Macrobiotics – A diet for well-being

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January 4, 2016

Author- Ruth Dsouza

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to a diet and perhaps that is why we have so many of them being advocated. Ideally, what you must look for in a diet is the well-being it assures you. A diet that ensures you to eat healthy, while not really giving up on the pleasures that good food can bring you. Perhaps, it’s time you gave the concept of Macrobiotics some thought.

Shonali Sabherwal, India’s first Macrobiotic Counsellor and chef, believes that Macrobiotics is more of a lifestyle than a diet. “The term diet brings up the imagery of being rigid and restrictive. However, the core principle of Macrobiotics is to give you the freedom to eat smartly,” she says.

The Macrobiotic lifestyle

The focus of the Macrobiotic diet is on grains. Generous amounts of grain along with lots of local and seasonal vegetables, forms the core of every meal in this diet. Does seem simple enough to follow, right? Well, an important tenet of Macrobiotics is that it completely eliminates dairy and its products from your life. Yes, contrary to popular belief, milk can work negatively on you. “Because after a point in life, our bodies are unable to break down milk,” explains Shonali.
The aim of the diet is to cleanse the blood and to remove clogs from years of unhealthy eating habits. A great diet can help not only with your health and well-being, but also makes you a well-rounded person. Your personality is bound to improve. Your diet must include fermented foods, starchy vegetables, whole grains, fruits, nuts and grains:

Whole grains give you a sustained 8 hours of good sugar and helps you maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Refined sugars can never do that.
The proximity of plants to the earth and its energy will give you a sense of groundedness.
Fermented foods like tofu will give you the digestive enzymes you need and help balance your pH levels.
Legumes break down amino acids into dopamine, making you energetic.

The important thing about Macrobiotic food is that it can get very interesting. “It is a flexible diet,” says Shonali. Many diets propagate completely cutting out on carbs or proteins. Some advocate skipping meals, while others talk of liquid diets alone. Most of these approaches are not holistic and often do more damage than good. If you are in good general health, then Macrobiotics can make a world of difference to how you feel. All you need is to put in place a system of checks and balances. Even if you are ill, a stricter Macrobiotic diet can still help.

Source

Admittedly, Macrobiotics is not easy, but the system definitely seems smarter. “Perhaps, a way to help people identify with the diet is to see that it has its principles in the Ayurvedic dictates of diet and the Sattvic style of food, but may be not as strict.” explains Shonali.

Macrobiotics is about eating right, to open out your energies and have them pulsate through you in the right manner. Dairy and sugar is taken away from you, as are flours. However, these are replaced with products that will assist your digestive process, just as always, except without the negative aspects.

Macrobiotics helps you deal with several lifestyle issues like hair fall, anxiety, the need for weight loss and more. “It even helps deal with cancer,” says Shonali, who also said that a complete remission is possible in two years of following the diet. Though the international medical community is yet to validate this, she does have some cases on hand to prove her point.

Macrobiotics, Shonali asserts, is about creating a template for yourself and working within it to help your body function ideally. And the other great part about it is that this is a diet for the non-vegetarians as well. The emphasis is more on fish, than on white meats like chicken.

Begin small with the system and work your way up. Here is a recipe of chickpea salad to start with.

Chickpea Salad Serves 4

Ingredients

1 onion diced
1 each of red, yellow and green bell pepper diced (remove skin of red pepper)
2 cups of cooked chickpeas
2 bundles buk choy, cut long and steamed
Olives (optional)

Dressing

¼ cup olive oil
3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
3 garlic cloves minced
Grated zest of one lime and juice
Sea salt to taste

Method

Get the ingredients together in a salad bowl
Heat oil and add garlic. Remove from heat and whisk in balsamic vinegar, zest, lime juice and sea salt
Toss into salad. Chill before serving.

Source: The Love Diet by Shonali Sabherwal (Random House India)

With Love from India – Sending Birthday Gifts to USA

By

Caleidoscope

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December 31, 2015

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Birthdays are the days when we receive the most number of phone calls, messages, and gifts, since people who love us want to make us feel special. For those staying away from India, birthdays are the times when you yearn for your family and loved ones. In the recent past, the Indian population in the United States has increased tremendously, making the US a massive importer of manpower from India. With this, the need for emotional support from family back home has also increased.

Birthdays are perhaps one of the days when you can send your love in the form of gifts. We have classified gifts on these four human emotional factors:

What we do
How we look
What we say
How we say it

The last one ‘How we say it’ is the most important one. Most of us find it hard to express our love for our dear ones. That is when one-of-a-kind gift ideas come in handy. Gifting is an art in itself and it shows your flip-side well if played with a bit of creativity. You can shower your love by sending some birthday gifts to USA that would brighten up the day for your loved one. Here are some unique ideas that you can use to send birthday gifts to your family in the US:

Newspaper Cuttings

Prepare a collection of newspaper cuttings of all important news happening all over the country since the last birthday of your loved one. Later, bind these cuttings to make a notebook, which would take your loved one on a melancholic journey with this gift.

