Poem: Dear Younger Me

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Looking back, we often wish we could whisper words of wisdom to our younger selves: offering comfort in moments of doubt, reassurance during hardships, and encouragement to embrace life fearlessly. The struggles that once seemed insurmountable became lessons, and the dreams that felt distant slowly took shape. This poem is a heartfelt letter to the past, a reflection on growth, resilience, and the journey ahead.

Dear Younger Me

Oh, little dreamer, wide-eyed and free,
There’s so much that I wish you’d see.
The world is vast, both kind and wild,
And you will stumble, my sweet child.

You’ll chase the stars, but some will fade,
Not every plan you make is laid
In stone, but trust, don’t be afraid,
For detours shape the paths you pave.

Hearts will break, and tears will fall,
Not every friend will heed your call.
But those who stay, through thick and thin,
These are where your truest joys begin.

You’ll doubt yourself on weary days,
You’ll fear that you have lost your way.
But strength is built in trials deep,
And dreams are sown in loss we keep.

So laugh too loud, and love so wide,
Take up space—don’t run and hide.
Mistakes will come, but they will teach,
That every goal is within reach.

And when you stand where I am now,
You’ll smile and see you made it, somehow.
For every tear and battle scar,
Became the light that led you far.

 2025 Week 40 Update

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Namaskara from Bengaluru! I arrived in India’s Silicon Valley earlier this week to spend a few days with my parents. Because my father is ill with Parkinson’s Disease, not allowing him to move around, I am here to help them with bank work and taking them to the doctor and any other small jobs I can do to make their life slightly easier. It’s a lot easier for me to fly down from Singapore, as I am currently only working part-time from home than my sister, because it’s a lot easier and cheaper to fly from Singapore, and I also don’t have to apply for leave. So I decided to fly down to meet them since it has been almost a year since I last saw them.

American essayist, poet, and philosopher, and one of the central figures of the Transcendentalist movement, Ralph Waldo Emerson, highlights the dual nature of passion. On one hand, passion can be an unreliable regulator; it may lead to impulsive choices or unchecked emotions if not balanced with reason. On the other hand, passion is also a powerful driving force, like a spring that propels us into action, energising and inspiring us to pursue our goals and dreams. Emerson’s point is that while passion alone should not govern our lives, it needs balance with wisdom and discipline; it remains an essential source of vitality and creativity. Passion fuels ambition, innovation, and courage, giving life momentum and meaning.

I finished my epic walk this week! I started in January 2021 in the midst of the pandemic, when I was looking for motivation to get my steps in. Staying at home meant that I had to walk inside, and in 2020, I realised without any solid motivation, I could not find it in myself to walk. I started by deciding to walk to my home in Mumbai. I put the start and end destinations on Google Maps and started plotting my steps daily, weekly, and monthly. By the end of the year, I had reached India’s northeastern border in Manipur, where it borders Myanmar. By this time, my parents had decided to move to Bengaluru to a retirement community, so I adjusted my goals accordingly. The entire year of 2022, I was walking across India and reached my home state of Maharashtra in January 2023. From there to my home in Mumbai took me to about mid-February, and once I hit my home, I started walking to Bengaluru, which I reached sometime in August 2023. After that, it was time to head back to Singapore. Coming back, I took the east coast route, meeting the chicken neck and exiting India the same place where I entered it around the end of 2023 to early 2024. Then I spent time walking across Myanmar, Thailand, and peninsular Malaysia before reaching home sometime this week. To give some data, in almost five years, I walked about 14,500 km and more than 22 million steps! This was a good motivation for me, and I think I will do something similar but different to continue my momentum. 

Today’s motivation is about focusing attention in a difficult situation. When you’re in the thick of a difficult situation, you only have to focus all your attention on one thing. That is, releasing attachment to all types of dark thoughts. Do not believe anything your mind comes up with during this time. You don’t have to worry about finding the next course of action or coming up with an explanation for why things are happening this way. Simply let your thoughts go. Reset your mind. Leave no space for damaging stories or beliefs. These stories can limit what you believe is possible for you. Remind yourself that your circumstances will shift. You won’t always feel this way.

That’s all from me this week. Take care, stay safe, remain positive, and remind yourself that things won’t always remain this way; they will change and for the better!

