The tabooed thoughts

 Maybe if I’d been prettier. Maybe if I’d been smarter. Maybe if I’d been more mature, never showing that raw, childish side. Maybe if I’d asked for less than time — or maybe if I’d never asked at all. Maybe if I’d been of more value. Maybe if I’d had more friends. Maybe if I’d been less of a mother and more of just an unconcerned lover. Maybe if I’d never questioned your actions, and known you would leave if I ever did. Maybe if I never asked about your chats with other people online, about the girls who were “just friends” touching you. Maybe if I’d died earlier, or maybe if I was never born. Maybe if I never had to lie to my parents and sister. Maybe if I never happened. Maybe if I didn’t hold on to everything that’s gone. Maybe if I never expressed who I really am. Maybe if I never had expectations of love. Maybe if I gave my body earlier. Maybe if I trusted my instincts, instead of silencing them. Maybe if I gave myself less time, like I had any. I know I’m nev...

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

 A lone tree  claimed  the land,    Lost in its own silence .  It  held fast , though winds did roar,  And birds sang,  unheard .  Fixed in its gaze , The cows moved, the clouds drifted.  For how could a rock ever truly smile?  Or a desert ever truly weep? - Bharathi Senthilkumar

With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, many artists and creative professionals are growing concerned. Just as the Industrial Revolution automated manual labor, AI now seems to be taking over intellectual and artistic work. From writing and research to art and learning, it’s quite agonizing to watch AI make even our minds complacent. Sure, AI offers the benefits of speed and efficiency. But if we start accepting vague reproductions of a lifetime’s work, it raises serious concerns about how we express perspectives. The key difference between human-made and AI-generated art lies in emotion . Every word, brushstroke, and musical note carries the weight of personal experience, cultural shifts, and societal narratives. Art isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about storytelling, struggle, and human connection. AI can be a useful tool, but it shouldn’t replace human artistry. It lacks the ability to feel, dream, or rebel —qualities that define great art. Instead of letting AI...

The privatization of space travel is moving at an incredible pace. Once dominated by government agencies like ROSCOSMOS NASA and ISRO, space exploration now sees private companies taking center stage. Boeing and SpaceX, in particular, have been pushing boundaries, making space travel seem more accessible than ever. It almost feels like the vast gap between Earth and the stars is shrinking, not just in distance but in technological advancements. One of the most anticipated missions in this new era is Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner, set to embark on its first-ever crewed flight under NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. After years of delays, this mission is crucial in proving that Starliner can stand alongside SpaceX’s Crew Dragon in safely transporting astronauts to the International Space Station. What makes this mission even more exciting is the presence of Sunita Williams, a seasoned astronaut with a remarkable history. She is set to make history once again as the first woman to fly on a ma...

The hallways feel different now—   quieter, as if they know we're leaving.   Laughter that once filled the air   now lingers only in memories,   like echoes of a song that’s almost faded.   Mornings used to bring familiar voices,   inside jokes, hurried footsteps,   plans made over coffee and late-night dreams.   Now, the silence settles in,   a quiet reminder that things are changing.   We mapped out our days together,   marked moments we thought would last forever.   But time has its own way of moving forward,   pulling us gently toward what’s next.   So I hold on to these memories,   folding them carefully like old letters,   knowing that even as we step away,   a part of us will always stay.   - Bharathi Senthilkumar 

A silent scream that’s louder than the violent ones A distant screen that seems to display all the mistakes I’ve ever committed.   A fatal scam the mind is fighting.   Drowned in a flood of expectations,   Flawed in the name of scars.   Beyond the highs and lows, maybe there is a field of high impedance.   Ignored to enjoy the company of meaningless compilations.   Toward the horizon where the mind might find peace!   ~ Bharathi

The olive ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) are a vital component of Chennai's coastal ecosystem, particularly along beaches from Tiruvanmiyur to Neelangarai. That's where this endangered species of turtles nest annually between January and April. These turtles contribute to marine biodiversity by regulating jellyfish populations, thus maintaining ecological balance.  The olive ridley turtles haven been facing a threatening situation at chennai while nesting for the past years. The pity situation is that over the years the threat to their lives and offsprings has only increased drastically. The nesting season has only began and already 350 dead turtles have washed ashore, marking the highest number in over two decades. The major causes of this is: Fishing Practices: The use of large nets often results in turtles being accidentally captured, leading to injuries or death.  Habitat Disturbance : Increased human activity on beaches, such as vandalism of nests and predati...

It all began with a book I couldn't understand. Its dense pages and complex equations sought to unravel the secrets of the universe, yet they only left my eight-year-old self bewildered. This was the "Theory of Everything," a concept far beyond my grasp at the time. But even in my confusion, one realization stuck with me: we, as humans, are tiny characters in a grand, cosmic play. Sensing my curiosity, my mom gifted me something truly magical: "George and the Big Bang." This book, and the series it belongs to, felt like the approachable child of the "Theory of Everything." To this day, it remains one of my most memorable birthday gifts. The series, penned by the brilliant scientist Stephen Hawking and his daughter Lucy, comprises six captivating sci-fi adventures of a young boy named George. From "George and the Secret Key to the Universe" to "George and the Ship of Time," each story whisked me away on thrilling explorations of the ...

