I regularly publish articles steeped in Sanskrit, crafted either entirely in this ancient language or intertwined with English. Feel free to explore the categories below and delve into the ones that capture your interest. :)

  • 40F to 40C – Braving the Indian Summer!

    40F to 40C – Braving the Indian Summer!

    (English Translation at the end) प्रतिदिनलेखनसूचनमद्यत्वे न चित्ताकर्षि। अतः मद्भारतप्रयाणविषये लिखेयमिति निर्णयः। भारते साम्प्रतं निदाघकालः। भारतनिदाघो विश्रुतः परमननुभवेन तस्य प्रभावो न ज्ञायते। भारते मम निदाघकालवासो दशभ्यो वर्षेभ्यः पूर्वमासीदतो मम नवानुभवो नासीत् तापस्य। स्थानीयानामपि दुस्सहः तापोयं नाहं स्थानीया’धुना तर्हि कथं भवेन्मम तापधारणशक्तिरिति चिन्तोत्पन्ना। कथञ्चिद् धैर्यमवाप्य विमानचीटिका भारतगमनाय क्रीता यदनन्तरं पुनः चिन्ताबाधिताभूवम्। प्रतिदिनमुष्णपरिमाणं किमिति जालपुटे वीक्ष्य आत्मानं… Continue reading

  • Self-Styled!

    Self-Styled!

    What are your favorite brands and why? Well, I’d love to mention Dior, Prada, Gucci, Armani, Rolex, and other luxury brands. However, the truth is that I firmly believe it’s how you carry yourself that truly matters. You are your own brand, and having confidence in that makes all other labels seem insignificant. Continue reading

  • Self-Reliant sagas

    List the people you admire and look to for advice… The people I admire are the characters from the epics I read. 😊 I generally don’t seek advice from others because I believe that unless someone has walked in my shoes, they can’t truly understand my situation. I trust my instincts, and following them has… Continue reading

  • Wise Ballots!

    Do you vote in political elections? Of course! It is the right of every citizen to choose an able leader to govern the country. If the ruler is corrupt or ineffective, it is the people who suffer. In the Puranas, there is a story about King Vena, a descendant of Dhruva. Vena’s tyrannical rule led… Continue reading

  • Divine Contentment!

    Divine Contentment!

    What gives you direction in life? A belief that God will never let me down sustains me. Whatever happens, or fails to happen, is ultimately for my good. Being grateful and thankful for what we have paves the way for a successful and happy life. Health is the greatest wealth, and we must take excellent… Continue reading

  • Timeless Wisdom!

    Timeless Wisdom!

    Do you have a quote you live your life by or think of often? There are countless gems of wisdom to be found in the rich literatures of Sanskrit and Tamil. Here are a few quotes that resonate like mantras and offer profound insights: There is a wealth of such wisdom waiting to be discovered… Continue reading

  • Family Reverie!

    Family Reverie!

    What is your favorite holiday? Why is it your favorite? My favorite holiday is any time spent with Family. Since i stay away from my family for the most part of the year, I cherish any opportunity that i get to spend with them and consider it heaven. I am reminded of a famous Kural… Continue reading

  • Urban Dabbler!

    Urban Dabbler!

    Have you ever been camping? I am a city dweller, accustomed to the comforts and luxuries of urban life. Despite my initial reservations, I ventured into camping for a day while my husband was completing his diving certification. It was a positive experience, and I’m glad to have tried it, though I’m uncertain if I… Continue reading

