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Rashmi Bora Das is a freelance writer settled in the suburbs of Atlanta. She has a master’s degree in English from India, and a second master’s in Public Administration from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Rashmi is the author of "From Life's Cove: Laughs, Musings & More". She combines her love for words with her interest in listening to music, watching films, and traveling.
It is a blessed feeling to envision a world that is built on the pillars of diversity, inclusion, harmony, and fairness. International Women’s Day 2024 is based on a brilliant theme: Inspire Inclusion. The presence of women in all walks of life is important because they are the backbone of families and communities. A woman […]
Keeping a gratitude journal may well be the best thing you do for yourself. Even if you do not write it all down, do ponder everyday on it.
Some of you have been with me right from my childhood; others I have met at different stops as I drove through the years.
It is a grave mistake to jump to the conclusion that a relationship with one’s mother-in-law can never be cordial. Why single her out?
Not in the wildest of my dreams did I think that a wait at the doctor’s office would spark the idea for an article. After reaching on time, it took 50 minutes until I was seen. No points for guessing, it was a test of my patience because I had gone there without eating breakfast! […]
The brain needs rest. Stress is a problem so often heard of these days. It is because people push themselves more than their bodies can take.
An act of kindness may not always appear to be nice, as much as a 'nice' act may not be actually kind. What matters is how you can do both.
Certain memories remain etched in the mind forever. One such experience is from the seventies when as a family we would drive over 300 miles to my grandparents’ home. One fourth of the journey was particularly scenic with tea gardens on both sides of the state highway. We would roll down the windows to allow […]
As I sat down with a cup of coffee in the early morning, my phone buzzed with a message from my mother. It was evening in India, and she sent me a picture of our home lit up for Diwali. She made sure that the lights were put up on time before the great day! […]
Flashback to three decades and earlier: the doorbell rings, and someone goes to answer the buzz. At times, excitement fills the air. It is a dear friend or a relative who has come to pay us a visit. We are extremely thrilled. It never crossed our minds why a guest had come unannounced! It’s an […]
Michelle Obama shares some heartwarming stories from her childhood in this podcast. Here are my favourite moments from the podcast.
By forcing kids to be part of "content" or sharing too much about them in public, they are being deprived of their precious childhood that comes only once.
Women have always been conditioned to believe that they should be beautiful, and it begins in childhood with fairy tales of princesses.
Self care does not equate with selfishness! It will prepare you to face your challenges again, give you that necessary boost to self esteem.
Millions around the world are feeling the effects of an unrelenting summer. Having been badly sunburned twice in the space of 4 weeks, I have minimized stepping outdoors. As the high temperatures continue, my thoughts travel decades backwards to the Indian summers of the early seventies. Everything was fun and simple, and as kids, “sunscreen”, […]
A friend once faced one of the most ludicrous, illogical questions ever. At a potluck dinner where he showed up with an exotic dish, the lady host asked: “Being a man and an engineer who graduated from one of India’s best colleges, how can you still cook so well?” He said he was dumbfounded because […]
A wonderful, nuanced short film, The Broken Table by Large Short Films delves into the complexity of Alzheimers and of relationships.
Emotional intelligence is the ability to understand, recognize, and manage one’s emotions and those of others, crucial for building relationships and deal with workplace challenges with compassion.
It struck me how it is a role reversal of sorts when children get older and are ready to advise Mom and teach her things that she never knew before.
The initiative for a Downs Syndrome Barbie is a step in the right direction. It will not only allow children with the condition to see themselves in the doll, but it will also pave the path for other kids to recognize and embrace differences.
I flew out of my parents’ nest 31 years ago. During every festival, more so during Rongali Bihu, I miss Assam immensely. That is a feeling that will always stay with me.
There is a good deal of wisdom tucked away in books for children. Here are 8 takeaways from Winnie The Pooh for all ages!
Are there any benefits of smiling? In today's world when we are collectively feeling stressed, burnout and disillusioned, can an act of smiling help?
Let us eliminate the age factor while looking at one’s potential or capability. If grit and determination define a personality, then one is never too late nor too old to miss the bus.
The terms equality and equity are often used interchangeably, but they are inherently different. Some inspiring quotes for women's day to highlight this.
His wedding with Parvati was graced not just by the gods but by animals, birds, insects, those shunned by others, devils, and ghosts. For him, no one is high or low, privileged or unprivileged.
