Almost everyone considers themselves a good thinker, yet this is a quality possessed by a surprisingly small fraction of the population. According to the Marcus Aurelius, true cognitive development requires perpetual transformation. Don’t worry about the jargons, will simplify it soon.
Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations
Take a moment to look around – how many individuals do you observe progressively advancing in life? How many are consistently overcoming challenges? Conversely, how many seem stuck in a loop, forever wrestling with the same issues they’ve faced for years?
It quickly becomes apparent that excelling at problem-solving is directly linked to the quality of one’s thinking. And, good thinking begins with clarity.
Marcus Aurelius: The Power of Clear Thinking
Marcus Aurelius, esteemed as the last of the Five Good Emperors of Rome and admired as a philosopher-king, is an excellent example of a great thinker. His ability to lead was inextricably linked to his clear thinking.
He honed his critical thinking skills through personal introspection, encapsulated in his private writings – now known as his Meditations. In these profound reflections, Aurelius meticulously organized his thoughts, pondering the causal relationships between his actions and their outcomes.
How he organised his thoughts?
How he redefined the relationships between his actions and outcomes?
Clear Thought: The Foundation of Good Thinking
A clear thought is one that is unambiguous, captures the essence of a concept, and is logically formulated. Such thoughts can be articulated succinctly using simple ‘if-then’ statements, such as “If you learn driving, then you can drive a car” These clear, concise ideas lead to straightforward, intentional actions. Consequently, the above statement translates into a definitive action: when you want a solo ride- learn driving.
How do you know, whether you are good at driving or not?
Clarity Begets Clarity
Clear and intentional actions, in this context, lead to concrete results. When you sit behind the wheel after learning to drive, you will immediately find out whether your initial thought was correct. Either you can operate the wheels proficiently, or you cannot.
This clear feedback, confirming or debunking your supposition, aids in refining your comprehension of your abilities. By discovering whether your self-perception aligns with your actual skills, you move closer towards self-awareness. The more accurate your self-understanding, the better you become at overcoming personal challenges.
Emulating the Greats: Practical Steps towards Clear Thinking
If your goal is to improve your own problem-solving abilities, it’s advisable to emulate Aurelius’s approach.
Begin by organizing your thoughts. Eliminate ambiguity, striving for clarity by encapsulating them in straightforward ‘if-then’ statements. This reductionist logic leads to clearer thoughts, which, in turn, yield clear and intentional actions. These actions produce clear feedback, improving your understanding of the world and, thus, enhancing your problem-solving abilities.
Let’s consider this example: “If I incorporate a philosopher’s name into my writing to establish its authenticity, then more readers will be drawn to my work out of curiosity.” This hypothesis (maybe a null-hypothesis ) is not only clear but also steeped in logical reasoning, which catalyzes clear action – crafting and publishing the piece.
Once published, the feedback received—measured by the number of readers, their engagement, and their responses—provides immediate validation or negation of the initial idea. It helps you understand your readers’ preferences better and improves your writing strategies for reader engagement. As a result, you’ll be better equipped to meet your goals as a successful writer.
Other Major Learnings From Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius’s ‘Meditations’ is a profound philosophical work that distills key lessons from Stoicism, a philosophy that emphasizes virtue, wisdom, and the understanding of nature. Here are some of my favourite key teachings from ‘Meditations’.
1. Embrace the Stoic Perspective
Acceptance of Life’s Unpredictability:
Take the example of a sudden job loss or a pandemic like COVID-19. No one can predict such life-changing events, and they can leave us feeling anxious and unsettled. However, accepting the fact that life is unpredictable and that we can’t control everything helps to reduce anxiety and stress.
Virtue as the Highest Good
Consider the story of Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi led India to independence from British rule through his virtue of non-violence, which he held as a moral excellence. Despite numerous provocations and adversities, he never compromised on his principle of non-violence. This virtue was within his control and he consistently chose to uphold it, leading by example and inspiring millions.
Wisdom Over Emotion
Imagine a situation where someone cuts you off in traffic. Your immediate emotional response might be anger, and you might feel like retaliating in some way. However, by using wisdom over emotion, you would realize that retaliating won’t solve anything, and might even create more problems, like causing an accident or escalating the situation. Instead, by staying calm and moving on, you can ensure your safety and maintain peace of mind. Road Raging is a serious issue.
2. Pursue Rationality
Value Reason: As rational beings, we should let reason, not desire or fear, guide our decisions and actions.
Let’s imagine you’re the marketing manager of a successful sportswear company. You’ve recently noticed an uptick in popularity for eco-friendly products. The initial desire might be to immediately launch an eco-friendly product line to capitalize on the trend. However, instead of acting on impulse, you decide to let reason guide your actions.
You initiate comprehensive market research, analyzing competitors, potential price points, and your target audience’s willingness to pay for environmentally-friendly sportswear. Only after careful and reasoned consideration, evaluating the cost-benefit ratio, do you decide to proceed with the launch, ensuring a more successful outcome.
Pursue Knowledge: We should continuously seek wisdom and knowledge for personal development and betterment of society.
Imagine a small business owner whose company has been successful for many years using traditional business methods. However, with the rise of e-commerce and digital marketing, don’t you think there is a need to adapt? Instead of sticking to what they know, they should pursue knowledge in these new areas.
3. Cultivate Resilience
Transform Obstacles into Opportunities
During the 2008 economic recession, Airbnb faced a significant obstacle: people were reluctant to travel, let alone stay in strangers’ homes. However, Airbnb saw an opportunity in this crisis. They focused on providing affordable accommodation alternatives to expensive hotels, a value proposition that attracted cost-conscious travelers during the downturn. The company has since grown exponentially and is now a major player in the global hospitality industry.
Cultivate Emotional Resilience: We should remain undisturbed by external events and maintain equanimity, no matter the situation.
In 2008, Starbucks faced declining sales due to the global economic crisis and growing competition. Howard Schultz, then CEO, returned to the company and made tough decisions, including closing hundreds of stores and reducing staff. It was a challenging period, but Schultz maintained emotional resilience. He believed in the company and his strategy. Today, Starbucks has rebounded and continues to be a leader in the global coffee industry
To quote Marcus Aurelius himself: “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.” By striving for clarity and cultivating emotional resilience, by seeking knowledge and valuing reason, we can transform obstacles into opportunities, thereby enhancing the quality of our thoughts and, ultimately, the quality of our lives.
As an ardent fan of Pawan Kumar, my expectations were sky-high for Dhoomam, especially after being enamored with his last web series, Kudi Yedamayithe. I eagerly waited two long years for Pawan Kumar to unveil his new work, post Kudi Yedamayithe.
Dhoomam Title card
However, to my disappointment, I couldn’t find the signature sophistication and finesse I had anticipated from Pawan Kumar in Dhoomam. It doesn’t show the output of 2 years of homework.
Plot
The plot centers around Avinash (Fahadh Faasil), who is the marketing head of a major tobacco company. He and his wife Diya (Aparna Balamurali) find themselves held hostage in a secluded hilly terrain. The kidnapper issue a series of demands via phone calls, prompting Avinash and Diya to complete certain tasks to save their lives.
The film switches between the couple’s present predicament and flashbacks to Avinash’s career rise in the tobacco company run by Sid (Roshan Mathew). In the past, we see Avinash’s cunning methods to promote the company’s products and influence government policies.
The plot leaves some loose ends, with questions around who the ‘faceless’ caller is and why Avinash is being targeted instead of Sid, the actual head of the company.
Expectations and Initial Disappointment
Director Pawan Kumar’s effort to highlight a grave issue like smoking deserves applause. However, the film’s execution leaves much to be desired. The kidnapping scene at the beginning of the film is unconvincing and disrupts the viewing experience. The film’s pacing feels off, with crucial events happening too rapidly and without adequate build-up. These elements, combined with a plethora of continuity errors, contribute to a sense of disconnection from the narrative.
Direction and Continuity Issues
When the movie starts, we can see Aparna Balamurali is waiting for Fahad Fazil and it’s raining, but while getting into the car, you can see that she is not at all wet. I couldn’t find any raindrops on her face, hair, or dress. If this movie was directed by any other directors from Kannada, I wouldn’t have cared, but since it was Pawan Kumar, this was a friction point for me.
With poor editing and scripting, the kidnapping scene in the movie was so artificial and unconvincing for me. There were a lot of loopholes in that scene, and I found so many continuity issues in just 20 minutes of the film. For example, I don’t know why the kidnapper took the watch from Fahad Fassil. While driving, there is a watch on his left hand, but in the morning it is not there.
There is a fight scene between a gunman and Fahad Fassil, and you can see a lot of wounds and bruises over his face and body, but after a face wash, he is clean and left with only a scar.
When it comes to the plot development, I would say it is highly predictable and filled with cliched events.
The character development also suffered from amateur first thoughts. Take Fahad Fazil’s character Avinash as an example; he was portrayed as a creative thinker, problem-solver, and ambitious individual. However, the writer failed to provide a compelling trigger for this character’s transformation or introspection. I found it unconvincing that such a calculating character would alter his mindset without a strong reason.
All this means I couldn’t enjoy the movie at all? A Big No!!
Why You Should Try This Movie
There are some dialogues from Fahad Fazil as a marketer that really strike every citizen, I believe. For example, the way Avinash (Fahad) marketed the vapes was so brilliant, and as a marketer, I find it so interesting, and I realized how dangerously our emotions and mirror neurons work.
Similarly, the government’s involvement in promoting tobacco usage was represented neatly.