  • उत्तरभारतयात्रा।

    उत्तरभारतयात्रा।

    नमस्सर्वेभ्यः। अत्र संस्कृतेन प्रतिसप्ताहं लेखनीयमिति धिया “blog” प्रारब्धं परन्तु मध्ये आङ्गलमोहात् तया भाषया लेखितुं प्रारभे। प्रतिदिनमनया भाषया लिख्यते परमधुना संस्कृते किमपि लेखनीयमित्ययं लेखः। साम्प्रतं भारते’स्मि। उत्तरभारते तीर्थयात्रार्थमगमम्। आचार्यानुग्रहेण नैमिषारण्यं साकेतं च गत्वा गोमतीसरव्योः स्नानं कृत्वा भगवद्दर्शनेन मुदितास्मि। भागवतानां सङ्घे आसम्। नन्वयं पूर्वपुण्यसुकृत्। मया पूर्वमेव ज्ञातं यदाचार्याः भगवद्दर्शनार्थमुत्तरभारतं यान्तीत्यतः कथन्चिदस्मिन् समय एव मयापि गम्यमिति चिन्तनम्।सर्वं सुष्ठु… Continue reading

  • Productive Musings!

    Productive Musings!

    When do you feel most productive? I usually feel productive in the mornings around 9 or in the afternoons around 3. Evenings can be good too. When I’m happy, I find that I can be productive all day. However, there are days when I don’t get much done, but that really depends on what we… Continue reading

  • Joyful expressions

    Joyful expressions

    What are your favorite emojis? Among the emojis I frequently use, 😀, 😉, 🫣, 🤷🏻‍♀️, 🤦🏻‍♀️, 😂, 🥵, and 😭 are my go-tos. However, my absolute favorite is the cheerful 😀, as it radiates positivity! A smiling face indeed brings a universal touch of joy and optimism! 😊 Continue reading

  • Measured Words!

    Measured Words!

    What topics do you like to discuss? I wish I could talk about everything under the sun, but honestly, some topics, like certain sports, just don’t interest me. I’m passionate about discussing ancient Sanskrit and Tamil poetry, literature, epic stories, fiction, artificial intelligence, cooking, baking, travel, fashion, and languages. So, if you’re looking for conversation… Continue reading

  • Smart Detour

    Smart Detour

    When is the last time you took a risk? How did it work out? Last week, I made a smart move. I had a trip planned with Emirates, but the news wasn’t good—trouble on the ground. To dodge any mess with my bags and not miss my deadlines, I booked a quick detour through Europe… Continue reading

  • Hindsight!

    Hindsight!

    Write about a time when you didn’t take action but wish you had. What would you do differently? This is a tough one. The reason i say is that there were many instances, trivial though it might be where i wish i had taken action but didnt so i am unable to point out a… Continue reading

  • Nervous Strength!

    Nervous Strength!

    What makes you nervous? Worrying about failing or seeming weak makes me feel nervous. But really, who gets to decide what failure or weakness is? We all have things we’re not great at, and life gets a lot nicer when we’re okay with that. Thanks to yoga and meditation, I’m starting to look at life differently.… Continue reading

  • Respite!

    Respite!

    How do you unwind after a demanding day? Depending on the whims of my mood and the vigor of my energy, I indulge in a variety of leisurely pursuits. I may recline on my couch, enveloped in the melodies of my cherished songs, embracing idleness; or I might immerse myself in the pages of my… Continue reading

  • Joyful Solitude

    Joyful Solitude

    How do you use social media? I don’t, do I? My presence on social media is limited to Twitter, and even there, my engagement is sporadic. Blogging is a pursuit of mine, primarily to hone my writing abilities; beyond that, my time spent in the blogosphere is minimal. So, perhaps I’m a tad socially unaware… Continue reading

  • Jetlag!

    Jot down the first thing that comes to your mind. Jetlag, the uninvited travel companion! 😄 I’m currently in Frankfurt, and despite sleeping throughout the entire journey here, I’m still enveloped in a blanket of sleepiness. And wow, I didn’t anticipate Frankfurt to be this chilly in April! Continue reading

  • Destined Paths!

    Destined Paths!

    Well, it may sound like a cliché, but what I learned is that no matter what I do, what is destined will happen. I strived relentlessly for what was once my dream job, yet despite multiple attempts and internal recommendations, it remained elusive. However, I unexpectedly secured a job I never applied for with minimal… Continue reading

  • Civic Beauty!

