Atithi (Guest) by Rabindranath Tagore

Exploring the Depths of "Atithi": Key Themes in Tagore's Narrative

Rabindranath Tagore's "Atithi" (The Guest) is a poignant exploration of human connection, individual liberty, and the subtle interplay of emotions. The story, centered around the enigmatic character of Tarapada, weaves together several profound themes.

Freedom and the Call of the Open Road

The most striking theme in "Atithi" is freedom, personified by young Tarapada. He embodies an almost primal urge to wander, a spirit unbound by conventional societal expectations or familial ties. Despite the love and comfort offered by Matilal Babu's family, Tarapada consistently chooses to leave, driven by an insatiable desire for exploration and adventure. His casual remark, "I don’t eat every day," encapsulates his indifference to domesticity and societal norms, highlighting the stark contrast between his nomadic existence and the settled life of the family who briefly cares for him.

The Sting of Jealousy and Childhood Rivalry

The theme of jealousy emerges powerfully through Charushashi, Matilal's only child. Accustomed to being the sole recipient of her parents' affection, Charu feels deeply threatened by Tarapada's arrival and the attention he garners. Her insecurity escalates into open animosity, manifesting in sullen behavior at meals and a refusal to acknowledge Tarapada's talents. This portrayal offers a nuanced look at the complexities of childhood emotions and the challenges that arise when love and attention must be shared.

The Multifaceted Nature of Love and Affection

"Atithi" delves into the diverse forms of love and affection. Matilal and Annapurna's nurturing instinct towards Tarapada exemplifies a protective, parental love, quick to embrace and care for him. However, Tarapada's relationships are marked by a distinct lack of attachment. While he enjoys the affection of the villagers, he remains emotionally distant, never fully committing. This contrast prompts reflection on the essence of love—whether it stems from obligation or is a freely given connection, unburdened by expectation.

Innocence, Experience, and Inner Wisdom

Tarapada represents a unique blend of innocence and experience. Despite his travels and encounters with diverse people and situations, he retains a childlike purity and a sense of wonder. His adaptability and ease in various social settings speak to his experiences, yet his carefree spirit and detachment from material concerns underscore his unwavering innocence. The narrative subtly suggests that true wisdom might lie in maintaining this innate purity while navigating life's complexities.

Nature's Profound Influence

Nature plays a vital role in "Atithi," acting as both a vivid backdrop and a powerful catalyst for emotions. Descriptions of the monsoon river, lush landscapes, and vibrant village life create an atmosphere of beauty and tranquility. Tarapada's deep connection to the natural world is evident; it's a source of solace, inspiration, and fuels his passion for music and exploration. The interplay between the characters and their environment emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things and nature's profound impact on human feelings.

Fluidity of Cultural Identity

The story also subtly explores themes of cultural identity and tradition, particularly through Tarapada's Brahmin background. His immersion in various performance troupes and his rich knowledge of folk songs and stories highlight the diverse cultural tapestry of the region. Tarapada's ability to seamlessly move through different social strata and connect with individuals from various backgrounds challenges rigid notions of belonging, showcasing the fluidity of cultural identity.

Conclusion

Ultimately, "Atithi" is a compelling narrative that begins with Matilal Babu and his family's journey home by boat, where they encounter Tarapada. This encounter sets the stage for a rich exploration of freedom, affection, and the intricate web of human relationships, all culminating in Tarapada's ability to forge connections while remaining distinctly detached.

A Wake-up call (poem)

 A WAKE-UP CALL

 (By Amritbir Kaur)

Photo: Getty Images

A man near a tree; 

the tree - here today, gone tomorrow.

So gonna be man, 

here today

gone tomorrow.

And then the Earth...

Need I say more?

The announcement - 

of an arrival, 

the arrival of an end, 

is reiterating itself.

Who says, "I can't hear"?

May be even I say so.

Why? 

Nobody can tell.

This - yes, this 

is to be the last and final call.

