Indian Daddy's Blog

Venita Coelho is an award-winning author, artist and screenwriter who writes for children as well as adults. A winner of the Sahitya Akademi Bal Puraskar , Coelho has also bagged the Hindu Goodreads Award (twice!) for Best Fiction for Children, The Neev Award and the Peekabook Award. Her collection of feminist ghost stories, The Washer of the Dead , was longlisted for the Frank O’ Connor Award. Besides 12 published books, Coelho has had a long career in film and television as a writer, director and producer. Yash Raj Films has recently signed a three-book deal with her for unpublished manuscripts to be turned web-series.   Some of her books for children include: ·    Dead as a Dodo ·    All of Me ·    Tiger by the Tail  

The mother-calf bond in Asian elephants is an extraordinary relationship built on care, protection, and learning. From birth, a calf depends entirely on its mother for nourishment and safety, staying close to her at all times. The mother uses her trunk and body to guide and comfort her baby, teaching it crucial survival skills like foraging and social interaction. This relationship extends beyond just the mother—other females in the herd, known as allomothers, also play a role in raising the calf. For up to three years, the calf suckles, but even after weaning, it remains deeply connected to its mother, learning migration routes and herd dynamics. This nurturing relationship ensures the calf's survival and shapes the future of the herd.

    The first (partial) solar eclipse of 2025 will occur on March 29 at 2:21 pm (IST), peak at 4:17 pm, and end at 6:14 pm. The eclipse will be, unfortunately, not visible from India, though it will be visible from the Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, parts of North America, Europe, and Africa. If you don’t know what a solar eclipse is, it is a phenomenon which occurs when the Moon comes between the Sun and the Earth. The Moon’s darker shadow (umbra) covers a small patch of the Earth; this patch experiences a total solar eclipse. The less-deep part of the shadow (penumbra) falls on a much larger region than the umbra. This area experiences a partial solar eclipse.  Post writer: Dhruba Neel Dutta

Short reels and videos have captivated audiences across all age groups. With their quick, engaging format, these videos have become integral to digital consumption. However, a recent study by researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, published in PLOS One , sheds light on the potential academic consequences of short video usage among elementary school students in China. The study analyzed data from 1,052 students across urban and suburban elementary schools. Researchers collected information through detailed questionnaires and academic records, assessing students' short video habits. Parents also provided insights into their own media consumption and perspectives on their children's screen time. Key Findings The study found a clear negative relationship between short video usage and academic performance. The more time students spent on short video platforms, the lower their academic outcomes across various subjects. This pattern appears to be linked to attention levels—...

  Welcome to the first post in my new blog series, where I dive into the fascinating world of birds, their behaviors, and their significance in our ecosystems. Today, I want to introduce you to a striking yet often overlooked resident of Assam’s wetlands— the Indian Pond Heron ( Ardeola grayii ). Spotting the Indian Pond Heron The Indian Pond Heron is a master of camouflage. When perched among reeds and vegetation, its brownish streaked plumage blends seamlessly with its surroundings, making it nearly invisible. However, the moment it takes flight, its hidden beauty is revealed—pristine white wings that contrast sharply against the backdrop of lush greenery and blue skies. Why This Bird Matters Ecosystem Role: As a wader, it helps maintain the balance of wetland ecosystems by feeding on fish, frogs, and insects. Adaptability: Unlike many other water birds, it thrives in both natural and man-made water bodies, including paddy fields and village ponds. Indicator Species: The pres...

Leila Seth (1930–2017) was a trailblazing figure in Indian legal history, breaking multiple barriers and setting important precedents for women in law and justice. Her life and work were marked by a deep commitment to fairness, human rights, and education. She is remembered for her remarkable legal career and efforts to make the law more accessible and meaningful for the common people, especially children. A Trailblazer in the Legal Field Leila Seth’s achievements were unparalleled. She made history as: The first woman to top the Bar examinations in London, demonstrating her academic brilliance and paving the way for Indian women in the legal profession. The first woman judge of the Delhi High Court, a role in which she made significant contributions to justice and legal reform. The first woman to become Chief Justice of a state in India, serving in Himachal Pradesh, where she continued her work in ensuring equitable access to justice. Her legal career spanned several decades, during w...