In My Hands Today…

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The Hundred Years’ War on Palestine: A History of Settler-Colonial Conquest and Resistance, 1917–2017 – Rashid Khalidi

In 1899, Yusuf Diya al-Khalidi, mayor of Jerusalem, alarmed by the Zionist call to create a Jewish national home in Palestine, wrote a letter aimed at Theodore Herzl: the country had an indigenous people who would not easily accept their own displacement. He warned of the perils ahead, ending his note, “in the name of God, let Palestine be left alone.” Thus Rashid Khalidi, al-Khalidi’s great-great-nephew, begins this sweeping history, the first general account of the conflict told from an explicitly Palestinian perspective.

Drawing on a wealth of untapped archival materials and the reports of generations of family members—mayors, judges, scholars, diplomats, and journalists—The Hundred Years’ War on Palestine upends accepted interpretations of the conflict, which tend, at best, to describe a tragic clash between two peoples with claims to the same territory. Instead, Khalidi traces a hundred years of colonial war on the Palestinians, waged first by the Zionist movement and then Israel, but backed by Britain and the United States, the great powers of the age. He highlights the key episodes in this colonial campaign, from the 1917 Balfour Declaration to the destruction of Palestine in 1948, from Israel’s 1982 invasion of Lebanon to the endless and futile peace process.

Original, authoritative, and important, The Hundred Years’ War on Palestine is not a chronicle of victimization, nor does it whitewash the mistakes of Palestinian leaders or deny the emergence of national movements on both sides. In reevaluating the forces arrayed against the Palestinians, it offers an illuminating new view of a conflict that continues to this day.

Sacred Stones, Spaces and Stories: Shakthipeeta Part 22

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Shri Mahalakshmi Griva Peeth, Dakshin Surma Upazila, Sylhet, Bangladesh
Also known as the Chandreshwar Bhairavi Griva Shakti Peetha, the Shri Mahalakshmi Griva Peeth is located in Gotatikar village, near Kalagul Tea Estate in Dakshin Surma Upazila, Sylhet. It is said that this is where the neck or griva of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen. The temple is dedicated to Mahalakshmi, a form of Goddess Durga, and Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Sambaranand Bhairava. Nestled amidst lush tea gardens and serene landscapes, the Shri Mahalakshmi Griva Peeth is a sacred destination for devotees seeking divine blessings and spiritual solace.

The origins of the Shri Mahalakshmi Griva Peeth are deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. The temple has been a centre of devotion for centuries. According to local legends, the sacred neck of Goddess Sati fell on a black rock in this region, which remained hidden for many years. During the 12th or 13th century, while constructing a road in the area, labourers unearthed this rock but were unable to move it despite repeated attempts. It was then that a divine vision instructed the local zamindar, Deviprasad Das Munshi, to establish a shrine at this location. The temple was built without a roof as per Maa Mahalakshmi’s wish conveyed through dreams to Deviprasad. Even today, the temple remains open to the sky, symbolising the goddess’s desire to be worshipped under natural light.

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The temple does not have a roof over its sanctum sanctorum. This unique feature reflects Maa Mahalakshmi’s wish to remain open to natural light and air. Devotees believe that this open-air design enhances their connection with the goddess and nature. The sanctum houses a large black rock believed to be imbued with divine energy from Sati’s neck. This rock is adorned with vermilion or sindoor, flowers, and other offerings made by devotees. The rock emits an aura of sanctity that draws pilgrims from far and wide. A separate shrine dedicated to Sambaranand Bhairava or Lord Shiva is located within the temple complex. His idol is depicted in meditative form, symbolising his role as protector of this sacred site.

The temple’s location amidst sprawling tea gardens adds to its tranquil ambiance. Pilgrims often describe their journey through these lush landscapes as spiritually uplifting. The temple was established by Deviprasad Das Munshi during British rule and has been maintained by his descendants over generations. Despite challenges like land encroachments and invasions, it remains a vital center for Shaktism.

Daily pujas are performed with the morning Aarti at sunrise which begins with the chanting of hymns like Lakshmi Ashtottara Shatanamavali, while evening Aarti concludes with lighting oil lamps around the temple premises. Navratri is celebrated twice a year when devotees observe fasting during these nine days to seek blessings for prosperity and protection. Lakshmi Puja is celebrated during Diwali. Special offerings like gold ornaments and silk sarees are presented to Maa Mahalakshmi during this festival. An annual fair is held within the temple grounds during Navratri or Lakshmi Puja celebrations. This event includes cultural performances, stalls selling religious items, and community feasts.