Barbecue Stand

Barbeque stands or beer cabinets are a perfect gift if the birthday boy/girl is a grilling enthusiast and likes to throw parties for his/her friends.

Knitted Sweaters

You will certainly make the little ones happy if you gift them a knitted sweater featuring their favourite cartoon character. You can also gift this to your grown up kids reminding them of their favourite childhood memory.

Initials on handkerchief

If it is your spouse’s birthday, you can stitch his/her name on handkerchiefs. This will be treasured forever.

Laptop skin

You can also prepare a handmade laptop skin, the guidelines to which are easily available online. Try this

Painted mugs

If you are into clay art, you can make tea cups or coffee mugs and paint on it.

Try these gifting ideas and deepen your bond!

Bearing Fulfilling Lives: What is Right Education?

By

Sahana Rajan

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December 28, 2015

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Author – Sahana Rajan

The World Book Fair comes to Delhi on 11th and 12th of January 2016, bringing with it pertinent questions about education and the role of reading in it. Reading is an integral part of any English class of a school. In the same way, many habits form together the apparatus of a school classroom. Is classroom the rightful locus of education? What is the purpose of education? This piece talks about current condition of education system, the motives of education and practice of alternative education.

Where are we now?: Education as a pathway to livelihood

What is Right Education — Source: Sense Internationa

At the most basic level, education is viewed as a pathway to achieving a livelihood. School is seen as the locus of education. In this sense, education is the transfer of information from an individual of expertise (teacher) to an aspirant (student), which would enable the student to eventually earn adequately (amongst other optional motives of fame, prestige and honour). Such an individual generally specializes in specific subjects. The entire schema of education is developed in order to prepare the child for a career which would enable her to lead a fulfilling and decent life eventually.

Is education about a fulfilling life?: Ethics and Education

If the end is a fulfilling life, then can education be only about livelihood? Even if it were about livelihood, should the system need not explore the child in multiple dimensions before even beginning to prepare him for later fulfillment? Most of the educational institutions have an ordered set of subjects which become the only menu for livelihood. For that matter, philosophy was never a subject in my school and I only came to read about philosophy before choosing a subject for graduation. This relates to the need of creating conditions to allow child to explore diverse livelihoods to choose one which would be fulfilling.

Apart from livelihood, what would be expected of an education? Essentially, the birth of ethical persons. Such a birth is generally alleged to take place through moral education, which in itself, is only normative. This means that moral education does not stimulate the child to ask questions for which the answer would be: “That is why it is best to be honest.” or “This is a case of loyalty.” Children are only given moral norms which they are expected to blindly follow. Such a blind following could be broken in adverse conditions as they are not based on principles or experience, but on passive acceptance. In any educational system, it is important to remember that any obedience is only respectful when it is an acceptance of understanding and not of passivity.

Source: PinInterest

How does an education system create ethical persons? By creating conditions where children recognize values as central to living a fulfilling life. This would require that students be seen not only as students alone but as human beings first. Such a transition from student-to-human perspective can occur when education focuses on inculcating sensitivity as an educational need.

When children are exposed to instances of sensitivity (like a video of cow feeding calf or dogs being rescued from abuse), they react positively and imbibe the importance of recognizing others’ needs. Of course, we must teach children that doing good is an end-in-itself. The movement from first way of receiving ethical values (for self-satisfaction) to the second can occur in stages beginning from practice of sensitivity followed by exploration of situations which question this sensitivity. What would you do if your brother stole from parents? What would you do if you found money on the road and you could use it to save your mother? And so on. Ultimately, through such questioning, children reach the destination of instilling ethical values to their lives.

Most educational institutions never explore the stage of sensitivity and for this reason, their execution of the last stage (dictating which moral values are ideal) is unproductive. Once the child practises sensitivity, the first concern of a fulfilling livelihood is also handled. How? Because the child gains capacity to recognize her own abilities and thus, chooses a career which would fulfil her mental needs as well.

An education system for which the basic unit is child, as a human being holistically preparing for a fulfilling life that would answer to his/her physical and mental needs, is considered alternative education. Such a system does not receive the classroom alone as locus of education and explores different practices for unfolding the potential of children.

The practice of alternative education

Mirambika Free School Source: Blogspot

The practice of alternative education involves inclusion of following tools (amongst others) to create ways for the

child to explore, to understand sensitivity of life and eventually, to choose a way of living which would be fulfilling:

An exposure to social and cultural causes through world happenings

Visit to NGOs and animal shelters to understand the diverse ways of living

Regular educational trips involving stays at different cultural set-ups

Introduction to India’s philosophical background (to nurture originality)

Robust crafts and arts regime

Exploration into everyday habits: Eating, washing of utensils, way of dressing (not with intention to homogenize their lives but to question inherited tendencies and discover ways which would most express oneself).

In India, the following schools practice alternative education: Rishi Valley (Andhra Pradesh), Mirambika (Delhi), Riverhouse Academy (Goa), Aurinko Academy (Bangalore), Roopantara Center for Learning (Bangalore), Shikshantar (Haryana), Pallikoodam (Kerala), Adarshila Learning Center (Madhya Pradesh), Gram Mangal (Maharashtra), Anugriha (Tamil Nadu) and Vidyashram (Uttar Pradesh). You can find more detailed list of alternative educational schools here.