The race has to continue and we 

have to wake up,

wake up to be in a cleaner world, 

wake up in a greener world, 

wake up one day

with no smoke filling our lungs 

wake up in a much better place 

to live and to breathe.

Houseplant Care Guide : Tips for healthy indoor plants

Watering wisdom

Watering is arguably the most crucial aspect of houseplant care. Overwatering and underwatering are common pitfalls, but mastering the art of hydration will keep your plants happy.

Light is a plant's food source.

Different plants have different light requirements, so it's important to know what your plant needs.

Beyond watering and lighting, a few simple maintenance tasks can significantly impact your houseplants' health.

 

The right potting mix provides essential nutrients, drainage, and aeration for your houseplants. Avoid using garden soil, as it can compact and harbor pests.

The Finger Test:

Before watering, stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water. If it feels moist, wait a few days.

Water Quality:

Use room-temperature water. Tap water is generally fine, but if yours is heavily chlorinated, let it sit out for 24 hours to allow the chlorine to dissipate. Alternatively, use filtered water.

Proper Drainage:

Ensure your pots have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. After watering, allow excess water to drain out of the pot.

Consider the Season:

Plants generally need less water in the winter months when they're not actively growing. Adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

 

Let There Be Light (But Not Too Much!)

Understanding Light Levels:

Bright, Direct Light:

Several hours of direct sunlight, typically from a south-facing window.

Bright, Indirect Light: Bright light but without direct sun exposure, like near an east- or west-facing window covered with a sheer curtain.

Low Light:

Tolerates shade or a north-facing window.

Observe Your Plants:

If your plant's leaves are pale or leggy (long stems with few leaves), it's likely not getting enough light. Scorched leaves indicate too much direct sunlight.

Rotate Your Plants:

Regularly rotate your plants to ensure even light exposure on all sides, preventing them from leaning towards the light source.

Supplement with Artificial Light:

If you don't have enough natural light, consider using a grow light. Fluorescent or LED grow lights are effective and energy-efficient.

 General Maintenance for Thriving Plants

Fertilizing: Feed your plants during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing in the winter when growth slows.

Repotting: As your plants grow, they may outgrow their pots. Repot them into slightly larger containers with fresh potting mix every 1-2 years. Spring is the best time for repotting.

Cleaning: Dust can accumulate on leaves, hindering photosynthesis. Gently wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth regularly.

Pruning: Trim away dead or yellowing leaves and stems to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's shape.

Pest Control: Inspect your plants regularly for pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

 

Choosing the Right Potting Mix

General-Purpose Mix:

A good starting point for many houseplants, typically a blend of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.

Cactus/Succulent Mix:

A well-draining mix formulated for cacti and succulents, often containing sand and gravel.

Orchid Mix:

A chunky, airy mix that provides excellent drainage for orchids, usually composed of bark, moss, and perlite.

 

Conclusion

With a little knowledge and attention, you can create a thriving indoor garden that brings beauty and tranquility to your home. Remember to observe your plants, adjust your care routine as needed, and enjoy the process of nurturing these living companions!

A Runway to the Path of Spirituality

 

A Runway to the Path of Spirituality … Let me lead you there!

~ Amritbir Kaur

When it comes to thinking about oneself and taking care of one’s own needs, it’s not at all difficult to be selfish, especially taking into consideration the prevailing materialistic world around us. But there’s a difference between thinking just about oneself and taking care of our self with the aim of understanding the self. And herein is where devoting some time to spirituality is equally important. 

Spirituality has a different meaning to different people, but from a positive psychology perspective it can be defined as, “a deep sense of belonging, of wholeness, of connectedness, and of openness to the infinite” as put by V. Easvaradoss and R. Rajan in their research article, ‘Positive psychology spirituality and well-being: An overview’ published in the  Journal of Positive Psychology in 2013. 

Joe Wilner has very aptly put forward five benefits of developing your spiritual nature. Before I take you through a journey, I would like to share them here with you. 