Fahad Fazil as Avinash in Dhoomam
Fahadh Faasil, playing the ambitious marketer, delivers a solid performance, reflecting his character’s complexity and moral struggle. Aparna Balamurali, despite a somewhat overly dependent character, brings credibility to her role. Roshan Mathew also offers a convincing portrayal in his role as the head of the tobacco company.
The climax is well-drafted, so realistic, and well-executed. I strongly believe that climax can make a huge impact on anyone who smokes; at least they will think twice next time when they hold a cigarette. The last 15 minutes of the film were really worth it, and that’s where I found the signature of Pawan Kumar.
Despite its flaws, “Dhoomam” delivers a potent social message. The impactful final scenes carry a significant enough message to make smokers reconsider their habits, highlighting the dangers of tobacco usage.
Final Thoughts
It might be best described as a missed opportunity – a film that could have been a powerful social commentary but falls short due to its execution.
Kerala Crime Files, As Hotstar’s first Malayalam thriller web series, I held high hopes. And I was happy to see that Disney Hotstar managed to meet my expectations in terms of production quality.
The series, set in 2011, showed a clear investment in recreating that era’s technological and ambient milieu. The craftsmanship on display was remarkable.
Penned by Aashiq Imar and directed by Ahammed Khabeer (known for ‘Madhuram’ and ‘June’), I had a feeling that the narrative might have fared far better as a standalone OTT movie instead of a web series.
The plot, at its core, is simple. Sub-Inspector Manoj and his team of four are on the heels of a sex worker’s murderer. Their leads? A fake address: Shiju Parayil Veedu, Neendakara, and a witness who claims the suspect has squinted eyes. They are solving the case within six days (6 Episodes).
It sounds gripping, doesn’t it?
However, as the story opened up, my interest began to wane. The narrative felt like a wafer-thin premise stretched far too thin; it’s pretty evident that the writer didn’t spend much time with the characters or the events. If it were a 100-minute movie, this writing might work well, but I am not sure about a crime-thriller web series.
The series takes off slowly, with the first two episodes feeling like they could have been compressed into one. The narrative regains momentum in the third episode, establishing a robust motive for the lead character (S.I. Manoj) to track down the killer. But after that, the excitement ebbs again, only to return in the fifth episode.
Although the choice to depict six days across six episodes lends realism, the thrill factor takes a hit, perhaps a side effect of my steady diet of thrillers.
Written Poor, but Executed Well
The characters, whether the killer or the police officers, lack depth and layers. The addition of officers’ personal lives seemed a ploy to stretch the runtime, lacking subtlety or layers. The writer tried to build an image of the murderer with the first five episodes, and when it was finally revealed, I found a mismatch between the buildup and reality. That’s where I felt the writer should have spent much more time with the scripting.
In the climax, the explanation of the motto felt artificial. The victim character did not pull it off well enough to make it convincing. However, I really enjoyed the villain and his subtle cues.
The series showcases commendable performances from Aju Varghese in the lead role, supported by Navaz Vallikunnu, Zhinz Shaan, and Devika Rajendran. Zhinz Shaan’s constable “Pradeep” deserves a special mention for his steadfast character arc. His obstinate and narrow-minded approach distinguishes him from his colleagues. Another noteworthy performance is that of Lal in the role of CI Kurian.
To sum it up, lower your expectations, and you may find ‘Kerala Crime Files’ enjoyable. While it manages to retain your attention, it falls short of being a nail-biting thriller. The expectations set by the trailer didn’t fully translate into the series, and it spoiled my experience with this thriller.
My Opinion: A Promising Start, but Does It Deliver? Doubtful
Mani Ratnam’s films are known for their layered storytelling. Ponniyin Selvan is no different, packed with scenes that become more meaningful with an understanding of Tamil history. Here I will share my interpretations and observations, which may help explain Ponniyin Selvan better.
The Entrance of the Enigma: Aditya Karikalan
Aditya Karikalan (Chiyaan Vikram), the character, is introduced in an intriguing manner, with his first appearance shrouded in fog. The moment he steps onto the battlefield, the fog clears, revealing a warrior prince carrying a heavy heart.
The misty backdrop is Mani Ratnam’s creative method to hint at Aditya’s obscure past. With this single shot, Maniratnam establishes that he is coming from a shady past, and we are not clear about his past.
Aditya Karikalan introduction
We are hearing about his past through his conversations with Parthibendran and Kundavai in multiple instances.
As per the historical narratives and the novel, Aditya is stubborn, sticking to his decisions regardless of the circumstances. But no one really knows, who he really was, or what he was going through.
Shadowed Past and Victorious Present
Now, let’s pick another scene. After winning the Nolamba dynasty, Aditya explains his past and agony to Parthibendran. It’s all dark, and Aditya’s face is not clear; we are getting only one half, and if you look at the background, it’s misty again. I believe it’s symbolic of the shady past of Aditya Karikalan.
Aditya- Parthibendran
The deliberate symbolism points towards Aditya’s murky past. When the painful past is shared, and Aditya waves the flag, the frame transitions into sunlight.
This change implies the flag wave as a metaphorical act to ward off the clouded past. War, Rage, and Victory are his ways to clear off the painful and obscure past around him.
The choice of costumes for Aditya is noteworthy. He is always seen in black and red, contrasting with Arulmozhi, who wears pristine white. This difference in colour choices signifies the differing characters and histories of the two.
Parallels with Karnan from Mahabharatha
This is actually a wild theory. Thanks to Sandeep (Nanban )
Aditya Karikalan’s portrayal has parallels with Karnan from Mahabharatha.
During Aditya’s triumphant moments, a sun glare can be seen in the backdrop. Ravi Varman (the cinematographer) brilliantly incorporated the sun glare as an aura around Aditya. Contrarily, when Aditya is depicted in a state of sadness, the sky appears cloudy, or he is shown in darkness. Even his death happened at night.
Aditya asks Nandini if it is hard for her to look at him. Then he waves off all the lamps and dies in the darkness.
In the Mahabharata, even Lord Krishna wept at Karna’s death because Karna was kind, loyal, and understood his dharma. However, he was cursed by Bhumi Devi for disrespecting her. It was just his luck or curse spoiled him. He was unlucky as much as Aditya.
Aditya was also cursed. Nandini asked him only one thing, to spare Pandiya’s life, but he ignored her plea. He disrespected her and hurt her. That was the sin he was carrying (metaphorically, Aditya says, “I consumed poison that day”).
A dying Karna asked Krishna to inform his mother Kunti of his death. He could have asked Krishna to give victory to Duryodhana and bring his armies back to life. However, he didn’t. He wanted his mother to proclaim publicly that he was her son and that he was not of low caste. He was looking for acceptance.
Aditya’s last words were a request for Nandhini to tell him that he still lives in her heart. He was looking for acceptance.
The epic beauty of the scene is the way Vanthiya Thevan carries Aditya’s dead body. The background is filled with smoke, just like when Aditya was first introduced in PS-1. It is a shady mystery, and we could never really understand Aditya, even his death remains a mystery.
The Dance of Victory: Devarattam
Devarattam, a traditional dance form, was performed by kings and warriors to celebrate victory, particularly in the Pandyan and Chola dynasties. During Vanthiyathevan’s visit to Kadambur in the movie, however, the dance depicted appears to align more with “Kecak” than Devarattam.
Actual Devarattam, image credits: twitter/@devarattam
Some argue that Devarattam took inspiration from Kecak, but this theory doesn’t holds historical back. The Chola’s naval invasions in Southeast Asia, a possible channel for cultural exchange, started only in 1025, while Aditya Karikala and the Pandyas were active before 1000 CE. Additionally, Southeast Asian rulers like those from Srivijaya, who had close relations with the Pala Empire in Bengal, did not seem to have left any influence on the dance form.
The real Keckak from Bali
The dance is based on the story of the Ramayana and is traditionally performed in temples and villages across Bali (Indonesia).
The Clash of Titans: Kundavai-Nandini Confrontation Scene
The Kundavai-Nandini faceoff scene is one of the most epic scenes in Ponniyin Selvan part -1. The rivalry between two women is on full display in this scene.
But I feel, many might have misread it. Here is my interpretation.
Background: Nandini has deep resentment towards Kundavai, blaming her for all her miseries. Nandini believes that it was Kundavai who got her expelled from the palace and constantly made her feel inferior due to her lineage. In a bid to gain power, Nandini manipulates Periya Pazhuvettayar and considers Madurantakan’s claim to the throne. She keeps Sundara Chola, Kundavai’s father, under house arrest, cutting him off from others for easy manipulation.
Learning about Nandini’s scheme from Vandiyathevan, Kundavai decides to confront her at the Tanjore palace. As the dramatic background music “Saayam Sanchare” (Evening- where Day and Night meets) fills the air, their coded conversation unfolds:
Nandini: “Upon your visit, Tanjore palace itself has become beautiful.”
Kundavai: “But I heard all the beauty in the world has been kept in the Tanjore palace.” (hinting at Nandini’s beauty)
Nandini: “Yes, beauty is held captive here indeed.” (referring to Sundara Chola being under house arrest, Sundara means ‘beautiful’)
Kundavai: “Captive? Does the golden beauty [Sundara Chola] not adorn the throne?“
Nandini: “Yes, it’s gold, old gold.” (referring to the king as old)
Kundavai: “Faded gold is the most precious.”
Nandini: “Even golden shackles are still shackles.” (indicating Sundara Chola is under her control, regardless of his position)
Kundavai: “The key to the shackles are in our hand anyway.” (asserting her ability to free Sundara Chola)
Nandini: “No one can defeat the princess (Kundavai) in an argument.”
Following this heated exchange, Kundavai smiles as the background score saayam sanchare intensifies. The combined genius of AR Rahman, Ravi Varman, and Mani Ratnam in this scene is simply beyond words.
