Power failures in cities

We are so used to electricity, 

buried in devices or appliances, 

tube light, fan, T.V, and A.C,

screens of phone or P.C,

that we never have time,

to explore surroundings. 

There are villages and towns,

having fair share of blackouts,

providing ample opportunities,

to divide their attention outside,

but major cities were occupied, 

having inverters by their sides.

So, it can come as inconvenience, 

but also presents pleasant surprise,

giving a break to power supplies,

as a measure against rainstorm,

or means for periodic repairs,

depriving us of their service.

And here, in evenings or nights,

we could hear the cacophony, 

replacing the usual quietness, 

as people step our of house,

some chat, walk, play or observe,

others use moment to savor...

Soothing & cool breeze. 

P.S. 

Just had a power failure last night.

Also, no one will enjoy it in summer daytime. 

Erosion of values in youth

Consider the scenarios,

where power is praised, 

there's a competition,

of how early one rises,

from their positions. 

Traditional paths are slow,

so they exploited loopholes, 

which are borderline unethical,

still provide sustained results,

helping them win the race.

Consider the scenarios, 

of the ones following rules, 

not doing wrongdoings, 

even resist illegal works,

only to be targeted. 

They put sincere efforts,

provide services without defaults,

only to be betrayed by corrupts,

being disrespected, or abandoned,

by the very system they trust.

So, when someone witness,

impacting formative years, 

facing harsher circumstances, 

or without proper mentoring, 

with problems difficult to overcome. 

There will be comparisons, 

create relative deprivations, 

susceptible to temptations, 

prioritizing survival & personal gain,

over moral or social contributions. 

There are multiple factors, 

but the truth is undeniable, 

this deep-seated restlessness, 

is eroding values in youths,

when merits & integrity is disregarded. 

They didn't run

I have seen them come,

to the ones deserving, 

who give time and attentions, 

display genuine care in actions,

through benevolent intentions. 

Many have tried and failed,

being too hasty or excited,

creating stories in minds,

that empathize with creatures, 

occupied in natural habitats. 

For, there are hidden motives, 

rationalized with exaggerated approaches,

which startle, frighten, alerting species,

activate their survival instincts,

to guard against imminent dangers.

Yet, there are something special, 

seen in compassionate individuals, 

as beings are drawn to their energy,

sharing some leisurely moments, 

provided with treats and affection.

Trust is priceless,

one can't expect it with force,

requires dedicated efforts, 

not just bribing with food,

for them to come closer...

Forming deeper bonds.

And it's indeed an achievement, 

when they didn't run.

Joie se vivre

I aspire, to truly enjoy, 

feel moments with glee,

where soul experiences,

blessings of being alive!

Joie de vivre...

Carefree and spirited,

heart dances to the beats,

eagerly waiting for arrival,

whenever our day begins.

When mundane become exciting,

we can see sparks in our eyes,

be it smell from fresh air,

or aroma of tea or coffee.

The flowers in the garden,

few glimpses of wildlifes, 

a stroll in the evening, 

observing daily routines.

Our life can be challenging,

making us prone to negativity, 

but nurturing sense of wonder,

helps us to navigate difficulties. 

For, when we appreciate beauty,

seek the best of world's offerings, 

nothing can break our convictions, 

change our ways of perceiving things.

Joie de vivre...

I have deep admiration, 

for the ones achieved proficiency, 

consciously following these lifestyles, 

supported by their surroundings. 

Opia...

The languages of gaze,

a conversation in silence,

where moments intense, 

define rule of engagement.

Opia...

Sweeping you off your feets,

I don't even have to speak,

come closer, look into eyes,

you are in for a treat.

Pardon my intrusions, 

I will be diving much deeper,

to the depth of your soul,

from these windows opened.

I know you are scared,

feeling vulnerable to attacks, 

but my intentions are pure,

filled with affection & care.

Don't hide, lay bare secrets, 

allow me into private space,

I will accept flaws you despise, 

and celebrate, qualities prized.

Opia...

These intense sensations, 

it will be two-way communication, 

breaking barriers of hesitations, 

we will forge true connections. 

Uncomfortable for a while,

getting intimate with time,

as boundaries dissolves,

when hearts mesmerized.

P.S. 