Thus, a right education would enable a child to explore herself, create conditions to practice ethical values (and realize its significance) and ultimately, to lead a fulfilling life.

Basic Etiquette to Teach Your Dog at Home

By

Caleidoscope

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December 23, 2015

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Author- David Lyod

Source

It’s always exciting when one brings a new puppy at home. However, a new pet always comes with some challenges. Dogs may be a man’s best friend, but there are times when they don’t act wisely. Mentioned below are some good manners that you can teach your dog at home.

Walk calmly on leash

Many dog training schools may never help your dog master this art. You must first ask the dog to sit still before putting on the leash. Every time your dog gets out of control, it is essential that you instantly stop the walk, stand still and wait for them to calm down before continuing the walk. It will take a tremendous effort on your part, but it will pay off if you persevere. Initially, practice indoors and once the dog is under control, proceed to the great outdoors.

Pet commands

Every dog should understand five basic code languages: sit, stay, lay down, come, and heel. All these commands will help one to communicate with dogs and will also serve as a groundwork for further advanced training. Try to keep all the training sessions indoors or at quiet places to avoid distractions. After your dog has learned the commands well, have sessions at different places so your dog learns to listen in spite of distractions.

Teaching your dog to relax

Many a times, dogs feel stressed when there are fireworks and thunderstorms. One would be surprised to know that calming behaviour can be taught to the dog. Take breaks from your play time to teach your dog how to relax. Physical exercise, yoga, body wrap and counter-conditioning are some of the things that can help the dog to remain calm. Make sure that you take the training process calm and slow.

Control barking

Dog barking is a good sign as it is the way it communicates and alerts the owner. But excessive barking may not be good as it shows that your dog is uncomfortable around new people. Try reducing dog’s exposure to strangers if it barks too much. Avoid encouraging your dog to bark at people at the door by saying ‘Who’s there?’ This will cause your dog to be on guard and will likely lead to alert barking. Even after following these steps, if your dog continues to bark, then it would be better to contact a certified dog trainer.

House training

House training is the most important thing when it comes to having a pet. Teaching dog to relieve itself can be an arduous task and one must have the patience to understand their schedule to avoid embarrassing ‘accidents’ in the house. It is harder in case of puppies as they do not have bladder control. To ensure that your dog defecates properly, take him to a place that is relatively quiet and without too many distractions. Get your dog acquainted with that area. Allow him to relieve without any disturbance. In case, your dog has urinated or defecated indoor, clean it up immediately. Do not yell at the dog for doing that.

Meal & dining etiquette

It is necessary to teach the dog to have some patience before having food. Keep them in sitting position while the food is being served. Use commands like ‘okay’ and ‘eat’ to communicate with your dog. Have a feeding schedule to predict when your dog will have to go to the bathroom. This will make the whole process of house training easier. It is important that one should feed their dog as per their age and weight. Consult with your veterinary for specific recommendations for your dog. If there is a puppy at home, schedule feeding three times a day. Usually, dogs hog a lot at the dinner table. Pet disturbance is not a good behaviour and it even embarrasses the owners in front of the guest. Also, the food that we eat should not be served to the dogs as it is not good for their health. It will take a lot of patience to teach your dog dining and meal habits, but the end result will be less stressful and embarrassing. However, if the dog is showing no sign of improvement, then it would advisable to look for some better solution. Consult the pet behaviour specialist in case of any problem. It takes a lot of patience to train a dog but one should have a control over their temper. Above all, have fun and enjoy with your pal.
Have a happy dog training!

Reverse Brain Drain to India?

By

Caleidoscope

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December 21, 2015

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Author – Ayushi Bhardwaj

Source

Hope you have heard of “Brain Drain” or human capital flight, a term that defines the emigration of intelligent, well-educated individuals to developed nations for better pay or conditions, causing their countries of origin to lose skilled people, or ‘brains’. Interestingly, now there is a different phenomenon happening in India – “Reverse Brain Drain”!

Reverse brain drain is where highly qualified people originally from developing countries, return home after acquiring skills and working in developed economies. Recently, this phenomenon has been observed as a rising trend among well educated Indians living abroad. Here are the stories of six Indian migrants who have returned back to either set up their businesses and to attempt solve the big problems that India faces:

Himanshu Batra was raised in a small town named Yamuna Nagar in Haryana with eyes set on making a huge impact on his community. Himanshu graduated from the University of Illinois, Chicago and started a boutique web development firm to get small businesses online. He soon landed a consulting job at Google in California, where he spent seven years learning the corporate ropes and working with the finest tech talent.

“Throughout this time I kept a keen eye on how the Indian economy was shaping up. Right from hosting political parties at home to working with the NGO ‘Code for India’ to bring tech solutions to solve some of the country’s issues, I stayed closely tied to India.” says Himanshu. He observed that education is the key to solving most of India’s issues and a mere 1% of Indian graduates from top universities were able to make an impact globally. He is now in India to empower the rest 99% with his education technology startup ‘Acad View’. Himanshu stated, “The tech space in India resembles the late 1990s in the Silicon Valley – I wouldn’t want miss the opportunity to contribute to this growth spurt for anything!”

