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Women and LGBT communities are the most targeted. Though the society emphasises on women empowerment, the LGBT community is neglected. It is reported that 78% of LGBT working class people face discrimination at work and 56% of them hear anti \u2013 LGBT slurs. Having a personal bias is one thing. People tend to be around other people to make them comfortable. Someone of a different sexual preference, especially when it comes to the transgendered, can create fear. What do people do when they are afraid? They\u2019ll either attack or run away. In a workplace environment, running away would mean quitting the job which will affect their income. That leaves attacking as the only other option. Attacking can take place physically as well as verbally. To counter this, awareness programs and policies regarding the same should be implemented to ensure equality for these socially backward communities.<\/p>
Not only the UNHRC, but various other UN entities like ILO, UNDP and UNPF have taken this issue seriously, marking it as an international threat.<\/p>"}]
Green Day's Wake Me Up When September Ends is an iconic song, one that has passed into music legend, one of which even years later, people still make memes about Billie Joel, the lead singer, waking up on the 30th of September. It is undoubtedly a beautiful song combined with the heavy riffs of punk rock mixed in a way to convert emotion, the same kinds of emotion Billie Joel was feeling when he wrote the song. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506935540075","data":"59d2056257165"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506935542281","data":"
In September 1982, when Joel was 10 years old, his father died of cancer and that affected the young child in more ways than one, setting him on a path of destruction as his life spiralled out of control. But as luck would have it, he did recover and he went on to write Wake Me Up When September Ends for the American Idiot album released in 2005. Joel described the song to be his most autobiographical and that it was extremely difficult to perform owing to the memories he had of his father and the sense of loss he felt. <\/p>
And that sense of loss is quite omnipresent throughout the entire song, in fact, the best way to describe what the song is about is just one word, 'loss'. When Hurricane Katrina struck the US back in 2005, a viral video with this song playing in the background as a dedication to the victims shot this song as a symbol o loss and a hope for recovery over the years. The standard guitar heavy riffs of punk rock groups are not usually associated with the feeling of loss, but Joel, with his heart rending lyrics, manages to pull it off. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506936060677","data":"59d2057af2526"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506936062951","data":"
Like Joel's healing method and coming to terms with the death of his father, we too must heal from what has happened to us eventually. People like Billie Joel, they are the progenitors, they give the same kind of grief we will eventually go through a voice so you can always go back and listen to it again for comfort. This is why arts and music are so important, about as important as engineering and other technical disciplines. <\/p>
We need humans to build technology, and we need art for the same humans to inspire them to do more. This is what drives us, this is what makes us who we are, this is what makes us human, the ability to emote and put in words what we can and explain to our peers about what we're going through and hope that they too may one day find comfort in what you have produced. <\/p>
I know I have. Thank you, Billie Joel Armstrong and Green Day. <\/p>"},{"type":"youtube","id":"vid-url-1506936328518","data":"NU9JoFKlaZ0https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch"}]
In a time where startups seem to be emerging out of no-where, flooding like mushrooms, the basic idea behind them being success, money & recognition, the world forgets that fame & money aren't just enough for a person to become complete & whole. There's always a responsibility on every individual apart from making his\/her own success story-The responsibility of helping others live, by doing what can be done on their part and yearning to do more for others.<\/p>
While the world is on high, embracing the youth along with their ideas, talent and critical thinking, we're also lucky enough to experience the growth of a few non-profit organizations, that aim at providing a better life and better future to people who are in dire need of it.<\/p>
And to have an esteemed organization amidst us working silently and letting its success ring the bells. Securing Smiles<\/b> sums up to be an epitome of humanity, which promises to provide aid for people to survive, necessities & comfort to those who need it, in an effective attempt to restore smiles to people who may have lost it, owing to poverty and perks of being poor. <\/p>
Initiated by a student Mr. Abdul Rahman<\/b> (pictured below), an undergraduate student in one of the prestigious college of pharmacy in Hyderabad, backboned by the VP of the foundation, Ms Syeda Ayesha<\/b>, immensely supported in each of their missions by their team, comprising of 11 members, Securing Smiles has now proudly completed 4 successful events in just a year, and are already planning for their next event. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506703746241","data":"59ce7a27d8892"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506703797063","data":"The project started with students voluntarily agreeing on saving Rs. 3 daily, that would be donated at the end of the month for the cause of the planned event, the basic aim is the betterment of the needy.<\/div><\/span><\/div>Cutting down our expenses for the benefit of humanity isn't everybody's cup of tea. And laying an official foundation for the love of humanity, and taking its responsibility, vowing to serve the needy requires a heart of gold, strong enough to overcome the obstacles and gentle enough to ignite sparks in stubborn hearts and manage to make people's eyes wet, reflecting the pain and suffering of people whose living standards differ dreadfully from ours.<\/i><\/span><\/div><\/div>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506705699298","data":"59ce83709e194"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506705701454","data":"Celebrating the success of their latest event, the President and the VP of Securing Smiles humbly agreed to give an interview, and here's what they have to say about Securing Smiles. Excerpts from the interview : <\/i>\nFirstly, tell us about yourselves. <\/b>\nPresident:<\/b>- I am Abdul Rahman, pursuing my degree in pharmacy from DSOP, Hyderabad.Vice President:<\/b>- Just a normal student who has seen different shades of life, i am a pharmacy student.<\/div>Brief us on what Securing Smiles is actually about.<\/b><\/div><\/div>President:-<\/b> As the name suggests, SS is the initiative we've taken to endeavour the lost happiness of people, and an effort to make them feel comfortable enough to live in this society without feeling left-out. The basic aim is to provide basic needs to those who're in genuine need.<\/div>Vice President:-<\/b> We've seen people go through a lot of suffering, and have also experienced the bitterness of life, just like each one of you have been troubled at least once in your lifetime, and we now know, how mesmerizing it is to know that someone else has taken a step to understanding us, our troubles and pains, and is willing enough to help us overcome our problems in any situation. SS is just a physical form of helping people experience that happiness and ecstasy, and a try to lessen their burdens any way possible, to give them the smile that everybody deserves.<\/div><\/div>Why the name 'Securing Smiles'?<\/b><\/div><\/b><\/div>Vice President: -<\/b>A smile is the best treasure any person possess. So why not be a part of doing something to secure the best? Thus securing smiles.<\/span><\/div>President:-<\/b> With each effort we collectively put towards the betterment of the needy, we secure their smiles, giving them a reason to be genuinely happy when their expenses are cut down a bit. So, the name suits our efforts.<\/div><\/div>So, what actually happened that triggered the idea of laying such an esteemed foundation for the sole benefit of humanity?<\/b><\/div><\/b><\/div>President:-<\/b> I used to distribute food & snacks to the needy on my birthdays. On my last birthday, it just dawned on me that like me, there might be many others who have the same passion to do something for others, waiting for a link. So, SS was materialized.<\/div>Vice President:-<\/b> You know, once you go out there and focus on others lives, you'll see that there are so many people who really need help. It's just human instinct I guess. <\/div><\/div><\/div>Where do you find people who are genuinely needy? Because as far as we know, street beggars encouragement is a strict no-no for their own benefit.<\/b><\/div><\/b><\/div>President:-<\/b> We do a survey at least once in two weeks, scanning areas & observing them check for their needs.<\/div>Vice President:- <\/b>We personally go to different places and do a complete survey, like making a list of people residing at that place including no. of members per family, and how much help do they actually need. We observe them carefully so that we don't miss out on anyone who actually needs help.