Category: Culture and History

Indian classical music

Today I want to discuss a very interesting topic ,it is about ‘Indian classical Music’, which is India’s heritage and pride. Indian classical music is the classical music of Indian subcontinent. it is basically divided into 2 parts ,in north India it is called as Hindustani music while in south India , it is called Carnatic music.

Indian classical music has 2 components Raga and Tala. raga is based on ‘Swara‘ while the tala is based on time cycles. Indian classical music has been adopted historically with many regional styles and places. Indian classical music is considered to be 6000 years ago where people developed a combination of musical notes with rhythm. Indian classical music is very closely connected to nature, beauty and surroundings. There are different – different ragas for different moods and seasons.for example , there is a raga called ‘Malhar’,which is said to be sung during rainy season.

Hindustani music

it is believed that Indian subcontinent music was integrated until political turmoil of Delhi sultanates era came, than it was divided into 2 parts 1. Hindustani music 2. Carnatic music.

it is believed that Hindustani music was started in 14th century. it was at its peak during Akbar period, during that time Tansen studied Hindustani music and made many innovations in it. he is also considered as founder of Hindustani music. Hindustani music is mainly found in North India, Pakistan and Afghanistan . It has different forms like khyal, tarana thumri etc. There is a huge list of Ragas in Hindustani music.

Carnatic music

Puranadara Dasa is considered as grandfather of Carnatic music. He was a devotee of lord Krishna. Due to his efforts, Carnatic music was introduced.it is said that Carnatic music is more rhythmically intensive and structured than Hindustani music. Carnatic music are little bit fast and shorter than Hindustani music.

What makes Indian classical music different from other music

in this we will discuss that how classical music is different from other forms of music like Bollywood Music.It is all about history ,its context and purpose. classical music is studied and developed in a very disciplined way .and it is more professional and difficult to learn.it is also considered as a type of meditation.

nowadays very less people know about classical music, about its history ,origin and other things. We all are attracted by western Music because it has that an entertainment flavour in it. But classical music is not for entertainment or any other thing, it gives mental peace to the listener who understands its beauty. In fact in Bollywood music , classical music plays a huge role many songs that we like are sung with the help of ragas especially sad or romantic songs.

instruments used in classical music

There are many instruments that are used in classical music, some of them are:-

1.Sitar:-it is a very important instrument in Hindustani music. it is a plucked stringed instrument that was originated in 16th or 17th century in Indian subcontinent.

2.Tabla:-it is a pair of drums used in indian classical music. it is used in Indian subcontinent .

3.Mridangam:- this instrument is used in Carnatic music. it is called Pakhawaj in Dhrupad.

4. Flute:-it is a Woodwind instrument which produces a very pleasing sound ,from a flow of air across an opening.it is very important instrument in classical music.

Roman Architecture

Roman architecture has always been admired for its strong and colossal structure. Throne’s power and the ordinary lives of its citizens have greatly inspired the majestic architecture. The grand temples and buildings demonstrate the perpetual influence of gods over the people. Architecture has widely contributed to the European art and culture. It has been observed that the architecture Romans were influenced was from Greek’s art. The designs on Roman buildings were relatively similar to Greeks architectural designs. Though, the architecture was identical, Romans preferred Corinthian Order. Another characteristic feature that set its architecture apart was its continuous urge of perfecting concrete buildings in all of its monumental creations with modern arches and domes as a modern touch.

Roman Colosseum is the largest and most famous amphitheater of Rome. Its construction began in 72 AD under Emperor Vespasian and finished in 80 AD under his son Titus. It was built with materials like travertine limestone, tuff, wood, concrete. This colosseum has a seating capacity of 50,000 and more. Gladiatorial competitions, battles, executions, roman mythology dramas were conducted for entertainment purposes. Compared to other amphitheaters, Colosseum was built in the heart of the city. However, the interior of Colosseum was profoundly destroyed by fires and earthquakes. Even though, the structural standing of the monument is still sound, the pollution and general destruction has deteriorated the inner part of the structure.

Pantheon is a Roman temple built during 113 to 125 AD. It has dome structure with traditional porch. It served as a Roman Catholic Church. This monument stands on brick arches and hidden wall niches. The temple’s structure has survived because of its well-engineered walls and domes. The interior is refined with polished marble that shines when sunlight penetrates through the ceiling, which is called the Oculus, also known as ‘great eye. Being unique in all of Romans architectural creations, its interior and exterior classical designs have been adapted by architects.

Arch of Constantine was built in honor of Constantine’s triumph over Maxentius at the Battle of Milivian Bridge in 312 AD. Arch of Constantine is a glorious celebration of political power and leadership. It is well-known for geometric details and massive stone work. Lower part is covered with marble blocks and extraordinary marble brickwork. It is 20 meters high, 25 meters wide and 7 meters deep. In the main archway, victory figure occupy spandrels and river gods are depicted over the arches.  Emperor Marcus Aurelius’s life was carved on the arches which was remodeled to resemble Constantine I. It signifies Constantine’s changing religious affirmations.

