Indra Raj Pathak: A Journey of Teaching & Writing

Insights from an Educator, Writer, & Book Author

 

Indra Raj Pathak is a teacher by profession, a storyteller by passion, and a lifelong seeker of meaning in the ordinary. With a deep curiosity for human nature, silence, relationships, and the invisible moments that shape our lives, he sees reflection not as an occasional exercise but as a way of being.

After completing his post-graduate studies, a turbulent job search led him—unexpectedly and beautifully—into the realm of teaching, and ultimately into the sacred bond of marriage. It was in the classroom, heart pounding with purpose, that he discovered his true calling: kindling young minds through language and literature. Over the years, his journey evolved from teaching English to leading educational institutions, eventually becoming a school principal. In this role, he mentored both students and teachers with compassion, vision, and a deep commitment to growth.

Indra’s love for words has always extended beyond the classroom. His writings—published in various magazines and online platforms—explore a rich tapestry of themes: psychology, spirituality, history, social change, personal growth, humor, politics, and the subtle beauty of everyday life. He refuses to be boxed into one genre, choosing instead to write from wherever his curiosity leads him.

His recently published book, A Bunch of Reflections, is more than a collection of essays—it’s an invitation to pause, to think, and to rediscover meaning in the overlooked corners of our lives.

Whether he’s reflecting on digital distractions, the quiet power of parenting, or the emotional weight of a choice not taken, Indra’s voice is gentle but stirring. His mission is simple yet profound: to ignite thought, provoke introspection, and remind readers of the strength they carry within.

When not writing, he’s often found sipping evening chai, listening to birdsong, or engaged in soul-deep conversations with kindred spirits—always watching the world with quiet wonder.

Here are the links to the review of the book A Bunch of Reflections by Dr Mehmet Yildiz on Medium, Substack, and Digitalmehmet:

What worldwide authors and readers say about Indra Raj Pathak’s writing:

“I’ve been following Indra Raj Pathak’s work on Medium for years, and his writing never fails to move, enlighten, and stay with me long after I’ve read it. With the heart of a poet and the mind of an educator, Indra brings a rare clarity and depth to everyday reflections, transforming the ordinary into something quietly profound.

His recently published book A Bunch of Reflections is a natural extension of his voice: wise, warm, and deeply human. If you’re seeking insight, inspiration, or just a pause in the rush of life, this book will be a gift.”

  George Ziogas | Top Writer on Medium | HR Consultant | Vocational Education Teacher

  George Ziogas  comments on “Think You Know Your Partner?”
Indra, these questions really do peel back the layers in a gentle, thoughtful way. It’s a great reminder that there’s always more to discover—even in the people we think we know best.

On “Two Weeks Without My Phone”
Your experiment is proof that sometimes the smallest changes (like putting the phone down) unlock the biggest joys. Honestly, who knew staring at trees could be more fulfilling than doomscrolling? It’s a reminder that life happens in real-time—not on a screen.

On “The Silent Collapse of a Nation’s Backbone”
Your decades of dedication to education are truly commendable. This piece highlights urgent flaws in the system and issues a powerful call to honor teachers for the vital role they play in shaping the future.

 Nashra  on “The Silent Collapse of a Nation’s Backbone”
This article powerfully exposes the deep-rooted issues in India’s education system—especially the undervaluation of teachers. Investing in educators is essential for fostering a generation of thinkers.

Misbah sheikhh   on “A Sunday Memorable Indeed!”
This reflection on change and nostalgia hits deep. The way you capture the bittersweet emotions of meeting an old friend and witnessing time’s transformation is truly relatable.

Mukundarajan V N  on “The Cure for Sociophobia”
Indra, you’ve offered a powerful toolkit to tackle social anxiety. An open, non-judging mind really is the key to engaging with strangers.

Katie Michaelson  on “Tune with Teenagers Today”
An amazing piece. You empower the reader with this. Thank you for such a thoughtful discussion.

 Michael Rhodes  on “Tune with Teenagers Today”
So many truths in this, Indra. I’m relieved I no longer have the responsibility to raise a teenager—but your words will help many who do.

 Jasmine  on “Do You Know What to Talk to People?”
Such an insightful piece. I was taught not to share too much about myself because people might use it against you.

   Michael Rhodes  on “How Does a Relationship Make a Difference in Life?”
This is the best article I’ve read on this topic. Super job. Your piece captures how complex and fragile relationships can be.

Michele Thill  on “Make Your Life Meaningful with a Purpose”
I really appreciated your story and the wisdom you shared. That one line you wrote—it’s a fabulous way to look at life’s challenges. Sending you love and light.

 Seda A.  on “Make Your Life Meaningful with a Purpose”
Well said! Living in the moment and constantly improving has helped me immensely. Thank you for your valuable advice!

Damian Clark  on “To Make a Stranger Your Friend”
A strange yet familiar way in nature indeed. Everything has its reasons. A thoughtful and nice read.

Nour Boustani   on “Friendship with Strangers”
Interesting article, Indra. Thank you for sharing your insights with us! 😊

Katie Michaelson  on “Politics is in Our Blood”
You make interesting points, Indra. The corruption here is deep too. Wish we could have tea and a chat. Keep speaking up.

