6 Effective Ways To Deal With Back-to-School Anxiety!

Summer vacation is about to say goodbye, and all the schools are set to open for a new, bright academic year. Though most children’s hearts are pitter-pattering with new colorful bags, umbrellas, and many more sweet-smelling stationery items, some children’s hearts are throbbing with thrashing anxiety. From ‘not knowing what to expect’ to ‘the thought of making new friends’, anxiety can be disturbing to many. So here’s how you can help your child deal with anxiety. Tell Them What to Expect Unfamiliarity can lash down anxiety. Not knowing what to expect, the school environment, and many more can make them fall into the whirlpool of disrupting thoughts. In such cases, it’s important to have an open conversation with your child where he/she can unhesitatingly address the concern and acquire your help. Sometimes taking your child to school on the first day and introducing the school environment can help them to an extent. Feed Them With Positivity Keep telling them about all the wonderful things awaiting them at school. From friends who’ll colour their lives to teachers who’ll help them grab their dreams, and convince them about the possibilities and opportunities they’re going to chase and grasp. Ensure Better Living From eating junk food to sleep deprivation, anxiety can stem from an unhealthy lifestyle. Make sure your child is having proper meals and a good night’s sleep. A healthy lifestyle can not only strengthen your child’s body but also magically help your child ease their mental discomforts. Stay Calm and Listen to Your Child It’s important for parents to stay calm and be all ears. Talk as gently as possible to comfort your kid. Comparing your child with your neighbor’s smart child will only worsen their anxiety. So instead of lashing down at them for their brimming worries, cheer them up to chase their dreams and let them know that they’re not alone in this. Arrange Playdates Invite some of their school friends for playdates. Sometimes the thought of bonding again with friends after a long time makes them feel more anxious. Arranging playdates once in a while can help them cope with anxiety. Seek Help If It’s Needed Sometimes things can spill out of your hands. If anxiety is villainous, don’t hesitate to seek help from professionals. The excessive worries fuelled by anxiety disorder can dampen the strength and make your child struggle so helplessly.

Fathima Sanna

Entertainment

Enjoyed Laapataa Ladies? 4 Movies & Series About Small Towns To Watch!

Looking for movies and series set in small towns with slices of comedy to crack up? Laapataa Ladies, the heartwarming tales of two newly married brides who get lost and swapped, highlights the issues lashed down on women by society. If this movie with its heart-wrenching and chuckling moments made your heart hungry for movies with small-town lives, here’s the list of movies to delve into. Toilet: Ek Prem Katha (2017) Toilet: Ek Prem Katha centers around the lack of toilets in rural villages. When the newly married Jaya discovers the lack of a toilet in the groom’s house, she decides to file for divorce, leaving Keshav with a strong urge to fight against open defecation and to ensure proper sanitation to win back his love. The movie not only supports the government’s campaign of promoting sanitation but also sheds light on ensuring basic needs as an important act of love. Pad Man (2018) Here comes another movie with Akshay Kumar. Pad Man is set in a rural village, where women struggle with period poverty and menstrual taboo. Laxmikant, the loving husband of Gayatri, gets upset to see his wife coping with an unhygienic rag during her period. Seeing this, Laxmikant is set to create an affordable pad for his wife and to tear away the age-old menstrual taboo to bring awareness. Panchayat (2020) Panchayat is a wonderfully woven series set in a fictionalized small town named Phulera, nestled in Uttar Pradesh, shedding light on the lack of proper job opportunities and the struggles of being trapped in a low-paying job. Abhishek, an engineering graduate from an urban area is left with the only option to join as a secretary of a panchayat office. His struggles amidst the harsh corners of reality, hurled away from his dream life, will surely make you thrilled to keep binge-watching. Ghar Waapsi (2022) Ghar Waapsi is a gripping series that centers around Shekhar, who has to return to the comfort of his homeland after being sacked from his job at Bangalore. Isn’t being jobless something shameful to admit? Yes, Shekhar decides to keep his unemployment to himself and to live within the pampered walls of familial love. But what will happen if he gets caught?

Aswathy

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.

Aswathy

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.

