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I don't rightly remember who it was that said that we already live in the future. With new technology making breakthroughs every day - with Google Pixel announcing real-time language translation for instance - it is quite safe to say that the future is now and we live in a time where breakthroughs in science happen days within each other, sometimes multiple on the same day. Such is the measure of humanity's scientific endeavour in this age of information. We stopped, for a while, fighting each other and looked up together at the stars, before starting to build the future together. <\/p>
Forgive me, I did not mean to be philosophical for a product review, it's just that I've been reading a bit too much lately, but before we go off rails again, let us get to the topic at hand. Thanks to the rapid pace of evolution in mobile technology, somewhere along the line, we were introduced to smartwatches that pair with our smartphones and give us a feedback of essential data that you need to know about your own body while also allowing you to check your messages on the fly as well as answer calls without having to depend on reaching in to your pocket to fish it out, provided, of course, if you already have headphones or earphones in. The market has borne witness to some of the best smartwatches from Samsung and Apple, while Fitbit quietly does what it does best with it's Blaze series pulling double duty as a smartwatch as well. So where does Hyderabad based Hug Innovation's smartwatch stand amongst its peers?<\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1507201365487","data":"59d617a7750db"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1507201367290","data":"
Powered by a MediaTek 2502c processor, a 128MB RAM and boasting of a 2 GB memory, the Hug Innovations Smartwatch comes with a 240x240 pixels display and is compatible with both iOS and Android, and comes with gesture control. Frankly speaking, at first I believe this to be a mere gimmick, but using it with a friend's Oculus Rift was a brand new experience. <\/p>
Now, using the Oculus and indeed the Vive for gaming is not new, we've been tweaking games like Alien: Isolation to be VR compatible by the sheer force of our will, but the fact that we could use hand gestures with a smartwatch alone was an absolute blast to experience. Unfortunately, we couldn't test the hand gestures in video games, although my friend swears he nearly finished a level of Half-Life 2 with just gestures and a lot of mouse clicking.<\/p>
Since we're talking about the gestures anyway, using gestures while you're in the virtual world may be of some use but unless you actively get used to it outside of VR simulations, you would much rather prefer using the old-fashioned method, if not for the ease of use, but for the simple reason that we are used to it. The gestures were pretty easy to pick up and use, however, even with the tracking a bit wonky at times. That being said, I couldn't ask for a better smartwatch with gesture control at the price point they're asking, a fact to which we will come back momentarily. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1507202142829","data":"59d617bf2ee1c"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1507202144855","data":"
The Smarts of the Watch: <\/p>
Now the following feature that I'm going to talk about has been a very divisive issue amongst my friends, with half in favour and the other opposing it. The design of the watch, the looks more specifically, as evenly split my friends, with some calling it downright ugly to others saying it is decent enough, some even praising its looks. <\/p>
Personally, I do think that Hug Innovations needs to work a bit more on ensuring their watches look sleeker and more pleasing to the eye, basically making it more aesthetic than it already is. However, I will mention that I have a weakness for square shaped designs like that when it uses the space on it properly. Which reminds me, I need to go fix my watch today. <\/p>
Its functions as a smartwatch, however, I have no complaints against. It comes with a heart rate monitor as well, so if you have apps to monitor your health as well as measure your sleep cycle and more, this would be a very good buy for you. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1507202434267","data":"59d617f5f1ca6"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1507202436181","data":"
Final Verdict: <\/p>
