The story of 72-year-old Prema Dhanraj, who was honoured with the Padma Shri on Monday, is no less than a movie script. Surviving as a child from a fire accident after suffering 50 per cent burn injuries, as per the wish of her mother she made it her mission to provide succour to burn survivors who had lost hope. At the age of eight, Dhanraj suffered severe burn injuries in a kitchen fire at her residence. Fifty per cent of her body was burnt and her entire face had to be reconstructed. Rosie, her mother, prayed to the Almighty that if her child is healed, the girl would dedicate her life to the service of humanity. Being a fighter, Dhanraj survived multiple surgeries. According to medical experts, burns that exceed 30 per cent of a person's body can be potentially fatal. Dhanraj went on to become one of India's top plastic surgeons and Head of the Reconstructive and Plastic Surgery Department at a prominent hospital in southern India. She is now an internationally recognized consultant for the establishment of multiple burn treatment centres around the world. Dhanraj is regarded as a pioneer in reconstructive surgery and has operated on over 25,000 burn victims. Originally from Vellore in Tamil Nadu, she now resides in Bengaluru. In 1999, she founded 'Agni Raksha' with a focus on holistic rehabilitation of burn survivors. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
23 April,2024 01:03 PM IST | Bengaluru | IANS
For many reasons, Indian comedian Anuvab Pal is excited to perform ‘The Nation Wants To Know’, his one hour-long special, which was first performed in Mumbai. Interestingly, this will be the first time that he performs it at the Royal Opera House this Friday. It is a city venue, that the comedian, who is also known for the Stephen Fry-starrer ‘The Empire’ comedy show, has always wanted to perform at in Mumbai, ever since he entered the standup comedy scene over 15 years ago. Pal has now done over 1,000 shows of ‘The Nation Wants To Know’ over the last decade around the world with the likes of Singapore, as well as cities such as Sydney, San Francisco before coming back to perform it in Mumbai. The special is the opening act for The Entertainment Factory’s The Royal Opera House Comedy Series starting this month on April 26. Interestingly, this special by the playwright, who is also a screenwriter for the likes of Bollywood film ‘Loins of Punjab’ (2007), will have a different flavour than all his other gigs performed around the world, he reveals, because there are some stories that he can tell in Mumbai, that work best only in Mumbai for him. Having spent 20 years of his life here in the city, that is what makes this even more enjoyable. ‘The Nation Wants To Know’ is a special that takes a very funny look at India. It explores the quirks of different Indian communities that still continue to inspire Pal for his material; it also explores the colonial hangover of the British in India. Interestingly, the show also explores the oddity of news headlines, which are always the talk of the town now, and the absurdity of everyday Indian behaviour. It also dwells into the new high-rises that define new India to the digital India that older people struggle to comprehend making it one that everybody can identify with. Over the years, comedians in India have been at the receiving end for picking up topics like politics, culture, and communities. With the social media boom turning from posts and tweets into reels and more, it doesn’t take long for them to be trolled. However, Pal says he keeps it simple and lets the creative side of him take over because he doesn’t have strong political opinions. Ahead of his act, mid-day spoke to Pal about coming back to Mumbai and what makes his performance in the city unique. The comedian also dwells on why he loves focusing on the quirks of Indian communities, his fascination with news headlines, and how he takes the creative liberty with politics by thinking about his opinion than that of the audience. Here are the edited excerpts: Firstly, how does it feel to be the opening act for The Royal Opera House Comedy Series?It feels great to be the opening act for the comedy series. I have wanted to perform at Opera House for years. 'The Nation Wants to Know' focuses on Indian communities among other things. What do you believe makes Indian communities unique as compared to communities around the world where you've performed. Which is your favourite Indian community to describe for their quirks?There is no other culture that has so many distinctions and differences than Indian communities. Most other cultures are quite uniform. News headlines and their virality are the talk of the town. What intrigues you the most about them and what made you include them as a part of this one-hour special?When I began ‘The Nation Wants To Know’, primetime news was the home for proper rubbish you could make fun of. Today, that has moved to Instagram reels but the idea of Indian news becoming comedy is great material. Having already done over 1,000 shows around the world, what makes performing it in Mumbai special and will you be adding a local flavour to it?Mumbai is home. It is where I have lived for over 20 years. There are stories I can tell in Mumbai that only work in Mumbai. Your one-hour special has a lot of subjects that are constantly been spoken about in India. However, most often than not comedians have been at the wrong side of things for touching upon politics and more. Do you consciously try to find a balance between not trying to offend anyone or do you take the creative liberty by not limiting your writing?I do take the creative liberty. Also, I don't have strong political opinions. I like to go with the flow and see how things evolve. I am less interested in offense and more interested in what my idea of the politics is. I try not to think about what people think or what people's opinions are. It is impossible to write if you think about the audience. Do you believe there is still intolerance towards serious subjects being made fun of in a comedy special?There is intolerance towards everything. Laughing is what makes it tolerable. Ever since you became a standup comedian, how have you seen the Indian comic scene change?The Indian comic scene is totally different now. There are thousands of comics. In all this time, how have you evolved as a comedian?I have not evolved enough as a comedian. I would like to evolve more, write more. I have travelled and seen a lot of the world, but I think as a comedian I need more tricks. What inspires your act and specials? Do current affairs in India help you in the process because of so much that is being consumed daily through social media and reactions to it?India's relationship with other cultures is what inspires my comedy acts and specials. How does the rest of the world see Indians? That is my favourite topic. Lastly, where do you go after Mumbai? Are you working on any new material simultaneously?After Mumbai, I go on tour across the United Kingdom from May 17 to June 8, ending at Soho Theatre from June 3 to June 8. Event details: When: Friday, April 26 Time: 7:30 pm onwardsWhere: Royal Opera House MumbaiTickets: BookMyShow.com
