‘All We Imagine As Light’: A Cinematic Glory For Indian Cinema!

After three decades, India’s long-awaited breakthrough at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival finally arrived. On May 25th, 2024, Payal Kapadia, a talented female filmmaker, secured the Grand Prix at the 77th annual Cannes Film Festival for her directorial masterpiece, ‘All We Imagine As Light’. This achievement, the second-highest prize after the Palme d’Or, was a monumental moment for the Indian film industry, marking its first-ever reception of this honour. Payal Kapadia also made history as the first Indian woman to compete and win the leading award at Cannes. This milestone, a testimony to the power of Indian storytelling, will be etched in the annals of Indian cinema for years to come, inspiring a new generation of filmmakers. Kapadia’s prize-winning movie, ‘All We Imagine As Light,’ is not just a drama centred on two Malayali nurses and their struggles and journeys in life. It’s a powerful narrative that resonated deeply with the audience, evoking vivid emotions and sparking meaningful conversations. The movie was screened at the festival on May 23rd and received an eight-minute standing ovation from the audience, which was a solid proof of its emotional depth and cinematic brilliance. It was a priceless moment for every Indian film enthusiast that will be etched in their hearts forever. In 1994, ‘Swaham,’ a directorial by Shaji N. Karun, was the last movie selected for the festival from India. Now ‘All We Imagine As Light’ has set a new benchmark for Indian cinema once again. All We Imagine As Light: The Story Of Real Lives Kapadia’s movie is a Malayalam-Hindi feature film about the life of a nurse, Prabha. The story takes a turn when she receives a letter from her alienated partner, which throws her life in different directions. Parallelly, she develops a strong bond with her roommate, Anu. Anu is another female character in the movie who finds it difficult to spot a private place to spend time with her boyfriend in the busy city. They both find hardships in their personal relationships. Still, the story takes a different turn when they start a road trip to a beach forest. That place filled with magic becomes the accelerator that manifests their dreams into reality. Payal Kapadia’s historic triumph was met with acclaim and pride nationwide. Esteemed figures from the Indian film industry and beyond showered her with accolades, heralding her win as a moment of national pride. “Her remarkable talent continues to shine on the global stage, giving a glimpse of the rich creativity in India. This prestigious accolade honours her exceptional skills and inspires a new generation of Indian filmmakers.” Prime Minister Sri Narendra Modi Ji wrote about the victory of the film on X. Kani Kusruthi and Divya Prabha played the lead roles in this film, which was shot over 25 days in Mumbai and Ratnagiri.

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Entertainment

Highly Anticipated Digital Platform Releases You Shouldn’t Miss This Year!

Are you always on the hunt for the latest thrilling, mind-bending OTT release? Look no further! We’ve got some new releases on digital platforms that are entertainment and thought-provoking cinematic gems. These exciting stories will transport you to a world of mixed emotions and realisations. Here is a list of some of the latest OTT releases, offering various genres, including thrillers, dramas, and comedies. Experience the ultimate entertainment and joy of watching them! Panchayat Season 3 Get ready to laugh out loud as Panchayat, the blockbuster comedy drama in Hindi, returns with its new season. Abhishek Tripathi, the panchayat secretary in Phulera village, is back again with an engaging narrative. This season is all about heightened political dramas and the fight between the two characters, Pradhan and Bhushan, who try hard to maintain the public image. The new season promises fresh perceptions and explorations of rural life. The presence of esteemed actors such as Neena Gupta and Raghubir Yadav is an additional highlight. The series is set to be streamed on Amazon Prime Video from May 28th, so mark your calendars! Swatantrya Veer Savarkar A biographical drama based on the life of Veer Savarkar, the iconic freedom fighter, is released on May 28th. Randeep Hooda, known for his compelling performances, not only portrayed the role of Savarkar but also directed the movie. This movie explores the life journey of Savarkar, who started as a law student in London and then transformed into an activist who fought against the British. The film showcases Savarkar and Mahatma Gandhi’s relationships and interactions. The movie is premiered on Zee5 channel. The First Omen An American supernatural film under the horror movie category will be premiered on Disney plus Hotstar on May 30th. The story begins with the journey of a young American woman sent to Rome in the name of her holy mission to serve god. Still, she has to face many challenges there, including the dark conspiracies aiming at the worship of evil spirits and the incidents happening after this. The movie takes you into the gripping battle between faith and evil. It discusses the beliefs regarding the coming of the antichrist. Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, a period drama set in 2024, was released on May 1st on Netflix. Sanjay Leela Bhansali directed this drama series, and it has become a super hit, consistently holding the top position among trending series. Heeramandi, also known as the red-light district of Lahore, was once a centre for illegal activities and prostitution. The story reveals the unknown truths about the tawaifs of Heeramandi against the backdrop of the Indian Independence movement against the British Raj during 1940.