Kundavi is envious of Nandini’s beauty; Nandini is jealous of Kundavi’s power; and throughout her life, Nandini feels inferior to Kundavi because of the power she holds. You will get all this from this scene, if you read it well.
Nandini: The Ever’green’ Queen
Pandiya’s Fish Eyed(Meenakshi) diety is green. Crafted from a single large emerald stone, the goddess is believed to be Vishnu’s sister, just as Nambi(Jayaram), a vaishnavite, is Nandini’s brother.
Echoes from the Past and Authentic Settings
There’s a scene where Vandhiyathevan ingeniously escapes from the Pazhuvettarayar guards, reminiscent of chase sequences from the movie ‘Thiruda Thiruda’. The elements that Vandhiyathevan disturbs in the crowd — from buttermilk to puffed rice — align perfectly with the setting of 10th century Thanjavur, enhancing the authenticity of the scene.
Mani Ratnam also adeptly portrays the flourishing trade relations of the time. The period from 900 to 1300 CE, termed the Early Age of Commerce in Southeast Asian history, saw burgeoning trade ties between China and South India.
In the film, the charioteer is usually depicted as a Chinese man when the scene is set in Lanka. The character’s inability to understand Tamil allows Arulmozhi to converse freely with his companions without worrying about eavesdropping. This detail cleverly illustrates the language and cultural barriers present in the historical trade relations.
Another historically accurate detail is Sundara Cholan’s acupuncture treatment, highlighting the influence of Chinese medical practices in the region during the time.
One of the most poignant scenes, overlooked by many in the first viewing, happens in Pazhayaarai. As Sendhan Amudhan reaches Trisha to deliver news about Vandhiya Thevan, he nods at Sembiyan Mahadevi, who responds in acknowledgment. This loaded interaction may go unnoticed if you’re unfamiliar with the book.
Sendhan Amudhan is actually Sembiyan Mahadevi’s son, while Madhurantakan is the son of Oomai Rani. Will explain in detail soon.
Sembiyan Mahadevi’s Pioneering Influence
What’s striking in the movie is Sembiyan Mahadevi sporting a pottu (bindi). A surprising element, considering the times depicted, this choice moves away from the traditional depiction of widows.
Sembiyan Mahadevi was the queen consort of the Chola Empire from 949 CE – 957 CE, wife of Gandaraditya Chola.
Following Gandaraditya’s death, Sembiyan Mahadevi, rather than committing sati or withdrawing to the Andapuram (the palace’s female quarters), chose a different path. She devoted herself to religious and social activism, becoming not only a revered dowager queen but also the matriarch of the Chola family for the next 50 years.
A 1,000-year-old idol of the Queen was traced recently by the TN Idol Wing.
A pioneer in Kalpani (literally ‘stone-work’), Sembiyan Mahadevi initiated projects that transformed ancient brick and mortar temples into enduring granite structures. Her historical foresight led her to order the copying of ancient inscriptions before the reconstruction work. The temples and icons commissioned under her oversight bore a unique mark, and she donated jewels and bronzes to many temples, some built by her and others by her son, Uttama Chola( Madhurantakan).
Symbolism of Victory and Omen: The Red Lion Flag and the Comet
A symbolic scene depicts the triumph of Chola king Arul Mozhi Varman over Mahindan, the Sri Lankan king, as the waves on the coast of Lanka wash ashore the Lankan King’s red lion flag.
A powerful visual metaphor that conveys the complete and utter defeat of the Sri Lankan forces. The foamy waves that touch the Lankan shore symbolize the Chola army’s arrival on Sri Lankan soil, and their presence is a reminder that the Chola Empire is now the dominant power in the region.
Comet in the background When Nandini order to take captive of Arulmozi
In another instance, the scene where Nandhini and Pazhuvettayir order a convoy to capture Arulmozhi, you can spot a comet in the background. This comet reappears when the Pandiya’s are shown. The comet is a symbol of foreboding, hinting at a threat to the throne or signalling the imminent death of Aditya.
The Comet Scene in Ponniyin Selvan: A Symbol of Impending Doom
Scientifically, the comet seen in Ponniyin Selvan can’t be Halley’s comet as it passed by in 989 CE, by which time Rajaraja had already ascended the throne and Aditya was dead.
Comet in the background while showing Pandiyan Prince
Historically, the appearance of a comet has often been interpreted as a sign of the impending death of a great person, usually a king. Notable examples include the comets associated with the deaths of Julius Caesar and King Harold. In 1910, when Halley’s Comet streaked across the sky, King Edward VII passed away. Around this time, Kalki (1899-1954) would have been around 11 years old and may have heard about the event.
In the context of the movie, the comet symbolizes the impending death of Aditya Karikalan. However, given Sundara Chola’s frail health, everyone interprets the comet as a prediction of his demise.
Sangam Poetry and Cinematic Genius: The Tale of Mandakini in Ponniyin Selvan
The meeting of Mandakini (Uma Rani), and Sundara Chola has a song playing in the background, it’s another example of Mani Ratnam’s brilliance.
It was so painful for me considering Mandakini’s fate. She doesn’t know she has children (will explain more on this soon); she considered Arulmozhi her son (considering it’s from her beloved one), and After years, she meets Sundara Chola again and lays down her life to save his.
Now if you try to understand more about that song, you will realise how painful it is to listen by watching Mandakini’s (Uma Rani’s) death.
This song is ‘Puranaanuru 242,’ one of the 400 songs from the ancient Tamil anthology (Sangam Poetry). AR Rahman adapted this song for the heartbreaking scene of Mandakini’s demise.
The original song was penned by Gudavai Keerathanar (was one of the poets of the Sangam period). Although he belonged to Gudavail, he visited many towns and made many friends. Perunjathan was one such friend from Ollaiyur. He was a chief Satthan (Chieftain) who was famous for his valorous deeds in battlefield.
The poet comes to the town of Ollaiyur and realises that his friend is no more. The whole town is mourning. There he composed this song out of great sadness.
In the poem, the poet questions the jasmine flower, asking why it still blooms after his death in Ollaiyur.
The lyrics go like this: “Young men don’t wear them. Women with bangles don’t pluck them. The whole town is sad because Satthan, the warrior, died. So, Jasmine, who are you blooming for? Why are you still blooming in vain?”
Nothing could better represent the tragic love and death of Mandakini. For what she lived for. It’s a painful question.
Love, Loss, and Forgotten Memories: Nandini’s Birth Secret
Sundara Chola and Mandakini were in a romantic relationship, but they were forced apart before Sundara Chola’s coronation. Overcome with heartbreak, Mandakini jumped off a lighthouse. However, Anirudha Bramarayan (was a leading minister in the court of the Sundara Chola) rescued her and sent her to Sri Lanka, while telling Sundara Chola that she had died. Meanwhile, Sundara Chola moved on, got married, and had children. His eldest son, Aditya Karikalan, was older than Nandini.
In Sri Lanka, Mandakini and Veera Pandian, both rescued by the boatman(Karuthiramaran) and with Mandakini having lost all her memories, spent a significant amount of time together. She got pregnant and decided to leave Sri Lanka, while Veera Pandian stayed back and lived with the Sri Lankan king.
On her return to Tanjore, Mandakini and her mute sister Vani encountered Sembian Mahadevi, who was also pregnant. They started living with her in the palace. Both women gave birth around the same time. Sembian Mahadevi’s son was stillborn, while Mandakini gave birth to twins and left them. Sembian Mahadevi adopted the male twin, Madhurantakan, and handed over the female twin, Nandini, to Azhwarkaddiyan’s (Nambi) parents. Vani was instructed to bury the supposedly dead infant, who, in reality, survived. She took the child, Sendhan Amudhan, and left.
Meanwhile, Veerapandiyan sent Karuthiruman (boatman played by Yog Japee) to relay a message to Mandakini, who was back in Kodi Karai under her father’s care. However, upon arrival, he found that Mandakini had suffered another accident, which had restored her memory.
She could not recognise Karuthiruman, which meant she had no recollection of what had transpired between her fall from the lighthouse and her recent accident.
Was Nandini ever in love with Aditya Karikalan?
Nandini, a creation of Kalki, is one of the most multifaceted characters you will encounter in “Ponniyin Selvan.” She is like a diamond. Not only is she stunningly beautiful, but she’s also incredibly intelligent. Her willpower and ingenuity make her a unique femme fatale in literature.
She has been described as treacherous, vicious, venomous, lethal, and dangerous. These aren’t misjudgments, as Nandini is truly the most formidable character in the novel.
Understanding Nandini takes some time because, much like a finely cut diamond, she has numerous aspects to her persona. The novel introduces us to her character well before we meet her. Kandan Maran speaks of Periya Pazhuvetarayar’s marriage to a younger woman, and teases him about his obsession with her. Later, Azhwarkadiyan shares a censored version of her life story, painting her as a sisterly figure and stoking our sympathy for her as a young woman forced to marry an older man.
We first meet Nandini through the eyes of Vandiya Devan, entranced by her beauty, as she peeks out from the curtains of a veiled palanquin to investigate the disturbance in her path.
Aditya Karikalan’s frank confession to Parthibendran uncovers more about Nandini’s history. It seems that Nandini mastered her unique brand of seduction with Aditya Karikalan. But was it love, or was it a longing for the power she would gain if she were to marry the Crown Prince? It’s hard to say for sure.
What we do know is that the deep-seated jealousy between Kundavai and Nandini originated from their childhood. Nandini coveted Kundavai’s status and influence as the Princess, while Kundavai envied Nandini’s beauty.