23 April,2024 10:30 AM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento Pinto
In today's rapidly evolving corporate landscape, businesses are increasingly recognising the importance of sustainability not just as a moral imperative but also as a strategic advantage. However, achieving sustainability goals while maintaining productivity and efficiency can be a challenging task. The architectural and design industry is on the cusp of a significant transformation driven by artificial intelligence (AI). Its ability to analyse massive datasets holds immense potential for environmental progress in various capacities. “AI-powered technologies are revolutionising how office spaces are designed and operated, focusing on enhancing both productivity and sustainability. From optimising energy consumption to improving indoor air quality and space utilisation, AI is driving a paradigm shift in workplace environments. AI empowers businesses to create more efficient, sustainable, and human-centric work environments,” says Sammeer Pakvasa, managing director and CEO of Eleganz Interiors. As organisations continue to prioritise sustainability and employee well-being, AI will undoubtedly play an increasingly pivotal role in shaping the future of work. On World Earth Day, Pakvasa delves into seven key areas where AI can revolutionise sustainable office design. Streamlining design processesUtilising AI-powered tools enhances the efficiency of the design process by automating mundane tasks and enabling quicker iterations. Integrating AI into computer-aided design (CAD) software empowers architects to execute intricate calculations, produce optimised designs, and pinpoint potential errors or inefficiencies. Generative design algorithms offer a spectrum of design alternatives based on defined parameters, while automated error detection identifies flaws pre-construction, thus mitigating rework and reducing costs. Also Read: Why pastel palettes are perfect for Mumbai home interiors Intelligent site selectionAI generators support architects and designers in assessing potential building locations by evaluating factors such as water availability, solar radiation, wind patterns, and transportation infrastructure. Through comprehensive data analysis, AI generators recommend sites that are environmentally friendly and energy-efficient. For instance, they can identify areas with abundant sunlight for solar energy utilisation or favourable wind conditions for natural ventilation systems. Furthermore, AI evaluates access to public transportation and infrastructure to minimise reliance on individual vehicles, thereby contributing to sustainability objectives. Ultimately, AI-driven site selection ensures strategic placement of office buildings to minimise energy consumption, transportation requirements, and environmental impact, which aligns with sustainable design principles. Sustainable material selectionAI algorithms play a crucial role in guiding architects and builders towards selecting sustainable materials by assessing various factors such as durability, environmental impact, and cost. Machine learning algorithms help identify environmentally friendly alternatives and offer insights into the entire lifecycle of materials. This encompasses recommending sustainable substitutes for conventional building materials, maximising the utilisation of recycled and locally sourced materials, and conducting thorough life cycle analyses to evaluate environmental footprints. Better space utilisationAI is emerging as a game-changer in space utilisation. By deploying occupancy sensors and analytics, organisations can gain a comprehensive understanding of how their office spaces are being used. This data-driven approach to space management allows businesses to make informed decisions about space allocation, identify areas of underutilisation, and optimise the usage of available spaces. AI-powered occupancy sensors can detect the presence of people as well as other variables such as light and temperature. By analysing this data, businesses can gain insights into how various spaces are being used and identify trends in occupancy patterns. For example, a company may find that certain conference rooms are rarely used or that employees tend to congregate in specific areas of the office during certain times of the day. Armed with this information, businesses can make data-driven decisions about space utilisation. They can identify areas of underutilisation and repurpose them for other uses, such as creating collaborative workspaces or installing additional amenities. By optimising space utilisation, businesses can reduce their real estate costs, improve the overall productivity of their workforce, and create a more comfortable and flexible work environment. Also Read: Renting in Mumbai? Your guide to budget-friendly home decor Energy optimisationEnergy optimisation is an innovative solution that uses advanced AI-powered algorithms to analyse vast datasets and make dynamic adjustments to heating, cooling, and lighting systems. These algorithms take into account various factors such as weather patterns, occupancy rates, and user behaviour to optimise the energy usage in real-time, thereby reducing energy consumption and minimising the environmental impact. One of the benefits of energy optimisation is that it enables businesses to significantly reduce their carbon footprint without compromising the comfort and productivity of occupants. By fine-tuning energy usage, businesses can save energy and reduce their operating costs. Moreover, energy optimisation helps to enhance the indoor environment by providing occupants with optimal lighting, temperature, and air quality. These factors are essential for creating a comfortable and healthy working environment, which in turn boosts productivity and reduces absenteeism. Predictive maintenanceAI enables predictive maintenance of building systems, helping organisations minimise downtime and extend the lifespan of their assets. By analysing historical data and identifying patterns of equipment failure, AI algorithms can predict potential issues before they occur, allowing for proactive maintenance and cost-effective asset management. This not only reduces operational disruptions but also enhances the reliability and efficiency of building systems, ultimately contributing to overall sustainability efforts. Also Read: Modern maximalism: Experts help us decode the new home decor trend Personalised workspaces for employee well-beingAI technologies are transforming employee experiences within the workplace. By leveraging data on employee preferences and behaviour, AI-powered systems can personalise settings such as lighting and temperature to better meet individual needs. This data-driven approach fosters a more productive and inclusive workplace culture by enhancing employee satisfaction, engagement, and well-being. In conclusion, AI offers a powerful toolkit for architects, designers, and facility managers to create sustainable office spaces that prioritise environmental responsibility, employee well-being, and operational efficiency. As AI technology continues to evolve, its transformative potential in shaping the future of sustainable office design will undoubtedly become even more significant.
