Editor's Pick
What Matters More : Places or People?
Travelling is one of the best teachers of life, as it gives us the experiences and moments to be cherished forever. Niharika Mishra shares one such experience, from her trip to Europe.
The trip started with a realization of a learning journey ahead, right from the moment of boarding the aircraft. Interactions with the flight attendants, co-passengers, tourist guides and the locals, proved to be a learning curve for the family. But one particular event that happened in Amsterdam, really changed the perspective of Niharika regarding what’s important – people or places.
During one of her tram rides in Amsterdam, her interaction with the ticket seller of the tram, was very memorable. He, very sweetly, had asked her to have an ice-cream instead of buying the ticket. That one incident made her realize that the warmth and affection of people around you, even in the most common situations, has the potential to leave a lifelong impact. She has a smile on her face, every time she eats an ice-cream and remembers her Santa Clause.
Something as simple as a tram-ride and as simple as an ice-cream can also help us learn an important lesson of life that “more than places people matter”.
Editor's Pick
All About The Zzz’s: Sleep and Mental Health
Discover how prioritising sleep can revolutionise your mental well-being and turbocharge your performance!
In today’s busy world, where productivity and performance are more often than not prioritised over rest. Sleep is frequently overlooked as a fundamental pillar of mental health and well-being. However, quality rest’s significance goes far beyond physical rest- it plays a crucial role in nurturing our mental faculties, enhancing cognitive function and promoting emotional resilience.
As we celebrate World Sleep Day on 19th March, it’s imperative to recognise the essential impact of sleep on our mental health and overall productivity.
Many research studies have shown the intricate connections between sleep and mental well-being. Adequate rest is not just about feeling refreshed in the morning; it’s about providing our brains with the needed downtime to process information and emotions, consolidate memories and regulate mood.
The lack there-of, on the other hand, can lead to a plethora of mental health challenges, including increased stress, anxiety, depression and decreased cognitive function.
The most remarkable aspect of sleep is the ability to rejuvenate and optimise cognitive function and performance. When we rest, our brains undergo intricate processes vital for learning, memory, problem-solving and creativity. During the rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep, the brain is still active, consolidates memories and integrates new information- a process crucial for skill acquisition and knowledge retention. By prioritising good rest, individuals can unlock their cognitive potential, leading to sharper focus, improved decision-making, and heightened creativity.
Moreover, sleep plays a vital role in emotional regulation and resilience. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation can significantly upset the brain’s ability to regulate emotions, leading to heightened reactivity to adverse situations and impaired stress management. On the other hand, sufficient rest fosters emotional stability, enabling individuals to go through life’s challenges with greater ease and resilience. By prioritising sleep, people can cultivate a stronger sense of emotional well-being, fostering healthier relationships and a more positive outlook on life.
Additionally, sleep has a direct impact on productivity and performance. Contrary to the prevailing notion that burning the midnight oil leads to increased productivity, research suggests that sacrificing the Zzz’s often results in diminished productivity, attention span and impaired decision-making– ultimately undermining performance in the long run.
How do we catch those power-pact zzs to enhance our mental health and productivity? First, we must prioritise sleep as a non-negotiable aspect of self-care. Establishing a consistent bedtime schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and optimising the bedtime environment are essential to cultivating healthy night-time habits. Mindfulness and stress reduction techniques can help alleviate sleep disturbances and promote more profound, restorative sleep.
As we commemorate World Sleep Day, let us recommit ourselves to the pursuit of better night-time habits and recognise the profound impact that sleep has on our mental health and productivity. By embracing sleep as a cornerstone of well-being, we can unlock our full potential, nurture our cognitive faculties and lead happier, more fulfilling lives. Remember, quality rest is the ultimate game-changer regarding mental health and productivity.
Editor's Pick
Toxic Work Culture: The Sad Reality We All Live In
In this continuous rat race for success, many workplaces try to meet their goals by hook or by crook, leading to the creation of a toxic culture. Let’s explore and understand how it still prevails in today’s vigilant society.
The first thing that one finds in a company handbook is their zero tolerance for any kind of misconduct and harassment in the workplace which would lead to the creation of a toxic work culture. But in reality, how many workplaces actually follow through with their policies? And can you blame them? After all, who has the time for all that? But one man posts it on their social media or takes their own life because of how unbearable it becomes and then astonishingly they have all the time in the world to find out whether they were truly responsible or not.