The scene where Nandini imagines her childhood as a queen
Nandini’s obsession with power drove her, I believe, and her confession to Aditya in the end holds some truth, in my opinion
Nandini v/s Kalpana
Do you remember the first movie that Mani Ratnam made with Aishwarya Rai? It’s Iruvar (1997).
In Iruvar, Aishwarya played a character similar to Jayalalitha. There are striking similarities in their ruthlessness.
It’s as if Mani Ratnam saw reflections of Nandini in Jayalalitha and vice versa. Like Nandhini in Jayalalitha or a Jayalalitha in Nandhini. But both are versions of Lady Macbeth considering their character shades.
That can be a reason why he picked Aishwarya for this role.
A scene in “Iruvar” where Kalpana (Aishwarya Rai) sows seeds of doubt in Anandan’s (Mohan Lal) mind is particularly reminiscent of Nandini’s manipulations.
She asked Anandan, “Who is bigger? An actor or a CM? Don’t you to wish to be the CM?“
Anandan thought about her question. He had never considered himself to be a competent to his friend Tamizhselvan. But Kalpana’s words made him wonder if he could be.
Fast forward 25 years, and the same Aishwarya Rai masterfully brings Nandini to life on screen with the same shades of Kalpana. Kalpana’s words were similar to what Nandhini had said to Pazhuvettarayar. Nandhini had charmed the elderly Pazhuvettarayar and planted the seeds of desire in him.
She had told him that Madurantakan should claim the throne, by that the power will always lies in Pazhuvettarayar.
But Nandhini had failed in her attempts unlike Kalpana.
This realisation & the guilt made her commit suicide.
Are you waiting for the latest OTT releases this week? From Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ka Jaan(Zee5) to Skull Island (Netflix). Thrillers, Documentary, Animes, Action…the list is long and diverse.
This week OTT Releases
Kondraal Paavam – Suspense Thriller with Compelling Performances
OTT Platform: Amazon Prime Directed by: Dayal Padmanabhan Cast: Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, Santhosh Pratap, Eswari Rao, Charle
Plot
Set against the backdrop of the 1980s, Kondraal Paavam is a gripping Tamil remake of the Kannada film ‘Aa Karaala Ratri’. The narrative revolves around a poverty-stricken family of three — Mallika (Varalaxmi Sarathkumar) and her parents (Eswari Rao and Charle). Their mundane lives take a turn when a mysterious visitor, Arjun (Santhosh Prathap), seeks shelter at their home for the night. A series of tense events unravel, as the movie brilliantly showcases the fallout of misdirected desires and its implications.
Why You Should Try
Director Dayal Padmanabhan establishes each character’s motives and backstory proficiently, leading to a better understanding of their actions and decisions in the latter part of the film.
A standout performance by Varalaxmi Sarathkumar as Mallika, a character with a moral grey area willing to do whatever it takes to escape the shackles of poverty.
Intriguing subplots, like the enigma around the character of Arjun, keep the audience hooked.
Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan – A Mix of Salman Khan’s Trademark Action and Comedy
Remake of Tamil movie Veeram starring Ajith Kumar. Salman Khan, as Bhaijaan, is a single man who lives with his three adoptive brothers. Bhagyalaxmi’s entry complicates matters, and Bhaijaan’s potential in-laws are threatened. Bhaijaan takes matters into his own hands, and viewers are treated to traditional Salman Khan action with a comedic twist.
Why You Should Try:
Full of references to Salman Khan’s past movies, a treat for his fans.
Pooja Hegde’s charming and humorous portrayal of Bhagyalaxmi may entertain her fans.
Why You Should Skip:
Heavy reliance on Salman Khan’s star power with less emphasis on plot.
Missed opportunities to explore cultural differences and some humor may fall flat.
Action scenes might appear less impressive compared to recent action films.
Take Care of Maya – An Emotional Tangle of a Family’s Struggle
OTT Platform: Netflix Directed by: Henry Roosevelt Documentary Genre: Health, Family, Legal
Plot
“Take Care of Maya” is a harrowing Netflix documentary following the case of Maya Kowalski, a young girl admitted to a pediatric hospital in 2016 for extreme pain. She was kept in the hospital for three months under a state-issued shelter order, separated from her parents who were suspected of medical child abuse. This documentary explores the events and their aftermath, unfolding from the perspective of the Kowalskis, through court testimony, father’s recollections, and various records from Maya’s mother.
It sheds light on a critical issue involving medical child abuse suspicion and its effect on a family.
Provides a deep dive into a rare pain syndrome case and its related controversies.
The real-life story behind the documentary is engaging and heartbreaking.
Agent – A Predictable Spy Thriller without any Thrill
Agent is a spy thriller about an unlikely protagonist, Ramakrishna aka Rikki, who dreams of becoming a RAW agent. Despite his quirks and wild behavior, Rikki catches the attention of the RAW chief, Mahadev, who sends him on a mission to thwart the evil plans of a rogue ex-RAW agent. The film follows Rikki’s misadventures as he tries to save the day, with his love interest and unpredictable actions adding to the chaos.
Interesting plot with juxtaposed roles between ‘The Devil’ and ‘The God’.
Why You Should Skip
The love track is forced and seems out of place, and the musical score fails to add value.
The narrative is inconsistent with jarring tonal shifts and misplaced ‘mass moments’.
Major character reveals are handled with nonchalance, reducing their impact.
The film fails to build emotional depth, making significant scenes feel unimpressive.
John Wick: Chapter 4 – A Riveting Action-Packed Finale
OTT Platform: Lionsgate Play Directed by: Chad Stahelski Cast: Keanu Reeves, Donnie Yen, Bill Skarsgård, Laurence Fishburne, Lance Reddick
OTT Platform: Amazon prime Directed by: Sai Kabir Cast: Avneet Kaur and Nawazuddin Siddiqui
Plot
The film was initially titled as “Divine Lovers”, with Irrfan Khan and Kangana Ranaut as main leads in 2016. Tiku, who looks at marriage as her escape to Mumbai from a local town to become an actress and Sheru, who has been working as a junior artist in the city for years. They get married and the comedy of errors for this couple starts.
Kerala Crime Files
OTT Platform: Disney Plus Hotstar Directed by: Ahammed Khabeer Cast: Aju Varghese, Lal, Navas Vallikkunnu, Sanju Sanichen
Plot
This is the first true thriller webseries from malayalam film industry & as per reports, it is based on true events.
A team of six policemen led by Sub-Inspector Manoj is on a chase to solve a murder in a suburban lodge room, with just one clue – a fake address, Shiju, Parayil Veedu, Neendakara, from a lodge register. As per the updates, ‘Kerala Crime Files’ consists of six episodes, 30 minutes each.
A middle-class family sees a brighter tomorrow when their son meets with a life-changing career opportunity. But this transition only unravels a web of trauma, raising poignant questions about wealth, power, and morality.
Secret Invasion
OTT Platform: Disney Plus Hotstar Directed by: Ali Selim Cast: Samuel L. Jackson, Emilia Clarke, Martin Freeman, Cobie Smulders
Plot
Nick Fury learns of a secret invasion of Earth by a faction of shapeshifting Skrulls; Fury joins his allies, and together they race against time to thwart an imminent Skrull invasion and save humanity.
I’m a Virgo
OTT Platform: Amazon Prime Directed by: Boots Riley Cast: Jharrel Jerome, Mike Epps & Walton Goggins
Plot
It’s a coming-of-age absurdist comedy tale about Cootie, a 13-foot-tall 19-year-old black man raised by his aunt Lafrancine and uncle Martisse in Oakland, California. He is shielded from the outside world until he is accidentally discovered by a group of teenage political activists.
Skull Island (Anime)
OTT Platform: Netflix Directed by: Brian Duffield Genre: Action, Adventure & Science fiction
Plot
A group of well-meaning explorers venture out to sea to rescue Annie from the ocean. In doing so, they find themselves shipwrecked on the perilous Skull Island. Together, they fight to survive the dangers of the mysterious isle, which is home to large creatures and terrifying monsters; including Kong. This is the fifth installment overall in the franchise.
Imagine you’re at your favourite supermarket, walking through the cosmetic items row, and you see hundreds of different brands of body lotions.
So many options, right?
But then, something strikes you – despite the variations in packaging and flavours, most of these lotions actually belong to a handful of big companies, such as Hindustan Unilever or P&G. They’ve just packaged their product in different ways to cater to a diverse range of tastes.
In the realm of online search, it’s eerily similar. Have you ever wondered about the companies dominating Google search results?
You might be surprised to learn that less than 20 companies control a major chunk of the web’s content. They own a variety of websites across a broad spectrum, from health to tech, from sports to food.
Unveiling the 16 Companies Dominating Google Search Results
So, how many companies are we talking about? The number is 16. These 16 companies are the puppeteers controlling at least 562 different brands that show up in your daily Google search results.
According to Semrush, a platform that offers online visibility management and content marketing SaaS, these companies together command a whopping 3.7 billion clicks from Google each month. That’s an average of 6.5 million monthly clicks for each site under their umbrella.
This phenomenon was first identified in 2016 byGlen Allsopp, who pointed out how these companies, renowned in their industries, leverage their online authority and the reputation of their popular brands to help new brands rank well on Google and generate traffic.
Digging Deeper: CBS Interactive
CBS Interactive, a division of Paramount Global, is a global leader in digital content and a key player in the world of online media.
In India they have a strategic partnership with Network18 Group—a subsidiary of Reliance Industries. Their recent launch in India is Jio Cinemas. Something which is considered as an OTT Predator.
CBS’ diverse collection of websites cater to a broad audience, offering content ranging from entertainment and sports to tech reviews and music lyrics. Here are some of the main websites under CBS Interactive, along with their global ranking, indicating their popularity among internet users:
The All-encompassing Net under CBS
CNET.com – Ranked 182 globally, CNET is a leading tech news and reviews website, offering advice on a range of tech products from smartphones to home appliances.