Arch of Titus was built in 81 AD by Emperor Domitian that commemorates Titus’s and his father’s victor over Jewish rebellion in Judea. It measures 15.4 meters in height. The upper left and right of arches contains a winged woman that personifies victory. Temple of Jerusalem is partially depicted on south inner panels. North inner pane portrays Titus as the Triumphator, where there is an Amazonian wearing a helmet leading four horses carries Titus. The inscriptions on the horse were mainly written in gold or silver.

Roman architecture signifies beauty of triumph and rich culture. Roman culture has splendidly attracted people to experience the foundation of Roman history with astounding work of art that continues to inspire today’s architects.

5 Things you must not miss if you are traveling to Leh Ladakh

The world of virus has made all of us a couch potato. Eat, sleep, work and repeat has became our lifestory. Now lets recharge ourself and live our life happily like the way we were living before this virus, lets go on trip, a trip to Leh Ladakh. A heavenly beautiful travel destination in Himalayas. The moon-like landscapes, desert mountains with splashes of green and snow peaks the beautiful nature make you feel spaced out from this world. So if you are visiting to Leh Ladakh don’t forgot to do these 5 things.

1. Chadar Trek

While walking across frozen sheets of ice will make you feel like “ELSA”. The Frozen River trek while holidaying in Ladakh is one of the most popular things in Ladakh. You will also be capturing panoramic sights of frozen valleys while strolling here and the serene ambiance will surely make you fall in love with this place. This is one of the best activities to do in Ladakh.

2. Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa in Leh is amongst the most popular Tibetan structures that is known for its architecture and beauty. Shanti Stupa looks exceptionally beautiful during the full moon night when it is naturally illuminated by the moonlight. Its white-dome structure is truly mesmerizing and the place offers panoramic sights of the surrounding area. The place will surely give you a perfect chance to revive your soul amidst the peaceful ambiance of this stupa. Shanti Stupa is established by a popular Japanese Buddhist, Bhikshu Gyomyo Nakamura.

3. Zorawar Fort

This fort stands as a pride for the entire region and is made up of local clay, sun-dried bricks, stones, and wooden frames. If you are visiting Leh, a visit to Zorawar Fort would give you access to a majestic view of the entire city.

4. River Rafting

River rafting is a popular activity that all thrill-seekers find quite enticing and to satiate your souls. Witness the beauty of this region while you cross quaint villages and stunning monasteries for which Ladakh is famous all around the world.

5. Hall of Fame

Pay tribute for soldiers sacrifice. The displays give you chills and make you realize the sacrifices of the soldiers for the country.

Renewable Energy Sources

Energy is an important input for development. It aims at human welfare covering household, agricultural transport & industrial complexes. Due to population explosion the demand for various forms of energy has got increased many folds. Renewable Resources can be generated continuously in nature & are inexhaustible. These resources can be used again & again in an endless manner.

RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGIESWIND POWER

  1. WIND POWER :

Wind is an emissions-free source of energy. It is harnessed by making use of wind mills. Number of wind mills are installed in cluster are called wind farms. Minimum wind speed required is 150km/hr. A windmill converts wind energy into rotational energy by means of its blades. The basic principle of every windmill is to convert kinetic energy of wind into mechanical energy which is used to rotate the turbine of electrical generator to produce electricity.

2. HYDROPOWER

Hydropower or hydroelectricity refers to the conversion of energy from flowing water into electricity. Modern hydro turbines can convert as much as 90% of the available energy into electricity. Hydroelectric power generates about 10% of the nation’s energy. Hydropower is fueled by water, so it’s a clean fuel source, meaning it won’t pollute the air like power plants that burn fossil fuels, such as coal or natural gas.

3. TIDAL ENERGY

It is harnessed from the tides produced in the ocean. The turbine and generator converts the movement of water coming from change in tide, the kinetic energy, into electricity. Tidal Energy has an expensive initial cost which may be one of the reasons tidal energy is not a popular source of renewable energy.

4. SOLAR ENERGY

Solar energy as energy obtained from the sun. Solar energy is the cleanest and most abundant renewable energy source. It can be used in many appliances like Solar heat collectors, Solar cells, Solar cookers, Solar water heaters Solar power plant, Solar furnace.

Top 10 Residential Uses for Solar Energy

World Day for International Justice

World day for International Justice is observed on 17th July every year, also known as International Justice Day. It is a day which brings together all the people who support justice, advocate victims’ rights, and find aid in the prevention of crime that threatens world’s peace, safety, and well being. July 17 is the date of the adoption of the treaty that created the International Criminal Court. On 1 June 2010, at the Review Conference of the Rome Statute held in Kampala (Uganda), the Assembly of State Parties decided to celebrate 17 July as the Day of International Criminal Justice. 

Each year, people around the world use this day to host events to promote international criminal justice, especially support for the International Criminal Court. 

