December 2013 lowest

FIND YOUR IDEAL WORKOUT

+ +

EDUCATE + ENTERTAIN

DECEMBER 2013 || ` 75

www.youthincmag.com

WHAT IIMS WANT

THE JOY OF IMPARTING KNOWLEDGE Lucrative careers in education

DESIGN YOUR OWN DEGREE Dec cover.indd 1

11/25/2013 7:28:43 PM

Back cover.indd 93

23-03-2013 14:41:39

Back cover.indd 94

23-03-2013 14:41:59

contents DECEMBER 2013

DMITRY A. MOTTL, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

ON THE COVER 28

OF THE STUDENT.

BY THE STUDENT. FOR THE STUDENT Did you know you can design your own degree course in several foreign universities?

30

A DUMMY’S GUIDE TO IIM ADMISSIONS

A breakdown on how to get into India’s best business schools

60 PAGE

42

THE JOY OF IMPARTING KNOWLEDGE We get into the nitty-gritties of five lucrative and immensely satisfying professions in education

(Educate)

Customised fitness regimes for your personality type

www.youthincmag.com

FOCUS FEATURE 18 EDUCATION FOR YOUR

O N L I N E E XC L U S I V E S

OPEN SPACE 21 MY VIEWS ON OVER

ALEX FERGUSON: MY AUTOBIOGRAPHY We review the second autobiography of the famed retired football manager Sir Alex Ferguson as he talks about his life from 2000 to 2013

INTERESTS A lowdown of everything involved in pursuing a vocation specific course

ACHEIVERS A student expresses her disdain for perfectionists who make everyone else look bad

HOW TO GUIDE 28 HOW TO FAKE

INTELLIGENCE A guide to help you come across as an intellectual to anyone you meet

4

FIND YOUR IDEAL WORKOUT

WORDSMITH OF THE MONTH: SHIULI DUTTA A reader uses her imagination to write up a short story about a fictional encounter between a couple INTERVIEW WITH VIPUL MITTRA The compete interview with the author of The Dream Chasers as he tells us about his book

Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

6 Contents.indd 4

11/25/2013 7:14:55 PM

ad.indd 90

23-11-2013 16:55:47

SPRING A look at the political unrest and struggle for democracy that has gripped countries in Western Asia

MY STORY 40 PARALLEL WORLDS: THE OCEANIC

REALM Sumer Verma talks about the career changes that lead him to become an underwater photographer

PRODIGY 54 THE EDUPRENEUR

Ryan Pinto talks about the pleasures and responsibilities of running schools

(Entertain)

STAPLEdiet EDITOR’S NOTE…8 EDITORIAL CONNECT…10 AROUND THE WORLD…14 EVENT DIARY…26 COUNSELLOR Q&A…37 WORD ZONE…56 THE G SPOT…72 IMHO…76 HANGOUT…80 GRAFFITI…82

A look back at the people who gave us unique moments in the year 2013

POINT OF VIEW 68 A CHRISTMAS STORY

Nisha JamVwal expresses her appreciation for Christmas and the joyous spirit it brings

34

58 NINETY9-SHEEP-ZZZ, DEVIANTART

COUNTDOWN 66 THE NEWSMAKERS OF 2013

PAGE

PAGE

ENTERTAINMENT FEATURE 58 RISING STARS OF INDIAN MUSIC Upcoming talents in the Indian musical sphere talk about their journey

TAKVER, FLICKR

AWARENESS 34 UNDERSTANDING THE ARAB

FASHION 70 WINTER WONDERLAND

The best winter apparel for your style and comfort this season

71 PRE-PARTY FACE PACKS

Face packs to perfect your complexion this New Year’s Eve

PAGE

68

PAGE

70 6 Contents.indd 6

11/25/2013 7:15:27 PM

Presenting the ITM - PGDM iConnect 2014-16 (AICTE Approved) A radically different PGDM program, rebuilt to deliver targeted learning, real-world experience and all-round personal development. Shaped by insights gained from over 200 business leaders, iConnect is the future of business education. Are you ready for it? iConnect Core : 6-month guided internship Redesigned and updated courses  New specializations: Digital Media / Pharma Management  Insight Sessions: 200+ hrs of personal development  Integrated Career Management training  Integrated CSR projects  

Red Eye

Lot more info at - www.itm.edu/pgdm Placements 2013: Highest CTC - Rs. 15 lacs / Average CTC - Rs. 5.1 lacs

*Subject to AICTE approval

1800 209 9727

ad.indd 96

pgdm.admissions@itm.edu

applyonline.itm.edu

ITM - Business School ITM - Global Leadership Centre ITM - Institute of Financial Markets Institute for Technology and Management

Bengaluru Chennai  Mumbai  Navi Mumbai  Noida*  Warangal  

Admissions office: 1001, Platinum Techno Park, Vashi, Navi Mumbai - 400 703.

25-11-2013 15:45:16

Editor's

note

Those who educate children well are more to be honoured than they who produce them; for these only gave them life, those the art of living well.

Volume 3 Issue 6 December 2013

Editor-in-Chief NITISH SHAH

Editorial Team

APARNA SUNDARESAN SEAN SEQUEIRA

Aristotle said these words thousands of years ago; but that they are still true reflect the timelessness of education. The importance of teachers cannot be understated. For everything that we are, we owe it to our teachers, right from the primary school teacher who tolerated our crying, tantrums and messes to our high school teacher who tolerated our whining, back-answering and complacency. Teaching is an honourable profession, and I consider teachers as vital to society as doctors.

DARSHANA KRISHNAMONY RUCHA SOLGAMA KARAN TECKCHANDANI

The culture of a land reflects how civilised its people are, and people can only be civilised with the right education. Education is an industry invested in nation building, which is why it graces our cover this month. While most would equate education with going to school and writing exams, it is actually not just that. Teaching alone has taken so many forms – private tuitions, coaching classes, online tuitions and so on – and even schools have evolved from classrooms to internet discussion forums. Additionally, one must think beyond teachers – of the principals, deans, administrators, counsellors, special educators, even auxiliary staff who make up an institution. India has the largest youth population, and if you would like to venture out and start something of your own, our dashing Prodigy of the month, ‘edupreneur’ Ryan Pinto has some tips. The joy of imparting knowledge is truly a gratifying joy and a career in education could help you find that rare entity known as job satisfaction.

TANUSH KAGNE sales@youthincmag.com HEENA SOPARIWALA sales.mg@youthincmag.com POOJA JAISWAL sales.hd@youthincmag.com NITIN AHIRE sales.sr@youthincmag.com RAHIL SHAIKH sales.ma@youthincmag.com

It’s December, which means it’s time to bring the woollens out and also the right time to look back and reflect on what has happened.

Much of 2013 has been characterised by the ongoing struggle for democracy in the Middle East, which is history in the making. Many other events have also stood out this year, either because of the people responsible or because of the nature of the event itself. We look at some of those newsmakers.

Where this is a festival, there must also be food and music. Music is the flavour of the month in our pages; we profile four rising stars of music under various ethnic Indian genres who are keeping their art alive. If you’d like some variety in your music playlist, we recommend some of these musicians’ works that will take you back to your roots.

And so, another year gone by! We wish you a very merry Christmas and a sparkling New Year full of promises and prosperity.

Nitish Shah

10 editors.indd 10

Contributors

Art & Design

MOULVI ABBAS HASAN GAURAV DODIYA

Ad Sales

Marketing

NEHA PRABHU DEEPA SONEJI marketing@youthincmag.com

Circulation

SHANTARAM AMBERKAR NISHANT SHINDE

Administration GEETA NAIK

For advertising, subscriptions and circulation mail@youthincmag.com +91-22-2351-6622 / 6609 Printed and published by Nitish Shah on behalf of Splash Publication Pvt Ltd Published at: 9 Forjett Hill, British Express Bldg, 2nd floor, Mumbai 400036.

Editor: Nitish Shah

Admin office: F9&10, Commerce Centre, 6th Floor, 78 Tardeo Road, Mumbai 400034.

Printed at: Repro India Ltd Plot No 50/2, TTC MIDC Industrial Area, Mahape, Navi Mumbai 400 710. District Thane All content in print and online is owned by Splash Publication Pvt Ltd under international copyright laws. No part of the content can be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of the publishers. Publishers will not be held responsible for the content of the magazine including accuracy and effects. All disputes will be subject to the jurisdiction of competant courts in Mumbai only.

11/25/2013 7:16:20 PM

editorial connect

EDUCATE + ENTERTAI

N

NOVEMBER 2013 || ` 75

www.youthincmag.com

G OBAL WEAR THE MARK r Register as a vote

B-SCHOO

D PLAY & GET PAIe A career in gam testing

Ward the woes of being GEN Y

Write to us at mail@youthincmag.com

ANKINGS

2013

Best cities for INDIAN FESTIVALS

NOV final cover.indd

yi

BAL GLOCHOOLS B-S NKING RA

titutes Top 100 MBA ins gement Masters in Mana ce an Fin Masters in rketing Masters in Maec ve MBA uti Ex d Online an

1

10/25/2013 2:30:51 PM

An energetic meeting ensued as the Youth Buddies met up with the magazine representatives to discuss the upcoming programmes on the Youth Buddy schedule.

“The magazine is a nice guide for students who are aspiring to study abroad.”

- Nadiya Shaikh

BLOGGER OF THE MONTH

Hriday Ranjan http://heartranjan.wordpress.com/ Hriday Ranjan, better known as Heartranjan online, is a blogger blessed with sharp wit, an astute understanding of satire and incredible sense of humour. His blog covers, as he says, “Reviews of movies, cricket matches, advertisements, political leaders and spiritual gurus. Advice ranging from why you should have a moustache, to why you should not trust the government.”

SOCIALLY YOURS YouthIncMag

PERSONALITY OF THE MONTH

 @KAMINAPUN With a Twitter profile bio that claims to be the father of Tipu Sultan, KaminaPun makes it clear that he enjoys sending out funny tweets and taking on celebrities.

If it’s Chetan Bhagat on the cover, judge the book by its cover.

@YouthIncMag

Abbas-Mustan should watch Ramleela’s second half very carefully. They could make a sequel to Race2 out of it.

B.C. : Before Christ.

A.D. : Anno Domini.

A.S. : AFTER SACHIN. New era begins.

10 letters.indd 12

USE THE QR SCANNER ON YOUR MOBILE PHONE

23-11-2013 17:06:00

yi

educate The situation in Western Asia has moved to a prodemocractic stance. Find out why in...

Understanding the Arab Spring Page 34

IBNE SADIQUE

Pg18 Pg28 Pg30 Pg40 EDUCATION FOR YOUR INTERESTS

HOW TO FAKE INTELLIGENCE

A DUMMY’S GUIDE TO IIM ADMISSIONS

PARALLEL WORLDS: THE OCEANIC REALM

THE PROS, CONS AND POPULARITY OF VOCATION SPECIFIC COURSES IN THE COUNTRY

A SIMPLE EIGHTSTEP METHOD TO CONVINCE ANYONE THAT YOU ARE VERY INTELLIGENT

THE SECRET TO CRACKING THE ADMISSION PROCEDURE FOR IIMS

SUMER VERMA TALKS ABOUT HIS PASSION FOR UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY

11 EDUSEC.indd 11

11/25/2013 7:23:48 PM

ad.indd 98

25-11-2013 18:37:42

ad.indd 99

25-11-2013 18:43:34

EDU NEWS

BRIDGE COURSE AFTER 1-YEAR UK PG DEGREE MANDATORY  Students with one-year UK master degrees will now have to complete a bridge course of six months in India.  Master degree programmes in the UK are only one year long and therefore not accepted universally in India since here postgraduation programmes run for two years.  The Human Resources Department (HRD) has introduced the bridge course keeping in mind the difficulties faced by students in pursuing higher education or enrolling in PhD programmes or seeking government jobs in India.  The bridge course will be offered at select universities for students to validate their foreign degrees.  The one-year master degrees are not the only ones that are not recognised here. UK’s three-year engineering and one-year MBA degrees are also not entirely accepted. But the UK has yet to take up this issue.

CAT 2013 RESULTS OUT IN JANUARY 2014  This year, 1,94,516 candidates registered for the CAT exam which was held from 16 October to 11 November.  The results are likely to be declared on 14 January 2014 which candidates may access through www.cat2013.iimidr.ac.in.  The Common Admission Test (CAT) is a computer-based test by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for candidates aspiring to study business administration programmes. It is conducted every year by one of the IIMs, based on a policy of rotation.  This test scores a person on the bases of quantitative ability, data interpretation, verbal ability and logical reasoning.

DATES FOR CMAT’S FEBRUARY 2014 TEST ANNOUNCED

 The registration for CMAT February 2014 is open till 2 January 2014.  The admit card may be downloaded on 5 February.  The exam will be held from 20 February to 24 February  The result will be declared on 14 March and the score cards may be printed from 14 March to 13 April.  The Common Management Admission Test (CMAT) is a national level entrance exam conducted by the All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) for institutions to select suitable students for management programmes.  The CMAT is conducted twice, in September and February.  For additional details, including a list of test centres, visit www.aicte-cmat.in/ College/Index_New.aspx

14 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

14 news.indd 14

23-11-2013 17:08:57

PARTICIPATE IN ‘SAVE THE FUTURE’ AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE

 The Postmaster General of the Maharashtra Circle of Indian Post, Col K.X. Mishra, has envisioned a social cause-related writing competition which is open to people of all ages and all countries. Entries of short stories and essays can be sent in until 31 December.  The entries should be written in English, Hindi, Marathi or French on either ‘Save the Earth’ or ‘Save the Girl Child’.  Entries should be mailed through postcard, inland letter or in a postal envelope with not more than two A4 size pages addressed to Chief Postmaster General, Maharashtra Circle, 2nd floor, GPO building, Mumbai - 400001.  Prizes will be distributed tentatively on 15 January 2014.  The aim of the initiative, named ‘Save the Future’, is to spread awareness about environment conservation and the plight of womanhood.  For assistance, write to savethefuture13@gmail.com or kathakosa@gmail.com or icsripune@gmail.com

‘TALAASH FOR EDUCATION’ ON CHILDREN’S DAY SEES SPECTACULAR PERFORMANCES  ‘Talaash Restoring Faith’ campaign was initiated on Children’s Day by the Bachelor of Management Studies students of Jai Hind College, Mumbai. They taught communication skills, art performance and many more topics of interest to the children of Akanksha Foundation.  The event was held at High Street Phoenix, Mumbai on the 14 November and witnessed a massive audience of 600 people.  Celebrities like Imam Siddiqui, Shaheen Abbas, Jai Bhanushali and Akashadeep Saigal made an appearance to support the cause.  Performance by 17 talented Akanksha students on the importance of education left the audience as well as the celebrities stunned.  Dharavi Rocks, a music collective from the Dharavi slums, made mind-boggling music with containers, cans and bottles.  Celebrities distributed food from McDonald’s and Cream Centre to the children and wished them a joyous Children’s Day. DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 15

14 news.indd 15

23-11-2013 17:10:34

PROMOTION

Plans being made at AIESEC BRIC Conference, India

ETHICAL LEADERSHIP More than leadership, ethical leadership is what will spearhead an organisation into the future with its progressive policies

O

rganisations and institutions have diffused the idea of leadership and its necessity in their functioning. The need for leadership comes about when the need to

Anubhav Razdan, President of AIESEC India, at the AIESEC International Congress 2013 in Egypt

channelise different ideas, ways and styles towards one goal arises.

People with skill sets and a vision to contribute towards the betterment of a cause or the growth of an idea are put under leaders, because they need direction. Traditionally, direction adds up to the profits and production.

But this theory is now edging towards extinction. More theorists are now emphasising on the vitality of moral and ethical conduct. Hence, good leadership refers not just to fulfilling goals but also to the ethics and values involved in leading people.

In an organisation, ethical leadership is essential; leaders must make decisions that will not only benefit them, but also the other people in the organisation. Putting our feet

on the office table, attending personal phone calls at work, making up white lies for delays – all these fall under the ‘unethical’ label. Organisations do create an ethical code of conduct and document it for future references, but ethical behaviour is more personal than organisational. An ethic is the body of moral principles or values governing a particular culture. The people that exhibit it define that culture.

Ethical behaviour mirrors a system of strong values that have been given birth to by justice and equity. It encompasses the needs and rights of others as well as oneself. It encourages a sense of obligation towards responsibility, the organisation, personal beliefs and personal conduct.

We at AIESEC believe in the power of ethical leadership and enforcing it, despite the fact that we are youth and youth-run. To us, this is a huge part of growing up and hence age is no limitation. In fact, inculcating this while we are young ensures we can practice it when we are older.

