5 Great Movies That Got Snubbed By Oscar (And You Have No Idea!)

Not every great movie gets the opportunity to grasp the prestigious Academy Award. Despite the admirable greatness and masterly quality, some movies are either snubbed or completely ignored by the Academy. If you’re still wondering about the box-office smash Barbie’s loss at the Academy, you’ll be shocked to see the history of Oscar Snubs. Citizen Kane Citizen Kane, the most popular movie by Orson Wells, was notable in the history of cinema for the innovative editing style and the groundbreaking plot. Despite being highly appreciated, the movie lost its Award to How Green Was My Valley by John Ford. Orson Wells’ movie revolves around the life of Charles Foster Kane, and the unveiling of the significance of rosebud, the last word uttered by the protagonist. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial Steven Spielberg’s E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial is such a mind-blowing movie that is still being embraced by movie buffs all around the world. Despite reigning theatres for an exceptionally long time and garnering nine nominations, E.T was not chosen for the Best Picture Award. The movie was not only loved for the presence of aliens but also for the strikingly beautiful theme of friendship. Frankenstein Frankenstein, the classic horror masterpiece, outshines in the list of movies ignored by the Academy. The genre was underrated and considered to be less worthy of Oscar. It’s unbelievable to think that Frankenstein couldn’t even get nominated. This timeless classic based on Mary Shelly’s book has set a groundbreaking step in the horror genre. City Lights Charlie Chaplin’s City Lights, was a smash hit that grossed more than 4 million dollars by drowning the spectators in the joy of laughter. Though this iconic silent movie with a tramp character garnered world’s attention and love, the Academy didn’t. This romance dramedy tells the tale of a tramp and his achingly hilarious journey to win the heart of a blind girl while dealing with his confusingly boozy millionaire friend. Before Sunrise Before Sunrise is such an intense movie woven with the emotions of love. This movie, a part of the Before trilogy, tells the tale of lovers, with strikingly beautiful moments as well as the lashing down of aching marital problems. Despite the appreciation and acceptance, the movie was ignored by the Academy. But the other two films in the “Before trilogy” were chosen by the Academy and shone in the list of nominations.

Fathima Sanna

Education

The Leitner System to Information Retrieval: Action-packed Learning Techniques to Boost Retention

There are many action-packed learning techniques to upgrade your studying methods. Isn’t it boring and annoying to merely swallow chapters only to forget the very next week? From the Leitner system to Information Retrieval, we’ve collected some fascinating studying methods to help you enhance memory through repeated revising, pausing and mapping methods. The Leitner System The Leitner learning system is characterised by spaced repetitions with the use of flashcards. The more we repeat the materials, the longer we memorise. This method can be employed when you’re faced with challenging topics. Here’s how you can apply this method Step 1: Craft flashcards and jot down the title of topic on one side, and the explanation on the other side Step 2: Collect some boxes to house these flashcards. Categorise the boxes with labels like “everyday, every other day, once in a week etc..”. The labels decide how much time you need to spend on particular topics and subjects. Pause Procedure This is all about pausing while studying. Pause every 15 minutes to indulge in reviewing everything you’ve learnt, frame questions to answer, identify the gap in your knowledge and work to fill it. The purpose of this method is to lessen the chances of losing attention. Pause procedure was introduced to be implemented in classrooms by teachers, so the students will get the time to clear the gap and explore the information as detailed as possible. Mind Mapping Mind mapping is all about organising information around the concept in the form of spider diagram. First you’ve to write down a core concept, and let your mind revolve around the idea to gather information linked to the concept. Now highlight words and phrases using different colours depending upon their relevance. Prefer keywords over phrases, and also add images to make it attractive enough to memorise. Information Retrieval A week after learning, try to remember the things you’ve learnt by framing questions by yourself. Practising information Retrieval method will make it easier for you to recall the information even after days. From writing down notes to sketching to mapping, there are many ways to practise information Retrieval. Don’t cheat yourself by peeking at the textbook while retrieving information. After recreating the information, check the notes to correct the errors and learn from it.