History  

This day is designated as World Day for International Justice since it marks the 20th anniversary of the Rome Statute’s adoption in 1998. The International Criminal Court (ICC) was formed with the aid of this treaty. Since that day in 1998, 139 nations have signed the court’s treaty, and over 80 countries, representing every area of the world, have recognized it. 

Theme  

This year’s World Social Justice Day subject is “social justice in the digital economy”. Technological developments over the last decade have aided humans in navigating the perilous terrain of a globe ravaged by Covid-19. Employees were able to work from home because of what the UN refers to as “digital labor platforms,” which gave “income-generating possibilities and advantages from flexible work arrangements.” However, this has compounded concerns about the regularity of employment and income, the ability to organize or join trade unions, and the utilization of skills. 

Significance  

This day is observed because it is critical to raise public awareness and unity in favor of justice, as well as to promote victims’ rights. This day also draws individuals from all around the world to focus on critical concerns. It defends individuals from various crimes and cautions those who endanger the nation’s peace, security, and well-being. 

Various activities are being held throughout the world to celebrate this day and to promote the International Criminal Court (ICC). This day is also promoted by a number of news outlets, newspapers, and radio stations. Several organizational groups draw people’s attention to certain concerns such as violence against women, genocide, and so on. 

High crop yield possible, Former NASA scientist makes amazing discovery

  • A former NASA scientist Parag Narvekar has created sensors to enhance farm produce for farmers in Nashik, Maharashtra. He claims that new sensors will assist farmers to understand the weather and adjust their use of irrigation and fertilisers. According to Narvekar, the new sensors are more cost-effective than the already existing ones and have made sensors of Rs 10,000 that earlier use to cost Rs 1.5 lakh.

Cost-effective Sensors to Improve Farm Produce

  • A resident of Nashik, Narvekar owns a company Sensartics that makes weather sensors and offers cost-effective solutions to farmers. Narvekar’s company has also collaborated in the past with more organisations to provide solutions to local farmers’ problems. In February this year, Sensartics collaborated with Sahyadri Farmers Producers Company (FPC) to establish sensors in Nashik’s grape farms to safeguard the farmers from losing their harvest because of odd weather. The team installs sensors at the root zone levels of the plants. These sensors calculated temperature, soil moisture and soil electrical conductivity. Sensors placed in the canopies measured humidity and leaf wetness other than temperature.
  • Narvekar, with his team at Sensartics, has also established village level local weather stations that can provide precise weather forecasts beneficial for the local farmers, the efforts of Narvekar and his company have brought state-of-the-art meteorological stations within the reach of farmers.
  • With this they Gained greater clarity around the potential of sensors to improve agriculture and food security.

reference- https://d-lab.mit.edu/research/mit-d-lab-cite/internet-things-low-cost-sensors-agriculture

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321740995_A_Cost-effective_Smart_Farming_System_with_Knowledge_Base

Female foeticide – Bitter truth of society

The process of finding out the sex of a foetus and then undergoing abortion if it is a girl is called Female foeticide.

Stop female foeticide

According to certain section of the Indian penal code for forced abortion ,causing death of an unborn child or intentionally preventing a child being born alive are punishable offence.

The Indian government has passed Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act (PCPNDT) in 1994 to ban and punish prenatal sex screening and female foeticide.

It is currently illegal in India.

Besides this the prenatal diagnostic technique regulation and prevention of misuse act consider engaging and sex selective abortion using prenatal diagnosis technique are punishable.

Why I am killed by my parents
Why??
Could I harm someone
Or can I do something wrong
If no then why I am  killed by my parents
Why they killed me
Just tell me
Were my dreams only for dying…?
Was I meant nothing for you?
Why your hand don’t tremble while taking my life?
Why..?
Please don’t kill me …
I also wants to live
I also want to enjoy every moment of my life
Please don’t kill me
Please….

Let them live

The natural sex ratio is assumed to be between 103 and 107, and any number above it is considered as suggestive of female foeticide.

Sex selection is a practice which takes place among some uneducated,poor sections or a particular religion of the Indian society.

According to the decennial Indian census, the sex ratio in 0 to 6 age group in India has risen from 102.4 males per 100 females in 1961, to 104.2 in 1980, to 107.5 in 2001, to 108.9 in 2011.

Child sex ratio is significantly higher in certain western and northwestern states such as Maharashtra, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir (118, 120 and 116, as of 2011, respectively).

The western states of Maharashtra and Rajasthan 2011 census found a child sex ratio of 113, Gujarat at 112 and Uttar Pradesh at 111.

