baachu story

Welcome to a new episode of Scribble Talk where we take a thrilling ride into the heart of Tamil culture and bravery, featuring the ancient sport of Jallikattu - a testament to the resilience, courage, and the Tamil spirit. 

In episode 34, our host Baskar Sundaram, drawing from his rich Tamil heritage, offers an engaging narrative about the vibrant festival of Pongal - a Tamil Thanksgiving celebrating the harvest season, the bonds of community, and symbols of bravery. This episode takes a unique turn as Baskar finds himself at the intersection of Tamil traditions and his professional challenges, finding strength and inspiration in an ancient sport - Jallikattu.

Dive deep into the electrifying world of Jallikattu, an ancient bull-taming sport rooted deeply in Tamil culture, celebrated during Pongal. It's not just a sport; it's a symbolic demonstration of human endurance against the raw power of nature, embodied in a bull. This adrenaline-charged tradition serves as a metaphor, reminding us that we are equipped with the determination and inner strength to face our challenges head-on and emerge victorious.

Experience the cultural wealth of Tamil Nadu as Baskar shares insights into the role of Jallikattu in preserving native cattle breeds, its significance as a rite of passage for many young men, and the lessons of bravery it holds for us all. Listen to Baskar as he brings to life the vibrant atmosphere of Pongal and the riveting sport of Jallikattu, weaving together threads of culture, tradition, and personal experiences.

In the midst of professional challenges, Baskar reflects on the Tamil spirit of bravery - an unwavering commitment to justice, fairness, and the courage to face adversities. Inspired by a popular Tamil saying that acknowledges the emotional strength of motherhood, Baskar highlights that true bravery isn't just about physical strength; it's also about resilience and moral courage.

From the legendary Chola Empire's maritime prowess to the enduring vibrancy of the Tamil language, this episode takes listeners on a historical tour, celebrating the tenacity and resilience of the Tamil people. Explore everyday acts of courage in Tamil culture, and be inspired by the words of renowned Tamil poet, Bharathiyar - "Fear not, fear not, there is no room for fear."

Join us on this inspiring journey of Scribble Talk as we delve into Tamil traditions, engage with captivating stories, and explore the spirit of bravery through the lens of Tamil culture. Celebrate Pongal with us, embrace the courage of Jallikattu, and share in the resilience of the Tamil spirit in the face of adversity. Get ready for an episode that is as enriching as it is exhilarating.

Hello, dear listeners! Welcome back to another riveting episode of Scribble Talk. I'm your host, Baskar Sundaram, and today we're unravelling the mystery of what has been dubbed as the "most depressing day of the year"—Blue Monday.

You may be asking, "What's Blue Monday?" Traditionally falling on the third Monday of January, it's reputed to be the gloomiest day of the year. But, hold onto your hats, folks, because I'm about to debunk that myth! Blue Monday, in reality, is nothing more than an invention, a whimsical concept with absolutely zero scientific backing.

This idea sprouted from a supposed calculation incorporating elements such as dreary weather, lingering post-holiday debts, the disappointment of abandoned New Year's resolutions, and that dreaded Monday morning alarm signaling the end of holiday relaxation. Despite its popularity, remember, this theory isn't grounded in scientific fact.

We all have off days, times when we feel down or sad, and that's perfectly normal. Human emotions don't follow a linear path. But it's critical to differentiate between a run-of-the-mill bad day and a genuine mental health issue, which can significantly impact our daily lives.

"Why bring up Blue Monday at all then?" you might wonder. Maybe the real purpose behind Blue Monday is to remind us all that mental health is real, vital, and something we should nurture and protect every day.

Let's embark on this enlightening journey together and explore some daily steps we can take to bolster our mental health:

1. Commune with nature: There's a certain serenity that green spaces imbue. So take a stroll in the park, do a bit of gardening, or simply sit in a leafy area to alleviate stress and anxiety.
2. Embrace your emotions: Acknowledge your feelings, understand their roots, and learn effective management strategies. Mindfulness and meditation can be handy tools in this respect.
3. Reach out for support: A heartfelt chat with a trusted friend or family member can work wonders.
4. Prioritize sleep: A good night's rest is vital for mental health. Aim for a regular sleep routine in a peaceful, relaxing environment.
5. Seek professional help: If you're battling debts, addiction, or any distressing issues, don't hesitate to reach out for professional guidance.
6. Keep active: Exercise not only boosts physical health but also lifts your mental spirits.
7. Maintain a balanced diet: Nutritious food fuels a healthy mind.
8. Stay curious: Keep your brain engaged and stimulated by learning new things and embracing challenges.

