Story of Tata

 

The Tata Trusts have always been generous and catholic and beneficiaries hail from all communities.

After WWII, when my father Dr J Alexander went to England for his Physics PhD as a JN Tata scholar, another Malayali KR Narayanan also went as a Tata scholar to London  School  of Economics. 

However, the Trusts' founders, Sir Dorab and Sir Ratan, clearly intended that the Trusts would be headed by a Tata and basically run by Parsis ... which, I think, was a wise decision, considering the wonderful way the Trusts helped hospitals, supported  education and promoted welfare activities even handedly across the country.

The board that selected me and 8 other 1st year students  of Bombay University for a Sir Dorabji Tata Scholarship in 1960 consisted of JRD himself, Prof RD Choksi, Freddy Mehta and Nani Palkiwala, ....all very eminent  Parsis.The Trust itself was efficiently managed by Mrs Vesugar and Dinshaw Malegamwala, both Parsis. Is there anything wrong with a Parsi Trust entrusting Parsis to handle the moolah honestly and effectively? 

After Ratan Naval Tata  took over from JRD in 1991 as Chairman of the Trusts and of Tata Sons, he took on the satraps who ran TISCO, TELCO, Tata Chemicals , Taj Hotels and became the sole power centre. Yes, strong men Rusi Mody, S Moolgaonkar, Darbari Seth and Ajit Kerkar who had worked with JRD for decades were brought to heel.

Ratan Tata's father Naval was adopted by Sir Ratan  younger son of JN Tata, soon after he and his brother Sir Dorab ( both childless)  brought in close relative JRD Tata to help.them run the Tata empire.

Since, JRD too had no progeny, Naval Tata's children automatically became inheritors of the .assive Tata Empire,  starting with his eldest son, another Ratan, through his first wife, Sooni. Ratan took over as  Chairman of the Tata Trusts and Tata Sons. 

His direct brother Jimmy had no interest the business.

But father Naval's French second wife Simone headed "Lakme" and step brother Noel was in charge.of Tata International and retail firm Trent.

Noel was naturally expected to take over when Ratan Tata stepped down in 2012 as Chairman of Tata Sons on reaching the mandatory age of 75 years.

Unexpectedly, Cyrus Mistry, scion of the Shapoorji Pallonji family (which held 18% share) was made Chairman of controlling company Tata Sons. 

But Ratan who had his office in Bombay continued to control Tata Sons through his nominee directors. Incidentally, Cyrus's sister Aloo Mistry is married to Noel Tata. 

Rather complicated web of relationships?

Ratan Tata and Cyrus Mistry soon clashed on policy matters, including discontinuing lossmaking ventures like Tata Motors' "Nano", which was Ratan's dream child. 

Cyrus was sacked in 2016 by the Tata Sons board, but won his case in NCLAT ... only to lose in the Supreme Court.

When Cyrus Mistry died in a car accident near Palgar in 2022, Ratan didnt attend his funeral. Nor did anyone from Tata companies ... so bitter was the animosity.

Noel Tata is now facing a situation similar to that faced by half brother Ratan in 1991. But Ratan  was then in total control as Chairman of Tata Trusts and Tata Sons, whereas the latter position is now held by  Ratan protege N Chandrasekaran who is fighting tooth and nail against Noel Tata, backed it is alleged, by the government.

In a major move the RBI has ruled that Tata Sons can no longer be a private company and should go for public listing immediately.

While buffeted on multiple fronts, Noel Tata has one big advantage which previous Tata supremos  Sir Dorab, Sir Ratan, JRD and Ratan never had.

He has heirs ... a son (Neville) and 2 daughters ( Maya & Leah) .. to ensure continuity of the hoary Tata legacy!

J P Alexander

Sahir Ludhianvi, Amritha Pritam and Imroz

 

Sahir Ludhianvi Special | Abhi Na Jao Chhod Kar | Main Zindagi Ka Saath | Old Hindi Songs came here after listening to this: The Greatest Love Story Ever | Main Tenu Phir Milangi - A Storytelling Special

The YouTube storytelling special Singlehandedly - Maheshwar through “Main Tenu Phir Milangi” narrates the intertwined love story of poet Sahir Ludhianvi, writer Amrita Pritam, and painter Imroz — a tale of longing, poetry, and companionship that redefined the meaning of love in Indian literature. It explores how love can linger beyond presence, through words, memories, and art. 

The Core Story

Sahir Ludhianvi & Amrita Pritam:  

Their relationship was marked by deep affection and longing, but also distance and silence. Amrita immortalized her feelings in poems, most famously Main Tenu Phir Milangi (“I will meet you again”), which became a symbol of eternal love.

Imroz’s Role:  

Imroz, a painter and companion, shared decades of life with Amrita, embodying unconditional love and support. He nurtured her world, illustrating how love can be expressed through presence and care rather than possession.