Nina Batra and Himanshu Batra – Source

Nina Batra grew up in Dubai and got an MBA from Carnegie Mellon University. She has worn many hats in her career: engineer, financial analyst, chief of staff and product manager. “Besides finding myself intellectually challenged during my six years at Google, I also enjoyed its many perks: I actually met my husband at a Bhangra class there. Life was comfortable. Silicon Valley allowed one to work hard, party harder and live a full life. After eight years in the US, I wondered: What is my goal and impact in life? I came to India to volunteer in the non-profit sector, with an NGO Azad Foundation in Delhi, a for-women by-women cab service”. Now, Nina has taken up the role of Director of Product Management for Growth at Ola Cabs.

Yet another fascinating story is that of IIT Kharagpur graduate Swapnil Kant Dixit, known for co-founding Jagriti Yatra, an annual 10,000km train journey that takes 450 young students across India to meet with and learn from change-makers. Swapnil pursued an MBA from the University of California at Berkeley, and worked in a start-up in Silicon Valley. His passion for deploying technology to solve India’s basic problems brought him back to India.

Swapnil Kant Dixit - Source — Swapnil Kant Dixit – Source

Swapnil has recently founded an education platform called “Dhang Se Padhai”, which uses the Internet and mobile technology to enable qualified volunteers to teach under-served children in remote locations. A version of this project was recently selected among the top 20 world-changing ideas at the “Big ideas @ Berkeley” competition. Swapnil says, “Encouraging people to dream, and turning their dreams into executable initiatives is what excites me immensely. Often, all the magic needed is someone saying ‘you can do it’.

Harshavardhana Tyagi was born in a small town in Uttar Pradesh and was a graduate from Radha Govindh Engineering College. He spent his 10 years as a software developer in the Indian IT Industry. “My work mainly consists of software designing and coding. I have been on site to Dubai and the US, but I am back to India now and presently working here. There is a vast difference in working abroad and working in India both on compensation and on individual’s technical capabilities. Most people change their jobs in the US and seek to get a green card. However, they fail for the simple reason since they do not possess the technical capabilities required to get into a product based company” says Harshavardhana. Currently, he is working as a lead engineer in a product based company in Bangalore.

However, people with better skill set find it difficult to grow professionally in the Silicon Valley, because of stagnation that prevails there. Such people, like any other investor look at investing their brains in growing the Indian economy, which provides much better opportunities for growth in unexplored markets. Seems like these professionals are realising what we were taught back then – giving back to the society – is the key factor that satisfies us! These brain drivers moving to India to start their entrepreneurial journey by struggling here is a welcome change and is an inspiration for all of us.

Will Bajirao Mastani Come Alive in Movie Halls Today?

By

Shirish Shinde

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December 18, 2015

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Author – Shirish Shinde

Romantic stories in any art form sell and Bollywood has been encashing on the topic ever since its birth. It has churned out classics, run-of-the-mill hits, and numerous potboilers. And as long as they entertain and enrich viewers’ experience, one should not have a problem. However, the cultural atmosphere is vitiated, when they start courting controversies. To counter that, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), a panel of experts, watch the movie and decide whether the depiction of a particular theme is right or wrong. It is then up to the board to certify the movie and decide if it deserves an A or U or an A/U certificate. But of late, the trend has changed a bit, for many movies have drawn the strict scrutiny of not just the board but political parties or an individual, if the theme or the plot has, by any means, hurt their sentiments.

Such controversies may have some substance or they may be stage-managed.

The latest one to face protest is Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s period drama Bajirao Mastani. The depiction of great Maratha warrior, Bajirao I and his wife Kashibai, from the epic film is mired in controversy. The descendants of the Peshwa and the Chhatrasal dynasties, along with a local MLA, recently protested in front of Shaniwarwada in Pune, alleging the wrong portrayal of the leading characters in the songs released by the production company.

Further, BJP MLA Medha Kulkarni recently met chief minister Devendra Fadnavis in Nagpur and requested him to intervene in the matter. She was quoted by an English daily saying, “The film songs have distorted the history of Bajirao Peshwa. This amounts to a crime. Hence, historians must take a look at the film before its release.” Defending Kulkarni’s stand, Shiv Sena, and its MLA Pratap Sarnaik, have also sought similar action. Sarnaik said, “Bajirao Peshwa had played an important role in Maharashtra’s history. Bhansali did not give a thought to the Marathi culture and the Peshwa’s legacy before making the film.”

They have objected to the song ‘Pinga,’ in which Deepika Padukone and Priyanka Chopra as Mastani and Kashibai respectively, are seen dancing together. The descendants have called it a vulgar display. Udaysinh Peshwa alleged that the movie shows just one aspect of Bajirao’s life. He has also objected to a scene, where Bajirao pours water over Kashibai’s head. Udaysinh said, “Those are private moments. How can they become public? While taking the cinematic liberty, the dignity of a person should be maintained.” The descendants of Mastani have also expressed their reservations against a dialogue in the film.

