Saturday, August 16, 2025

Pattunool Puzhu – A Journey Through Threads of Life


Malayalam, as a language, holds one of the richest treasures of literature in India. Its stories, deeply rooted in people, places, and emotions, have a way of immersing you completely into their world. Listening to the audiobook Pattunool Puzhu was my way of reconnecting with this richness—an experience both powerful and lingering.

The title Pattunool Puzhu translates to silkworm. Just as the silkworm spins delicate yet strong threads, the story too weaves together fragile emotions, relationships, and unspoken desires into a fabric that feels intensely real. Each character is a thread, sometimes shining with hope, sometimes fraying with pain, yet essential to the whole.


The novel by S. Hareesh stands out not just for its theme but for his remarkable style of storytelling. The way he introduces each character—Annie, her son Samson, Vijayan, and others—felt almost cinematic. Their lives, struggles, and connections unfolded gradually, as though I were watching them move around me. The narration of the audiobook added even more depth, making me visualize every place and person as if I were a part of their world.

What stayed with me the most was the emotional weight of the story. Annie and her son Samson’s lives, and even the delicate relationship between Annie and Vijayan, brought moments of quiet sadness. It is not a tale that offers easy answers or a neatly tied happy ending, but one that reflects life in all its complexity.

Days after finishing the audiobook, I found myself thinking about each of the characters—their choices, their silences, their vulnerabilities. That is the power of Hareesh’s writing: he lingers in your thoughts, making you revisit the story again and again in your mind.

It took me a while to sit down and write this review because the story was still living with me, refusing to let go. Pattunool Puzhu is not just a book—it is an experience that wraps around you, like the threads of the silkworm, fragile yet enduring.

Once again Reena thank you for suggesting this book.

~ Dawn

Sunday, August 03, 2025

A Revolutionary Day at Stanford with Garje Marathi Global (GMG)

 I had the privilege of attending Garje Marathi Global’s 9th Anniversary and the launch of the Garje Marathi Global Innovation Academy at Stanford University yesterday —an event filled with purpose, energy, and a shared vision to empower innovation from the grassroots to the global stage.

Inspired by the words of P.L. Deshpande:
"Villages feed cities… Solid villages give rise to solid cities—and ultimately a solid nation."
This philosophy echoed through the sessions, reminding us of the power of rural innovation and inclusive growth.


Alongside keynote talks, there was a live Hackathon—engaging students and professionals in real-time innovation. It was exciting to see how a side event like this could very well spark the next startup idea. The audience included changemakers not just from the Bay Area but also from Chicago, Seattle, New Jersey, India, and China—highlighting GMG’s global impact.
A standout moment was the live demo of Amazon’s Kero AI tool. It was a clear, engaging way to show how AI is not just about automation but about empowerment—how humans can guide and control its outcomes. This made it especially valuable for the students in attendance, showing them how accessible and practical technology can be.

The day was also well-orchestrated—from welcome tea and snacks to a delicious lunch—all thanks to a committed group of volunteers who made the experience seamless and warm.
We heard from inspiring leaders like Anand Ganu, Anurag Mairal, PhD (He/His), Rupali Deshpande, and Sanjay Bhandari —whose journey from patents to IPOs reflects the exact kind of excellence GMG seeks to foster. Their experiences reminded me of the parallels with Go-To-Market strategies, from inception to delivery and measurement.

A heartfelt thank you to my friend Keerti Kulkarni for checking in—your nudge led to a day well spent: learning, connecting, and being part of something meaningful. For just $25, I walked away with knowledge, connections, and the inspiration to get involved in GMG’s mentoring and learning opportunities.
As they say—drop by drop, the ocean is created. 🌊
Let’s rise, build, and give back—together.
hashtag#GarjeMarathiGlobal #InnovationAcademy #Stanford #AIForAll #AmazonKeroAI #Hackathon #StudentsInTech #GoToMarket #VillageToNation #SocialImpact #Leadership #Mentorship #LearningAndGivingBack #IndiaGlobal #VolunteerPower #Inspiration

~ Dawn

Friday, August 01, 2025

Movie Review: Ronth (Malayalam Crime Thriller)


Ronth is a gripping Malayalam crime thriller that truly left me stunned. What a story, what a suspenseful ride! Shahi Kabir has once again proven his strength in storytelling and direction—every scene was taut with tension, emotion, and realism.

Roshan Matthew and Dileesh Pothan delivered phenomenal performances. Their acting felt so effortless and natural that they didn’t just play their characters—they became them. The subtlety, intensity, and emotional depth they brought to their roles was truly commendable.

