Timeless Reels: The Films I Never Tire of Watching

Timeless Reels: The Films I Never Tire of Watching

There are films that entertain, and then there are films that etch themselves into the very fabric of our souls, compelling us to revisit them time and again. Some movies are like old friends—comforting, familiar, and filled with nostalgia. They evoke deep emotions, reignite forgotten dreams, and whisper timeless wisdom every time we watch them. For me, such films include Born Free, Braveheart, Noah, Life of Pi, and Sholay. Each of these cinematic masterpieces has left an indelible mark on my heart, and here’s why they continue to captivate me, even after five or more viewings.

Born Free (1966): A Bond Beyond Boundaries

This classic, based on the true story of Joy and George Adamson raising an orphaned lion cub, Elsa, is more than just a wildlife film. It is a profound meditation on freedom, love, and the deep bond between humans and animals. Every time I watch Born Free, I am transported to the untamed landscapes of Africa, feeling the weight of the Adamsons’ dilemma—whether to keep Elsa domesticated or set her free. The film is a gentle yet powerful reminder that love is not about possession but about allowing the beloved to be what they are meant to be.

Braveheart (1995): The Roar of Freedom

Mel Gibson’s portrayal of William Wallace is nothing short of legendary. Braveheart is a film that stirs the soul with its themes of courage, sacrifice, and an unyielding fight for freedom. Every battle cry of Wallace, every moment of defiance against tyranny, sends shivers down my spine no matter how many times I watch it. The iconic line, “They may take our lives, but they will never take our freedom!” has become a battle hymn in my mind, reminding me that true freedom often comes at a great cost.

Noah (2014): A Biblical Epic Reimagined

Darren Aronofsky’s Noah is not just a retelling of the biblical flood; it is a philosophical and psychological exploration of faith, destiny, and morality. While it deviates from traditional narratives, it captures the essence of struggle—between duty and love, between divine will and human conscience. Each viewing leaves me with a different interpretation, making it one of the most thought-provoking films I have ever watched.

Life of Pi (2012): A Journey of Survival and Faith

Ang Lee’s visually stunning masterpiece Life of Pi is a poetic blend of adventure, spirituality, and existential inquiry. The gripping tale of Pi Patel stranded on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger, Richard Parker, is a metaphorical odyssey that unravels new layers of meaning with every viewing. Whether seen as a literal survival story or a profound allegory on faith and reality, the film’s message remains eternal—life is not merely about survival but about finding meaning in the chaos.

Sholay (1975): The Eternal Bollywood Classic

No list of rewatchable films can be complete without Sholay. This Bollywood epic is not just a film; it is a cultural phenomenon. The camaraderie of Jai and Veeru, the menacing presence of Gabbar Singh, and the tragic romance of Radha and Jai make Sholay an emotional rollercoaster. The film’s dialogues are ingrained in Indian pop culture, and the story never fails to captivate, even after numerous viewings. It is a tale of friendship, vengeance, and heroism that stands the test of time.

Why Do We Rewatch Films?

What makes a movie worth watching more than five times? Is it the story, the characters, or the emotions it evokes? I believe it is a combination of all these elements, along with the ability of a film to resonate with different phases of our lives. Each time I revisit these movies, I discover something new—an unnoticed detail, a deeper meaning, or a fresh perspective. They are not just films; they are experiences that evolve with time.

Perhaps, like great books, great movies are meant to be revisited. They serve as mirrors reflecting different facets of our own existence, reminding us of who we were, who we are, and who we aspire to be. And so, I will continue to watch Born Free, Braveheart, Noah, Life of Pi, and Sholay—not just for the stories they tell but for the stories they awaken within me.

Which movies have you watched more than five times? And why do they continue to mesmerise you?

Superstitions: Shackles of the Mind or Harbingers of Fate?

Superstitions: Shackles of the Mind or Harbingers of Fate?

