Between Faith and Atheism

In the symphony of life, each of us holds a different tune, a melody shaped by our beliefs, experiences, and the way we perceive the world. Some find their rhythm in the sacred hymns of theism, while others, like myself, dance to the quiet hum of atheism. Though these paths may seem divergent, they need not be in conflict. In fact, when approached with understanding and respect, they can coexist in a harmony. 

This harmony doesn’t require compromising our convictions but recognizing that diverse truths can coexist. It’s reflected in friendships where different beliefs are respected and in communities where varied perspectives are celebrated. 

It’s easy to view theism and atheism as two sides of a coin, each asserting a truth that seems incompatible with the other. Yet, when we look closer, we find that both perspectives often seek the same things, meaning, purpose, and a sense of connection to something greater than ourselves. Whether it’s through prayer or contemplation, through scripture or science, the human quest for understanding is universal.

The beauty of this quest is that it allows for a multitude of answers. For some, theism offers an understanding of the mysteries of existence, It connects them to centuries of tradition, to communities bound by shared rituals and beliefs. For others, atheism is a journey of inquiry and discovery, where answers are sought in the observable world and meaning is constructed through personal experience and reason. 

Conversations between theists and atheists need not be debates to win, but opportunities to share and learn from one another. When approached with curiosity rather than judgment, such exchanges can reveal that our differences are not so vast after all. Both perspectives, in their own ways, encourage us to live thoughtfully, ethically, and with a sense of responsibility to ourselves and others.

Neither side holds all the answers and the world is far too complex, its mysteries too deep, for any one belief system to claim a monopoly on truth. This humility, whether born of faith or skepticism, is what allows us to live in harmony. It reminds us that our understanding of the world is always evolving, shaped by our experiences and the knowledge we gain along the way.

The coexistence of theism and atheism is essential. Like the diversity found in nature, this variety is what makes the world vibrant and full of life. When beliefs are respected, peace is not only fostered, but our understanding of the world deepens. Both theism and atheism, though different, are valid paths in the human journey towards understanding. By embracing these differences, we create a world where harmony thrives, where every belief adds to the beauty of our shared human experience, an experience that transcends individual beliefs and invites each of us to walk our chosen path with respect, curiosity, and an open heart.

Algorithm vs Reality

In the world of Instagram it's easy to get swept away by the endless scroll of reels and posts. Every swipe seems to reflect a piece of ourselves, as if the app were a modern day mirror confirming our thoughts, feelings, and identity. But here's the thing, it's not. The reels that pop up on your feed aren't some cosmic alignment of your life, they are algorithms at work. Yet, countless people find themselves relating deeply to content, convinced it speaks to their soul, their struggles and their story.

This tendency to see ourselves in everything we consume online isn’t just misguided, it’s limiting. When we start to believe that every inspirational quote, every lifestyle hack, and every emotional reel is about us, we fall into the trap of self-centered thinking. It’s a narrow view of the world, where we bend everything to fit our personal narrative, often without realizing just how absurd that is.

Think about it thousands, if not millions, of people see the same posts you do. Do all of them share your exact story? Do they all relate to that vague, feel-good quote in the same way? The answer is a resounding no. The truth is, much of what we perceive as personal relevance is just clever marketing or pure coincidence.

It’s easy to forget that Instagram is a business, and its primary goal is to keep you engaged. The posts that you think are speaking directly to you are simply the result of complex algorithms designed to show you what you’re likely to engage with. It's not some profound connection, it's a product of data science.

So, the next time you catch yourself relating too deeply to a reel or a post, take a step back. Ask yourself, "Is this really about me, or am I just seeing what I want to see?" The difference between the two is crucial. It's the difference between living in a world that constantly validates your every thought and one where you’re open to diverse experiences and perspectives.

In the end, it’s not about invalidating your feelings, it's about facing reality. Instagram might offer a fleeting glimpse of who you are, but it should never dictate your identity. Stop reducing yourself to a few seconds of superficial content. There's more to life than the empty validation of an algorithm driven scroll. Don’t let a social media feed define your worth.

Caste in the Spotlight

Twitter is currently buzzing with the hashtag #BrahminGenes, with everyone from celebrities to common users exhibiting their caste identity. This trend has taken off as people proudly post about their supposed "superior" genes, reducing their entire identity to a caste label. It's alarming to see such a divisive mindset being normalized, especially when shared by influential figures who should be promoting unity rather than outdated social constructs.