    Civic Beauty!

    What place in the world do you never want to visit? Why? Every locale possesses its own distinct charm and beauty. Even when I found myself in the rural quarters of the town, where amenities were but mere basics, there was an undeniable allure. However, should a place be devoid of fundamental law and order, that, indeed, is a destination… Continue reading

  • Nalapaaka :)

    Nalapaaka :)

    What is your favorite restaurant? Ah! The joy of dining out doesn’t quite captivate me. My culinary prowess has flourished, and now, home-cooked meals reign supreme. Hence, my kitchen has become my sanctuary of flavors—my favorite restaurant! You see, when King Nala was bitten by a serpent, his appearance was transformed, and he took to… Continue reading

  • Desire, Wisdom and Fulfillment!

    Desire, Wisdom and Fulfillment!

    On this Tamil New Year’s Day, let us reflect on a profound verse and acquire wisdom! Continue reading

  • Flourish!

    Flourish!

    Where do you see yourself in 10 years? In ten years, I envision myself as a person who embodies success—not just in terms of wealth, but as a holistic concept that includes happiness, good health, fulfilling relationships with friends and family, and a wealth of experiences from traveling the globe. I aspire to grasp the… Continue reading

  • Cherished Routines!

    Cherished Routines!

    What are 5 everyday things that bring you happiness? Engaging in daily conversations with my parents, preparing meals for my husband (and watching him devour them), taking leisurely walks, delving into my favorite books, and savoring the melodies of classical music! Continue reading

  • Ambitious Learning!

    Ambitious Learning!

    You mean beyond calculus, geometry, organic chemistry, and the theory of relativity? 😮 Well, aside from those, the answer would be ‘Nothing much.’ My high school years were dedicated to excelling academically – let me correct that; it was about achieving perfect scores in maths, physics, chemistry, and computer science. It was a lofty ambition,… Continue reading

  • Authentic Optimism!

    Authentic Optimism!

    Keeping this short – Cease fretting over others’ perceptions and pursue your passions. Altering your true self to win approval is a futile endeavor. Embrace positivity and optimism; therein lies the key to unlocking the secret. Continue reading

  • Rhythmic Unwind!

    Rhythmic Unwind!

    What’s the most fun way to exercise? Walking, undoubtedly is the finest form of exercise. I let the music play and my thoughts unfurl. In addition, dancing is an enjoyable workout, akin to a light Zumba class, where you can lose yourself in the rhythm. Above all, it’s an unparalleled way to unwind and relieve… Continue reading

  • Epics!

    Epics!

    My literary tastes have evolved remarkably over the years. As a child, I was captivated by the mysteries of Nancy Drew, which then transitioned to the intriguing worlds of Agatha Christie, Sidney Sheldon, and John Grisham. However, as I delved into the rich tapestries of Sanskrit and Tamil literatures, my affections shifted towards the poems,… Continue reading

  • Empowered Characters!

    Empowered Characters!

    Oh, there are so many characters that I adore, especially with the vast expanse of literature at our disposal. My focus is mainly on female characters, as there were numerous courageous women in ancient times who serve as an inspiration for this generation. Currently immersed in ‘Subhadra Parinaya’, from the epic Mahabharata, I find myself… Continue reading

  • Equestrian Dreams!

    Equestrian Dreams!

    This question might not quite hit the mark with me. Pets and I don’t mix well; I’ve never had any, unless you consider cows as pets! So, allow me to share my experiences with rearing cows and discuss which animal I’d truly like to have as a pet, though it might be strange to others.… Continue reading

  • स्त्रीणां चित्तम् – Mystic Minds of Women!

    स्त्रीणां चित्तम् – Mystic Minds of Women!

