Birthdays are special occasions that allow us to pause and express our heartfelt gratitude and love for the people who have had a significant impact on our lives. Today, on the momentous occasion of my dad, Abhay Parashar's 66th birthday, I want to take a moment to honor and appreciate the remarkable person he is. His unwavering support, guidance, and boundless love have shaped us into the individuals we are today. Join me in celebrating this remarkable milestone and wishing him a long and happy life filled with joy and contentment.

A Beacon of Guidance and Inspiration​

Throughout our lives, our father has been a constant source of guidance, showing us the way during times of uncertainty and doubt. His wisdom and insightful advice have helped us navigate life's challenges with resilience and determination. No matter the situation, he always remains calm and composed, providing a steady hand to lean on.

Not only has our dad been a guiding light, but he has also been a true inspiration. His dedication to his work and his unwavering commitment to excellence have instilled in us a strong work ethic and the belief that with passion and perseverance, we can achieve anything we set our minds to. Dad, your accomplishments and achievements continue to motivate us to reach for the stars.

A Heart Full of Love​

Above all, our dad's love knows no bounds. His unwavering affection, warmth, and care have nurtured us throughout our lives. Whether it was cheering us on during our successes, offering a shoulder to lean on during difficult times, or simply being there to listen, his love has been a constant presence in our lives.

Dad, your love has taught us the importance of compassion, empathy, and kindness. Your unconditional support has given us the confidence to chase our dreams and believe in ourselves. On this special day, we want to express our deepest gratitude for the love you have showered upon us.

As we gather to celebrate Abhay Parashar's 66th birthday, let us cherish the remarkable man he is. His guidance, inspiration, and love have shaped us into the individuals we are today. We are grateful for the countless life lessons and the unwavering support he has provided throughout the years. On this milestone birthday, we wish him a long and happy life filled with good health, joy, and the fulfillment of all his dreams. Happy Birthday, Dad! May your journey ahead be as extraordinary as you are.

Birthday Celebration, Abhay Parashar, 27 June 2023

Time has a fascinating way of transporting us back to cherished moments, where the convergence of serenity and natural beauty leaves an indelible mark on our souls. One such moment unfolded in June 2022, when I found myself in the breathtaking paradise of Langkawi, Malaysia. Amidst the bustling tourist attractions, an exquisite sanctuary of tranquility awaited us at Eagle Square. It is worth celebrating the gratitude I feel towards my parents and the awe-inspiring forces of nature that gifted us an unforgettable sunset experience.

A Serene Escape​

Langkawi, a jewel in the Andaman Sea, has long been revered for its pristine beaches and idyllic landscapes. On that fateful day, as we embarked on our journey, we yearned for a respite from the touristy commotion. Little did we know that fate had a tranquil oasis in store for us, where serenity and a breathtaking sunset would intertwine harmoniously.

Eagle Square's Hidden Gem​

Nestled amidst the vibrant city of Langkawi, Eagle Square served as a captivating gateway to a world of peace and awe-inspiring natural wonders. As we wandered along the waterfront, my parents and I stumbled upon a secluded area by the water's edge. Shielded from the bustling crowds, we found solace in the gentle whispers of the waves, the caress of a gentle breeze, and the melody of nature's symphony.

Gratitude for Precious Moments​

It is in such tranquil moments that gratitude blooms in our hearts, nurturing the bond we share with our loved ones and the majestic world around us. I cannot express enough appreciation for my parents, whose presence made this experience all the more meaningful. Their love, guidance, and the joy of shared experiences amplified the beauty of that enchanting evening.

Nature's Masterpiece: The Sunset​

As the sun began its descent, a symphony of colors danced across the canvas of the sky. Shades of gold, crimson, and lavender painted a masterpiece, while the sun bid adieu to another glorious day. With each passing moment, time stood still, allowing us to witness the ephemeral magnificence of a sunset in its fullest splendor.