It is said the Amrita said to Imroz, he is to her, what she is to Sahir. Sahir is the sky and Imroz is her roof. 

Love that transcends physical presence. Poetry as a vessel for memory and longing. Companionship as a quiet, enduring form of love.

The Performance

Curated & Performed by: Laksh Maheshwari. Venue: NCPA Experimental Theatre, Mumbai.

Style: Storytelling with theatrical elements, blending poetry recitation, narrative, and visual cues.

Purpose: To remind audiences that love is not only about grand gestures but also about quiet endurance, memory, and art.

Why It Resonates

Amrita’s Poem: Main Tenu Phir Milangi is recited as a promise of reunion beyond time and space.

Sahir’s Poetry: His revolutionary verses add intensity to the narrative.

Imroz’s Devotion: His lifelong companionship shows love as everyday care.

Universal Message: Love may not always be conventional or reciprocated in expected ways, but it can remain eternal through words, art, and memory.

This storytelling special is not just about romance — it is about love as memory, love as poetry, and love as companionship. The story of Sahir, Amrita, and Imroz continues to inspire because it shows that love can survive in silence, in art, and in the promise of meeting again.

Here’s a timeline of the Amrita Pritam – Sahir Ludhianvi – Imroz story, which the Main Tenu Phir Milangi performance narrates. It shows how their lives and relationships unfolded across decades, blending poetry, longing, and companionship.

1930s–40s:Sahir Ludhianvi emerges as a revolutionary poet in Lahore.

 Amrita Pritam begins writing poetry in Punjabi, marked by themes of love and pain.

1944–1947:

Amrita meets Sahir Ludhianvi. Their bond grows through poetry and letters.

Partition (1947) deeply impacts both; Amrita writes Ajj Aakhaan Waris Shah Nu, a lament for Punjab.

1950s:

Amrita and Sahir’s relationship blossoms, though marked by distance and silence.

Amrita immortalizes her longing in poems, including Main Tenu Phir Milangi (“I will meet you again”).

1960s: Imroz, a painter, enters Amrita’s life. He becomes her lifelong companion.

Their partnership is based on quiet devotion — Imroz supports her writing, designs her book covers, and shares her daily life.

1970s–1990s: Amrita and Imroz live together for over four decades.

Sahir remains a distant, haunting presence in Amrita’s poetry.

Imroz embodies unconditional love, showing that companionship can be as profound as passion.

2005:Amrita Pritam passes away. Imroz continues to live in their home, preserving her memory.

Main Tenu Phir Milangi becomes a timeless poem of eternal love.

The trio’s story is remembered as a unique triangle: Sahir (longing), Amrita (expression), Imroz (companionship).

Sahir: The poet of longing, whose absence shaped Amrita’s verses.

Amrita: The voice of eternal love, who promised reunion beyond time.

Imroz: The painter of devotion, who lived love through presence and care.

The details about them is as below:

 Amrita Pritam was born as Amrita Kaur in 1919, but later adopted Pritam as her literary identity.

 Amrita Kaur, born in Gujranwala (now in Pakistan). Right from childhood she had a natural instict of reciting. It is said that when her mother fell ill when she was a child, she went and cried for her life. But her mother passed away. Since then she stopped writing and praying and lost belief in God. 

At age 16, she married Pritam Singh, an editor and publisher. After marriage, she began publishing under the name Amrita Pritam, combining her first name with her husband’s.Even after their separation in 1960, she retained Pritam as her pen name, by then deeply associated with her literary career. Despite personal changes, she chose to keep the name, making it her permanent literary signature. 

Amrita Pritam had two children — a son, Navraj Kwatra, and a daughter, Kandlla. Navraj was tragically murdered in Mumbai in the 1980s, while Kandlla has lived a private life away from the public eye. 

The Story of Sahir Ludhianvi

Sahir Ludhianvi, born Abdul Hayee in 1921 in Ludhiana, grew up amidst hardship after his parents’ separation. His early struggles shaped a rebellious spirit that found expression in poetry. Adopting the pen name “Sahir Ludhianvi,” he became one of India’s greatest Urdu poets, blending romance with sharp social critique. His verses spoke of love, longing, and injustice, resonating deeply with post‑Partition India.

Sahir’s relationship with Amrita Pritam was marked by silence and distance, yet it became one of the most poignant love stories in Indian literature. Amrita immortalized him in her poetry, especially in Main Tenu Phir Milangi, where she promised reunion beyond time. Sahir’s lyrics for films like Pyaasa and Kabhi Kabhie cemented his legacy as a poet of both passion and protest. He passed away in 1980, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire generations.

Javid Akthar said in one of his interview Sahir was his mothers son. He had a touch childhood. When his parents divorced his father wanted him, as he was the only son with step sisters. But he choose to be with his mother. Anything happened he would discuss with his mother and only act per her instructions. It was incredible, how such a strong person who made many decisions could do that. 

