Wall School Journal

RELEVANCE RENNAISANCE • ROOM FOR BALLADS • STUDENT ROUNDTABLE
DEAR DIARY • LETTER TO MY YOUNGER SELF • POP CULTURE

DREAMER'S GAZETTE

AFGJI

SOPHOMORE

ISSUE

MUNROE ISLAND, KERALA

2021 - 2022

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SOPHOMORE

ISSUE

WSJafgji
2021-2022

I STAND TALL UNDER THE BLUE
Photograph by Akanksha Chaudhary, XI-B

01 06 A Student From the lens of 34
Editor's Desk Room for Roundtable. the photograpers. Editors' Pick
Ballads
02 Inner poets taking 18 25 See what our
Contributors a tour of the often Dear Diary: Letter to My editors are eyeing.
suppressed, The Teenage Younger Self
03 feelings. Chronicles Alka Ma'am writes 35
Relevance Special section to Junior Alka but Dreamers'
Renaissance 13 penned by the it resonates with Gazette
Eleventh grade Mahila eleventh graders many more. Twelfth graders
students find their Prashasan featuring one's looking forward.
voice in morality. Women dearest thoughts. 27 Future they seek,
Things that still Empowerment, Pop Culture ambitions they
matter. Street Food 23 Hope you're not behold.
and Bollywood. Galerie bored already?

ED CABOVE
“Life happened” - I cried when she
asked the question for the hundredth Khristia Laiphrakpam,
time. Although her expression changed, XI-B
my emotions stayed the same. After let-
ting my dried tears fall, I found myself RIGHT
wondering: why is life considered beau- Anoskaa Barui, XII-D
tiful when it leaves you with appalling
encounters and unwelcome situations?

It is only now that I have the answer that had es- R
caped me.
Life is beautiful; I had just judged the word differ-
ently. Beautiful is inadequacy, beautiful are the flaws
and that is what makes us all beautiful in our ways.
This ‘school from home’ of two years kept me away
from school but brought me closer to myself. In the
midst of my growing pain, I felt the ache of matur-
ing. Having experienced the beautiful agony, I now
have a checklist of dos and don’ts for the subsequent.
My life has darted at me lemons -now and then, but
I foster all the shortcomings I have had. I have learnt
to be stronger and more resilient against them.

A value that my life has instilled in me, gratitude is Our Editorial team is grateful for all the insightful
without question the most pertinent. Amidst every- inputs we received from our contributors. There was
thing that was going on and out of place, I under- much to do on this voyage and much more to learn.
stood how vital it is to acknowledge the lent hands. I found comfort in handling the bureau with my
During the execution of this piece, I received galore co-editor. It relieved me to know I am not alone in
counsel in presenting my best work. It has been a this skirmish. It is true, “life does happen and it hap-
privilege to have an Editorial Board that includes pens for a reason.”
an excellent mentor and a benevolent senior. I find Front Cover: Soumil, XII-B
them to be a great asset to my journey of sharpening Back Cover: Debangshu Roy, XI-B
my tips. The former taught me how to stand on my
own feet and take responsibility efficiently and the
latter helped me overcome the obstacles on the way
no less than an empathising colleague.

C O N TPRINCIPAL VICE-PRINCIPAL

Ms Poonam S Rampal Ms Rashmi Soota

R IEDUCATOR-IN-CHARGE B UMENTOR-DESIGNER
Ms Alka Singh Soumil 'Sawmill'
CONTENT EDITOR R SDESIGNER
Debangshu Roy
T OAkanshaChaudhary

rreenlAneravtiicasleansnccee

FLAMES OF ANGUISH
Photograph by Satyam Kumar, XII-B

Our imagination is the only limit to what we can
hope to have in the future.
Charles Kettering

Music and Behaviour

BY ADITYA PANDEY, XI-B

Music is powerful yet very soothing. It’s a ception i.e. the brain’s ability to interpret and
wonderful gift to humanity that has a magi- create impression of sounds. Music has been
cal effect on the human psyche. Most of us scientifically proven to have a powerful effect
will agree that listening to music can almost on the brain. Recent research has shown that
instantly change our mood. It lifts our energy music can aid in many aspects of overall brain
level, stimulates and inspires us and boosts functioning, including pain reduction, stress
our performance. Did you know? Listening to relief, memory and brain injuries. Scientists
music causes the brain to release a feel-good have also found that music stimulates larger
chemical called Dopamine. Music evokes stretches of the brain than any other human
emotions that are understood cross-culturally. function.
The Mozart Effect claims enhancement of IQ
may not be 100% correct but data does con- Rhythmic music/beat perception helps to ini-
firm that music enhances mathematical ability, tiate and coordinate motor movements in cer-
temporal reasoning, memory attention and tain motor disorders like Parkinson’s Disease.
language. Music can tap events and memories of the
past to help patients of Alzheimer's disease
Musicians are better able to detect small to remember songs from their erstwhile. All
differences and comprehend the specific in all, music can make us dance like nobody's
frequency of speech in a noisy background watching, sing until our throat gets sore and
than non-musicians. Concentration on distin- uncontrollably tap our feet to the rhythm of our
guishing pitches, volumes, contours of scores favourite song. So, let there be music to spoil
and fine frequencies improve auditory per- yourself with!

Differing Opinions Make Us
Unique

BY ALISHA SHUKLA, XI-D

Humans are all unique in their own way. Differ- and debates are unavoidable with such variety.
ent thought processes, different perspectives Usually, it's healthy but sometimes people feel
on life, different approaches to situations, etc. offended when people disagree with them.
distinguish us from one another. Discussions They are sensitive to religion, gender, cultural

beliefs etc. and often target each other. In “Differences are roots, conflicts are fruits;
online discussion forums, people often ask fruits are sweet. Seldom, stale.” We need to
questions without even knowing each other. realise that we are all unique. Despite having
Although we stand firm about our side, we different views on a topic, neither of us is
often forget that this is the case on the other wrong. In actuality, debates towards a cause
side as well. Ultimately, our thought processes, are very healthy. We are all human beings, not
cultural beliefs, norms and other characteris- clones.
tics are impacted by our social surroundings.

