WUNDERGROUND - breathing music in your life

 

 

The very concept of WUNDERGROUND is to breathe fresh life into the underground music culture in New Delhi. It’s time for music enthusiasts to experience the gravity and creative freedom of the underground culture. The idea is to shift from the mainstream and open up a crucial space for experimentation.

Underground music values freedom of creative expression over commercial success and a major key to this philosophy is that it represents an aesthetic third space, one which eludes conventional boundaries.

...So, it’s time to bring unabashed energy to the floor… It’s time to experience WUNDERGROUND.
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Music: Deep, Tech, Minimal and Progressive

Lineup:

UDAY DASS

Music is the main form of expression of Delhi based DJ, Uday Dass. His main aim is simple: promotion of quality EDM while experimenting with different sounds and maintaining the right vibe. He has already given people multiple reasons to smash dance floors at events such as the Drift.fm Launch at Aqua and the Bangin Beats 1st Year Anniversary Bash.

Check out his sounds here: https://soundcloud.com/udaydass

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G.A.D.

A multidisciplinary electronic dance music venture undertaken by Mumbai based DJ Nishant Gadhok, G.A.D is a three way acronym for his respective projects in three different horizons of electronic music:

Gently Altered Dementia - Psy-Trance
Gin At Dawn - Deep House / Techno
Grab And Drop - Dubstep / DnB

With a focus on creating an indulging and energetic environment based on the vibe of the place and people, the ultimate aim of the projects is to provide the listener with an ecstatic and enigmatic experience. A regular in Goa and Mumbai gigging circuit, G.A.D is all set to mesmerize the crowd in Delhi.

Check out his sounds here: https://soundcloud.com/gadmusic-3

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There will be some highly distinctive VISUALS to complement the groovy vibe.

Like Frank Zappa once famously said –
“The mainstream comes to you but you have to go to the underground.”
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Date - Saturday, 28th September 2013
Time – 8 pm onwards
Venue – Zoo Bar, Garden of Five Senses

ENTRY by GUEST LIST, so make sure you RSVP as "Going"

See you there!

Saree Blouses - Body Fits and Few New Trends

A stylish yet elegant Saree blouse can be made with almost all type of material for example velvet, georgette, chiffon, cotton, silk, etcetera. Blouses are also embellished with embroidery, sequiens, lace, stones, zari, cutdana, mirrors, beads, dubka work and many more.

In the recent times patterns and designs of blouses have evolved and developed. The Indian Bollywood industry and the tele industry have also made a huge impact on the various trends of patterns and designs. Even abroad in the Hollywood many celebrities have come up with their own innovative designs.

Nowadays, the trend is not to match the Saree with the blouse in fact contrasting blouses are in and greater emphasis is paid on the designing of the neck and back area with exclusive embroidery.

The latest simple rule is that your blouse must be simple if your saree is embellished and if the Saree is simple then the blouse needs to be heavily ornamented with embellishments and embroidery.

Long sleeve blouses are in vogue today. The best way to wear the long sleeved blouse is with transparent or semi transparent sleeves. Beautiful lace with intricate pattern should be sewn to full or three quarter length so that it is visible and can stand out.

Saree blouse designs are numerous to choose from. So you must choose a Saree blouse that will accentuate your shape to the greatest extent. A Saree is something that suits almost every woman no matter what the built. But the blouse like any other type of clothing has to fit your shape. All Saree blouse designs don't suit women with different shapes. There are different types of blouses for very skinny women and women in plus sizes. Saree Blouse Designs for Different Body Types:

Skinny Built:

·         If you are on the lighter side of the figure chart then you have to be a little contemporary with your choice.

·         Indian women have always been generously endowed so the basic traditional designs are not for you.

·         Go for fashionable halter necks or in-cut sleeveless blouses with fluttering chiffon sarees.

·         You can also carry of high necked or collared blouses to a great effect.

·         If you are wearing ethnic silk sarees like Kanjivaram or Benarasi then you must go for puffed sleeve Indian Saree blouses. The fluffiness of the sleeve will give some volume to your stringy arms.

Medium Or Athletic Built:

·         This is of course the most versatile shape to dress be it Indian or western so you need not worry much. You can try almost everything.

·         But if you are athletic then a short sleeved neat look will really set you off to advantage.

·         You can try Saree blouse patterns with deep cut necks and backs without hesitation.

·         Yours is the perfect figure to try out innovative Saree blouse designs without fear of goofing up.

