Degree, Job, Done?

(3 mins read)

A few days ago, I came across a tweet and some replies to it that really made me think. They spoke about privilege, adversity, and how our circumstances shape the path we take, especially when it comes to higher education and innovation in science.

Author's tweet

Support for the author's tweet

Counterpoint to the author's tweet

It made me pause and reflect.

Why didn’t I pursue higher studies?

Was it a lack of ambition, or something else?

What role did my background, my parents, and my responsibilities play?

Growing up, I didn’t have the luxury to dream big. My father worked tirelessly, barely making ends meet. My mother gave tuitions and taught in a primary school, not out of passion but necessity. There are many like me who belong to the lower middle class in India, where engineering isn’t seen as an ambition, but as a gateway to a stable job and a way to start supporting the family. I am the eldest in my family, so when I graduated with a degree in Information Technology, there was no question of further studies. The family needed support, and I had to step in. That job meant survival, more than success. If I had chosen higher studies, it would’ve meant more sacrifices, and perhaps, an increase to the family’s burden, both financially and emotionally. So I shelved my ambitions: not out of regret, but out of responsibility.

But dreams are strange things: they don’t die, they just change form. I don’t want my children to carry that weight. I want to be the cushion I never had, give my children what I never had: the luxury to choose learning over earning. Job and income shouldn't be their finish line. 

They should have the freedom to take risks, to explore astrophysics, quantum computing, study the stars, or fail at a startup. 

Like a runway for a plane, long enough to gain momentum before flight. Not too short for the plane crash, and not too long, for the plane to never take off.

Like training wheels on a bicycle, offering balance until they can ride on their own. 

Or a safety net under a trapeze artist, not to prevent falls, but to allow daring leaps. 

The wealth that I provide for them cannot just be money; it should also include freedom. And if my hard work and sacrifices mean they get to chase knowledge and focus on learning instead of just earning, then I’ve done my part for humanity.

My First Eid as a Father of Three: A Celebration to Remember

(2 mins read)

This Eid was a little different. For the first time, I didn’t travel to Kolkata, the place where Eid always feels the most real. My parents, younger siblings, in-laws, and so many friends are all there. Every year, it’s the same: hugs, laughter, home-cooked food, and the warmth of being home.

I’ve lived in Hyderabad for nine years, but only twice have I celebrated Eid here; once during the pandemic, and now, this year. At first, I was worried - would Eid feel empty without the chaos of our big family in Kolkata? But Hyderabad surprised me. 

The city I’ve called home for nearly a decade finally felt like home on Eid. This year, Hyderabad wasn’t just where we lived—it became our home away from home. I celebrated Eid with my wife and our three kids. The youngest is just 10 months old, the other two full of energy at 7.5 and 3.5 years. It was our first Eid as a family of five. And somehow, that made it special.

Friends from our apartment came together with their families. We hugged, smiled, exchanged Eidis, and shared delicious food. The kids ran around happily, dressed in their new and bright Eid clothes, excited with every sweet and every smile.

Decorated my home

 

The youngest one is missing. And I realize it now that in the midst of enjoyment and meet-ups we forgot to click a full family pic on Eid.

Did I miss Kolkata? Of course. My parents’ voices on video calls made my throat ache. Kolkata is my roots, always will be. But this Eid, Hyderabad gave me wings.

Because happiness was right here. In my kids’ giggles. In friends who feel like family. In those quiet, grateful moments between spoonful of sheer khurma. Here’s to more Eids like this — full of warmth, love, and memories made at home, wherever that may be.

No Clickbait, Just Quality: My 10 All-Time Favorite YouTube Videos

(7 mins read)

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Creators often plead, “Like, subscribe, and share!”—but should you hit “like” if you don’t genuinely enjoy a video? As someone who’s watched thousands of videos but only liked a handful, I believe a “like” should be reserved for content that truly moves you. Below is my personal top 10 list of YouTube videos - those I’ve both watched repeatedly and liked unreservedly. I keep coming to these and  hope you will too.

Of course, this list isn’t exhaustive. Many faith-based and spiritual videos that I cherish aren’t included, as they may not resonate with everyone. Also, TED Talks alone could form an entirely separate list. But for now, here’s a mix of science, self-improvement, and mind-expanding content that I believe is worth watching. Let’s dive in!

1. To Scale: THE SOLAR SYSTEM

Most of us grew up staring at textbook diagrams of the solar system - neat little circles crammed onto a single page. But this video? It flips that idea on its head. A team actually built a real-world model in a desert, and seeing it all laid out at a true scale is downright mind-blowing.

