This article pays tribute to Gitchandra Tongbra, or G.C. Tongbra, a literary giant from Manipur. Born on February 6, 1913, in Imphal, Tongbra’s legacy is a testament to the power of art to challenge societal norms, provoke thought, and leave an indelible mark on culture. Known for his versatility as a satirist, playwright, poet, and educator, Tongbra’s work continues to influence Manipuri literature and beyond.

Satirical Voice of Society

G.C. Tongbra’s literary journey was characterised by his sharp tongue and ability to examine society critically. His satirical plays were not just entertainment but reflections on his time’s social, political, and cultural issues. Humour and incisive commentary revealed the flaws and contradictions within society. His works Mani Manou, Matric Pass, and Upu Bakshi depict Manipur’s ordinary people’s lifestyle. His film also talks about even higher themes in the guise of everyday societal scenes.

His plays mainly consisted of societal expectations, the pressures of conformity, and the complex dynamics between tradition and modernity. His ability to blend humour with social commentary made his works universally relatable to audiences from all walks of life.

Academic Influence and Pedagogical Legacy

In addition to his literary contributions, G.C. Tongbra was a respected educator. He has played a significant role in creating Manipur’s intellectual and creative climate, as he moulded young minds in his classes as a teacher who inspired his students to love literature and arts and shaped generations of thinkers, writers, and artists. Critical thinking and cultural pride grew in his classroom, and his students were motivated to challenge the status quo as he did with his writings.

His educational work and literary output made him a pillar of Manipuri culture, helping nurture an appreciation for the region’s rich artistic heritage.

Recognition and Honors

Tongbra’s literary works were prized in Manipur, and the rest of India also appreciated them. It was in 1975 when he was granted the coveted Padma Shri, one of India’s top civilian honours to be accorded to those contributing significantly to art. It came after winning the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1978 with his play Ngabongkh, which proved his worth in infusing rich Manipuri themes into the broad spectrum of international narration.

These awards were a testament to the impact of Tongbra’s work—not just in the realm of literature but also in shaping the broader cultural landscape of India. His recognition was a nod to his innovation in theatre and his pivotal role in the evolution of Manipuri drama.

The Tongbra Drama Festival: A Living Legacy

His legacy continues with the annual event organised by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in association with Ougri Theatre Repertory, Manipur – the Tongbra Drama Festival, wherein theatre people across the Indian peninsula congregate in reverence and felicitation to the legacies of works under Tongbra.

The festival reminds the world of the timeless relevance of Tongbra’s contribution to Indian theatre, thus opening up space for contemporary artists to engage with his work and to continue the dialogue he initiated in his lifetime. It is an event honouring his legacy and fostering continued growth and development in Manipuri drama.

Enduring Influence and Continued Inspiration

G.C. Tongbra died on June 3, 1996, but his legacy remains. His works are integral to Manipuri literature and inspire new generations of writers, artists, and theatre enthusiasts. His sharp social commentary, poignant humour, and exploration of the human condition ensure that his plays and poems resonate with modern audiences.

For those who had the fortune to experience his work firsthand and for new readers to discover his genius, Tongbra’s voice is vital. The authenticity and wit with which he could depict life ensure his place as a cultural icon not just in Manipur but across India.

 A Lasting Legacy

G.C. Tongbra’s legacy celebrates the power of art to challenge, entertain, and reflect. His work remains a beacon for writers, playwrights, and educators, and his influence will be felt in every performance of his plays and in every classroom where literature is taught. We remember him today as a man whose literary and cultural contributions have left an indelible mark on the history of Indian arts and culture.

   Uncertainty is an inevitable part of life. Whether it’s a career change, economic instability or global crises, uncertainty often provokes anxiety, fear and hesitation. While our natural instinct may be to avoid or control uncertainty, research in psychology suggests that embracing it with confidence leads to greater resilience and personal growth. But how can we develop this confidence? By understanding the psychological mechanisms behind uncertainty and applying strategies to overcome, we can turn unpredictability into an opportunity for learning and self-improvement. 

   This article explores the psychological basis of uncertainty, the cognitive and emotional responses it triggers and practical strategies to navigate uncertain situations with confidence. A case vignette illustrates how these concepts apply in real-life scenarios in the end.

