Chhath Festival 

With Chhath around the corner, excitement reaches its peak! The hustle and bustle of preparations, the vibrant energy of the ghats, and the anticipation of heartfelt rituals make it impossible to stay calm. Every moment feels alive.

The excitement around Chhath is unmatched! Its popularity and importance are crystal clear when you see how buses, trains, and flights get fully booked months in advance. Everyone living far from home is eager to return and celebrate Chhath in their hometown. During the peak season, scoring a ticket feels like winning the lottery—it’s nearly impossible! This rush, this madness, shows just how deeply rooted this beautiful festival is in the hearts of people.

Chhath season brings an unmatched buzz, and the scenes at train stations are nothing short of extraordinary! Trains heading to northern states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and parts of Madhya Pradesh are packed to the brim—reserved coaches included. Passengers squeeze into every corner, even crowding the entry doors, leaving no room to budge. Forget moving around; even reaching the toilet feels like an epic adventure! Sounds like a tall tale? Think again—this is the incredible reality every single year during Chhath. It’s a testament to the unbreakable spirit and devotion of people eager to celebrate this festival with their loved ones!

For most, Chhath is a Vedic festival, but for the people of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and parts of Madhya Pradesh, it’s a whole different level of celebration! It’s the ultimate family reunion—when relatives from all corners come together, no matter how far they live, to join hands and celebrate this incredible festival. The energy is electric as homes fill with laughter, love, and excitement, making it the most cherished time of the year for everyone involved!

The excitement for Chhath starts long before the big day! The entire preparation process is a thrilling journey, deeply rooted in tradition. Everything is connected to nature—earthen ovens are carefully set up for cooking, and dried mango tree logs are stacked high to fuel the fire. Wheat is lovingly sieved by hand, ensuring every grain is free from dirt, then washed with fresh water and left to dry. This ensures that only pure, sacred ingredients make their way into the prasadam. What makes Chhath truly one-of-a-kind is the unwavering commitment to cleanliness, purity, and holiness in every single step of the preparation and fasting—it's an experience of devotion like no other!

The four-day Chhath celebration is an exhilarating spiritual journey, where every moment is filled with divine sanctity and devotion!

It all begins on the first day, Nahaya Khai, where devotees prepare rice, pulses, and cucumber—cooked without onions and garlic, as both are considered inauspicious for this sacred festival. The prasadam is shared with the family after the devotees partake, and even the dinner follows the same tradition. The fast continues into the second day, known as Kharna.

On the second evening, the excitement peaks as jaggery, molasses, sugar puddings, and wheat bread (roti) are prepared in abundance. After fasting all day, devotees break their fast with this sweet feast, filling their hearts and stomachs with joy. After this, they continue fasting into the third day, which leads to the grand sunrise on the fourth day.

The third day is the most intense, with devotees fasting without a single drop of water. The real highlight? Thekua—a traditional, sacred dish made with absolute purity on an empty stomach! If anyone wants to help the devotees, they must bathe and wear freshly cleaned clothes, ensuring the highest level of sacredness. The prasadam offered to the Sun God on this day is made with pure devotion, marking the peak of this spiritually charged festival! It’s a time of complete surrender, devotion, and a deep connection to the divine.

On the third day of Chhath, the excitement reaches a whole new level as devotees flock to the riverbanks, lakesides, or ponds, eagerly gathering to worship the setting sun. With bamboo baskets called shup brimming with a colorful array of fruits and vegetables, they offer their devotion to the Sun God in a ritual called aragh. The air is filled with anticipation and energy as the offerings are made, and with hearts full of reverence, devotees head back home, their spirits soaring.

The next morning, the final day of the festival, brings even more thrill! Devotees rise dawn, buzzing with energy and excitement, ready to gather once again at the same spot to worship the rising sun. As the first rays of sunlight break through the horizon, they perform the ritual with immense joy and devotion, offering their prayers and partaking in the prasadam. With the sun’s rise, the fast is broken, and the celebration culminates in pure bliss!

  Why the U.S. Dominates in Global Tourism,   Despite France Being the Top Choice for Travelers. 