While the film keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout, the ending leaves you with a sense of sorrow and reflection. It’s heartbreaking. It reminds us how rarely we think about the personal lives and silent struggles of police officers. A few corrupt ones may taint the name of the force, but the pain and sacrifices of the honest ones—and their families—often go unseen and unacknowledged.

Ronth is not just a crime thriller. It’s a mirror to society, and a powerful commentary on justice, morality, and the human cost behind the uniform.

~ Dawn

Tuesday, July 29, 2025

Book Review: Hangwoman – A Journey Through Calcutta’s Streets and Shadows


There are books that entertain you, some that educate you, and then there are those rare ones that unsettle you—profoundly, poetically. Hangwoman (originally written in Malayalam as Aarachaar) by K.R. Meera is one such hauntingly powerful novel. Reena suggested this book to me, and I’m so glad she did—it’s a literary experience I won’t forget. I actually experienced the story through the gripping audiobook narration by Benaifer Mirza.

Set primarily in Kolkata (Calcutta), the story follows Chetna Grddha Mullick, the first woman executioner in India, born into a lineage of hangmen. But Hangwoman is not just about death—it’s about life, patriarchy, journalism, love, politics, and identity. Meera’s writing, masterfully translated from Malayalam to English by J. Devika, is lyrical, intense, and immersive. It speaks volumes of the original's power that its essence and layered complexity could travel across languages and still hit hard.

What struck me the most was the vivid narration. Meera has a way of weaving words that transport you. As I read, I could walk through the crowded streets of Kolkata. I could smell the river at the ghats, hear the bells and chaos, taste the sweet graininess of sondesh. The city wasn’t just a backdrop—it was a living, breathing character in the story. I could see it, feel it, and be a part of it. That is the beauty of Meera’s storytelling.

Chetna’s voice—raw, conflicted, and sharp—is unforgettable. The novel explores generational trauma, the complexity of womanhood, and the moral contradictions of justice and media sensationalism. The father-daughter dynamic is particularly gripping, sometimes suffocating, yet heartbreakingly real.


K.R. Meera, a celebrated journalist and author from Kerala, is known for her powerful portrayals of women and for challenging societal norms. Aarachaar, when published in Malayalam, was met with critical acclaim and went on to win multiple awards including the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award. The English translation has made this monumental work accessible to a global audience—and I can see why it stirred so many conversations.

This isn’t an easy read. It demands time and attention—but rewards you with emotional depth, literary brilliance, and a strange, dark beauty that lingers.

Thank you, Reena, for introducing me to a book that not only told me a story but took me on a journey—through a city, through a woman’s mind, and through a nation's conscience.

~ Dawn

Saturday, July 05, 2025

Book Review: The Lost Diary of Kastur, My Ba by Tushar Gandhi


When history whispers the truth, it sounds a lot like Kasturba.

It was a quiet February morning earlier this year when I held in my hands an autographed copy of The Lost Diary of Kastur, My Ba by Tushar Gandhi. This wasn’t just any book delivery—it was a long-awaited one. I had been anticipating this read, not only because of its subject but because of what it represents: a voice long unheard, a perspective long overlooked.

My fascination with history began when I was a child. I would often find myself lost in stories of the past, trying to understand the people behind the names—what they felt, how they lived, and what gave them strength. While textbooks scratched the surface, my mind always reached deeper, asking questions that often went unanswered by teachers and syllabi.

One of those questions always revolved around Kasturba Gandhi. We’ve read volumes about Mahatma Gandhi—Bapu, as we know him with affection and reverence—but rarely do we hear about Kasturba, the woman who stood beside him with quiet strength. Who was she beyond the title of “Bapu’s wife”? What were her thoughts, her sacrifices, her role in the movement that reshaped a nation?

Tushar Gandhi’s book answers these questions—not as a historian with a cold lens, but as a grandson honoring a legacy with warmth and clarity.

In The Lost Diary of Kastur, My Ba, we finally get a glimpse into the heart and spirit of a woman who, in many ways, made Bapu who he was. Through imagined diary entries and reflections based on documented material, Tushar Gandhi brings Kasturba’s presence alive—not as a side character, but as a pillar. The book paints a portrait of Kastur not just as a dutiful wife but as a woman of remarkable resolve, resilience, and emotional intelligence. Her quiet strength is evident in every page, every word.

