With emphasis on China, and as recently as Canada and Maldives as templates, Ruchi Verma outlines how India’s deft diplomatic manoeuvres have been bringing it on global centre-stage and asserts it has substantial ramifications for domestic policies. The reference to border dispute with China, Canada’s posturing on Sikh separatism and strategically located Maldives’ criticism of PM Modi explains the algorithm. India has been actively redefining its foreign relations strategy, particularly in its engagements with China, Canada and the Maldives. These diplomatic manoeuvres are not only crucial for shaping India’s position on the global stage but also carry significant implications for…
Author: shubhangi
Kriti Kalra discusses the crucial Kashmir factor and its relevance for the BJP in the ensuing General Elections, in terms of both opportunities and challenges. Kashmir’s complex maze read with BJP’s efforts to transform the region’s political scenario, underscore its significance in Indian politics, she avers, pointing out that the party’s proactive approach and resolute leadership resonate with citizens, reinforcing the importance of national security in shaping electoral outcomes. Kashmir, nestled in the scenic Himalayan valley, has long been a focal point of contention and conflict in Indian politics. Over the years, the region has witnessed a tumultuous journey marked…
Ayodhya, the birthplace of Ram has now acquired national prominence given the history and sequence of events that preceded its construction. It has now become a must-visit destination for not just devout Hindus, but also tourists from all over the world, registering a heavy footfall daily. Manu Shrivastava traces Ayodhya’s architecture, culture and how it gained significance in the course of history. Apart from the being a centre of cultural and religious activities and structures, Ayodhya also has many spots for nature lovers that includes the quiet-flowing Saryu River. Ever since the Ram Temple was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra…
The Marine Sports, India’s oldest sports bookstore in Mumbai, established by Bruno Braganza in 1946, is a retail, and service provider of sports books, cricket books, etc. A real institution for cricket fans, it is currently located in Dadar, though started initially in Marine Drive, from where it derives its name. It is a hole-in-the-wall place with lots of old sports books from around the world, magazines, and other mementoes including bats, stumps, etc. It even publishes books. Theodore Braganza, the present owner CEO of the bookshop spoke with A.Radhakrishnan about the joys of being a bookstore owner. Tell me…
Observing that corruption has always been an integral part of electoral politics, Vedika Jain says that in the run up to the 2024 general elections, parties seem to be aware of the government’s efforts at combating it. The ruling party through a combination of policy initiatives, institutional reforms, and enforcement measures, has displayed its commitment to rooting out this malaise from the system and restoring public trust in governance. Corruption has been a very important issue in Indian politics, one that has even pulled down governments. During his speech on the occasion of the 76th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra…
The curious case of Bengaluru CEO Suchana Seth killing her kid son brings to spotlight what has been known as Munchausen’s Syndrome by Proxy (MSBP), but was it really so? Shoma A. Chatterji dissects this and other such cases that have hit headlines. Is motherhood overrated over the years? Or, is the case of Suchana Seth one of the rarest exceptions that has put a more or less black blot on the image of motherhood as we have been conditioned to learn, think, feel, emotionally, morally and even physically? Or, is she a chronic patient of Munchausen’s Syndrome by Proxy…
A much decorated war veteran Air Marshal Minoo Merwan Engineer, PVSM, MVC, DFC was a former pilot in the Indian Air Force (IAF). He is among the most decorated officers in the Indian Air Force, with the second-highest civil decoration – the Padma Bhushan, two gallantry awards – the Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) and the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC), and the highest peace-time distinguished service award – the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM). Engineer was born Aspy Merwan Irani on 1 December 1921 in Lahore, Punjab Province, British India to Meherwan Irani and Maneckbai. He was the sixth amongst eight…
Impartiality in white coat! Piloo Dara Reporter, nee PD, was a successful Indian international cricket umpire who officiated in 14 Test matches (1984 -1993) and 22 One Day Internationals (1984 -1994). He earned the respect of players everywhere for his impartial umpiring. Very vocal, he remained composed even when facing notable cricketers such as Malcolm Marshall, Viv Richards, and Imran Khan. Born in Bombay, he began working for MSEB. At first failing the exams after responding to an advertisement from the Bombay Cricket Association for umpires, he, eventually began officiating domestic local leagues and district matches, such as the Kanga League, in 1961, at the age of 22.…
A multi-faceted genius Cinematographer, painter, documentary film maker, still photographer, jazz enthusiast, raconteur, ace motorcyclist Navroze Contractor was born in 1944 at Wai in Maharashtra and completed his schooling and college education in Ahmedabad. A passion for fine arts saw him complete his Bachelor’s degree in Painting from the Faculty of Fine Arts, M S University in Baroda. He later shifted to Pune to enrol in Pune’s Film and Television Institute (FTII) where he earned a Diploma in cinematography and direction. He later honed his talent after a course in advanced cinematography with Lazio Kowacs in the US and also…