2023 was a decent year for me. The TL&DR version would read like this: I walked a lot, read a lot, started a new job and enjoyed time with my family!
This year, I read 70 books and crushed my annual goal of 52 books. This means I averaged roughly 1.5 books per week. I hope this trend continues in 2024 too, but with subscriptions to multiple OTT platforms and work, it will take some effort to make time to read.
I also managed to reach the retirement community where my parents live in early June and start my walk back to Singapore. This year, I walked about 3000 km and am currently very close to the coastal city of Visakhapatnam.
In terms of work, I managed to snag a good job, one where I can contribute to society as well as my family. It’s also quite fulfilling and I enjoy going to work and the company of my coworkers.
This year, both BB and GG graduated from polytechnics. And for the first time in her educational journey, GG graduated with a higher cGPA than BB! BB spent the three years at the polytechnic mostly playing games and not being 100% present during online classes. GG has since then started university and will graduate with a degree in accountancy, hopefully with an honours degree. BB, on the other hand, is currently doing his compulsory service to the nation, his National Service.
I also finally visited my parents with S and the children for a couple of weeks and on the way back home, my parents came to Singapore with me. This was most likely their last overseas trip and I was so happy that it was to Singapore.
So, all in all, I am pretty satisfied with the year that was. As we move into 2024, I will take with me the lessons I learned in the year and want to carry forward all the good things that happened in 2023 so that 2024 is a better version of this year.
The melody that snagged Elara’s attention on that wintry eve wasn’t just any tune. It was a lament, both mournful and strangely beautiful, weaving through the wind and the waves like a thread of moonlight. Driven by an inexplicable pull, she followed the music’s invisible path, her heart drumming a counterpoint to the ocean’s rhythm.
The path led her down a meandering trail, past gnarled trees that stretched skeletal fingers towards the sky and dunes whispering secrets in the salt-laced breeze. Finally, it opened up to a hidden cove, a crescent of sand cradled by towering cliffs. And there, bathed in the silver glow of the moon, stood a solitary figure.
He was as rugged and windswept as the landscape itself, his face etched with the stories of a thousand storms and his eyes the color of the winter sky. His hair, streaked with salt and sun, danced in the breeze, framing a smile that was both shy and radiant. He held a violin, its wood worn smooth by time, and as he played, the music spun around them, a spellbinding tapestry of joy and sorrow, of memories and new beginnings.
Elara found herself drawn to him, not just by the captivating music but by the spark in his eyes, a reflection of the same ember that had flickered to life within her own heart. They talked that night under the vast, star-studded canopy, his words as captivating as the melodies he played. He spoke of faraway lands, of vibrant cultures and ancient wisdom, of mountains that sang and of deserts that whispered tales of forgotten times.
Each day that followed became a canvas woven with the threads of their connection. They explored hidden coves and sun-drenched meadows, Finn teaching Elara the language of the wind and the waves and the secrets etched in the weathered faces of the cliffs. He brought laughter back into her life, a sound that had been dormant for far too long. In turn, Elara shared the island’s secrets with him: the symphony of gulls at dawn, the fiery sunsets bleeding into the sea, and the hidden poetry in the sway of the windswept grasses.
The island, once a haven of solitude, became a crucible of transformation. They sat by crackling driftwood fires, sharing stories of love and loss, of dreams and disappointments. Elara spoke of Thomas, of the love that still bloomed in the garden of her memories, and the weight of grief that had threatened to consume her. Finn listened with a heart as vast as the ocean, his presence a balm to her wounds.
As the wind rustled through the holly bushes, and the first snow dusted the cliffs, a seed of something new blossomed in Elara’s heart. It wasn’t a replacement for the love she’d lost, but a different melody, a harmony that resonated with the echoes of the past. It was a love born not from forgetting, but from acceptance, from carrying the weight of grief alongside the glimmer of hope.
On Christmas Eve, under a sky glittering with a million diamond stars, Finn led Elara back to the hidden cove. He had built a bonfire, its flames dancing like playful tongues against the night sky. In his hands, he held a single, wind-polished seashell, a pearl nestled within its pearly embrace.
“This island,” he said, his voice husky with emotion, “has whispered your name to me since the moment I arrived. You, Elara, are just as much a part of its song as the crashing waves and the singing gulls.”
He placed the shell in her hand, the warmth of the pearl seeping into her palm. And in that moment, tears brimming in her eyes, Elara knew. This wasn’t just a Christmas miracle; it was a testament to the enduring power of love, a promise of a future where joy and sorrow could coexist, where new melodies could rise from the ashes of the past.
