Category: Muse & Musings

Celebrate creativity, fleeting moments, and artistic expression. Anecdotes, fantasy, poetry, and reflections converge here, capturing life’s quiet, beautiful inspirations.

Where Opposites Meet: A Personal Reflection on Philosophical Contradictions

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Muse & Musings16 Comments

During a WhatsApp chat with former classmates, a philosophical discussion emerged about spirituality and religion. The talk emphasized that genuine faith goes beyond physical places of worship. Hinduism illustrates philosophical diversity by accepting contradictions in harmony. One classmate’s Marxist perspective conflicted with this idea, expressing unease with unresolved contradictions. The insight is that truth often involves accepting contradictions, suggesting that philosophical and spiritual explorations do not have to adhere to strict ideologies but should instead recognize and investigate life's complexities.

15 Years of Indrosphere: A Journey from Darkness to Light

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Muse & Musings25 Comments

To mark the 15th anniversary of Indrosphere, I pause to reflect on its powerful and deeply personal origins—born in the aftermath of surviving a twin bomb blast in Baghdad. That harrowing day, cloaked in dust and disarray, ignited an enduring need to document, to make sense, and to remember. What began as a solitary act of catharsis has, over time, blossomed into a vibrant mosaic of memories, reflections, and shared experiences—tracing the contours of life, joy, sorrow, culture, food, and heritage. With 680 posts, over 6,000 comments, and hundreds of thousands of readers, Indrosphere stands today not just as a blog, but as a living, breathing archive of a journey—one shaped just as much by its readers as by its authors. This milestone is a heartfelt tribute to you, the readers—acknowledging your presence not merely as observers, but as co-travelers and co-authors in this evolving narrative.

Where the Red Earth Teaches: The Quiet Revolution of Malati Murmu

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Muse & Musings9 Comments

In the village of Jilingseling, West Bengal, Malati Murmu, a determined woman, has established a school in her humble mud house amidst significant challenges. Despite lacking institutional support and resources, she educates tribal children in their native Santali language, fostering cultural identity and empowerment. Her grassroots efforts have garnered recognition from scholars, highlighting her role in transforming rural education. Malati represents the essence of inclusive learning, advocating for every child's right to education. Let us not forget her. Let us not fail her.

The Coffee Conquest: How Nestlé Brewed a Cultural Revolution in Japan

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Muse & MusingsLeave a comment

During the 1970s in Japan, tea was the leading beverage, while coffee struggled to gain acceptance, despite Nestlé's strong marketing efforts. To address this challenge, Nestlé brought on psychoanalyst Clotaire Rapaille, who proposed focusing on children to create a positive link to coffee. The company introduced coffee-flavoured snacks, gradually introducing a generation to the drink. By the 1980s, this approach turned coffee into a cultural mainstay and contributed to Nestlé's success in Japan.

When the Ant Stopped Singing: A Corporate Parable for Our Times

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Muse & Musings8 Comments

In a company run by a lion, a hardworking ant thrived until a cockroach was appointed as its supervisor, bringing in unnecessary bureaucracy. Although there were initial gains, the ant soon felt overwhelmed and became less productive. Eventually, an owl consultant suggested downsizing, resulting in the ant's termination. This story illustrates how excessive management, and red tape can hinder productivity and negatively impact even the most capable employees.

Recreating Tragedy: The Ethics of AI in Storytelling

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Muse & Musings6 Comments

In the digital age, ethical dilemmas arise regarding AI's role in recreating historical tragedies, such as the AI171 crash. While some see it as innovative, others view it as disrespectful to victims. Unlike thoughtful films, AI recreations lack emotional depth and often prioritize commercial gain. The use of AI in storytelling necessitates a careful balance between honoring memories and avoiding exploitation for sensationalism, emphasizing empathy and purpose.

Lessons from My Father: A Tribute This Father’s Day

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Muse & Musings14 Comments

Every Father’s Day, I reflect on my father, Babuji, who passed away forty-two years ago. His presence shaped my childhood through quiet love and profound lessons shared over newspapers and books. He taught me to think, question, and understand the world, leaving a legacy of discernment and empathy. Though physically absent, his philosophy guides me daily. This Father’s Day, I honour his memory with gratitude for his belief in me and the timeless lessons he imparted.

Fire in the Sky: The Tragedy of Air India Flight AI171

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Muse & Musings8 Comments

On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight AI171 tragically crashed into a hostel in Ahmedabad shortly after takeoff, resulting in the loss of 241 lives, with only one survivor. The investigation by India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is exploring multiple hypotheses, including dual engine failure, maintenance issues, and fuel quality. The need for thorough examination and transparency is crucial to uncover the truth behind this aviation disaster, while respecting the memories of the victims.

Rita: The Cosmic Symphony of Order in Ancient India

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Muse & Musings7 Comments

The concept of Rita (ऋत) in Vedic thought represents a cosmic law that embodies order, balance, and righteousness, influencing both spiritual and social practices. It illustrates a harmonious universe governed by predictable rhythms, where human actions are interconnected with cosmic order. Rita emphasizes virtues like truthfulness, non-violence, and personal duty (Dharma), guiding ethical living. Its principles endure in modern philosophies, urging a responsible and mindful approach to contemporary challenges and fostering a sense of universal harmony.

Mischief, Chai, & Foreign Exchange: My Training Days in Dehradun

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Muse & Musings8 Comments

The heartfelt WhatsApp conversation among former Management Trainees at Punjab National Bank reflects on their impactful training period in 1985-86, especially at the vibrant Paltan Bazar branch in Dehradun. I am recalling my experiences of friendship with Mukesh, the differences in our personalities, and the adventures we had at their simple lodge, Sukhsadan. Our enjoyable antics, tea breaks, and unexpected duties emphasize the fun and meaningful moments that influenced our early careers, resulting in treasured memories that last.