From electing our entity Presidents to adhering to opportunity timelines, we are constantly trying to stick to a code of conduct. Members sometimes tend to go astray but in an environment like ours, they fall right back on track. The beauty of AIESEC as an organisation lies here, where there is always room for correction, improvement and growth. yi

16 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

16 Promotion.indd 16

23-11-2013 17:16:40

ad.indd 96

25-11-2013 14:08:36

FOCUS FEATURE

Education for your interests At a time when job opportunities are few and contenders many, it has become important to be the best at what you do. Lamya Karachiwala explores how you can achieve a unique skill set through vocationspecific courses

F

rom times immemorial, medicine, engineering, chartered accountancy and law have been the favourite career options for students, teachers, parents and employers alike. One either had to pick one of these or consider their future doomed.

Fortunately, our current education system offers a viable solution for students who do not want to go the science/commerce/ arts way and are looking for means to turn their hobby into their occupation.

Vocational courses allow individuals to gain knowledge and skills that are traditionally non-academic and focused on one particular trade or occupation. These courses help a student develop expertise in a particular field through equal emphasis

on theoretical and practical knowledge.

Most of these courses offer a diploma or certificate and can last from two months to two years, with the exception of some like hotel management, which offer a full-fledged degree. In our country, quite a few universities provide vocation-specific education.

If you are not one of those who have not figured out what to do with his/ her life, you may want to consider one of these courses. However, two of the most important factors to keep in mind when deciding on a vocational career are the choice of course and choice of institution.

You must check if they cater to your interests and requirements before plunging head-long into this mode of study.

18 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

18 Focus feature.indd 18

25-11-2013 13:11:59

VOCATIONAL EDUCATION What is it?

• Skill-based teaching • Treats practical and theoretical knowledge equally • Focuses on making students ‘job ready’ • Is considered less valuable, especially if a certificate or diploma • May serve better as an add-on to a

GENERAL EDUCATION What is it?

• Concept-based teaching • Gives greater importance to theory • Focuses on providing broad knowledge of the chosen subjects • Is considered more meritorious on its own

When?

When?

How long?

How long?

What qualification do I get in the end?

What qualification do I get in the end?

Choose this if…

Choose this if…

After class 10 (in case of some certificate courses) and class 12

Depending on what you’ve opted for, you may acquire a certificate, diploma or degree at the end of your course.

 You want to transform your hobby into your profession  Getting a job is your priority  You have less time to complete your education  You want vocation-specific knowledge on a particular subject  You want to start on your own

HOTEL MANAGEMENT AND TOURISM

After class 10 (in case of Diploma) and class 12

It varies depending on the subject but usually lasts for a minimum of 3 years.

In most cases, an individual receives a degree at the end of 3 years or a diploma if that’s what he/she has opted for.

 You are interested in acquiring a broad skill set  You are not sure of a major  You have many interests and wish to explore them simultaneously  You want to a more wellrounded education

THE BENEFITS

THE DISADVANTAGES

55 Vocational courses enable the acquisition of job-specific skills 55 These may be studied to satisfy interest in a certain field 55 They last for a shorter duration of time 55 Do not have stringent admission criteria 55 Some of these courses can be taken online 55 They encourage entrepreneurship among people

44 They serve as an add-on 44 Diplomas and certificates may not be enough to land a job 44 The eligibility for most vocational courses is 10+2.

Thus, science/commerce/arts must be studied after class 10 44 They are not yet considered equivalent to traditional courses 44 Job-specific skills may become obsolete sooner with changes in technology

HASHOO FOUNDATION USA - HOUSTON, TX, FLICKR

Depending on the subject, it varies for a certificate, diploma and degree.

It could be 2 months to 3 years long.

Popular vocational courses

In short: Teaches you the necessary skills to run a hotel or a tourism outfit.

Employment prospects: Is a crucial part of the hospitality industry, therefore has wide employment opportunities. There are multiple job profiles depending on the candidate’s education and work experience.

However, in order to work in top level or middle-level management, one must have a degree in travel management.

Course criteria: 10+2 with 50% marks for the degree. Candidates who do not have 50% marks in +2 may do a diploma or certificate course in hotel management.

Popular institutes: Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Mumbai; Institute of Advanced Management, Kolkata; Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development, New Delhi DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 19

18 Focus feature.indd 19

25-11-2013 13:12:07

FOCUS FEATURE

ANIMATION

FILM AND MEDIA

VANCOUVERFILMSCHOOL, FLICKR

In short: Computer-aided dynamic graphics that is the backbone of such films as Shrek and Stuart Little.

In short: The design of closed spaces at the planning stage, in collaboration with architects, to be functional and effective. Basic layout of space within a building, as well as arrangement of lighting, nature of acoustics, desired interior temperature, etc are domains of an interior designer.

Employment prospects: As the construction industry grows phenomenally with more demand for real estate, there is much scope for interior designers. They work with both architects and interior decorators, so jobs in architecture and decorating firms are available. Interior designers also freelance, as well as own their own company.

Course criteria: 10+2 for a degree; class 10 completion for a diploma or certificate Popular institutes: Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai; National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad; Raffles Millennium International, Bangalore

Employment prospects: Animation is rapidly growing the world over. Despite its late entry in India, this industry is on the path of expansion and ready to experience a prolonged period of boom. Animators work as artists, designers, illustrators, etc in a number of animation styles – traditional, stop motion, 3D and even special effects (think green screens) for films, games and websites.

Course criteria: 10+2 from a recognised board with at least 45% marks for a diploma or degree. At present, a graduate degree in animation is not very prevalent in India. A Bachelor in Fine Arts (BFA) in art/design could serve as a stepping stone.

Popular institutes: Frameboxx Animation and Visual Effects, all over India; Maya Academy of Advanced Cinematics (MAAC), all over India; Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai; MIT Institute of Design, Pune

In short: Any of the myriad roles available – direction, production, editing, acting, screenwriting, etc.

Employment prospects: The entertainment sector is exploding with opportunity.

An individual may acquire a qualification in an area of his/her interest in order to get the desired job.

Course criteria: The eligibility criteria depend on the subject a student chooses to study. Broadly, a 10+2 is recommended. Degrees, diplomas and certificate courses are plenty.

Popular institutes: Whistling Woods International, Mumbai; Film and Television Institute of India, Pune; Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute, Kolkata yi

COSMETOLOGY In short: The study and practice of applying beauty treatments, including hairstyling, nail care, makeup application and more.

Employment prospects: The desire among people to look presentable is timeless which justifies the eternal presence of innumerable beauty parlours. From being an apprentice/assistant to a fullfledged beautician with one’s own business, there is plenty of scope, but also plenty of competition!

Course criteria: 10+2 from any stream Popular institutes: Academy of Hair Styling, Mumbai; Shahnaz Husain International Beauty Academy, New Delhi; VLCC Institute, all over India

VANCOUVERFILMSCHOOL, FLICKR

INTERIOR DESIGNING

20 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

18 Focus feature.indd 20

25-11-2013 13:12:30

My thoughts on

over achievers Farheen Gani has some pretty strong advice for that breed of people who must win at all costs and feel a compulsion to outshine all, even silverware

They lead the choir, heartlessly win every literary competition, don’t miss a single athletic meet, become leaders of the school, and at the end of it, no, they don’t fail the exams; they come out on top of the class! Every time! It is a bit like being in a class full of super-hero hybrids, which, by the way, appears cool only on screen.

Perfection is not your birthright. You are allowed to change an ‘a’ or ‘the’ in a chemistry paper, you know. Stop practising to get that right and ‘raising the bar for the rest of us’, as you fondly call it.

_OPEN SPACE

It is not all about the prize.

You feel that whoever said, “Participation is more important than winning,” has never won a competition in his/her life. But it’s not so bad to lose and give others a chance.

Trust me; I have tons of experience in that.

TV and video games are not for morons. While you may believe that you were born for the greater good and petty human indulgences like these must be left to petty human beings, you are missing out on the exhilaration you feel when winning 4-0 in Fifa ‘14.

Getting all the degrees in the world is not cool.

Okay, hold yourself together. I know it’s difficult to digest this after all the hard work you’ve put in for the dozen or so degrees you have. But do you really believe they’re going to call an engineer to do the accountant’s job? Or your boss might suddenly develop an interest in astrology and ask you to predict the company’s future?

If you have an entertaining mind, we want a piece of it. Unleash your thoughts and send DECEMBER 2013 ║ Youth Incorporated 21 them to mail@youthincmag.com

21 open space.indd 21

23-11-2013 17:28:12

2013 EXHIBITORS INCLUDE: CASS, G.WASHINGTON, HEC- PARIS, EMLYON, GGSB, IE, IMPERIAL, KING’S, NYU-SCPS, UCL AND MANY MORE...

Shape

Future Your

THE WORLD’S BEST MASTERS & PHD FAIRS

Bangalore Hyderabad Chennai

1 Dec 3 Dec 5 Dec

FREE Entry

US$ 1.2 Million Exclusive Scholarships Register Now at:

www.topuniversities.com/YouthInc Our Partners Include:

ad.indd 92

23-11-2013 17:13:19

2013 Exhibitors Include: Babson, Boston.U, EMLYON, G.Washington,HEC-Paris,Imperial, IE, ISB INSEAD, Toronto-Rotman, Thunderbird, Wollongong, York-Schulich and many more...

M EET THE WORLD’S TOP B USINESS SCHOOL A DMISSIONS DIRECTORS Hyderabad Chennai

2 December 4 December

US$ 1.2 Million Exclusive Scholarships Available Register Now at:

www.topmba.com/YouthInc Online registration Rs.100. On the day registration Rs.200.

All payments on the day of the fair.

Our Partners Include:

ad.indd 93

23-11-2013 17:13:31

India Venture Day 2013

Students and alumni of India’s top business and engineering schools, along with IE Business School, competed in a Venture Day business plan competition in Mumbai on 26 October 2013.

Finalists presented their business plans to leading venture capitalists

The winning team from IIT Hyderabad receives a grand trophy, gold certificate and `1,00,000 cash prize from IE Business School

Juan Jose Guemes opens the show with his interesting presentation

Nitish Shah, Editor-in-Chief of Youth Inc magazine awards the People’s Choice award to the team from IIT Kharagpur

Domino Manso, Consulate General of Spain answers several student queries

24 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

24 IE Venture.indd 24

23-11-2013 17:27:14

The first runner up, a team from IIM Rohtak, receives a cash prize of `50,000.

They were lucky to have their Dean, P. Rameshan present at the event

Income Tax Commissioner Prawin Kumar and Divya Jha are captivated by the student plans

Mrs Domino Manso enjoys the magic of the IE India Venture Day

Paris de l’Etraz, MD IE Venture Lab (centre) leads the jury panel discussion – ‘What makes an entrepreneural mindset?’

All the 18 finalists on stage, with Dr Indu Shahani and Karan Gupta, proudly displaying their gold certificates DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 25

24 IE Venture.indd 25

23-11-2013 17:27:22

A still taken during the RoboSoccer event

Cheif

Ρvision,bad IIT Hydera Students participate in the DTMF race event

The band Ring of Smoke perfoms for the audience

Re

Panel discussion by (L to R) Ajeet Khurana, Animesh Dhamani and Kaustubh Dhargalkar

Mukesh Marfatia of Mindshare gives a talk about entrepreneurship

th to u o Y s ’ C E AIES ss forum, Busine mbai Mu

listen attentively as the discussion ensues Youth Incorporated SEPTEMBER 2013 20 Students

26 Event Diary.indd 20

Hardik Shah talks about risk taking and initiation

(Le

Devita Saraf spoke about women entrepreneurs

11/25/2013 7:33:07 PM

e

Taqneeq 6.0 NMIMS, Mumbai

International Animation Day, Bangalore

Cheif Guest S. A. Kulkarni cuts the ribbon for the inaugration

Winners pose with their awards alongside the judges

Contestants battle it out in an event

(Left) Winners with a cheque; (Right) students in celebration

Rendezvous, IIT Delhi

(Left) Blitz music event; (Right) Hoobastank perform live The Freshers’ party is replete with a choreographed performance and a DJ

Freshers’ Party VIT, Mumbai

Farhan Akhtar wows the crowd with a performance

26 Event Diary.indd 21

Students particpateSEPTEMBER in a dance 2013 workshop Youth Incorporated 21

23-11-2013 17:29:55

HOW TO GUIDE

Darshana Krishnamony has some tongue-in-cheek advice on how to seem smart in intellectual company

How to

fake intelligence

T

here are three kinds of people in this world: the know-it-alls, the ignorant, and the dextrous conmen.

We all encounter situations that test our agility to get through without an embarrassed, pale-faced exit. You are lucky if you know it all or if you are a pro at pulling off that mask of intellectuality. But if you fall into the ignorant category, you are indeed in a bit of a mess! Here’s a guide to help you fix it.

BE THE LISTENER

Intellectuals are good listeners and their thirst for knowledge is unquenchable. They don’t flash their brains too often. Hey, you also earn brownie points for knowing nothing!

PAUSE AT THE RIGHT PLACES

Intellectuals not only think before they speak but also while they speak. It is essential to spread your words in a disjointed yet fluid fashion. One may take help of expressions like ‘Well...’ with a straight face and wait for someone to break the silence with their inputs from which you can continue. Wait a sec, this works only in a group of chatterboxes who are impatient listeners, else Cindrella’s midnight clock may start ticking and you might have to deliver a comeback!

28 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

28 How to guide.indd 28

23-11-2013 17:30:37

PLAY WITH SARCASM JINX!,

WHEN YOU HAVE NO ANSWER, BE THE DIPLOMAT

FLICK

It is possible to bring subjectivity in every situation. If you don’t have a clear answer, highlight the different perspectives brought in and confuse the others too! This makes you the most rational person around.

R

JPETRAKIS, DEVIANTART

The best way to hide a stupid comment you unknowingly made is to follow it up with some subtle sarcasm.

You must also make sure no one takes offense. Otherwise, you may land in deep trouble!

BE HONEST

Even intellectuals need not know it all. Intellectuals are curious to learn. Sometimes accepting that you are less learned on a subject makes you sound intellectual. It is essential to know your stuff well but when you don’t, accepting the fact helps.

Sometimes mere confidence in what you say can do wonders. If you don’t know your stuff well, bluff with confidence. Works when the audience is as alien to the subject as you are. Beware of the know-it-alls as they may expose you in the most humiliating manner.

FLASH THE MONA LISA SMILE

BE A LITTLE AWARE

YUUJITHEGREAT, DEVIANTART

Wearing the enigmatic Mona Lisa smile makes you look like the type whose thoughts run faster than their words.

If trapped in a situation where you have nothing to say, this works best. If questioned, you may say, “I was just thinking...” but DO NOT reveal what you were thinking. Lincoln was right when he said, “Sometimes it’s better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt.” (P.S. Lincoln was an intellectual)

All said, you actually can’t bluff confidently when you know absolutely nothing. You need to have a basic idea of the subject. Say you are aware that you are going to meet a bunch of avid fans of Chetan Bhagat (you may or may not like him or his books), you can acquaint yourself with him by reading up about him. You don’t necessarily have to read his books; reading a synopsis or review online would do. This would help you strike a peaceful and an intellectually sound conversation with those fans.

(DISCLAIMER: All tricks are subject to situational risks. Careful and judicious use is advised!)

28 How to guide.indd 29

LEE J HAYWOOD, FLICKR

BE CONFIDENT

Remember: however professionally you master the art of faking intellectuality, it will eventually wear off like makeup smeared on a model’s face. It is important to develop one’s personality (a part of which is the intellect) while retaining one’s individuality.

Therefore, in the long run, you can’t sound intellectual if you aren’t being yourself! yi DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 29

23-11-2013 17:30:54

SPECIAL FEATURE

A DUMMY’S GUIDE TO

IIM ADMISSIONS

THE INDIAN INSTITUTES OF MANAGEMENT (IIM) ARE SOME OF THE BEST BUSINESS SCHOOLS IN THE COUNTRY. KARAN TECKCHANDANI BREAKS DOWN THE ADMISSION PROCESS FOR ASPIRING STUDENTS

T

he Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) are 13 of the country’s top business schools with the A, B and Cs being the cream of the crop, i.e., IIM Ahmedabad (IIMA), IIM Bangalore (IIMB) and IIM Calcutta (IIMC) , which are followed closely by IIM Indore and IIM Kozhikode in the rankings.

The admission procedure to the flagship Post Graduate Programme

(PGP), which is equivalent to the MBA offered by various business schools across the globe, is a 3-step process involving the Common Admission Test (CAT), the Written Ability test and the Personal Interview round. After factoring in scores from the these and the candidate’s academic history, extracurricular activities and work experience, the IIMs reach an objective score which determines the admission decision. The methodology

of reaching said score is different for each IIM and is posted on their respective websites. Some IIMs place equal emphasis on all previous academic endeavours (like IIM Ahmedabad) while others place more importance on undergraduate marks (like IIM Bangalore). Priyank Patwari, alumnus of IIM Banglore, says, “Self belief is the most important asset one can have while trying to make the cut”.