·         Be careful not to wear suffocating blouses with no necklines because it will be a waste to hide the beautiful curves and lines of your body.

Heavy Built:

·         Being well rounded does not mean you are fat or obese. Some people are just born plump and here some chic Indian Saree blouse designs for you.

·         You must avoid puff sleeves and sleeveless blouses if you have heavy arms because they will accentuate the flab on your arms.

·         Try to wear three fourth or full sleeved blouses because they are really in these days. For ethnic wear like sarees with thick borders, you can settle for the common half sleeve blouse with the matching border lacing your arms.

·         You can be experimental with necks lines like try a boat neck blouse or a choli-type blouse.

·         Try to wear v-necks because you can make them as deep was you want without the fear of looking improper

The most popular styles of blouses making a rage are:

·         Chinese Collar: the give a sophisticated and professional look and go with every body type fit.

·         Knot tied in front: this is a sexy and alluring blouse pattern. It was made famous by Dimple Kapadia in the movie Bobby

·         Strings at Back: this is a classic style in which the back is left bare and the strings are tied in a crisscross manner.

·         Backless with three quarter sleeves: this pattern is stylish, elegant and a little bit sexy. The backless bit adds the oomph factor to the otherwise simple design

·         Choli with various cuts: this is the most popular design, generally adorned by the Rajasthani women because of its intricate cuts, bright colours, and traditional embroidery. This style is also adorned largely by all Indian women because of  its appeal during festive and eventful occasions

·         Sweetheart Neckline: this style is not only famous in blouses but dresses and evening gowns also. It has a sweet and lovely cut which adds to the feminine charm of the woman wearing it

·         Blouses with halters necks: this style of neck giving the shoulders a bare look looks very sexy and stylish

·         Blouses with strings: this style is a more contemporary design giving the traditional Saree a modern appeal.

·         Heavy Corsets: this style is a takeoff from the Victorian dresses which had tight corsets only these are heavily embellished and generally coupled with a simple Saree

 Saree blouses can also be differently designed with different types of sleeves – full, half, three quarter, sleeveless, puffed sleeves and butterfly sleeves. It’s just a game of mix and match and wearing what suits your personality the best.

JK Rowling returns to the world of Wizardry but without Harry Potter

Studio Warner Bros announced that Rowling will be writting the screenplay for a movie based on "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them," her book about the magical universe she created in the boy wizard's stories.

The story will focus on the book's fictitious author, Newt Scamander, and is anticipated to be the first in a series. Rowling commented that the movie is "is neither a prequel nor a sequel to the Harry Potter series, but an extension of the wizarding world."

She said the story would begin in New York 70 years before the start of Harry Potter's tale. Screenwriting is the latest in a string of new ventures for Rowling since she finished writing the Harry Potter series, which has sold more than 450 million copies around the world.
She has other feathers in her hat she has already published a novel for adults, "The Casual Vacancy," and written detective thriller "The Cuckoo's Calling" under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith.

Rowling said the idea for a "Fantastic Beasts" film had come from Warner Bros., and she soon realized she could not entrust another writer with her creation. She further commented that she felt protective about her universe and she already knew a lot about Newt and as she thought of the Warner Bros  proposal, the idea took shape and she couldn’t dislodge it

Warner Bros said "Fantastic Beasts" would be "developed across the studio's video game, consumer products and digital initiatives businesses."

Warner Bros, a unit of Time Warner Inc, was behind eight Harry Potter movies released between 2001 and 2011. Since the film series wrapped up, the company has been involved in related ventures including a Harry Potter studio tour near London, Universal's Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme park in Orlando, Florida, and the Pottermore website. Also the company would be the worldwide distributor for a television adaptation of "The Casual Vacancy." The BBC is due to film the miniseries next year.

Anklets- History and Fashion

Anklets have an extensive and rich account in the world. With passage of time, women from many civilizations used ankle bracelets to form a sexy look, show their affluence, indicate marital status, draw a suitor, and catch the attention to their pretty, well groomed, feet. Certainly, the use of anklets may have been the precursor to the contemporary pedicure, painted toenails, and high heels.

From the very old Sumerians in Mesopotamia over 4000 years ago came the initial proof of the use of ankle bracelets.

In Ancient Egypt, both the wealthy and deprived wore anklets. The wealthy wore anklets ornamented with precious stones and made from high-priced metals, while the poor used them to exhibit charms and amulets.

In the earlier period, all through the Middle East, the anklets were frequently associated by a stretch of chain to make a shorter, feminine step.

