Crowned & Cornered – A Love Story That Breaks Free From Expectations

 

Every once in a while, a story comes along that reminds us love isn’t about perfection—it’s about being seen, understood, and accepted for who you truly are. Crowned & Cornered by Kiki Robinson is exactly that kind of story: a heartfelt, modern-day Black love tale that blends vulnerability with strength, ambition with desire, and family legacy with the longing to break free.

With a fresh twist on the classic Cinderella theme, this novel takes the familiar idea of love transforming lives and breathes new authenticity into it. But forget the glass slipper and evil stepparents—there are no fairytale shortcuts here. Instead, what unfolds is a romance deeply rooted in real struggles, personal growth, and the quiet yet powerful ways two people can touch and change each other’s lives. It’s not just about falling in love, but about finding freedom, healing old wounds, and daring to imagine a future on your own terms.

✨ Meet Aizelle

Aizelle Leighton is a dreamer, a doer, and someone who doesn’t have time for distractions. With her sights set on building her own catering business, she’s juggling school, family responsibilities, and the relentless pressure to prove herself. Love, especially with men who come wrapped in wealth and legacy, is the last thing on her mind.

✨ Meet Kairon

Kairon Greaves has always been the polished son, the heir who carries the family name like armor. But behind the crisp suits and the expectations is a man who longs to breathe free, to be known beyond the weight of his last name. When fate brings him face-to-face with Aizelle, something shifts. She sees him—not as a Greaves, but as a man.

💜 Their Story

What begins as a spark soon grows into something deeper. But love isn’t simple, especially when family legacies, hidden trauma, and unspoken truths threaten to pull them apart. Through journal entries, whispered conversations, and those unforgettable quiet moments that live rent-free in your heart, Aizelle and Kairon’s journey becomes more than a romance—it’s about healing, freedom, and choosing your own path.

🖋 About the Author

Kiki Robinson, a Canadian author, has been weaving stories since childhood. Writing has always been her way of finding voice and connection. When she’s not crafting love stories, you’ll likely find her cooking, baking, or enjoying time with her family. Crowned & Cornered is her first published novel, with many more waiting to touch the hearts of readers worldwide.

📖 Why You’ll Love This Book

• A modern Cinderella twist with no clichés—just real, raw emotion.

• A heroine chasing her dreams and a hero learning to live beyond legacy.

• A love story told through vulnerability, strength, and true connection.

If you’re looking for a romance that’s tender, layered, and deeply human, Crowned & Cornered deserves a place on your bookshelf—or your Kindle.

👉 Grab your copy here: https://a.co/d/cJBWhsp

✨ “When the Goddess Arrives: The Colors, Joy, and Spirit of Navratri & Durga Puja 2025” ✨

 

Every year, as the rains begin to fade and the air carries the first crisp hint of autumn, India undergoes a magical transformation. Streets glow with strings of lights, markets overflow with fabrics in every imaginable shade, the beat of drums echoes late into the night, and the fragrance of incense mingles with the sweetness of fresh jalebis. It is the season when two of India’s grandest celebrations—Navratri and Durga Puja—arrive not just as festivals but as living, breathing experiences. To say they are traditions is too simple; they are journeys of faith, dance, devotion, food, art, and pure joy. They are stories retold every year, yet they feel brand new each time the goddess arrives.

Navratri is nine nights of rhythm and reverence, when the goddess is worshipped in her many forms and communities gather to celebrate with song and dance. The evenings come alive with garba and dandiya, when men and women swirl in circles, their steps weaving together into something bigger than themselves. Look closely, and you’ll see the magic of it: the shimmer of mirrored lehengas reflecting light like stars, the click of wooden sticks keeping time with the music, the laughter of friends who meet once a year under the same open skies. There is something profoundly human about this dance—a reminder that joy is not an individual act but a shared rhythm.

Meanwhile, in Bengal and beyond, Durga Puja begins its own spectacle. Here, the goddess is not just worshipped, she is welcomed as family. Her arrival is announced with the beating of dhaks, the blowing of conch shells, and the collective murmur of prayers that feel as old as time. Pandals rise like palaces in every neighborhood, some echoing ancient temples, others boldly reimagined as futuristic wonders. Inside them, artisans’ months of devotion stand tall in the form of idols: Durga radiant and fierce, her ten arms stretching outward in power, her lion leaping in defiance, and Mahishasura crumpled at her feet. And when the eyes of the goddess are finally painted in the ritual of Chokkhu Daan, the city seems to inhale as one, as if she has truly arrived among her people.

It is impossible to separate these festivals from the way they make people feel. For nine nights of Navratri, life is a kaleidoscope of colors and music. For the five days of Durga Puja, entire cities transform into stages of art, food, and togetherness. And in both, there is an unspoken truth—that festivals are not just about gods and goddesses, but about us. About how we gather, how we celebrate, how we find meaning in community. They remind us that we are not meant to live in isolation but in connection, in shared light and sound and memory.

Of course, no Indian festival is complete without food, and here too, Navratri and Durga Puja shine in their own flavors. In Navratri, fasting becomes a feast of creativity—sabudana khichdi that melts in the mouth, crispy kuttu puris, vrat-special chaats, and endless cups of masala chai to fuel nights of dancing. Durga Puja, on the other hand, tempts with the aroma of bhog—khichuri steaming alongside labra and chutney, finished with a sweet serving of payesh. And then there is the street food: phuchkas bursting with spice, egg rolls dripping with flavor, chops and cutlets handed over paper plates, each bite made better by the festive chaos surrounding it. To taste food during these festivals is to taste nostalgia, tradition, and belonging.

But beneath the dancing, the lights, and the feasts lies the deeper heartbeat of these festivals—the story of good over evil, courage over fear, light over darkness. The goddess, in both Navratri and Durga Puja, is more than a deity—she is a symbol. She is the reminder that even when the world feels heavy, strength exists. She is the whisper that we, too, carry resilience within us, the roar that tells us battles can be won, the embrace that reminds us we are never truly alone.