30 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

30 Special feature.indd 30

11/23/2013 5:35:51 PM

Format of the CAT

Computer based test Ability & Data 2 sections (Quantitative l Ability & Logical Interpretation and Verba Reasoning) e limit 30 questions and a tim • Each section has of 70 minutes on d questions in one secti • You can jump aroun s n section but cannot jump betwee s 3 marks while a ard aw er • Each right answ 1 mark from the score wrong answer deducts

• •

1

COMMON ADMISSION TEST (CAT) The first hurdle is to clear the Common Admission Test (CAT). Often referred to as the toughest exam in the world, it is no surprise the CAT sends shivers down the spines of potential candidates. But if one knows what it takes, it is just another exam. Priyank says, “To improve one's chances one needs to put in a lot of effort and ensure that the focus is on the right areas, not to mention being smart during the exam itself�.

G! THESE TIPS WILL THE CAT CAN BE DAUNTIN DING UP TO THE LEA HELP EASE THE BURDEN EXAM: take computer based 20 days before the exam, environment. mock tests in a simulated testing the day of on e abl fort It will help you feel com the exam. ck where you went After each mock test, che and try to find a tak wrong, analyse the mis es knesses. wea r pattern and work on you us on your foc ’t During the last week, don late; rather, too ady weaknesses as it’s alre hs. ngt stre focus on building your ensively and Practise problem sets ext ulae. form nt remember the importa ne is capable ryo eve Set a realistic target. Not w your Kno . bad eda of getting into IIM Ahm to get into re the from ld capability and try to bui le. the best school possib r section in 3 During the exam, divide you d. The easy har parts: easy, medium and can solve without you t questions are those tha t. The medium firs se much thought; solve tho nd some spe to you questions may require in the second se tho ve time on the problem; sol when or if for ns stio que round. Leave the hard wering the easy you have any time left after ans and medium level questions. y help you Sometimes the answers ma stitute the Sub ns. understand the questio which fits see and n answers in the questio best. the exam. Give

Don’t study the day before x from the months rela to your brain the chance adequate spent preparing. Relax and get sleep. e focus. Try keeping

During the exam, don’t los answer to a your calm if you can’t get the other questions the wer question. Move on, ans one later. and come back to the difficult DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 31

30 Special feature.indd 31

11/23/2013 5:36:34 PM

SPECIAL FEATURE

2

WRITTEN ABILITY Acing the CAT is just the first hurdle in the admissions process. Those clearing the exam are then called by the IIMs for the Written Ability and Personal Interview rounds. Prior to this there used to be a Group Discussion round as well but it has been eliminated. Both the rounds take place at a common testing location or the campus of the respective IIM. The essay topics can include anything under the sun but the trend suggests current affairs are favourites.

Sample essay topics from past IIMA Written Ability tests ortant than academics

## Networking is more imp in business cation Bill ## Pros and cons of the Edu - the truth of rals mo er low , ## More money investment banks and how it could ## The European debt crisis have been avoided es ## Reservation in elite institut

OSS THIS HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO CR SECOND HURDLE: nt time limits Different IIMs give differe s 30 to complete the essay. IIMB give utes; min 15 s minutes; IIM Lucknow give IIMA gives 10 minutes. d essay is to The only way to write a goo ctise and Pra follow the 3 Ps - Practise, e writing ctis pra Practise. The more you finals, the to ilar essays in conditions sim test the to ust the easier it will be to adj ity clar give centre during D-day. It will and k thin to of thought. Develop ability articulate quickly. t affairs topics, Practise by picking curren IIMs. since these are favourites of the essays e thre to Aim to write at least one every day. ay, the While writing the actual ess n the tha nt content is more importa , which are flow grammatical structure and important nevertheless. l points Put down as many logica It will as possible during the essay. critical and al demonstrate your analytic reasoning skills. mmar take Accuracy, spelling and gra vocabulary. sive precedence over impres

32 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

30 Special feature.indd 32

11/23/2013 5:37:01 PM

3

PERSONAL INTERVIEW The Written Ability round is followed by the Personal Interview. The interview is a chance for the school to look beyond the résumé and get a better picture of the candidate’s potency and ability to handle the rigours of the course and their fit for the program. Priyank’s advice is to “read up on current affairs, think through personals (questions like how does an MBA fit into your long term goal, etc) and most importantly, know yourself and your résumé very well”.

LY ASKED HERE ARE SOME COMMON D HOW TO INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AN ANSWER THEM: Q) Tell us about yourself. background, ANS: Explain about your family s that made you education and life experience te business decide to opt for a postgradua relevant to the programme. Keep it short and programme and institution. the PGP at our Q) Why do you want to pursue institution? their business ANS: List all the reasons why for your career school is the single best match s, job placement goals. Discuss its faculty, facilitie reasons that record, location and all other ice. demonstrate a deliberate cho and weaknesses.

Q) Tell us about your strengths ngths and give ANS: Tell them about your stre efited you in the examples of how they have ben knesses and tell past. Be frank about your wea s turning them them how you’re working toward into your strengths. ?

Q) Why should we accept you question when this s ask wer rvie ANS: The inte ates on paper. there are two identical candid candidate who The admission is offered to the l and interesting will contribute to an intellectua ws as the layover environment. This is also kno ether one would test, as in, a test to guage wh a person at an want to spend 6 hours next to airport during a layover.

Is the effort worth it?

"There is a general perception that the lessons learnt at an IIM are not as useful during the ,I job as they are in getting one . view this tend to disagree with ter bet ch mu In my opinion, I am equipped to face challenges like extended work hours, tight deadlines, competitive environment, etc over and above the basic skills that are to required to do my job thanks ." the time spent at IIM - Priyank Pat wari IIM Bangalore, Batch of 2011

30 Special feature.indd 33

Q) What are your career goals? give an answer just ANS: Be frank and don’t try to rviewers can see to get into the school. The inte have a clear idea through that. Not many people their life, which is about what they want to do with e the urge to grow acceptable as long as they hav happy. and find what will make them ?

Q) Where else have you applied if the candidate see to this ask s ool ANS: The sch to other schools has been prudent and applied ed as well. This where he/she could be accept tion and planning – demonstrates a sense of cau must possess. essential qualities that a leader e for me?

Q) What questions do you hav to show the ANS: This is your last chance institution. Do interviewer your interest in the ool and make a list thorough research on the sch you get a better idea of good questions that’ll help programme and the of the school, its facilities, the yi on-campus activities.

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 33

11/23/2013 5:37:22 PM

AWARENESS

G N I D N A T S R E D N U NG

I R P S B ARA THE

ntiA series ofnat governme s in Western revolutioning in 2010 Asia start all about has been y. Nisarg democrac troduces Kamdar in pring the Arab Sses why and analy he people power to t e an has becomaramount issue of pce importan

T

he Arab Spring has for the past thirty six months catalysed a paradigmaltering scenario in the world of geopolitics and international security, but for many it still remains an incomprehensible occurrence, a thing of a customary Facebook share or sympathetic retweet. But beyond the oceans of ink spewed by the media, claiming the Arab Spring as a personal triumph, there is a story of the collective struggle of a region against dictatorship and tyranny.

WHAT IS THE ARAB SPRING?

The Arab Spring is a term that represents a period wherein extraordinary pro-democracy rebellions and demonstrations flared up across Western Asia. It implies a decisive Arab mobilisation towards a more liberal and self-determined (democratic) regime.

THE FIRST FLARE

The revolution began when a young Tunisian graduate, Mohamed Bouazizi, reduced to unskilled labour

34 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

34 Awareness.indd 34

23-11-2013 17:32:56

AK ROCKEFELLER, FLICKR

FANNING THE FIRE

Ten days later, Tunisia’s leader, Zine el Abidine Ben Ali threatened a crackdown against violent protests while in the same breath promising more jobs. That hardly seemed to calm protestors, who only took it as an opportunity to intensify their protests against high food inflation, poor living conditions and a suffocating political cauldron.

Their efforts bore rich dividends when the establishment cracked under relentless protests and tacit support for the protestors from superpowers like the United States. Ben Ali, whose family was colourfully described as “quasi mafia” by one Wikileaks cable, fled with his family and took refuge in Saudi Arabia. This led to an extraordinary uprising which The Guardian newspaper described as “an earthquake.”

Ben Ali, who had been in power since 1987, though technically elected, had managed to establish a stronghold on the President’s post through a highly oppressive political environment that was terribly hostile to any opposition and dissent. He had invested massively in propping

up the number of university and college places to ensure that young Tunisians proceeded to some semblance of higher education. Job creation and economic activity, though, had been far lagging, translating into a 30% unemployment rate for those between 15 and 29.

This is a common thread linking the affected countries. Growing living standards and literacy rates have led to a mismatch between educational growth and economic growth.

CONTAGIOUS SPRING

The fire lit in Tunisia spread fast across the region. Self-immolation protests proliferated through Egypt, Algeria, Libya and Yemen as anti-government activists called for a nationwide ‘day of anger.’

Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak ordered tear-gassing and beatings, and hundreds, including foreign journalists, were arrested. He also attempted to squeeze communications by censoring the media, especially social media which had been employed beautifully by opposition groups to organise and coordinate protests.

Egyptian dissident Mohamed ElBaradei, a former head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and a 2005 winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, returned to the country to join the protests, representing the strongest intervention against the country’s authoritarian government.

However, ElBaradai has been referred to as Washington’s man – one who would deliver a government palatable to the folks across the pond and

CARONLYN, FLICKR

due to a lack of jobs in Tunisia, set fire to himself on 17 December 2010. He was protesting after police confiscated the fruit and vegetables he was selling from a street stall. The police’s high-handedness was hardly a surprise in a nation used to such blatant misuse of power and official position.

There was already wide discontent simmering over the deterioration of employment prospects in the region, the rising gaps in income levels and the misrule of the local government. This act of brute force seemed to capture the imagination of the people, and the anger

and resentment boiled over to the streets with vociferous protests.

It is interesting to note that Wikileaks cables documenting widespread political corruption, human rights violations and the accumulation of wealth in the laps of autocrats were released just weeks before the protests broke out.

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 35

34 Awareness.indd 35

23-11-2013 17:33:04

FREEDOMHOUSE, FLICKR

AK ROCKEFELLER, FLICKR

AWARENESS

establish a liberal system deriving its fundamentals from Western principles of governance and democracy.

The Mubarak government was decapitated by twin strikes within a couple of weeks. First, the Egyptian army endorsed what it called the “legitimate” demands of the people by assuring that there will be no use of force to silence “our great people”.

Secondly, major European powers and the United States aligned themselves firmly on the side of the public by praising the protestors as “having exercised their right to peaceful assembly”.

The Mubarak government crumbled under the sustained onslaught from a million protestors gathered at Tahir Square, and on the historic day of 11 February 2011, announced he was stepping down and transferring power to the military.

IN A STATE OF FLUX

The present status of the rebellion is at best messy. The democratically elected government of Egypt, one dominated by the Muslim Brotherhood, has been overthrown by the Egyptian military.

The pro-Islamist constitution has been suspended and Hazem Abdel Aziz Al Beblawi has been pointed as the interim PM. Fresh elections have been called but are yet to be held and this places Egyptian democracy in a perilous position.

On the other hand in Syria, there

is a bloodied civil war in progress.

The United Nations, dominated by petty politics and parochial interests, has been unable to participate with a decisive intervention. Rather, the death toll just keeps mounting.

WORTH IT?

The grinding question remains – has the Arab Spring left a progressively indelible mark on the fate of Middle Eastern politics or has it made the security situation in the region more perilous?

While the profound message at the heart of the Arab Spring is heartwarming and of noble intent, one can’t help feeling something somewhere has gone terribly wrong. The Middle Eastern security situation is feebler than ever, the Al-Qaeda has been resurgent in the region, there is a serious problem of unaccounted small arms and light weapons circulating in the region. One can only hope that the international community is able to collectively dismantle these threats.

The Arab Spring carries with itself a message of hope, political equality and self-determination, and has enshrined democratic principles in some countries. But in this period of transition remains a glaring vulnerability which remains open to exploitation by nefarious elements and it is in the interest of humanity to guard against these with grit and determination. yi

FAILED PROTESTS

SAUDI ARABIA The Saudi Arabian Royal family successfully clamped down on sectarian clashes by the brute and unrestrained use of forces. In the face of such savagery the protests fizzled out fast.

However, King Abdullah has agreed to some economic concessions.

IRAN Various opposition groups held peaceful protests, but the government responded with force and violence, arrested the opposition leaders and made no concessions.

ALGERIA President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, ruler since 1991, held on to his post. He lifted the State of Emergency that had lasted for 19 years and made some political concessions, but is still deeply embedded into Algerian politics.

36 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

34 Awareness.indd 36

23-11-2013 17:33:11

JAYANTI GHOSE

PHYSIOTHERAPY SPECIALISATIONS Q: I am pursuing BSc Physiotherapy. What are the specialisations for postgraduation in this field?

How do I choose?

Farhad You could choose Orthopaedics or Orthopaedics & Traumatology, Neuroscience, Cardio Pulmonary Science, Sports or Paediatrics which are the among the usual specialisations offered in the master’s programme in physiotherapy. It will require research on your part to find out the nature of work which is associated with these specialisations.

You will also need to research the potential for employment after having completed the specialisation you are planning to opt for. Once you have a fair idea of these criteria, you would be able to decide on the one/ones that would best suit your abilities, goals and personality.

ANSWER ANSWER

STUDY IN INDIA

ANSWER ANSWER

Cambridge University, London School of Economics & Politics, Sussex University, SOAS University of London, Institute of Development Studies, University of Warwick and University of Glasgow in the UK, Institute of Social Studies, The Hague and Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva would be among the suitable universities for postgraduation in Development Studies/Development Management/ International Development, etc. Survey the programmes offered by the above universities, study the profile of students pursuing them and assess the jobs graduates of earlier years have taken up to get a clearer picture of the programme and university that would suit your purpose.

CREDENTIAL EVALUATION FOR USA Q: Would I be able to apply for my master’s in the USA after 12+3 years of education in India? Some US universities I contacted require me to get my transcript evaluated by an outside educational agency such as WES to assess if the Indian degree is equivalent to a degree in America. Please suggest a credential evaluation agency.

Rishabh There isn’t any universally accepted credential evaluation/accreditation agency as such, but WES is a very popular choice. Find out from the universities you are targeting which agency’s evaluation they usually accept or recommend. If you wish to avoid paying more than one agency for credential evaluation, pick one whose service is accepted by most of the universities where you’d like to apply.

In some case, if your work experience (in terms of both duration and quality) is related strongly to your further study plans and you have an excellent academic record with high GRE scores, universities in the US may be willing to waive the 16th year requirement.

ANSWER ANSWER

DEVELOPMENT STUDIES IN EUROPE Q: I completed Economics honours, worked as a financial analyst for a consultancy and am now involved with the social sector. I would like to pursue a master’s degree in Development Studies/ Development Management abroad. Kindly suggest suitable universities in the UK and Europe.

Arushi

CAREER IN POLITICS Q: What can the study of politics equip me for with respect to the job market?

Malhar The study of politics could lead to a career in politics or jobs in management, retail, banking, civil services, media, broadcast journalism, publishing, working for pressure groups or charities, think tanks, or as political consultants, in teaching or research. Politics graduates/postgraduates may pursue further studies in journalism, law, social work, development studies, education, public policy, etc. Politics graduates/ postgraduates gain analytical skills, possess research skills, can make presentations and develop skills in summarising arguments and key points and communicate effectively through writing essays, reports and reviews. All of these are invaluable in today’s competitive employment market.

ANSWER ANSWER

STUDY ABROAD

Jayanti Ghose is a career and education consultant. She holds an honours degree in economics and a degree in education. Her research in career counselling and guidance spans more than 25 years. She pioneered the concept of career counselling and career writing in the print media. She is actively involved in personal and group counselling.

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 37

37 Q&A.indd 37

23-11-2013 17:33:37

FOREIGN SHORES

t n e d u t S e Of th e Student By th e Student h t r o F

A structure the backbod curriculum has bee the dawn o ne of education sinc n you about p f time. Youth Inc tell e students to rogrammes that allos w cha education rt the path of their from scratc h

38 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

38 Foreign Shores.indd 38

23-11-2013 17:34:36

LOMA? P I D R O DEGREE

Universities offer self-designed programmes as Bachelor and Master degrees. Some universities such as University of Connecticut (USA) also offer professional certificates. Their programme is designed to suit a mid-career professional’s needs and it includes seminars, workshops and one-on-one meetings with leaders in the student’s field of interest. Many corporates have tied up with the university to help its employees expand their knowledge base whilst earning a certificate for the programme.

A GUIDE TO SELF-DESIGNED MAJORS

What is a self-designed major?

Essentially, a self-designed major gives the reigns of responsibility in the hands of the students. There is no fixed structure to the programme or lesson plan to be followed. The students are responsible for designing their curriculum and choosing their areas of concentration and charting a plan along with an academic advisor.

