When Train Runs late

When a train runs late, it feels like the most disastrous thing is happening. The trouble starts at home, the moment I hear that it's been rescheduled. Everything shifts from that point — plans begin to change.

Right now, I’m still on the train, even though we were supposed to reach our destination three hours ago. The delay has thrown everything off balance. Waiting, adjusting, and hoping — that’s all there is to do for now.

Sometimes It’s Hard

Sometimes, it becomes hard not to believe. But the situation forces me to. When that happens, it feels like something is wrong, either from my side or the other side. I can’t stay calm. My mind keeps thinking about it.

Pause Before the Next Splash

Today’s swim felt a lot like yesterday — familiar, steady, and full of quiet confidence. I’m still using the kickboard, still keeping my head up, and still kicking strong. I can feel it: bit by bit, I’m building something solid. 

The hard part? Today was my last swim for the week. I won’t be attending classes until next Monday. And honestly, that makes me a little sad. I’ve grown to love this daily rhythm — the movement, the learning, the feeling of getting better. 

But there’s a happy reason behind the break: I’m going on a trip! So while swimming pauses for a few days, life brings a different kind of joy. New places, new memories — and maybe even water I can float in.

I’ll be back next week, ready to swim again.

Phool Market, Kolkata 2023

The Balcony

Gouache painting, 2024.

Frame by Frame animation in Moho, using Blob Brush

 

I haven’t used this tool much before—honestly, I didn’t find it very useful at first. But recently, while planning a painting project, the idea struck me: Why not try using this tool for animation instead? It could be quicker than my usual process of hand-drawing strokes and filling spaces manually. 

So, I grabbed the audio from the 11 Second Club’s June competition and put together a quick animation clip. To my surprise, it went quite nicely! One of the best parts? The Blob Brush in Moho. It made things so much easier — almost like painting and sculpting shapes at the same time. It turned out to be a lot of fun and made the whole workflow feel smooth and creative. 

This might be the beginning of a new direction for my projects!

Confidence in Motion

Today felt different—in the best way. 

I felt much more confident in the water. With the kickboard, I practiced head-up swimming and really focused on fast, steady leg movement. Everything started to come together. For the first time, I didn’t feel like I was just trying—I felt like I was doing. 

The water felt familiar, my body felt stronger, and my mind was calm. I know there’s still a long way to go, but it finally feels like I’m heading in the right direction.

Portraits from Manali

Letting Go of the Wall

Another day in the pool, another small step forward. Today, I practiced paddling again—but this time, I used a kickboard instead of holding the side wall. It felt like a tiny leap of trust in myself. And it worked. I moved. Slowly, steadily. Forward. It’s nice to feel that shift—from holding on to letting go, even just a little. 

I’m definitely improving, and even though it’s still early, I can see the difference.

Yak riding at Hidimba Devi Temple, Manali

I saw the lights that looked really beautiful, it made me feel something special. I think I’ll paint it one day. I was really fond of how it looked.

Ink and Pencil Shading

Shading with a dark pencil can surprisingly create beautiful midtone values, depending on how much pressure is applied. It’s a subtle yet effective technique, especially useful when I want to avoid using wet mediums. This dry method brings a nice, controlled touch, allowing for soft gradients and nuanced depth without overcomplicating the surface.

A Little More Confidence

Today felt almost the same as yesterday. Same paddling, same breathing practice. But I noticed something—I felt a little more confident. Maybe I’m not swimming perfectly yet, but I’m not scared. I’m more comfortable in the water, more patient with myself, and that feels like real progress. 

I don’t know how long this journey will take, but I do know one thing—I’m really enjoying it.

A Different Path

I’ve been thinking a lot about what kind of creative work I really want to do. There are so many animated children’s stories and tutorials online. At first, I thought I’d try something similar. But lately, I’ve been feeling tired of sitting at a computer and doing everything digitally. 

Today, a new idea came to me—what if I tell stories in a traditional comic book style? I love painting and sketching, so this feels more natural and enjoyable. 

I’m not in a rush. I just need a bit more time to think it through.

A Scene at Babughat Transit Camp

It was a common sight at the Babughat transit camp during that time. Pilgrims, after taking their ritual baths in the River Ganges or in temporary bathrooms, would hang their clothes out to dry wherever they could find space. Groups of people from various states arrived using all kinds of transport — trucks, buses, and small utility vehicles. Though I like the black and white version but it was heartwarming to witness the colorful chaos that unfolded all around, a vibrant mess filled with movement, faith, and community spirit.

Breathe and Move

Today, I tried to move forward in the water. I realized something important: breathing is the key. It's not just about kicking or moving my arms. If I don’t breathe right, everything feels harder.