<\/span><\/div><\/span><\/div>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506769378188","data":"59cf7a990a0f9"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506777988060","data":"When did SS actually happen? <\/b>Vice President:-<\/b> Sept 20th, 2016 marked the debut of SS wherein we distributed 500 kg of rice to 100 families, 5 kg per family. President:-<\/b> Yes, Technically, it was the first step we took to let people know what we actually plan to do with SS as a medium and to make them realize how we can reach out to people on a larger scale through this foundation.<\/div><\/div>It has been a year now. And you've just succeeded in your latest event. How do you feel?<\/b><\/div><\/div>President:-<\/b> That feeling cannot be described by a mere combination of the alphabets, it is something to be felt, seeing their shimmering eyes and smiles displaying immense gratitude and blessings, and so much respect, which only serves as a means of driving force pushing us forward to do more, and stay dedicated.<\/div>Vice President:-<\/b>To be honest, there's still a lot we have to do. You know, when we help them, they bless us and the way they behave with us is so pure and out of the heart, it just pushes us to do better and keep going.<\/div>President:-<\/b> We are progressing, but yet to be successful.<\/div>Vice President:-<\/b> It's been the only year and to be successful, it takes time, teamwork, and mostly the determination to do something good. Our journey so far has been an eye-opener.<\/div><\/div>So, share your success story with us. What'll events have you conducted so far?<\/b><\/div><\/div>President:-<\/b>We've done four events so far. We started off with the distribution of rice to the poor, that was mentioned earlier. Our second event was the distribution of 160 blankets and medicines in slums and people on footpaths to tackle the cool winter season in Dec last year. <\/div>Vice President:- <\/b> In the third event, We distributed 100 packets of biryani and fruits to the poor in the festive season of Ramzan this year, also donated 50 sarees and 25 suits to widows, and gave money to charity.<\/div>President:-<\/b> Our fourth and the latest event was conducted on 28th Sept, wherein we distributed 1000 kg of rice and 100 kg of oil, salt, spices & pulses to around 100 families, each receiving 10 kg of rice & 1 kg of spices & oil respectively to the Burma refugees<\/i> who migrated to Hyderabad in search of shelter.<\/div><\/div>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506784236632","data":"59cfb4f4b703b"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506784232847","data":"59cfb4fec1949"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506784381034","data":"Please share with us the strategies you follow while planning for an event.<\/b><\/div>President:- <\/b>We always plan for events a month prior to the scheduled time. Our team gets together for a discussion, proposing ideas that can be implemented for the next event. Then, a voting session will be conducted, and the idea that manages to get the maximum no. of votes is accepted.<\/div>Vice President:-<\/b> Then we spread the word to whomever we can, so that people, if willing may lend a hand towards our cause. We always maintain transparency in our work- What you see, is what we do!<\/div>President:-<\/b> We don't force people to join us. I always say-Whatever you guys have to offer is accepted by us. But your intention should be clear. Dil se do jo bhi do. <\/i>Because we would love to expand our reach as long as the poor are being benefited.<\/div><\/div>What changes would you want the world to experience through SS?<\/b><\/div><\/div>President:-<\/b> Transparency, loyalty and dedication is something the world can always expect from us. Through SS, we plan to create a benchmark and show the world that unity and gentle hearts can alone be capable of making our country free from slums and needy. Log badhenge, tabhi toh desh badhega !<\/i><\/div><\/i><\/div>What are your future plans for SS?<\/b><\/div><\/div>Vice President:-<\/b> We haven't concluded as to what would be focusing on for our next event, but we've a list of ideas to be implemented soon in the future. Our plan is to widen the horizon and spread the word so that anyone who wants to help the needy can happily be a part of SS.<\/div>President:-<\/b> We're planning to help children get educated, and help with the marriages of poor people who can't afford the minimum expenses.<\/div><\/div>Your logo depicts the essence of peace & happiness. Who designed it for you?<\/b><\/div><\/div>Vice President:- <\/b>One of our team member, Khaja Uzair. He handles all the creative work of SS. We wanted to display what we all are capable of & how we humans can be a part of doing something good through our logo.<\/div><\/i><\/div>So, How can people who are willing to help, contact you?<\/b><\/div><\/div>President:- <\/b>We have our official page on Facebook and Instagram, which goes by the name @securingsmiles. Find us there.<\/div><\/div>Okay. So, one last question. Anything you would like to tell our readers?<\/b><\/div><\/div>President:-<\/b> Be thankful to God for whatever you are and with whatever you have today. Because not everybody is as blessed as you are. And make sure that part of your earnings go to the needy because we rise by lifting others. And do help us in expanding SS.<\/div>Vice President:-<\/b> I would tell people to believe in themselves first and be the medium for others to feel joy over your petty gestures to show them how much you care about them. We've always wanted to do something for our loved ones right? And all humans belong to the same family. We all wish to live in a happy and better world so why not start working on it? So, keep smiling & make sure you Secure Smiles!<\/div><\/div>With this, they signed out.<\/div>This is really inspiring for the SS team to pour their souls out to make people happy. All the best for your good work, and may SS see many more successful events.<\/div>If willing to help SS with their good work, feel free to contact them through their official social accounts.<\/div>"}] {"cover_pic":"https:\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/59d0801dcf435stryimg","category":"Blog","is_vip":"0","title":"Possibilities Galore","title_id":"possibilities-galore","isEdit":0,"isAdmin":0,"authorFullName":"Harsha Sista","authorUserName":"harshasista","authorProfilePic":"\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/stumagzprofilepic","authorMagzName":"Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani - Hyderabad","authorCity":"Hyderabad","like_count":12,"cmnt_count":0,"type":1,"isApproved":2,"publishedInName":"Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani - Hyderabad","publishedInLink":"bitshyd","publishedInLogo":"\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/591d682d5d474profilepic","publishedInCode":"bitshyd","country":"IND","keywords":"DPRK","isBookingEnabled":0,"privacy_status":"1","url":"https:\/\/www.stumagz.com\/possibilities-galore\/","has_form":0,"is_appln_closed":0,"max_no_of_applns":0,"likeStatus":0} [{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506836291819","data":"3.09.2017, The Democratic People\u2019s Republic of Korea conducted a nuclear test, for the sixth time even after severe disapproval of the entire International community.\nLet\u2019s be clear. North Korea continues to threaten International peace and security through its repeated nuclear assaults. In complete defiance of U.N. resolutions, North Korea\u2019s ballistic missile tests, demonstrate not only its ability to detonate nuclear weapons, but also to launch them and strike distant targets. The existential threat has arrived and primarily so for the United States of America. The question that arises now: Is America\u2019s military prepared and do they have the ability to spearhead the retaliation against North Korea?\nKim Jong Un, a sociopathic dictator, has crossed every red line \u2014 short of a successful attack on the United States or one of its allies. North Korea has practiced, planned and announced how and why it will attack the United States of America. <\/p>Some argue that, regardless of North Korea\u2019s actions, The United States of America can provide a complete defence. The fact of the matter is that the continued provocations come at a time when they have lost two of their eight forward deployed Arleigh Burke-class destroyers to collisions. This reduces their force readiness and leaves the United States in a vulnerable position in which multiple ships enabled with the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defence System \u2014 a system designed to intercept short- to intermediate-range missiles \u2014 are disabled.