GameFAQs.com – With a global rank of 310, GameFAQs provides users with game guides, FAQs, reviews, and discussion forums for video games.
Gamespot.com – Ranked 808 globally, Gamespot is a hub for gaming news, reviews, previews, and videos for leading gaming platforms.
Last.fm – Ranked 965 in the world, Last.fm is a music discovery service that provides personalized recommendations based on the music users listen to.
MetroLyrics.com – Holding a global rank of 1,590, MetroLyrics is a lyrics-dedicated website, featuring over 1 million songs from around 16,000 artists.
Metacritic.com – Ranked 1,762, Metacritic aggregates reviews and provides scores for movies, TV shows, video games, and music albums.
CBS.com – CBS’s official website, ranked 1,846 globally, offers access to CBS programming, including full episodes of popular CBS shows.
247Sports.com – With a global rank of 2,304, 247Sports offers in-depth coverage of various sports, including news, scores, and recruiting information.
ZDNet.com – Ranked 2,779, ZDNet delivers 24/7 news coverage and analysis on the latest tech and business trends.
TV.com – TV.com, ranked 2,863, is a resource for TV show episode guides, reviews, video clips, and discussion forums.
TechRepublic.com – Holding a global rank of 3,266, TechRepublic helps IT decision-makers identify technologies and strategies to empower workers and streamline business processes.
Chowhound.com – Ranked 5,825 globally, Chowhound is a community of food lovers sharing their food discoveries and experiences.
Comicvine.com – With a global rank of 16,765, Comicvine is a source for comic news, reviews, and a database of comic characters.
Download.com – Download.com, ranked 252,479, is a platform for users to discover, download, and manage software in a safe and trusted environment.
CollegeSportsLive.com – With a global ranking of 600,516, CollegeSportsLive is a streaming service that offers broadcasts of college sports events.
How These Companies Dominate Google’s Search Results
Let’s say you want to buy a laptop. You are searching for a 15 inch laptop.
I hope I don’t have to explain much now.
You can do your own research for better understanding. For example, when you search for the parent company of Tom’s Guide, you will get the following result:
Look at the details about Future Plc and the platforms they owned
How These Companies Dominate Various Niches
These 16 companies do not limit themselves to a specific niche. Their influence spreads across home, beauty, tech, automotive, cooking, travel, sports, education, and many more.
A report revealed that across 10,000 terms where affiliates are ranking, which cover products in every niche you can think of, these 16 companies ranked on the first page of 8,421 (or 84%) of them. They even claimed five or more of the first 10 organic rankings in 3,999 of 10,000 search results.
This level of dominance is unprecedented and shows the extent of their control over Google’s search results
Evolution of Digital Dominance: Survival of the Fittest
If you’re wondering whether this state of affairs has been constant, the answer is no. The digital landscape, like any other, evolves over time. Many of the leading websites from a 2016 report are still dominant today, but the companies behind them and how they operate have massively evolved.
For instance, only seven or six of the sixteen companies from the original report are still on the list. Future acquired companies like Purch and Dennis Publishing, and now Fandom and Red Ventures own the biggest sites of CBS. CBS is under Paramount Global. This suggests that to stay dominant, these companies not only have to maintain their own strength but also keep an eye out for potential threats and opportunities in the landscape, much like animals in the wild.
Gawker Media was acquired by Univision in 2017.
In 2017, Univision acquired Gawker Media for $135 million. The acquisition stirred controversy as Univision, a Spanish-language media company, took over Gawker Media, renowned for its provocative and often contentious content.
Time Inc. was acquired by Meredith Corporation in 2018.
Time Inc. was acquired by Meredith Corporation in 2018 for $1.84 billion. The acquisition created a media giant with a portfolio of magazines, websites, and television networks.
Dennis Publishing was acquired by Exponent Private Equity in 2018.
Dennis Publishing was acquired by Exponent Private Equity in 2018 for $300 million. The acquisition gave Exponent control of a number of well-known brands, including The Week, PC Gamer, and MoneyWeek.
Scripps Networks Interactive was acquired by Discovery, Inc. in 2018.
Scripps Networks Interactive was acquired by Discovery, Inc. in 2018 for $14.6 billion. The acquisition created a media powerhouse with a portfolio of networks that includes HGTV, Food Network, and TLC.
2 companies are now under the ownership of a larger company:
Vox Media is now majority-owned by Penske Media Corporation.
Meredith Corporation is now a part of Dotdash Meredith, which was formed when Meredith Corporation was acquired by IAC’s Dotdash in 2021.
This is more dangerous for consumers like you and me. It’s getting more condensed.
Impact on Competition and Individual Decision Making
When such a small group of companies dominates search results, it inevitably impacts competition. Other businesses, particularly small and medium-sized ones, find it challenging to compete with these behemoths.
These dominant companies have established their authority over time and built a substantial online presence, making it difficult for others to rank well in search results.
Moreover, this dominance also influences individual decision-making. When we conduct a Google search, we usually trust and click on the top results, often oblivious to the fact that a small group of companies own the diverse list of websites that appear. This limits the information and options available to us, subtly influencing our decisions and preferences.
Some of the biggest sites these companies are behind, as of May 2023, include MayoClinic (376.7M monthly visitors, owned by Ziff Davis), Healthline (249.1M monthly visitors, owned by Red Ventures), WebMD (223.1M monthly visitors, owned by Internet Brands), and Fandom (753.4M monthly visitors, owned by Fandom).
So, next time you read about the side effects of a medicine, there are high chances that all that information is coming from the same source.
This dominance of Google’s search results by a handful of companies raises questions about the diversity and competition on the internet. While these companies are successful and offer quality content, the concentration.
Dear growth marketers and SEO executives, wake up and do more research on niches; otherwise, you may not get heard.
This is the second part of this series. Here we are going to see how to prepare our website for lead generation with Google Ads. Let’s dive into the specifics and see how you can leverage it too.
First things first, knowing your audience is the backbone of any successful marketing campaign. Imagine if you’re a Chetan Bhagat or Amish Tripathi, successful Indian authors, crafting a new novel. You wouldn’t write without understanding your readers’ preferences, would you?
The same principle applies to your business. Your ‘reader’ is your customer. Recognise their characteristics, study their pain points, understand their goals, identify what they read, and determine where they live. This understanding will be the foundation of your Google Ads strategy.
Once you have prepared some personas, let’s move on to the website. Now we are going to modify the website keeping these personas in mind.
Making Your Website User-Friendly: On-site Optimization
Think of your website as your digital storefront. If you own a physical store, you would make sure it’s clean, organised, and welcoming to your customers, right? Similarly, your website should be welcoming, relevant, and easy to navigate.
Define Your Landing Pages Based on the Ad
Let’s say you run an online tutoring service, ‘Qrious Minds.’ You need to define the specific pages where you will send traffic from your Google Ads. If someone clicks on an ad about your IIT-JEE preparation course, they should be directed to the page specifically about that service, not your homepage. This is akin to guiding a customer directly to the section of the bookstore that houses their favourite genre.
Homepage & Branded Traffic
When we talk about a company’s homepage, we’re referring to the main landing page for a website. If branded traffic is your major channel, then you should work hard for ‘homepage’.
Branded traffic refers to the visitors that come to a website directly (like typing the URL into the browser) or through organic search results by searching for a brand’s name or specific product of a brand. These individuals already know about the brand and are seeking it out specifically, often indicating a higher level of interest or intent compared to non-branded traffic.
The homepage should be clean enough to guide them towards taking a desired action, like making a purchase or signing up for a service.
A large and relevant motion graphics clearly explains why Dropbox
The more you scroll, the more they build desire by describing different use cases for their tool.
The Art of a Clear Statement of Value
Once your home page design is ready, the next step is the master text.
The website should include a clear ‘statement of value,’ aka master text.
To put it simply, why should a student choose ‘Qurious Minds’ over other tutoring services? Perhaps you have IIT alumni as tutors, or maybe you offer personalised study plans. This statement is your ‘USP’ (unique selling proposition), the cornerstone of your business.
Drafting Your Master Text
Do thorough research and understand why people love your service or product, then highlight it. Most people ignore this part.
In an article I once came across, the CEO of a software company believed that their fast service and competitive pricing were their key selling points. However, a deeper dive revealed that people love them for different reasons. Those were their user-friendly interfaces and local operations in Mexico. Unlike many competitors who operated overseas, their location allowed real-time communication with US clients and facilitated cost-effective, in-person meetings. Moreover, their software was praised for its simplified user interface, offering just the essential features and avoiding overwhelming users with unnecessary functions. By emphasising these strengths in their messaging, they underscored the disadvantages of dealing with distant operations and complex software, effectively reshaping their unique selling propositions.
So think twice before you draft your master text.
Some of my favourite examples are from
Grammarly (Short & Sweet)
Grammarly
Getprospect (Nothing fancy, straight to the point, easy to read and comprehend)
Getprospect
The Power of Social Proof
Your site should include social proof. This is the digital equivalent of word-of-mouth publicity. For instance, if ‘Qrious Minds’ has testimonials from previous students who cracked IIT-JEE thanks to your coaching, those reviews would be your social proof.
Aggregating enough reviews takes time, so ask your customers for a review after 30 days of purchase and give them an incentive or reward for completion. Actually, this 30-day time frame is a hack; it gives you at least a few days or weeks to resolve any issues—and get a good review for it.
Mailchimp Homepage & Its Social proof
Authority Bias and the Culture Code Behind Social Proof
There is even a psychology behind it: Authority bias.