22 April,2024 10:30 AM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalRemember the good old days when life seemed simpler and relationships felt genuine? A heartfelt poem crafted by the wordsmith Swanand Kirkire, now brought to life by Artiste First, offers a nostalgic journey back to a simpler time. With Saleel Kulkarni's soothing music and Shubhankar Kulkarni's heartfelt vocals, 'Tum Jaao Mat…Raho' is like a gentle breeze of nostalgia, a conversation between two hearts, embodying the pure love of stolen glances and heartfelt conversations. ‘Tum Jaao Mat...Raho’ unfolds as a heartwarming conversation between a couple. The song arrives as a breath of fresh air with touching lyrics like ‘Ek baat kahu…tum jaao mat yaar’. The song captures the magic of classical romance rooted in stolen glances, meaningful exchanges, and a yearning to just be near one another. Composed by Saleel Kulkarni, penned by Swanand Kirkire and sung by Shubhankar Kulkarni, ‘Tum Jaao Mat...Raho’ is a breezy tune that listeners of all generations will embrace with open arms. Another unique aspect of the song is the presence of singer Sharayu Date who lends her mesmerising voice for a very special word in the song. Saleel Kulkarni, a composer-singer celebrated for his enchanting melodies in Marathi cinema, recently won the 69th National Award for his film 'Ekda Kay Zala'. His son, Shubhankar Kulkarni, lends his unforgettable voice to 'Tum Jaao Mat...Raho'. With the lyrical talents of writing maestro Swanand Kirkire, this song is the perfect tune to travel back in time and get lost in the essence of old-school feelings. Also Read: Post Malone expresses gratitude for collaboration with Taylor Swift on 'Fortnight' ‘Tum Jaao Mat...Raho’ boasts of a serene music video that acts as the soul of the song. Every frame in the video is a reflection of what the song is trying to convey. A celebration of stolen glances, unspoken words and simple love, the music video has a unique charm. Talking about the song, Saleel Kulkarni said, “Tum Jaao Mat…Raho is a song that will reach our ears and hearts at the same time. I’ve always wanted to create a romantic tune that the older generation can relate to, and the younger generation can fall in love with, and that’s what we’ve tried to achieve. Shubhankar has felt each word of the song while singing it, and I am very excited to see how the audience reacts to this melody”. Sharing his thoughts on the track, Rohit Sobti, Founder, Artiste First, said, “We proudly present the child prodigy Shubhankar Kulkarni. You will be amazed at his singing talent at the age of 18. Artiste First has always been a platform that puts the artiste and their talent in front and centre. Saleel ji is a very respected figure in the music industry, and to be working with him along with his talented son and Swanandji is any music label’s dream come true moment. Tum Jaao Mat…Raho is beautiful because of its simplicity, and I think this tune will appeal to all kinds of listeners”. Also Read: Faridkot: ‘The term ‘indie music’ doesn’t stand true anymore, it is just mainstream music’ Talking about penning lyrics for the melody, Swanand Kirkire said, “It’s always creatively satisfying to go back to the past and bring back some of its magic in a tune. What started as a poem in my mind is now a song for everyone to enjoy.Tum Jaao Mat…Raho will take every listener down memory lane and help them relive the era of uncluttered romance”. Sharing his thoughts on the song, Shubhankar Kulkarni said, “Tum Jaao Mat…Raho is a tune that is very close to my heart. The opportunity to work with my father and Swanand ji for the same project is one any artist will feel humbled by. I also feel the simplicity and freshness of this song will win over the younger generation who generally aren’t used to such tracks”. This April, if you are in the mood for something old school, tune into ‘Tum Jaao Mat, Raho’ and enjoy the musical journey. Tum Jaao Mat…Raho is available on all leading music platforms. The official music video is now live on YouTube. Also Read: Taylor Swift releases highly-anticipated 11th studio album 'The Tortured Poets Department'
21 April,2024 02:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAmerican rapper-singer Post Malone has expressed gratitude and admiration for collaborating with Taylor Swift on the track 'Fortnight,' featured on her recently released 11th studio album, 'The Tortured Poets Department.' Malone took to his Instagram handle to share his sentiments, stating, "It's once in a lifetime that someone like @taylorswift comes into this world. I am floored by your heart and your mind, and I am beyond honoured to have been asked to help you with your journey I love you so much. Thank you Tay." View this post on Instagram A post shared by @postmalone Malone not only lent his voice to the song but also appeared in its music video as Swift's ex-lover, embodying the role of a tortured tragic hero. Also Read: Ahead of album release Taylor Swift unveils first single 'Fortnight' featuring Post Malone The video, which features scenes of Swift in distress and Malone attempting to save her, has captivated fans with its emotional storyline. Swift praised Malone's contribution, emphasising how his portrayal perfectly captured the essence of the song and the album's themes. In a delightful surprise for fans, actors Ethan Hawke and Josh Charles, known for their roles in the iconic film 'Dead Poets Society,' made cameo appearances in the 'Fortnight' music video. Also Read: ‘I feel like I grew up with Taylor Swift in all these years’: Decoding Taylor Swift’s fandom in India Playing scientists conducting experiments on Swift, their unexpected presence added an extra layer of intrigue to the visual narrative. Both Hawke and Charles expressed their appreciation for being part of Swift's project. Hawke took to Instagram to share his excitement, humorously referencing his and Charles' characters from 'Dead Poets Society' now being 'PhDs in THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT.' Charles, on the other hand, reflected on the experience, describing it as memorable and filled with laughter. Swift reciprocated the sentiment, expressing her joy at working with Hawke and Charles, whom she dubbed as "the coolest guys on earth." Their collaboration added a nostalgic touch to the music video, resonating with fans of both Swift's music and classic cinema. Following the release of 'The Tortured Poets Department,' Swift surprised fans with a "double album" expansion titled 'The Anthology,' featuring 15 additional songs. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the album's debut shattered records on Spotify, becoming the platform's most-streamed album in a single day, while Swift herself claimed the title of the most-streamed artist in Spotify history for a single day. Also Read: Taylor Swift releases highly-anticipated 11th studio album 'The Tortured Poets Department' This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
21 April,2024 01:37 PM IST | Washington | ANI
