The annual performance review is battle time, and this company is like many others, where diversity and inclusion initiatives are mere lip service. Shinjini, with a determined look, met the CEO's gaze as he stumbled over his words, clearly uncomfortable. “Your performance is undeniably exceptional, but we must strive for consistency across the board.” “Sure, … Continue reading Ironically…
A quote by Sir Winston Churchill sends me scurrying around for more information, “The gin and tonic has saved more Englishmen's lives and minds than all the doctors in the Empire.” It turns out tonic is quinine-flavoured soda, the bitterness is balanced by sugar, and it became a popular, delicious drink with a dash of … Continue reading Gin and Tonic
“Ramji refused to pay for his brother's funeral, and I had to step in,” reminisces the nonagenarian, which puts others in a tight spot. Ramji’s son is sitting at the bedside. “Of course, I remember you – you are from a different religion, often smoked in my bathroom and I’d chided Ravi on marrying you.” … Continue reading A point in life
I fiercely protect this invisible wall in my house. Walls are meant to divide and protect; this one unifies me with the purpose of my existence. Gilt-edged dreams hang on nails made of clouds and bits of sky. Frames shape-shift to accommodate my versatility. I protect it to keep judgmental minds, unsolicited advisors and critics … Continue reading The Secret Wall
Ink spills like thunderstorms on paper,A canvas for anger, a silent escape.Punching bag whispers secrets of rage,Music blares, drowning out the noise.Running shoes pound pavement's release,Frustration finds its outlets, seeking peace. Six Sentence Stories
“A formidable opposition leader is arrested, but some drastic action was expected anyway.” “What makes you say so?” “The majority party has been caught on the wrong foot with a Supreme Court judgment about a scam to extort donations from the vulnerable. They will not let all the election preparation, publicity campaigns, hero-worship, some genuine … Continue reading Blow by Blow
I suppress a yawn while listening to another story of millions and crores and how the speaker saw herself perched on a peak, looking down at the unfortunate have-nots. Having worked in a bank and managed books worth thousands of crores, money fails to fascinate me. There was always a fear of repercussions if I … Continue reading Paradox
Sania’s indignation is visible more in her red eyes and tight fists, rather than in her broken words, “I did not expect this from you.” “You expected me to keep giving without taking care of my own needs first,” Anju’s response is cold. “For years, I gave in to the wishes of the family, and … Continue reading Whose game is it?
“Was whatever Julia said so offensive that you cut off the relationship?” “Well, it’s never one thing, but a series of offending incidents where one leads to another, but then something happens to become the last straw on the seemingly friendly back, and the first nail in the coffin of an association.” “Do you feel … Continue reading The saga never ends
They debated for hours, shouting and pointing fingers, each claiming to have the best solution for the country's problems. Meanwhile, he watched from the shadows, smiling and plotting, waiting for his moment to strike. He unleashed storms of content on social media which diverted thought processes in the desired direction. Mind control was his ultimate … Continue reading Ultima
Creative Experiments and More 