\n\n As to what one thinks could happen, it\u2019s a tough call. In the past North Korea has shown a pattern of creating a crisis then backing away when granted concessions. One doesn\u2019t expect them to callously carry out nuclear strikes but, if they do so, North Korea could be reduced to a smoking hole. Right now, it\u2019s a high stakes chess game but a game that can turn deadly if either side miscalculates. \n<\/p>"}] {"cover_pic":"https:\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/5bbc94863c6eestryimg","category":"Whats hot","is_vip":"0","title":"Significance of each day in NAVRATRI","title_id":"significance-of-each-day-in-navratri","isEdit":0,"isAdmin":0,"authorFullName":"Chaganti shivani yasaswi","authorUserName":"chagantishivaniyasaswi","authorProfilePic":"\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/5d16f954e2085profilepic","authorMagzName":"Stanley College of Engineering and Technology for Women","authorCity":"Hyderabad","like_count":20,"cmnt_count":0,"type":1,"isApproved":2,"publishedInName":"Stanley College of Engineering and Technology for Women","publishedInLink":"stanley","publishedInLogo":"\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/58da0aa4e3dc2profilepic","publishedInCode":"stanley","country":"IND","keywords":"navratri,nineforms,festivals","isBookingEnabled":0,"privacy_status":"1","url":"https:\/\/www.stumagz.com\/significance-of-each-day-in-navratri\/","has_form":0,"is_appln_closed":0,"max_no_of_applns":0,"likeStatus":0} [{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1539085434828","data":" Going through a busy life, we often consider festivals as an opportunity to get together with our family and celebrate..because of which festivals that have got great purpose and deep morals behind them are just being an occasion for us to dress up and celebrate superficially!Also..the present education system remains unsuccessful in imparting complete knowledge about the majestic history and distinguished culture that our country has got!thus..youngsters like us are blank or with very less awareness about the great epics like Ramayan , Mahabharath and few others,knowing about which is of utmost importance for an individual to apprehend the real purpose and essence of life.These are not mere bedtime stories as narrated by our elders rather every incident from them is somehow related to our present life and knowing about them will make us more wise in every step that we take.I could only realize its importance when my grandma asked me about the significance of each day in NAVRATRI and I was clueless..!It was then she enlightened me explaining about the symbolic significance of each day in Navratri and this is how it goes......<\/p><\/p>Navratri marks the victory of goddess Durga over demon Mahishasura and is celebrated with high spirits in variety of ways across different regions of the nation..but every way is chiefly dedicated to venerate the three forms of goddesses namely Durga ,Lakshmi and Saraswati.<\/p><\/p> DAYS 1-3<\/p>The first three days are completely dedicated to deity Durga during which power and energy are worshipped .Each day of Navratri symbolizes the nine forms of goddess Durga .On the very first day the form of SHAILAPUTRI ,known as the daughter of Himalayas is taken then the form of BHRAMACHARINI ,signifying penance or \"tapa\"is acquired on the second day and the form of CHANDRAGHANTA, which exemplifies bravery and beauty is embraced on the third day.<\/p>DAYS 4-7<\/p> Fourth day of Navratri ,deity Durga adopts the form of KUSHMANDA and is worshipped as the creator of this universe. Fifth day ...goddess is revered as SKANDAMATA who was the mother of Skanda-the warrior head of the army of Gods and on the sixth day, goddess glorifies the form KATYAYANI sitting on a lion.She has 4 hands and 3 eyes.Deity Durga is venerated as KALARATRI which means dark night and represents courage on the seventh day of Navratri.<\/p>"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1539085434829","data":"DAYS 8-9 <\/p>\nOn the eighth day, Maa Durga takes the form of MAHA GAURI representing calmness and wisdom.This form of goddess Durga is considered to be exceptionally beautiful and is adorned with white jewellery on this day . Glorious Bathukamma celebration in Telangana is also observed on the same day. On the last day of Navratri ,deity Durga adopts the form of SIDDHIDATRI sitting on a lotus and encompasses all the 8 siddhis reckoned as \"ASHTA SIDDHI\".This form is revered by all the sages, siddhas , sadhakas and yogis. <\/p>\n\n\n Dandiya raas and Garba raas doubtlessly add glitters to the nine days of intense pooja and worship.<\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1539085434830","data":"59cfc28f38e61"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1539085434831","data":"After Navratri comes VIJAYADASHMI\/DUSEHRA which marks the victory of GOOD over EVIL,popularly known as the day when Lord Ram defeated Ravan !This day is celebrated with great exuberance throughout the nation. Elders and children of the family do not miss going to Ramleela(a play on epic Ramayan) on this day for watching \"RAVAN DAHAN\"(an effigy of Ravan is burnt with crackers) and with this a new spark of leading a better life gets ignited. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1539085434832","data":"59cfc2bd0e9f0"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1539085434833","data":"Wishing you all a very happy Dusehra!:)<\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1539085434834","data":"59cfc4185604b"}] {"cover_pic":"https:\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/59cf96e396527stryimg","category":"Humour","is_vip":"0","title":"Keeping Work and Home Separate","title_id":"keeping-work-and-home-separate","isEdit":0,"isAdmin":0,"authorFullName":"Naresh Pallishetty","authorUserName":"nareshpallishetty","authorProfilePic":"\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/stumagzprofilepic","authorMagzName":"CBIT","authorCity":"Hyderabad","like_count":17,"cmnt_count":0,"type":1,"isApproved":2,"publishedInName":"CBIT","publishedInLink":"cbit","publishedInLogo":"\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/5824281a09fd5profilepic","publishedInCode":"cbit","country":"IND","keywords":"Work,Life","isBookingEnabled":0,"privacy_status":"1","url":"https:\/\/www.stumagz.com\/keeping-work-and-home-separate\/","has_form":0,"is_appln_closed":0,"max_no_of_applns":0,"likeStatus":0} [{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506775357765","data":"I'm told that once you get into the monotony of working for a living, having extended holidays can actually drive you mad. I know what it sounds like, extended holidays driving one mad? As a student, you would love nothing else except for a chance to sleep all day or go somewhere in the time you are given. <\/p>While people who work still do this, people who tend to stay back home and count the days find themselves slowly going insane and wishing they could go back to work as soon as possible. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506775636668","data":"59cf96fb36732"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506775638453","data":"I can think of the routine getting to the people, we are creatures of habit after all, once we fall in the routine, getting out of it is very hard (which is why I have written multiple times on the importance of developing good habits and routines) and thus when you have some extended free time, you seriously do not know what to do with yourself. <\/p>Now, the mistake a lot of people make in this case is that they tend to work over the holidays and end up feeling drained when they do go back to the office once the extended weekend is done. I idon'thave to point the obvious and tell you why this is wrong, but I will tell you that periods like these is when you should understand the difference between working at work and working at home. <\/p>As much as you can, keep your work out of your home life, it is simply not worth the time and the effort that you put in for it. It is extremely important for people to realise that working from home is a privilege that should not be abused, because if you tend to work a lot from your home, you will lose the palace of peace that your home represents to you. <\/p><\/p>"}] {"cover_pic":"https:\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/59ce85ed8a5adstryimg","category":"Human Interest","is_vip":"0","title":"True Story Behind Nobita's Life","title_id":"true-story-behind-nobita-s-life","isEdit":0,"isAdmin":0,"authorFullName":"Saikiran Sanju","authorUserName":"saikiran64","authorProfilePic":"\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/5de7a46ea055bprofilepic","authorMagzName":"AEC Bhongir","authorCity":"Bhuvanagiri","like_count":64,"cmnt_count":22,"type":1,"isApproved":2,"publishedInName":"AEC Bhongir","publishedInLink":"aurb","publishedInLogo":"\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/591c36e4788d6profilepic","publishedInCode":"aurb","country":"IND","keywords":"what_actually_the_true_story_is,Doraemon,Nobita","isBookingEnabled":0,"privacy_status":"1","url":"https:\/\/www.stumagz.com\/true-story-behind-nobita-s-life\/","has_form":0,"is_appln_closed":0,"max_no_of_applns":0,"likeStatus":0} [{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1566308059590","data":"There are millions of Doraemon fans around the world who, to this day, continue watching the series. However, very few people know the truth behind the series. There were recent viral videos that spread like wildfire on the internet that highlighted the true story behind Nobita. <\/p>Nobita Hiroshi, a 9-year-old boy from Japan, seemed healthy and happy like any other boy his age, except Nobita was hiding a secret from the world. He was suffering from schizophrenia, a disease which makes one see things that do not exist. So real they seem to the victim that they absolutely refuse to believe that it isn't true. Thus, the seemingly lonely and misunderstood Nobita created, in his mind, the adorable Doraemon that would give him everything he ever wanted and more. Being alienated in school, being misunderstood everywhere else and thanks to his schizophrenic mind, Doraemon became his best friend, the only friend who would understand him. <\/p>\n"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1566308059591","data":"59ce8fceea8fc"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1566308059592","data":"And thus Doraemon came to be, a toy comes to life who would never bother or irritate Nobita. Such was Nobita's dependence on Doraemon, whom he imagined would give him all sorts of weird gadgets to do stuff with, that when Nobita was told by the doctors that Doraemon was not real, he simply could not take it. <\/p>When he was 16 years old, the Hiroshi family finally took him to the doctors who dismissed the existence of Doraemon, prompting Nobita to take the extreme step. He took his own life with his father's gun, refusing to exist in a world that disregarded his own. <\/p>\n"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1566308059593","data":"59ce8fe9572a7"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1566308059594","data":"Sad story, right? <\/p>None of it is true. <\/p>Writing this was an exercise in the spreading of fake news. We take information coming from sources we trust without giving it a second glance and blindly believing it to be true. Of course, stories like the one I wrote above are even harder to believe, but what I wanted to illustrate is that if I can spend so much time writing up a completely nonsense story about a fictional character that Fuji Moto Hiroshi made up, how much time and effort do you think the people who have agendas to change your mind will spend on writing long pieces of fake news?