 A shield of blue, protecting Earth from harmful lights   A delicate layer, on which our lives depend. The ozone layer encircles the earth like a celestial hue  But we have been so destructive  Piercing our armour all across the land We've made a hole in the sky, a wound that's only getting larger It's a  threat to life itself But hope endures, A chance to mend, to make things right. Just as our hearts may mend and heal, So too can Earth,  If we begin to be more considerate,  Using public transport and green transport  We can join hands to save our planet - Bharathi

When it all happens too fast  When you realise sitting around isn't an option anymore  When you feel the anxiety building  When your heart starts beating faster When your mind races imagining the impossible When your surroundings are quiet and dark but your gut pushes you to get out  When all that was once a routine slowly starts to end  When all the mistakes replay in your mind  When all your dreams aren't only what you see in sleep but the fuel to make everyday brighter Maybe that's when life's happening  Pulling you to make your decisions and draw your plan  Urging you to succeed in such a phenomenal way that even you had never imagined  Just random feelings and thoughts  - BHARATHI SENTHILKUMAR

 Seems like mere paper, Yet holds immense worth, With distinction in every note. It is the most fundamental necessity, All our endeavors seem to lead to nurturing the ability to acquire it. It bestows us with confidence, it burdens us with stress, It brings joy and satisfies our desires. But what truly matters is the way we manage it, We cherish it dearly, for we rely upon it. Have you found what we are describing here ?? Comment your answers!! - Bharathi Senthilkumar

Dark clouds crowd the clear sky, soon to flood the roads, while it seemed as though the mountains grinned. The fresh green leaves appear to have had a bath, adorned with dewdrops that give off a glow. The most unavoidable feeling is the smell of wet mud after a hard shower—it gives that comforting sense of belonging, like home. It's quite ironic yet refreshing to see nature happy for once, while we sulk over flooded encroachments and power cuts. Each drop of rain brings memories of the past, making me rewind to the days when we made paper boats and let the rain drench us. The busy buzz of the mind quietens to listen to the rhythms of the rain and the gushing winds. We seem to have grown when we catch ourselves staring at the sky as it pours its heart out—maybe just wondering if those juggling confusions will find ground to fall on, just like the earth is always ready to catch the rain. - Bharathi Senthilkumar

It's a common misconception that survival and success are synonymous. While surviving challenges is undoubtedly a significant achievement, it doesn't necessarily equate to a fulfilling life. This post attempts to give perspective into the nuances of survival and success, exploring how they intersect and diverge. Historically, survival was the primary goal of human existence. Hunters and gatherers faced daily threats from predators and environmental factors. Their ability to adapt and overcome these challenges was paramount. Today, while our immediate threats have evolved, the fundamental need for survival persists. However, success is more than just staying alive. It involves achieving a sense of fulfillment, purpose, and well-being. This can be achieved through personal growth, career advancement, meaningful relationships, or contributions to society. Innovation has been a double-edged sword. It's increased our odds of survival, but it's also created new complexities. ...

When we talk about time, we often refer to it in terms of seconds, minutes, and hours. But what if time is more about change than these conventional measurements? It’s a captivating idea to consider that change itself might be the true measure of time. Let’s explore this perspective: The moment you notice the sky lightening as the sun rises, The way smog thickens, painting the city grey during rush hour, The sudden shift in weather, from warm sunshine to a sudden storm, Spotting a grasshopper almost invisible against the green grass, The crowd at the bus stop changing, ebbing and flowing, The coffee level dropping, marking the end of your brief respite, Watching your hair turn grey over the years, The sun setting, making room for the moon to cast its glow. Each change a note in time’s grand song,   A melody where we all belong.   So, could it be that time is less about counting seconds and more about recognizing and experiencing change? - Bharathi Senthilkumar

One of my lost and found poems after a long time. Which was written when I was 11 years old. It is quite silly but also surprising to know trees have been the most interesting thing always.  Dear tree,           How are you as strong as a wrestler          As graceful as a beautiful dancer           How is your trunk as brown as the mud when it rains           As cracked as a crackle but never really cracks            How are your branches as thin as a paper            But just enough to hold a leaf            How is your leaf as veiny as a mat with those grassy things            As small as a store room but just enough to hold a kitchen within it  So will you please tell me how can you be so many things.  Perhaps that little bird on your br...

  A churning storm,   a hidden rage,   But on my face, a practiced page.   No messy feelings, just cool clicks, A clockwork heart, with hidden tricks. The ways of the mind. What happens when you are constantly questioning things you cant change. Maybe that's the turbulence of the mind. The pilot who trains to fly through the turbulence is maybe the one who becomes successful. -Bharathi Senthilkumar

One of the newest passions I've unlocked just after the completion of my home-schooling journey was Master of ceremony.  It has given me numerous event management skills and shed light of the hidden responsibilities of holding the mike.  From preparing a script after understanding the schedule to delivering the needed instructions on spot I've gather a bag full of knowledge. It is a great shift from being a member in the large audience to being the member who steers the event.  Just a year ago my voice was shivery unsure if the listener understands. My confidence was was so under the blanket that people asked to repeat every word I uttered. With these qualities I'm quite surprised to realise that holding the Mike has bought great strength and not any fear.  It wasn't something that came to me naturally. At the beginning it was just one of the many new things I tried. I never imagined I would do it again. Continuing to mc for various events at college was really out o...

Let's be honest, saving the world can feel overwhelming. We're bombarded with images of melting glaciers and overflowing landfills, and it's easy to think, "What difference can I possibly make?"  But here's the thing:  change starts small We've all been there - leaving the light on in an empty room, grabbing a disposable coffee cup "just this once," or forgetting our reusable grocery bags (again!).  This blog is for all of us, the forgetful, the busy, the "one-time" warriors. Here, we'll explore ways to make a positive impact that fit into our everyday lives. No judgment, just practical tips and inspiring stories of real people making a difference. Imagine you grab your reusable mug for your morning coffee, a small act that ripples outward. The barista smiles, maybe a customer notices, and suddenly, it's not just about your coffee, it's a small victory for the planet.  That's the power we hold. Every choice, every actio...