Tourism is up in a new way and is a big, fast-growing market. It is playing a key role in boosting national economies. In many nations, the economy is heavily reliant on tourism.

The United States is the world's strong tourism market contributing $2.36 trillion to the country's economy in 2023 as per the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).

China holds 2nd position in the tourism market and contributes $1.3 trillion to its GDP.

The most interesting part is that despite, France being the most preferred destination among Global tourists, the United States leads as the largest tourism market. How is this possible?

To get a clear picture, It's important to know what factors make the United States a major player in the tourism market. The World Economic Forum's report indicates that the United States has made significant advancements in safety and security, air and ground travel infrastructure.

 Moreover, the country's diverse landscapes, cultural and natural richness, and the convenience of traveling between various cities are major contributors to its success in the tourism industry.

The strategy of branding and marketing major cities as unique destinations has been instrumental in attracting a considerable number of tourists.

Additionally, organizing global mega-events like the Super Bowl and Mardi Gras in the United States also helps in pulling a substantial number of tourists. Here, the government has set a five-year goal to welcome 90 million international visitors annually by 2027.

From 2020 to 2023, international visitation to the United States increased 246% to 66.5 million. Travel exports generated by international visitors increased 153% to $213 billion and American jobs supported by travel exports increased 63% to 1.6 million. 

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 Dubai

Dubai's transition from a humble fishing village in the 19th century to a thriving trading centre and now a bustling travel hub is a story of remarkable transformation. It is a lively modern city with beautiful sea beaches and towering skyscrapers adorned with cutting-edge technology.

 While the country is expensive but has an entire list of options to explore from serene beaches to extravagant shopping opportunities. It's not a layover destination but more than that .The city is crafted to serve as both a tourist destination and a haven for luxury enthusiasts.

Dubai has a fascinating history worth exploring from traditional city to a lively modern city. The city offers a blend of traditional and modern experiences, which serves as a driving force for explorers, tourists, and readers to uncover its hidden gems scattered throughout this captivating land.

Dubai truly offers everything that tourists wish to see and enjoy. From highly developed infrastructure like Palm Island to iconic landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, these must-see attractions make Dubai a unique tourist destination that is sure to leave visitors breathless.

Today's article will spotlight the different mosques that contribute to Dubai's beauty .Undoubtedly ,Dubai is adorned with many mosques. It's a well -established fact that Dubai is a home to a number of mosques.

Not all mosques are open to non -Islams. However, the mosques that allow non-Islams truly serve to educate them about Islamic teachings. Some mosques that are very popular are as follows.

Grand Bur Mosque 

The Grand Bur Mosque constructed in 1900, is an exquisite example of Iranian-style architecture. It proudly holds the title of Dubai's tallest minaret, soaring to a height of 70 meters. Originally founded in 1900, it began its journey as an Islamic school.

 This mosque restricts entry to non-Muslims. This building rank as the most visited in Dubai. People come here not just for worship or Friday gatherings, but also to study .

Not every mosque permits entry to non-Muslims, but those that do offer a glimpse into Islamic culture and traditions for non -Muslims.

2.Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai

Known as the most beautiful mosque in Dubai, this mosque is an exquisite work of art. It is a superb example of Islamic architecture and the only mosque in Dubai that allows non-Muslims to visit.

Its design and architecture ,especially when illuminated at night ,are a sight to behold. It is so enchanting that you won't want to look away. This mosque is a favorite spot for photography and holds the distinction of being the most photographed mosque in Dubai.

 Dubai is a place where non-Muslims are highly respected. A large number of Indians, including many Hindus, go there in search of jobs. They work hard and fearlessly, making significant contributions to the country's development.

 Unveiling the Reasons Behind the Growing Need for Tours and Travels Today 

These days wanderlust among individuals has reached its Zenith, unlike the past when outings were more quaint .Today people meticulously choose tourist destinations, plan detailed itineraries, and book tickets, transportation, and accommodation well in advance to avoid complications upon arrival.

Why are people eagerly awaiting opportunity for a trip? Is it truly necessary to plan for tourist destinations every two ,three months or during vacations and festive seasons? Why do individuals no longer consider it a waste of money or time? Why do they perceive it as essential? How has touring and travelling become an integral part of individual's lives? This is the focal point I am to address in this essay.