As much as I would like to continue talking about the product, I'm not exactly a professional gadget guru, my main interests like in the software realm and books, which I can and will review with a grin on my face. But using the Hug Innovations Smartwatch for the amount of time I had it with me convinced me that there are more people that need to hear about this watch that was developed right here, in Hyderabad. If that sounds like bias to you, I obviously can't ask you to trust me, but I will ask you to trust yourself and go check out their website whenever you can by <\/a>clicking here<\/a> and seeing the features yourself, as well as watching unboxing and usage videos on YouTube. <\/p>But the main reason I'm recommending this smartwatch, and yes I am recommending it, is the economical price point and the fact that it has gesture controls, a unique feature that does not seem important until you actually do use it and see its practicality. <\/p><\/a>Click here to buy the smartwatch! <\/a>https:\/\/www.giftcesta.com\/product\/hug-smart-watch-andriod\/<\/p>"}]
But the main reason I'm recommending this smartwatch, and yes I am recommending it, is the economical price point and the fact that it has gesture controls, a unique feature that does not seem important until you actually do use it and see its practicality. <\/p>
<\/a>Click here to buy the smartwatch! <\/a>https:\/\/www.giftcesta.com\/product\/hug-smart-watch-andriod\/<\/p>"}]
It is rather often that you face a situation when someone asks you to tell them about yourself. This is mostly in interviews where the person you face is your employer. Then there are some steps following which you can answer as a boss and be better prepared avoiding confusion at the spot.<\/p>
<\/p>
1) The Personal\/Professional YOU<\/b><\/u><\/p>
\uf0e0\tWhen the interviewer asks \u201cTell me about yourself\u201d which is apparently abrupt, he is trying to test your ability to analyse incomplete information. <\/p>
\uf0e0\tAt this point you need to start off by introducing yourself and saying 1 or 2 lines about your informal or personal life. <\/p>
\uf0e0\tBut make sure that doesn't overpower or take over the professional part of it.<\/p>
\uf0e0\tThen start your professional or formal side. This should briefly yet convincingly explain how good you are\/were at your workplace. <\/p>
\uf0e0\tIf you are a former employee, state your achievements in your previous job. <\/p>
\uf0e0\tIf you are a fresher, then tell about your accomplishments in college or school. <\/p>
\uf0e0\tThis will bring you to the end of information giving part.\n<\/p>
2) How are you PERFECT for this job? <\/b><\/u><\/p>
\uf0e0\tThis is a little tricky and comparatively shorter part of your answer but this is where you need to follow many little rules. <\/p>
\uf0e0\tThis will enable the interviewer to recognise you as a good and expressive speaker. <\/p>
\uf0e0\tIn this part you can elevate or stress on your strengths and positive points. <\/p>
\uf0e0\tThis is the time where you need to grab the attention of the interviewer towards all your constructiveness and usefulness. <\/p>
\uf0e0\tYou can tell them how patient, accurate or punctual you are. <\/p>
\uf0e0\tIf you are a fresher then tell them how excited and enthusiastic you are to join this firm. <\/p>
\uf0e0\tTell them what, how and why you are looking forward to improve in yourself. <\/p>
\uf0e0\tWhat can you give into the company once you start working for it. <\/p>
\uf0e0\tAssure the interviewers of where you are going to see yourself in the next 5 years of span which is very common to be asked even if you don\u2019t specify.\n<\/p>
3) Rehearse a LITTLE BIT before the interview. <\/b><\/u><\/p>
\uf0e0\tHave a well structured matter of how you are presenting things and yourself. <\/p>
\uf0e0\tKeep in mind that the interviewer knows everything that you are going to do or say as he had faced many candidates like you. <\/p>
\uf0e0\tFollow all the Dos and DON\u2019Ts of formal interviews. <\/p>
\nDOs (you can specify about)<\/b>:- <\/p>
\u2022\tThat time when you got an award for being excellent. <\/p>
\u2022\tWhen your boss recognised your dedication and you were rewarded for it. <\/p>
\u2022\tSituations you faced and problems you solved during the tenure. <\/p>
\u2022\tThe certifications you got for your academic or extra-curricular activities. <\/p>
\u2022\tThe awards you got, the events you organized, the student forums you got into or even those activities which brought your institution fame.<\/p>
\n\u2022\tUse acceptably correct and strong sounding English. <\/p>
\u2022\tTry to be witty yet formal and confident. <\/p>
DON\u2019Ts:- <\/b><\/p>
\u2022\tNever mention about your past health issues or your symptoms. <\/p>
\u2022\tDo not blabber or sound robotic, try to seem spontaneous. <\/p>