Opia : intensity of looking someone directly in the eyes, which can feel simultaneously invasive and vulnerable. 

 

Lassi

Comes summer months,

we need this refreshing beverage,

made from curd and sugar,

quenching our parched throat,

while hydrating body.

Lassi...

Having ancient roots,

mentioned in Ayurvedic texts,

as yogurt based drink "dadhi",

for cooling & digestive properties.

From north to the south,

regional varieties, global recipes, 

it resides in most Indian hearts, 

whenever we have cravings.

Tradional ones were frothy,

being churned in wooden madhani, 

while thinned with added water,

flavored with spices, sugar or salts.

While people know Punjabi Lassi,

Malai Lassi from west and north,

everyone enjoys Mango Lassi,

few are aware of regional varieties. 

So, let me share favourites, 

originated from my location,

Lassi having secret ingredient, 

making is special for us residents.

The base being thick & sweet curd,

with generous pouring of Rabidi,

then garnished with toppings,

of cashew, cherry, grated coconuts.

Lassi...

Let's celebrate this healthy drink,

while exploring regional influences, 

tasting originality and innovations,

and finding relief, these summer months. 

Who are you?

When wise one asked,

for deeper conversations, 

we were left perplexed, 

by awaited confessions.

Who are you?

I am a professional, no...

I am certain upbringings, no...

I am unique personality, no...

I am hobbies, my interests, no...

I am my desires, dreams, no...

I am a material body, no...

I am spiritual entity, no...

I am universal consciousness, no...

I am divinity, experiencing life, no...

Who are you?

Am I fixed sets of data, no...

Am I continuity of narratives, no...

Am I an observer, of dimensions, no...

Am I frequencies, finding cohesion, no...

Am I space, for quantum expansions, no...

Am I a product, of evolutions, civilizations, innovations, projections, no...

Who are you?

Something that truly defines,

not just a conceptual cage,

but provides honest description, 

that is not bound by narratives, 

being provided with alternatives, 

but a complete explanation.

Who are you?

An ever elusive source,

or an ephemeral pattern?

Lüften

It smells musty, 

the air goes stale,

when windows not opened,

and room remain sealed.

Lüften...

A ritualistic German practice,

of airing out their houses,

for, being well-insulated,

they retain moisture inside.

With high CO2 concentrations,

we are exposed to VOCs indoors,

while our activities and routines,

build up humidity and moisture.

All these gases and odors,

with breeding ground of molds,

create dangerous conditions, 

for our health to suffer.

So, we need to open doors,

unlatch windows for ventilation, 

welcoming the flowing breeze,

ensuring adequate air circulation.

There's might be some concerns, 

of letting dust, or pollutants enter, 

while harsh climate or weathers, 

making it harder to practice.

Lüften...

In the era of sealed architectures,

we can utilize it as our solutions, 

Like Stoßlüften, shock ventilation, 

Or Querlüften, as cross ventilation. 

PS. 

Lüften : German practice of airing out a house.

Stoßlüften : Open window completely for 5-10 minutes. Allow quick air exchange without chilling the window.

Querlüften : Open all window and doors to create a draft. Replaces indoor air in few minutes.

CO2 : Carbon Dioxide. 

VOCs : Volatile organic compounds emitted from paint, carpet, furniture and cleaning supplies.

Fibers

There's so much about nutrients, 

we have gain insights these days,

but sometimes we overlook things,

which are as important to the body.

Fibers...

They are the regulators,

play supportive role in digestion,

as soluble or insoluble ingredients, 

needed by metabolic systems.

Soluble fibers,

it's like a sponge that works,

by slow absorption of sugars,

and binding to cholesterol.

They help carry nutrients,

while prevent spikes of insulin,

being vital to energy stability, 

by dissolving in water in our guts.

Insoluble fibers,

they remain relatively intact,

acting as broom, influencing movements, 

adding bulk to our stools,

speed up passage of waste & foods.

As primary food source of gut microbiomes, 

they play significant role in healthy systems,

soluble fibers get fermented to SCFAs, (Short chain fatty acids)

strengthening gut linings, improve immune functions.

Still, we are creating imbalance,

by limiting our diet to narrow spectrums, 

too many fibers causing bloating & cramps,

whole too less, damages gut microbiomes. 

