EDITORIAL
With the advent of winter, CR Park gears up for a brilliant line up of cultural activities. The month began with the most unprecedented membership results of Kali Mandir Society. In its entire history from inception, Kali Mandir has not seen such a mammoth membership drive. Under the able secretaryship of Dr Rajiv Nag, a record 635 applicants got inducted into Kali Mandir Society as Life Members. A marathon screening and the minutest scrutiny took place for each application, after which the members were inducted. This unique achievement has sent a wave of happiness among devotees in the colony. Many members have expressed keen interest to be involved in regular Mandir activities after this successful drive.
A slew of impressive theatre presentations across the entire month, have got all residents out of their warm homes, and thronging the various venues across the colony to watch the superbly presented plays.
Markets are buzzing with hungry shoppers thronging the hot rolls and chai stalls after their regular grocery shopping. Snugly wrapped in warm woollens with steaming chups of tea in gloves laden hands are a familiar site in all markets and chai khokas.
After a brief lull in festivities, the colony is slowly gearing up for Poush Mela in the month of January 2026. Organised by Chittaranjan Park Bangiya Samaj, Poush Mela will commemorate is 51st occurrence in 2026. An impressive line of cultural programs, Bengali Food Festival, traditional handicrafts from the interiors of Bengal, and a fun kids’ zone will be some of the key attractions of this Poush Mela.
Although a fun season, winter does come with its perils. Pollution, dry skin and hair, dehydration and infections do affect everyone during this precarious season. It is important to drink warm water to avoid dehydration and reduce pollution effects, which can lead to various complications like bleeding from the nose, headaches and viral infections. Incorporating greens, warm soups, dry fruits, proteins and fruits like dates, berries, oranges will immensely help in reducing dryness in the skin and hair. Warm packs on the face, hands, feet and hair will additionally help in easy maintenance. Sitting under the sun for 20 minutes everyday will greatly help in replenishing Vitamin D in the body.
We wish you all a beautiful, warm, sunny and cozy winter!
Team CR Park Speaks
জারবেরা: সেলেব্রিটি ফুল এবং তার অস্তিত্বের সংকট
জারবেরা (Gerbera) নামের মধ্যে একটা ভারিক্কি ভাব থাকলেও, আসলে সে ফুলের রাজ্যে একজন পপ-স্টার। ধরুন, সে হলো বলিউডের সেই নায়িকা, যার মেকআপ সবসময় নিখুঁত, যার হাসিটা সবচেয়ে ব্রাইট, কিন্তু যার ডায়ালগগুলো সবসময় 'হ্যান্ডসাম', 'লাভ ইউ', আর 'ওয়াও'-এর মধ্যেই ঘোরাফেরা করে।
জারবেরা কোনো ভাবুক ফুল নয়। গোলাপের মতো তার প্রেমিক হারানোর বা গভীর বিষাদের গল্প নেই। রজনীগন্ধার মতো তার রাতভর জেগে থাকা বা চন্দ্রমল্লিকার মতো জটিল দার্শনিকতাও নেই। জারবেরা স্রেফ হাসে। এবং তার হাসিটা দেখলে মনে হয়, সে যেন একটু আগেই কোনো কৌতুক শুনেছে আর সেটা ভুলেও গেছে।
©®-রীতা বিশ্বাস পান্ডে
Courtesy Travels With You
A Mindful Habit, Turned Into A Moment Of Warmth And
Reflection.
By Partha Chanda
The new Terminal 2 at Bengaluru
Airport is truly dreamy. The lounge is spacious, airy, and just the right
amount of artsy.
I settled in with two drinks and a bit of Indian food. By the time I finished,
I had a little collection in front of me—glasses, cutlery, a stirrer, a small
bowl of peanuts, and a used plate.
The gentleman seated next to me
was genuinely pleasant (although that didn’t influence what I did). Once I was
done, I got up and carried everything—one by one—to the designated clearing
area. A member of the service staff noticed and thanked me with such warmth
that it felt as though this simple gesture wasn’t something she experienced
often.
My neighbour smiled too. We
exchanged a friendly “safe flight” and a “good evening,” and that was that.
It made me reflect on how easily
we take service staff, neighbours, and even strangers for granted. A small,
mindful action—two extra steps, literally—can brighten their day and yours.