Showcase or mention a celebrity using a similar product or service, and leverage that to your advantage by drawing similarities between your audience and this person to convince them to make the purchase to increase their status quo.
Another rationale behind it is culture; you can classify your audience into two types: collectivist cultures and individualistic cultures. India has a collectivist culture. Individualism is about your personal interests; collectivism is about the interests of the group. This group can be your direct family, but it can also be your company or country.
In collectivist cultures, advice from social groups is generally considered important. So, people are more likely to follow the ratings of other users.
Crafting Clear Calls-to-Action ( CTA )
Imagine being in a bustling Indian bazaar with numerous sellers vying for your attention. Among all the noise, a shopkeeper with a loud, clear voice stands out, inviting you to his shop. Similarly, on your website, amidst the wealth of information, a clear and bold CTA button plays the role of that sales assistant, directing visitors to the next step.
The online retail giant, Amazon, is a prime example of this. Their bold, yellow “Add to Cart” button is highly visible and directs shoppers to the next step of the purchasing process.
Multiple CTAs
Furthermore, your website should have multiple conversion conduits, or Call to Actions (CTAs). This is the digital equivalent of different salespeople for different sections, and eventually they will be guiding the customer to the checkout counter.
For example, after reading about your IIT-JEE course, there should be a clear, visible button that says “Enrol Now” or “Book a Free Demo.”
A clear CTA from Simplified
Blog Section: After reading an informative blog post about the benefits of personalised learning, a CTA could be, “Try Our Personalized Learning Approach! Start Your Free Trial Today.”
QuickSprout CTA from their blog
Course Description Pages: Each course description should have a clear and concise CTA, like “Enrol in This Course Now!” or “Download Course Curriculum.”
Contact Us Page: On the contact page, a CTA like “Get in Touch with Our Advisors Today” encourages prospective students to reach out for more information.
Free Resources Page: If you offer free study resources, a CTA might be, “Download Free Study Material Now!” or “Access Free Practice Tests.”
Credits: Hubspot Blog
Newsletter Subscription: A CTA like “Stay Updated! Subscribe to Our Newsletter” can help grow your email list for future marketing campaigns.
Remember, the goal of each CTA is to guide visitors towards a desired action. A well-crafted CTA is clear, concise, and compelling, using action-oriented language that creates urgency and excitement.
Add Badges, Add Trust & Make it Special
Trust is the cornerstone of any business. Just as a customer feels reassured when they see an ISO certification or FSSAI mark at a restaurant, website verification badges like secure payment, BBB, SSL, guarantees, and free returns can build trust in your online services.
For ‘Qrious Minds’, if you offer free shipping for your study materials or free returns on course enrollments, turn these into badges on your website. It’s like a restaurant highlighting their ‘Hygiene Certified’ status – it provides an extra layer of trust for the customer.
Badges from different websites
Companies like Flipkart and Amazon showcase trust badges prominently, which reassure customers about the safety of their transactions. Emulating such practises can enhance the trustworthiness of your website.
Accessibility and Trust: Contact Information on Your Website
Before writing this article, I did my research by visiting multiple websites from different domains. This last point is missing in 90% of the website, and I believe that will impact your service. As a customer, before I make a purchase, I want to ensure that you are easily accessible for after-sale service.
I always prefer Amazon over Flipkart for this one simple reason: it’s easier to reach out to Amazon compared to Flipkart. Secondly, it builds trust. Customers buy from businesses they trust.
Levi Footer with Contact numbers & Email id
A good example of a website that efficiently incorporates contact information in the footer is the Levi.in website. It contains everything a good website footer should have: a logo, links, social network links, and contact information.
This arrangement not only makes the brand easily accessible to customers but also adds to the overall aesthetic and functional appeal of the website. And their ‘Help’ & ‘Track Order’ buttons are on the right top.
Some Additional Tips For Better Results
Product title and subtitle: Ensure these are clear, descriptive, and honest to attract relevant traffic. For example, Amazon uses specific and honest product titles without keyword stuffing.
Descriptions: These should elaborate on the specifics of your product or service. For instance, an online clothing retailer might highlight the type of fabric, fit, and special features in the description.
Media: Customers are visually driven, so use custom images and videos. Apple, for instance, uses high-quality images and videos to showcase their products from various angles, helping customers visualise the product better.
Nested navigation: Clear, easy navigation is crucial. Websites like IKEA use breadcrumbs, enabling users to track their navigation path and easily return to previously viewed pages.
In conclusion, Optimizing your website for lead generation with Google Ads is a multi-faceted process, involving everything from customer understanding to site design, social proof, clear CTAs, and trust-building. By integrating these elements into your strategy, you stand a better chance of converting your site visitors into loyal customers, thereby driving your business growth.
Before I talk about the movie Siya, let me share some horrible incidents with you.
Siya Movie Poster from IMDB
Case – 1
On September 14, 2020, a case was registered at the Hathras police station in Uttar Pradesh, India, under number 194/2020. The victim was a 19-year-old Dalit woman who was gang-raped and brutally assaulted by four men from an influential family.
The four accused men dragged the victim into a field and gang-raped her. They also tried to strangle her to death. The victim was found lying unconscious in the field by some villagers. She was rushed to a hospital in Hathras.
A Scene from Siya
The police were able to record the victim’s statement on September 22(After the protest). She died on September 29, 2020.
On the night of September 29, at around 2:30 am, the victim was cremated by the Uttar Pradesh Police without the consent or knowledge of the victim’s family. Petrol was used for the cremation.
When the news initially broke through social media, the Agra Police, Hathras District Magistrate, and UP’s Information & Public Relations department dismissed it as “fake news.”
A video surfaced in which the Hathras District Magistrate can be seen pressuring the family to alter their statement. He was heard saying, “Don’t ruin your credibility. These media people will leave in a couple of days. Half have already left, the rest will leave in 2-3 days. We are the ones standing with you. Now it depends on you if you want to keep changing your testimony…”
Inhumane Actions For Defence
On October 2, the head of BJP’s IT cell, Amit Malviya, tweeted a video of the 19-year-old victim, revealing her face, allegedly violating Section 228A of the Indian Penal Code.
On October 4, Rajveer Singh Pehelwan, a former MLA of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), organized a rally in support of the accused. The rally garnered hundreds of attendees, including family members of the four accused.
A BJP leader, Ranjeet Srivastava, claimed the accused were not guilty of the crime. He further questioned, “Such girls are found dead only in specific places. They are discovered in sugarcane, corn, and millet fields, or in bushes, gutters, or forests. Why are they never found dead in paddy or wheat fields?“
Another statement that drew fierce criticism came from BJP MLA Surendra Nath Singh, who suggested that “Sanskar should be instilled in girls to prevent incidents of rape.“
Reports from The Wire and other sources indicated that the Uttar Pradesh government engaged Concept PR, a Mumbai-based public relations firm. Allegedly, the PR firm released press statements on behalf of the government, asserting that the Hathras teenager was not raped.
Some Actions
The Hathras police arrested the four accused—Sandeep, Ramu, Lavkush, and Ravi—on charges of attempted murder and gang rape.
On March 2, 2023, the Hathras district court acquitted three of the four accused—Ramu, Luvkush, and Ravi. The fourth accused, Sandeep, was convicted of culpable homicide not amounting to murder (IPC Section 304) and offenses under the SC/ST Act. However, he was not found guilty of rape and murder, receiving a life imprisonment sentence along with a fine of ₹50,000.
The State government, led by Yogi Adityanath, and the district administration announced a compensation of ₹2.5 million (US$31,000) for the victim’s family. Additionally, they offered a junior assistant job to a family member. Furthermore, the family will be allocated a house in Hathras under the State Urban Development Agency (SUDA) scheme.
Case – 2
This is infamous 2017 Unnao Rape Case.
The 2017 Unnao rape case involved the gang rape and assault of a 17-year-old girl in Unnao, Uttar Pradesh, India. The incident occurred on June 4, 2017.
According to the victim’s statement, she was enticed by a woman named Shashi Singh, along with her son, Shubham Singh, and daughter, Nidhi Singh, to relocate to Kanpur with promises of securing a job.
On the night of June 11, 2017, she accompanied Shubham Singh and allegedly endured multiple instances of rape by him and his driver, Awdhesh Tiwari.
A scene from Siya
On June 21, 2017, 17 days later, the victim was found in a village in Auraiya district, Uttar Pradesh. She received medical treatment for her injuries at a hospital in Lucknow.
The police recorded her statement on June 22, but prevented her from identifying one of her assailants BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar.
Apr 3, 2018: Rape survivor’s father is beaten up by MLA’s brother and his goons.
Though both sides lodge complaints against each other, the police choose to arrest only her father and he is sent to judicial custody. Her father dies in police custody. The post-mortem report lists the cause of death to be “blood poisoning due to perforation of colon”. It also lists multiple injuries on his body.
Prior to his death, he accused Atul, the brother of Sengar, of leading the assault. However, no action was taken in response to this complaint at the time.
On April 8, 2018, the victim attempted self-immolation at the residence of Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh.
April 11, 2018: The victim and her family are confined to a hotel room on the pretext of protection, without water or electricity.
Getting Worse
April 12, 2018: Sengar, Atul Singh and their accomplices are arrested by the CBI.
April 14, 2018: The CBI makes a second arrest in the Unnao rape case . It takes into custody the woman who allegedly took the girl to Sengar on the day of the crime.
July 2, 2018: The uncle of the victim is convicted in a 19-year-old case of attempt to murder that had been filed by Atul Singh. He is sentenced to 10 years in prison by a district court.
