Entertainment

Following the publication of a cartoon depicting Prime Minister Narendra Modi with his hands in handcuffs, the Tamil magazine Vikatan had its website shut. The cartoon, published on February 10 in Vikatan's online journal Vikatan Plus, was a critique of the Indian government's handling of the deportation and handcuffing of undocumented Indian citizens from the United States.

Cartoon Is Opposed by Tamil Nadu BJP, and CM Stalin Denounces Website Block

The cartoon was criticized by the Tamil Nadu BJP, who called it "derogatory" and "insulting" to the prime minister. However, the alleged website restriction was denounced by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin as an assault on journalistic freedom. According to Stalin, the administration would take the necessary steps to prevent the media from being silenced.

Vikatan Reiterates His Commitment to Free Speech

Vikatan reiterated its support for free speech and announced that it is seeking additional information from the authorities regarding the blocking of the site. S. Balasubramanian, editor of the magazine, said that the cartoon was a genuine form of criticism, and that the magazine would stand by the values of free expression.

Freedom of Speech and Censorship Issues

The issue of censorship and the limits of free expression in India has also been brought to the fore by the incident. The blocking of the website has been viewed as an effort to silence critics and censor the press. The episode has caused a heated discussion on social media, with demands for stronger safeguarding of journalistic freedom and freedom of expression

Think of this: You're just another online student sitting in another online class, gazing at slides of bullet points, your brain drifting toward what you're going to have for dinner. Now imagine this instead—your history class reads like an exciting novel, your science class is an action movie, and math? It's a mystery you can't wait to unravel.

That's the sort of magic being woven by Krupali and Amrut Desai in online education. This married couple feels that storytelling isn't reserved for bedtime or Hollywood blockbusters—it's the magic ingredient that can transform learning into something thrilling, memorable, and, heaven forbid, enjoyable!

Why Storytelling?

"Consider your favorite novel or film—you recall the plot, don't you? But do you recall all the dates from your previous history lesson?" queries Krupali with a smile of knowing. That's precisely why they've taken it upon themselves to make boring lessons engaging experiences.

Instead of filling courses with jargon and verbose descriptions, they braid knowledge into compelling stories. A lesson in physics is an exciting space mission. A history lesson is a time-traveling adventure. And yes, even math gets a makeover with real-world enigmas to crack.

Not Just Another Online Course

As opposed to the typical e-learning sites that can be just plain robotic (yeah, we're including you, AI-created monotone lectures), Krupali and Amrut's style is about being human. They design lessons that are more like a chat with an excellent storyteller—one who has you in stitches, keeps you on the edge of your seat, and gets you feeling a sense of awe.

"Break the mold of the old-school, everything-is-the-same approach," Amrut says. "Each child learns differently, so why not make it flexible and personal?"

With their method, students can work at their speed, select their learning styles, and soak up lessons that take hold.

A Future Where Learning Feels Like Entertainment

Their mission? To make education an experience that everyone shares—no matter age, location, or background. "We want learning to be less like homework and more like finding an awesome new series you can't put down," says Krupali.

In a world of education changing more rapidly than ever before, their narrative-based lessons could be just the revolution we're looking for. Who tells us learning won't be as thrilling as our favorite Netflix series?

Students at Ashoka University are challenging conventional career trajectories by exploring non-traditional paths in the field of humanities. This emerging trend reflects a shift in how humanities education is perceived and applied, with students embracing interdisciplinary approaches and diverse opportunities.

Historically, humanities graduates have been associated with careers in academia, writing, or teaching. However, Ashoka students are now venturing into unconventional roles, combining humanities with fields like technology, design, data science, and entrepreneurship. This evolution highlights their drive to challenge stereotypes about the limitations of a humanities degree.

In response to this trend, Ashoka University has redesigned its curriculum to meet the needs of a dynamic job market. Faculty members emphasize skill development in critical thinking, communication, and cross-disciplinary integration. Practical projects, internships, and collaborations with industry professionals form an essential part of the academic experience.

Graduates from Ashoka are finding roles in fields previously unassociated with humanities, such as user experience design, data storytelling, cultural consultancy, and social innovation. Others are leveraging their skills to excel in public policy, sustainability, and creative industries.

This shift is not only reshaping career prospects for students but also influencing how industries perceive the value of a humanities education. Employers increasingly recognize the unique perspectives and skills that humanities graduates bring to the table.

By venturing into non-traditional careers, Ashoka University students are redefining the relevance of humanities in the 21st century. Their bold choices underscore the importance of adaptability and interdisciplinary thinking in a rapidly evolving world. As this trend gains momentum, Ashoka University serves as a model for institutions nationwide, illustrating how humanities education can evolve to meet the demands of a changing workforce and inspire the next generation of innovators.

Abbie Stockard, a 22-year-old nurse and cheerleader from Alabama, has been crowned Miss America 2025 in a highly anticipated competition held at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut. Stockard competed against 51 talented contestants from across the United States, securing the prestigious title in a contest that captivated audiences and highlighted the accomplishments of these young women.

