Recently, I ate dinner at Dasaprakash with family in Gurgaon, a well-known South Indian restaurant which also is located on MI Road Jaipur. Known for its authentic flavors and traditional dishes, Dasaprakash has always been a reliable choice for a satisfying meal. This time, I decided to order the Mahalakshmi Bhojanam Thali, a comprehensive platter that offers a variety of South Indian delicacies in one serving. The thali is an excellent way to experience multiple flavors and textures, and it never disappoints. Among the many dishes served, one stood out distinctly—the Koottu, a South Indian mix dal preparation that was exceptionally flavorful.

The Mahalakshmi Bhojanam Thali is a feast in itself, featuring a wide array of dishes that cater to different tastes and preferences. The thali included buttermilk, sambhar, rasam, koottu, kurma, poriyal, raita, biryani, rice, lemon rice, appalam, pickle, rava kesari, poori, and dosa. Each dish had its unique flavor profile, but the Koottu was the highlight of the meal. Koottu, a traditional South Indian dish made with a mix of lentils and vegetables, is often underrated but can be a star when prepared well. The version served at Dasaprakash was creamy, well-spiced, and had a comforting texture that made it stand out. It was neither too heavy nor too light, striking the perfect balance that complemented the other dishes in the thali.

What made the Koottu particularly enjoyable was its simplicity and depth of flavor. The lentils were cooked to perfection, and the vegetables added a subtle sweetness that paired well with the mild spices. The dish was neither overly spicy nor bland, making it accessible to a wide range of palates. It was evident that the chefs at Dasaprakash paid attention to the details, ensuring that each component of the thali was well-prepared. The Koottu, in particular, felt like a dish that had been made with care and tradition, reminding me of homemade meals that prioritize taste and nourishment over extravagance.

Overall, the dining experience at Dasaprakash was delightful, and the Mahalakshmi Bhojanam Thali lived up to its reputation. While every dish in the thali was enjoyable, the Koottu left a lasting impression. It was a reminder of how simple, well-made dishes can often be the most memorable. If you’re someone who appreciates South Indian cuisine or is looking to explore it, I highly recommend trying the thali at Dasaprakash. And when you do, make sure to savor the Koottu—it’s a dish that deserves attention and appreciation.

Waking up early has always been a challenge, but the struggle feels more pronounced now than ever before. For the past few days, I’ve been attempting to reset my alarm to 5:30 AM to accommodate my swimming routine. What seemed like a manageable goal during the warmer months has turned into a formidable hurdle after the winter break. The cold mornings, coupled with the comfort of a warm bed, have made the transition back to an early wake-up time far more difficult than I anticipated. The shift from waking up at 7:00 AM to 5:30 AM feels like a monumental leap, and the adjustment period is proving to be longer than I had hoped.

The winter break played a significant role in disrupting my early morning routine. During those colder months, I allowed myself the luxury of sleeping in until 7:00 AM, a decision that felt justified given the harsh weather and shorter days. However, as the seasons changed and the days grew longer, I realized that my body had grown accustomed to the later wake-up time. The habit of rising early, which I had worked hard to build, had slowly eroded. Now, as I attempt to reclaim that discipline, I find myself grappling with the inertia of comfort. The alarm rings, and the battle begins—a tug-of-war between the part of me that wants to jump into the pool and the part that craves just a few more minutes of sleep.

Despite the difficulty, I remain hopeful. I know that the transition back to a 5:30 AM wake-up call is not impossible; it’s simply a matter of persistence and consistency. I’ve been through this before, and I understand that the body eventually adapts to new routines. The key lies in sticking to the plan, even on days when the temptation to hit the snooze button feels overwhelming. I remind myself of the benefits—the quiet solitude of early mornings, the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing a swim before most people have even started their day, and the overall boost to my physical and mental well-being. These rewards, though intangible, are powerful motivators that keep me pushing forward.

I’ve come to accept that progress is rarely linear. There will be days when I succeed and days when I falter, and that’s okay. The important thing is to keep trying, to keep showing up, even when the effort feels disproportionate to the results. I’m confident that, with time, the struggle will ease, and waking up at 5:30 AM will once again feel like second nature. Until then, I’ll take it one day at a time, knowing that every small step brings me closer to my goal.

