Author: OSWALD PEREIRA

An election can change a government overnight. But if citizens begin to doubt the institution that conducts it, the damage can reach far deeper: it can shake democracy itself.

Ram Rajya existed centuries before the word secularism entered political language. Yet its ideal of just rule, equal protection and the welfare of all can help us understand why secularism has become central to modern India.

When a citizen must sign a declaration before entering a church, India must ask whether freedom of religion is still a constitutional right—or a privilege that minorities must prove they deserve.

As we celebrate Janmashtami, let us look beyond religion and tradition to celebrate Krishna and Christ as two radiant expressions of one Divine Love, guiding humanity towards unity.

Mohan Bhagwat’s New York message on Muslims, universalism and Ramakrishna raises a larger question: Is the RSS redefining Hindutva—or simply reaching out to minorities amid growing criticism of its politics?

Religions have fought over God for centuries. But Christianity, Hinduism, Islam and Buddhism may have more in common than their followers admit: love, compassion, truth, self-realisation and human unity.

Before Independence satyagrahis stood before a line of policemen with raised lathis. Nearly eight decades after Independence, that haunting image still asks uncomfortable questions of Indian democracy. The greatness of a democracy is measured not by the force it can command, but by the restraint it chooses to exercise.

Four hunger strikes over four decades—from Ladakh to the Ganga to Jantar Mantar—reveal a profound shift in how Indian governments respond to citizens who choose self-sacrifice over violence.

A government loses little by talking to peaceful protesters. It risks much by refusing to listen. For the true measure of a democracy lies not in the power a government wields, but in the dissenting voices it is prepared to hear.

Democracy is not destroyed overnight. It erodes gradually. Each silenced protest, each intimidated dissenter, and each indifferent citizen becomes another nail in the coffin of freedom.

As students protest and Sonam Wangchuk fasts for educational accountability, Bollywood's biggest stars remain conspicuously absent. The industry's silence raises an uncomfortable question: are its screen heroes merely manufactured illusions?

In an age when religious identity seems to rule our lives, the best option is to quietly transcend conventional labels, and adopt the belief that humanity itself is the most enduring faith.

What is the real proof of citizenship or identity? Passport, Aadhaar or PAN card? The debate has become one endless game of ringa-ringa-roses. God, watching from above, must surely be amused that His children have forgotten their original address—in heaven.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay’s simple, non-lavish birthday celebrations. No fireworks, no extravagance, no political spectacle. Vijay's simple 52nd birthday revealed the secret behind his extraordinary mass appeal: authenticity, humility, and service.

The rise of C Joseph Vijay from child artiste to superstar to chief minister of Tamil Nadu is part of a national transformation and renewal by young Indians. Inspired by ideals of courage and integrity, young Indians are emerging as powerful agents of innovation and change.

More than a reformer, populist, or visionary, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has emerged as a catalyst of political change. Through his model of inclusive governance, Tamil Nadu is poised to redefine the future of democratic politics across India.

Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar’s historic 108-seat victory signals a new political era, blending his multi-faith heritage with a "secularism of participation" to challenge Tamil Nadu's traditional Dravidian power structures and ideologies.

A light-hearted reflection on why appreciation matters to everyone. A few kind words can uplift spirits, validate effort, and add unexpected joy and power to both personal and professional life.