So, incorporate fibers in our regimens,

protect cardiovascular & gastric symptoms,

with fruits, vegetations, legumes, berries,

while being accompanied by water intake.

Tacenda

What everyone knows,

but no one acknowledges,

occupied our hearts,

still difficult to express.

Tacenda...

How could I convey,

weight of my silence,

of pushing boundaries,

by losing patience. 

A rebellious soul,

that values consensus, 

fighting for my wishes,

without fueling disagreements. 

Then again, not many understand, 

want to dwell in deeper conversations, 

finding no gain, in welcoming views,

that were contrary, tragic or profound. 

May be, there's no other way,

it's better to maintain balance, 

voices can cause disruptions, 

being considered hurtful or improper. 

Tacenda...

The weight of the unsaid,

that remain buried in psyche,

I wonder, what holds in future, 

if I laid bare, every aspect?

Gadha, you donkey...

Gadha, you donkey...

Stubborn and lazy,

keep wasting energy, 

in useless things,

never been meant,

to assist your journey.

You don't listen,

being so slow, immovable, 

as people take over,

name, fame, responsibilities, 

while your family cries,

for some sensitivities 

Gadha, you donkey...

Becoming reliable laborer,

to some companies, 

surrendering your dreams,

hopes of dear ones,

as a proof of your loyalty. 

Your endurance is praiseworthy,

but you are prone to be exploited, 

by pushing people's burdens,

till you have exhausted capacities,

making your personal life suffer,

and destroy, treasured relationships.

Gadha, you donkey...

Living in extremes,

being hardworking or lazy,

but in truth you are occupied, 

striving for peace and security,

making you model person,

that keeps this society running.

Name it to tame it

"Name it to tame it"

How difficult it is,

to convey it properly, 

the emotional turmoils,

lost in obscurity,

making us react,

to explode or escape, 

before attaining clarity. 

Affect labeling, 

as termed by scientists, 

wise ones also advice,

to observe mental activities, 

channeling our thoughts,

into something good,

reflecting on internal battles.

When one carefully observe,

take time to articulate feelings, 

and vocalize them in words,

which explains with detailing,

it opens communication lines,

when heart & mind aligns,

through shared vocabularies. 

For, people are not telepathic, 

and we are prone to take sides,

by making unnecessary scenarios, 

when not provided with evidences, 

so, we need to learn restrains, 

with specific inputs for experiences,

express it with precise wordings.

Dispirited

Nothing do do,

nor do I want to,

life feels gray,

hardly moves,

I am dispirited...

I see the blaze,

which once burned,

till this life,

take rough turns,

consuming my energy.

Might be insignificant, 

unworthy of attention, 

still participate strongly, 

in paralyzing thoughts,

halting my progress.

Outside, the world turns,

and time marches on,

unmindful of my state,

making terms & conditions, 

for ones who followed.

The stasis is gnawing, 

but extremes can be harrowing, 

realities requires making concessions, 

where obligations replaced, 

space for dreams & passions.

May be, it's natural, 

or part of something existential, 

but right now, just my heart,

feeling low, losing hope,

being dispirited...

Having complexes

What name, should I give,

this deep-seated feeling of inadequacy, 

doubting potentials, my abilities, 

putting a ceiling on dreams seen.

Having complexes...

There are traumas, pressure from society, 

also weaknesses, changing my tendencies,

with negative self-talks, constant criticisms, 

eroding confidence, shaking beliefs.

It's not always about incompetency, 

there are influences in my upbringings, 

creating distance from normal conduct, 

by passing judgments, or comparing.

I am aware of these aberrations,

seeing reality in distorted perceptions, 

still feel helpless in changing directions, 

being prone to emotional amplification.

Having complexes...

I don't deny the hurt,

but want to overcome narrations, 

accept shortcomings & setbacks,

as means for the growth...

Of my personality. 

No matter how much time it takes!

Diplomatic communications

The more we refine,

decorate words to avoid conflicts, 

We erode the very foundations, 

Of mutual understandings.

Diplomatic communications...

At first glance, they win hearts,

tactfully advancing their interests, 

navigating through sensitive sides,

without instigating, exposing problems. 

Yet, such cushioning of messages hinders,

when our clarity is exchanged for comforts,

hiding truth in layers of strategic ambiguity,

providing options of plausible deniability.