Fathima Sanna

Entertainment

My Way To Gloomy Sunday: 5 Songs that killed People In Real Life

Songs are widely embraced by the world for the echoes of emotions they flourish in the hearts of listeners. But what if it goes beyond the limit, to the extent of inciting brutal attacks and bitter deaths? From My Way by Frank Sinatra to Gloomy Sunday by Rezso Seress, there are some deadly songs that snatched the lives of listeners. So here’s the list of songs you should never get addicted to. My Way, Frank Sinatra Have you heard of My Way Killings? “My Way Killings” is a bizarrely shocking phenomenon that swept the karaoke bars in the Philippines with blood of brutal deaths. Around 12 murders were reported, all killings happened while playing the karaoke of Frank Sinatra’s My Way. The world is still clueless about the incidents, some critics take it as a mere coincidence while others point out “the aggressive pride” in the lyrics. Suicide Solution, Ozzy Osbourne Suicide Solution by Ozzy Osbourne has encouraged a teen to shot himself to death. The lines, “Suicide is the only way out” has lashed down at him with an urge to end everything. The same year, another death linked to this deadly song was reported. Osbourne was taken to court, but he claimed that “the song’s about the dangers of alcoholism”. Isn’t it terrifying to see that a mere misinterpretation of a song could lead one to death? Better By You, Better Than Me, Judas Priest Better By You, Better Than Me is another bizarre song that almost led to the deaths of two boys named James Vance and Raymond Belknap. These two little men were seen drowning in drugs. Though both of them decided to kill themselves, Vance had only injured himself. The lines in the song, “let’s be dead” and “do it” were later accused of propelling such suicidal thoughts and actions. The band was also taken and judged by the court. Gloomy Sunday, Rezso Seress Gloomy Sunday is another deadly song that has swept the world in gloom. Rezso Seress crafted this deadly melody when he was sinking in deep despair, the rejection by the music industry, the unbearable loss of love, the dooming career and the broken chunks of hope. Luckily, Gloomy Sunday would reap the world’s attention, and would continually be played but only to propel one suicide after another. Many corpses were discovered with the lyrics in their suicide notes. Gloomy Sunday is now referred to as “The Hungarian Suicide Song”.

yourplatform

Trends

Want to Heat Up Your Career? Add Some Sizzle with a New Foreign Language!

Standing out from the crowd is essential in today’s competitive job market. One powerful way to do so is by including a new foreign language in your resume. Like making a dish tastier with a delicious seasoning, an extra lingo can lend a dynamic edge to your career potential, unlocking doors to thrilling chances and propelling you ahead of the competition. But where do you even get started with so many languages to choose from? Do not worry! This article will be your North Star, helping you navigate the compelling domain of foreign languages and find the best-suited one to spice up your resume and sizzle your career! Beyond the Basics: Exploring Popular Languages In India, French, German, and Spanish are the most sought-after foreign languages, each offering career and academic benefits. French is highly valued due to its prevalence in businesses and countries worldwide. The second most popular German unlocks great scopes in Europe’s economic powerhouses and academia. Spanish follows, appealing because of its global reach, diverse career opportunities, and cultural influence. Eastern Delights: Unveiling the Potential of Asian Languages Finetune your learning compass if the West doesn’t appeal to you much. The East is rising! Japan and China, economic powerhouses with booming job markets, are searching for people fluent in their respective languages. And if K-pop and Korean dramas are your impasse, learning Korean will benefit you. It will put you right at the forefront of the Korean wave, allowing you to connect faster with its global influence. Hidden Gems: Exploring Less-Taught Languages As they say, ‘Who dares win,’ explore the “off-the-menu” options!Languages, even the “lesser-taught” ones like Portuguese, open doors to vibrant cultures and growing global job markets. On the other hand, Italian, with its artistic soul or Russian, with its echoes of history, offer exciting possibilities. Imagine cracking a business deal in Dubai, Arabic rolling off your tongue. Spoken by millions across the globe, this specific language unlocks career opportunities in the Middle East and beyond. The Secret Ingredient: Choosing the Right Language for You Consider your goals and interests when choosing a language. Do you want to work in an industry wherere a specific language is used or immigrate somewhere it’s spoken? Remember, although the difficulty level for learning every language differs, gauging someone’s pace to hone it is challenging despite the best intentions. For example, Spanish and Italian are viewed as easier for many than Mandarin, Chinese or Japanese. Set out on this stimulating adventure that complements your distinct path to success. Embrace the exploration!