What Miss Catherine La Grange writes about Indra Raj Pathak

A wise man observed that “In the digital age, life becomes less about gathering wisdom, and more about scrolling through targeted ads. It can feel like we’re living in an alternate reality where common sense has gone out of fashion.” That man is Mr. Indra Raj Pathak. And when it comes to common sense, his words are worth reading.

Common sense isn’t a new and improved product, of course. It’s one of humankind’s most ancient skills: the ability to read the landscape, size up the situation, come up with the practical choices, anticipate the consequences, make a decision, and carry it through.

But people struggle to retain their common sense nowadays, and for good reason. We utilize the internet daily. It’s an invaluable source of news, knowledge, and understanding. It offers us “empowerment through awareness,” according to Mr. Pathak.

But while “the internet has given us the power to share,” he writes, it “also creates the power to exploit our instincts and fears.” Unscrupulous parties “prey on people’s vulnerabilities” by bombarding them with misinformation and “emotional appeals disguised as ‘public service’ warnings.”

Unfortunately, it’s difficult to discern this. We’re inclined, observes Mr. Pathak, to “respect all informative messages” without questioning them. We can’t always tell whether the “internet is a helpful guide or just another anxious voice in the room.” Thus, a “technology promises connection” also “delivers confusion.” In so doing, it corrodes our common sense.

Mr. Pathak doesn’t bemoan this state of affairs. He does something of practical value. Mr. Pathak uses common sense to tackle a variety of subjects, great and small. In so doing, he demonstrates the power that exists in all of us to do likewise.

In one instance, he recounts the experiences of a young mother who naturally seeks to nurture her child as best as she can. In theory, the internet is a valuable source of information on how to do so. In practice, she finds herself endlessly “scrolling through algorithms and targeted ads. Though “technology promises connection” with a range of knowledgeable people, “it often delivers confusion.” She connects instead with parents and professionals in her community. When she does, she realizes “no algorithm can replace human connection, no matter how personalized the ads get.”

People agree that common sense can be applied to common experiences. Mr. Pathak demonstrates it can be applied to issues most of us consider to be above our pay grade.

For example, Mr. Pathak boldly proposes that India, an exceedingly diverse country in terms of wealth, education, culture, religion, and age, should not be governed ”as a single entity.” India should instead be “divided into manageable chunks” in the form of seven separate countries. Then he makes a common-sense case for doing so.

It’s “an illuminating, thoughtful and thought-provoking proposal,” said one reader. “A bold re-imagining of what India could be,” said another.

The idea is also “considered untouchable,” Mr. Pathak acknowledges. “Changes based on partition” are bound to be maligned by “so-called patriots” as the nefarious schemes of radical “separatists.”

Nonetheless, Mr. Pathak makes a well-reasoned case for breaking India into seven cohesive political entities. The people in this “land of contradictions” can not be served effectively by India’s “outdated form of governance.” They need to face this situation forthrightly and consider practical alternatives.

Readers won’t be familiar with every subject Mr. Pathak discusses. But everyone will recognize the common sense he uses to address them. No ethnic group, race or faith can lay sole claim to common sense. It’s not a Western or Eastern concept; it doesn’t exist on only one side of the North-South Divide. Consequently, Mr. Pathak’s writings will be appreciated by readers regardless of their nationality, language, culture, religion, color, or gender.

With that, I urge you to turn the page and read what Mr. Pathak tackles first. Rest assured, it’ll be worth your salt if you do.

Miss Catherine La Grange

Elmwood Township, State of Michigan, The United States

May 4, 2025

About Indra Raj Pathak

Indra Raj Pathak is a teacher by profession, a storyteller by passion, and a lifelong seeker of meaning in the ordinary. With a deep curiosity for human nature, silence, relationships, and the invisible moments that shape our lives, he sees reflection not as an occasional exercise but as a way of being.

After completing his post-graduate studies, a turbulent job search led him—unexpectedly and beautifully—into the realm of teaching, and ultimately into the sacred bond of marriage. It was in the classroom, heart pounding with purpose, that he discovered his true calling: kindling young minds through language and literature. Over the years, his journey evolved from teaching English to leading educational institutions, eventually becoming a school principal. In this role, he mentored both students and teachers with compassion, vision, and a deep commitment to growth.

Indra’s love for words has always extended beyond the classroom. His writings—published in various magazines and online platforms—explore a rich tapestry of themes: psychology, spirituality, history, social change, personal growth, humor, politics, and the subtle beauty of everyday life. He refuses to be boxed into one genre, choosing instead to write from wherever his curiosity leads him.

His recently published book, A Bunch of Reflections, is more than a collection of essays—it’s an invitation to pause, to think, and to rediscover meaning in the overlooked corners of our lives.

Whether he’s reflecting on digital distractions, the quiet power of parenting, or the emotional weight of a choice not taken, Indra’s voice is gentle but stirring. His mission is simple yet profound: to ignite thought, provoke introspection, and remind readers of the strength they carry within.

When not writing, he’s often found sipping evening chai, listening to birdsong, or engaged in soul-deep conversations with kindred spirits—always watching the world with quiet wonder.

Connection Links:

Medium: https://medium.com/@irpathak

Substack: https://indraf03.substack.com/about

My Mirror: https://pathakir.wordpress.com/

X: https://x.com/IndraRajPathak1

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/indra-raj-pathak-7a4913101/

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