Fathima Sanna

Entertainment

Westworld to Her: 6 Best Movies on Artificial Intelligence

From humanoid robots with exceptional skills to ChatGpt that mimics human capabilities, AI has revolutionarily set out to reign the world. But are technological developments dangerous? Will AI pose a threat to humanity? Here’s the list of movies that have depicted both AI and the downside of dangerous technological advancement. Westworld (1973) Westworld is a mind-blowing sci-fi movie directed by Michael Crichton, shedding light on the troubles that could befall if technology is losing control. The movie is set in a futuristic amusement park packed with androids to entertain adult vacationers, but soon some troublesome malfunction would inflate the androids with menacing power to kill humans one by one. Why not watch if you want to feel thrilled to the brim? A.I Artificial Intelligence (2001) Do you still remember Pinocchio? A.I. Artificial Intelligence is an achingly beautiful movie by Steven Spielberg that tells the story of a childlike robot who wishes to be a human. Aren’t we all living to be loved a little more? Just like us, David, the child robot, desperately yearns to be loved by his human mother after being abandoned in the middle of forest. This heart-wrenching movie depicts the value of love. Ex Machina (2014) Ex Machina is for the ones who cherry-pick thrillers. This psychological thriller by Alex Garland shows the dark side of Artificial intelligence. Ava, a beautiful woman robot crafted by Nathan, turns out to be far more deceptive and powerful than her creator. Go watch to know the extent to which AI can rain threats. Wall-E (2008) Wall-E is a spellbinding animated movie by Andrew Stanton, about the last lonely robot who is sent to deserted earth in the 29th century to tidy up the garbage. The animation will take you to the futuristic society where humans leave the earth due to the ecocide. The story becomes gripping when Wall-e spots EVE, who is sent on earth to investigate something alive. Her (2013) Wanna watch a movie where a human dates an AI? Her is uniquely beautiful science fiction that follows the devastated life of a man named Theodore after being abandoned by his wife. But soon Theodore’s world is luminated by the arrival of a fascinating system named Samantha. Gradually the friendly conversation deepens and sprouts into love. But will Samantha cause him troubles?

Fathima Sanna

Entertainment

The Krampus to Paimon: 6 Blood-curdling Mythical Creatures From Horror Movies

Aren’t the hair-raising presence of spooky creatures that make up horror movies? Well! These creatures are mostly inspired by mythologies and folklore. From Krampus to Paimon, here are some of the spine-chilling creatures from horror movies that will surely keep you up all night. Krampus Krampus, a horned beastly monster from European folklore, is a creature that punishes naughty children during Christmas time. In the movie, Krampus (2015), the monster is portrayed with an incredible blend of violence and fantasy. Krampus fumes out wrath when Max loses his Christmas spirit after the squabbling of family! If you’re up for a goofy horror movie with a splash of violence, this one’s for you. Leprechaun In Irish folklore, Leprechaun is a tiny fairy who wears a coat and cocked hat. He leads a solitary life by cobbling shoes, but wait, he has a hidden pot brimming with gold. But in the movie, leprechaun is portrayed as a blood-curdling creature that went on a rampage to take revenge and reclaim his gold. It highlights the theme of greed, that greed will eventually rain gruesome consequences. Dayan Dayan from Ek Thi Daayan, is inspired by Indian mythologies. Isn’t it interestingly scary to watch a witch who stores her magical power in head, but loses it when the braid is being cut? If you’re tired of usual Bollywood horror, this one is different with its gripping twist and different flavour. The Weeping Woman Here comes the wandering ghost in white dress, but shh! she’s busy mourning for the children she drowned to death. The Weeping Woman from The Curse Of La Llorona, is based on Mexican folklore where the spirit in white dress and veil, lives by preying on the children who roam around the water. Djinn Plethora of movies are inspired by this evil creature from Arabic mythology. People possessed by Djinn are portrayed as scary and harmful. From Under the Shadows to Dabbe: The Curse Of Djinn, Djinns are shown as angered creatures with a disturbing urge to harm and even kill the target individuals. Paimon This terrifying biblical creature will send shivers down your spine. The closest to the devil, the dearest of Lucifer, is the king paimon from mythology. In the unsettling movie, hereditary Paimon haunts the family by striking them with supernatural happenings.

Fathima Sanna

Entertainment

Coraline To Seoul Station: 4 Creepiest Animation Movies For Horror Enthusiasts!

Sick and tired of constantly watching live-action horror movies? If yes, why not watch some intriguingly spectacular spooky animation movies? Animated movies blanketed with spine-chilling air, have equally arresting effects to immerse you with both visuals and sound effects. From Coraline to Seoul Station, here’s the list of horror animation movies to watch. Coraline Are you someone who wonders about the possibility of parallel universes? If yes, Coraline, directed by Henry Selick, will definitely enthral you with its horrendously gripping plot. While exploring the secret door in the drawing room, Coraline gets trapped in another world with other parents. The movie centres around Coraline’s challenging journey back to the real world. ParaNorman Wanna watch a spooky animation woven with zombies, ghosts and a witch? ParaNorman directed by Chris Butler and Sam Fell, is such a spine-chilling animation movie that tells the tale of an eccentric boy with an ability to communicate with the dead people. Norman must protect the town of Blithe Hollow from the centuries old curse of a witch. If you’re up for a hellaciously challenging movie, you should definitely give it a shot. Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island You must have heard about this popular bone-chilling animation movie! Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island is a must watch spooky movie that will take you to an island named Moonscar along with Scooby Doo and his gang. After being bored by encountering fake ghosts, the gang is set to find a real haunting one. With all zombies, angry alligators, shapeshifters, vengeful cats, the movie will definitely send chills down your spine! Seoul Station If you’re a fan of Train To Busan, you’ll not only find it familiar, but also appreciate it for its breathtakingly horrid animation. When a homeless man with a wound gets in the station, no one knows that he’s bitten by something dangerous. The trouble rains when he dies to be reborn as a ravenous zombie to spread the pandemic. Now, the three main characters have to figure a way out to survive the hopeless night.