Urban India has higher child sex ratio than rural India according to 1991, 2001 and 2011 Census data, implying higher prevalence of female foeticide in urban India.

child sex ratio in major states in India throughout the years 1981, 1991, and 2001-Wikipedia

The following table presents the child sex ratio data for India’s states and union territories, according to 2011 Census of India for population count in the 0-1 age group.The data suggests 18 states/UT had birth sex ratio higher than 107 implying excess males at birth and/or excess female mortalities after birth but before she reaches the age of 1, 13 states/UT had normal child sex ratios in the 0-1 age group, and 4 states/UT had birth sex ratio less than 103 implying excess females at birth and/or excess male mortalities after birth but before he reaches the age of 1.

Due to male dominancy in society ,the male babies are preferred because they provide manual labour and success to the family lineage.

A son is preferred as an asset since he can earn and support the family but a daughter is a liability since she will be married off to another family or she will not contribute financially to her parent or due to dowry system.

Dowry is the payment from bride’s family to the groom family at the time of marriage.

Dowry is the main reason behind the female foeticide.

Dowry system legally ended with the dowry prohibition act of 1961 ,the impossibility of monitoring families and prevalence of corruption have led to its continuance all over India.

The advancement in technology is the major cause of female foeticide.

Some doctors do this act to fulfill their moneydesire

People in India usually see men’s work as “productive” and contributing the family, while the social perception of female labor does not have that connotation. This also ties to the fact that it is easier for men in India to get high paying jobs and provide financially for their families.

Role of panchayat members


Panchayat members should

  • give accurate information on the laws pertaining to this issue
  • find out where it is being practiced in the village and investigate it immediately
  • register all births and deaths under the purview of the panchayat
  • raise awareness about gender sensitivity through public education programmes
  • prevent female foeticide with assistance from the ANM and local mid-wife.

Increasing awareness of the problem has led to multiple campaigns by celebrities and journalists to combat sex-selective abortions.

The first episode “Daughters Are Precious” of the show Satyamev Jayate to raise awareness of female foeticide.

Do you know about Maritime laws in india ? Let’s see some marine offenses

Definition of maritime laws :

In its counterparts as public law , it widely known as “the law of sea “. It also called Admiralty law. the process of carrying goods through sea, rules concerning protection and maintenance of ships at sea, registration and damage to ships, marine insurance etc. , is covered under maritime laws .

As india is surrounded by water from the three sides , it created nature condition for Marin trade after the water territorial trade started.

Legislations prior to Independence : maritime laws in India were governed under the British government. There are some of the regulations which deal with various aspects of maritime in India.

  • Coasting Vessels Act, 1838
  • Indian Registration of Ships Act, 1841,
  • Admiralty Offences (Colonial) Act, 1849
  • Inland Steam Vessels Act, 1917
  • Indian Ports Act, 1908
  • Control of Shipping Act, 1947

Legislations after independence : after the  independence sea laws mostly governed under article 297 of the constitution. And there are different lex on waters, continental shelf, EEZ and other maritime zones.

Some of the acts are there , for maritimes affairs . This are

  • The Merchant Shipping Act, 1958
  • The Admiralty (Jurisdiction and Settlement of Maritime Claims) Act, 2017. 
  • Article 297 of the constitution

Marines crimes , are frequent offenses which  have been committing in sea . There are some marine offences mentioned below –

  • Maritime Piracy
  • Smuggling Exotic plants and animals
  • Unauthorized entry
  • Illegal Carrying of Weapons and artillery
  • Maritime Drug trafficking
  • Maritime Human Trafficking
  • Discharging in Ocean Waters
  • Sailing or fishing in unauthorized areas–
  • Tax evasion

Maritime piracy is an illegal act of violence, detention or destruction against a ship , on person or property, for private purposes, by the crew or passengers of a private ship . Piracy also includes inciting and intentionally facilitating such acts of violence, and voluntarily participating in the operation of a pirate ship . Pushiment for piracy is prescribed in anti maritime piracy bill 2019 , that is (i) life imprisonment ; or (ii) death , if the act of piracy is caused or seek to cause death.

Smuggling Exotic plants and animals : For a ship without authorization, its illegal to do Smuggling of exotic plants and animals for wildlife smuggling. This is because wildlife smuggling involves the isolation of plants and animals. When they arrived at the destination, they may not be able to adapt to the new place. Animals may also cause vulnerable diseases in people. And it may also leads to the serious illness or death of animals . To smuggle Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora , is crime in maritime law.

Unauthorized entry : the ship must seek permission from government of that nation , For entry in a nation’s marine boundary . Sailing on that nation’s waters without a permission is a maritime crime and punishable in all countries. And a person who illegally and secretly boards and hides in to the ship, without the consent of ship owner and master, to travel into international waters to reach some other country without any monitory payment and legal documents , is known as stowaway.

Illegal Carrying of Weapons and Artillery : to carry weapons and artillery, throughout the water territory of any country , which is not legally bonded , is a martime offence .Goods which are sensitive in nature can be transported by specific ships only . Bringing in weapons on a ship, is not authorized , it is a punishable offense.

Maritime Drug trafficking : maritime drug trafficking means transportation of illegal drugs produced in this region to global consumer markets through using ships . To sell drug, is illegal in itself and trafficking of it become more severe offence .

