I recently read Democrazy during a long train journey from my hometown to Chennai, and it was quite an engaging experience. The book offers a satirical take on democracy, exploring why ordinary citizens often feel they can question the system but find it difficult to bring about meaningful change. While referencing the famous phrase “for the people, by the people”, it examines how the idea sometimes appears complicated in practice, despite being outlined in one of the longest constitutions in the world. The author uses humor and sharp observation to present scenarios that oscillate between amusing and thought-provoking. The narrative describes different forms of challenges faced by citizens—such as bribery, exploitation, and bureaucratic hurdles—through a cast of fictional characters: a head of government, an ambitious family member, a veteran party member, an influential industrialist, a sincere journalist, a socially active citizen (particularly on social media), a strict school prin...
A guilt that engulfs each fleeting second A thought that echoes, a yo-yo's relentless motion A pain that slowly freezes the heart A thorn that pierces every conscious moment A void that suffocates, blocking deep breaths A letter sent too late, forever unsent Memories haunt, a bittersweet refrain Longing to turn back time, to ease the pain A weight that presses, a constant strain A grief that gnaws, a heart in vain Searching for solace, a peaceful place But guilt's dark shadow follows, a relentless pace Time may heal, but wounds remain Scars that linger, a constant strain The guilt of loss, a burden I bear A weight that presses, a heart that's bare The what-ifs whisper, a haunting sigh A regret that echoes, a lonely cry In silence, I weep, a heart that's torn A grief that lingers, only to stay. -Bharathi Senthilkumar