July 28, 2018: A Rae Bareli truck-car collision leaves the girl and her lawyer critically injured. Two of the victim’s aunts are killed in the accident. The victim, who is battling for her life in a hospital in Lucknow with multiple fractures, head and chest injuries, and her lawyer are on ventilator support.
“Our MLA is innocent” on the wall & the victim is passing
On December 16, 2019, Sengar was found guilty of rape and sentenced to life imprisonment. His associates were also convicted and received varying prison terms.
Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav
As we celebrate Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, marking 75 years of our independence, we find ourselves questioning the very essence of our freedom. Has it truly manifested? Can we truly call ourselves free when there is an evident shift of power from one oppressive regime to another? Britishers may have left us, but did they leave a vacuum only to be filled by illiterate criminals?
Who should we blame for this?
The responsibility, I believe, falls upon each one of us. We, the citizens of India, who possess the right to vote, have the right to choose who shall represent us and who shall guide us.
There’s a saying, “Politicians are like diapers; we should change them frequently, otherwise it stinks.” Well, power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. A truth that most of us have learned through life experiences, but do we act upon it?
Politics in our country seems to have become a playground for the criminals and oligarchs. Once an individual assumes a political position, they cling to power like a leech for their entire life.
South-North-West all same
States like Tamil Nadu, Telangana, West Bengal, Bihar and Karnataka all reflect the same issue:
Look at Tamil Nadu; one family has been ruling the state for years. Go to Telangana; one person is ruling the state like there is no alternative. Look at Karnataka; it’s either Siddharamaiyya or Yedyurappa. On the national level, we have dynasty politics, or ultra-right-wing politics.
Our collectivist culture, our admiration of heroism—it’s not wrong! But when it transforms into blind admiration and political slavery, we must recognise and correct it.
If you are a communist, no matter what, you try to defend the party. You want that party to be in power, no matter how corrupt or fascist they are.
If you are a BJP supporter, you don’t care who your CM is or what they do. You just want to see the saffron flag waving.
It’s not about the party we support or the colour of the flag we want to see waving. It’s about who represents us and shapes our future.
Remember the atrocities that have been committed under these ultimatums of power? The VYAPAM scandal (Over 40 deaths, still a mystery) or the Balrampur gang rape—the list goes on.
Just like in our Telugu movies, where the common man bows down to the hero, the “devudu”, we too find ourselves bowing to these politicians and bureaucrats, suffering their injustices.
Pooja Pandey as Siya
Siya – Untold story of 1000s of girls
Siya is Manish Mundra’s directorial debut, starring Pooja Pandey and Vineet Kumar Singh.
I am happy that I choose Siya over Adipurush today.
I believe Adhipurush is the past, and Siya is about my present and future.
Siya, a 17-year-old rape survivor, is being held captive and repeatedly abused by a group of powerful men. She had two options: “endure in silence” or “fight injustice bravely.” She chose the second option.
Siya decides to go against all odds and fight for justice. The film talks about how the police and politicians using their power to suppress the truth and oppress the oppressed.
Pooja Pandey, the lead character, beautifully plays her part as a simple, obedient, yet courageous woman. She doesn’t transform into a fiery fighter instantly; the character’s progression is remarkable.
Vineet Kumar Singh stands out as a modest lawyer who handles notary work and refuses to be intimidated by the police, providing strong support to Siya.
We need more directors like Manish Mundra. Here, don’t expect the usual one woman, one man spectacle heroism. It’s a mirror, not a screen.
You are about to witness the experiences of past victims that we discussed. How you and I let them suffer. How cruel our society is. Watch it and feel our shared guilt.
People in power often escape consequences, and yes, sometimes they do get caught, but by then, the victim may have lost everything.
Siya asks us a question:
What good is justice when neither the victim nor her family will live to see it served?
This 1 hour and 50-minute movie serves as a reminder. If a politician or bureaucrat could abuse your sister or kill your brother tomorrow, how would you fight?
Have you ever wondered how scriptwriters create characters? Do they start from scratch? What lenses do scriptwriters use when they watch movies? Here, we will do a mini-script analysis to understand this better. To do this, we will look at the theme (events), characters, and the plot. I will focus on the characters and events more.
A Scene from Thief (1981)
For the purpose, we are choosing Thief, a 1981 American neo-noir heist action thriller film directed and written by Michael Mann. The film is loosely based on The Home Invaders by Frank Hohimer.
Thief (1981) A Brief Summary
In this 1981 film, Thief, Frank is a jewel thief of unparalleled skill. He manages to keep his past hidden behind the façade of a successful businessman. He has two thriving businesses and a seemingly peaceful life, but is it all as serene as it appears?
A scene from Thief (1981)
Frank thinks he has everything figured out. But there is one thing missing from his life: a family. When he starts dating Jessie, a cashier, the missing piece seems to be falling into place.
But then, everything changes. Frank is double-crossed during one last job, a diamond heist. His fencer, Joe Gags, is brutally killed, and his share of the loot is stolen. He is betrayed by Leo, a mob boss who has been watching his every move.
From a thrilling diamond heist gone wrong, to a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse with vengeance, and an unexpected twist in his personal life, Frank’s world spirals into chaos. His trusted friend is murdered, his family is threatened, and everything he’s worked for is on the brink of ruin.
But Frank is not going down without a fight. A man with nothing to lose is the most dangerous kind. Armed with determination, a burning desire for revenge, and a whole lot of explosives, Frank is ready to burn his past to the ground and settle the score. He’s done playing by the rules. It’s time for the master thief to step out of the shadows.
A Perfect Script & A Well Written Character
Let’s analyse the script and try to understand how the screenwriter Michael Mann might have developed it. What might have been his thought process when he started developing the script about Frank?
Character Sketch
Frank is a complex character. He is a skilled thief with a hardened exterior, but he also has a desire for a simple, “normal” life. This desire for normalcy comes from his need for stability, which is likely a reaction to his tumultuous past and ongoing criminal activities.
A scene from Thief (1981)
He shows signs of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to his past experiences in prison. He is hyper-vigilant, has recurring bouts of anger, and struggles with emotional intimacy. These experiences have also made him resilient and resourceful, but they have also made it difficult for him to trust others and let go of control.
Frank is an introverted individual who has adapted to survive in a world that demands extroversion. He is guarded, self-reliant, and meticulous in his work. He prefers solitude or the company of a select few. This could be a coping mechanism to manage his PTSD symptoms and control his environment.
Throughout the story, Frank goes on a journey of self-discovery and self-reconciliation. He is forced to confront his “shadow” (the hidden, darker aspects of his personality) and integrate it with his “persona” (the mask he presents to the world). This is a key part of his character arc.
Three Acts & Three Psychological Approaches
ACT ONE: Dissonance and Identity Crisis
In the first act, Frank aspires to live a normal life, indicating a clear cognitive dissonance between his personal identity and his occupational identity as a thief. This internal conflict plays a crucial role in driving the narrative and establishing the emotional tension in the film. This dissonance is a key driving force for the narrative and sets up the emotional tension.
Tuesday Weld as Jessie & James Caan as Frank from Thief (1981)
ACT TWO: Confrontation and Growth
In the second act of Thief, Frank’s inner conflict becomes too much to bear. After Leo betrays him, Frank’s dreams of a normal life are shattered. He is forced to face the reality of his criminal lifestyle.
A scene from Thief (1981)
Frank realises that he can’t have both. He can’t be a thief and have a normal life. This realisation is a turning point for Frank. It leads him to change his behaviour and attitude.
This confrontation can be related to thepsychoanalytic concept of ‘insight’. Frank’s confrontation with reality is a powerful moment of self-awareness. It propels him into the third act of the story.
Act Three: Resolution and Reconciliation
In the third act, Frank undergoes a transformation. He wants to escape his criminal past, so he embraces his “shadow” – the part of his personality that he had previously tried to suppress or deny. In Jungian psychology, confronting and accepting one’s shadow is a crucial step in achieving self-integration. Frank’s decision to quit his life of crime marks his journey towards reconciling his conflicting identities.
Frank’s narrative, from conflict through confrontation to resolution, mirrors a psychological journey that many individuals undertake when they confront uncomfortable truths about themselves.
Title Card
In Thief, this journey is not only an exploration of Frank’s character but also a wider commentary on identity, morality, and the potential for personal change.
Why A Must Watch?
Thief is one of the best “One Last Job” or “Double Life Rom-Com” movies I have ever seen. The scriptwriter did an excellent job of developing the characters, and I highly recommend this movie to anyone who loves to write.
Are you waiting for the latest OTT releases this week? From I Love You(Jio Cinema) to Black Clover: Sword of the Wizard King (Netflix). Thrillers, Romance, Animes, Action…the list is long and diverse.
OTT Releases This Week
1. I Love You – A Twisted Tale of Love and Revenge
“I Love You,” directed by Nikhil Mahajan, known for his successful Marathi film “Godavari,” is an unconventional romantic thriller that promises to defy expectations. The plot revolves around Satya Prabhakar (Rakul Preet Singh), an independent working woman in Mumbai, whose life takes a drastic turn just when she decides to advance her relationship with her love interest. As the story unfolds, it takes the audience on a thrilling journey of revenge and justice that Satya seeks.
The trailer, already captivating the viewers, introduces a complex love triangle involving Satya, Pavail Gulati, and Akshay Oberoi’s characters. As the tale progresses, it uncovers a web of betrayal and murder that hints at an exciting and suspense-filled narrative that challenges conventional notions of love stories.
