“That’s the thing about books. They let you travel without moving your feet.”
Agatha Christie’s connection with Baghdad went far beyond archaeology and literature. Along the banks of the Tigris, the Queen of Crime found inspiration, companionship, and a lasting bond with Iraq. Today, looking across the same river from my office, I feel that connection come alive—a remarkable meeting of personal memory, literary history, and a city whose stories continue to unfold through time.
In the cradle of civilization, Mesopotamia not only gave the world writing and the wheel but also its first cookbook. Etched on clay tablets around 1700 BCE, these ancient recipes reveal a sophisticated palate — stews rich with lamb, onions, and spices — and remind us that humanity’s story has always been written in the language of food.
In a world inundated with information, the rise of "post-truth" reflects a troubling trend where emotions overshadow objective facts, shaping public opinion. This phenomenon, exacerbated by social media and political polarization, undermines trust in institutions and fuels misinformation, leading to a reality where emotional narratives often triumph over factual discourse.
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.
Saraswati (also Sarasvati) is the Hindu goddess of learning, wisdom, music, and aesthetics. She is also known as Bharati (eloquence), Shatarupa (existence), Vedamata (‘mother of the Vedas’), Brahmi, Sarada, Vagisvari, and Putkari. Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and arts, represents the free flow of wisdom and consciousness. Saraswati represents vak or the divine word, but the same inspiration she reflects extends to all Hindu goddesses as arising from chit-shakti, the power of consciousness.
Returning from Gangtok after exams, I joined my mom in Kolkata for her medical checkups and a visit to the Kolkata Book Fair. The fair, one of the world's largest, featured a wide range of books and publishers. We spent over four hours exploring pavilions and indulging in culinary delights. The vibrant event left me longing for more time to delve into the literary and artistic wonders.