And perhaps that is why these festivals feel so essential today. In a world where we scroll endlessly but often feel emptier, where we are constantly connected yet lonelier than ever, festivals like Navratri and Durga Puja bring us back to what is real. Dancing shoulder to shoulder with strangers, walking hand in hand with family through pandals, sharing sweets with neighbors—it is in these moments we remember what it means to belong. Technology may give us updates, livestreams, and hashtags (#NavratriNights, #DurgaPujaDiaries, #FestivalVibes), but what truly matters is the warmth of human connection that festivals create.

This year, as you step into the celebrations, let yourself surrender to the experience. Dance without worrying how you look. Visit pandals until your feet ache. Eat that extra plate of bhog, savor that last phuchka, laugh with friends until your voice grows hoarse. And if you are far from home, create your own celebration—join a garba night in your city, light a diya in your living room, cook a dish that smells like your childhood. Festivals are not bound by geography; they live wherever devotion and joy come together.

Because when the goddess arrives, she does not only come into pandals and temples—she comes into our lives, our homes, our hearts. She comes as courage when we are afraid, as strength when we are weak, as hope when we feel lost. And in celebrating her, we are really celebrating ourselves—the resilience we forget, the joy we suppress, the community we crave.

And so, year after year, Navratri and Durga Puja remain more than rituals. They are living poetry. They are the pulse of a culture that refuses to dim. They are proof that even in a world that moves too fast, we can still stop to dance, to worship, to feast, to be together. They are not just festivals—they are reminders. Reminders that good will always return, that joy is always worth seeking, that faith and love are never truly gone.

When the lights fade, when the drums fall silent, when the pandals are taken down, what lingers is not sadness but a quiet glow inside us. A glow that says: we celebrated, we belonged, we remembered. And next year, when the first hint of autumn arrives, we will do it all over again, because some stories are too beautiful not to be retold.

It’s Okay to Not Be Okay: A Heartfelt Conversation for World Mental Health Day 2025

It’s October again, and with it comes a day that has slowly grown from a date marked by specialists and therapists into a truly global movement, one that whispers and sometimes shouts the same reminder: your mind matters. October 10 is World Mental Health Day, and though it is just twenty-four hours on a calendar, the ripples it creates go far beyond the ticking clock. It is one of those rare moments when the entire world seems to pause and look inward, when people from every culture and corner stop for a second to think about what’s happening inside, not just outside.

The truth is, our minds carry more weight than we realize. We talk about fitness and diets, about steps counted on a smartwatch, about glowing skin or stronger bodies, but we often forget that none of it works without peace inside. The brain is the silent conductor of our orchestra, and when it is tired, hurting, or overwhelmed, everything else plays out of tune. This day is not about clinical definitions or medical terms, although those are important—it is about the very human experience of feeling joy, sadness, love, fear, loneliness, hope. It is about the fragile yet resilient core of who we are.

Mental health has always been here, but the way we talk about it has shifted. Twenty years ago, to admit you were seeing a therapist might have been met with raised eyebrows. Ten years ago, posting openly about your depression or anxiety online might have felt like standing in front of a crowd with your heart exposed. And yet, in 2025, we see people of every age and background owning their stories, using hashtags to connect, sharing reels of their ups and downs, and reminding strangers they may never meet in real life that it is okay to not be okay. That is the beauty of this era. Yes, social media has its dark sides—it fuels comparison, anxiety, and loneliness—but it has also given us community, solidarity, and voices that refuse to stay hidden in silence.

Think about the people you know. Almost everyone you cross paths with is carrying something. The colleague who smiles in meetings might be battling panic attacks no one sees. The student in your neighborhood who looks so carefree might be feeling crushed under the invisible weight of expectations. The parent who runs the household with strength may collapse inside their own mind after everyone else has gone to bed. We are surrounded by silent stories, and sometimes the bravest thing a person does is simply keep going. This is why World Mental Health Day is more than awareness—it is acknowledgment. It is telling each other: I see you, I hear you, you matter.

But awareness is not enough without compassion. One of the greatest shifts we need is in the way we respond to each other. Too often when someone confesses their struggles, we rush to fix them. We say things like “just think positive” or “others have it worse” or “don’t be so sensitive.” We mean well, but what we really do is dismiss their pain. What if instead we chose to simply sit beside them and say, “I’m here”? What if we listened without judgment? What if we gave people permission to feel, to cry, to break, to heal at their own pace? That, perhaps, is the most powerful gift World Mental Health Day can give us—a reminder that empathy is medicine.

This year feels heavier than some before. The world has changed in ways that none of us expected. The pandemic years may be behind us, but their shadows still linger. Many lost loved ones, jobs, stability. Many developed anxieties about health, isolation, or safety. Even now, as the world rushes forward with AI, automation, and endless digital evolution, human hearts struggle to keep up. We are plugged in all the time, but how often do we truly connect? We scroll past hundreds of posts in a day, but how many of those leave us feeling seen rather than empty? The irony of modern life is that we are more connected than ever yet lonelier than ever. And that loneliness, unspoken and underestimated, is a quiet epidemic of its own.

So maybe today is the day to start a new ritual. Maybe today is the day to check in not just on your friends but on yourself. When was the last time you sat with your own thoughts without reaching for a screen? When was the last time you gave yourself the same kindness you freely give others? Too often we forget that self-care is not selfish—it is survival. It doesn’t have to mean expensive spa days or picture-perfect yoga sessions. Sometimes it means sleeping an extra hour, saying no when your heart says no, or allowing yourself to rest instead of pushing until you break. Sometimes it means finally making that therapy appointment or opening up to a friend even if the words tremble as they come out.