Life is a Journey and Death is
the Destiny

BY VRIDDHI BHARDWAJ, XI-B

Death is the most horrific thing one can ever one of them, but that doesn't mean destiny will
contemplate, whether it's their own or a loved not allow us to meet again. You see, that is
one’s. It is an unpopular subject that nobody the beauty of our life - we are all destined for
wants to talk about. Death is, however, some- death, just the time may differ. Death simply
what different in my opinion. As outlined means the end of your voyage- you will always
in Bhagavad Gita, Quran and Bible, death is find them on the other side of destiny. Love
the ultimate destiny of souls. Bhagavad Gita holds this destiny together.
states that all the souls of creatures long to
meet the ‘Bhagavad’. According to the Quran, Life is full of ups and downs and death is just
we are mere guests here on earth; once we one of these. Lamenting over someone's death
perish, we depart to our abode, our destiny. is lamenting over the soul's relief. Let the free
Even though death is the very reason why we souls be content with their final destiny. Like I
live, we remain in denial. As ripe fruits are early remember this extract from my previous class,
in danger of falling, mortals when born are al- “Not from weeping nor grieving will any one
ways in danger of death. “Death is the ultimate obtain peace of mind; on the contrary, his pain
boundary of human beings”. will be greater and his body will suffer. He will
make himself sick and pale, yet the dead are
We are emotionally attached to those who live not saved by his lamentation. He who seeks
close by and refer to them as family. Having peace should draw out the arrow of lamenta-
the goal of living with and for that very person tion, complaint and grief. He who has drawn
becomes a subconscious desire. The spiritual out the arrow and has become composed will
journey of Shri Ram was completed with Sita obtain peace of mind; he who has overcome
and that of Hazrat Muhammad with Khadija. all sorrow will become free from sorrow and
There would always be someone who shares be blessed.”
our first laugh and last cry; be it our family,
friends or life partner. Death may have taken

For there is alw room for P O E S Y enough to be it.

ays light, if only we're brave enough to see it. If only we're brave

Amanda Gorman

Forfeited
Humanity

POEM BY
AKANKSHA CHAUDHARY, XI-B

WHERE HAS THE WORLD COME TO, TODAY?

HAVE WE BRUSHED OFF OUR HUMANITY?

OR WERE WE NOT HUMANS FROM THE VERY BEGINNING?
DO WE SEE WHERE IT HAS DRIVEN US?
IT HAS PULLED US AWAY FROM OUR COMMITMENTS.

IS GLOBAL PEACE A MYTH?

IF YES, THEN WHY DO THESE SCROLLS PREACH IT?
IF NOT, THEN WHY ALL THIS HUH!

IS IT TOO IMPORTANT TO HAVE AN UPPER HAND,
WHEN WE KNOW IT COSTS MILLIONS OF IMPECCABLE LIVES?
WHY DO WE NEED TO FEED OUR EGO,
WHEN WE KNOW IT IS PERPETUAL TO COME WITH A PRICE?

WHY CAN’T WE SEE THE FRAGILE, GAINING STRENGTH?
WHY CAN’T WE SEE EQUALITY?
IS IT TOO DIFFICULT OR HUMANLY PARADOXICAL TO GIVE IN?

REMEMBER, WE ARE NOT CRUSHING THE WEAK UNDER OUR CLAWS,
RATHER, WE ARE CHOKING OUR HALF-DONE TOLERANCE.
INTOXICATING OUR BLOODSTREAM WITH GUNPOWDER,
ANTICIPATING DESTRUCTION, NOT THEIRS BUT OURS.

IT IS SADDENING TO KNOW THAT WE AS GLOBAL CITIZENS HAVE

NOTHING IN OUR HANDS.

ALL WE CAN DO IS - CLAMOUR OUT OUR LUNGS WITH

BLOOD-BLOTCHED POSTERS IN OUR HANDS.

CANDLE MARCHES ARE OUR ONLY RESORT.
ALL WE CAN DO IS TO LOOK AT THE FACES OF AUTHORITY AND
HUDDLE UNDER OUR TABLES WHEN THEY SPIT FIRE.

EVERY TICK OF THE CLOCK FEELS LIKE A BREATH EARNED.

EVERY HORRIPILATE STRAND QUESTIONS -

“IS HISTORY GOING TO REPEAT ITSELF?”

THE STUFFED BUNKERS WITNESS THE CRIES OF

AN UNCERTAIN TOMORROW.

WOULD ALL END UP WITH THE SAME FATE AS THEIR

DEPARTED BROTHERS?

THIS FRENZY SEEMS LIKE A COMPELLED CONTROVERSY.

I AM IMPOTENT TO SAY.

THE CAT DEVISE FOR ITS DIVIDEND,
WHILE THE TWO MONKEYS FIGHT OVER THE PIECE OF BREAD.

Ignite HAS RUSTED THE CHAINS.
POEM BY
MANVI SARKAR, XI-A SO, IT IS YOUR TURN TO SPAN YOUR

THEY LOCK YOU IN THE CAGE, WINGS,
AND LIGHT FIRE BENEATH, AND IGNITE YOUR STRENGTH.

YOU TRY TO ESCAPE, FROM THE FIRE YOU WERE
BURNING IN
BUT THEY CHAIN YOUR WINGS,
AND FLY FROM THE GILDED
AND ALL THE SMOKE AROUND, CAGE

CHOKES YOUR LUNGS, JUST LIKE I ONCE DID.
BUT NOTHING BURNS MORE THAN
THEIR BETRAYAL THAT RIPS YOUR SKIN.

BUT THE FIRE STILL BURNS

EVEN AFTER ALL THE WATER YOU THROW.

LIKE THE LOVE YOU GIVE,
IS NEVER ENOUGH,

THEY GIVE THEIR HANDS TO HELP,
JUST TO PUSH YOU DEEP,

WHEN YOU TRY TO RISE,

THERE IS NOTHING YOU SEEK.

AND YOU WONDER HOW THEIR SWORD IS BLUNT

BUT IT STILL HURTS.

WITH THOUSANDS OF WOUNDS
IT SOMEHOW STILL CUTS.

YOU TRY TO FIGURE OUT WHERE YOU WENT WRONG,

UNTIL IT’S TOO LONG,

AND NOW YOU CAN’T BEAR THE PAIN,

BUT WHEN YOU LOOK AROUND,
YOU REALISE THAT THE WATER YOU PUT,

Desires
POEM BY
AKANKSHYA NAYAK, XI-D

UNDYING FLAMES OF DESIRE BURN,
IN THE FATHOMLESS CHASM OF HEART
RISING AND SPREADING, EMBRACING AND
ENCOMPASSING.
DECOMPOSING AND DESTROYING LIFE’S PRIME
PART SPREADING LIKE WILDFIRE SLOWLY AND

STEADILY ENGULFING THE SELF LIKE A DELUGE,

THEY UNVANQUISHED HIS BEING.
LIVING ON THE DEBRIS OF DESIRE SINCE TIME

IMMEMORIAL SHE BUILDS CASTLES IN THE AIR,

BEING AWARE THAT IT CRUMBLES, IN A MOMENT
LIKE A HOUSE OF CARDS.
ONLY A FEW GET FULFILLED TO FUEL AND SUSTAIN
LIFE’S PYRES YET REMAIN UNGRATIFIED,

COUNTLESS DESIRES…
EVERY MOMENT PROPS UP NEW SHOOTS AND

THICKNESSES THE FOREST OF DESIRE
HINDERING LIFE'S EASY COURSE CHALLENGES

HER TO CROSS THE FIRES.

CARRYING THE BURDEN OF DESIRES, HUNG

HEAVY ON LIFE, LIKE A HUNCHBACK, SHE WALKS,

STILL TRYING TO FULFIL AND FEED FOR THEY ARE

PRIMAL DOERS AND DEEDS.

SHE IS A QUEEN WHOSE LIFE IS IN DANGER AND

ESCORTS HER LIKE A FAITHFUL SENTINEL, NEVER

LEAVING HER, EVERYWHERE MAKING LIFE A HELL…
CAN SHE BREAK LOOSE FROM THE SHACKLES OF
DESIRE AND LEAD A FREE AND FORCLAIM LIFE?
CAN SHE RENOUNCE THE DESIRE, SO DEAR AND

FAITHFUL LIKE A YOUNG HUSBAND?