Maritime Human Trafficking : maritime Human Trafficking involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to obtain some type of labor or commercial sex act , through exporting victim in other country vie ships .

Discharging in Ocean Waters : it refers to the sewage discharge done by the vessels and ships in the water territory of any nation . Marine pollution is a serious issue and almost all countries have strict policies against ships discharging sewage or oil into their coastal waters.

Sailing or fishing in unauthorized areas : it’s an offence to do sailing in an areas of water territory where the sailing or fishing is not allowed .

Tax evasion : ship owners trying to evade taxes through false documentation or incorrect representation of cargo material have been increasing rapidly, posing a threat to maritime security. It’s a white collar crime.

Best of Sikkim’s Alpine Lakes

There are many alpine lakes in sikkim, like the Menmecho, Khecheopalri, Samiti and Green lakes. I will be writing about the three of the most beautiful lakes of the small himalayan state.

Lake Tsomgo

Locally known as the Changgu Lake is a glacial lake in the East Sikkim District, some 40 kilometres (25 mi) from the capital Gangtok. Tsomgo is one of the most alluring lakes in Sikkim that one cannot miss to explore. Nestled amidst lofty peaks and majestic glaciers, this oval shaped lake spreads around 1 km and 15m deep in the valley. The lake remains frozen during the winter season.

Lake Tsomgo

Lake Karthok

One among all the sacred lakes of Sikkim, the Karthok Lake is known to be the most appealing and serene lakes in the state. Every year, the locals hold a grand celebration is held beside this holy lake in order to thank the Gods for bringing prosperity to their lives.

Lake Karthok

Lake Gurudongmar

Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world and in India, located at an altitude of 5,430 m(17,800 ft) lies 190 km away from Gangtok. The lake is considered sacred by Buddhists, Hindus and Sikhs. It is named after Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism who visited the lake in the 8th century.

Lake Gurudongmar

Kintsugi-THE ART OF BROKEN

Hello guys! Today’s topic is  about an how an art is made by mending broken pieces.

Yes you heard right when things break we throw them away but there is a Japanese art form called kintsugi or kintsukuroi.

From:unkown

As it’s name says golden joinery and golden repair respectively. In this art is made through repairing the broken pieces and again joining them.

They say broken is beautiful, in this art form there is philosophy they follow that is those cracks that appear after mending the objects is considered to be the history of that object and those cracks are not to be hidden.
From: lakesidepottery
From:edtimes.in

I love how they don’t cover those cracks and instead display it proudly as if telling the whole world to look at it how it is rather than how it should appear .

It teaches us a very important life lesson that

Never to hide our scars rather than show them proudly as they are a part of your journey and they deserve to be shown rather than cover them. 

We should respect our past that is depicted through these scars and be grateful that the present you is because of the past you had .
From pinterest
Imperfection is the real Perfection.

The perfection you seek is ideal but not the truth but the imperfection  you that is thriving to become the perfection is real.

From:lakesidepottery

In this art they seal the broken parts with lacquer dusted or mixed with powdered gold,silver or platinum.

There are different styles of kintsugi

Crack :-They use  gold dust and resin or lacquer to attach broken pieces with very less overlap or fill-in from missing pieces

Piece method :-In this  they add gold /lacquer in place of the missing fragments of the broken object

Joint call :- In this method a  fragment which not matching but is similarly shaped is used to replace a missing piece from the original broken object creating a patchwork effect.

Here mending  the pieces and making  an object  from it  gives them an unique aura,a special appearance and also gives the art form it's true meaning.
This art form is now an inspiration to modern artists ,this art form reduces the usage of things ,there is no wastage and infact it's as if the while mending a broken piece it's history ,the memories related to it everything is restored in the process.

Thankyou^^.

Why English? How it plays a major role in our lives?!!

English is a Global language that helps us communicate with each other regardless of where we are! There are billions of people in over 49 countries who speak English. When we talk about the importance of English some people may get bored because it is an ancient topic that we discuss often. We talk in English to express our ideas and thoughts with people of our country and other countries. Nowadays, English has been a very common language that influences our daily lives other than our mother tongue.

Pencils Watercolor Brush And Wood On White Background Word English Stock Photo - Download Image Now - iStock

English plays a major role in our daily life. It is an essential language to be learned in this fast growing world. Ever since our childhood, our parents and teachers says often that English plays a vital role in our future. We want to improve our communication skills to shine in our lives. Nowadays, the Internet and social media play a huge role in promoting English as communicative language. This is the reason why non-English speaking countries make them learn better English.

Learn English Word Cloud Concept Stock Photo, Picture And Royalty Free Image. Image 64154147.

ENGLISH IN BUSINESS

In business, the vitality of the English language is more important. It can often be called as business language. This is the basic reason why the companies hire people with good English and communication skills. This reduces their high pressure and makes a better future for their colleagues and themselves. There is always a preference for the people who are good in English personnel at global level. If you want to shine as a business analyst, consultant, social media analyst, etc., learn better. English to establish yourself in your fields.

