An Ancient Path to Modern Success

Popcorn is a fascinating snack. It’s mostly air, yet it jumps around dramatically, making a lot of noise. The same can be said about certain netizens who know very little about a subject yet insist on making loud statements about everything—be it economics, defence, medicine, or taxation. The recent 55th GST Council Meeting has given these “popcorn commentators” plenty to talk about. While the council made several important decisions, only two seem to have grabbed the public’s attention: GST on popcorn and GST on used cars. However, the priorities of the discussion are as skewed as a tub of overpriced movie-theater popcorn. 1. GST on Penal Charges: A Relief for the Middle Class Let’s start with what should have been the real headline: GST on penal charges. Imagine you’ve taken out a loan or used a credit card and missed a payment deadline. The bank or NBFC imposes penal interest or additional charges on your overdue instalments. Previously, these charges were considered “inte...

What is Lakshman Syndrome? In the Ramayana, Lakshman is considered a divine figure, often associated with Shesh Nag, the cosmic serpent that bears the weight of the world. Shesh Nag is believed to support the earth and heavens, symbolizing strength and endurance. Lakshman embodies this ideal, bearing the emotional, physical, and moral weight of his responsibilities. His unwavering dedication and sacrifices mirror the cosmic duty of Shesh Nag, making him a symbol of selfless support and protection.  For 14 years, he forsook sleep, family, and comfort to serve Lord Ram and Sita. While his selflessness is commendable, it also highlights the dangers of prioritising duty over personal well-being. In the corporate world, middle managers often find themselves in a similar position, shouldering the weight of organisational expectations, decisions, and challenges. Like Lakshman, they quietly take on burdens to ensure stability, often sacrificing their own well-being in the process.  A...

Fifteen years ago, during my study days in Delhi, I came across a small cobbler’s shop tucked away in a busy street of Indrapuri. As I hurried past it, something unusual caught my eye a signboard.  I couldn’t help but stop and smile. The shop had a unique signboard “Jakhmi Juton ka Aspatal”.At first glance, it seemed quirky, even humorous, a cobbler referring to his shop as a hospital for injured shoes and himself as Dr. Ramji Lal . What struck me was not just a creativity of the signboard but the deeper lesson it carried. This small cobbler through his presentation, elevated his work to something far beyond ordinary. Why It Matters Today 1. Breaking Stereotypes In a world where professions are often judged based on societal perceptions, Dr. Ramji Lal’s signboard challenges these stereotypes. Cobblers, often considered at the bottom of the professional hierarchy, are given a new identity one of respect, expertise, and purpose. The lesson for today’s youth and professionals ...