\u2022\tDon\u2019t ever crack unnecessary or cheesy jokes.<\/p>
\u2022\tDon\u2019t fake anything and don\u2019t boast! <\/p>
\u2022\tNever use huge and complex sounding words which would complicate your idea.\n<\/p>"}]
I write this in remembrance of a fantastic person and an amazing artist that was <\/p>
Upon the release of their first album in the late '70s, Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers were shoehorned into the punk\/new wave movement by some observers who picked up on the tough, vibrant energy of the group's blend of Byrds riffs and Stonesy swagger. In a way, the categorization made sense. Compared to the heavy metal and art rock that dominated mid-'70s guitar rock, the Heartbreakers' bracing return to roots was nearly as unexpected as the crashing chords of the Clash. As time progressed, it became clear that the band didn't break from tradition like their punk contemporaries. Instead, they celebrated it, culling the best parts of the British Invasion, American garage rock, and Dylanesque singer\/songwriters to create a distinctively American hybrid that recalled the past without being indebted to it. <\/p>
The Heartbreakers were a tight, muscular, and versatile backing band that provided the proper support for Petty's songs, which cataloged a series of middle-class losers and dreamers. While his slurred, nasal voice may have recalled Dylan and Roger McGuinn, Petty's songwriting was lean and direct, recalling the simple, unadorned style of Neil Young. Throughout his career, Petty & the Heartbreakers never departed from their signature rootsy sound, but they were able to expand it, bringing in psychedelic, Southern rock, and new wave influences; they were also one of the few of the traditionalist rock & rollers who embraced music videos, filming some of the most inventive and popular videos in MTV history. His willingness to experiment with the boundaries of classic rock & roll helped Petty sustain his popularity well into the '90s.\nTom Petty. <\/p>"},{"type":"youtube","id":"vid-url-1507119037495","data":"1lWJXDG2i0A"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1507118865323","data":"
Born and raised in northern Florida, Tom Petty began playing music while he was still in high school. At the age of 17, he dropped out of school to join Mudcrutch, which also featured guitarist Mike Campbell and keyboardist Benmont Tench. By 1970, Mudcrutch had moved to Los Angeles with hopes of finding a record contract. The fledgling Shelter Records, founded by Leon Russell and Denny Cordell, offered the group a contract. However, Mudcrutch splintered apart shortly after relocating to L.A. Cordell was willing to record Petty as a solo act, but the singer's reception to the idea was tentative. Over the next few years, Petty drifted through bands, eventually hooking back up with Campbell and Tench in 1975. At the time, the duo were working with bassist Ron Blair and drummer Stan Lynch; soon, Petty became involved with the band, which was then named the Heartbreakers. Petty was still under contract to Shelter, and the group assumed his deal, releasing Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers in 1976.<\/p>
Initially, the band's debut was ignored in the United States, but when the group supported it in England with a tour opening for Nils Lofgren, the record began to take off. Within a few months, the band was headlining its own British tours and the album was in the U.K. Top 30. Prompted by the record's British success, Shelter pushed the album and the single \"Breakdown\" in the U.S., this time to success; \"Breakdown\" became a Top 40 hit and \"American Girl\" became an album-oriented radio staple. You're Gonna Get It, the Heartbreakers' second album, was released in 1978 and it became the group's first American Top 40 record. Petty & the Heartbreakers were poised to break into the big time when they ran into severe record company problems. Shelter's parent company, ABC Records, was bought by MCA Records, and Petty attempted to renegotiate his contract with the label. MCA was unwilling to meet most of his demands, and halfway through 1979, he filed for bankruptcy. Soon afterward, he settled into an agreement with MCA, signing with their subsidiary Backstreet Records. Released late in 1979, Damn the Torpedoes was his first release on Backstreet. <\/p>