Suddenly, those "close-together" planets we memorized as kids reveal their jaw-dropping distances. It’s one thing to know space is vast, but another to feel it - and this humble desert model nails that awe perfectly. A must-watch for space enthusiasts and anyone craving perspective.

2. The Mind-Blowing Scale of The Milky Way

Ever feel insignificant? This video takes you on a journey through the Milky Way, making you appreciate the sheer vastness of our galaxy and how tiny we truly are. Epic Spaceman breaks down our galaxy’s vastness using relatable analogies (think grains of sand and swimming pools). Perfect for wrapping your head around cosmic scales without feeling overwhelmed. What I love is that it doesn't just bombard you with numbers and scientific jargon. Instead, it gives you these "aha!" moments where you suddenly understand cosmic scales in terms you use every day. A must-watch for space and cosmos enthusiasts—honestly, anything by Epic Spaceman is worth your time!

3. Powers of Ten™ (1977)

A classic visualization of scale, taking us from the microscopic to the cosmic level in a matter of minutes. A timeless journey zooming from a picnic blanket to the edge of the universe - and back into a human cell. It’s old but still incredibly relevant. This vintage gem marries art and science, proving simplicity is key to understanding complexity.

4. Inside the Mind of a Master Procrastinator | Tim Urban | TED

We've all been there - that moment when you're supposed to be working, but suddenly reorganizing your sock drawer feels urgent. Tim Urban gets us. In this talk, he perfectly captures why we procrastinate with his brilliant "Instant Gratification Monkey" analogy (and yes, it's as funny as it sounds). What makes it special is how he turns that cringe-worthy recognition of our own bad habits into something both hilarious and genuinely helpful. Watch this if you've ever fallen down a YouTube rabbit hole, doom-scrolled Instagram reels, or binge-watched Netflix instead of tackling a deadline!

5. Steve Jobs' 2005 Stanford Commencement Address

Seventeen years later, this speech is still relevant. Jobs weaves his personal story into universal truths about trusting your gut, following your passion, loving what you do, and seeing meaning in life's unexpected turns. Whether you're graduating, changing careers, or just feeling stuck, it's that rare talk that actually stays with you.

6. How Great Leaders Inspire Action | Simon Sinek | TED

One of the best TED Talks ever. Sinek breaks down why some leaders and companies inspire, while others fail to connect. A must-watch for anyone in leadership. Sinek’s “Golden Circle” theory - starting with why - revolutionizes how we view leadership. If you’ve ever wondered why some brands or people inspire cult-like followings, this talk is for you.

7. The Power of Introverts | Susan Cain | TED

A powerful talk that highlights the strengths of introverts and why they deserve just as much recognition as extroverted leaders. Just like Rahul Dravid, a soft-spoken yet strong leader, stands alongside aggressive captains like Virat Kohli and Ricky Ponting, Cain’s insights validate the immense value quiet thinkers bring in a world that often favors extroversion.

8. Isolation - Mind Field (Ep 1)

Michael from Vsauce takes a deep dive into the effects of complete isolation on the human mind by locking himself in an empty room for 3 days. This fascinating yet unsettling experiment explores the psychology of loneliness, making you appreciate and grateful for the simple comforts of connection, light, and even a passing conversation.

9. BOOKSTORES: How to Read More Books in the Golden Age of Content

In an age of endless scrolling and distractions, Max Joseph (Catfish fame) explores the magic of bookstores and the fading art of deep reading. I loved this video - the way it was crafted, the storytelling, the production quality. As a book lover (both reader and collector), I was completely drawn in. If you’ve ever struggled to finish a book, this might just rekindle your love for reading.

10. The Throne of Allah - Mindblowing

This video offers a breathtaking glimpse into the vastness of Allah’s creation, reminding us of our small yet significant place in the universe. While spiritual in nature, its awe-striking visuals and philosophical musings resonate beyond faith boundaries - an awe-inspiring watch for anyone who ponders the mysteries of existence.

11-Bonus. The best stats you've ever seen | Hans Rosling

I've read books by Hans Rosling, perhaps one of the most influential people on the internet at the start of my career, generating my love and appeal for data visualization. His ability to make numbers come alive is unmatched.

This is the most electrifying statistics lecture you’ll ever experience—Hans Rosling turns dry global health data into a jaw-dropping, bubble-by-bubble storytelling spectacle. I love how he smashes misconceptions about the "developed vs. developing world" with infectious energy and wit. Watch it to reset your worldview, and rewatch it whenever you need a reminder that progress is real (and wildly underrated).