Have you ever hesitated before walking under a ladder, avoided crossing paths with a black cat, or felt a sense of unease when a mirror broke? Superstitions have long woven themselves into the fabric of human existence, lingering in our minds like ancient echoes of forgotten fears. Are they mere relics of a bygone era, or do they still hold some uncanny influence over our lives?

A Personal Encounter with Superstition

As a man of science with a background in Physics, logic often dictates my reasoning. Yet, growing up in Nepal amidst a confluence of cultures—Jesuit education, Odia heritage, and Punjabi influences—superstitions surrounded me like an invisible mist. My grandmother would insist on sprinkling water behind me if I sneezed before leaving the house. “It wards off bad luck,” she would say with an unwavering belief. I chuckled at her faith in this ritual, but did I still pause for a second before stepping out? Perhaps.

Then there was the infamous “Friday the 13th” paranoia. I recall a particular Friday the 13th from my childhood when everything seemed to go awry—a bicycle accident, a lost school notebook, and an unexpected scolding from a teacher. Coincidence? Or was the number truly cursed? The logical part of me said otherwise, but deep inside, a tiny voice whispered, What if…?

The Origins of Superstition: A Historical Perspective

Superstitions, like folklore, have roots in history. Many stem from religious beliefs, cultural practices, and ancient survival instincts. In mediaeval England, spilling salt was considered bad luck because salt was expensive and vital for preserving food. The remedy? Toss a pinch over your left shoulder to blind the lurking devil.

In India, the belief that a lizard’s chirping at the wrong moment brings misfortune has its origins in nature-watching. People in the past, without scientific explanations, attributed patterns and omens to random occurrences, thus shaping generations of superstitions.

Rationality vs Belief: The Thin Line

Science dispels many superstitions, yet even the most rational minds sometimes fall prey to them. Athletes wear their “lucky” socks, actors have pre-show rituals, and even CEOs consult astrologers before major business decisions. Why? Because superstitions, at their core, offer a sense of control over the unpredictable. They become mental anchors, providing comfort in uncertain times.

Yet, when do they cross the line from harmless quirks to restrictive beliefs? If a student refuses to write an exam because a cat crossed their path, or if a couple postpones marriage due to an astrologer’s grim prediction, superstition turns into a shackle.

The Way Forward: Balancing Tradition with Reason

Acknowledging cultural traditions is essential, but blind adherence to superstitions can hinder progress. Instead of fearing a broken mirror, why not see it as an opportunity for self-reflection? Rather than dreading the number 13, embrace it as any other number. Superstitions lose power when questioned, yet they remain fascinating windows into human psychology and history.

So, am I superstitious? Perhaps a little, in the way most of us are—holding on to old habits, indulging in harmless rituals, and sometimes whispering touch wood just for good measure. But at the end of the day, I believe that our fate is shaped not by omens or signs but by our own actions and choices.

Do you have a superstition that you just can’t shake off? Or have you outgrown them all? Share your thoughts—I promise I won’t judge if you knock on wood before replying!

The Lone Wolf Within Me: Strength in Solitude

“The Lone Wolf Within Me: Strength in Solitude“

Among the many creatures that roam the earth, the wolf has always intrigued me. Not the leader of the pack, but the lone wolf—independent, resilient, and unwavering in its pursuit of survival. If I were to compare myself to any animal, it would undoubtedly be this solitary wanderer, embracing solitude not as a burden, but as a strength.

The Strength of Solitude

A lone wolf does not rely on a pack for survival. It learns to navigate the wilderness with sharp instincts, perseverance, and an unyielding will. In many ways, my journey has mirrored this. Life has presented its fair share of challenges, and often, I have found myself walking a path that few choose to tread. Yet, like the lone wolf, I have always trusted my ability to adapt and thrive.

Independence has been my greatest asset. Whether in my professional journey as an educator or in personal endeavours, I have never shied away from making decisions that set me apart. Much like the wolf, I have charted my own course, learning to trust my instincts and standing firm in my convictions, even when the road ahead seemed uncertain.