Sounds scary? But sadly, this is the reality of over a million Indians in India. With fresh graduates desperately looking for jobs to make ends meet, companies get the upper hand in deciding their fate. They ensure that company policies are set in place to protect the rights of the worker. But the reality is that more often than not they are just mere formality to ensure that their workers think they are protected. But the real question is are they truly protected? Let’s dig deep into this with a few case studies.
Case 1: Death of 25-year-old Saurabh Kumar As A Result of Toxic Work Culture:
Saurabh Kumar, a bright 25-year-old chap took his own life on 23rd February, 2024. From the outside, it appeared as if Saurabh had achieved everything that a person dreamt of. He graduated from premier institutes in India such as IIT & IIM. Further, he was working as a consultant for one of the top MNCs McKinsey & Company. Everything seemed fine until one day he came back home and jumped off his balcony late at night.
Although investigations are still underway, the statement from his girlfriend who he had last contacted before taking his own life highlighted the pressure he was facing at work was taking a toll on him. This revelation gave a new direction to the ongoing investigation. The police now are trying to uncover the situations at his workplace that pushed him to take such a step. The culprit of the murder is yet to be reprimanded. And if the workplace indeed is the one guilty it’s really hard to put it behind bars. Simply because of its immense influence and the abstract nature of its existence.
Case 2: Death of A Woman by Suicide Due to Toxic Work Culture
According to the husband of the deceased Poonam Gupta (Manager, F. & A.), the chief manager, director and secretary of the Central Board of Irrigation and Power (CBIP) had abetted her in her suicide attempt on May 5, 2020, by pressurising her and forcing her to put up with a hostile work environment by taking no actions to help her in this respect. The husband even informed the court how his wife had tried to contact the secretary of CBIP with two separate e-mails. But no action was taken.
A single-judge bench of Justice Jasmeet Singh was hearing the plea for anticipatory bail for the former secretary of CBIP. (Note: Bail was already granted to the chief manager and the director). And concluded that the secretary could not be held liable for the suicide of Poonam Gupta. This is because the secretary is not legally mandated to act on those emails. “At best not acting on the email of 12.04.2020 and 13.08.2019 sent by the deceased may be a dereliction of duty or a casual approach by the applicant but cannot by any stretch mean to be an illegal omission under Section 107 IPC,” the High Court said. And finally, the former secretary was granted anticipatory bail.
The High Court further noted how toxic work culture is a plague that is blossoming in all the booming economies. The HC mentioned the overwork culture in Japan. And how the Japanese government acknowledged it as a socio-economic problem but not a criminal offence. The HC further added how some serious investigations must be done and more focus should be given to mental health in workspaces to help combat this plague in the long run.
You can read about the entire proceeding here: https://indiankanoon.org/doc/81606337/
Case 3: Viral Video of HDFC Bank Employees Getting Harassed by a Senior Official
On June 5, 2023, one video caught the eye of thousands of internet users. The video very brutally showcased the reality of today’s work culture. The viral video showcased an official Google Meet of the HDFC bank employees of Kolkata. If you haven’t watched the video yet, you might think it must be a professional meeting between the employees of the bank to talk about work. But the reality is far from the truth.
From crass language to explicit threats to one’s life and well-being. This short viral video brought to light the brutal work environment today’s workers are exposed to. The fact that many of the workers put up with it without making any complaints regarding the same just goes on to show how much we have normalised these activities in today’s day and age. Had this video not gone viral the workers would have probably continued to face abuse at the hands of the management. Because of how much uproar it caused it made the bank come forward and start an investigation into the matter. This does raise the question, does one need to become viral in order to work in a healthy professional sphere?
You can watch the viral video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpEyIqgGrXU
Toxic Work Culture In The Era of Mental Health Advocacy
How many of us have actually gone on social media and posted or reshared stuff such as “self-care is the best gift you can give yourself”, “You should take life at your own pace”, etc.? Almost everyone. And honestly, that’s a great thing. Because it shows that we as a generation are not ready to take ourselves for granted. But do we always practice what we preach?
Sometimes yes we do practice, but most of the time it’s just preach. And hence, it’s not surprising that even in this hyper-aware era where we understand the importance of mental health we still use the phrase “Arey har jagah aisa hi chalta hai” (These all things are pretty common in any workplace) whenever anyone comes up to us with anything that made them feel uncomfortable in their place of work.
We post and talk about mental health so much. And yet when we are allowed to practice what we preach we back out. And honestly, the sad scene of the job market does not help us in this situation either. This will surely make you wonder how accessible mental health truly is to us. The worst part is we are aware of the devastating effects the toxic work culture has on us. And yet our hands are tied by the ever-present threat of unemployment.
