Saturday, September 28, 2024

The Murky Manipur Conundrum

Manipur

Manipur’s State Security Advisor Kuldip Singh said in a press conference on September 20 that government’s intelligence inputs indicate entry of “900 Kuki militants” from Myanmar. These inputs were shared by Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s office with DG Police and the Security Advisor in the previous week.

The 398-km Manipur-Myanmar border is guarded by the Assam Rifles (AR), which is under the operational control of the Indian Army. The Army has asked the Security Advisor for details of this infiltration, to which he is yet to respond. Army’s Spear Corps posted on X:”These inputs have very serious security implications and the office of the Security Adviser has been requested to share the details so that appropriate necessary action can be taken at the earliest.”

Speculation is that the said inputs may have been “imagined: by Biren Singh since Union Home Minister Amit Shah has been saying that the violence in Manipur is only because of infiltrating Kuki militants who are not Manipuris, which certainly is not the case. The move to accord scheduled tribe to the entire majority Meitei community triggered the violence in May 2023.  It is only in February 2024 that the Manipur High Court has ordered deletion of a paragraph from the March 2023 order that urged the state to consider including the Meitei community in the Scheduled tribe, saying the paragraph was in conflict with the Supreme Court’s constitutional bench stance.  

Reasons why Manipur is heading towards civil war can be read here. Violence is continuing, while protests and disinformation have reached a new high.  Defying curfew, student protesters clashed with the police. Many students were reported injured in an attempt to storm Raj Bhavan. The protestors demanded removal of “Centre-appointed” State Security Advisor Kuldip Singh and DG Police Rajiv Singh. The agitation intensified after a rocket bomb attack in Bishenpur and the gunfight in Jiribam in which six people were killed; including the lynching-killing of former Indian Army soldier Limkholoi Mate (Kuki-Zo) by Meitei militants.  

There is little doubt that the student protests (all Meitei) were engineered by Biren Singh’s administration. Their demand seeking the resignation of 50 MLA’s from the Imphal Valley (not the 10 Kuki MLAs) is evidence enough. Seeking the removal of the State’s Security Advisor  and the DGP is to give Manipur police and the Meitei militant groups (Arambai Tenggol included) free-hand in continuing the ethnic cleansing. 

To add credence to the theory of Kuki/foreign hand behind the student protests, a huge poster of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the heart of Imphal was allowed to be torn down – first time incident across India since Modi came to power in May 2014.

All out efforts are on to downplay the ethnic cleansing by Biren Singh – posing that the violence is not a Hindu-Christian problem. However, this is true perhaps only on following two counts: deal signed with a Centre-favoured corporate (advance money taken) for palm plantation on 6,000 hectares of land in Manipur, from where Kuki-Zio were shooed away; taking full control of the narcotics trade, annual turnover of which is assumed to be Rs 50,000 crore.

Ethnic cleansing remains Biren Singh’s main agenda. He denies the existence of Arambai Tenggol but his photographs with them in media proves he is hand-in-glove with the organization. Ironically, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not visited Manipur (perhaps on the advice of Amit Shah), nor has the NSA Ajit Doval, who claims to have stayed in Myanmar under cover with Mizo rebels for a few months in his youth.  

In a media interview, Lt. Gen. PC Nair, former DG Assam Rifles (till July 31, 2024) has said that the news about drones dropping bomb was fabricated, in that, no bombs were dropped by drones.

Gen Nair has also reportedly spoken to the Chief of Army Staff on the issue, according to a post on X:

Being in uniform, the Army and Assam Rifles deployed in Manipur cannot speak on the issue. But multiple ground sources confirm no bombs/grenades were dropped by drones in Manipur. Manipur’s Police IG (Ops) LK Muivah has countered what Gen Nair has said. But Muivah is part of the Biren Singh administration and has no option but to abide by the official narrative; under fear of being sacked or done away with. 

The disinformation campaign includes that the Assam Rifles is giving an absolutely free hand to the Kuki-Zo, 3000-6000 veteran Assam Rifles (Kuki-Zo) are joining the Kuki-Zo militant factions, the US is supporting the Kuki-Zo, China is supplying them arms. It is also being said that Kuki-Zo attempted to loot a police armoury, whereas, over 4,000 weapons and some 50,000 rounds of ammunition purportedly looted from police/IRB armories in May 2023 were “distributed” to Meitei militants as per ground sources.

The Manipur Police have been recently equipped with MMGs, which the  Indian Army is not even allowed to carry when called out for restoring law and order in internal security situations; owing to the principle of using ‘minimum force”. But Biren Singh probably believes in employing “maximum force” for effective ethnic cleansing.

The Army is rendered ineffective in Imphal Valley in absence of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, which is by design. Biren Singh wants to abrogate the SoO agreement with all the 25 Kuki-Zo-Hmar groups and himself chair the Unified Command of all security forces in Manipur; to get the Army/AR to abide by his sinister designs?

The former Governor of Manipur had reportedly informed the Centre that the ground situation in Manipur is worse than what is being reported in the media. The present situation in Manipur is so bad that AFSPA needs to be immediately re-imposed in all Manipur, including in the Imphal Valley.

