Children’s Day Special
100 VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 13 NOVEMBER 2016
Bridging the Gap Dear Adults
What Children Would Want to Tell You!
Children in News
Making an Impact
School Live Teaming with
Balaknama
Fun Side of Things
Britannica, Crosswords, Cartoons!
contributors
S C H O O L
LIVE Board Of Directors Richa Aniruddha Sanjay Dua Hariharan Balagopal
AMIT DUBEY Crime Investigator and expert on ethical hacking.
NIVEDITA SINGH
Psychologist-counsellor answers your queries about relationships, family, school and life
EDITOR Mansi Tikoo mansitikoo@gmail.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR Tanima Kedar BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Stockbay Partners DESIGNER Ashish Kumar FOR ADVERTISING richa@school-live.com FOR SUBSCRIPTION editor@school-live.com
HARISH IYER
Multiple Award Winning Activist
URVASHI MALIK
Founder & Managing Director of CollegeCore with over fifteen years of experience in guiding and aiding students.
C o n ta c t Kritika Negi 9810560472
School LIVE : Printed and Published by Richa Aniruddha Printed at Rolleract Press Services A-83, Naraina Industrial Area, Phase 1 New Delhi - 110028 Owned by FUTURE READY EDUCATION SERVICES PVT LTD. EDITED BY RICHA ANIRUDDHA
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HARUN ROBERT, A.K.A, ROB
Children’s Day Special
100 VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 13 NOVEMBER 2016
An arts & crafts wizard, and an award-winning designer.
Bridging the Gap Dear Adults
What Children Would Want to Tell You!
SCHOOL LIVE
Children in News
Making an Impact
School Live Teaming with
Balaknama
Fun Side of Things
Britannica, Crosswords, Cartoons!
Volume 2 | Issue 13 | November 2016 | 3
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Hi all So, it’s Children’s Day!! And I know for sure that all of us, when we are kids, want to grow up into adults overnight. When I was in the Junior school, I wanted to stand in the assembly of Senior school. When I reached Senior school, I thought there is so much discipline imposed on us and I longed to be in college. I thought college life was so cool. In college, I wanted to get a job and get married…. And NOW, all I want is to become a child again and go back to school, take part in annual functions, debates, speech competitions, study, have fun with friends, play pranks on teachers, get punished outside the class….go for a movie with friends and so much more… Remember my young friends…THIS is the BEST time of your life. Enjoy it as much as you can. Work hard as much as you can because it will build your future. THIS is the only time when you have no burden of responsibilities on your shoulders. THIS is the only time when you don’t have to worry about loans EMIs, insurances due dates, amount of money in your endless. You have no idea how badly your parents want to become a child like you once again. So next time your father or mother shares their childhood memories with you, don’t forget to notice that shine in their eyes and on their faces. Don’t walk away from them at that moment. It was the BEST time of their life just like yours……CHILDHOOD! Happy Children’s Day……. Wishing you child-like innocence forever!
Lovingly yours
Richa Aniruddha tweet to me @richaanirudh
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Volume 2 | Issue 13 | November 2016 | 5
What is the Keoladeo Ghana National Park in Rajasthan more popularly known as? a) Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary b) Manjira Bird Sanctuary c) Sultanpur National Park Which mountain range forms a natural boundary between Italy and France? a) The Andes b) The Alps c) The Aravalis Which country won the first Football World Cup? a) Germany b) Brazil c) Uruguay
6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Rakeysh Mehra The Alps Sirimavo Bandaranaike Uruguay Richard Hadlee
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Which of these refers to a layer of fat that helps animals such as walruses, seals, and penguins keep warm? a) Blabber b) Blubber c) Blighter Who directed the popular movie Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, featuring Farhan Akhtar? a) Rakeysh Mehra b) Sanjay Leela Bhansali c) Vidhu Vinod Chopra Who was the first woman to become the Prime Minister of a country? a) Sheikh Hasina b) Indira Gandhi c) Sirimavo Bandaranaike Who was the first bowler to take 400 wickets in test matches? a) Richard Hadlee b) Wasim Akram c) Courtney Walsh
Answers
Who wrote the national anthem of India? a) Rabindranath Tagore b) Subhas Chandra Bose c) Sarojini Naidu
Name the author of the book The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn a) J.K. Rowling b) Mark Twain c) Lord Byron
Kathak Mark Twain Rabindranath Tagore Blubber Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
2 4 6 8 10
Which Indian classical dance is Birju Maharaj associated with? a) Kathak b) Bharatnatyam c) Manipuri
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
1 3 5 7 9
Know for Sure Quiz
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contents
LIVE 5 6 8
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Editor’s Note Encyclopædia Britannica School in Spotlight
COVER
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Exclusive: Making the Right Headlines Worthy Opponent CyberSafe Ask Nivedita Positively Positive Open Letter Teen Travels Young Turks Slam Poetry Fun-Side DIY: Mad Stuff with Rob Storytelling Study Guide: EA, ED, RD! Musically Rap Up Watch this Space
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DIY: Scratch Art Junior Travels Slam Poetry
A
Quick Edit
recent visit to a doctor concluded in him telling me, “You should have had this as a child, it is better then.” The strangest instinct I had was to tell him that yes everything is better when you are a child, only the child would never agree with you. But be that as may, we wanted to explore different modes of understanding childhood in this issue, children’s day being just around the corner. We asked our reporters to tell the adults around anything they wished, any adult, random adult, it could be anyone. The write ups have been an endearing and a surprising exercise for us. Hence, for once we are reversing the roles. It is often said the children follow your example, not your advice. Probably for once, we should follow their advice, their model of being, and let our inhibitions go. To the adults who always claim to know better, they had some excellent advice to offer!
“Happy Reading!” Mansi Tikoo
Juniors
ukreja Nidhish K al School, Dwarka 18 ation ern Int ar hw ate nk Sri Ve
in Mayank Ja ol ho Sanskriti Sc
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The World S c h o o l
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hat was the idea behind the foundation of the school? A little over a decade ago, a small step was taken by K.R. Mangalam Group to abridge the gap to the extent possible between the actual need for schools and what we had. The small step – an initiative of a multi-dimensional, multi faceted group with its roots as deep as seven generations of entrepreneurial expertise, and a tradition of commitment and excellence-- that we took, however was to become a giant leap of commitment to the cause of education, in consonance with the emerging needs of the present. During these past 12 years, K.R Mangalam has created an environment & ambience that fosters learning, as it provides the students with opportunities to explore and
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Nestled in the comfort of the residential neighbourhood of Greater Kailash, K R Mangalam School has grown in leaps and bounds since the inception of its first branch many years ago. Talking to us about their journey and future goals, the principal of K R Mangalam World School GK II, Alka Awasthi
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grow. K.R.Mangalam Group comprising of seven institutions and a sprawling university stand today as institutions of all-round learning that can be compared with the best in the country. The unprecedented growth of K.R. Mangalam World School has something for everyone and it has been our earnest effort to build a global image. How would you describe the educational philosophy of the school? The concept of ‘Our World’ forms the basis of K.R.Mangalam World School, GK-II. Learning, irrespective of the source, is learning we would derive from the world over, to educate and inspire children towards achievement. The school aims to equip the students with the skills and compe-
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tencies required in the 21st century. We envisage learning as a natural process, value questions above answers, creativity above fact, individuality above conformity and excellence above performance. By giving wings to the students’ imagination and ideas, we endeavour to nurture global citizens who would emerge as World Leaders of Tomorrow. Our focus on inclusive education lays special emphasis on the holistic development of our students irrespective of their academic calibre. ‘Together Towards
Tomorrow ‘, our motto, symbolizes and encompasses our vision of an integrated enlightened world, a world that fosters unity yet celebrates the uniqueness of each individual. You did join the school as the Principal recently, how has your journey as an educator been? As an educationist treading in classrooms for the past 19 years, leaves me with a sense of satisfaction in seeing one’s students grow and do well; and gratitude to all my students and mentors who have shaped my destiny. It has been one joyful voyage of discovery – for me and my students. After having taken over the helmsman ship of the school, I continue to remain a teacher at heart and a lifelong learner, too. All my decisions are
We envisage learning as a natural process, value questions above answers, creativity above fact, individuality above conformity and excellence above performance. By giving wings to the students’ imagination and ideas, we endeavour to nurture global citizens who would emerge as World Leaders of Tomorrow. student centric even today though the perspectives have widened to ensure and aware sensitive global citizens with human values who churn out of my school. Over the years, there has been a shift in my role, from being a teacher to a facilitator. With each stepping stone, the responsibilities have grown and so did the level of commitment. With great power comes great responsibility, and with great responsibility comes even greater challenges. Being a catalyst to change and encourage learning and bringing a smile on my students’ faces has been my sole aim and will remain forever.
As the Founding school of the group , kindly do walk us through some of the achievements of the school? tion of the toil and sweat of all the members of the school. We, today, are a name in the education industry to reckon with and we are more than pleased to announce our global presence being felt most humbly at World’s stages. Yet, we take baby steps and are cautious of all miniscule details with which we intend to nurture our students associated with us. Our school has produced All India CBSE toppers within a span of two years and has also brought laurels in prestigious competitions like Chess, Cookery and Squash at National Levels. There are many Intra and Inter School Competitions which aim to bring out the best in the students. The school is a recipient of the prestigious ISA Awards given by The British Council of India. The school has also entered into collaborations with many schools across the world like Germany, Australia, U.K., Canada to help the students to interact with students across the world. KRM has been instrumental in bringing up high values and morals in the students. Such students have gone ahead to make their mark
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With great power comes great responsibility, and with great responsibility comes even greater challenges. Being a catalyst to change and encourage learning and bringing a smile on my students’ faces has been my sole aim and will remain forever. in higher studies in the World’s Best Universities in Ohio, Berkeley, Milan and the list goes on. Around two of our students have been awarded the scholarship by the Oxford University and 100 students have participated in the remarkable ‘Science event’ for Guinness Book of World Records. The school also hosted the All India CBSE Chess Championship.
we are an institution which makes the approach easy and transition, smooth. The school provides many formal and informal opportunities
As a teacher and then a Principal, how do you feel technology has seeped into the education system today? Technology is the lens through which the GEN X views the World. It has be- pret them, and create knowledge come the wings that allow education to rather than be passive users. It also merely amassing information is not the focus of technical education but its goal is to integrate seamlessly so as to sieve and separate what’s credible, what’s relevant and when it’s useful for reference. For a teacher, it has become easy to teach and communicate to parents and as the Principal, technology has helped to take the school to the next level. It is believed that a picture is worth thousand words. Animation adds spice to teaching. Technological advancement has initiated the use of computers, thereby, helping the facilitators to save paper. The technological advancement has helped students to access sources of knowledge, inter-
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children’s progress at school. We publish information for parents and the community to read. This publication is accessible on our school’s website. We provide information through our monthly newsletter about extracurricular activities, staff development priorities, initiatives, social climate of the school and strategies are used for involving parents in their child’s education. Parents contribute their skills and strengthen the resource pool of the school. Trust and positivity is mutually nurtured.
of curriculum transaction for the teachers. Technology helps to in- What is your vision and your corporate use of smart boards in the goals that you have set for yourclass and we, at K R Mangalam have self in the coming future? digital classrooms. If I have to talk of my vision as the Principal and as an academician, I How accessible is the school for would like to see my children happy the parents? and become lifelong learners. I wish Interaction opens up new perspec- that my learners remain seekers of tives and our school bears testi- knowledge and motivated by curimony that the magical power of osity with a growing sense of woninteraction can metamorphose the der to cultivate healthy attitude and mundane to meaningful- the latent traits in order to blossom in the air to laudable. KRM promotes educa- of trusted independence. I feel a tion as a path for social mobility. powerful will and a positive attitude, We encourage the parents to help us with good planning and foresighted continuously improve our systems vision can take any educational esrather than just listening to them tablishment ahead, which is so perand resolving their issues. Hence, tinent in ‘Emerging India’.
