Vajpayee was known to speak slowly, sometimes with long pauses, because he chose his words with utmost care. But in those pithy but strong words lay Vajpayee's innate convictions about his 'idea of India'

The leitmotif of ‘One Nation’ is strongly aligned with the BJP’s policy and rhetoric; consider the 2017 introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (‘One Nation, One Tax’) and the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 (‘One Nation, One Constitution’). The ONOE falls within this inherent paradigm: an overpowering centre under the guise of administrative cost-cutting and electoral efficiency.

The medic rape-murder case, which captured global attention in an era dominated by the attention economy, had the potential to ignite systemic reforms, given the brutality of the crime. The movement, like many before it, held the power to expose the moral failings of the ruling party in the state. Yet, as so often happens, it faltered within a couple of months—or perhaps was made to falter. Herein lies an uncomfortable reality: we, the aam aadmi (common man), must share the blame.

Many critics argue that madrassas are breeding grounds for extremism. While there are undoubtedly instances of some seminaries being linked to extremist ideologies, it is essential to recognize that the vast majority of mudarrassahs are not involved in such activities. However, the lack of regulation leaves these institutions vulnerable to misuse. 

The interim government's decision to cancel the passports of 22 military officials is a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked executive power. It violates the Constitution of Bangladesh, contradicts international legal standards, and disregards judicial precedents. Moreover, it reflects a troubling disregard for due process and the rule of law.

The question that arises now is what will happen to the future of the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord, signed on July 29, 1987 between Prime MInister Rajiv Gandhi and President J R Jayawardne, under JVP’s rule? Dismantling the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord has been a long-standing desire of ultra-Sinhala nationalists in the deep south of the country. 

Bangladesh is one of the larger and populous countries in South Asia, with its geostrategic location in the Bay of Bengal and an impressive economic growth from its booming textile industry.  So restoring political stability and defeating the rise of Islamist forces is of utmost importance not only for Bangladesh but the whole region.  

Perhaps the most significant damage inflicted by PTI's recent protests has been the toll on Pakistan's fragile economy. Pakistan's economy is already struggling with inflation, unemployment and a mounting fiscal deficit. PTI's protests, which have led to mass shutdowns in key cities like Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Lahore, have worsened the economic crisis.

The repeal of Article 370 not only changed the political map of Jammu and Kashmir, but also introduced a new wave of promising economic growth. While challenges remain, the steps taken by the Indian government to increase investment and improve infrastructure indicate great potential for J&K to become one of the hubs of economic development in India.

Germany  is not just about holocaust, beer, football, cars or high-end technology. There are lots of things to explore and exploit, in the good sense of the term. Similarly, India has moved way beyond Bollywood, chicken curry or Holi and Diwali. There is much more to explore. By shying away from doing so, the myths will persist, the stereotypes will continue, the fears will enhance. 

Pakistan’s struggle for peace and stability is far from over. As the government seeks accountability for those responsible for this violent protest, the need for healing has never been more pressing. PTI’s leadership must be held accountable for their role in inciting violence, spreading misinformation, and damaging the country’s social fabric. 

The sensationalized reports from Indian media about attacks on minorities could further complicate this dynamic, potentially shaping Trump's perceptions and policies toward Bangladesh. The fear is that these narratives could lead to a skewed understanding of the situation in Bangladesh, undermining Yunus’s efforts to establish legitimacy and garner international support.

Things changed overnight and within hours after the presidential election results were announced, India’s High Commissioner in Colombo Santosh Jha turned up at the JVP office in capital Sri Jayawardenepura        with a bouquet of red roses. Interestingly, Dissanayake in his brief conversation with the Indian envoy, recalled his visit to India and said that too was a contributory factor in his victory.

Film Southasia is more than just a film festival. It brings together creative voices from across the region, establishing Kathmandu as a regional hub where South Asian storytellers connect across borders. It has become a special space where artists can share their stories and break down the barriers that often keep South Asian countries apart. Over the years, the festival has welcomed many iconic cultural figures, including poet-filmmaker Gulzar, actor Shabana Azmi, and directors Shyam Benegal and Goutam Ghose.

The thrust cannot simply lay on maintaining security in the region, but also a complete transformation of relations. This requires a reconciliation between the Hindus and Muslims of the region who have suffered through communal violence. The de-essentialization of religious identity is crucial in building fraternity and retaining long term internal peace in the region, while at the same time limiting Pakistani intervention