General VP Malik, former Chief of Army Staff has suggested that President’s rule should be imposed in Manipur. Earlier, he had also posted on X: Dividing India on the basis of language, religions, castes, flags and so on as vote banks. We forget India’s historical lesson of ‘fighting within’ and which enabled foreigners to rule us for centuries. India’s national security and collective development at stake

But the Centre appears intent on compounding the mess made by Biren Singh since May 2023. Manipur doesn’t even have a full-time governor; Governor of Assam holds the additional charge of Governor Manipur. The Centre appears to believe that the wounds of Manipur will heal by themselves. It is the same Ostrich Policy that was followed when the Chinese invaded Eastern Ladakh during April-May 2020. 

The author is an Indian Army veteran. Views expressed are personal.

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Coldplay: Music Of The Spheres Or Market Of Madness

Coldplay Music Band

Coldplay’s much-anticipated “Music of the Spheres” world tour has been making waves globally, and its arrival in India has sparked an unparalleled fan frenzy. Known for their stadium-filling anthems, emotional ballads, and spectacular live performances, the British rock band is one of the world’s biggest musical acts. Their decision to make tour tickets accessible to fans across all economic spectrums earned them immense praise. However, in a country like India, where Coldplay’s fan base is vast and passionate, ticketing for their concerts has turned into an intense battleground. In an unfortunate turn of events, scalpers have taken over, buying out tickets in bulk and reselling them at exorbitant prices, making it increasingly difficult for genuine fans to access the shows. 

Coldplay formed in 1996 and consists of Chris Martin, Jonny Buckland, Guy Berryman , and Will Champion. The band achieved worldwide fame with their single “Yellow” in 2000, and their debut album “Parachutes” made them global superstars. Over the years, Coldplay has continued to redefine their sound, exploring various genres from alternative rock to pop and electronic music. Their albums, including “A Rush of Blood to the Head”, “Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends”, and “Everyday Life”, have been critically acclaimed and have solidified their place as one of the best-selling bands of all time.

Their concerts are known for their grandeur, featuring dazzling light shows, pyrotechnics, and interactive experiences for fans. Coldplay has always taken great pride in creating immersive live experiences, and their “Music of the Spheres” tour is no different. However, what sets this tour apart is Coldplay’s commitment to making tickets affordable, ensuring that fans from various socioeconomic backgrounds can partake in the magic of their performances.

When Coldplay announced the India leg of their “Music of the Spheres” tour, the excitement was palpable. Fans eagerly awaited the opportunity to see the band perform live in cities like Mumbai. As expected, tickets sold out in record time. The initial announcement saw tickets disappearing within minutes on the official platform, BookMyShow, which handled the sales. With overwhelming demand, Coldplay added a second show in Mumbai to accommodate more fans, and these tickets were set to go on sale on January 21st. However, even with the additional show, the situation remained chaotic.

Fans were left frustrated when tickets for the second show sold out within 30 minutes of going live. Many reported issues accessing the BookMyShow website due to high traffic. Others who managed to secure tickets found them disappearing from their carts before they could complete the purchase. It was clear that the overwhelming demand for tickets had resulted in a near-impossible situation for many fans.

Amidst the chaos of tickets selling out in record time, another issue quickly came to light: scalpers had swooped in to exploit the situation. Tickets, which Coldplay had purposefully priced affordably, were now being resold at astronomical rates. The resale market witnessed markups as high as 2000% of the original price. Scalpers were making profits of 30 times the face value of tickets, essentially holding fans hostage. The resale market became a playground for those looking to make a quick buck, with some scalpers buying tickets in bulk and reselling them at exorbitant rates.

For example, tickets originally priced at ₹5,000 were being resold for upwards of ₹1,50,000 on unauthorized platforms. While Coldplay had made efforts to keep their tickets reasonably priced, these scalpers disrupted the accessibility that the band had aimed for. Fans found themselves facing an impossible choice: either purchase from unauthorized sellers at highly inflated rates or miss out on the concert entirely.

The issue with ticket scalping isn’t new, but in India, it has taken on a life of its own due to the lack of stringent regulations. Although official sources, such as BookMyShow, issued warnings against purchasing tickets from unauthorized sellers, fans were left with little to no choice. BookMyShow and similar platforms have no control over the resale market, which operates in the shadows on websites, social media, and messaging platforms.

The government and local authorities have not introduced concrete policies to prevent ticket scalping or regulate the resale market. While other countries have begun cracking down on this practice, India remains largely unregulated in this regard. This allows scalpers to buy tickets in bulk without fear of consequences, thereby driving up prices in the resale market.

For true Coldplay fans, the situation is heartbreaking. Many have been waiting for years to see the band live, and the affordability of tickets gave them hope. However, the skyrocketing prices in the resale market have priced out fans who had initially been thrilled about the prospect of attending a concert.