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Matar Kachori RECIPE BY MEENA JAISWAL
INGREDIENTS: 2 cup green peas.
PROCEDURE:
Please send us your recipe at editor@school-live.com. The best entry will win a Goldiee gift hamper.
E x c l u s i v e
Making the Right
Children can often be the most resilient beings on the face of the earth. We recently met a bunch of street and working children, who run a newspaper from its conception to its execution; because they wanted to make their voices heard and tell the world of their problems. This is the transcript of the wonderful interaction between Team School Live and Team Balaknama.
BALAKNAMA REPORTERS: Sanno, Advisor, Balaknama Saurabh, Reporter-Noida, Balaknama and Class X student
K
indly tell us the story behind the foundation of Balaknama. The inception of Balaknama came about when the problems of the kids living on railway platforms or roadsides, were brought to light. Thereafter, the NGO, Chetna, conducted a survey with 35 kids; facing such
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Jyoti, National Secretary, Badhte Kadam Chetan, District Secretary West, Badhte Kadam Shambu, Editor, Balaknama and Class X student
various problems that these kids faced regularly. The children were enrolled in leadership training programmes and were taught about their rights, and how to exercise them. However, among those 35 kids, some were able to voice their opinions, while some could not speak up about their problems. It was then, that the children thought of coming up with a medium
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to voice out their problems, opinions and concerns, and thus Balaknama came into being, where everything, right from reporting to editing, would be carried out by the kids themselves. Tell us about an incident where Balaknama helped make a change in a kid’s life. My name is Jyoti and Balaknama helped me turn my life around. When
Headlines
I was 8 years old, I lived with my parents and siblings. Of my siblings, my brothers did not live with us due to their frequent spats with my father. My father who worked as a rickshaw puller, was an alcoholic and had the family members, when under the ther started vomiting up blood and we found out that he was suffering from Tuberculosis. Since my mother had always been a housewife, it was I who had to step out of the house to work and earn for my family. Thus, I started going to the railway station, to look for a way to earn something. For a few days I scanned the place for opportunities and eventually I started picking up rags with a bunch
We hold editorial meetings, where we discuss where each story should be featured, front page or not. We ask the reporters themselves, to rate their own piece and suggest the appropriate page where their story should appear.
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Rs.500 per day to pay for my father’s medicines, which I did, but drugs had become a part of my existence. One day I found out that my parents had moved to Jaipur, for my father’s treatment and thus, I was left alone to live on the railway station. This further pushed me towards substance abuse. However, Manjula ma’am, a kind lady who teaches underprivileged kids, spotted me and offered to help me, an offer which I vehemently refused. A couple of months later, when my parents returned from Jaipur and found me in such a state, they urged me to join Manjula ma’am’s classes. We had to submit all the drugs that we had on us, before each class, which I hated to do, but since I wanted to be a dancer, I continued with Manjula ma’am’s classes. Once I was made the South Delhi head of ‘Badhte Kadam’, I got a chance to interact with many other kids like myself and I also met my wonderful friends from Balaknama. I started out as a baatuni reporter, I used to tell Sanno didi my report, orally, and she would write it down. Slowly and steadily, with the help of my friends, I learned how to read and write and now I proudly support my father’s medical bills with whatever I earn from Balaknama.
What is a baatuni reporter? A baatuni reporter is someone who mixes themselves with the crowd and inconspicuously extracts information from the crowd, by chatting of other kids. Slowly, I became a part casually with them, or engaging in of these kids’ group, and as a mem- gossip. People reveal to the baatuni ber of this ‘group’, I had to take drugs, reporter, what they wouldn’t to the or else I would be bullied. Alongside other reporters. drugs, I also started stealing, begging, and other such activities. I had to earn In a country where the under-
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“Where there is a will, there is a way.� This could be rightly connected to the enthusiastic and determined team of Balaknama . I feel so amaezd to see these people working for the rights and needs of the street children. They themselves are in financial crisis but still are working selflessly for others . It was a great experience and my pleasure to meet them. I will try my best to spread awareness about Balaknama so that they will be recognised and supported by more people . Khushi Jain Class XI New Era Public School, Mayapuri privileged kids are looked down upon, how do you manage to make your voice heard? Underprivileged kids are bullied, beaten up and troubled by many, and these are the issues that we raise. Once we identify the problems of the children of an area, thereafter we apthat area and report to him about the injustices meted out to the underprivileged kids. Contrary to popular belief, our plea is heard and we are often indiscuss our problems with them. For instance, earlier, at the Nizato beat up the kids working at the station. However, as our articles came out, the attitude of the police towards the underprivileged kids changed, and on 14th November 2014, the police
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The highlight of the day was definitely having pictures clicked with them. The interaction was inspiring and at the same time ignites a sense of urge in us to empower these children and help them escalate their voices. We bow down to their efforts and hope that this initiative continues to change lives. Nupur Marwah Class XI New Era Public School, Mayapuri
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The visit to Balaknama was a truly enriching experience. This interaction has made me a more empathetic and compassionate person. It was very inspiring to see how people, the same age as us, have harnessed their skills and set out to resolve such grave problems that they faced in their lives through this wonderful initiative. Mahek Arora Class X Step by Step School, Noida
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offered a stretch of vacant space, in the nearby thana, to the kids, so that they could conduct classes there. Now, the situation is such that, it is the pothe underprivileged and working kids, around the Nizamuddin station area.
Visiting the Balaknama team was an eye opener event. Actually calling it an event won’t be justified neither for the Balaknama team nor me or anyone involved with this beautiful initiative of changing life of those whose life isn’t easy to change. Their positive approach changed my approach of approaching things. I am delighted to be a part of this experience.
Visiting the Balaknama team changed my perspective of life. They toil day and night to achieve their goal which seems impossible but, from their eyes and determination, it’s within reach. They have set an example for us to follow: to clean the society, we must begin at the grassroot level which are the downtrodden and the helpless. Wish them luck for their future ventures.
Nipunh Narang Class XI Ahlcon International School, Mayur Vihar
Soumya Chaudhary Class XI Tagore International School, Vasant Vihar
the classes in hopes of getting a job, which did eventually come true, since those classes led me to Balaknama.
the country, do you feel that you are able to provide justice for all of them? Shanno, since you belong to a When we interact with a community, conservative family, how did you Since writing for a newspaper is we identify some common issues that manage to step out of the house a matter of such prestige, do the the entire community deals with, and and attend the classes by ‘Badhte - then we work towards its solution. Kadam’? ting their stories on the front This way, we make sure that maxiWell, I did get beaten up a lot for at- page? mum number of children are helped. tending the classes, especially since - For instance, if we have a bunch of the classes were held in a cemetery, families that stop their kids from atmy parents could not understand why in stories for we had not published tending the school, even when their would anyone go to a cemetery to at- their previous stories. But that is all in kids want to, we educate the kids tend classes. good fun. We hold editorial meetings, about their right to education. We I used to work day and night shifts where we discuss where each story also motivate the parents to allow at a factory and would sneak out to should be featured, front page or not. their kids to study, we tell them about attend the classes during lunch break. We ask the reporters themselves, to our lives and how education helped I used to try my best to keep my family rate their own piece and suggest the us turn our lives around, in hopes of in the dark about it, but they did get appropriate page where their story making them realize the importance to know from someone or the other should appear. of education. However, sometimes and then I was thrashed for lying and we do have to threaten a couple of sneaking out. I used to lie to my moth- Since you get to hear about un- parents that if they don’t send their er and tell her that I used to attend derprivileged kids from all over kids to school, we’ll write about them
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E x c l u s i v e in the newspaper. Do you ever face any pressure for discarding a story, that involves someone powerful? We never cave in to any sort of pressure. Also, the name of the reporter is never published, thus, the anonymity is maintained and the reporter can carry out their work without any fear. Kindly tell us about a few incidents where Balaknama was able to make a change in the life of others. A couple of months ago, our reporter from Agra, sent in a report about 7 orphan kids, who were living with their grandparents and were perishing due to hunger. As the report was published, a few kind people came forward to help the kids, and to this day, those kids receive monetary help from those kind strangers. Also, there is this ongoing cruel practise of making the kids, who work at the railway station, pick up the dead bodies off the railway tracks. A couple of months ago, in Agra, we came to know that two kids, under the age of 12, were forced to pick up body parts, strewn about the railway track. Needless to say, the kids were scarred for life. However, we took the matter to the higher authorities and were able to get an order issued against the practise. How do you coordinate with
Amongst the starting 35 kids, some were able to voice their opinions, while some could not speak up about their problems. It was then, that the children thought of coming up with a medium to voice out their problems, opinions and concerns, and thus, Balaknama came into being. your reporters? We have certain meeting points, where we hold meetings. We have allotted different parts of the city to different reporters and thereafter, we collect reports from them, concerning that area. We also distribute copies of Balaknama, to raise awareness. Also, there have been times when we have been asked to produce proof of a particular claim, made in the paper, so for that purpose, we keep certain audio bytes, and photos with us. Do the MLAs, SHOs and Politicians help you? Yes, they do, but our main aim is to change the way people look at underprivileged, working children. For instance, at certain railway stations, the police now allows the children to
sleep in the waiting rooms at nights. What problems do you face while collecting information or reaching out to people? There are many, but the main problem that we come across is that people are unwilling to listen to us, for the reason that they do not know us. However, we do have our ways to get our word across. How big is the Balaknama team? Balaknama has 14 reporters and 70 ‘baatuni reporters’, all over India, including UP, MP and Jhansi among the others. We try to get our word across by means of surveys, rallies, Nukkad nataks and presentations. We take up issues that require our immediate attention, for instance the sexual abuse of young working girls. Young working girls are lured into traps with drugs and are thereafter exploited. We educate the parents about the hazards of sending their young kids out to work, and motivate them to send their kids to schools. We also motivate students to write for us and continue their education by giving them little gifts, whenever we publish their stories, for instance, last month, all the reporters received school bags as a gift. We hope that such small tokens of appreciation would motivate them to pursue their education. -
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W o r t h y
O p p o n e n t
The Road to Take?
