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All We Imagine As Light (2024) Movie Review

2–3 minutes

I wanted to write this review a few days ago, but I needed time to collect the thoughts on the movie. I even let it play in the background to process its slow pace. It beautifully captures the essence of Mumbai, the pouring continuous rain, apartments, local trains, crowded streets, and small shops.

The story focuses on three women: Anu, Prabha, and Parvathy, each at different stages of life. Anu is a carefree teenager, rebellious against societal rules. She secretly meets her boyfriend of different caste despite knowing the challenges. Prabha is married but lives alone. She is kind-hearted and helps others. Parvathy is an older woman who cooks in a hospital pantry and struggles with exploitation at the stay. Prabha support Parvathy to stand up against the injustice.

As the plot unfolds slowly, their frustrations and irritations come to light. Anu feels unsupported by her parents and burdened by societal expectations and pressure like marriage and caste. Prabha is angry at her husband for abandoning her to face life alone. Parvathy resents the oppressive system thrown at her.

The turning point comes when Anu and Prabha help Parvathy move back to her village. Until this moment, the movie feels ordinary, and you might wonder why it was made. It’s like peeping into someone else’s life through a window. But as Parvathy returns to her roots, a sense of relief washes over her. The three women celebrate with a dance. Prabha unknowingly helps her husband, who later apologizes for leaving her. Earlier, a doctor had approached Prabha, but she had refused his advances. She tells Anu, “You can’t escape fate.” Anu then opens up about her boyfriend.

In the final scene, all three women sit together in dim light, sharing laughter, and the movie ends on a warm note.

I did like the way Shiaz opened up and loved the kid with EarPods, dancing. For me, the film felt like a reflection of one person at different stages of life, each finding a way to overcome darkness.

It requires hell lot of patience to watch, but it leaves you with a impact.

Cheers

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Accepting Limits

1–2 minutes

The quote “Being a writer doesn’t necessarily mean you write, it just means you don’t know how to do math” caught my attention while scrolling IG. It made me smile. I can relate to it, but not in the way it sounds.

It’s not that I can’t do math. Math is a powerful tool for solving problems. Everything leads to math in the end. It uses various theories and rules to break down even the most difficult issues, and with the right resources, you can usually find a solution.

However, as you grow, you realize that some problems, no matter how hard you try, just can’t be solved. You can gather all the resources, apply theories and strategies, and still find no resolution. Sometimes, the only conclusion is that some issues are beyond our control.

The best thing you can do is accept that some problems aren’t meant to be solved nor even questioned.

It just takes a little courage in the end!

Cheers!

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Habits

Happy New Year! A new date doesn’t change anything in life. It’s our habits that shape us, either helping us grow or pulling us down. I used to think we could change habits overnight, like flipping a calendar. But that’s not how it works.

Building or changing a habit takes patience and effort. It’s not always a straight path, lot messier. You might slip, but it’s important to have the courage to try again. Atomic Habits helps in understanding the concept behind it.

Old Habits Die Hard

This year, I don’t want to make a list of resolutions only to forget them in a few days. Instead, I want to focus on building one habit at a time and sticking to it. Before that, let me try with realistic vision board, so that I don’t cry at the ones that doesn’t happen.

What are your resolutions for this year?

Cheers

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#DecodeAgri11: saccharata vs. indurata!

1–2 minutes

When we obsess over current trends, we often miss what we’ve left behind. Recently, I’ve noticed sweet corn (Zea mays var. saccharata) everywhere—in supermarkets, street food stalls, retail shops, and even fields. It’s undeniably tasty and appealing.

A sweet corn
Sweet Corn

This popularity is likely due to consumer preference or the effects of capitalism. However, traditional orange corn (Zea mays var. indurata), which was once common, is now mostly grown for poultry feed.

Indian Corn

Perhaps we’ve developed a fondness for sweetness in everything. I remember a time when orange corn was readily available and a staple in many homes. Now, it feels like it’s slipping away.

Hope I am not the one!

Cheers!

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Kaatru Veliyidai (2017) Movie Review

2–3 minutes

I suddenly felt like rewatching Kaatru Veliyidai during dinner. Maybe because of the song running at the background or attach a different meaning to it. Don’t know! This time, I noticed the finer details after the pandemic with a different lens.

Watched this movie during my postgraduate days but couldn’t recall much of it. Back then, dumb me didn’t have the maturity or understanding I do now. When we watch something, we interpret it through our own experiences and perspectives. The lens I used then was different from the one I use now, and it might change again if I watch it in the future.