Life often feels like a continuous stream of tasks, responsibilities, and deadlines. Days blend into weeks, weeks into months, and before you know it, years have passed. In this relentless pace, it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture—your long-term goals, personal growth, and the direction your life is heading. This is why taking a timeout to reflect is not just beneficial but necessary. It allows you to pause, assess, and realign your actions with your aspirations. As the saying goes, “Days are long, but the years are short.” This simple yet profound observation underscores the importance of stepping back to evaluate where you are versus where you want to be.

Reflection is not about dwelling on the past or overanalyzing every decision. It’s about creating a mental space to understand your progress, identify areas for improvement, and celebrate small wins. When you’re caught up in the daily grind, it’s easy to overlook the incremental steps you’ve taken toward your goals. Taking a timeout helps you recognize these steps and reinforces your motivation. It also provides an opportunity to course-correct if you’ve strayed from your intended path. For instance, you might realize that certain habits or routines are no longer serving you or that your priorities have shifted. Reflection gives you the clarity to make intentional changes rather than continuing on autopilot.

One of the challenges of modern life is the constant noise—both external and internal. From social media notifications to the pressure to always be productive, it’s difficult to find moments of quiet. However, it’s in these moments of stillness that you can truly connect with yourself. Reflection doesn’t require elaborate rituals or hours of solitude. It can be as simple as spending 15 minutes at the end of the day to journal your thoughts or taking a walk without distractions. The key is to create a habit of checking in with yourself regularly. Over time, this practice can help you develop a deeper understanding of your values, strengths, and areas where you need to grow.

Ultimately, taking a timeout to reflect is an act of self-care and self-awareness. It’s a reminder that life is not just about achieving goals but also about enjoying the journey. By pausing to assess your progress, you can ensure that your actions are aligned with your long-term vision. This doesn’t mean you’ll always have all the answers or that every reflection will lead to a breakthrough. But it does mean that you’re actively engaging with your life rather than letting it pass you by. So, the next time you feel overwhelmed or disconnected, take a step back. Reflect on where you are, where you want to go, and what steps you need to take to get there. The years may be short, but with intentional reflection, you can make them meaningful.

The human obsession with purpose is a curious phenomenon. We spend our lives chasing goals, crafting narratives, and constructing meaning, as if the universe owes us an explanation for our existence. From the moment we learn to speak, we are asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”—a question that assumes life is a linear path toward some grand destination. But what if this relentless pursuit of purpose is just a distraction from the inherent absurdity of existence? What if, instead of searching for meaning, we embraced the idea that life might not have one at all? On one hand, purpose gives us direction. It motivates us to get out of bed, to strive for success, and to contribute to society. Without it, life might feel aimless, like a ship adrift in an endless ocean. Yet, on the other hand, this obsession can feel like a self-imposed burden. We tie our self-worth to achievements, milestones, and societal expectations, often forgetting that these constructs are human-made. The universe, indifferent to our struggles, continues to expand, stars burn out, and galaxies collide—all without a care for our existential musings.

From a philosophical standpoint, the debate between purpose and absurdity is not new. Albert Camus, in his essay The Myth of Sisyphus, argues that life is inherently meaningless, and our search for purpose is a futile attempt to impose order on chaos. Sisyphus, condemned to roll a boulder up a hill only for it to roll back down, embodies the absurdity of human existence. Yet, Camus suggests that Sisyphus can find happiness in his task, not because it has meaning, but because he chooses to embrace the struggle. This idea challenges the notion that purpose is necessary for fulfillment. Instead, it proposes that we can find joy in the act of living itself, regardless of whether it leads to some grand conclusion. But let’s be honest—most of us aren’t Sisyphus. We’re not content with rolling boulders. We want to know why we’re rolling them. And therein lies the tension: the human need for purpose versus the universe’s indifference.

On the flip side, dismissing purpose entirely can feel nihilistic and, frankly, a bit depressing. Purpose, even if self-constructed, gives us a sense of agency. It allows us to create meaning in a world that might otherwise feel chaotic. For example, a doctor might find purpose in saving lives, an artist in creating beauty, and a teacher in shaping minds. These roles provide structure and fulfillment, even if they are ultimately small in the grand scheme of the cosmos. Moreover, purpose can be a survival mechanism. It helps us cope with suffering, loss, and the inevitability of death. Without it, we might succumb to despair. But here’s the catch: when purpose becomes an obsession, it can blind us to the present moment. We become so focused on the destination that we forget to enjoy the journey. We measure our lives by external achievements rather than internal contentment, and in doing so, we risk missing the point entirely.