We as a country, have laid a great deal of emphasis on the education of every child and various programs have been put in place to ensure the same. But for the children living with the bare minimum to sustain themselves, where getting food on the plate at the end of the day is not a surety, is developing the skills more important? We asked our reporters for their opinions. First Skill to Eat, then to Educate
Underprivileged children are the children who do not often share the same rights and privileges as others, including some of us. People belonging to this category are usually either poverty stricken or they Nelson Mandela once said that education is the most are socially unwanted, powerful weapon we can use to change the world. And i.e,. they are discrimithere have been many proponents of this change from nated against on the basis Socrates to Malala Yousafzai. of caste, gender or religion. Despite being the largest democracy, the second most Survival for such underprivileged populous country, and the fastest growing economy, In- children and their families in our dia still ranks 92nd amongst 145 countries in the world in Usually, underprivileged chilThere are a multitude of reasons for such a state of dren do not get the opportunity to affairs, affordability being the primary. Since parents of get proper or even basic education as they cannot afford underprivileged children are caught in this vicious cycle it. In situations where the education may be free of cost, of poverty, as they do not have appropriate employment the faltering situation of the families often holds them and income, millions of children work to help their fam- back from joining a school. In such cases, skill developilies eke out a living during their formative years. Secondly, educational facilities are not available in all in having some economic support for their family and parts of India, and where they are, they might not be suf- second, in education of the younger members of their - families, or saving money for the education of the next tions as well. In many parts of the country, the girl child generation. The underprivileged then don’t need to spend the marriage. meagre amount their family is earning on their educaThis is giving birth to an ever increasing divide be- tion. They might only be able to afford the basic educatween the privileged and underprivileged children in tion which may or may not get them proper jobs. But India. Unless the lowest rung of the society does not with skill development, they can bring in a stable source contribute to the economy, India can only dream to be a of income for their family, and help with long term susdeveloped nation. tainability.
Education as Primary mover
By Siddhidatri Mishra Class XII Sanskriti School, New Delhi
By Anjishtha Sharma Class X New Era Public School, Mayapuri
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C y b e r S a f e
Automobile Hacks?! Imagine, you are in a car and running on a highway with almost 50Kmph speed and suddenly the car’s music system volume reaches to the maximum automatically, you quickly try to fiddle with the knobs but it does not help and then the car’s wiper starts running. By the time you understand what’s happening with you, the car stops suddenly and topples over while you are completely shocked with such automatic erratic behavior of the car. Our cyber expert, Amit Dubey on how to handle such a scenario.
I
was at 50kmph when they hacked my car..” Sounds scary, doesn’t it ? Last month, the automobile industry got a jolt when few experts at the University of Birmingham demonstrated how they were able to clone a VW remote keyless entry controls by eavesdropping nearby when drivers press their key fobs to open their cars. Millions of vehicles sold by Volkswagen over the past many years and
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some current models became vulnerable to theft because keyless entry systems can be hacked using some simple technical devices. Hackers have listed a series of models those can be hacked easily including, Audi Q3, VW, Seat and Skoda models.
mised a Jeep Cherokee. They were able to disable the car’s transmission and brakes and demonstrated this hack when the car was running on road at speed of 50kmph. They were able to control the AC bent to blast cold air at the maximum setting, chilling the driver out. They controlled the music system, its’ kind incident, few months back, two volume and the driver was not even cybersecurity experts, Charlie Miller able to switch off the system through and Chris Valasek, remotely compro- power button and further they could
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C y b e r S a f e control the wipers and were able to get a complete control of the dashboard system. The way technologies are enabling us with connected world and Internet of Things, we are also becoming vulnerable to such attacks and security issues. Such hacking when you can control the car’s functionalities through a remote laptop may lead to serious crimes and even murder. Actually, there are ways through which one can hack any car even if it is not that high end. As per automobile standards, every car has an external plugin interface which is called On-Board Diagnostic System. Its typically located below the steering wheel of the car. This OBD port can give you the access of car’s internal control functionalities, you can control most of the features of car through this port. Normally people are not aware about this port as it’s used only for high level debugging or tuning of the car. There are Bluetooth and WiFi based OBD dongles available, which gets connected with the car and then you can control the car through your mobile phone or laptop using Blue-
tooth or WiFi interface. Normally the OBD interface will enable you to lock/ unlock the car, starts the wiper or to control the light indicators only but with high end cars, these controls are available for AC or dashboard control, as well. OBD II is one of the sensitive entry point for hacking a car. This port acts as the car’s command center that connects to all of the different computers systems. Mechanics often plug directly into this port to retrieve diagnostics for the car’s emissions, mileage, and engine errors.
Hackers can also break into the car’s command center without having to physically plug something a hole somewhere within one of the networks to sneak in. These open points are often creemerge when code from one device like a CD player communicates with code from another device like a car’s on-boarding system. There’s so much code in a typical car from so many different vendors that it can be virtually impossible for automakers to know all the software inside their vehicles. It has started serious discussions to make our cars safer, With the future lying around connected cars or driverless cars, this becomes much more important to create more secure interfaces for the car which can’t be compromised so easily. At a time when we are excited with the concept of connected Homes, we need to be aware with the fact that everything which gives the convenience also brings some vulnerability to our daily life. Nowadays, we have so many mobile applications available on Playstore, which can easily control your Television, AC and Music Systems. Imagine, if you silently control such systems of your neighbor’s house and scare him. It could be even life threatening to him due to limited awareness!
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a s k
N i v e d i t a
FIGHTING
the Fatigue T
Counsellor Nivedita Singh answers your queries about relationships, family, school and life
hese days I always feel exhausted and tired. I constantly feel that I need to sleep. This has affected my study pattern and made me very cranky. I don’t understand why this is happening. How can I reduce my sleep time and concentrate on day to day activities? Tired. Cranky. Sleep deprived. Burned out. Exhausted. Drained. Whatever you call it, with everything going on in their lives, this is a common refrain for the youth today.. It’s tough juggling academic responsibilities, peer pressure, self desires and wants, parental expectations, work deadlines…all at the same time. It’s bound to have an impact on your sleep pattern and concentration levels. What are the common causes of fatigue? According to medical science, “The top things that can cause fatigue are number one, lack of good quality sleep; number two, stress-related hormone imbalances; and number three, poor nutrition,” The key to avoiding daily fatigue is pretty straightforward: manage your energy, not your time. Here are some effective fatigue Take care of your physical body. Even though you must have heard of it a hundred times, it can never be emphasized enough. Eat right. Sleep well. Breathe deep. Get some exercise. Hydrate enough. Eat food dense in nutrition and not calories. The body needs fuel just as your car needs gas. If you’re not eating enough carbohydrates, you may not get enough energy. By the same token, if you don’t
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eat enough protein, you don’t have a lasting fuel source. The body is complex, so every vitamin and mineral is important for chemical processes. A little self-care goes a long way. Pick your peak time. Do the hard stuff when you’re at your sharpest. That may be 6 a.m. or 3 p.m. Each one of us is different. Not sure when’s your best time? Keep an activity log for a few days and note when you have the most energy and mental clarity, then structure your activities accordingly. Prioritize. Sometimes you can’t do
studies, turn to organizing your room/papers or any other pending work. Try stepping away from things for a little bit and you will come back stronger, fresher and more focused. Recharge batteries/Reboot. A nap. A walk. A snack. Music. Talking to a friend. Dancing. Everyone has something that re-energizes them. Find what works for you and build it into your day. When fatigue reaches the point where doing some or all of the above doesn’t work, it’s time to see the doctor, to be tested for medical conditions and hormonal imbalances and determine a course of treatment to do. And there are only 24 hours in alleviate your fatigue and reclaim a day. Top tactic: focus on the most your energy. You will probably be important tasks, and focus on only tested for nutrient and hormone 3-5 of those at most. So learn to let go deficiencies, or even food allergies, Give yourself a break. Long hours which are common among adolesdon’t necessarily equate to productiv- cents and not something to be wority. A short or long break can boost ried about. It does, however, need productivity. If you are doing your to be addressed.
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P o s i t i v e l y
P o s i t i v e
Never Your Fault
Sexual Abuse is one of the vilest things to happen to anyone. More so to kids, who barely understand that it is not on you, but the perpetuator of the heinousness. Harish Iyer on how to reach out
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y lovely young friends, On children’s day you have already had a barrage of cliché messages. “You children are the future of our nation”, “bacche bhagwan ke roop hote hain” and all that. I have none of those to offer. I am rather going to speak about something that is morose and disturbing. I am speaking about child sexual abuse. Statistics reveal that one in two children have undergone some sort of sexual abuse or violence. Not that it makes your pain any less, if you, the one who is reading this, has been sexually violated, but I do want to let you know that I have been violated too and so are tens of thousands of others. Sexual abuse affects everyone, boys, girls, trans and people of all other genders. Similarly people who abuse could also be of any gender. I was a boy who was abused by a man. I know enough and more girls and boys who have been abused by men and women too. Sexual abuse affects everyone. In fact, there are greater chances that the person you are meeting next has been a survivor of childhood sexual abuse than the person having a common ailment like common cold. Now, what do you do if you are a survivor? Do you remain angry all your life? Do you spend your entire teenage and entire life with the intention of taking revenge? Do you get scared of the gender that abused you? Do you tuck yourself in the corner all your life and tell yourself that it was your fault? Or do you just keep judging every per-
son you love or get into an emotional/sexual relationship with and think the person could turn out to be a sexual predator? Or worse, do you take revenge on what has happened to you by doing the same to other people and feel empowered for that moment? I am not going to preach you. Choose your own way. But I can share my experience with people for it is best to learn from other’s experiences, I have met people of all examples mentioned above, and it has not helped them. Seek professional help from a counsellor. But if that friend/ one relative who could be a
And yes, there are many resources available on the net. In delhi there is
www.raahi.org, in Mumbai, there is www.arpan.org.in and then there is me and several others who are willing to lend our ears and a hug to you. So reach out. And remember, it is not your fault. Never, ever, never never. So love yourself a little more. Watch yourself in the mirror and say that you love the person in there. The best kind of love, is self-love. There is nothing wrong with your body or your mind. We all fall. We all get shaken. But we rise up. We will rise up together. The day, you start loving the person in the mirror – you will see ultimate joy in the world. I am saying it with experience. I am a survivor too. It is not my only identity, but it is an identity I wear too. Love, Harish Iyer.
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Dear Adult
As an ode to all the reporters who write for us, we asked them what would be the one thing they would like to tell an adult on Children’s day, any adult. Here are some of the responses we got! metamorphosis. It strengthens the wings. We appreciate your concern for our safety, but sometimes, you unknowingly cross the line. We, as children and teens, have to have some experiences that make us stronger. The last issue is the gravest one. It matters more than the time and liberty you allot to us. It’s aimed especially at the mothers. Why is it that we’re made to eat only those dishes that dad likes? Yes, he’s the breadwinner, but why is it that in this democratic house, where every issue is resolved by discourse and mutual consent, we kids don’t have a say in this matter? Take all my freedom, don’t talk to me ever. But please, for God’s sake, consider my taste buds. Unmuktman Singh Class XII Amity International School, Mayur Vihar
Dear Adult
Dear Adult,
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y respects. It’s been eons since we’ve had a long nice chat, hasn’t it? Just so you know, Children’s Day is just round the corner. C’mon, don’t make that face, I’m not asking you to buy me a new phone (to be honest, I’ll have no qualms if you do). It’s just that there are certain things that we, the kids, want to talk to you about. Let’s begin. When I said it’s been a long time since we’ve talked, I didn’t mean to use the phrase just because I had to. It is because we live in the same house; eat on the same table and sleep in adjacent rooms; yet we talk for just about an hour daily. You’re so drowned in your work that you’ve become ghosts, a faint memory (I’m ashamed to admit, I even long for the post-parent-teacher-meeting-lecture, but you don’t seem to have time even for that). I know you’re working so that we can afford a comfortable life, but what’s more comfortable than being wrapped in your arms, watching my favourite childhood cartoons and laughing the night away; or counting the stars in the night, laying on the rooftop. No amount of gaming consoles You must’ve heard that a pupa turns into a beautiful
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irst of all, why does it come to me as no surprise that I have to bare my heart to you through written word than spoken one? This is the tragedy that besieges us in this era!
society, that I lack the general sense of understanding, that I can’t compete with the son of the uncle next door or your relatives would never see me as the perfect girl. Why do teachers and parents keep giving us examples of the “prodigal child” next door , when it’s very well known that no two tigers can have the same stripes! Yet, I have not become as blinded as some of you are. I see a glint of hope with the heavy burden of expectations you carry in your eyes. A hope not for me, instead a hope for who you want me to be, a ‘me’ that might not even exist. What makes you turn a blind eye towards me, your own you have been keeping me cold all this time. Till when will my screams be lost as background noise? As I walked through life, I learned we are humans, we tities, as we do for objects and things. If you really have gone through this stage of our life, why can’t you understand the little devil inside me, the
O p e n desire to play and prank , why can’t you get that these unhindered thoughts need an avenue to channel themselves? Though you claim to have walked in my shoes, but then did the world change you? I just want you to understand me, I want you to know that I have a mind of my own that thinks, a heart that wants to make choices, I have a desire to dream big, a life I have imagined. Let me risk the failures, instead of putting my dreams at stake. Let me fall and make my own mistakes, so that I learn to get up. With so much said, I won’t shy away from thanking you parents for facing this challenging world, and still waking up each morning with a ray of hope, working with faith children better next time :’) (At Editorial discretion, we have decided to withhold the name of this student.)