Are there any core course requirements?

Yes, there are some core requirements and courses that have to be taken by the student. These will establish a foundational base for the students.

Every university has different requirements which can be checked on their respective websites. For example, at New York University’s Gallatin School of Individualized Study, courses such as Introduction to Writing, seminars on research methodology, etc help students present their projects and final assignments which are an integral part of such a programme, as no two students have the same major.

Any additional requirements?  Students have to find academic

professors and advisers who are willing to guide them throughout the programme.  Students have to present their ideas and reasons, with a drafted plan of the curriculum and the approach to be followed, in front of a committee who will decide whether the student should be allowed into the programme.

Who is it meant for?

 Most students who complete such a programme are highly motivated, independent self-starters in need of a challenge. They are creative and disciplined – qualities that are a must because designing one’s major takes a lot of effort. Sales skill for selling themselves and their major are also required. At most universities, students must persuade at least one professor to sponsor and advise them.

They must tie their major to a specific field of work or future study. Most are required to produce a weighty final project or paper.  Ohio State University’s website states that the programme is ideal for students interested in exploring ‘diversity’ issues and other concerns of contemporary social, political, artistic, and scientific relevance. Ohio State offers a wide array of courses taught from various intellectual perspectives, which often complement and enrich one another. This multiplicity and depth is not always readily available in the structure of a traditional major.

What are the benefits?

 Academically, students can pursue multiple interests and integrate them to achieve holistic development.

For example, a student interested in politics and environment can combine the two to design a unique major to study, while at the same time weeding out courses that would not help in achieving his/her goals.  On the career front, employers seek to get maximum bang for their buck and hence seek employees with diverse skill sets. Such majors display creativity, determination and motivation in the students.

Who shouldn’t pursue such courses?

Students who want to work in a field that requires licensing such as medicine, teaching and engineering, as the licensing requirements include core courses that cannot be omitted.

Such programs are ideal for students looking to pursue humanities and liberal arts as these subjects allow for greater leeway and customisation.

Why don’t all universities offer this?

 Some universities do not allow individualised majors in the belief that faculty and other scholastic experts are best equipped to know what students need to learn, and that traditional majors are based on decades of sound research.  Individualised major programmes place greater pressure on professors who must advise the students, draining faculty time and resources during an era of tighter budgets.  Parents are scared that students will use their hard-earned money on majors that will not be marketable in the real world.  Some employers may also be wary of hiring graduates since it is not easy to determine, on first glance, whether the student has picked up the skills required for the job. yi

WHICH UNIVERSITIES OFFER SUCH PROGRAMS? Over 900 universities offer such programmes throughout the world. Some of the prominent ones are: ◊ • New York University, USA ◊ • University of Connecticut, USA ◊ • University of Massachusetts, USA ◊ • Utrecht University, Netherlands ◊ • Ohio State University, USA

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 39

38 Foreign Shores.indd 39

23-11-2013 17:34:49

MY STORY

PARALLEL WORLDS The Oceanic Realm ‘The Fleeting And The Permanent’

Sumer Verma, the highest CMAS instructor in India and an accomplished underwater photographer, gives an account of his journeys in deep, mysterious oceans FROM ADVERTISEMENT TO MARINE PHOTOGRAPHY

I

was working in the advertisement industry with Prahlad Kakkar for a year after my graduation. During that time I went to Lakshadweep for a vacation. As a young 21-year-old, the experience of diving for the first time and walking beneath the stars on a beach... I was completely mystified by the beauty of the island life. I followed my passion, which led me to becoming a scuba diving instructor.

I worked for 12 years at Lakshadweep and 5 years at Andaman for Lacadives as a diving instructor. When I returned home to Mumbai, I was quite surprised

that many of my friends and other people didn’t know much about the marine ecosystem. I wanted to share my experience of those beautiful marine creatures.

Everyone doesn’t go diving, so the easier way was to get photographs back to them. From then, I started doing video footages and then eventually started still photography too.

First expedition My first expedition was at Orissa with Greenpeace to photograph the Olive Ridley Turtles

40 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013 Underwater photographer Sumer Verma 40 my story.indd 40

23-11-2013 17:36:38

PREP BEFORE SHOOTING

If I am shooting wildlife creatures I research on the creatures and study their behaviour. Some fish have reflective, shiny, silvery surfaces and need to be lit accordingly. Whereas more light is required for creatures like turtles who have a dark surface. Underwater photography is much more than mere instincts and feeling; it involves a high level of technique.

APPROACHING SEA CREATURES

When it comes to marine photography, in most of the photographs you’ll see the backs of the creatures because they keep swimming away from people, so to get frontal portraits of fish, you have to plan.

When underwater one has to be very calm and collected; one must move slowly. Fish are gentle and peaceful, inquisitive, curious and graceful creatures. They get startled with the bubbles from the scuba equipment; you can’t do anything that is aggressive or upsetting to the animals in terms of big movements.

I maintain eye contact with the sea creatures to feel a connection with them while they are in their exotic trance.

THE LUMINOUS DEEP

That was the name of my first photography exhibition in 2006. Now it is my underwater photography company through which I do all my commercial assignments, advert campaigns, underwater sequences for feature films, as well as editorial imaging for both fashion and general wildlife shoots.

TROUBLED WATERS

Troubled Waters was my first feature film.

I started collecting video footage and had collected a lot of footage without much idea of how to use it.

28 years of global warming had caused the El Niño current to get warm and had caused major bleaching of corals all over the world, including in Lakshadweep. In the course of 3 or 4 months, 85% of the coral reefs had gone from being perfectly brilliant to completely bleached, and

‘The Big Elephant’ ‘In The Realm Of Giants’

Sumer’s fashion photography Image courtesy Vogue

the corals eventually died, crumbled and gathered moss SNAPSHOTS and the entire reef system Favourite creature to changed in front of my eyes. shoot: Manta Rays Therefore, Troubled Waters is a film about Favourite location for underwater Lakshadweep – an isolated photography: region that is being Galapagos affected by such a global phenomenon triggered Best picture: school by increasing consumer of Hammerhead demands in urban areas.

Sharks

urgent need for opinions and attitudes to change.

And if my imagery can be a part of that process, I’m very happy to play my role.

MY DREAM PROJECT

I would probably take up a project of marine life and fashion photography – merging human element with wildlife. It would A marine THE NEED involve sea creatures and photographer who FOR MARINE inspires you: David humans interacting in a creative way, keeping the CONSERVATION Doubilet fashion aspect in mind, We must make people in the If not underwater and using those beautiful city aware of the creatures in the sea, what is threatening creatures, you would images to spread awareness. photograph... Tigers It would be an ambitious them and the role we can project in which models play in being part of a Longest time change in consciousness underwater: about 6 would work with Stingrays in the Cayman Islands or to protect and respect our hours with Tiger Sharks in the natural habitat rather than destroy it completely like we Number of dives so Bahamas or with Manta far: 7000 plus Rays in Hawaii. yi are doing today. There is an DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 41

40 my story.indd 41

23-11-2013 17:36:50

COVER STORY

THE

A

JOY OF IMPARTING K

s children, most of us would have had a laundry list of diverse careers to pursue as an adult. Fireman, postman, bus conductor, train driver, shopkeeper and teacher were common choices.

But as we aged, our preferences changed and our laundry list first shrunk and then transformed. Our childhood fascination with firemen, postmen, et al waned and our career choices became banker, computer

programmer, accountant and so on – careers that seemed more ‘respectable’ and ‘lucrative’. This is understandable, as in this day and age of intense competition and expensive living, holding steadfast to a career that pays well translates to financial stability.

No takers for teaching

Sadly, in the revamp of our laundry list of careers, teaching is replaced too.

The common perception of teaching is that while it is honourable, it is

repetitive, consuming and, worst of all, ill-paid – this last is true especially for teachers working in government or government-assisted institutes.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

A job that pays

The sixth pay commission, the current salary structure for government employees, also covers the pay of teachers, both in government and private schools. According to its

42 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

42 Cover story.indd 42

23-11-2013 17:38:34

A career in education has often been overlooked by young people for a variety of reasons.

Youth Inc profiles five education careers that bring immense satisfaction, a sense of fulfilment, and are lucrative too

G KNOWLEDGE diktat, the starting salary for teachers in government schools is between `18,000 and `20,000 per month, including provident fund, travel allowance and dearness allowance.

A teacher with about six years of experience earns upto `21,000 a month, and a teacher with 12 to 15 years of experience commands at least `30,000 a month. Additionally, the sixth pay commission has promised a raise of 15 to 20% over the next four years.

The evolution of teaching

The most common profession in the education sector is teaching, and teaching can be done in schools and colleges, but there exist other, ‘new age’ teaching jobs. Private tuition has existed for some years but has now become in demand for children as young as four! Tutoring children outside of school has snowballed and evolved into coaching classes, which resemble regular schools in many ways with multiple classrooms,

several teachers from different faculty, in-house tests and exams, custom textbooks and notes, and so on. Private tutoring is still a typical teaching job, but in a different capacity and for a lot more money.

The age of the internet

A newer, younger face in teaching has been spawned by the internet – online tutoring. With better internet connection around the world, it is now possible to connect with a tutor, say, in Spain, and learn Spanish via a video calling facility like Skype.

Again, like private tuitions, online tutoring has also begun evolving into online schools where one can study multiple courses for certification and recognised qualifications. All one needs is a computer and a good internet connection.

Beyond teachers

If teaching isn’t your choice of profession, there are other roles in the education sector. There is always the option of taking up a non-teaching job, as a librarian or physical education teacher. One may even become the administrator of the institute, a CEO of sorts, either as the principal or dean of a school or college, or as a CEO itself of a company that runs several schools.

It is possible to work independent of institutes as well. Education counsellors counsel students on higher education and choice of career practice and need not be attached to a school or college. Remedial educators are also in demand now, as they work with children who have learning difficulties like dyslexia. These educators may or may not be attached to a school.

A safe choice

The education industry is diverse, enriching and thriving. It is a sector that will never go out of business or lose funds because of recession because children need an education in all circumstances. With good pay and job stability, this is indeed a lucrative field for a young graduate.

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 43

42 Cover story.indd 43

11/25/2013 7:24:59 PM

COVER STORY

DELIGHT OF THE BLACKBOARD

THE

Teachers are known to be second parents to students for the values and knowledge they impart during the formative years of their lives. Read more on how to be a teacher

COURSE CANVAS Overview

The primary school teacher is a student’s first contact point with formal education.

Although kindergarten and other preschool education have picked up importance, most formal education systems begin with primary schooling.

This is followed up by secondary and higher secondary schooling.

The prime focus of a teacher, an educator working through any of the rungs of school education, is to mould their students for higher learning and also for life post school. Being the first formal educators of a student’s life, they are responsible for creating an all-important lasting impression.

Study route

Basic eligibility 10+2 in any stream with minium of 50% marks To teach elementary school 2-year diploma in Elementary Education or a 4-year Bachelor of Elementary Education degree To teach secondary/ high school A bachelor’s degree A Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree To teach higher secondary school A master’s degree in the relevant subject A BEd degree All courses must be approved by National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) except for cases of special education where courses must be approved by Rehabilitation Council of India.

Career path

 BEd, KJ Somaiya Comprehensive College of Education, Mumbai  BEd, Amity Institute of Education, Noida  BEd, Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi  Diploma in Elementary Educaton, The Oxford College of Diploma in Education, Bengaluru  Bachelor of Elementary Educaton, Lady Shri Ram College for Women, New Delhi

ŦŦ Clear the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) conducted by the state government or the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) conducted by the central government ŦŦ To teach in a governmentrun or aided school, complete a basic 2-year teacher’s training programme which is recognised by the NCTE

44 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

42 Cover story.indd 44

23-11-2013 17:39:29

THE

CONVENTIONAL EDUCATOR Nandita Dasgupta, principal of Global Indian International School, Noida, talks about the role and responsibilities of a teacher in the classroom

Becoming a teacher

A postgraduation degree in a chosen discipline and a Bachelor in Education degree with a minimum of 3 years experience were the requirements expected from me when becoming a teacher.

Requisite skills

A teacher should ideally possess good communication skills, good pedagogical skills and should have sufficient planning skills to get started.

Responsibilities at work

As a teacher, my primary responsibility is to be completely accountable for the holistic development of each and every child under my care.

Remuneration

The pay packages for teachers can be expected according to the Sixth Central Pay Commission depending on the grades and the pay bands the respective teacher falls under.

Perks and challenges

The first and foremost challenge is to keep innovating and spreading your horizons to help prepare your students with respect to the kind of world they

will be inheriting as today’s children and tomorrow’s decision makers.

The perks of the job are always the simple words of appreciation and the pat on the back from children/ parents /stakeholders etc. They mean much more than material benefits.

3 things I love about my job

I love the great bonding with children the job affords. I love the exhilaration I get when a lesson is well executed and I enjoy the fact that the job keeps me constantly dynamic on a 24x7 scale.

How I stay motivated

To put it simply: total passion for the calling.

The education industry in five years

I see the education industry becoming very challenging because we are entering a scenario where students will have access to any curriculum they want which will help them achieve their ambitions. The boundaries of geography and physical space will no longer be restricting factors and I foresee schools will only play the role of facilitators in the future.

Raising the standard of Indian education

I think Indian educators can stay forward thinking and plan for the next millennium to help raise the standard of Indian education.

Advice for aspiring teachers

Don’t enter this area for a stop gap reason or just to earn money.

I love the great bonding with children the job affords. I love the exhilaration I get when a lesson is well executed and I enjoy the fact that the job keeps me constantly dynamic on a 24x7 scale.

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 45

42 Cover story.indd 45

23-11-2013 17:39:37

COVER STORY

SATISFACTION OF ELIMINATING HOMEWORK THE

Overview

From tuition teachers working in a single room in their house to train students to coaching classes that do the same in study centres across the country, there is no dearth of after-school training programmes for students. And these are bound to grow with the increasing number of higher education students and the demand for more classes for pre-school students. Tuition teacher and classes is the popular term used in India to refer to test and subject preparatory courses and classes that work outside of school hours to assist students with their needs.

Study route

Coaching and tuition classes are not formal educational setups in India which are governed by educational boards.

Hence there is no certified programme that can qualify a person to become a tuition teacher or start their own coaching classes.

Having a postgraduate degree or diploma in the subject/field you plan on teaching is recommended for secondary and higher secondary level teaching.

Since a coaching class can be considered an entrepreneurial venture, it would be advisable to attain a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree or other equivalent management certification from a reputed institute.

COURSE CANVAS  Post Graduate Programme in Management, Indian Institute of Management (IIM), all over India  Post Graduate Dipolma in Management, S. P. Jain Institute of Management and Research, Mumbai  MBA, Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune

Tuition teachers and coaching classes have become an integral part of India’s education system. With increasing competition and constantly rising standards, students need help outside the classroom to score top marks Career path

ŦŦ Having many years of experience as a teacher under your belt will help you make a good start as a coaching class teacher ŦŦ To start a coaching class, it is advisable to have worked in the education industry for a few years ŦŦ Having prior experience in the field will help you understand the operations to be conducted ŦŦ It is important to stay updated with changes in policy as well as changes in subject and exam patterns to best help your students

46 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

42 Cover story.indd 46

23-11-2013 17:39:52

THE

TESTING COACH Manek N. Daruvala is the director of Triumphant Institute of Management Education (T.I.M.E.), one of India’s leading test preparation coaching classes

Things I love about my job

I had a passion for education, and pursuing it as a career gives me immense satisfaction. More than any remuneration, it is this satisfaction which matters at the end of the day.

How I stay motivated

It is the love of teaching and the ability to make a difference in a student's career that keeps me going.

The education industry in five years

Becoming the director of a subject. Subject knowledge is vital coaching class and one needs to stay updated with After graduating and then completing IIM-Ahemdabad’s post-graduate management programme, I worked at several places including VJIL Consulting Ltd in Hyderabad as head of the education and training division.

More than any qualification, it was a passion for teaching that pushed me to start T.I.M.E. and venture into this field. The education at IIM-Ahmedabad helped me become an entrepreneur and my stint with VJIL Consulting Ltd gave me a basic understanding of the education industry.

Requisite skills

As an educational entrepreneur, I focus on two areas – teaching and entrepreneurship. For teaching, one needs to be thorough with the

changes in the exam patterns. For entrepreneurship, you need the courage to take risks. Making the right decisions at the right time is also vital. Ability to adapt is the key.

Responsibilities at work

I have been associated with a variety of functional areas at T.I.M.E. – from faculty training and development to advertising and marketing.

Remuneration

I was the director of T.I.M.E. when we started this company with a corpus of `24,000 in the year 1992 and today our brand turnover is `241 crores.

There is no fixed salary scale when you are an entrepreneur. You start from scratch and then you can grow over the years.