Damn the Torpedoes was Petty's breakthrough release, earning uniformly excellent reviews, generating the Top Ten hit \"Don't Do Me Like That\" and the number 15 \"Refugee,\" and spending seven weeks at number two on the U.S. charts; it would eventually sell over two million copies. Though he was at a peak of popularity, Petty ran into record company trouble again when he and the Heartbreakers prepared to release Hard Promises, the 1981 follow-up to Damn the Torpedoes. MCA wanted to release the record at the list price of $9.98, which was a high price at the time. Petty refused to comply to their wishes, threatening to withhold the album from the label and organizing a fan protest that forced the company to release the record at $8.98. Hard Promises became a Top Ten hit, going platinum and spawning the hit single \"The Waiting.\" Later that year, Petty produced Del Shannon's comeback album Drop Down and Get Me and wrote \"Stop Draggin' My Heart Around\" as a duet for himself and Stevie Nicks. Featured on her album Bella Donna, which was recorded with the Heartbreakers' support, \"Stop Draggin' My Heart Around\" became a number three hit. Petty & the Heartbreakers returned late in 1982 with Long After Dark, which became their third Top Ten album in a row. Following its release, bassist Ron Blair left the band and was replaced by Howie Epstein, who previously played with John Hiatt.\n <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1507119094250","data":"59d4d06acb38e"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1507118915628","data":"
Petty & the Heartbreakers spent nearly three years making Southern Accents, the follow-up to Long After Dark. Hiring Eurythmics' Dave Stewart as a producer, the band attempted to branch out musically, reaching into new territories like soul, psychedelia, and new wave. However, the recording wasn't easy -- at its worst, Petty punched a studio wall and broke his left hand, reportedly in frustration over the mixing. Southern Accents was finally released in the spring of 1985, preceded by the neo-psychedelic single \"Don't Come Around Here No More,\" which featured a popular, pseudo-Alice in Wonderland video. Southern Accents was another hit record, peaking at number seven and going platinum. Following its release, Petty & the Heartbreakers spent 1986 on tour as Bob Dylan's backing band. Dylan contributed to the lead single \"Jammin' Me,\" from the Heartbreakers' next album, Let Me Up (I've Had Enough), which was released to mixed reviews in the spring of 1987. Just after the record's release, Petty's house and most of his belongings were destroyed by fire; he, his wife, and two daughters survived unscathed. <\/p>
During 1988, Petty became a member of the supergroup the Traveling Wilburys, which also featured Dylan, George Harrison, Roy Orbison, and Jeff Lynne. The Wilburys released their first album at the end of 1988 and its sound became the blueprint for Petty's first solo effort, 1989's Full Moon Fever. Produced by Lynne and featuring the support of most of the Heartbreakers, Full Moon Fever became Petty's commercial pinnacle, reaching number three on the U.S. charts, going triple platinum, and generating the hit singles \"I Won't Back Down,\" \"Runnin' Down a Dream,\" and \"Free Fallin',\" which reached number seven. In 1990, he contributed to the Traveling Wilburys' second album, Vol. 3. Petty officially reunited with the Heartbreakers on Into the Great Wide Open, which was also produced by Jeff Lynne. Released in the spring of 1991, Into the Great Wide Open sustained the momentum of Full Moon Fever, earning strong reviews and going platinum. \n<\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1507119112010","data":"59d4d07d68aee"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1507118953086","data":"
Following the release of 1993's Greatest Hits, which featured two new tracks produced by Rick Rubin, including the Top 20 hit \"Mary Jane's Last Dance,\" Petty left MCA for Warner Bros.; upon signing, it was revealed that he negotiated a $20 million deal in 1989. Drummer Stan Lynch left the Heartbreakers in 1994 as Petty was recording his second solo album with producer Rubin and many members of the Heartbreakers. Like Full Moon Fever before it, 1994's Wildflowers was greeted by enthusiastic reviews and sales, tying his previous solo album for his biggest-selling studio album. In addition to going triple platinum and peaking at number eight, the album spawned the hit singles \"You Don't Know How It Feels,\" \"You Wreck Me,\" and \"It's Good to Be King.\" Petty & the Heartbreakers reunited in 1996 to record the soundtrack for the Edward Burns film She's the One. The resulting soundtrack album was a moderate hit, peaking at number 15 on the U.S. charts and going gold. Echo followed three years later. <\/p>