And lastly, remember, every problem has a solution. Instead of getting bogged down, visualize a different path, focus your attention, and act on it. Distractions will come and go, but it's crucial where we choose to focus our energy and thoughts.

In the grand scheme of things, dedicating one day to mental health doesn't cut it. Let's endeavour to make mental wellbeing a priority each and every day of the year. Until next time, folks, take care of yourselves and each other.

Step into a time machine with Baskar Sundaram on Scribble Talk as he embarks on a nostalgic journey back to his school and university days (1995-2003) in Coimbatore, India. Discover a special place he visited daily at 7 am, the Arulmigu Mundhi Vinayagar Temple in Puliyakulam, and meet his old friend - the deity Vinayagar.

Constructed in 1993, the temple houses the largest Vinayagar, or Pillayar idol, crafted from a single monolithic stone. Marvel at the awe-inspiring idol standing about 20 feet tall, over 11 feet wide, and weighing a colossal 190 tonnes. Explore how this monumental sculpture was carved over six years by the skilled hands of 21 sculptors.

Baskar also shares an intriguing custom practiced in Pillayar temples - Thoppu Karanam or Superbrain Yoga. Laugh along with his school memories of this ritual-turned-punishment that has roots in ancient wisdom. Discover the science behind this seemingly simple exercise of holding earlobes and performing squats - a brain-boosting ritual believed to enhance alertness and consciousness.

As Vinayaka Chaturthi, the festival honoring Vinayagar, approaches, Baskar extends his heartfelt wishes for a joyful, colorful, and harmonious celebration. He invites you to spread the message of peace, kindness, and unity in your community.

Join him this October, as he plans to revisit the temple and rekindle his connection with Vinayagar, and shares a slice of his past that continues to influence his present.

Hello everyone, Baskar Sundaram here. In this deeply personal and emotional episode, I take you through two significant journeys of my life - the battle my beloved father waged against Myeloma, and the path of gratitude I tread every day. 

Join me as I share the intimate details of my father's struggle with Myeloma and the effects it had on me, both as a son helplessly watching a loved one suffer and as a father striving to shield my own children. I vividly recount the tribulations of taking up my first interim role while battling chicken pox and the life-altering impact it had on me.

I dive into the depths of my memories, sharing moments from my father's final years - heartrending, poignant deathbed scenes that have since become engraved in my heart. Through his dedicated efforts to educate his children using his savings, my father taught me lessons that went beyond academia, lessons of sacrifice, love, and resilience. This episode serves as my tribute to him.

In the latter half of this emotional journey, I shift gears to something more uplifting - Thanksgiving Day. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my family, friends, and every individual who's made a difference in my life. 

I delve into the essence of the old saying, "If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is 'Thank You', it will be enough", underlining the immense power of gratitude. I encourage you to find your points of gratitude, even amidst the challenges, and truly embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving.

So, bring your tissues and tune in for a journey filled with profound emotions, lessons, gratitude, and a deeper appreciation for the ties that bind us.

Join your host, Baskar Sundaram, as we commemorate Armistice Day with a riveting dive into the unexplored history of Indian soldiers in the First World War. This single episode weaves a three-act narrative, transporting you from the battlefields of the Western Front to the homecoming of these unsung heroes, and finally, contemplating the lasting legacy they left behind.

In the first act, we journey back to the early 20th century, when over 1.5 million soldiers from Undivided India were dispatched to fight on foreign soils. Discover how they bravely navigated new cultures, languages, and landscapes, their courage resonating in every bullet fired, every trench dug.