SHOULD SHE KILL THE DESIRE TO END HER

LIFELONG STRIFE?

IF EVEN IT HAPPENS, CAN SHE LIVE AND FARE
WITHOUT THIS FAITHFUL PRIMITIVE TRIBE?

Life of a My March
Teenager Poem

POEM BY POEM BY
ANUSHKA PRADIP, XI-B SNEHA KATIYAR, XI-D

LIFE OF A TEENAGER IS NOT THAT EASY OIIIILIFE AND SPRINGS
AND ZEST.
IT HAS IFS AND BUTS
OF HOLI AND BLOOMS,
TEENAGE STARTS WHEN BUT ALSO TESTS.
CHILDHOOD SHUTS. OF BREAKS, FOR A

LIFE OF A TEENAGER IS SUN AND RAIN, NEW BEGINNING AFTER
SUN SHINES WHEN WE SPEND TIME WITH
THE OLD ONES
FRIENDS,
OF LEARNING TO
REALISATION OF REALITY STEALS PLANTS FROM BE INNOCENT, WHILE

RAIN. NOT BEING NAIVE
OF BIRDS AND BEES AND
LIFE OF A TEENAGER IS A MESS AND PAIN,
THE PAIN OF BEING BULLIED & ALL OF THE BUZZ
OF YOU AND ME, AND THE
MESSED UP ARE THE THINGS THAT
REST OF US.
ADD TO THE CONFUSION. MARCH REMINDS ME OF

HERE I FELL AND LOOKED UP FOR A HAND HOW LOVE STARTS
A REMINDER OF LIFE AND
BUT GRACE’S FATE.
FORMERLY MY DEAREST - IS NOW IN RIVALRY ALL ITS MESSY PARTS.
EVERYONE IS BUSY TAPPING THE BLUE LIGHT
WHILE IGNORING THEIR ‘GOODWILL’ AND FREE

FLIGHT.

LIFE OF A TEENAGER IS REEL AND REAL,
REEL IS THE ACTIVITY,
REAL IS THE RESPONSIBILITY.

LIFE OF A TEENAGER IS NAME AND FAME,
ACHIEVING NAME IS A DREAM,
FAME IS THE FANDOM OF KINGS AND QUEENS.

WHEN TEENAGE STARTS

CHILDHOOD SHUTS THE DREAM.
THIS IS HOW LIFE WORKS
ON A TEENAGER'S DREAM.

A Beautiful
Mind

POEM BY
SNEHA KATIYAR, XI-D

I SCRATCHED MY HEAD AND THOUGHT, Thanks For
WHAT DOES A BEAUTIFUL MIND LOOK LIKE? Making Me
DOES IT HAVE EYES OF EMPATHY AND KINDNESS?
OR TWO CURIOUS HANDS AND BRAVE FEET Strong!
OR A SMILE LIFTING CHEEKS OF HOPE?

IF SO, THE LIST OF INGREDIENTS FOR THE POEM BY
SATVIK SAHU, XI-B
PERFECT MIND WILL GO ON AND ON.

ON GOES THE RIVER OF QUESTIONS, THANKS TO THOSE WHO

DON’T YOU THINK? REJECTED ME,

OF HOW TASTELESS BRAVERY WOULD YOU TAUGHT ME TO BE

BE WITHOUT FEAR INDEPENDENT.

OR HOPE WOULD BE WITHOUT HOPELESSNESS? THANKS TO THOSE WHO

LOVE, EVEN THE UNIVERSE WAS LOVED ME,

CREATED FROM INSANITY YOU MADE MY HEART

AND I WONDER WHO IS TO BLAME FOR GROW FONDER.

THE DEATH OF CURIOSITY THANKS TO THOSE WHO
OR IF A MAN WITH AN INJURED FRONTAL LOBE
CAN BE DECLARED UGLY. CARED FOR ME,

YOU MADE ME FEEL

UGLY AND BEAUTIFUL. I WONDER IF IMPORTANT.

TWO WORDS ARE THANKS TO THOSE WHO

ENOUGH TO DIVE INTO DEPTHS ENTERED MY LIFE,

OF THE GREY MATTER. YOU MADE ME

IT’S SOMETHING YOU REALISE AS WHO I AM TODAY.

YOU GROW OLDER THANKS TO THOSE WHO LEFT,

THAT'S A BEAUTIFUL MIND YOU TAUGHT ME

IS IT THE ONE THAT TRULY UNDERSTANDS? NOTHING LASTS FOREVER.
BEAUTY LIES IN THE EYES OF THE BEHOLDER.
THANKS TO THOSE WHO

STAYED,

YOU SHOWED ME

TRUE FRIENDSHIP.

THANKS TO THOSE WHO

LISTENED,

YOU MADE ME FEEL LIKE

I WAS WORTH IT!

THANK YOU.

What Say About People
Even the Rainbow has
7 Shades
POEM BY
SHREYA, XI-B

WHAT SAY ABOUT PEOPLE,
EVEN THE RAINBOW HAS SEVEN SHADES
THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS THAT IT LIBERATES
IS THAT IT SOON FADES.

IF ANYTHING ELSE LEAVES YOU SAD Small
THEN IT IS THE OTHER DIFFERENCE TO ADD; Gestures of

IT SHOWS ITS SHADES ALL AT ONE PLACE, Affection

AND PEOPLE SHOW IN ACCORDANCE WITH POEM BY
ALISHA SHUKLA, XI-D
THEIR LIFE’S PHASE
SOMETIMES SOMETHING
IT GLOOMS IN THE DRIZZLING ATTIRE OF THE RAIN,
SO THAT OTHERS MIND DOES NOT DRAIN, AS SMALL
PEOPLE GLOOM ONLY IF IT’S FOR THEIR GAIN
AS A SMILE OR A
WHAT SAY ABOUT PEOPLE,
SHORT CALL,
EVEN THE RAINBOW HAS SEVEN SHADES
IF IT WOULD SHOW THEM ALL IN A SEQUENCE CAN MAKE A
IT WOULD LOSE ITS ADMIRERS OF FREQUENCE
PERSON’S DAY
THOUGH ITS OPPORTUNITY COMES
ONLY DURING RAIN, AND MAKE THEM
STILL, IT NEVER LETS IT DRAIN,
WHAT SAY ABOUT RAIN’S NAP HAPPY AND GAY!
IT CREATES ALL THE GAP,
BETWEEN THE PEOPLE AND ITS RAINBOW, SOMETIMES PEOPLE
EVEN THOUGH IT SIGNIFIES SHADES,
THE DIFFERENCE DOESN’T FADE. NEED A BEAR'S HUG,

FOR IT CAN DRIVE AWAY THE

SADNESS BUG,

WHEN WE ARE

AFFECTIONATE
WE CAN SHINE,

AND HELP PEOPLE FROM

TURNING INTO A SHRINE.