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Food

Culinary And Artistic Bliss – A Journey Through Bangalore’s Ultimate Creative Hotspots

Haven’t you sought a break from your weighing responsibilities, tasks, and emotional stress? How many of you genuinely wish for a productive escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life? Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India, is not just about technology and shopping. It’s a treasure trove of diverse recreational activities. These are the go-to spots for those seeking relaxing art therapies, romantic dates, friendly chats over coffee, or even some quality ‘me time.’ . Let’s delve into the city’s unique art cafes, each a perfect spot for unlimited relaxation. Bangalore’s vibrant energy is beautifully reflected in its diverse array of art cafes, where culinary delights blend seamlessly with creative inspiration. These cafes are not just for artists and writers but for anyone seeking a spark of creativity. These cafes offer unique spaces adorned with art exhibitions, interactive workshops, and aesthetically pleasing interiors. Bristo Claytopia – A Perfect Blend Of Food And Art Bristo Claytopia, a one-of-a-kind art cafe in Koramangala, Bangalore, is where ‘food meets art’. It’s not just a place to eat but a creative hub offering a wide range of ready-made magnets, jewellery boxes, figurines, small flower vases, and mugs to explore and paint on. They have facilities for kids’ birthday parties and events, including various kid-friendly activities. You can customise the menu by choosing four favourite dishes. Moreover, this art cafe is pet-friendly. Artville Cafe – Splash Of Art To Elevate Your Tastebuds Curl up with a book and a cup of coffee in a quiet corner and enjoy the beauty of paintings by talented artists. Artville Cafe, located in a quiet corner of Kalyan Nagar, welcomes you to the magical world of art and food. More than an arthouse or a coffee shop, this is a place where you can buy your favourite paintings or try your talent on a canvas. The friendly and warm atmosphere makes it the perfect place to relax and unwind. The menu includes a variety of quick bites, such as pasta, sandwiches, pizzas, and burgers. You can also savour a steaming cup of coffee or a glass full of mango or ginger refresher for a change. You can even come here with your laptop, enjoy a snack, and complete your work with unlimited WiFi support. This unique art cafe sells artwork by talented artists and conducts long-term and short-term art courses. Urban Solace – Tiny Retreat For Art Lovers This tiny art cafe, led by Perry Menzies, has been a hub for art and food lovers for years. Urban Solace is not just a cafe; it’s a community where art lovers come together to share their passion. This art cafe in the Ulsoor area engages artists through music and chat shows. Comedians, musicians, writers, and artists gather here, and the atmosphere is always filled with positivity and laughter. If you visit this place, do not forget to order food from their exclusive menu. You can enjoy soups, salads, cocktails, and everything from waffles to baked aubergines.

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Health and Wellness

Boost Your Brain’s Dopamine Level & Feel More Joy with These Simple Tricks!