And speaking of therapy—let’s talk about it. For far too long, therapy was seen as something “broken people” do, but the truth is therapy is for anyone with a mind, which is everyone. Just as we go to doctors for our bodies, going to a therapist for our minds is not a weakness, it is wisdom. In many parts of the world, therapy has become more accessible, with online platforms and apps connecting people to counselors within minutes. But there is still work to do—stigma still exists, access is still unequal, and not everyone can afford it. That’s why World Mental Health Day is not just about individuals; it is also about systems, policies, and leaders who must step up to make mental health care a basic right, not a privilege.

But while we push for change at the top, we can also create small revolutions in our own circles. Check in on that friend who has gone quiet. Compliment someone without a reason. Offer to babysit for the parent who hasn’t had a break in months. Send a message that says, “You don’t have to reply, I just wanted you to know you’re important to me.” These acts may look small, but they create cracks in the walls of isolation, letting light seep in where it is needed most.

The beauty of mental health is that healing often begins in community. Around the world, you can find stories of people coming together to break stigma. Schools organizing mental health awareness weeks, companies introducing wellness days, governments running nationwide campaigns. But beyond all that, the real change happens when one human looks at another and says: I understand. I care. I won’t judge. That is where the healing begins.

And maybe that’s why this day matters so much. Because despite all our differences—our cultures, our languages, our politics—mental health is a thread that connects us all. Every single person knows what it feels like to hurt, to struggle, to fear. Every single person knows what it feels like to long for peace. And in that shared experience lies a bridge that can unite us in ways nothing else can.

So, on this World Mental Health Day 2025, I hope you give yourself permission to pause. To feel what you feel without apology. To ask for help if you need it. To extend grace not just to others but to yourself. If you’re reading this and you’ve been pretending to be okay when you’re not, let this be your sign that you don’t have to carry it all alone. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to take care of yourself, this is it. And if you’ve been feeling like your story doesn’t matter, remember this: the fact that you are here, still breathing, still trying, still searching for light, is proof of your strength.

And maybe, just maybe, if enough of us choose to keep these conversations alive—not just today but every day—then we will create a world where mental health is not hidden in shame but embraced in love.

Because at the end of the day, the most human thing we can do is feel. And the most powerful thing we can do is remind each other that none of us have to feel alone.

#WorldMentalHealthDay #ItsOkayToNotBeOkay #MentalHealthAwareness #BreakTheStigma #YouAreNotAlone #SelfCareMatters #EndTheSilence #MindMatters

#MentalWellness #BeKindToYourMind

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☕️ From Latte to Lights: How the “Coffee Rave” Trend Is Redefining Daytime Social Culture

 

The world is slowly moving away from late-night parties and hangovers, and stepping into something fresher, lighter, and surprisingly wholesome. It’s called the Coffee Rave, and if you haven’t seen it yet on Instagram or TikTok, you’re probably about to. Imagine this: instead of stumbling out of a club at 3 a.m., you walk into a cozy café at 7 in the morning, the air filled with the smell of freshly brewed espresso, the DJ spinning beats, people in their casual outfits dancing with cups of cappuccino in their hands. No neon strobe lights, no alcohol, just daylight, laughter, and coffee giving you that rush of energy while the music keeps you moving. It sounds almost unreal, but that’s exactly why it’s becoming the latest obsession.

What makes the Coffee Rave trend so addictive is the way it mixes two things people already love—coffee culture and music culture. Coffee has always been more than just a drink; it’s an experience, a ritual, a reason to meet friends. Now add a DJ set to that, throw in a crowd of people who are done with the late-night grind but still crave connection, and you’ve got something that feels new and exciting. It’s like brunch culture got an upgrade. Instead of dragging yourself out after a night of partying, you start your day with a groove, a caffeine kick, and the feeling that you’re part of something refreshing.

Scrolling through social media, you’ll notice how photogenic these events are. Bright daylight, people holding colorful coffee drinks, the mix of casual fits and chic accessories, the smiles, the dancing—it’s the kind of content that goes viral instantly. And that’s another reason the trend is exploding. People aren’t just attending Coffee Raves; they’re documenting them, sharing them, and turning them into mini online spectacles. Every clip, every reel, every carousel of candid snaps pushes the hype a little further. It’s social currency, but without the heavy cost of a hangover.

And honestly, it makes sense in today’s health-conscious world. Not everyone wants to drink alcohol or stay up until sunrise. Coffee Raves are the healthier, more balanced option. You can get your social fix, meet new people, enjoy good music, and still make it to work or brunch with your family. It’s like having the fun of nightlife without losing the productivity of daytime. A lot of people say they feel more energized, happier, and strangely more connected because the vibe is so different. Nobody is trying too hard, nobody is half-asleep, and everybody’s there for the joy of music and coffee.

The trend is already spreading in big cities. In India, cafés in metros are experimenting with weekend coffee raves, while globally, places like London and New York are seeing pop-up versions with yoga sessions, art corners, and even silent disco variations. Some have themes where baristas and DJs collaborate on “coffee-inspired” playlists, matching the mood of the music with the drinks. Imagine sipping a strong espresso shot while bass drops, or chilling with a caramel latte as the DJ plays mellow house music. It’s playful, quirky, and makes the experience unforgettable.

For those wondering how they can be part of it, the best way is to keep an eye on local café events or lifestyle pages on Instagram. If you’re brave enough, you can even host your own. All you need is a space, a coffee machine, a willing DJ, and people who love the idea of mixing caffeine with connection. Some cafés are even selling special “Coffee Rave” tickets—entry plus a drink—because the demand is catching on so fast. And brands are watching too. Coffee chains, headphone companies, lifestyle brands—they’re all eyeing this as the perfect chance to blend marketing with culture. Don’t be surprised if you see a Starbucks Coffee Rave or a branded DJ set by your favorite indie café soon.