Fans took to social media to express their frustration, anger, and disappointment. Many shared stories of how they had saved up for months to buy tickets, only to find themselves unable to afford the resale prices. The community of Coldplay fans is known for its loyalty and love for the band, but this ticketing fiasco has left many feeling alienated and hopeless. While Coldplay had good intentions with their pricing, the loopholes in the system have made it nearly impossible for genuine fans to secure tickets at a fair price.

This situation demands an investigation into how so many tickets ended up in the hands of scalpers and resellers. Fans deserve transparency from ticket-selling platforms like BookMyShow, which should provide a clear explanation of how tickets were allocated and sold. Were tickets being hoarded by bots and scalpers, leaving genuine fans out in the cold? Are there any preventive measures in place to ensure that tickets reach the right hands?

Moreover, there is a need for greater regulation of the resale market. Authorities must step in to introduce measures that limit bulk buying by scalpers and ensure fair access to tickets. The resale market should be regulated to prevent excessive markups, with limits on the prices at which tickets can be resold. Other countries have successfully implemented laws to curb scalping, and India should follow suit. Platforms like BookMyShow must collaborate with law enforcement agencies to monitor and crack down on illegal resales.

Coldplay’s commitment to fair pricing is not unique to India. Around the world, the band has made efforts to ensure that their tickets are accessible to all. While many global artists inflate ticket prices based on demand, Coldplay has remained steadfast in their belief that music should be for everyone, regardless of their financial situation. They could have easily priced their tickets at 10 or 20 times the current rates and still sold out arenas worldwide, but they chose not to.

This decision reflects Coldplay’s ethos of inclusivity and kindness, principles that are often reflected in their music and interactions with fans. However, the good intentions behind their affordable pricing have been overshadowed by the exploitation of resellers, leaving fans in India wondering what went wrong and where the system failed them.

The excitement surrounding Coldplay’s “Music of the Spheres” tour in India has been dampened by the unfair practices of ticket scalping and resale markets. While the band’s decision to keep tickets affordable was admirable, the lack of regulation and enforcement in the Indian ticketing system allowed scalpers to profit at the expense of genuine fans.

It is time for ticket-selling platforms, government authorities, and law enforcement agencies to come together to introduce policies that protect fans and prevent scalpers from monopolizing the market. Fans deserve better, and Coldplay’s message of inclusivity and fairness should extend to the process of accessing tickets. With greater transparency, regulation, and accountability, the experience of attending a live concert can once again be about the music, rather than the struggle to secure tickets.

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Friday, September 20, 2024

Ready Player India | Russia-Ukraine War

Russian Army

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Poland and Ukraine, simultaneous with Ukraine’s Kursk offensive into Russia has been making headline news; Modi’s main emphasis was for a  ceasefire in Ukraine. India attended the Summit for Peace in Ukraine, hosted by Switzerland, in June this year, where Russia was not even invited.

The NATO Multinational Corps Northeast is located at Szczecin (Poland) and Poland is the conduit for US-NATO-EU weapons and equipment for Ukraine especially when inducted by rail-road. Poland was occupied and brutalized by Germany during World War II but the US-led Nazification in the aftermath of World War II took a 360 degree turn

Voodoo of Zelensky’s cursed handshake caused whoever shook hands with him had to resign – Boris Johnson, Mario Draghi, Rishi Sunak, Sana Marin, Fumio Kishida and Joe Biden quitting the presidential race. But Modi sucked Zelensky’s voodoo with his characteristic hug; raising queries whose voodoo is stronger.

Interestingly, Modi told Zelensky, “India was never neutral, we have always been on the side of peace, and India was ready to play an active role in the path to peace and progress.”

After the Modi-Zelensky discussion in Kyiv, Foreign Minister Jaishankar said in a press briefing that Modi and Zelenskyy focused significantly on peace. A Joint Communiqué on a Peace Framework provides a basis for advancing dialogue and diplomacy. The Ukrainian side welcomed India’s participation and underscored the need for continued high-level engagement in future peace initiatives.

Zelensky proposed India among the Global South for hosting the second Ukraine Peace Summit.  But in an hour-long interaction with Indian media, Zelensky described his meeting with Modi “very good” and “historic”. He said the top issue during his talks was India’s oil purchases from Russia. Describing India a “big country” with “big influence” on Russian economy, Zelensky said if India and Indians “change their attitude” towards Russia, the war will end because Russian President Vladimir Putin will end it.

On August 27, the POTUS Joe Biden telephoned Modi to inquire about his visit to Ukraine. Modi reiterated India’s position in favour of dialogue and diplomacy, expressing support for early return of peace and stability. Both leaders affirmed their continued support for a peaceful resolution of the conflict in accordance with international law, and commitment to further strengthen cooperation in multilateral forums, including the Quad.

Next day Modi spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Modi shared insights from his visit to Ukraine and underlined the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to achieve an abiding and peaceful resolution of the conflict. Both leaders reviewed progress on bilateral issues and discussed measures to strengthen bilateral India-Russia relations.

The Ukraine war has hit the global economy hard and disrupted supply chains but the Russian economy has emerged stronger despite US sanctions. Some Indians opine that Russia also wants peace because no side is winning and war casualties are mounting; although Ukrainian casualties are many times more and multiple sources confirm NATO troops in Ukrainian uniforms are part of the Kursk offensive. Zelensky is also inching towards hitting the Russian nuclear plant (s) awaiting Biden’s signal.