Who wouldn’t want to boost their mood and energy and find inner peace? Achieving peace of mind is challenging for many in today’s fast-paced world. However, with the right approach, it’s not an impossible task. Experts say it’s essential to take a break and appreciate the little joys in life, especially in our busy lives. Dopamine – The Invisible Key To Happiness Have you heard of dopamine? It’s not just a hormone; it’s the key to unlocking a world of positivity and happiness. Dopamine, known as the ‘feel-good hormone’, can be our ally in the pursuit of a more fulfilling life. Increasing its production can lead to a dopamine rush, activating the brain’s reward and pleasure mechanism and filling our lives with joy and contentment. But how can we stimulate the production of dopamine in our bodies? Instead of seeking quick fixes, let’s explore some enjoyable and practical habits. From regular exercise and enjoying a nutritious, balanced diet to practising mindfulness and setting achievable goals, these simple changes can help boost dopamine levels and enhance your life. Why Sunlight Is Important? Did you know that basking in the morning sun not only improves vitamin D production but also increases dopamine production, boosting your energy and enthusiasm? Try it during your morning walk, and you’ll immediately notice a positive change in yourself. Happiness Begins In The Gut There is a famous saying by Hippocrates, ‘All disease begins in the gut.’ There is always another side to this opinion. If the gut is clear, you can say, ‘All happiness begins in the gut.’ Yes, expert studies reveal that certain fermented food items can accelerate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the stomach, as such food items contain probiotics. ACV, curd, buttermilk, cheese, idli, dosa, etc, are a few examples on the list. Tyrosine, The Amino Acid Tyrosine, an amino acid, is essential for protein production in the body and can also boost dopamine levels. It would be ideal to include tyrosine-rich food items like milk and milk products, fish, meat, etc in your diet. Plant-based Food Items Prebiotic foods are entirely plant-based fibres that feed good bacteria in the gut. Some examples of prebiotic-rich foods are whole grains, nuts, cereals, soy products, etc. Prebiotics help maintain the balance and production of good bacteria in the body. Thus, they help produce dopamine. The Joy Of Music Did you know that music and happiness have some relationship? Engaging in your favourite activities or listening to your favourite music can automatically trigger the release of dopamine levels in the brain, leading to a feeling of pleasure. Sleep And Exercise A good sleep can help you regain your lost enthusiasm when you feel tired or dull. It happens because good sleep and physical activity increase dopamine production and energise you. Learn Something New Remember, there is no age limit for learning. The excitement you feel before learning new things is a result of dopamine. By continuously learning, you’re not just improving your happiness level in the moment but also ensuring a youthful and vibrant future.

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Food

A Tribute to World Milk Day And Timeless Legecy of Diary Delights!

Often hailed as nature’s gift to humanity, milk is a nutritional powerhouse that forms a crucial part of our diet from infancy to adulthood. This versatile liquid, more than just a beverage, symbolises nourishment. It is a key ingredient in our favourite dishes and a silent partner in our daily rituals, providing us with essential nutrients for a healthy life. The Milk Facts Milk is considered the universal drink as it is consumed around the world in different forms. We take milk from cows, buffaloes, camels, yaks, goats, horses, llamas, sheep, and reindeer. World Milk Day is observed annually on June 1st. Milk is said to be the nutritional powerhouse as it contains calcium, vitamins, protein, and vitamins. Milk has been a part of human diets for over 10,000 years, dating back to the early domestication of animals during the Neolithic period. Milk is the only food produced by mammals to feed their young ones. Even ancient mythologies mention the usage of milk. It is said that Cleopatra, the queen of Egypt, maintained her youthfulness and beauty by bathing in donkey milk, and for her daily consumption, she used a herd of 700 donkeys. Usually, raw milk taken from animals contains white blood cells and bacteria. After pasteurisation, the milk becomes ready for consumption, eliminating all white blood cells. Cultured dairy products like yoghurt, kefir, and cheese involve fermentation, a process that enhances milk’s nutritional value and digestibility. The fermented dairy products are the perfect source of probiotics. Milk is also available in powdered forms, known as milk powder, a white substance soluble in water. The most recent data from 2021 indicates that India is the leading global producer of milk. Uttar Pradesh comes at the top of the milk-producing states in India. In 1970, India witnessed the world’s most significant dairy development program, the ‘White Revolution,’ which was led by Padma Vibhushan Dr. Varghese Kurian. Milk Symbolism In ancient Egypt, milk symbolised purity. Cows were sacred animals associated with the goddess Hathor. She is often depicted as a cow or a woman with cow horns. In India, milk is a part of religious traditions. Cow’s milk and milk products are used as offerings to deities and for various sacred rituals. Ilk was a common element in ancient mythologies. For example, in Greek mythology, the Milky Way was said to be created from the milk of the goddess Hera. Similarly, Scandinavian mythology described the cosmic cow Audhumla, whose milk nourished the giant Ymir. Milk and dairy products are frequently depicted in ancient art and iconography ( a collection of illustrations), highlighting their importance. Egyptian tomb paintings and Greek pottery include milking and dairy processing images.

