Our mood, temperament, and behavioural style shape how we understand the world and interact with the society around us. Much … More
Category: Human Interest
PUMPKIN IS MORE THAN A CARVING AND SPOOKY SMILE:
I have strong feelings for pumpkins—especially those left shivering in the autumn chill, their faces carved in fright, waiting to … More
Is Gandhi Irrelevant Today?
The day Gandhi was killed, it seems his message of non-violence was buried with him. When he was alive, the … More
Significance of Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
By Promod Puri September 30th, Canada pauses for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation — a solemn day carved … More
What Is Neologism And Why Do We Need It
Neologism means introducing a new word or giving fresh senses to existing ones. In its expanded definition, it also involves … More
ECCENTRIC THOUGHTS MAKE SENSE TOO
Every now and then, when I sit down to write an article—long or short—the subject I choose feels a little … More
MY JOURNEY IS MY MANZIL
As I march forward, my manzil, my destination, keeps moving with me. unfolding itself along the way. It grows and … More
Stop Blaming Nations — Blame the Leaders #HumanizationTrap #WarAndPeace
The Humanization Trap: Blaming Countries, Viruses, and Everything Else Rather Than Leaders
by Promod Puri Why do we blame entire nations for wars and violent conflicts instead of holding the actual individuals … More
ISRAEL’S ONSLAUGHT ON GAZA: SILENCE, INDIFFERENCE, AND DIPLOMATIC TIPTOEING
Israel’s relentless onslaught on Gaza has killed more than 62,000 people so far—half of them women and children—and reduced 70% … More
GOOD DREAMS, BAD DREAMS: DOES FOOD INFLUENCE THEM
Do a good dream or a nightmare have anything to do with what we ate the night before? Is that … More
THE BRAVEHEARTS COVERING THE GAZA GENOCIDE
Israel has killed over 240 journalists in Gaza. Yet, in Western media, this brutal truth barely makes the headlines. The … More
EDIBLE CITY SIDEWALKS AND PARKS: My Idea Ripened With Time!
During my college days in Chandigarh—the City Beautiful—I often pedalled through its well-planned streets and leafy boulevards. Amid the blooming … More
The Case for Interdisciplinary Education And Practices
By Promod Puri In today’s academic and professional world, we live in an era of specialization—often escalating into super-specialization. Every … More
DRINKING WITH A STRAW!
Drinking through a paper or plastic straw? Never quite my sip of water or any beverage. I’ve never been fascinated … More
DENIALISM BLOCKS RATIONAL THINKING
Denialism is the active rejection of established facts due to personal or ideological biases, leading to harmful consequences. Examples include political figures downplaying crises and societal elites ignoring suffering. This psychological phenomenon cultivates echo chambers that prioritize selective truths, hindering rational discourse and polarizing societies, ultimately stalling progress.
Canada’s Doctor Shortage: A Crisis in Healthcare
Canada faces a significant doctor shortage, particularly among family physicians, needing at least 23,000 more healthcare professionals. With only 18 medical schools producing about 3,000 graduates yearly, many qualified Canadian students are left without spots and seek foreign education. Regulatory barriers further hinder foreign-trained doctors from practicing in Canada, exacerbating the crisis.
DEAD ENDS TO FREE THINKING:
Promod Puri argues that rigid beliefs in religious and ideological systems can limit intellectual exploration. Instead of promoting free thinking, these doctrines may trap individuals in narrow pathways, hindering inquiry and leading to intellectual dead ends that fail to address personal and societal welfare effectively.
Reading of the Self: An Advanced Study Beyond Formal Education
Formal education—from the ABCs of grade school to the PhDs of academia—builds the framework of knowledge. It equips us with … More
Intellectuals Write, But Who’s Reading?
Award-winning and internationally acclaimed, Arundhati Roy’s thought-provoking essays pierce through the fog of propaganda—but rarely land where they’re most needed. … More
U.S. YOUTH SHOW LACK OF INTEREST IN JOINING ARMED FORCES
The U.S. Army celebrates its 250th birthday on Saturday, June 14, 2025, with a parade in Washington, D.C., in which … More
FRIENDS AND HOBBIES: LIFE’S BEST SIDEKICKS
In a split second—or sometimes even sooner than a WhatsApp notification—memories can pull us into the time machine and drop … More
DISCOVERING THE SELF: “WHO AM I REALLY?”