It is said that after Sahir left Amrita would collect his cigrates.

The Story of Imroz

Imroz, born Inderjeet Singh in 1926 in Lyallpur (now Faisalabad), was a painter, illustrator, and poet. His life took a defining turn when he met Amrita Pritam in the 1960s. Unlike Sahir, whose love was distant and elusive, Imroz offered quiet devotion and everyday companionship. He designed Amrita’s book covers, shared her home, and lived by her side for over four decades.

Their bond was unconventional yet profound: Imroz embodied love not through grand gestures but through presence, care, and creative collaboration. After Amrita’s death in 2005, Imroz continued to live in their Delhi home, preserving her memory and writing his own reflections on their life together. He passed away in 2023 at the age of 97, remembered as the man who gave Amrita the gift of enduring companionship.

Essence of Their Journeys

Sahir and Imroz represent two contrasting yet complementary forms of love in Amrita’s life. Sahir was the poet of longing, whose absence fueled her verses. Imroz was the painter of devotion, whose presence sustained her daily existence. Together, their stories illustrate how love can take many shapes — as yearning, as poetry, and as companionship — weaving one of the most poignant narratives in Indian cultural history.  

Sampooran Singh Kalra ~ Gulzar Sahab

Gulzar, who make our lives Gulzar! A blooming garden!

Sampooran Singh Kalra known as Gulzar Sahab’s life and work, reflect a journey of poetry born from pain, deep observation, and human connection. He is celebrated not just as a lyricist and filmmaker, but as a storyteller whose words capture everyday emotions with extraordinary simplicity.

Early Struggles & Pain: Gulzar’s poetry often emerges from personal pain and solitude, which he transforms into verses that resonate universally.

1. Maa: Mother. He had never seen his mother. At 5-6 years he would ask, how did my mother look? He says my eyes are like my mom...he would ask why she left me and how will he identify her?  Father: Makhan Singh Kalra — ran a small business. Mother: Sujan Kaur — died when Gulzar was an infant. Step‑mothers: His father remarried; Gulzar was raised in a household with multiple step‑siblings. Siblings: He grew up with step‑brothers and sisters, though detailed records of their names are limited. His early life was marked by hardship, especially after Partition when the family migrated to Delhi. 

2. He used to fail in Urdu but made it his first love. 

3. He was deeply affected by partition as he was born in Pakistan. There are people who consider the year 1947 as the year of freedom, and then there are those who see it as the year of partition. He has nightmares of that year. Partition line like Kabadoo line, and we are playing Kabbadi. 

4. Eyes don't need visa, dream has no boundaries, he says he would go to meet Mehandi hasan. 

5. Mechanic to writer: After partition was in Delhi, and then came to Mumbai - Worli, where he worked in a Garage giving colors to vehicles. He was always interested in reading and writing and became part of Progressive Writers Association and gave himself name Gulzar Deenvi, which later he shortend to Gulzar. 

6. First Break: There he met Lyricist Shylander. He introduced him to his future mentor, the legendry Bhimal Roy. Music director R. D. Burman. 

7. Bhimal Roy was his guardian angel. He was not interested in being part of films, he wanted and loved to be part of books. But Bhimal Roy insisted him to be in movies and become his assistant. 

8. The complete writer : Screen, dialogue, lyricist,  He wrote famous dialogues like that for Anand: 'Zingagi bhadi honi chahiyee lambhi nahi', Bhavarji "It is so simple to be happy, but difficult to be simple. You smile a lot, at times be happy too. Why do life teach us so much, we do not have lot of time here. There is nothing that has not come out of his pen. 

9. Ishq - On his own Ishq, he has written only one story. 

10. Boski - Bhoond giri hey ooski, uska nam hey Boski. He has written a lot for children, most starting with Boski, and his house name is also after her. He has still innocence in him and has written for his granson Dil tho bacha hey jee...

He has written many books for children, on each birthday of Meghana he would write one book for her and distribute it among her friends. 

and in return she wrote a book on him

He would be a mother and father to her, and was still a child with her son who wrote dil tho bach he jee.

What we can learn from this two Legends is Humility, Admiration & Respect for each other...🙏🙏🙏

Storytelling Style: He is known for weaving ordinary human experiences into profound reflections. His writing is marked by brevity, metaphor, and emotional depth.

Themes in His Work:

Love and longing

Separation and silence

Everyday life moments turned into timeless poetry

Influence of Cinema: His career in films as a lyricist, screenwriter, and director gave his poetry a wider audience. Songs like Tujhse Naraaz Nahin Zindagi and Tere Bina Zindagi Se Koi Shikwa Nahin are examples of his ability to blend pain with beauty.

Human Connection: Despite the changing world, Gulzar emphasizes that human emotions remain constant — trust, care, kindness, and relationships are the anchors of his art.