Dear Adult,
L e t t e r
If you have enough, share it with someone who doesn’t have anything. Spend the evening with some old school friends, those whom you meet rarely but are the ones that made your childhood fun and happy. Play those games with your children that you grew up playing. Kabaddi, Kho-Kho, sac race and many more. Devote some of your time to your parents. After all, they are the ones for whom you will always remain a child and they can make you feel like one at any age. If none of these, then read a book that you used to love as a child or a teenager. Watch a Disney movie. You are never too old to watch a Disney movie. To quote Paulo Coelho, “A child can teach an adult three things: to be happy for no reason, to always be busy with something, and to know how to demand with all his might that which he desires.” So adults, take this opportunity to relive memories, not for the entire day, just for a few hours. Give and receive immense love. Laugh as hard as you can, forget your worries. These are just simple and small gestures of affection and warmth, but years later, when you look back, you will realise that these were truly the big things, the things that mattered. Sanjana Kumar Class XI Scottish High International School, Gurgaon
Dear Maa,
A
few days earlier, a discussion at school ensued about what we as teenagers expect our parents to do or say whenever we want or need something. I always thought that whenever a question like this will
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ly a kite, jump in a puddle, wish on dandelions, throw a coin in the wishing pond, play dress-up, lie in the grass as if you have no care in the world, steal the freshly baked cookies, dance in the rain, run barefoot, believe that Santa Claus exists, reach for the stars, sleep sound embracing your mother, dream big. Sounds quite impossible right? The truth is that even if they want to do all of this, they can’t. Unfortunately, the ties of responsibilities and the promises they have to keep up to, won’t cease to exist even for a day. So what is it that you can tell an adult on children’s day? Satisfaction and joy are two of the most precious gifts of life. The simple method of receiving these is by giving.
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come up, I could write an essay! But surprisingly, the thoughts which came up in my mind were totally unexpected. I didn’t want any expensive gadget or clothes, I just wanted to relive those days when you used to come with a warm smile to the bus stop to pick me up. I wanted you to come and tuck me in bed at night and recite me a story just like you used to when I was 5. I wanted us to cuddle under a blanket and watch those old cartoons which were our favourite when I was a kid. I wanted you to feed me just the way you did when I cipline me whenever I did something wrong because it makes me feel like you care about me. They asked us at school that what makes Children’s Day so special, I said “It makes our parents look at us like we were just kids and not stubborn teenagers.” Today, from where I stand, I see that the rush of growing up and becoming mature didn’t let me really live those days. As Children’s Day is approaching, I want you to do just one thing. Treat me the way you did when I was a kid. Love, Ananya. Ananya Mohanty Class X Amity International School Noida
Dear Adult,
story raises a fundamental question about parental authority – Are Parents Always Right? The answer to this is not a clear yes or no. Doesn’t this scenario describe a typical scene in our day to day life? Parents asserting something to be the “correct” and “right”- which is usually something you don’t agree with and hence, this is followed by an argument which eventually results in loud volumes and answer backs. As a teenager, sometimes I fail to understand why parents say certain things and at times like these, parents of every other friend you have seem cooler. This makes children wonder why they have to deal with this. Feeling like this isn’t wrong and what parents say isn’t wrong either. So, on this Children’s Day, I would like to tell all parents, that it may seem like we do not understand what you say but we will eventually sooner or later. Your children sometimes are going through a lot more than just studies, your children are more than the marks on their report card. Sometimes, a casual conversation with your child can bring up a lot you did not know that your little in you, support them and most importantly encourage them. Last but not the least, thank you parents for everything you do for us, and I am not just saying this to not get bashed up by my dad later. Khushi Singh Class XII Sanskriti School, New Delhi
Dear Adult
H
ear me out. “Bal Divas Kehte hai usko, samjha?”, said the innocuous teenage boy to his younger counterpart, as they turned the hot iron sheet over. Incontrovertibly, the walls of the Blast furnace lacked perception, literally
“Chaudah Nuvumbar, par bas schools mei hota hai.” The last statement crushed the young child’s heart, for he could not attend a festival specially celebrated for children. The irony? Too damn strong. The conversation lasted ten seconds. But the imprint on his mind, he would have never 14th November, Children’s Day, also known as Bal Divas, is one jovial day; various programmes are held, fairs, fetes, amazing recreational activities for young children, it’s all fun and games. For the minority. ne of my literature lessons, talks about a father While the school conglomerate listens carefully to the who narrates stories to his daughter every night. awe-inspiring Principal’s speech, the child working at that These stories follow a set pattern and through Bangle Factory on the city outskirts only gets to listen the initial years, his daughter listens to them and falls to the rebukes of his owner. While the happy 7 year old asleep. However, as years go by and the daughter grows ecstatically savours upon her favourite dish at home, the up, she begins to question the stories he tells and some- other 7 year old veils and tucks himself behind the temple times does not agree with the endings he proposes. This gates, waiting eagerly for the next distribution.
O
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L e t t e r
Though, I haven’t met anyone outside except my family and friends, but all the people I have met have been mostly good to me. I always wonder why my parents keep telling me not to trust everyone? And that being a girl, you have to be extra careful about who to trust and who not. It sometimes makes me feel insecure as to what kind of society we live in. Are people really that bad? Does a girl really have to feel unsafe even today when the world is progressing towards a new horizon of advancement and modern thinking? Sometimes when I sit alone and think about what the world has now become, I remember my grandfather and all that he has taught me. He taught me to help others and to not care about what people think about you. He In our family I am the only girl child. I do have cousin brothers and their parents keep telling them that a boy While everything going seamlessly perfect at one place, what went wrong at the other? A guard stationed outside a gala event especially for children, doesn’t let a beggar’s child in, and Children’s Day is what we call it. An innocent is hit at home by his father for not earning his monthly, both of them unconscious of what day it is, and Children’s Day is what we call it. The suave businessman sitting in his luxury sedan doesn’t even look up to the downcast face of a lad, who wishes this mirror between them never existed, and Children’s Day, Ladies and Gentlemen, is what we call it. Do they not wish for glee, crave for happiness, and whim of delight? Of course they do, and their answers starts with us. We all savoured on the chocolates and lessons we got on the 14th of the month, and it’s time we bequeath not only the aforementioned, but a little love and goodwill too. While we all pledge for welfare and promise to give at least someone a leg up, let’s face it, being bereft of time is our speciality. How a few moments for us, could rejig their lives. How one act of ours, could brim them with fervour, and how one small talk of ours, could talk their lives up to lustre. This Children’s Day, you decide. Raunaq Behl Class XII Ahlcon International School, Mayur Vihar
must behave like a boy and boys don’t cry! But then how did I see my own father cry when my grandfather left us? in the world to be protective like my dad, loving like my
existence. I wish we all could upgrade our thinking like we update our mobile software ! May we have a society where I don’t have to feel insecure. May we have a society in which a woman or a girl could go out in the open without the fear of being chased y parents, like a lot others, are very protective or teased. May we have a society where boys respect the of me. They have been supportive and caring feeling of girls. in all my life ventures. They take me to vari- Vani Joshi ous places, make me meet different people and help me Class VIII socialise and impart good values. But there is one thing Sri Venkateshwar International School I sometimes fail to understand... Sector- 18, Dwarka
Dear Adult
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What Dreams May Come True!
Muskaan Arora shares her experience of once-in-alifetime trip, to her dream city, Paris.
I
France- the Eiffel tower, and on
to go to paris and marvel at the beauty of the Eiffel tower, sit and enjoy a warm croissant in a vintage traditional cafe, came to life as we took our seats in the Boeing 777 Emirates, Delhi to Paris
of France’s tallest building. A wide smile came across my face as I glanced at this beautiful creation from the ground to the top, it was a moment of eternal joy. The view was unparalleled with the beautipassed quickly, yet joyfully. ful balance of trees and buildings. As we landed, my senses were Next morning, we hopped on the ‘hop on hop off‘ bus, and viewed city, however, I was quite tired, we the marvellous city of Paris, as headed straight towards the hotel we crossed the enchanting Notre where we immediately found our- Dame church, and glanced at the selves stretching and lazing over the comfy bed. Although, not long at the world’s largest museum and after my mum suggested why not one of France’s wonders, the exsee the global cultural icon of emplary Louvre. As ever curious children, my parents bought me and my sister, the audio set, and we started exploring the most celebrated art work in the world. We did see many world famous paintings including the Mona Lisa, Coronation of Napoleon, St. John the Baptist and many others. It was quite an exhilarating task to cover the museum. The next stop was the 1.9 kms long boulevard ChampsÉlysées, this street was a splendid sight, as its was surrounded by luxury boutiques and shops on either side, with the graceful presence of tall trees. It ended at the Arc De Triomphe, which looked quite similar to India Gate. We had
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a quick bite to eat and got on with shopping, we picked up souvenirs and music boxes that still bring to life the city for me at a single glance.The day that followed, we headed early morning to the Palace of Versailles - the palace of the once great Marie Antoinette. As a history enthusiast, I made sure to add this to the itinerary. We visited Marie Antoinette’s estate, the Hall of Mirrors -where, I was quite charmed by the elegant architecture. We even rented a boat to row in front of the garden estate, my we tirelessly pushed the oar. We bought various tokens for remembrance sake - notebooks, pencils and guides to the palace. The last day was one where all my childhood memories came to life as we visited Disneyland- Yes! the kingdom of magic. We witnessed all the parades whether it was Alice’s tea party, with the Mad Hatter, or Piglet and Pooh. It brought to life all fairytales buried inside my memory- Cinderella and Belle brought a joy on my face, and it was quite a memorable last day. Our trip ended as we boarded heart, this place is as alive as if I was there yesterday. By Muskaan Arora Class X Step by Step School, Noida
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T u r k s
Children in News
A nation can only hope to survive if it’s youth shows potential, and the young saplings of India seem ardent on proving their potential to help the nation rank among the superiors. Here are a few such zealous children, who with their passion and determination, forced millions to notice and appreciate their efforts.