Fathima Sanna

Education

7 Weirdest Study Hacks To Beat Exams!

Exams come with thrashing waves of stress. Stress can not only dampen your confidence, but also makes everything you learnt appear to be blurred. From chewing gum to wearing perfume, we’ve gathered some interestingly bizzare study hacks that you should try for your next semester exams. These hacks will amazingly help you tackle forgetfulness by activating your brain to memorise. Chewing Gum If you’re someone who constantly chews gum, why not stick with the same flavour while studying as well as writing exams? Chewing the same flavoured gum while writing exam will help you memorise the chapters you have swallowed. Exercise before Exam Indulging in walking for around 20 minutes before attending the exam will magically enhance your memory. Even breathing can refresh and jog your memory. So don’t forget to move your body before you ladle out your brain. Change the Place Ever felt stifled while studying inside the locked study room? Move from one room to another, from the central hall to the balcony. Moving places will make it easier to swallow chapters for exams. Laugh Laughing makes it hilariously engaging. Do a little searching of your chapters, but one that’s presented in a hilarious way to make you chortle. If there’s no such funny content available on the internet, why not make a joke out of the topic for a barrel of laughs. Laughing can enhance your memory. Stand Up And Sit Down This is way more interesting than chewing gum. First, sit down to read and swallow the chapters, and stand up to recite everything you’ve read. Keep sitting down and standing up while indulging in studying adventure. Let your body move along with your brain. Wash Your Face With Cold Water Splash cold water on your face or take cold showers to refresh yourself. According to studies, the neurochemicals released during the cold shower will help you stay more focused. Wear Perfume Just like sticking with the same flavoured chewing gum while studying and attending exams, smelling the same cologne can easily help your brain recollect what you’ve learnt.

Nikhat Parveen

Culture and Heritage

Spiritual Confluence: Unveiling the Tapestry of India’s Syncretic Traditions

A Harmony of Diverse Beliefs Do you know that India’s spiritual tapestry is woven with threads of diverse faiths, each one intertwined in a harmonious symphony of shared heritage? From the syncretic shrines that celebrate the confluence of religious beliefs to the age-old traditions that transcend boundaries, this incredible nation is a testament to the power of spiritual unity amidst diversity. Get ready to embark on a captivating journey through the syncretic traditions of India, where every step unveils a world of coexistence, tolerance, and a profound reverence for the divine. The Dargah of Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti Journey to the historic city of Ajmer, where the revered Dargah of Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti stands as a beacon of spiritual confluence. Prepare to be awestruck by the harmonious coexistence of Hindu and Islamic traditions within these hallowed walls. You’ll be fascinated to learn that this sacred shrine is a revered pilgrimage site for devotees of all faiths, who come to seek the blessings of the beloved Sufi saint and partake in the mystical qawwali music that resonates within its precincts. The Syncretic Shrines of Kashmir Venture into the breathtaking landscapes of Kashmir, where the syncretic traditions have left an indelible mark on the region’s spiritual fabric. Prepare to be enchanted by the shrines that dot the picturesque valleys, each one a testament to the harmonious coexistence of diverse faiths. From the revered Charar-e-Sharief shrine, where Hindu and Muslim devotees alike seek blessings, to the Kheer Bhawani temple, where the mystic traditions of Hinduism and Sufism intertwine, these sacred sites offer a serene refuge for spiritual seekers of all backgrounds. The Baul Traditions of Bengal Immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Bauls, a unique spiritual community from Bengal that transcends religious boundaries. Prepare to be mesmerized by their soulful melodies and mystical poetry, where the teachings of Hinduism, Islam, and Buddhism are intricately woven into a tapestry of universal love and divine unity. Not only do the Bauls celebrate the syncretic spirit through their music and poetry, but they also embody a way of life that embraces the oneness of all creation. The Sufi-Hindu Shrines of Punjab Journey to the vibrant state of Punjab, where the syncretic traditions have found a unique expression in the form of Sufi-Hindu shrines. Prepare to be intrigued by the melding of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles and spiritual practices at shrines like the Dargah of Baba Bulleh Shah and the Dargah of Baba Wali Qandhari. You’ll be amazed to learn that these sacred sites are revered by devotees of both faiths, who come together to seek blessings, participate in shared rituals, and celebrate the universal message of love and devotion. The Mystic Traditions of Kabir No exploration of India’s syncretic spiritual traditions would be complete without delving into the profound teachings of the mystic poet Kabir. Prepare to be captivated by the timeless wisdom that permeates his verses, where the boundaries between Hinduism and Islam dissolve, and the essence of divine love transcends all barriers. Not only did Kabir’s poetry inspire a unique syncretic tradition, but his message of unity and tolerance continues to resonate across generations and religious divides. Embracing the Spirit of Unity As you bid farewell to this captivating journey through India’s syncretic traditions, remember that these spiritual confluences are not just historical curiosities; they are living embodiments of the nation’s rich tapestry of religious diversity and the enduring spirit of unity. Embrace the harmony that these traditions celebrate, and carry with you the memories of a journey that has undoubtedly enriched your understanding of the shared heritage that binds us all together.