Gulzar’s Signature Traits

Aspect Details

Poetic Style Minimalist, metaphor-rich, deeply emotional

Recurring Motifs Silence, separation, memory, nature

Mediums Poetry, lyrics, short stories, films

Impact Bridged literature and cinema; gave voice to everyday emotions

Gulzar’s home Boskiyana was named after his daughter Meghna, whom he lovingly calls Boski. The nickname inspired both the name of his house and the celebrated book Boskiyana, which distills decades of conversations about his life and philosophy.

Timeline of Boskiyana

1970s–80s: Gulzar begins calling his daughter Meghna by the affectionate nickname Boski. He even wrote children’s stories and poems for her, such as Boski ke Kaptan Chacha.

Naming of House: Gulzar named his Mumbai residence Boskiyana after her nickname, symbolizing a leafy, poetic sanctuary.

1990s–2010s: Gulzar continues to write poems and birthday books for Boski, strengthening the bond and inspiring his children’s literature.

2020: Publication of Boskiyana by Yashwant Vyas (Radhakrishna Prakashan). The book captures Gulzar’s philosophy, daily life, and the creative atmosphere of his home.

2025 Edition: A new expanded edition of Boskiyana released, with unseen photos and reflections on Gulzar’s films, poetry, and personal world.

Meaning & Significance

Boski (nickname): Gulzar affectionately calls Meghna “Boski,” a name he coined when she was born.

Boskiyana (house): His home named after her, representing a wooded, poetic retreat.

Boskiyana (book): A literary work that brings readers into Gulzar’s world, blending biography, philosophy, and conversations.

Emotional Connection

Gulzar has said: “Boskiyana is the name of my house… it wraps me around and brings me face to face with you.”

His daughter Meghna (Boski) remains the “core of his existence,” and the nickname continues to be used lovingly even today.

His house Boskiyana and the book of the same name are both inspired by this affectionate name, making it a deeply personal symbol of his family bond and creative world.

His daughter learned simplicity from his father and Dignity from his mother. 

--------------

 "Dhun pehle aayi, shabd baad mein".  means, "rhythm came first and then words."

He wrote from Jungle Jungle Bath chali hey patha chala hey...

Do and say what you feel - expressing the feelings are important. It paves the way.  Shailender and Sahil he spoke about with great respect. 

Our souls will be forever thankful to Bimal da for so shaping Gulzar Sahab and gifting him to humanity. Today's generation link their life to Gulzar's words.  

His first song was for Nutan, 'Mera Gora ang le le...'. Bhimal roy made him his assistant director, told him to leave his garage job, and was a father figure untill he passed away in 1965. It was while writing this first song, he met Pancham Da. With Vishal it is like that today, he is like a son today. 

Chacha Galib was known from school and wanted to make a film on him. Could not find a producer so made a doordarshan series for 17 episode. This was his favorate work. 

He published Meena Kumari's dairy named 'Rekhta'.

During the growing up days, he used to work in his fathers store, and at night read detective novel. The librarian, one day, tired of frequent request once gave him the book 'Garderner' in urdu by Rabindra Nath tagore, which changed his relationship with novel. He read it so many times untill it was byheart to him. So he considers Tagore as his first guru and Bhimal dha as his second. He started loving Hemand Da's recitation and going with him to Bengal and then with a Bengali girl. 

The way this man expressed the scene of partition in, it gives goosebumps! He says it would give him nightmare because of which he was scared to sleep. Writing helped him let it out. 

Gulzar kalam hi nahi,canvas hai,zindagi ke rang bhare hue. 

Laajawaab!

Akho kho visa nahi laghta, Sapnokho boundary nahi hotha. Born in the present Pakistan, he says his relationship cannot be taken away. 

Boskie, napie pehneke phool kila hey. Grandchildren and grandparents have special relationship and that would not reduce any other relationship. 

Only women can give life!

He says his first guru is Rabindra Nath Tagore, second Bimal Roy and third is his wife Rakhee. 

We are so inconsequential why the ego? 

He says he has special relationship with the moon. This is what he has written in Suniyoree....for the movie Sathyeea.. 

I kept walking with the person ahead of me, and not the person who have left me....learned from them and moved on...with changing music with times...

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Jab They Met | Worlds Greatest Lyricist's Javed Akhtar & Gulzaar Saab's Humorous Camradre |Jaadunama

Why are you an Athist?

Because I think. 

Only those person have eny, who have jealousy. 

----

Ghapla Hai Bhai song from the movie Hu Tu Tu he writes about all the scams going on around today: Ghapla Hai Bhai | Hu Tu Tu | Nana Patekar, Sunil Shetty, Tabu | Roop Kumar Rathod | 90's Song

Musafir ho yaro...