Iron lady of Pakistan Muniba Mazari tells us, toxicity is very contagious, just like positivity in her new video.
Western outfits can be classy, and so is a saree with its meticulous layering grace, beauty, and elegance. Let fashion be a personal choice.
Life offers a mixed package, and marriage certainly does too! Over conversations and interactions that I have had with women across all age groups, we ended up making common observations about our husbands.
She said that throughout the pandemic phase and the flu season, she would be worried that her daughter would catch an infection from patients and fall sick. As a mother, I could totally relate to her. What struck me was that no matter which nationality they are, moms are the same everywhere!
Bollywood films and singers have carried their melodies overseas, and there is always an overwhelming response from music lovers.
An elderly Parsee woman and a young acid attack survivor are unlikely characters that come together in a heartwarming short film that speaks of the human connection.
Workplace leaders can ensure empathy at work, which is key to a congenial workplace, better work satisfaction and productivity.
Diwali ads made over the years have strived to spread positive messages for society, and add to the joy of meeting family.
Also, we buy at the spur of the moment without taking into consideration whether the piece matches with any other clothing or accessories we have.
The 1947 Partition and the formation of the nations India and Pakistan are woven into the plot seamlessly, used as the backdrop for the development of the story in Ms. Marvel.
Celebrate Father's Day with five heartwarming movies that beautifully portray the complexity of relationships between fathers and children.
Who is Pooja Elangbam? This intelligent young woman stood 81st in the 2018 Civil Services exam and is inspiring for the youth of her state and all India.
From the moment she first held you in your arms to the time you grew up to be an adult and even after you flew out of her nest, there is one constant. Moms have the superpower to care for you eternally.
Priya’s Shakti is geared towards spreading awareness on contemporary issues, and also seeks to highlight the themes of gender equality and women empowerment.
A brilliant example of female empowerment, Swasti Mehta is an inspiration for all those who may feel like giving up when life appears to be rocky and bumpy.
My Happy Family is a feminist masterpiece that ponders back and forth between relationships, family and patriarchal hourseholds.
Are we done for the year till the event comes again in 2023? Or can we keep the ball rolling to solidify women's rightful place in society?
Minnie Mouse will be changing her outfit from the girly red polka dot skirt to a blue polka dot pantsuit, and there are people saying she's "destroying the fabric of society." Really? In 2022?!
As we welcome 2022, let us focus on everything wonderful that we see around us, be grateful for every blessing we have been bestowed with, and strive to spread love and compassion among our fellow beings!
Christmas became even more exciting since I became a mom 25 years ago. Decorating the Christmas tree, gifts & get-togethers are part of this joyous package. But nothing matches the ecstasy of generosity!
India Sweets And Spices is a film showcasing a classist NRI society and how the younger generation is trying to break the stereotypes.
Nov 19 is International Men’s Day & I'm planning to pamper the men in my life. This year's theme is “Better Relations Between Men & Women.'' This is indeed a step in the right direction!
As we celebrate Diwali, let us also light a diya in our hearts and dispel darkness by setting aside all differences. Let's embrace love and kindness to make this planet an abode of peace and happiness!
The alchemy of love is so unfathomable that it can change lives in ways that are least expected. Directed by Indrani Ray and produced by Tanvi Gandhi, Love In the Times of Corona establishes that truth.
In the summer of 2020, Subarna Ghosh hit the headlines by sending a petition to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With India under lockdown for COVID-19, the work-from-home culture had become the order of the day.
On the 2nd anniversary of her digital platform Tweak India, Twinkle Khanna chats with Sudha Murthy on her life and choices.
The viral Dairy Milk ad is the way to go to think big and promote women's cricket in India, with gender role reversal in the way the man who so freely celebrates his friend's success.
Lovlina's success is embedded with many firsts for Assam. Her victory journey has just started, but is endearing and inspirational!
It is not enough to teach a child about feminism, says Sonora Jha, author of How to Raise a Feminist Son, in a chat with Raga Olga D’Silva, but to model behaviour we want to be internalised. Author, entrepreneur, and LGBT influencer Raga Olga D’ Silva has always invited the best of guests to her […]
There is a cut-throat competition in our educational system, and worrying that their children will be eliminated in the process, parents end up putting undue pressure on them.