Women Empowerment, Street Food
and Bollywood

Following is the transcription of a virtual students' roundtable conducted on 8th
March 2022 at 10:00 am.
Participants: Akankshya Nayak, Vriddhi Bhardwaj, Shashank Kumar, Akanksha
Chaudhary.
Akanksha: Happy Women’s Day to all of you!
Vriddhi: Happy Women’s Day!
Shashank: Happy Women’s Day!
Akankshya: Happy Women’s Day to all of you!
Akanksha: It's my pleasure to invite you all to participate in our virtual roundtable
conference. Today’s discussion will revolve around women’s empowerment. We will
examine the roots and fruits of gender inequality. As Bollywood plays a substantial
role in deterring gender equality and women’s empowerment, that would be our
underlying theme of emphasis.
Let us start by outlining our understanding of "Women Empowerment." Women
empowerment for me is to provide women with an equal platform as any other
individual in all aspects. In our society, women and men are assigned so-called
'gender roles’. Women are subject to particularly difficult situations and confined
spaces. A woman is meant to be a wife and a mother - she is restricted to the realms
of her house. The idea of an independent and confident woman is either viewed as
a myth or heavily criticised. As a result, women around the world are discouraged
from achieving their dreams. Providing women with equal rights and opportunities
that they deserve as everyone else is what empowerment means.
Vriddhi: To me, empowering women is to free them from the stereotypical eyes
of society. It has become human nature to perceive women’s talk as gossip and
business, when two men are having a conversation. It also means that the women
have the freedom to go anywhere, anytime, wear anything of their choice without
fearing the dreadful criticism of society. She should be given the status that she
deserves.

Akanksha: When you're a woman, ‘every inch of exposed skin has a price.’ There are
so many restrictions, you'd rather stay home than go out.
Akankshya: Women empowerment and society go hand in hand and it all starts
with our homes. I am currently in my village and I know how many women here
are ill-treated by their families. Cases of assault make the girls centre of media
attention and they are often shot with numerous questions.
Vriddhi: This is a misleading conception. People think that a woman’s clothes
decide whether she can possibly be a victim of the assault or not. This is never the
case; whether a woman is wearing a skirt or a saree - she remains unsafe.
Akankshya: Numerous examples are there to point out how misleading the notion
of women’s clothing has become. From the discussion of banning ripped jeans in
many states to an aunty tauntingly questioning a girl “Wearing short skirts and all
huh? Inviting something or what?”
Shashank: Speaking about women empowerment, gender equality is a basic human
right, it is fundamental to peace. Girls and women continue to face significant
challenges. They are typically under-represented.
I think what makes society more hypocritical is people find ways to objectify a
woman. Some will call a society approved, well-dressed fully covered woman
outdated or conservative. Unattractive is the word. Some will slut shame women
who reveal skin. The problem lies in the thought process that really needs to drasti-
cally change. It's her body, she's the only one who has the right to decide for her-
self. That's not something very different. This is a basic thing that everyone should
understand.
Akanksha: School uniforms are no exception. It is a failure of our society to hand
over suits and salwar to girls as they step into the senior shoes. It is equivalent to
saying, stop breathing, it's so polluted.
Akanshya: I know, but what can we do as students - nothing.
Akanksha: It would be wrong to let ourselves down this way. If you feel strongly
about something - always be ready to voice your opinion. Always be ready to spread
your word, irrespective of the size of your audience. Ideas remain immortal.

Vriddhi: Yes, and as we are hosting this panel today, we will be sharing the message
with many others. It will aid in society’s improvement.
Akanksha: Learning is an observant process in humans. We emulate what we
observe. Growing up in India - Rahul and Anjali are our young adult idols. Bolly-
wood influences us so much, it's surreal. In a situation where we need to talk about
empowering women, the Indian film industry at large is an integral part of shaping
gender norms.
Vriddhi: Totally agreed. I remember this advertisement where a woman is shown
doing laundry using her regular detergent but then her husband comes and com-
plains about his dirty collars. The next day he is back with an expensive washing
powder and asks her to use that in the future. In this advertisement, I understand it
is not intentional but it is portrayed that a women’s job is to heed her husband. It
also hints towards women having less sense of commodities. You know it is not only
limited to advertisements, these small pinpricks of inequality remain everywhere,
in songs, in movies etc.
Akanksha: Certainly, it is omnipresent in our films and songs. With Bollywood, one
can go on for days about cases of inequality that women face, and we would still
have the scroll unrolled/wrapped when all is said and done. While we enjoy these
dance numbers, we foresee the message they are conveying.
Akankshya: The condition is such that, even the movies that are supposed to be on
a serious note have a dance number - totally objectifying a woman. This attracts
viewership and hence incurs profits for the producer’s pocket.
Shashank: They look forward to creating a movie that will appeal to a broad range
of people but some people go to the theatre just for the song so…
Akanksha: Bollywood is like a street-food stall - you know it is unhygienic but you
still feed on it.
Vriddhi: Hahaha! Yes. These songs toxify mentalities a lot.
Shashank: This is a vicious cycle. They portray women to follow certain manner-
isms, to look a certain way. We also expect women to be like that and when she
doesn’t fit into the frame, we neglect her. We like feeding on a certain point of view
and then Bollywood keeps us feeding more junk.

Akanksha: Absolutely. Just on the mark. From many tracks, we derive our expecta-
tions of 'feminine personalities'. A song that talks about a woman having fair wrists,
shows how a woman has to overcome several tests, such as a ‘complexion test’ and a
‘slimness test’ to get attention from men.
For instance, this Punjabi track shows a woman appealing to her male friend to
get her the dress she wants, which depicts women who depend on their significant
others for financial support to fulfil their desires. The majority of the Indian music
industry market is dominated by a propaganda of how women should be or how
women are.
The worth in zillions of 7 rings by Ariana Grande, the groovy beats of Girls Like to
Swing by Sunidhi Chauhan, The Man by Taylor Swift’s parody of our double stan-
dard society and many other such anthems stand firm against these propagandas.
Our focus on these songs causes us to overlook some excellent compositions. A
number of songs celebrate women as much as anything. There are films that em-
phasise the strength and independence of women. There are advertisements that
proclaim that women can have equal rights. Let us make them more visible.
Vriddhi: Actually, movies like Pink, Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl etc. are great
examples.
Akankshya: A few of my all-time favourites are Badla and Mardaani.
Akanksha: The way these movies present the harsh reality of living the life of a
woman is undeniably true. Remember the show, ‘Satyamev Jayate’.
Vriddhi: The one hosted by Aamir Khan?
Akanksha: Yes. That show was such a hit and it introduced us to so many beautiful
songs, Rupaiya...
Vriddhi: O Ri Chiraiya!
Akanksha: All these songs had short-lived fame and were soon buried under ‘new
masala’.
Akankshya: It happens with everything that tries to spread a good message.

Akanksha: These songs have become like a glass of ‘Karela Juice’ - you know it is
super healthy but you are not going to drink it anyway. I love it though!
Vriddhi: Hahaha! Jokes apart. These problems need to end soon.
Akanksha: It should, it definitely should. It cannot until all of us stand for the
cause.
Akankshya: In my village, the ritual or tradition for women to eat only after the
men of the household have eaten still exists.
Akanksha: It will take all the women to have a voice of their own, “Only when all
the bricks stay strong, the tower stays tall.”
It is easy for us to say that it’s all normal now. The fact is - it isn’t. Many women
around the globe still suffer damnation for their uncommitted crimes.”It is ironic
that crime rates against women are higher in a nation where nearly 80% of the pop-
ulation worships goddesses.”
“We have started to raise our daughters like sons but only a few of us are coura-
geous enough to raise our sons like we raise our daughters”- raising them right. “No
country in the world to date can say that they have achieved gender equality.”
“A gender-equal society is one in which no such term called gender exists, where ev-
eryone can be themselves.” Why stay limited to heroes, let us celebrate our she-roes!