Reading it felt like having a long-overdue conversation. It reaffirmed a belief I’ve always held: that behind every powerful movement, there are countless unsung women whose sacrifices and convictions make the front lines possible. Kasturba was one such rock—steady, often silent, but absolutely unshakable.

This isn’t just a book for those who admire Bapu. It’s for anyone who loves history, who is curious about the intricacies behind India’s freedom struggle, and who yearns to know the human stories hidden between the headlines. It’s a tribute to every woman who stood behind, beside, and sometimes in front of the men we revere.

I deeply appreciate the effort of everyone involved in bringing this book to life—those who sourced the material, those who believed in its value, and Tushar Gandhi himself for choosing to tell it with such authenticity and empathy.

If you, like me, are a curious soul searching for answers that history books often ignore, this is a book you must read.

Highly recommended.

~ Dawn

Monday, June 30, 2025

A Monday to remember 🥰



It’s Monday, and I’m on summer shutdown at work this week — a rare day with nothing on my calendar. “Since you’re free, why don’t you come to my office?” Rhea suggested. And just like that, I had my plans for today. 

As I walked into her workplace, memories flooded back — the times I’d take all three of my little ones, Rahi, Rhea, and our beloved cocker spaniel Reyna, to the VMware campus for visits. How the roles have shifted.


Today, it was my daughter showing me around — giving me a tour of the Nvidia campus, the cafeteria, and sharing lunch together. A quiet moment of pride.

Before I left, I added my signature doodle on the whiteboard by her desk — a little tradition that continues.

Mondays like this? I’ll take them any day 🥰.

~ Dawn

Saturday, May 31, 2025

A good education can change anyone. A good teacher can change everything!


It warmed my heart to see this picture of my English teacher, Maggie Santram ma'am, who turned 95 on May 14th! So many wonderful memories flooded back. She taught us to truly speak English – the nuances of pronunciation and grammar, and her storytelling was simply captivating. She had this way of making us believe she was straight from England, and we all wholeheartedly embraced it.

Mrs. Santram was a remarkable teacher. Though she held us to high standards, her respectful way of communicating naturally fostered an environment of mutual respect. And her style! She was undoubtedly the most stylish teacher throughout my elementary and high school years. While there were younger, fashionable teachers later, Mrs. Santram possessed a unique elegance.
I cherish every moment spent in her classroom. I still vividly recall her having me read aloud, praising my pronunciation while explaining the meaning of words to the others. Our generation shares a special bond with our teachers; a mix of deep respect, love, and perhaps a touch of nostalgia that can bring a tear to the eye. Wishing you continued good health and happiness, dear Santram ma'am! ❤️ #myenglishteacher

"Children learn more from who you are than what you teach."

~ Dawn

Saturday, May 10, 2025

Two Days of Words, Wonder, and Warmth: A Literary Camp to Remember

This past weekend, the Literature Association of North America (LANA) hosted a two-day literary camp in Fremont, California, and to say it was an enriching experience would be an understatement. From thought-provoking discussions to joyful camaraderie, the event brought together writers, poets, readers, and dreamers under one creative umbrella.

The atmosphere buzzed with stories, laughter, and inspiration as attendees engaged in sessions that covered a wide range of literary themes. Whether it was fiction or memoir, poetry or publishing advice, every speaker brought a unique voice to the table—each one adding another brushstroke to this vibrant tapestry of words.


The camp kicked off on Friday evening with a warm "Meet and Greet," setting the stage for the engaging inaugural function. Anchored by the dynamic duo of Tom Antony and Smitha Kottarath, the evening unfolded with a welcoming address by John Kodiyan, followed by a nostalgic look at LANA's history through a captivating video. Sankar Mana's presidential address set a thoughtful tone for the days ahead, culminating in the inauguration by the esteemed Madassery Neelakantan. The evening was further graced by insightful felicitations from Athmaraman and Thampy Antony, leading into a thought-provoking speech by Vinod Narayan on the "Struggling World of Reading" (വഴിà´®ുà´Ÿ്à´Ÿുà´¨്à´¨ à´µായനാà´²ോà´•ം). Smitha Kottarath's vote of thanks brought the formal proceedings to a close before a delicious dinner.


The evening continued with a poignant remembrance of the legendary M.T. Vasudevan Nair, introduced by Haridas Thankappan and eloquently delivered via Zoom by K.P. Ramanunni. This session fostered a heartfelt connection with a literary giant, followed by an engaging interaction with the esteemed writer. Damu Kesavath's wrap-up marked the end of a stimulating first day.

