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Let's face it. Festivals are stressful, and exhausting. Yes, we have the time of our lives, dressing up, visiting people, sharing gifts, bonhomie and general cheer. But our rest and relaxation schedule goes for a toss, doesn't it? Take Durga Puja in Kolkata. So much preparation in terms of spring or rather autumn cleaning, buying, distributing, then cooking, home decoration, planning outfits and pandal hopping schedules.  Then comes the build-up to the pujas - the last-minute buys, scrambling to the beauty parlour for fixing hair or skin, visits to the doctors for chronic ailments (since medical professionals go missing during festivals), buying accessories, make-up, etc,  Visits to relatives to distribute clothes and sweets, reconnecting with old friends, bonding with neighbours, meeting with para club members, all these become essential social etiquette during festivals. And suddenly, its Navratri Chaturthi already, and people are posting pictures of the famous pandals, exqui

Yes, its that time of the year.  Kaash phool (Image Source: WB Tourism Facebook Site) Flowers like Shiuli ( Night-flowering Jasmine )  and Chhatim ( Alstonia scholaris )   have scented the autumn air. with a heady touch. The rains are retreating, and fluffy clouds fly in a clear, blue sky. Kaash phool (kans grass) dot the countryside in eastern India.  Time has come for Okaal Bodhon of Ma Durga.  People all over India are preparing for Navratri and Durga Pujo - the worship of the Mother Goddess (Shakti/Durga) The Mother Goddess - Shakti/Durga/Amba As a woman, this time has special significance for me. I feel quite privileged to be a woman, to share Ma's gender, her status as mother and wife, and most importantly as a self-sufficient woman. So, here's how I plan to assert my inner Shakti: 👉 I will reserve time for myself, my recuperation, my well-being. In short, prioritize my mental and physical well-being. Which means cutting down on cooking, cleaning, washing, chores, worrie