The ankle bracelet originally became admired in the United States in the 1950s, and saw a resurgence in esteem in the 1970s as women began wearing bracelets with their name or initials on them.

In adding up to their use in the twenty-first century amid the fashionable, ankle bracelets have also taken on a useful turn for some. Police and the judicial system have turned to anklets in order to check the activities of the criminal, the rehabilitated, and those in need of rehabilitation. Modern ankle bracelets can offer a gps location of their wearer to the judicial system or a parole officer, permitting better monitoring of their activities.

But the richest account of anklets may have developed in India. Anklets were an imperative tradition used to sign marital status and still are an essential part of ceremonial wedding garments.

But marriage and relationship standing weren't the only things which anklets were used for in history. Indian women also attached anklets with bells during dances to produce a striking jingle to go with their movements. The use of ankle bracelets as an ornament to a dance costume was also seen among belly dancers in the Middle East, who generally wore elaborate jewellery along with their outfits.

Anklets have been in use since ages and the delicate attractiveness of a woman's anklets get multiplied when decorated with a pair of exclusively designed anklets, ideal piece of art. They can effortlessly gel well with both recognized and informal wears and has become a quite fashion rage amongst all age groups, particularly the teenage group.

Conventionally in use, anklets have even taken up the contemporary fashion world with a storm and they are being worn by both adolescent and unmarried women in India.

The anklets come with adoring accompaniments, intricate carvings and other fine artistry effortlessly done on metal. Previously the anklets were made of silver or brass but their attractiveness has made the manufacturers try out other metals and experiment with conventional and modern designs.

Silver anklets with semi precious stones like garnets, topaz, Amethyst, aqua marine and others are a fashionable way of adorning your legs and adding colour to your outfit in the summers.

Sarees and their draping styles

The word Saree is derived from Sanskrit shati which means 'strip of cloth' and which was ruined to modern day Saree. In the history of Indian clothing the Saree is traced back to the Indus Valley Civilisation, which thrived during 2800–1800 BC around the western part of the Indian subcontinent. The initial known description of the Saree in the Indian subcontinent is the statue of an Indus Valley priest wearing a drape. Even today this five yard cloth has importance in not only our culture but many cultures across the world.

There are a variety of sites that cater to women to only buy one Saree but whole Saree collections online. But there are none that cater to women who want to learn how to drape sarees, there different styles or different and on going trends. Few different and popular ways of draping are:

The Traditional way: This is the most familiar way of wearing the Saree. The Saree is draped once around the waist and pleats are fashioned and tucked in the middle facing left. The remaining cloth is slung over the left shoulder to cover the lady’s torso. Often the pallu, as the top part is called could be pleated and pinned neatly to the wearer’s shoulder or could be left open for the lady to manage.

Bengali style of wearing Saree: Draped without pleats, it is wrapped around the waist and drawn back to the right side and the pallu is slung over the left shoulder. Once again pulled up from under the right arm, it is slung over the left shoulder. Often an elaborate key bunch is added to the border to complete this very feminine and graceful drape.

Gujarati way of wearing Saree: This way of draping the saree is not only accepted in Gujarat but many northern states like UP, MP Rajasthan and Bihar also adopt this style. In this way of wearing the saree, the pleats face right instead of left. The pallu also comes from the back to the front from the right side. The border of the pallu is tucked at the back securing it appropriately. This approach of draping works very well when you want to show an intricate border.

Maharashtra method of Saree Draping Styles: Using nine yards, this manner is adopted by the older and more conventional women. The Saree imitates a dhoti style somewhat, with some of the fabric tucked between the legs to split them. Worn without a petticoat underneath, this Saree is hardly ever seen nowadays apart from festive occasions. In this version of the saree the pallu drapes the shoulder or is used to cover the head

Tamilian version of Saree Draping Styles: This version too uses a Saree that is 9 yards as contrasting to the simple 6 yards version. Once again worn without a petticoat inside, this Saree uses multiple tuck and complex pleats to form a Saree that can be as easy as a pair of jeans if draped right. The pallu is folded in half and tucked into the waist allowing the lady to go about her errands.

Northern pride drape: In the north of India, the Saree is worn the conventional way, with the end of the pallu covering the bosom. In the front, they have skirt pleats and the pallu is draped around the shoulders and over the chest, to modestly cover the bust. It’s a good drape to wear when you want to look more modest, perhaps in front of the elders.