Muniba Mazari, the first Goodwill Ambassador for UN Women Pakistan, continues to spread positivity and is an inspiration for others.
It is very natural for mothers with grown-up children to sometimes feel ignored or unwanted. This is especially true if it’s your heart that rules your head most of the time.
A strong lead character, trying circumstances, harsh landscape; if a gritty read is your cup of tea, then Lifescape definitely fits the bill.
It's hard to be positive as every day brings news of family and friends in the 2nd wave of COVID in India, but we need to take care of our mental health to ride this out.
In two recent interviews, with CNN and with Oprah, actor Sharon Stone speaks of difficult topics that range from child sexual abuse, #MeToo, to her rising up from health issues.
There’s a reason that men’s shirts have buttons on the right and women have it on the left. But, it’s all about making a personal fashion statement when one wants to!
Feminism is not about putting women against men, but a fight against prejudice where the goal is to reach a point at which women are at par with men on all levels.
Recognizing the achievements of one woman does not undermine what other women have achieved before her; rather, inclusivity lies in celebrating every woman.
Michelle Obama's memoir Becoming was one of the best books of 2020. Now, there is a young readers' edition for 12+ readers.
If this wasn't in legit newspapers, it would be unbelievable - that 1st world country Japan shows such regressive views about women in governance. Women at meetings for show?
The hype around Valentine's Day makes it just a capitalist wet dream, for the gift sellers, gift givers, and gift receivers. But what about love?
A film Pepper Chicken succeeds in qualifying as an engrossing psychological thriller when the audience embarks on an earnest mission, trying to put together the pieces of the puzzle in the experiment.
Though 2020 almost literally shook the ground beneath us, we're very close to a new year. So here's to a year of hope, joy and more love!
Priya's Shakti was created for sensitising kids to gender equality, and can now watch Indian superhero Priya in animation, voiced by the likes of Vidya Balan and Mrunal Thakur.
The pandemic has definitely hit all of us, but women have been facing the worst of it. Can we do anything to fix this?
Kamala Harris making it as the new American Vice-President takes us closer to a vision of women taking up their rightful place in running countries.
Nirvana Inn is skillfully scripted psychological thriller having horror elements, with subplots that contribute immensely to the central theme.
How do you reach out to the comparative stranger you're married to in an arranged marriage? How do you become friends? Watch Assamese short film Arranged.
Over time, different age groups have been affected by FOMO. It's just that we now have a formal nomenclature to describe this anxiety.
When extended family gets together (maybe now post COVID), there are some curious quirks that get amplified. A sweet and sour compilation.
Life needs to go on, even when all things are not seemingly perfect and when obstacles block the way. Watch Tell Me It's Grey.
A while ago, news was awash with headlines of women-led countries doing a great job during the COVID-crisis. Have women really excelled?
When my husband lost his glasses and my son his own keys, I started thinking of the 'masculine disorder' and other things from a different time!
The bond that one develops with their teacher is based on the edifices of admiration, trust, and respect. A tribute on Teacher's Day.
Acid attack survivor and influencer Laxmi Agarwal spoke with Raga Olga D'Silva in a moving discussion of her journey, with an appeal to people.
fourteen-year-old Suchetha Satish has once again spread the message, this time during COVID-19, that music knows no boundaries.
Short film Saving Chintu doesn't moralise, but the themes of love and acceptance subtly embedded in its core flow organically throughout the narrative.
Her life is a whole rollercoaster of ups and downs, but LGBTQIA+ icon and inspiring speaker Raga Olga D'Silva is a true winner.
“Not only are women being passed over and ignored, but also we’re getting people that don’t know what they’re doing supporting decision makers.”
Penalty is a sports-film that mirrors a social issue. It throws light on the ugly insider-outsider belief system that unfortunately exists in India.
Lisa Ray. A model, actor, TV personality, and now also a bestselling writer of her memoir of a fight against cancer, speaks of what helped her heal.
As a child, I remember thinking why I never saw my dad cry and with my innocent logic, I reasoned, God made him stronger to care of us all.
Axone is a much needed a film focusing on the discrimination faced by Indians from the North-East living in other parts of India, through comedy and satire.
Abhiroop Basu's 'Meal' is a wonderful movie that mirrors the reality of the society and it does so, without a single dialogue! Here's what I felt about it.
