“Terror is the desire to save your own ass, but horror is rooted in sympathy.”
The recent horrific attack in Pehalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, claimed at least 28 innocent lives, including foreigners, highlighting the tragedy of faith-based terrorism. Eyewitness accounts describe targeted killings based on religious identity. This incident underlines a need for urgent reforms in India’s counter-terrorism strategies and global cooperation against terror, emphasizing resilience, unity, and a commitment to peace in response to ongoing violence and psychological warfare.
Faith provides comfort and purpose but can become a destructive force when distorted by hatred, as seen in the tragic killings of Hindus in Bangladesh. Such violence threatens communal harmony and humanity. Governments and the international community must act decisively to protect minorities, promote inclusivity, and foster a culture of peace.
On August 19, 2003, a bomb attack at the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq, killed 22 aid workers, including the UN's Special Representative for Iraq, leading to the establishment of World Humanitarian Day. This day honors the sacrifices made by humanitarian workers and raises awareness about critical issues faced by them, such as the impact of the climate crisis. It serves as a call to action to protect vulnerable populations and support those who respond to crises.
The COVID-19 pandemic, originating in Wuhan, China, could serve as a roadmap for future bioterrorism. The disease's impact was faster and more widespread than events like 9/11. The source of infections, historically believed to spread through air or personal contact, has been exploited for warfare and assassinations. The 14th century's "Black Death" and the 1934 Amarendra Pandey murder case serve as early instances of bio-weapons deployment. The negligible cost and potential for vast harm elevates the potential threat of biological weapons in the modern context.
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.
In May 1986, during my Management Trainee training with a bank, I visited Chandigarh with friends Gautam and Satyajit. Arriving late at a deserted bus station amidst political turmoil, we felt the city's tension. After a nerve-wracking search, we inadvertently found our way to the training centre, only to be mistaken for threats. The next day, we explored the beauty of Chandigarh, including the Rock Garden, creating memories of friendship and adventure amidst the chaos.
Umm Ali is more than just a recipe; it’s a legacy. It’s a dish that tells a story—one of ambition, power, and the complex dynamics of women in leadership. From its violent origins to its place at the table today, Umm Ali is a testament to the power of food to preserve history, culture, and the human experience. And as you savor each bite, you’re not just indulging in a dessert—you’re partaking in a centuries-old tradition, woven with stories of love, betrayal, and strength.
Jallianwala Bagh, a garden in Amritsar, Punjab, symbolizes an incident in India's colonial past when British troops, led by General Dyer, fired upon a peaceful protest in 1919, killing hundreds. The garden, featuring bullet-ridden walls and a well into which people jumped for escape, is a memorial for the victims. The incident catalyzed India's struggle for independence and serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for justice and equality.
Friday the 13th is a day filled with superstition and fear, known as paraskevidekatriaphobia. This fear might be rooted in religious history and Norse mythology. Interestingly, not all cultures fear this day; Italy fears Friday the 17th, while some Spanish-speaking countries and Greeks fear Tuesday the 13th. Fun fact: every month that starts with a Sunday has a Friday the 13th. Regardless of beliefs, it serves as a sneaky reminder that the weekend is near.
Mother's Day is a global celebration honouring the role of mothers, often involving gifts and flowers. In Nigeria, the abduction of schoolgirls by Boko Haram has sparked global outrage. The #BringBackOurGirls campaign unites people in demanding the girls' rescue, highlighting the importance of education and the right of all children, especially girls, to be safe.