Upset over the manner the film shows Bajirao dancing in a song sequence, Kulkarni in her letter to Fadnavis stated, “Bajirao has been shown dancing. However, Bajirao Peshwa in his life of 41 years fought 21 battles and won all of them. It is an insult to his stature. A Pune court has also been moved requesting a ban on the film.

In a letter to Bhansali following the release of the song ‘Pinga,’ Mohini Karkarey, a descendant of the Peshwas, stated that Kashibai was suffering from arthritis. “How could she dance?”

Further, there are many theories about the life of Mastani. One among them is that Mastani was the daughter Maharaja Chhatrasal of Bundelkhand, present-day Madhya Pradesh. Her mother Ruhaani Bai, a Persian-Muslim, was a dancer at the Hyderabad Nizam’s darbar. When Mohammad Khan Bangash attacked Bundelkhand in 1728, Chhattrasal sought Bajirao’s help, who was on a military campaign in the region. Bajirao helped Chhatrasal, who gave Bajirao his daughter in marriage. Some sources also said that Mastani was Hyderabad Nizam’s daughter. Chhatrasal had defeated the Nizam in 1698. Nizam extended a friendly gesture to Chhatrasal by marrying off his daughter to the Bundela king.

However, the theory that Mastani was Chhatrasal and Ruhaani Bai’s daughter has been accepted.

It is said that Mastani was Bajirao’s courtesan. However, she was his legal wife. Mastani had learned skills needed to become a warrior and was a good singer and dancer. She also used to go with Bajirao on his military campaigns.

However, Bajirao’s first wife, Kashibai, and his other family members were against this marriage. They were not happy with this relationship as Bajirao used to neglect Kashibai. Later, the warrior king built a separate palace for Mastani elsewhere in Pune.

Soon after Bajirao’s death in 1740, when he was on a campaign in Madhya Pradesh, Mastani also passed away near Pune. There are theories about her death, too. Unable to bear the loss of her beloved, she ended her life. One theory says she committed sati. In this backdrop, Sanjay Leela Bhansali has created this film. As there has been no response from his side to the controversy so far, it is assumed that he is relying on the certification provided by the CBFC. Legally, the film has been cleared for public screenings. However, Bajirao and Mastani’s descendants and the BJP-Shiv Sena have raised objections to the epic, thus putting its smooth release in doubt.

Tomb of Real Bajirao Mastani

Meanwhile, a press release issued on December 17 by the Kothrud, Pune branch of the Bharatiya Janata Party, stated that a petition had been submitted to the owner of the City Pride multiplex, Kothrud, to not screen the movie releasing on Friday in the city. They told the multiplex owner that the film had distorted the history about the architect of Maratha empire, Bajirao Peshwa.

“There is a growing sentiment that our idols are being defamed. The movie hall owner should respect this sentiment and not screen the film, failing which they will solely be responsible for any loss,” stated the release.

Factfile: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bajirao_I

For the Jane Austen in Us

By

Gayatri Devulapalli

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December 14, 2015

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Even after two centuries later, Jane Austen remains to be one of the bestselling authors of all time. Her books are widely read, appreciated and have left a lasting impression on generations of students over the years. Be it Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice or Persuasion, her novels have always been way ahead of its time. With eight books (two unfinished), she continues to be one of the most renowned authors of the 19th century. I remember reading my first Jane Austen book at the age of 16. Her plots never lacked finesse and her subjects were exuberant, so much that they have been adapted into movies and television series.
And it is time to once again explore the plots that are relevant even today as Jane Austen celebrates her 240th birthday on December 16.

Gold-digging Mothers Looking for Rich Grooms

In India, this is the case. A rich groom is what a girl’s mother dreams of and Mrs Bennette from Pride and Prejudice matches this character perfectly! In the movie Bride and Prejudice, a bollywood-style adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, this character was played by Nadira Babbar, who is determined to get her daughters married off to wealthy men.

The Gossiper

Jane Austen’s books are incomplete without a tattle-tale. Be it in Persuasion or Sense and Sensibility, her novels usually had at least one character with a high gossip quotient. It can either be Mrs Phillips from Pride and Prejudice or Emma from the novel Emma, who thrived on gossip. Jane nailed the characters to perfection! In fact, such characters can now be seen on television series and films.

The Strong and Silent Heroes

The quiet, honest and dignified men of Jane Austen have gained popularity among the girls. And why not? Name one girl who doesn’t have the ‘Darcy fancy.’ He is the strong silent type, who has a heart of gold and not the flirting kind who falls for beauty alone. Meanwhile, Colonel Brandon from Sense and Sensibility, Knightly from Emma, and Captain Wentworth of Persuasion are the trademark heroes of romance novels. Our movies, too, have taken inspiration from these men. Be it Abhay Deol in the movie Aisha or Pakistani actor Fawad Khan in TV show, Zindagi Gulzar Hai. They remind us of the qualities that Jane’s men possessed in the novels.

