The author reflects on their deep appreciation for chai, particularly the experience of making and enjoying it alone. They express disappointment with Varanasi Masala Chai’s flavour, comparing it to their past marriage, marked by communication issues and differing values. Ultimately, both relationship and tea require harmony, which they found lacking.
Tag: CNF
The Art of Cooking and the Learning of It Are Two Separate Things!
The author reflects on their journey from an inexperienced cook in childhood to finding joy in cooking as an adult. Initially relying on their mother for guidance, she faced challenges in a foreign kitchen. Over time, she developed skills and confidence, enjoying the cooking process and embracing self-learning through experimentation.
The Magic of Mango Season: A Child-Adult’s Fantasy
Summer apps sell golden-hued and lush mangoes which are CGI improved. They are not like Mangoes from my childhood. I remember. Kailash's divine fruit. Srivatsam's sticky wars. A kotai sucked clean, believing it to be the crowning glory of summer. Teacher Periamma spoons. Banganepalli with decorum. Now, just memory — sweet, aching, ripe. This is not a recipe. It's a return.
Chinese Drama Review | Pursuit of Jade | My Take
"Pursuit of Jade" is a 40-episode Chinese drama adapted from a web novel, focusing on the relationship between Fan Changyu and Xie Zheng amidst societal and personal challenges. The story highlights themes of innocence, aspiration, and the complexity of love, juxtaposed with the harsh realities of power and tradition, while offering nuanced female character portrayals.
Finding True Joy in Learning: A Quiet Revolution Against Scorecards
The author shares an emotional journey of learning and teaching, emphasising the importance of curiosity over scores. Despite struggling with traditional education, they discovered joy in self-learning and teaching unconventional students. Inspired by Dr. Ambika Kameshwar, they advocate for recognising hidden potential in "backbenchers" and fostering a love for learning beyond grades.
The Aspiration of Butter Chai
The author reflects on the significance of tea, particularly CTC chai, in their life, while exploring the contrasting experience of Tibetan butter tea. She describes tea as a source of comfort and exploration, emphasising the philosophical differences in preparation methods and cultural significance. Ultimately, butter tea represents a deep emotional connection to unvisited landscapes and mindfulness.
Learning to See Light: What “Shine on Me” Understands About Healing
The blog post explores the Chinese drama "Shine on Me," emphasising its focus on the subtleties of healing rather than transformation. It highlights the understated storytelling of Gu Man, which allows characters to experience emotional uncertainty. The narrative reveals how relationships are shaped by one's ability to receive affection and the nuanced presence of manipulation, promoting patience and self-awareness in personal growth.
What Stays: On Learning That Does Not Leave
The author reflects on the nature of learning, emphasising that it silently integrates into our being, influencing our perceptions. She shares personal anecdotes that highlight how experiences, emotions, and social contexts shape her understanding. The challenge of unlearning is explored, suggesting that deeper insights can emerge when we reevaluate what we hold as certain.
Worlds That Cannot Be Translated
The analysis of contemporary Asian dramas "Can This Love Be Translated?" and "Our Interpreter" explores the complexities of translation as both a profession and an internal experience. It highlights the tension between linguistic precision and emotional nuance, emphasising that true understanding often eludes translation, reflecting the depth of human experience and connection.
Between Patience and Pace: Finding My Way of Working
The author reflects on life lessons learned through observing their parents, emphasising the dual teachings of adaptability from their mother and patience from their father. They discover the importance of breaking tasks into manageable steps, understanding the rhythm of work, and nurturing sustained habits. Overall, growth is achieved through persistence and alignment with one's passions.
Itinerant Storyteller 