The quest to discover the Self is not merely a philosophical exercise or a mere curiosity. It is about identifying … More
ISRAELI SOLDIERS: An Army Of Savages
As I witness the haunting flashes of death and destruction, of skeletal children with sunken eyes and trembling hands stretching … More
AI: A Helping Hand in Writing:
Writing starts with an idea, inspired by observations, readings, or experiences. Once conceived, ideas require structure and clarity, often enhanced by AI, which provides suggestions and insights. However, writers must critically evaluate AI-generated content for accuracy. When used wisely, AI becomes a valuable collaborator in the writing process.
WAR: A CATASTROPHIC CRIME AGAINST HUMANITY CAMOUFLAGED IN FLAGS AND ANTHEMS
By Promod Puri Let me speak out of the box—and from the heart—about a word we rarely associate with strength: … More
DOLLAR STORES AND TARIFF: THE REAL COST OF TRUMP’S TRADE TANTRUM
Who gets hit hardest when tariff bullets ricochet between the USA and China? It’s not the billionaires playing geopolitical chess, … More
UTOPIA AND DYSTOPIA
By Promod Puri Utopia is the imagined blueprint of a perfect society—where harmony, justice, equality, and abundance flourish for all. … More
HAPPY NATIONS OF THE WORLD
The World Happiness Report 2025 reveals Finland as the happiest country for the eighth consecutive year, followed by Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden in the top four. Afghanistan ranks lowest at 147th, while India improves to 118th. Factors influencing happiness include GDP, social support, and freedom, emphasizing that happiness transcends financial wealth.
THE CASE FOR ABOLISHING ARMED FORCES AND DISMANTLING WEAPONS FACTORIES
By Promod Puri War is humanity’s most tragic addiction — a ritual of destruction masked as a path to peace. … More
THE “NOW” MOMENT GETS ITS VALUATION FROM THE PAST AND FUTURE
The “now” moment is often celebrated as a state of pure being, detached from the burdens of the past and … More
SOME COOL THOUGHTS ON ANGER
Anger flows like water through a hose—rushing out with force, sometimes uncontrollable, and shaped by the pressure of our emotions, … More
NARCISSIST BEHAVIOUR: WHEN SELF-LOVE GOES INTO OVERDRIVE
Ever since Trump and Modi strutted onto the world stage, the word narcissism has been getting more airtime than ever. … More
HUMANS AND ANIMALS!
We all have feelings—love, fear, joy, sorrow.We all experience pain, comfort, and longing.We all cry in anguish, laugh in delight. … More
WHAT A METAMORPHOSIS WE BABY BOOMERS HAVE SEEN
I belong to the era famously known as the Baby Boomers. But now, I’m neither a baby nor a boomer … More
WHY WE LOVE CANADA:
When I wake up early in the morning, the first thing I see from my bedroom window is the Canadian … More
The Global Impact of Man-Made Fences
Fences symbolize division, separating lands and people worldwide. Rising barriers, like the U.S.-Mexico wall and Europe’s high-tech borders, highlight a growing obsession with safety at the expense of humanity. Despite technological advancements, emotional and moral growth lags behind. A call to replace fences with bridges advocates for global understanding and coexistence.