Basu Chatterjee, the maker of some of our iconic Hindi films, passed away yesterday, leaving behind a rich legacy of eminently relatable films that are classics. A tribute.
If dabbawalas symbolize the food line, the local trains stand for the life line. However, with the ensuing COVID-19 pandemic, both of these lines have stopped functioning.
What do those in their 20s with life starting out in earnest really feel about enforced social distancing? An optimistic streak was an interesting find.
Hopelessness reigns during this pandemic. Javed Akhtar and Shankar Mahadevan have come up with a song Zindagi Jeetegi that calls for hope.
A poem expressing love and admiration towards her mother and realisation what her mother means to her.
Listening to Sonam Kalra talk about music, sufism & her love for it was a wonderful experience. Here's why I loved her live session with Raga Olga D'Silva.
As parents, a lot of what we teach our kids come from the simple act of storytelling and passing on important lessons by word of mouth.
The lack of domestic workers during lockdown has made us realise their true value to us. But shouldn't this enlightenment have come earlier?
Taken together, the “seemingly ordinary threads of joy, sadness, conflict, and laughter make something extraordinary”.
The lockdown can be worse for those who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community - hostile families, lack of access to medical and counselling help, violence.
Adversity does not last forever, and we will certainly be seeing the light of day away from this darkness. What will keep us going during these hard times is hope, patience, and composure.
What gives us the right to throw filth at other nations and talk about their racial discrimination when we are doing it amongst ourselves? COVID-19 has brought out all these racial tendencies.
With the coronavirus shaking the world to its core, people too seem to be losing their basic humanity. In such trying times, shouldn't we be kinder?
As good citizens, what is our role in a time of coronavirus? Besides following the health guidelines, keeping calm and being humane is essential.
Jadav Payeng's bonding with the forest has sincerity, commitment, patience, and passion as its weaving threads.
Thappad is a movie not just about a slap, it's about act that transcends its definition of a prohibited, disrespectful action and sows the seeds of self-discovery in a woman who all along had put the needs of her husband before hers.
We should raise our voice if that is what is essential, but we also need to pick our battles without being a toxic, complaining person.
Must a woman give up her dreams and her identity if she is married and has kids? No, says the new Hindi movie Panga, directed by Ashwini Iyer Tiwari of Nil Battey Sannata fame.
An interesting look at laziness from the other end, and why it is good, even recommended that we be lazy sometimes. And see the productivity increase.
Why are baby girls dressed in pink and boys in blue? There is no particular scientific explanation to this, except that it is just a marketing strategy for new parents.
When you're in your 50s these days, you're not 'old', because an attitudinal shift means you are young at hear, and cooler than 50 year olds a generation ago.
Applause, praise and appreciation are the three things humans like to thrive on. Why not applaud ourselves too? Here is to applauding ourselves and others!
Though “no” usually brings to our minds a negative meaning, that’s not always the case. It’s the usage of the word that gives it either a dark or a positive shade. With emphatic finality, the word “no” echoed in all directions. The statement that followed it, however, melted my heart because it was soaked in […]
Amol Palekar celebrates his 75th birthday on Sunday, 24th November. Here is a tribute to the actor who excelled in the 'simple, ordinary man' roles.
It's late in the night, everyone else is asleep. But you JUST cannot sleep! Isn't it a good time to introspect whether or not you've forgiven yourself? Read on to know why
Parents yelling at their children for not being the best at absolutely everything is extremely toxic for both of them. Here's why it is totally okay to NOT be the best!
Is there a perfect 'formula' for parenting? What if I say that the parents, or rather, the couple, were of paramount importance, not the kids?
Autumn. Fall. The pleasant time before winter sets in, when the festive season blooms in all its glory. Not just in India, but in most countries.
Each letter was unique in its own way; there was a personal touch with the individuality of the person emerging through the writings.
We have all grown up listening to a number of superstitions and old wives' tales. Believe in them or don't they still exist. Logical or not, you decide!
From a troll in the dungeon to trolls on our screens, trolls sure have evolved. Here's everything you need to know about online trolls and how to deal with them
How lazy and mechanical have we become with technology at our finger tips? The answer is: to an infinite degree.
Silence that speaks louder than words
Grandparents and grandchildren always have that special bond. But what happens when there's a tug-of-war between both sides of the grandparents?
"To look good is everything." This is something we have all heard at some point of time. Is being outwardly attractive the only factor that matters?
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