The Psychology of Uncertainty

Uncertainty is a cognitive and emotional state where outcomes are unknown and unpredictable. Our brain is wired to seek patterns and predictability, which is why uncertainty often feels uncomfortable. Psychological research highlights several key areas that influence our reaction to uncertainty:

The Brain’s Response to Uncertainty 

Neuroscientific studies show that the human brain is designed to minimise uncertainty. The amygdala, a part of the brain associated with emotions like fear and anxiety, highly becomes active when we tend to perceive uncertainty. This often leads to a fight-or-flight response, making us either avoid uncertain situations or react impulsively.

   On the other hand, the prefrontal cortex, responsible for higher-order thinking, helps regulate emotional responses and promotes adaptive coping strategies. Training the prefrontal cortex through mindfulness, cognitive restructuring and problem-solving techniques can help us respond to uncertainty with greater control and confidence.

Intolerance of Uncertainty (IU) and Its Impact

Intolerance of Uncertainty (IU) refers to a person’s tendency to react negatively to ambiguous situations. People with high IU tend to experience greater anxiety and stress, often resorting to rigid thinking patterns or avoidance behaviours. Research suggests that those with Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) have higher IU, which makes them more susceptible to distress when facing unpleasant situations which root in uncertainty.

   By recognising IU as cognitive bias, individuals can challenge their assumptions and gradually increase their tolerance for uncertainty through exposure and cognitive reframing techniques.

The Role of Cognitive Biases

Our perception of uncertainty is often shaped by cognitive biases. Some common biases include:

• Catastrophising– Assuming the worst possible outcome.
• Confirmation bias– Seeking information which actively supports pre-existing beliefs which ignore contradictory evidence.
• Overgeneralization– Viewing one uncertain event as a pattern that will repeat in all aspects of life.

   Recognising these biases allows us to adopt a more rational approach and balanced perspective on uncertain situations.

Building Confidence in the Face of Uncertainty

Confidence in uncertain situations isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about trusting oneself to handle whatever arises. Developing this mindset involves cognitive, emotional and behavioural adjustments.

Cultivating a Growth Mindset

Psychologist Carol Dweck’s research on mindset distinguishes between a fixed mindset (believing abilities are static)  and growth mindset (believing abilities can improve through effort and learning). A growth mindset fosters resilience by encouraging individuals to see uncertainty as an opportunity for growth rather than a threat. 

Practical steps to cultivate a growth mindset include:

• Reframing failures as learning experiences
• Emphasising effort and adaptability over perfection when it comes to any task.
• Seeking feedback to improve decision-making.

Emotional Regulation Strategies

Managing emotions effectively is key to navigating uncertainty with confidence. Some proven strategies include:

• Mindfulness and Acceptance– Research shows that mindfulness-based interventions reduce stress and improve emotional regulation by promoting non-judgemental awareness of thoughts and feelings. Cultivating habits like meditation, journaling or mindful eating helps you cope with uncertainty. 
• Cognitive Reappraisal- Reframing negative interpretations of uncertainty to a more neutral or positive perspective can reduce anxiety. Statements or affirmations with “I can face this”, “I can get through this” has helped many in reducing anxiety and fostering confidence.
• Self-Compassion- Loving oneself is the utmost essential element to managing emotions. Kindness towards self rather than self-criticism can help individuals cope with uncertainty in the most difficult situations. 

Strengthening Psychological Flexibility

Psychological flexibility, the ability to adapt thoughts and behaviours to changing circumstances is crucial for navigating uncertainty. According to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), psychological flexibility consists of:

• Accepting uncertainty rather than resisting it.
• Identifying core values and making decisions aligned with them
• Taking committed action despite fear of the unknown.

Decision-Making Under Uncertainty

Uncertainty often paralyzes decision-making, leading to avoidance or indecision. Strategies to enhance confident decision-making include:

• The “Good-Enough” Principle (Satisficing): Instead of striving for perfect decisions, aim for choices that are good enough based on available information.
• Scenario Planning: Considering multiple potential outcomes can help build mental preparedness for uncertainty.
• Incremental Steps: Breaking large decisions into smaller, manageable actions reduces overwhelming emotions. 

