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The Holistic Pine: Independent Monthly Lifestyle Journal

The Holistic Pine: Independent Monthly Lifestyle Journal

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Ankush Bharti

Email: theholisticpine@gmail.com

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Writers' Kalam Publishing

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Mobile No: 7593813622

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This Month's Top Stories

A Scholar's Odyssey: Neha Kumari's Evolution into an IAS Officer | Interview by Ankush Bharti

Neha Kumari is a dynamic and accomplished individual who has excelled in multiple domains, from academia to public service. Holding a strong academic background with a Master of Arts in English Literature from Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Neha further pursued her scholarly pursuits by completing a PhD from BHU, specialising in British and Commonwealth literature. Her dedication to academic excellence is underscored by her achievements, including clearing the National Eligibility Test (NET) with Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and qualifying the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) in 2021. Notably, Neha's intellectual curiosity extends beyond the realms of literature, as evidenced by her success in the competitive arena of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), where she attained Grade A in 2022. However, her journey doesn't end there. In 2023, Neha achieved a remarkable milestone by securing a coveted position in the Indian Administrative Service (IA

Fragment of Halves | A Poem by Ashima Syal

Fragment of Halves Induced are some stories, some stories we induce. Somewhere, half baked beans are sprouting, somewhere the milk on the stove is unknowingly half boiled. Half and half, living in an abode of halves, too preoccupied we are, measuring halves. Conversations have waved goodbye, only to be welcomed as radiant reduction. Self is juggling with the self, weaving time, knowing it can gather none. Mornings shout mundane, toiling harshly in the hope of awaiting, awaiting grim silences, only to realize in their silence, they have no one. The regime of halves remains unheard. Somewhere, forgotten in the fragment of halves. About the Author Ashima Syal Ashima Syal, a lecturer by Profession and a Poet by passion. Ashima published her first book of poems titled Canopy in 2019. Ashima published her second book of poems, titled The Fragrant Fable. Ashima received the Rabindranath Tagore Literary Award by DRDC in 2022. Ashima’s interview on the Journey and path of a poet has been p

Legacy: An interview with Mamatatai, daughter of Padma Shri Dr. Sau Sindhutai Sapkal by Ankush Bharti

Mamatatai is the daughter of the renowned personality Padma Shri Dr. Sau Sindhutai Sapkal. In this interview I try to unearth her real struggles and get to know more about the great personality of Padma Shri Dr. Sau Sindhutai Sapkal. The Questions by Ankush Bharti are emboldened. Goodafternoon Ma'am tell us about yourself? From the very beginning right? I am Mamata Tai daughter Padma Shri Dr Sindhu Tai’s daughter. I have done my graduation in psychology and masters in social work after pursuing my education, I started involving in my work. I have been active in social work for the past 26 years.I am in this social work field. It was like household work for me because I didn't have to go for any different organisation. I had been seeing social work as being a part of our family structure from the very beginning and it was not something new that I was seeing, it was like a part of everyday curriculum. I had seen Mai doing this work since I was small. I used to think that it is

Masti Ki Paathshaala by Suresh Nair

When I think of school, I have fond memories. It was the best time of my life. Of course, you don’t realize it at that time. Getting up early for school, getting ready and opening the books for a class was a chore. Uff!! I wish I knew what lay in store for me in the circle of life. School was strictly academics, everything else was a side distraction. I had other ideas/ My first priority was sports, second was the cocurricular activities, third was the library. I was hooked to stories: fiction, biography, from a young age. I was an aspiring cricketer. I was playing at the district and state level. Unfortunately, I had to give it up when I was 12. It broke my heart. My parents and teachers were of the view that it was affecting my academic performance. I was allowed to play at the school level only. If only I had a chance. My friend was fond of sketching. He could draw anyone or anything described to him. His sketch book was a treasure of creativity. He sketched celebrities, nature, an

Top Kerala YouTubers, E Bull Jet Brothers Start their Latest Road Trip from India to Singapore