The Mumtaz style: Popularized by the attractive film star Mumtaz, this method of wearing your Saree involves draping it tightly around your lower body a number of times, to give it a narrow look and dramatically fling the remaining fabric over your shoulder. This style bares your midriff and makes for a very slow walk.

Tribal style: Draped somewhat above the ankles, this way of draping the Saree is fairly admired among the tribal people of Tamil nadu. This way of draping the Saree is easy and is designed for effortless walking and performing errands in the jungle. Often no blouse is worn in this style or a simple piece of cloth bound over the bust line serves as blouse.

Kodagu style: Worn chiefly by women from Kodagu district of Karnataka, this method is distinguished by the pleats being in the back. The pallu is flung on to the right shoulder and held in place by a pin.

Kerala Mundu style: A version of Saree with two pieces, there is the bottom piece which is worn independently and the top portion to be used as pallu

 

Anarkalis

It’s impossible to think of a woman who doesn’t possess an Anarkali suit in today’s time. Anarkali salwar suits have become a favourite of every woman. From the court of Emperor Akbar to Cannes, the anarkali has had an engrossing portfolio in India’s dressing history. Its transformation from costume to fashion favourites carry many small and big stories. These include its classical three-piece form, with two tailored pieces (the kurta and the slim churidar) and an unstitched dupatta; flowing silhouettes from Afghanistan and Pakistan; wide-bottomed Awadhi pyjamas from Lucknow; to its latest version as a floor-length garment, aping the Western gown.

Anarkali salwar suits: The varieties and types

Anarkali salwar kameez can be made out of a diversity of fabrics, be it chiffon, net, georgette, silk or cotton, which can be worn to a variety of events. These suits can be of various types. The most normally acknowledged ones are:

1. Bridal Anarkali suits: As the name implies, bridal Anarkali are richly embroidered with sequins, lace, stones and zari. The bride looks stunning and attractive in these heavily embellished Anarkali suits.

2. Party wear anarkali suits: A party wear Anarkali are generally seen with rich fabric, vivacious colour and lovely cut.

3. Cotton Anarkali suits: cotton Anarkali suits everybody’s needs during the scorching heat of summer. Made from crisp cotton fabric, these can be seen in comforting colours and fresh designs.

4. Silk Anarkali suits: Anarkali suits made out of silk are perfect for bridal and wedding occasions. They look spectacular and make you look regal.

The occasion is the decider for what kind of Anarkali should a woman buy. a silk or net fabric Anarkali with sequins and embellishments is for occasions and parties whereas a cotton one is for daily wear.

A woman with a striking figure, long legs and good height should not hassle with what sort of Anarkali to wear. They can carry even lots of flares. Bollywood divas like Sonam Kapoor and Anushka Sharma are examples of this physique, but a person with a short slender stature should opt for more modest flares.

There are many styles and designs which are used in Anarkali dresses such as Embroidered, Pishwas and Frock styles. These dress designs are mostly used and exacted by women not only in Asian countries but also in Eastern and Western countries. Anarkali dress patterns were rampant on every ramp show this year. Most recent and also striking Anarkali embroidered dresses have been designed along the lines of lovely and complete motif work in various styles and designs with light and dark colours. Generally the outfits have worked neck and bust line piece of top. The suits in the market are seen in half and full sleeve designs.

Even as a floor-length garment, it has been diversely interpreted from one to other designer for different divas Manish Malhotra’s lacy one for Ameesha Patel, Abu-Sandeep’s embroidered and full-sleeved one for Aishwarya Rai Bachchan to Sabyasachi’s heavy handloom interpretations for Vidya Balan, which were mistakenly identified by some fashion persons as a two-piece lehnga-choli.

The Anarkali is a mixture even historically, a Kathak- motivated garment from Wajid Ali Shah’s time combined with the kalidar (panelled) kurtas that Hindu women in Lucknow wore in that period.

 

An Engagement Ring

An engagement ring indicates that the person wearing it is engaged to be married, especially in Western cultures. In the United Kingdom, Ireland and North America, engagement rings are conventionally worn only by women, and rings can facet diamonds or other gemstones. In other cultures men and women wear matching rings. In some cultures, engagement rings are also used as wedding rings.

In North America, Ireland and the United Kingdom, it is normally worn on the left hand ring finger, though customs differ across the world.

Engagement bands began in antique Egypt as the circle was used to represent a never ending cycle and the space in it as a gateway. Betrothal rings were used during Roman times, but were not usually revived in the Western world until the 13th century. Roman men gave engagement rings that incorporated a small key. Romantics consider that the carved key was a figurative key to guard and treasure the husband's heart.