The second act focuses on the aftermath of the war, the hero's journey home laden with unseen scars of battle. Feel the palpable struggle as they wrestle for recognition and rights amidst a society grappling with its own transformation.

Finally, in the third act, we reflect on their sacrifices and draw lessons for our time. We ask essential questions about why they fought, what they gained, and what these stories teach us about our shared humanity, even in times of conflict.

This Armistice Day, let's honor those who fought for our freedom, remember their sacrifices, and learn from their stories. With every tale spun, every lesson learned, we shape a better future. Tune in to Scribble Talk for this extraordinary journey into our shared past.

Hello, it's Baskar Sundaram here, inviting you to join me in a truly intriguing episode. Today, I'm going to share the incredible journey I embarked on to Luxembourg, a captivating land rich in history, adorned with picturesque villages, majestic cathedrals, and enchanting castles.

Come, let me take you through my adventures of hiking the magical Mullerthal Trail, fondly known as Luxembourg's Little Switzerland. It was a trek that stirred up echoes of my earlier expeditions in the majestic Himalayas.

During this journey, I had the fortune to spend time with a dear friend of mine, an NLP trained primary school teacher. She ushered me onto a path of self-discovery, nudging me to confront challenges and open myself up to life-altering perspectives.

Together, we dived into "The Big Five For Life" by John Strelecky, a profound exploration of the question: What are the five things you most want to do, see, or experience while you're on this wonderful planet? This exploration led me to a profound contemplation about my life and desires.

In this episode, I grapple with the sobering reality of our finite time on Earth and share how this revelation imbued me with a newfound urgency - an urgency to live each day to its fullest. Together, we'll delve into the world of self-discovery, personal change, and growth.

This episode is all about shifting our perspective, focusing on the myriad opportunities that encircle us, and leveraging them to unleash our full potential. It's about cherishing and measuring our days not merely by their count but by the rich experiences, personal growth, and fulfillment they bestow upon us.

So tune in, embark on this exciting journey with me, and perhaps, you too will find the inspiration to uncover and pursue your own "Big Five." Let's start making each day count, together.

Hey there, welcome to Baachu Talk: Equity Matters, the podcast that's all about celebrating diversity, equity, and inclusion through the power of incredible human stories! Get ready to be inspired by the fearless DEI advocates who are shaking things up and making a difference in every corner of our world.

Today, we have a real treat for you! I am beyond excited to introduce our exceptional guest, the one and only Dr. Terrell Lamont Strayhorn. He's a total rockstar in the fields of education and psychology, and his dedication to understanding diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) is seriously awe-inspiring. You won't believe the impact he's made!

Picture this: Dr. Strayhorn is not just any scholar; he's been recognized as a 'Top Diversity Scholar' by Diverse Issues in Higher Education! That's some serious street cred right there. But wait, there's more! He's penned down a whopping 12 books, including the award-winning 'College Students' Sense of Belonging.' And don't even get me started on his 200+ peer-reviewed journal articles. This guy is making waves!

But hold up, there's more to him than just the academic accolades. Dr. Strayhorn is the President and CEO of Do Good Work Consulting Group. Yep, he's out there partnering with institutions to make the world a more inclusive place. Oh, and did I mention he's a professor of Education and Psychology and the Director of the Center for the Study of HBCUs at Virginia Union University? Yeah, he's doing it all!

I had the privilege to chat with him, and let me tell you, it was mind-blowing! He's got this incredible passion for taking research and turning it into real-life improvements for those who need it most. Oh, and by the way, his research has earned him over $10 million in support from big-time foundations like the Lumina Foundation and National Science Foundation. Talk about making a difference!

And wait, there's more! His work has even been featured in The Washington Post and The Chronicle of Higher Education. It's like everywhere you turn, you see the impact of Dr. Strayhorn's work!

But enough from me; you've got to hear it straight from the man himself. So, grab your headphones, get comfy, and join us for this incredible conversation. We're going to talk about his journey, his work, and his thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. This is an episode you don't want to miss!

So, are you ready to dive into the world of DEIB with Dr. Strayhorn? Let's do this!