Fathima Sanna

Entertainment

I Honestly Love You To Jolene: 5 Classic Songs Turning 50 in 2024!

The 1970s witnessed music at its peak, genres like punk and dunk as well as rock and reggae reigned the music industry. Disco was budding during 1974, which would later propel to popularity. The styles sprouted by the era reflected the chaos and changes in the society. From glam rock to philadelphia, 1974 had experimented with various styles to express and invoke bold emotions among people. So let’s revisit the songs that are turning 50 this year. This Town Ain’t Big Enough For Both Of Us This Town Ain’t Big Enough For Us by American band Sparks, is known for its incredible blend of glam rock and pop. The iconic “gunshot” sound in the song was carefully chosen by Sparks after extensively going through the BBC library. The gunshot has made the song remarkably striking for its novelty as well as the effect. The song, showcasing the falsetto vocals, were later covered by many artists. I Honestly Love You If you’re looking for a classic that captures the emotions intensified by love, this one’s for you. I Honestly Love You by Olivia Newton John has garnered awards for outshining in the pop genre as well as for being the Record of the Year. The song, notable for Newton John’s mind blowing vocals, was released in the album named Long Live Love. You Haven’t Done Nothing You Haven’t Done Nothing by Stevie Wonder is a funk with untwisted lyrics, reflecting the political turmoil that drowned the society in disquietness. The bold song was directed at then president Richard Nixon, who was later caught in the Watergate Scandal. The song, with the vocals of Jackson 5, is still embraced by the world for the theme of politics and injustice. Jolene Jolene is the album by Dolly Parton that consists of two songs, “ Jolene” and “ I will Always Love You”. The album, with iconic lines, helped Parton garner the world’s attention as well as to secure two Grammy nominations. I’ll Always Love You was a smash hit written for her business partner, Porter Wagoner. The Bitch is Back The Bitch is Back by Elton John outshines in discography. This striking hard rock blended with flamboyance is from the album Caribou. The song was so controversial for using the word bitch, that many radio stations in the US were reluctant to play the song. Despite the controversy and reluctance, the song is still covered and rewritten by many artists.

Nikhat Parveen

Food

Spice Trails: Culinary Adventures in India

Spice Trails, A Flavorful Journey Across Incredible India Kick-Starting the Spicy Adventure Guys, have you ever dreamed of going on an epic food adventure? Well, buckle up because we’re about to embark on a crazy spice trail across the vibrant land of India. This isn’t your typical “visit the Taj Mahal and leave” kinda trip. Oh no, we’re talking about a full-on culinary exploration that’ll blow your mind (and maybe your taste buds too). The Diverse Dynamos of Indian Cuisine You know how they say India is a land of diversity? Well, that’s not just about the people, languages, and cultures – it’s also about the incredible variety of flavors and spices that make Indian food so darn delicious! From the tandoor-kissed kebabs of the north to the coconut-laced curries of the south, this country’s got more flavors than you can shake a stick at. Key Point: Did you know that Indian cuisine actually has countless regional variations? It’s like every state (and sometimes even every city) has its own unique twist on spices, cooking techniques, and signature dishes. The Spice Route Secrets Speaking of spices, let’s talk about the real stars of the show – the magical blends that make Indian food so mind-blowingly tasty. You’ve probably heard of the big guns like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, but wait till you taste the lesser-known gems like asafoetida (don’t let the name fool you, it’s amazing!), fenugreek, and dried pomegranate seeds. Key Point: You’ll be shocked to know that many traditional Indian spice blends, like garam masala, contain over a dozen different spices! Each family often has their own secret recipe passed down through generations. Not Just Curries and Kebabs Now, when most people think of Indian food, they probably picture rich curries and succulent kebabs. And let’s be real, those are epic. But there’s so much more to explore on the spice trails of India! From crispy dosas (think: savory crepes) in the south to flaky samosas (veggie-stuffed pastries) in the north, the street food game in India is unbeatable. Key Point: Not only that, but Indian cuisine also has a fantastic array of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Think: lentil curries, stuffed breads, and vibrant chutneys that’ll make your tastebuds dance. The Human Connection Of course, no culinary adventure is complete without connecting with the people behind the flavors. On our spice trail, you’ll have the chance to visit local markets, interact with friendly vendors, and maybe even take a cooking class from a hospitable Indian grandma (because who knows spices better than grandmas, am I right?). Key Point: One of the best parts of exploring Indian cuisine is the warmth and hospitality of the people. Be prepared to make some new friends and maybe even get invited for a homecooked meal or two! So, are you ready to pack your bags and join me on this epic spice trail across India? Trust me, it’ll be a flavor adventure you’ll never forget! Just don’t forget to bring your appetite (and maybe some antacids, just in case those spices get a little too fiery).

