’ll use it,” Shweta encouraged. “This is your space, Ma. A place where you can be yourself.” As expected, Rajesh was not pleased. He walked into the studio one afternoon, his face a mask of disapproval.

“What’s all this?” he demanded. “You’ve turned the spare room into a mess.” Nidhi stood frozen, her newly rediscovered confidence wavering. Shweta, however, stepped forward, her voice steady. “Papa, this isn’t a mess. It’s Ma’s studio. She’s an artist, and she deserves a space to pursue her passion.” Rajesh scoffed. “Nonsense. She has responsibilities here. She doesn’t have time for such frivolities.”

Ranveer, who had been listening quietly, finally spoke up. “Dad, this is important to us. And to her. We want her to be happy. She’s sacrificed enough for this family.” Rajesh glared at his son but was taken aback by his firm stance. He was not used to being challenged, especially not by his own family. Nidhi, emboldened by the support of her children, found her voice. “Rajesh, I’ve given up my dreams for too long. It’s time I did something for myself.” For a moment, it seemed Rajesh would explode with anger, but he saw the determination in their eyes and grudgingly retreated, muttering under his breath.

With the studio established, Nidhi began to paint again. At first, she was hesitant, her strokes tentative and unsure. But with each passing day, she rediscovered her passion, her confidence growing with every brushstroke. Shweta would often sit with her, chatting about art and life, encouraging her mother-in-law to push her boundaries and experiment with different styles.

One day, Shweta had an idea. “Ma, how would you feel about showcasing your work? There’s a local art exhibit coming up. It could be a great opportunity.” Nidhi looked unsure. “But Shweta, it’s been so long. I’m not sure if my work is good enough.” “Your work is beautiful,” Shweta insisted. “You have a gift, and it deserves to be seen. Think about it, okay?”

After much persuasion and reassurance, Nidhi agreed to participate in the exhibit. The weeks leading up to the event were filled with a flurry of activity, as Nidhi poured her heart and soul into her paintings. The transformation in her was palpable, her once-muted spirit now shining brightly.

The day of the exhibition arrived, and the gallery buzzed with excitement. Shweta, Ranveer, and Nidhi arrived early to set up, their anticipation building. Nidhi’s paintings, a vibrant mix of colours and emotions, were displayed prominently, each one telling a story of resilience and rediscovery.

As the evening progressed, visitors flocked to Nidhi’s section, captivated by her work. They marvelled at the depth of her talent, the beauty of her expression. Nidhi, though nervous at first, found herself engaging with the audience, her confidence growing with each compliment and word of encouragement.

Shweta watched with pride as Nidhi blossomed, her talent recognised and celebrated. Ranveer stood beside her, his arm around her shoulders. “You did this,” he whispered. “You helped her find her voice.” “No,” Shweta replied, her eyes shining. “She had it all along. She just needed a little push.”

As the evening drew to a close, a man approached Nidhi, his eyes filled with admiration. “Mrs. Sharma, your work is incredible. I’m the curator of an art gallery in Mumbai, and I would love to feature your paintings in an upcoming exhibition.” Nidhi’s eyes widened in surprise. “Really? I don’t know what to say.” “Say yes,” Shweta urged, her heart swelling with joy. With a mixture of disbelief and excitement, Nidhi agreed, her dreams once again within reach.

The weeks following the exhibition were a whirlwind of activity. Nidhi prepared for her upcoming showcase in Mumbai, her days filled with creativity and purpose. The change in her was evident to everyone, even Rajesh.

One evening, as Nidhi worked in her studio, Rajesh stood in the doorway, watching her. For the first time, he saw the joy in her eyes, the passion in her movements. It was a side of her he had long ignored, buried under the weight of his expectations.

“Nidhi,” he began, his voice uncharacteristically soft. “I’ve been thinking… I may not have been supportive in the past. But I see now how much this means to you. And I… I want you to be happy.” Nidhi looked up, surprise and hope mingling in her gaze. “Thank you, Rajesh. That means a lot to me.” Shweta and Ranveer, who had been listening from the hallway, exchanged a look of astonishment. It was a small step, but it was progress.