Girl Next Door

Jane Austen’s heroines were nothing about the looks. It was all about being unconventional, witty and bold. In her stories, Jane defined her girls to be plain-looking, but possessing exemplary characters.
Anne of Persuasion is the best example. Witty, clever and considerate, she is persuaded to break off her engagement at the age of 19. She is isolated and unloved, but this does not force her to give up her elegance and sensibility. In the end, Mr Wentworth cannot help but fall in love with her all over again! And this theme has been used umpteen times in the movies as well. Jane Austen, take a bow, for your characters are still alive!

Dance, Music and Parties

Dance and music have been an integral part of Jane Austen’s works. Her love stories would usually start in a ball or at dinner parties. And so is the case even today! Dance and music is an important part of every love story till date as the romance quotient rises with it. Thanks to Ms Austen! Our bollywood movies are filled with these.

Women of Substance

Aishwarya Rai as Lalita Bakshi from the movie Bride and Prejudice, a Bollywood-style adaptation of Pride and Prejudice Source: Fanpop — *Aishwarya Rai as Lalita Bakshi from the movie Bride and Prejudice, a Bollywood-style adaptation of Pride and Prejudice.* *Source: Fanpop*

Jane Austen’s heroines have a mind of their own. They belonged to a conservative period, and yet had the courage to express their thoughts gracefully. Anne of Persuasion seems submissive but she is actually not. She strongly opposes her status-conscious father to be with her poor friend. Similarly, Elizabeth of Pride and Prejudice disapproves with Lady Catherine de Bourgh’s ideas, thus being the first one ever to disagree with her.

Status and Position in Society

Titles and status played a major role in Jane Austen’s books during the Victorian era. Jane often mocked the characters with fine social status. In Pride and Prejudice, the author highlights how Fitzwilliam Darcy talks about his social status at great length. This is also evident when he goes down on his knees and wishes to take Elizabeth as her wife ‘despite her family status.’ No wonder Lizzy turns him down! Similarly, status plays a big role in our present world, doesn’t it? The love stories between a poor girl and rich guy or a rich guy-poor girl are still relevant in the movies and daily soaps. Examples are movies like Raja Hindustani or even Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham.

Extended Families

Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu thi tellychakkar.com

Extended families provide all the ‘extra’ drama we need to spice up a novel and Jane Austen majored in that art. All her books dealt with huge families that had cousins, uncles, aunts, and the neighbours. Their stories were interwoven with the main plot in such a way that the characters never seemed out of place. Interestingly, our current soaps also deal with such families but alas not to the same affect. All Ekta Kapoor serials have taken a cue from this. Starting from Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu thi to Yeh Hai Mohbattein, all have huge families. The more the merrier, right?

Factfile:

http://www.sparknotes.com
https://en.wikipedia.org
https://en.wikipedia.org

7 Memorable Silent Movies of Indian Cinema

By

Caleidoscope

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December 7, 2015

4

Author – Jitendra

A century is not a small time; a lot has changed in the last 100 years. And when we talk about Indian cinema, the change is all the more apparent. Be it the well-groomed classic actors of the 1950s or the ‘bad boys turned good’ of the 1990s, filmmaking has seen tremendous progress with time. And who can forget the pragmatic plots the movies gave us in the last decade. With characters, the story, technique, and presentation also changed. While reminiscing the different phases of cinematic culture, the period of silent films seems to be one of the toughest and often overlooked phases of Indian cinema. It was an era where actors could not talk and worked really hard on their acting skills, since everything depended on their expressions. Let’s take a look at some of the famous silent movies of Indian cinema:

Raja Harishchandra (1913)

Source

Not many know this, but ‘Raja Harishchandra’ was not the first Indian movie. It was ‘Shree Pundalik’, the first feature-length Indian film directed and produced by Dadasaheb Torne, which released in 1912. However, since it was made under a British production, the honour of producing the first Indian film went to Raja Harishchandra.
Produced and directed by Dadasaheb Phalke, this movie was based on the mythological story of Harishchandra and succeeded in drawing many admirers. Interestingly, it had an all-male cast since women, at that time, found it indecent to work in the movies. A determined Phalke then convinced a few Marathi male actors to play the part of women in the movie. Convinced by his dream project, they agreed and it is said that the actors in the film portrayed both male and female characters elegantly. The movie was released in 1913, which eventually made way for Phalke as the first producer in Indian cinema.

Lanka Dahan (1917)

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Encouraged by the success of Raja Harishchandra, Dadasaheb Phalke made a few more mythological movies such as Satyavan Savitri, Mohini Bhasmasur and Lanka Dahan. If Raja Harishchandra was the first successful attempt, Lanka Dahan was the first box-office hit. The mythological movie, which narrated Sita’s abduction, was first screened at 7am and it was showed throughout the day, attracting viewers of all age groups until midnight. The film was well received and was a mega hit among the masses. Lanka Dahan was incredibly advanced in terms of special effects and technology. Interestingly, it was also the first film that had a double role for the same actor—Anna Salunke— who played both the roles of Rama and Sita! Salunke was also the first person to perform the female lead in Phalke’s Raja Harishchandra.