MUSKAN AHIRWAR
Wouldn't it be astonishing to witness a zeal to spread knowledge and help her peers, in a 9 year old girl? Well, Muskan Ahirwar is here to astonish you with her heart warming initiative, the "Bal Pustakalay". The seeds of Bal Pustakalay were sown when the State Education Board visited the Durga Nagar slums in Bhopal, whereby the children of the slums were given books and other study materials. Muskan, with her thirst for knowledge and zeal to spread it among her peers, impressed the the youngest librarian ever. The Bal Pustakalay, which runs out of Muskan's backyard, becomes a haven for learning for the slum kids, once the sun goes down. Muskan, with the help of her parents and sister, keeps an account of the books and a systematic register of the issue and return of the books.
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ADITI ASHOK
With the nation still under the effect of the 2016 Rio Olympics, who can but forget the one name that ruled the hearts of Indians as well as the Golf courses, Aditi Ashok. At the age of 18, Aditi has played the Asian Youth Games 2013, Asian Games 2014, Youth Olympic Games 2014 and the Rio Olympics 2016. Aditi ended her brilliant stint at the 2016 Olympics at the 41st spot in the Women’s Golf event. Having started as early as the age of 6, Aditi has in her kitty, innumerable titles and laurels, some of which are the 81st Singha Thailand Amateur Golf Championship, Bangkok(Winner), Amateur and U-18 titles of St Rule Trophy(Winner), Hero-KGA Women’s Pro Golf Championship (winner), Southern India Junior winner At the age of 17, Adithyaa is an innovator, a professional coin collector, a & Southern India Ladies(winner), software developer, a teacher, a bird tamer and a gamer. But wait! There among the others. Aditi, who had is more... Adithyaa has 17 innovations under his name, has won 15 interna- attained professional status a mere tional awards for his innovations, has 2 Guinness World Record attempts 6 months before the 2016 Olympics, to his name and had mastered 35 computer applications and 6 computer single handedly managed to arouse languages by the time he reached the 4th standard. That is the young genius the interest of the entire nation in a M.Tenith Adithyaa for you. Some of Adithyaa’s innovations include the ad- rather neglected sport. justable electricity extension board and the banana leaf technology, which won him the “Innovator in Residence” programme in 2014, whereby he availed the honour of residing at the Rashtrapati Bhavan and being guided tions to simple day to day problems, Adithyaa looks up to the likes of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam and Stephen Hawkings.
M.TENITH ADITHYAA
NIHAL RAJ AKA KICHA
When most 6 year olds spend their time pestering their mother to let them have ice cream for lunch, Nihal Raj aka Kicha from Kerala has his own YouTube channel, Kichatube, where he posts adorable tutorials of Mango Ice cream, Coconut Payasam, Rainbow Idli, Puttu and much more. His tutorial of Mickey Mouse Mango Ice cream gained such popularity, that Facebook acquired the unofficial rights to the video for a whopping USD 2000. Not only that, Kicha also got the chance to meet Ellen DeGeneres!!
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SURYASSANGYINI CHAUDHARY
6 year old Suryassangyini Chaudhary made the nation proud by successfully scaling the 16, 300 feet. high, Mt. Khangchendzonga Base Camp, on 7th March 2016, making her the youngest person ever to do so. Fighting sub zero temperatures and braving a 90km trek, Suryassangyini’s feat is no small achievement. However, scaling mighty mountains is not new to her, along with her parents, Suryassangyini has undertaken many such adventures where she had scaled 12,500 feet high Pindari Glacier at the age of 2 and a half years and the 14,000 feet high Himani Chamunda in Dharamshala around the same time. Now that’s one adventurous baby!
FATHIMATH RAHILA
In an India marred by intolerance and heated debates over religious pelled the nation, to once again, take pride in its diversity. Fathimath, a muslim teenager from Karnataka, topped the Ramayana Exam 2016, conducted by Bharat Sanskriti Pratishthan, with a whopping 93.3%. Fathimath stated that her interest in the scripture aroused when she was in class 9, and was supported by her uncle, who helped her prepare for the exam. She further aims to appear for the Mahabharata exam as well. Surprisingly, the topper of the Bhagavad Gita exam 2015 was also a muslin teen, named Maryam Siddique.
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Olympics Special
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11 2 | ISSUE VOLUME 2016 SEPTEMBER
100 12 2 | ISSUE VOLUME 2016 OCTOBER ERSARY 2ND ANNIV SPECIAL
The Man in all his
Glory
ation with Students in ConversShri, Minister I&B Olympian, Padma Singh Rathore Col. Rajyavardhan Lost Your Phone? Laser Cane
Ray of Light for
Decoding the
Mahatma The Man & His
DIY? We Love
It!
Mad Stuff with
ons
Hunger Resoluti
Rob
dhigiri Discovering Gan Story behind
Ideas
Jai
Jan and Bani Kohli
The
na Bhai Lage Raho Mun Secure your WiFi
with Amit Dubey
the Elderly
India’s Pride
No Worries!
CyberSafe with
Amit Dubey
Women Ruling
the Rings
Expert Expression
with Pankaj Agarwal
S l a m
P o e t r y
The Engineer's Plight The chaos, ironically resting over our dreams; of our career, and respectively chosen, academic streams. They expect us to study a lot; unlock new realms. You know "Look, look! They're Indians, to be an Engineer is supposed to be in their genes!" The books pile up, tutors put in their motivation. The libraries, students hunting for various compendiums The lonely child, whose creativity and freedom, you have locked; Away with the other activities he enjoyed, that were blocked. The elders, they talk about Social causes, such morons, The only desire for them is that their children learn the atomic radii of Boron! The silence from the child, mirroring trauma; The job he got (at an obvious) data centre...or shall we say pharma! Stuck in his personal imagination, Bad grades, teachers' berates exclusion from society, right into isolation No matter how hard he tried; The bright future, that was promised unto him? He did not achieve it, because fate, fate lied.
By Gaurav Bidalia Class XII Ahlcon International School, Mayur Vihar
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21 22 24
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PUZZLERS -1 A. The Great Outdoors The spectacled monkey, called by the locals is found only in Tripura and nowhere else in the world. White fur around its eyes gives it that scholarly look. Can you name at least two other mammals and one reptile that are similarly spectacled? Switch is on
B. A Current Affair What you see below is a simple electrical circuit. A circuit is a closed path around which an electric current can flow. The current usually originates from a power source such as a battery. When the switch is set to ‘ON’, the current lights up the bulb. But, wait a minute! The bulb in this circuit doesn’t light up even though the switch is ON. That’s because the circuit is connected with objects which are bad
scotch tape
pingpong ball
conductors of electricity. Can you find out which of these conductors need to be replaced by wires, so that the bulb can wake up?
C. How Much do you Know About Your Body? Only one of these statements is false. Which one?
A. B. C. D.
Answers: A. Spectacled bear of South America, spectacled flying fox of Australia and spectacled cobra B. The bad conductors that need to be replaced are: 1. ping pong ball 2. scotch tape 3. textbook 4. oyster 5. smelly sock 6. matchbox 7. eraser 8. chalk C. Statement D is false. All taste buds are capable of differentiating between various tastes, there are no specific tastebuds for sweetness, bitterness, etc.
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ANSWERS 01/ © Amrita Bharati, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, 2016
A person can have eyes of two different colours. The heart is an endocrine gland. A new born baby is colour blind. The taste buds for each taste are concentrated at different areas of the tongue. E. A person’s height roughly equals the span of his or her arms when stretched out at the sides.
DOWN: 1. Official command (7) 2. Rodent (3) 3. Students (8) 4. Cereal (4) 5. Turned rigid (9) 6. Asserts (5) 11. Went forward (9) 14. Tavern (8) 15. Many (7) 18. Citrus fruit (5) 20. Throw upwards (4) 22. Brimmed covering for the head (3)
ACROSS: 7. Manage 8. Octave 9. Ode 10. Transfers 12. Stir 13. Erase 16. Caste 17. Ever 19. Rejection 21. Hen 23. Covers 24. Seaman
2
DOWN: 1. Mandate 2. Rat 3. Learners 4. Corn 5. Stiffened 6. Avers 11. Proceeded 14. Alehouse 15. Several 18. Lemon 20. Toss 22. Hat
1
BANGLE! OH, MY GOD! HOW DID YOU BECOME SO SMALL!!
BLUE JUICE ON HIS FACE! DID HE EAT THESE BERRIES?
LET ME TRY THEM…
Story: Luis Fernandes
Illustrations: Gajoo Tayde
MAYA, RETURNING FROM THE CHEMIST WITH MEDICINE FOR HER GRANDFATHER…
Colouring: S. Mazumder
…IS ALARMED TO SEE HER DOG, BANGLE, DISAPPEARING INTO A CAVE IN THE SIDE OF A HILLOCK. BANGLE! COME BACK!!
HEY, YOU’VE GROWN BACK TO SIZE… NO! IT’S I WHO HAVE SHRUNK! THE BUSH LOOKS HUGE NOW!
UMMM… NOT BAD… SWEET AND SOUR…
I SHOULDN’T HAVE COME THIS WAY. IT’S A SHORTCUT BUT THEY SAY STRANGE THINGS HAPPEN HERE!
NOW WHERE’S THAT DOG! HOW COULD HE HAVE DISAPPEARED?
AND SO DOES THAT BANDICOOT!
2 / © Amrita Bharati, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, 2016
1 / © Amrita Bharati, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, 2016
I WONDER WHAT’S HAPPENING HERE!
IT’S COMING FOR US, BANGLE! RUN!
RUN, GIRL, RUN! KUMBAKARNA IS COMING!
WAIT! PLEASE TELL ME WHAT’S HAPPENING! WHY ARE YOU ALL IN SUCH A PANIC?
THAT WAS A NARROW ESCAPE, BANGLE! BUT WHERE ARE WE NOW! EVERYTHING LOOKS STRANGE! CAN’T RECOGNIZE THIS PLACE!!
KUMBAKARNA! KUMBAKARNA HAS GOT A SPLITTING HEADACHE THAT’S PREVENTING HIM FROM SLEEPING. SO HE’S ON THE RAMPAGE, DESTROYING EVERYTHING IN HIS PATH!!
AH! WE SEEM TO BE GROWING BACK TO OUR ORIGINAL SIZE. HERE HE COMES! RUN!
IT’S AMAZING, BANGLE ! WE’RE IN THE AGE OF THE RAMAYANA!
WOOF!
?! TO BE CONTINUED 4 / © Amrita Bharati, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, 2016
3 / © Amrita Bharati, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, 2016
SCHOOL LIVE
Volume 2 | Issue 13 | November 2016 | 35
Balloon Orbs
The festive season is upon us, a season of delicious food, delightful get togethers and eye pleasing decorations. Well if you are wondering how to decorate your house this festive season, here is an extremely simple DIY that will add some glitz and glitter to your room and brighten up the party!!