Here are some of the things I observed this time:

  • Leela fell in love with her version of VC (through the letters from her brother), but the real VC was different. The movie beautifully highlighted this gap.
  • Leela wanted an equal relationship and respect, while VC was otherwise. She propose hiding behind the mirror.
  • Varun’s behavior was often self-centered. He didn’t realize some of his actions were wrong until others pointed them out. His ego and desire to control Leela or even others stood out in many scenes.
  • The script, dialogue and the careful selection of words – beautifully done
  • The conversation between Ilyas and Nidhi stood out and bring out the clarity among the chaos.
  • Recurring use of wind and storms in many scenes
  • Varun’s transformation at the end was well-executed. The self space in the prison would have helped in the realization.

The realization made sense to me. All those changes happened when he was alone in prison. Call it enlightenment or whatever name we want to give it, but growth happens when we’re left with just ourselves. When we sit in that stillness, we see what we’ve been avoiding. Varun was forced into that space, into facing himself, and that’s where the change began.

 ஒளிகளின் தேடல்
என்பதெல்லாம் மௌனத்தில்
முடிகின்றதே

மௌனத்தின்
தேடல் என்பதெல்லாம்
ஞானத்தில் முடிகின்றதே….!

In today’s world, we are constantly surrounded by people and distractions, yet we feel disconnected. Is it possible?

Cheers
PS: Available in Amazon Prime

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Patterns!

1–2 minutes

Patterns. It’s such an interesting word.

Did you know the word pattern comes from the Middle English patron, meaning a model or guide? It’s rooted in the Latin word patronus, which means protector or template.

I’m assuming template here! I’ve never been good at solving aptitude questions, especially those about identifying patterns. Even now, I struggle sometimes. But lately, I’ve started noticing patterns more clearly, both in myself and in the people around me. Not all patterns, just a few.

Some patterns are easy to spot on. They can either help you build something meaningful or quietly break things apart. Other patterns are hidden, and they can drag you down into abyss.

To notice those, you need a new perspective—a third eye or even a person.

Today, I broke a pattern. A small act of kindness from a friend distracted me.

A cartoon-style illustration featuring a girl working on a laptop in three scenes. The first scene shows the girl at her desk with a blog titled "Random Why" on her laptop screen. In the second scene, she is imagining the name "Kanmani" while sitting beside a friendly golden dog. The final scene shows her smiling with the dog as the laptop screen displays "Bruno" and the website "www.randomwhys.com," with a heart symbol expressing affection.

Cute isn’t?

Is it necessary to identify a pattern and shape/break it?

Yes, for the benefit of yourself and others.

The only way to deal with patterns is through awareness. Once you spot them, you can either replace or break them. I know, it’s not easy!

What patterns do you see in yourself?

Cheers

PS: Binge watching Modern Family!

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2024, Wrapped!

2–3 minutes

Merry Christmas! This year felt like it flew by in the blink of an eye, leaving little time to process everything that happened. lol! I didn’t create a wish list or vision board at the start, which made the journey feel both unpredictable. Obviously, life takes unexcepted turns! However, as I look ahead, I’m willing to be more intentional.

My prime goal for 2025, is to focus on the positive aspects of life and let go of negativity. Vision board for 2025, yet to begin but I’m excited. I am going to do some retrospection here! You are allowed to skip this one!

Blog

Books

  • Read: Toilet, Do Epic Shit, The Courage to Be Disliked, The Midnight Library, Atomics Habits (re-read) and Metamorphosis.
  • Currently reading: Nudge and Man’s Search for Meaning, saving them to finish on New Year’s Eve.

Music and Movies

  • Top songs: Apocalypse by CAS and the recent CO2. Spotify and YouTube showed otherwise!
  • Favorite movies: Lover, Perfect Days, 8 AM Metro, Laapataa Ladies, Lubber Pandhu.

Memories

  • January 12th: Cleared my debt.
  • May 21st: Wedding photo that stirred tough emotions.
  • October 20th: Overcame a fear.
  • December 15th: Visited office after years of remote work.

Moments

  • Attended a random wedding.
  • Made conscious choices, including saying no when necessary
  • Taking time for reflection and introspection.
  • Faced moments of manipulation.
  • Met kind souls and paws

These thoughts are not meant to flaunt anything, but rather to express my first attempt at viewing things differently and connecting the dots.

I believe you can do the same to better understand yourself, discovering your likes and dislikes along the way. I hope that things improve, and we all learn to navigate life’s challenges, much like learning to surf the wind with more courage and confidence.