The Last DJ, a scathing attack on the corporate greed inherent in the music business, was released in 2002. It was followed in 2006 by Highway Companion. After this, he reunited his original band Mudcrutch for a 2008 album and tour. Mojo, credited to Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers, appeared from Reprise Records in 2010. The band toured fairly regularly over the next four years, then returned in the summer of 2014 with the brand-new Hypnotic Eye. Two years later, Petty reconvened Mudcrutch for their second album, appropriately entitled 2. In 2017 Zip City released the concert LP Psychotic Reaction, a live FM radio broadcast from 1991 of the group performing at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum in California in support of Full Moon Fever and Into the Great Wide Open.<\/p>"}]
This was intended to be a write-up that I wrote for myself but then I thought, why not share it with everyone, especially considering exams are fast approaching and the period between Dusshera and Diwali can lull people into a false sense of security to not do what they are supposed to do because holiday mode is on. <\/p>
I'm sure I'm not the only one who has wanted to do something for a really long time but hasn't been able to do so, for various reasons. Most of which are excuses you tell yourself hoping that you would change doing that over and over again and expecting things to change. Of course, life has a sense of irony: even when you're doing the same destructive things over and over again and expecting things to change, things do actually change, albeit for the worse.<\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1507031752494","data":"59d38209d392b"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1507031754372","data":"
I'm no motivational speaker but over the last few years, I can safely say that living and growing older every year definitely works wonders on how you experience life. Sounds fairly obvious, I agree, but the point I'm making is that I'm beginning to see why experience in life is valued so much in Indian society. Sure, there can still be a fundamental difference in opinion, but no matter what your ideology or what social status you come from, there are certain things that are similar to everyone. Weathering that storm can teach you a lot of things about yourself, so much so that people have become motivational speakers by simply drawing from their experience or written books that inspire millions of people.<\/p>
But what about those who are currently in the eye of the storm?<\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1507032694988","data":"59d38245cf170"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1507032696808","data":"
I have tried and I have failed, over and over again. I'm not here to tell you that you need to get back up on your feet and keep fighting right away, because you will, eventually you will. That and the fact that I am nowhere close to being out of this storm of self-hate, denial and misery. I only know the way, what lacks is the will to go the length and finish the journey. <\/p>
I'm writing this because I want to tell you folks, all of you who want to improve themselves, physically, mentally or both, that the road ahead of you may seem long and impossible to finish, but you can only hope to finish it once you actually start walking down the path in the first place.<\/p>
I do believe that within all of us is a fundamental desire to be the better versions of ourselves, for some it may manifest later than usual, but it is still there. All of us would like a better life, a healthier life, but we have convinced ourselves that we cannot change, that we will always be the way we are because that is all you are good at, and that is simply wrong. <\/p>
You are wasting away your potential because you are telling yourself that you're no good when the truth is of the matter is that you are better than you think you are and that by making a commitment to yourself, you can be the best version of yourself. You can bring a positive change to your life by telling yourself every single day that yes, you can change, and change for the better. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1507033023230","data":"59d3828bde977"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1507033025397","data":"
Which brings us to the dough. Many people, myself included, give up easily because the results are not apparent to see. Change, positive change, does not happen overnight. To build something, you must care for what you're building. Your homes weren't built in a day, you took care and make sure it is what it is today over time. If this change was easy to achieve, everyone would be doing it and the world would be a better place. <\/p>