For, safe terms won't usher the change,

while words, keep losing its meanings,

trapped in mazes, covered in linguistic fog,

we no longer feel, weight of the facts.

There are confusions, struggling for conclusions, 

without honesty, encouraging projections, 

of our fears, biases, personal opinions,

influencing tides of important decisions. 

Diplomatic communications...

As our society proceeds in these directions, 

I am apprehensive, of intellectual stagnation,

lowering frictions, but building resentments, 

of polite distancing, without productive disagreements...

Wasting precious time, stalling our progress!

Water become melodious

Water become melodious, 

whenever it hits the rocks,

changing tunes & rhythm,

with every rise and fall,

in the flowing currents,

in cascades and rivulets,

finding beautiful notes,

in its journey. 

And we listen,

seeing the continuous stream,

gently passing through obstacles, 

as it creates own paths,

over the fallen debris, 

sand, pebbles, sediments,

each acting as membranes, 

that tunes or pitch adjustments,

being euphonic. 

Water becomes melodious, 

accepting every adversity, 

adaptable to changing surfaces,

still retain control over properties, 

bending ways, but not breaking, 

while treating us audiences, 

with pleasant, ethereal atmosphere.

What you want to see?

So, tell me,

what you want to see?

A curated version, 

or unfiltered me...

You may say,

liking honest ways,

still hope in private,

something refined taste,

which might be absent,

currently.

People prefer masks,

to hide unpleasant sides,

while displaying grandeur,

to gain admiration,

of fellow beings.

Yet, there are ones,

who remain unconcerned,

of people judgments, 

to maintain balance,

between expectations, 

and realities. 

So, tell me,

what you want to see?

Things that dazzles,

waiting to be fizzled,

or become assured, 

of the authenticity.

Bela Pana

It's that time of year,

we celebrate with fervor, 

drinking refreshing beverage, 

as we change Odia calendar. (Panjika)

Bela Pana...

A juice made from bael, (wood apple)

from favorite tree of lord Shiva,

adding various condiments,

to enhance its deliciousness.

I love to eat ripe fruit,

cracking them wide open, 

scooping surfaces with spoon,

and having it directly. 

Then, we extract the pulp,

and put it in a large bowl,

mash to separate seeds & fibers,

strain the rest using filters.

We can dilute the creamy mixture, 

have it directly, or being sweetened, 

adding ingredients of our choice,

like banana, chhena, honey or jaggery.

Bela Pana...

It's a rejuvenating summer drink,

a part of tradition, deeply linked,

filling heart with joy & nostalgia,

whenever I take part in this ritual.

Happy Maha Bisubha Sankranti and Odia New year!

** Also known as Pana Sankranti.

Unburdened

Wise one speaks,

to remain detached, and resist,

emotions that trigger reactions, 

as response to inflammatory situations. 

Yet, we can't practice indifference, 

when our interests are at stake,

enduring extreme provocation,

how could we remain unconcerned?

Unburdened...

I want to be free,

from anxieties & apprehensions,

which might take darker turns,

by increasing frustrations.

When event building distress,

it might have lasting impressions, 

in personal habits, our relations, 

weakening mind, body conditions. 

Survival requires necessities,

how could one pursue equanimity, 

if circumstances become unfavorable, 

causing frictions between ideals & realities. 

So, I prefer selective engagement, 

trying to overcome such predicament,

navigating obstacles in life's journey,

without losing patience & calm...

Being truly unburdened!

Moral consensus

Little by little, 

we are being fiddled,

robbed of peace of mind,

when trust were kept aside,

in everyday interactions. 

Moral consensus...

A shared understanding, 

between individuals & societies, 

providing a foundation for rules,

to be followed without disruptions, 

establishing standards to be followed.

For, social order is maintained,

when there are fewer disagreements, 

everyone is aware of their role,

avoiding pitfalls, accepting mistakes, 

striving for constant improvement.

Yet, with changing lifestyles, 

people are getting disenchanted, 

conformity seen as form of subjugation, 

being hurdle to individual autonomy, 

developing resistance, risking defiance. 

Moral consensus...

Once we lose the capacities, 

to have faith, trust in the systems, 

there will be institutional decay,

showing signs of abnormalities, 

in the very function of our societies. 