From Baby Boomers To Gen Beta
The trend of labeling generations began with the Baby Boomers in the 1960s, followed by Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z, … More
Reading, Writing, and Thinking: A Symbiotic Connection
Reading is more than just interpreting words; it is a cognitive process that leads to acquiring information, knowledge, understanding, and … More
STUDY OF THE SELF A SIGNIFICANT ASPECT OF LIFE
The Sufi poet and philosopher Bulleh Shah (1680–1757) once said: “Parh parh alim fazil hoya, kadey apnay aap nun parhya … More
DESPITE TREMENDOUS SUCCESS IN HINDI FILM SONGS, HIS LOVE FOR PUNJABI SONGS NEVER WANED
Mohammad Rafi, the undisputed king of male playback singing in Hindi cinema for decades, had a profound and enduring love … More
Trillion-dollar Global Defense Budget: A Betrayal Of Humanity
The United States steadfastly holds its position as the world’s most powerful nation, wielding an unmatched defense budget of $811.6 … More
I’M ONLY A MASON, CEMENTING WORDS IN MY 2024 WRITING SPREE
In 2024, Promod Puri’s passion for writing evolved into a comprehensive exploration of diverse topics, including politics, philosophy, music, and societal issues like immigration and refugee crises. His articles reflect his engagement with legends and humanitarian themes, emphasizing rationalism and humanism while fostering dialogue and connection through his words.
Some of the interesting and inciting thoughts that can be quotes I wrote in 2024:
If one has understood God through rituals and customs, then what has been understood is not God. The concept and … More
BEYOND THINKING: THE BRAIN IS A LIVE PROJECTOR TO DISPLAY IMAGES
The human brain possesses an extraordinary ability to create vivid mental imagery, enabling us to envision experiences, characters, and spiritual symbols without direct sensory input. This creativity is pivotal in various aspects of life, including art and spirituality, as it allows for a deeper understanding and connection to both reality and the divine.
Remembering Noor Jehan: The Voice That Bridged Borders
Today, December 23, commemorates the death anniversary of Noor Jehan, a legendary singer celebrated for her influence in India and Pakistan. Known as the “Queen of Melody,” her timeless songs evoke nostalgia and emotional depth. Noor Jehan’s legacy endures, uniting people through her enchanting music long after her passing in 2000.
The Biology Behind Thoughts: Understanding Neurons
The genesis of thought involves complex interactions among the brain’s 100 billion neurons, which communicate through synapses. However, the exact triggers and unique characteristics of thoughts remain unexplained. Three hypotheses suggest thoughts arise from subconscious activity, biological processes, or energy conversion. Understanding thought’s origins is vital for grasping its influence on destiny.
THOUGHT, TASK, AND TIME: TUCKED TOGETHER
The use of time from waking to sleeping showcases our daily routines filled with work, leisure, and chores, highlighting the balance between productivity and idleness. With about 33% of life dedicated to sleep, the relevance of thoughts persists even during inactivity. Engaging in self-reflection can transform time into a journey of purpose.
Vancouver: A City of Homelessness Beneath Its Global Standing
Vancouver, often hailed as one of the world’s most liveable cities, faces a stark contrast with a growing homelessness crisis. Beneath its affluent surface, many individuals struggle for shelter amidst harsh winters. This dire situation highlights a troubling reality: the city’s reputation overlooks the plight of its most vulnerable residents, questioning who truly benefits from its accolades.
The Timeless Poetry of Shailendra
Poet Shailendra, renowned for his profound yet simple poetry, left a lasting impact on Hindi cinema alongside Raj Kapoor and Mukesh. His evocative songs, like ‘shikva’ to God, express deep human emotions. Shailendra’s legacy endures through timeless lyrics that resonate with joy and sorrow, celebrated posthumously with a commemorative stamp.
Besides Humans, Everything Has Consciousness Too
The piece explores the nature of consciousness and its relationship with physical matter, contrasting two theories: Dualism, which sees consciousness as an external force, and Panpsychism, which posits that consciousness exists inherently in all matter. Both theories suggest a fundamental interconnectedness, challenging perceptions of awareness in the universe.
Did Talcum Powder Play a Role in Zakir Hussain’s Death?
Zakir Hussain, the celebrated tabla maestro and five-time Grammy winner, passed away due to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in San Francisco. His prolonged exposure to talcum powder, essential for tabla maintenance, likely contributed to his lung condition. IPF leads to irreversible lung damage, severely hindering respiratory function over time.
Merriam-Webster Picks “Polarization” as 2024 Word of the Year
Polarization is a buzzword capturing the divisive dynamics of modern society, especially evident in political, social, and pandemic-related discussions. It creates conflict, transforming gatherings into debates, yet also promotes diverse viewpoints crucial for democracy. Ultimately, polarization embodies the extreme tensions of our times, alternating between being a hero and a villain.