Prior to diving deeply into the subject matter, it's important to establish a clear understanding of the fundamental differences between travel and tour. Are they synonymous or do they encompass distinct meanings? Let's first explore the significance of travel and tour in our lives.

Tourism typically involves round trips, while traveling often entails venturing beyond one's comfort zone, trying new experiences, sights, flavors.

Why are travel and tourism crucial aspects of human life? What outcomes do they yield, and can we thrive and maintain our health without participating in such activities?

The well-being of any individual depends on multiple factors, including physical, mental, and social elements, rather then any single factor alone.

With the increasing competition , the burden of work is growing day by day on people. Everyone is caught up in the race to progress.

Tourism and travel represent a lifestyle where we declutter our minds in this increasing competition. This lifestyle sows the seeds of positive thoughts and meaningful relationships, which , when nurtured, yield happiness, compassion, and opening up new avenues for everyone to rejuvenate.

 It's a path to self- discovery and reclaiming the lost energy expended during overwhelming workloads. We also forge meaningful relationships with both strangers and diverse cultures through experiencing others' languages, cuisines and ways of life .And here the bond formed is stronger and enduring.

Studies suggest that individuals often face sleep debt problems, particularly in high -pressure, target-oriented professions, resulting in heightened anxiety and work -related stress.

Sleep debt is also linked to negative emotions such as sadness, anger, and frustration, which can disrupt sleep patterns. Vacations are widely regarded as an effective remedy for alleviating sleep debt.

According to the American Psychological Association, obtaining an extra 60 to 90 minutes of sleep per night can enhance both memory and concentration. Vacation serves as a potent remedy to improve sleep patterns and indirectly uplift an individual's mood.

The University of Pittsburgh's Mind-Body center discovered that vacations boost positive emotions and alleviate depression.

Ernst and Young's studied reveal that for every additional 10 hours of vacation time taken by employees ,Year-end performance improves by 8 percent.

Further research indicates that daily work pressure elevates levels of stress hormones and impacts the body's immune system. The optimal solution lies in relaxation. By unwinding on vacation, stress hormone levels decrease, allowing the immune system to recuperate. Moreover, vacationing reduces the risk of heart disease and promotes an increase in HDL or "good" cholesterol levels.

These findings collectively underscore the significant importance of tours and travels in human lives, as they offer physical, mental and also spiritual benefits.   

The fact is ,both physical and mental health serve as the primary drivers behind the growing inclination among individuals to embark on tours and travels in recent times.

 The Journey Home ;Unexpected Hurdles and How I handled Them

Puri is well known among tourists for its Lord Jaganath temple and stunning sea beach. The city attracts tourists year round , but during peak times like holidays and festivals ,the number swells dramatically. 

Finding accommodations in hotels and lodges becomes difficult during peak seasons ,as people from all corners of India come to witness the divine presence of Lord Jaganath ,and to have their wishes granted.

Like others, I also made the choice to journey to the temple. Carefully planned out my itinerary and reached the destination as per our plans .The beautiful part was that my advance booking of accommodations two months prior worked well that ensured a smooth arrival without any complications.

After experiencing the darshanam of Lord Jaganath ,we explored other popular spots such as the Konark temple and Chandrabhaga beach. After two days of exploration , it was time to head home .Checking out an hour before our train's departure at 7 o'clock ,we settled into the waiting hall .

However , as the hours passed with 10 pm ,then 11 pm creeping up, there was no news of our train .Finally around 11.50 pm the railway authorities announced the train's arrival on the platform, prompting us to board with our baggage. Sitting at the station for over three hours, we were utterly worn out.

 

After half an hour of our board , the TTE approached us , but instead of demanding tickets began explaining that due to technical issues, our train's route had been diverted bypassing stops at Balasore, Kharagpur and Tatanagar .

I was shocked  hearing the news ,while the rest of my family members continued to sleep soundly under their blankets.

The TTE suggested that it would be better for us to disembark at Bhubaneswar .I agreed with his suggestions while other passengers began questioning why the railway had not notified earlier about the route diversion.