    Note: English translation provided for those not fluent in Sanskrit! मम संस्कृताध्ययने भोजप्रबन्धस्थं किञ्चित् सुभाषितमदर्शि यन्मह्यं रोचते। भोजराजचिन्तनमिति मन्ये। कालिदासस्य किञ्चित् पद्यं निशम्य भोजराजस्य पत्नी अविह्वला मन्दहासं धरति यद् वीक्ष्य भोजराज आश्चर्यचकितः। तदा स एवं चिन्तयते। अश्वप्लुतं वासवगर्जितं च स्त्रीणां च चित्तं पुरुषस्य भाग्यम्।अवर्षणं चाप्यतिवर्षणं च देवो न जानाति कुतो मनुष्यः।। पदविभागः – अश्वप्लुतम्, वासवगर्जितम्, च,… Continue reading

  • Teaching!

    Teaching!

    Beyond dispensing free advice (imagine me chuckling here), I dedicate myself to teaching Sanskrit at no cost. The joy derived from guiding eager learners to grasp ancient verses is beyond words. I am committed to continuing this noble endeavor as much as possible. Other than that, my time is invaluable, so I don’t spend it… Continue reading

  • Top Picks!

    Top Picks!

    Well, my top picks are marathons, swimming, and figure skating! I’m drawn to these sports because, although I’d love to excel in them, I simply can’t. The idea of training for a marathon has been on my mind for a while, yet it remains just an idea. I can manage some swimming in a pool… Continue reading

  • Morning Rituals!

    Morning Rituals!

    I’m naturally nocturnal, yet I’m striving to embrace the early bird lifestyle. As a result, my mornings begin later, with brushing my teeth and taking a bath as my initial rituals. In fact, I don’t even consider breakfast until after I’ve bathed. On weekdays, my routine involves logging into work accompanied by my morning cup… Continue reading

  • Emotional Mastery!

    Emotional Mastery!

    The ability to stay calm and make well-considered decisions truly distinguishes a person. We humans are often swayed by our emotions, particularly in matters involving loved ones, leading us to forsake logic and make ill-advised choices. There’s a profound Sanskrit adage that reflects this wisdom: तितिक्षाकवचेनैव सर्वं जयति संवृतः (titikṣākavacenaiva sarvaṃ jayati saṃvṛtaḥ) – ‘Adorned… Continue reading

  • Olive and June – Polish Review!

    Olive and June – Polish Review!

    The review looks at Olive and June nail polishes, emphasizing ease of use and long-lasting color, despite slow shipping. Continue reading

  • Stellar Legacy :)

    Stellar Legacy :)

    Reflecting on the question of what I’d like named after me, my thoughts gravitate towards a star, much like Dhruva. For those unfamiliar, Dhruva’s tale is a poignant narrative from Puranic lore. A young prince, overlooked by his father in favor of another son from a second wife, Dhruva seeks the solace and love he… Continue reading

  • Eccentric Joys!

    Eccentric Joys!

    Some days, nothing. Other days, everything. Yes, I embrace my eccentricity. 🙂 I cherish the poor jokes in my native language, Tamil. However, one should never behave in a manner that turns them into the laughingstock of all. 😛 Indeed, this Kural by Thiruvalluvar resonates with me: நகல்வல்லர் அல்லார்க்கு மாயிரு ஞாலம் பகலும்பாற் பட்டன்று இருள் (naghalvallar… Continue reading

  • Youthful Dreams!

    Youthful Dreams!

    Does anyone truly recall their thoughts from when they were five? Frankly, as a child, my ambitions shifted daily, from dreaming of becoming a dancer, singer, surgeon, lawyer, to a teacher. So, it’s hard to say, but my youthful aspirations certainly didn’t predict my current profession. 🙂 However, I can confidently say I wasn’t quite… Continue reading

  • Unique Essence!

    Unique Essence!