Finding Serenity in the Present​

In our busy lives, we often forget to pause and truly appreciate the miracles unfolding around us. Yet, in the embrace of Langkawi's serenity, we discovered the power of being present in the moment. We were reminded of the preciousness of time spent with loved ones, the interconnectedness of all living beings, and the profound impact nature has on our well-being.

Awe-Inspiring Reflections​

As we watched the sun dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow upon the tranquil waters, we were humbled by the vastness and wonder of the universe. The silent whispers of gratitude filled the air as we marveled at the intricacies of life and the interconnectedness of our existence. It was a moment etched in our memories, forever treasured.

Sunset Langkawi, June 2023

There's something truly magical about the arrival of a loved one, especially when it's a little bundle of joy like Oshee! As the adorable 20-month-old daughter of Abhijit and Avani Parashar, Oshee is all set to embark on a delightful journey from Dubai to India.

Captivated by her Playfulness​

It is remarkable to witness Oshee's playful spirit and unbounded energy. Her infectious giggles reverberated through the air as she gleefully explored her surroundings, her tiny feet carrying her from one curiosity to the next. With every step she took, we marveled at her growing confidence and inquisitive nature.

The Language of Love​

Language proved to be no barrier in our interactions with Oshee. While her vocabulary was limited, her expressive eyes and animated gestures conveyed volumes. It is fascinating to witness her curiosity as she pointed at things around her, seeking explanations and sharing her delight with everyone present. Each conversation, though wordless, held a deep connection and profound meaning.

Little Oshee's visit to India is a joyous occasion that fills our hearts with love, laughter, and boundless happiness. Oshee's infectious spirit and blossoming personality continue to inspire us all, reminding us of the beauty and innocence that reside within every child. Here's to the incredible journey of watching Oshee grow and flourish, embracing the wonders of childhood together.

Oshee or Idika Parashar, 25 June 2023

Life is a journey filled with ups and downs, and it is during the challenging moments that we often find ourselves growing the most. However, there is a fine line between necessary hardships and the unnecessary pain we create for ourselves. It is crucial to recognize the difference and understand the consequences of continuously choosing the path of most resistance. Many a times we choose the path of most resistance and create unnecessary hardships in the process.

The Temptation of the Path of Most Resistance​

Sometimes, without even realizing it, we find ourselves gravitating towards the path of most resistance. We mistakenly believe that the more difficult a task or situation is, the greater the reward or personal growth will be. While challenges are undoubtedly essential for our development, willingly seeking unnecessary pain can be detrimental to our well-being.

The Search for Constant Struggle​

In our pursuit of personal growth, we often fall into the trap of seeking constant struggle. We believe that unless we are pushing ourselves to our limits, we are not truly evolving. This mentality can lead us to adopt a mindset where we actively seek out hardships and pain, even when they are unnecessary.

Unnecessary Hardship and its Consequences​

By actively choosing unnecessary hardship, we inadvertently subject ourselves to a range of negative consequences.

1. Burnout and Exhaustion: Constantly placing ourselves in challenging situations can lead to burnout and exhaustion. Our physical and mental well-being suffers when we constantly push ourselves without allowing for necessary rest and recovery.

2. Diminished Enjoyment: By choosing the path of most resistance, we often miss out on the simple joys of life. Our focus becomes solely fixed on the struggle, and we fail to appreciate the beauty and simplicity that surrounds us.

3. Strained Relationships: Unnecessary hardships can put a strain on our relationships with others. When we are constantly battling through difficulties, we may become irritable, distant, or less available to those who care about us, causing strain in our personal connections.

4. Missed Opportunities: By actively seeking out pain and hardships, we may unknowingly overlook opportunities that could have brought us happiness and fulfillment. Our fixation on struggle blinds us to the possibilities that lie beyond our self-imposed challenges.

Finding Balance and Embracing the Path of Least Resistance​

While it is important to acknowledge the value of challenges and growth, it is equally essential to find a balance and embrace the path of least resistance when appropriate. Here are a few strategies to consider:

1. Self-reflection: Take the time to reflect on your motivations and intentions when faced with difficult choices. Ask yourself whether the struggle is necessary or if you are merely seeking pain for the sake of it.