Fathima Sanna

Education

Top Trends That Will Redefine And Rule the Education Sector!

As technology scurries with advancements, the way we learn needs to be upgraded. From Micro Learning to Inquiry Based Learning, there are mind-blowing fads that will redefine education and make your experience more immersively interesting than ever! If you’re excited to know about the trends being unveiled in education industry, here’s the list to look forward Micro learning Isn’t it boring to sit for hours and force your drowsy eyes to bulge out at the teacher explaining a whale of a subject? With Micro learning, the information will be cut into small chunks, in a way more engaging and easy to swallow! It takes less than ten minutes, and you can dive back to the same topic as many times as you want. Personalised Learning With personalised learning, it gets easier to grasp! By considering your strengths, needs and interests , you will be provided with a uniquely customised learning plan. Personalised learning helps you nurture and empower yourself at your own pace. Each student will be taught differently with a uniquely tailored learning plan rather than sticking with one plan for the entire class Gamification It’s an interesting and engaging approach to learning. By employing gamified elements in the classroom, with points, badges and many more, learning gets hilariously immersing. It boosts students’ knowledge retention as well as keeps you motivated. Games are also believed to sprout more skills in students like critical thinking, problem solving, social awareness etc Hybrid Learning With hybrid Learning, you can remotely learn from home. It’s the amalgamation of in-person and virtual learning. This accessible learning approach can increase the size of class as well as provide personalised learning experience. Hybrid Learning is not the synonym of blended learning. In blended learning, physical presence is required but technology is employed to enrich the experience. Metacognitive Strategy It’s all about asking students to think about how they’re thinking to keep them aware of their learning and grasping experience. By analysing one’s thinking, students can improve their learning practices by identifying the errors in their approach. This also boosts their knowledge retention. Inquiry Based Learning Inquiry based learning is an active learning approach where students are allowed to shoot questions and investigate problems. This active learning method comes with a plethora of benefits like boosting creativity, connecting students to the real world, improving communication, critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Nikhat Parveen