Afterword
When the matter of making mental health accessible comes into the picture, the role of the workplace or companies takes the larger space. The logic is pretty simple, you want productivity then provide your employees with enough amenities and support so that they find their workplace conducive enough to work freely and with passion. Certain companies like Google, Microsoft, IBM, etc. understand that. And ensure that their employees have an enriching work culture to foster creativity, innovation and dedication. Instead of being a whiny toddler who becomes cautious when matters of taking responsibility for their action in front of others enter the picture, how about being an adult and carrying out your responsibility whether somebody is keeping a check on you or not?
To end this article on a hopeful note, let’s look at one startup that is truly being an adult about their workplace. This startup company is none other than, The Talented Indian is one such place that truly understands the needs of an artist. And they work day in and day out to provide the same to them. Being associated with them for over a year now I can vouch for their commitment to their employees. They made me understand that to make their workplace enriching one does not need to spend millions on fancy amenities but rather one just needs to stay human and understand and be attentive to the needs of other humans in this rat race for success. Sometimes a simple “Are you okay?” will go a long way.
Editor's Pick
Farida Jalal: In The Realm of Cinema, Some Stars Never Fade
From Teenage Stardom to Everlasting Legacy . Farida Jalal will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for future generations.
In the glamorous world of Bollywood, where celebrities rise and fall like shooting stars, Farida Jalal stands as a timeless icon engraved into the heart of Indian cinema. Born on 14th March 1949, her journey from a teenager starring in “Taqdeer” to becoming Bollywood’s favourite mother is a tale of resilience, versatility and undying passion.
Farida’s career spans over 50 years, gracing over 200 movies with her presence. While she started as a lead actor, her portrayal of supportive characters like the grandmother, mother or sister endeared her to audiences. Her ability to breathe life into these roles, be it as Rajesh Khanna’s counterpart in “Aradhana” or Rishi Kapoor’s co-star in “Bobby”. These roles earned her widespread acclaim.
Despite taking a break in the early 80s, Farida returned effortlessly, transitioning into mature roles. Her characters exude warmth, wisdom, and undeniable charm, making her indispensable to every major Bollywood hit. Farida’s stellar performances and roles garnered her five Filmfare awards, making her status as a powerhouse performer concrete.
Beyond the silver screen of cinema, Farida’s personal life reflected the strength of her on-screen personas. Her love story with Tabrez Bramavar blossomed on the sets of “Jeevan Rekha”, leading to a blissful marriage and the birth of their son, Yaseen. However, tragedy struck in 2003 when Tabrez sadly passed away, leaving Farida to navigate the ups and downs of her life with grace and grit.
In an industry that often celebrates youth over experience, Farida Jalal remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring actors. Her journey is a testament to the truth that age is just a number, and talent knows no bounds. Whether it was her memorable performances in “Raja Hindustani”, “Dil To Pagal Hai”, or “Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham”. Farida continues to leave an indelible mark on the hearts of cinephiles across generations.
As we reminisce about the golden era of Bollywood, Farida Jalal’s name shines brightly, a symbol of enduring talent and timeless beauty. Her legacy will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations, proving that some stars never fade in cinema.
Editor's Pick
Raavan: The Enemy of Aryavarta: A Review
Raavan: The Enemy of Aryavarta by Amish Tripathi goes beyond the traditional portrayal of Raavan in Ramayana, a treat for Indian epic lovers.
Since the beginning of mankind, there always has been a belief in the white or the black. For a very long time, people overlooked the varying shades of grey human beings are truly made of. Today, in this day and age of mental health awareness it’s high time people go back and revisit the classic tales of villainy to understand who was the true villain, the antagonist or the society. Just like Disney has started with its “Villain Tales” series, many of our Indian authors have also started revisiting the centuries-old Indian mythologies and breathed a new life into each character including the villains. One such enigmatic author is the famous Amish Tripathi. His book Raavan: The Enemy of Aryavarta is part of his “Ram Chandra” series and meticulously explores the different aspects of the Indian epic Ramayana.
Raavan: The Enemy of Aryavarta: A Closer Look
The shortest of the two Indian epics, Ramayana is often regarded as a pretty simple read that ends with good triumphing over evil. The other Indian epic, Mahabharata makes you question how good and fair truly the good side is with each passing incident. But when it comes to Ramayana, one would see that the characters are pretty black and white. Unless one bores a sceptical mind or a curiosity around Amish Tripathi’s writing, one may never realise the multiple layers that each character in Ramayana may possess.