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YOu WILL neeD: A balloon, Some glitter, Fevicol MR, Scissors, Thread nOW FOLLOW THeSe STePS: and tie a knot at the base. Now in a bowl, pour some Fevicol MR and add a little water to it. Mix the two using a brush, make sure to dissolve all the lumps. Now dip the thread in the Fevicol mixture, making sure that it is coated properly. Take the thread and start wrapping it around the balloon, creating a mesh, making sure to cover all the gaps and spaces. Once you are happy with the mesh, cut off the string and tie a knot at the base of the balloon. Let it dry for 24 hours. Once your orb is dry, use a pin to burst the balloon and remove it from the orb. Dab some of the Fevicol solution on it and sprinkle glitter all over your orb. Your shiny balloon orb is ready!! KeeP In MInD: You can use different types and colours of glitter to bedazzle your balloon orbs. For some extra dazzle, insert some fairy lights in your balloon orb and hang them in your room. Watch the full video at https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=YgjXXmNwWuY Follow Rob and share your DIYs with him @: Facebook.com/MadStuffWithRob Twitter.com/MadStuffWithRob Instagram.com//MadStuffWithRob
SCHOOL LIVE
Volume 2 | Issue 13 | November 2016 | 37
S t o r y t e l l i n g
The Great King:
Hammurabi
There are many sources which today, portray Babylonian king, Hammurabi as a harsh and cruel ruler. But our young writer Lalantika had a different perspective on it: for someone to think about justice so much, to the brink of obsession, they must have some humanity in them. She gives us here not a harsh ruler, but one that was kind hearted with a kindred spirit. After all, history does tend to forget the good, at times. (Part 1 of 2)
of the stele. This talked about a great Mesopotamian kingand the laws with which he presided over his kingdom. He thanked his stars that he had learnt about their culture and heritage.
Susa, Persia, 1901:
This is horrible, Frank thought as he dug deeper, this isn’t what a teenager should spend his summer like. He didn’t want to be a part of this excavation. He was forced into it by his crazy maternal French mining engineer uncle, Jacques de Morgan, who insisted on believing that
Private Chambers, Palace of Babylon, Babylon, c.1810 BCe:
of a lost civilization- 250 miles away from the supposed site of the civilization. Frank’s shovel refused to dig any further- it appeared as if it was connecting with a solid space, rather than dry mud. Frank decided to see for himself what it was. Little did he know that he had uncovered the biggest third of the broken stele- the written record of Hammurabi’s reign. “Uncle!” Frank called excitedly, “I think I might have found something!” His uncle came rushing over, followed by equally excited members of the archaeological survey team. “Oui.” His uncle muttered as he carefully handled the table. “ This only means that we were
King Sin-Muballit paced the hallway of his private chambers nervously. His beloved wife, Raaza had been in labour for hours. The midwives had assured him that they were trying their best to have a safe delivery, but it could be complicated. They suggested he go and give the Gods more offerings. Muballit had just returned from the temple. He vowed to the gods that if his child and beloved survived, he would build a grand temple for the Gods, instead of a simple room. After what seemed like days of pacing around, the chief She said as she gestured for him to follow.
were closed. “Don’t worry,” a midwife assured him, “she is merely resting.” Relieved, Muballit took his son into remaining pieces and have them shipped to the Louvre!” his arms. He couldn’t believe it. King Sin-Muballit had no And just like that, everyone got to work again. doubt to what he must name him, it would be * or the . Hammurabi would take forward the Louvre Research Wing, Paris, 1901: name of his family while ensuring that he is a great ruler. This is indeed an intriguing piece, Jean-Vincent Scheil It was destiny you see. thought to himself as he decoded the now 3 joint pieces *
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S t o r y t e l l i n g Years passed and Prince Hammurabi grew up into a strong, learned young lad who would one day take over the kingdom from his just father. However, he was never allowed to go out of the walls of
that was his father, he didn’t realise that someone was running towards him, until they bumped into him. Hammurabi felt anger surge through him-if they knew who he was, they would be kneeling at his feet right him. He decided that soon, he now. He turned around to would sneak out of the palace, look at the culprit, who was and see the world beyond. picking up his things off the Meanwhile, King Muballit ground. No wait, it was a girl. grew more ill day by day. You As she stood up, Hammurabi see, he had failed to keep up couldn’t stop staring. She had his promise of building the the prettiest grey eyes in all of large temple for the gods. the lands ever known to the And he feared that this was Gods. But she ran away just his punishment. It wasn’t that as fast as she had come, and he had forgotten to build the Hammurabi hadn’t had the temple, just that he was more chance to ask her who she was. preoccupied with running the When asked by the mob that kingdom and teaching Hammurabi the ways of this life. followed soon, where she’d gone, Hammurabi shrugged He always intended to get around to building the mag- and pretended not to know where she went. Thankfully, the mob went in the opposite direction. Lying on his bed, he knew that the last thing he wanted Hammurabi decided it was enough ‘adventure’ for one to tell his son was that he must build the grand temple. night, and snuck back into his palace. The only way to make it the grandest of them all was to The next morning, his ailing father called him to his bed. win wars and conquer slaves, along with the precious “My son,” he croaked, “I have spent many a year’s preparing this kingdom for you, and teaching you lessons he had to teach his son. * lessons,” he said as he held Hammurabi’s hand. “Don’t Hammurabi knew that sneaking out of the palace, say that father,” Hammurabi protested, but his father dressed like a commoner was wrong. But he was about shrugged him away. “Listen to me my child, I do not to turn 17. He would soon take over the kingdom! And have much time. First, remember that to run a successwhat kind of a ruler would he be, if he didn’t know his ful kingdom, you must have the Gods on your side. Build own kingdom?! the grandest temple in all of the lands, and they will not It was late, but he had heard of the ports- area where go anywhere. To build the grandest temple, conquer as goods are exchanged and taxed. It was often open at night many lands as you can. Remember, you are Hammurabi, too, so Hammurabi decided to visit the port. the greatest King this kingdom has ever known. You will He had heard of poverty and poor people, but what he conquer many lands, and claim many prizes. But you saw when he stepped outside the palace gates shocked him. must never take it for granted. Finally, your mother-my Old and sick people ridden with the dirt on the roads, and beloved- passed away soon after your birth. But she was the best thing that ever happened to me. Find yourself a extreme suffering on their faces. They looked malnour- beautiful bride, and cherish the time you have together. ished, weak and sick. Hammurabi felt like gagging, but You get only one chance to enjoy this life son, make it carried on. worthwhile.” Hammurabi took a moment, wiped his tears, As he was walking along, at what he presumed was kissed his still father’s cheek for the last time and walked the city square, he came across his father’s statue. In the out of the room. * (to be continued..) imagined. Hammurabi scoffed at how much the artist had changed his father’s appearance. For one, his father was not muscular, nor did he have an exceedingly long beard that made him appear wise. It was his father’s that made him appear wise. As he was staring at the artwork
By Lalantika Arvind Class XII Sanskriti School, New Delhi
SCHOOL LIVE
Volume 2 | Issue 13 | November 2016 | 39
S t u d y
G u i d e
Insider’s Guide to Admissions:
Timing is Everything
To add to your world of acronyms (SAT, ACT, PSAT…) we bring a few more! EA, ED, RD! It’s October, which means you should have decided what colleges you want to apply to, or at least brought it down to a shorter list. However, now, it’s all about timing. Our expert, Urvashi Malik on the differences between applying EA, ED & RD
W
hile the terms EA, ED and RD apply mostly to the US colleges, it’s important to remember that even for the UK, which has two deadlines (Oct 15 and Jan 15), and colleges in Canada and Singapore which have later deadlines, sometimes, applying early can make a major difference in the out-
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cers have a lot more time to review the applications and thus, can get back to you sooner. Now, let’s dive into what timing means for the US Admissions. EA and ED refer to Early Action and Early Decision. What does that mean?
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Deadlines & Decisions Early Action and Early Decision deadlines are, well earlier (around the 1st of November), and the decisions also come out earlier (around Mid-December). There is also something called ED II and of course RD or Regular Decision, and their deadlines are usually at the end of the
S t u d y
G u i d e
ally the same time as RD deadlines, you get more time to work on your application. Results come out MidFeb. RD (Regular Decision) deadlines fall between November end and early January, well a majority of them do. A few RD deadlines spill into February/March and decisions start getting released by Mid-March. Competition gets tougher with evthe pro-active early applicants. It’s a good option if you are unable to decide on the one school that is the love of your life or are not ready in time for the early applications. year. eA vs. eD eA (early Action) applications are non-binding, that means an applicant is not required to commit to the college, if accepted. You can still keep your options open till May 1. You can put in multiple EA applications and can also simultaneously apply ED, to your Dream School. Basically, you can have your cake and eat it too!
The ED applicant pool is usually the strongest. The applicants are those whose school grades are pretty much where they would like them to be by October, and their SAT Scores are in hand by early November and the essays have been written and re-written several times!
ReA/SCeA (Restricted early Action / Single-Choice early Action) Some schools like Yale, Stanford, Princeton and few others offer single-choice early action, i.e. you can’t apply early action or early decision while applying. Do not even think of to any other school. So, you’d better accepting an admission offer from choose wisely. a school other than your ED school. Remember, you signed a contract eD (early Decision) applica- and so did your parents and your tions are binding. This better be high school! the school you are in love with and will be happy to give up on all oth- eD II (early Decision II) like ED ers if you are accepted. Needless to is also binding, however, unlike ED, add, you can apply ED to only one has a later deadline. Colleges like school. If accepted, you HAVE to NYU and the Claremont Colleges withdraw your application from all offer the option to apply ED II, thus showing your interest in the college aid package offered, does not meet but, because their deadlines are usu-
An early bird catches the worm, or does it? Yes, your application will be reviewed much before the RD applications, but does that give you a clear edge? Not necessarily! The ED applicant pool is usually the strongest. The applicants are those whose school grades are pretty much where they would like them to be by October, and their SAT Scores are in hand by early November and the essays have been written and re-written several times! You will be pitted against the strongest but will have an edge because you are other worms. You could treat EA applications as your Safety Net. It never hurts to have a couple of admission offers by mid-December to ease of some of the admissions pressure! If the offer is from a Dream School like UChicago or UMichigan, you’re home free! sity List, it is important to have a strategy of applying EA/ED/RD to the schools on your list. Take well informed decisions and consult an expert, as there is no going back on your decisions! For more information, log on to http://www.collegecore.in/
SCHOOL LIVE
Volume 2 | Issue 13 | November 2016 | 41
M u s i c A l l y
With over a billion of us, India is home to a lot of talent. If you are tired of listening to the same mainstream acts over and over again, maybe it is time to discover some new music that will leave you craving more. That is the thing about indie acts, they rarely get mainstream popularity, but what they do get is a loyal band of fans that will follow them to the end of the earth, and the freedom to experiment to their hearts content. You won’t usually see them on TV, you have to work to find these acts, but once you do, there is no turning back. Vitasta Singh picks out a few for you. at every music fest in the country.
THE FAMILY CHEESE
This trio is as weird and unique as the name they chose to represent them. Apurv Isaac, Yohan Marshal and Homi Rustumji formed the band when they met at a music school in Chennai, and they have never looked back. These three individuals rarely agree on anything apart from one main thing: they try and capture as much of their own selves and their personalities in the music they create. The band’s version of success is “still being to-
DUALIST INQUIRY
Beyoncé has Sasha Fierce, Lady Gaga has Jo Calderone, and Sahej Bakshi has his alter ego Dualist Inquiry. The journey unknowingly started at school, where he would play any instrument that he could get his hands on. He eventually moved to L.A where a course called “Introduction to Music Technology” called out to him while choosing a college major. In his words, “it felt like learning a new language.” Things were never the same from there. The man who usually loves sticking to the guitar,
recording his demo cd and asking his family and friends to spread the word, and like with every artist destined for greatness, it worked. His tracks are heavily music based with rarely any lyrics. He hasn’t looked back ever since. He is a growing artist, and today he is a prominent name
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days without rest and doing three hour sound checks, is success on its own.” The band that has relocated to Mumbai to further enhance their career hasn’t let hardships lessen their love for what they do best- music. This south Indian band has easily proved that
M u s i c A l l y this particular part of the country has a lot more to offer than just dosa and sambar. Today, they are easily one of the grooviest and popular bands in the country.
ing back after that. Udyan Sagar, who goes by the name Nucleya, gained mainstream success after the release of his two albums in two consecutive years, something that isn’t unheard of at the indie scene. First was Bass Rani, that made him a star overnight, second being Raja Baja, that surpassed all the expectations placed on its shoulders. A person must be really blind to not recognize this girl’s Nucleya's motto for surviving in this industry is simple, natural talent for creating funky beats. A producer, com- “I've always believed in being absolutely honest with poser, and synth player, Sanaya Ardeshir has built a people who like my brand of music. People will always respect you for your honesty and it helps you maintain a positive relationship.” From being someone who almost quit music, to becoming a household name in this industry, Nucleya has come a long way. He has performed at numerous music festivals around the world, alongside artists like Diplo and Modeselektor.