Javed Akhtar ~ Respect

 

Javed Akhtar is regraded as one of the greatest screenwriters and lyricists in the history of Indian cinema. He came to Mumbai with a dream, struggled with hunger and uncertainty for 6 years, before his first real break - Zanjeer in1973. He went on to pen several landmark films with Salim like Deewaar and Sholay, which achieved cult status and led to the "angry young man" aka Amitabh Bachchan, who Akhtar says would have achieved success with or without Javed and Salim. 

Right moment, right combination is needed for success. Talented and trained. Every art has a craft. Learn and showcase. Only way to be a good writer is ten times more reading. Know lighter words, heavier words, stong words,

Javed Akhtar was born in 1945 in Gwalior. His father was a songwriter in Hindi films and an Urdu poet. His paternal grandfather was a poet as was his grandfather's elder brother, while his great great grandfather, was a religious scholar of Islam. Born into a family of poetry, literature and progressive idealogy, Akhtar carried on the legacy and also is a self proclaimed atheist. He tells me that faith is delusional and even jokes about the illusion of believing I'm Elon Musk's sister. Well. Wouldn't that be something.

Akhtar was married to Honey Irani, with whom he had two children, Farhan Akhtar, a film actor, producer, director and Zoya Akhtar, a film writer, director and producer.The father-and-son duo have worked together in films such as Dil Chahta Hai, Lakshya, Rock On!! and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara with Zoya. he says he's proud of them for not compromising on the quality of their work. 

Javed Akhtar married Shabana Azmi, the union of which he said should have been 'an arranged marriage' because of how well their families knew each other. He says he respects her tremendously. He gives full credit to his ex wife, Honey Irani for raising his children with integrity and the right values. Akhtar adds he was responsible for them also being atheists and their love for reading also he thinks comes from him.

Akhtar has received the Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri, the Sahitya Akademi Award in Urdu, India's second highest literary honour and in 2020 he was awarded the Richard Dawkins Award for being a "powerful force for secularism, reason, and human rights, challenging superstition and intolerance through his work in poetry, screenwriting, and political activism". He says he's extremely proud of these awards, while smiling about the "diminishing" value of the 14 Filmfare awards.

Why is Javed Akhtar able to tap into a the mind of a 15 and 50 year old equally? It's simple, he says. Don't be just the age you're at. Remember and recall every age that you have traversed through. That's how you write great characters.

Akhtar talks about perfecting your craft, reading, reading and reading and why he thinks of himself as an underachiever. He also talks about regrets and if a person doesn'e have them, they haven't really grown.

And what does he think of himself? "I'm a dreamer."

RESPECT - Most Important

https://youtu.be/0oRVAcblKjU?si=Kp6W1wGhYFpzkBXc

Bethlehem Kudumba Unit Songs

 

Bethlehem Kudumba Unit Jukebox | Vishnu Vijay | Girish AD | Nivin Pauly | Mamitha Baiju

10 songs for over 30:41 this does not include this is excluding Yavana Kathayil Ninnu which is 4.04 minutes song Yavana Kathayil Ninnu - BKU Full HD Video | Bethlehem Kudumba Unit | Nivin Pauly, Mamitha Baiju but only a portion being played in car..

climax BGM Climax BGM | Bethlehem Kudumba Unit | Vishnu Vijay | Girish AD | Nivin Pauly | Mamitha Baiju

 and other small dance songs, and some of my friends after watching the movie ask me, there we no songs in the movie. Should I consider it as a complement for the movie or discredit for the songs?

06:56 Varnajaalam

17:22 that proposal scene music! soulful is an understatement 

24:37 💕Kochuthannupu ullul Himalayam ayee

24:53:  thala vechu kedakana kedaka kadal theeram aye...

27:13 Indrajalam fans like Adhi...The moment whole theater melted into feel good emotion at peak;the moments which gives a full satisfaction to the movie with feel good emotion, Girish AD and Vishnu Vijay magic again 🎶🎶😍🥰

27:15 ഇത് മതി അണ്ണാ ഇന്ന് രാത്രി loop ൽ ഇട്ട് കേട്ട് പണ്ടാരം അടങ്ങാൻ ഇത് ധാരാളം.. Addicted 💆🏻🎧

28:53 emotional at itss peak😭😭😭🔥🔥📈📈-

29:28 Pre interval portion❤️

The Roaring Lambs ~ Sreedhar Bevara

 The Roaring Lambs by Sreedhar Bevara inspires through allegory — a jungle fable about politics of survival,  courage and leadership.  It highlights that 'Leadership is not about strength alone but about vision, courage, and the ability to inspire others. '  In this Lions, led by King Kaizaar, rule autocratically, causing destruction, Lambs, betrayed by their former leader Shaka, face extinction. The story explores how fearful lambs can learn to roar and reclaim balance in the jungle. The book unfolds as a leadership fable set in the Mau Forest of East Africa, where animals embody human traits, politics, and struggles.