The Hidden Costs of Fast Fashion: Environmental Impact Revealed
The traditional essentials of “roti, kapprda, aur makaan” have transformed clothing from necessity to indulgence. The fast fashion industry, worth $100 billion in 2022, contributes to overconsumption and environmental damage. As production rises, sustainable choices become vital. Opting for timeless pieces rather than fleeting trends can mitigate fashion’s ecological impact.
Discover Kohlrabi: The Nutritional Powerhouse
Kohlrabi, or gundd-gobi and karam saag, is a nutritious vegetable often overlooked. Both its bulb and leaves are delicious when cooked together, traditionally with mustard oil. Enjoyed with rice using fingers, kohlrabi symbolizes a connection to culinary heritage and embodies the simple joys of home-cooked meals.
Finding the True Self in Authenticity
The concept of authenticity extends beyond mere culinary labels to probe the essence of individual identity. A crisis of inauthenticity challenges us as societal norms shape our identities into unrecognizable forms. Reclaiming authenticity requires introspection and courage, aligning actions with true values, and embracing vulnerability—a gradual journey towards self-truth.
The Power of Appreciation in Daily Life
The author highlights the importance of appreciation in our lives, noting its ability to uplift spirits and strengthen relationships. Genuine acknowledgment, whether big or small, fosters positivity and well-being by triggering feel-good chemicals in the brain. He encourages practicing gratitude daily and recognizing our own achievements as essential self-care.
The Evolution of Reading: From Books to Life
In recent years, the way we consume information has transformed significantly, with the internet providing speed and convenience that outpace traditional mediums like books and magazines. Reading encompasses not just printed words but also self-reflection and life interpretation. The interplay of reading and writing fosters deeper understanding and connection with ourselves and the world.
Why Do We Call It Soccer in the U.S.?
The American version of football has transformed significantly from its origins, resembling a uniquely shaped “ball” that is rarely kicked. While the global community refers to the sport as football, Americans call it soccer, leading to widespread confusion. The author humorously critiques the complexities and oddities of American football.
The Importance of Maintenance in Daily Life
Maintenance is essential for personal health, gadgets, and society, acting as a preventative measure to avert larger crises. Whether managing physical possessions or nurturing relationships, maintenance ensures life functions smoothly. However, it also reflects societal issues, as imbalanced maintenance can perpetuate social inequalities. Embracing maintenance fosters balance and harmony in life.
Understanding World Toilet Day: A Global Call to Action
World Toilet Day on November 19 highlights the urgent need for safe sanitation access, with 3.6 billion people lacking hygienic toilets. The UN aims for universal access by 2030. Issues like climate change and conflict exacerbate this sanitation crisis, leading to health risks and preventable deaths. It’s a crucial call for global action.
Modi and Trump: A Humorous Dialogue
In this humorous dialogue between Narendra Modi and Donald Trump, Modi congratulates Trump and jokes about supporting him through religious rituals. They bond over their political slogans while discussing presidential pardons and Modi’s cultural practices, including cleansing sins in the Ganga River. The conversation highlights their friendship with playful banter.
Remembrance Day: Honoring Lives and Questioning Why Wars
It happened on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918: World War I, a … More
The Misuse of “Difference of Opinion” in Matters of Fact
In 2020, at the dawn of the COVID-19 pandemic, I was in a heated Facebook altercation with a friend over … More
WHAT IF NO ONE JOINS THE ARMED FORCES? PEACE IN THE MAKING
This has been my idea and firm conviction for a long time, perhaps since early adulthood: if no young man … More
THE TASTE OF GHEE AND THE HYPE OF PROTEIN
By Promod Puri Growing up in India, ghee was the crown jewel of nutrition—loaded not just with fats but also … More
Wisdom: The Most Significant Virtue of Life
Wisdom, surpassing intelligence and intellectuality, is essential for meaningful living, integrating knowledge, experience, and perception. It requires humility, emotional maturity, and the ability to embrace uncertainty. Wisdom evolves through life experiences, reflection, and ethical considerations. It promotes dialogue, fosters emotional understanding, and is enriched by humor, transcending age and conventional knowledge.