Honorable Mentions

Some incredible channels deserve a shoutout for consistently putting out top-tier content:

• Vsauce, Veritasium, Kurzgesagt: Science made fascinating. For brainy deep-dives, philosophy, and deep questions
• Vox, Cleo Abram: Master researchers and explainers of culture and tech.
• 3Blue1Brown: Math made mesmerizing through stunning visual storytelling.
• MrBeast: Entertainment with a purpose. Because sometimes you just need chaos.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, hitting that "like" button should come from the heart—not because someone asked nicely. It’s a little way to say, "Hey, this meant something to me."
The videos I’ve shared here stuck with me for all kinds of reasons—some made me think deeper, others left me in awe, and a few just made me feel less alone in my weird little quirks.
Now I’d love to hear from you! Did any of these make your personal favorites list? Or do you have hidden gems you think I should watch? Drop them in the comments—I’m always looking for recommendations.
And if this blogpost felt like a friendly chat rather than just another list? Well, you know where that like, and share button is. 😊 (No pressure, though - I get it, we’re all selective with our likes!)

When We Look Up: Stargazing as Spiritual Awakening

(4 mins read)

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Stargazing has always fascinated me. There’s something magical, something so peaceful, something enchanting, something deeply humbling about gazing up at the night sky. I’ve spent countless hours under its vast canopy, mesmerized by the twinkling tapestry of stars - each one a testament to the boundless creativity of Allah (SWT). Some of my clearest memories from childhood are of lying under the stars, lost in their quiet brilliance. Among all the stars, Sirius, the brightest jewel in the night sky, stands out as a beacon of light - guided ancient travelers across deserts and seas for millennia.

Known in Arabic as Ash-Shi’raa, Sirius is not just another star—it is honored in the Quran as a sign of Allah’s majesty:

"And that it is He who is the Lord of Sirius." 

- Quran 53:49

Fun fact: Sirius is twice as massive as the Sun and shines 25 times brighter. Yet, despite its immense luminosity, its distance of 8.6 light-years makes it appear relatively small in the night sky - though it still holds the title of the brightest star visible to us.

For centuries, travelers and sailors have used Sirius as a navigation aid, relying on its steady glow to find their way. Similarly, just as Sirius provided direction in the physical world, the Quran serves as a guidance for humanity, illuminating the path to truth and purpose.

 

Wouldn’t you agree that the most profound guidance often comes to those who take the time to look up? 🌟  

Light pollution and the lost beauty of the night sky

It’s heartbreaking, isn’t it? The night sky - once a dazzling spectacle that inspired poets, travelers, and dreamers - is slowly disappearing behind a veil of artificial light. In most Indian cities now, only the brightest stars manage to pierce through the glow - Sirius shining like a steady diamond, Vega glimmering in the summer triangle, or Betelgeuse, the fiery shoulder of Orion. If we’re lucky, we might even spot our celestial neighboring planets - Venus glowing like a lantern at dusk, Mars with its faint red hue, or Jupiter, steady and bright. But the Milky Way - that grand, arching river of stars that once left our ancestors in awe - has vanished from view for most of us.

Yet, there’s hope. If we take the time to escape - to the quiet hills of Ladakh, the vast deserts of Rann of Kutch, or the serene valleys of Spiti - the sky reveals itself again in all its majesty. Away from the city’s glare, the stars return, countless and brilliant, as if the heavens have been waiting for us to look up once more.

This is a profound parable for life itself. Just as light pollution dims the stars, our minds too become clouded - by noise, by endless distractions, by the rush and hustle-bustle of daily life. The truth and purpose of life are still there, just like those hidden stars, but we must make the effort to seek it. We have to step away from what blinds us, quiet the chaos, and let our hearts adjust to the clarity that comes with patience and intention.

When we do, guidance reveals itself - not in a sudden flash, but like the slow, steady return of starlight to a traveler’s eyes. The more we seek, the more we see. And in that stillness, we remember: that the sky was always there. We just needed to look.

The science behind night vision and seeking light

Our eyes are designed in a way that makes it difficult to see in complete darkness. The rod cells in our retina help us see in dim light, while cone cells allow us to see colors and bright objects. However, due to artificial lighting and modern lifestyles, our ability to adapt to darkness has weakened.