2. Prioritize self-care: Make self-care a priority and ensure you have ample time for rest, rejuvenation, and relaxation. Taking care of your well-being is crucial for sustainable personal growth.

3. Recognize true opportunities: Learn to recognize genuine opportunities for growth and development. Understand that not every challenge is worth pursuing and that sometimes the path of least resistance can lead to unexpected and positive outcomes.

4. Embrace flow and ease: Allow yourself to experience moments of flow, where tasks and activities come naturally and effortlessly. Embracing ease does not equate to stagnation but rather acknowledges that growth can happen in a state of joy and harmony.

Have you ever found yourself humming a tune from a song that you don't even understand the language of? We've all experienced those catchy tunes that stick in our heads, transcending language barriers and staying with us throughout the day. In this blog post, let's explore the phenomenon of irresistible melodies that captivate us, even if we can't comprehend the lyrics. Yesterday, during a team call over Google Meet, the mention of a Telugu song called Sir Osthara brought back memories from my time at IIMB and reminded me of the universal appeal of music that goes beyond language.

The Power of Catchy Tunes​

Music has a unique way of captivating our hearts and minds, and catchy songs hold a special place in the realm of memorable melodies. These tunes have an irresistible quality that lingers in our heads, prompting us to hum or sing along, regardless of our understanding of the lyrics.

Sir Osthara - A Telugu Delight​

Back in 2013, during my time at IIMB, I heard the Telugu song Sir Osthara in the room of a batchmate. Though I couldn't grasp the meaning of the lyrics, the infectious beat and rhythm of the song instantly caught my attention. Its vibrant energy was enough to make me groove along, creating a joyful atmosphere within the room. My friend kindly explained the meaning behind the lyrics, but even without understanding the words, the tune remained etched in my memory.

Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent.​

Punjabi Songs: Tempo, Beat, and Unfamiliar Lyrics​

Another example of this phenomenon can be found in Punjabi songs. Many Punjabi tracks are known for their high tempo, energetic beats, and enthusiastic vibes. While the lyrics may be difficult to comprehend for those unfamiliar with the language, the catchy melodies and infectious rhythms still manage to captivate listeners, transcending linguistic boundaries.

The Universal Language of Music​

Music is often referred to as the universal language, and it holds true in the case of catchy songs. These melodies have the power to unite people from diverse backgrounds, transcending language barriers and creating a shared experience of joy and connection. Regardless of the words being sung, we find ourselves tapping our feet, swaying to the rhythm, and joining in the chorus.

The magic of catchy songs lies in their ability to transcend language barriers and captivate our hearts and minds. Whether it's a Telugu song like Sir Osthara or a high-energy Punjabi track, the universal appeal of music touches our souls and creates an everlasting impact. So next time you find yourself humming along to a song you don't understand, embrace the power of music's universal language and let yourself be carried away by the infectious melodies that unite us all.

I started writing 4 months ago, the journey of self-expression started on 23rd Feb 2023. Today marks a momentous occasion as I celebrate a 120-day streak of consistent daily writing. My first piece of writing (DAY 1) Let's Start was more a stub or a blob. Today, I am putting together my top 10 learnings from this transformative habit of daily public writing.

Writing is the painting of the voice.​

1. Discovering the Joy of Self-Expression​

Writing daily has provided me with a powerful outlet to express my thoughts, ideas, and emotions. It has become a rewarding and cathartic experience that brings me immense joy and fulfillment.

2. Cultivating Discipline and Consistency​

Maintaining a daily writing practice has taught me the value of discipline and consistency. It has helped me overcome procrastination and develop a strong work ethic, enabling me to make progress towards my writing goals.

3. Unleashing Creativity​

Through consistent writing, I have tapped into the depths of my creativity. The act of writing regularly has sparked new ideas, allowed me to explore different writing styles, and helped me think outside the box.