In a world dominated by digital content creation, where YouTube stars are born overnight, there are few who manage to capture the hearts and minds of millions. Ebin and Libin Varghese, hailing from the picturesque town of Iritty in the Kannur district of Kerala, have emerged as a dynamic duo on the YouTube platform. With their adventurous travel videos, the brothers have amassed a dedicated following that spans the globe. A Promising Start: Ebin and Libin Varghese, recognizing the power of storytelling and visual media, embarked on their YouTube venture in 2021. Despite the challenging backdrop of the global pandemic, the brothers managed to capture the attention of millions with their captivating videos. Through their lens, viewers were transported to stunning locales, offering a much-needed escape from the confines of their homes. It was during this peak Covid season that the E Bull Jet Brothers' videos began to resonate with audiences far and wide. Venturing Into the Unknown: Bu

CHAIN UP NOT, WOMAN!: A poem by Bindu Unnikrishnan, Mrs Maharashtra 2023 ( Elite category)

Part of What is a Woman? Series CHAIN UP NOT, WOMAN! By Bindu Unnikrishnan Break free of the invisible chain, Oh woman! you too are born to fly! Look at the strong wings you got, you might as well explore the sky. The tenderness you show, the warmth you exude You deserve the same, and of course, some respite Breathe some, for the laundry can wait, it is your monotonous life that needs the spice. Walk few steps, dance few more, listen to your heart, if it wants some more In this lovely weather, leave that chore, bask in the sunshine which men adore. Let him pack your picnic bag, while you go for a swim, or trek for a while, Let that dinner be a surprise for you, the way you always did for him with a smile.. Chop that hair and style it through, don’t keep it long ’coz he told you to, Wear the colour you always want, without conforming to your clan. It is difficult to be always righteous and true, you can be sometimes vulnerable too. Let the tears flow and make you light, the smile witho

The Holistic Pine Summer Reading List 2024

Welcome to The Holistic Pine Summer Reading List 2024! Our squad of bibliophiles has meticulously curated an extraordinary compilation of literary gems to elevate your summer escapades. The spectrum is diverse, ranging from pulse-quickening suspense to heartwarming tales of amour. Whether lounging by the pool or basking in the sun at the shore, our meticulously chosen titles stand as your optimal companions for a summer brimming with literary odysseys. Plunge into these enthralling narratives, allowing your creativity to soar in tandem with The Holistic Pine Summer Reading List 2024. We've artfully constructed this roster to expand your reading vistas, ushering you into uncharted territories of authors and novel viewpoints. Immerse yourself in these riveting chronicles, seizing the full potential of your summer reading expedition with The Holistic Pine. Partake in sagas of entrepreneurial and leadership excellence, love, companionship, and self-revelation while unwinding amidst the

The Shocking Truth That Media is Not Telling You about Shimla Floods:An Exclusive Conversation with SUMIT RAJ

by Suresh Nair Amidst the cacophony of sensationalized headlines and frantic news updates, there exist moments when the voice of reason, experience, and deep-rooted understanding emerges to illuminate the truth. In the heart of Shimla, a town nestled among the majestic Himalayas, such a voice resonates - that of Mr. Sumit Raj, the Founder of Shimla Walks. As the recent flood situation in Shimla took center stage in media narratives, Mr. Raj's insights cut through the noise, providing a profound understanding grounded in years of firsthand experience. In a world where breaking news often vies for attention with clickbait and exaggeration, it is a rare privilege to engage in a conversation with someone who embodies authenticity, humility, and a genuine connection to the land they call home. Mr. Raj's words are not just a collection of information; they are a testament to a life lived in symbiotic harmony with the ever-evolving terrain of the Himalayas. Join us as we step into

Changing Dimensions of the Institution of Marriage in India

By Dr Purnoor Kaur The ideal that marriage aims at is that of spiritual union through the physical. The human love that it incarnates is intended to serve as a steppingstone to divine or universal love. (“Chapter-57: The Marriage Ideal | The Mind of Mahatma Gandhi | Free ...”) Many civilizations around the world view marriage as a sacrament or a sacred vow, a sacred union bestowed by God, and celebrate the occasion with ceremonies and customs that often have a spiritual backdrop. In Christianity, the sacrament is traditionally blessed by a minister or priest in a religious ceremony that signifies the joining of a man and a woman and is typically held in a church. Jewish weddings are sacred rituals that take place under a canopy called a chuppah, which stands for the home the couple will create together. India also presents a fascinating palette of traditions and beliefs are seen. Majority of Indians 79.8% are Hindus (Census 2011) and traditional Hindu marriages, known as ‘vivaah’, are