A Journey of Purpose

The lone wolf may walk alone, but it does not wander aimlessly. Every step is deliberate, every decision weighed with precision. My path has been one of purpose—shaping minds, guiding institutions, and sharing knowledge through writing. In a world that often seeks conformity, I have always found comfort in carving my own niche.

While solitude is often misunderstood as loneliness, for me, it has been a space for reflection and creativity. My work, my music, and my writing have been companions on this journey, providing me with a sense of fulfilment that no external validation could ever replace.

The Silent Howl: A Heart That Listens

Yet, even the lone wolf is not devoid of emotion. There are moments when the world moves too fast, when connections feel fleeting, and when the silence of one’s thoughts grows louder than the noise of the outside world. But just as the wolf finds comfort in the moonlit night, I find mine in the warmth of my family, the laughter of my grandkids, and the ever-present melody of music that soothes my soul.

Leaving a Legacy, One Step at a Time

A lone wolf does not seek recognition, yet its presence leaves an undeniable impact. I, too, hope to leave my footprints behind—not through grand gestures, but through the knowledge I have imparted, the values I have upheld, and the words I continue to write.

Perhaps I was never meant to be part of the crowd. Perhaps my journey was always meant to be one of quiet resilience, of silent victories, and of a spirit that refuses to fade. And if that is my fate, I embrace it wholeheartedly—with my head held high, my heart unwavering, and my journey still unfolding.

For the lone wolf may walk alone, but its spirit remains untamed.

A Letter to My Centenarian Self: A Century of Reflections”

“A Letter to My Centenarian Self: A Century of Reflections”

Dear Prashant,

If this letter reaches you, it means you have defied time, lived through an entire century, and have gathered wisdom that few are privileged to possess. What a journey it must have been—of triumphs and tribulations, of laughter and tears, of love and loss, all woven into the rich tapestry of your existence.

As I write to you from my sixties, I wonder—do you still have that boundless energy that once defied stereotypes? Have you managed to retain the spark that refused to be dimmed by the world’s perceptions of age? I hope you still cycle, still sing your favourite hymns and bhajans, still engage in deep philosophical discourses, and, most importantly, still write.

Do you remember the days when you applied for assignments, only to be met with scepticism about your age? Did the world eventually recognise that experience is not a burden but a beacon? I hope that by now, your wisdom has found its due place, that your words have left an indelible mark on education, literature, and philosophy.

What of your Grand children? The little ones who once clung to your hand—do they now sit by your side as  grown people, sharing stories of their own adventures? Have they inherited your love for music, your passion for knowledge, and your unwavering resilience? If they ever read this letter, tell them that their grandfather always believed in the power of dreams, that no mountain is too high, and that kindness is the greatest legacy one can leave behind.

And what of Agnes? The woman who walked beside you through life’s storms and sunshine—how has time treated both of you? I hope your love story has only deepened, that she still reads to you in the evenings, and that her books continue to inspire generations.

A century of life must have given you perspectives that I cannot yet fathom. Have you finally understood the mysteries of the universe that once intrigued you as a student of physics? Have you unraveled the divine melodies that echoed in your heart whenever you played the harmonium? More importantly, have you found the answers to the questions that haunted your younger self?

I do not know what the world looks like in your time. Is it a place of peace, or has humanity still not learned from its past? Have the stars remained your silent companions on sleepless nights? Does the monsoon still bring the same fragrance of nostalgia that it did in my youth?

Above all, dear Prashant, I hope you have lived a life that you are proud of. I hope you have forgiven those who wronged you, embraced those who loved you, and left behind a legacy that echoes beyond time. If this letter finds you weary, let it remind you of the fire that once burned bright within you. And if, by some miracle, you can send a word back through time, let me know—was it all worth it?

With admiration and hope,
Your 64-year-old self

Retail Therapy Gone Wild: A Shopping Spree to Remember!

