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Travel

Discover India: A Guide to Movies, Books, Music, Apps, and More for Your Trip

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

What to Read, Watch, and Download Before Your Trip to India

Before embarking on your journey to the vibrant and enigmatic land of India, immerse yourself in its rich culture and diverse experiences through a curated selection of books, movies, music, apps, and websites.

Movies

  • Apu Trilogy by Satyajit Ray: Witness the coming-of-age journey of an inquisitive boy in this acclaimed trilogy that captures the essence of Indian society.
  • Gangs of Wasseypur by Anurag Kashyap: Dive into the violent power struggles of an eastern Indian coal-mining community in this epic drama.
  • Elements Trilogy by Deepa Mehta: Explore the complexities of female life in India through three interconnected films: Fire, Earth, and Water.
  • Monsoon Wedding by Mira Nair: Experience the vibrant chaos and emotions of a traditional Indian wedding in this award-winning film.
  • The Lunchbox by Ritesh Batra: Follow the unlikely connection between two strangers brought together by a mix-up in Mumbai’s lunch delivery system.
  • Gandhi by Richard Attenborough: Trace the life and legacy of India’s beloved leader in this biographical masterpiece.
  • Darjeeling Limited by Wes Anderson: Join three brothers on a whimsical train journey through India that highlights the country’s vibrant colors and eccentricities.

Instagram

  • @officialhumansofbombay: Discover the intimate stories and secrets of ordinary Indians through a feed of portrait photography.
  • @IndiaPhotoProject and @EveryDayIndia: Capture the fleeting moments of everyday life in India, showcasing its diverse landscapes and cultures.

Music & Dance

  • The Best of Abida Parveen: Immerse yourself in the soulful melodies of Sufi music, performed by the undisputed queen of the genre.
  • Coke Studio: Experience a unique blend of classic Indian music with folk, Western, and other world music traditions.
  • Learn Bharatanatyam by Srekala Bharath: Learn the intricate techniques of this classical Indian dance form, originally performed by temple dancers.

Apps

  • Temples of India: Explore the vast array of Indian temples through photographs, illustrations, and location-based information.
  • India Food Network: Discover regional Indian dishes, recipes, and culinary insights.
  • What’s Hot Discover Events: Stay updated on events, restaurants, and shopping in major Indian cities.
  • Saavn: Stream an endless collection of Indian music from various genres and artists.

Websites & Blogs

  • The Caravan: Engage with thought-provoking stories about contemporary Indian politics, culture, and arts.
  • The South Asian Life & Times: Explore the heritage of the region, covering arts, politics, sports, and books.
  • Scroll.in: Gain a fresh perspective on Indian issues, ranging from beef politics to gender equality.
  • Hangouts: Find information on dining, nightlife, and events in New Delhi.
  • Masala Chai: Discover contemporary Indian artists, architects, and designers.
  • The Culture Trip: Explore New Delhi’s art galleries, complete with map links and contact details.
  • Travelling Teadom: Savor the beauty of India’s tea culture through photographs of steaming cups.

Books

  • India: A History by John Keay: Traverse five millennia of Indian history, from the ancient Harappan civilization to independence.
  • India: A Sacred Geography by Diana L. Eck: Explore the religious and cultural significance of sacred places, or tirthas, that shape the Indian landscape.
  • Gitanjali by Rabindranath Tagore: Read the Nobel Prize-winning poems that capture the lyrical essence of Indian spirituality.
  • In Light of India by Octavio Paz: Gain insights into Indian culture and philosophy from Mexico’s former ambassador to India.
  • City of Djinns by William Dalrymple: Journey through Delhi’s past and present, encountering philosophers, eunuchs, and sadhus.
  • Slowly Down the Ganges by Eric Newby: Trace the author’s 1,200-mile expedition along the sacred Ganges River.
  • Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse: Follow the timeless story of a young man’s quest for enlightenment in ancient India.
  • Midnight’s Children by Salman Rushdie: Blend historical fiction with magical realism in this acclaimed novel that explores India’s post-independence era.
  • A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry: Witness the lives of four strangers brought together by poverty and political unrest.
  • The Ever After of Ashwin Rao by Padma Vishvanathan: Examine the impacts of emigration and violence in the globalized world.
  • Village by the Sea by Anita Desai: Experience the transformation of a traditional fishing community under the weight of modernity.
  • The Book of Indian Birds by Sálim Ali: Admire the exquisite variety of Indian birds through detailed illustrations.
  • Falaknuma, Hyderabad by Bharath Ramamrutham, George Michell, and Anthony Korner: Discover the grandeur and beauty of Falaknuma Palace through photographs and historical research.
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Literature and Film

Books vs. Movies: A Journey into the Depths of Storytelling and Memorability

by Kim
written by Kim

Books vs. Movies: A Battle for Memorability

The Enduring Power of the Written Word

Why is it that books often leave a more lasting impression on our minds than the movies they inspire? Despite the allure of moving images and the convenience of a quick cinematic escape, the written word possesses a unique ability to transport us into the thoughts and emotions of others.

The Passive Nature of Film

While movies can captivate our senses, they often offer a more passive experience. We are limited to the director’s interpretation of a character’s inner world, conveyed through awkward voice-overs or blatant exposition. Books, on the other hand, grant us direct access to the minds of characters, allowing us to experience their feelings and motivations firsthand.

The Power of Ordinary Stories

Unforgettable storytelling doesn’t always require elaborate plots or famous faces. Richly developed characters with relatable problems can create just as powerful an impact. From Harry Potter’s ordinary fears to the struggling musician in “Once,” these characters resonate with us because they reflect our own experiences and emotions.