<\/p>It is important for us to realise that we need critical thinking to analyse whatever we read on the internet. Information is the new oil, so use information wisely and you will become an informed citizen of the world. Be safe out there, too many people with cock and bull stories. <\/p>\n"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1566308059595","data":"Download stuMagz app<\/a> and have access to more interesting reads like this one. Also get a chance to play the daily quiz at 7 pm to win great goodies.<\/p>"}] {"cover_pic":"https:\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/59cf8ba58910estryimg","category":"Competition","is_vip":"0","title":"Masterpiece 2017","title_id":"masterpiece-2017","isEdit":0,"isAdmin":0,"authorFullName":"Living Talent","authorUserName":"livingtalent2","authorProfilePic":"\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/59cb57081af80profilepic","authorMagzName":"Living Talent","authorCity":"India","like_count":73,"cmnt_count":0,"type":2,"isApproved":2,"publishedInName":"Living Talent","publishedInLink":"livingtalent","publishedInLogo":"\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/59cb55e9e9048profilepic","publishedInCode":"livingtalent","country":"IND","keywords":"masterpiece 2017,Living talent,competition","isBookingEnabled":"0","privacy_status":"1","city_name":"Dubai","starts_on":"2017-09-27","ends_on":"2017-11-30","web_link":"https:\/\/www.livingtalent.org\/","reg_link":"https:\/\/www.livingtalent.org\/","url":"https:\/\/www.stumagz.com\/masterpiece-2017\/","has_form":0,"is_appln_closed":0,"max_no_of_applns":0,"likeStatus":0} [{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506509048697","data":"Masterpiece 2017<\/b> by Living Talent,<\/i> is the world\u2019s first Intercontinental Multi Genre Talent Fair, to be held in the vibrant city of Dubai. <\/p>The talent fair will be spread across 5 exciting days, offering a chance to 225 shortlisted participants along with 225 companions to watch their dreams come true on a world stage, with the Finale on 15th & 16th December. <\/b><\/p>The winner from each category will get a Grand Cash Prize of around US $10,000.<\/p><\/p>Use BM_STZ001 <\/b>to get an offer on ticketing.<\/p>Now, Get Back What You Pay!<\/p>Yes, you would get back the amount through vouchers of the same price. The first 1000 participants would get vouchers worth INR 2000. <\/p>Hurry Up!<\/p>Book your ticket through stuMagz and avail the exciting offers.<\/p>"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506509325307","data":"3 Categories to participate in:<\/b><\/p>1. Performance Art <\/p>2. Art & Craft <\/p>3. Innovation <\/p>What's in for the contestants?<\/b><\/p>As a part of the event, they will get: <\/p>1. Air Fare <\/p>2. Hotel Stay <\/p>3. Visa Expenses <\/p>4. Food<\/p>5. Taxi Fare <\/p>6. Godies Box <\/p>"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506509248732","data":"How To Participate in Masterpiece 2017? <\/b><\/p>1. Age limit is 18-26 years <\/p>2. Go to registration link.<\/p>3. Click on register.<\/p>4. Fill in your details\nPay and register.<\/p>5. Upload a video showcasing talent (2 min & max 300 mb size) <\/p>Living Talent will reach out to the shortlisted participants if their talent is selected by our expert jury panel<\/p>"}] {"cover_pic":"https:\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/59cdde280b334stryimg","category":"Blog","is_vip":"0","title":"We Aren't Ready For Social Media","title_id":"we-aren-t-ready-for-social-media","isEdit":0,"isAdmin":0,"authorFullName":"Sujayendra Krishna Nellore","authorUserName":"sujayendrakris","authorProfilePic":"\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/586e19015fd74profilepic","authorMagzName":"Team Stumagz","authorCity":"Hyderabad","like_count":20,"cmnt_count":1,"type":1,"isApproved":2,"publishedInName":"Team Stumagz","publishedInLink":"team","publishedInLogo":"\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/stumagzprofilepic","publishedInCode":"team","country":"IND","keywords":"Fake news,Social Media","isBookingEnabled":0,"privacy_status":"1","url":"https:\/\/www.stumagz.com\/we-aren-t-ready-for-social-media\/","has_form":0,"is_appln_closed":0,"max_no_of_applns":0,"likeStatus":0} [{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506663813488","data":"As you walk home from your long day at college or work, you check your phone for notifications from your favourite social media website, you see that someone you trust has uploaded a picture that tells you a certain someone has done a certain something, the image presenting it in a way to incite outrage from you. You are scandalised and outraged, sometimes enough to share the information presented to you. <\/p>Now, what was the mistake you made in the above paragraph? <\/p>The veracity of the information presented to you on social media, especially by the ones you trust enough to not lie to you, is never checked, because why would someone like that lie, right? Whether the information shared or not was fake didn't matter to you, all that mattered was who shared it. This is dangerous trend in this day and age of instant information sharing: we know for a fact that people's opinions change depending on what they see on social media, therefore it becomes imperative for those with an agenda on mind to spread misinformation and discord using the tools that were, ironically, designed to make the world a smaller place. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506664282540","data":"59cde4b28e3eb"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506664284655","data":"While the irony of this article reaching to you through social media isn't lost on me, considering social media platforms are very important to us, the need for using the platforms responsibly falls upon all our shoulders. Today, even to the most seasoned social media user and tech-savvy person, navigating the timeline or the feed has turned into something akin to navigating a minefield. There is so much fake information floating around, it has become ridiculous to the point of infuriating. Of course, there is always the option of turning off your phone or computer and walking away, but for those of us who need social media for work and to connect with people, the problem is omnipresent. If you are one such person, then this article is not for you. <\/p>In a way, all of us have been 'hacked' through social engineering. Social engineering is a hacking technique employed by hackers that uses a form of psychological manipulation in order to lower your inhibitions so you may share information, private information, about yourself freely. You can read more about it by clicking here<\/a>. <\/p>So why do I say we've been hacked through social engineering? Because the cornerstone for spreading the fake news is not what it says, but who shares it. Socially aware and the more social media savvy users can often easily spot fake news, but for those who do not use it regularly, if a person with a large following happens to share an image or an article that is questionable in nature, the natural tendency is to believe that person because you think they are smart enough to tell what is real and what is fake, and this is dangerous. <\/p>You are, in essence, letting this person shape your narrative and how you see the world simply because you trust them not to lie. This leads to spreading of fake news and propaganda. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506665552107","data":"59cde4d9bb360"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506664847803","data":"The easiest way to spot this is your family WhatsApp group. More often than not, you will see something very obviously fake being forwarded by one of the elders in your family. When you question them on the fact, they'll just tell you that they 'forwarded as received' or that someone they trust shared the information, which means they more or less trust it. <\/p>Which brings us to the topic at hand: we aren't ready for social media, we are far from ready for it. Today, everyone has access to smartphones. Of the 300 or so million users connected to the internet in India, 200 million of them are on WhatsApp, the biggest source of fake news in India. This is a number that is constantly growing thanks to the ease of access to the internet and the ever reducing prices of Internet-capable smartphones. <\/p>Of these 200 million users, who is to say how many critically examine their news and understand that they are being lied to by people with agendas whose end game is to manipulate their targets into forming the opinions they want them to have? Too many people are blindly trusting in the age of information where your data is the new oil. <\/p>Until a time we can learn to use social media responsibly, we need to examine what it means to be online, the kind of information we are sharing and the kind of information we are sharing with one another. I will be following this post up with 5 Ways To Use Social Media Responsibly very soon, until then, however, please do remember to be critical of the