Together, they decorated the cottage with seashells and driftwood, stringing tiny fish bones as makeshift fairy lights. They sang carols, their voices rough but joyous, a chorus against the lonely symphony of the island. And as the first rays of Christmas morning painted the sky, Elara, hand in Finn’s, felt a warmth bloom in her heart.
Life on the island would never be the same. But amidst the whispers of the waves and the cries of the gulls, a new melody had begun. Elara and Finn became an integral part of the island’s tapestry, their love story interwoven with the whispers of the sea and the rustling palms.
Growing up in Mumbai, there was always this sense of rivalry between my city and India’s commercial capital, Mumbai and India’s capital, New Delhi. Introduction. This rivalry is age-old, one that has sparked countless debates, friendly banter, and good-natured arguments across India—the rivalry between Delhi, the nation’s capital, and Mumbai, its bustling commercial hub.
A city steeped in history and heritage, Delhi, because it is the nation’s capital, carries the weight of the nation’s past, present, and future on its broad shoulders. Delhi’s historical significance is undeniable. From the grandeur of the Mughal Empire to the colonial legacy of the British Raj, the city’s architecture and monuments reflect a rich and diverse tapestry of history. The Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, and Qutub Minar stand as testaments to Delhi’s regal past.
Delhi’s cultural diversity is another hallmark of the city. With residents hailing from all corners of India, Delhi is a melting pot of languages, cuisines, and traditions. The street food here is legendary, from mouthwatering chaats to the delectable kebabs of Old Delhi.
As the political heart of the nation, Delhi houses India’s key government institutions, including the Parliament and the Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Residence). The city’s grand boulevards and iconic landmarks serve as symbols of India’s democratic ideals and governance.
Now, let’s make our way to western India, to India’s commercial and financial capital, Mumbai. This city is synonymous with opportunity, dreams, and an unstoppable spirit. Often dubbed as “Mayanagari” or the “City of Illusions” and “Maximum City”, Mumbai is home to India’s Hindi film industry or Bollywood, where dreams come to life on the silver screen. The Indian Hindi film industry, centred in Mumbai, produces thousands of films each year, enchanting audiences across the globe. It’s a city where stars are born and legends are made.
Mumbai is the economic powerhouse of India. The city’s thriving financial district houses the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and numerous multinational corporations. Its bustling streets and markets are a testament to India’s entrepreneurial spirit.
One of Mumbai’s defining features is its stunning coastline, overlooking the Arabian Sea. The Marine Drive, often referred to as the “Queen’s Necklace,” is a breathtaking promenade offering panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline.
Delhiites, known for their love of history and tradition, often think that Mumbai is all about glamour and showbiz, lacking the depth of Delhi’s cultural heritage. On the other hand, Mumbaikars argue that their city’s cultural diversity and open-mindedness make it a true melting pot of ideas and creativity. I think this point goes to Mumbai because of the sheer diversity found in the city, where people mind their own business and no one cares where the other is from.
Delhi’s residents often pride themselves on their city’s measured pace of life, where history is savoured at every turn. In contrast, Mumbaikars, famous for their fast-paced lifestyle, appreciate the efficiency and dynamism of their city. This point could go either way, depending on what kind of lifestyle one prefers.
Delhiites claim their city as the culinary capital of India, with its rich array of traditional dishes and street food. Mumbaikars, on the other hand, tout their street food scene as unmatched, with delectable vada pavs and pav bhajis. This one belongs to Delhi. The food scene in Delhi is unmatched elsewhere in India and even Mumbai’s famed street food can’t beat the food and ambience in the capital.
The rivalry even extends to the monsoon season. While Delhi welcomes the rain with open arms, appreciating the respite from scorching summers, Mumbaikars are known for their resilience during the annual deluge, continuing with their daily lives regardless of the downpour. This point belongs to Mumbai. The entire state of Maharashtra becomes lush and green during the monsoon season and the Mumbai monsoon is a thing of beauty (but not when the streets get flooded and life stops). A stroll at the Gateway of India or on Marine Drive during the rains is something that must be done while visiting the city during this season.
In the grand tapestry of India’s cultural diversity, the rivalry between Delhi and Mumbai holds a special place. It’s a lighthearted competition that keeps both cities striving for excellence. It sparks creativity, encourages healthy debate, and celebrates the unique identities of each city. Ultimately, the rivalry between Delhi and Mumbai is a microcosm of India’s broader cultural diversity and unity. These two cities, though different in many ways, represent the essence of India’s motto, “Unity in Diversity.” They coexist, thrive, and contribute to the nation’s progress in their unique ways.
Delhi, with its regal heritage and political prominence, stands as a testament to India’s storied past. Mumbai, the bustling metropolis of dreams and commerce, symbolizes India’s entrepreneurial spirit and dynamism.