Humble beings

Humble beings,

they don't swing,

have seen the best,

still well meaning, 

giving respect,

regardless of class. 

One say it's luck,

never seen the worst,

having residual goodness,

to spare for others, 

which might change,

enduring harsh realities. 

While some have suspicions, 

of having sinister motives,

or putting up a strong front,

to hide their vulnerabilities, 

taking advantages of naive,

by gaining their trusts. 

Yet, truth can be more profound,

when facing life changing events,

wisdom from exposures & experiences, 

developing values & understandings,

which is translated in their conduct,

and manifested as character. 

Then again, 

there's many facets,

not everything is straight, 

so, we accept them together, 

inculcating virtues, from examples, 

to become, humble being.

Love will fail

Love will fail, 

feelings go stale,

when there's no devotion, 

an eagerness to serve. 

There's heartbreaks waiting,

if the trust keeps shaking, 

stemmed from fear or doubts,

and expectations not meeting. 

When foundations are weak,

built on hypes, lies or deceit,

it waits for the uncovering, 

as true character is revealed. 

Then, there are honest souls,

driven by pride, different goals,

fermenting frictions in routines,

eroding the closeness once been. 

The surroundings also plays role,

when friends or families control,

bringing external influences inside,

impacting harmony of inner world. 

Love will fail,

connections began to pale,

when we don't have clarity,

of how we want to avail... 

Our promised relationships. 

It gladden my heart

It gladden my heart,

meeting him after long time,

still the body frozen stiff,

unsure of how to act,

being enfolded in his arms. 

I was never the one to show,

articulate emotions in gestures,

overwhelmed by shown affections,

being guilty of lacking devotion, 

or it's just lack of connections. 

Life works mysterious ways,

some are more open to display,

individuals have unique experiences, 

influenced by their surroundings, 

shaping their characters. 

Does that means I am less,

not reciprocating, feeling distressed,

altering focus, into something formal,

directing attentions, to matter at hand,

to avoid facing unease inside. 

It gladden my heart,

reuniting with my old friend, 

catching up, reminiscing memories, 

there are such missed opportunities, 

so, I am feeling a little saddened. 

Curiosity is the spark

Curiosity is the spark,

illuminating mind, in the dark,

when ignorance clouded vision,

from making informed decisions, 

in our journey of life. 

Curiosity is the spark,

which always leaves its mark,

both in successes, & failures, 

every experience, are the lessons, 

letting us learn from their examples. 

Curiosity is the spark, 

inherent human desire to ask,

stimulations, of why's and what's,

opening the gates of knowledge, 

finding answers, to our problems. 

Curiosity is the spark,

opening the uncharted paths,

of discoveries, newer innovations, 

influencing, course of civilizations, 

leaving lasting impacts. 

Curiosity is the spark,

needs continued effort,& directions, 

for creating something special, 

after years of dedication, 

towards our cause.

Your every actions are manipulations

Your every action are manipulations,

how could you expect my cooperation,

when lies become the foundations, 

there's no trust, in the relations. 

You don't want genuine connections, 

but make others follow the directions, 

to satisfy your criteria of perfections, 

while others chase, your reflections. 

When mind is filled with expectations, 

how could heart, assume the positions,

of welcoming feelings, tender emotions,

kindling the love, deepening affections. 

For, you do prioritize, self interests, 

over forming bond, of mutual benefits, 

something in life are more sacred,

than demeaning them into transactions. 

Your every action are manipulations, 

trying to dominate, our conversations, 

stemmed out of your fears or suspicions, 

influenced by narratives, in modern discussions. 

Still I ask, do you really care...

It's time, for your confession!

Nothing more than this

There's development, yet with peace, 

crowd that rushes, but walk with ease,

finding moments to pause, feel the breeze,

and heart desires, nothing more than this. 

City life changes, with population density,

leaving behind villages, deserted streets,

while the towns, are mostly shifting, 

and that's what progression means. 

The arrival of modern technologies, 

boosted the pace, of upgrading facilities, 

some for necessities, others for pride,

drifting away, from the traditional lives. 

When surroundings, losing their charm,

while resources, were exploited or harmed,

everything cherished, being snatched away,

from our memories, where nostalgia remains. 