With the hopes of changing people’s understanding of Ramayana from a simple tale of good vs evil to a complex one consisting of real humans with real issues, Amish Tripathi helps us understand the multiple layers of good and evil of each pivotal character. The first thing about the book that is bound to catch your eye is the use of the term: “Raavan” and not the anglicized one “Raavana”. This grants a mark of authenticity to the character as its name is not anglicized for easier pronunciation by the West.
What makes Raavan: The Enemy of Aryavarta stand out among its contemporaries is the fact that it showcases in a very detailed manner the way Raavan was probably brought up. Every variation of the Ramayana highlights the growing years of Ram and sometimes Sita (if it takes a feminist narrative) but nobody dares to venture around Raavan. We get to see a side of Raavan that makes us realise that he may not be black but rather morally grey as a character.
Raavan: The Enemy of Aryavarta: Redefining Raavan
Villainised and burnt at the stake during Dusshera, Raavan is considered the enemy of mankind. But you know who else had to go through a similar fate? The Witches at Salem Witch Trial. And yes, they were wrongfully accused. The book gives us a view of Raavan as a person. His love for his family and friends is profoundly highlighted to help people understand that his identity goes beyond the tag of a demon. The way he and his brother are treated because of their birth deformities will make you question who is the true demon in the epic.
He has certain eccentric attitudes that rightfully confer him the title of a “mad scientist”. But in all honesty, possessing such brilliance and being constantly treated as a pest is bound to turn anyone mad. Raavan just happened to be a genius as well. He is the perfect definition of what society will do if they just can’t put you in a checked box. Just like women and people of the lower caste community were discriminated against at every stage of their life for being smart when they were “supposed” to be dumb. Raavan went through a similar fate.
Afterword
More than the characterisation of Raavan it was the way Amish Tripathi presented him that will keep the reader hooked till the last page. From the colour of each character’s clothes to the twitch in one’s eye, Tripathi captured each detail meticulously. The beautifully crafted imageries of ancient India are bound to wake up each of your senses. The simplistic writing coupled with a dramatic twist and a second chance for the traditional portrayal of the character of Raavan is what makes this book by Amish Tripathi a must-read for any Indian epic lover.
Editor's Pick
We’ll be there for you: supporting a loved one starting Therapy.
This editorial aims to provide insights and practical tips on effectively supporting someone you know who is starting therapy.
Starting therapy is a massive step for any individual towards healing and self-discovery, especially for those struggling with mental health challenges. As a friend, family member, or partner, your role in supporting your loved one while starting this therapy journey is invaluable.
Listen with Empathy:
First and foremost, create a safe space and non-judgmental environment for your loved one to express their thoughts and emotions. Listen actively without interrupting or offering unwanted advice. Validate their feelings and let them know you support them no matter what.
Respect Their Privacy:
Respect your loved one’s decision to seek therapy and their right to privacy. Avoid being nosey or asking intrusive questions about their sessions. Instead, encourage them to share their experiences and journey at their own pace and comfort level.
Offer Practical Support:
Try Offering practical support by helping with daily tasks or accompanying them to therapy appointments ( only if they are comfortable). Offer to assist with child care, household chores or running errands to lessen some of their stress and allow them to heal and focus on their well-being.
Educate Yourself:
Take the time to educate yourself about mental health and therapy. Learn about the common mental health conditions, therapeutic approaches and coping strategies. Understanding the challenges your loved one may be facing can help you provide more meaningful support and empathy.
Avoid Judgment and Stigma:
Refrain from passing judgment or making assumptions about your loved one’s experiences or mental health condition. Avoid using stigmatising language or dismissing their feelings as trivial. Offer validation, empathy and unconditional support.
Be Patient and Understanding:
Understand that therapy is a process and healing takes time. Be patient and understanding as your loved one navigates the therapy journey. Encourage them to be gentle with themselves and celebrate their progress, no matter how small it may seem.
Take Care of Yourself:
Supporting someone through therapy can be emotionally taxing. Remember to prioritise your self-care and seek support from friends and family or a therapist if needed. Practice healthy boundaries and know when to take a step back to recharge and replenish your energy.
Normalise Therapy and Open Communication:
Normalise therapy and open communication within your social circle and community. Break down the stigma surrounding mental health by sharing your own experiences or advocating for mental health awareness. Encourage honest conversations about emotions, struggles and the importance of seeking help.
Supporting someone you know who is starting therapy requires compassion, empathy and patience. By creating a safe and supportive environment, respecting their privacy, offering practical assistance, educating yourself, avoiding judgement, being patient, taking care of yourself, and normalising therapy, you can also play a crucial role in their healing journey. Your support and understanding can make a difference in their path towards greater well-being and resilience.
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