It is obvious that the moment Modi departed from Ukraine, a report on his visit would have been on Biden’s table; Zelensky may have even spoken to Biden personally. The pattern is very clear why Zelensky proposed the second Ukraine Peace Summit in India and why the call from Biden; playing on Modi’s penchant for limelight, global gatherings, photo ops and the like.  .

But the ‘followers’ are busy flogging the dead horse of Aman Ki Asha; preparing the ground for the summit, also arguing that despite Zelensky’s maximalist position, he wants a ceasefire. The announcement may be before Modi’s visit to the US in September 2024 or after his return. Modi would be in global focus  chairing the summit, with probably bigger attendance than the first Ukraine Peace Summit. Biden and Zelensky would love to attend in person, Putin may attend virtually and the media will headline India Talks and World Listens.

Are we so naïve to miss the charade Biden and Zelensky are playing by posing they want a ceasefire in Ukraine, and Modi can bring peace in Ukraine?  Consider the following:

  • Deputed by America, Boris Johnson sabotaged the Ukraine-Russia ceasefire deal within 3-months of hostilities breaking out in February 2022.
  • Peace plan proposals by China and the African Union have been rejected by the West.
  • The US can direct Zelensky to speak to Putin directly or Biden can himself speak to Putin, as he is desperate to speak to Chinese President Xi Jinping having sent Jake Sullivan to set it up.
  • The undeniable fact is that peace anywhere (not Ukraine alone) is anathema to the US – the biggest threat. Peace implies death of America’s deep state and end of the Rogue-Based World Order.
  • America is the biggest hatchery of terrorism, including in South Asia, as can be read here.  
  • The sweet pill of projecting Modi as the “peace dove” is to divert from the US hand in the Bangladesh coup, American actions in Myanmar, and ongoing political shenanigans of Eric Garcetti and Jennifer Larson to destabilize India.      

The US is posing to save India from Chinese aggression – a la’ Ukraine. Not just getting hold of India markets but exploiting all avenues and every opportunity to benefit American interests, with India acting the Ready Player. Why does the recently signed Security of Supplies Arrangement (SOSA) have a clause to say India will have an official industry code, under which Indian companies would voluntarily pledge to use all reasonable means to assist US military interests “first”?.

Unlike America, China needs no effort to get the services of Ready Player India. Our foreign ministry continues the charade of talks with China, having lost control of over 4000 sq km territory in Ladakh in 2020.But an inter-ministerial panel has cleared five-six investment proposals in the electronics manufacturing sector, which includes Chinese firms. The panel meets every six-seven weeks to grant approvals, which implies more Chinese investments are likely.  The reason given is that investment and technology are critical to develop local manufacturing supply chains in areas like high-tech components. India has already relaxed visa-rules for Chinese technicians.

It is being said no Chinese nationals can occupy key executive roles in any joint venture or foreign company in India and the Chinese company can only hold a minority stake in partnership. Jaishankar said it is common sense to scrutinize Chinese investments. Do we understand how China operates? Arnab Goswami talks about Meta and big-tech US companies working for the CIA, but China is already inside the Indian media ().

There is much discussion about the 100 ‘smart’ cities – names, ranking and which states these are located in. Did ‘smart’ include drainage, sanitation, and pollution at all? Why are so many Indian cities with high pollution, increasing pollution in the national capital with every passing year, and 50% rise in Delhi’s critical water-logging spots? Are we proud of having Asia’s tallest stinking 100-feet high Ghazipur garbage-mountain in the national capital, in addition to two more man-made garbage mountains?     

Maximum economic offenders fleeing India are Gujaratis but the Gujarati also know how to exploit every opportunity into economic gain – modern version of ‘Dhanna Seth’ of the Akbar era. Witness the glee on foreign faces enjoying the ‘Bulldozer Tourism’ in Vadodara. This would certainly give a novel twist to foreign tourism, aside from site visits where roads made with space technology have gobbled up cars, scooters, and even humans.     

After 100 smart cities, establishing 12 industrial cities has been announced, which are expected to create 10 lakh jobs. Successful manufacturing in these 12 new industrial cities require a vast labour force with requisite skills. Presently, 85% of India’s workforce is employed in agriculture or enterprises with fewer than 10 workers, where value-added per worker remains low. Hopefully, we are not planning to raise the requisite skilled force in a time-span like the eight-hour Gaza ceasefire for giving polio drops to 6,40,000 children. Will this lead to more Chinese technicians and investments?

Finally, hosting the second Ukraine Peace Summit may be good for the prime minister’s ego but no peace in Ukraine is possible unless the US wants it. Also, amid the noise of shunning all things colonial, we have gone all out to patronize the colonial game of cricket – which everyone loves. But being Ready Player to all and sundry implies getting kicked around like a football.

The author is an Indian Army veteran. Views expressed are personal.

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Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Importance Of Styling and Sprucing Up Your Sentences?