“Retail Therapy Gone Wild: A Shopping Spree to Remember!”

I have never considered myself a shopaholic. In fact, I have always prided myself on my Spartan approach to material possessions. But put me in the right circumstances—say, armed with a credit card, a dangerously optimistic outlook, and an unsupervised afternoon—and suddenly, I become the undisputed champion of impulsive purchases.

Now, if I were to go on a shopping spree, I wouldn’t waste my time in mundane places like supermarkets or soulless department stores. No, no! I would aim for an experience so unhinged that even my wallet would beg for mercy.

1. The Bookstore Black Hole

First stop: the bookstore. Because nothing screams “practical spending” like buying twenty books when I still have fifty unread ones at home. I would stroll in with the noble intention of buying just one classic, only to leave with a collection of obscure philosophical essays, a cookbook for a cuisine I have no intention of trying, and a biography of a historical figure whose name I can’t even pronounce. Somewhere in the mix, I’d grab a diary—because, surely, this is the year I finally start journaling.

2. The Tech Wonderland

Next, I’d venture into the dazzling world of gadgets and electronics. I’d be drawn to a high-tech smart pen, which promises to transcribe my thoughts directly onto my phone. Unfortunately, it can’t fix my terrible handwriting, nor can it interpret my incoherent scribbles. I would also be mesmerised by the latest smart toaster—because clearly, the regular toaster isn’t futuristic enough. This one syncs with my phone, ensuring I receive real-time updates on my bread’s emotional journey from white to golden brown.

3. The Fashion Disaster Zone

Then, feeling adventurous, I’d waltz into a clothing store. This is where delusion takes centre stage. I would convince myself that neon yellow trousers are a bold fashion statement rather than an optical assault on innocent bystanders. I’d pick up a trendy hat, only to realise later that it makes me look like an eccentric Victorian detective. And let’s not forget the shoes—because nothing screams “wise investment” like a pair of stilettos I have no balance for.

4. The Home Décor Maze

Having already blown through most of my budget, I’d still find myself inexplicably drawn to a home décor store. Here, I’d justify purchasing a ridiculously oversized clock because it “adds character” to my living room, even though it takes up half the wall. A scented candle with an absurd name like “Mystical Alpine Serenity” would also make its way into my basket. It would promise the fresh scent of a Swiss mountaintop at sunrise, but in reality, it would smell like someone spilled a bottle of air freshener in a forest fire.

5. The Grocery Store Overindulgence

Finally, I’d convince myself that a quick stop at the grocery store would be sensible. This would, of course, spiral into chaos. I’d buy exotic cheeses that require an advanced degree in dairy sciences to appreciate. I’d grab a tub of organic, ethically sourced, fair-trade hummus that costs as much as a small car. And, because I lack all self-restraint, I’d be bamboozled by the bakery aisle, walking out with enough bread to single-handedly fund a village feast.

The Aftermath

At the end of my spree, I’d return home with a car full of things I don’t need, a bank account gasping for air, and a vague sense of regret wrapped in the flimsy comfort of retail euphoria. I’d stare at my new treasures, wondering how I managed to lose control so spectacularly, all while reassuring myself that “everything was on sale”—which, of course, justifies everything.

Would I do it again? Absolutely. But next time, I might bring along a financially responsible friend to stop me from purchasing a life-sized statue of a medieval knight. Or not.

A Middle Name: More Than Just a Label?

A Middle Name: More Than Just a Label?

Names are fascinating, aren’t they? They serve as our identity, whisper tales of ancestry, and often carry the weight of tradition, culture, and even aspirations. My name, Prashant Kumar Lal, is no exception. But today, I turn the spotlight on my middle name—Kumar—a seemingly simple yet deeply embedded part of my identity.

What’s in a Middle Name?

In many cultures, middle names are more than just an additional syllable in a passport or a bank document. They can be a family legacy, a symbol of status, or a tribute to an ancestor. In India, particularly, ‘Kumar’ is one of the most common middle names, used across states, languages, and communities.