‘Everything seems possible when you’re young. Then life happens,’ remarked Fursa, giving a knowing look to the elders. Page 7 Chapter 1

 Few key characters are:

• Kaizaar, the autocratic Lion King, rules ruthlessly, aided by Shaka — a lamb who betrayed his kind.

• The lambs, weak and vulnerable, face extinction unless they find courage to resist.

• Misaada emerges as a voice of dissent, questioning elders’ passivity and demanding change.

• Akili, the wise bear, mentors the lambs, urging them to channel rage into strategy.

• Shuja, son of the slain warrior Rakha, becomes the moral leader, embodying sacrifice and resilience.

• Kesan, a lion with compassion, challenges Kaizaar’s selfish ideology and advocates coexistence.

• Fursa, the senior sheep, surveys the carnage after lions attack, symbolizing despair and helplessness.

• Betrayals, alliances, and diplomacy unfold — from Shaka’s treachery to Queen Leela’s doubts, from Dhimsa’s defiance to Shuja’s rallying cry.

The climax sees Kaizaar’s downfall as his own pride turns against him, realizing “only the powerful will survive” now applies to him. Kesan rises as the new king, forming a Royal Council and appointing Shuja to lead the lambs. The meek prove they can roar, not to dominate but to survive with dignity.

This allegorical tale mirrors modern political, corporate, and social realities:

• Autocratic leaders like Kaizaar resemble dictators or CEOs who prioritize power over people.

• Whistleblowers and reformers like Misaada and Shuja reflect activists demanding justice.

• Collaborative leadership like Kesan’s resonates with inclusive governance and corporate ethics.

• Betrayal for gain (Shaka) parallels corruption, lobbying, or opportunistic politics.

• Law of the Jungle echoes debates on capitalism, survival of the fittest, and the need for ethical frameworks.

In workplaces, the story teaches that fearless leadership, compassion, and alliances are essential to thrive. In society, it reminds us that justice, accountability, and coexistence are the antidotes to oppression

This book is more than a jungle fable — it’s a mirror to human society. It teaches that:

• Might is not always right.

• Leadership is service, not privilege.

• Collaboration across differences ensures survival.

• Justice and values outlast brute force.

Chapters in the book:

The Law of the Jungle

Sets the stage: survival rules, power struggles, and the harsh realities leaders must navigate.

A Leader’s Vision Is a Kingdom’s Future

Vision shapes destiny; without foresight, followers drift.

Leaders Emerge Through Extremes

True leadership surfaces in crises, not comfort.

Diplomacy Through Dialogue and Passion

Negotiation and empathy are as vital as strength.

Putting It All on the Line

Leaders risk personal safety and comfort for collective good.

Greatness in Fearlessness

Courage is the defining trait that separates leaders from followers.

Karma in Compassion

Compassion builds trust; kindness returns as loyalty.

A Dangerous and Unlikely Alliance

Sometimes survival requires partnerships with rivals.

The Great Rakha

Symbolizes a mentor or legendary figure who inspires transformation.

Breaking the Law

Challenges unjust rules; leaders must sometimes defy tradition.

Bravery Knows No Bounds

Heroism is limitless when driven by purpose.

The Calm Before the Storm

Anticipation of conflict; leaders prepare before chaos erupts.

To Be Forewarned Is to Be Forearmed

Intelligence and preparation are shields against disaster.

Expect the Unexpected

Flexibility and adaptability are essential leadership traits.

About the Author

Journey: From street vendor, waiter, milk delivery boy, salesman → General Manager at Panasonic → CEO of BMR Innovations.

Education: IIM Ahmedabad alumnus.

Experience: Held leadership roles at LG, Dometic, The Hindu, Tata Group.

Philosophy: Leadership signals are everywhere; success comes from recognizing and acting on them.

Charity: Runs BMR Trust to support the needy.

Style: Motivational, “Slumdog Millionaire” rise‑to‑success narrative.

🔹 Fireside Chat Questions

Here are engaging questions you could ask him:

On the Book

Story inspiration: Why did you choose a fable format instead of a direct leadership manual?

Animal symbolism: Why lambs in Africa, and why a bear as protector? How do these choices connect to leadership lessons?

Fairy tale vs leadership: Some readers feel it’s more fairy tale than leadership guide — how do you respond?

Happy endings: Why was it important for the story to end happily with the lamb prince as king?

On Leadership

Signals concept: You emphasize “finding signals” — can you share a personal moment when a signal changed your path?

Empowering others: How can leaders practically help the “less capable” roar in corporate life?

Courage vs compassion: Which matters more in leadership — fearlessness or compassion?

Organizational culture: How does the jungle metaphor reflect real organizational dynamics?

On Personal Journey

Career lessons: From street vendor to CEO — what was the toughest leadership lesson you learned?

Role models: Who were your mentors or inspirations beyond books like Jungle Book, The Lion King and your two brothers?

Charity work: How does your leadership philosophy extend into philanthropy?

Future vision: What’s next for you — another book, or new leadership initiatives?

