Dhurander delivers brutal action, a tight political-underworld storyline, and stunningly realistic Karachi sets. Technical brilliance shines through its cinematography, sound, and inventive music. Rakesh Bedi excels, while Akshaye Khanna underwhelms. With standout makeup and strong world-building, the film remains gripping and worth a watch.
How Indian Weddings in the USA Are Very Different From Those in India
⸻ (Disclaimer: This post is not meant to offend or hurt anyone. It is just my observation, made entirely in jest, after attending eight weddings in two years. Please read with chai, humor, and an open heart.) If you grew up in India—or worse, got married in the early 2000s or earlier—then attending an Indian…
Behind the Smiles – A Gentle Reminder to Prioritize Ourselves
It’s been a while since I last posted. Life has been a bit overwhelming lately — things going on personally that have left me disturbed, emotionally drained, and, honestly, questioning a lot. I wasn’t ready to show up here pretending everything was okay. And that in itself made me realize how often we do exactly…
Restaurant Review: Simply South – A Promising New Arrival in Naperville, IL
Yesterday (June 21, 2025), we had the chance to do something we’ve never done before — attend the soft opening of a brand-new South Indian restaurant in Naperville called Simply South. While we weren’t sure what to expect, the experience turned out to be a pleasant one, filled with warmth, flavor, and a little bit…
Burma O’ clock – a suburban hidden gem (Restaurant review)
Grass Jelly drink This time it was just my son and me as the husband was traveling for work. We had been to Proof No. 5 a new hip place in downtown Wheaton and on the way there saw this little place called Burma O’ Clock. We hadn’t eaten Burmese food before so decided to…
When Breath becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi – A short review
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi So much has been written about this book since its publication 10 years ago. My two cents… Reading ‘When Breath Becomes Air’ was a deeply emotional and difficult experience for me. Paul Kalanithi’s reflections on mortality and meaning hit especially close to home because I myself narrowly escaped…
Nadu – Restaurant review
Do you like eating out? Love mouth watering south Asian food? Here’s a review of a hip new restaurant in town - Nadu is located in Lincoln Park, Chicago
Dodging the bullet part 3. Heart Attack Lessons: From Hospital to Home
After a heart attack, the author experiences an emotional recovery journey. Initially euphoric to be home, reality sets in with fear and fatigue as everyday tasks become overwhelming. Support from family and friends is crucial, but self-doubt emerges. A trip for her son’s college orientation highlights her ongoing fragility, emphasizing the road to recovery ahead.
Dodging the Bullet (Part 2): What ensues in the hospital
The author describes a harrowing personal experience of suffering from chest pains and ultimately being diagnosed with a heart attack after 20 days of illness. Encouraged by friends, she goes to the ER, where doctors find a 100% blockage in her coronary artery and perform life-saving angioplasty. The narrative emphasizes the importance of prioritizing one’s health.
Indienne: 2nd visit
Our son’s 18th birthday warranted a special celebration. I tried last minute reservations at Indienne to no avail. Why do I always forget that his birthday is on the one day when everyone and I mean EVERYONE wants to eat out - Valentine’s bloody day! All frustrated I put my name on the waitlist knowing…