Nikhat Parveen

Culture and Heritage

Craft Chronicles: Weaving a New Tapestry for India’s Endangered Handicrafts

Threads of Heritage, Woven with Passion Do you know that India is home to a rich tapestry of handicrafts, each one a testament to the ingenuity, creativity, and cultural heritage of our artisans? From the intricate weaves of Kinnauri shawls to the exquisite metalwork of Bidri, these crafts have stood the test of time, but now face the threat of extinction. Get ready to embark on a captivating journey through the chronicles of India’s endangered handicrafts, where every stitch, every stroke, and every molten drop tells a story of resilience and passion. The Kinnauri Shawls – Warmth and Artistry Interwoven Nestled in the remote valleys of Himachal Pradesh, the Kinnauri shawls are more than just cozy wraps; they are living canvases of intricate designs and vibrant colors. As you run your fingers across the soft wool, you’ll be amazed by the intricate patterns that adorn these shawls, each one a testament to the skill and patience of the Kinnauri weavers. But wait, there’s more! You’ll be fascinated to learn that these shawls are not just functional garments; they hold deep cultural significance, with each motif representing the region’s rich heritage and symbolic meanings. The Mystic Allure of Bidri Metalwork Journey to the historic city of Bidar, where the age-old tradition of Bidri metalwork has captivated artisans and connoisseurs alike for centuries. Prepare to be mesmerized by the intricate patterns and designs that adorn these exquisite metalworks, each one a testament to the skilled hands of the Bidri craftsmen. Not only is this craft a visual feast, but it also holds deep spiritual significance, with many of the motifs and symbols rooted in ancient Sufi traditions and Islamic calligraphy. The Vibrant Hues of Kalamkari Immerse yourself in the world of Kalamkari, a centuries-old textile art form that hails from the vibrant state of Andhra Pradesh. Prepare to be captivated by the intricate patterns and vibrant hues that adorn these hand-painted fabrics, each one a labor of love and a testament to the artisans’ mastery over natural dyes and intricate brushwork. But wait, there’s more! You’ll be amazed to learn that the art of Kalamkari was once a closely guarded secret, with each motif and technique passed down through generations of skilled artisans. The Sculptural Splendor of Jalari Craft Venture into the remote villages of Jharkhand, where the Jalari craft has been a source of pride and livelihood for generations of artisans. Prepare to be awestruck by the intricate sculptures and figurines crafted from horse hair and bamboo, each one a testament to the ingenuity and patience of the Jalari craftsmen. Not only are these creations visually stunning, but they also hold deep cultural significance, depicting scenes from local folklore and the region’s rich heritage. The Artisans’ Resilience As you delve deeper into the chronicles of India’s endangered handicrafts, you’ll be inspired by the unwavering resilience of the artisans who have dedicated their lives to preserving these age-old traditions. From the weavers of Kinnauri shawls to the Bidri metalworkers, these skilled craftsmen have faced numerous challenges, but their passion for their craft has kept these ancient techniques alive, one stitch, one stroke, and one molten drop at a time. Weaving a New Tapestry As we bid farewell to this captivating journey, remember that these endangered handicrafts are not just relics of the past; they are living embodiments of India’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring spirit of creativity. It is our collective responsibility to weave a new tapestry, one that celebrates and preserves these age-old traditions, ensuring that the threads of our artisans’ skills and passion are never lost. By embracing and supporting these endangered crafts, we can not only safeguard our cultural legacy but also empower the artisans who have dedicated their lives to keeping these ancient techniques alive.

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