If we want to improve our night vision, we can:

- Spend more time in natural darkness to allow our eyes to adjust.
- Avoid looking at bright screens before stargazing.
- Use a soft red light if you need to see something (it doesn't ruin night vision like white light does)

There's a beautiful lesson here about spiritual sight. Just like our physical eyes need practice to see in darkness, our hearts and minds need training to recognize divine wisdom. Allah's guidance is always shining, like the stars that never stop glowing even when we can't see them. But to perceive this light, we need to be patient, make an effort, and most importantly - want to see the truth.

The next time you look up at the night sky, remember: both the stars and Allah's signs are always there. We just need to create the right conditions to see them clearly.

 

Final thoughts: Seeking light in the darkness

I often find myself going down the rabbit hole of watching videos in videos showcasing the Milky Way’s shimmering arms, distant stars twinkling like diamonds, and nebulae painting the cosmos in vibrant hues. One video creator’s words stayed with me: "Just look at this - this incredible, awe-inspiring universe... and all of it is completely free!" 

It’s humbling. In a world obsessed with material worth, the grandest spectacle - the night sky, with its boundless beauty and mystery - costs nothing yet offers everything to those who simply gaze upward.

Sirius, that steadfast beacon, mirrors this truth: divine guidance, like the stars, is always within reach, waiting for us to seek it. The Quran, our eternal compass, lights the way to meaning and peace, just as stars once guided travelers through the unknown. But to truly see - whether the cosmos or Allah’s wisdom - we must step away from life’s artificial glow, quiet the noise, and let our eyes and hearts adjust. With patience and sincere effort, the darkness lifts, the stars appear, and life’s profound purpose comes into view, as clear and constant as the heavens themselves. 🌌✨

Sabr: The Art of Patience, Persistence, and Inner Strength

(3 mins read)

unsplash @nbmat

People who know me well often compliment me on my patience, though I’m not entirely sure if I deserve the title! I do try my best to stay patient, especially as a father to three lively young boys—aged 7, 3, and 0.8 (yes, the baby definitely counts!). Let’s just say, that parenting them is an emotional marathon that demands every ounce of calm I can muster. And then there are life’s other little tests, like learning to drive a car (cue the nervous laughter😅) or waiting for that promotion that seems to be on a permanent vacation (just kidding… or am I?). Patience, it seems, is my unofficial full-time job!

In the Quran, Allah describes Sabr as Jameel—meaning beautiful—and praises those who practice it, showing how deeply He values patience in a believer’s life. He rewards those who remain steadfast, as their patience reflects their trust in His wisdom and their strong faith. It’s a gentle reminder that patience is not just a virtue but a path to earning Allah’s love and approval.

Imagine this beautiful moment: when people enter heaven, the angels will greet them, saying, “Look at how patient this person was during their life on earth!” This acknowledgment will highlight the immense value of patience and the incredible rewards it holds in the hereafter. Their perseverance through trials, their trust in Allah’s plan, and their unwavering faith will be celebrated as a testament to their strength and devotion. It’s a heartwarming thought, isn’t it? Every act of patience, no matter how small, is recognized and cherished by Allah.

But Sabr is more than just patience. It’s about staying consistent and steadfast, even when life feels uncertain or challenging. It’s about keeping a calm mind, trusting the process, and moving forward without losing hope. Sabr teaches us to face life’s trials with grace, knowing that growth often comes from enduring difficulties. In essence, it’s a powerful practice of resilience, faith, and inner strength that transforms how we handle both big challenges and everyday struggles.

Let’s be honest—when we’re impatient, we’re not at our best. Whether as friends, spouses, colleagues, or parents, impatience can make us less effective and even strain our relationships. But by cultivating patience, we can improve how we connect with others, make better decisions, and enhance our overall well-being. It’s like a ripple effect—patience not only benefits us but also those around us.

Unlike knowledge, which we gain from books or lessons, patience is something we learn through experience. Life tests us in countless ways—waiting for results, dealing with failures, or managing difficult people. Each test is an opportunity to grow. The more we practice patience, the stronger it becomes, helping us face challenges with a calm and steady heart. And in that calmness, we find strength, clarity, and peace.

Why Boredom Is Good for Kids: A Parent's Perspective

(2 mins read)

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As a parent of three, I've often found myself facing the familiar phrase, "I'm bored." But instead of rushing to fill the void with screens or structured activities, I've learned to see boredom as an opportunity for growth. In today's world, where screens and organized events dominate our lives, kids rarely get the chance to sit with their thoughts and explore their imagination.

When children have nothing to do, their brains start looking for ways to entertain themselves. They come up with creative ideas like making paper crafts, imagining new worlds, or repurposing household items for fun. My kids once made a frog out of paper, and another time, one of them sat quietly, pretending a butterfly was flying around the house. These moments show how boredom can spark creativity and independence.