Brief Forever ~ Pragya Panda

 In Brief Forever, CA Pragya Panda delivers a raw yet undeniably classy exploration of impermanence — of love, choices, and the courage to live unapologetically. At its heart lies Priya Pradhan, a woman discovering the liberating power of financial independence, the kind that feels “like breathing without permission.” Her audacity — walking into Shaurya’s life, smiling at his mother, wearing his ring, and planning a wedding on her own terms — becomes the pulse of the narrative.

The book is not only about independence; it also carries the warmth of companionship. At moments, the friendships echo the camaraderie of The Three Musketeers — loyal, spirited, and mischievous in their own way. There are flashes of humor too, woven into everyday details, that lighten the intensity of its philosophical reflections and make the narrative feel lived rather than staged.

One stylistic choice, however, stands out: each chapter is titled after famous films or literary works — from Working Girl to The Shawshank Redemption, La La Land, and The Three Musketeers. While creative, this device sometimes feels distracting and a little confusing, pulling the reader’s attention away from the story itself. A simpler titling approach might have allowed the narrative to breathe more naturally. But given the story was so gripping, I just skipped them.

Pragya Panda’s prose blends emotional honesty with sharp social commentary, though at times the narrative shifts abruptly between memoir and philosophy. Characters like Priya shine with boldness, while others remain lightly drawn, leaving the story uneven in places. Yet the fearless voice, the flashes of wit, and the elegance of its style make the book engrossing.

Brief Forever lingers as a debut that is both audacious and polished — less about forever, more about the brief, brilliant sparks that define us. And it does so with a rare mix of honesty, humor, friendship, and undeniable class.

Tribute to Praveen Anna @ Himalayan Memories

North Kailash

 South Kailash

Praveen Anna was more than our leader and guide; he was the quiet rhythm that steadied our Kailash Mansarovar - Himalayan steps. In the silence of the peaks, his presence reminded us that strength can be gentle, and guidance can be wordless.

To me, he meant trust — the kind that lets you walk into the unknown without fear. He meant simplicity — a reminder that life’s grandeur lies in shared laughter, warm tea, and patient listening. He meant anchor — when the valleys seemed too deep, his calm steadiness held us firm. So many memories of him linger.

With our group it was his second Sajourn in 2018. Soon after his first trip he joined our team. In our flight from Nepal, I had the opportunity to be seated next to him, and we had meaningful chat. It was amazing to see how after the walk to Kailash, he immediately started dancing with joy. The various games he made us play is fresh in my mind and feel like just yesterday though it has been 8 years. I can still hear him echo endurance, when he asked each of us to explain our feelings in one word.

Ever since the news reached us of his being missing in the recent China flash flood at the Immigration Centre, my heart carries grief. Grief, because the mountains have lost a soul who mirrored their quiet majesty.

Praveen Anna’s memory will remain like the Himalayas themselves — vast yet humble, enduring yet compassionate. His absence leaves a silence, may his spirit continue to guide those who loved him.

May his journey onward be as peaceful as the mountain dawns he cherished. May those who mourn him find strength in remembering the gentleness he embodied.

Akhilesha (Pravin) Anna | Online-Tribute.com

 This year Praveen Anna was with the S3 group of which, 22 were from the United States, 12 from Canada, 11 from Australia, 9 from the United Kingdom, 4 from Germany, 3 from France, 3 from Nepal, 2 from Netherlands, 2 from New Zealand, 2 from Singapore, 2 from Spain, one each from Finland, Hungary, Israel, Lithuania, Philippines, Portugal, Russia, and South Africa. A total of 80, this includes 34 male and 46 female participants and a few other volunteers who were camped in the nearby hotels... three volunteers and one doctor. But we have no official confirmation of any kind. But looking at the scale of destruction, it looks bad. 

Can we give weightage for 'hope'. This is all what we aspire for. Hope. That someone who we cared for is in a better place.....🙏🏼

Bethlehem Kudumba Unit

 

Bethlehem Kudumba Unit Review by Baradwaj Rangan | Girish AD | Nivin Pauly | Mamitha Baiju - So well put, Girish AD is a behavioural Scientist with a movie camera. 

As Sudhir Srinivasan says, While watching Bethlehem Kudumba Unit, I kept thinking of Victor Hugo's quote on love "The first symptom of true love in a young man is timidity, in a young girl, it is boldness" You see this in the movie, which showcases a normal life in Kerala town. People have their problems, but friends with their wit and one liner comics that we call 'Chali' make life easy to sail through. 

Like Premalu style, which was focused on younger generation, this movie adapts similar style for all ages, if it was a trip to Hyderabad there, her we have the trip to Goa.  The songs, laughter, joy, sorrow, sadness, fights and the life going on...

Humor between isolation and pain is what keeps the movie attractive for people of all ages. Those who have gone through such situation can relate, those who have not, would feel, if I could go through these situations.... 