Rise of Virtual Meetings

Once I was stricken in a situation where I needed to know the name of a girl who was going to the same tutor center with me for about 10 days and I was so annoyed of the fact of waiting 5 min extra for her that I never thought of knowing her name. Once there occurred a situation where I realized this and obviously it would have been rude to ask directly so the next day I came up with an idea to bring up a conversation with her where it was quite destined to bring her name. It went like, “you have a little sister, quite right maybe?” yes I do. “What’s her name? “Her name is Maria. “Really?!I thought that’s your name”. No, my name is Sana.

Not a sign of what was actually a reason to bring her sister all of a sudden. That’s a clean move.

The fact that you have to think about what comes out of your mouth is a very hard job, and those who learn to do it beautifully are themselves an artist of language and communication.

Have you ever tried learning a second language?

But have you considered perfecting your first before?

Relevance Of English As A Global Language

I had communicative English as a minor in my first semester in college, they taught everything  about saying the right words. When I attended its first class, I was not happy with it, I felt like I chose a wrong subject but later I realized it’s a very important that they teach you to express yourself and engage with the world out there in a clearer way. The elaborative ,effective and basic knowledge are what a lot of us are missing these days. Its not only just few sentences but a very important part of our life as it shapes us and it polishes our personality and add wisdom. Communicative English, despite my initial reservations, turned out to be a transformative subject. At first, I perceived it as merely an academic formality, a class focused on linguistic precision. However, as the course progressed, I began to understand its profound impact on both personal and professional dimensions of life. The skills learned extend far beyond the basic ability to speak or write correctly; they are foundational for effective interaction and meaningful communication.

Through Communicative English, I learned how to convey my thoughts with clarity and confidence, essential skills in today’s interconnected world. The course emphasized not only grammar and vocabulary but also the nuances of tone, context, and audience engagement. These elements are crucial for successful dialogue and persuasion, whether in academic presentations, professional meetings, or everyday conversations.

Moreover, this subject has enhanced my self-expression and critical thinking abilities. By understanding and applying the principles of effective communication utilizing appropriate sentences, I’ve been able to present my ideas more compellingly and listen more attentively. This, in turn, has enriched my relationships and broadened my perspectives. Ultimately, Communicative English is not just about mastering language; it’s about personal growth, professional advancement, and becoming more adept at navigating the complexities of modern life.

Time has a way of revealing deeper truths, and one day it might also unravel the full essence of language and its complexities. Language is more than a mere system of symbols and sounds; it is an intricate dance of expression and interpretation, where every nuance plays a critical role in conveying our true intentions. The subtleties of communication extend beyond the words we choose; they encompass our tone, posture, and emotional undertones, which collectively shape how our messages are received and understood.

Imagine an appreciation delivered with a flat, monotone voice—despite the positive intent behind the words, it can easily be perceived as insincere or even mocking. Conversely, a genuine comment wrapped in an enthusiastic and upbeat tone can be uplifting and affirming. This dynamic underscores the importance of aligning our verbal and non-verbal cues to ensure that our communication is clear and authentic.

Our tone, body language, and the way we deliver our words can completely alter the meaning of a sentence. For instance, a simple phrase like “Nice job” can be interpreted in various ways depending on how it is spoken. If said with a warm, encouraging tone, it can boost confidence and morale. However, if uttered with a dismissive or sarcastic inflection, it might convey the opposite message. This highlights the critical role that practice and self-awareness play in effective communication.

Furthermore, our practice in conversation—how often we engage in dialogue and how thoughtfully we do so—affects our communicative proficiency. Active listening and thoughtful response through appropriates sentences contribute to more meaningful and constructive exchanges. Through continuous practice and mindfulness, we refine our ability to convey genuine sentiments and understand others better.

Ultimately, mastering the art of communication involves more than just learning the rules of language. It requires an appreciation of the delicate balance between words and the myriad ways they can be perceived. By paying attention to these subtleties, we can enhance our interactions and foster deeper, more authentic connections with those around us.

For time unravels all the secrets and let’s hope one day it will unravel the secret of language. Your posture includes the way you speak for what you speak and how positive it may sound.

Suppose there would be an appreciation said in a dull manner would sound like a jeer, but sometimes a comment portrayed in a happy Shriek could be thought of a compliment.

Your tone implies your actual meaning of sentence.

So does your practice of conversation.

Just some deep observations.

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Wednesday, August 28, 2024

It Ends With Us – Movie Review

It Ends With Us - Film Review

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

The latest film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s celebrated novel has recently arrived in theaters, sparking considerable buzz and anticipation. With the spotlight on stars Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively, the movie explores the profound and difficult theme of domestic violence. However, despite the high-profile cast and the initial promise, the film struggles to deliver on its ambitious goals, falling short in several key areas due to internal conflicts among the cast and crew, as well as unresolved issues with the script.