The Importance of Character Development

It is the depth of character development that separates memorable stories from forgettable ones. J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series demonstrates this mastery, immersing us in the ordinary realm of feeling and fear despite the magical backdrop. The Bicycle Thief, a classic of Italian cinema, follows a man’s desperate search for his stolen bicycle, his only means of providing for his son. The film’s poignant ending leaves us rooting for the protagonist and contemplating the complexities of human nature.

The Role of Plot

While plot is often seen as the driving force of a story, it is not always the most important factor in creating a lasting impression. Films like Once and The Bicycle Thief prove that minimal plot can be just as effective as elaborate narratives. It is the richness of the characters and the emotional impact of their experiences that truly stay with us.

The Influence of Non-Professional Actors

Non-professional actors can bring an authenticity to their performances that is often lacking in their more experienced counterparts. The Bicycle Thief’s lead actor, Lamberto Maggiorani, was a factory worker with no prior acting experience. His raw performance perfectly captures the desperation and vulnerability of the protagonist.

The Power of Visual Imagery

While books rely on words to create mental images, films have the advantage of visual storytelling. The Bicycle Thief’s iconic final scene, where the protagonist walks alongside his son, struggling to maintain his dignity, is a powerful testament to the enduring power of visual imagery. Once’s final scene, a Vermeer-esque composition that slowly descends from a warm apartment to the cold Dublin streets, conveys a wealth of emotions without a single word of dialogue.

The Enduring Appeal of Ordinary Stories

Both The Bicycle Thief and Once showcase the enduring appeal of ordinary stories. They remind us that great storytelling is not confined to epic battles or supernatural powers. It can be found in the everyday struggles and triumphs of ordinary people.

The Legacy of Italian Cinema

Italian cinema has a long history of producing critically acclaimed films that explore the human condition. The Bicycle Thief is a prime example of this legacy, capturing the poverty and despair of post-World War II Italy. The film’s stark black-and-white cinematography and neorealist style have influenced generations of filmmakers.

The Challenges of Depicting Poverty and Dignity

The Bicycle Thief deftly depicts the challenges of living in poverty while maintaining one’s dignity. The protagonist is faced with a series of moral dilemmas as he tries to provide for his son. The film’s ending, while bleak, is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

The Significance of the Final Scene

The final scene of a film often serves as a powerful emotional climax. In The Bicycle Thief, the protagonist’s decision to walk alongside his son, despite his temptation to steal, is a poignant reminder of the importance of dignity and hope. Once’s final scene, with its slow descent from intimacy to isolation, perfectly captures the bittersweet nature of the characters’ relationship.

Conclusion

The debate between books and movies will likely continue for generations to come. However, there is no denying the unique power of the written word to transport us into the hearts and minds of others. By embracing ordinary stories, developing rich characters, and focusing on emotional impact, both books and films can create lasting memories that stay with us long after the credits roll.

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Film

Baseball on the Screen: A Cinematic Exploration of America’s Pastime

by Zuzana
written by Zuzana

Baseball on the Screen: A Cinematic History

Baseball and the Movies: A Longstanding Relationship

Baseball and the movies have a long and intertwined history, dating back to the sport’s early days. In fact, baseball was depicted on film as early as 1899, just a few years after the invention of motion pictures.

While baseball was initially used as a background or setting in movies, it gradually became a central theme, especially during the “dead ball era” of the early 1900s. This period saw a surge in baseball’s popularity, which was paralleled by a rise in the popularity of movies.

Baseball as a Metaphor

Like football, baseball became an all-purpose metaphor in movies, a way to examine character, reflect on society, and question authority. For example, the 1909 film “His Last Game” explored the themes of illegal gambling, alcoholism, and capital punishment through the story of a Choctaw baseball player forced to throw a game.

Baseball Legends on Film

Real-life baseball legends have also made their way onto the silver screen. Babe Ruth, for instance, appeared as himself in the 1920 film “Headin’ Home.” Other baseball stars have made cameos in movies, including Tris Speaker in “Heroes All” and Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris in “That Touch of Mink.”

Baseball in Comedy

Baseball has also been a popular subject for comedy films. Comedians such as John Bunny and Buster Keaton have incorporated baseball jokes into their movies. Keaton, in particular, loved baseball and even played a prehistoric version of the game in “The Three Ages.”

Baseball in Cartoons

Cartoons have also had a field day with baseball. Felix the Cat saves the day in “Felix Saves the Day” (1922), while Popeye and Bluto battle it out on the diamond in “The Twisker Pitcher” (1937). Bugs Bunny even takes on the Gas-House Gorillas single-handedly in “Baseball Bugs” (1946).

Fantasy Baseball Films

Fantasy has been a popular genre for baseball films, with stories often carrying a moral message. In “It Happens Every Spring” (1949), a college professor discovers a compound that repels wood, allowing him to become a major-league pitcher. However, he learns that he must rely on himself, not potions, to succeed.

The Pinnacle: Field of Dreams

Arguably the best baseball fantasy film is “Field of Dreams” (1989), based on the novel “Shoeless Joe” by W.P. Kinsella. The film tells the story of a troubled farmer who builds a baseball field in his cornfield, attracting the ghosts of legendary baseball players. “Field of Dreams” is a poignant and heartwarming film that explores themes of loss, redemption, and the power of dreams.

Baseball Movies: A Reflection of Society

Baseball movies have not only entertained audiences but also reflected the social and cultural changes of their time. From the scandals of the early 1900s to the rise of fantasy in the mid-20th century, baseball films have captured the zeitgeist of their eras.

Whether you’re a baseball fan or simply enjoy a good movie, there’s sure to be a baseball film out there that will resonate with you. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the show!

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