And honestly, I know exactly
where this instinct came from: my recent trip to Japan, where such behaviour
isn’t exceptional—it’s everyday culture.
I’m not sharing this to look good
or to preach. I’m sharing it because small acts of kindness genuinely elevate
life. Go that extra mile when you can—you’ll never regret it.
Disclaimer: Acts of
goodness also depend on your environment and your mental state, and that’s
perfectly okay.
Journey of Patachitra From Bengal
to CR Park: A Story of Support and Shared Culture
by Joy Dey
When you walk into the quiet
village of Naya in Pingla, West Medinipur, it feels as if the whole place is
painted with life. Long scrolls dry on verandas. Bowls of colour sit in the
sun. Artists hum soft songs as they paint. This is the home of Patachitra, a
very old storytelling art where pictures and music come together to bring myths
and daily life alive.
For many years, the Chitrakar
families passed this art from parent to child. Children grew up with the smell
of natural colours and the sound of pat-er gaan. The art was not just a job. It
was their bansher kaaj—their family tradition and their identity.
But times have changed. Young
people now grow up with mobile phones, reels, online games and dreams of more
stable jobs. Many teenagers in Naya wonder if Patachitra can give them a secure
future. They see their parents working very hard yet earning very little.
Slowly, the younger generation is losing interest. The elders continue
painting, but they worry: if the youth step away, who will carry the scroll
forward?
To understand this better, I
travelled to Naya. I stayed with the family of Bapi Chitrakar, whose home feels
like a living museum. His family has painted Patachitra for seven generations.
Everywhere I looked, there were signs of this legacy—pigments ground by hand,
fine squirrel-tail brushes, stories painted on long pats. Their famous
creation, “Machher Biye,” or The Wedding of the Fishes, is loved all across
India. It is funny, colourful and full of joy.
Even in such a strong artistic
home, the younger members are unsure about continuing the art.
Bapi felt deeply concerned. So he
started a Sunday Patachitra School in his own courtyard. Every Sunday morning,
children and teenagers from the village come and sit on mats. They learn to mix
natural colours. They learn to draw borders and characters. They learn to tell
stories through pictures and songs. Some come for the fun. Some for the snacks.
Some because they are curious. But slowly they begin to appreciate the beauty
of their own tradition.
Running this school needs regular
funds for cloth, brushes, colours and food. A few well-wishers from Kolkata and
Delhi help from time to time. But Bapi needed a steadier way to support it.
During my visit, Bapi and I spoke
long into the night. We wanted a model that was not charity. We wanted
something that kept the artists’ dignity. We wanted something based on trust.
These thoughts came from the values of humility, kindness and love—simple ideas
that we call HKL. We realised that if people could meet the art with an open
heart, they would support it with an open heart too.
So we created a very simple idea.
A ‘Pay As You Wish’ model. No fixed prices. No bargaining. People could take
the artwork they liked and pay whatever amount they felt was right. The ‘trust’
was the most important part. Trust that people would give fairly. Trust that
they would care. Trust that they would want to support a tradition that is
fighting to stay alive.
The Chitrakar family packed a
suitcase full of scrolls, kettles, trays, hand fans and small paintings. I
brought these to Delhi and organised a small pop-up exhibition in CR Park. It
was arranged on very short notice. We only had a few hours to set it up. There
were no posters, no big announcements, only simple word of mouth among
neighbours.
But what happened next was truly
monomohini—heart-touching.
The CR Park community showed
overwhelming warmth. People began to walk in steadily. Families came. Elderly
uncles and aunties came. Young professionals came after work. Children came,
curious and wide-eyed. A group of teenage art students also stopped by and felt
immediately drawn to the paintings. They asked many questions. They said they
wanted to stay connected and support the young painters of Naya. Their
sincerity was beautiful to watch.
Visitors stood quietly before
each artwork. The colours caught their attention. The details surprised them.
Many were moved to learn that most Patuas are from the Muslim community but
paint Hindu mythological themes with deep devotion. This sense of harmony—melmilap—touched
people in a strong way.
Artist Dipak Kumar Ghosh spoke to
the gathering and helped everyone understand the skill and patience involved in
Patachitra. After that, Bapi joined through a video call from Hyderabad. He
held up a scroll of Durga and sang a Patua song. The room became silent. For a
moment, CR Park felt connected to Naya as if the distance between them had
melted.