What is even more disturbing is how quickly this hashtag has gained traction, creating a wave of caste based pride across the platform. Instead of celebrating qualities that truly matter, people are reverting to archaic notions of superiority based on birth. This kind of thinking does nothing but deepen the divides that have long plagued our society, undermining the progress we have made toward equality.

In a country where we should be striving to dismantle these barriers, some still choose to flaunt caste as a mark of distinction. This mentality not only perpetuates discrimination but also sends a dangerous message that caste still holds power over who we are and what we can achieve. 

It’s not just the hashtag #BrahminGenes that’s problematic, any caste based pride is equally troubling. What, exactly, is there to be proud of when it comes to caste?  

It’s ironic that, some claim caste no longer exists in modern India. If that is the case, why are people still using it as a badge of honor? Why do these divisive hashtags find resonance if we truly believe in equality? Isn’t it time we asked ourselves why we are still clinging to these outdated hierarchies instead of moving forward as a more inclusive society?

Poem by a Murderer

It was a two-wheeler ride back home 

A habitual ride it was

until the four-legged turned in,

White little one

Legs scurrying over the tar

Eyes glaring in ambition

Heart pounding with hope

Hoping of crossing the thoroughfare, 

By making an indecisive overtake

I was moving ahead in traffic,

With the blink of an eye

and groan of a pup

wheels ran over the dewlap,

Heard bones cracking under my wheel 

Saw flesh mangled by rubber

and felt the heart losing its rhythm 

Horrendous scene not to be seen,

A heft on my chest, Heavier than tears 

burying me alive with my fears, 

Apologies for being the Murderer

of the Magnum opus of nature. 

                                         - Saru krishna R

Paper Cups: Untouchability in Disguise

Three years ago, Director Ranjit made a statement that untouchability in India hasn’t been eradicated but has merely transformed into more subtle forms. He highlighted how something as simple as the choice of a drinking vessel, once a glass cup, now a disposable paper cup, reflects this ongoing discrimination. They have recently gained traction again, sparking debate. Despite the backlash, I find myself in full agreement with his perspective. My experiences during my rides across Tamil Nadu have only reinforced the unsettling truth that untouchability is far from extinct, it’s just wearing a new disguise.

In the course of my travels through Tamil Nadu, a state that boasts an impressive literacy rate, I’ve encountered firsthand the subtle ways in which discrimination persists. During two separate rides, I stopped for tea in rural areas, once in the interior part of Tirunelveli and once in Ongur, close to Tindivanam, while not completely isolated, were far from urbanized. What initially seemed like an ordinary stop quickly turned into a moment of harsh realization.

On both occasions, I was served tea in a glass cup, a routine act that initially seemed insignificant. However, as I looked around, I noticed something that didn’t sit right with me. A group of men, presumably locals of higher social standing, were served their tea in traditional South Indian dabbara sets, a sign of respect and hospitality. In contrast, laborers and farmers, whose appearance and attire suggested a different social class, were handed disposable paper cups.

At first, I could not make sense of what I was witnessing. It was only after observing the scene more closely that the pattern became clear, the type of cup you were served in was not random, it was determined by your perceived social status, likely influenced by caste or class. This subtle act of discrimination was a reminder that despite our claims of progress, the old hierarchies still exists.

It’s alarming to think that in a state where education is celebrated, such blatant discrimination still occurs, although in a more refined form. Education was supposed to be the great equalizer, yet here it seems to have merely polished the tools of prejudice. In rural areas, the discrimination is undisguised, but in urban settings, it hides behind a thin guise of civility. What we are left with is a disturbing question, have we truly abolished discrimination, or have we simply become better at disguising it?

The tendency to overlook these acts is another layer of the problem. When I shared these experiences with others, many dismissed them as trivial, even amusing. They could not comprehend that something as mundane as a tea shop encounter could reveal such deep seated societal issues. This ignorance, whether intentional or born of indifference is perhaps the most dangerous form of denial. It allows us to cling to the illusion that untouchability is a relic of the past, when in reality, it has simply adapted to the times.

It’s easy to talk about global issues and engage in lofty debates about politics and society but the real test of our progress lies in the everyday interactions that often go unnoticed, the local tea shop politics that tell a much darker story. We must confront the reality that our fight against discrimination is far from over. We have merely dressed it up in new clothes, hoping it will go unnoticed. But for those who experience it daily, no amount of disguise can hide the truth. Discrimination is still very much alive. May this be a wake-up call to those who think discrimination does not exist.

Unveiling the Layers of Kottukkaali

Spoiler Alert: If you haven't watched Kottukkaali yet, I highly recommend watching it before reading this blog. The following discussion dives deep into the film's scenes and themes, which might spoil your viewing experience.

