Experiencing My First Christmas in the USA

 

Christmas holds a special place in everyone’s heart, and for me, it became an unforgettable experience when I celebrated it for the first time away from my beloved hometown of Kolkata, India. Known as the ‘City of Joy,’ Kolkata embraces every festival with grandeur and enthusiasm, and Christmas is no exception. Park Street lights up beautifully, the aroma of cakes from local bakeries fills the air, and the joy of celebration resonates everywhere. However, experiencing Christmas in the US brought a different charm and warmth that I had never imagined.

In the US, Christmas marks the onset of wintry days and holds immense significance as a family-oriented celebration. As I began exploring the city on December 24th, I noticed the stark contrast between Kolkata’s bustling Christmas spirit and the quiet, serene streets of Nashville. The roads were unusually empty, shops were almost closed, and the ambiance resembled a ‘strike day’ back in India. This emptiness, however, symbolized something profound – the importance of spending time with loved ones.

Family-Centric Celebrations

In the US, Christmas is primarily about togetherness. Families reunite, plan trips, or host intimate gatherings at home. The celebration often begins with morning carols on December 24th, followed by a joyous family party. The essence of Christmas here lies in creating cherished memories with family, away from the bustling chaos of everyday life.

Homes are beautifully decorated with strings of lights, wreaths, and, of course, the iconic Christmas tree adorned with ornaments and twinkling lights. Gifts are exchanged under the guise of Santa Claus, and children eagerly stay awake until midnight, hoping to catch a glimpse of Santa delivering their presents.

Churches and Carol Hymns

The churches in Nashville were truly mesmerizing, adorned with radiant lights and festive decorations that brought the holiday spirit to life. Attending the Christmas Eve service was a soul-stirring experience, with the melodious carol hymns filling the air and evoking a profound sense of peace and joy. Unlike the bustling midnight masses in Kolkata, the celebrations here were more serene yet equally meaningful. Prayers were conducted on both December 24th and 25th, and the churches warmly welcomed everyone, regardless of caste, creed, or race, embodying the true essence of inclusivity and love.

The Biggest Christmas Tree in Nashville

One of the most magical highlights of my first Christmas in the USA was visiting the grand Christmas tree in downtown Nashville. Standing tall and majestic, it invited families and friends to gather and share smiles. The shimmering lights drew everyone in—creating a backdrop of festive cheer for countless holiday photos.

Home Decorations

Strolling through neighborhoods felt quite dreamy. Each house radiated creativity with festive cheer, from life-sized Santa Claus figures to colorful candy canes. The warmth of the community’s collective effort to decorate was a beautiful reminder of the sense of belonging that Christmas fosters. There were undeniable similarities to India’s Diwali, where homes glisten with lights and joy..

Christmas Special Food

No festival is complete without its share of delectable food. In the US, Christmas dinners often feature roast turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and an assortment of pies. I had the opportunity to enjoy some classic holiday treats like gingerbread cookies, different flavored pastries, fruit cake, dark chocolate and candies. While I missed the rich plum cakes of Kolkata, the flavors here were a delightful change.

Christmas Colors and Fashion

The Christmas palette of red, green, and white was everywhere – from decorations to outfits. People donned cozy sweaters, Santa hats, and holiday-themed pajamas, adding a fun and festive vibe to the celebrations.

Nature & Vacation Vibes

The wintry chill, bare trees, and occasional snowfall added to the magic of Christmas in the US. Many families take advantage of the holiday season to plan vacations, whether to ski resorts or warm tropical destinations. For me, this was a unique aspect, as in Kolkata, most people stay local to soak in the city’s festive spirit.

Bottom Line

Celebrating my first Christmas in the USA was a beautiful mix of nostalgia and new experiences. While I missed the lively streets of Kolkata and the familiar faces of home, the family-oriented celebrations and the serene charm of the season here left a lasting impression. It reminded me that the true essence of Christmas transcends geography—it’s about love, togetherness, and gratitude.

Now, over to you! How were you celebrate Christmas 2024? Were it be a cozy movie date with loved ones, an adventurous day at Kolkata Zoo or the Museum, or soaking in the festive vibes of Bow Barracks and Park Street? Or perhaps something entirely different?

Share your unique Christmas celebration in the comments below—I’d love to hear about the festive magic you were creating this year!

 

Craving the Authentic Aroma of Bakeries? Discover the Top 5 Bakeries in Kolkata to Sweeten Your Christmas

 

Kolkata, the heart of West Bengal, is already decked up with Christmas lights, carols, and festive vibes. How can anyone resist the alluring aroma of freshly baked cakes wafting through the air? Known for its love of desserts during every celebration, the city offers a wide variety of Christmas treats to make your holiday season even more special.

Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, gifting cakes to loved ones, or indulging with your family, Kolkata has something for everyone. This blog highlights some of the city’s oldest and most iconic bakeries that are a must-visit this festive season.

J.N. Barua & Sons.

History:

Established over 75 years ago, this is one of the oldest bakeries in Kolkata, founded by Jatindra Nath Barua from Chittagong (now Bangladesh). Situated near the iconic Bow Barracks, this bakery has gained immense popularity, especially among the Anglo-Indian families of the area. Every December, a crowd gathers outside to savor its affordable yet delectable baked goods.

Location: 6, Mahim Chandra Das Sarani, Beck Bagan, Kolkata. Click Here

Specialty:

a.     Chhanar Cake (available only in aluminum containers, December–February)

b.     Wine Cake (infused with homemade apple, grape, and ginger wine)

c.     Walnut Cake, Rum Fruit Cake, Coconut Pastries (veg & non-veg)

Price Range: ₹40–₹400

Nahoum & Sons

History:

A heritage spot for history lovers and dessert enthusiasts, Nahoum & Sons is the last Jewish bakery in Kolkata. Established in 1902 by Nahoum Israel Mordecai, a Baghdadi Jew, this bakery located in New Market exudes old-world charm. Its authentic architecture and vintage vibes make it a nostalgic trip for every visitor.

Location: F20, Bertram St, New Market Area, Kolkata. Click Here

Specialty:

a.     Rich Fruit Cake, Plum Cake, Baklava Cake

b.     Cashew Ring, Madeira Cake, Easter Eggs

c.     Marzipan Candy, Cheese Samosa, Garlic Bread

Price Range: ₹20–₹400

Saldanha Bakery

History:

Renowned for its delectable traditional recipes, Saldanha Bakery is a family-run Goan establishment founded by Ubelina Saldanha in 1930. Serving Kolkatans for four generations, this beloved bakery is a Christmas favorite, with its freshly baked goodies embodying the love and care of time-honored craftsmanship.

Location: 47B, A.J.C. Bose Road, Near Minto Park, Kolkata. Click Here

Specialty:

a.     Christmas Fruit Cake

b.     Walnut Cake

c.     Rum Balls and Plum Cake

Price Range: ₹30–₹450

 

Flurys

History:

Established in 1927 by Swiss expatriates Mr. and Mrs. J. Flurys, this iconic tearoom on Park Street has become a timeless symbol of Kolkata’s love for European desserts. Known for its elegant ambiance and an extensive selection of baked delicacies, Flurys is an essential destination during the Christmas season.

Location: 18, Park Street, Kolkata. Click Here

Specialty:

a.     Christmas Plum Cake ,Rum & Raisin Cake, Chocolate Roulade

b.     Mince Pies, Christmas Pudding

c.     Dundee Cake, Vanilla Cheesecake

Price Range: ₹150–₹1,500

Kookie Jar

History:

Kookie Jar was founded in 1985 by Lovey Burman, introducing Kolkata to premium-quality baked goods. Over the decades, it has become synonymous with exquisite cakes, tarts, and desserts.

Location:  42, Ground Floor, A Block Near IDBI Bank, Shakespeare Sarani, Kolkata. Click Here

Specialties:

a.     Tarts

b.     Pastries

c.     Brownies

d.     Chocolate

e.     Customized Cakes

f.      Chocolate Truffle Cakes & Lemon Tarts (Signature Items)

Price Range:
₹300–₹2,500

Bottom Line

As the aroma of freshly baked cakes fills the wintry air, Kolkata transforms into a dessert lover’s paradise. Whether you prefer the nostalgia of traditional fruit cakes or the decadence of modern flavors, these bakeries have something special for everyone.

So, why wait? Beat the queues, visit these iconic bakeries, and bring home the delicious Christmas cakes in Kolkata that will make your celebrations unforgettable.

Which bakery tops your list? Share your favorite Christmas cake from these iconic places in the comments below!