Ira Malik is 16 years old. The New Delhi-based teenager wasn’t even born when Taylor Swift released her first eponymous album in 2006 but the Gen-Z relates to the singer just like a Millennial. She has already booked tickets for The Eras Tour in Liverpool on June 14, 2024. Malik says she has been a Taylor Swift fan for as long as she can remember. She reveals, “If I had to pick a particular era or album, it was when she released ‘Speak Now’. It has been 13 years since the American singer-songwriter released the album. As the world is experiencing ‘The Eras Tour’ this year, which Swift embarked on in March 2023, her life and persona have become a global phenomenon fuelled by her fans.” Today, Malik not only owns vinyls of most of her albums but has a lot of merchandise related to the singer. Incidentally, Taylor Swift started as a singer at the same age as Malik. Two years later, she released Taylor Swift (2006) and Fearless (2008), which not only produced hits like ‘Tim McGraw’ and ‘Teardrops On My Guitar’ but also ‘Love Story’ and ‘You Belong With Me’ respectively. Ever since then, she has garnered many fans, who fondly call themselves ‘Swifties’. Malik along with other Indians is very much a part of this fandom that only seems to be getting bigger by the day. Interestingly, when Malik heard ‘Speak Now’, she was already gravitating toward the singer. “I had been a fan because of songs like ‘Love Story’ and ‘You Belong With Me’ but I remember listening to ‘Enchanted’ when it was released on my old iPad for the first time and falling in love with it which led me to listen to her entire discography at that point.” Being a ‘Swiftie’As Taylor Swift launched the South American leg with her performance in Argentina earlier this week, one can’t help but remember the ticket fiasco from last year that showcases her popularity. According to several media reports, when tickets went for sale online in November 2022 for Taylor Swift's American leg of The Eras Tour, American ticket sales platform Ticketmaster crashed within an hour. During this time, even after users were logged out and were frozen in a queue, there were as many as 2.4 million tickets that were sold. It broke the record for the highest number of ticket sales by an artist in a single day. Mumbai is also hosting a ‘Tribute to Taylor Swift’ with a Western classical performance at the Royal Opera House this weekend. The event comes weeks after ‘The Eras Concert’ film was showcased at different locations not only in the city but also across India. Unsurprisingly, Malik made her way to the movie when it was showcased in the capital city. “I went to The Eras Tour Film recently and the feeling of being in a room with absolute strangers but still feeling so connected to them was special,” explains the teen, who is the daughter of Subir Malik, founder of Parikrama, one of India’s most iconic rock bands, and has been exposed to different kinds of music over the years but her Swift fandom trumps all. Such is her fandom, that Malik has already watched the film two times and plans on watching it again with fan groups in the city. The Taylor Swift phenomenon is quite similar in other cities too. Bengaluru-based Fathima Ashraf became a Swiftie even before the term existed, way back in 2008. More precisely she dropped hits like ‘Love Story’ and ‘You Belong With Me’ the same year. “The high school girl in me loved her storytelling and catchy lyrics. I remember learning all the lyrics and doing sing-alongs and all the very cheesy stuff with my friends,” she reminisces, continuing, “For the teenager I was, I found it magical. I still feel she does well with mystic vibes.” Even though the second album made her an eternal fan, Ashraf says her favourite is ‘Lover’ (2019), which is the most recent of the 10 albums she has released till now. She explains, “I love the collaborations that she does -- she knows to pick the right voice to collaborate with. ‘The Last Time’ with Gary Lightbody is one of my favourites, along with ‘Willow’, ‘Delicate’ and ‘All Too Well’, ‘Wildest Dreams’.” So, what is unique about Taylor Swift compared to any other artist today, and why does she have a hold on her audience so much? The 28-year-old says, “She is very versatile. She can do pop, country, folk, alt-rock. I wouldn't be surprised if she gets into hip-hop one day. So even if you don’t like all her songs, chances are that everybody can vibe to at least one of her songs.” The fact she is hardworking, says Ashraf, is impressive because the thought and effort that Swift puts into each of her projects, be it a song, music video or concert isn’t something that everyone does. Dissecting Taylor Swift and her auraMalik agrees with Ashraf in more ways than one. She believes Taylor Swift is one of if not the best songwriters of this generation, especially because there aren’t a lot of mainstream pop artists that are even a part of the songwriting process anymore. She explains, “Taylor Swift is constantly reinventing herself. She started with country music, slowly delved into pop in 1989, and even covered alt-music with ‘Folklore’ and ‘Evermore’. Further than just a shift in genres, her albums are extremely different sonically and aesthetically. This is why I believe that she is one of the few artists that have been able to make a permanent place in the industry and continue to at the age of 33.” Even Mumbaikar Alifiya Joel, who has settled in New Zealand and has been a ‘Tay Tay’ fan, as she calls it, for over a decade now, the American singer is beyond just her music. She explains, “She is a great mix of creativity and business. She not only writes all of her songs, but she also knows how to sell them at the right time to the right audience. Re-releasing her albums was a daring business move and she did it anyway. She is a benchmark for someone who works in the marketing and advertising industry,” says 32-year-old Joel, who works as a marketing professional, and has been influenced by Swift not only professionally but also personally. “Taylor has great fan engagement, and the fans notice and appreciate it. It is a craze that harms no one. I have a couple of Taylor Swift T-shirts. She is so relatable that a lot of her fans have mentioned her in therapy. I know I have,” reveals the Mumbaikar, who hails from Wadala. Everybody has different kinds of experiences but for Joel, her Taylor Swift fandom has come full circle in more ways than one. She narrates, “Everyone was listening to ‘Love Story’ when I was in college and somehow, I am listening to it again just before I got married. It is the longevity and relatability of her songs that make them memorable.” Such has been her connection that even the Mumbaikar didn’t know that what started as an earworm from the singer, would eventually make her so big. “Through her albums and her exploring different genres – ‘Fearless’ versus ‘Folklore’ - completely different vibe. I felt like I grew up with Taylor Swift all these years. Her albums and her lyrics kept getting more mature and relatable,” adds Joel, who says she is in her Taylor Swift era after Beyonce and Brittany Spears had theirs. “She is as big as The Beatles, if not bigger,” shares the Mumbaikar, who says she can sing any of her songs at any time. “I can sing most of her songs while driving in my car or with a hairbrush in front of a mirror. Currently, I’m listening to ‘Exile’ and love the piano in it.” Living in Auckland, Joel says she got lucky to watch her ‘Reputation Tour’ live before the Covid-19 pandemic struck. Even though she wasn’t lucky enough to get the Eras Tour tickets, she did not miss out on watching the movie with her closest and biggest Swifties. Just like Malik, Ashraf and Joel, it was ‘Love Story’ that got Arunima Joshua, another Mumbaikar hooked to Taylor Swift, but she became a ‘Swiftie’ with ‘1989’, the 12-time Grammy awardee’s fifth album. “Blank Space from the 1989 album converted me. I was very much an indie music fan because I would listen to Devendra Banhart and Karen O and Jamie xx and not much pop but I couldn't get ‘Blank Space’ out of my head. I would loop it all day. I accepted that I love pop music then,” shares the Mumbaikar, re-living her journey with Swift. Apart from loving her songwriting, Joshua says the fact that her lyrics are personal and universal at the same time is what makes her more relatable. “Swift’s rhythmic cadence elevates the level of pop music as a genre. The compositions are done so ingeniously,” the 28-year-old adds. Even though her fandom is mostly about music, she has gifted her best friend Taylor Swift merchandise and themed gifts. “They are not official merchandise but bespoke items I got made like candles or a cosmetic or book that references her songs,” shares the Swiftie, whose favourite song is ‘False God’ because it is It's a solely underrated synth sax bop and very 80s and sexy. Even as Joshua has caught the movie screening in Mumbai, she wants to attend a Swiftie Night but is afraid that she will find fewer people her age, however, we think when Swifties come together, they may not unite by age but by their love for Taylor Swift. “To be a Swiftie is to not only be a fan of her music but to be deeply entrenched in theories and stories of her personal life which she strategically places but also distances herself away from,” shares the Mumbaikar, who speaks for many fans not only in Mumbai and India but around the world.