#one
Dear diary

BY VRIDDHI BHARDWAJ, XI-B

Photograph by Satvik Sahu, XI-B

This morning I got a call from my mom, she said that my Mama passed away last night.
She didn’t want me to take stress at night, that's why she didn’t tell me yesterday. I was
devastated. I couldn’t believe it. It felt like a movie. Exactly a year before this my Nana
had passed away. It all felt like it wasn’t real. I couldn’t believe that he is not here with
us anymore. My Mama was an Army Officer and I used to always look up to him. His daugh-
ter, my cousin is just twelve yrs old and now she will not see her father ever. This thought
shrivels me up that how is she going to survive this big loss. I just kept thinking all day
about this.

He was suffering from a chronic disease and for the past one week, he was on an ICU ven-
tilator. Doctors said that he only had two days left to live but he fought and he doubled up
the duration. He was a fighter and he is relieved I am sure. He was in a lot of pain mental-
ly and physically and it’s not the end of the day. He is here with us only. I miss my Mama.

We know that life is all about moving on and I am sure if he were here he wouldn’t have
wanted us to cry over his journey to the heavenly abode. I am happy for him that he is in a
better place now and he doesn’t have to be on a ventilator. I wish him the best of luck.

Good night!

#two
Dear diary

BY YATI RAJ, XI-A

Photograph by Yati Raj, XI-A

As a blithe five-year-old, I was in deep slumber after a long and full of get-up-and-go night
on the backseat of the car. My Dad was driving to take us back home.

The memory thereupon - still fresh as it ever was… I was shaken out of my dreamland due
to some bright light falling on my eyes. But its source received immediate forgiveness for
the sin it committed, for what I saw made me wonder if I was still dreaming. A beautiful
sunrise taking place between the hills… My mom stroking my hair gently and my eyes feast-
ing upon the vivid and vibrant emerging colours, made it all feel like heaven.

Now as I sit back, drowned in my books and bound by a list of obligations required to be
fulfilled in these teen years of mine, it makes me think if I’ll ever experience such moments
again in a world where dreams are lost in reality.

#three
Dear diary

BY LAKSHYA ARYA, XI-A

Photograph by Satyam Kumar, XII-B

It was just a normal day. I woke up at 6 and then went for a walk at 7. I reached home
by 8 and I told my mom to serve me breakfast. I told her to make a burger but my God!
It was veggie greens with chapatis. I was unhappy with the food and got angry at mom.
I didn't even eat a single bite of it. Then I had my online classes from 8:30. Our computer
results were declared on that day but the marks were not up to my mark. I got so upset
(again) that I didn’t even eat my lunch.

I had my online coaching classes from 3:30. Suddenly at 5 o’clock my father came earlier
than his usual time and shouted my name “Lakshay! come fast.” I was scared that my
mom had told him about my marks and I knew what was going to happen. Then I saw a
new MacBook Air on the table! I was speechless, jumping with joy and gave my father a
tight hug. I can’t even express my happiness in words. And for dinner, there was delicious
chicken biryani that my mom had cooked. It was an unpleasant day that my dad turned into
a happy one.

Even today whenever I use my MacBook I have a smile on my face by remembering that
day as a beautiful one. Oh, dear diary, that day was the best day of my life.

#four
Dear diary

BY KHRISTIA LAIPHRAKPAM XI-B

Photograph by Yati Raj, XI-A

Today was my birthday and I just wanted to pen down my best moments with you. I have
been saving my petty cash for quite a long time to use them for a good cause. Finally, it
came true. I went to a Children’s Orphanage with my family to celebrate my birthday. My
parents took permission from the home authorities for visiting and they provided us with
a room where all the children were waiting for us. Enchantment was radiating from their
marble eyes. They clapped and sang the birthday song, when I blew the candles and cut the
cake. Afterwards, I distributed the cake along with goodies and gifts. They were all over
the moon. The best thing was the smiles of the children. Anyway, I don’t think that my
excitement will let me sleep tonight.

Good night!





!!!

Letter to My Younger
Self

BY MS. ALKA SINGH, HOD-ENGLISH

Tjieke, zittend aan een tafel
Painting by Albert Roelofs (1877-1920)

Credit: www.simonis-buunk.nl

English Room the list is endless.
AFGJI In college and university, you realized that you
21st March 2022 had to work hard so that you could be different
Dear Junior Alka from others and till date you are like that. As a
When you joined AFGJI in 1995, you were young teacher, you were too strict. Slowly as you
young, energetic, very eager to learn and al- aged, you changed a little bit. You are friendly
ways ready to go the extra mile and do things with the students whom you teach and do ac-
differently. Over the years, the school gave you tivities with. As you are surrounded by students
opportunities to upgrade your knowledge and bubbling with ideas and energy, you also get
skills and I am happy that you tried to do your infected by their enthusiasm. These young minds
best. Perhaps the rejection that you faced in the energize you every day. Their smiling faces, pos-
entrance exam after Class XII made you perse- itive attitude, initiative to do new and creative
vere and realize the importance of hard work. work charge your brain cells. They inspire you
Every stumbling block gives you life lessons. You every day. Be grateful to the superpower for giv-
could not join the profession that you dreamt ing you the company of these bubbly teenagers
of but this alternate career has been extremely who desire to change things which are monot-
satisfying. onous, redundant and boring. You ought to be
grateful to your seniors and friends who have
stood rock-solid behind you and cheered every
small effort that you made.

As a student in school, you did not perform to You live only once. Be kind to others in actions
the best of your ability though you were ex- and words. Do something meaningful so that
tremely capable. You studied at the eleventh you will be loved, cherished and remembered.
hour and wasted a lot of time on useless activ- Abide by the values inculcated in you by your
ities. That resulted in average marks. Had you parents, extended family, teachers, friends, col-
put in effort in academics, you would have been leagues, seniors and carry their legacy forward.
in some other profession. But you were interest- That is how our culture and tradition will be
ed in a whole lot of activities- singing, dramas, preserved. Try to inculcate kindness, gratitude,
sports etc. helpfulness, honesty, sincerity, humility in all the
Your parents gave you absolute freedom to do students whom you teach. Only then there will
whatever you desired to do. They sent you to be a peaceful environment to live in.
the best school and supported you in whatever Today I just want to say one thing to all those
co-curricular activities you wanted to learn and who have impacted my life – Grateful to you all.
do. What a fantastic childhood you had. You It has been a life full of learning and doing all
made such wonderful memories-learning music, the way. I have miles to go before I sleep and lots
doing theatre, watching shows and performances to do before I sleep.
of singers and dancers of international repute, Yours lovingly
sampling and gorging on the best kind of food Senior Alka
that was available around, witnessing and enjoy-
ing world-class basketball and cricket matches....