So, here’s to Delhi and Mumbai, two cities that may have their differences, but together, they represent the vibrant and diverse spirit of India. In the end, it’s not a matter of which city is better; it’s about celebrating the unique charms, contributions, and friendly rivalry that make both Delhi and Mumbai exceptional in their own right.
Rooted in some parts of Karnataka and Northern Kerala’s folklore and traditions, Theyyam is an ancient ritualistic dance form that transcends the boundaries between the divine and the earthly and is performed to honour the heroes and ancestral spirits. Also known as Kaliyattam or Tira, the dance is performed in various places in North Malabar annually between December and April. In Kerala, Theyyam is performed predominantly in the North Malabar region, consisting of present-day Kasargod, Kannur Districts, Mananthavady Taluk of Wayanad and Vadakara and Koyilandy Taluks of Kozhikode. A similar custom known as Bhuta Kola is followed in the Tulunadu region of neighbouring Karnataka. It is also performed each day at the Parassini Kadava Sri Muthappan Temple in Kannur. The people of the region consider Theyyam itself a channel to a god and they thus seek blessings from Theyyam.
Theyyam, believed to have been derived from the word Daivam, meaning God, is based on the belief that immortal spirits enter mortal bodies to perform a ritual dance of divine revelation. Theyyam may have its origins from ancestor worship. It has been observed that a vast majority of the Theyyam deities have their origin from people who were in the backward castes of the Kerala’s caste system. The ancestor worship ritual was later evolved into the elaborate dance ritual that is seen nowadays. Incorporating many other local beliefs. The spectacular varieties of Theyyam performances are possible using elaborate facial make-up, captivating headgear, special costumes, and unique ornaments. Theyyams are staged in various temples of Malabar, usually in front of the village shrine, with regularity each year. As performances are on an open stage, they can also be showcased in traditional Malabar households during festive or special occasions.
One fascinating aspect of Theyyam is its year-round occurrence, with different deities taking center stage during specific seasons. The festival follows a cyclical pattern, aligning with the agricultural calendar and reflecting the symbiotic relationship between nature and culture. This perpetual celebration ensures that the spirit of Theyyam is woven into the fabric of daily life. Theyyam season starts from the tenth day of the Malayalam month of Thulam that usually falls during October, and known as paththaam-udayam and lasts up to seven months till the middle of Edavam month, typically late May and June. The last Kaliyaattam for the season is performed at Madayi Kavu and Kalarivathukkal Bhagavathy Temple, both being the family shrines of the Kolathiri royal family. The performers, known as Theyyam artists or Vellattam, transform into deities, donning elaborate costumes, vibrant makeup, and intricate headgear. Through their mesmerizing movements, the artists channel the spirit of the gods, embodying them for a brief yet profound interaction with the community.
The dance form incorporates dance, music, and mime and is believed to be distinguished into 400 forms, each with its own unique style, make-up, costumes, songs, and choreography. The most prominent Theyyams are the Pottan, Gulikan, Bhagavati, Kari Chamundi, and Raktha Chamundi. The ornamental decorations, size, and appearance of the performers are also worth noticing. The festival dates to the Dravidian age and is said to be part of the ancient tribal culture of Kerala.
There are about 456 types of Theyyams documented. Theyyam is mainly performed by males, except for the Devakkoothu Theyyam; the Devakkoothu is the only Theyyam ritual performed by women. Devakoothu is performed only in the Thekkumbad Kulom temple. In Kasaragod and Kannur districts, this ritual art is mainly performed in the kavus, or temples or ancestral houses, of the Thiyyar, Nambiar, Vaniyar, and Maniyani communities.
The preparation for a Theyyam performance is an elaborate process that involves various rituals and ceremonies. The artists, traditionally belonging to specific communities, undergo a period of purification and isolation before embodying the deity. The ritual begins with the invocation of the divine, accompanied by traditional music and chanting. As the rhythm intensifies, the Theyyam artist enters a trance-like state, connecting with the deity’s spirit. This transformative process is a sacred and highly respected undertaking, emphasizing the spiritual essence of Theyyam. The makeup, a vital aspect of Theyyam, transforms the artists into divine beings. The striking red and black hues, coupled with bold facial expressions, bring the gods to life in a way that captivates the audience and communicates the deity’s energy and character.