Keechaka Vadham (1918)

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The success of Lanka Dahan encouraged many enthusiasts to pursue a career in filmmaking, since it had now assured them of financial viability. In 1918, South India got its first film, Keechaka Vadham, produced, directed and edited by R Nataraja Mudaliar. Based on a legend from Mahabharata, this movie had a Tamil cast, hence it became the first silent Tamil film.

Shankuntala (1920)

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This movie was a respite from the mythological topics that were, until then, an all-time favourite of filmmakers. Based on the story written by Kalidas, Shakuntala was directed by Suchet Singh, who took a few artistic liberties that slightly changed the treatment of the main characters. However, the Indian mindset at that time was not ready to accept such liberal portrayal, which prevented the movie from getting any success. As time progressed, the Indian mentality changed and the movie was later recognized as a masterpiece.

Bhakta Vidur (1921)

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The 1920s saw huge economic possibilities. By that time, film production houses were professionally managed and had dedicated employees in different units to play different roles. One such house was Kohinoor Studios that made yet another silent mythological movie, Bhakt Vidur. Directed by Kanjibhai Rathod, this film was based on Hindu epic, Mahabharata. Incidentally, Bhakt Vidur was also the first Indian movie to face a ban, for it had scenes where the lead character was seen wearing a Gandhi cap and showed many contemporary political events of India.

Bilat Ferat (1921)

Bilat Ferat was a Bengali romantic movie that made an attempt to create a more contemporary approach in Indian cinema. Directed by NC Lahiri, this movie talked about Indians returning from foreign countries after completing their education and adopting a pro-western mindset. It was also the first love story of Indian cinema that aptly suited the demands of young, educated viewers. Inspired by British and American films, Bilat Ferat had many realistic romantic scenes, which were not appreciated by the Indian audience of that time.

Pati Bhakti (1922)

This movie by JJ Madan advocated the philosophy that an ideal wife should be completely devoted to her husband and serve him in any and every possible way. The leading role of Leelavati was played by Patience Cooper, and her performance garnered many accolades, making her the biggest star of that era. Pati Bhakti also attracted the ire of Censor Board over an obscene dance. After the board intervened, the song was removed before the film’s release.

Factfile –
https://en.wikipedia.org
https://en.wikipedia.org
https://en.wikipedia.org
https://en.wikipedia.org

Should India demand Climate Justice at Paris Talks?

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Caleidoscope

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December 3, 2015

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Author – Solipsistic Sid

Limiting the rising global temperatures to no more than 2 degrees Celsius above the current levels is at the central theme talks at the UN Conference on Climate Change in Paris underway currently. The Government of India has put on a brave face at the Paris Climate Change Summit with talk shows and webinars, sending a message to the international community that it is all about transparency and firm resolve when it comes to environment-related issues.

India’s standpoint remains clear that the burden of bringing down global temperature should lie with the developed countries, who are responsible for global warming and not developing nations that are just emerging. The world’s third largest carbon emitting nation, which spends 2.7% of its GDP for climate-related issues is not entirely on the wrong side when it demands “historical climate justice” from developed nations.

One out of five among the 1.3 billion Indians do not have access to the basic amenities of life, they live in utter poverty and look with hopeful eyes towards the people in power to lift them up. If India wants to alleviate its poor, it will have to close the gap between the amount of coal it produces domestically and the amount it’s consuming, particularly for electricity generation.

Source: National Geographic

Various ultra mega power projects with a capacity of 4000+ MW each are underway across the country as a part of a colossal drive for fulfilling India’s energy needs. India will have to continue to open up a new coal mine every month for the next five years if it wants to meet the energy demands of its teeming millions. India’s current aim is to produce 1.5 billion metric tons of the fossil fuel by 2020, up from about 800 million metric tons a year consumed currently.

Having said that, it is not as if we are not doing anything to counter the effects of our carbon emissions for helping in the fight against climate change. Alongside its coal production, India has made a significant expansion in the use of renewable energy sources such as solar power. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken up the difficult task of creating an International Solar Alliance. The International Agency for Solar Policy and Application is aimed at bringing together a host of African and Asian nations located between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.

India is also planning to grow its forest cover to absorb more carbon dioxide and implement new technologies to make its energy sector more efficient. India is planning to add as much in renewable energy capacity as its entire power grid over the next 15 years. Under the Paris agreement, India has committed to ensure 40% of its energy mix will come from renewable energy sources by 2030. Although India has not specified a cap on its emissions like China, that set a target to reduce its fossil fuel pollution by 2030 last year, there is a plan to improve the emission intensity by using fewer amounts of carbon to fuel our growth. To achieve this ambitious target, a mega plan of installing 100 GW of solar capacity by 2022 has been set in place.

The Bone Of Contention

The elephant in the room that the delegates at the Paris Climate Change Summit want to address is the continuous rise of India’s carbon emissions in the coming years. This to occur even if everything India has planned works out well enough, something that is highly unlikely due to the recurring instances of corruption and an inefficient government framework. To add to this, the recent setbacks to the ruling party in Bihar elections, which has been very suitably portrayed as a drop in popularity of the Modi government by the western media, thereby putting a question mark on delivering on these long-term commitments!