One of the most significant criticisms directed at the film revolves around its casting and wardrobe choices. The character Lily Bloom, whose name alone seems to lean heavily into the realm of fiction, appears to be a major point of contention. The name “Lily Bloom” carries a whimsical quality that feels almost too contrived, undermining the character’s depth and believability. The film’s soundtrack, rather than enhancing the narrative, instead seems to dilute its impact, further detracting from the gravity of the subject matter. The fashion choices for Blake Lively, an actress renowned for her elegance and sophistication, have also been widely criticized. Seeing such a beautiful and accomplished actress dressed in ill-fitting outfits, such as pajama pants over fishnets, is jarring and inconsistent with her character’s portrayal.

The misalignment between Lively’s natural grace and the character’s wardrobe is a significant oversight. It’s almost as if the wardrobe team deliberately chose outfits that clashed with both the character’s narrative and the film’s overarching theme. The result is a presentation that feels disjointed and fails to support the character’s role. The fashion choices are so egregious that they have been described as a top-tier malfunction, highlighting a major disconnect between the film’s intended message and its execution.

This misalignment between character and wardrobe is not an isolated issue but rather a symptom of broader creative missteps. The casting and wardrobe teams’ inability to harmonize Lively’s portrayal with the film’s narrative highlights a missed opportunity to align every element of the film with its central theme. Instead of enhancing the story, these choices contribute to a sense of discord that detracts from the film’s overall effectiveness.

In contrast to the issues with casting and wardrobe, Justin Baldoni’s performance is a notable positive aspect of the film. Baldoni’s dedication to authentically representing domestic violence and raising awareness about this critical issue is commendable. His earnest efforts to bring attention to such an important subject are evident throughout the film, and his performance stands as a testament to his commitment to the cause. Baldoni’s work is a bright spot in an otherwise troubled adaptation, showcasing his genuine passion and dedication to addressing the issue with the seriousness it deserves.

However, Blake Lively’s involvement in the film, particularly in terms of her promotional efforts, has been a point of contention. Her interviews and public appearances often seemed more focused on promoting her personal brand rather than engaging with the film’s serious themes. This approach has led to criticisms that she detracted from the film’s intended message, with her promotional activities occasionally undermining the gravity of the subject matter. Instead of using her platform to support the film’s important themes, Lively’s focus on her own ventures has been seen as detracting from the film’s overall impact.

Despite these issues, the film does manage to offer a moment of redemption with its conclusion. The film’s ending, marked by the poignant lines, “It stops here. With me and you. It ends with us,” provides a sense of closure that is more satisfying than what might have been anticipated. This resolution allows for some reflection on the story’s themes and offers a glimmer of hope amidst the film’s overall shortcomings. It serves as a reminder that, despite the film’s flaws, there is still a meaningful message to be found.

Colleen Hoover’s storytelling, while frequently criticized for its focus on sensationalism and toxic themes, does manage to convey a message that resonates, even if the execution in this film is flawed. The adaptation highlights the challenges of translating Hoover’s literary style into a cinematic format. The stark contrast between the novel’s nuanced storytelling and the film’s representation underscores the difficulties inherent in adapting complex and sensitive stories for the screen.

The film serves as a case study in missed opportunities and creative conflicts. The disconnect between the film’s intentions and its execution leaves a lasting impression, revealing the challenges of bringing a beloved novel to life in a way that remains true to its source material. The film’s shortcomings in casting, wardrobe, and promotional efforts highlight the difficulties of translating a deeply emotional and socially relevant story into a visual medium.

The film’s struggle with internal conflicts and creative disagreements is evident in its uneven portrayal of the central theme. The issues with casting and wardrobe contribute to a sense of discord that undermines the film’s effectiveness. The lack of cohesion between the character’s portrayal and the overall narrative direction detracts from the film’s potential impact, leaving audiences with a mixed experience.

Furthermore, the film’s attempt to address domestic violence, while sincere, is overshadowed by its execution flaws. The disjointed presentation and misalignment of key elements contribute to a final product that falls short of its ambitious goals. The audience is left grappling with a film that, despite its earnest intentions, fails to deliver a coherent and impactful portrayal of a critical social issue.

The film’s conclusion, though more satisfying than expected, does not fully compensate for the missteps that precede it. The poignant ending offers a moment of reflection and a semblance of redemption but cannot entirely erase the film’s earlier shortcomings. The overall experience is a reminder of the difficulties involved in adapting complex and sensitive stories into a cinematic format, particularly when creative conflicts and execution issues come into play.

In the end, the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s novel stands as a testament to the challenges of translating literary works into film. The disconnect between the film’s intentions and its execution highlights the difficulties of adapting a beloved story while remaining true to its core themes. The film’s issues with casting, wardrobe, and promotional efforts contribute to a mixed reception, leaving audiences with a sense of missed opportunities and creative disagreements.

The film serves as a reminder of the inherent challenges in adapting complex narratives for the screen, particularly those dealing with significant social issues. The audience is left with a film that, while ambitious and earnest in its attempt to address domestic violence, ultimately falls short due to its execution flaws. The film’s conclusion offers a moment of redemption, but it does not entirely offset the issues that marred the adaptation.