Of course, like any trend, Coffee Raves will evolve. Right now it’s fresh and novel, but it will need twists to keep people hooked. Maybe themed mornings, maybe collaborations with artists or wellness influencers, maybe outdoor pop-ups in parks. What’s clear is that it has tapped into something people didn’t even know they were craving—a way to socialize, dance, and celebrate life in the morning, powered not by alcohol but by espresso shots and joy.

So the next time someone invites you to a party at 7 a.m., don’t roll your eyes. It might just be a Coffee Rave. And honestly, it could be the best party you’ve been to in a long time.

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✨ Paris Fashion Week 2025 Womenswear SS26: A Celebration of Shape, Style, and Storytelling ✨

Paris in autumn is already a dream — the leaves turning golden, the Seine reflecting the city lights, and cafés buzzing with conversation. But when September fades into October, something magical happens: Paris Fashion Week (PFW) takes over.

From September 29 to October 7, 2025, Paris became not just a city, but a universe of style. The streets turned into runways, the runways became theatres, and the fashion houses told stories that stretched beyond fabric. The message was clear: shape is the story of SS26.

In this long-form blog, I’ll take you on a full journey: the runway highlights, the designers who defined the season, the trends you’ll be wearing (or dreaming of), the street style stars, and why this season matters more than just clothes.

 The Energy of Paris Fashion Week

Paris Fashion Week isn’t just about fashion — it’s about culture, identity, and the art of transformation. Designers use the runway to respond to the times we live in, whether through escapism, empowerment, or reinvention.

This year, the atmosphere was charged with confidence. After seasons of minimalism and “quiet luxury,” SS26 pushed back with volume, silhouette, and a playful boldness. The runway wasn’t whispering trends; it was speaking loudly, unapologetically, and artistically.

🎭 Opening Night: Saint Laurent Commands Attention

Fashion Week opened under the Paris sky with Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello.

The models walked in blazers so sharp they looked like armour, paired with wide trousers that floated with every step. This wasn’t just tailoring; it was architecture in motion. The show embodied power — not loud or aggressive, but elegant and assured.

Colors stayed rich but controlled: black, deep burgundy, metallics that shimmered like Paris lights. The music pulsed, the lighting created dramatic shadows, and the silhouettes spoke volumes (literally).

Front row? Zendaya, Timothée Chalamet, and Anya Taylor-Joy — proving that PFW is just as much a celebrity stage as a designer showcase. Within minutes, #SaintLaurentSS26 trended globally.

👑 The Big Four: Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Balmain

Every Paris season is anchored by the heritage houses. Here’s how they defined SS26:

Chanel: Elegance Reimagined

Virginie Viard brought sheer layering over suiting. Imagine translucent organza coats draped over tailored trousers, paired with ballet flats. It felt like the Chanel woman was floating — grounded in tradition but airy with freedom.

Dior: Armor Meets Air

Maria Grazia Chiuri gave us a futuristic vision. Corsetry-inspired dresses layered with soft mesh created a balance between strength and delicacy. The Dior show whispered: women can be warriors without losing grace.

Louis Vuitton: Sculptural Play

Nicolas Ghesquière turned the runway into a sculpture garden. Exaggerated sleeves, bubble hems, and balloon skirts transformed models into moving artworks. It was playful yet serious, futuristic yet nostalgic.

Balmain: Royal Futurism

Olivier Rousteing dazzled with metallic corsetry, jewel-toned gowns, and futuristic crowns. Balmain’s SS26 felt like a love letter to queens — not of the past, but of tomorrow.

🌱 Rising Voices: Emerging Designers

Paris isn’t just for heritage houses. The new generation shook things up:

• Coperni: Known for tech-inspired fashion, they continued their experiments — think 3D-printed accessories and dresses that change shape as you move.

• Marine Serre: Focused on sustainability, using recycled materials to create chic, futuristic looks.

• Ester Manas: Showed inclusive casting and bold, body-positive designs.

These designers reminded us: the future of fashion isn’t just beautiful — it’s conscious and innovative.

🔑 The Big Trends of SS26

Trends aren’t just about clothes — they’re about mood. Here’s what defined the season:

1. Sheer Over Trousering

Long tunics, sheer dresses layered over trousers. Comfortable, stylish, versatile. This was spotted both on the runway and in street style.

2. Power Tailoring

Oversized blazers, broad shoulders, wide trousers. A throwback to the ’80s, reimagined for 2026.

3. Volumetric Silhouettes

Bubble skirts, balloon sleeves, sculptural hems. Clothes as wearable art.

4. Ballet Flats Return

After years of chunky sneakers and platform heels, ballet flats quietly returned — paired with everything from suiting to sheer skirts.

5. Sculptural Accessories

Chunky bracelets shaped like art pieces, earrings that looked like miniature architecture. Accessories became conversation starters.

🛣️ Street Style: Fashion Outside the Shows

Paris streets were alive with influencers, editors, and locals showing off their looks.

• Sheer over trousers wasn’t just a runway trend; it was everywhere.

• Oversized blazers paired with denim created high-low chic.

• Ballet flats walked the cobblestones as comfortably as stilettos once did.

• Statement bags — from sculptural clutches to oversized totes — were spotted on every corner.

Street style hashtags like #ParisStreetStyle and #OOTDParis lit up Instagram and TikTok.

📅 Day-by-Day Highlights

To capture the full week, here’s a quick recap:

• Day 1: Saint Laurent opened with power silhouettes.

• Day 2: Dior unveiled futuristic femininity.

• Day 3: Chanel charmed with sheer layering.

• Day 4: Coperni wowed with tech magic.

• Day 5: Balmain celebrated royal futurism.

• Day 6: Louis Vuitton sculpted the runway.

• Day 7: Emerging designers closed the week with fresh energy.

Each day carried its own theme, but together they built one story: fashion is taking up space again.