Cheers!

PS: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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Girls will be Girls (2024) Movie Review

2–4 minutes

After a hectic schedule, I finally got some time to watch a thought-provoking film. Interestingly, this wasn’t recommended to me. I watched it while surfing through Prime Video. Perhaps it was the intriguing title that caught me in. Though I don’t want to dig deeply into movie, this one made me to reflect on the lives of the women in this story

Bansal, the Principal
Bansal represents the rigidity of a system she seems to have inherited. She is shown as a strict disciplinarian who enforces rules on the girls, dictating how they should dress, who they should interact with, and how they must behave. Ironically, she advises them to ignore boys’ misbehavior rather than addressing it. Initially, Bansal appears harsh, even suspending students for their behavior. However, she later hands over the key to Sri, indicating a shift in perspective or priorities.

Priya
Though her role in the movie is brief, Priya’s character exudes assertiveness and rebellion attitude.

Anila
Anila is beautifully portrayed as both a mother and a woman striving to reclaim her identity. Married young, she navigates a void in her life, with minimal meaningful conversations in her marriage. Mostly about the finances! The movie highlights her attempts to challenge societal norms, encouraging her daughter to dress freely, protecting her from imposed restrictions, and trying to break away from traditions. While she seeks to connect with her daughter and be the “good mom,” she finds herself drawn to Sri’s attention, messing the whole journey.

Mira
Mira, the movie’s lead, is the perfect fit for her role as the head prefect. A disciplined, high-achieving student. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she develops feelings for Sri, a new NRI student. Mira’s struggles are clearly portrayed as she balances her academics, peer pressure, challenges of a relationship and the jealous . Her once strong discipline falters, especially when her boyfriend Sri grows close to her mother, Anila. Mira’s journey subtly reveals the importance of education and self-awareness. Looking back, perhaps she ignored the red flags, such as Sri insisting she “sit properly” when others were taking photos or he could’ve them not to take. Girls will be Girls, maybe the title suits well, Lol!

One standout scene shown was the students assuming adult roles. The male students were chasing mira and it was quite scary to watch. They portrayed dominance, patriarchy, and fear. I am not quite sure off what the director wants to say!

The climax was understated yet impactful. Mira’s intelligence shines as she identifies Sri’s manipulative tactics, realizing he uses people for his benefit. In the end, the film beautifully captures how both mother and daughter find solace in each other, offering the attention and understanding they both need.

This movie was simple yet powerful exploration of relationships, societal expectations, and self-discovery. Anila’s perspective could have been explored more deeply to make up the narrative as a whole. Available in Amazon Prime! Not everyone’s cup of coffee! Let me know your thoughts in the comment section!

Cheers

PS: Exclusively for subscribers

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Shared Abundance!

1–2 minutes

I’ve often found myself quoting The Courage to Be Disliked. That book has left a huge impact on me, and its lessons resonate deeply with my everyday experiences. One of its ideas that came up today was this, “you feel content only when you’re useful to someone”.

For a long time, I believed that giving often drains the giver. But now, I see it differently. it’s less about being drained and more about being filled. When you give from a place of fullness, that sense of fulfillment doesn’t fade or deplete. Instead, it grows and flows forward.

Maybe, giving is a cycle. The more you fill others, the more you’re filled in return. It doesn’t end tho! it’s an ongoing process. At its core, giving brings happiness, not just to the receiver but also to the giver.

Problems arise when the giver expects something in return. Just give and keep giving! Anyway, you’ll be filled by other cups along the way.

So, how do I give? I get filled by the kindness of a few good people, and sometimes, I pass that kindness on.

Is giving selfish? Absolutely! Because it leaves you feeling content in the end.

Cheers

PS: Tales from a different Pin Code !

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Zen

1–2 minutes

Decluttering sounds good when life feels overwhelming, especially when life’s chaos is hitting peak levels.

But staying calm in the middle of it?

Oh, that’s a whole different game.

You’ll need the patience of a saint to turn down the adrenaline and cortisol rushing through your veins. Sure, your sympathetic nervous system is ready to throw a tantrum, but nope, you’ve got to flip it and act all logical and composed, even when everything around you screams, Lose it already!

Damn!

But stay calm and you’ll last longer to deal with more stress like this!

Cheers

PS: Feliz fiestas !

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Juggling Priorities!

1–2 minutes

Does life ever slow down? I don’t think so!

