ThinkingLoud@NinglunHanghal

He definitely is not an ordinary man, not like ‘majority’ of us the common wo/men! He is the grandson of India’s most powerful Prime Minister, the first women who is also known as the only ‘man’ in the Cabinet!! He is also the son of one of the most popular Prime Minister. Both killed. And there, he has two important people whose unnatural dead he has lived with and grew up with. Besides he has a mother, a reluctant politician, who was called an “outsider” but single handedly saved the “sinking ship” congress in 2003. In my mind’s eye I can see the image of the hundreds of wrinkled face , looking up towards him ( and anyone of the Family members) in the midst of the dust that blows as the chopper touches down or as his Z cavalcades screeches a halt somewhere in rural India; people trying to touch and reach him/ her from the security barricades. He lives, eats, hears, sees politics or rather is fed with electoral politics; Like it or Not.   And therefore he cannot do ...

Switch on the television to watch the Republic Day Parade.     The day before is when the President of India address the nation. Not many in India actually listens to what the President says or what the Prime Minister say to the nation on this day.   The beautifully tailored speech on / about the might and achievements of the Indian Army or Indian security forces, scientific galore; the day is filled with bravery and gallantry award. Yes we have a line of State wise display.  Way back in the early 80s as a school student we used to excitedly participate in the Republic   Day parade. The only day when we were in the best uniform, neat and clean, polished shoes and ironed frock! It was more a competition for the best school!!  Another best part is the pocket money, about 50 paise, back then 1 rupee is huge sum for a school child.    All roads lead to “public ground” (a public place for public events) young and old came ...

The last minute shopping is what really makes Christmas so special. That something new you have to buy for Christmas!!.   A self indulgence perhaps, but no doubt a luxury with no guilt, after all its Christmas. You are no longer a child; but that ‘childish urged’ gets you on your toes. Or is this part of the Christmas tradition developed over the years?   Agree.  Decorations, Gifts and Now the ‘cakes’ have all become a must for Christmas celebrations. It is but a part of the traditions that now slowly seep into the ‘culture’ of practice. Christmas brings you memories of the ‘village’ mass in the night, followed by the next morning  Loud speaker (commonly called the Mike) making announcement for preparing the “feast” for the day. Then comes the Church Bell, and the Services “ for into us is born the Prince of Peace” . The Choir, the lengkhawm - Singing all through the night !  Behold, ! the Christmas carols,  that seems  a far away 'be...