Kottukkaali, which translates to "Adamant Girl," encapsulates the essence of the film. It's a story that can be viewed from two contrasting perspectives: a chauvinistic one or a feminist one. At its core, it’s a narrative about the oppressor and the oppressed. The film takes us on a journey, quite literally, an auto ride, that slowly unravels its message, which becomes clear only after the intermission.

The Rooster and Meena:

One of the most powerful scenes in the film occurs early on when Meena, played by Anna Ben, is sitting in her house, seemingly waiting to be taken to a priest. At this point, the plot details are still hazy, but there’s a important moment where Meena observes a rooster tied to a stone. The rooster and Meena share a silent exchange, almost as if they are conversing without words. Meena sees herself in the rooster, both are trapped, wanting to break free but held back by the shackles imposed by others. The rooster’s struggle to escape, only to be tied back again, mirrors Meena’s own situation. This scene, with minimal dialogue, speaks volumes about the central character’s plight and sets the tone for the rest of the film.

Symbolism in Simple Acts:

      

As Meena prepares to leave, her hair is tied up by her family, symbolizing the control they exert over her. This simple act of tying her hair reflects how her freedom is restrained, how her individuality is suppressed by the very people who should support her.

     Throughout the film, it’s evident that women have little voice, not just Meena, but also Pandi’s sisters. These women are portrayed with flaws, but whenever they attempt to express their opinions, they are silenced by the men around them. They are constantly told to stay quiet or get into the auto, highlighting the deep-seated chauvinism that dominates their lives.

The Trigger:

One of the most intense scenes occurs when Meena hums the song "Othayadi Paathayile" under her breath, which triggers Pandi’s fury. In a fit of rage, Pandi, played by Soori, unleashes violence on everyone in his path, including Meena, her mother, and even his own sisters who try to protect her. The brutality of the scene, where these women are beaten senselessly, underscores the extremity of male rage and the helplessness of the women. After the assault, Meena glances at the rooster and smiles, a tragic, ironic smile that reflects her understanding of their shared fate.

A Reflection of Meena’s Life: 

As the journey continues, the rooster, which they carry with them in the auto, lies almost lifeless due to the oppressive environment. People try to revive it by spraying water, but its limp state mirrors Meena’s own lifelessness, her spirit crushed under the weight of her family's expectations. Just like the rooster, Meena is caged, her freedom stifled by those around her.

     In another scene, Pandi’s father tells Meena’s father about the debts incurred for Meena’s schooling and college education, all paid by Pandi. This conversation reveals how Meena has been groomed like a scapegoat from childhood, her education not as a means to empower her, but as a tool to trap her within the confines of her family’s control.

A Bull and a Girl:

     

Even after all this chauvinism, there’s a scene where the auto is blocked by a bull, and none of the men have the courage to chase it away. Their bravado crumbles, revealing their inherent weakness. When Pandi’s father and his male friends attempt to shoo the bull, they retreat in fear. It’s a girl, the bull’s owner, who calmly takes control, effortlessly leading the bull away. This scene contrasts the supposed strength of the men with the quiet, real power of the woman, illustrating the message that strength isn’t about physical dominance but mental resilience.

The Real Story:

     

It’s only at the intermission that we fully grasp the situation: Meena is in love with someone, a reality that shatters Pandi and his family’s plans to marry her to him. Unable to accept this, they brand her as possessed by a devil and decide to take her to a priest in an auto to "cure" her and make her forget her love. This revelation is shocking, not because it’s complex, but because it reflects a sad truth that still exists in society today. The film beautifully handles this delicate issue through its nuanced scenes.

Rumors:

In a passing conversation between two men, one suggests that Meena’s attachment to her lover isn’t just emotional but physical, that she must have slept with him. This offhand remark shows how quickly and easily a small issue can enlarge into a damaging rumor, highlighting the destructive nature of gossip within close-knit communities.

Periods and the Taboo:

 

There’s a subtle yet significant scene where one of Pandi’s sisters gets her period and needs to change her pad. Unable to directly tell the men, she hints to her sister, who then stops the auto. When questioned by the men, she vaguely says they can’t share everything with them. This scene underscores the ongoing taboo surrounding menstruation and the discomfort women feel in discussing it openly, even with family. Later, she’s not allowed inside the temple and is told to wait outside, a reminder of how menstruation is still treated as a form of untouchability. This moment provokes us to question who made these rules and why periods are seen as something impure.