 Curious about the distance to Bhubaneswar, I inquired, and the TTE informed me that it would only take half an hour to reach there.

Without wasting time , I promptly woke up my family members who were deeply asleep .They too were shocked to learn about the situation .My biggest concern now was figuring out how to manage the heavy baggage during our disembarkation .

After arriving at Bhubaneswar, I attempted to secure a comfortable room but found no vacancies , even at the railway retiring rooms at the station .Feeling uneasy about venturing out late night around 12.30 AM , we opted to remain indoors.

 

The waiting hall was already packed with travelers , many stretched out on the thin plastic sheets or makeshift bedsheets .Rather than lying down , we settled for sitting on the couches , though the night was spent shifting uncomfortably due to the limited space .

Despite, the discomfort , we made it through the night and were ready to catch the Shatabdi Express to Kharagpur the next morning .Fortunately, the train arrived on time ,and we managed to handle our heavy baggage and board safely. The journey was relatively comfortable ,allowing us to relax and catch up on the sleep we had missed .

After five to six hours ,we reached kharagpur station ,where we had no reservations and needed to cover a two - hour journey to our home station , Tatanagar. 

 Four hours later , the train to Tatanagar arrived, two hours behind scheduled .The train was overcrowded ,making it challenging to even find standing room.

 Despite the difficulty , I maneuvered deep into the compartment , where a kind gentleman offered to help by taking my suitcase and finding a spot for it in a corner.

The journey was arduous, with little ventilation , unpleasant odors from the toilet ,and the smell of sweat from fellow passengers. Despite the hardships, we finally reached Tatanagar at 8pm , turning what was supposed to be an eight hour journey into a 24- hour  ordeal. However, despite the challenges, the experience of that journey will remain etched in my memory forever.

 Ram Navami Celebration :Surya Tilak Ceremony at Ayodhya's Lord Rama Temple 

Ram Navami marks the birth anniversary of Lord Rama and holds a special place in India's festival calendar. This year, it carries added significance as the pran prathistha or so called the installation of the Lord Rama Idol, recently took place after a centuries -old legal battle.

The highlight of this year's Ram Navami celebrations is the presence of Lord Rama's idol in the newly constructed Ram temple, marking a historic event after centuries.(Travel attractions) 

Today, Wednesday the 17th of April, Ayodhya is alive with the spirit of Ram Navami. Devotees at the birthplace of Lord Rama are thrilled to have direct access to the idol for worship and darshanam.

Since the morning, people have been exchanging Ram Navami greetings with each other. People are sharing Ram Navami wishes, messages, quotes with their loved ones . In the temples devotees have been standing in queues outside temples, waiting for the darshan of the deity. The fervor is palpable across India.

This festival is celebrated with great devotion and joy. This year, the excitement is even higher as people witnessed a special event named 'Surya Tilak or Abhishek' where sunlight illuminated the forehead of Lord Ram Lalla idol at the Ram temple in Ayodhya through mirrors and lenses.( Travel Attractions)

It is believed that worshipping Lord Rama on this day brings blessings, peace ,and remove obstacles from one's life .

 What to Do When Your Ticket Is Not Confirmed? 

Festive seasons and vacations bring about a frenzy of travel plans, with everyone rushing online and offline to book trips to holiday destinations since many educational institutions are closed.

 Peak seasons, often coinciding with holidays, festivals, and school breaks, during this period the quest for a coveted train seat becomes like playing a strategic game.

Amidst the thrill of travel, challenges often emerge during peak seasons. Delays, cancellations, and overbooked trains test the patience of even the most seasoned travelers.

The serpentine queues at the ticket counters pose yet another challenge. Booking a ticket at the last minute is truly exhausting and tough, and it's costly as well. As the last minute approaches, seats on trains nearly disappear, ticket prices soar. 

 To avoid the steep prices of last minute bookings ,vacationers typically reserve their tickets well in advance.

In case if they cannot get a ticket after much efforts, they abandon the idea of going on a tour or opt for a short trips nearby where getting train reservations isn't as challenging or they try the last minute option i.e. Tatkal tickets. If things go well ,perfect ;if not ,they cancel the tour idea. This happens usually in every case.