Fashion never exists in a vacuum. It reacts to the world.

In a time when minimalism has dominated conversations, SS26 felt like a rebellion — a reminder that women, and people in general, deserve space, presence, and visibility.

This season wasn’t just about pretty clothes. It was about confidence, art, and identity. By choosing bold silhouettes, designers gave a message: Don’t shrink. Expand. Take up the room you deserve.

Paris Fashion Week 2025 Womenswear SS26 wasn’t just another fashion calendar event. It was a narrative of power, presence, and play.

From Saint Laurent’s sharp tailoring to Louis Vuitton’s sculptural play, from Dior’s futuristic armour to Chanel’s airy elegance, fashion told us: the future is bold, the future is shapely, the future is unapologetic.

And whether you’re a fashion insider, a blogger, or just someone scrolling Instagram, you felt it: Paris still sets the rhythm of style.

#PFWSS26 #ParisFashion #StreetStyle #FashionBlogger

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For Those I Knew and Loved Before – A Children’s Book That Brings Light to Alzheimer’s and Dementia

 

Some stories are meant to entertain. Others are meant to heal, to comfort, and to help us make sense of life’s hardest truths. For Those I Knew and Loved Before is one such story.

Written by RJ Scarelli, edited with care by Richard Moore, and beautifully illustrated by Nick D’Avolio, this heartfelt children’s book opens an honest yet gentle conversation about Alzheimer’s and Dementia — topics that affect millions of families across the world but are often too heavy to explain to children. The story follows Cindy, a young girl with a close bond with her grandmother. One day, her grandmother makes an unexpected visit and, alongside Cindy’s mother, shares heartbreaking news: she has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

Through simple words and tender illustrations, Cindy learns what this diagnosis means. She asks the questions every child might wonder — How does her grandmother feel? Can she be helped? What can Cindy and her mother do to prepare? Each answer guides Cindy, and young readers alongside her, through the realities of memory loss with honesty, love, and hope.

What sets this book apart is the balance it strikes — it doesn’t shy away from the truth, but it also doesn’t overwhelm. Instead, it provides families with a way to discuss Alzheimer’s with children, helping them process emotions, feel included, and understand that while memory fades, the love between family never disappears.

RJ Scarelli dedicates this book to her grandmother, who passed away in 2021 after her own long battle with Alzheimer’s. But its message reaches far beyond one family — it is for anyone who has cared for, or is caring for, a loved one with a neurodegenerative condition.

For Those I Knew and Loved Before is more than just a story — it’s a coping mechanism, a gentle guide, and a reminder of resilience and love. Families who read it together will find not only comfort, but also the courage to start important conversations.

📖 Available now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

The Missing Rite – A Journey from Despair to Sacred Parenthood

 

Parenthood has always been more than biology. For countless couples, it is a dream woven with hope, faith, and love, yet often shadowed by silence, struggles, and unanswered questions. 

The Missing Rite (Life Unfold Book 1) by Krishna Priya Bishi and Subrat Panda opens this delicate conversation in a way that is both practical and profoundly moving. It is not just a book about fertility or conception — it is a guide, a story, and a prayer wrapped into one.

The story follows Ethan and Maya, a modern couple whose longing for a child takes them through years of heartbreak. They confront not only the emotional wounds of failed attempts but also the inner battles of regret and fear. Their path shifts when they meet Professor Robert Goldman, a philosopher whose wisdom bridges the worlds of ancient scriptures and modern life. What unfolds is not a miracle delivered overnight, but a sacred rediscovery of how life truly begins — with purity, intention, and love rooted in dharma.

What makes The Missing Rite stand out is the way it beautifully balances research and ritual, science and spirituality, action and surrender. On one hand, the book offers couples practical advice — insights into fertility, holistic health, and preconception care. On the other, it draws on the timeless knowledge of Indian tradition, reminding readers that conception is not only about the body but also about the soul. This is not a clash between modern science and ancient wisdom; instead, it is a dialogue, one that many modern families have been waiting for.

The journey of Ethan and Maya is intimate, yet it carries universal resonance. Almost every couple can recognize a part of themselves in their doubts, arguments, laughter, and quiet moments of despair. But what makes their story powerful is the transformation that occurs when they begin to see parenthood not as a race against time or a medical checklist, but as a sacred calling — one that demands patience, selflessness, and faith.

At its heart, this book is a reminder that becoming parents is not just about bringing a child into the world; it is about bringing a child into a world that is ready — a world where love, values, and dharma form the foundation of family. The authors do not offer a shortcut or a “magic formula.” Instead, they invite readers to walk a path of devotion and wholeness, where science and spirit hold hands.

For readers, The Missing Rite is not only a guide for couples trying to conceive but also a reflection on what it means to nurture life with meaning and grace. It is deeply personal, yet profoundly universal. Whether you are planning for parenthood, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about how ancient traditions can transform modern lives, this book will leave you thoughtful, inspired, and perhaps even transformed.

Available now on Amazon and free to read with Kindle Unlimited, The Missing Rite is more than a book — it is a companion for every couple who dares to hope, to heal, and to bring life into the world with sacred intention.

Of Folklore and Jinn – Haunting Tales from the Indian Subcontinent

 

Horror has many faces. Sometimes it comes from dark corners of imagination, and sometimes it rises from whispers of the past, legends told for generations, and experiences so unsettling they refuse to fade. Of Folklore and Jinn: Horror Stories from the Indian Subcontinent (Haunting Tales from the Indian Subcontinent Book 1) by Sahar Sharjeal (with illustrations by Sabeen Farhan) is a collection that captures this rare blend—where folklore, history, and the supernatural collide.

Horror Rooted in Folklore and History

This book is not just a set of horror tales—it is a journey through the cultural landscape of South Asia. From the snow-draped Himalayas of Kashmir to the labyrinthine streets of Old Anarkali Bazaar in Lahore, each story is set in a place that breathes with history.