The Desire for Freedom:

In a haunting scene, Meena sees an illusion of herself walking freely on a dam. As the figure turns back, it reveals Meena’s face, an embodiment of her yearning to break free from her oppressive circumstances. This dreamlike moment captures her desire to escape the restrictions imposed on her by her family and society.

The Open-Ended Conclusion

As the film nears its climax, Pandi and his family reach the priest’s place, where they witness him "treating" another girl by touching her inappropriately. This disturbs Pandi, who is now caught in a dilemma—who is more dangerous, the man Meena loves or the priest who is supposed to "cure" her? When it’s Meena’s turn, Pandi hesitates and doesn’t walk towards the priest, leaving the story unresolved.

     This open-ended conclusion is Vinoth Raj’s way of inviting us to think, to question, and to reflect on what we would do in Pandi’s situation. It forces us to confront uncomfortable truths: Is it a sin to love someone? Why is it treated as though she is possessed by a devil? These questions stays long after the film ends, challenging our preconceived notions and societal norms.

      

     Kottukkaali is more than just a film, it’s a subtle yet powerful commentary on the harsh realities many women face. The absence of a clear resolution may frustrate some viewers, particularly those who prefer definite endings. Perhaps those criticizing the film are struggling with their own male ego, unable to accept an open narrative that doesn’t provide easy answers. It’s disheartening to think that some might expect a conclusion involving honor killing, which only underscores the issues this film aims to address.

Kottukkaali deserves much more appreciation than it has received. It’s a film that challenges us to look beyond the surface. It’s a subtle yet impactful work of art that leaves us with more questions than answers, urging us to continue the conversation long after the credits roll. These are just a few scenes from the movie there is so much more to unpack. I leave the rest to you to explore and interpret.

The Illusion of a Perfect PG College Life

A college represented a beacon of hope, especially after an unfulfilling Undergraduate experience. With the decision to pursue a post-graduate degree in English Literature, This college was chosen with the expectation that it would offer the intellectual and emotional fulfillment that had been missed earlier. The choice to avoid staying in the hostel, was made with the wisdom gained from past experiences.

The initial days at the campus were marked by a sense of optimism. Everyone seemed to be in harmony, with very little to complain about. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie, with students united in their purpose. This collective spirit brought with it a sense of belonging and excitement, suggesting that this chapter of life would be different, better than the one that came before. There was an eagerness to attend classes, to engage in discussions about literature, and to experience the college life often depicted in movies(where friendships are easy, learning is joyful, and every moment feels meaningful).

Even for a realist, the environment at college allowed room for a fantasy to take root. Not just Students even Professors inspired with their knowledge, staff members showed kindness, and even the campus shopkeepers contributed to a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The janitors, gatekeepers, and the staff at the infirmary played their part too, each adding a touch of humanity to daily life on campus. These early days were filled with promise, as if the college experience would finally live up to expectations.

However, as time passed, the initial harmony began to erode. The relationships that once seemed so promising started to reveal their flaws. The Friendship that defined the early days gradually gave way to colder, more distant interactions. Conversations that had been filled with enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity turned into strained, awkward exchanges. The joy of engaging with peers and the excitement of daily college life began to fade. The campus, once a place of happiness and belonging, started to feel confining and unwelcoming.

The excitement that once accompanied the thought of attending classes or spending time on campus was replaced by a sense of dread. This experience altered character profoundly. A Little boy who once arrived with hopes of believing in goodness, kindness, and selflessness transformed into someone more guarded and introspective. An extrovert became an introvert, as trust and optimism gave way to skepticism and isolation. The college journey, which began with such promise, ended up reshaping fundamental aspects of personality and outlook.

Despite these challenges, leaving was never an option. The weight of familial expectations and the desire to succeed kept the course steady. The belief that something meaningful could still come out of this experience persisted, even as the daily reality became increasingly a burden. The pressure to fulfill academic obligations, coupled with the disillusionment with the social environment, made the experience difficult to endure.

Looking back on the time at college, it is not the positive memories that come to the forefront, despite their existence. Instead, it is the negative experiences that linger, the actions of a few that left a lasting impact. While some might suggest focusing on the positives, it is hard to do so when those who once seemed positive were the source of so much pain. The difficulty of forgetting such experiences lies in the depth of the hurt they caused.

Reliving the time at college proves difficult, as the shadows of negative experiences overshadow the positives. What began with promise now feels like a haunting dream, unworthy of revisiting, even through old photographs. Hopes and excitement have faded into regret, transforming what should have been a period of growth into a chapter marked by failed expectations. Yet another college life lost, leaving behind only the scars of dreams unfulfilled.