The Dark Night: A Short Story Dedicated To The Victims of the Worst Communal Riots in Delhi by Suresh Nair

There is a fascinating thing about living in Delhi that most residents do not value: It is a colorful exposure to all the cultures of India. The colors of India can be seen like a beautiful rainbow in Delhi. The beauty of this rainbow is unique, as there are more than six colors. My parents came from Kerala way back in 1965. I was born here and have lived my entire life in Delhi. From an early age, you assimilate the vibrancy of the diversity of different people in Delhi. I was 10 years old. I was studying in a well-known public school in south Delhi. Life was a bed of roses. It was all fun and games. Studies were a duty, an obligation to fulfil. For me, life was like a typical 10-year-old in a metro city. Manjeet was my classmate. He was an easy-going, happy-go-lucky, and fun-loving kid. and an exceptional athlete. He played all the sports that were available in the school. He was a scholar with an exceptional grasp of mathematics. I still remember the incident which led to our f

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Top Ten Stories

Top Kerala YouTubers, E Bull Jet Brothers Start their Latest Road Trip from India to Singapore

In a world dominated by digital content creation, where YouTube stars are born overnight, there are few who manage to capture the hearts and minds of millions. Ebin and Libin Varghese, hailing from the picturesque town of Iritty in the Kannur district of Kerala, have emerged as a dynamic duo on the YouTube platform. With their adventurous travel videos, the brothers have amassed a dedicated following that spans the globe. A Promising Start: Ebin and Libin Varghese, recognizing the power of storytelling and visual media, embarked on their YouTube venture in 2021. Despite the challenging backdrop of the global pandemic, the brothers managed to capture the attention of millions with their captivating videos. Through their lens, viewers were transported to stunning locales, offering a much-needed escape from the confines of their homes. It was during this peak Covid season that the E Bull Jet Brothers' videos began to resonate with audiences far and wide. Venturing Into the Unknown: Bu

Fragment of Halves | A Poem by Ashima Syal

Fragment of Halves Induced are some stories, some stories we induce. Somewhere, half baked beans are sprouting, somewhere the milk on the stove is unknowingly half boiled. Half and half, living in an abode of halves, too preoccupied we are, measuring halves. Conversations have waved goodbye, only to be welcomed as radiant reduction. Self is juggling with the self, weaving time, knowing it can gather none. Mornings shout mundane, toiling harshly in the hope of awaiting, awaiting grim silences, only to realize in their silence, they have no one. The regime of halves remains unheard. Somewhere, forgotten in the fragment of halves. About the Author Ashima Syal Ashima Syal, a lecturer by Profession and a Poet by passion. Ashima published her first book of poems titled Canopy in 2019. Ashima published her second book of poems, titled The Fragrant Fable. Ashima received the Rabindranath Tagore Literary Award by DRDC in 2022. Ashima’s interview on the Journey and path of a poet has been p

Masti Ki Paathshaala by Suresh Nair

When I think of school, I have fond memories. It was the best time of my life. Of course, you don’t realize it at that time. Getting up early for school, getting ready and opening the books for a class was a chore. Uff!! I wish I knew what lay in store for me in the circle of life. School was strictly academics, everything else was a side distraction. I had other ideas/ My first priority was sports, second was the cocurricular activities, third was the library. I was hooked to stories: fiction, biography, from a young age. I was an aspiring cricketer. I was playing at the district and state level. Unfortunately, I had to give it up when I was 12. It broke my heart. My parents and teachers were of the view that it was affecting my academic performance. I was allowed to play at the school level only. If only I had a chance. My friend was fond of sketching. He could draw anyone or anything described to him. His sketch book was a treasure of creativity. He sketched celebrities, nature, an