As we age, time often feels like it’s slipping away. Everything demands attention. Career, health, family, finances, self-care, and relationships (if any, lol). It can feel like life is a constant juggling act, with no room to pause. Does it slow down? I doubt!

There’s a common notion that effective time management is simply a skill. You can see lot of webinars and courses available. But in practice, managing priorities often requires trade-offs! Sometimes, you have to spend money to save time. It’s less about perfection and more about who juggle their priorities carefully.

The other day, I checked my website analytics. I don’t look at them often, maybe once or twice a week. The graph made me think. It showed my habits. You might see as well!

A graph showing peaks and lows on different dates.

Guilty as charged! Some days, I’m fully engaged (peaks) and present, other days, I disappear (flats) for 10 – 15 days. Then, suddenly some inspiration hits, and I dive back in.

Its been a week since I touched the book! Hoping to read!

It’s not that reading or writing isn’t important. It is. but are just one of many priorities, often shifted around with others. You simply need to master the art of juggling between them!

With that said, which is better? Juggling priorities or maintaining consistency?

And how do you balance?

Cheers

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Weekend Movie Picks!

2–3 minutes

It’s been almost 20 days since I wrote my last movie blog. I’ve watched a few movies since then and even thought of writing, but the blank screen stopped me every time. Tho, I was little occupied, I managed to watch two new ones and even rewatched an old favorite. These three movies are perfect for a weekend watch.

I also started a K-drama called Brewing Love. After 3–4 episodes, I decided not to continue. Strange, I know! Anyway, here are my recommendations for this weekend!

KD (2019)

This delightful movie takes me back to the first COVID lockdown in 2020. Movies was my coping mechanism back then. It’s heartwarming and filled with warmth. The story revolves around an old man rediscovering his inner child through a little boy’s company. Their bond is refreshing and pure bliss to watch. The small things they do for each other make the movie special. I won’t spoil it, watch it yourself. It’s available on Netflix and Amazon. Highly recommended!

Kishkindha Kandam (2024)

Initially, I thought this movie would be about monkeys, given the title. But it turned out to be very different and surprisingly good. The story explores the power of memory. Unlike many movies that deal with lost or unwanted memories, this one shows how Appu Pillai has gains the ability to retrieve and delete memories. Though he didn’t wish for this power, curiosity drives him to uncover and destroy parts of his life’s memories. It’s available on Amazon.

Lucky Bhaskar (2024)

This is a great entertainer. I’m unsure if it’s based on a true story, but the plot draws inspiration from Harshad Mehta’s case. The movie portrays middle class mentality and struggles very well. One of the key messages that I understood from the movie is that winners know when to quit. The dialogues are strong and relatable. Maybe, Dulquer’s hairstyle could’ve been better. It’s available on Netflix.

Cheers

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Crimson Bloom

A white rose bounded by thorns sharp as secrets,
She reached out ignoring the risk, hope over fear.
Soft petals, pure and untouched, waiting for a love.
Thorn, sharp and bright whispered of what could be,
Each drop of blood a story untold.


The rose watched her silent, still and cold
,
Promising everything, yet offering emptiness
Her fingers traced its delicate edge, feeling the pain of too much.
Droplets of red slowly painting the white as crimson,
Turning beauty into something raw with each wound.


The thorns kept their promising future,

Singing, dancing between touch and distance.
She bled with agony, wondering as love or the price of belief
Each tender tear, white turning red, unforgotten,
Her heart caught between what is and what might be,

If pain is love or love's cruel will
Between the thorns and the rose grace, she dwells red!
Bleeding, believing, breaking, and becoming.

Cheers

PS: Wanna edit but ‘m done for now!

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KISS

Take your pick!

Keep It Short and Sweet or Keep It Simple, Stupid!

I’ve subscribed to a mix of newsletters, some long, some short. While I don’t want to unsubscribe, I often find it hard to make time to read them. Instead, I usually skim through and only dive deeper if something grabs my attention. But when it comes to Seth Godin’s emails, I never miss them. I either open them right away or read them straight from the notification bar.

This habit reminds me of something my boss once said about email writing. Back then, I wrote formal, corporate style emails with phrases like “Dear…” and “Hope this mail finds you well,” followed by neatly structured sentences. One day, he told me, “Your current job involves communicating with busy people. Keep your emails concise and to the point.”

Now I see why I’m drawn to Seth Godin’s newsletters. They’re short and impactful. I also prefer keeping my writing brief these days. That doesn’t mean I’m busy or will avoid longer pieces. I’ll still write them when the subject demands it. What about you?

Cheers!

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