For some, it signifies youth or a princely disposition—rooted in Sanskrit, where Kumara means ‘boy’ or ‘prince’. In ancient Hindu traditions, Lord Kartikeya, the warrior son of Shiva and Parvati, is often referred to as Kumar—a symbol of strength and wisdom. Over time, the name transcended religious boundaries and became a widely accepted marker of respectability.

The Evolution of ‘Kumar’ in My Life

As a child, I didn’t ponder much on the significance of my middle name. It was just there, sandwiched between my first and last names. But over time, I began to notice its omnipresence—classmates, colleagues, even strangers carried the same middle name. Did it make me less unique? Or did it bind me to something larger, a shared cultural heritage?

While my first name, Prashant, signifies peace and calm, Kumar adds a dynamic contrast—youthfulness, vibrance, and perhaps an eternal student-like curiosity. Together, they form a blend of serenity and energy, a balance that I strive to maintain in life.

A Marker of Tradition or a Mere Formality?

The role of middle names varies across the world. In Western traditions, they often serve as a connection to a grandparent or a historical figure. In some cases, they are used to distinguish between people with common first and last names. In contrast, Indian names—especially those with Kumar—seem to function more as a cultural bridge than a unique identifier.

In official paperwork, the middle name is sometimes overlooked, yet in personal spaces, it holds its own charm. It serves as a silent witness to my roots, linking me to generations before me. I could have been just Prashant Lal, but somehow, Prashant Kumar Lal carries a rhythm, a completeness that feels just right.

Would I Ever Change It?

Not a chance! Middle names may not always be in the limelight, but they subtly shape who we are. Whether as a mark of tradition, a phonetic enhancement, or an ancestral gift, they add a hidden depth to our identity. Kumar is not just an extra syllable in my name—it’s a whisper of history, a nod to heritage, and a reminder that names, like people, carry stories within them.

So, what does your middle name mean to you?

The Last Lesson: Embracing the Unending School of Life

The Last Lesson: Embracing the Unending School of Life

Life, in its infinite wisdom, never ceases to educate us. Just when we think we have mastered a subject, it introduces a new chapter, sometimes with a gentle whisper and at other times with an unceremonious jolt. The most recent lesson I learned is a testament to this relentless curriculum—the realisation that age and experience do not grant immunity from rejection, nor do they guarantee unwavering relevance in a world obsessed with novelty.

The Bitter Pill of Relevance

Having spent decades in the field of education, training minds, shaping institutions, and refining the art of administration, one would assume that expertise accumulated over time would be an asset in perpetuity. Yet, the world operates differently. It often values fresh faces over seasoned hands, innovation over wisdom, and technology over tradition. The challenge, then, is not to mourn the past but to evolve with the present.

It is a humbling truth—no matter how well-read, well-travelled, or well-experienced one is, one must constantly prove one’s worth in an ever-changing world. The market does not owe us anything for our past contributions; it merely acknowledges what we bring to the table today.

The Lesson Beyond the Pain

This realisation could easily lead to despair, but embedded within it is a powerful call to action. Adaptability is not a skill reserved for the young; it is the secret to lifelong relevance. Instead of viewing rejection as a reflection of inadequacy, I now see it as an invitation to reinvent myself. If doors do not open, perhaps it is time to build new ones.

This lesson has reinforced a deeper understanding: success is not about resting on laurels but about continuously planting new seeds. The world may not always validate our efforts immediately, but perseverance has a way of turning silent struggles into roaring triumphs.

The School of Life Never Closes

There is a peculiar beauty in knowing that learning never ends. Every rejection is a redirection, every setback a setup for a comeback, and every closed door a nudge towards a path not yet explored. The willingness to remain a student, despite years of teaching, is the only way to truly grow.

So, as I sit with this newfound lesson, I embrace the uncertainty ahead. The school of life has no graduation day, and perhaps, that is its greatest gift.