As a nurse at a children’s hospital, Abbie impressed the judges with her commitment to children's health and wellness, which is the central focus of her platform. Throughout the competition, she demonstrated not only her physical abilities but also her dedication to causes that align with her passion. Her performance during the talent round was one of the standout moments of the evening, as she performed an impressive tumbling routine that showcased her athleticism, grace, and poise. Her talent was complemented by a stunning red evening gown, which added a touch of elegance and sophistication to her stage presence.

Abbie’s win is particularly significant for Alabama, a state that has a proud history of producing Miss America winners. Her achievement adds to Alabama’s legacy of success in the competition, and it’s a moment of great pride for her home state. Abbie’s victory is also a testament to her hard work and perseverance, reflecting the values of determination and resilience that are essential in pursuing one’s dreams. Her win has garnered attention not only for her beauty and talent but also for her dedication to making a difference in the world, particularly in the realm of children’s health.

Her platform focuses on improving children's health and wellness, and her career as a nurse provides a unique perspective on the issue. As someone who works on the frontlines of healthcare, Abbie is deeply aware of the challenges faced by young patients and their families. She has used her position to advocate for healthier lifestyles, better access to healthcare, and a greater emphasis on preventive care.

As Miss America 2025, Abbie will spend the next year traveling the country, raising awareness about the importance of children’s health and wellness. She plans to use her platform to speak to communities about the significance of early intervention, healthy habits, and mental health support for children. Through her advocacy, she aims to inspire others to take action and make a positive impact in their own communities.

Her family, who were present at the competition, were overwhelmed with emotion as they watched Abbie take the stage as the newly crowned Miss America 2025. The moment was a culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and they were filled with pride as they witnessed Abbie’s dream come to fruition. Abbie’s journey to becoming Miss America is a story of passion, compassion, and unwavering determination.

Abbie’s victory is more than just a personal achievement—it is a reflection of her commitment to service and her desire to make a meaningful impact on the world. Through her reign as Miss America, Abbie will continue to inspire others to pursue their dreams.

An Indian student has captivated the internet by wearing a stunning K3G-inspired lehenga at her graduation ceremony in Switzerland. The traditional Indian outfit, influenced by the iconic Bollywood film Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (K3G), has quickly gone viral, sparking admiration for its blend of cultural heritage and Swiss elegance.

The student, who recently graduated from a university in Switzerland, chose the lehenga to mark her academic achievement, and it became an instant sensation on social media. The outfit, a beautiful fusion of Indian tradition and Swiss sophistication, was a showstopper at the ceremony, attracting widespread praise. Many users on social media applauded the student for proudly embracing her Indian roots in a global setting.

Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (K3G), released in 2001, is one of Bollywood’s most beloved films, known for its lavish costumes and vibrant traditional attire. The film's costume designer, Manish Malhotra, a renowned Indian fashion icon, created many iconic looks, including the ones worn by stars like Kajol and Kareena Kapoor. His designs in K3G are still widely admired for their intricate details and vibrant colors, which have inspired generations of fashion enthusiasts.

The student’s decision to wear a K3G-inspired lehenga to her graduation ceremony highlights the continuing influence of Bollywood fashion on global trends. By choosing a design inspired by one of Bollywood's most iconic films, she not only celebrated her academic achievement but also paid tribute to her cultural heritage. This moment is a beautiful reminder of the power of fashion to celebrate one’s identity and bring people together across different cultures.

As the image of the student in her K3G-inspired lehenga continues to circulate online, it serves as a proud moment for Indian culture, showcasing the beauty of traditional Indian clothing on an international stage. The viral photo is more than just a fashion statement – it’s a celebration of cultural pride and the timeless influence of Bollywood on global fashion trends.

Kishore Indukuri, an IITian, is redefining success with his inspiring journey from the high-paying tech world in the US to building a thriving dairy farm business in India. In a bold move that many would consider risky, Kishore left his prestigious job in the United States to pursue a life rooted in agriculture, a field far removed from his engineering background. His decision was driven by a desire to make a tangible impact in rural India and contribute to the nation's agricultural economy.

In 2011, Kishore took a leap of faith, moving back to India with a vision of revolutionizing the dairy industry. He started by purchasing just 20 cows and establishing a small dairy farm. Little did he know that this humble beginning would eventually grow into a massive enterprise. With perseverance, smart business strategies, and a deep understanding of both technology and agriculture, he transformed his dairy farm into a successful business, now known as Nandu's, one of the leading dairy brands in India.

By 2022, Kishore's dairy farm business achieved a remarkable turnover of Rs 64.5 crore, marking a huge milestone in his entrepreneurial journey. Under his leadership, Nandu's has grown exponentially, providing high-quality dairy products to millions of customers across India. Kishore's innovative approach blends traditional farming practices with modern technology, improving productivity and ensuring the welfare of his cows. His commitment to quality and ethical practices has earned the business a loyal customer base and industry recognition.

What sets Kishore's story apart is not just the financial success but the impact he has made on rural development. His dairy farm business has created employment opportunities for local communities and contributed to the growth of India's rural economy. Kishore's journey is a testament to the power of following one's passion, taking risks, and making a meaningful contribution to society.

Kishore Indukuri's transformation from an IIT graduate working in a lucrative job in the US to becoming a successful dairy entrepreneur in India serves as an inspiration for those looking to follow unconventional paths. His story proves that with determination and vision, it’s possible to turn dreams into reality, even in the most unexpected fields.