Saturday dawned with a hearty breakfast, fueling attendees for another day of literary immersion. The morning sessions delved into the vibrant world of American Malayali writers, moderated by Raji Menon, followed by personal reflections on "M.T. in My Reading" (à´Žà´¨്à´±െ à´µായനയിà´²െ à´Žം. à´Ÿി.), skillfully moderated by Sreevalsan Vallath. After a brief break, the discussions continued with "Malayalam Works That Influenced Me" (à´Žà´¨്à´¨െ à´¸്à´µാà´§ീà´¨ിà´š്à´š മലയാà´³ à´•ൃà´¤ികൾ), guided by Sukumar Canada.



The afternoon offered a creative outlet with a "Kaviyarangam" (poetry session) moderated by Jacob John, showcasing the poetic talents within the community. A tea break provided a moment of respite before a memorable photo session captured the camaraderie of the event.


The closing ceremony, expertly MC'd by Raji Menon, was a fitting culmination to the camp. Sreevalsan Vallath welcomed the attendees, followed by another insightful presidential address by Sankar Mana. The ceremony included the honoring of Madassery Neelakantan and a moving rendition of Sugathakumari's poem "Kattupakshi" (à´•ാà´Ÿ്à´Ÿുപക്à´·ി) by Manasi Mahima Mahesh.





One of the standout moments of the camp was the honor of introducing Shobha Tharoor Srinivasan—renowned author, poet, and speaker—to the stage. Her talk, “Children’s Books: Entertainment or Educational?”, was not just insightful, but deeply resonant. She reminded us of the power of storytelling in shaping young minds—how the best books both delight and teach, entertain and enlighten. It was a privilege to welcome her and witness her charm and intellect firsthand.


A highlight of the closing ceremony was the captivating speech by Athmaraman on "The Paths of Reading" (à´µായനയുà´Ÿെ വഴികൾ). With thoughtful reflections and eloquent clarity, he delved into how reading is not just an act of consuming words but a journey of connecting with the author's mind—their emotions, interpretations, and unique style of expression.

He spoke about the beauty of understanding a poet’s or writer’s method and meaning, emphasizing that every reader has the opportunity to assimilate the essence of a work by engaging deeply with its rhythm, context, and subtext. His insights encouraged the audience to go beyond the surface, to pause, reflect, and truly experience literature as a dialogue between the creator and the reader. It was a powerful conclusion to a weekend that celebrated the written word in all its richness.



The ceremony continued with an engaging and thought-provoking speech by Umesh P. Narendran on the intricacies of "Translating Poetry" (à´•à´µിതകൾ പരിà´­ാà´·à´ª്à´ªെà´Ÿുà´¤്à´¤ുà´®്à´ªോൾ). His reflections on the delicate balance between preserving the emotional essence of a poem and staying true to its linguistic structure were insightful and deeply resonant.

What truly captivated me was Umesh’s effortless recitation of Sanskrit shlokas, followed by his thoughtful and articulate explanations. It transported me back to my own Sanskrit and Hindi classes, rekindling a nostalgic connection with the classical languages and the layered beauty they carry. I was completely glued to the session, hanging on to every word. His ability to blend scholarship with heartfelt delivery made it one of the most enjoyable and enriching parts of the entire event, followed by the exciting kick-off of the LANA Biennial Convention by Haridas Thankappan. Adding to the cultural richness, Maushmi Mahima Mahesh recited Ayyappapanicker's powerful poem "Agnipooja" (à´…à´—്à´¨ിà´ªൂà´œ). One of the most mesmerizing moments of the literary camp was experiencing the presence of Bindu Tiji, a truly multi-talented personality who effortlessly wears the hats of an actor, writer, and poetess. Her aura on stage was captivating, and her words carried the weight of lived experience, artistic depth, and heartfelt emotion.

Bindu's ability to shift between dramatic expression, lyrical narration, and thoughtful reflection left the audience spellbound. Whether it was her poignant poetry or the nuanced stories she shared, there was an authenticity in her delivery that drew everyone in. She embodied the spirit of creativity and passion, and her performance reminded us all of the profound power of the arts to touch, move, and inspire.

Her presence was not just memorable—it was magnetic, a highlight that will be cherished by everyone who witnessed it.



The evening also celebrated the contributions of several literary figures, including the honoring of Athmaraman, Shobha Tharoor Srinivasan, Vinod Narayan, Thampy Antony, Geeta George, and Sukumar Canada. John Kodiyan's vote of thanks officially concluded the enriching two-day camp, followed by a final, delightful dinner.