Connect with Dr. Terrell 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terrell_Lamont_Strayhorn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/terrell-strayhorn-phd/
https://terrellstrayhorn.com/

Join Baskar Sundaram on a deeply personal journey, as he unfolds his wife's ongoing battle with Adenomyosis - a relatively unknown, yet prevalent condition that touches millions of women globally. In this five-part series, Baskar lends his voice to shed light on the silent struggles, exploring various aspects of living with Adenomyosis, and sharing valuable insights into potential treatments, coping strategies, and the power of empathy. His personal story and the lessons learnt aim to start essential conversations and bring this overshadowed condition into the forefront.

In this heartfelt episode, join me, Baskar Sundaram, as we pay tribute to the unyielding love and strength of mothers. I delve into my personal journey, reflecting on the steadfast support my own mother offered while single-handedly raising my sister and me. 

In the spirit of Mother's Day, we honor all mothers - birth mothers, adoptive mothers, stepmothers, foster mothers, guardians, spiritual mothers, single mothers, co-parents, and anyone who's stepped into the role of a mother figure. We acknowledge the resilience they embody, the burdens they carry, and the immeasurable impact they have on us and the world.

This episode is a celebration of the power of motherhood and the profound influence of a mother's love. We'll discuss how to honor the mothers and mother figures in our lives, ensuring their sacrifices and love shape our lives meaningfully.

So tune in, as we take a moment to appreciate the extraordinary mothers across the globe. Their boundless love continues to light our paths and inspire us. Let's make this Mother's Day special by recognizing and cherishing the crucial role they play in our lives.

In this inspiring episode, Baskar Sundaram commemorates the birth anniversary of the extraordinary Mahatma Gandhi, a man who left a profound impact on the world with his principles of peace, truth, and non-violence. Dive into the journey of this ordinary man who, with unyielding self-belief, became the "Father of the Nation". Hear some of Baskar's favourite Gandhi quotes that deeply resonate with him and embody timeless wisdom. Let's remember and celebrate this man who shook the world in a gentle way.

Three years ago, we lost a great mentor and friend, Howard Nutt. Howard was a true inspiration to many in the business development community including myself. He was a Fellow of the Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP) and Executive Director of the Business Development Institute International.

Today, I find myself reflecting on the profound impact one person has had on my life, and so, this episode is devoted entirely to him. It's a tribute to a mentor, a friend, and an unwavering beacon of strength and wisdom - Howard Nutt.

When we speak of individuals who've made a significant impact on our lives, Howard's name comes to mind immediately. His unexpected departure has left a void that's hard to fill. But instead of dwelling on the loss, I want to use this time to celebrate Howard's life, the wisdom he imparted, and the incredible legacy he left behind.

Howard taught me many invaluable lessons, but three key values he embodied have continued to guide my life and career: Resilience, Generosity, and Joy.

Resilience: Howard had an innate ability to face any challenge with unyielding strength. He instilled in me the belief that setbacks are not failures, but learning experiences that help us grow and become resilient leaders.

Generosity: Howard's generosity was boundless. It was not about giving material things, but about sharing wisdom, time, and experiences. He believed that by imparting knowledge, we enrich not only others' lives but also our own understanding and perspective.

Joy: Above all, Howard was a beacon of joy. Despite any challenges he faced, his infectious smile never faded. He reminded us that life isn't solely about achieving success, but about relishing the journey and finding joy in every moment.

Howard's passing has left a void, but instead of perceiving this void as a pit of loss, I see it as a space filled with potential - potential for each one of us to continue his legacy. Today's episode will take a deeper dive into how we can ensure that Howard's legacy lives on.

If there's one thing Howard always emphasized, it was the importance of education. He was not just a teacher but a lifelong learner, continuously striving to acquire knowledge and, more importantly, share it with those around him.

In honoring Howard today, I want to assure that his guiding light is not extinguished. His wisdom, love, and the values he cherished will continue to guide our path. As we remember Howard, we commit to continuing the journey he inspired us to embark upon, embodying the same resilience, generosity, and joy he demonstrated throughout his life.

Howard Nutt's legacy is not just in the past, it's a living, evolving entity that exists in our actions, our values, and the journey we continue to navigate. It's in the resilience we demonstrate, the wisdom we share, and the joy we cultivate.