The collection draws upon folklore, urban legends, and historical settings. The opening story is inspired by a Kashmiri folktale that has survived for generations, while another brings to life an urban legend from a school, told with eerie authenticity.

Even the cover carries a story of its own—a photograph of a historic building in Old Anarkali, Lahore, once owned by a noble Sikh family that migrated to India during Partition. Such details give the book a sense of authenticity, making the horror feel rooted in something very real.

When the Supernatural Walks Among Us

The pages of Of Folklore and Jinn are filled with encounters that are deeply unsettling:

• Jinns, known in South Asian culture as powerful supernatural beings.

• Chudails, spirits that lurk in shadows, feeding off fear.

• Bhoots, restless souls tied to the places and people they once knew.

Each story explores the thin boundary between superstition and reality, between belief and nightmare. Some tales warn of the dangers of trespassing on sacred grounds, while others reveal curses so terrifying that even death might feel like an escape.

A Unique Reading Experience

Adding to the chilling atmosphere are photographs included within the book, capturing real locations tied to the stories. Even when fiction takes over—such as in the story Rani Ki Vav—the setting is very real, unfolding at the stepwell in Gujarat. This blend of fact and imagination makes every story feel eerily possible.

The illustrations by Sabeen Farhan further enhance the experience, giving shape to the shadows that linger in the reader’s mind. Together with the stories, they create a complete, immersive horror journey.

Why Read This Book?

Of Folklore and Jinn stands out because it doesn’t just rely on made-up scares—it uses the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the Indian subcontinent to craft horror that feels authentic and deeply unnerving.

It is perfect for:

• Fans of Asian horror looking for fresh, original tales.

• Book clubs seeking haunting discussions about folklore and culture.

• Anyone searching for a unique gift for lovers of horror, history, or the supernatural—whether for Halloween, birthdays, or the New Year.

Step Into the Shadows

With every story, Of Folklore and Jinn pulls readers into a world where folklore becomes reality, and where the past refuses to stay buried. This is only the first book in the Haunting Tales from the Indian Subcontinent series, making it the beginning of a journey that promises many more haunting nights to come.

📖 Get your copy of Of Folklore and Jinn: Horror Stories from the Indian Subcontinent on Amazon

World Heart Day: A Gentle Reminder to Care for the Rhythm of Life

Every year, when World Heart Day comes around on 29th September, most people see a post on social media, maybe share a Whats App forward, or nod briefly when someone says, “Take care of your heart.” Then life goes on. Work deadlines return, stress piles up, food habits remain the same, and exercise is pushed to “tomorrow.” But if we pause for just a little while and truly reflect, we realize the heart is not just an organ. It is the rhythm of our life, the silent drummer that keeps us alive, steady, and moving.

World Heart Day isn’t just another health awareness day. It’s almost like the world reminding us, “Hey, slow down, listen to your body, your heart is working tirelessly for you — what are you doing for it?”

I want to take you through a long, heartfelt journey in this blog. Not as a doctor, not as a medical expert, but as a fellow human being who has seen friends, colleagues, and family members go through moments of neglect, fear, and awakening when it comes to heart health. This is not about medical jargon; this is about everyday choices, emotions, stories, and a gentle nudge to look at your heart differently.

The Heart: More Than a Muscle

We often describe the heart as “just pumping blood,” but isn’t it funny how we connect emotions to it too? We say, “my heart is heavy,” “my heart skipped a beat,” or “follow your heart.”

The heart is an organ, yes, but also a symbol. It’s where love resides in our imagination. It’s where courage is born. It’s what poets write about and what lovers draw in diaries. But behind all the poetry and metaphors, this little fist-sized organ is doing the most laborious job — beating around 100,000 times a day, pumping 7,000 liters of blood. Can you imagine anything in your house working non-stop, without rest, without a repair break, for decades? Even the most expensive machines fail. But the heart keeps going, silently.

And yet, we ignore it until something goes wrong.

A Small Story of Ignoring Signs

Let me share something. A colleague of mine — let’s call him Arjun — was the classic example of a “busy man.” Early 40s, ambitious, successful, always in meetings, phone glued to his ear, endless cups of chai, late-night dinners, very little sleep. His family often told him to slow down. He laughed it off. One morning, after climbing two flights of stairs, he felt tightness in his chest. He ignored it. “Just acidity,” he said.

A few weeks later, the same thing happened. This time, it didn’t go away so quickly. He ended up in the hospital, diagnosed with a minor heart attack. The doctor said bluntly: “Your body has been giving you warnings. You ignored them. You’re lucky this wasn’t fatal.”

That day, Arjun realized what many of us forget — the heart does whisper before it screams. If you don’t listen to the whispers (fatigue, chest discomfort, breathlessness, irregular palpitations), one day it might shout in a way you cannot ignore.

Why World Heart Day Matters

World Heart Day, started by the World Heart Federation, is not meant to be another date on the calendar. It’s a reminder that heart diseases are still the leading cause of death globally. That’s not said to scare you, but to wake us up. Unlike some other illnesses, so many heart problems are linked to lifestyle: what we eat, how stressed we are, how much we move, how well we sleep.

And the beauty is — small changes make a big difference.

The theme every year changes, but the core idea remains the same: protect your heart, protect your life.

Everyday Choices That Shape Our Heart’s Story

You don’t need to run marathons or eat salads all day to have a healthy heart. (If you do, wonderful! But if you don’t, that’s okay too.) Heart care is more about small, consistent habits.

• Food Love: Our traditional diets — whether Indian dal-chawal, Mediterranean olive oil and fish, or Japanese green tea and rice — were once naturally heart-friendly. The problem is we’ve added too much processed junk, too much sugar, and too much salt. What if we just go back to basics? Home-cooked meals, seasonal fruits, whole grains, and less packaged food?