21 April,2024 08:20 AM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento Pinto
‘Gen Z takes life too seriously.’ This is a notion that many have. Gen Zers venting to their parents or anyone older than them are often advised to ‘chill out’, ‘live life stress-free’, and not complicate it unnecessarily. This is especially the case with most Indian parents who often tell their Gen Z children to live a ‘bindass’ life as they did in their 20s and 30s thereby encouraging ‘toxic positivity. ’ Toxic positivity is all about overemphasising maintaining a positive attitude and avoiding any form of negative emotions or experiences. It dismisses valid feelings of sadness, anger, or frustration, typically through phrases like "just think positive" or "everything happens for a reason. Although being optimistic and having a positive approach in life can help us get through difficult times, forcing yourself to constantly stay positive is unrealistic and often hurts one’s mental health. “The younger generation is criticised for being perceived as fragile and not resilient enough, which undermines their unique hardships and experiences,” affirms Mani Agarwal, neurodivergent therapist. Further, Dr Rahul Chandhok, head consultant, mental health and behavioural science, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram agrees, “Both millennials and parents can fall prey to promoting or practising toxic positivity, whether through societal pressures, personal beliefs, or cultural influences. However, it is more about individual attitudes and behaviours rather than being specific to one group over another.” “It is crucial to understand that while stress is a universal phenomenon, certain generational characteristics might make Gen Z appear more susceptible or reactive to stress. Various factors can contribute to a severe perception of life’s challenges in Gen Z,” adds Neha Cadabam, senior consultant psychologist, executive director, Cadabams Hospitals. Although nothing new, ‘toxic positivity’ – a term unknown to people earlier is now being identified as an attitude. Mid-day.com got mental health experts on board to delve into this attitude, why Gen Z is subjected to it, its negative impact and the correct alternative. Also Read: Toxic work culture: Humiliation at workplace is driving employees to quit How has the term ‘toxic positivity’ surfaced? The terminology related to mental health is relatively recent. Over the past decade, perspectives on mental health have been evolving. Today, the importance of mental health and education on various mental health conditions and illnesses is far better than what it was a decade back. Agarwal tells Mid-day.com, “Millennials and previous generations have lacked a vocabulary to describe their mental health challenges. Consequently, when faced with emotional difficulties, they often had to externalise their issues, cope with circumstances, and passively move forward. Now, thanks to the internet, help is one click away now. This is a drastic contrast for Gen Z who can access resources online and find words to their experiences.” Cadabams clarifies that pinpointing millennials or parents for exhibiting toxic positivity can be challenging as its prevalence can vary widely among individuals regardless of their generation. “Parents may resort to toxic positivity to shield their children from negative experiences, while millennials might employ it to maintain a facade of an ideal life on social media. Each generation faces different societal pressures that might encourage the use of toxic positivity as a coping mechanism.” Also Read: India’s fertility rate plummets, doctors seek solutionsWhy is Gen Z severely stressed for most parts of their lives? The South Asian nation's working-age population stands at over 900 million, according to 2021 data from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Agarwal shares, “India, particularly, is at the forefront of housing the youngest population in the world. What could have been a major point of growth has turned into a point of dejection as this population continues to face unemployment challenges, issues of housing and clean water, poor sanitation and climate change among others.” She goes on to say, “Systemic challenges are, thus, responsible for Gen Z’s stress and pessimism. Post Covid-19 and other multiple global crises, Gen Z continues to live in a state of uncertainty and insecurity. When the future appears bleak, it’s hard to maintain trust in the present. In such a scenario, the mental health crisis affecting Gen Z is possibly the reason why they are expected to be especially more resilient and hence, toxic positivity follows them like a shadow.” Besides this, Chandhok adds, “In today's digital age, there's extreme pressure to curate and exhibit an ideal image of oneself on social media platforms, fostering a culture of comparison and unrealistic standards.” “Further, with the rise of self-help culture and motivational content, there are abundance of messages promoting the idea that positive thinking is the only way to overcome any obstacle, which can lead to the dismissal of genuine struggles and emotions. Additionally, societal norms and expectations typically dictate that young people should be optimistic, ambitious, and resilient, which can further perpetuate the idea that acknowledging negative emotions is a sign of weakness.” Also Read: ‘Lazy Girl Job’: How Gen-Z is changing the way we perceive jobs todayWhat are the signs of toxic positivity? Cadabam elucidates, “Toxic positivity goes beyond mere optimism; it represents the excessive and ineffective insistence on maintaining a positive mindset, even in the face of situations that naturally elicit sadness or distress. It involves the dismissal of genuine human emotions, which can be detrimental.” Archana Singhal, counsellor and family therapist, founder, Mindwell Counsel, Delhi tells us, “Toxic positivity can make people feel like their emotions are not valid or important. It can also prevent them from seeking help or addressing their problems properly, leading to more stress and unhappiness.” Mentioning major signs of toxic positivity, Singhal shares, “Some key signs include dismissing or downplaying someone's emotions, always trying to find the silver lining in a problem without acknowledging their pain, and pressuring others to be happy.” Singhal recommends enforcing an environment where all emotions are accepted and validated. How can toxic positivity have a negative impact? Embracing