    Wow, this question is akin to opening Pandora’s box. What irks me the most is when people fail to recognize that everyone is uniquely different. If you desire acceptance for your quirks, you must extend the same courtesy to others. Yet, this reciprocity often goes unfulfilled, rendering such expectations unrealistic and frustrating. There’s an aspect… Continue reading

  • Gracious Boundaries! – DailyPrompt1888

    Gracious Boundaries! – DailyPrompt1888

    Ideally, I would prefer to say no to many things, but I often find myself hesitating, leading to situations where I felt pressured to comply. When I was younger, I worried that refusing would make me seem unkind, fearing judgment from others. With age, I’ve grown to value my own opinion over that of the… Continue reading

  • Foresight!

    Foresight!

    There are numerous skills I yearn to master, yet I firmly believe there’s nothing that can’t be attained through diligent practice and learning. However, the one ability I truly wish I possessed is the foresight to predict the future or manifest outcomes, much like the ancient sages of lore. For instance, King Dilipa, faced with… Continue reading

  • Sanskrit Idioms – Abhijñānaśākuntalam

    Sanskrit Idioms – Abhijñānaśākuntalam

    The content discusses Kalidasa’s play Abhijñānaśākuntalam, praising its profound love story and notable idioms highlighted in the fourth chapter. Continue reading

  • Seasonal Symphony!

    Seasonal Symphony!

    Coming from a tropical country where the temperature ranges from hot to hottest, I find spring and fall to be my favorite seasons. The balance of being neither too hot nor too cold, combined with just the right amount of rainfall, creates the perfect weather for me. Within the rich tapestry of Sanskrit literature lies… Continue reading

  • Parental Influence!

    Parental Influence!

    Interestingly, my most significant influences have often been books rather than individuals. My teachers frequently found themselves at their wits’ end with me. However, to directly address the question, my parents have been the cornerstone of who I’ve become. It’s common for children to mirror the influences of their parents, and I’m certainly no exception.… Continue reading

  • Literary Bliss!

    Literary Bliss!

    I dream of exploring a vast array of topics through reading each day and aspire to master more languages. While some may deem this mundane, for someone like me, whose closest companions are books, it represents a true slice of paradise. My desire is not just to amass knowledge; I also treasure the joy of… Continue reading

  • Ink Preferences!

    Ink Preferences!

    It might be an unpopular opinion, but I’m not particularly fond of tattoos, so my response would be a polite “No, thank you.” However, I’d delight in adorning my hands with henna designs. I’ve observed that several village folks in Tamil Nadu boast tattoos on their hands, known in Tamil as “pachaikuthal,” akin to what… Continue reading

  • Reticent!

    Reticent!

    What is one word that describes you? I tend not to talk about myself much, so if I were to choose a single word to describe me, ‘reticent’ would be fitting. I’m comfortable engaging in conversations on a wide range of topics, yet when it comes to my personal life, I require some time before… Continue reading

  • Cherished Praise!

    Cherished Praise!

    The most cherished compliment I ever received came from my 3-year-old niece, who declared her love for my stories. Last winter holidays, I had the joy of spending time with her, crafting tales that whisked her away to an imaginary world. She was so captivated by these stories that she wouldn’t leave my lap for… Continue reading

  • Travel Whimsy!

    Travel Whimsy!

    The ideal mode of transportation—be it an airplane, train, bus, or car—often hinges on accessibility and comfort. I decidedly say no to bicycles due to the effort required, though I wouldn’t mind riding pillion on a motorbike. Imagine, if we were characters in Sanskrit/Tamil literature novels, I’d revel in traveling by chariot like a queen,… Continue reading

  • Raaja by Raga

    Raaja by Raga

    What was the last live performance you saw? I love Carnatic fusion, so when the “Raaja by Raga” event was announced, featuring classically tuned versions of Maestro Ilayaraja’s songs performed by the singer duo Ranjani-Gayathri, I eagerly dragged some of my friends to the music show. I believe this was the last live performance I… Continue reading