Sudharsan Pandiyan’s Blog

On the evening of November 8th, 2016, while enjoying a meal at a restaurant in the heart of Chennai, I found my attention drawn to the TV screen. Our Prime Minister was addressing the nation, his words muted by the public setting. However, the scrolling text at the bottom of the screen conveyed a seismic announcement: "₹500 and ₹1000 notes are illegal from midnight." The news was as unexpected as it was astonishing. I urged the hotel manager to amplify the volume, sensing the gravity of what had just been revealed. Soon, the entire vicinity was abuzz with discussions about this unprecedented development. I spent hours engrossed in televised debates that followed the announcement, conversations that seemed to be taking place in every corner of the country. In those initial moments, many of the people I spoke to, friends and everyday citizens alike, found themselves in agreement with what was being hailed as a bold and strategic move. It appeared, on the surface, to be a master...

In the wake of recent events that have led to the incarceration of the Minister for TASMAC, a topic that has stirred widespread debate, it is imperative to cast a spotlight on the untapped potential Chennai has missed out on. As someone who frequently traverses major Indian metropolises such as Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Pune, and Bangalore, I am compelled to reflect upon the burgeoning developments in these cities, drawing attention to the city of Chennai and the opportunities it might have overlooked. The remarkable transformations taking place in Bangalore and Hyderabad are nothing short of astonishing. A parallel narrative unfolds in Pune, as its own evolution parallels that of its southern counterparts. One common sight across these cities on a Friday afternoon is the congregation of tech enthusiasts, engaging in convivial conversations over drinks in microbreweries. Among this dynamic mix, it's not uncommon to spot Western stakeholders, seamlessly immersed in the local culture...

 In the intricate realm of business and success, tales of ambition and controversy often intertwine, shaping the destinies of individuals and companies alike. Maria Puzo's renowned opening statement in "The Godfather," "Behind every great fortune there is a crime," echoes through history as we delve into narratives that embody the complexity of achievement. The allure of "The Godfather" lies in its portrayal of power, crime, and family dynamics. This enduring narrative captures the essence of ambition intertwined with ethical dilemmas. Its popularity highlights our fascination with stories that straddle the fine line between success and questionable actions. Real-life sagas like Vasan Eye Care, TTK group and Lalitha Jewellers further illuminate the multifaceted journey to success. These stories of initial struggles that led to prosperity also raise questions about the ethics and controversies entwined with ambition. The path to success isn't always...

In our daily lives, we often find ourselves navigating the delicate dance between flexibility and integrity. Whether we're making a simple lunch purchase or closing a significant business deal, striking the right balance can shape outcomes and relationships. Let's explore how these two concepts intersect and the valuable lessons they offer. A Change for Change Picture this: you're at an eatery, grabbing lunch. The bill tallies up to a neat thousand and ten rupees. However, your wallet doesn't cooperate, holding only three five-hundred rupee notes. The cashier hands back four hundred and ninety rupees in change. Meanwhile, you await your parcel delivery. In walks another customer, ready to pay for a parcel with a five-hundred rupee bill. The cashier, regretfully, can't provide change and asks for exact payment. The customer departs, promising to return with the correct change. As a business-minded individual, a thought emerges – could the cashier have offered a ten-r...

During a long, contemplative drive with my brother, we found ourselves musing about a captivating idea – the notion of classifying people just as we classify the diverse plants surrounding us. We postulated that, akin to seeds sprouting into distinct plant species, our individual growth is shaped by our surroundings and efforts, eventually leading us into one of four archetypal personas in society. In our botanical-inspired vision, we envisage the first type as those who exert substantial effort and thrive within the right environment, akin to the resilient trees whose roots delve deep into the earth, allowing them to ascend into towering heights. Much like these magnificent trees, individuals of this category are relentless in their pursuit of excellence, displaying remarkable expertise in their chosen fields. We liken them to the resolute coconut and palm trees – the lofty scholars, scientists, artists, writers, and musicians who stand tall atop their domains, their accomplishments t...

Today morning, while the aroma of dosa batter filled the air, my wife expertly prepared the traditional Indian delicacy. In the living room, our daughters and I indulged in some leisure time, engrossed in the captivating world of television. Amidst the blissful moments, I noticed our elder daughter, deep in thought, keeping a watchful eye on the grinder. Curiosity piqued, I gently asked what was on her mind. With a furrowed brow, she voiced her perplexity about the intriguing transformation of urid dal during its journey from the grocery bag to the soaking bowl and finally to the grinder. How did it expand so significantly? Seizing the opportunity for a moment of scientific inquiry, I gladly embarked on a culinary science lesson. I explained that during the soaking process, the urid dal absorbed water, causing it to swell. However, the real magic happened when we ground the soaked dal. As it passed through the grinder's blades, the dal's particles were meticulously reduced in s...