/ noun
modern popular culture transmitted via the mass media and
aimed particularly at younger people.
"fashion, music and the iconography of pop culture offered the
perfect medium for profit"

In case you didn’t know, I’m wildly popular. Some
might even venture to call me beloved.
David Rose

FIVE TEENAGE FILMS

YOU SHOULD WATCH

AND WHY

STORY BY
IVREEN KAUR, XI-D

1. Dead Poets Society

A coming-of-age story of a group of students at an all-boys prep school and their encounter with
an unorthodox English teacher who inspires them to pursue their passions and the effects his
teachings have on them. The most significant theme of the movie is ‘Carpe Diem’. This phrase
means 'Seize the day’. The movie highlights the vitality of the phrases - ‘You Only Live Once’ and
‘Live on your Own Terms’. “Seize the Day, because one day you will be dead.”

2. Ferris Bueller's Day Off

Ferris is a bright high school senior who fakes an illness so he can spend a day in town with his
girlfriend and his best friend (not the most conventional thing to do). Throughout the film, Ferris
breaks the fourth wall to comment on his friends and give life advice. In Ferris’ words, "Life
moves pretty fast, if you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it."

3. A Silent Voice

The premise of the movie revolves around a teenager named Ishida, who attempts to make
amends with a deaf girl he used to bully in the sixth grade. The story revolves around his rela-
tionships with the people around him and his journey hints towards issues like bullying, mental
health problems like depression and anxiety, friendship and most importantly redemption.

4. The Breakfast Club

The main theme of the film is the constant struggle of teenagers to be understood by adults and
also by themselves as a group of teens meet during detention. It indicates the pressure put on
teenagers to fit into their own realms of high school social constructs, as well as the lofty expec-
tations of their parents, teachers and other authority figures. As one of the iconic lines from the
movie quotes,
"You see us as you want to see us - in the simplest terms, is the most convenient definition. But
what we found out is that each one of us is a brain, an athlete, a basket case, a princess and a
criminal. Does that answer your question?
Yours sincerely
The Breakfast Club"

5. The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Being an adaptation of the book by the same name, the story revolves around a 15-year-old so-
cially awkward boy named Charlie who writes to an unnamed friend about his best friends, two
seniors, tribulations and triumphs as he goes through his freshman year of
High school. The film depicts his struggles as he goes through his journey in High school mak-
ing friends, whilst being a wallflower (a person who sees things and understands them, who
people don't tend to take notice of).

A line from one of many of Charlie's entries,
"So, I guess we are who we are for a lot of reasons and maybe we'll never know most of them.
But even if we don't have the power to choose where we come from, we can still choose where
we go from there. We can still do things and can try to feel okay about them”.

I know these will all be stories someday.
And our pictures will become old photographs.

We'll all become somebody's mom or dad. THESE MOMENTS ARE NOT STORIES.
BUT RIGHT NOW,

This is happening...

LIFE LESSONS FROM

THE DESK OF

THE OFFICE US

STORY BY
AKANKSHA CHAUDHARY, XI-B

If not for everyone - this pandemic has been a great capital multiplier for media platforms like
Amazon Prime Video and Netflix. No one to date has been rigid enough to escape this entertain-
ment wave, then who am I? I went on with my thirty minutes a day watch time and became a fan
of this very stupendous piece of work - The Office US. If you are an old soul like me, you know
this and if you don’t, then make sure to watch it after reading this article.

The whole concept of the sitcom revolves around a small commercial office of the Scranton
branch of Dunder Mifflin Paper Company, Inc. Just like any other office - it is boring and a very
unpleasant place to work in, but what brings out the best is of course the characters and their
perfectly timed puns!

The characters are Michael Scott a.k.a the World’s Best Boss, Dwight Schrute - Assistant (to the)
Regional Manager, James Halpert a.k.a our favourite Jim, Pamela Beesly a.k.a Pam (Pamela
Pama-lama-ding-dong) and many others in this party. The best thing about this series is that you
can make any of the recurring characters your protagonist and relish their side of the story.

1. Be Yourself

This is the simplest and most generalised life lesson any show can give you. The Office is a
great example of diversity in television. Each character has its own defining qualities and short-
comings.

Jim is our “hero'' because of course he has a carefree attitude, great socialising skills, a good
persuader (for a salesperson) and an excellent prankster. Pam on the other hand is a ‘cute cow’
personality - adorable, creative, emotional and makes a good counsellor. It comprises of all
kinds of people, so one would never have a hard time relating to the storyline. You can put your-
self in any of the shoes and go on with the flow of the show. No matter how each of them gets
criticism for being how they are - they remain to be themselves and silently shout “Let the world
say what!”

2. Work should be fun

Being employed in a rarely productive company - the 9 to 5 lives of the workers get them slacked
but the unwanted pranks (like Jim putting Dwight’s stuff in Jello) and out of the context drills
(Diversity Day stickers on the head) makes the place lively and fun place to be in. Had it been
a “normal” workplace - the job would have been anything but interesting. No matter what the
source is, “Forget No Fun!”

3. You don’t always have to know it all

Kevin Malone - the couch potato of the show is much of a slacker and absent-minded. He is
an under-qualified accountant and of course is always bewildered about things. He is a back-
bencher but has a good heart. His childish jokes and silly mistakes are a great source of ‘learn-
ing with laughter.’ He lacks communication skills but has great taste and hands in music. Con-
sidering his half wittedness, his plea for joining the basketball team against the warehouse team
was turned down but later we find out that he makes an excellent basketball player. The moral
of the story is, “you cannot always be the intelligent one but can always cherish what you have
got.”

4. Small Efforts Matter

If you are a fan like me, you will probably be a big fan of the ‘Dundies’ - the Annual Dunder
Muffins award for absolutely anything. There are awards for even having the whitest sneakers.
For the sake of humour- you get a lot of unappreciated titles but in the end, they give you a good
share of laughs. This little pouch of giggles teaches us the importance of recognising little ef-
forts one puts. No matter if it is big or small - “Efforts pay off !”

5. Your Best Friend = Most Annoying Person

Throughout the multiple seasons of “The Office”, we get to witness a beautiful timeline of the
love/hate relationship between Jim and Dwight. From shifting Dwight’s table to the bathroom to
dressing up as Dwight for work, Jim always makes sure to give him the ‘trouble of life’. The first
season exposes us to their cut-throat rivalry but as we move to the last season, we see them
leaning on each other for support. Further, into the show, we see how they both have each oth-
er’s back during difficult times. Their absence gets them to miss each other a lot. This is really
sweet and cute, honestly.

Quoting Dwight (Season 6 Episode 8: "Koi Pond"), “Jim is my enemy. But it turns out that Jim is
also his own worst enemy and the enemy of my enemy is my friend. So Jim is actually my friend.
But, because he is his own worst enemy, the enemy of my friend is my enemy, so actually Jim is
my enemy.”

6. What feels right at that moment is not
necessarily right forever

Pam and Roy (warehouse worker) are in a relationship in the first

season in which they have been together for eight years and engaged for three. They met when
they were in high school and fell madly for each other but as time passed, they started to feel
off-colour and ended up in an unhappy relationship. Nonetheless, Roy did not let Pam pursue
her creative dreams and that was a huge drawback of their relationship. Though they were jolly
being high school sweethearts, growing up resulted in growing out of feelings. Eventually, we
see that Pam gets married to Jim. I am very happy for her!