What options does a traveler have if they are unable to obtain a confirmed ticket and still wish to go on a tour? Are there solutions to this issue, and if so, what are they?

1) When unable to obtain a confirmed ticket, a   traveler can purchase a waiting list ticket offline.   while on the journey ,approach the TTE (Train   Ticket Examiner).They cannot prohibit you from   travelling with a valid waiting list ticket.

   Inquire about any available vacant seats- if you are fortunate ,you will find one, if not ,traveling without a reservation is an option.

2) During peak seasons Indian Railways announces several special trains every year, so it's good idea to check the availability of seats on these trains.

3) There is a ladies quota in trains. By applying for the ladies quota, you can secure a confirmed ticket.

4) If there is an elderly person in your family, you can avail the elderly quota, which greatly helps in getting a confirmed ticket.

5) The premium Tatkal quota is also a great option, as most of the time you can easily get a confirmed ticket. Seats under this quota often remain vacant until the last minute. Indeed, the premium Tatkal ticket remains expensive.

6) If you still fail to get a train ticket and have to reach your destination anyhow, consider breaking the journey into parts.

  This means booking a ticket from your station to the mid-station of your main destination, and then booking another ticket for the final leg of your journey. This will also ensure a journey that is both convenient and comfortable.

7) If your desired route has no available seats, try another route to reach your destination where the chances of getting confirmed tickets are highest.

8) Changing trains is also a viable option. Spilt the journey into parts and switch trains from other stations along the route where the probability of getting a confirmed ticket is highest.

9) Different stations have different quotas, If you cannot find a ticket from your preferred station, try booking from other stations along the same route to your final destination. There is a high probability of getting a confirmed ticket this way.  

10) Lastly ,consider using a travel agent. They have a good understanding of how to secure a confirmed ticket, knowing all the routes, stations, and trains where ticket availability and confirmations are easier.

These are the methods through which you can easily secure a confirmed ticket and enjoy the flavor of travelling. 

'' India's  battle with 'cancer capital' status"

While it may seem unbelievable, yet the fact remains- we're heading down the wrong path. Though it might not be  pleasant to hear, the truth is that what seems perfect and flawless is often nothing more than an illusion .My concern is directed towards the recent title of India as the world's cancer capital as per the reports of Apollo Hospitals on world Health Day 2024 . This is really a matter of significant concern.(Travel Attractions)

In a recent study, Apollo Hospitals has revealed statistics indicating a decline in the health of Indians. India has been given the title of the "cancer capital of the world. "surpassing all other countries. The alarming rate at which cancer cases are rising in India is deeply concerning.(Travel attractions)

The most frequent types of cancer in women are breast, ovarian, and cervical, where as men often encounter mouth, prostrate ,and lung cancer. According to 2020 statistics, there were 14 lakhs of cancer cases, and this number is expected to rise to 15.7 lakhs by 2025.

The findings from Apollo Hospitals also highlight the alarming rise of Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, mental health disorders, and cardiovascular diseases.

 What's particularly concerning is the increasing prevalence of these conditions among younger generations. Shockingly, in India, one in three individuals is pre-diabetic, two in three individuals are grappling with pre-hypertension, and one in ten suffer from depression. These statistics are truly staggering(Travel attractions)

Apollo's search reveals that the average age of breast cancer diagnosis in India is 52, while it stands at 63 in the USA and Europe .Additionally, they report that 30 percent of colon cancer patients in India are younger than 50 years old. 

Despite the rise in cases, India's screening rates are severely low. For instance, the breast cancer screening rate is a mere 1.9 percent in India, in contrast to 82 percent in the UK and 23 percent in China. Furthermore, the report highlights that cervical cancer screening in India is only 0.9 percent, compared to 73 percent in the USA and 70 percent in the UK.(Travel attractions) 

Apollo's research findings signal a serious health risk for the nation, emphasizing the need for immediate attention.

What initiatives can India undertake to counter the alarming rise in cancer occurrences, with the ultimate aim of no longer holding the title of the world's "cancer capital" and greatly improving the health and well-being of its citizens?

There are multiple ways to prevent and decrease the incidence of cancer:

Engage in regular exercise.