According to some experts, all the prominent characteristics of primitive, tribal, and religious worship had widened the stream of Theyyam, where even the followers of Islam are associated with the cult in its functional aspect and made it a deep-rooted folk religion of millions. Besides this, practices like spirit worship, ancestor worship, hero worship, masathi worship, tree worship, animal worship, serpent worship, the worship of the goddesses of disease and the worship of Gramadevata or the village deity, are included in the mainstream of the Theyyam. Along with these gods and goddesses, there exist innumerable folk gods and goddesses. Most of these goddesses are known as Bhagavathy. Theyyam showcases a diverse pantheon of deities, each with its own unique attributes, stories, and rituals. Some of the prominent deities include Vishnumoorthy, Muchilottu Bhagavathi, Raktha Chamundi, and Kari Chamundi, among many others. Each deity represents different aspects of the divine, from benevolence and protection to power and ferocity. Different branches of mainstream Hindu religion, such as Shaktism, Vaishnavism and Shaivism, now dominate Theyyam. However, the forms of propitiation and other rituals are continuations of a very ancient tradition.
Music is an integral part of the Theyyam performance, enhancing the immersive experience for both the artists and the audience. Traditional instruments like Chenda, Elathalam, and Kuzhal contribute to the rhythmic and melodic accompaniment, creating an atmosphere charged with spiritual energy. The beats of the chenda resonate deeply, complementing the dancers’ movements and adding a layer of intensity to the ritual.
Out of devotion, ruling clans established their own shrines and Kavus for Theyyam deities, where non-Sattvic rituals and customs are observed. The goddesses like Rakteshwari, Chamundi, Someshwari, and Kurathi, and the gods like Vishnumoorthi, are propitiated in these household shrines. There, the Theyyam dancers appear during the annual festivals of gods and goddesses. The rituals in such shrines are different from those of the Brahmanical temples. The impact of this cultural fusion could be traced to social organisation based on the caste system and agrarian relations. The invitation of Brahmin Thanthri to consecrate the idols of Kavu is a recent development.
The dance or invocation is generally performed in front of the village shrine. It is also performed in the houses as ancestor-worship with elaborate rites and rituals. There is no stage or curtain or other such arrangements for the performance. The devotees would be standing or some of them would be sitting on a sacred tree in front of the shrine. In short, it is an open theatre. Performance of a particular deity according to its significance and hierarchy in the shrine continues for 12 to 24 hours with intervals. The chief dancer who propitiates the central deity of the shrine must reside in the rituals. After sunset, this dancer would not eat anything for the remainder of that day. His make-up is done by specialists and other dancers.
The first part of the performance is usually known as Vellattam or Thottam. It is performed without proper make-up or any decorative costume. Only a small, red headdress is worn on this occasion. The dancer along with the drummers recites the ritual song, which describes the myths and legends, of the deity of the shrine or the folk deity to be propitiated. This is accompanied by the playing of folk musical instruments. After finishing this primary ritualistic part of the invocation, the dancer returns to the green room. Again, after a short interval, he appears with proper make-up and costumes. There are different patterns of face painting. Some of these patterns are called vairadelam, kattaram, kozhipuspam, kottumpurikam, and prakkezhuthu. Mostly primary and secondary colours are applied with contrast for face painting. The dancer comes in front of the shrine and gradually metamorphoses into the deity of the shrine. The performance signifies the transitional inversion, reversal, and elevation of status denoting the anti-structural homogeneity of Theyyam. He, after observation of certain rituals places the head-dress on his head and starts dancing.
In the background, folk musical instruments like chenda, tudi, kuzhal and veekni are played in a certain rhythm. All the dancers take a shield and kadthala or sword, in their hands as a continuation of the weapons. The dancer then circumambulates the shrine, runs into the courtyard and continues dancing there. The Theyyam dance has different steps known as akalaasamsms. Each Kalasam is repeated systematically from the first to the eighth step of footwork. A performance is a combination of playing of musical instruments, vocal recitations, dance, and peculiar makeup, usually predominantly orange, and costumes. The Kathivanoor Veeran Theyyam is one of the most famous Theyyams in Kerala.
As with many traditional art forms, Theyyam faces challenges in the modern era. Economic pressures, changing social dynamics, and the impact of globalisation pose threats to the sustainability of this ancient ritual. However, efforts are underway to preserve and promote Theyyam, both within India and on the global stage. Cultural enthusiasts, scholars, and artists collaborate to ensure that Theyyam’s flame continues to burn brightly.
As someone who has recently completed five decades, I have been thinking a lot about what I have and have not achieved in life. There’s a lot I wanted to do but for some reason, did not. So, there’s a lot I want to accomplish in the next few decades.
Plus, it’s the end of the year and this is a time of contemplation and retrospection so I thought I would post about this topic so others can learn from my life. So here are twelve pieces of life advice I would give my younger self.