1. Hopefulness

If there is one thing that spirituality can add to our life it is a sense of hope and optimism. Spirituality strengthens our outlook for a better future, he says. “Spiritual growth enhances our ability to deal with life’s ups and downs and bounce back from those difficult experiences”.

2. Compassion and Understanding

It is easy to look at others with judgment and criticism, but when we start to grow spiritually we realize how much healthier it is to cultivate compassion and understanding for others instead. Deepak Chopra said, “Spirituality is meant to take us beyond our tribal identity into a domain of awareness that is more universal.” 

3. Sense of purpose and meaning

A feeling that our life is worthwhile and that we aren’t just here by some random mistake can make a major difference in the trajectory of our life. We are alive for a reason and are meant to contribute something to the world – one must always remember that. According to an editorial in the International Journal of Children’s Spirituality, “In a modern world that is consumed with materialism, which moves at a frantic pace, and which is frayed by cultural, racial and religious divisiveness, the yearning of the human spirit to connect and find meaning is sometimes overlooked.” Hence, without a sense of spirituality, we can lose sight of what is really most important and meaningful.

4. Inspiration and appreciation

Joe Wilner was of the view that life is full of inspiration when we are looking for it. There is also much to be grateful for despite the struggles and challenges we face. Through spiritual growth we can learn to see the beauty and wonder in our day to day life. The things we often take from granted can start to offer us greater inspiration and joy.

5. Peace of mind

Part of spirituality is connecting to a higher power. Whatever name or label we give to this spiritual source is irrelevant in my opinion. The important thing is the sense that there is something greater than ourselves, and that we don’t have to carry the entire burden alone. When we learn how to “let go” of the emotional baggage we carry it really adds to peace of mind.

Keeping in mind the various aspects, we all undertake this journey in our lifetime. It’s as Maslow rightly mentioned ‘Self-actualization’ that’s the topmost in the hierarchy. And that’s exactly why it is always lonely at the top because a large majority would not reach that level. This journey is a lonely one as William Shakespeare depicted in his masterpiece ‘King Lear’ in the character of Lear, when he undergoes the process of transformation of being a human from being a King. In general, the journey is a movement from the external to the internal. 

With a view to make this journey a bit easier for them, we gave the students a task of attempting to understand themselves a bit more than just superficially and come up with their experiences in the garb of words. Let’s be a part of their journey!

*Joe is a life-transition coach and a Licensed Master Level Psychologist (LMLP) in the state of Kansas. He is the creator and editor of the personal development blog Shake off the Grind which provides digital content, coaching, and products to help people with personal growth, emotional wellness, and spiritual development. He is also an advisory board member for the American Institute of Health Care Professionals (AIHCP) and is a certified meditation instructor.

Welcome to the Teen Years

Understanding the Shift

Remember those days of scraped knees, bedtime stories, and holding tiny hands? It might feel like just yesterday, but suddenly, you're navigating a new landscape. Your child is entering, or perhaps is already deep within, the teenage years. Doors might close more often (literally and figuratively), conversations can feel like navigating a minefield, and the sweet child you knew seems replaced by someone experiencing intense emotions and baffling logic. 

Maybe doors are slamming (literally and figuratively), talking feels like tiptoeing through a minefield, and the sweet kid you knew seems replaced by a whirlwind of intense feelings and, let's be honest, sometimes baffling decisions. Deep breaths. 

The Physical and Hormonal Rollercoaster

Puberty is the most obvious change, bringing growth spurts, voice changes, and the development of secondary sexual characteristics. But beneath the surface, a surge of hormones (like estrogen, testosterone, and others) is orchestrating these changes and significantly impacting mood and emotions. This hormonal flux is largely responsible for the heightened emotional sensitivity, irritability, and yes, those dramatic mood swings that can leave parents reeling. It’s not intentional manipulation; it’s complex biology at work.