Then came the moment of truth—the
‘Pay As You Wish’ system. Visitors picked up trays, kettles, scrolls and
paintings with affection. They placed donations with gentleness and sincerity.
No one asked for discounts. No one hesitated. Everyone gave what they felt was
right.
By the end of the evening, almost
every piece had found a new home. And every rupee went directly to the artists
and to the Sunday School. People came up to me saying, “When is the next
event?” “How else can we help?” “Can we visit the village?” “Can we support the
children directly?”
This was more than an exhibition.
It was the beginning of a long relationship. It showed that when people
understand an art form, they support it with love. It showed that a community
like CR Park, filled with warmth and cultural pride, can become a strong
partner for a village like Naya.
The visit proved something simple
and powerful. Art survives because people care. Traditions continue because
hearts stay open. Through trust, humility, kindness and love, the Patachitra
scroll will keep unrolling into the future—bringing stories, colours and hope
to everyone who touches it.
The
Constitution of India, adopted on 26 November 1949 and implemented from 26
January 1950, serves as the nation’s supreme legal authority and establishes
the foundational principles for governance, rights, and civic responsibilities.
Developed after comprehensive deliberation by the Constituent Assembly, it
embodies the collective vision of India's diverse populace and forms the
cornerstone of a democratic, sovereign, secular, and inclusive republic. The
Constitution mandates a framework ensuring the responsible exercise of power,
universal access to justice, and the protection of individual dignity.
The
enduring relevance of the Indian Constitution is evident in its ability to
provide both stability and adaptability through amendments, responding to
societal evolution. Its emphasis on fundamental rights affords citizens
protection from arbitrary state action, while directive principles guide the
government towards social and economic advancement. In an era marked by rapid
technological advancement, globalization, and increasing social consciousness,
the Constitution remains a steadfast moral and legal guide. It directs
institutions, upholds freedom of expression, guarantees equality before the
law, and reinforces the democratic process. Its system of checks and balances
curtails potential abuses of power, preserving equilibrium among the
legislature, executive, and judiciary.
To
acknowledge the lasting importance of this document, Constitution Day, or Samvidhan
Diwas, is observed annually on 26
November. Established in 2015, this day commemorates the Constitution’s
adoption and pays tribute to Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, Chairman of the Drafting
Committee, and other key contributors. The observance aims not only to honor
these individuals but also to promote constitutional values, particularly among
younger generations.
On
Constitution Day, educational institutions, government bodies, and various
organizations across the country hold activities such as reading the Preamble,
debates, essay contests, workshops, and seminars focused on constitutional
rights and duties. These initiatives enhance public awareness of democratic
principles and the responsibilities inherent in citizenship. Citizens are
encouraged to fulfill their duties—such as respecting national symbols,
fostering harmony, and espousing an inquisitive spirit—which are vital for
national vitality.
In
summary, the Constitution of India functions not merely as a legal document but
as a dynamic guide shaping the nation’s character and progress. The annual
observance of Constitution Day underscores the necessity of understanding,
respecting, and safeguarding this foundational instrument, which continues to
protect and empower all Indians.
Tender-Love-Care For Your Winter
Skin And Hair
By Jaya Ray
Winter is here and that means our hair and skin need that extra 10 minutes of tender love and care.
Even if you are working 5-6 days in a week, do take
out 20 minutes on a Sunday to pamper yourself with 2 basic but very effective
packs. You can apply the packs and make your breakfast. By which time, it will
have done its magic on your hair and skin. I will share a common pack which you
can apply both on your hair and skin. Trust me, this 20 minutes of “me-time”
will make you feel loved by yourself again!
Mash one banana with a fork in a mixing bowl.
Add a tablespoon of honey, aloe vera each. If you feel
you need more, you can add ½ tsp each.
Cut 2 Vit E capsules (easily available in chemist
shops), and pour the liquid onto the mixture.
Mix well and apply liberally on your hair and face. If
you are not using your hands, you can apply them on your hands as well.
For the hair, you can add warm coconut oil/olive
oil/castor oil to the mixture. And..if you have dry skin, you can even add ½
tsp oil on your face pack as well.
Keep it on for 30 minutes for the hair, 10-15 minutes
on your face till the pack dries up a bit on your skin.