Learning to stay calm, time my breaths, and not rush. It’s a slow process, but I’m getting there.

Turn

Still Floating

Today’s swim felt familiar—I did the same paddling practice as yesterday. But probably I felt a little steadier, a little more confident. It’s a small improvement, but I noticed it. And that makes me happy. I’m learning bit by bit. There’s still a lot to work on, but I’m moving forward—and that’s what matters.

Tired but happy

Yesterday, I didn’t go to the swimming club because of the rain. I thought maybe I should have gone anyway. Today, it rained again in the morning—but this time, I went. 

The lesson was a bit tough. We practiced paddling, and it really took a lot of energy. My arms and legs felt tired, but I still enjoyed it. Being in the water feels good, even when it’s hard work.

I’m learning slowly, step by step. And I’m proud that I went today, even in the rain.

Learning to Swim: A New Beginning

Today was my very first day at the swimming club—a moment I’ve been putting off for far too long. But I finally did it. I took the step, signed up, showed up, and got into the water. 

It mostly all went smoothly; I learned the basic things like how to float, and I felt surprisingly calm. The water felt welcoming. I could feel myself picking up the basics little by little. Most importantly, I didn’t feel out of place. Walking out of the pool, dripping wet, I felt something else: confidence. I actually want to go back tomorrow. That feeling alone tells me this journey is going to be worth it. 

This is just the beginning, but I’m glad I started. Let’s see where this path leads—one splash at a time.

Pages from A6 sketchbook

Quick sketches with 1.0mm gel pen.

Kitchen Corner

Watercolor and Gouache.

The Shop

Pen and Pastel, August 2024.

Need to start

Thinking about starting work on a variety of initiatives, but none of them have yet started. The beginning point must be determined, as well as how to proceed. I considered starting to film my drawing process, but then realized I needed to use my laptop also for that, because if I record it on my phone, I need to set the photo on my laptop to see. Working on the animation series needs the voiceover component. Oh! I need to start.

Ready to move

On a rainy day, in my local market, 2021.

Ink and Wash

A plein air sketch on Kolkata Street.

Testing Carrd.co

I've used it previously, and it's a good way to create a basic one-page website. I decided to do a video demonstration even though I'm not utilizing it right now in order to get some views on YouTube. Right now, I'm considering using YouTube more in order to make some money. I'm aware that it will take a lot to see anything worthwhile.

Tea Stall

Pastel in 2024

Street Shop

Pastel work, 2024

A joyful evening

50mm equivalent, shoot from the hip with pop-up flash. Kolkata 2024.

12 half pen brusto was changed to 21 half pan set

I received 24 empty half pen sets yesterday. At first, it seemed impossible to fit them inside the box because there wasn't enough room for the empty pans. However, I eventually managed to put them within the box after looking into every possibility. My twelve watercolr pans have now been converted to twenty-one. With the exception of black and white, I may now use every color I own, including watercolor and gouache. now feels like a full set. I was unable to use gouace much previously, but I will now. I'm currently waiting for the emoty mixing space to be filled with all the colors.

Expressing myself

Yesterday I conveyed myself in a variety of ways and tried to stay on target. I'm not sure how effective it was; perhaps everything will be forgotten shortly. But it felt good to express myself regardless of how others will react or react, because it is none of my concern. the problems that I face, rather than those of others.

What can I do?

I don't want to question her, even though I'm not always convinced. It enrages me to think that way, but what can I do?

Ink and wash

The Road

Rongo Village

Dhaki, ink and wash

The hanging Sadhu

My Opinion

In my opinion, the film I saw yesterday wasn't that great; I would say it was either an amideocar film or something a little better than that. After reading about its fanfare, it did not live up to my expectations. However, my primary motivation for seeing the film with her is not to enjoy it; rather, it is to accompany her to a movie theater after ten years.

The Mechanic in Darjeeling

I last watched a movie in a cinema hall

It has been a considerable amount of time since I last watched a movie in a cinema hall, though I cannot recall the exact occasion. Today, I will be watching one with her, anticipating that the experience will provide a sense of refreshment for both our minds and contribute positively to our relationship.

On her face

The clarification remains insufficient

I am not inclined to dismiss the claim outright, but the explanation provided lacks the depth necessary to persuade me. The clarification remains insufficient, leaving significant gaps in understanding.

You just go

You just go 

I always get used to living alone...

Painted from my personal photo reference of the villages in North Bengal

Urban Things, Rongo Village in North Bengal

The Shoes, Sittong in North Bengal

The Tea Stall, January 2024