an "it is what it is" mindset can lead to significant emotional distress, as it often fosters a sense of helplessness and resignation in one's life. Agarwal shares, “Toxic positivity eventually breeds burnout as we exhaust our ability to find excuses to stay upbeat. If the problem is not acknowledged and accepted then the individual falls into a cyclical pattern of piling on more problems. This can continue until the physical health also deteriorates and the circumstances become too overwhelming.” Cadabams further expands, “Toxic positivity can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, as individuals feel their true emotional experiences are neither seen nor validated. Psychiatrically, this can exacerbate feelings of sadness and anxiety, compounding stress and possibly leading to depressive symptoms. By undermining authentic emotional experiences, toxic positivity obstructs the development of healthy coping mechanisms. This can stunt emotional resilience, making it more challenging for individuals to navigate future stresses effectively.” How must elders or peers extend support to those stressed? Recognising and understanding the unique challenges faced by Gen Z, it is essential to provide support that resonates with their experiences. According to Chandhok, Gen Z may require a different approach because of their unique experiences, challenges, and perspectives. “Understanding the digital landscape and the pressures of social media is important, as it can majorly impact their self-esteem and mental well-being. Providing a safe space for open communication and validation of their emotions is crucial, as it helps in counteracting the effects of toxic positivity and encourages a healthy emotional expression. Providing practical support and guidance that is tailored to their specific needs and aspirations can also empower them to deal with the complexities of today's world with confidence and resilience. Furthermore, fostering a sense of belongingness, both online and offline, can combat feelings of isolation and alienation that some Gen Zers may experience.” Agarwal suggests extending empathy and understanding instead of a solution-oriented approach to make someone feel heard. “To ensure that you’re not putting down someone else’s concerns, it is always best to gently comfort them and reassure them that they are not alone in the process. Simple words like “we can figure it out together” can make someone feel that their concern is valid and worthy of another person’s support.” “Additionally, reassuring others that their circumstance warrants an emotional reaction and that they are not blowing up out of proportion can add to the comfort. Finally, if you feel that you are not in the best space to offer comfort, it is best to support the person in finding a mental health professional who can be impartial and non-judgemental towards them.” Also Read: Insights into why spiritual tourism is on the rise and how youngsters are embracing the trendWhat kind of language and words should you use to comfort someone venting?Experts list down a list of phrases you must avoid and use to extend the appropriate support: Avoid: it could be worseJust don’t think about it It’s always been like thisIt is supposed to be hardIt’s going to stay the same, you have to adjustNothing else can be doneJust let it goDon’t be lazy, if you work hard, it will happenDon’t waste your energy on thisIt’s not worth crying over this Say: That sounds tough, I’m here for youYour feelings are completely validHey it’ll be okay, things can change Let’s figure it out togetherYou can tell me if things are not okayLet’s talk about itIt doesn’t have to be this wayI understand why you feel that wayIt's okay to feel upset Ask:How does that make you feel?What do you need from me right now?Do you want to talk to a therapist? I’ll help you find one. What seems to be happening according to you? How can I support you?What do you need from me right now?
21 April,2024 07:35 AM IST | Mumbai | Aakanksha Ahire“There is a Punjabi song with sitar in it. I don’t think anybody has done that before,” says Rajarshi Sanyal, one half of Indian pop music band Faridkot. Regaling us with their new music, the band is set to release their third album a decade after ‘Phir Se?’ in 2014 and ‘Ek’ in 2011. Like all good things, their new EP ‘Ibtida’, showcases their evolution as singers and musicians. It is also what they are counting on, in what could be considered as new beginnings for them. For starters, the former Delhi-based band, which was formed in 2008, now calls Mumbai their home and is loving every moment of making music here. IP Singh, the other half of the duo that comprises the indie-pop band, says, “The EP ‘Ibtida’ is an ode to new beginnings and our new studio in Mumbai. Both of us moved to Mumbai - I moved eight years ago, and Raj moved five years ago. In that amount of time, we have our own studio, are making music, and signed with T-Series. There are times when you feel so much love and gratitude but also excitement for all the new things that are happening in your life.” Also Read: Indian ‘Swifties’ on why they love Taylor Swift, her music and aura Making of ‘Ibtida’ The band, which was signed by T-Series after the lockdown, has five songs ‘Ek Samay’, ‘Tu Dass Kivein’, ‘Main Na Jaan Kyun’, ‘Chhad Ke Na Jaa’ and ‘Aadatein’ with this EP that released on April 19. The music showcases Faridkot in a unique way with Singh’s goosebumps-inducing vocals aided by Sanyal in ‘Ek Samay’ to the richness of the composition for ‘Main Na Jaanu Kyun’ that has been meticulously worked on to produce a contemporary sound with the richness of Indian playback singer Jubin Nautiyal’s voice. It gets even better because they have not only collaborated with Nautiyal but also Raghav Chaitanya on ‘Chhad Ke Na Jaa’ --- all of which has been done consciously to embrace the changing times. Sanyal, who says he immediately connected with ‘Ibtida’ when Singh came up with it, shares, “I think every time we write a song, it is ibtida only. We don’t like to make similar music because you know how people say, ‘this band has a signature sound’, whereas most of the bands I grew up listening to always experimented with their sound – be it The Beatles and even Bollywood composers – for us it is a new sound once again. Each of our albums, singles, have been one different from the other. We always think - what have we done till now, and what have we not done.” Making of the album only got better with Nautiyal and