The education industry will continue on its growth trajectory. Rising aspirations of parents will drive the sharp increase in household spend on education in India. Steady growth and recession proof nature of the industry is going to stay.

Raising the standard of Indian education

We at T.I.M.E. consciously aim at building and developing every resource we hire. Training the trainer is very important. To raise the standard of Indian education, it is vital to enhance the quality of teachers.

Advice for aspiring coaching classes directors/private tutors

To succeed, one should undercommit and over-deliver. That has worked well for us at T.I.M.E. There is no substitute to honesty and the commitment to work hard.

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 47

42 Cover story.indd 47

23-11-2013 17:39:58

COVER STORY

BUZZ OF ONLINE CLASSROOMS THE

With the advent of the internet and its varied facilities, it is now possible to attain a qualification sitting at home with a computer.

Online education is an exciting field of possibilities, challenges and immense creativity

MOOC PORTALS Overview

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), a concept that has been invented for the internet age, allows anyone and everyone with an internet connection to study courses online, usually for free. The course content is similar to that studied offline; notes, homework assignments and worksheets are made available, along with pre-recorded video lectures. However, since the internet allows for instant communication, there are also instant messaging facilities and discussion forums for students to talk to other students and instructors.

Study route

There are no strictly enforced qualification requirements to be an online educator, but it helps to have a higher degree qualification or a teaching certificate in the subject you wish to teach, as this makes you a more credible tutor. Recommended qualifications are: BEd/MEd Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) qualification for school level teaching (upto class 8) National Eligibility Test (NET) qualification for college level teaching

Career path  National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL): www. nptel.iitm.ac.in A diverse offering of courses predominantly from the IITs and IISc  Coursera: www. coursera.org 542 free courses from 107 global universities  Khan Academy: www.khancademy. org Over 700 microlectures for school students and beyond  Udacity: www. udacity.com Offers predominantly computer science courses

ŦŦ First gain experience teaching in an offline setting – most MOOC teachers have experience teaching in conventional classrooms and are both offline and online teachers ŦŦ It also helps to first structure and design courses as a teacher in the real world before attempting to do so in the virtual world ŦŦ When you have built sufficient credibility as an educator, you may transition to online tutoring, either through your present institute or independently ŦŦ It is recommended that online educators study information technology to understand the best ways to harness the potential of the internet

48 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

42 Cover story.indd 48

23-11-2013 17:40:11

THE

DIGITAL PROFESSOR Anisha Ghosh, co-founder and teacher at The Academic Financial Trading Platform (AFTP), an online institute offering business courses, talks about educating students via the internet Becoming an online educator

As a professor at Carnegie Mellon University, I have been engaged in teaching undergraduate, MBA and PhD courses. Recent advances in information technology made me recognise that top quality higher education can be more broadly disseminated to learners in different parts of the world, something they would otherwise not have access to.

Requisite skills

Very good communication skills and considerable thoughtfulness in designing an online course to achieve outcomes similar to those achieved in conventional classroom settings.

Responsibilities at work

MAKING MONEY AS AN ONLINE EDUCATOR  Via revenue sharing

partnerships with local universities wherein students engage in online learning at home and then interact with an on-campus professor  Via distance learning partnerships, where the partnering university would offer certain MOOCs (in conjunction with some of its own) for certification  Via partnerships with employers who may avail of MOOCs for on-the-job training of employees who can also receive certification

Ensuring effective learning outcomes for the students. For instance, each course has a ‘Discussion Forum’ to facilitate interaction between the instructor and the students as well as between students. Instructors also hold weekly office hours to answer questions from students through the platform. These are crucial supplements to pre-recorded video lectures, accompanying slides and homework assignments.

Perks and challenges

Online teaching provides the opportunity to reach much larger numbers of students that would be impossible to achieve in capacityconstrained classrooms. The lecture content can be prepared at the instructor’s time and pace and re-used for subsequent offerings of the course.

One of the main challenges is ensuring effective learning outcomes. Online courses must be designed to closely

mimic the traditional course delivery method.

3 things I love about my job

First, I see the opportunity to reach much larger numbers of students.

Second, MOOCs can transmit not only education but also research to the general public on a grand scale.

Third, I have witnessed significant and growing interest for AFTP courses among Indian students. It gives me immense satisfaction to see that MOOCs go a long way.

How I stay motivated

Several thousand students enrolled in my first MOOC course. The majority were from India, including some from very remote parts of the country.

Their testimonials emphasising the usefulness of the course, along with the recognition that such services would not otherwise be accessible offered me unparalleled satisfaction.

The education industry in five years

MOOC courses are going to be increasingly used wherein lecture videos covering fundamental concepts would be made available ahead of time and the limited class time would be spent on student interaction, reviewing difficult concepts and working on example problems.

Raising the standard of Indian education

Indian universities can partner with MOOC providers to offer courses from the world’s top schools for credit.

Upon successful completion, students can receive a certificate which can be forwarded to potential employers.

Advice for aspiring online educators Think carefully about how your product is going to be differentiated in the face of increasing competition from both universities as well as private institutions developing their own MOOC programmes.

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 49

42 Cover story.indd 49

23-11-2013 17:40:20

GLEE IN SHAPING LIVES THE

Counsellors help guide a student through their tough education and career decisions. Their calculated advice is paramount in directing students towards a suitable career and a successful professional life Overview

Counselling students takes place at various levels. School counsellors may be professionals employed by the school on a full-time basis or as a faculty member trained to counsel students in addition to their regular teachingrelated responsibilities.

Career counsellors are professionals who work individually or with a collective to help students frame a path to attain a certain career goal. Education counselling is provided when a student isn’t sure what they want to do while career counselling aims to help a student who is sure about his career objective.

COURSE CANVAS

Study route

There is no centrally accepted programme which is considered a definite requirement for someone to be certified as an education or career counsellor.

However, certain courses can help attain the knowledge and skill required for the field. They are: A postgraduate diploma in guidance and counselling An MA in Educational Psychology A Master of Education in educational and vocational guidance

Career path

 Diploma

Course in Guidance and Counselling, National Institute of Education, New Delhi/ Bhopal/ Bhubaneswar/ Mysore/Shillong  Certificate course in School Counselling, Karnataka State Open University, Mysore  Certificate in Guidance, Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi

ŦŦ To be a top-notch education or career counsellor, it is important to gain plenty of experience in the field ŦŦ Experience is vital for counselling students ŦŦ Working overseas in an educational institution can help gain the experience required to be an overseas education counsellor ŦŦ Being constantly updated about the education industry and policy changes that may affect other industries is also important

50 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

42 Cover story.indd 50

23-11-2013 17:40:35

THE

PATH FINDER

Becoming a career counsellor

To become a career counsellor, ideally one can do BA and master/ PG in career guidance/counselling psychology. To succeed in this field it is equally important to stay updated on different careers and courses.

Requisite skills

Listening skills, observation skills, patience, solution oriented approach, communication skills and interpersonal skills are primarily required to be an effective counsellor.

Responsibilities at work

Interacting with clients (students and parents), administering psychometric tests, guiding clients on the basis of client’s performance in the tests, solving career queries, giving career seminars, organising career workshops and taking up career and personal counselling sessions.

Remuneration

Freshers can expect a pay package between `1 to 1.5 lakh annually. With work experience and performance on the job the package can range from `2.5 to 4 lakh annually.

Swati Salunkhe, Managing Director of counselling firm Growth Centre, and frequent career columnist for several publications, talks about the gratification associated with helping students find their career and education path

Perks and challenges

The perks include increased knowledge about people, careers, perspectives and a sense of satisfaction and purpose. The biggest challenge is to identify the right fit between the desired career and the potential career while ensuring client satisfaction.

3 things I love about my job

Firstly, interacting with people from various backgrounds, cultures and economic strata. Secondly, facilitating their career decision choices and giving them solutions. And the third would be on-job experiential learning.

How I stay motivated

The education sector and people itself are interesting. Also, every client, every query and every concern is unique which demands individual attention, creative insights and thinking from multiple perspectives which keep one occupied without thinking about hours.

The education industry in five years

The education industry is only expected to expand with the advancements in technology, openness of students to opt for nonconventional courses and availability of courses through different modes of education that has expanded its reach to the masses. Also, more specific courses are expected to come up as well as upgraded educational policies and regulatory organisations.

The biggest challenge is to identify the right fit between the desired career and the potential career while ensuring client satisfaction.

Raising the standard of Indian education

Educators can contribute in the education policy, ensure technological advancements in teaching, focus on inclusive education, adapt with student learning styles, harp on the importance of career guidance.

Advice for aspiring counsellors

From a perspective of social work to being accepted as a professional service, counselling has come a long way and hence, anyone willing to take it professionally should have the right skill sets, willingness to learn and patience.

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 51

42 Cover story.indd 51

23-11-2013 17:40:49

PRIDE IN BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS

TULANE PUBLIC RELATIONS, FLICKR

THE

If you would like a teaching job that does not focus on academics and that challenges your creativity every day, a remedial educator is what you should be

COURSE CANVAS Overview

Remedial education is a specialised branch of teaching that helps children with learning difficulties/disabilities (LD) pick up certain skills and cope with their weaknesses. Since learning difficulties are varied, from dyslexia to autism, and each child exhibiting an LD also has varying levels of the disorder. Thus, remedial education is highly individualised and focuses on overcoming the barriers to learning by, for example, helping a child identify alphabets and read (in the case of dyslexia) or helping them comprehend numbers (in the case of dyscalculia) and so on.

Career path

Study route

Class 12 in any subject Any bachelor’s degree, although a BA/BSc in Psychology is recommended A teaching certificate/ qualification is recommended: a TET or a NET. NET would open doors to research qualifications like PhD if you are interested A BEd then MEd in learning disability or special education, or a postgraduate diploma in special education (PGDSE)

 BEd and MEd in Learning Disability, Mumbai University  BEd, MEd and PGDSE for various disabilities, Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi  Diploma in Dyslexia Therapy, Maharashtra Dyslexia Association, Mumbai  Diploma in Learning Disability, Shristi Child Development & Learning Institute, New Delhi

ŦŦ Some institutes for remedial education require prior teaching experience, so you may start as a regular teacher ŦŦ While studying to be a remedial educator, a three-month internship at a special school, LD school or a remedial centre is recommended ŦŦ Start as a counsellor in a centre or school ŦŦ With enough experience, you could start your own remedial counselling centre

COMMON LEARNING DIFFICULTIES  Dyslexia: trouble with words and reading  Dyscalculia: trouble with numbers and maths  Dysgraphia: trouble with writing

52 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

42 Cover story.indd 52

11/25/2013 7:25:18 PM

THE

THWARTER OF DISORDERS Becoming a remedial educator

I did BCom and then a PGDSE in Mumbai. Simultaneously, I did my internship at Saplings Special School, also in Mumbai.

Requisite skills

Innovativeness and creativity are of utmost importance; one must be prepared with three or four techniques of teaching a topic.

One should be a good listener, and observant of a child’s learning methods. Don’t force them to learn according to how you teach.

It helps if a remedial educator is also a counsellor, as most children with LD are low on motivation and selfesteem.

Responsibilities at work

Once assessment tests have diagnoseda child’s learning disability, the child’s strengths and weaknesses are found out. Then an Individualised Education Plan for the child is planned, keeping in mind the weaknesses. This serves as the child’s curriculum for the entire year.

Based on this plan, worksheets and teaching aids are prepared. At the end of the planned periods, the child is re-evaluated to see if there has been an improvement.

Remuneration

Nisha Baikerikar, a remedial educator at Prafulta, a counselling centre for school children in Mumbai, weighs in on her profession and what it means to teach children with learning difficulties

Remedial teachers are usually paid on an hourly basis. Self-employed teachers with experience can charge anywhere from `450 to `600 for an hour’s remedial.

Perks and challenges

Self-employed educators have flexibility of work timings.With experience, you can work in schools or centres as a freelancer and provide guidance to other remedial and special educators.Whileone needs to have various strategies for each

child and make them innovative and interesting every time, a child might take a lot of time to respond to them. Here patience is the key.

3 things I love about my job I can be as creative as possible with my teaching aids and worksheets.

I love the instant feedback I receive from my students. There is constant learning and upgrading, both for me and my students. Job satisfaction is high in this field.

How I stay motivated

By keeping myself abreast with the latest techniques, laws, tools and evaluative measures that exist in the field. It also helps to have fun during your sessions.

The education industry in five years

The aim for our educationists should be for the integration of all the differently abled under one roof. There is a need for greater awareness regarding remedial and special education among schools and the education community.

Raising the standard of Indian education

Future educators should establish adept training of teachers, leading to the right school leadership that is needed to meet the educational challenges of the future.

Advice for aspiring remedial educators

Remediation is not like private tuitions which deal with academic areas. Remediation deals with deficit skills. It is more individualised. It also deals with certain psychosocial aspects of the child’s personality and environment. These have to be kept in mind. yi DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 53

42 Cover story.indd 53

23-11-2013 17:41:12

PRODIGY

The

‘Edupreneur’ Ryan Pinto, the CEO of Ryan International Group of Institutions, talks about the pleasures and responsibilities of running and managing schools in India

 How did you become CEO of Ryan International Group of Institutions?

I want to firstly thank Jesus Christ for His blessing and for giving me the opportunity of being in education and helping to positively impact the nation. I have completed my undergraduate studies from Aston Business School and did my postgraduation from Cass Business School, London.

Additionally, I have other professional qualifications form Harvard University.

However, closely working with my parents and taking on responsibility with passion and commitment has really helped me fit in the role of being the CEO of the countrywide network of the Ryan International Group of Institutions.

54 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

54 Prodigy.indd 54

11/25/2013 7:26:22 PM

 What skills would you say are necessary in an educational entrepreneur?

Firstly, the vision and the drive to serve children. One needs to recognise that it is not just another job or career but a calling that requires a lot of commitment and sacrifice. You are not dealing with products; instead, you are building a relationship with your students, parents and co-workers.

Hence your interpersonal skills play a major role. Also, as you are dealing with young children you need to be patient, willing to understand their challenges and help them overcome their shortcomings. You also need to be able to continuously upgrade and update yourself as things like technology are rapidly changing the entire learning experience.  What are the ups and downs of being an educational entrepreneur?

The biggest challenge I face is time management, as I travel extensively due to which coordinating schedules across time zones can pose a challenge sometimes. I often feel that I practically live out of my suitcases.

However, I do enjoy the travel and the biggest perk is that I regularly meet people from various backgrounds with rich experiences. This helps me keep updated with the latest trends and innovative thinking.  What are your responsibilities at work?

At this moment my focus is on expanding our presence within India and abroad, especially the Middle East and South Asia. I’m also involved in implementing new aspects of technology both inside and outside the classroom, in order to enrich the learning experience of the students, give a greater level of connectivity amongst all the stakeholders of the school and bring in greater levels of efficiency in the administration process. Furthermore, I regularly look at opportunities of building partnerships with other educational institutions.

 What do you love most about your job?

Opportunity to be amongst the youth all the time Seeing the transformation of children growing into young adults Playing an important role in nation building  How difficult is it to become an educational entrepreneur in India?

As in all sectors of the economy, education also has its challenges.

Those who are attempting to enter this segment in India have to be aware that there are various issues ranging from inadequate funds, shortage of qualified and trained teachers, lack of awareness for the importance of quality education, to the usage of nonrelevant curricula and methodology and so forth. These are obvious issues and there may be other factors which contribute to the problems of Indian education, but with the promise it holds, there cannot be any problem too big to resolve, although it does require persistence and passion to follow it through and realise the potential the country holds.  Where do you see the education industry in the next 5 years?

First, the impact and presence of technology is getting more pervasive.

Interactive learning, tablet based education, etc are increasingly being adapted within the classroom. As technology gets cheaper it will increase accessibility and penetration. The overall eco-system is encouraging more entrepreneurship, especially in the support services. A number of new organisations (mostly start-ups) arecoming up which are addressing specific aspects of education.

Second, the marking system, where the be-all and end-all of the examination system was marks, is slowly giving way to a more healthy assessment criterion which focuses on other intelligences. There is also a slow but sure shift to streams other than engineering and medicine, more so in urban areas.

“One needs to recognise that educational entrepreneurship is not just another job or career but a calling that requires a lot of commitment and sacrifice”  What can future educators do to raise the standard of Indian education?

The key points are to ensure that education becomes more engaging and relevant. Children are really eager learners. Anything that can be done to make sure that children enjoy the process of learning will transform the school experience. The problem with defining ‘standards’ is that it becomes a numbers game. We need to understand that education defines and forms the character of the children and through them the nation.  Do you have any advice for those planning on taking up a position such as yours?

The motive for which one enters this field has to be clarified at the outset. If the motive is not clear than the entire purpose of entry into this field is in vain. The ground realities do indicate the need for more educational institutions to meet the demands of the growing population.