Which is why it is important for you to realise that the road to self-improvement and learning is a long winding path with many pitfalls. It is incredibly easy for you to lose sight of your goal and become distracted or even disheartened because of the lack of a result in sight. We all would like to change our lives, but we need to understand that for positive change to happen, you need to give it time, give yourself time, forgive yourself and continue improving yourself every single day of your life. <\/p>
So even if you suck at learning that guitar you always wanted to learn, pick it up and keep playing, every single day. If you've been struggling with weight loss like I am, go to the gym every single day, even if you think you are being horrendous and that you should never do it again. Eventually, you'll find that you are changing, you are improving, till one day you realise it has been at least a year since you began and you look back at the road you've travelled and see how much you've grown. Change like that takes time, but then again, time is all that it takes. Nothing else.<\/p>
I'm far from my own goal but rest assured, I'm a fellow sailor on this Sea of Self Improvement, with its many-headed monsters and storms. I just hope we stick to our ships and make it to the end of the journey.<\/p>"}]
Greetings from Avishkar 2K17 Team!<\/p>
On this auspicious day of the 54th birthday of IEEE, we would like to remind you the motto we follow. <\/p>
\n''Leveraging technology for a better future''<\/b><\/p>
So, take your first step towards the professional world and manifest your organizing skills for a technical event. <\/p>
\nSophomores!<\/b><\/p>
Do not miss the opportunity to organize the flagship event of IEEE - VBIT SB, ''AVISHKAR<\/b>\". <\/p>
Nominations for AVISHKAR 2K18 ORGANIZING TEAM are open.<\/p>
Drop your nomination at: \nhttp:\/\/bit.ly\/NominateForAVK2K18<\/a> <\/p>Last date for nominations is: 20th October, 2017<\/b>. <\/p>Note: Only second years of VBIT are eligible to nominate. <\/b><\/p>Refer the below poster for more details.<\/p>Contact: <\/p>Karthik : 9502796915<\/p> Ajay : 9032271585 <\/p>Thank you!<\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1507024753751","data":"59d3600047f51"}]
Last date for nominations is: 20th October, 2017<\/b>. <\/p>
Note: Only second years of VBIT are eligible to nominate. <\/b><\/p>
Refer the below poster for more details.<\/p>
Contact: <\/p>
Karthik : 9502796915<\/p>
Ajay : 9032271585 <\/p>
Thank you!<\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1507024753751","data":"59d3600047f51"}]
The AIR Summit Theme:<\/b><\/p>
IoT: Smart Cities, Smart Homes, Smart Healthcare system, Safe Workplace& Smart Transportation system.AI: Artificial Intelligence in Telecom, Insurance, Banking & Retail.RPA: Robotic Process Automation across industries.<\/p>
Tue, 10 Oct 10:00AM - Thu, 12 Oct 5:00PM, Novotel & HICC Complex , west hyderabad<\/p>
For more information and registrations open the link below:<\/p>
<\/p>"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1507011674747","data":"https:\/\/www.eventshigh.com\/detail\/hyderabad\/89d7efebe8ec26a2ac2e2a4172ff9073-a-world-of-artificial-intelligence?src=ecbox"}]
Considering the propensity of violent crime in India, it surprises me that we aren't taught how to respond to a crisis, any crisis, in our lives. Schools have become an albatross of rote-learning where nothing of value is actually taught: you are never taught how to balance your books, write a proper cheque, file your taxes or even how to behave. Oh no, slapping kids for stepping out of line is not getting them to behave, it is giving them a free pass to rebel as hard as they can. <\/p>
So why are we not taught how to manage ourselves in the event something untoward happens. Take, for example, the recent stampede in Mumbai. The Elphinstone Foot over Bridge has been at risk for years, with multiple people warning the government about its danger, but of course we live in a country that puts more emphasis on looking good for the cameras instead of actual good governance, so it was ignored while the minister in question ran around fulfilling easy to finish requests just to look good on the media. It was only a matter of time before a stampede like that would happen. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1507005146741","data":"59d325b60d6b0"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1507005148644","data":"