Rings are placed on the fourth finger on the left hand, because Ancient Greeks believed that it contained a vein that led to the heart. Engagement rings did not become measure in the West until the end of the 19th century, and diamond rings did not become widespread until in the 1930s in the United States, as a result of an widespread nationwide marketing campaign by the diamond industry.

The price for an engagement ring differs significantly depending on the materials used: the design of the ring, whether it includes a gemstone, the value of any gemstone, and the seller. The price of the gemstones, if any, in the ring depends on the type and quality of the gem. Diamonds have a standardized explanation that values them according to their carat weight, colour, clarity and cut. Other gemstones, such as sapphires, rubies, emeralds, have different classifications. These may be chosen to honour a family tradition, to use family heirlooms, to be exclusive or to be socially responsible.

Synthetic stones and diamond substitutes like the cubic zirconias and moissanites are also admired choices that are generally accountable and decrease cost while maintaining the desired appearance.

The thought that a man should spend a considerable fraction of his annual income for an engagement ring originated de novo from De Beers marketing materials in the early 20th century, in an attempt to enhance the sale of diamonds. In the 1930s, they recommended that a man should spend the comparable of one month's income in the engagement ring; later they suggested that he should spend two months' income on it.

Until the Great Depression, a man who broke off a marriage engagement could be sued for violation of promise. Monetary indemnity incorporated tangible expenses incurred in preparing for the wedding, plus damages for emotional suffering and loss of other marriage prospects. Damages were greatly amplified if the woman had engaged in sexual intercourse with her fiancé. Beginning in 1935, these laws were repealed or limited. Nonetheless, the social and financial fee of a broken engagement was no less: marriage was the only financially sound alternative for most women, and if she was no longer a virgin, her prospects for an appropriate future marriage were significantly decreased. The diamond engagement ring thus became a source of financial security for the woman.

Changing face of Indian Photography through Piconect

Currently in India the photography market is an unorganized. In this cut-throat market, numerous photographers go for individual Web and social media presence in order to showcase their portfolio and create business leads. Most of the finding and query happens via word-of-mouth.

But Piconect is a recent facility that plans to systematize the photography market in India. It asserts that it will offer business listings appropriate to showcase the work of photographers with not just portfolio, but also their equipment, testimonials, and reviews from earlier clients.

According to the co-founder and CEO of Piconect Nidhi Jha, the service is intended to offer organized, established, and reliable user-generated listings like "Zomatos of food and Magicbricks of properties".

She further added that they verify the registrations through phone and insist them to update the precise contact information so that people can have a credible and authentic experience when they choose and contact one of the photographers listed there.

In addition to business listings Piconect also has an exclusive section of leads for the photographers. The concern thinks that the job board is Piconect's inimitable offer.

Rajiv Jaitley a photographer from New Delhi thinks that this service is really interesting because all he has for recommendations are the wedding albums and corporate films to showcase his talent. He generates business only through word of mouth of his previous clients. With Piconect, he feels he will be able to market his talent better and pitch for assignments.

It certainly would be fascinating to watch the use of this service amongst professional photographers. Though, the niche focal point and the exquisite offerings differentiate this service from usual business listing services like JustDial and Getit. Piconect's business representation is based on the only offering that they intend to provide-- find a photographer

Nidhi further explained the model and said that the essential feature of finding a photographer or a photographer registering with them will always remain free. Though, in the near future people intending to exercise the option of using our service to match the right person for their assignment would be chargeable.

Trends in Sarees 2013

I am a writer by profession now but I studied to work in the textile industry. My father belongs to this industry and I aspired to grow in it too. Circumstances changed that but the want to belong to the industry keeps on pinging in me and this article is all about that

Fashion always echo your personality traits and for that people wear designers and tradition. Saree is most chic and multipurpose garment of Indian culture; it can be worn at any occasion in Indian tradition to bring out the finest trait in your persona. Saree gives you poise and assurance to stand out and be individualistic in the crowd. It makes perfect iconic wear that will enhance figure and make women sparkle on the most precious event of their life regardless of the body figure type.

Trends this year vary with every designer but few trends that we’ve seen as common points with all of them include Lehenga Saree, and Fish Tail saree designs which are seen in hues of red and maroon colour palettes with heavy embroidery, Sequins, Beads and stones work is a favourite keeping in mind a bride’s demand. Fabric selection is seen to be versatile like Valvet, Silk, Brocade, Chiffon and organza net.