Case Vignette: Sally’s Journey Through Uncertainty

   Sally, a 35-year-old marketing professional, had worked at the same company for ten years when she was unexpectedly laid off. This sudden change left her feeling anxious, uncertain about her future and plagued herself with self-doubt. She feared she wouldn’t find another job that matched her skills and salary. 

Applying Psychological Strategies 

1. Recognising Cognitive Biases

At first, Sally catastrophised, believing she would remain unemployed for months or even years. By identifying this cognitive distortion and gathering data on job market trends which reveals that there was a high demand for those is her field.

2. Embracing a “growth mindset“

Instead of seeking a job as a failure, Sally reframed it to be an opportunity to explore new career paths. She signed up for an online course to expand her skill set and viewed the situation as a chance for professional growth. 

3. Practicing Emotional Regulation

Sally used mindfulness techniques to manage her anxiety, practicing deep breathing exercises before job interviews. She also engaged in self-compassion by reminding herself that setbacks are a normal part of life.

4. Building Psychological Flexibility

Rather than rigidly clinging to a specific career path, Sally explored freelance work and consulting opportunities while applying for full-time roles. This flexibility opened doors she hadn’t previously experienced.

5. Taking Incremental Steps

Sally broke down her job search into small, manageable tasks, updating her resume, networking, applying to a few jobs per week, rather than overwhelming herself with an all-or-nothing approach. 

   Within three months, Sally secured a new job that not only matched her previous salary but also offered a better work-life balance. Her experience taught her that uncertainty, while uncomfortable, could also be navigated successfully with the right mindset and strategies.

   Uncertainty is an inescapable part of life but how we respond to it determines our level of confidence and resilience. By understanding the psychological mechanisms behind uncertainty, challenging cognitive biases, regulating emotions and adopting a growth mindset, we can transform uncertainty from a source of fear into a catalyst for growth.

   Sally’s case illustrates that confidence in uncertainty is not about eliminating fear but learning to move forward despite it. With practice, we can all develop this ability to navigate uncertainty with confidence, turning the unknown into an opportunity rather than an obstacle. 

Jaishankar Prasad (1889-1937) will always remain firmly fixed among the modern Hindi litterateurs and the torchbearer of Chhayavad. Naïve and belonging to a humble Madheshiya Teli Vaishya family, born in Varanasi, he had to learn the ropes of living with penury very soon after losing his father. Despite having to give up formal schooling after grade 8, his zest for knowledge led him to self-study several languages, Indian history, and philosophy.

Facing Adversities and the Pursuit of Knowledge

Prasad’s literary career began with poems in Braj Bhasha, written under “Kaladhar.” Still, he soon shifted to Khadi Boli Hindi and enriched its literary tradition with his collection of poems, Chitradhar. He strode boldly into the realm of emotion in poetry coupled with profound philosophy that inspired him from Vedic literature. His well-known works—and perhaps the most romantic and nationalist—Kamayani and Himadri Tung Shring Se were immensely cherished during India’s fight for independence.

Literary Beginnings and Hindi Theatre

Prasad was a versatile writer who influenced Hindi theatre and prose. His historical plays–Skandagupta, Chandragupta, and Dhruvaswamini–drew on ancient Indian legends, serving up a splendid plate of ageless narratives of heroism, sacrifice, and love. His prose wove a rich tapestry of social, mythical, and historical themes; short stories like Mamta and Chhota Jadugar won readers’ hearts with their emotional themes. 

The Pioneer of the Chhayavad Movement

His primary contribution went beyond creative genius to drastically transform the nature of Hindi literature, aligning it more towards Sanskritized forms of the language than toward Persian influences in a very definite manner. His plays, which gained a new lease of life during the 1960s under Shanta Gandhi, became the subject of intense study ever since.

He was praised, together with Mahadevi Verma, Sumitranandan Pant, and Suryakant Tripathi Nirala, as one of the Four Pillars of Chhayavad. The supreme act of this great writer, Kamayani, in which he paints an arresting picture of art intertwined with philosophy, remains a hallowed text in Hindi literature.

Even in the shade range and despite his sadness, despair, and colonial subjugation, Prasad has left an indomitable spirit that has inspired generations. His name lives, lifted high like the fir tree, much as Mahadevi Verma described him in her tribute, unafraid amidst the storms of life. 

