Prachi blogs

  The Old Chief Mshlanga –   A Reflection on Colonial Encounters  Doris Lessing’s short story “The Old Chief Mshlanga” is a powerful exploration of colonialism, identity, and awakening. Set in colonial Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), the story captures the subtle but deeply painful clash between European settlers and the indigenous African people whose land and traditions were disrupted  A Story of Innocence and Awakening : The story is told through the eyes of a young white girl, growing up on her family’s farm in Africa. At first, she reflects the colonial mindset she inherits—seeing Africans as distant, voiceless laborers, useful only in the background of her world. She roams freely across the land, treating it as her playground without realizing it once belonged to others. Everything changes when she encounters Old Chief Mshlanga. He is not like the silent farm workers she has known. Instead, he carries dignity, wisdom, and quiet authority. For the first time, she recog...

 Surviving in Drass, India’s Coldest Village Nestled in the Ladakh region of Jammu & Kashmir, Drass holds the title of one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth. With temperatures dipping as low as –60°C, daily life here demands resilience, preparation, and adaptation. Let’s explore how people in Drass endure the bitter cold and how visitors can prepare for this extreme environment. ⸻ 🌨 Understanding the Harsh Climate Drass is surrounded by towering, snow-covered mountains and is known for its piercing winds and biting frost. Winters are especially severe, with temperatures usually ranging between –28°C and –60°C. Surviving here means planning ahead and respecting nature’s force. ⸻ 🏠 Housing Adaptations Homes in Drass are built for insulation and warmth. Traditional houses are constructed using mud, stone, and wood to lock in heat. Multiple entryways help keep cold air outside, while thick curtains or blankets are placed over doors. Windows are carefully sealed during wint...