As I turn 64…

Mrinal Chatterjee

Window Seat

Sixty-four is not an age I ever gave much thought to when I was younger. It was an abstract number, one that belonged to parents and grandparents. But now that I am here, on 10 February last, I realize that age is not just about numbers; it is about experiences, resilience, and the quiet wisdom that comes with time. Life has been a mosaic of moments—some vibrant and joyful, others shadowed by loss and uncertainty. Each has shaped me into the person I am today.

I have learned that happiness is not in grand achievements alone but in the simple, everyday joys—a warm cup of tea in the morning, the laughter of loved ones, the comfort of a familiar melody. I have also come to accept that not all dreams come true, and that’s okay. Sometimes, the path we take leads to something even better than we had imagined.

Looking ahead, I feel a sense of peace. There is still time to explore, to love, to learn, and to contribute in meaningful ways. Age has given me the gift of perspective—to cherish the present, to forgive more easily, and to let go of what no longer serves me.

As I turn 64, I walk deep into the twilight before the night falls, I fall more in love with life. I embrace this chapter of my life with gratitude, knowing that every year is a privilege and every moment a treasure.

Brecht@165

10 February was my birthday. It was Bertolt Brecht's 165th birth anniversary too.

Born in 1898 Bertolt Brecht was a German playwright, poet, and theater practitioner known for his contributions to modern drama. He developed the "epic theater" style, which aimed to provoke critical thinking rather than emotional engagement. Brecht's works often challenged societal norms and political injustices, blending entertainment with social commentary.

His use of the "Verfremdungseffekt" (alienation effect) encouraged audiences to remain intellectually engaged and question the action on stage.

Notable plays include Mother Courage and Her Children, The Threepenny Opera, and The Caucasian Chalk Circle. Brecht's Marxist beliefs deeply influenced his works, reflecting themes of class struggle and social change. He founded the Berliner Ensemble, which became a leading theater company in post-war Germany. His innovative techniques left a lasting impact on theater worldwide. Brecht’s legacy continues as a symbol of politically engaged and experimental drama.

He died in 1956, five years before I was born.

I translated some of his poems into Odia.

Dal, Ghugni

In all probability Dal originated in India. Starch granules of lentils (peas, chickpeas, green gram, black gram) have been recovered from the interior surface of storage jars from the Harappan site of Farmana (located in the Ghaggar Valley, Haryana). In fact, ancient Indian texts describe recipes of dal that were served to guests at celebratory meals.

Special dal was served at Chandragupta Mourya’s wedding in 303 BCE.

The dish ghuguni, popular in Eastern India, Nepal and Punjab is believed to have originated from this area. Ghugni is usually cooked with dried white peas or Kabuli Matar. Peas originated from India- in fact from Afghanistan, which was once a part of India.

 The Business side of Mahakumbh

MahaKumbh 2025 at Prayagraj is witnessing an unprecedented turn out of people, which is overwhelming the arrangements and administration. The sheer volume of devotees attending the event (expected 45 crore people) has made it one of the largest gatherings. 

It is also Rs 2 Lakh Crore economic phenomena as per a Fortune report. It has also provided a huge business and brand projection opportunities for companies. Industry experts estimate that brands have collectively invested between Rs 1800-2000 crore in advertisement campaigns, marketing activations, and digital amplification.

Several innovative strategies had been implemented to help brands integrate into the event driving both immediate engagement and long term recall for example branded trains such as Ganga Gomti Express, which function as moving billboards offering multi religion exposure. Augmented reality activations create immersive experience that captivates the audience. Mobile vans equipped with audio-visual setups take brand messaging directly to the masses. Culturally themed messaging, like SantoorSangam campaign, enhances brand resonance by aligning with the events. QR code on billboards and stalls enable instant digital interactions while merchandise giveaways ensure lasting recall as attendees take branded items home with them.

Several brands have adopted strategies like having phone charging booths with branding, Wi-Fi zones, Prasad distribution Centres, Dress changing booths for women; and sanitation and hygiene drives. 

Tailpiece: Valentine’s Day

How do vampires know if they had a successful Valentine's Day?

If it's love at first bite.

(Courtesy: Social Media)