So, where does this leave us? Perhaps the answer lies in balance. We can acknowledge the absurdity of existence without abandoning the pursuit of purpose. We can strive for goals while remaining open to the idea that life’s meaning might be found in the small, mundane moments—the warmth of the sun on our skin, the laughter of a friend, or the taste of a good meal. After all, if the universe is indifferent, then we are free to create our own meaning. And if that meaning is nothing more than enjoying the ride, then so be it. In the end, the joke might be on us: we spend our lives searching for purpose, only to realize that the search itself is the purpose. And if that’s not absurd, I don’t know what is.

Eric Stonestreet’s portrayal of Cameron Tucker in the sitcom Modern Family is a testament to his versatility and depth as an actor. Over the course of the show’s 11-season run, Stonestreet brought a unique blend of humor, vulnerability, and authenticity to the character, making Cameron one of the most memorable figures in modern television. Cameron, a flamboyant and emotionally expressive character, could have easily been reduced to a caricature in less capable hands. However, Stonestreet’s nuanced performance ensured that Cameron was not only funny but also deeply relatable. His ability to balance the character’s larger-than-life personality with moments of genuine emotional depth allowed audiences to connect with Cameron on a human level, making him a standout in an ensemble cast filled with strong performances.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Stonestreet’s acting is his ability to infuse Cameron with a sense of realism despite the character’s often over-the-top demeanor. Cameron’s theatricality and love for the dramatic could have overshadowed his more grounded qualities, but Stonestreet consistently found ways to highlight the character’s sincerity and warmth. Whether he was playing the role of a devoted father, a loving partner to Mitchell, or a man navigating the complexities of his identity, Stonestreet brought a level of authenticity that made Cameron feel like a real person. This balance between comedy and emotional truth is what set Stonestreet apart and earned him critical acclaim, including two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.

Stonestreet’s chemistry with his co-stars, particularly Jesse Tyler Ferguson, who played Mitchell, was another key factor in the success of his performance. The relationship between Cameron and Mitchell was central to the show’s narrative, and Stonestreet’s ability to convey both the joys and challenges of their partnership added depth to the series. Their dynamic was not only humorous but also reflective of the realities faced by many couples, making their storylines resonate with a wide audience. Stonestreet’s commitment to portraying Cameron as a multifaceted individual, rather than a one-dimensional comedic figure, helped elevate Modern Family beyond a typical sitcom and contributed to its lasting impact.

His performance in Modern Family not only entertained millions but also challenged stereotypes and expanded the representation of LGBTQ+ characters on television. Stonestreet’s dedication to the role and his ability to evolve alongside the character over more than a decade is a testament to his skill and commitment as an actor. While he has taken on other roles since the show ended, his work as Cameron Tucker remains a highlight of his career and a significant contribution to the landscape of modern television.

Houses with high ceilings have long been a hallmark of architectural elegance and grandeur. These spaces, often characterized by ceilings that are double the standard height, create an immediate sense of openness and luxury. Tall doors and windows further enhance this effect, drawing the eye upward and making the interior feel expansive. The vertical space not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also serves practical purposes, such as improving air circulation and allowing for more natural light. High ceilings are often associated with historical and classical architecture, but they have found their place in modern designs as well, offering a timeless quality that transcends trends.

One of the most striking features of high-ceilinged homes is the use of tall windows. These windows not only complement the verticality of the space but also flood the interior with natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. The interplay of light and shadow in such spaces can transform the mood of a room, making it feel dynamic and alive throughout the day. Additionally, tall windows provide unobstructed views of the outdoors, seamlessly blending the interior with the exterior. This connection to nature can have a calming effect, making the home feel more serene and inviting. The combination of high ceilings and tall windows is a design choice that prioritizes both beauty and functionality.

From an architectural perspective, high ceilings offer a canvas for creativity. They allow for the incorporation of intricate moldings, exposed beams, or statement light fixtures that become focal points in the room. The extra vertical space also provides opportunities for unique design elements, such as mezzanines or loft areas, which can add both visual interest and practicality. However, it’s worth noting that high ceilings require thoughtful planning to ensure the space remains cohesive. Without proper design, the room can feel cold or impersonal. Balancing the grandeur of high ceilings with warm materials, textures, and furniture is key to creating a space that feels both impressive and livable.