Prose and Short Stories

Prasad’s storytelling extended beyond poetry and drama to include prose and short stories. His collections, such as Akashdeep and Mamta, explore themes of love, sacrifice, and social issues. For instance, the tale Mamta captures the essence of maternal love, while Chhota Jadugar narrates the struggles of a young boy who earns a living through street performances.

Prasad’s writing seamlessly blends romanticism with nationalism. His works often highlight India’s rich cultural heritage, evoking a sense of pride among readers. Poems like Himadri Tung Shring Se exemplify his ability to inspire patriotism through literary art. At the same time, his exploration of love and human emotions gives his works universal appeal.

Subhas Chandra Bose, affectionately known as Netaji (which means Respected Leader), remains one of India’s most iconic and contentious freedom fighters. Born on January 23, 1897, in the vibrant city of Cuttack, Odisha, Bose’s life is a testament to fearless patriotism and an unwavering challenge to British colonial rule. His journey is filled with tales of bravery, deep-seated convictions, and ideological clashes, weaving a narrative that is both heroic and complex. Even today, his legacy ignites passionate discussions about leadership, strategy, and moral dilemmas, inspiring countless individuals to explore the depths of dedication and sacrifice for a cause.

The Path to Leadership

Bose’s early life was marked by both privilege and exceptional talent. Raised in an environment steeped in Anglo-centric education, he achieved remarkable success, topping the Indian Civil Service exam in England. Yet, his heart burned with a fervent nationalist spirit, compelling him to set aside the promise of a prestigious career in order to dedicate himself to India’s quest for independence.

In 1921, he joined forces with the Indian National Congress, quickly rising through the ranks to ultimately become its president in 1938. However, his vision, which embraced militant action and socialism, often put him at odds with more prominent figures like Gandhi. This ideological clash culminated in his resignation in 1939, but his commitment to India’s freedom never wavered.

The Axis Connection

Bose’s dedication to India’s independence was marked by various significant actions that sparked some debate. In 1941, he sought support from Nazi Germany to further his cause. He established the Free India Centre and worked to recruit Indian prisoners of war into the Indian National Army (INA). Subsequently, with backing from Japan, he reorganized the INA and declared a Provisional Government of Free India in territories occupied by the Japanese. While his campaign took a different approach from traditional military strategies, it is worth noting that the INA faced considerable challenges and experienced defeats against the British Indian Army, despite Bose’s charismatic leadership.

Hero or Controversial Figure?

The wartime association with fascist regimes presents a complex aspect of Bose’s legacy. Critics point out that he did not publicly denounce the atrocities committed by the Nazis and that he supported a centralized approach to governance for India’s post-colonial reconstruction. While his admiration for strong central authority reflects a desire for stability, his nationalism and commitment to social equality distinguish him from the ideologies he engaged with.

A Legacy of Sacrifice and Inspiration

Bose tragically lost his life in a plane crash on August 18, 1945, in Taiwan. His untimely demise left many Indians with a profound sense of longing and hope, believing that he would return to guide the nation toward independence. His powerful slogans, “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom” and “Dilli Chalo” (On to Delhi), continue to echo as poignant symbols of sacrifice and unwavering determination, reminding us of the struggles and aspirations for a free India.

Commemorating Netaji

Through stamps, statues, museums, and institutions, Bose’s indelible contributions inspire India’s history. His legacy is celebrated across the nation, from the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata to the INA War Museum in Manipur. The Government of India honors his birth anniversary, January 23, as Parakram Divas, a powerful symbol of courage and perseverance.

Final Thoughts

Subhas Chandra Bose’s extraordinary life was a testament to his unwavering vision for freedom and independence. Though his alliances and ideologies may spark differing opinions, what remains indisputable is his profound love for his country and his relentless struggle for India’s sovereignty. His deep-seated patriotism reflects a remarkable spirit that continues to inspire many and serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of justice and self-determination.