BHUSWARGO BHOYONKAWR REVIEW: ফেলুদার নতুন রহস্য উন্মোচন, খ্রীষ্টমাস এর শুরুতেই সপরিবার এ কাশ্মীর ভ্রমণের সুযোগ

 

Release Date: December 20, 2024

Director: Srijit Mukherji

Cast:  Tota Roy Chowdhury, Anirban Chkraborty, Kalpan Mitra, Rajatava Dutta, Riddhi Sen, Sawon Chakraborty, Debesh Chaterjee, Anirudha Gupta

Language: Bengali

Rating: 4/5

Number of Episodes: 6

জটায়ুর স্টাইলে বললে, ভালো লাগার তালিকায় যোগ হলো নতুন সংযোজন—‘ভূস্বর্গ ভয়ঙ্কর’। দার্জিলিংয়ের রোমাঞ্চকর কেসের পর ফেলুদার প্রত্যাবর্তন এবার ভূস্বর্গ কাশ্মীরে। তবে এই ওয়েব সিরিজ শুধুমাত্র রহস্য নয়, এটি দর্শকদের টেনে নিয়ে যায় এক নৈতিক দ্বন্দ্বের গভীরে।

গল্পের কেন্দ্রে রয়েছে মৃত্যুদণ্ডের ন্যায্যতা নিয়ে চিরকালীন বিতর্ক। ন্যায়-অন্যায়ের মাপকাঠিতে এ প্রশ্ন ওঠে, কিন্তু অবসরপ্রাপ্ত বিচারপতি সিদ্ধেশ্বর মল্লিক তাঁর চিন্তাধারাকে বক্তৃতার মাধ্যমে প্রকাশ করেন নি। বরং তাঁর ভেতরের গভীর যন্ত্রণা আর বিবেকদংশন তাঁকে জীবনের এক নিঃসঙ্গ পথে নিয়ে যায়।

প্রেক্ষাপট

কাহিনীর সূত্রপাত কাশ্মীর থেকে, যার সৌন্দর্য সম্পর্কে আমির খুসরো লিখেছিলেন:
"Gar firdaus, bar ruhe zamin ast, hamin asto, hamin asto, hamin ast,"
অর্থাৎ, পৃথিবীতে যদি কোথাও স্বর্গ থাকে, তবে তা এখানেই।

ছয়টি এপিসোডে বিভক্ত এই সিরিজ রহস্যের জাল যেমন ছিন্ন করে এগিয়েছে, তেমনই কাশ্মীরের প্রকৃতি দর্শকের মনকে আকর্ষণ করেছে Kahwah চায়ের মতো। পিতা-পুত্রের সম্পর্কের টানাপোড়েন, বিশ্বস্ত সঙ্গীর ভূমিকা, আর কিছু ধোঁয়াটে চরিত্রের মিলনে গড়ে উঠেছে এক নিখুঁত কাহিনী। তবে এই ভূস্বর্গে স্বর্গীয় পরিবেশের সঙ্গে বিরোধ তৈরি করেছে গুলি আর বোমার ধ্বংসস্তূপ।

চরিত্রদের প্রাণবন্ততা
প্রত্যেক অভিনেতার কাজ এক কথায় অনবদ্য। রজতাভ দত্ত, দেবেশ চট্টোপাধ্যায়, ঋদ্ধি সেন, শাওন চক্রবর্তী এবং কল্পন মিত্র তাঁদের অভিনয়ে গভীরতা এনেছেন। আর ফেলুদা রূপে টোটা রায়চৌধুরী যেন চরিত্রটির সঙ্গে মিশে গেছেন। তাঁর সাবলীল অভিনয় এক মুহূর্তের জন্যও সত্যজিৎ রায়ের কল্পিত চরিত্র থেকে বিচ্যুত হয়নি।

জটায়ুর চরিত্রে অনির্বাণ চক্রবর্তীও তাঁর অভিনয় দক্ষতায় সন্তোষ মিত্রের অমর জটায়ুকে পর্দায় জীবন্ত করেছেন।

পরিচালকের মুন্সিয়ানা
পরিচালক সৃজিত মুখার্জি তাঁর চিরাচরিত মুন্সিয়ানা আর নিখুঁত শৈলীতে এই সিরিজকে রূপ দিয়েছেন এক চলমান শিল্পকর্মে। কাশ্মীরের প্রেক্ষাপট আর চরিত্রগুলির গভীরতা সিরিজকে দর্শকের কাছে এক অনন্য অভিজ্ঞতায় পরিণত করেছে।

পরিশেষে,
ছয়টি এপিসোডে রহস্য যতটা বিস্তৃত হয়েছে, তা যথেষ্ট উপভোগ্য। যদিও মনে হয়, যদি আরেকটি এপিসোড যোগ করা যেত, তাহলে গল্পের কিছু সূক্ষ্ম দিক আরও স্পষ্ট হতো। তবু এর আকর্ষণে কোনও খামতি থাকেনি।

