The Middle

The author cherished a peepal tree in Gurugram, finding solace in its changing seasons and feeling a deep connection. Upon returning from a trip, the author discovered the tree had been cut down to make way for development, leaving them heartbroken by the loss.

An older man's evening walks are fraught with challenges: obstructed footpaths, traffic hazards, and festival chaos. He navigates these obstacles, dodging vehicles, cows, and celebrations. Despite the risks and physical strain, he perseveres, viewing each walk as a test of survival and a personal victory.

Dhanteras, the Diwali kickoff, encourages buying new items, especially gold or silver, while avoiding sharp objects. Rooted in legend, it celebrates wealth and health. Buying a new broom is a tradition, symbolically sweeping away troubles and welcoming prosperity. It encourages harmony, balance, and clearing both physical and emotional clutter.

The author, a lifelong Harry Potter fan, recounts a transformative experience at Platform 9¾. Initially hesitant, they joined the long queue and embraced the magic, rediscovering their inner child. This experience highlighted the enduring power of wonder, regardless of age.

A family's life transformed in 1994 with a tape recorder. They recorded voices, music, and cherished memories for a decade. Despite modern technology, the author contrasts the simple joy of cassette recording with today's complex gadgets, highlighting a lost richness.

Haggling is common in India, often targeting the vulnerable. The author recounts a humbling experience with a tonga driver, highlighting social inequality. They urge people to be generous and avoid haggling with those who depend on small earnings for survival.

In Dehradun, two dogs, Moti and Sheru, embody contrasting natures. Moti is a vigilant protector, while Sheru is a lazy, intimidating giant. A delivery boy's visit triggers a comical scene of fear when confronted by both dogs, resulting in his permanent avoidance of the neighborhood.

The author's grandfather, after retiring, regularly brought sweets home from a Bengaluru shop, sharing them with family on pension day. This ritual, filled with joy and treats, ended with the grandfather's passing. His absence left a void, symbolized by the now less flavorful sweets and the lingering memory of his love.

Madaaris, street performers offering entertainment through magic, juggling, and animal acts, were a common sight until the 1990s. Their shows, featuring tricks and a stooge, were enjoyed by all, though some found the final act, often involving a fake stabbing, disturbing. Today, they're largely gone.

Several food names are misleading. Dishes like tomato/onion omelette and Goshaba are vegetarian, despite names suggesting otherwise. Similar misinterpretations arise with Shutur Qaalij, Phooler Bhanra, and even 'Bombay Duck'. Language and regional variations contribute to culinary confusion.

The author's first year in Buffalo was marked by the changing seasons, each representing a phase of personal growth. Autumn brought friendship, winter fostered resilience, and spring signified renewal. Graduation symbolized overcoming challenges and building a new life. The experience transformed the author, leaving her stronger and more confident.

The Khushwant Singh Literary Festival honors the author's commitment to free speech and humor. He fearlessly challenged authority, published critical letters, and used humor in his writing and life. A classic example: his witty exchange with actress Nargis.

A village barber provided home services, receiving gifts and respect. He offered haircuts and shaves, often causing small cuts. He gathered information, and was paid with food and rice. His sons later ran a modern barbershop in town. The village barber's practice has ended.

The author observes a lack of civic sense in a city, highlighting issues like incessant honking, lane indiscipline, and littering. Despite infrastructure, the city suffers from a lack of introspection and everyday discipline. The author suggests making civic sense fashionable to improve the city's modern image.

The author reflects on the prevalence of excuses, from personal experiences in boarding school to managing a nursing home. He highlights the creative lengths people go to for justification, illustrating the ease of making excuses versus taking action. The author concludes that this ingenuity, if redirected, could lead to significant accomplishments.

A KCIO was an Indian officer of the British Indian Army who held a full King’s commission after training in the UK — at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, for infantry officers, Woolwich for artillery officers and Chatham as well as Woolwich for engineer officers.

THERE are times when things suddenly turn in our favour for no clear reason. Some call it luck or providence, others dismiss it as mere coincidence. Whatever the name, it never arrives with fanfare. It slips in quietly, changes the...

During the 1965 war, a helicopter carrying senior Indian officers mistakenly approached a Pakistani-occupied post, nearly landing there. The pilots, disoriented by a sandstorm, avoided landing and later landed at a friendly post. This near-capture incident highlighted the chaos of war.

Jaideep, a modern child, received a video game, contrasting the author's childhood, where games involved physical activity and self-made toys. The author describes simple joys like caring for animals and the excitement of discovery, highlighting how play has evolved with time.

A ferry capsized on the Sutlej in 1982, killing 24, mostly school children, due to an overloaded, unsafe boat. Negligence, lack of safety measures, and delayed rescue efforts contributed to the tragedy. The event highlighted systemic failures and the importance of prioritizing safety.

The author, an Indian Army officer, recounts his experiences with celebratory secularism during Navratras. He describes religious practices like fasting, animal sacrifice (bali), and shared prasad involving rum. He reflects on reviving the bali ritual after returning from a peacekeeping mission, and the diverse greetings he receives from ex-servicemen.

In 1990s Shimla, fog enveloped the town, fostering a unique culture. Jackets and umbrellas were integral to identity and childhood, symbols of shared memories and belonging. Though cars have altered the landscape, the essence of this walking culture remains, a cherished heritage.

DECADES ago, my working parents hired a boy named Lokender to take care of my youngest brother, who was then an infant. He came from the outskirts of our town and was barely an adolescent. Lean and soft-spoken, he carried...

A friend, swayed by a rising market, invested heavily, losing money and suffering severe stress-induced hypertension. His health improved when the market rebounded. The doctor advised him to prioritize inner peace over financial gains, leading to his recovery and acceptance of a step back from trading.

The author fondly recalls her time as an Army wife, highlighting the joys of camaraderie, frequent moves, and creating a welcoming home. The kitchen was central, memories of family and friends intertwined with cooking and shared meals. Cherished objects evoke laughter and love from that era.