Wash your face with warm water and pat dry.
Wash your hair with a mild shampoo and luke warm
water. DO NOT use hot water on your hair. Air dry your hair.
Feel your baby soft skin and beautiful, soft hair!
Happy self-pampering!
SHIELDING YOUR LUNGS THIS SEASON
Practical Ways to Counter Oxidative Stress,
Inflammation & Smog Exposure
Dr Anindita Roy, PhD
Delhi’s winter carries its own
charm — misty mornings, piping-hot chai, hawkers selling peanuts on every
corner. But along with this romance comes an unwelcome guest: winter smog.
As temperatures drop, pollutants get trapped close to the ground. PM2.5 levels
rise sharply, and the air becomes a cocktail of toxins our lungs must battle
every single day.
For residents of CR Park and
across South Delhi, this season’s air quality isn’t just a number on the index
— it’s something we feel in our breath, skin, mood, and immunity. One of the
simplest, most natural ways to build inner defence is by turning to antioxidants.
How Winter Smog Affects Your Body
The pollutants in smog — especially PM2.5 — enter deep into
the lungs. Once inside, they trigger:
- Oxidative
stress: Damaging molecules called free radicals
increase.
- Inflammation:
Airways get irritated, leading to cough, phlegm, wheezing and
breathlessness.
- Reduced
immunity: Making us more prone to infections.
This is why so many people experience chronic throat
irritation, winter allergies, and sudden asthma-like symptoms during December
and January.
A. Why Antioxidants Matter More in Winter
Antioxidants act like “bodyguards” inside your cells. They
neutralize free radicals, soothe inflammation, and strengthen the tissues that
line your lungs.
1. Neutralizing Free Radicals
Vitamins C and E are powerful antioxidants that
help counteract the oxidative stress caused by smog. They protect cells from
damage and support respiratory health.
2. Reducing Inflammation
Antioxidant-rich foods and Omega-3 fatty acids help
calm irritated airways. This is especially useful for those with asthma,
bronchitis, or frequent winter allergies.
3. Supporting Lung Lining Health
Vitamin A and beta-carotene help maintain a
strong mucosal lining — the inner shield of your lungs that filters pollutants
and pathogens.
B. How to Boost Your Antioxidant Intake Daily
You don’t need supplements to strengthen your antioxidant
defence — your kitchen can do it.
1. Fruits (your delicious APF — Anti-Pollution
Foods!)
- Amla:
The most concentrated natural source of Vitamin C.
- Oranges
& Kinnow: Seasonal, juicy, immunity-boosting.
- Guava:
More Vitamin C than oranges!
- Kiwi:
Excellent for respiratory health.
- Berries:
Rich in flavonoids that fight inflammation.
2. Vegetables
- Spinach
& Kale: Rich in Vitamin E, magnesium, and
chlorophyll.
- Carrots
& Sweet Potatoes: Packed with beta-carotene for lung
lining repair.
- Tomatoes:
Lycopene helps reduce airway inflammation.
3. Nuts & Seeds
- Almonds:
Great source of Vitamin E.
- Sunflower
Seeds: Full of antioxidant minerals.
- Flaxseeds:
Loaded with Omega-3s for anti-inflammatory support.
4. Herbs & Spices
- Turmeric:
Curcumin reduces inflammation and boosts immunity.
- Ginger:
Clears respiratory passages and soothes irritation.
Adding these foods daily — in salads, smoothies, soups,
stir-fry, or as warm herbal drinks — can significantly reduce the impact of
smog on your body.
A Quick Checklist for CR Park Residents This
Winter
✔ Start
your day with warm water + amla/ginger
✔ Add one colourful fruit and one
leafy green daily
✔ Snack on almonds or sunflower
seeds
✔ Drink haldi doodh or ginger tea
at night
✔ Use air purifiers indoors
✔ Wear masks on high-AQI days
✔ Stay updated with your flu
shot (check with your doctor)
Take Care of Your Lungs — They
Take Care of You
While we continue to push for
cleaner air, improved governance, and community action, it’s important to
fortify our own bodies. Antioxidants, mindful eating, and timely vaccination
form a simple yet powerful trio that can help us breathe easier through Delhi’s
toughest months.
This winter, let’s prioritise our
health — individually and as a community.
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