India needs a breed of progressive leaders in education who could be the trailblazers of quality education in the country. I do believe there are many who are willing to invest in the field for various reasons, but more importantly, the aim should be of providing accessible, quality education to the youth of our nation. yi

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 55

54 Prodigy.indd 55

11/25/2013 7:26:36 PM

WISE UP

1

2

R

D

O N Z 1

3

1

1

2

- By Niloufer Gandhi

1

E

O W

Choose the option that is closest in meaning to the main word and complete the sentence.

1. Cruciverbalist (kroo-suh-vur-buh-list)

It is imperative for a _____ to have an exhaustive vocabulary and the ability to frame appropriate clues of different levels of difficulty. (a) maker of glass (b) maker of crosswords (c) maker of medicines

2. Gaffer (gaf-er)

A trip to Italy is incomplete without a visit to Murano to see the ______ create works of art by directing air through hot molten glass, shaping it into sculptures or vases. (a) glassblower (b) florist (c) lawyer

3. Sommelier (suhm-uh-l-yey)

Professions with quirky names Did you know that a hat maker is also called a hatter? Well, if you think that’s quirky, let’s see what you have to say about these professions

Confused about ordering the wine, the couple requested the hotel’s ____ for the perfect pairing. (a) surgeon (b) wine taster (c) teacher

4. Cartographer (kahr-tog-ruh-fer)

In the middle of the 16th century, a leading ____ , Gerardus Mercator, developed a cylindrical projection that is still widely used for navigation charts and global maps. (a) social worker (b) dentist (c) map maker

5. Horologists (haw-rol-uh-jist)

Answers:

1. B, 2. A, 3. B, 4. C, 5. A

The curators at the museum organised an exhibition to commend the contribution of famous ______ by showcasing the most unique and antiquated watches and clocks. (a) watch makers (b) candle makers (c) soap makers

Word Pyramid

The clues will help you find the answers to complete the word pyramid. Each answer must contain the previous answer. You may arrange the words with a new letter.

Hint: Start from the top 1. The colour of danger

R

E

D

2. A stalk of tall grass growing in the marshes 3. To discourage or demotivate 4. Not owned, leased 5. Artificial teeth

7. An exciting or daring experience

Answers:

RED, REED, DETER, RENTED, DENTURE, DENATURE, ADVENTURE

6. To change the nature or structure of

56 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

56 word.indd 56

23-11-2013 17:43:42

yi

entertain Catch up with a list of the top 10 highlights of the past year with our countdown to The Newsmakers of 2013...

Page 66

Pg58 Pg64 Pg68

Pg70

RISING STARS OF INDIAN MUSIC

FIND YOUR IDEAL WORKOUT

A CHRISTMAS STORY

WINTER WONDERLAND

INDIAN MUSIC HAS AN ILLUSTRIOUS PAST, A VIBRANT PRESENT AND MANY TALENTED MUSICIANS FOR THE FUTURE

DIFFERENT STYLES OF WORKING OUT ARE SUITED TO DIFFERENT PERSONALITIES. FIND YOUR PERFECT STYLE

NISHA JAMVWAL TALKS ABOUT HER LOVE FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON AND THE CHEER IT BRINGS

THE PERFECT APPAREL TO BRAVE THE COLD, COLDER AND COLDEST WEATHER

57 ent sec.indd 57

11/23/2013 4:46:10 PM

ENTERTAINMENT FEATURE

Outside of the Bollywood dhinchak and the thumps of EDM, music in India has had an older and longer history whose traditions are being kept alive by many young musicians. Youth Inc introduces you to some of them

Risingof stars Indian music

KEDONDENG, FLICKR

I

f India were to be personified, its music would be the manifestation of its many quirks. Think of every adjective that describes India and you would be describing its music too.

Here’s a short checklist: Diverse – yes, Indian music has many varieties Colourful – definitely Accommodative – you would be surprised Complex – arithmetic plays an important role in music, did you know?

Chaotic – okay, no. One exception. Indian music is very structured, harmonious and melodious Filthy – alright, another exception. Indian music can be uplifting, cathartic, inspiring and even life-changing simply with various strings of certain notes Indian music is said to have its origins in the Vedas, particularly Samaveda – literally, ‘knowledge of melody’. It is a collection of hymns and verses, meant to be sung at various rituals. However, the Samaveda is not the only parent of Indian music; there are several other texts that laid down the foundations of different musical styles, particularly classical music, and you will read about these in a little more detail in the following pages.

Indian music has multiple faces, and many of those faces are still alive and kicking, thanks to their dedicated preservation by artists in the country and abroad. Traditionally,, music in India is classical – under the two umbrellas of Hindustani and Carnatic; religious – as our music is tightly interwoven with religion, spirituality and piety; and folk – which reflects the lives of local and regional communities and is steeped in folklore and the ‘Indian way of life’.

It is fascinating that just seven notes, the fundamental blocks of music universally, are harnessed so differently and variedly around the world to form unique sounds in every country, nay, every community. Within India itself, there exists much dissimilarity between musical styles, but somehow they are all still similar and still ‘Indian’, so to speak. Much like us Indians, wouldn’t you say?

58 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

58 Entertainment feature.indd 58

25-11-2013 13:17:14

Music for the soul Melodious, enchanting and mesmerising, Hindustani classical music has a unique influence on its listeners

Hindustani

music, also called Shastriya Sangit, is a subgenre of Indian classical music that is associated with north India. It has been heavily influenced by Persian and Sufi music, although it originated in the Vedic chants of ancient India.

Musical style

Melody is of paramount importance; thus, ragas form the melodic foundation of this genre. There are many ways of singing in Hindustani, but the two major ones are dhrupad (an older, devotional style usually

performed by male singers) and khyal (a fusion of dhrupad and Persian music; a more popular style).

History

The Mughal empire and the cultural exchange that took place therein spawned Hindustani music.

In time, various gharanas (schools of music) emerged based on the dhrupad and khyal styles. As most arts in India, Hindustani music too was supported by kings.

Current scenario

With artists like Ravi Shankar, Hindustani music has gone global to such an extent that Indian classical music abroad is equated to Hindustani music. Even today, Hindustani instruments like the tabla and sitar are frequently used by international musicians.

NOTABLE MUSICIANS

Allaudin Khan Bhimsen Joshi Ravi Shankar Pandit Jasraj Veena Sahasrabuddhe Ashwini Bhide Deshpande

The blossoming nightingale Janhavi Phansalkar is the recipient of the NCPA-CITI Scholarship for music and came second in All India Radio’s National Music Competition this year Early beginnings

My parents are deeply interested in classical music and are avid listeners.

My mother used to play the sitar. She was keen that I and my elder brother be trained in music too.

Why Hindustani music?

As a child, I was attracted to the aura surrounding great maestros like Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, Pandita Kishori Amonkar, etc. Classical music is the mother of all genres. It is the vastness, depth and all-inclusive nature of this genre that has attracted me.

My musical spirit guide

I idolise my gurus. I am extremely lucky to be groomed by broad-minded, liberal and self-made artists like Dr. Usha Parkhi and Vidushi Veena Sahasrabuddhe. As for my guru

Vidushi Veenatai, she is one of the strongest pillars of Hindustani music today.

My first big break

My concert at the Dadar Matunga Cultural Centre (in Mumbai) was my first major public performance. I was very fortunate that Pandit Sharad Sathe (revered, senior artist of the Gwalior Gharana) was present at the recital.

Cherry on top for my musical career

I feel that I owe something to the music fraternity. It is the duty of aspiring artists to preserve what the masters have created, add to it and pass it on. If I am successful in contributing to this field in some small way, that will be the cherry on top!

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 59

58 Entertainment feature.indd 59

25-11-2013 13:17:31

ENTERTAINMENT FEATURE

Music for the mind Carnatic music is often seen as rigid, incomprehensible and somehow weird. Once you get to know it, though, you will realise it is a rich, complex and magical form of music

of notes for building melodies), and talam (time metre) which determines the defined number of beats in a song.

Emphasis is placed on technique, but melody is important too. An artist who can bend and blend distinct notes in a song is considered masterful.

Carnatic

History

music is a classical music style that is identified with the southern region of India. Like its northern counterpart, Hindustani, it too evolved from the Hindu traditions of ancient India which is why the prominent theme here is religion as well.

Musical style

Important elements are shruti (pitch), swara (notes) which are combined in manifold ways to produce ragas (sets

Silappadikaram, a Tamil epic by Ilango Adigal, laid down the rules of modern day Carnatic music. Kings of south India encouraged both vocalists and instrumentalists.

Current scenario

Chennai is the seat of Carnatic music and is host to a prestigious annual Carnatic music festival held in December, which is increasingly seeing young people taking to the stage and wowing the audience with their skills.

A star in the making Aishwarya Shankar has been awarded a music scholarship by the Government of India, the People’s Choice Carnatic Music Idol Award, and is a finalist in SPIC MACAY’s all-India music competition, Naad Bhed

NOTABLE MUSICIANS

Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar and Syama Shastri – the Trinity of Carnatic music who composed many songs performed in this genre Purandaradasa Papanasam Sivan M.S. Subbalakshmi M.L. Vasanthakumari

My musical spirit guide

My father Dr Krishna Shankar was my first spirit guide. At present, I am undergoing advanced training from ‘Sangeeta Kalacharya’ Suguna Varadachari in Chennai.

My first big break

After shifting base to Chennai for music, my first break was when I won the maximum number of prizes in the competitions conducted by leading sabhas (arts organisations) like Music Academy, Narada Gana Sabha, Mylapore Fine Arts Club, etc.

The cherry on top for my career Early beginnings

I started learning Carnatic music from the age of four. I gave my first performance (a full-fledged concert) for three hours in the UK at the age of nine.

Why Carnatic music?

Because of a family with a musical background. Dad played the veena and mom also used to sing well.

All other family members also took keen interest in music.

A doctorate degree in music as well as prestigious awards like Bharat Ratna, Sangeeta Kalanidhi, etc will be good for the icing. But cherry will be the day I successfully make a small but noticeable contribution to Indian classical music, enthralling audiences across the globe.

60 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

58 Entertainment feature.indd 60

25-11-2013 13:17:45

Music for the spirit Devotional music comes in many styles and forms but Sufi music is a genre that has gained a huge following for its aesthetic beauty and emotional foundation

Sufi

music is a form of devotional music which helps the devotee connect with their deity. It has various subgenres including qawwali, kafi, hamd, naat, manqabat and ghazal.

Musical style

Sufi music is derived from the poems of Sufi saints like Rumi, Hafiz, Bulleh Shah and Khwaja Ghulam Farid. The songs usually set poetry and praise to God with melodies created by musical instruments. Kafi is considered a

classical subgenre of Sufi music which utilises a table, a dholak, a harmonium and a vocalist.

NOTABLE MUSICIANS

History

Amir Khusrow Abida Parveen Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan Rahet Fateh Ali Khan A. R. Rahman Warsi Brothers Wadali Brothers

Traditionally, Sufi music was reserved for performances during religious festivals and ceremonies but has gone on to be performed on a daily basis.

The dargah of a Sufi saint would usually form the location for Sufi musical performances.

Current scenario

Sufi music has achieved popularity over the last few years. Although not traditional, Sufi rock emerged in the 1990s from a fusion of Sufi music and poetry with rock music. Various Sufi musicians have gone on to perform in Indian films and reality television shows.

The musical devotees

Our first big break

Whenever we are able to make a connection with the audience, we consider ourselves to be successful.

Our musical spirit guide Neeta Pandey and Jagriti Luthra Our parents and our gurus have always have both attained a doctorate Cherry on top for our musical been a great support for us. We try to from the Faculty of Music and Fine learn something from every other person career Arts of Delhi University. They are we meet in our daily lives by seeing God We want to spread the right message both accomplished Indian classical in every human being. Nusrat Fateh Ali about Sufism. Through our music, we Khan saab has always inspired us and we aim to bring peace and harmony to this musicians who decided to pursue world. When we achieve that, we will their love for Sufi music under the sing his kalaams and qawwalis whenever have attained the ultimate success. we get an opportunity. collective name Roohani Sisters Early beginnings

Our journey as Sufi singers started four years ago when we were doing our master’s degree and research work in Indian classical music and Sufism.

Since then, we have never looked back.

Why Sufi music?

The spiritual idea behind Sufism that sees no boundaries, the idea of loving the Murshid, Pir, Ali as much as yourself, and the philosophy behind the writings of great saints are what attracted and inspired us to work more in this genre.

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 61

58 Entertainment feature.indd 61

25-11-2013 13:18:06

ENTERTAINMENT FEATURE

Music for the senses One of the most celebrated folk music genres in India is Rajasthani with its energetic performances and multiple instruments in tandem

Rajasthani

folk music mostly focuses on the rustic desert life in the state of Rajasthan. Songs are composed about drawing water from the well, oncoming monsoons, the harvest season, etc.

Musical style

Rajasthani folk music is performed primarily by the descendants of musical families. Each caste had its own style of performing and a different basis for the themes of their music. For example, the Maand community would sing in honour of Rajput kings, the Bhopa community would sing epic tales of past heroes of Rajasthan and the Kamad community would sing in praise of a deity. The two

most prominent traditional music castes are the Langhas and the Manganiars. Both are considered to be descendants of Rajput communities that converted to Islam.

NOTABLE MUSICIANS

History

Folk music in Rajasthani was defined when the Rajput rulers encouraged the growth of culture and commissioned musicians to perform in their courts. The music was initially sung in praise of the kings and their victories and gradually transcended into themes of everyday life.

Allah Jilai Bai Aslam Khan Langha Kachra Khan Mame Khan

Current scenario

Rajasthani folk music has gained fame with musicians infiltrating the Indian film industry. International folk band Mumford & Sons collaborated with traditional Rajasthani folk group Dharohar Project in the recent past. Many Rasjasthani folk musicians have made appearances in television shows and toured the world in music festivals.

The cultural proponent Aditya Bhasin and his folk group Rajasthan Roots have played in many music festivals, collaborated with artists on MTV’s Coke Studio and also appeared in the television show The Dewarists

My musical spirit guide

The person who was my inspiration was John Singh. Along with his wife Faith Singh, he started the block print clothing brand Anokhi. They had a similar vision of taking Rajasthani culture to the rest of the world and I was very inspired by their work.

My first big break

Early beginnings

It started eight years ago with a vision to take Rajasthani folk music all over the world because there is so much wealth in terms of culture in Rajasthan but a lot of people didn’t know about it. I wanted to take that music and fuse it with something appealing for everyone so Rajasthani folk music would be heard all over the world.

Why Rajasthani folk music?

I was very inspired when I came to Rajasthan. There is a perfect blend of different types of music: pop, traditional folk, Sufi, tribal. And there was a blend of religions and cultures in folk music with roots that stretch far and wide. It was the vast richness that attracted me most.

I think our first live show was our big break. We played in a beautiful setup in the Garden of Five Senses and got good coverage in the media. Another show which is close to my heart is when we performed at The Ladakh Confluence because I think that made it acceptable for us to perform at mainstream music festivals all over the world.

Cherry on top for my musical career

Whether it is our band or any other, I believe the day a Rajasthani folk music group wins a Grammy will be the ultimate success for every Rajasthani musician. yi

62 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

58 Entertainment feature.indd 62

25-11-2013 13:18:25

ad.indd 97

25-11-2013 13:26:22

FITNESS

FIND YOUR IDEAL

T U O K R O W

When I exercise, I need…

(A) A trainer (B) Peaceful surroundings... Om...

(C) I’m cool with anything (D) I ‘heart’ people!

(E) Need somebody to track my laps.

But of course!

What’s your motivation to work out?

(A) How else do I release all my pentup energy?

(B) Need a break from all that stress!

(C) I want to feel that ‘get up and get going’ rush (D) Fitness = making new friends (E) Problems come and go. How do I still look and be healthy all the time?

a Sweating it out inmile gym or running ant for everyday isn’t menaality o everyone. Your pers ur choice does influence yo a Solgama of workout. Ruchn d gives you shows you how a out options customised work

How much of a devotee are you when it comes to workout time?

What type of music do you usually prefer?

Last time you worked out was…

If someone were to open your fridge, what would they find inside?

(A) Couple of hours (B) 25 minutes (C) 10 to15 minutes (D) 45 minutes (E) Whatever time I get

(A) Very recently (B) A few weeks ago (C) Within the last few months (D) Wait; let me call my workout buddy to confirm (E) Ahem. Too much on my mind.

Not sure when it was

(A) EDM all the way!

(B) Rock-n-roll baby (C) Soft pop (D) Desi beats and Bollywood (E) Anything goes. I’m not picky

(A) Mmmm… meat…

(B) Organic food (C) Fruits and veggies (D) Not much. I usually eat out with my friends (E) Tons of desserts. Can’t get any better than that

64 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

64 Fitness.indd 64

11/23/2013 4:53:46 PM

IF YOUR ANSWERS ARE…

MOSTLY Bs

MOSTLY Cs

Oh the stress! You need to take frequent breaks to exercise and calm yourself down. You need to empty your mind and relax with some meditation.