Building good habits in children is both a tricky and challenging task—one that often feels like a million-dollar question for parents. While it’s important not to be overly possessive, the reality is that personal, family, and social influences often push parents toward overprotectiveness. Striking the right balance between guidance and independence is key to nurturing a child who is responsible, confident, and well-adjusted. Here are 10 blog post ideas related to building good habits in children: The Power of Routine: How Daily Habits Shape a Child’s Future Leading by Example: Why Children Learn More from Actions Than Words Balancing Discipline and Freedom: How to Guide Without Controlling The Role of Storytelling in Instilling Good Habits in Kids Screen Time vs. Playtime: Encouraging Healthy Digital Habits Small Wins, Big Impact: How Tiny Changes Lead to Lifelong Habits How to Make Learning Fun: Turning Chores into Engaging Activities From Gratitude to Responsibility: 5 Essential H...

  Madhurima Vidyarthi: A Healer of Bodies and Minds Through Medicine and Stories Madhurima Vidyarthi is a rare blend of science and storytelling—an accomplished endocrinologist and an imaginative writer who seamlessly weaves her expertise in medicine with a deep passion for fiction. Trained in Kolkata and London, she is a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians (UK), a prestigious recognition of her excellence in the medical field. Yet, beyond her medical practice, Vidyarthi has dedicated herself to the art of storytelling, crafting narratives that resonate with readers across age groups. Her literary journey extends from insightful essays and opinion pieces in publications like The Statesman, The Woman Inc., and Saaranga Magazine to fiction that captures the complexity of human emotions, relationships, and whimsical imagination. She is also a contributor to the Italian Consulate’s initiative, Bridge of Stories, a unique anthology bringing together Indian and Italian writers t...

I spent a full day at the Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation (CWRC) at Kaziranga National Park a few years ago . It was an experience that left a lasting impact on me, not just because of the incredible work being done there but because of one particular resident—a young rhino calf whose life had been shattered by poachers. At CWRC, I met two dedicated wildlife veterinarians,  Dr. Pranjit Basumatary and Dr. Samsul Ali , both of whom I considered my brothers in conservation. Over the years, they had rescued and rehabilitated countless wild animals, each with its own heartbreaking yet hopeful story. But nothing prepared me for the sight of the  small, male rhino calf  wandering around the enclosure, searching for someone he would never find—his mother. She had been  brutally killed by poachers , leaving him alone, confused, and vulnerable. Though he was in good health and receiving expert care, his eyes still seemed to carry the weight of loss. As I st...

Parenting is not a rigid process; it is dynamic, ever-evolving, and deeply rooted in learning. It mirrors the careful experimentation of cultivating a new seedling. Just as a plant researcher meticulously monitors growth conditions—soil quality, temperature, moisture levels, and the angle of light hitting the leaves—modern parenting demands an equally attentive approach. Each aspect of a child’s early development, from psychological well-being to intuition and emotional intelligence, requires careful observation and nurturing. One of the simplest yet most impactful moments of a parent-child relationship is the  First interaction after school. This moment can set the tone for the rest of the day, influencing a child's mood, confidence, and willingness to share their experiences. The First Question After School: Breaking the Ice As my child steps onto our doorstep, I make it a point to greet him warmly. My first words are always: "Hi, darling! How was your day?" This simpl...

Harshikaa Udasi is a renowned children's author and journalist with over two decades of experience in the media and literary world. She has worked with some of India’s most prestigious newspapers, including The Times of India, Business Standard, and The Hindu, where she honed her skills in storytelling and reportage. Her deep passion for writing and her ability to connect with young readers led her to the world of children's literature, where she has made a significant mark. Her debut children's book, Kitu’s Very Mad Day , was a resounding success, winning the FICCI Best Children’s Book Award (English) in 2017. The book, known for its engaging narrative and relatable themes, cemented her position as a leading voice in Indian children’s literature. In addition to her standalone works, Udasi has contributed to several anthologies, including Flipped 2, On Your Marks, Dance Nani Dance, and Caturday, showcasing her versatility in storytelling across different themes and genr...