ENGLISH IN EDUCATION

The importance of English in education, it makes people open their minds and establish their thoughts as words and make them a better person. Learning English appropriately and master in non-lingual subjects (Economics, Commerce, History etc.,) make them blossom in their respective fields. Students working hard to go abroad for higher studies or research, the ability to read and write English is a must. If a person could not communicate or write well in English, the percentage of selecting them will be very low.

The only thing to be worried is that we Indians make common mistakes that makes it more difficult.

WHY IMPORTANT?!

Learn English word cloud collage, ... | Stock vector | Colourbox

English is essential not only for getting a job, studying abroad, and so on. We should not be material or goal-oriented but we should think more, how English improves our ability and communicative skills. Communicative skills and the ability to do so will determine the success and failure of life and other deeds.

Learning English is not that difficult and any interested people can learn it better to improve their standard of living. Though learning a new language is a bit hard, we should pull ourselves together to learn better. Those who moves forward to learn English being very interested in it, are the ones who communicate with major people across the world without fear. English helps in improving your confidence level to some extent. English has become the one to develop the personality of an individual. So, learn English; shine bright!!

THE ENGLISH IS NOBODY’S SPECIAL PROPERTY. IT IS THE PROPERTY OF IMAGINATION: IT IS THE PROPERTY OF LANGUAGE ITSELF.

DEREK WALCOTT

10 Best Places to visit in Goa

Goa is a state on India’s southwest coast that is part of the Konkan area, which is separated from the Deccan highlands by the Western Ghats.

Some places you must visit if you are visiting Goa are –

Calangute Beach

Calangute Beach, also known as the “Queen of Beaches” in Goa, caters to a wide range of tourists, from nature lovers to thrill seekers to party animals. This beach is the largest and most popular in North Goa, serving as a sanctuary for nature lovers in particular.

Roam at Tito’s Street

Tito’s Street is one of the greatest nightclubs in town. Tito’s Street, named for the street on which it is located, is a popular nightclub that draws large audiences due to its great location and excellent service. The place has two levels: the bottom level is a dance floor with distinct dancing areas for couples, while the top-level allows patrons to relax and observe the action below while eating and drinking.

Anjuna Beach

The southern and northern ends of Anjuna beach, which stretch along the golden shoreline, provide a variety of activities. While the southern end has a rocky outcropping, the northern end offers water activities such as bungee jumping, rough banana rides, and more. Goa’s “multidimensional entertainment hub” is Anjuna Beach. Anjuna beach offers magnificent views and a photo opportunity at sunrise and sunset. The unmatched vista is created by the mix of white sand and dazzling blue water.

Dudhsagar Waterfalls

The Dudhsagar Waterfalls, located on the Goa-Karnataka border, are a must-see attraction in India. On the Mandovi River, the four-tiered waterfall formation is one of the highest in India. From a height of almost 1017 feet, the white water flows down a practically vertical mountain wall.

Fort Aguada

Fort Aguada, another Portuguese legacy, has stood sternly on the beach facing the Arabian Sea since 1612 when it was built to offer protection against invading Dutch and Marathas. It was a magnificent ancient fort at the time, with the potential to house 79 cannons and other defensive weaponry. It was one of the Portuguese’s most cherished assets. Today, it serves as a popular Goa tourist attraction, separating Sinquerium Beach from Candolim Beach.

Grand Island

The heaven of Goan water sports is Grand Island. From diving to snorkeling to fishing, there is much to do here. Scuba diving is the most popular activity in Goa since it allows for so much underwater exploration. There are shipwrecks as well as some reefs can be discovered here. Divers love the “Suzy” wreck and the “Davy Jones Locker,” as well as Serge City, Bounty Rock, and Turbo Tunnel. 

Sinquerim Beach

Sinquerim Beach is located north of Goa’s renowned beaches, such as Calangute, Baga, and Candolim, and has a beautiful beachfront. Sinquerim’s waters are ideal for a relaxing swim. The renowned Sunburn Festival, held each year in December, is one of Sinquerim Beach’s main attractions. The Aguada Fort, which is located right close to the beach, is another popular site. 

Vagator Beach

Tourists and travel enthusiasts may have a once-in-a-lifetime experience at Vagator Beach in Goa. It is located on the far northern outskirts of Bardez Taluka, on the other side of the Chapora River, which originates in Morjim, Pernem. Anjuna, one of Goa’s oldest tourist attractions, is located to the south of Vagator Beach.

Sunburn Goa

Sunburn Goa is an annual electronic dance music event hosted in Goa that is described as Asia’s largest gathering of its type. The event lasts three days and is jam-packed with incredible performances by some of the world’s most well-known DJs.