তাহলে আর দেরি কেন? HoiChoi-তে চোখ রাখুন, ফেলুদার রহস্যের দুনিয়ায় হারিয়ে যান। সঙ্গে কাশ্মীরের সৌন্দর্যের মুগ্ধতা উপভোগ করুন। সত্যজিৎ রায়ের ক্লাসিক গল্প ‘ভূস্বর্গ ভয়ঙ্কর’ প্রথম প্রকাশিত হয়েছিল ১৯৮৭ সালে ‘দেশ’ পত্রিকায়। মূল গল্পের পূর্ণাঙ্গ রূপ আস্বাদন করতে  লিংকে ক্লিক করুন ।

তাহলে, এই রহস্য কি আপনার মগজাস্ত্রকে পরীক্ষা করবে? নাকি ফেলুদার মতো আপনিও রহস্যের জট ছাড়াতে পারবেন?
পরিবারের সঙ্গে বসে ফেলুদার ‘হাইলি ম্যাগনিফিসেন্ট’ কোলাজ সহ এই সিরিজের রোমাঞ্চ উপভোগ করুন আজই।

 

Understanding Gender Justice and Prenuptial Agreements in India: A Look into the Atul Subhash Case

 

The recent tragic case of Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash, who died by suicide following allegations of harassment by his estranged wife and her family, has ignited a nationwide conversation on gender justice in India. The circumstances surrounding his demise have drawn attention to the broader implications of laws that are intended to protect women but may inadvertently lead to misuse against men, raising questions about the balance of justice in such emotionally charged legal arenas.

 

Atul Subhash’s situation highlights a concerning narrative for many men in India. In his suicide note and video, he detailed the relentless harassment, demands of extortion, and false accusations that led to immense psychological and financial stress, compelling him to take such a tragic step. Legal experts and activists have noted that cases like this may propagate a dangerous cycle wherein laws, such as those against dowry and domestic violence, reaffirm the rights and voices of women yet leave men feeling cornered and unheard in their grievances.

 

The essence of the Indian Constitution is to ensure equality for all citizens. Yet, the practical application of laws often seems skewed. While laws such as Section 498A of the IPC (Indian Penal Code), penalizing cruelty towards women, are crucial for protecting victims, the misuse of such statutes has become a growing concern. High-profile cases and expert commentary have established that a significant percentage of these cases might be fabricated, resulting in serious repercussions for the accused men trapped in protracted legal battles, damaging their familial and social ties.

 

Similar incidents have also added gravity to this debate. In another shocking case, Rishi Trivedi, who reportedly experienced relentless torment from his wife, also took his own life, alleging systemic abuse of matrimonial laws against him. His story, much like Subhash's, encapsulates a distressing trend where protective laws aimed at safeguarding women's rights can inadvertently cause harm to men. This points to a systemic issue where the focus on protecting one gender overshadows the need for a balanced approach to family law.

 

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara, following Subhash's death, emphasized that the issue of men's rights is inadequately addressed in the current legal framework, which often perceives domestic conflict purely through a female lens. This imbalance in legal perceptions can further exacerbate mental health issues among men facing allegations, resulting in a phenomenon whereby the protective laws designed for women inadvertently foster alienation and hopelessness among men.

 

This discourse naturally leads to prenuptial agreements, which can serve as a protective measure for both parties entering a marital contract. In a society where divorce rates are rising and both partners may bring substantial assets into a marriage, prenups can offer a safety net. Prenuptial agreements outline the division of assets, financial responsibilities, and contingencies in the unfortunate event of a separation.

 

However, it’s essential to understand the legal standing of such agreements in India, where they lack explicit recognition under personal laws governing marriage. Despite this absence of a legal framework, courts in India have begun to recognize prenuptial agreements in certain contexts. For instance, they may provide insights into the intentions and agreements between couples, even if they cannot be enforced in the traditional sense. Various judicial precedents reveal that while prenuptial agreements may not universally uphold provisions of mutual understanding, they serve a critical role in establishing transparency and financial clarity and fostering open communication between couples.

 

Nevertheless, while prenups can help mitigate conflict, their safety is contingent upon the willful agreement of both parties without coercion. Issues of fairness, freedom of choice, and informed consent remain central to the validity of such contracts. In this power-dynamic-sensitive landscape, there exists a pressing need for adequate legal protection to prevent undue pressure on one partner from the other during prenup discussions.

 

​Bottom Line

Ultimately, as societal attitudes towards marriage and divorce evolve, the conversations surrounding gender justice and legal protections require a sincere examination and a shift towards equitable solutions for both men and women in India.​ Both dimensions—addressing the misuse of protective laws for women and introducing a comprehensive legal framework for prenuptial agreements—are paramount for nurturing a society founded on fairness and mutual respect.