The Shocking Truth That Media is Not Telling You about Shimla Floods:An Exclusive Conversation with SUMIT RAJ

by Suresh Nair Amidst the cacophony of sensationalized headlines and frantic news updates, there exist moments when the voice of reason, experience, and deep-rooted understanding emerges to illuminate the truth. In the heart of Shimla, a town nestled among the majestic Himalayas, such a voice resonates - that of Mr. Sumit Raj, the Founder of Shimla Walks. As the recent flood situation in Shimla took center stage in media narratives, Mr. Raj's insights cut through the noise, providing a profound understanding grounded in years of firsthand experience. In a world where breaking news often vies for attention with clickbait and exaggeration, it is a rare privilege to engage in a conversation with someone who embodies authenticity, humility, and a genuine connection to the land they call home. Mr. Raj's words are not just a collection of information; they are a testament to a life lived in symbiotic harmony with the ever-evolving terrain of the Himalayas. Join us as we step into

The Dark Night: A Short Story Dedicated To The Victims of the Worst Communal Riots in Delhi by Suresh Nair

There is a fascinating thing about living in Delhi that most residents do not value: It is a colorful exposure to all the cultures of India. The colors of India can be seen like a beautiful rainbow in Delhi. The beauty of this rainbow is unique, as there are more than six colors. My parents came from Kerala way back in 1965. I was born here and have lived my entire life in Delhi. From an early age, you assimilate the vibrancy of the diversity of different people in Delhi. I was 10 years old. I was studying in a well-known public school in south Delhi. Life was a bed of roses. It was all fun and games. Studies were a duty, an obligation to fulfil. For me, life was like a typical 10-year-old in a metro city. Manjeet was my classmate. He was an easy-going, happy-go-lucky, and fun-loving kid. and an exceptional athlete. He played all the sports that were available in the school. He was a scholar with an exceptional grasp of mathematics. I still remember the incident which led to our f

Legacy: An interview with Mamatatai, daughter of Padma Shri Dr. Sau Sindhutai Sapkal by Ankush Bharti

Mamatatai is the daughter of the renowned personality Padma Shri Dr. Sau Sindhutai Sapkal. In this interview I try to unearth her real struggles and get to know more about the great personality of Padma Shri Dr. Sau Sindhutai Sapkal. The Questions by Ankush Bharti are emboldened. Goodafternoon Ma'am tell us about yourself? From the very beginning right? I am Mamata Tai daughter Padma Shri Dr Sindhu Tai’s daughter. I have done my graduation in psychology and masters in social work after pursuing my education, I started involving in my work. I have been active in social work for the past 26 years.I am in this social work field. It was like household work for me because I didn't have to go for any different organisation. I had been seeing social work as being a part of our family structure from the very beginning and it was not something new that I was seeing, it was like a part of everyday curriculum. I had seen Mai doing this work since I was small. I used to think that it is

The Power of Silence

Modern lifestyles are outward focused. It is all about presentation, gift of the gab and getting attention. Our usage of the social media highlights an insatiable “need” to be the “centre of attention”. If we scan the history books, all great people are bestowed with one admirable trait: the power to be quiet and calm. Many people confuse silence with being afraid to express oneself. Let me clarify: The power of silence means the ability to stay calm in a tempest. It means waiting for the right moments to express oneself. The ability to listen is far greater than the ability to express beautiful words. An avid listener makes a good conversationalist not only because (s)he wants to hear what the other person has to say, but also because (s)he can carry the conversation in the right direction that has the interest of both people. I am a cricket fanatic. I follow and play the game with great zeal. One my most admired cricketer is MS Dhoni. He is totally unfazed by the crescendo of the n

Kerala Floods- 2018: An Introspection by Suresh Nair

Last month, I had a chance to visit my hometown in Kerala. I was visiting my relatives after 12 long years. I was amazed at the changes that had taken place in this time. Yet, the beauty of Kerala remained the same. The greenery, the mountains, the fields, the rivers and lakes, the serenity of my village, left an indelible impression on my mind. I was there when the first monsoon shower kissed the shores of Kerala. I was mesmerized by the view. The vibrancy and beauty of nature at its best. All of it brought back the horrors of the 2018 floods faced by my relatives and friends in Kerala. The Kerala floods of 2018 were one of the most devastating natural disasters in the history of the southern Indian state. The floods, which occurred during the monsoon season between May and August 2018, resulted in widespread destruction, loss of lives, and displacement of millions of people. Here is the story of the Kerala floods in 3000 words: Chapter 1: Monsoon Onslaught The state of Kerala is know