Don’t take yourself too seriously. Life can be tough, but it’s important to remember to have fun and not take yourself too seriously. When you learn to laugh at yourself, you’ll find that life becomes a lot more enjoyable. You’ll also find that people are more drawn to you when you have a good sense of humour and don’t take yourself too seriously. So, the next time you make a mistake or do something silly, don’t beat yourself up about it. Instead, laugh it off and move on.
Embrace your uniqueness. Everyone has quirks, and that’s what makes us unique. Instead of trying to hide them, embrace them! You’ll find that people will appreciate you more for being yourself. Don’t seek to blend in; celebrate what sets you apart. Your quirks and idiosyncrasies are what make you, well, you, stand out from the crowd, and they’re what make you interesting. In a world that often encourages conformity, it’s the outliers who bring innovation and fresh perspectives. Be confident in your individuality.
Travel as much as you can. Traveling is one of the best ways to broaden your horizons and learn about different cultures. It can also help you gain a new perspective on life and appreciate what you have. When you travel, you’ll learn about different customs, foods, and ways of life. You’ll also meet new people and make new friends. So, whether you’re travelling to a new country or just exploring a new part of your city, make sure to take advantage of every opportunity to travel.
Don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is a natural part of life, and it’s important to learn from your mistakes. Failure is not the end; it’s a stepping stone on the path to growth and achievement. Every setback carries lessons that will serve you in the future. It’s not about how many times you fall; it’s about how many times you rise. When you’re not afraid to fail, you’ll find that you’re more willing to take risks and try new things. You’ll also learn more from your failures than from your successes. So, the next time you’re faced with a challenge, don’t be afraid to take a risk. Even if you fail, you’ll learn something valuable that will help you in the future.
Be kind. The world can be a challenging place, and it’s easy to become jaded. But always remember the power of kindness. Be kind to others, and equally important, be kind to yourself. It’s easy to be hard on yourself, but it’s important to remember to be kind to yourself. Treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding that you would offer to a friend. When you’re kind to yourself, you’ll find that you’re happier and more confident. So, whether you’re dealing with a difficult situation or just having a bad day, remember to be kind to yourself.
Don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone has their own journey in life, and it’s important to remember that you’re on your path. Comparing yourself to others will only lead to disappointment and frustration. Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on your progress and growth. You’ll find that you’re much happier and more fulfilled when you’re not constantly comparing yourself to others.
Cherish your health. Your health is your most valuable asset and your body is your lifelong companion, so treat it with the respect it deserves. Make sure to eat well, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. When you take care of your body, you’ll find that you have more energy and feel better overall. You’ll also be less likely to get sick or develop health problems in the future. Health is a treasure too often appreciated only in its absence.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Don’t be afraid to reach out to others when you need support or guidance. Whether you’re dealing with a personal problem or a work-related issue, there’s no shame in asking for help. You’ll find that people are often more than willing to lend a helping hand.
Be open to new experiences and remain curious. Life is full of surprises, and it’s important to be open to new experiences. When you step outside of your comfort zone, you’ll find that you grow and learn more than you ever thought possible. Whether you’re trying a new food or learning a new skill, be open to new experiences and opportunities. Never let your curiosity wane. It’s the engine that drives personal and intellectual growth. Ask questions, seek answers, and remain inquisitive.
Cherish your relationships. Your relationships with family and friends are some of the most important things in life. Material possessions, though enticing, pale in comparison to the richness of meaningful relationships. Make sure to cherish them and make time for the people who matter most to you. Whether you’re spending time with your parents or catching up with an old friend, make sure to prioritize your relationships. Cultivate empathy and be there for those who matter most to you and life becomes so much richer and more fulfilling.
Be resilient. You are stronger than you realise. Resilience is a remarkable human trait and in moments of hardship and adversity, you realise that every challenge is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and grow. In the face of adversity, you will discover your inner strength and emerge wiser and more resilient.
Keep learning: Education is not confined to the walls of a classroom. Commit to a lifetime of learning and personal growth. Even in failure, there is a lesson to be learned. Seek knowledge, explore new interests, and challenge your preconceptions. The more you learn, the more you realize how little you know. Embrace this journey of intellectual discovery.
Wisdom comes as you grow older and learn life’s lessons. The younger me would have perhaps dismissed these lessons had they come from someone else, and I guess that’s the thinking of a younger brain. But hopefully, those who read this post will learn from my life and won’t make the same mistakes. Every life experience, good or bad, happy or challenging, contributes to us as individuals. Each step, each choice, and each lesson are part of the incredible mosaic that is your story. Embrace it, learn from it, and treasure every moment, for they are the chapters of the remarkable book of your life.
Memories and Such 