Ensure you get sufficient quality sleep daily, as lack of sleep is associated with weight gain , a risk factor for cancer.

Stay away from all types of tobacco.

Avoid alcohol.

Minimize exposure to radiation.

Minimize industrial and environmental toxins.

Vitamin D plays a role in reducing the risk of colon cancer, prostate cancer, and other forms of cancer.

Most importantly, make it a priority to undergo screening tests regularly to detect cancer in its early stages.

           

Taiwan's seismic activity : causes, impacts, and preparedness

Despite its size , Taiwan offers a wealth of picturesque destinations to explore. Every year, droves of tourists from around the world descend upon its shores to witness the natural beauty that abounds in this country.

However, Taiwan grapples with a significant challenge- the constant threat of earthquakes due to its position at the convergence of two tectonic plates. The island's history is marked by numerous notable earthquakes that have badly impacted its landscape and inhabitants.

 True , earthquakes are a common occurrence in Taiwan .Geologists warn that Taiwan's geological setting makes it prone to  seismic activity, with earthquakes occurring nearly every year or at regular intervals.

Taiwan lies in the area called the Ring of Fire means the area that belongs to the seismically and volcanically active zone where world's largest earthquakes occurred.

while not all prove catastrophic, some unleash destruction, claiming numerous lives and devastating communities.

These earthquakes often register a magnitude around 6 on the Richter scale ,but on the morning of April 3rd , 2024  tremor surged to a formidable 7.2 on the Richter scale . It is considered the strongest in decades in Taiwan, causing widespread devastation that reduced buildings to rubble .Countless structures were destroyed, leaving many homeless.

  

The epicentre of the earthquake was Hualien city, 18 kms ,south of Taiwan 's at a depth of 34.8 kilometres.

There within the mountainous expanse , seismic activity triggered landslides resulting in debris damaging vehicles on the road and leading to deaths. 

Taiwan's first recorded earthquake dates back to 1624 .The major earthquake prone areas in Taiwan include Hualien, Taitung, Yilan , Taipei ,Chiayi.

Here the building constructions are done according to strict adherence to rigorous safety protocols. Taiwan's susceptibility to earthquake has prompted the implementation of rigorous building codes and disaster preparedness measures.

 The government has invested heavily in seismic retrofitting of buildings, especially in densely populated urban areas ,to mitigate the impact of future earthquakes.

Despite these efforts, Taiwan continues to face the ever-present threat of seismic activity. The most devastating seismic activity in recent memory occurred on September 21, 1999, measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale , resulting in the deaths of 2400 lives. 

 The dichotomy of parenting: Nurturing care versus Emotional Stress  

When the notion to write this article struck me, I grappled with uncertainty, wondering whether to proceed, as I intended to dispel the belief that parents' decisions are always flawless. While parents undoubtedly have good intentions ,their decisions are not always infallible.

I have sought to clarify this by presenting two different narratives stemming from the same origin. These two stories will expose much and give a glimpse into the reality. The initial story pertains to parents whom I know personally.

I know a person who works as a salesman in a shop, while his wife runs a small garment shop nearby. Their only daughter is in the fifth grade at a prestigious convent school ,consistently ranking among the top ten students.

 

To cover her school fees and other essentials ,both parents work tirelessly .On the day of the school's final result announcement ,I was present. When the teacher didn't call their daughter 's name among the top ten ,her mother's face flushed with anger.

 

Angered by this ,her mother's face turned red with fury .Without uttering a word ,she stormed out of the school. Outside ,she scolded and punished her daughter all the way home, the child crying all along reached home .She suffered consequences due to her poor result, which reflected a waste of all her parents' hard work.

This clearly indicated the shattering of the dream cherished by the girl's parents ,or the dream they had envisioned in their earlier days and now hoped to achieve through their child. 

 In the same way ,another story that will give you insight into what parental pressure really means.

  

This story unfolds with a father, a science graduate from his time tried various competitive exams and applied to numerous jobs ,but none materialized.

 Disheartened, he left his job and joined as a sales agent at an insurance company. Like the previous case, he admitted his daughter to a prestigious school. Every spare moment ,he spent teaching her after school and even during vacations when she visited her grandmother's house ,he would set study targets. If she failed to meet them , he would scold her grandmother .