AN AMBIENCE OF INDIA IN CANADA
Canada’s multicultural landscape has embraced Indian culture through the widespread availability of traditional foods like Golgappe, samosas, and dosas in major retailers. Celebrations such as Diwali and Vaisakhi are acknowledged, and Indian cinema influences Canadian entertainment. This fusion illustrates a vibrant connection to Indian roots within Canada, enriching its cultural mosaic.
Cricket’s Monopoly Over Indian Sports
Cricket has dominated India’s sports landscape, overshadowing other deserving sports such as hockey and football. Originally an elite pastime introduced by the British, it has become a national obsession but remains inaccessible to many youth, particularly in rural areas. A diversified approach is necessary to nurture talent across various sports in India.
The Unforgettable Legacy of O.P. Nayyar in Bollywood Music
O.P. Nayyar, a revolutionary Bollywood composer from the 1950s and 1960s, defied industry norms and created a unique sound fusing Western instruments with Indian melodies. Known for his energetic tracks and memorable tunes, his music remains popular today. A generous soul in his later years, he left a lasting legacy celebrated through continued appreciation of his evergreen hits.
Understanding Global Violence and Human Crisis
The world faces unprecedented violence and turmoil across various regions, highlighted by the Gaza conflict, where escalating military actions lead to civilian suffering. Simultaneously, the Russia-Ukraine war continues, and Africa struggles with military coups. Nature also retaliates, as disasters compound human crises, driving millions to flee and amplifying global suffering.
Mindfulness Techniques for Everyday Life
Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment, fostering a peaceful inner space away from distractions. Rooted in Buddhism and popularized by Thich Nhat Hanh, it emphasizes awareness of one’s breath and surroundings. Unlike traditional meditation, mindfulness can be practiced anytime, enhancing one’s connection to the present without emotional overwhelm.
Significance of Perception
Perception is not solely based on sensory experiences; it is also shaped by intellectual and cognitive processes. This article examines how thought, visualization, and learning influence our understanding of the world. Historically, great thinkers have explored perception beyond sensory input, showing its significance in shaping behavior, ethics, and societal norms.
The Hidden Role of Individuals in Climate Change
The author reflects on personal responsibility in the climate crisis, admitting that individual consumption habits contribute significantly to environmental destruction. Despite vocal criticism of corporations and policymakers, the writer recognizes their own hypocrisy in demanding change while perpetuating harmful practices. Real solutions to the crisis begin with personal accountability.
The Timeless Echo of “Aawaz De Kahan Hai” – A Tribute to Noor Jehan
The soulful, melodic refrain of “Aawaz de kahan hai” lures and audibly resides in me like a musical treasure that’s … More
NO BORDERS, NO NATIONS: WE BELONG TO PLANET EARTH RATHER THAN A COUNTRY
Centuries ago, migration was a natural course of life. People moved from one place to another, driven by natural calamities, … More
“BHAGVAN KA DIYA SUBB KUCHCH HAI, BUT I DON’T KNOW WHERE I PUT IT” !!
“BHAGVAN KA DIYA SUBB KUCHCH HAI, BUT I DON’T KNOW WHERE I PUT IT” !! “Bhagvan ka diya se subb … More
Bollywood and the Moon: A Romantic Connection
The moon, or Chanda Mama, holds a cherished place in Indian culture, symbolizing love, magic, and nostalgia. Since childhood, Indians are familiar with this celestial figure, often depicted in folklore and Bollywood songs. The moon serves as a romantic muse, enriching the narratives of Hindi cinema with its presence across numerous iconic melodies.
MY STORY IN CANADA (PART 2) The Link: A Publisher’s Odyssey
My working career in Winnipeg kicked off from the dizzying heights of scaffolding—balanced precariously between running the till at 7-Eleven, … More
MY STORY IN CANADA: IT ALL STARTED IN WINNIPEG
It was October—Winnipeg had a sweet chill in the air, a prelude to the harsher “sweet chills” to come. I … More
“Boys Don’t Cry.”