Pallu of saree that have emerged are heavy and have exquisite embellishment with perfect eclectic. The Borders of saree are also trending with thread, sequins, beads and stones with laces and gota work. Combining multiple colours in Saree is a very common trend. The floral style on the strip that has been used in the border and Pallu Saree Border Doppata is so new and attractive.

All designers played with the classic ethnic drape, creating new avatars that cut across all age groups in the lifestyle week this year. Giving you few highlights of the occasion below:

Manish Malhotra: had already given the sheer net saree a new dimension, and this time, the designer layered the black garment over a red metallic ghagra. The final result of difference of translucence and metallic shine created a pretty sensual combo.

Abraham & Thakore: Working with Banarasi weavers from local saree addas, the designer duo produced a short sari dress, worn close to the body and over a pair of cigarette pants. Just the thing for those who find the saree’s huge layers impossible.

Masaba Gupta for Satya Paul: Envisage wearing the saree over palazzo pants held up by suspenders. That’s precisely what the innovative fashion director of the designer saree label launched for younger fans, and we’re eager to see this one hit the party circuit.

Tarun Tahiliani: the designer pioneered a drape so accurate, it felt pre-constructed. Worn with dhoti pants and his moniker embroidered gilet, the saree ended mid-thigh with a long pallu almost trailing the floor.

Anju Modi: One of the most astonishing shows of the season, Modi paired military-style jackets and trench coats with graceful sarees. Highlighted epaulets on her jackets helped lock the pallu crisply in place.

Anupamaa by Anupama Dayal: She calls it the sareeni -- a shorter drape worn over the smallest of shorts. This time designed in a graphic monochrome model, the austere criteria for sareeni wearers have toned thighs and abs.

Dev R Nil: identified for their quirky prints, Dev R Nil too showed off a appealing styling method by pairing their teal saree with a rose patterned bolero in its place of a traditional choli. The closing touch -- twirling the pallu around the neck as a scarf, helpful for those impulsive Indian winters.

Kiran Uttam Ghosh: Polo necks and sarees seem a doubtful mixture, but Ghosh didn’t let that stop her from teaming a red pleated saree with a grey polo neck choli, held with a belt. To top that, she finished the makeover with a pleated gold skirt as a substitute to a conventional ghagra.

Payal Pratap: Last season, Payal grouped sarees with gilets and peplum cholis. This season, a rose-patterned drape is worn under a long choli and modernized with a velvet bandh gala.

Shantanu & Nikhil: The saree took on a distinctive 20s vibe, a Lycra drape matching with tights and worn with a turban all in the same silvery shade.

Shivan & Narresh: They’ve laid claim to the bikini saree, and this time, it was teamed with a one-shoulder sleeve attached to the bikini to give it a more unpretentious look.

Parle G extend its campaign by roping in Ruskin Bond

Parle Products has roped in well-known author Ruskin Bond to promote its flagship brand Parle G as a way of extending its existing digital campaign. Mr Bond, not 007, but Mr Ruskin Bond will be a star blogger and write for Parle’s micro site – TheFutureGenius.com. The edutainment site is an interactive portal where parents can work together and share videos, audio clips and documents to display their child’s flair.

Parle G has been a product that us elders are familiar with and have grown up with, mainly dipping it in our tea (if our parents allowed us) else the milk, targets to reaching out to connect both with parents and kids. Ruskin Bond will be providing two articles every month, which will be letters to the children, narrating about tales and life in the mountains, escapades, nature or merely the magnificence of life.

The micro site also has counselling segment described – Genius Gyaan which features suggestions from experts to assist the parent in realizing the brilliance in their kid. Along with Bond, the company has also roped in a superstar mother blogger, Kiran Manral and a kid blogger who will write for the brand on topics related to parenting and rearing of children.

The promotion was started in the starting of the year across numerous platforms, for Parle Products’ flagship brand Parle G. The existing project, “Aao Banaye kal ke Genius” is now being leveraged a great deal on the digital means The movement was kick started by releasing teaser videos across YouTube, Facebook and Twitter and was followed by introduction of the TVC online. Along with this the concern had also performed a Twitter contest to advance their three teaser videos and to connect the audience.

Mayank Shah, Group Product Manager said, “The reaction we got for the drive on the digital medium was marvellous and it helped us contact the audience efficiently. We are now looking forward to influence this and for the same we have got the well-known author Ruskin Bond on board. With this, we are looking forward to bringing alive story–telling. This will give us an occasion to work together with our core objective group and build a strong association between the brand and them.”