 

He even gave detailed instructions to the tuition teacher. He would also give him daily goals, directing him to complete a certain portion within a day, and admonish him if her exam outcomes were unsatisfactory.

 

Their daughter avoided staying at home due to the pressure , and always seeking enrollment in any course to escape her parents tyranny, which eventually happened .

 

Despite the immense pressure, her exam performance was lacklustre and she eventually enrolled in a nursing course. Her father 's aspiration of her becoming a doctor remained unfulfilled.

 

These two stories illustrate how parental pressure impacts the careers and lives of children .In truth ,there exists a fine line between parental care and parental pressure. What we often label as parental care may actually be parental pressure.

The fundamental question at hand is why parents feel compelled to impose such heavy expectations on their children .Is it a reflection of sincere parental care or a parental stress?

What ,then, can be done to foster children's growth without imposing excessive pressure?

Research indicates that parenting with praise can greatly enhance a child's performance.According to a 2022 study ,empowering your child to feel capable can increase their motivation to overcome future challenges.

Creating a positive environment where children feel at ease is crucial for yielding positive outcomes. Additionally, parents should establish practical and achievable expectations, rather than projecting their own unfulfilled desires onto their children.

In India, the competitive landscape is fierce. The National Career service reports that over 14 lakh eligible candidates are competing for 2.2 lakh jobs in the country.

Moreover, 66% of students in India feel pressured by their parents to excel academically. This pressure often arises without a proper understanding of the child's capabilities, interests , and intelligence.

Now the question is how can we motivate children to study without applying undue pressure? This can be better understood by a simple story.

There was a boy who was struggling with academics and lacked interest in studying, which deeply concerned his parents. Despite their efforts to encourage him ,there was little improvement.

 One day , his father attended a dog show where he observed the trainer's technique of using a ring to direct to leap through it .The dog was rewarded with a treat for each successful jump, and the height of the ring was increased gradually after each successful jump.

Inspired by this, the father decided to try a similar approach with his son .Upon returning home, he introduced the idea of sketching and asked his son to draw a picture of a dog.

He promised to reward upon completion .The boy enthusiastically completed the sketch. From then on , the father set progressively with challenging tasks for his son, rewarding each accomplishment with treats such as zoo visits, movie outings , and trips to water parks. This strategy ignited his son's interest and resulted in academic success.

Throughout this process, the father maintained a positive environment at home, consistently praising and encouraging his son .He would often say ," You can do it, you are a winner, "instilling a sense of confidence and motivation in his son to pursue his goals.

So the key to sparking children's interest in studying is through nurturing care and love, rather than applying pressure.

'   

  

💖 Spring 

Spring , though brief  among the seasons, whispers of change in nature's rhythm. It's a season of awakening. It's a time of blossoming. It's like poetry penned by a poet, painting the lines with vivid imagination, capturing the vibrant youth of nature.

With the onset of spring, a wave of energy and joy envelops the world .You can feel its presence in every living creature: the leaves gently smiling, the birds chirping joyfully, and the lively air filled with sunlight, almost like a divine blessing upon the abundant nature. To me, spring signifies the presence of something divine. Without it, nature's symphony remains unfound.

As spring unfolds , emotions long suppressed find their voice , hearts echo with melodies, life gains depth and significance. It strikes a chord deep within the heart. Quietly, the heart sings a tune, longing to dance and sway in the open gentle breeze. It feels like the whole universe is one , no one distinct, all appears as the embodiment of divine love. There are no grudges, no complaints, no sorrow ,only an abundance of love flowing everywhere.

The arrival of spring feels like a celebration. The fragrance of spring, and the love strewn all around, begin to naturally seep into the pages of self -expression. The pen eagerly longs to depict this abundant beauty and love in nature. In its depiction, words seem to fall short, lacking in conveying the depth of emotions. Spring is just like that- no matter how much one describes, it always feels insufficient.

Spring is simply spring , the blooming both outwardly and inwardly, It's just a celebration, renewal and anticipation .Quiet right, the wait, love and excitement for spring are  always deeply sensed.