sources you get your information from. The shaping of opinions is big business in this day and age, I shudder to think what would happen when half of the country's 1.3 billion people finally come online. <\/p>"}] {"cover_pic":"https:\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/59cdc8e688ae0stryimg","category":"Whats hot","is_vip":"0","title":"The Uber Challenge Leaderboard","title_id":"the-uber-challenge-leaderboard","isEdit":0,"isAdmin":0,"authorFullName":"UBER","authorUserName":"uber12","authorProfilePic":"\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/59638776408caprofilepic","authorMagzName":"","authorCity":"","like_count":31,"cmnt_count":5,"type":1,"isApproved":2,"publishedInName":"Team Stumagz","publishedInLink":"team","publishedInLogo":"\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/stumagzprofilepic","publishedInCode":"team","country":"IND","keywords":"The Uber Challenge Leaderboard","isBookingEnabled":0,"privacy_status":"1","url":"https:\/\/www.stumagz.com\/the-uber-challenge-leaderboard\/","has_form":0,"is_appln_closed":0,"max_no_of_applns":0,"likeStatus":0} [{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506658109850","data":"The Uber Challenge, conducted by stuMagz in partnership with Uber got a tremendous response from students in the five colleges - BVRIT, CMR, GNI, VBIT and MGIT, with over 2500 students taking part in it. Each student was given a coupon code by Uber and has been tasked with promoting the said code, with a certain conditions. On each usage of the code, the said student receives points and the top 25% of the participants will be eligible for the second round. The first round is open till October 7 and the winners of the first round will be announced later.<\/p>After the further rounds are over, the Uber Challenge, will give opportunities to students in employee, intern and ambassador roles. While final year students and graduates are eligible to become employees at Uber upon successful completion of the challenge, students from other batches will be eligible for paid internships and to be college ambassadors. Upon successful completion of the challenge, top performers in the respective category will be offered full time employment, internships and ambassador roles at Uber. <\/p>With the challenge going on so well, we decided to put up a leaderboard of all the top performers of the challenge! Check out and see if you made it to the leaderboard!<\/p>Note: The Current LeaderBoard is generated only on the basis of all trips. Detailing of Cash, Digital and Social Posts will be considered only in the last leaderboard.<\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506659731434","data":"59cdce0606630"}] {"cover_pic":"https:\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/59ccdfc3f0e3cstryimg","category":"Blog","is_vip":"0","title":"I Remember My First Dusshera","title_id":"i-remember-my-first-dusshera","isEdit":0,"isAdmin":0,"authorFullName":"Sujayendra Krishna Nellore","authorUserName":"sujayendrakris","authorProfilePic":"\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/586e19015fd74profilepic","authorMagzName":"Team Stumagz","authorCity":"Hyderabad","like_count":23,"cmnt_count":0,"type":1,"isApproved":2,"publishedInName":"Team Stumagz","publishedInLink":"team","publishedInLogo":"\/\/cdn.stumagz.com\/images\/stumagzprofilepic","publishedInCode":"team","country":"IND","keywords":"Dussehra,Vijayadashami,Festivals,Nostalgia","isBookingEnabled":0,"privacy_status":"1","url":"https:\/\/www.stumagz.com\/i-remember-my-first-dusshera\/","has_form":0,"is_appln_closed":0,"max_no_of_applns":0,"likeStatus":0} [{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506510987795","data":"I remember. <\/p>I remember the scent of incense floating through the house as I was roused from sleep early in the morning, I don't know what time it was, I hadn't learned reading the time yet. I was 5 years old, and I remember. <\/p>The celebration of Dusshera is different in different parts of the country, so are the stories behind the festival. The advantage of growing up in different parts of the country, I later realised, was that I was exposed first hand to the various ideas behind the festivals that were common for all of us. Dusshera, also known as Dasara, is traditionally celebrated to signify the victory of good over evil; the idea remains the same but the characters involved change. For some, it is the celebration of the fierce warrior goddess Durga slaying the buffalo demon Mahisasura, for others, it is Lord Rama delivering the fatal blow to the Demon King of Sri Lanka, Ravana, winning the war and avenging the slight committed upon him and his wife, the Lady Sita. <\/p>For a 5-year old child, however, it meant relatives and food. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506512079850","data":"59ccdfc996b1d"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506512082230","data":"I remember hating waking up early, but when I saw my favourite cousins in the house, I squealed with joy. Being the only child to my parents, my cousins had taken it upon themselves to be the siblings I never had. I remember asking to go out and play Cricket right away or to run down to the beach and throw sand at each other - although I'm pretty sure I was in my sand eating phase back then - my mother shot the plans down instantly. Nobody would be stepping out until Puja was done and nobody would be eating any food until it was offered to the Goddess. <\/p>I still occasionally hum the prayer songs mom sang in honour of the warrior goddess. Mahisasura Mardini, in the hands of a competent singer, still remains an ethereal experience. At the age I was, my mother was the greatest singer in the world. <\/p>"},{"type":"youtube","id":"vid-url-1506598815606","data":"PbY9giIk0mM"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506513856545","data":"Growing up in Mumbai, the days leading to Vijayadashami were filled with colour, blazing lights, smiles on people's faces and pretty dresses for everyone, especially kids like me. The most defining feature - and indeed the one that would appeal to a child brimming with energy - was Dandiya. <\/p>Mumbai being the melting pot of the country and its close proximity to Gujarat (and the sizeable Gujarati population) had made Dandiya its own. The traditional folk dance from Gujarat and Rajasthan was symbolised with the Dandiya Sticks - very similar I thought to Daredevil's sticks - and the rhythmic dance ritual performed with them in dresses with colours so bright and lively, it felt like you were floating in a rainbow sea. The muted thump of people's feet and the clatter of the sticks would propel us straight into the crowd of revellers, often disrupting the flow of folk dance and earn us the stink eye from men trying to impress women and kisses from the women themselves. <\/p>I remember how hypnotised I was with the way people danced in the open field near our house. My tiny jaw dropped all the way, eyes wide. I remember begging my mother to let me play Dandiya with the adults but I had already earned a reputation of eating more abuse from falls and recklessness, thus foiling my carefully laid out plans of running straight in as soon as I got my hands on a pair of Dandiyas. <\/p>I was allowed to play Dandiya, with other kids my age. Too young to hold grudges and too carefree to actually, well, care, went spend hours performing the dance, although if you asked the onlookers, it was more of hitting each other with the sticks. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506599005926","data":"59cce0c4bce0c"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506516023152","data":"Of all the things one must do in India, I'm told visiting Kolkata during Durga Pujo is an absolute must. The city, my friends from Kolkata tells me (of whom I'm certain at least 2 are planning to punch me for not visiting the city yet), comes alive during Pujo and there is no amount of videos, stories or Facebook posts that can show just how beautiful the city becomes. <\/p>From elaborate pandals that seem to outdo one another, much like Ganesh Chaturthi in Hyderabad and Mumbai, to Bengalis from all over the country going home for the season and meeting up, eating the delicious street food the city has to offer and the general togetherness of friends and family, Durga Pujo is without a doubt one of the best and most unique things about India. Even the communists, I'm told, couldn't take the Pujo away from the Bengalis. <\/p>I only hope this time next year, I am in Kolkata to witness it first hand. Yes, I do know how loud it can get and the general insanity of festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Durga Pujo can be quite overwhelming but the energy in the crowd and the smiles on people's faces are always worth it. It is one of the few things about this country that make it worth fighting for. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506598014289","data":"59cce089544f8"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506598016628","data":"To my utter dismay, I eventually found out that I couldn't be a 5-year old child for the rest of my life, as much as I wanted to. Today, I've long since lost my faith but I still have an appreciation for how the traditional Hindu beliefs were kept alive over so many millennia, especially when the odds were heavily stacked against us for the last 600 or so years. It is not perfect and I do believe Hinduism has to put aside some of its archaic practices and move on - which, on paper, doesn't seem very difficult considering the flexibility of the religion - and become a system of belief that believes in peace and tolerance. The current direction of the country, however, doesn't inspire confidence. <\/p>Which is why I thought this piece would be a good place to pen down, reminiscing about the days when you thought festivals were about the community and religion was just an identity, not a weapon. I hope that on this Vijayadashami, every one of us conquers distrust and hate and let love and community win. <\/p>Too liberal for you? Perhaps. I assure you that wasn't my intention. I just hope to see a world where children can grow up without fear, free to engage in their beliefs. Children are, after all, the consequences of our actions, making us responsible for their existence but not their own bodies or beliefs when they grow up. It seems logical to me that all of us should work towards conquering evil in all aspects of our lives so we can build a better future for another 5-year old who is just about to experience and hopefully remember their first Dusshera. <\/p>"}] Published in clg-short-name Waiting for the approval by Admin Terms and conditions Message OK