Culture and Heritage Wellness

Retreats: Spiritual Escapes in the Land of Origin

Yoga Retreats: Finding Your Zen in the Birthplace of Yoga Are Seeking some serious rejuvenation for your mind, body, and spirit? Look no further than the ultimate spiritual escape – a yoga retreat in India. As the land where this ancient practice originated, India offers the perfect setting to reconnect with yourself and experience yoga like never before. The Allure of Authentic Yoga in India Let’s be real, doing yoga in your local studio just doesn’t quite compare to the magic of practicing in India. Do you know that yoga has been an integral part of Indian spirituality for over 5,000 years? Immersing yourself in the birthplace of yoga allows you to tap into its pure, ancient roots and energy in a way that simply can’t be replicated elsewhere. Not only that, but India’s serene landscapes provide the ideal backdrop for finding your inner peace. Imagine striking your asanas amid the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, on pristine sandy beaches, or surrounded by lush green forests and flowing rivers. An environment of such natural beauty and tranquility is guaranteed to take your practice to new heights. The Ultimate Mind-Body-Spirit Recharge At a yoga retreat in India, be prepared for way more than just the physical postures (although you’ll flow through those too, of course). You’re in for a full-on mind-body-spirit rejuvenation! Many retreats combine invigorating yoga sessions with introspective meditation, uplifting spiritual discourse, relaxing journaling, and even indulgent spa treatments. You’ll likely start your day with an energizing yoga flow as the sun rises, followed by vegetarian feasts, workshops on subjects like ayurveda and pranayama, and free time for exploration or pampering. By nightfall, you’ll be serenely stretched out under the stars, feeling lighter and more at peace than you have in years. An Eye-Opening Cultural Immersion Attending a yoga retreat in India isn’t just about yoga, it’s a full immersion into the country’s rich, vibrant culture too. You’ll be shocked to know how many lesser-known authentic experiences are included! Many programs let you wander vibrant markets, visit sacred temples, observe ancient rituals and ceremonies, and interact with friendly locals. You may find yourself receiving a meaningful blessing from a Hindu monk, taking part in a lively festival of colors, learning to drape a sari, or picking up some Hindi phrases. These unforgettable cultural encounters will leave you with a deeper appreciation for India’s heritage and spirituality. The Road Less Traveled Retreat Spots While India’s popular yoga capitals like Rishikesh and Goa have plenty of fantastic retreats, the more adventurous yogis will want to check out some of the country’s lesser-known hidden gems too. You definitely won’t find any locations quite as special and off-the-beaten-path as these: • Arambol (Goa) – A remote beach village with a wonderfully laidback vibe, far from Goa’s party scenes • Varkala (Kerala) – A serene cliffside town in southern India, home to countless rejuvenating retreats • Dharamshala – A breathtakingly scenic Himalayan town and hub for Tibetan Buddhism • Khajuraho – Where ancient Hindu & Buddhist temples sit amid lush national parks No matter which yoga retreat destination in India you choose, one thing’s for sure, you’re in for the rejuvenating journey of a lifetime. Prepare to leave feeling infinitely more grounded, balanced, and blissed out.

Nikhat Parveen

Uncategorized

Living Traditions: Experiencing Indian Folk Dances and Music

Discovering the Dazzling Folk Dances & Tunes of India Do you know just how incredibly diverse and vibrant India’s folk dance and music traditions are? We’re talking about thousands of distinct styles across every region of this vast country. Get ready to be blown away. The Roots of Rich Revelry You’ll be shocked to know that many of these folk art forms have origins dating back thousands of years to ancient times. They were a way for common people to express their culture, tell stories, and make the daily grind more bearable through rhythm, movement, and melody. Not only that but the dances and music were tightly intertwined with the seasonal cycles of agriculture and other occupations. There are crazy fun stick dances cattle herders would do to pass the time. And celebratory dances timed to the harvest festival after bringing in the year’s crops. Mind-blowing, right? Regions Burst With Rhythm Okay, let’s take a whistle-stop tour around India to experience just a few of the most iconic regional styles: Up in the deserts of Rajasthan, you’ve got the hyper-energetic bhangra and giddha folk dances. Picture men doing athletically amazing acrobatic tumbles and knee movements. While groups of women wow the crowds with synchronized twirling moves and handclaps. Then swing over to Bihar for the ridiculously cool chhau dances enacted in amazing masks. The tribal dancers play different characters like warriors, farmers, or mythical gods. Their intensely animated bodily gestures bring ancient stories vividly to life. The Melodies That Move ‘Em Obviously, pounding drums and hypnotic chants provide the musical fuel for these folk dance fireworks. But there’s so much more to discover in India’s incredible range of folk instruments and song styles. Like, did you know about the fun-sounding ektara? It’s a pumpkin-sized droning string instrument that produces a buzz-like sound to accompany all kinds of nautanki dance dramas. Crazy, right? Then you’ve got the high-pitched tinkling of the ghungroo bells strapped to the ankles of kathak dancers. As their feet rapidly move, it creates a mesmerizing rhythm to match their elegant spins and twirling. Not only that, but the songs themselves cover every aspect of life – from romantic ballads about found and lost love to tunes celebrating annual events or historic heroes and legends. A Poignant Past and Evolving Present Sure, the dances and music were originally created by peasants, tribals, and other grassroots communities as part of their daily life and cultural identity. But that humble heritage is precisely what makes India’s folk arts so meaningful and emotionally resonant even today. Like, you’ve got to see the bhavai dance dramas from Gujarat. They playfully satirize and mock the feudal aristocracy from back in the day. It’s wildly entertaining but also preserves the age-old struggle of the “little people” against oppressive rulers. And despite their ancient pedigree, India’s folk dance-music traditions aren’t stuck in the past. Modern gurus and troupes are constantly innovating and evolving the forms with new choreography while respecting the core essence. The goal is to keep these vibrant arts vital and engaging for younger generations. So if you ever get the chance to experience the real deal in person, don’t pass it up! Between the intricately patterned costumes, thrilling dances, and transportive folk tunes, you’ll feel these living traditions coursing through your soul. It’s a deliriously dazzling immersion into India’s richly rooted revelry.