While high ceilings are undeniably appealing, they come with their own set of challenges. Heating and cooling such spaces can be less energy-efficient, as the volume of air to regulate is significantly larger. Acoustic considerations are also important, as high ceilings can lead to echoes or sound distortion. Despite these challenges, the benefits often outweigh the drawbacks for those who value the sense of space and light that high ceilings provide. Whether in a historic mansion or a contemporary home, high ceilings continue to be a sought-after feature, offering a blend of architectural beauty and practical advantages that make them a timeless choice.

Entertainment, in its many forms, has a profound influence on our decisions, often in ways we don’t immediately recognize. Whether it’s through movies, television shows, sports, or music, the media we consume shapes our perceptions of places and cultures. For instance, fans of English football often dream of visiting the UK, not just to watch a match but to immerse themselves in the culture that surrounds the sport. Similarly, anime enthusiasts frequently list Japan as a top destination, driven by a desire to experience the settings and traditions they’ve seen on screen. These choices are rarely random; they are deeply rooted in the subconscious connections we form with the stories and experiences we engage with. Over time, these connections can evolve into a genuine interest in a country’s culture, language, and way of life, influencing not only where we travel but also where we might consider living.

The impact of entertainment on travel and migration decisions is not limited to sports or anime. Hollywood films, for example, have long served as a window into American culture, often portraying the United States as a land of opportunity and adventure. This portrayal has inspired countless individuals to visit or relocate to the country, seeking the lifestyle they’ve seen depicted in movies and TV shows. Similarly, the global popularity of K-pop and Korean dramas has led to a surge in tourism to South Korea, with fans eager to explore the locations featured in their favorite shows and music videos. These examples highlight how entertainment acts as a bridge between cultures, fostering curiosity and a sense of connection that transcends geographical boundaries.

Beyond tourism, entertainment also plays a significant role in shaping career and lifestyle choices. Many people choose to study or work abroad in countries they’ve grown to admire through media. For instance, a fan of British literature might pursue a degree in the UK, while someone inspired by the tech-driven narratives of Silicon Valley might aim to build a career in the United States. These decisions are often driven by a desire to align one’s life with the values and opportunities they associate with a particular place. In this way, entertainment not only influences where we go but also how we envision our future. It serves as a catalyst for personal and professional growth, encouraging individuals to step out of their comfort zones and explore new horizons.

While the influence of entertainment on travel and living choices is undeniable, it’s important to approach these decisions with a balanced perspective. Media portrayals often highlight the most appealing aspects of a place, sometimes glossing over the challenges and complexities of daily life. For example, someone drawn to Japan because of its anime culture might find the reality of living there quite different from what they imagined. Similarly, the romanticized depiction of certain cities in movies can lead to unrealistic expectations. That said, the role of entertainment in shaping our aspirations and decisions remains a fascinating aspect of human behavior. It underscores the power of storytelling and its ability to inspire us to explore, connect, and grow.

Today marks a special milestone in the lives of my parents, Abhay Parashar and Jyoti Parashar, as they celebrate 40 years of marriage. Four decades of shared experiences, unwavering support, and a life built on mutual respect and love is no small feat. Their journey together has been one of grace, joy, and quiet resilience. They have shown, through their actions, what it means to nurture a relationship with patience, understanding, and a deep sense of commitment. As their child, I am filled with gratitude for the values they have instilled in me and the example they have set for what a strong, loving partnership looks like.

Currently, my parents are visiting the UAE, a trip that has added a unique layer to their anniversary celebrations. Among the places they visited was the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, a stunning architectural marvel and a place of spiritual significance. They sought blessings at the temple, a gesture that reflects their faith and the importance they place on gratitude and humility. The mandir, with its intricate carvings and serene ambiance, is a fitting backdrop for their reflections on four decades of togetherness. It’s heartwarming to see them embrace new experiences and create memories even after so many years of marriage.

As I write this, I am reminded of how fortunate I am to have them as my parents. Their marriage is a living example of how two people can grow together, support each other, and find joy in the simple moments of life. On this special day, I wish them continued happiness, health, and many more years of love and togetherness. Happy 40th anniversary, Mom and Dad. Thank you for everything.