With his music characterised by rhythmic exuberance and melodic richness, he has remained a legend with the audiences even after two decades of his death. O.P. Nayyar was born on January 16, 1926, in Lahore, then British India, since he was identified with the golden age of Bollywood music. His lush compositions evolved the sound of the ’50s and ’60s, along with the contributions of other legendary directors such as S.D. Through their outstanding songs, Burman and Laxmikant-Pyarelal gave birth to a new wave of substantial musical talents, including singers like Geeta Dutt, Asha Bhosle, and Mohammed Rafi.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

O.P. Nayyar had a different turn in his life when he entered the music field. Born in Lahore, Nayyar grew up in a family with no formal background in music. He was virtually self-taught, playing the piano, dholak, and drums. Nayyar’s instinctual grasp of tunes and rhythms transcended his lack of formal training and helped him find his place in the intensely competitive world of Bollywood music.

His career began during the early 1950s. In 1949, he did the background score for Kaneez, while in 1952, he was credited with being the music director of his first film, Aasmaan. With such early films as Chham Chhama Chham (1952) and Baaz (1953), some of O.P. Nayyar’s styles started to shape up, blending catchy rhythms with beautiful melodies. 

Collaboration with Bollywood Legends

Nayyar managed to spot and collaborate with some of the finest singers in Hindi cinema. It was Nayyar’s collaboration with a voice that matched his composition’s energy and mood. Iconic singers such as Geeta Dutt, Mohammed Rafi, and Asha Bhosle had Nayyar as their primary music director. Of all his associations, with Asha Bhosle in particular, Nayyar’s was hallowed; they would together dish out a string of unforgettable hits, including Kajra Mohabbatwala from Kismat (1968) and Aap Ke Haseen Rukh from Baharen Phir Bhi Aayengi (1966).

The voice of Asha Bhosle, entirely overshadowed by that of Lata Mangeshkar early on, blossomed under Nayyar’s direction. Nayyar helped Asha break the age-long constraint of being Lata’s sister, proving herself to be an overpass-singer who has versatility as a playback singer with a distinctly catchy voice, capable of singing anything from mellow romantic ballads to some quite vivacious up-tempo numbers.

Nayyar and Mohammed Rafi gave some of India’s most lasting songs. Nayyar’s great rhythm-filled compositions became truly remarkable with Rafi’s poignant voice. Songs like Yeh Desh Hai Veer Jawaanon Ka from Naya Daur (1957), which brought him the Filmfare award for Best Music Director, are immortal. 

The Rise of the “O.P. Nayyar Sound”

In the 1950s and 1960s, O.P. Nayyar became known for creating what seemed to be the “O.P. Nayyar sound.” Catchy tunes characterised his music and catchy rhythms with bold orchestration. Nayyar was particularly fond of dholaks, and percussion instruments gave his songs energy and an exciting flourish. He composed with apparent rhythmic dexterity that differed from the icy classical and orchestral sound of the time.

The rhythmic mastery was shown in numbers such as Pyaar Mein Dil Pe Maar Ke from Aar Paar (1954) and Aaja Aaja from Teesri Manzil (1966), where Nayyar reincarnated Western influences into an Indian classical setting to create newer and exciting sounds.

Personal Life and Controversies

Besides being one of the best-known names in Bollywood, O.P. Nayyar had controversy in his personal life, and he was known for his tempestuous relationships with some of his collaborators. Perhaps the most heated and famous was with Asha Bhosle, who, even though they had worked on numerous hits together, had a much-publicized split with him in 1974. The exact reasons for their separation remain unclear, but, like many of Nayyar’s relationships, theirs was one of tremendous insecurity and nerve.

Holding out from Bhosle, Nayyar also became estranged from his family. After leaving his Mumbai residence in 1979, he began living alone, first in a hotel and later with singer Madhuri Joglekar. Nayyar became increasingly reclusive and strained in his family bonds by his waning years. He ended up spending his last years alone, requesting explicitly that his family members not be allowed into his funeral due to his death by heart failure on January 28, 2007.

Despite his struggles, Nayyar continued to command high respect in the industry, and a flood of condolences and tributes from fellow musicians and Bollywood filmmakers erupted upon his demise. 

The Enduring Legacy of O.P. Nayyar

O.P. Nayyar’s music remains etched in Bollywood. He has composed some great rhythms and straightforward but melodious numbers, which will linger on for generations. He shaped the careers of some of the biggest stars in the industry and is among the key architects of the golden era of Hindi film music.

India Post released a commemorative stamp in 2013 to celebrate his genius, forever marking him as one of the most prominent music directors in Indian cinema. Even in his absence, his music carries a message of physical existence and rejuvenation.