Dona Paula Beach

The Dona Paula Beach, a tiny beach with a terrible past involving love and suicide, is the best location to visit in Goa. In terms of water sports and sightseeing, it has a lot to offer. Tourists go to the jetty close to the beach because of the beautiful view of the Arabian Sea it provides. The sad legend says that the spirit of Dona Paula rises from the water at night, wearing just a pearl necklace, looking for her love. On the beach, she is thought to have committed suicide.

Class in Mahasweta Devi’s ‘Rudali’

Mahasweta Devi is a Bengali writer and activist who is known for her strikingly social and poignant stories. She wrote several works ranging from novels and plays to essays and short stories. Her most notable works include Hajar Churashir Maa, Rudali, Aranyer Adhikar etc. She has received highest literary merits in India like Jnanpith Award and Padma Vibhushan. As an activist, she has also worked towards the empowerment and rights of tribal people from West Bengal, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.

Rudali is a thought-provoking short story that deals with the underlying class and caste issues prevalent in India. Originally written in Bengali, it follows a raw narrative that depicts the struggles of the subaltern in a vastly power-imbalanced society. Rudali follows the story of Sanichari who labours hard all her life to make ends meet. The story begins by establishing her caste and how despite being the majority, the Ganjus and Dushads live in desperate poverty. They work as cheap labourers for the ‘Malik Mahajan’ who are the wealthy landlords and money lenders of the village. After losing her in-laws and her husband, she works hard to sustain for her son. But after his marriage, he slowly deteriorates due to tuberculosis and eventually after his death, his wife leaves, leaving Sanichari to look after their new born son. Later after he runs away from home, Sanichari finds an unlikely partnership with Bhikni, an old friend.

The two women forge a strong companionship and together they play a cunning game of getting back at their exploiters. ‘Rudali’ refers to a particular Rajasthani culture wherein women of lower castes are hired as professional mourners by the upper-class to mourn the deaths of their family members. The two women build a business together, harnessing this profession to get jobs to local lower-caste women who have been exploited and ostracised and exploited by the society. In no time, the upper-class people try to one up each other even in funerals and even go as far as purposefully killing themselves or the elders to hold grand funerals.

Entitled by the power of money, Devi reinforces the fact that people in power compromise morality to maintain their position through the shenanigans of the upper-class folks who are known as the ‘Malik Mahajan’. Historically, they were Rajput soldiers who pillaged and killed innocent tribes and conquered these lands. And then, Dulan says that “From century to century, their holdings and power increased. Even now, they take possession of land…” (Devi 73) They built up their power over the tribes and the lower caste through violence and debt traps. They spend lavishly on funerals to ‘uphold honour’ and ‘raise prestige’ by extracting money from the poor. Their greed for more lessens their humanity even with respect to their own kind. In this society, the rich are constantly rich while the poor are perpetually poor.

Where the privileged are divided amongst themselves due to greed for more, the powerless, though diverse, are united in their struggles against the elite. In Rudali, the lower caste and the shunned women look out for one another due to their shared resistance against the Malik Mahajan. Mahasweta Devi narrates this story of oppression without overtly emotionalising it and yet, it affects the readers in such a way that it provokes these emotions within us. To bring out maximum impact, she portrays reality as it is in all of its rawness which makes us question the power play prevalent in the society.

Manifestation and the 369 method

The entire universe is conspiring to give you everything you want!

Abraham Hicks

The new fast-moving world indeed changes with every passing second, but along with its fast pace, the craze to access and achieve everything within a blink of an eye has found its place in the new modern world. With the growing network of TikTok’s and YouTube videos, the idea of manifesting your goals has taken over the lives of people around the globe. ‘Manifesting’ out of its traditional Cambridge dictionary explanation of to show something clearly, through signs or actions has now gained this broad meaning of practising inspirational thoughts to make them real. As the pandemic trapped us in a literal digital bubble, confined to our homes, “achieving things’” had a newfound meaning: to achieve is to manifest. During the year 2020, the google search logs showed a record surge in keyword Manifest. Google searches for the same were more than 669 per cent that year. Manifesting was the new addition to the bandwagon of crystals, essential oils and meditation.  While compared to its contemporaries, manifestation routines have gained widespread popularity due to the zero-cost investment and quick, miraculous effects.  

Manifesting in simple terms is making something you want to happen by simply believing it will happen. What forms the base of manifestations is the law of attraction, which states that we attract what we focus on. There are several manifestation methods that you can find online, the vision board method, gratitude journal, two cup method etc. But the basic idea that it depends largely upon is the positive mindset a person has towards achieving a goal and a feeling of gratitude for all that he has already. One of the treading manifestation methods that were made famous by tiktokers was the 3,6,9 Method. 