2. Tamilarasan – ‘Paasam’ filled with Courage and Justice
OTT Platform: Zee5 (Tamil) Directed by: Babu Yogeswaran Cast: Vijay Antony, Suresh Gopi, Sonu Sood, Remya Nambeesan
Tamilarasan zee5 trailer
Plot Synopsis
Tamilarasan (Vijay Antony), a dedicated cop, and his wife Leena (Remya Nambeesan) are hit with a heavy blow when they learn that their son Prabhakar (Pranav Mohan) has a weak heart that requires an immediate transplant. However, the hospital where they admit him prioritizes profits over patients, making Prabhakar’s life a low concern. This infuriates Tamilarasan, who takes heart specialist Dr. Muruganantham (Suresh Gopi) hostage to ensure his son’s treatment. All the while, his corrupt superior Rana Pratap Singh (Sonu Sood) is eager to bring him down. The film follows Tamilarasan’s desperate struggle to save his son, battling a system steeped in greed and corruption.
Why You Should Try
The performances by Vijay Antony and Suresh Gopi, along with the supporting cast, add to the intense and dramatic narrative. The movie’s attempt to address issues like medical corruption and the importance of organ transplantation, although not without flaws, offers food for thought.
Why You Should Skip
The movie is stuffed with melo-drama. Some of the serious scenes might seem funny by accident, and the movie doesn’t do enough research on organ transplantation, which makes the story less believable.The movie also suffers from an underdeveloped script and a lack of character depth.
3. Kandahar – An Underwhelming Journey Through Hostile Territory
OTT Platform: Amazon Prime (English) Directed by: Ric Roman Waugh Cast: Gerard Butler, Ali Fazal, Navid Negahban, Bahador Foladi
Kandahar trailer
Plot Synopsis
The plot follows the adrenaline-fueled journey of undercover CIA operative, Tom Harris (Gerard Butler), whose mission in the hostile territory of Afghanistan takes a dangerous turn when an intelligence leak exposes his identity. He must navigate through perilous obstacles to an extraction point in Kandahar, avoiding an elite special forces unit out to get him. Ali Fazal plays the role of Kahil, involved in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with Butler’s character.
Why You Should Try
It is based on the true events from the life of a former military intelligence officer. If you are a fan of Gerard Butler or Ali Fazal, their performances might be a reason to give this film a try. The film’s brilliant cinematography and the gripping narrative, drawing inspiration from real-life events, could provide an exciting cinematic journey.
Why You Should Skip
Despite its promising premise, Kandahar seems to have fallen short of delivering a thrilling action film. The film also brings up social issues, such as the oppression of women, but fails to address them meaningfully, which may frustrate viewers seeking a deeper narrative. Kandahar’s Western saviour narrative may seem uninspired and xenophobic. This film might not be for those seeking fresh, compelling narratives or exciting action sequences in the genre.
4. Extraction 2 – The Return of the Rake: No Boundaries, No Mercy
Platform: Netflix (English) Director: Sam Hargrave Main Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Golshifteh Farahani, Adam Bessa
Extraction 2 trailer
Plot Summary
Extraction 2, the much-anticipated sequel to Netflix’s 2020 hit, brings back the formidable mercenary Tyler Rake, played by Chris Hemsworth. This time, Rake must rescue a Georgian gangster’s family from a foreign prison.
Aiming to deepen Rake’s backstory, the sequel introduces new characters and offers more insight into Rake’s motivations. The film promises high-octane action, including a stunning 21-minute escape scene featuring Hemsworth himself. Director Sam Hargrave raves about Hemsworth’s commitment to his role, commending his physical and emotional performances.
5. Shaitan – A Bold Take on Survival and Crime
Shaitan Trailer
OTT Platform: Disney+ Hotstar (Telugu) Directed by: Mahi V Raghav Cast: Rishi, Shelly, Deviyani, Jaffer Sadiq, Ravi Kale, Lenaa
Plot Synopsis
Shaitan focuses on a family of four struggling to survive in the toughest conditions. Each family member resorts to a life of crime, which they see as a means of survival. The series paints an unfiltered picture of the socio-political circumstances that trigger Bali, the head of the family, into a world of crime. The rise and fall of this criminal family form the crux of this gripping Telugu crime drama.
Why You Should Try
Shaitan may appeal to those who appreciate intense crime dramas that shed light on the darker aspects of society.
Why You Should Skip
Shaitan is filled with explicit content, strong language, and graphic violence, making it unsuitable for sensitive viewers. It pushes boundaries with its bold scenes and disturbing elements, which might not appeal to everyone.
6. Farhana – A Tale of Empowerment Amidst Struggles
OTT Platform: SonyLiv (Multi-Audio) Directed by: Nelson Venkatesan Cast: Aishwarya Rajesh, Selvaraghavan, Jithan Ramesh, Anumol, Aishwarya Dutta
Farhana Trailer
Plot Synopsis
Farhana (Aishwarya Rajesh), a Muslim woman from a conservative family, starts working due to financial difficulties. She ends up in a job that involves talking to desperate men seeking female companionship. Over time, she grows comfortable with the work, as it improves her family’s living conditions. Things spiral out of control when she breaks company rules and tries to meet a frequent caller.
Why You Should Try
Farhana is an intriguing drama that highlights empowerment and the freedom of choice. Aishwarya Rajesh delivers a standout performance, bolstered by a nuanced script and strong supporting cast. The film creatively employs symbolism and parallels, making it a thought-provoking watch. Its suspenseful narrative and the impactful portrayal of a woman’s fight against societal norms could be engaging for many viewers.
Why You Should Skip
Farhana might not suit everyone due to its pacing issues and some plot points that might stir controversy. Some scenes and dialogues may unintentionally evoke laughter, and the hurried climax might not satisfy everyone. If you are uncomfortable with the depiction of certain regressive societal viewpoints or prefer a lighter narrative, Farhana may not be your cup of tea.
7. Bichagadu 2 (Pichaikkaran 2)
OTT Platform: Disney + Hotstar (Telugu) Director, Music Director, Editor: Vijay Antony Cast: Vijay Antony, John Vijay & Kavya Thapar
Bichagadu 2 Trailer
Plot Synopsis
In Bichagadu 2, Vijay Antony takes on the roles of a billionaire named Vijay Gurumoorthy and a beggar named Sathya. The story twists when Sathya, with a hard past, is a victim of an illegal brain transplant that forces him into the life of a billionaire.
Why You Should Try
The film tries to build a new narrative using the original movie’s framework, which might appeal to fans of the first instalment.
Why You Should Skip
The movie falls short due to its lackluster storyline and simplistic treatment of a classic double-action trope. The supporting characters, action scenes, and songs are forgettable, diminishing the overall impact.
8. Raavana Kottam – Clash of Castes, Clash of Ideals
OTT Platform: Amazon Prime (Tamil) Directed by: Vikram Sugumaran Cast: Shanthnu Bhagyaraj, Prabhu, Anandhi, Sanjay Saravanan
Raavana Kottam Trailer
Plot Synopsis
Raavana Kottam is set in Ramnad district where the village is divided into Meltheru and Keezhtheru, both living peacefully due to the influence of respected villager Chandrabose (Prabhu) and his son Sengu (Shanthnu). Sengu’s love for Indhira (Anandhi) creates tension between Meltheru and Keezhtheru, leading to the destruction of their harmony. This clash is further exploited by politicians for their gain. The film ends on an emotional note, highlighting the exploitation of innocent villagers by power-hungry politicians.
Why You Should Try
The film stands out for its socio-political narrative that deals with caste politics, water scarcity, and corporate mafia. Shanthnu’s performance is commendable, and he tries to hold the film singlehandedly. The landscape of the Ramnad district is beautifully captured.
Why You Should Skip
Raavana Kottam has its flaws, with a lack of depth and impact being major ones. The humour falls flat, and the film suffers from one-dimensional characters. The narrative is not powerful enough to hold your attention throughout. If you prefer movies with well-rounded characters and a strong, focused storyline, Raavana Kottam might disappoint you.
9. Jee Karda – A Tale of Love, Friendship, and Understanding
OTT Platform: Amazon Prime (Hindi) Directed by: Arunima Sharma Cast: Tamannaah Bhatia, Suhail Nayyar, Aashim Gulati
Jee Karda Trailer
Plot Synopsis
Set amidst a group of seven childhood friends, Jee Karda is a tale of love, friendship, and unexpected realisations. At present, two of the friends decide to get married, but they start to realise that they might not be in love after all. The movie follows them as they deal with the challenges of their relationship and try to figure out what they really want.
Why You Should Try
Last week, Tamannaah was trending on Twitter.I believe Tamannaah Bhatia and Suhail Nayyar are the biggest reasons to watch this movie. The movie is trying to explore the complicated love-friendship spectrum of urban couples.
Why You Should Skip
If you are looking for an intense drama or a great romantic movie, Jee Karda might not cater to your taste. The movie’s deep focus on the celebration of friendships and romantic relationships, and the lack of depth in characters or plot elements might not be okay with all viewers. If you love dramas like Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar Go for it, or else skip it.
10. Black Clover: Sword of the Wizard King
OTT Platform: Netflix Directed by: Ayataka Tanemura
Black Clover: Sword of the Wizard King Trailer
Plot Synopsis
Black Clover: Sword of the Wizard King is a highly anticipated film in the Black Clover franchise, following the hit anime series. Set to unravel an all-new story, the film brings viewers back to the Clover Kingdom after a hiatus since the season four finale.
The protagonist, Asta, will encounter the former Wizard King and a host of new and familiar characters. Although the storyline details are currently under wraps, fans can anticipate thrilling battles and stunning animation.
The original manga creator Yūki Tabata is serving as the movie’s chief supervisor and original character designer. Key members of the television anime staff will be returning for the film, under the direction of Ayataka Tanemura. The film will boast of character designs by Itsuko Takeda and music composition by Minako Seki.
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