4. Refining Communication Skills​

Writing daily has been instrumental in refining my communication skills. I have become more articulate, organized, and concise in conveying my thoughts and ideas, both in writing and in verbal communication.

5. Enhancing Clarity of Thought​

The process of putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) has significantly enhanced my clarity of thought. Regular writing has helped me structure my ideas more effectively, enabling me to present them in a coherent and logical manner.

6. Overcoming Writer's Block​

By committing to writing daily, I have discovered that writer's block is merely a temporary obstacle that can be overcome. Writing consistently has trained my mind to be more adaptable and has equipped me with strategies to overcome creative blocks.

7. Developing a Unique Writing Voice​

Through daily writing, I have cultivated my own unique writing voice. I have gained a deeper understanding of my personal style, tone, and perspective, which adds authenticity and depth to my writing.

8. Expanding Knowledge and Learning​

Daily writing has encouraged me to explore new topics, conduct research, and expand my knowledge base. It has become a gateway to continuous learning and personal development.

9. Building Confidence​

As the days turned into weeks and then months, my confidence as a writer has grown exponentially. The act of consistently putting my thoughts into words has bolstered my self-belief and empowered me to share my ideas with the world.

10. Fostering Community and Connection​

Throughout this journey, I have had the pleasure of connecting with fellow writers and readers who share similar passions and interests. The writing community has provided support, encouragement, and valuable feedback, fueling my motivation to keep writing.

No tears in the writer, no tears in the reader.​

Embarking on a this streak of daily writing has been a fulfilling experience. It has become an integral part of my daily routine, shaping me into a better writer and a more self-assured individual. Writing daily has taught me discipline, enhanced my creativity, and strengthened my ability to communicate effectively.

Writing on the wall at Gandhi Nagar Station, Jaipur - India's first fully women-operated railway station

In the new customer-centric world, businesses strive to build trust and loyalty by delivering exceptional products and services. However, some companies resort to passing on their responsibilities to vendors or service providers, leading to a breach of trust for the customer. The detrimental effects of shifting the blame are severe on customer satisfaction and brand reputation. I can vouch for it drawing upon my recent personal experiences with Urban Ladder and Birkenstock.

Right or wrong, the customer is always right.​

The Breach of Trust: A Customer's Perspective​

When a customer chooses a particular brand, they expect a seamless experience from start to finish. However, businesses that shift their responsibilities onto vendors or service providers create a disjointed and frustrating experience for customers. I recently encountered two such incidents that left me disappointed and questioning the integrity of these brands.

Urban Ladder's Sheesham Bed Saga​

During my quest for a queen-size sheesham bed, I placed an order with Urban Ladder, a renowned furniture brand. However, the delivery process was marred with delays, miscommunication, and lack of coordination between Urban Ladder and their logistics partner. When I reached out to Urban Ladder's customer service for assistance, they shifted the blame to the logistics company, absolving themselves of any responsibility. This experience left me feeling frustrated and betrayed as a customer.

Birkenstock's E-Gift Card Mishap​

In another instance, I decided to gift my friend an e-gift card from Birkenstock, a popular footwear brand. Unfortunately, the e-gift card was not delivered on time, causing inconvenience and disappointment to both my friend and me. When I contacted Birkenstock's customer support, they also deflected responsibility by stating that the issue lay with their third-party service provider. This experience not only tarnished Birkenstock's reputation but also affected my perception of their brand.

The Negative Impact on Brand Reputation​

Passing on responsibility to service providers not only breaks the trust of customers but also dilutes the brand's reputation. Customers associate their experiences with the brand itself, regardless of the involvement of vendors or service providers. When businesses fail to take ownership and resolve issues promptly, customers may perceive the brand as untrustworthy, unreliable, and indifferent to their concerns. This erosion of reputation can result in a loss of customers and damage to long-term brand loyalty.