In today's fast-paced world, where success is often measured by material wealth, Howard's joyful spirit was a breath of fresh air. He demonstrated that finding joy in the journey, not just the destination, is what truly enriches our lives. 

As we journey forward, it's my personal commitment to continue Howard's path. To educate, to learn, to share, and to live the values he embodied. It's not a task that can be accomplished alone, but a collective effort. We all have a role in ensuring that Howard's legacy lives on.

We'll continue to honor Howard's legacy in our future episodes, exploring his teachings, learning from his experiences, and celebrating his unwavering spirit. Remember, Howard's life may have ended, but his legacy lives on in each one of us. Let us honor him by nurturing this legacy, by keeping his flame of passion, resilience, and joy burning bright.

Part 1 - Baachu Story Shifts Gear: Defense to Attack

Welcome, dear listeners, to an electrifying episode of our podcast, "Rising Strong: Baachu Story." Today, we embark on a captivating journey that transcends the realms of defense and propels us into a powerful offensive stance.

As we mark one year since our clash with the APMP Board, it's time to reflect on a pivotal shift in the Baachu story. Our journey has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from defense to attack.

We know you've been waiting anxiously, wondering what's been happening behind the scenes. Well, the time has come to satisfy your curiosity and unveil the next chapter of our extraordinary journey.

In the early boardrooms of 2021 and 2022, whispers of accusation reverberated through APMP meetings, setting the stage for an intense battle. On that fateful day, June 7th, 2022, Baachu Scribble's Approved Training Organization (ATO) status was unjustly revoked. Thus began a tumultuous year, defined by baseless accusations, relentless legal correspondence, and a refusal to grant us a fair hearing.

But amidst the storm, we refused to waver. With unwavering determination, we exposed the weaknesses in the APMP Board's claims and unveiled their lack of concrete evidence. Their plot to silence us crumbled under scrutiny.

Today, we stand tall and proud, ready to take the offensive. Our legal team remains steadfast, leaving no stone unturned in holding the APMP Board accountable for their actions. As we navigate the complex legal landscape, we seek a resolution that upholds fairness, transparency, and justice.

Dear listeners, this is not just our story—it is a collective narrative. Together, we rise strong, transcending barriers and forging a path towards a brighter future. Stay tuned as we unravel the chapters of this extraordinary journey.

Buckle up, for this is only the beginning. The Baachu story has shifted gear, and we're ready to attack. Let curiosity guide you as we delve into the depths of this enthralling saga, defying expectations and rewriting the script of injustice.

Welcome to "Rising Strong: Baachu Story," where defense becomes offense and the pursuit of justice knows no bounds. 

In the final episode of the Baachu and APMP Showdown, the team urges the new APMP Board to work with them to find a mutually beneficial solution to any concerns that have been raised. The lack of communication and dialogue between Baachu and APMP has contributed to the revocation of Baachu's ATO status in June 2022, and they feel that the APMP Board did not take the time to familiarize themselves with their efforts before revoking their status.

Baachu believes that revoking their ATO status does not serve the best interest of APMP members or the proposal management industry as a whole. They express a willingness to work with the new Board to address any concerns and engage in constructive dialogue. They also believe that legal action should be a last resort, and that all ATOs and non-ATOs providing APMP training should be treated fairly and equitably, and any claims of copyright infringement should be based on legitimate grounds.

Baachu urges the new APMP Board to engage in open communication and dialogue with them to find a mutually beneficial solution that serves the interests of all parties involved and the bid and proposal profession as a whole. They remain committed to open communication, transparency, and fairness, and they look forward to finding a way to move forward together.

In conclusion, the team hopes that the new APMP Board will take this opportunity to engage in constructive dialogue with Baachu and work towards a solution that benefits everyone involved. The importance of open communication and transparency in resolving disputes is emphasized, and Baachu believes that this is the best way to find a mutually beneficial solution that serves the interests of all parties involved and the bid and proposal profession as a whole.

https://baachuscribble.com/baachu-response-separating-fact-from-fiction-in-response-to-apmp-statement/