The Holistic Pine Summer Reading List 2024

Welcome to The Holistic Pine Summer Reading List 2024! Our squad of bibliophiles has meticulously curated an extraordinary compilation of literary gems to elevate your summer escapades. The spectrum is diverse, ranging from pulse-quickening suspense to heartwarming tales of amour. Whether lounging by the pool or basking in the sun at the shore, our meticulously chosen titles stand as your optimal companions for a summer brimming with literary odysseys. Plunge into these enthralling narratives, allowing your creativity to soar in tandem with The Holistic Pine Summer Reading List 2024. We've artfully constructed this roster to expand your reading vistas, ushering you into uncharted territories of authors and novel viewpoints. Immerse yourself in these riveting chronicles, seizing the full potential of your summer reading expedition with The Holistic Pine. Partake in sagas of entrepreneurial and leadership excellence, love, companionship, and self-revelation while unwinding amidst the

Never Give Up

The match was poised at a crucial phase.24 needed, just 2 wickets remaining. The starting player of our team was on strike. We were confident he would take us through. He scored 12 in five balls. He wanted to keep strike for the last over, so he tapped the next ball and scampered for a single. Alas!! The fielder ran in fast and threw directly at the stumps. It was a run out. We were shocked by the turn of events. We were left with our number 10 and 11 batsmen who rarely bat. The batsman on strike in the last over had so far played three balls and had failed to make contact with the bat. One ball, two, three, four: story was repeated and he failed repeatedly. For the fifth ball, he stood steady and hit the ball straight over the bowler. It was a six!!!! Suddenly, the tables turned. The pressure was now on the fielding team. My team went berserk in the pavilion. We were all screaming encouragement at the top of our voices. The batsman had hit a six for the first time in 32 years. He seem

Popular Reads

CHAIN UP NOT, WOMAN!: A poem by Bindu Unnikrishnan, Mrs Maharashtra 2023 ( Elite category)

Part of What is a Woman? Series CHAIN UP NOT, WOMAN! By Bindu Unnikrishnan Break free of the invisible chain, Oh woman! you too are born to fly! Look at the strong wings you got, you might as well explore the sky. The tenderness you show, the warmth you exude You deserve the same, and of course, some respite Breathe some, for the laundry can wait, it is your monotonous life that needs the spice. Walk few steps, dance few more, listen to your heart, if it wants some more In this lovely weather, leave that chore, bask in the sunshine which men adore. Let him pack your picnic bag, while you go for a swim, or trek for a while, Let that dinner be a surprise for you, the way you always did for him with a smile.. Chop that hair and style it through, don’t keep it long ’coz he told you to, Wear the colour you always want, without conforming to your clan. It is difficult to be always righteous and true, you can be sometimes vulnerable too. Let the tears flow and make you light, the smile witho

The Shocking Truth That Media is Not Telling You about Shimla Floods:An Exclusive Conversation with SUMIT RAJ

by Suresh Nair Amidst the cacophony of sensationalized headlines and frantic news updates, there exist moments when the voice of reason, experience, and deep-rooted understanding emerges to illuminate the truth. In the heart of Shimla, a town nestled among the majestic Himalayas, such a voice resonates - that of Mr. Sumit Raj, the Founder of Shimla Walks. As the recent flood situation in Shimla took center stage in media narratives, Mr. Raj's insights cut through the noise, providing a profound understanding grounded in years of firsthand experience. In a world where breaking news often vies for attention with clickbait and exaggeration, it is a rare privilege to engage in a conversation with someone who embodies authenticity, humility, and a genuine connection to the land they call home. Mr. Raj's words are not just a collection of information; they are a testament to a life lived in symbiotic harmony with the ever-evolving terrain of the Himalayas. Join us as we step into

Legacy: An interview with Mamatatai, daughter of Padma Shri Dr. Sau Sindhutai Sapkal by Ankush Bharti