3.09.2017, The Democratic People\u2019s Republic of Korea conducted a nuclear test, for the sixth time even after severe disapproval of the entire International community.\nLet\u2019s be clear. North Korea continues to threaten International peace and security through its repeated nuclear assaults. In complete defiance of U.N. resolutions, North Korea\u2019s ballistic missile tests, demonstrate not only its ability to detonate nuclear weapons, but also to launch them and strike distant targets. The existential threat has arrived and primarily so for the United States of America. The question that arises now: Is America\u2019s military prepared and do they have the ability to spearhead the retaliation against North Korea?\nKim Jong Un, a sociopathic dictator, has crossed every red line \u2014 short of a successful attack on the United States or one of its allies. North Korea has practiced, planned and announced how and why it will attack the United States of America. <\/p>
Some argue that, regardless of North Korea\u2019s actions, The United States of America can provide a complete defence. The fact of the matter is that the continued provocations come at a time when they have lost two of their eight forward deployed Arleigh Burke-class destroyers to collisions. This reduces their force readiness and leaves the United States in a vulnerable position in which multiple ships enabled with the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defence System \u2014 a system designed to intercept short- to intermediate-range missiles \u2014 are disabled.\n\n As to what one thinks could happen, it\u2019s a tough call. In the past North Korea has shown a pattern of creating a crisis then backing away when granted concessions. One doesn\u2019t expect them to callously carry out nuclear strikes but, if they do so, North Korea could be reduced to a smoking hole. Right now, it\u2019s a high stakes chess game but a game that can turn deadly if either side miscalculates. \n<\/p>"}]
Going through a busy life, we often consider festivals as an opportunity to get together with our family and celebrate..because of which festivals that have got great purpose and deep morals behind them are just being an occasion for us to dress up and celebrate superficially!Also..the present education system remains unsuccessful in imparting complete knowledge about the majestic history and distinguished culture that our country has got!thus..youngsters like us are blank or with very less awareness about the great epics like Ramayan , Mahabharath and few others,knowing about which is of utmost importance for an individual to apprehend the real purpose and essence of life.These are not mere bedtime stories as narrated by our elders rather every incident from them is somehow related to our present life and knowing about them will make us more wise in every step that we take.I could only realize its importance when my grandma asked me about the significance of each day in NAVRATRI and I was clueless..!It was then she enlightened me explaining about the symbolic significance of each day in Navratri and this is how it goes......<\/p>
<\/p>
Navratri marks the victory of goddess Durga over demon Mahishasura and is celebrated with high spirits in variety of ways across different regions of the nation..but every way is chiefly dedicated to venerate the three forms of goddesses namely Durga ,Lakshmi and Saraswati.<\/p>
DAYS 1-3<\/p>
The first three days are completely dedicated to deity Durga during which power and energy are worshipped .Each day of Navratri symbolizes the nine forms of goddess Durga .On the very first day the form of SHAILAPUTRI ,known as the daughter of Himalayas is taken then the form of BHRAMACHARINI ,signifying penance or \"tapa\"is acquired on the second day and the form of CHANDRAGHANTA, which exemplifies bravery and beauty is embraced on the third day.<\/p>
DAYS 4-7<\/p>
Fourth day of Navratri ,deity Durga adopts the form of KUSHMANDA and is worshipped as the creator of this universe. Fifth day ...goddess is revered as SKANDAMATA who was the mother of Skanda-the warrior head of the army of Gods and on the sixth day, goddess glorifies the form KATYAYANI sitting on a lion.She has 4 hands and 3 eyes.Deity Durga is venerated as KALARATRI which means dark night and represents courage on the seventh day of Navratri.<\/p>"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1539085434829","data":"
DAYS 8-9 <\/p>
\nOn the eighth day, Maa Durga takes the form of MAHA GAURI representing calmness and wisdom.This form of goddess Durga is considered to be exceptionally beautiful and is adorned with white jewellery on this day . Glorious Bathukamma celebration in Telangana is also observed on the same day. On the last day of Navratri ,deity Durga adopts the form of SIDDHIDATRI sitting on a lotus and encompasses all the 8 siddhis reckoned as \"ASHTA SIDDHI\".This form is revered by all the sages, siddhas , sadhakas and yogis. <\/p>
\n\n\n Dandiya raas and Garba raas doubtlessly add glitters to the nine days of intense pooja and worship.<\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1539085434830","data":"59cfc28f38e61"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1539085434831","data":"
After Navratri comes VIJAYADASHMI\/DUSEHRA which marks the victory of GOOD over EVIL,popularly known as the day when Lord Ram defeated Ravan !This day is celebrated with great exuberance throughout the nation. Elders and children of the family do not miss going to Ramleela(a play on epic Ramayan) on this day for watching \"RAVAN DAHAN\"(an effigy of Ravan is burnt with crackers) and with this a new spark of leading a better life gets ignited. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1539085434832","data":"59cfc2bd0e9f0"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1539085434833","data":"
Wishing you all a very happy Dusehra!:)<\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1539085434834","data":"59cfc4185604b"}]
I'm told that once you get into the monotony of working for a living, having extended holidays can actually drive you mad. I know what it sounds like, extended holidays driving one mad? As a student, you would love nothing else except for a chance to sleep all day or go somewhere in the time you are given. <\/p>
While people who work still do this, people who tend to stay back home and count the days find themselves slowly going insane and wishing they could go back to work as soon as possible. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506775636668","data":"59cf96fb36732"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506775638453","data":"
I can think of the routine getting to the people, we are creatures of habit after all, once we fall in the routine, getting out of it is very hard (which is why I have written multiple times on the importance of developing good habits and routines) and thus when you have some extended free time, you seriously do not know what to do with yourself. <\/p>
Now, the mistake a lot of people make in this case is that they tend to work over the holidays and end up feeling drained when they do go back to the office once the extended weekend is done. I idon'thave to point the obvious and tell you why this is wrong, but I will tell you that periods like these is when you should understand the difference between working at work and working at home. <\/p>
As much as you can, keep your work out of your home life, it is simply not worth the time and the effort that you put in for it. It is extremely important for people to realise that working from home is a privilege that should not be abused, because if you tend to work a lot from your home, you will lose the palace of peace that your home represents to you. <\/p>
<\/p>"}]
There are millions of Doraemon fans around the world who, to this day, continue watching the series. However, very few people know the truth behind the series. There were recent viral videos that spread like wildfire on the internet that highlighted the true story behind Nobita. <\/p>
Nobita Hiroshi, a 9-year-old boy from Japan, seemed healthy and happy like any other boy his age, except Nobita was hiding a secret from the world. He was suffering from schizophrenia, a disease which makes one see things that do not exist. So real they seem to the victim that they absolutely refuse to believe that it isn't true. Thus, the seemingly lonely and misunderstood Nobita created, in his mind, the adorable Doraemon that would give him everything he ever wanted and more. Being alienated in school, being misunderstood everywhere else and thanks to his schizophrenic mind, Doraemon became his best friend, the only friend who would understand him. <\/p>\n"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1566308059591","data":"59ce8fceea8fc"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1566308059592","data":"