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Culture and Heritage

Finding Fun On The Way – A Handbook To Select The Right Bicycle For Your Kid

Let us introduce our children to the adventurous world of cycling, as this is the simplest way to boost their interest in physical activities and love for sports. Youngsters can improve motor skills, coordination, and confidence while having fun through cycling. With diverse options tailored to various ages and skill levels, parents can find bicycles that prioritize safety, comfort, and ease of use for their little riders. For every little adventure, different kinds of bicycles are available on the market, and you can choose according to your needs and interests. In this guide, we’ll explore the key factors and top brands to consider when selecting kid-friendly bicycles. This article highlights popular types and features and offers tips for ensuring a rewarding and enjoyable cycling experience for children of all ages. Safety Comes First Safety should always be the top priority when choosing a bicycle for your child. The child should feel secure and stable while riding. Here are some essential tips to help you select the ideal bicycle: Before we dive into the details, let’s take a quick look at some of the top-rated bicycle brands from India. These brands have a prime reputation for quality and safety, making them the right choice for your child’s first bicycle. Hero Cycles The most trusted and oldest cycle brand in India, Hero Cycles offers a wide variety of bicycles for adults, teenagers, and kids. Known as India’s most extensive cycle manufacturer, they provide bicycles in different price ranges and for other purposes, such as recreation, adventure, sports, etc. Their kid’s bicycles are budget-friendly and categorised according to gender, purpose, and age group. The most modern E-Cycles are another attraction. All the details of the products are available on their website. BSA Cycles BSA Cycles is a leading cycle brand from India, offering an exclusive selection of children’s bicycles for ages 2 to 13. Different varieties are available for boys and girls, according to their interests. Single-speed cycles are non-geared designs with rigid suspensions. As the manufacturing material is steel, there is no need to worry about rusting. BSA bicycles are available offline and online through top-rated stores and online platforms. Track &Trail Track & Trail bicycles are renowned for their quality craftsmanship, innovative designs, and performance-oriented features. They offer a variety of cycles to tackle different terrains and cycling styles, from smooth riding on city streets to harsh mountain trails. For each purpose, they provide exciting varieties, including exclusive features. They have online selling platforms where you can find out every detail about the product. The online websites allow you to choose the cycle by age, brand, type, or any specific choice. Cycling is not only an adventure but also a fun activity that you will cherish for a lifetime. It brings lovely memories of friendship rides, sightseeing, bonding, and more. Gift the right bicycle to your little one this time, and let them enjoy the joy of ultimate travel and adventure!

