The film "Main Vaapas Aaunga" explores the theme of memory through the character of Dadaji, whose dementia serves as a lens for understanding the emotional aftermath of Partition. It reflects on how memories of love and belonging can transcend historical trauma, questioning the ongoing hostility between India and Pakistan and suggesting that reconciliation starts with empathy and shared humanity.
Tag: CNF
Of Woks, Worries, and Watery Noodles
Within a family, cooking noodles sparks varying methods and opinions. The author prefers a gentle approach resulting in softer noodles, while their brother insists on high heat for a firmer result. Despite differing techniques, the author finds satisfaction in their version, embracing culinary fusion, while recognising the expertise of traditional chefs.
Going Down with the Ship — In Experience
A reflective journey from childhood encounters with the sea to Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea and Melville’s Moby-Dick. Through memory, imagination, luck, survival and literary craft, the writer explores how reading has evolved from experiencing stories as a reader to observing how writers shape imagination, anticipation and experience.
The Day My Frozen Shoulder Got Mobilised
A frozen shoulder, a fearless doctor, a suspicious bottle, a Dolby-enabled bone, and one terrified patient collide in this absurd account of an unforgettable procedure. Add sleeplessness, sambar, prayer, chai, a wooden-stick anaesthesia joke, tears, an Uber rider named Satyanarayanan, and Goosey (AI), and you have one very eventful day!
Series Review: Musafir Café | Season 1 | Netflix Series
Musafir Café offers a refreshing break from lengthy soap operas, presenting a relatable eight-episode series that explores modern relationships. The reviewer appreciates its emotional depth and characters while reflecting on personal views about love and societal expectations. The series prompts introspection rather than changing beliefs, highlighting the complexity of emotional truth.
The Rascal of Narration: Reading Naseeruddin Shah’s And Then One Day
Naseeruddin Shah's memoir "And Then One Day" presents a candid exploration of his life, revealing contradictions that complicate our judgement of him. Rather than seeking admiration, Shah invites readers to understand his flaws and artistic journey, ultimately emphasising the difference between fame and personal fulfilment as he reflects on his dedication to theatre and performance.
Finding My Joy in Learning: A Journey Inspired by the K-Drama Study Group
The viewer reflects on the Korean drama "Study Group," relating with the protagonist, Yoon Ga-min, a struggling student with dreams of university. This personal connection evokes memories of her own educational journey, emphasising the importance of curiosity and learning beyond grades. Both characters highlight resilience in different forms, valuing personal growth over academic success.
KDrama Review: Teach You a Lesson | A Take
"Teach You a Lesson (2026)" limited Series in Netflix is brutal, uncomfortable, and unforgettable. In this review, I reflect on my own school days — the quiet humiliations, the discovery of literature, and the joy of finally finding my tribe. A drama that made me remember what education should be.
Being a Hospitable Host Language
The author reflects on their journey with translation, emphasising that it transcends mere word substitution. Good translations preserve cultural essence, inviting readers into new perspectives while maintaining differences. They argue for translation as an act of hospitality, balancing respect for original languages with accessibility for readers, revealing personal growth through cultural appreciation.
Kill Me, Heal Me and the Kaleidoscope of the Self
The author reflects on the themes of identity and self-perception while watching the Korean drama "Kill Me, Heal Me." They explore how individuals embody multiple roles and emotions in daily life, drawing parallels to psychological theories and Bharatanatyam dance. Ultimately, they suggest that healing involves embracing all aspects of oneself rather than conforming to a single identity.
Itinerant Storyteller 