Overall, the cinematic adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s novel becomes a case study in the difficulties of bringing a beloved literary work to the screen. The film’s shortcomings in casting, wardrobe, and execution highlight the challenges of adapting complex and sensitive stories into a visual medium. Despite the film’s sincere efforts to address an important issue, it ultimately struggles with creative conflicts and execution issues, leaving audiences with a mixed and somewhat disappointing experience.

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Tuesday, August 20, 2024

Olympics 2036

Sports Olympic 2036

India hosting the 2036 Olympics in BJP’s 2024 general elections manifesto wasn’t taken seriously because CAA in BJP’s 2014 manifesto is still in the cooking pot. But now PM Modi announced on August 15 that India will host the 2036 Olympics. This is assuming India will be best suited economy-wise in 2036. Modi had said in a pre-election rally India’s current 8.2% growth is “only a trailer”. PEW Research Centre (whatever bias) says

while Subramanian Swamy, quoting RBI, writes India’s annual GDP growth since 2014 is barely 5% and since 2016 3.7%

Are we ignoring dangers of  overpopulation and economic setback in event of war, which is inevitable, especially with India’s low priority for defence; poor budget, little military modernization, Agniveers (not in police/CAPF) to save money (losing manpower advantage over China), reducing more military manpower, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh refusing to disclose manpower shortages quoting national security.

Instances of Agniveers looting shops at gunpoint signals the social insecurity this harebrained scheme has created with more to come. But politicians ensconced in layers of security care two hoots.

Part of Rajnath’s mission to America in September 2024 is to try and get some GE F-404 engines, non-supply of which has stymied our Tejas Mk-1 program. But he is deaf to Senator Bernie Sanders saying, “If you think it’s too expensive to take care of veterans, then don’t; send them to war.” Unfortunately, our frogs in the well think there will be no war and we can “purchase” peace from China. NSA Ajit Doval was more explicit speaking at the police academy in 2014 that there will be no war and everything is to be done by the police.      

Hosting 2036 Olympics will be good for hotels/business/trade and political ego, but how many medals will we win, with our then 152.2 crores population?

With 144 crores population, we won six medals (one silver, five bronze) in Paris having sent 117 athletes and 140 officials. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya boasted spending Rs 2 crores on Manu Bhaker (moment she won medals – is this in good taste?) and Rs 70 lakhs on Vinesh Phogat but was caught sharing breakdown of money ‘supposedly’ spent on Vinesh that included a physiotherapist, whereas no physiotherapist was provided.

PT Usha, who came “4th in 400 metres hurdles” in 1984 LA Olympics, was appointed President, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) 40 years later in December 2023 (to influence 2024 general elections) made NO effort to provide  physiotherapist to Vinesh, also abdicating all responsibilities in Paris.

Now Ashwani Ponappa has exposed lies of the sports ministry claiming Rs 1.5 crore was spent on her. Obviously the administration is diverting bulk of the money, filling individual pockets plus contributing substantial amounts to the political party. Interestingly, a social media post says: number of players at Paris Olympics – Gujarat 01, Haryana 24; Medals won – Gujarat 0, Haryana 7; Sports Budget granted – Gujarat Rs 500 crore (20%), Haryana Rs 60 crore (2%).

Corruption is rampant in government institutions and the government machinery; of many varieties – money making, bribery, you scratch mine I scratch yours, whatever. An advocate has unveiled the latest achievement of Rajnath Singh.

Government claims India has a major say in world affairs. Perhaps this is also because of instances like US-Westerners saying Modi can bring peace in Ukraine – while US-NATO-EU are doing everything possible to escalate the war on Russia using Ukraine as proxy? In fact, Modi is visiting Poland-Ukraine at a time when NATO troops are attacking Kursk.

But considering that Vinesh Phogat was first Indian woman  wrestler to reach Olympics final, shouldn’t we have exerted our “global clout” to help her or did we use that clout to make sure the verdict on her appeal doesn’t come before August 16? Modi’s advisers did post a message of sympathy for Vinesh on his behalf on X, which instead may have been a telephone call from him if it was another wrestler.

The narrative is rules being so strict, even 100gms overweight means disqualification. But then with a Special Arbitrator appointed, the verdict should have been instantaneous, not delayed thrice to avoid Vinesh’s presence at events in India for the Olympians including on August 15.

Isn’t this a case of politicians putting themselves above the nation? Little wonder one post on social media reads: “When power goes to the head, it is directly proportional to the brain dislocating to the backside.”     

According to a report in Business Standard, only 10.4% “mapped and completed sports infrastructure” covering all States and UTs are meeting Olympic standards. Of course more are coming up but considering the all pervasive corruption and colossal money that can be made from these construction projects, hopefully these will ”actually”  be world class, not completed hurriedly for inauguration by   politicians, and can withstand incessant rains with drastic changes in weather, lest we get embarrassed by flooding and leaking roofs (as witnessed this year in the country)  during Olympics,

According to media reports, White-Collar’ job growth in India has dipped 50% in five years; reduction in both permanent and contractual jobs and on a standalone company basis, net employment fell in six firms including Infosys, ABI and HCL Tech in FY24 over FY 23.  This is good news but isn’t it high time we address the ‘White-Pajama’ job growth in the sports setup if we want to do well in future Olympics.   