SANDDUNES
MADBOY/MINK
A toxic yet addicting combination of funk-nu disco, this duo is a mix of Madboy, Imaad Shah and Mink, Saba Azad. Labeled as the terror twins of funk and swing, with scin-
name for herself in the cutthroat music industry with her ambitious music project- Sanddunes. The St. Xavier’s alumni that has a degree in Economics knew it had to be music or nothing in plunge into a whole new crazy world. After completing a course in music production at the Point Blank Music Colfor Dualist Inquiry. (It is a small world.) She continues to blend organic elements with a unique South Asian feel, making a sound that cannot help but stand out.
NUCLEYA
tillating live gigs at major festivals and soulful performances at underground He is one of the most popular names in the music terri- parties, the duo present a pure and unpretentious love of tory of India. It has been a long musical journey for him music in their post-mod electro cabaret experience collecthat he commenced towards the end of the 1990’s when tion. Their debut EP- All Ball, did end up setting the ball he co-founded the Bandish Projekt. There was no turn- rolling for them. Like many true indie acts, they prefer not to stick to a particular genre, the only thing that remains same in their every act is their never-dying energy and enthusiasm. They have the potential to shoot off the charts; at his young act is one that everyone should be on a lookout for. At this rate, we can’t wait to see where they go from here. By Vitasta Singh Class XII Scottish High International School, Gurgaon
S SC CH HO OO OL LL L II V VE E Volume 2 | Issue 13 | November 2016 | 43
R A P
U P many landmarks in Dhoni’s career but doesn’t show how it altered his personality and performance. Other biopics such as Bhaag focussed on a connection between the personal and professional life of the athlete but here, the story is a little different. The loud background score does not technical glitches were minor but the dramatic glitches were much more prominent. The scenes do not fall into place like they do in real life. Sushant Singh Rajput did not do justice to the role and the
M.S. DHONI: THE UNTOLD STORY
Director: Neeraj Pandey Starring: Disha Patani, Sushant Singh Rajput, Kiara Advani
M
was the much awaited biopic of the captain of the Indian cricket team, Mahendra Singh Dhoni. We’re shown how a young football enthusiast is handed wicket-keep-
catches but then holds on to every single one, becomes a cricketing sensation in his home town Ranchi and how he becomes a ticket collector after failing to get selected in the U-19 team. The “untold” story unfolds the
Mac OS Sierra
I
s upgrading your computer really worth it when the new features barely make a difference to the experience? This is the question I found myself asking while using this year’s Mac OS Sierra. First the good — Sierra further builds upon the strengths of previous versions of Mac OS, enabling the user to have a smooth experience, and allowing them to maximise their productivity. Perhaps, one of the most useful features of Sierra is the universal clipboard. Now, you can simply copy images, videos and text on your Mac and paste them in an app, on your iPhone (given
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Mahi is shown with Rajput’s face photoshopped onto another person is totally visible. The director, Neeraj Pandey fails to deliver the cricketer’s journey as a star wicketkeeper and batsman. was predictable recommended for Super Dhoni fans and lovers. For cinema lovers, it’s a waste of time. By Ananya Mohanty Class X Amity International School, Noida
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poses when she has to return from an international chess tournament to face the Katwe slums anew; such as eviction, her sister night decamping with an older man, and an unaffordable hospitalization. To Nair’s credit, she doesn’t portray these events as dulcet tragedies but rather as a backdrop of a mundane life for people ag-
QUEEN OF KATWE
Director: Mira Nair Starring: Madina Nalwanga, Lupita Nyong’o, David Oyelowo, Taryn Kyaza, Martin Kabanza
M
ira Nair’s artistic chess pro- resides in Katwe and sells maize on duction, is phenomenal in the most across a makeshift chess centre headelementary yet abysmal way. Rather ed and taught by Robert Katende than simply focusing on the daunting (David Oyelowo). Timid in the initial and anticipatory nature of the game, Nair has incorporated the various struggles faced by the Ugandan low the leading position in class. Phiona class and drew exceptional parallels eventually perceives the game as an between the board game and real life. escape route from her poverty as she The story sets off in 2007 where begins to transcend others at chess Phiona (Madina Nalwanga), along and win various tournaments. with her mother Nakku Harriet (Lupita Nyong’o) and her siblings, ments deal with the setback s she op-
that it is running iOS 10 or up) or adding nothing to the experie nce, vice versa. leaving the OS without a “wow” facMac OS Sierra has many other tor . The addition of Siri and furwonderful features such as Tabs ther integration with iCloud were in all applications, allowing you to work on multiple projects within the additions, that made Sierra differsame app, just like one would on a ent, and stand out in the Mac OS web browser. Picture in Picture al- family. While good, Siri is simply lows you to watch videos, while do- not good enough. And, then there is ing something else. But all these are the iCloud integration: the system small updates, that make a very minor difference to the experience. iCloud and the new and frequently What’s most disappointing is however, that some of the biggest practice, it is poor and lazily impleadditions to Mac OS Sierra, end up mented.
But the factual struggles Mutesi opposes stand in utter contrast to the abstract foresighted ones on the board, where she’s more experienced in governing the outcome. The settings are wonderfully shot and though it’s hard to prove their accuracy, life in central Africa is rarely portrayed with such comportment, which is probably the most commendable aspect of this movie. Conchildren might be a bit brusque, but it’s shown merely for benevolent humour, and the key is the solemsentiment that makes it something stakes are really high. By Malvika Nair Class XII Shikshantar School, Gurgaon
To sum up, Mac OS Sierra is a good operating system, and that’s it. It’s not mind blowing , it’s not something that you have to update to as quickly as possible. If you want to update, go for it. But if not… then no problem, you’ll be per-
SCHOOL LIVE
By Shreyash Nigam Class XI Step By Step School
Volume 2 | Issue 13 | November 2016 | 45
Party to Feed! R A P
U P
If you have ever in your life thrown a party you would know how difficult it is to be the perfect host and ensure that your guests have fun and that you don’t go crazy and are able to enjoy the event yourself. Now according to me there are three kinds of parties you can host; friends get together (for no particular reason), a small occasion which calls for a get-together and your own birthday party. Read these three in increasing order of preparation, planning and stress.
Y
our birthday is an event and day you plan 364 days a year and every time you attend a birthday party during that period, you’re planning starts afresh because clearly your hypothetical party can be made better.
task of throwing a birthday party is making the guest list, choosing the venue and food and ensuring it all is in the budget. Now while I can’t help you much with the guest list, the venue and food I can try. Siddhi, Lavanya and I recently searched up all party joints (read pocket friendly party joints) and shortlisted three amazing places in central Delhi where you could throw your birthday party. Below are our reviews and verdict on each (in no particular order):
Smokey’s BBQ and Grill (Khan Market) Smokey’s is but one of the eating We started off with some drinks joints in the people’s favorite Khan - Apple soaked Mojito (Rs. 195) and Market. Like most eating joints in the Cookie and Crumbs Milkshake (Rs. 200). Both were very refreshing and to a whole new world of tasty good- the milkshake is highly recommended. ness. You are greeted with a trendy Smokey’s is very well known for its interior and classy woodwork. The hot dogs and it lives up to its name. restaurant has a welcoming ambience We ordered ‘Mamma’s Boy’ (Rs. 480) with booths that provide for seating about 6 people. So if a party is on smoked sausages and tossed chunks your mind, be sure to book a couple of chicken in reshampatti chili sauce. in advance. ‘Mamma’s Boy’ will make you want to
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come to the restaurant time and again it’s a bit messy to eat, one doesn’t regret the mess at all. It melts into your mouth and you feel like eating a lot more than you did. The best part is one could easily feed two people. But that is subjective to your appetite. We also had Chicken Ravioli (Rs. 475), a dish well-cooked but slightly bland with a small portion. Our main star
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Boom Box Café (Khan Market)
of the meal arrived in the form of a Molten Chocolate Cake (Rs. 340) wearing its Icing Sugar Veil and sitting smugly within the porcelain dish. Boom Box, in Khan Market, is not Give it a little poke with your spoon one of the eateries that have been in the market for long but it has made up for it with its delectable food and just the right amount of sweet and a quirky interiors. Any food lover will lingering tinge of salt. It is a must try. adore this place with its diverse menu You can also tie up with the Smokey’s of food ranging from Chinese to Mexifor your cake. can. The portions are large and reaThe reality hits you when you re- sonably priced and look beautiful on alize that the ‘tasty goodness’ comes the plate. The decor is what makes the with a price and the annoying tag place unforgettable. With the walls along, the taxes. Our total bill was Rs. having slogans, which the youngsters are familiar with, painted on them and dim lighting, Boom Box is a popular place for youngsters. Its décor will surely leave your birthday lingering on the mind of your friends forever, and the food only adds to the charm. There is also a separate non-smoking
2,203. So holding a party here can be a slightly expensive affair. Although a suitable option would be pizzas, and you can try some combo dishes which are available at a low price especially for party occasions. But all and all, the food lives up to one’s expectations. It would cost you roughly 10-12K for 12-15 people. The overall rating we give Smokey’s is 4/5.
and a well-lit ambience. The music playing is calm and adds to the old world charm. The staff of Pebble Street is extremely helpful and the food they serve, delightful! For the party, we ordered a complete meal with appetizers, a main dish and dessert. Nachos, French Fries with Cheese and Cheese nuggets came in as appetizers, followed by Red sauce pasta, white sauce pasta and EnChilada BeFrijolo (a Mexican dish, containing tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, kidney beans and a lot of spice), for dessert we had Tiramisu and the party cake. As for the drinks, the restaurant offers appealing. For a party, I would recom- an option of 5 drinks mend their cheese nachos (Rs 280), including mojito, coke, Mojitos (Rs 300), Mixed Vegetable fruit punch, etc. to and coriander Dim sums (Rs 275) choose from, and the or chicken (same price) and Pizzas best part, you can get (Rs 285). These will go well with the club like appeal of the place and the party lasts. Moreover the the music played by their in house place gives discounts to the host, DJ. If you still feel hungry, give their the cost comes at Rs. 750 per chocolate desserts a swirl. You won’t person. It would cost you 10- 11K for 15-16 people, the best nitely a place I would visit again with offer out of the three places friends, party or no party, as it is just reviewed. Moreover you can the sort of hangout all of us have been chose your own appetizers searching for. It will cost you 10-12K (any 4), your own main dish for 12-15 people. (any 4) and your own The overall rating we give Boom dessert (any one), and Box is 3.5/5. the drinks as I said before are unlimited! The overall rating we give to Pebble Street is 4/5. The interior of Pebble Street is modIn conclusion, ‘Nobody looks back elled after the popular American and remembers the night they got a cowboy bars. It has a quirky appeal lot of sleep’ so, Party away!!