Chaitanya who added a different kind of flavour to their music or as Sanyal describes it, “You know you add this masala to your songs but you don’t know how it is till you taste it.” Incidentally, last year, they worked on a song with Shilpa Rao, and these collaborations are an extension of that vision forward. He adds, “Working with Jubin and Raghav has been an amazing experience. Both of them are really fantastic singers with amazing voices. Jubin put out music at a time when the audiences were also different, which is what he told us, that he absolutely loved working on the song with us and loved how different it was compared to all the other music he has worked on till now, and it shows. The fact that they were two different personalities made it even better, shares Singh. “Jubin is the wise Babaji who is very centred and on the other hand Raghav is a ball of energy. It is not a collaboration with two artists, but two different human beings, who bring two different experiences in our lives. Both of them are ace in their skills, so it was lovely and heartwarming to see people lending their voices and art to our songs to make this colour that has never been seen before,” he adds. This freedom and growth evidently come from the fact that they have chosen to classify themselves particularly as a pop music band, which allows them to experiment with their music, says Sanyal. He explains, “We love pop music. The term has remained the same but every decade it has a new sound and I love that. That is why we held on to being called a pop band because then we can keep changing our sound and keep having fun. Nobody say that ‘this is your genre’. If you make pop, it can be rock ‘n’ roll, it can be metal, it can be love songs too.” Changing face of musicSo, what really took them a decade to release new music beyond music for films? Sanyal believes it was a combination of everything. He explains, “We were changing as musicians and going through different transitions. One important factor was that the audience was changing after 2014. I don’t think they were listening to albums like they did before that. There were listening to just one song or one single, which is how a lot of independent artists were looking at music. Like very few would focus on albums, and even with albums, people will look at one song, and ignore the rest.” However, he says the lockdown changed the way people were listening to music as a lot more people were spending time at home and listening to a lot more music, and things just fell into place for Faridkot, who has put out 40-minute albums and 60-minute albums in the past. It made the time ripe to release the EP that eventually came to fruition. While they did work on film music during this same time, Singh says it all comes down to if the artist is in tune with how the trend is going. “If you take a look at Diljit Dosanjh, Badshah or Karan Aujla – all of them have albums coming out. If we are in music for the business, we have to be aware, and if you are aware of the business aspect of it and what is going around, you can adapt your approach accordingly, rather than saying, things are not artist friendly anymore. That will always keep changing. No business in this world is stable. If you are in the entertainment business, you have to keep your eyes and ears on the ground and adapt around it while keeping your core in music.” Also Read: How Mumbaikars are documenting neighbourhood heritage Sanyal immediately reminds how American rock Red Hot Chili Pepper’s (RHCP) first album and last album are so different. “They are still relevant, because they are understanding what is going around and change and adapt their music accordingly. The good part is they are all great musicians, so doesn’t matter which genre they are playing, they will almost make great music,” he adds. It is not only the nature of the artist’s releasing their songs as singles, EPs or an album, but also how Hindi pop music has changed over the last 16 years since Faridkot came onto the scene -- with Channel V Launchpad being one of the highlights, as they hypnotised music listeners around the country with ‘Laila’ among others. Most recently, one of their songs ‘Jehda Nasha’ went viral in 2022 and showcase how being released in a different time of consumption can make quite the difference. Singh explains, “Hindi pop music has only gone from strength to strength. The diversity is just blooming, and democratisation of music consumption and music-making has just opened up people’s mind. People are able to understand, accept and connect with such different kinds of music because they are getting exposed to it. Rather than asking the question ‘Aise thodi hota hai’ they are saying, ‘Oh wow, aise bhi hota hai’. You also see indie music getting placed in films and OTTs; the term ‘indie music’ doesn’t stand true anymore, it is just mainstream music, it is just the music industry where anything can be done anywhere.” Sanyal adds, “I have discovered so many songs just scrolling on reels. ‘Jedha Nasha’ was actually released in 2019, but it blew up in 2022. We were really shocked to see the reels and our own song in it. The unpredictability of it is a good thing. Back in 2008, I dropped out of engineering college to pursue music. Nowadays, people are leaving their jobs left right and centre to pursue music. The possibilities are endless. Art getting democratised and the power is back with the listener is the best thing. It is not about appearing in a movie or how much you are spending on advertisements.” With this new EP, they are on course not only creating more music but also releasing it sooner than before. Sanyal shares, “It is still in a very early stage, but we are definitely looking at releasing an album before the year is over. It is only a good thing. That is the model we like, just put out a bunch of songs.” Among other aspects, it can also be attributed to the city of Mumbai, which the artists have now made their home. “I personally fell in love with the vibe of Mumbai. The beauty of the city is that it gives you the space when you need and it is there for you when you need it,” says Singh. It is no wonder that they have songs inspired by the city. “The first song and the latter part of the EP is inspired by Mumbai because there is so much chaos and funny noises that are coming from the city all the time,” concludes a giggling Sanyal, showcasing how much the city amuses him every day. Also Read: What is Mumbai bidding for at this ancient relic auction?