Pam Beesly (Season 5 Episode 15: “Stress Relief Pt 2.”), “When you’re a kid, you assume your par-
ents are soulmates. My kids are going to be right about that."

7. Be Open to Criticism

Michael Scott is a barrel of poor jokes and nonsense puns. He goes about making jokes on his
employees unapologetically. The good thing is that he doesn’t object when the tables are turned
on him. To relieve the tension he had caused in the office (not something new) he decided to
throw a ‘Roast Party’. The employees had a good opportunity to bash their beef against their
boss. He had a good laugh at all the great roasts and appreciated each with a loud HAHAHA.
No matter how he is criticised and people say that he is the worst as a boss, he just laughs it off
and does not let anyone shake his confidence. If you need the inspiration to believe in yourself -
Michael Scott is the world’s best motivation. He just goes about being the confident ache with a
loud “Sorry, not sorry!”

Michael Scott (Season 2 Episode 14: “The Carpet”), "It takes an advanced sense of humour. I
don't expect everybody to understand."

8. Things do not always go as planned

Sad but yes. Another trait of Michael is that he is a kind soul who thinks of others’ good but has
zero self-awareness. This results in him creating blunders even when he is trying to do some-
thing as nice as throwing an ice cream party for the employees. His countless efforts of making
“We Are Family” their office’s sole motto failed miserably. His goofy nature and mannerless
gestures give life to the show. However, regardless of this foolishly funny behaviour, he loves all
his people with his whole heart and yeah, they love him too (shh… It is a secret).

Michael Scott (Season 4 Episode 1: “Fun Run Pt 1.”), “I love my employees even though I hit one
of you with my car."

9. Your belief is what matters

Michael Scott is really one of my favourite characters of all time because he has a lot to give.
His complete package of goof ups teaches us extreme life lessons disguised as untimely jokes.
He believed that Dunder Muffins was the best paper distributing company in the world and I
support him. Even when the company was on the verge of an end and was facing heavy legal
issues - he did not stop trusting in the company. They were near bankruptcy and things were all
over the place. The characteristic of having unshaken faith is something that not everyone has.
The board members did not find the company worthy enough to be saved but he stood up for
his people and tried everything he could as the manager - “Let’s get this, people!”.

10. There should be a right way to do things

Dwight is like a stern counterpart of Michael Scott without ‘that’s what she said’ jokes. This
short-sleeved shirt and dark necktie guy is of course socially awkward and way too serious. If
you were to talk to him about the new KFC Biryani Bucket, you would have to prepare a formal
and perfectly arranged script with the pros and cons mentioned.

He is an oddball and perfectly fills the space for quirk. He is always looking for opportunities to
enforce laws and regulations. Well, no matter how frustrating he can be at times - he is always
trying to do the right things. However, unfortunately, his way of doing them can be exhaustingly
irritable. What you can learn from this character is that, “You can have intelligent intentions but
your methods should be intelligent too”.

Dwight Schrute (Season 3 Episode 16: "Business School”), "Whenever I'm about to do something,
I think, 'Would an idiot do that?' and if they would, I would not do that."

11. Never give up on your dreams

One of the most important life lessons that “The Office” has for us is probably - never giving up
on our dreams. As a little girl, Pam never dreamt of being a full-time receptionist or winning the
‘The Longest Engagement’ award at the Dundies but then life happened and she ended up at
Dunder Mifflin. She had always aspired to pursue her career as an artist. Being in an unhealthy
relationship and having a not so interesting life, she could not find a way to escape her fate.
After joining her boss at a career fair in a high school - she decided to polish her brushes and
give them a try. She joined an art school afterwards in New York and was all set and ready to be-
come the girl she dreamt to be. In the ninth season, we see a wall painting of the office and her
co-workers that she had made as a tribute to them being an integral part of her life. It is some-
thing which everyone should take note of. Always remember- “Dreams have no deadline”.

12. There’s a lot of beauty in ordinary things

This does not have a back story to it but it is one of the most beautiful quotes from The Office.
When Pam gets in front of the camera and reflects on her journey throughout the seasons she
says, “There’s a lot of beauty in ordinary things. Isn’t that kind of the point”? This sums up the
whole concept of the show. The Office is an ordinary show about an ordinary office but is the
most beautiful experience to watch. Now that you know what to expect from the show - get
ready on your couch and Netflix or Amazon Prime subscription. There are many incidents to
laugh about and a few to cry over. You will need tissues either way. You can start with it after a
long day to treat yourself with a mood booster. You will need time getting comfortable with the
characters but after a couple of episodes, you are destined to fall for it.

Happy Watching!

Valorant Champions

Tour 2022: Riot games

is taking e-sports

enthusiasts with a riot

bringing the best to

contest. Knives Out 2: Just Daniel

Craig finding himself stuck

in another captivating crime

Pitchers S2: One of India’s first mystery that boasts an
major breakthroughs into the world
of OTT and TVF’s rise to critical ensemble of A-listers.
acclaim. The OGs are expected to be
back soon. UEFA Champions
League: That's it.
EPIDCIKTORS ’ I'll be sleeping in
the morning and
on caffeine at
night.

Exploring what the insiders are Harry's House: As it was,
keen on seeing this season. ahem is, we are drawing the
fine line between Harry's
style of music and art. May
20. #AdoreYou

Awaiting Season 4 Only Murders in The
Be Like: It might have Building: Nothing has
been just 4-5 years been same since I
from 1983 to where watched an elevator
we are now but this ride. CAN YOU
show has made fans IMAGINE?
speculate for WAY
LONGER with nothing
new to binge during the
pandemic.

1989 TV or Speak Now TV:
Which album is going to be
next, you're not sure and
neither are we.

BTS Touring India: Would
the international sensations,
finally fulfill THAT one dream
of Indian Armies?

GDRAEZAEMTETRSE’
TWELFTH GRADERS
SHARE ONCE UPON A TIME,
THE IN- BETWEEN
& A FEW WISHES
FOR THE FUTURE IN
THIS RETROSP ECTIVE SP-
ECIAL SECTION.

No matter where you're
from, your dreams are valid.

Lupita Nyong'o

POETRY

A Better
World

BY ANUVANSHIKA SRIVASTAVA, XII-A

Illustration by Angel Pandey, XI-C

A Dreamer's Nothing is perfect
Journey Just like the world
But a few modifications could do wonders
BY ANUVANSHIKA SRIVASTAVA, XII-A Clear streams, grass so green, fresh air
Could be achieved before we’re in despair
A magic wand, gown and castle are what a girl Before dirt engulfs the city
starts dreaming about Let’s try to make things pretty
A grain of rice and a loaf of bread
Swords, chivalry and valour describe a boy’s Are dreams of those unfed
fantasy So don’t toss it in the trash can
If you can’t eat it, someone else can
Be it cliché or unique, all of us begin with In the land of goddesses
ecstasy Women stand fear-stricken
Once on a pedestal
As the perplexity of the world unfolds Are now victims of crimes so disrespectful
Responsibilities dawn upon those Waging a war is not the solution
Fantasyland drifts away When you can work out a peaceful resolution
Missiles don’t just destroy encroachments
Thoughts put together, that were earlier astray They destroy humanity
Life’s not easy, they realise A better today and tomorrow
are what I dream about
This perilous journey can only be traversed by A world everyone could adore
the wise Is it too much to ask for?