In the past, we used to spend hours gazing at the stars, letting our imaginations run wild. I remember sunny afternoons spent outdoors, staring up at the clouds and creatively interpreting them as all sorts of shapes and figures. We'd create stories about constellations and imagine adventures in the night sky. This kind of unstructured time allowed us to be creative and curious about the world. Today, with fewer distractions, kids can develop these same qualities by noticing small details and observing nature.

To encourage this, resist the urge to immediately offer a screen or activity. Instead, provide open-ended materials like paper, crayons, or building blocks, and let them figure things out on their own. Boredom isn't something to fear; it's a doorway to creativity, independence, and problem-solving. By embracing it, you might be surprised by the incredible things your child can imagine and create. So, the next time you hear "I'm bored," remember, it's an opportunity for growth and creativity to flourish.

Empathy vs. Validation: Where to Draw the Line

(4 mins read)

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I recently listened to a podcast where the speaker emphasized the importance of practicing empathy with everyone while remaining mindful of our boundaries. He said that we should strive to understand others without necessarily endorsing their actions - especially when they are engaged in behaviors that are morally or ethically wrong, such as consuming alcohol, engaging in illicit relationships, or habitual dishonesty. The entire time he spoke on the topic, I found myself nodding in agreement, thinking, "Yes, that actually seems true." True empathy allows us to offer support and guidance without compromising our values.

We all encounter situations where someone we care about is struggling with a mistake, a flawed perspective, or a poor decision. Our natural instinct is to support them, but how do we ensure that our empathy doesn’t turn into validation of their wrong choices? Striking this balance is crucial in helping others grow while maintaining our integrity.

Empathy vs. Validation: Understanding the Difference

When we're dealing with someone who's struggling, it's easy to get caught up in trying to help them feel better. But there's a crucial distinction between empathy and validation that we need to understand. Empathy is about stepping into someone's shoes and understanding their emotions, even if we don't agree with what they've done. It's saying, "I can see why this is tough for you," without necessarily endorsing the choices that led them there.

On the other hand, validation can sometimes mean reinforcing their perspective, even if it's not entirely accurate. This can make them feel completely justified in their actions, which might not always be helpful.

How to Show Empathy Without Validation

• Acknowledge Their Feelings, Not Their Actions - Instead of saying, "You were right to do that," try saying, "I understand why you felt that way." This way, you're showing that you care about how they feel without endorsing their decisions.
• Ask Thoughtful Questions - Gently guide them toward reflection by asking questions like, "What do you think could have been done differently?" This helps them think critically about their actions without feeling judged.
• Set Boundaries - If their choices are affecting you or others negatively, it's okay to stand firm while still being compassionate. It's about finding a balance between empathy and protecting yourself and others.
• Encourage Growth - Remind them that mistakes don't define who they are, and they have the power to change and grow. This kind of support can be incredibly empowering.

I did a little bit of research on what Allah swt tells us in Quran about compassion and justice. I found HE emphasizes having a balance of both, guiding us on how to approach people who have done wrong. The Quran teaches us to be empathetic while also standing firm on what is right. Here are some key insights from the Quran on this balance:

1. Show Kindness, But Do Not Support Wrongdoing

Allah commands us to be compassionate and guide others with wisdom, but not to approve of or participate in wrongdoing.

Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:2)
". . . help one another in righteousness and piety, but do not help one another in sin and aggression. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty."

This verse teaches that we can support someone emotionally and guide them, but we must not validate or encourage their wrong actions.

2. Guide with Wisdom and Patience

When someone is in the wrong, the Quran advises us to correct them with patience and wisdom rather than harshness.

Surah An-Nahl (16:125)
"Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best . . ."

This means that while we should empathize with others, our words should lead them toward self-reflection and improvement.

3. Forgive, But Encourage Change

The Quran encourages forgiveness, but it also emphasizes learning from mistakes and improving.

Surah Ash-Shura (42:40)
"The reward of an evil deed is its equivalent, but if someone forgives and makes reconciliation, his reward is with Allah . . ."

This suggests that while we can be kind to those who have done wrong, we should also encourage them to make amends.

Final Thoughts

Empathy is a powerful tool, but it needs to be used thoughtfully. Listening and offering support can make someone feel heard and understood, but real growth comes from self-awareness. By practicing empathy without crossing into validation, we can be a source of comfort and guidance without inadvertently reinforcing harmful behaviors. It's a delicate balance, but one that can make all the difference in helping others grow and learn from their experiences.