20 April,2024 04:39 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoSinger-songwriter Rihanna has reflected on some of her past fashion choices, expressing regret over certain aspects. The multi-hyphenate spoke about her favourite looks and her least favourites. The mother of two revealed that one of her current "fashion icks" is showing off too much skin, reports ‘People’ magazine. She told ‘British Vogue, "It's gonna sound hypocritical because I did so much s*** in my life. I had my n****** out, I had my p****** out," she said. "But now those are the things that as a mom, an evolved young lady -- emphasis on young -- things that I just feel like I would never do, I'm like, 'Oh my god, I really did that? Nips out?' According to ‘People’, some of the Grammy winner’s most notable looks were skin-baring moments, including the famed custom Adam Selman design -- which was an unforgettable fishnet dress, gloves, and headscarf that was hand-embellished with over 216,000 Swarovski crystals. Another notable NSFW fashion moment was her 2014 Met Gala afterparty gown, a Stella McCartney design that showed a lot of abs with a daringly low back. In conversation with the outlet, Rihanna also said that the backless gown remains one of her favourite looks, highlighting that two of her top fashion moments are from the 2014 Met Gala. The ‘Umbrella’ singer further expressed her fondness for her Stella McCartney white cropped top paired with a skirt worn at the Gala itself. Also Read: Taylor Swift releases highly-anticipated 11th studio album 'The Tortured Poets Department' This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
20 April,2024 04:35 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSHaryana's Chief Electoral Officer Anurag Agarwal on Friday said Dharmveer of Palwal district is the oldest voter in the state at the age of 118 years. The other centenarians in the state are Balbir Kaur, 117, of Sirsa district, Bhagwani, 116, of Sonipat district, Lakkhishek, 115, of Panipat district, Chandro Kaur, 112, of Rohtak district, Rani, 112, of Fatehabad district, Antidevi, 111, of Kurukshetra district and Sarjit Kaur and Chobi Devi, both 111 years old. Similarly, Narayani of Rewari district is 110 years old, Fulla of Kaithal district is 109 years old, Chanderi Devi of Faridabad district is 109 years old, Ramdevi of Jind district is 108 years old, Hari of Nuh district is 108 years old, Meva Devi of Jhajjar district is 106 years old, and Gulzar Singh of Karnal district, Shadkin and Shriram of Hisar district, and Geena Devi of Charkhi Dadri district are 106 years old voters. Agarwal appealed to the youth, aged 18-19 years, who will vote for the first time, not to miss an opportunity to voter because the festival of democracy comes once in five years. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
20 April,2024 10:13 AM IST | Chandigarh | IANS
Treading down the Nehru Road in Mumbai’s Vile Parle, a quietly settled bookshop – slightly hidden behind a shade awning – caught this writer's attention. Why you ask? The answer lies in the shop's massive book collection. Tempted to explore, the writer entered the store. Shop owner Ramnik Viram Satra who runs the store along with his son, connected this writer to Javed, a loyal salesman working for the store for the past 25 years who took her through the store and the books displayed for sale. “Which book are you looking for madam?” asks Javed. He takes pride in telling the writer that they have all kinds of books – educational textbooks, novels, self-help books and children’s books. Established some 30 years back, The Book Shop was founded by Viram Satra, an individual from Gujarat who shifted to Mumbai to earn bread and butter for his family. Earlier a scrap stall, the place gradually expanded into a bookshop. When asked why, Javed reveals they witnessed a good demand for books back then. “Malik(boss) saw an opportunity and chose to open a bookshop.” Presently, The Book Shop is divided into three sections – one is dedicated to scraps, the second for educational books and the third for novels. Additionally, there is one more book-cum-stationery shop located right opposite this one, under the same name which is managed by Satra’s son. Buy books starting at Rs 50Although the prices of books here are fixed, you can still find your favourite one starting at Rs 50 or 100 if you wish to get your hands on a second-hand copy. From classics, fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, comic, spiritual and religious books to self-help and finance books, you can get yourself any book you wish to read. According to Javed, “Although we always have all kinds of books that customers ask for given the massive collection, if at all we don’t have a particular book, we order it from our suppliers on customer’s request.” When asked how many books the shop has, Javed gives the writer a modest smile and says, “Definitely more than 50,000 books.” However, looking at the wide spread of the collection, the writer is sure that the count is somewhere around a lakh. To encourage people to read books and drive a good amount of sales, The Book Shop lets you borrow a book for eight days. If you read and return the book within those days, you get over 70 per cent refund of the price paid for the book. Javed tells the writer that since the bookshop is located near two prominent colleges – Sathye College and Mithibai College, the shop sees more young customers than adults and senior citizens. However, he also mentions, “We do have old customers who come looking for classic novels.” While Javed was busy telling the writer his observations, a Gen Zer entered the store asking Javed for the Harry Potter series. Excusing himself, Javed pulled out the series and handed it over to this young customer. In the meanwhile, what caught the writer’s attention was a foreign gentleman who was busy browsing for books neatly arranged on the shelves. Crasto from Spain was in India enjoying his retired life, exploring the city of Mumbai. He shared with the writer, “I was passing by and I came across this shop. Bookstores have always been an attraction for me. I entered this store and was shocked to look at the sheer number of books available at lower prices.” He goes on to tell the writer, “I love reading books especially while travelling and make sure I always carry a book wherever I go. I don’t like using gadgets much besides my phone which I use for clicking good pictures when on vacation.” Dip in book sales After making a successful sale, Javed returns to tell the writer, “People have stopped reading books, especially post-Covid-19. During the lockdown, people were exposed to social media and OTT content. This impacted the sales of books. After the pandemic, we experienced a dip of over 75 per cent in our book sales.” He laments that the ease of accessing content on just one device has discouraged people from picking up books and reading. However, he expresses, “The joy that comes from picking up a book, flipping the pages and uncovering the story is incomparable. Our boss himself loves to read books, mostly religious books on Jainism.” Javed also mentions facing tough competition from ebooks and e-commerce platforms. He says many customers find it convenient to simply place an order online. However, no e-commerce platform sells books at lower prices than these bookshops do. According to him, due to this, the future of bookshops doesn’t look very promising. “Only those who already have a well-established shop and property ownership can afford to run the business. Younger individuals might not want to set up a bookstore since buying or renting a shop in Mumbai costs a fortune.” Books in demand Although the shops are undergoing a dip in book sales, there are certain evergreen classics that Javed says will always be in demand. “There is a huge demand for books by authors like Jeffery Archer, John Grisham, Clive Cussler, and Nora Roberts.” Further, he says that the young are more into reading non-fiction and financial investment books. Besides selling books, the shop also accepts old books from customers in the form of donations. So if you have a pile of books untouched for years and you wish to find the right place for them, you can choose to give them away to The Book Shop for the benefit of other fellow readers On her way out, the writer too, purchased The Vine of Desires – a novel by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni for Rs 100 and headed to the nearest cafe to dive into the story. The best time to purchase books here is during the day as the shop gets crowded post 5pm. The shop is located right outside Vile Parle East railway station, opposite HDFC bank. It is open on all weekdays from 9am to 9pm, except on Mondays.Shop details: Address: 106, Kambli Wadi Society, Nehru Rd, Vile Parle East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400057Phone No.: 080805 92422
20 April,2024 09:30 AM IST | Mumbai | Aakanksha AhireADVERTISEMENT