Observing on this Ruskin Bond said, “To children I would like to say increase interests beyond academics. While information expertise may give you information, knowledge is a far deeper thing that is required to comprehend the world around us.”

The concern states that the micro site has received heartening reaction with 436 uploads, counting videos, pictures and documents.

 

The Cuckoo's Calling- Yes JK Rowling's debut crime novel

Robert Galbraith, the author of one of this year’s highly praised debut crime novels, is actually none other than JK Rowling. The Cuckoo’s Calling was published in April under the pseudonym.

There were clues dropped by her so that one could guess but the world really was fooled by her. First of all, Ian Rankin let the cat out of the bag last year when he announced that Rowling told him she was writing a crime novel. The Casual Vacancy, the novel written for adults had no mystery element to it.

But the major clue was that Rowling always has been a crime writer. Basically, most of the Harry Potter stories are whodunits like those elements that are available in Agatha Christie.

The biggest clue of all is that, the novel is the work of a master storyteller. And in its main character Rowling has created a dreamy hero whom Harry Potter would like and respect.

He is Cormoran Strike, a former military policeman now working as a private eye. Like Harry, he carries the wounds of old battles: not a scar on the forehead but a missing lower leg, blown off in Afghanistan.

According to the Telegraph the verdict of the novel is that the novel is firmly in the Christie tradition, with the reader obliged to keep in mind the details of a dozen characters’ alibis if he or she wants to solve the mystery. Like all the best crime writers, Rowling uses the form as a way of bringing many disparate characters together and seeing how they spark off each other

In short, this is a sharply contemporary novel full of old-fashioned virtues; there is room for improvement in terms of construction, but it is wonderfully fresh and funny. I hope this is the inauguration of a series that lasts long enough to make Harry Potter look like a flash in the pan.

It will be available in India from August. I have already pre ordered my copy from flipkart

 

 

What are the ways by which you can prevent Hacking Attacks on your PC

Computer hacking is a big menace from which one needs to safe guard itself. If our computers are not appropriately configured then data on our computer can be altered, destroyed or stolen by the hacker. The problem of hacking needs to be dealt with in a very cautious way by everyone else it can cause lots of inconvenience, time wastage and also financial losses. The problem of computer hacking can be dealt by few very easy methods. These are:

 

1.      One must get a good anti virus for their computer/s and keep on checking for the updates that come. Good anti virus companies keep on updating patches which are important to be installed to protect your computer from malware. Also the computer should be scanned at least once in 10 days to reduce the vulnerability of the computer.

2.      There should be no sharing between the drives particularly where the program files are kept. Else the operating system gets corrupt and it needs to be reloaded again. This can be really time consuming. Also it can lead to loss of data.

3.      The firewall option should always be kept on; this allows the computer to install patches when the automatic updates option is activated in Windows.

4.      The option of allowing remote invitation to be sent from this computer should be turned off. This averts hackers and other malcontent people from getting access to the computer.

5.      Pop up windows should be blocked up checking on the pop up option in the internet options menu also one should not get misguided by advertisements on the internet, they could lead to hacking sties.

6.      Temporary internet files should be deleted on a daily or weekly basis. They take up unnecessary space, slow up the computer and the first files where virus strikes.

7.      The process of scanning USB drives CD’s and attachments before opening may seem time consuming but it reduces the risk of getting virus on the computer. It’s better to safe.

8.      Sometimes there are URL’s that claim to be from your banking institutions and they re route to other sites. One must never click on such URL’s. Any such matter should be addressed on the phone number given on your statement. This has a dual benefit – it reduces the vulnerability of financial frauds and also these sites could contain virus and hence be disastrous for the computer.

9.      Never install software from unknown sites and sources.

10.  Never disclose information to emails that claim to be lottery and other windfall gain options. It is a way of gaining access to your computer and financial details.

11.  PC’s with constant and static IP numbers are very vulnerable to computer hacking. The computer should be set on "Obtain an IP address automatically" option as it reduces the risk of hacking.

How should you keep your Bank Account, Credit Cards and Other financial Information secure?

There has been an increase in the prevalence of cyber crimes. There are so many people who have become and are still becoming easy targets of identity thefts. Also the concern for keeping personal and financial information secure has risen in magnitude. Most targets have no clue how their financial data was accessed and their accounts compromised but the most common being the use of debit card for online shopping.

