Thoughts in Tangles

The war of 1971, a significant event in South Asian history, witnessed the upheaval of families and communities due to conflicting loyalties and ideologies. In this blog post, we delve into the extraordinary account of two brothers, Maj. Gen. Imamuz Zaman and Brigadier Abul Lais Ahmaduz Zaman, whose paths diverged during this tumultuous period. To truly understand the significance of the brothers' contrasting journeys, it is essential to grasp the historical context of the 1971 war. Following the partition of British India in 1947, the region that would later become Bangladesh faced challenges, leading to demands for greater autonomy and self-determination. In the face of widespread suffering and turmoil, Maj. Gen. Imamuz Zaman, a high-ranking officer, made a momentous decision. He chose to defect and join the rebels fighting for self-determination in what would later become Bangladesh. Witnessing the plight of his fellow citizens, Zaman believed in the necessity of a separate nati...

In the annals of history, there are instances where individuals caught in the grip of oppression develop a perplexing psychological bond with their oppressors. This phenomenon, known as Stockholm Syndrome, is often associated with individual hostage situations. However, when examining the impact of colonialism, there are cases where a collective form of this psychological response emerges. Francis Bokassa, a figure from the Central African Republic, exemplifies the complexities of this colonial Stockholm Syndrome, particularly through his extravagant coronation that mirrored his French colonial masters. Born in 1947 in a French-occupied Central African Republic, Francis Bokassa experienced a traumatic separation from his village at the tender age of seven. French soldiers forcibly took him away, thrusting him into the harsh realities of colonial rule. Bokassa was sent to France, where he was cut off from his family and compelled to assimilate into French society. The psychological defe...

In the realm of unforgettable movie characters, there are some that manage to touch our hearts in unexpected ways. One such character is Wilson, the beloved volleyball from the captivating film "Cast Away." In "Cast Away," we witness the extraordinary journey of Chuck Noland, a FedEx executive who finds himself stranded on a deserted island following a plane crash. As Chuck navigates the challenges of isolation and survival, he befriends a volleyball that washes ashore, and thus, Wilson is born. Although Wilson is a mere inanimate object, the relationship that develops between Chuck and this volleyball takes on a life of its own. With a face painted on the ball and a name given, Wilson becomes a surrogate companion for Chuck in his isolated world. Through conversations, laughter, and shared experiences, Wilson provides comfort, solace, and a sense of connection amidst the desolation. What makes Wilson such a compelling character is the way the film portrays the huma...

At sweet sixteen, her smile so bright, I, a bud of shyness, turned out of sight, Exceptional reply, a chance missed, Regret filled my heart as I reminisced. At twenty-five, she kissed her groom, I, a failure, cast in love's gloom, Exceptional stare, face filled with despair, Realizing my thoughts, I was well aware. At thirty-four, in the park she walked, With two kids by her side, they talked, I, a man of silence, lost in thought, Exceptional sigh, my pain unsought. At forty-three, tears flowed, divorced, I, a man bewildered and forced, Exceptional heartache, a world falling apart, Where did it all go wrong, I pondered with a heavy heart. At fifty-two, she vanished from view, I, unsure if I cared or withdrew, Exceptional curiosity, a burning desire, Where did she go, fueled my inner fire. At sixty-one, she sat in dismay, I, an old pa with wisdom's display, Exceptional courage, a smile I bestowed, Finally saying, "Hey!" as our stories flowed.