DVD: Leslie Sansone’s Walk Away the Pounds

MOSTLY As

Restless much? You deal with your emotions by roughing it out. Release your immense energy with these hardcore workouts:

DVD: Scott Cole’s Discover Tai Chi for fitness

App: Nike + Running

App: Daily Yoga

YouTube channel: Runtastic Fitness

You’re pretty easy going. No noise, no rush is your motto. You believe that just a little intense activity would suffice for your wellbeing.

YouTube channel: Your yoga gym DVD: Jeanette Jenkins’ Cardio Kickboxing

App: BodyWeight Workout

YouTube channel: MRTbootcampworkouts

MOSTLY Ds

You are where your friends are.

Anything and everything you do should happen in a group. For a social butterfly like you, group activities are perfect.

DVD: The Masala Bhangra Workout YouTube channel: BeFit

App: Zumba Fitness

MOSTLY Es You have a lot on your mind but you still like looking good. You need a workout style that gives you time to think and also tones your body.

Swimming will suit you perfectly.

DVD: Total Immersion Swimming: Perpetual Motion Freestyle in Ten Lessons

App: Swim Splits

YouTube channel: Swim Technique TV

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 65

64 Fitness.indd 65

11/23/2013 4:54:08 PM

COUNTDOWN

Newsmakers of The

2013

As yet another year comes to a close, Aparna Sundaresan takes a look back at the people and their doings that will put 2013 in the history books

POPE BENEDICT XVI

NARENDRA MODI

FABIO POZZEBOM/ABR, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

BPG, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

10

LALU PRASAD YADAV

Former Bihar Chief Minister was finally convicted in March in the Fodder Scam case that has been running since 1996. About time, considering Yadav and his cronies looted the country of `940 crore! Is this the first step the Supreme Court has taken in eradicating the menace of corruption in India? We hope so.

9

OSCAR PISTORIUS

The first sports scandal of the year broke with news of Oscar ‘Blade Runner’ Pistorius killing his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp in February.

The world followed the developments in stunned silence, hardly daring to believe that an inspiration and role model like Pistorius could have done something so diabolical.

8

THE BOSTON BOMBER

Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, still only 19 years old in April, bombed the Boston Marathon along with his older brother Tamerlan, and gave terrorism a whole new face. Two educated, young men engaging in such nefariousness was incomprehensible. Tamerlan was killed in a police encounter, while Dzhokhar surrendered. A leading international magazine later put Dzhokhar on the cover of its August issue and courted much controversy.

6

TSARNAEV, TWITTER

7

ERIK VAN LEEUWEN, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

All questions of “Will he? Won’t he?” were put to rest in September when Narendra Modi was announced as the BJP’s Prime Ministerial candidate for the 2014 elections. If one were to look at the UPA’s track record in the last eight years and the prevalent dissatisfaction in the country right now, no fortune teller is necessary to predict that Modi will be the next Prime Minister.

NARENDRAMODIOFFICIAL, FLICKR

The last Pope to have resigned from the post did so in good old 1415, so when Pope Benedict resignedin February this year, it was a bit of a surprise. Popes usually serve in this capacity until death, but Pope Benedict felt compelled to leave the papacy owing to health issues. He stepped down gracefully and was succeeded by Pope Francis.

66 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

66 Countdown.indd 66

11/23/2013 4:55:24 PM

One fine day in May 2013, the world awoke to the news that the US and British governments were spying on everyone through the American intelligence outfit NSA. Snowden, an NSA employee, blew the lid off this massive surveillance programme through British newspaper The Guardian. The price for telling the truth? Being a wanted man in the US and having to live in Russia as a political refugee.

5

MILEY CYRUS

NESNAD, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

EDWARD SNOWDEN

3

THE SCIENTISTS WHO LAUNCHED INDIA’S MARS ORBITER

THE WIKILEAKS CHANNEL, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

The Mars Orbiter Mission, launched in November, gave us Indians something to be happy and proud of. Finally an ISRO space programme on par with NASA’s! And that the first phase of the mission has been successful has given us extra puffy chests. The scientists behind this project deserve to be known, so here’s an attempt to make them just as famous as the orbiter: the Mission Director is P. Kunhikrishnan, Programme Director is Mylswamy Annadurai and Project Director is S. Arunan.

4

BASHAR AL-ASSAD

SACHIN TENDULKAR

In November, India had to come to terms with the fact that even gods retire.

As Sachin Tendulkar wore his number 10 jersey for the last time, the entire country prepared itself for an emotional goodbye. And emotional it was. In a rare display of garrulity, Tendulkar gave a long farewell speech, thanking numerous people in his life. The following day, the Government of India named Tendulkar as the next Bharat Ratna awardee. He bowed out with class, dignity and poise. Very much god-like. yi

2

1

FABIO RODRIGUES POZZEBOM/ABR, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

ARUNRAMU, FLICKR

Syria has been suffering a bloody civil war since 2011 for a change of regime – the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad (who remains adamantly in power) and whose family has been ruling over Syria since 1971. The death toll reached a sickening 100,000 in June which then touched 120,000 in September.

Further, 281 people died in a gruesome chemical attack outside Damascus in August, for which neither side – the government nor the rebels – are willing to take responsibility.

War continues to rage on with neither side realising that there are no victors or losers in disputes of violence.

VMAs. Bears. Skincoloured. Tongue.

Scandalous. Weird.

Disturbing. Tongue.

Twerking. Suggestive. Inappropriate.

Tongue. Follow up music video.

Wrecking ball. Naked. Tongue. Yes, Miley Cyrus, we get that you’re an adult now, because nothing says ‘adult’ more than spraining your tongue.

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 67

66 Countdown.indd 67

11/23/2013 4:55:37 PM

POINT OF VIEW

story

A Christmas 68

68 Point of View.indd 68

11/23/2013 4:57:27 PM

Nisha JamVwal reveals her love for Christmas and expounds on the true meaning of the festival, emphasising on the importance of kindness, sharing and generosity

C

hristmas cheer and magic is in the air. I was in Switzerland early November and the enchanting Christmas atmosphere still lingers in my veins. Showers of fairy lights suspended atop Zurich streets like a rainfall of stars, live bands in every street, street kiosks serving Gluwine – the local hot wine and champagne with chocolate… yes, Christmas is magical right now and this season is always full of surprise and adventure. But around New Year, to call it festive is an understatement.

The warmth of the Swiss people and the hot wine under street heaters allowed me to actually enjoy the biting cold.

THE FESTIVE SPIRIT But is my article about Switzerland?

No, it is about the festive spirit. Cakes, parties, clothes, presents and more. In our materialistic world of buy, want, procure, desire, grab and covet, do we stop to think of the less fortunate in a country who do not manage a meal a week?

Suchitra Krishnamoorthi, in her autobiographical book Drama Queen chides her friend, “Oh yeah, you mean you actually think every time you buy yourself a five lakh Gucci bag? Have you ever earned a single penny for yourself, even once in your whole life?

Aren’t you ashamed of yourself, in a poor country like India, spending so much on trivialities? Only a braindead person would do that!”

Don’t get me wrong! Am I propounding austere Gandhigiri? Not

at all. All I’m saying is that along with the festivities, parties and purchases, this season also spells loving, caring, sharing the goodness and graces of God’s love and giving happiness to others.

UNITING ALL Through prayer, celebration and festivities, the rich and poor come together as one, especially for the special Christmas prayers and Midnight Mass held in churches on the eve of 25 December – the feast of Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ.

Some families visit orphanages, street children and old age homes to share goodies and time with the less privileged. I’d like to see more Indians do that. Spend and share with people whose lot is miniscule; do not gift and share with affluent family and friends to gain popularity.

NOT ABOUT PARTIES While for the ‘charmed circle’ the greatest peril is about the ‘exhausting’ parties to be juggled, the innumerable clothes and gowns and designer handbags to be contemplated, bought, matched, and the gifts to be opened, for our less fortunate countrymen, the holidays mean unmanageable financial and emotional burden. Children and parents go without gifts of any kind and even food.

THE JOY OF CHARITY Clichéd as it may sound, there is a special feeling of warmth when you do something kind for those who cannot afford special privileges, and however small or big, a tiny gesture or a large act of generosity is in order.

The other extreme, who, as they say ‘wouldn’t give you the time of the day, if asked’ have been best condemned in everyone’s favourite Christmas story, Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.

The strange dichotomy that is seen many times is that the ones who have a relative plenitude seem less willing to part with even a miniscule bit, while the comparably less endowed seem to exhibit magnanimity. A touching book from my school library,

How Green Was My Valley, has the author’s mother insisting that the postman have a bite during severely impoverished times. It touched my heart every time I read it. I remember incredible kindness from aclassmate in my kindergarten days. Hazel came from a family that had to be very careful about things as they were going through hard financial times.

Her mother would divide a small orange between four siblings, and yet she found it in her heart to share her bit with me, a young girl who enjoyed plenitude. That was a lesson I learnt very early – that generosity did not come from excess of material possessions but from largess of heart.

UNRESTRAINED GENEROSITY It is time we understood that love and sharing is not only for your boyfriend whose trousers are beginning to arrive at his calves or for the girlfriend whose hot pants are beginning to resemble the cave man’s lion cloth. It means taking a little more notice of other less privileged humans, animals and the planet too. Christmas is about taking care of everything and celebrating what God has done for us. yi

“Am I propounding austere ‘Gandhigiri’?

Not at all. All I’m saying is that along with the festivities, parties and purchases, this season also spells loving, caring, sharing the goodness and graces of God’s love and giving happiness to others.”

Read more of Nisha’s point of view on nishajamvwal.blogspot.in, tweet her on @nishjamvwal and email her at nishjamvwal@gmail.com DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 69

68 Point of View.indd 69

11/25/2013 7:41:38 PM

FASHION

LD O C

Indian Terrain `1599

A simple sweater is good enough to match the cold.

Winter Wonderland

With the dead of winter soon upon us, make sure you pick up the right apparel to suit the temperature and the style of the Roadster season `1199

Houndstooth is the style of the season.

Try out a vest or sweater for a chic look.

Flying Machine `1099

Lee `2299

R E D COL

DressBerry `1699

Flying Machine `1399

The colder weather calls for layers.

Try a vest or waistcoat with a light cardigan to brave the winds.

ST E LD O C Flying Machine `2999

Blackberrys `3995

Nautica `4999

A dress with a layer or two would go well to match the colder climate and your style statement

Fort Collins `1895

Duke `2595

Gipsy `2795

The coldest of temperatures can only be matched with a heavily padded jacket. Keep it fashionable with one of these

70 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

70 Fashion.indd 70

25-11-2013 14:36:30

Pre-party face packs

BEAUTY

Fruit face pack

You are bound to be excited about a big party this New Year’s Eve. Never mind the salon, get the perfect facial complexion at home with a face pack that will make you the life of the party

A fruit face pack has cleansing properties that improve blood circulation and give a natural, healthy blush to your face

Gold face pack

Helps clear away dead cells and revitalise your skin for an absolutely radiant complexion

Jovees `245 Richfeel `265

Lakme `150

Pearl face pack A pearl face pack is an

Khadi `190

Lotus Herbals `128

instant tan remover.

It is excellent for skin lightening and gives it a beautiful white glow

Vaadi `290

Silver face pack

Vedic Line `210

VLCC `215

Stress makes your face look dull. A silver face pack will detoxify your skin and make it look nourished again

eb Cel Secrets

Hussain Kuwajerwala is a famous actor and anchor. His most prominent work include roles in television shows Kumkum and Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and the 2013 feature film Shree

Himalaya Herbals `65

Dabur `175

Skin care regime A healthy diet. I eat a lot of fruits; three to four bananas, lots of apples, watermelons, melons and, my favourite, sugarcane.

regret. I believe in eating in moderation and staying physically active and fit.

Your hair styling tips Every person knows what suits him best. Don’t get monotonous. Experiment according to your style.

A grooming faux pas Don’t try too hard and keep it simple.

Your fitness mantra Price of discipline is better than the pain of

Ayurvedic face pack

Restores the shine in your skin by reducing acne and marks. It also makes your skin smoother

Favourite fragrance Abercrombie & Fitch

Fashion tips for male readers Suit your personality and style; try and keep it simple.

Simple is classic.

NOVEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 71

70 Fashion.indd 71

11/23/2013 5:01:46 PM

G-SPOT the

Gadgets Gizmos Geeks

Which is the best Im app for my smartphone?

Instant Messaging (IM) is a form of quick online communication by way of text. There are many applications which allow this functionality and few which extend to voice calling and videotelephony. With the introduction of BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) to Anroid and iOS markets, many smartphone users are confused about which is the best available IM application for them.

BBM FREE

BlackBerry's instant messaging application is now available for other platforms and allows communication across other operating systems.

FUNCTIONS Has real-time text chat functionality BBM Video allows you to send images and videos Can also be used for free video calling BBM Voice allows free audio chats over Wi-Fi connections PLATFORMS Android iOS BlackBerry

WHATSAPP

FREE 1 YEAR TRIAL; `55 SUBSCRIPTION

One of the most popular cross platform IM applications, WhatsApp has basic functionality which make it easy to operate on any smartphone FUNCTIONS Real-time text chats over multiple operating systems Allows group chats Serves as a platform to send images, audio and video PLATFORMS Android iOS BlackBerry Windows Nokia Symbian

LINE FREE

Line works across multiple smartphone platforms as well as personal computer operating systems.

FUNCTIONS Free real-time text chat Equipped with voice call and video call functions In-built gaming functions Over 5,000 stickers and emoticons Allows for media exchange Can connect with desktop and other operating systems Group chat enabled PLATFORMS Android iOS BlackBerry Windows

WECHAT FREE

WeChat is a text and voice messaging application that has been growing in popluarity in the country.

FUNCTIONS Free live text chat functions Enabled with video calling and voice chats Group chat functions available PLATFORMS Android iOS BlackBerry Windows Symbian

FINAL VERDICT: If you are looking for a basic instant text messaging application, WhatsApp is the way to go. However, if you are loking for an application which brings all your connectivity functions into one, Line is the best instant messaging app over multiple operating systems 72 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

72 Tech.indd 72

11/23/2013 5:02:39 PM

NEW GADGETS

Send Unique greetngs this new year Creative greeting card apps for your smartphone

FREE APPS

of the

MONTH

BITSTRIPS Platform: Android, iOS Description: This app

Sony HMZ – T2 Personal 3D Viewer `69,990

Sony’s personal viewer is the nearest experience to a personalised home theatre.

FEATURES Full HD OLED screens for each eye Equipped to play 2D and 3D from Blu-ray player connected via HDMI cable Requires constant power supply Screen resolution of 1280x720p with display aspect ratio of 16:9 Audio similar to 5.1 surround sound experience Adjustable settings for audio and video output

FINAL VERDICT: With a comfortable build quality, it is very convenient for a personal viewer. But the lack of portability and high price are disappointing.

You’re better off purchasing an actually home theatre system.

HTC One mini `36,790

Most Tier 1 smartphone manufacturers have been releasing mini versions of their flagship phones. HTC One mini is the latest in the list.

FEATURES 4.3 inch HD Capacitive screen with resolution of 1280x720p 4 MP camera with 720p video recording.

1.6 MP front camera Battery life at roughly 13 hours on 3G 16 GB internal memory with 1 GB RAM Dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor with a speed of 1.4 GHz Connectivity: Wi-Fi ‘n’, Bluetooth v4.0, GPS, GLONASS and USB 2.0

FINAL VERDICT: All the scaled down functions in consideration, the HTC One mini is far too expensive. The cheaper Google Nexus 5 is better.

SING! KARAOKE

allows you to design cartoon versions of yourself and your friends.

You may put your friends (and you) in hilarious comics where anything can happen. Use this app to comically greet friends and family this holiday season with the help of more than 1000 customisable templates!

Platform: Android, iOS Description: This app

allows you to sing your favourite songs from a huge catalogue of top hits, or edit a song and then share it with the world. It even supports duet mode. The audio technology works best on newer, high-powered devices.

RIXA Platform: Android Description: RIXA

combines a picture and a sound to create a high-tech greeting card. With this app you can send messages, wishes or greetings this festive season. It works in two ways: you take a picture and add a voice comment or you record a voice comment and then add a picture.

MONTAJ Platform: iOS Description: Montaj is

something like a VineInstagram mashup that allows you to take five second video clips which you can then put in movie-style sequence with filters. Shoot beautiful clips, get a great edit in seconds and share them with as little or as many people as you choose. The makers are on their way to make it available for Android too.

ANIMATED GREETINGS Platform: Android Description: An easy and

fun way to create animated movies and greetings, starring you and your friends which you can then share via social networking sites like Facebook or YouTube.