Mamatatai is the daughter of the renowned personality Padma Shri Dr. Sau Sindhutai Sapkal. In this interview I try to unearth her real struggles and get to know more about the great personality of Padma Shri Dr. Sau Sindhutai Sapkal. The Questions by Ankush Bharti are emboldened. Goodafternoon Ma'am tell us about yourself? From the very beginning right? I am Mamata Tai daughter Padma Shri Dr Sindhu Tai’s daughter. I have done my graduation in psychology and masters in social work after pursuing my education, I started involving in my work. I have been active in social work for the past 26 years.I am in this social work field. It was like household work for me because I didn't have to go for any different organisation. I had been seeing social work as being a part of our family structure from the very beginning and it was not something new that I was seeing, it was like a part of everyday curriculum. I had seen Mai doing this work since I was small. I used to think that it is

A Scholar's Odyssey: Neha Kumari's Evolution into an IAS Officer | Interview by Ankush Bharti

Neha Kumari is a dynamic and accomplished individual who has excelled in multiple domains, from academia to public service. Holding a strong academic background with a Master of Arts in English Literature from Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Neha further pursued her scholarly pursuits by completing a PhD from BHU, specialising in British and Commonwealth literature. Her dedication to academic excellence is underscored by her achievements, including clearing the National Eligibility Test (NET) with Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and qualifying the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) in 2021. Notably, Neha's intellectual curiosity extends beyond the realms of literature, as evidenced by her success in the competitive arena of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), where she attained Grade A in 2022. However, her journey doesn't end there. In 2023, Neha achieved a remarkable milestone by securing a coveted position in the Indian Administrative Service (IA

From Language Trainer to Dream Weaver: Gulafshan Khan's Journey of Resilience and Compassion

Interview by Ankush Bharti Gulafshan Khan is a seasoned Soft Skills and English Language Trainer with over four years of experience in Learning and Development. Her professional journey commenced at Freedom Employability Academy, a pivotal influence in shaping her current standing. Grateful for the work environment cultivated by the CEO, Gulafshan is passionate about empowering individuals to learn and grow. Her journey from facing public humiliation for English-speaking challenges to becoming a facilitator for others' language learning is considered her most significant achievement . Gulafshan envisions establishing a home named 'Noor,' a haven for elderly individuals seeking peace, orphaned children in need of love and care, and women struggling on the streets. Her belief in the unifying power of humanity drives her mission to create a space where these individuals can coexist as a family. In addition to her training expertise, Gulafshan has demonstrated entrepreneurial

Interview with Seema Sinha: "A Triumph of Resilience, Family, and Embracing Life" By Suresh Nair

Seema Sinha has a zest for life. The moment I met her, I knew she was destined to reach great heights. During the first interview, Seema told me how hard her friends pushed her to participate in the Mrs. India pageant. She was reluctant but gave in to their persistence. It was not a surprise that she was the first runner-up. We were sure she would leave a mark on the pageant with her fashion sense and gorgeous personality. She swooned the judges with her wit. She had immaculate control over her words, and her impromptu answers disguised a thorough preparation for the pageant. Here is Seems Sinha, in her own words: 1) How does it feel? Talk me through your thoughts and emotions after coming back from the pageant. The experience following my return from the pageant has been profoundly transformative. I am immersed in a whirlwind of emotions that have left an indelible mark. The sense of achievement at this stage of my life reassures and invigorates me. The echoes of this achiev

Divya Sharma Receives Prestigious National Award for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities

By Special Correspondent December 3, 2023 In a heartwarming ceremony on the 3rd of December 2023, Divya Sharma, a remarkable individual hailing from Naya Nangal, was honoured with the National Award for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. The esteemed President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, presented the award, recognizing Divya's extraordinary journey and significant contributions . Divya's inspiring story, chronicled in the April edition The Holistic Pine magazine under the title "A Vision Beyond Eyes," resonates with readers as a testament to resilience, determination, and the triumph of the human spirit . Born with visual impairment due to Glaucoma, Divya faced numerous challenges, including unjust expulsion from school in the seventh grade. Undeterred, she went on to earn an MA in English from Punjab University, showcasing her unwavering resolve. The accolades for Divya extend far beyond her academic achievements. As a flourishing freelance writer

From Canada to Bollywood to Bestseller: A Conversation with Author L.A. Nolan by Ankush Bharti

