Tag: Colleagues & Batchmates

Colleagues typically refer to coworkers in a professional setting, while batchmates are peers from the same academic program or graduation year.

A Musical Evening in Baghdad: A Symphony of Spirit & Sound

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Cultural Currents21 Comments

A spontaneous invitation from my colleague Jaffar led to a profound experience at the Iraqi National Symphony Orchestra concert. Set in Baghdad, the evening revealed the city’s rich cultural resilience amidst adversity. As we savored dinner and anticipated the concert, the orchestra's history of tenacity echoed through its performance. Young musicians, especially female instrumentalists, captivated the audience, embodying hope. The night became a reflection on beauty’s persistence, symbolizing Baghdad's unyielding spirit and cultural strength, leaving a lasting impact on me.

A Birthday Wrapped in Payesh & Promise

On By Judhajit RoychoudhuryIn Cultural Currents17 Comments

As I turn 29 on October 15th, I reflect on a decade of achievements and moments. Becoming a doctor, embarking on a fulfilling career, and getting engaged have filled me with joy. My birthday, coinciding with Vijayadashami, was celebrated with family, friends, and colleagues, evoking nostalgia and cultural significance. Special meals, cherished traditions, and thoughtful gestures made this birthday truly unforgettable.

Shrine of Imam Hussein, Karbala

Karbala: A Journey Through Time, Faith, & Reflection

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Journeys & Mindscapes5 Comments

The author recalls their visit to Karbala, a sacred city for Shia Muslims, and Babylon, situated near Baghdad. Karbala, known for the Battle of Karbala, holds the shrines of Imam Hussain and his brother Abbas, and boasts a rich history dating back to the Babylonian age. The author describes the spiritual experience of visiting these shrines, the architecture, and the religious significance of the city, as well as the etymology and different names for Karbala. They end with a positive note reflecting on the historical and spiritual aspects of their trip.

Surviving the Road: A Memorable Trip to Deoghar

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Journeys & Mindscapes9 Comments

In the late 1990s to early 2000s, while working at a bank in Jharkhand, I faced risks of Maoist insurgency during travels. A memorable trip in January 2001 to Deoghar culminated in a highway robbery, where armed assailants, surprisingly polite, demanded valuables. Fortunately, police intervention ensured our safety. This experience highlighted the region's struggles and progress, leaving me grateful for our survival and the resilience of the human spirit.

Celebrating My 20th Birthday with Friends & Family

On By Judhajit RoychoudhuryIn Cultural Currents1 Comment

The author celebrates his 20th birthday with loved ones after returning home earlier than planned. His father, who he hasn't seen in two years, and school friends join the festivities. They enjoy a mix of familial and traditional Bengali dishes, reminisce on past times, and have a cake fight. In the evening, they continue celebrations at a local hotel. The author appreciates the efforts of his friends and family to make the day special, declaring it his best birthday ever.