Though most of the greeting cards/movies are free, you may have to pay 50-99 cents for some others.

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 73

72 Tech.indd 73

11/23/2013 5:05:18 PM

www.youthincmag.com SUBSCRIBE NOW NEWS STAND PRICE

YOU SAVE

1

`50

`900

Gift voucher `500

2

`200

`1800

Gifts worth

3

`400

YEAR

YEAR

Get

FREE

YOU PAY

`550

`850

`820

`1600

`1215

`2300

`620

YEAR

gifts from

TOTAL BENEFITS

Gifts worth `815

`2700

Shipping options

GATSBY

Courier: Delivery within 7 days of release, additional `350 per year Post: Delivery around 15-20 days after release at no extra cost

Subscription form Name: Mr/Ms

D.O.B:

Address:

City: Tel:

State: (M):

Pin: Email:

Yes, I would like to subscribe to YOUTH INCORPORATED for ________ year(s) Cheque/DD no.:

for `

(In favour of Splash Publication Pvt. Ltd.)

I have read the terms and conditions and I would like to avail of this offer.

Subscriber’s signature: Terms & Conditions

Youth Incorporated issues are also available without this offer. All gifts must be collected from our administrative office in Mumbai. Offer valid till stocks last and alternate gifts of same or higher value may be provided. Cheques/DDs to be payable at Mumbai only and should be in favour of Splash Publication Pvt. Ltd. and sent to the address below. Please provide your full name, address and signature on the reverse of the cheque/DD. Please allow delivery time of 4-6 weeks after encashment of remittance. Subscription copies will be delivered by post/courier after the issue is released. Splash Publication Pvt Ltd will not be responsible for postal or courier delays. This offer is non-refundable and cannot be combined with any other offer. Terms and Conditions are subject to change from time to time. Valid for subscriptions in India only. For international subscriptions, contact us at mail@youthincmag.com. Disputes if any will be subject to jurisdiction of competent courts in Mumbai only.

Splash Publication Pvt. Ltd., F 9&10 Commerce Centre, 6th floor, 78 Tardeo Road, Mumbai 400 034 | Tel/Fax: +91 22 23516622/09

subscribe.indd 10

23-11-2013 17:55:17

ad.indd 100

25-11-2013 20:10:33

M U S I C M ATC H M A K E R M U S I C M ATC H M A K E R

BEST OF

M o v i e s

/

T V

/

M u s i c

/

B o o k s

WINTERY GOODNESS

Come winter and the order of the day is warm cocoa that is sipped under the covers of a soft blanket. And in the background a guitar plays riffs reminiscent of reveries, whimsies and romance.

GOL DSPOT Goldpot’s new album Aerogramme carries the band’s trademark light, airy and just-a-pinch-ofgood-old-Indian music.

It is pleasing enough and makes for an ideal background melody for when you’re reading in a shard of sunlight against a window.

Recommended tracks: Abyss, The Border line

DIOS MA LOS

FORT AT LA NTIC

Dios Malos instantly win you over with their layered but perfect guitar riffs.

Their melodies are complex, but their music is simple and beautiful. Perfect for falling in love.

Recommended tracks: You got me all wrong, Starting five

THE 88 You might recognise The 88 from their song At least it was here which serves as the opening theme to TV show Community. Their music is just right amount of jaunty without getting too harsh or too angry on the ears, but on the flipside, they can get pretty romantic too.

Recommended tracks: How good can it be?, You belong to me

PATRICK PA RK

Recommended tracks: Here we are, Life is a song

Patrick Park’s voice has that rare ability to make you happy and sad, dreamy yet melancholic. This is a happy marriage of indie rock and poetrylaced introspection.

Just what the doctor ordered for recovering from a break-up.

Fort Atlantic blends folksy tunes with subtle electronic sounds to give classic pop-rock a modern zing. Brilliant for solitary listening and even better to fall asleep to and dream lucidly.

Recommended tracks: Let your heart hold fast, There is love

THE BETA BA ND

The Beta Band’s music is fabulous for driving down an empty road, warming you on cold nights and inducing a trance-like state.

What else would you expect from a band acclaimed by both Recommended tracks: Dry the Radiohead and Oasis? rain, Dr Baker

M U S I C M ATC H M A K E R M U S I C M ATC H M A K E R

iMHO

76 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

76 IMHO.indd 76

11/23/2013 5:06:47 PM

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002) Frodo and Sam are attacked by Gollum, one of the previous owners of the ring. Gollum is overpowered, but Frodo is sympathetic to him as he understands the overwhelming power of the ring. Gollum becomes their guide to Mordor, but Sam is distrustful of him. When Frodo and Sam are captured by a group of warriors, Frodo reveals Gollum’s presence to save his life. Gollum feels betrayed. He pledges to repossess the ring after having Frodo and Sam killed.

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003) Sauron’s attacks on Middle Earth, the setting of this epic, intensify. He is desperate for the ring’s survival as its destruction would kill him too. Gollum betrays Frodo and Sam by turning them against each other, throwing away their food supply and disappearing.

Frodo and Sam do make it to Mordor, when Gollum appears and bites off Frodo’s finger with the ring, but falls into the fires of Doon, destroying the ring and killing Suaron.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012) The first in the trilogy prequels to The Lord of the Rings, this film tells the tale of Bilbo Baggins, Frodo’s uncle, who gave Frodo the One Ring in the first LoTR film. A wizard called Gandalf convinces Bilbo to go on a quest with him and his dwarf friends to Lonely Mountain to reclaim it, the erstwhile home of the dwarves until a dragon called Smaug invaded it.

H O L I D A Y S T H E

The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring (2001) The One Ring, a ring with corrupting influence, is forged by Sauron, a Dark Lord, who then loses it in battle. The ring passes through several owners until it is possessed by Frodo Baggins. Frodo and some friends, calling themselves the Fellowship of the Ring, decide to destroy the ring which can be done only in the fires of Mount Doon in Mordor. On the way to Mordor, they are attacked by Sauron’s men.

The Fellowship then breaks into two parties – one to release its captive men and the other (consisting of Frodo and his best friend Sam) who continue to Mordor.

F O R

Before you watch the new Hobbit film, The Desolation of Smaug, you might need to brush up on your knowledge of Tolkien’s fantasy universe, starting with The Lord of the Rings series. Caution: spoilers plenty!

M O V I E S

INTRODUCING TOLKIEN’S UNIVERSE

THE NIGH TM AR E BE FORE CH RIST M AS A Christmas celebration with a twist A CH RIST M AS STORY A hilarious film of childhood desires

MIRACL E ON 34TH ST REET arming tale of rt-w A hea trust and faith

W HILE YOU W ER E SL EE PI NG A light rom-com for ringin g in the New Year

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 77

76 IMHO.indd 77

11/23/2013 5:07:04 PM

GODS ON SMALL SCREEN MAHABHARAT

DEVON KE DEV MAHADEV

KATHA MAHADEV PUTRA BAL GANESH KI

Shiva and Parvati have never looked this good on TV. Add to that believable special effects and you have a show with loyal fans.

MONDAY TO FRIDAY, 8:00 PM, LIFE OK

With a story of warring cousins that never gets old, young faces in the lead and high production values, it is no wonder this show is a hit.

MONDAY TO FRIDAY, 8:30 PM, STAR PLUS

Shiva’s son Ganesha (with his younger brother Karikeya) gets his own series to narrate his life as a gurukul student.

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, 7:00 PM, LIFE OK

JAI JAI JAI BAJRANG BALI

BUDDHA

The no-frills story of Buddha from history textbooks is given a grand makeover in this TV adaptation. Worth a watch for its blend of history and mythology.

SUNDAYS, 11:00 AM, ZEE TV

Watch the story of Hanuman, the monkey god, as a child, before he met Rama and became his devotee.

MONDAY TO FRIDAY, 8:30 PM, SAHARA ONE

TV BATTLE: INDIAN STAND-UP COMEDIES COMEDY NIGHTS WITH KAPIL

COMEDY CIRCUS KE MAHABALI

v/s

A contest of established stand-up comedians to suss out the best jokes each team of comedians has to offer.

Watch out for: Rakhi Sawant desperately trying to redeem herself

THE WEEK THAT WASN’T

v/s

Recommended if: you are a fan of the Comedy Circus series A combination of sketches and standup sets by Kapil Sharma, India’s newest Hindi-language comedy star.

Cyrus Broacha delivers the week’s news without any journalistic integrity and with plenty of sarcasm.

Watch out for: Gutthi, the ‘girl’ with an attitude and some more

Watch out for: the really lame laughter track that is at times funnier than the jokes

Recommended if: you liked The Kumars at No. 42

Recommended if: you’d like Jon Stewart ‘desi-fied’

78 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

76 IMHO.indd 78

11/23/2013 5:07:26 PM

THE DREAM CHASERS: LECHERY AMID THE NOTION OF LOVE

9

`19

The Dream Chasers is a novel about love, lust and ambition. It is the second published novel of Vipul Mittra. The story is narrated in first-person by the protagonist with a plotline that roughly covers a two-year time span in his life.

The protagonist and narrator of the story is Viraat Nijhawan, an MBA student living in Chandigarh. His inseparable group of friends in the university include fellow classmates Sandy, Karan, Mallika, Vandana and Preeto. The group is in the last year of their programme and are becoming increasingly aware that they will no longer be a part of each other’s lives once the course is complete. In addition, a four-way love saga is carried out by each of the boys – Viraat, Karan and Sandy – who are vying for the attention of Mallika. Viraat struggles but musters courage to deal with life when the realisation of loneliness dawns upon him.

The language employed is simple with slang being introduced on occasion. The plot is heavily location influenced and draws from the thoughts of adolescent men. There are crass sexual references all throughout the story which are used intentionally by the author.

QUICK FIRE INTERVIEW WITH VIPUL MITTRA Is ‘The Dream Chasers’ about love or the foolishness of the human heart?

It’s about both. Love drives us but lust blinds us too.

Are any of the characters based on yourself or people you are acquainted with?

Creativity cannot exist in a vacuum.

It has to draw inspiration from reality.

Some shades of the real world have been borrowed, but basically it’s imagination.

How important were locations as a part of the novel's plotline?

Very important. Location descriptions make the story more believable. It must

be a real city. Chandigarh was where I grew up. So it was easier for me to base my book there.

Why did you decide to use first person narrative for the novel?

It connects better with the reader when one writes in first person. ‘I’ is more intimate than ‘he’.

Were the portrayals of lust and sexual expletives in the novel meant to be taken as exaggerations or true representatives?

Closer to true representation. Lust is in hormones at that age. And expletives are common. They endear friends and add humour. They are real.

Read the entire interview online at www. youthincmag.com

GETTING TO KNOW ALICE MUNRO

Canadian short story writer Alice Munro won this year’s Nobel Prize for Literature

READING SHELF

HER THEMES: Human complexities, small-town sensibilities RECOMMENDED FOR: Those who want to make sense of the world

Dance of the Happy Shades (1968)

Who Do You Think You Are? (1978)

Friend of My Youth (1990)

DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated 79

76 IMHO.indd 79

11/23/2013 5:08:12 PM

hangout  

PLACES AND EVENTS FOR THE MONTH

WAREHOUSE CAFÉ, NEW DELHI Owned by the same people behind Boombox, Out of the Box and Skooter, Warehouse Café is Delhi’s longest bar at 60 feet, and is spread over 11,000 square feet space.

CUISINE: Multi cuisine (European, Mughlai, Indian, Oriental, American) FOOD AND DRINKS: The most intriguing aspect of this place is the menu which has 365 dishes, one for each day of the year. So according to the day, that particular dish is served at 50% discount rate.

There is a large variety of food and drinks to choose from which makes it easy to find something to suit every mood. The prices are quite high but is justified considering the quantity of the dishes offered.

OVERALL IMPRESSION: A gigantic bar which provides great ambience and caters to all sorts of night-outs. There are dark nooks for the lovers, a huge terrace overlooking Connaught Place’s Central Park, a dance floor and thumping electronica, hookahs and a wide range of food. However, a family might feel slightly out of place.

1st Floor, Inner Circle, D Block, Connaught Place, New Delhi - Jagdish Bhatt

200

`1 n per perso

SWADSHAKTI, MUMBAI

50

`3 n per perso

The only place in Mumbai that promises to keep your meal healthy and tasty, Swadshakti is an offshoot of Ayushakti, an Ayurvedic health centre.

CUISINE: Indian FOOD AND DRINKS: The all-vegetarian menu at Sawdshakti is extensive. The food is prepared based on Ayurvedic principles and is specifically designed to nourish the body and calm the mind at the same time. It is high on water content, whole spices, moong daal and special types of rice. It doesn’t include wheat, curd, tomato, tamarind, lime or fermented foods. They also offer several teas and juices and milkshakes made from real fruit. It is an added bonus that the prices are very reasonable.

OVERALL IMPRESSION: Despite the slightly slow service, this place is very welcoming thanks to its peaceful location and is ideal for anyone who believes that tasty food cannot be healthy.

Bhandap Nagar, Cross Road No 2, Off S.V. Road, Opposite Milap Theatre, Malad (W), Mumbai-400 064 - Lamya Karachiwala

80 Youth Incorporated OCTOBER 2013

80 Hangout.indd 80

11/25/2013 7:44:07 PM

EVVIVA SKY LOUNGE, PUNE With a splendid view of the entire city, Evviva Sky Lounge paints a perfect picture which can be enjoyed at sunset or later.

VIBE: The open air decor with loud music sets a brilliant tone for the place which is matched well with a good breeze on occasion.

MUSIC: The music is usually a mix of popular EDM and house music songs.

BITES N BOOZE: The food menu isn’t too extensive which makes it easy to make a choice on what to eat. The decor makes it ideal to enjoy a few drinks alongside some heavy snacks which is exactly what the menu offers.

There is a regular choice of beers as well as sangria and an exquisite choice of hard liquor.

FAB OR DRAB: The ambience makes it ideal for a couple on a date or friends catching up for a few drinks. The prices are steep but the ambience makes it worth the bucks spent.

BEST NIGHT: Any night is apt since the brilliant atmosphere makes it a favourite in the city.

Courtyard By Marriott City Centre, CTS 37 & 37/1, Bund Garden Road, Pune - Rohit Gadge

EVENTS THIS MONTH

MUMBAI FILM AND COMICS CONVENTION

The convention will be a celebration of the city’s love for graphic arts and popular culture with interesting panels, previews of upcoming films, toys, merchandise and more.

Mumbai – 21 and 22 December

`1500

n per perso

DELHI INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL The capital of India will host the second year of its international film festival this month. The festival will be held over seven days in the capital city and will feature around 175 films from around the world.

New Delhi – 21 to 27 December

SUNBURN ARENA WITH AVICII 2013

The Swedish DJ postponed his April visit because of ill health, but he is all set to close the year with his Indian fans in a bigger-than-ever-before concert.

Mumbai – 6 December Bangalore – 7 December New Delhi – 8 November DECEMBER 2013 Youth Incorporated

80 Hangout.indd 81

81

11/23/2013 5:11:04 PM

_GRAFFITI

TRENDING THIS MONTH

FESTIVAL E P A R M A S AS

#ROOFBREAKUP

New Yorker Kyle Ayers witnessed a couple breaking up on his roof. He live tweeted the whole th ing. Gems include e t the raepnded ‘“M h y roommates are g u o h t r If you story that t g, haha! alw ay s lik l festiva was a real thin item on your boyf e ‘wheres s riend?’ And e w n e li n on s a fake . Think I’m like ‘hmm’ and That way news websiteal? stuff.” -girl’. a parod . A rape festivved. out it epra ab t t h at d We’re no

DS WAR K C A B THE BOY

A 10-year-old Scot tish boy ha s amaz ed the intern et with his fluent backward s En glish . Like it isn’t hard en ough to un ders tand no rmal Scot tish accent ed En glish .

Blunder Years

T HE MOST EPIC

SPLIT

If you’re tired of Jean-Claud e Van Damme’s split video doin g th e roun ds, watch Channing Tatum’s spoof in stead.

It ’s far more ac complished.

BatKid to the rescue

Miles Scott, 5-yearold with cana ce given the be r, was life by the enstti gift of his of San Franciscre city Make a Wish Foo. The undation made him Bat K a day, having id for him save dam sels in distr The Riddler, p ess, fight prison, and ut him in ore, all over the citym .

Fa humanity rest ith in ored!

By Lavanya Karthik

82 Youth Incorporated DECEMBER 2013

Graf.indd 82

11/23/2013 5:12:49 PM

ad.indd 95

23-11-2013 17:56:53

RNI Number: MAHENG/2011/38909 Postal Regd. No: MH/MR/WEST/293/2012-2014 Posted at Mumbai Patrika Channel Sorting Office GPO, Mumbai 400001 on 2nd of every month Date of Publication: 1st of every month

ad.indd 89

23-11-2013 17:58:38