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Design Lifestyle

Eco Chic Living: Way Of Sustainable and Creative Living In Mud Houses

A home that emanates the smell of earth, where the walls radiate natural warmth and coolness, and every corner whispers the tales of traditional craftsmanship—this is the essence of a mud house. Each mud house is a space for nature’s abundant offerings, the artisan’s ingenuity, and meticulous craftsmanship. They are not mere structures but expressions of our deep-rooted connection to the earth. These affordable and accessible structures blend practicality with artistic heritage, uniting us in our commitment to sustainable living and our environment. Mud houses, crafted from earth, straw, water, and other natural materials, offer more than a place to live. They provide natural insulation, creating cosy heavens that offer comfort in all weather conditions. Expressions Of Creativity in Designing Delving into the artistic expressions found in mud house design is a fascinating journey. It unveils a beautiful narrative woven with culture, art, and architecture threads, each representing a unique tradition and a distinct community. Primitive technologies like carving and relief work are incorporated into the building process of mud huts in specific cultures and communities. Images and intricate embossed works depict daily lives, mythologies, and religious symbols while adding aesthetic appeal to the structure. Creating patterns and panels of various shapes and sizes often gives the mud houses a virtual appeal. Adding Natural Hues Natural and local resources, like minerals and natural pigments from plants, soils, etc., are generally used to paint the mud walls to give a different visual effect. The choice of colours also depends on some traditional beliefs. In some African cultures, white symbolizes purity and protection. Mud houses also differ in shape from traditional concrete houses. They often feature sculptural elements like niches, alcoves, and decorative columns, which are both functional and artistic, including the roof and ceiling. Here are famous examples of unique mud house designs. Gurunshi Earth Houses On the borders of Northern Ghana, in a village called Tiebele, unique mud houses are a different view. These mud houses of the Kassena tribe have a unique aesthetic appeal characterized by Gurunshi-decorated architecture. They use straws, mud, cow dung, etc., for the houses, which are built in specific geometric shapes. The shapes of these houses are significant, whereas the square houses are for married couples and the rectangular houses are for bachelors. Mud Houses Of Himachal Pradesh Traditional mud houses resurge in Himachal Pradesh, India when concrete homes are favored. These mud structures built long ago in Himalayan valleys remain strong, keeping the atmosphere cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Painted Mud Homes Of Ndebele The Ndebele Nation is an ethnic group in Zimbabwe known for their incredible talent and creativity. Through their paintings, the women of this group create beautiful studio mud houses. They paint patterns that symbolize certain qualities, giving each home a unique beauty. These are just a few examples of mud huts. If we explore more, we can find more one-of-a-kind designs that reflect tradition, culture, and ways of human livelihood.

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Education

Druk Padma Karpo School: A Renowned Center For Cultural Understanding & Creative Expression

Amid the stunning beauty of Ladakh, with the majestic backdrop of the Great Himalayas, proudly stands Ladakh’s educational gem, Druk Padma Karpo School. This notable educational institution was featured in the movie “3 Idiots” and affectionately called ‘Rancho School’ by visitors. We, the movie enthusiasts, only came to know about this school through the film. Beyond that, how many of you know about the cultural importance of this temple of education? Though the fame and name of this institution through the movie 3 Idiots is commendable, this 18-year-old educational institution has its own pride to boast and come forward. All About Sustainability You’ll be familiar with the iconic character played by Aamir Khan in the movie 3 Idiots’, who champions unconventional methods of education, creativity, and hands-on learning. Druk Padma Karpo School, founded years before the movie, embodies these same principles in everyday teaching, making it a unique and intriguing educational institution. The Founder His Holiness, the Gyalwang Drukpa, founded this school with a noble vision to educate the Buddhist value system through various study methods. Padma Karpo, which means the ”white lotus”, is an important symbol in Buddhism that embodies Buddhism’s values. The Temple Of Buddhist Philosophy Located in the coldest region of Ladakh, the school is a beacon of deep cultural values rooted in Buddhist philosophy. It proudly continues the mission of imparting world-class education to students from the Himalayan region, including nomadic tribes. The school’s curriculum includes teachings about Buddhism, Ladakhi language, and culture. It incorporates traditional festivals and ceremonies into the curriculum, which is evidence of its dedication to preserving and promoting Buddhist values. The Campus Once you step onto the campus, you can feel the magic. The whole building is designed like a Buddhist mandala. You will first notice the unique architecture harmoniously blends modern and traditional elements. The school’s buildings, constructed with locally sourced materials, are beautiful and environmentally friendly. Solar panels provide sustainable energy, while classrooms are designed to maximise natural light and warmth. These features and the school’s commitment to using reusable materials showcase its dedication to environmental conservation. Inside the classrooms, students explore the vast canvas of creativity while they learn everything. They are exposed to practical methods by conducting experiments, exploring new ideas, implementing critical thinking and problem-solving, etc. They get to know and practice their culture through music and dance, which imparts an inborn love for learning. The Famous ‘Idiotic Wall’ After the successful release of the movie 3 Idiots, this school’s famous ‘Idiotic Wall’, which was shown in the movie became the centre of attraction. Visitors come to the school just to see it and take photos in front of it. A visitor’s centre, photo station, and Rancho’s Cafe are also available for visitors to explore and enjoy. Sustainability At Its Core The school is not just an educational institution but a pioneer in sustainable education. Its water recycling system, eco-friendly garden, and use of reusable materials are all part of its commitment to minimising environmental impact. These practices inspire not just the students but also the visitors to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle.