But beyond the sessions and speeches, it was the connections we formed that left a lasting impression. Two days was all it took for strangers to become friends, for pages to turn into shared memories, and for a literary camp to feel like a family gathering. The conversations spilled into breaks, the laughter echoed into lunch hours, and by the end of it all, none of us wanted to leave.

As we now return to our daily routines, a part of us lingers in those Fremont moments—grateful, inspired, and already missing the community we created. Here's to literature, to lifelong learning, and to many more camps like this in the future.

~Dawn


Thursday, April 10, 2025

Defying Definitions: 28 Years of Living My Own Truth

 



April 10th marks a profound personal milestone. Twenty-eight years ago, on April 10th, 1997, I stepped off the plane at Toronto International Airport, alone, into a country utterly new and unknown. There was no meticulously crafted plan, only an unwavering determination to forge my own path. Now, on April 10th, 2025, looking back, the journey feels incredibly significant. I arrived carrying the weight of someone else's aspirations, and from there, I had to weave in my own dreams. Some initial decisions weren't mine, but ultimately, I charted my own course, and I hold no regrets.

"The most profound journeys are often those taken without a map, guided only by the compass of your own heart."

When loved ones inquire about guilt, my answer remains a firm no, never. No guilt, no regrets, because every decision I made felt right for me, and I consciously ensured they didn't negatively impact others. Venturing down unconventional paths has gifted me invaluable life lessons, the kind that classrooms and textbooks can't offer, not even the well-intentioned guidance of parents who always sought to shield me. But life, as it often does, had its own script. I've been blessed with the amazing experience of connecting with diverse individuals, forming cherished friendships, and exploring a multifaceted career. I deliberately pushed my boundaries, embracing discomfort in various professional roles, and emerged a successful human being. These opportunities shattered the self-imposed limitations, proving that the "I can't" I once believed was a lie. The girl who once feared solo autorickshaw rides has since navigated unfamiliar territories and thrived. I've indeed come a long way.

"Every unexpected turn holds the potential for a beautiful discovery about yourself and the world."


The same girl whom some classmates envisioned solely as a capable housewife, adept at cooking sambar, now finds herself working in the tech industry in North America—a reality they, too, share today. The truth is, society often attempts to define and confine us based on external perceptions, but true empowerment lies in self-belief and pursuing one's own convictions. I'm filled with gratitude for the countless anonymous acts of kindness: the stranger who guided me when I was lost after a bus ride, the person who pointed me towards my destination. These stories underscore the inherent humanity and the presence of good-hearted individuals who offer assistance without judgment, helping us navigate towards our chosen paths.

"In the tapestry of life, every thread, planned or unplanned, contributes to the beauty of the whole. Gratitude weaves it all together."

My childhood dream was simple: a life on a farm, a small hut surrounded by nature, sustenance from the land, and cooking with the aid of a trusty geyser – a vivid dream that felt like a deep-seated yearning. Today, my reality far surpasses that initial vision, and I am overflowing with gratitude. I fondly remember my dear friend Carol (who passed away too soon) making me promise not to leave Canada for the USA. I kept that promise for a time, but years after her passing, meeting Vinod led me to the United States. And I can honestly say, people in the USA are kind too. Life is beautiful, and we must do what resonates with our own journey. Don't seek external validation; it's unnecessary. Carry your dreams and aspirations, not the burden of others' opinions. Extend love to everyone and give back where you can. Ultimately, we are all on a cyclical journey.

"Twenty-eight years later, I realize the most beautiful chapters are often the ones I never saw coming."


"The girl who stepped off that plane couldn't have imagined this life, and for that, I am eternally grateful."

Gratitude fills my heart for a loving husband who is also my best friend and an incredible father. My children, in their constant state of growth, allow me to relive my own childhood – the highs of high school, the milestones of college, the excitement of that first job. Isn't there a unique joy in growing up again and again? Perhaps we never truly grow up, for it's in that perpetual state of learning and making mistakes that we gain wisdom. I realize now that I've spent more of my life outside my birth country than within it. This day always prompts reflection, a yearly striving to become a better version of myself – a journey that continues.

"Don't wait for permission to bloom; plant your own seeds and trust the unfolding." 

~ Dawn



Pattunool Puzhu – A Journey Through Threads of Life

Malayalam, as a language, holds one of the richest treasures of literature in India. Its stories, deeply rooted in people, places, and emoti...