So, I would pray, hope God listens,

wishing in whispers, leave things as it is,

finding right balance, generations pleased,

and heart desires, nothing more than this...

Universe 25

Experiment conducted in the 70s,

threw deeper understanding & insights,

on effects of high population density,

through changing behaviors of mice.

For, a controlled, utopian environment, 

without predators, and ample resources, 

worked adversely on their growth,

subsequently leading to social collapse. 

Universe 25... 

It had everything, the species desired,

unlimited food, and comfortable climate,

for healthy mice to thrive & propagate, 

in various phases, of the experiments. 

It began with adaptations, (Strive phase),

then exponential growth of population (Exploit phase),

and arrived, equilibrium and decline phase,

from slowing down to complete breakdown. 

Behavioral sink... 

Where their social structure collapsed,

while pathological behaviors risen,

violence & aggression, in the males,

and females, neglecting their nests,

some withdrew, living like the hermits,

others groom, unconcerned of roles given,

as mice lose interest in mating & reproduction, 

colony become extinct, with abundant resources! 

The study was unsettling, 

and experts drew parallels,

is it confined to certain species, 

or humanity too are susceptible. 

When bestowed with abundance,

we lose purpose, lacking social role,

while high density social interactions,

create stress, with pathological behaviors. 

For, the lack of personal space,

along with unwanted attentions,

lead to violence, or withdrawals,

weakening bonds, instincts to care.

So, in age of internet & rapid urbanization, 

do we get overwhelmed, with mental isolation, 

in a life without dangers, challenges or purpose,

our society will crumble, even with abundance?

Perceptions of realities

Those who feel as victims,

Will always remain victims, 

No matter what they gained.

Those who are empowered, 

Find ways to overcome challenges, 

Regardless of their circumstances.

For, it's about our perceptions of realities. 

You've got me mesmerized

You've got me mesmerized, 

with that figure, and you smile,

each motion is so arousing, 

you have it all weaponized,

and I, would love to be victimized. 

So, bestow me with your grace,

as I listen, to those sweet voices, 

which whispers, words of praise, 

when I explore, in our embrace,

brushing hidden tender spots. 

Let me touch porcelain surface,

stroking the silken ebony strands,

with streams of pecks and kisses, 

planting throughout your body,

probing deeper into the openings. 

You will speak of my name,

moan & groan, again and again,

body twisting with pleasures,

and your hands, pulling me closer,

for intensifying the game. 

You've got me mesmerized, 

it's my turn to make you hypnotized, 

with each thrust and movements,

dance of desires, for your amusement, 

bonding with body and heart!

To keep the show going

To keep the show going,

without making it boring,

we need to present things new,

or innovate ways to introduce, 

same old stories... 

The world is vast and growing,

still, we are confined in knowing,

pursuing the similar trajectories, 

making conclusions or summaries, 

filtered with our perceptions. 

To keep the show going,

and let the revenue flowing,

many industries have improvised,

preventing goals from getting compromised,

sustain the interests of consumers. 

For, the crowds are tough, unrelenting,

every action is scrutinized, determining, 

quality & quantity, being fully extracted,

being emptied, abandoned or criticized,

until forgotten or faded from prominence. 

To keep the show going,

we lose sight of goals envisioned, 

being pulled into unfair competitions, 

where popularity triumphs contents, 

faced with changing perceptions. 

Rage bait

It's interesting to learn,

a new term added in Oxford,

as the word of year 2025,

signifying deeper concerns, 

of today's generations. 

Rage bait... 

They have become shallow,

to be scheming evil plots,

of promoting hatred or anger,

to generate views or reactions,

among vulnerable masses,

following contents or threads. 

In the quest for individual successes, 

they chose topics of maximum engagement, 

sometimes too sensitive, closer to hearts,

they pour fuel, to incite the fire,

but use claims, that were misleading,

languages that could be inflammatory,

causing arguments, receiving criticisms,

damaging discussions, but traffic is increasing. 

Rage baits... 

When one uses their influence, 

be deliberately offensive, not to persuade, 

and create situations, which were destructive, 

to the peace, without getting blamed! 

P.S -

Rage bait : Online content deliberately designed to elicit anger or outrage by being frustrating, provocative, or offensive, typically posted in order to increase traffic to or engagement with a particular web page or social media account.