The story of Heer and Ranjha

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The story of Heer and Ranjha is often told as a romantic tragedy, but through a psychological lens , it is a profound study of individuation , the rebellion against collective conditioning , and the destructive power of familial narcissism . The Awakening of the Self The story begins with Dheedo Ranjha , the youngest of four brothers. Psychologically, Ranjha represents the Aesthetic Man . Following his father’s death, he is marginalized by his brothers and sisters-in-law, who prioritize land and utility over his music. His decision to leave his home in Takht Hazara is an act of psychological severance —he rejects the "provider" archetype to seek a higher, more abstract purpose. When he meets Heer , the daughter of the powerful Chuchak Sial, the connection is instantaneous. In Jungian terms, they recognize their Anima and Animus in each other. Heer, unlike the women of her time, possesses a fierce autonomy. To her, Ranjha’s flute is not just music; it is a "call to the s...
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Makeup hides pain

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The Roman philosopher Plautus wrote: “A woman without paint is like food without salt.”

Makeup is often seen as a tool for enhancing beauty, a way to add a splash of color or sculpt a face. But for many, it's so much more. It's a shield, a mask, a form of armor against the world. Beneath layers of foundation and concealer, a different story unfolds—one of sorrow, struggle, and emotional pain.

​We've all been there: getting ready for work or a night out, meticulously applying our makeup to create a flawless look. Perhaps we've just had an argument, received bad news, or are simply feeling overwhelmed. The act of putting on makeup becomes a meditative ritual, a way to distract ourselves from the turmoil within. Each stroke of the brush, each dab of the sponge, helps to build a facade of normalcy. We are, in effect, painting on a brave face, hoping that the vibrant lipstick or perfectly winged eyeliner will convince both others and ourselves that everything is okay.

​This isn't about vanity; it's about survival. Makeup can be a quiet act of rebellion against our own suffering. It's a way to reclaim a sense of control when our world feels like it's spinning out of control. The carefully constructed look we present to the world is a silent promise that we will get through this, no matter how much we hurt. It's the silent tear hidden by a coat of mascara, the shaky hand steadied by a compact mirror.

​The next time you see someone with a perfectly made-up face, remember that their smile might be hiding a story of pain. That seemingly effortless beauty might be their way of finding strength, a daily reminder that even on the toughest days, they can still face the world.

Picture Credit: The Guardian

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