• Movement, not just exercise: Not everyone loves the gym. But the heart doesn’t care where you move — it just loves when you do. Walk after dinner, dance in your room, take stairs, do yoga, cycle with your kid. The body is built to move, not to sit 10 hours in a chair.

• Stress Detox: This is probably the hardest part. Stress is invisible, but it’s toxic. Our ancestors had stress too, but theirs ended with the danger. Our stress lingers — emails, bills, deadlines, peer pressure, social media. Learning to manage stress — whether through deep breathing, hobbies, journaling, prayer, or just laughing with friends — is as important as diet.

• Sleep, the underrated medicine: A good night’s sleep is like a tune-up for the heart. But we glorify “hustle” and sacrifice sleep. Ask any doctor, and they’ll tell you — consistent lack of sleep raises the risk of heart disease more than we realize.

• Saying no to smoke and excess alcohol: You already know this. No lecture needed.

The Emotional Side of Heart Health

Here’s something many campaigns miss: our emotional heart matters too.

Think of the times when your heart felt light — maybe on a vacation, or while laughing with old friends, or while watching your child’s first step. Compare it to the time you felt heavy after a fight, a loss, or endless stress. Didn’t your physical body react too? Faster heartbeat, chest tightness, headaches?

Our emotions directly affect our heart. Loneliness, anger, grief, and unhealed wounds are silent risks too. That’s why having strong connections, practicing forgiveness, and finding joy are not “fluffy ideas.” They’re real medicine.

Stories from Everyday Life

When I look around, I see countless small lessons about the heart.

• My grandmother, who lived to 92, never “exercised” in the modern sense. But she walked everywhere, cooked her own food, and never ate in a rush. Her secret? Simplicity.

• A young friend of mine, only 27, had cholesterol levels higher than his father’s. Why? Too much fast food, late-night gaming, no movement. He laughed about it at first, but it hit him when he struggled to jog for even 5 minutes. That was his wake-up call.

• My neighbor, an energetic 60-year-old, starts every morning with music and a 20-minute dance in her living room. She says, “Why wait for a wedding? Dance every day!” Her joy is infectious, and I’m convinced her heart is healthier because of it.

These stories remind me that heart health is not just medical charts; it’s everyday living.

Small Steps, Big Impact

So what can we do on World Heart Day — and beyond?

• Listen to your body. Don’t ignore chest pain, breathlessness, or unusual fatigue.

• Check your numbers. Blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar — know where you stand.

• Make one small change. Swap one soda for water. Add one fruit a day. Walk 15 minutes. Start small.

• Talk about it. Normalize conversations about health in families. Encourage checkups, not just for parents but also for young adults.

• Be kind to your heart emotionally. Avoid toxic environments, learn to say no, and give yourself moments of joy.

A Poetic Pause

Sometimes, health messages are too serious. Let me try a softer way:

The heart is a drum, beating inside,

A rhythm of love, we cannot hide.

It asks for care, in food, in rest,

It works for us — let’s give it our best.

World Heart Day Is Not Just One Day

If there’s one message I want you to take from this long blog, it’s this: don’t think of heart care as something to do only when there’s a scare, or when September 29th arrives. Think of it as a relationship. Your heart is your lifelong companion. It has been with you since before you were born, beating in your mother’s womb. It will be with you till your very last breath.

Isn’t that worth cherishing?

So maybe today is a good day to ask yourself: what can I do to thank my heart? Maybe a walk, maybe a good meal, maybe a laugh with someone you love. These little things matter more than you think.

My Thoughts

World Heart Day is a reminder, but the real celebration happens in our daily lives. Every time you choose to care — by moving, eating well, sleeping better, managing stress, or nurturing your emotional health — you are honoring your heart.

Remember, the heart doesn’t need grand gestures. It needs consistency, love, and attention.

So let’s make a promise, you and I: not just to forward a message on 29th September, but to truly live with more heart — every single day.

Because life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that make our hearts beat with joy.

✨ Happy World Heart Day. Take care of your rhythm of life.

Startups in India – Welcomed and Backed by the Government?

If there’s one word that has become a buzz across India in the last few years, it’s “Startup.” From small-town entrepreneurs with quirky ideas to big-city coders building the next fin-tech app, startups are everywhere. India is being painted as the “land of entrepreneurs” and the government too has been waving the flag high with its Startup India Mission, seed funding schemes, and big promises.

But the real question is: Are startups truly welcomed and strongly backed by the government, or is it just a glossy headline? Let’s take a deeper look — the good, the not-so-good, and the reality check.

The Big Push: Startup India Mission

Back in 2016, the government officially launched Startup India. It wasn’t just another campaign; it was pitched as a full ecosystem to support budding founders.

Some of the highlights include:

• Simplified company registration – No more running pillar to post. With online portals, the process has become much faster.

• Tax benefits – Eligible startups can get income tax exemptions for the first three years, a relief for founders who are still finding their ground.

• Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) – Startups can get up to ₹20 lakh as grants to test their idea, build prototypes, or run trials, and up to ₹50 lakh as funding support in the form of convertible debentures or debt.

• Incubators and mentorship – Across India, incubators have been set up, many in partnership with institutes and organizations, to provide mentoring, co-working spaces, and technical guidance.

On paper, this sounds like a solid foundation. And to be fair, many startups have benefited from it. Stories of young founders getting a small grant, building an MVP, and later raising big rounds from investors are real. It shows that the intent from the government side is positive: India wants to become a global startup hub.

The Reality on the Ground

Now comes the other side of the story. While the initiatives are strong and encouraging, the ground reality is often less smooth.

First, paperwork and delays. Founders applying for the Seed Fund or other benefits often find themselves lost in long approval cycles. Applications go through incubators, multiple committees, and sometimes get stuck in back-and-forth clarifications. The speed that startups need isn’t always matched by the speed at which funds are released.