  Paula Young Shelton is a children’s author and an early childhood educator with nearly 30 years of experience teaching young children. She is a graduate of Duke University (USA) and holds a Masters degree in education from Bank Street College. She was a niece of Martin Luther King Jr., though Shelton wasn’t even a year old when her family moved from New York to the south [of the US] in order to be on the front lines of the civil rights movement. Some of her books for children include: ·    Child of the Civil Rights Movement ·    Just Like Jesse Owens

Nabakanta Baruah (1926-2002), a prominent figure in Assamese literature, was renowned not only as a novelist but also as a poet. Widely recognized by his pen name "Ekhud Kokaideu," Baruah began his literary journey writing poetry under the pseudonym Sima Dutta. His early works, characterized by their lyrical beauty and depth, laid the foundation for a prolific career that spanned several genres and earned him numerous accolades. Born into a family with a rich literary heritage, Nabakanta Baruah had three brothers: Devakanta, Jivakanta, and Sivakanta. Each of them contributed to the cultural and intellectual landscape of Assam in their own right. Nabakanta's literary prowess was evident from a young age, and he quickly rose to prominence in the Assamese literary scene. Throughout his career, Nabakanta Baruah received numerous awards and honors, reflecting his significant contributions to Assamese literature. Among these were the Assam Prakashan Parisod Award, the Sahitya A...

  Vijayan Detha (1926-2013), affectionately known as "Biji," was an Indian literary icon. In the 20th century, Detha was widely regarded as the most significant writer of Rajasthani prose. He wrote more than 800 short stories during his lifetime, demonstrating his creative genius and dedication to preserving Rajasthan's cultural heritage. Born in Borunda, Rajasthan, Detha collected and retested folk tales from the Marwar region for decades. The stories, steeped in tradition and wisdom, captured the essence of Rajasthani culture, bringing its vibrant ethos to life for readers across India and beyond. He wrote with equal eloquence for adults and children, combining universal themes with local flavor in his tales. In recognition of his contributions to literature, Detha received the Padma Shri, the Rajasthani Ratna Award, and the Sahitya Akademi Award. Many of his stories were translated into multiple languages, earning him not only national fame but also international ...

It was a chilly evening, and I had just returned home from the office, exhausted from the day’s work. I had barely settled down to rest when my son approached me with a worried expression. He had just realized, amidst his usual routine of homework and chores, that he had a craft project due the next morning. His assignment? To make a Christmas tree using marble paper—a material I had never even heard of before. His concern was evident. With a tense voice, he explained his predicament and apologized for not remembering earlier. He even tried to use the craft materials we had at home but quickly realized they wouldn’t suffice. His frustration was palpable, and for a moment, I considered leaving him to figure it out on his own. After all, it was late, and the chances of finding an open stationery shop seemed slim. But seeing his anxious face softened my resolve. Despite my weariness and the late hour, I decided to help. I put on my shoes, grabbed my jacket, and stepped into the chilly...

  Stephanie Seales is a dynamic voice in children’s literature, known for her unwavering passion for racial justice and her ability to craft stories that resonate with readers of all ages. Born in California and raised in Panama, Seales brings a unique perspective to her work, weaving cultural diversity and inclusivity into her stories. As a children’s literature expert, Seales has immersed herself in almost every facet of the industry, including working in bookstores, libraries, and schools. This hands-on experience has deepened her understanding of the transformative power of storytelling. She wholeheartedly embraces Toni Morrison's philosophy of writing books that she wants to read—a principle evident in her compelling narratives. Seales has received widespread acclaim from leading publications such as Kirkus , Publishers Weekly , Booklist , BookPage , School Library Journal , and The Horn Book . Her works have been praised for their depth, relatability, and the important conver...