Thank your customer for complaining and mean it. Most will never bother to complain. They’ll just walk away.​

Learnings for Customer-Facing Businesses​

1. Take Ownership of the Customer Experience: As a business, it is vital to take full responsibility for the end-to-end customer journey. Customers expect transparency, accountability, and timely resolutions when issues arise. Avoid shifting blame to vendors or service providers, and instead proactively address customer concerns.
2. Ensure Effective Vendor Management: While working with vendors or service providers, establish clear expectations, communication channels, and performance metrics. Regularly evaluate their performance to maintain quality standards and ensure a consistent customer experience.
3. Communicate Openly and Transparently: Effective communication is key to maintaining customer trust. Be honest and transparent with customers about any challenges or issues, and provide regular updates on their resolution. By demonstrating transparency, businesses can minimize the impact of potential disruptions.

Customer service shouldn’t just be a department, it should be the entire company.​

Passing on responsibility to vendors or service providers will have severe repercussions for businesses. It erodes customer trust, damages brand reputation, and leads to dissatisfaction among consumers. The personal experiences I had with Urban Ladder and Birkenstock highlight the importance of taking ownership and prioritizing the customer experience. By learning from these examples and implementing effective vendor management, businesses can build stronger customer relationships and foster a positive brand image.

In life, we often find ourselves questioning the impact of our actions on others. Little do we know that sometimes, the smallest acts can have the greatest influence. This morning, I received a heartwarming message from one of my ex-employees, expressing how my consistency in sharing my workout stats has inspired them to stay consistent in their own fitness journey. This unexpected message filled me with immense happiness, a sense of usefulness, and an overwhelming feeling of gratitude.

The Journey of Consistency​

When I first embarked on my fitness journey, I discovered the power of consistency. Day after day, I made a commitment to myself to prioritize my health and well-being. As a way to hold myself accountable, I started sharing my workout stats on platforms like Whatsapp and Instagram. However, I must admit, in the beginning, I was unsure if these updates would be useful or even interesting for my acquaintances.

A Discussion of Doubt​

Amidst my uncertainty, I decided to seek the opinion of a trusted friend. We had a thoughtful discussion about the potential impact of sharing my workout stats. Would people find it motivational, or would they simply brush it off as self-promotion? These questions lingered in my mind as I contemplated whether to continue sharing or keep my progress to myself.

Inspiration Takes Root​

Despite my reservations, I decided to take a leap of faith and continue sharing my fitness journey. Little did I know that my consistent updates would inspire someone I had once worked with. It was this morning that I received a heartfelt message from my ex-employee, expressing how my dedication had influenced their own fitness routine positively.

Feelings of Happiness​

Receiving such a message filled me with an overwhelming sense of happiness. Knowing that my actions have inspired another person to commit to their health and well-being is an indescribable feeling. It reminds me that even the smallest acts of consistency can create ripples of positivity in the lives of others.

A Sense of Usefulness​

The message from my ex-employee reminded me of the impact we can have on those around us, even when we least expect it. By simply sharing my workout stats, I unknowingly became a source of motivation for someone striving to make positive changes in their own life. It reinforced the idea that our actions, however small they may seem, can make a significant difference in the lives of others.

Gratitude Abounds​

Lastly, the gratitude I felt upon reading the message cannot be put into words. I am grateful for the opportunity to have inspired someone and to have played a role in their fitness journey. This unexpected connection reminded me of the interconnectedness of our actions and how they can touch the lives of others in meaningful ways.

In our quest for personal growth and fulfillment, let us strive to be consistent, to share our journeys, and to support and uplift those around us. You never know whose life you may touch and inspire along.​

In a world filled with countless blessings and opportunities, it is essential to take a moment to appreciate the incredible fortune we often take for granted. As I reflect on the profound experiences depicted in Elie Wiesel's autobiographical masterpiece, Night I am reminded of the immense hardships endured by individuals like Wiesel during the darkest chapters of history. After finishing the book, I find myself into the depths of gratitude, acknowledging the privileges we enjoy today and honoring the resilience of those who have faced unimaginable suffering.