The Wild Ride of Hormones and Growing Bodies

Okay, the physical stuff is obvious – growth spurts that happen overnight, voices cracking, and all the other puberty things. But under the hood, there's a total hormone party happening. Estrogen, testosterone, you name it, they're surging, and they're basically the conductors of this emotional orchestra. That heightened sensitivity, the irritability, those dramatic swings from joy to despair? Yep, a lot of that's down to these powerful chemicals doing their thing. It's not them trying to drive you crazy; it's just really complicated biology in action.

Inside Your Teen's Amazing (But Under Renovation) Brain

Here's where things get really interesting, and it's mostly invisible. Your teenager's brain is basically a major construction site right now. Think of it like a huge software upgrade, but not all parts are installing at the same speed.

Perhaps the most critical change, yet invisible to the eye, is the massive remodelling happening inside the teenage brain. Think of it as a major upgrade in progress, but with certain systems coming online faster than others.

Crucially, the limbic system, the brain's emotional and reward center, is highly active and sensitive during adolescence. This drives the intensity of feelings, the craving for novelty and excitement, and the heightened importance of social connections and peer approval.

Meanwhile, the prefrontal cortex (PFC) – the brain's CEO responsible for planning, impulse control, risk assessment, reasoning, and understanding long-term consequences – is still very much under construction. It doesn't fully mature until the mid-twenties!

This developmental gap explains so much typical teen behaviour:

• Impulsivity: Acting before thinking through the outcomes.
• Risk-Taking: The reward centre screams "Yes!" while the underdeveloped PFC struggles to hit the brakes.
• Emotional Outbursts: Difficulty regulating intense feelings generated by the active limbic system.
• Focus on Peers: Social rewards feel incredibly powerful. Friends are EVERYTHING: Because social rewards feel incredibly powerful to that active limbic system.
• Difficulty Seeing Long-Term Consequences: The immediate thrill or social acceptance outweighs potential future problems. The thrill now or being accepted now often feels way more important than potential problems later.

It's kind of like they're driving a sports car with a powerful engine (all those emotions and desires) but the brakes and steering (the PFC) are still being worked on. Oh, and another fun biological fact? Their internal body clock shifts. Melatonin, the sleep hormone, kicks in later, making it genuinely hard for them to fall asleep early and wake up early. So, sometimes what looks like laziness is actually just their biology clock being on a different schedule.

So, What can a Parent do?

Understanding all this brain and body stuff isn't about making excuses for difficult behavior, but it is about having crucial context. It means we often need to tweak our parenting game:

 * Breathe and Be Patient: A lot of the challenging stuff isn't defiance; it's just part of their brain's grand renovation project.

 * Try to See Their Side: Dig deep and remember what it felt like to be that age. Even if their reaction seems over-the-top to you, it feels totally real and massive to them. Try to acknowledge their feelings.

 * Lend Them Your Brain: Since their internal "boss" isn't fully online, you get to be their temporary external one. Gently guide them to pause, think about outcomes, explore different choices, and plan ahead. You're helping them build those skills.

 * Adjust the Scorecard: They aren't miniature adults. They're works in progress who desperately need your guidance, some clear boundaries (they secretly crave them!), and lots of understanding as they figure things out.

 * Keep the Door Open: Even when conversations are tough (or non-existent!), keep showing up and letting them know you're there to listen (we'll talk more about how to do that effectively next time!).

Think of the teen years as building the bridge from childhood to adulthood. It's messy, there might be detours, but it's also a time of incredible growth and potential. By understanding the amazing (and slightly chaotic) science behind it all, we can move from just trying to enforce rules to being truly informed, understanding guides who are cheering them on as they build the foundation for the amazing adults they're becoming.

The teenage years are a bridge between childhood and adulthood – a time of incredible growth, potential, and yes, challenge. By understanding the profound biological shifts occurring, we can approach this journey not just as rule-enforcers, but as informed, empathetic guides, supporting the amazing young adults they are becoming.