The day of Nidhi’s exhibition in Mumbai arrived, a culmination of months of hard work and dedication. The gallery was packed with art enthusiasts, critics, and supporters, all eager to see the work of the talented artist.

Shweta, Ranveer, and even Rajesh travelled to Mumbai to support Nidhi, their pride was evident in their eyes. As they walked through the gallery, admiring Nidhi’s paintings, Shweta felt a deep sense of fulfilment. They had not only helped Nidhi reclaim her passion but had also begun to change the dynamics of their family, fostering an environment of respect and support.

As the evening progressed, Nidhi was approached by several art collectors and gallery owners, all interested in her work. Her paintings resonated with people, their vibrant colours and emotional depth striking a chord.

One collector, an elderly woman with kind eyes, took Nidhi’s hand. “Your work is extraordinary. It comes from a place of deep emotion and experience. I would be honoured to display your paintings in my gallery.” Nidhi’s eyes filled with tears of gratitude. “Thank you so much. This means the world to me.”

As the evening drew to a close, the family gathered around Nidhi, their hearts brimming with pride. Shweta hugged her mother-in-law, tears of joy streaming down her cheeks. “I’m so proud of you, Ma. You did it.” Nidhi smiled, her eyes shining with happiness. “I couldn’t have done it without you, Shweta. You helped me find my voice again.”

Back in New Delhi, the changes in the Sharma household were evident. Rajesh, though still set in his ways, had softened, making an effort to be more supportive of Nidhi’s passion. Nidhi continued to paint, her studio a sanctuary of creativity and expression. Shweta and Ranveer’s relationship, built on mutual respect and love, served as a model for the entire family. Their partnership and support for each other highlighted the importance of equality and understanding in marriage.

One evening, as the family gathered for dinner, Rajesh raised his glass in a rare moment of vulnerability. “To Nidhi,” he said, his voice filled with emotion. “For reminding us all of the importance of following our passions and staying true to ourselves.” Nidhi’s eyes filled with tears as she clinked glasses with her family, feeling a sense of belonging and acceptance she had long yearned for. As the evening wore on, Shweta and Ranveer sat together, their hands intertwined. “We’ve come a long way,” Shweta said softly. “We have,” Ranveer agreed. “And we’ll continue to support each other, just like we did with Mom.” Shweta smiled, her heart swelling with love. “Together, we can achieve anything.”

In the months and years that followed, Nidhi’s art flourished, gaining recognition and admiration. She held exhibitions across the country, and her work was celebrated for its emotional depth and vibrant expression. She had reclaimed her identity, her voice, and her passion, all thanks to the unwavering support of her family.

In the end, it was not just about finding one’s voice, but about celebrating it, nurturing it, and allowing it to sing. In the harmonious symphony of their lives, Shweta, Ranveer, and Nidhi had found their true selves, their dreams, and the boundless joy that came with living authentically and freely.

Poem: Solitude

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I am someone who loves being alone. I love days when there is noone at home and I can revel in the solitude. This poem is an ode to those days of solitude…

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Solitude

In the stillness of a quiet room,
Where shadows dance and thoughts consume,
Solitude whispers, a gentle embrace,
A sanctuary found, a sacred space.

No voices echo, no footsteps tread,
Just the silent hum of thoughts unsaid,
In solitude’s arms, the world grows still,
A tranquil haven where dreams fulfill.

The outside clamour fades away,
As solitude invites the heart to stay,
To wander through fields of introspection,
To seek the soul’s quiet reflection.

In the hush of this serene retreat,
The mind finds solace, the spirit is replete,
There is no need for words or human touch,
For solitude’s company is just as much.

Here, the heart can freely roam,
In its vast expanse, it calls its own,
To ponder mysteries, to contemplate,
In solitude, the soul does elevate.

It’s a dance of shadows, a silent song,
Where solitude’s presence feels so strong,
A friend to those who seek its grace,
A refuge found in this quiet place.

In solitude, the self is known,
A time to cherish, a time to own,
The depth of being, the quiet profound,
In solitude’s silence, true peace is found.

So, fear not the quiet, nor the alone,
For in solitude’s realm, the heart has grown,
A tapestry of thoughts, so pure, so wide,
In the embrace of solitude, we find our guide.