Gratitude for the Fortunate Life We Lead​

Amidst the complexities and challenges of our daily lives, it is crucial to recognize the blessings that surround us. We have the privilege of living in a world where freedom, safety, and basic human rights are more prevalent than ever before. The roof over our heads, the food on our tables, and the warmth of our relationships are all reasons to be grateful. It is humbling to reflect on the countless individuals who, throughout history, have faced oppression, persecution, and unfathomable pain, contrasting sharply with our own realities.

A Reminder of Human Resilience​

Elie Wiesel's haunting account in "Night" serves as a powerful reminder of the indomitable human spirit. Through his gripping narrative, Wiesel transports us to the horrors of the Holocaust, where innocent lives were shattered and human dignity was systematically stripped away. As I immersed in Wiesel's words, I gained a profound appreciation for the liberties and privileges we often take for granted. Wiesel's story of survival and resilience inspires gratitude for the strength of the human spirit and fuels our commitment to ensure such atrocities are never repeated.

Gratitude and Empathy​

In embracing gratitude, I also wish to cultivate empathy for those currently experiencing hardships around the world. From war-torn regions to marginalized communities, there are countless individuals enduring unimaginable circumstances. My hearts goes out to them, and I am driven to take action to alleviate their suffering. By expressing gratitude, I acknowledge my responsibility to make the world a better place, promoting compassion, and actively working towards justice and equality for all.

As I navigate the complexities of lives, let me never forget the invaluable lessons imparted by Elie Wiesel's "Night". Through gratitude, I honor the past, recognizing the hardships endured by others and cherishing the freedoms I enjoy today. May I hold a deep appreciation for our privileged lives, and may that gratitude inspire me to be a force of positive change, extending compassion, and empathy to those who still face unimaginable trials. Let me honor the resilience of those who have suffered and ensure that the lessons of history continue to guide us towards a brighter, more compassionate world.

Excerpt from Elie Wiesel's Noble Peace Prize 1986 Acceptance Speech

We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented. Sometimes we must interfere. When human lives are endangered, when human dignity is in jeopardy, national borders and sensitivities become irrelevant.​

In the realm of gray, where sunlight hides its face,
A canvas draped with clouds, a mystical embrace.
Overcast and cloudy, the sky in somber attire,
Whispers of raindrops dance, awakening desire.

A tapestry of shadows, a symphony of gray,
Muted hues of silver, a captivating display.
Though the sun may slumber, and colors softly fade,
Cloudy overcast, a beauty not to evade.

Respite from the summers​

Amidst the daily hustle and bustle, there are moments when nature paints the sky in a different palette. Overcast skies, often caused by weather phenomena like Cyclone Biparjoy, have the power to transform Gurgaon into a serene and enchanting haven. The beauty and tranquility of overcast days is soothing for the body and the mind. As Cyclone Biparjoy sweeps across India, its effects extend to various regions, including Gurgaon. The arrival of overcast skies during such weather events brings a significant change to the city's atmosphere. The once vibrant and bustling cityscape takes on a softer, more subdued tone as the clouds blanket the sky. The cool breeze that accompanies the overcast skies offers relief from the scorching heat, creating an ambiance that is both calming and invigorating.

So, the next time overcast skies grace your city, take a moment to pause, breathe, and immerse yourself in the tranquility that they offer.

Sky dance​

While overcast skies may initially appear somber, they have a remarkable way of uplifting the day with their unique charm. As the sun peeks through the dense clouds, it creates a gentle interplay of light and shadows, casting a soft glow upon the city. The temperature becomes milder, providing respite from the sweltering heat that Gurgaon often experiences. This change in weather rejuvenates both the surroundings and its residents, encouraging a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Whether it's taking a leisurely stroll amidst the gentle drizzle or sipping a cup of hot tea while gazing at the serene landscape, overcast skies in Gurgaon bring a delightful change of pace and allow for cherished moments of introspection and connection with nature.

Clouds come floating into my life, no longer to carry rain or usher storm, but to add color to my sunset sky.​