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According to legend, Deviprasad Das Munshi had recurring dreams in which Maa Mahalakshmi appeared and instructed him to build an open-air shrine at Gotatikar where her neck had fallen. Despite initial resistance from locals who feared divine wrath if disturbed, Deviprasad followed her instructions and established the temple as it stands today. During road construction in the area centuries ago, labourers discovered a massive black rock but were unable to move it despite their best efforts. It was only after divine intervention through dreams that they realized its sacred significance as part of Sati’s body. Devotees believe that praying at Shri Mahalakshmi Griva Peeth cures ailments and grants peace of mind. Many pilgrims visit specifically seeking Maa Mahalakshmi’s intervention in resolving personal or familial issues.

The Shri Mahalakshmi Griva Peeth with its open-air sanctum and legends amidst the tea gardens provides an ideal setting for meditation and introspection.

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Bhabanipur, Sherpur Upazila, Bogra, Bangladesh
The Bhabanipur Shaktipeeth, located in Sherpur Upazila, Bogra District is an ancient temple complex dedicated to Maa Aparna, a form of Goddess Sati. Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Baba Vaman Bhairava. According to legend, it is the site where the left anklet, an ornament of Goddess Sati fell.

The temple complex has existed for centuries, though its exact date of establishment remains unknown. Historical evidence suggests that it was an important centre of worship during the rule of local kings and zamindars who contributed to its development. The temple gained prominence under the patronage of Rani Bhabani, a devout queen from Natore who played a significant role in restoring and maintaining the temple. The name Bhabanipur derives from Bhabani, another name for Goddess Durga or Sati. The temple is located near the now-defunct Kartoa River, which was once considered a holy river by devotees.

The sanctum sanctorum houses an idol of Maa Aparna adorned with vermilion or sindoor, gold ornaments, and garlands. The idol exudes an aura of serenity and divine power. A symbolic stone representing Sati’s anklet is also worshipped within the temple premises. A sacred pond called Shakha Pukur lies within the temple complex. According to legend, Maa Aparna revealed herself here wearing conch bangles or shakha, making this pond highly revered by devotees. Pilgrims take ritual baths in this pond before entering the temple to purify themselves.

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The sprawling complex covers an area of approximately four acres and includes several temples. The main shrine is dedicated to Maa Aparna. There are four Shiva temples with the Patal Bhairava Temple dedicated to Baba Vaman Bhairava. There are temples dedicated to Lord Gopal, another name for Lord Krishna and Vasudev. There is also a Nat Mandir for devotional performances. A rare Panchamunda Asana or an altar made from five skulls is located within the complex. It is used for Tantric rituals performed by priests on auspicious occasions. A sacred tree known as Belbaran Tala stands near the temple. Devotees tie red or yellow threads around its branches while making wishes.

The rituals at Bhabanipur Shaktipeeth reflect ancient traditions combined with local customs. Daily pujas are performed by priests who offer flowers , fruits, coconuts, rice, incense sticks, and sweets to the goddess. Morning Aarti begins at sunrise with chanting of hymns like Durga Saptashati, while evening Aarti concludes with lighting oil lamps around the temple premises. Maghi Purnima on the full moon in February, is one of the most important festivals celebrated at Bhabanipur Shaktipeeth. Thousands of devotees gather for special prayers and rituals during this time.

Ram Navami is another major festival celebrated here with devotees participating in processions, kirtans or devotional songs, and community feasts. Pilgrims take holy baths in Shakha Pukur before offering prayers at the temple. This ritual is believed to cleanse sins and bring prosperity. On new moon nights, special Tantric rituals are conducted by priests at the Panchamunda Asana to invoke Maa Aparna’s blessings for protection and spiritual growth.

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According to legend, a conch-bangle dealer passing by Shakha Pukur encountered a little girl wearing vermilion on her forehead who claimed to be the daughter of Natore Palace. She purchased bangles from him and instructed him to collect payment from Rani Bhabani’s palace. When he relayed this story to Rani Bhabani, she rushed to Shakha Pukur, where Maa Aparna emerged from the water wearing bangles on her wrists. This miraculous event spread her divinity throughout the region.

Another legend tells of a black stone discovered during excavation near Shakha Pukur. Despite multiple attempts, workers were unable to move it until they realised it was imbued with divine energy from Maa Aparna’s anklet. Devotees believe that praying at Bhabanipur Shaktipeeth cures ailments and grants peace of mind. Many pilgrims visit specifically seeking Maa Aparna’s intervention in resolving personal or familial issues.

The Bhabanipur Shaktipeeth offers visitors a unique spiritual experience rooted in mythology and devotion. Whether one seeks spiritual solace or wishes to explore India’s rich cultural heritage, visiting this ancient shrine will leave one feeling connected to the divine feminine energy.

