Baghdad is the capital city of Iraq, located in the central part of the country along the Tigris River. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and has a rich history dating back thousands of years.
MADO Cafe at Mansour Mall offers a delightful experience with its renowned Kunafeh and Turkish ice cream. Originating from Nablus, Kunafeh is a traditional pastry that combines crispy layers with sweet cheese and pistachio garnish. The warm pastry paired with ice cream creates a symphony of flavors, making it a must-try dessert.
My day at a lunch reception for M.J. Akbar, hosted by the Indian Ambassador in Baghdad, was transformative. Engaging with Akbar, a figure who shaped Indian journalism, highlighted the power of human connection over formality. The meal symbolized unity, emphasizing India's commitment to strengthening ties with Iraq amidst global diplomacy.
Being observed as India’s Independence Day, August 15 is celebrated across the nation with great patriotism and enthusiasm. The UK Parliament passed the Indian Independence Act in 1947 on July 4, 1947 and transferred legislative sovereignty to the Indian Constituent Assembly. This was the end of the British rule in India and on August 15, 1947, India got its independence but by establishing two Dominions, India and Pakistan. Indian national flag was hoisted in the morning on this occasion at the residence of the Indian ambassador in Baghdad.
High temperatures in Iraq are worsening due to growing desertification, prompting the government to declare a two-day official holiday. The World Meteorological Organization warns of record high global temperatures and rising levels of carbon dioxide. Iraqis demonstrate resilience to the heat, but urgent action on climate change is needed for the region and the planet.
Al-Mutanabbi Street in Baghdad, renowned as the "Book Market," embodies Iraq's literary spirit and history, dating back to the Abbasid era. It serves as a cultural hub for intellectuals and has shown resilience against adversity, including a tragic bombing in 2007. Similarly, Kolkata's College Street is a vibrant center for book lovers, fostering literary discussions and creativity across borders.
Yoga is an ancient Indian practice encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual elements. It originated around the 6th and 5th centuries BCE and has been embraced worldwide. The International Day of Yoga was established by the United Nations in 2014 at the urging of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The universal appeal of yoga was evident in a recent celebration in Baghdad, where Iraqi enthusiasts joined in the practice.
At 10:45 PM, I received a message from my colleague Teeba urging me to look at the moon. A stunning lunar halo encircled the full moon, mesmerizing us both as we explored its beauty. This phenomenon, caused by ice crystals refracting moonlight, connects scientific wonder with cultural significance. Coincidentally, it coincided with the winter solstice and a rare total lunar eclipse, reinforcing the night's magical ambiance.
On June 20th, 2010, a violent explosion shattered the normalcy in a Baghdad bank's basement office, triggering chaos and fear among employees. Amidst the devastation, security personnel became protective shields, sacrificing their lives for others. In the aftermath, the author reflects on the senselessness of violence and the deep scars left behind, while also witnessing resilience and unity among the people, emphasizing hope in rebuilding a fractured community.