Nikhat Parveen

Culture and Heritage

Silk Route Sojourn: Discovering India’s Silk Weaving Heritage

Unraveling the Magic of Indian Silk Are you ready to go on a journey that’s going to blow your mind? We’re talking about the incredible world of Indian silk – a fabric so luxurious, so elegant, and so deeply rooted in our country’s rich heritage that it’ll leave you utterly spellbound. The Silk Cities of India Let’s start with the stars of the show – the silk cities of India. Do you know that places like Varanasi, Kanchipuram, and Mysore are famous all over the world for their exquisite silk-weaving traditions? These aren’t just ordinary fabrics; they’re works of art that have been perfected over centuries. Imagine running your fingers over the smooth, shimmering surface of a Banarasi silk sari, with its intricate brocade work and vibrant colors. Or picture yourself draping a soft, gossamer-like Kanchipuram silk cloth around your shoulders, feeling like royalty itself. But that’s not all! Wait until you see the mind-blowing designs and patterns of Mysore silk, where bold colors and mesmerizing motifs come together in a stunning display of artistry. The Weavers’ Magic Now, let’s talk about the real magicians behind these incredible silk creations, the weavers themselves. You’ll be shocked to know that many of these skilled artisans come from families that have been weaving silk for generations upon generations. Imagine sitting at a loom, with your fingers deftly maneuvering the threads, creating intricate patterns and designs that seem almost too perfect to be handmade. It’s like watching a dance unfold before your very eyes, with each movement so precise and graceful that it’ll leave you utterly mesmerized. And here’s something really cool, many of these weavers incorporate traditional motifs and symbols into their designs, giving each piece a unique story and significance that goes beyond mere aesthetics. Not only that but the art of silk weaving is deeply intertwined with the cultural and religious traditions of the regions where it thrives. From intricate temple borders to auspicious symbols, these fabrics are imbued with meaning and history that stretches back centuries. Hidden Gems and Treasures Untold While the famous silk cities are well-known, India’s silk-weaving heritage extends far beyond these iconic destinations. Get ready to uncover hidden gems and lesser-known treasures that will leave you speechless. Imagine stumbling upon a tiny village in rural India, where the rhythmic clacking of looms fills the air, and every household is dedicated to the art of silk weaving. These are the places where age-old traditions are kept alive, and the true essence of Indian silk is preserved in all its glory. So, there you have it, my friends, a tantalizing glimpse into the enchanting world of Indian silk weaving. Whether you’re a textile enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, this silk route sojourn is sure to leave you spellbound and with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and craftsmanship that goes into every inch of these exquisite fabrics.

Blog Post