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Manas Shakt Peetha, Lake Manasarovar, Mount Kailash, Tibet, China
Located near Lake Manasarovar, the Mansarovar Shakti Peeth at the base of Mount Kailash in Tibet is revered as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. It is believed to be where the right hand of Goddess Sati fell. The temple is dedicated to Maa Dakshayani, a form of Goddess Sati, and Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Amar Bhairava. Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas, this Shakti Peetha is not only a spiritual destination but also a symbol of divine connection and cosmic balance.

Lake Manasarovar itself holds immense spiritual significance and is often referred to as the Lake of Consciousness. According to Hindu belief, it was first formed in the mind of Lord Brahma before manifesting on Earth. The lake’s proximity to Mount Kailash—the celestial abode of Lord Shiva—further enhances its sanctity. The Mansarovar region has been a centre for pilgrimage for thousands of years. The temple dedicated to Maa Dakshayani is believed to have been established by sages who meditated in the region to seek divine blessings. Over time, it became an important destination for devotees undertaking the arduous Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

The temple is located near Mount Kailash, which is considered the cosmic axis connecting heaven and Earth. This proximity enhances its spiritual importance as pilgrims believe that visiting both Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar completes their journey toward liberation or moksha. Known as one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, Lake Manasarovar symbolises purity and enlightenment. Its emerald-blue waters are believed to cleanse sins and grant spiritual renewal. Pilgrims often perform circumambulation or a parikrama around the lake as part of their rituals.

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Unlike traditional temples with elaborate structures, the Mansarovar Shakti Peeth features an open-air shrine where devotees worship a sacred stone believed to embody Maa Dakshayani’s energy. A small shrine dedicated to Amar Bhairava or Lord Shiva stands near the main temple. His idol depicts him in a meditative posture symbolising eternal peace and protection. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, pristine waters, and serene landscapes, the temple offers a tranquil environment ideal for meditation and introspection.

Taking a dip in Lake Manasarovar is considered one of the most sacred acts for pilgrims. It symbolises washing away past sins and attaining spiritual purity. Although direct bathing in the lake is now restricted due to environmental concerns, pilgrims collect water in containers for rituals. Pilgrims perform circumambulation or parikramas around both Lake Manasarovar and Mount Kailash as an act of devotion. The lake’s parikrama spans approximately 105 kilometers and is often completed by bus or on foot. Special fire rituals or hawans are conducted on the banks of Lake Manasarovar during auspicious occasions. Devotees offer ghee, rice, and herbs into the sacred fire while chanting Vedic mantras. Maha Shivratri is celebrated with great fervour at Mansarovar Shakti Peeth. Devotees observe fasting and perform night-long prayers dedicated to Amar Bhairava or Lord Shiva.

According to legend, Lake Manasarovar was first formed in the mind or manas of Lord Brahma before manifesting on Earth. It was created as a celestial bathing place for his sons after their journey through creation. Another legend states that celestial swans or hamsas reside on Lake Manasarovar during summer months. These swans symbolise wisdom and enlightenment in Hinduism and are believed to be manifestations of divine energy. Local lore suggests that Amar Bhairava grants immortality or amaratva to those who pray earnestly at his shrine near Mansarovar Shakti Peeth. Many pilgrims visit specifically seeking his blessings for protection and longevity.

The Mansarovar Shakti Peeth, with its open-air shrine and rituals like the parikrama around Lake Manasarovar provide opportunities for deep introspection and renewal.

In My Hands Today…

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Sultan: A Memoir – Wasim Akram, Gideon Haigh

For twenty years, Wasim Akram let his cricket do the talking – his electrifying left-arm pace, his explosive left-handed striking, his leadership and his inspiration. For another twenty years he kept his own counsel about those days, full of drama, controversy and even mystery, in a country, Pakistan, that to outsiders is a constant enigma. Until now.

Sultan tells the story of cricket’s greatest left-arm bowler, and one of its greatest survivors, who was chosen from the streets of Lahore and groomed by Imran Khan to become champion of the world – man of the match in the final of the 1992 World Cup. Along the way were unforgettable rivalries with the greatest of his time, from Viv Richards and Ian Botham to Sachin Tendulkar and Shane Warne. Along the way, too, a backdrop of conspiracy and intrigue over ball tampering and match fixing about which Wasim finally sets the story straight.

But there’s more: Sultan goes frankly into the crumbling and rebuilding of Wasim’s private life, marred by the tragedy of his first wife’s death and the torment of addiction. The result is an unprecedented insight into the life of a cricketer who revolutionised the game with his speed and swing, and a patriot buoyed and burdened by the expectation of one of the game’s most fanatical public.