And thus Doraemon came to be, a toy comes to life who would never bother or irritate Nobita. Such was Nobita's dependence on Doraemon, whom he imagined would give him all sorts of weird gadgets to do stuff with, that when Nobita was told by the doctors that Doraemon was not real, he simply could not take it. <\/p>
When he was 16 years old, the Hiroshi family finally took him to the doctors who dismissed the existence of Doraemon, prompting Nobita to take the extreme step. He took his own life with his father's gun, refusing to exist in a world that disregarded his own. <\/p>\n"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1566308059593","data":"59ce8fe9572a7"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1566308059594","data":"
Sad story, right? <\/p>
None of it is true. <\/p>
Writing this was an exercise in the spreading of fake news. We take information coming from sources we trust without giving it a second glance and blindly believing it to be true. Of course, stories like the one I wrote above are even harder to believe, but what I wanted to illustrate is that if I can spend so much time writing up a completely nonsense story about a fictional character that Fuji Moto Hiroshi made up, how much time and effort do you think the people who have agendas to change your mind will spend on writing long pieces of fake news?<\/p>
It is important for us to realise that we need critical thinking to analyse whatever we read on the internet. Information is the new oil, so use information wisely and you will become an informed citizen of the world. Be safe out there, too many people with cock and bull stories. <\/p>\n"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1566308059595","data":"
Download stuMagz app<\/a> and have access to more interesting reads like this one. Also get a chance to play the daily quiz at 7 pm to win great goodies.<\/p>"}]
Masterpiece 2017<\/b> by Living Talent,<\/i> is the world\u2019s first Intercontinental Multi Genre Talent Fair, to be held in the vibrant city of Dubai. <\/p>
The talent fair will be spread across 5 exciting days, offering a chance to 225 shortlisted participants along with 225 companions to watch their dreams come true on a world stage, with the Finale on 15th & 16th December. <\/b><\/p>
The winner from each category will get a Grand Cash Prize of around US $10,000.<\/p>
Use BM_STZ001 <\/b>to get an offer on ticketing.<\/p>
Now, Get Back What You Pay!<\/p>
Yes, you would get back the amount through vouchers of the same price. The first 1000 participants would get vouchers worth INR 2000. <\/p>
Hurry Up!<\/p>
Book your ticket through stuMagz and avail the exciting offers.<\/p>"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506509325307","data":"
3 Categories to participate in:<\/b><\/p>
1. Performance Art <\/p>
2. Art & Craft <\/p>
3. Innovation <\/p>
What's in for the contestants?<\/b><\/p>
As a part of the event, they will get: <\/p>
1. Air Fare <\/p>
2. Hotel Stay <\/p>
3. Visa Expenses <\/p>
4. Food<\/p>
5. Taxi Fare <\/p>
6. Godies Box <\/p>"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506509248732","data":"
How To Participate in Masterpiece 2017? <\/b><\/p>
1. Age limit is 18-26 years <\/p>
2. Go to registration link.<\/p>
3. Click on register.<\/p>
4. Fill in your details\nPay and register.<\/p>
5. Upload a video showcasing talent (2 min & max 300 mb size) <\/p>
Living Talent will reach out to the shortlisted participants if their talent is selected by our expert jury panel<\/p>"}]
As you walk home from your long day at college or work, you check your phone for notifications from your favourite social media website, you see that someone you trust has uploaded a picture that tells you a certain someone has done a certain something, the image presenting it in a way to incite outrage from you. You are scandalised and outraged, sometimes enough to share the information presented to you. <\/p>
Now, what was the mistake you made in the above paragraph? <\/p>
The veracity of the information presented to you on social media, especially by the ones you trust enough to not lie to you, is never checked, because why would someone like that lie, right? Whether the information shared or not was fake didn't matter to you, all that mattered was who shared it. This is dangerous trend in this day and age of instant information sharing: we know for a fact that people's opinions change depending on what they see on social media, therefore it becomes imperative for those with an agenda on mind to spread misinformation and discord using the tools that were, ironically, designed to make the world a smaller place. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506664282540","data":"59cde4b28e3eb"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506664284655","data":"
While the irony of this article reaching to you through social media isn't lost on me, considering social media platforms are very important to us, the need for using the platforms responsibly falls upon all our shoulders. Today, even to the most seasoned social media user and tech-savvy person, navigating the timeline or the feed has turned into something akin to navigating a minefield. There is so much fake information floating around, it has become ridiculous to the point of infuriating. Of course, there is always the option of turning off your phone or computer and walking away, but for those of us who need social media for work and to connect with people, the problem is omnipresent. If you are one such person, then this article is not for you. <\/p>
In a way, all of us have been 'hacked' through social engineering. Social engineering is a hacking technique employed by hackers that uses a form of psychological manipulation in order to lower your inhibitions so you may share information, private information, about yourself freely. You can read more about it by clicking here<\/a>. <\/p>So why do I say we've been hacked through social engineering? Because the cornerstone for spreading the fake news is not what it says, but who shares it. Socially aware and the more social media savvy users can often easily spot fake news, but for those who do not use it regularly, if a person with a large following happens to share an image or an article that is questionable in nature, the natural tendency is to believe that person because you think they are smart enough to tell what is real and what is fake, and this is dangerous. <\/p>You are, in essence, letting this person shape your narrative and how you see the world simply because you trust them not to lie. This leads to spreading of fake news and propaganda. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506665552107","data":"59cde4d9bb360"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506664847803","data":"The easiest way to spot this is your family WhatsApp group. More often than not, you will see something very obviously fake being forwarded by one of the elders in your family. When you question them on the fact, they'll just tell you that they 'forwarded as received' or that someone they trust shared the information, which means they more or less trust it. <\/p>Which brings us to the topic at hand: we aren't ready for social media, we are far from ready for it. Today, everyone has access to smartphones. Of the 300 or so million users connected to the internet in India, 200 million of them are on WhatsApp, the biggest source of fake news in India. This is a number that is constantly growing thanks to the ease of access to the internet and the ever reducing prices of Internet-capable smartphones. <\/p>Of these 200 million users, who is to say how many critically examine their news and understand that they are being lied to by people with agendas whose end game is to manipulate their targets into forming the opinions they want them to have? Too many people are blindly trusting in the age of information where your data is the new oil. <\/p>Until a time we can learn to use social media responsibly, we need to examine what it means to be online, the kind of information we are sharing and the kind of information we are sharing with one another. I will be following this post up with 5 Ways To Use Social Media Responsibly very soon, until then, however, please do remember to be critical of the sources you get your information from. The shaping of opinions is big business in this day and age, I shudder to think what would happen when half of the country's 1.3 billion people finally come online. <\/p>"}]
So why do I say we've been hacked through social engineering? Because the cornerstone for spreading the fake news is not what it says, but who shares it. Socially aware and the more social media savvy users can often easily spot fake news, but for those who do not use it regularly, if a person with a large following happens to share an image or an article that is questionable in nature, the natural tendency is to believe that person because you think they are smart enough to tell what is real and what is fake, and this is dangerous. <\/p>
You are, in essence, letting this person shape your narrative and how you see the world simply because you trust them not to lie. This leads to spreading of fake news and propaganda. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506665552107","data":"59cde4d9bb360"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506664847803","data":"
The easiest way to spot this is your family WhatsApp group. More often than not, you will see something very obviously fake being forwarded by one of the elders in your family. When you question them on the fact, they'll just tell you that they 'forwarded as received' or that someone they trust shared the information, which means they more or less trust it. <\/p>