Then there is the problem of phishing that is on a tremendous rise. Phishing involves emails that claim to be from a trusted financial company but on accessing are re routed to bogus sites that ask for account numbers and passwords.

There are few things that can be done as safety measures to protect oneself from becoming targets. These include:

1.      Installing PC monitoring software. This will enable you to determine unauthorized access to your computer. If something of this nature happens, you can take immediate action to protect personal and financial data.

2.      Keep on monitoring your accounts and statements. Keep checking for any payments that you feel weren’t made by you. Don’t assume you may have made them. Check and monitor. This unauthorized payment could be done by some thief snooping to see if this payment goes unnoticed for his future bigger fraud.

3.      Do not give out your financial details over the phone unless it’s a trusted source.

4.      Whenever doing shopping make sure you take your credit card receipts and not toss them away in dustbins. Do the same with your ATM receipts.

5.      Keep changing your passwords as it reduces your vulnerability. Also for keep a variation in your passwords and Id’s in different institutions.

6.      Never use public computers or a public Wi-Fi zone to make financial transactions. A hacker in the premises can utilize this opportunity for his benefit.

7.      Keep your virus protection software up to date and run frequent scans to know for malwares.

8.      Never open and download spam emails. Even if a trusted finance company is asking for financial details try and call the number given on the financial statements and resolve the matter. Or better still make a visit in person if possible.

9.      Use credit cards for shopping online. Even though debit cards also offer you the same cover as the credit cards but it takes time for money to be routed to your account.

10.  Pop ups can be used by hackers to install software on your computer. Install pop up blocking software.

11.  Keep your operating system up to date to keep on checking and updating for security patches.

12.  Keep photocopies of your credit cards, this could come in handy in case of theft.

13.  Also memorize your ATM pin. Don’t write it down anywhere. Also while entering your pin do it in a discrete manner.

Role of Mobile Phone in our Society and with perspective on India’s Growth

It’s ironical; even though the technology of the mobiles is of the jet age but it takes us back to the most basic natural and human communication pattern. Something that was present in the pre industrial era, when we lived in closely integrated groups and small societies, when the evening recreations included sitting together and talking. Today the mobiles help us in fulfilling that basic recreation with complete ease even when you’re sitting across oceans.

 

The communication system and infrastructure after the independence of India was undeveloped. With time things changed and STD booths through the country were placed, however rural India still faced problems because of lack of telephones. The last decade has seen a revolution in the telecommunication sector.

 

The mobile that were first launched were bulky and expensive in price and also the service. The networks were poor and could be used in certain areas only. But today cell phones have become affordable to the poor also. People belonging to the loest economic group can also afford the cell phones. The services are cheap and the networks are available in the remotest towns of the country keeping everyone connected.

 

Mobiles have made life so convenient. Parents are carefree because their children have cell phones and can be reached at any time. Incase of any emergency the parents are just a call away. They make a person accessible anytime.

 

Today’s jet age phones are not only capable of making and receiving calls and text messages but they have options of storing data, they come with in built cameras etc. the modern mobile phones also have internet access enabling access of data from anywhere and enabling business activities from anywhere in the world. The GPS option helps you find your route when you are lost.

 

They even act as stress busters as they come with inbuilt mp3 players and FM radio options, you can entertain yourself anywhere and everywhere. They come with expandable memories making them act as hard disks.

 

Mobile phones are available in every price range, from most complex to most simple handsets available. The poorest to the richest can buy them according to their need and usage. The service providers in the similar way also have usage plans according to the needs of the user.

 

The popularity and importance of mobiles has led to growth in the country in many ways. Firstly the popularity of the mobiles has led to lots of players entering the sector as manufacturers and service providers. This enables in the best and fair price being provided to the consumer and not a monopoly. Also with many entrants there has been a rise in employment sector and efficiency of providing the service as there is less jamming of networks.

 Secondly it has helped in growth of business activities. Where personal presence of a person can be evaded business is smoothly handled with talks on mobiles no matter where you are. Business has become more convenient, a person does not need to be sitting on their desk to receive orders. They can be travelling, purchasing and simultaneously getting orders either as phone calls or on emails on their phones.

 Even health care has improved. Doctors are accessible on their mobile phones and if its not a fatal emergency they can attend to their patients even when they are away by being a call away with the aid of another doctor.

Today there has been technological advancement to an extent that we have the whole world on our palms. The smartphones have applications like Google search engines, emailing, GPS, music, video conferencing and similar applications.

Mobile phones have become an absolute necessity.