The 369 manifestation method is said to be inspired by Nikolas Tesla’s numerology obsession. He believed that the numbers 3, 6 and 9 had a unique connection to the universe. Numerology experts believe the numbers three, six and nine stands for positive energy nurturing and fulfilment.  It is a method of manifesting your goals by writing them down in a journal or a paper three times in the morning, six times in the evening and nine times before you sleep. To manifest a goal using this method, you’ll have to pen down your intention throughout the day. You start by writing your affirmation (the vision you want to manifest) three times in the morning in your journal/paper. During this time, visualise what you would feel, what would you do once you achieve what you are manifesting. In the afternoon, write your affirmation six times and express gratitude for whatever you already have. At night, before you wind up for the day, write your affirmation nine times and visualise the whole scenario and imagine what you might feel when you achieve your goal. 

This technique helps you visualise your goal and bring about a positive change in how you look at your desires. The major takeaways from manifestation techniques are the importance of expressing gratitude and a positive outlook. So trust the process and believe in it until it manifests for you, for you become what you attract! 

Flowers- A Perfect Gift for Everyone!

Photo by Diana Akhmetianova on Pexels.com

“The glow of happiness and glee transpires within ourselves when a sparkling smile appears on the face of our loved ones.” 

A little endeavor we make for our beloved will be memorable for them. We are all riddled when it comes to making someone happy with our efforts and we spent numerous hours thinking, what would be the perfect incentive. So how to overcome the dilemma?

Gifts are one of the simplest things to make your beloved reach cloud nine. But with what? People often become bewildered when the topic comes to choose something which would be appealing and at the same time euphoric. So, the solution is concealed in our mother nature. Our nature provides us one of the most alluring gifts and that is flowers.

 “Flowers” – Yes, one of the simplest incentives to express our feelings and gratitude towards someone. Flowers are pure, delicate, flawless and it is the best present given by our mother nature.

      So, nature gives us the solution to all our dilemmas of thoughts. Flowers and bouquets are a fitting choice to be given everywhere and in every situation. To express your love, to apologize to someone, to manifest appreciation, to show gratitude, to congratulate someone, and of course last but not least, to gift someone as a token of love. Simple yet the most magnificent way and the kindliness act to show your love to someone.

Some relevant and interesting facts one should know why gifting flowers or bouquets would be delightful are as follows:

  1.  They represent your emotional bonding with the person: One can portray their emotional bonding to their beloved with flowers.

A painless act yet an effective way to get emotionally connected with your close ones. The receiver’s emotional level will extend with your small act of love. Flowers represent trust and love for the person. The bonding with your beloved enhances with the small efforts done by you.

  1. Flowers goes in all occasions: Flowers are universal, it is accepted at all occasions. Flowers can be offered at any situation, whether it is a blithe moment like birthdays, anniversaries or in a quandary situation like proposing someone special person in your life or to show condolences to a dead person, it is accepted everywhere.
  1. Flowers are a source of happiness:  Flowers represent love, care, joy, trust, respect, zeal, mirth, etc. Flowers have some elements of fascination. It brings a smile to a person’s face. Also, they are a sign of tranquillity. A person’s mood is highly enlightened if he/she has been given a flower.

“String of happiness is connected with each petal of a flower”.

4.Resemblance of divinity: Flowers help us to connect with the almighty. Offering flowers to the lord is a ritual in almost every religion.

 Every religion has its significance of offering flowers to its deity. Flowers connect our soul to our deity. We feel blissful in every aspect when we show our devotion through flowers.

  1. Flowers provide a calmness to the person: Flowers not only provide calmness but also make a person stress-free when he/she receives a flower.
  1. There are various flowers with various characteristic’s with various fragrances, but each one of the flowers is unique in their way, the aura of each flower makes magical. Flowers are mystical.

6. Are you regretting your rude behavior? Go give a flower: we are humans and doing mistakes is an inborn nature inscribed in all of us.

 But sometimes, we hurt someone’s sentiments which makes us feel vulnerable. So how to rectify? Happiness is the end of all solutions and flowers are the most astonishing thing on this planet.

 Flowers are the best option to apologize to the people with whom you have been intrusive and can balance your regret by showing your love for them, a simple flower will keep all the grudges away from your life.

7. A flower a day, keeps your romantic life full of enthusiasm: These vigorous flowers make a romantic life more jovial and contended if you give your partner a flower.

Gifting your romantic partner a flower a day will not only make your relationship strong but will bring positivity among the partners. Flowers bring positivity to every relation. Apart from romantic relations, a flower brings positivity in all types of relations.

8. A flower fixes every situation: we are uncertain in certain situations. Our perplexed thoughts withdraw our positivity and energy and rather we feel low. But flowers fix everything, it is like a tier in the cycle of our life and takes our life further with the happy moments.

Flowers speak more than us and no matter what the situation is, what the person is, it glorifies all the relation with a simple token of love. Sometimes being polite and calm can express all you want to say a person and a flower will help you to make your life brightened with its delicate petals. Want some flowers to convey a message?  Sing See Soon has a wide variety of flowers available for delivery in Singapore. Check them out today!

  So, what are you waiting for? Go get a flower and bring a smile to the face of your loved ones.