Second, location matters a lot. A startup in Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, or Mumbai enjoys easier access to angel investors, accelerators, and mentorship networks. In contrast, a founder in a smaller Tier-2 or Tier-3 city might find that while government schemes exist, the actual ecosystem of support is weaker or slower. The difference is almost like playing the same game on two different difficulty levels.

Third, seed funding vs actual need. While ₹20–50 lakh is a welcome push, not all startups can do much with it. Capital-intensive industries like biotech, clean energy, or advanced hardware often need crores just to get to a workable prototype. For them, the government support feels like a small drop in a much larger ocean.

Fourth, investor preferences. Even outside of government funding, private investors often lean toward “safe” sectors like SaaS, fintech, or consumer apps. If your idea doesn’t fit into the popular mould, you may find yourself knocking on many doors without luck.

Why It Still Matters

Even with these hurdles, the fact remains: compared to 10 years ago, India is far more startup-friendly. The ease of registering a company, finding at least some structured government support, and being part of a global investor spotlight is a big improvement.

The startup culture has moved from being a “risky, odd career path” to something young people actually aspire to. College students pitch ideas, professionals quit jobs to start ventures, and even families are more supportive of entrepreneurship now. That cultural shift itself is a huge sign that startups are not just tolerated, but welcomed.

On the government side, the Startup India Seed Fund is only one part. There are also state-level funds, angel tax reforms, innovation challenges, and partnerships with global accelerators. Add to that the rising number of unicorns in India and the spotlight from big venture funds — the message is clear: India wants to be the world’s startup capital.

A Balanced View

So, are startups truly welcomed and backed by the government? The answer is: Yes, but with conditions.

Yes, because the policies, schemes, and missions are real. The government is putting money into funds, simplifying rules, and even encouraging states to compete on “ease of doing business.” Founders now have more doors to knock on than ever before.

But also “with conditions,” because accessing those benefits still takes persistence. Paperwork, delays, uneven state-level implementation, and limited funding size can test a founder’s patience. The schemes are not magic solutions — they are stepping stones. The heavy lifting of building, growing, and raising bigger rounds still rests on the founder’s shoulders.

If you’re a dreamer with an idea, India is not shutting the door on you. In fact, the door is wider than it has ever been. The welcome is real, but you still need to walk in prepared, with patience and persistence. The government is playing its role as an enabler, but the hustle, the execution, and the journey — that’s all yours.

At the end of the day, India’s startup story is just beginning. It’s not perfect, but it’s exciting, and for many founders, it’s worth every risk.

Law of Attraction and Affirmations: Is Belief Really Rising?

If you scroll through social media these days, you’ll see posts and reels filled with words like “manifestation,” “affirmations,” and “law of attraction.” It almost feels like everywhere you look, someone is either sharing their success story about how they manifested their dream job or relationship, or giving tips on how to repeat affirmations daily. A few years back, this whole concept used to feel like something limited to self-help books or spiritual communities, but now it has stepped out into the mainstream. More and more people are openly saying that they believe in it, and it’s not just a passing interest — it’s turning into a lifestyle for many.

There’s a reason for this rise. Life today feels more uncertain than ever before. From the pandemic to job instability, from personal relationships to financial worries, everything seems unpredictable. In times like these, people naturally search for something that gives them hope and a sense of control. That’s exactly where the Law of Attraction and affirmations come in. The idea is simple — what you think, you attract. If you constantly put positive thoughts into your mind, you increase the chances of positive outcomes. And honestly, it makes sense why people are drawn to this. If repeating something like “I am confident” or “I deserve happiness” can make your mind calmer and give you motivation, then why wouldn’t you do it?

Social media has also played a huge role in making this bigger. Every day you come across stories where people share how they manifested their dream house, their ideal partner, or even just a better version of themselves. These stories spread quickly, and when you see someone else claiming it worked for them, you feel like trying it yourself. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have practically created a community around manifestation, where people encourage each other and celebrate even the smallest wins. It has turned what once felt like a private, personal practice into something that feels collective, almost like a movement.

Of course, the Law of Attraction and affirmations aren’t free of criticism or challenges. One of the biggest issues is that people sometimes treat it like magic, expecting that if they just think hard enough, everything will automatically fall into place. But the truth is, no matter how many affirmations you repeat, nothing can replace hard work, planning, and consistent action. If you keep waiting for success to knock on your door without moving a finger, disappointment is bound to follow. Another side effect is self-blame. When things don’t go as expected, people might feel that their “vibes weren’t high enough” or they “didn’t visualize properly.” This mindset can make failures feel heavier than they actually are.

The real strength of affirmations and the Law of Attraction is not in creating miracles overnight but in shifting your mindset. Think of it as a way to tune your brain toward positivity. When you start your day with affirmations like “Good things are on the way” or “I am capable of achieving my goals,” you set a tone of confidence. It doesn’t mean the day will be perfect, but it does mean you’ll be in a better space to handle challenges. It’s like having your morning coffee — it won’t do the work for you, but it will make you feel more awake, focused, and ready.

That’s why I feel belief in these practices is rising so quickly. They are easy, they don’t cost anything, and they feel empowering. In a world where so much feels out of our hands, even a small sense of control can be powerful. Whether you believe that the universe is truly listening to your thoughts or you just see affirmations as a psychological boost, the effect is still meaningful. People want to feel hopeful, they want to feel like good things are possible, and affirmations give exactly that.

So yes, I do think more and more people are believing in the Law of Attraction and affirmations today. And honestly, it’s not a bad thing. If these practices help someone feel more positive, stay motivated, and focus on their goals, then they are worth it. The only reminder I’d give is this: don’t forget that life changes not just by thinking, but by doing. Positive thoughts set the stage, but it’s your actions that create the story. Combine the two, and that’s where the real magic happens.

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