Yes, they do. And they should. Crying isn’t a “feminine” thing that men should fear or suppress. Take a moment … More
Back Lane Environmentalists: A Tribute to Unsung Heroes
I want to extend my heartfelt salute to the unsung heroes of our city—the trash collectors who roam the back … More
WE HAVE CHOICES ON THE MENU OF LIFE
From surfing the tidal wave of options on Netflix to navigating the labyrinth of a Chinese restaurant menu, life seems … More
THEIR WRITINGS DO NOT REACH THE MASSES
In 1989, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the former Supreme Leader of Iran, issued a fatwa calling for the death of Salman … More
Procrastination and Prioritization: Navigating Life’s Responsibilities and Thrill-Seeking Habits
The morning prayer in school urged us to act promptly. Despite initial procrastination, I’ve learned the value of timely action. Procrastination can be seen as “strategic time management,” but responsibilities accumulate. It’s not just about laziness or poor time management, but mood management. While I aim to overcome procrastination, some thrill-seekers still indulge in it.
The Significance of Friendship: Exploring the Importance of Human Connections
The shift from grade 5 to grade 6 marked a significant milestone, as it saw the transition from learning the alphabet to crafting essays in English. Writing assignments included topics like “A Dog as Man’s Best Friend” and drafting formal applications for leave. The experience emphasized the value of friendships, from casual to best friends, offering mutual support and joy.
OLYMPICS: A BILLION-DOLLAR CIRCUS IN A WORLD OF CHAOS
While wars rage, poverty spreads, and basic necessities like clean water and functional hospitals remain a distant dream for many, … More
“Everything Matters, Nothing Is Important.”
“Everything Matters, Nothing Is Important.” Recently, I spotted this graffiti in Vancouver’s poorest and run-down area. And the message intrigued … More
Car Puja in India: Blessing the New Family Member
In India, when “My new baby” gets a Hindu ceremonial welcome, it’s not a crib delivery. Instead, it’s a car’s … More
INTERNET: A PLATFORM THAT CARRIES BOTH TRUE AND FALSE INFORMATION
by Promod Puri Knowledge, for the most part, is created, developed and distributed. At this helm, we can discern its … More
The Moral Imperative to End Wars and Violent Conflicts:
The cries of humans suffering from poverty, starvation, disease, and epidemics, the devastation of global warming, the desperation of migrants … More
Music Directors who contributed significantly to the success of Hindi films
Sad songs, happy songs, and lively and festive songs have been integral to Hindi films. During the Golden Era of … More
DENIALISM A SERIOUS THREAT TO OUR SOCIETY:
When events unfold before our eyes or are reported through trustworthy sources, yet we deny them as non-events, we may … More
It does not apply in Canada: “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.”
The perception that ethnic communities create ghettos and bring along old baggage while settling in Canada is a stereotyped conception. … More
Drones: The Modern Weapons of Mass Destruction
Once, birds dominated the blue sky. Today, that same sky is often darkened by drones, casting streaks of comet-like lights … More
VEG AND ETHNIC FOODS HELP FIGHT HIGH GROCERY BILL
In Canada today, the issue of escalating food prices has become a focal point of concern. While this is a … More
Unravelling the Dynamics of Thought: From Conception to Destiny
Gandhi’s profound insight echoes through time: thoughts are the architects of destiny. From the moment a thought takes root in … More
Life Is A Game Of Soccer/football
By Promod Puri All our thoughts, perceptions and subsequent actions are influenced and regulated by the consciousness of the “landscape … More
DISCOVERING THE AUTHENTIC IMAGE OF SELF INVOLVES DISCARDING THE ONE CREATED BY SOCIETY
The term “authentic” is an adjective in various contexts, such as authentic cuisine, art, or expression. Beyond denoting genuine or … More
WE’RE ALL FOOLS ONCE IN A WHILE; LET US CELEBRATE APRIL FOOL’S DAY
Today marks April Fool’s Day on the first day of the month. But let us give the traditional custom of … More