A thousand doors in disguise
Those who choose well, shine and rise!

ARTICLE

My Future Left
Smiling...

BY SOUMIL, XII-B

Photograph by Satyam Kumar, XII-B

She is sitting, cross-legged on the wooden floor kitchen with its counter opening to the mid-cen-
of her rented getaway on a sunny November tury modern sofa, upholstered in green velvet. It
morning that seemed to be such an unlikely sounds very heightened and opulent but as per
locale for the weather in front of a mammoth of her, it’s not completely devoid of comfort, yet.
cardboard caskets and a deck of books with him Growing up in the teeming metropolis of Del-
wearing a pastel pink borg teddy coat, “I’ve rede- hi, we both are prone to the quagmire of traf-
fined what a confident man looks like indicative fic both literal and figurative but still, we are
of the future of masculinity” she comments. worlds apart here. “I am not a different person,
She has captured an experimental spirit that merely more layered. I have learnt that I have no
has informed his decisions, well he does have a contenders on the path to success, just compan-
degree in Fine Arts to support her assertion or ions as I champion little things and find joy in
you could ask his family why he is not a qualified the greatest. It has been challengingly intrepid to
engineer with a pay scale of six or seven digits. live here through the tumult of adulting and the
The latter has a far more pleasing conviction in-between but I have contemplated a perma-
for her claim. Behind the black door of her new nent refuge by getting a beautiful estate to call
terminus, she has been successful to trap the home. I’m shifting,” she reflects.
vision in her mind in front of where I stand now, BUT not until she has boxed all of his collect-
a good collection of music records, an entourage ables most dreadfully the ones in the small
of Indian spices in an ever so often insouciant

cupboard that will soon find their own closet, human, have the part to play in the future? She
a precisely curated catalogue of his expression replies, “He wants to be the future driven by ac-
that beckons a pivotal role in his life instead of ceptance, morality and happiness. He has dreamt
closing life itself. “It’s a new day with an old me.” a lot of big things, so he did the most on my own
With the prerogative line of thoughts, shrieks of just like this interview. He doesn’t want a future.
excitement follow as she hits the play button to He wants to be it.”
open the floodgates to some desi muse. “I have Before we walked back to the place we first met,
grown closer to my roots as I’ve travelled far,” I finally got the confidence to confess it to her,
she says singing a sorority of Indian divas on top “Whilst I’m seen as ordinary as others in the
of her voice packing the final boxes to call off world, I hope that our differences are respected,
the day. She is my future. my flaws are accepted and my voice is reflected.
I want to be happy. I want to be me. As I grow, I
§ want to find happiness in simpler things. That’s
The next time I see her, we’re in her car which what I want for him. That’s what I want for us.”
she is driving. This has not been a good day, And all she did was smile.
particularly. There’s a lot of melancholy in our
midst, although I’m trying to avoid starting a 'Cause I, I'm in love
conversation, try as I might. She interrupts the With my future
consuming silence, “I have emotional motion
sickness. Somebody roll the windows down,” Can't wait to meet her
pointing towards the window at my side. “If it is And I, I'm in love
not good enough, I’d at least reserve to hear it on
a Friday, if given a chance.” She seems quaintly But not with anybody else
convivial in her version of dystopia. Just wanna get to know myself

~ my future ~
Song by Billie Eilish

In repose, her expression tends to be deadpan,
except for her eyes, which are gleaming with
tears that she for a fact is not known to hold
back. “I’m subject to a tribe of trolls that find
strength in negativity that’s more affluent than
what I advocate for. Sometimes there’s no es-
cape. ‘He cries a lot if he’s crying. He better not
wear makeup. If he’s wearing makeup, at least he
should wear decent clothes. If he’s wearing this,
now he’ll eventually suffer and start crying’. I
can’t absorb these assumptions so I have to get
rid of them.”

Her thoughts have left an uncanny dimension
to what’s left of the evening. She says we don’t
bring minority issues but more of the real world
with our problems. I ask her, what does he, as a

ARTICLE

One Day... I'll Reminisce
my Uncertainties

BY SNEHA ROYCHOWDHURY, XII-A

Illustration by Sneha Katiyar, XI-D

One of my friends recently asked, "What do you and I could apply those concepts in actuality.
aspire to be in your life?" To be honest, I didn't When it was time to bid adieu to school, my
know the answer. I've wanted to become an mom suggested that I pursue Engineering be-
IAF pilot, a doctor, a psychologist and a pianist cause she felt that it would fulfil all my materi-
during different phases of life since my salad alistic longings so, like a dutiful child, I gestured
days. my head with a 'yes'. But did I really want to
Until the tenth grade, I was told to be commen- pursue it? Most likely not.
surate with every subject. However, a year later I When you ask a five-year-old the same, you'll
found myself amidst the conundrum of picking receive the most legitimate response since they
my stream. I've always been fervent about Biol- aren't possessed by materialistic cravings that
ogy, English, Economics and History (all thanks one calling is superior or the paycheck figures.
to my wonderful teachers at this school who The five-year-old me would've said that she
piqued my curiosity in them) but I wasn't able wants to become a gardener since she cherishes
to stick to a single one because our education blossoms and the one at her house was enam-
system has a “one shoe fits all” framework when oured by her exuberance.
it comes to the amalgamations. This takes me down the memory lane. When I
Irrevocably, I plumped for Science because I was was very young, my grandpa once told me; "I
curious to know how everything had a rationale want you to be flawless. You can become a

sweeper if you want to. No profession is superior the countryside far away from the hustle-bustle
to another. But promise me that you'll become streets of Delhi, teach piano, read as many books
the best sweeper in this world, setting an exam- as I can and write novels.
ple for all the other sweepers." Being too naive This pandemic has taught me that life can be
to unravel the significance of his words, I prob- uncertain, so I want to live every day like it's the
ably laughed it off and walked away holding a last and enjoy life to the fullest.
Barbie doll in one hand and candy in the other,
but now I’m able to comprehend how profound
his words were.

At the age of 17-18, it's
extremely challenging
to anticipate where life
will take me and what I'll
eventually become, but
one thing I know for cer-
tain is that I want to be
a decent individual who
accomplishes something
useful for humankind.

Starting from my junior
year, I've been fascinated
by Psychology and the
impact of a Psychologist
in one's life and realised
the fact that everyone,
at some point in their
life, requires one. Srishti
Ma'am, our school coun-
sellor was instrumental in BRIGHT FUTURE
this. I knew that I could Sneha in Gulmarg.

talk to her when I had
some difficulty with academics, exam stress or
anything else. She's my guardian angel. This is
exactly what I want to do; to fill everyone's mind
with tranquillity.

I'd rather be an ice-cream seller than work for
some MNC because seeing kids' smiling faces
all day would be a sprinkle of heaven on earth.
But once I surpass my youth, I want to settle in