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Entertainment

Accordion Legacy: A Patent Anniversary Celebration of Generational Melodies

On May 24, 2024, Google honoured the accordion ( a musical instrument) with a unique and creative doodle as a tribute to its melodious journey that began in 1829. The instrument, affectionately called ‘the squeezebox,’ has touched the hearts of generations with its lively polkas and soulful tangos. Google delightfully presented the doodle as a beautiful musical display. The logo was transformed into distinctive accordion bellows, and the dancing figures appeared in traditional German attire and danced according to the tunes. The accordion’s mesmerising sound continues to captivate audiences in Parisian cafes and ignite dance floors at Brazilian festivals, showcasing its enduring legacy and universal appeal. Some Accordion Facts The accordion, a genuinely global instrument, has found its place in almost every musical culture worldwide. In Russia, it is a key instrument in balalaika (a Russian musical instrument) ensembles, adding a lively and energetic sound. In Colombia, it is the heart of Vallenato groups (a popular Colombian folk music genre), providing the rhythmic and melodic foundation. From the lively Russian balalaika ensembles to the soulful Colombian vallenato groups, the accordion’s universal appeal is proof of its enduring legacy.

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Fashion

Sabyasachi’s Floral-Themed Designer Saree Grabbed Fashion Enthusiasts’s Attention!

The Met Gala, also known as ‘fashion’s biggest night out ‘, is one of the most anticipated fashion events in the world, hosting celebrities and fashion enthusiasts. It became a treat for the eyes of the guests as many celebrities, young designers, and fashion enthusiasts showcased their way of styling. This annual fashion show, held on the first Monday of May, raises funds for the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. This is known as the world’s most prestigious and glamorous fashion event, where the most influential figures in the fashion industry gather to celebrate and showcase their creativity. The wearer’s Indian saree styling for the occasion immediately captivated the attention of fashion enthusiasts worldwide. This year’s gala theme, ‘The Garden Of Time,’ provided a stunning backdrop for this mint green Sabyasachi saree, a global representation of Indian culture. The fashion world was abuzz with admiration for this elegant and culturally significant look. The exquisite floral saree, a creation of Sabyasachi Mukherjee, was a perfect embodiment of this year’s dress code, ‘The Garden Of Time’. Sabyasachi’s exquisite designer saree showcased Indian culture on a global stage through her attire, which was a significant highlight of the event. The saree’s beauty sparked a wave of admiration and discussion in the online community, with many praising its unique design and cultural representation. As one post exclaimed, ‘Met Gala 2024 showcased the Sabyasachi’s designer saree, a global representation of the wearer’s culture.’ This celebration of the new floral look resonated with the online community, further underscoring the importance of cultural representation in fashion. The customized saree beautifully showcased this year’s theme, “Sleeping Beauty: Reawakening Fashion.” In an interview with Vogue, it is mentioned, “The sari’s design, with its translucent, glass-like appearance, is not just a nod to the ethereal quality of the garden in Ballard’s story but also a tribute to the exquisite, enduring craft of sari-making.” According to reports, this saree was a true labour of love. It was meticulously crafted by a team of 163 people, including craftsmen, dyers, embroiderers, and weavers, who dedicated over 1965 hours to its creation. Each thread and stitch was not just a part of the saree but a testament to their exceptional skill and dedication, inspiring the fashion world with their craftsmanship. ‘As I wear this outfit, I feel incredibly grateful to embody this exquisite creation, a testament to boundless love and painstaking effort.’ Alia Bhatt wrote on her Instagram page, expressing her deep appreciation to her collaborators and making them feel valued for their contribution.

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