When we talk about “Climate Justice”, we need to set the record straight. According to IEA figures, India accounted for just 3% of energy-related carbon dioxide emissions since 1890. In per capita terms, India’s emissions stood at 1.6 metric tons per capita in 2014—just 10% of the level for the US and a quarter of the level for China that will cap its emissions and likely phase out coal after building a 1000 megawatt power plant a week for the last 15 years. According to Navroz K. Dubash a senior fellow at the Centre for Policy Research, China’s emissions are vastly more than India’s, though both countries have similar population.

Surely, we are doing what we can but there are many fronts to which we are turning a blind eye, e.g. our population explosion. If poverty is what we claim to be the reason behind our standpoint, what have we done to put a stop to the rising population in our country? Have we been as bold as China in adopting a one-child policy? India is set to overtake China in the next decade as the most populated country; it is not like we never knew of the issue, we had enough time with us, but we failed to act. We could adopt some innovative eco-friendly solutions that are indigenously created in India.

Climate justice must be served, but not at the cost of our planet. Yes, we have every right to demand climatic finance from the developed nations; they owe it to the world. Western countries cannot shift the onus on developing nations, but we as a growing nation also cannot simply turn our head away from issues that we can easily resolve with a firm political will and without assistance from the outside. Hopefully, we will take some action and reach a consensus for confronting the burning issues at the Paris Summit.

Image sources –
Pixabay

Online Laundries, Time Savers for People in Fast-Paced World

By

Caleidoscope

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December 1, 2015

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Is it true that you are a family that utilizes tablecloths and fabric napkins frequently? We for the most part utilize them around the Christmas season here at our house. I think individuals frequently don’t utilize more pleasant fabrics and napkins since we see it as work to prepare them for an occasion and afterwards to get them clean after said occasion.

Be that as it may, the means to dealing with tablecloths and napkins don’t need to be troublesome. It’s particularly useful on the rarest of occasions that you store them accurately in any case. But we do not have our say on the problems that happen with our clothing after the wash. We usually blame the laundry guy or the dhobiwaalas.

Step by step, the mountain of clothes develops. Grimy socks, Stained pants, Soccer regalia. The laundry isn’t ceasing at any point in the near future, so it’s a great opportunity to take control and get composed. Before researching little pantry thoughts and giving your space a makeover, making a clothing framework is an unquestionable requirement. Being sorted out in the kitchen area doesn’t simply keep your home clean – it likewise cleans up your mind and soul.

Today i will explain to you why would it be a good idea for you to settle on an online clothing laundry? We’ve seen a ton of extraordinary changes in the current time. From internet shopping to demonetization, India is encountering an amazing development. With the presentation of Make in India extend, everything is being digitized. From requesting nourishment to clothing, everything has discovered its way to the advanced world. The home delivery laundry service at Bangalore is one such example.

While a few industries are as yet battling their way to the computerized world, enterprises like clothing solutions and laundry are gradually prospering and are working towards limiting the clothing heap of the homemakers and all other people who need to experience this overwhelming undertaking of doing the laundry.

Bangalore, as we probably are aware of, is the silicon valley of India. Bangalore is a standout city amongst the most event places across the globe. Since it has additionally picked up the title of the most start-up well-disposed city of India, the clothing business and laundry service has turned out to be an outstanding work amongst the most noticeable industries here. Because of the expanding population, interest for online clothing and cleaners in Bangalore has increased altogether, giving a notch to the clothing business.

Though it might take troubles and pains in finishing and setting up you laundry room in a good condition, it is advisable to be persistent and smart in getting these things done. “Quick-Lick rubble, vanish all trouble” should be the motto of our cleaning activities conducted at home.
It is better to clean all the dirt as fast as possible rather than inviting germs to party at our laundry-bags and baskets.

Clothing organizations are answer for all everyday tiredness of occupied individuals. LaundroKart has all dress arrangements and is one such help to all working class individuals. We as a whole know the torment of clothing and pressing of garments, and for the individuals who have no other decision, it is the most feared assignment of ends of the week. Acting the hero, this firm offers administrations of washing and pressing, just Ironing, cleaning, coloring and darning of garments, and all issues with your wearable.

There is an increasing degree for online clothing administrations in India to grow. With individuals getting increasingly mechanic to arrange for any huge or little laundry services through simply a few swipes on their cell phones, clothing-solution services are soon going to move completely to the applications. At this moment, there is some neighborhood, adjacent clothing shops where individuals call and they give pick and drop facilities taking some additional charge; however the thing is they have a little client base and for the most part a small consumer base.

To conclude it, selecting an online clothing-service serves to be the best choice for your heap of garments. Not exclusively does it keeps you from the errands of doing undesirable clothing additionally makes your life less demanding and more helpful!

There are umpteen laundry services that are available around the city that are at the quickest reach. All clothing solutions are available at your finger’s reach now. Try them today to experience a happy weekend with your laundry