Of the 33 Sports Federations in India, only Hockey and Athletics reportedly have Presidents who are sportspersons. Balance 31 Presidents are politicians (white-pajama). Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s son, Pankaj Singh is President of Cycling Federation of India. Similarly, Senior Vice President or Honorary Secretary General (except Athletics and Table Tennis) – 31 are held by politicians. In addition, there are 63 Vice Presidents, of which 57 are politicians and 6 sportspersons. This total alone adds up to 119 politicians. Archery, Boxing, Weightlifting, Swimming sports bodies are entirely Politicians; no sportspersons in the governing body. Why then are we surprised about winning only six medals in 2012 London Olympics and 2024 Paris Olympics, and only time seven medals in 2020 Tokyo Olympics? 

With main focus on winning elections, acute difficulties of the prime minister to keep the “flock” together in an environment where politicians switch parties in a jiffy are well understood. To keep them in line they are given jobs where they can make “extra” bucks over and under the table. But why keep undermining our sports potential?

Government should establish a ‘Smart Chintan Ministry’ comprising these 119 white-pajamas to re-establish “Akhand Bharat”; undoing British butchery of partitioning India seven times in 61 years; Afghanistan (1876), Nepal (1904), Bhutan (906), Tibet (1907), Sri Lanka (1935), Myanmar/Burma (1937 and Pakistan (1947). Rajnath Singh (of Kadi/Ghor Ninda fame) is best suited to head this ministry. He would not even lose one inch territory of Akhand Bharat while leading the conquests with released Agniveers. The Cycling Federation could be in support; since nothing is heard about them, perhaps they are developing hypersonic cycles that may even be invisible.  

Finally, plenty of preparation is needed even for the 2028 LA Olympics, where a medal in cricket may not be guaranteed given the politics in our team selection. Complete overhaul of our sports setup is warranted on an immediate basis if we want to perform well in future Olympics. This should be a matter of Izzat (honour) for India. Few suggestions were given in these columns earlier, rest is up to the powers that be.

The author is an Indian Army veteran. Views expressed are personal.

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Saturday, August 17, 2024

How To Choose The Right Tankless Water Heater For Your Home?

Tankless Water Heater

In San Jose, upgrading to a tankless water heater is a decision many homeowners are making to enhance their energy efficiency and enjoy continuous hot water. United Plumbing & Water Heaters, a respected plumber and contractor in the area, offers this comprehensive guide to help you choose the right tankless water heater based on your home’s specific needs. Understanding the key factors involved will ensure you select a unit that not only meets your demand but also operates efficiently.

Understanding Your Hot Water Needs: Assessing Household Demand

The first step in choosing a tankless water heater is to assess your household’s hot water usage. Understanding how much hot water you use during peak hours will help you determine the capacity needed for your new heater. This includes noting how many appliances or fixtures (showers, sinks, dishwashers) might be in use simultaneously.

Types of Tankless Water Heaters: Electric vs. Gas Options

Tankless water heaters are available in both electric and gas models. Electric tankless heaters are typically easier and less expensive to install, making them suitable for smaller spaces or less frequent use. Gas tankless heaters, on the other hand, can handle higher demands for hot water and are more suitable for larger households or in areas where gas is more economical than electricity.

Factors to Consider: Flow Rate and Temperature Rise

When selecting a tankless water heater, two critical technical specifications to consider are the flow rate and temperature rise:

  • Flow Rate: Measured in gallons per minute (GPM), the flow rate determines how much hot water the heater can produce at one time.
  • Temperature Rise: The difference between the incoming cold water temperature and the desired hot water temperature. A higher temperature rise requires more powerful heating, impacting which unit will best meet your needs.

Installation Requirements: Space, Ventilation, and Accessibility

Installation of a tankless water heater involves several considerations:

  • Space: Tankless units are generally smaller than traditional tanks but may require specific placements due to venting requirements, especially for gas models.
  • Ventilation: Proper venting is crucial for gas heaters to safely remove exhaust gases.
  • Accessibility: Ensuring the unit is accessible for maintenance and repairs will facilitate easier servicing and potentially prolong the unit’s lifespan.

Evaluating Energy Efficiency Ratings and Cost Considerations

Tankless water heaters are favored for their energy efficiency. Choosing a unit with a high Energy Factor (EF) rating means more of the energy consumed goes directly to heating water, reducing wasted energy and lowering utility bills. While these units can be more expensive upfront, the long-term savings on energy costs should be considered when making your decision.

Selecting a Reputable Brand and Professional Installation Services

Finally, selecting a quality brand and ensuring professional installation are key to the performance and reliability of your tankless water heater. United Plumbing & Water Heaters not only offers expert installation services but can also recommend high-quality brands and models suited to the unique needs of San Jose residents. Using licensed plumbers for the installation ensures that your unit complies with local codes and operates efficiently.

For homeowners in San Jose considering a tankless water heater, consulting with experienced professionals like United Plumbing & Water Heaters can make the selection and installation process straightforward and hassle-free. Contact them today to discuss your hot water needs and explore the best tankless water heater options for your home.

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