It's a sweet film, the seems to believe in destiny, loved the match making by a nun played by Bindu Paniker, reminded me of similar visits that Jisha often quote. 

One liner like 'Athenthaa…nighakk justine nottamondaayrnnaa', 'Nee ithunnu enthelum kazhicho', 'Uru cheriye urmbu kadikuna vedenaye ullu' make you wonder where these spontaneous, as my cousins say during our conversation and we mock them by saying 'chali' or where these part of the script? 

Ashley and Justin connect over guitar string, laptop, music 'The Breeders' and their song 'Off you', cassettes. Roome No 17 and MP3King reminded me of Room No 2. 

A delightful and charming movie experience, proving love would never go out of fashion and when combined with family and friends, we need nothing more. BKU is kidu. Is there anything special? Nothing and that is special.  Cause there is never a dull moment, except may be the long fight and Nivin slapping his brother like that.... that again reminded me of muttachan slapping me, is that what people here thought was the right thing and way to teach youngsters? 

Another speciality of the movie is that its shot in and around Chalakudy, Karkutty, Puthenchera, Angamali...Nammadee Nadu. 

Highlight and what's different is this: Soulmates - Oru Saathukkudi Pranayam | Joel Davis | Justin Davis | Malayalam Romantic Short Film

Leadership & Branding

 

https://youtu.be/96MzU-bkCxY?si=lnageTjaM1lmjEqL

Thank you Sir, for sharing the amazing discussion and showing through your own journey that endurance, discipline, and clarity are the real blueprint for building something lasting.. Listened to your Legacy Blueprint discussion what stood out was the distinction you drew between branding and legacy. Branding is about visibility and positioning, but legacy is about endurance, consistency, and the impact that lasts beyond campaigns. Your emphasis on being consistent and persistent, never giving up, and putting your head down to work day and night captures the essence of how true legacies are built.

I was inspired by your cycling journeys how it is the input and boardroom is the output for the daily activities, your books, wise view : Leadership conversation, which mirror the same ethos: nothing great was ever built by accident, but through persistence, planning, and hard work. Preparation and practice go hand in hand, and as you said, we need not pilot first and implement later - both can go hand in hand; — even with constraints of time and money inspiration from "The man who saw tomorrow". Indeed Life is very short. Leadership needs empathy and accountability -  related to the article today key to building Leadership capital. Taking accountability is where leaving/living legacy begin. Leaders should not give up very soon, do not overromantise technology, but get deep into things, build value. 

It was great to listen to the model of moving brand ownership and how that too is cyclic. Is it right to infer that Scale, in the end, is equal to branding, and legacy is what remains when the campaigns fade?

It is partly right that legacy is what remains when campaigns fade  but legacy is a byproduct of credibility that you build through your campaigns and performance, going hand in hand. The three B's of branding: Be - ing; Become - ing; Broadcasting. 

Credibility creates visibility that lasts. 🙏 Amazing and thought provoking a must watch for Thought Leadership.

Consistency is the key. Branding is not proportional to the money you spend on campaigns.

Against the Gods: The Remarkable Story of Risk” ~ Peter L. Bernstein

“Against the Gods: The Remarkable Story of Risk” by Peter L. Bernstein is a landmark book that traces the history of probability and risk management — showing how humanity moved from superstition and fate to scientific methods of quantifying uncertainty. It explains how probability theory, insurance, and financial markets evolved, and why understanding risk is central to modern economics and decision-making.

Core Themes of the Book:

Evolution of Probability

Begins with ancient gambling practices and superstition.

Highlights breakthroughs by mathematicians like Pascal, Fermat, Bernoulli, and Gauss.

Shows how probability became a tool to measure uncertainty.

Birth of Risk Management

Development of actuarial science and insurance.

Rise of financial markets and capitalism.

Role of institutions like Lloyd’s of London in underwriting risk.

Risk in Modern Society

Application of probability in economics, finance, engineering, and public policy.

How risk management influenced events like the Industrial Revolution and Great Depression.

Modern challenges: environmental hazards, technological failures, systemic financial risks.

Human Behavior & Risk

Explores psychology and emotions in decision-making.

Introduces concepts like expected utility and regression to the mean.

Shows how rational models often clash with human irrationality.

Bernstein’s book is not just about mathematics — it’s about how risk defines progress. By learning to measure and manage uncertainty, humanity unlocked insurance, investment, and innovation. It’s widely regarded as one of the most influential books in finance and economic history.

As you move up the pyramid, both risk and potential return increase, while safety and stability decrease.

The goal is to balance your portfolio wisely — combining secure base investments with moderate and high‑growth options for long‑term wealth creation.

 

This infographic captures Bernstein’s central message: risk moved humanity from fate to forecast. By learning to measure uncertainty, we unlocked insurance, investment, and innovation — shaping civilization itself.