L.A. Nolan, the award-winning author hailing from Toronto, Canada, has carved a unique and adventurous path in both his life and literary career. Born into a family rooted in Liverpool, England, Nolan's restless spirit led him to explore the world extensively, eventually finding his home in India in 2012. While his journey began with wanderlust, it took fascinating detours through motorcycling, Bollywood acting, and fronting a rock and roll band in New Delhi. However, a life-altering incident on a mountainside compelled Nolan to embrace his true passion: storytelling. In 2018, he shared his captivating experiences through "Memoirs of a Motorcycle Madman", a collection of humorous travelogues. Yet, it was in October 2021 that he truly made his mark in the literary world with the release of his debut crime thriller, "Blood & Brown Sugar." This gripping novel earned him acclaim as the Best Fiction Novelist of 2021 by Literary Voice Magazine and the Best Crime

Empowering Children through Literature: An Interview with Vandana Bhagra

By Neha Arora Vandana Bhagra , a dynamic individual hailing from the picturesque town of Shimla, is a multifaceted professional with a rich background in journalism and publishing. With a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Himachal Pradesh University, Vandana has over twenty-five years of experience in the publishing industry. Her journey includes contributions to esteemed publications such as Himachal Times , Consumer VOICE and Energy India as well as publication houses such as Project Editor with Encyclopedia Britannica, Dorling Kindersley, Oxford & IBH Publications to name a few. Beyond being a seasoned editor and writer, Vandana is the founder of KEEKLI, a noteworthy children's webzine and bilingual monthly newspaper (now discontinued due to financial constraint after Covid-19) established in 2013. Her passion for literature extends to freelancing with local dailies, as well as covering school and literary events for her news

The Moon: A Poem by Shibina SK

Bidding farewell to the scorching sun Arise,golden hallowed moon Standing still among the scintillating stars Dispelling long lasting darkness Pervading the twilight sky Waveless fathomless sea Mirroring the silver eyed goddess Mermaids composing ballads of love To lure the seafarers Making moon, a witness all through Fluorescent lights falling on scary nights Arousing drowsy dwellers Loitering through lonely pavements A pathfinder, a fellow traveller Accompanying earthly beings To reach their unknown destinations. by Shibina SK Shibina SK is an aspiring poet from God's own country Kerala.She has done her post graduation in English Literature.She has been working as a teacher for the past ten years.She has already been a part of two anthologies Letters to Life and Blooming Blossoms.She is planning to publish an anthology soon.

This Month's Top Stories

A Scholar's Odyssey: Neha Kumari's Evolution into an IAS Officer | Interview by Ankush Bharti

Neha Kumari is a dynamic and accomplished individual who has excelled in multiple domains, from academia to public service. Holding a strong academic background with a Master of Arts in English Literature from Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Neha further pursued her scholarly pursuits by completing a PhD from BHU, specialising in British and Commonwealth literature. Her dedication to academic excellence is underscored by her achievements, including clearing the National Eligibility Test (NET) with Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and qualifying the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) in 2021. Notably, Neha's intellectual curiosity extends beyond the realms of literature, as evidenced by her success in the competitive arena of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), where she attained Grade A in 2022. However, her journey doesn't end there. In 2023, Neha achieved a remarkable milestone by securing a coveted position in the Indian Administrative Service (IA

Fragment of Halves | A Poem by Ashima Syal

Fragment of Halves Induced are some stories, some stories we induce. Somewhere, half baked beans are sprouting, somewhere the milk on the stove is unknowingly half boiled. Half and half, living in an abode of halves, too preoccupied we are, measuring halves. Conversations have waved goodbye, only to be welcomed as radiant reduction. Self is juggling with the self, weaving time, knowing it can gather none. Mornings shout mundane, toiling harshly in the hope of awaiting, awaiting grim silences, only to realize in their silence, they have no one. The regime of halves remains unheard. Somewhere, forgotten in the fragment of halves. About the Author Ashima Syal Ashima Syal, a lecturer by Profession and a Poet by passion. Ashima published her first book of poems titled Canopy in 2019. Ashima published her second book of poems, titled The Fragrant Fable. Ashima received the Rabindranath Tagore Literary Award by DRDC in 2022. Ashima’s interview on the Journey and path of a poet has been p

Legacy: An interview with Mamatatai, daughter of Padma Shri Dr. Sau Sindhutai Sapkal by Ankush Bharti

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