Which brings us to the topic at hand: we aren't ready for social media, we are far from ready for it. Today, everyone has access to smartphones. Of the 300 or so million users connected to the internet in India, 200 million of them are on WhatsApp, the biggest source of fake news in India. This is a number that is constantly growing thanks to the ease of access to the internet and the ever reducing prices of Internet-capable smartphones. <\/p>
Of these 200 million users, who is to say how many critically examine their news and understand that they are being lied to by people with agendas whose end game is to manipulate their targets into forming the opinions they want them to have? Too many people are blindly trusting in the age of information where your data is the new oil. <\/p>
Until a time we can learn to use social media responsibly, we need to examine what it means to be online, the kind of information we are sharing and the kind of information we are sharing with one another. I will be following this post up with 5 Ways To Use Social Media Responsibly very soon, until then, however, please do remember to be critical of the sources you get your information from. The shaping of opinions is big business in this day and age, I shudder to think what would happen when half of the country's 1.3 billion people finally come online. <\/p>"}]
The Uber Challenge, conducted by stuMagz in partnership with Uber got a tremendous response from students in the five colleges - BVRIT, CMR, GNI, VBIT and MGIT, with over 2500 students taking part in it. Each student was given a coupon code by Uber and has been tasked with promoting the said code, with a certain conditions. On each usage of the code, the said student receives points and the top 25% of the participants will be eligible for the second round. The first round is open till October 7 and the winners of the first round will be announced later.<\/p>
After the further rounds are over, the Uber Challenge, will give opportunities to students in employee, intern and ambassador roles. While final year students and graduates are eligible to become employees at Uber upon successful completion of the challenge, students from other batches will be eligible for paid internships and to be college ambassadors. Upon successful completion of the challenge, top performers in the respective category will be offered full time employment, internships and ambassador roles at Uber. <\/p>
With the challenge going on so well, we decided to put up a leaderboard of all the top performers of the challenge! Check out and see if you made it to the leaderboard!<\/p>
Note: The Current LeaderBoard is generated only on the basis of all trips. Detailing of Cash, Digital and Social Posts will be considered only in the last leaderboard.<\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506659731434","data":"59cdce0606630"}]
I remember. <\/p>
I remember the scent of incense floating through the house as I was roused from sleep early in the morning, I don't know what time it was, I hadn't learned reading the time yet. I was 5 years old, and I remember. <\/p>
The celebration of Dusshera is different in different parts of the country, so are the stories behind the festival. The advantage of growing up in different parts of the country, I later realised, was that I was exposed first hand to the various ideas behind the festivals that were common for all of us. Dusshera, also known as Dasara, is traditionally celebrated to signify the victory of good over evil; the idea remains the same but the characters involved change. For some, it is the celebration of the fierce warrior goddess Durga slaying the buffalo demon Mahisasura, for others, it is Lord Rama delivering the fatal blow to the Demon King of Sri Lanka, Ravana, winning the war and avenging the slight committed upon him and his wife, the Lady Sita. <\/p>
For a 5-year old child, however, it meant relatives and food. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506512079850","data":"59ccdfc996b1d"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506512082230","data":"
I remember hating waking up early, but when I saw my favourite cousins in the house, I squealed with joy. Being the only child to my parents, my cousins had taken it upon themselves to be the siblings I never had. I remember asking to go out and play Cricket right away or to run down to the beach and throw sand at each other - although I'm pretty sure I was in my sand eating phase back then - my mother shot the plans down instantly. Nobody would be stepping out until Puja was done and nobody would be eating any food until it was offered to the Goddess. <\/p>
I still occasionally hum the prayer songs mom sang in honour of the warrior goddess. Mahisasura Mardini, in the hands of a competent singer, still remains an ethereal experience. At the age I was, my mother was the greatest singer in the world. <\/p>"},{"type":"youtube","id":"vid-url-1506598815606","data":"PbY9giIk0mM"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506513856545","data":"
Growing up in Mumbai, the days leading to Vijayadashami were filled with colour, blazing lights, smiles on people's faces and pretty dresses for everyone, especially kids like me. The most defining feature - and indeed the one that would appeal to a child brimming with energy - was Dandiya. <\/p>
Mumbai being the melting pot of the country and its close proximity to Gujarat (and the sizeable Gujarati population) had made Dandiya its own. The traditional folk dance from Gujarat and Rajasthan was symbolised with the Dandiya Sticks - very similar I thought to Daredevil's sticks - and the rhythmic dance ritual performed with them in dresses with colours so bright and lively, it felt like you were floating in a rainbow sea. The muted thump of people's feet and the clatter of the sticks would propel us straight into the crowd of revellers, often disrupting the flow of folk dance and earn us the stink eye from men trying to impress women and kisses from the women themselves. <\/p>
I remember how hypnotised I was with the way people danced in the open field near our house. My tiny jaw dropped all the way, eyes wide. I remember begging my mother to let me play Dandiya with the adults but I had already earned a reputation of eating more abuse from falls and recklessness, thus foiling my carefully laid out plans of running straight in as soon as I got my hands on a pair of Dandiyas. <\/p>
I was allowed to play Dandiya, with other kids my age. Too young to hold grudges and too carefree to actually, well, care, went spend hours performing the dance, although if you asked the onlookers, it was more of hitting each other with the sticks. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506599005926","data":"59cce0c4bce0c"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506516023152","data":"
Of all the things one must do in India, I'm told visiting Kolkata during Durga Pujo is an absolute must. The city, my friends from Kolkata tells me (of whom I'm certain at least 2 are planning to punch me for not visiting the city yet), comes alive during Pujo and there is no amount of videos, stories or Facebook posts that can show just how beautiful the city becomes. <\/p>
From elaborate pandals that seem to outdo one another, much like Ganesh Chaturthi in Hyderabad and Mumbai, to Bengalis from all over the country going home for the season and meeting up, eating the delicious street food the city has to offer and the general togetherness of friends and family, Durga Pujo is without a doubt one of the best and most unique things about India. Even the communists, I'm told, couldn't take the Pujo away from the Bengalis. <\/p>
I only hope this time next year, I am in Kolkata to witness it first hand. Yes, I do know how loud it can get and the general insanity of festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Durga Pujo can be quite overwhelming but the energy in the crowd and the smiles on people's faces are always worth it. It is one of the few things about this country that make it worth fighting for. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506598014289","data":"59cce089544f8"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506598016628","data":"
To my utter dismay, I eventually found out that I couldn't be a 5-year old child for the rest of my life, as much as I wanted to. Today, I've long since lost my faith but I still have an appreciation for how the traditional Hindu beliefs were kept alive over so many millennia, especially when the odds were heavily stacked against us for the last 600 or so years. It is not perfect and I do believe Hinduism has to put aside some of its archaic practices and move on - which, on paper, doesn't seem very difficult considering the flexibility of the religion - and become a system of belief that believes in peace and tolerance. The current direction of the country, however, doesn't inspire confidence. <\/p>
Which is why I thought this piece would be a good place to pen down, reminiscing about the days when you thought festivals were about the community and religion was just an identity, not a weapon. I hope that on this Vijayadashami, every one of us conquers distrust and hate and let love and community win. <\/p>
Too liberal for you? Perhaps. I assure you that wasn't my intention. I just hope to see a world where children can grow up without fear, free to engage in their beliefs. Children are, after all, the consequences of our actions, making us responsible for their existence but not their own bodies or beliefs when they grow up. It seems logical to me that all of us should work towards conquering evil in all aspects of our lives so we can build a better future for another 5-year old who is just about to experience and hopefully remember their first Dusshera. <\/p>"}]
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