 

As we reflect on these pressing issues, we pose the question: How can Indian society work towards ensuring equitable rights and protections for both genders in family law, particularly considering recent controversies? Your thoughts and insights on this topic are valuable—join the conversation!

 

 

Defeat Winter: 8 Super Foods for Elderly People to Stay Healthy

 

Elderly people are the backbone of society, but as winter deepens, they often face increased health challenges. It’s mid-December, and the cold weather is settling in, bringing various risks for seniors, particularly those with conditions like asthma, COPD, or other respiratory issues. Prioritizing winter health tips for elderly can help them navigate this season healthily and comfortably.

Let’s explore how incorporating superfoods into their diet can make a significant difference. Here are 8 superfoods that promote senior wellness in winter and reduce health risks:

Orange

Vitamin C-rich oranges are a must-have during winter. This citrus fruit boosts white blood cells (WBCs) that fight infections and bacteria. Additionally, it reduces inflammation and lung swelling. Regular consumption of oranges can alleviate asthma symptoms. Include one orange daily in your diet for effective results.

Anjeer (Figs)

Recognized in Ayurveda as a winter superfood, anjeer is packed with antioxidants and healthy fiber. It strengthens immunity and tackles digestion-related issues like constipation, common among the elderly. Its anti-inflammatory properties help alleviate cold, cough, and respiratory weakness. Add it to your breakfast or enjoy it as a snack for enhanced winter health.

Amla

Amla is a powerhouse of Vitamin C and an excellent immunity booster. Whether consumed as candy or mixed as powder in lukewarm water, it helps combat winter colds and coughs. Compared to oranges, amla offers even more potent benefits for bolstering the immune system.

Spinach

This leafy green is rich in vitamin C, folate, and other essential nutrients, making it asthma friendly. Spinach’s nutritional profile helps fight respiratory issues while keeping the body strong during cold weather.

Tomato Soup

Tomatoes are low in calories and rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which is lung- friendly. Regularly consuming tomato soup helps fight asthma symptoms and strengthens overall health.

Papaya

Papaya contains papain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties. It is also enriched with folate, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C, boosting immunity and addressing gut problems. Its laxative qualities make it effective in ensuring smooth digestion.

Kalonji (Black Cumin)

Kalonji, or black cumin, offers culinary and medicinal benefits. With anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, it combats cold and cough effectively. Use kalonji in curries or opt for kalonji oil to maintain senior wellness in winter.

Ginger

Ginger is a versatile superfood that alleviates bacterial infections, reduces stomach upset, and provides relief from asthma symptoms. A small piece of ginger in your daily routine can work wonders for cold weather care for seniors.

 

Essential Do’s and Don’ts for Cold Weather Care for Seniors

Do’s

• Dress Warmly: Wear layers, socks, scarves, gloves, and hats outdoors. Use cotton socks during bedtime to avoid stiffness and pain. 
   
• Avoid Dry Air: Use masks at outside to avoid dust and prevent COPD flare-ups.
• Boost Immunity: Take raw turmeric, amla, or basil leaves with honey daily.
• Stay Hydrated: Opt for warm water, soups, herbal teas, or almond milk.
• Exercise: Free-hand exercises, yoga, or light activity help avoid joint stiffness.
• Sunbathe: Spend 30 minutes in sunlight daily for essential vitamin D.
• Oil Massage: Use mustard oil infused with garlic and kalonji, or opt for eucalyptus, olive, or coconut oil to protect against cold.
• Clean Environment: Wash bedding weekly at high temperatures, vacuum furniture regularly, and ensure dust-free surroundings.
• Install a Humidifier: If you have COPD or asthma, a humidifier helps maintain optimal air moisture levels. Change its water regularly.
• Daily Floor Cleaning for Asthma Safety: Mop floors daily to remove dust when the asthma patient is not present. 

Don’ts

• Avoid cold water baths and frequent shampooing.
• Stay away from pets and avoid brushing them indoors.
• Do not smoke or be exposed to passive smoking.
• Avoid carbon monoxide exposure from heaters; service them beforehand.
• Skip gardening on windy days to avoid allergens like pollen.
• Avoid strong odors, spicy foods, and unapproved supplements.
• Steer clear of depression by staying connected with loved ones and engaging in yoga or meditation.

 

Bottom Line

As temperatures drop, health concerns for elderly people, such as cold, cough, joint pain, and respiratory issues, increase. Following winter health tips for elderly and incorporating these superfoods into their diet can significantly improve their health. These steps ensure cold weather care for seniors, keeping them safe and happy throughout the chilly months.

Remember, spring is just around the corner—stay warm and cherish every moment!