Recently, I caught up with Manish Kumar, a friend from my IIM Bangalore days. He is now a Director in Analytics Consulting at Mastercard, based in Vancouver. While we spoke about his work and life, one thing that stood out was his early morning work schedule. He starts his day at 6 am and typically finishes by 2 pm, extending to 4 pm on busier days. What fascinated me wasn’t just his routine but the underlying principle of how starting work early can create a more balanced and productive day.

Working early in the morning has several advantages. For one, the early hours are often the quietest, free from the usual distractions that come later in the day. This uninterrupted time allows for deep focus, making it easier to tackle complex tasks or projects that require significant mental energy. In Manish’s case, his early start is partly driven by the need to collaborate with teams on the East Coast of the United States. However, even without such external factors, the benefits of early mornings are undeniable. By the time most people are logging in or attending their first meetings, he has already made substantial progress on his work. This head start not only boosts productivity but also reduces the stress of looming deadlines.

Another significant advantage of finishing work early is the freedom it creates for the rest of the day. By wrapping up his professional responsibilities by mid-afternoon, Manish has the entire evening to himself. This time can be used for personal pursuits, whether it’s spending time with family, pursuing hobbies, or simply relaxing. It’s a stark contrast to the typical 9-to-5 grind, where evenings are often spent recovering from the day’s stress. Early mornings, in this sense, act as a productivity hack, allowing you to reclaim your evenings for things that truly matter.

Of course, adopting an early morning routine requires discipline and consistency. It’s not just about waking up early but also about optimizing those hours for maximum efficiency. For Manish, this means prioritizing high-impact tasks in the morning and using the later part of his workday for meetings and collaborative efforts. This structured approach ensures that his mornings are productive while still leaving room for flexibility in the afternoon. It’s a balance that many of us could benefit from, especially in a world where work-life boundaries are increasingly blurred.

Reflecting on our conversation, I realized how much potential lies in starting the day early. It’s not just about getting more done but also about creating space for the things that bring joy and fulfillment. While not everyone can or needs to start work at 6 am, the broader lesson is about finding a routine that aligns with your goals and priorities. For me, this was a reminder to reevaluate my own habits and explore how small changes, like waking up a bit earlier, could lead to a more balanced and satisfying life.

Cancel culture has become a defining feature of modern public discourse, often acting as a double-edged sword. On one hand, it holds individuals and organizations accountable for their actions, ensuring that harmful behavior is not normalized. On the other, it raises questions about the proportionality and speed of such actions, particularly when creativity and content are involved. The recent deletion of videos from a popular YouTube-based comedy show in India, though nuanced and specific to its context, brings to light a broader issue: the tension between public pressure and the freedom to create. Governments and platforms often react with an iron fist, driven by the need to appease public sentiment, but this approach can stifle innovation and waste the effort, time, and resources invested in creative endeavors.

Creativity, by its very nature, thrives at the edges of societal norms. Content creators, whether in comedy, art, or business, often push boundaries to explore new ideas and perspectives. This boundary-pushing is not just a byproduct of creativity but its essence. However, when public pressure leads to the cancellation of such content, it risks creating a chilling effect. The fear of backlash can discourage creators from taking risks, leading to a homogenization of ideas. This is not to say that accountability is unnecessary, but rather that the mechanisms of accountability should be carefully calibrated. The speed at which cancel culture operates often leaves little room for nuance, resulting in disproportionate consequences that may not align with the severity of the perceived offense.

The role of governments and platforms in this dynamic is particularly significant. Governments, often reacting to public outcry, tend to enforce rules with rigidity, while platforms, driven by the need to maintain their reputation, may overcorrect to avoid controversy. This creates an environment where creators are forced to self-censor, not because their content is inherently harmful, but because the risk of backlash is too high. The deletion of content after its initial success, as seen in the case of the comedy show, feels like a waste of effort and resources. It also raises questions about the sustainability of creative industries in an era where public sentiment can shift rapidly and unpredictably.

Ultimately, the challenge lies in finding a balance between accountability and creativity. Clear, well-defined rules around content creation can provide a framework within which creators can operate without fear of arbitrary cancellation. At the same time, public discourse must allow for the possibility of growth and redemption, recognizing that mistakes are an inherent part of the creative process. The proportionality of actions taken in response to public pressure is crucial. While accountability is important, it should not come at the cost of stifling innovation or wasting the potential of creative endeavors. Cancel culture, as it stands, often fails to strike this balance, leaving creators and audiences alike to grapple with its consequences.