Pebble Street (Connaught Place)
By Kunalika Gautam, Lavanya Singh, Siddhidatri Mishra Class XII Sanskriti School, New Delhi
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R A P
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T
he main description of Duryodhana in the great epic, Mahabharata is of his deviousness, obstinacy and greed for power that would bring about the battle of Kurukshetra, and his own downfall. But was there more to him? What was he? True heir or pretender of the throne? Greatest villains of all times or a prince protecting his ? History, they say, is written by victors. And victors paint themselves larger than life. In this book the epic’s perplexing
come across a Duryodhana or a Dushasana? It is because they have come to hold negative associations. If the meanings were not good why would Gandhari name her son’s such? The book subscribes to the theory that their names have been changed. I would recommend this book to all of you who are avid book readers. This is a great piece of literature. The Mahabharata already portrays the crown prince of Hastinapura as the Pandavas as purest men on world has never known him, adding the Earth yet we are ready yet another facet to the labyrinth that Duryodhana to read their views then why is the Mahabharata. By V. Raghunathan not Duryodhana’s, who has been The central theme of the book sugwronged the most by being portrayed gests that nobody is perfect. No one is epic? Why is his account considered as only evil? Wouldn’t you like a new completely black or white; every hu- the ultimate truth? There is a need to point of view? man born on the Earth is grey. Neither set mythological history right and corwere Yudhisthira and Kunti too pure rect the distorted balance. The book By Suhani Kumar and nor was Duryodhana only a sin- serves this purpose very well. Class VIII ner. Veda Vyasa was partial. Of course, You would often come across peoPragyan School, Greater he can be. He is human too. But then ple bearing the names of the Pandavas, Noida why is his account said to be the actual Draupadi or Krishna. Have you ever
T
is the result of the combined effort of two honorary historians, Ian Caldwell and Dustin Thomason. When two best friends get together, magic happens. The book talks about the 15th century book (supposedly) the , authored by
leaving his identity to be anybody’s guess. The book itself is possibly the most misunderstood literary material in all of history. It’s written in several languages including Latin, Greek, Hieroglyphs, and if that wasn’t enough, in languages invented by the authors themselves. As our protagonists, two history majors studying in Princeton, one of them, Tom our narrator, being the son of one of the pioneers of the book, while the other, Paul, the biggest fan of his work. The two are assisted by their two best friends, the four being roommates.
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towards which the shady author believed to be a Francesca Colonna, points towards in his riddles. Somewhere along the line, comparisons are inevitable, in the words of Nelson DeMille, if Scott Fitzgerald, Umberto Eco and Dan Brown teamed up to write a novel, the result would be the The brilliance of the lies in the very fact
The Rule of Four by Ian Caldwell and Dustin Thomason The book is said to consume anybody who dares challenge it. Every few chapters the cryptic scheme of the text changes. The key to each is hidden in one of the leading works of the time,
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the was only published a year after the came out. Go grab this page-turner. Till then, don’t let the dead make you doubt the living. By Ritwik P. Srivastava Class XII Delhi Public School, Allahabad
W a t c h
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LIT FEST 2016
I
t was the day when the students of The Shri Ram School, Moulsari, could escape their mundane school lives by dressing up as their favourite literary characters. The entire school looked as if it had sprung out from a novel, made up of all our favourite characters. The Editorial Board had hosted a series of online competitions for the entire school. Topics such as ‘Six-word stories on Religion’, ‘Sound’ and ‘Characters out of place’ prompted the writers, artists, and photographers of the school to create compelling work.
Students of grades eleven and twelve had signed up for a workshop hosted by Nandita Singh of Airplane Poetry Movement. She explored spoken word poetry, and the emotion behind it. Among the younger children, Poonam Girdhani and Ankit Chadha performed Dastangoi, the lost art of Urdu storytelling. They retold the classic, ‘Alice in Wonderland’, dubbed ‘Dastan Alice Ki.’The students also interacted with Juhi Chaturvedi, a screenplay writer, most renowned for her work on the
Two photo booths were set up took place! Students and teachers time posing with various props. While all this action was taking place, we had the day end on a complete high with Chintan Ruparel, the co-founder of Terribly Tiny Tales, coming in to hold a workshop which encouraged the students to write tweet-sized stories. The Inter House Lit Quiz saw the students of middle school battling it out in the realms of Literature.
THE FUTURE YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
ar
Amity International School, Pushp Vih
A
Global Round of The Future Young Entrepreneurs (FYE) Project at Berlin. The opportunity extended by Dr. (Mrs) Amita Chauhan, Chairperson, Amity Group of Schools and RBEF under the aegis Amity Educational Resource Centre (AERC), aimed at encouraging the entrepreneurial spirit in young people while providing them with an insight into
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vocational, economic and social structures. During the competition, the team the Business Idea titled- PEEKABOOK, to the renowned jury members, comprising entrepreneurs and ambassadors from different arenas. The team faced tough competition from 13 other teams, from 7 countries, across the world. This 2 year-long programme, or-
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ganised by Goethe Institute, Germany, and co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union at Berlin, was divided into two phases. The first phase saw 50 students from Amity present 10 projects. Two projects from AIS Gur 46 and PV qualified for the second phase, held in Berlin. The project will be developed further with support from international startup companies.
W a t c h
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The Shri Ram School, Moulsari
CHAMPION TEAM AND CHAMPION DEBATER TROPHIES AT ‘BEHES’
B
ehes’ Inter- School English Extempore debate is held in many states. This year Sri VIS sent three Middle Wing teams to compete in ‘Behes’ Gurgaon round. It was held at Shalom Presidency School, Sector 56, Gurgaon on October 21 and 22. Results of the Second Day: Pranjal Diler, Pranavi Billa and Aditya Dhingra bagged the Champion Team Trophy. They will now compete at The Maha Behes that will have the top debating champions from the different states in December, 2016. Sri VIS also won the 3 best speaker awards. 1. Shashvat Narindra - First Best Speaker Award and a gold medal 2. Ananya Chopra - Third best speaker and a gold medal 3. Mansi Shukla - Fourth best speaker and a silver medal
Sri Venka
ka, Sector-18 teshwar International School, Dwar
Shukla and Ananya Chopra of VII clinched the position of 3rd best speakers.
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Marble Cups
Having your milk in the same boring mug day after day can get a little monotonous. How about we spice it up a bit? Try this simple DIY to customise a marble cup for yourself and enjoy your everyday milk, in style!
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YOU WILL NEED:
A plastic tub/container A white ceramic mug Nail Polish, different colours. Nail polish remover Cotton
NOW FOLLOW THESE STEPS:
Fill 2/3 of the plastic tub with water. Now drizzle the nail polishes over the water, creating interesting patterns. You can also use a toothpick to swirl the nail colour and make patterns. Now hold your mug by the handle; at an angle, and immerse it into the water, and roll it so that the pattern sticks all over it. Use cotton and nail polish remover to remove the excess colour from the insides of the mug and around the edges. Let the mug dry.
KEEP IN MIND:
The more colours you use, the cooler your pattern will be. Wash the mug several times before using it for consumption of any liquid. Watch the full video at ttps://www. youtube.com/watch?v=lhsfvTSX3-g Follow Rob and share your DIYs with him @: Facebook.com/MadStuffWithRob Twitter.com/MadStuffWithRob Instagram.com//MadStuffWithRob
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J u n i o r
T r a v e l s
Catching The Stars
My daughter Kyra has recently taken an interest in scientific toys and experiments. Ever since she got her own starter telescope she has been eager to explore the skies. So, for an introduction to the heavenly objects we took her to the Nehru Planetarium in New Delhi. This was the perfect Sunday outing as a run-up to Children’s Day as she got to learn not just about our solar system but also about Jawaharlal Nehru. The following account of her experiences and learning is in Kyra’s own words.
I
got such a big surprise on Sunday when papa told me we were going to a place from where we can see space! I have been trying to see the stars with my own telescope but did not know what to do. So papa told me I could get some idea of what is in the
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skies at the P.L.A.N.E.T.A.R.I.U.M. On our way to the planetarium papa told me about how our country India is becoming famous in the world for going into space. He told me about how the spacecraft I see in movies are very costly to make in
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real life and that India has become very good at sending spacecraft for not much money, so different countries like France, Germany, Italy and Japan have asked India to help them send space missions. Wow! When we got to the planetarium,
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he travelled – it looks all burnt and papa told me that this happened because when a capsule re-enters the Earth’s atmosphere at very high speed, it gets heated up and catches I also saw the big projector, Antariksh, which they used to use for the planetarium. After our trip to the planetarium, papa showed me different constel-
papa told me that it was named after Jawaharlal Nehru, Invery fond of children and wanted them to learn a lot, which is why he was called Chacha Nehru by children. Like the planetarium in Delhi, there are four others in India named after Chacha Nehru. But the planetarium in Delhi is built in Teen Murti Bhavan, which used to be Chacha Nehru’s house when he was Prime Minister. Inside the planetarium, I was excited to see such a large bowl – a dome roof – on top of a large hall. And after we sat, when all the lights were switched off, and the dome started showing twinkling stars, it commentary I did not understand was just amazing and scary! When very much about the space misyou look at the sky and all the stars sions but papa explained it all to me and dark space you feel like you are later. Even when the commentary - got a little boring I was not bored mentary that showed us all the plan- because looking up at the sky, the ets in the solar system one by one. It planets and rockets was a lot of was very funny to know that in old fun. Papa told me how when they times people thought that there were launched a spacecraft to Jupiter, aliens on Mars making canals and they sent it bouncing against other roads! planets like a carom board shot! Through the planetarium tele- After the planetarium visit, I also scope we saw what the planets actu- learnt the difference between planally look like when you get close to ets, asteroids and comets. them. Papa says, with my telescope, There is a gallery outside the I will only be able to see the craters planetarium where you can see the on the Moon because to see other spacesuit worn by Rakesh Sharma, planets we need a more powerful telescope. into space. You can also see the There were some parts of the space capsule, Soyuz T-10, in which
lations, which are patterns by stars, and planets in the sky at home. I saw Mars which looks like a red star and behind it I saw the constellation of Great Orion. I can’t wait to use my telescope to see the Moon and its craters too!”
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. By Kyra Kanojia Class I Amity International School, Noida
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J u n i o r s
Elements The earth brought forth the rugged gold Fire and iron bellows made it fine And from the depths of the watery ocean A moon round pearl did softly shine. With gold and the pearl, and craft and care of skillful hands was forged and fashioned a wondrous crown For the queen who would rule those lands The golden circlet on her head the queen ruled steadfastly and well Earth, fire, wind, water or metal She never forgot what the elements tell She never took them for granted or asked anything more what was given was given they were not her’s to rule But as time passed, the circlet was on the head of her daughter who sought to make them bow To her greed of power But alas she made a mistake for her subjects began to wither not bloom time unleashed its cruel game to finish with her doom Her daughter the third to have the circlet Sought to undo her mother’s mistake She released the wind and let him blow She freed the water and let it flow The earth breathed once more And the fire burnt bright Metal shone once more and the Elements came alive.
By Naayaa Mehta Class VI The Shri Ram School, Moulsari
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