Over 20 people died and the sickening part is that there are simply not enough people talking about it. Why? Because when you constantly hear of bad things happening over and over again, at one point you become desensitised. I was horrified with myself when I barely even registered that twenty people had died, it didn't even surprise me. My initial reaction to the news was a noncommittal shrug, that is all. The only reaction I could muster to the news that over 20 families lost someone dear to them was just a shrug. <\/p>
This highlights a deep rooted rot within ourselves, but I'm tired of pointing fingers and passing blame around like a hockey puck. What we need to think about are solutions to this problem of apathy and panic and I offer a possible solution: teach Crisis Management in schools. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1507008749247","data":"59d325cd4202d"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1507008751326","data":"
When it comes to an active shooter situation, like the 2008 attacks in Mumbai, there are three things one must follow. Run, Hide and if there is no other option, fight. Sadly, we only find out tips like these on online blogs (like the one you're reading) and not anywhere else. Imagine how much good we can do if we teach, right from school itself, to keep a cool head in situations of crisis so they can coordinate with other people and ensure that those who need help get it. <\/p>
But putting active shooter situation aside, considering the rarity of that happening, we need to focus on more immediate dangers to our country: poor infrastructure that causes flooding every year. Of course, I'm only taking this as an example, but there are quite a few people that fall victim to the stray pothole in the water or worse, falling in a manhole. If we taught our children how to stay alert and keep on their toes in situations like these, I'm sure we will largely solve the recklessness with which us Indians approach life. Oh, and that recklessness is a topic for another time. <\/p>
It is imperative for us to realise that we need to fix ourselves first before we continue to build this country, and we can do that by better equipping ourselves with knowledge that can potentially save lives. Which is why Crisis management is so important. <\/p>"}]
I've often wondered if the thinkers of yore would have managed to make an impact as big as they did, had they only lived in the information age. I mean, logically and on paper, it should seem obvious that with the internet, they would have a wider reach almost instantly, their words not being written and printed, but published online for the world over to see and read from their vast resources of knowledge. <\/p>
But I don't think that would have been the case. <\/p>
The internet, instead of bringing us together, has done a fantastic job in separating us. Today, we've formed cliques and echo chambers where everyone agrees with each other on pretty much everything and there are various reasons for that, including the reduction of quality in debates and Arnab Goswami's shouting that has changed the impression of a debate to a shouting match for the entire country. I hate this man so much for dumbing down an entire nation with just his face on the screen, there simply is not a proper debate anymore, people are reduced to insults and worse when someone gets into an argument these days. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506939967970","data":"59d214e962ad5"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506939969991","data":"
It is still essential for us to challenge our notions so that we may better defend them in the event of a discussion or exchange of ideas. This is absolutely imperative to a democracy: it is obvious that two people may not have the same opinions about certain things, but if these two people are willing to hear each other out, consider the options and agree upon one thing, it means progress for our society. We often complain that our society is regressive (it is) and that we need to do something to change it (we should), but have you noticed that the people you talk to about this, about changing society, are the people who hold the same kind of opinions you do? <\/p>
We cannot talk among ourselves and nod vigorously when someone makes a good point, no, that isn't helping anyone and you are basically preaching to the choir. Instead, tackle problems head on, argue with ideologues, self-proclaimed ones at least, and challenge their notions. By doing so, you are also putting your own beliefs in question and will most likely end up making it stronger depending on how well the debate goes. <\/p>
Do not fall prey to Arnab Goswami's style of debate where he shouts everyone down and presents his face to the entire country to laugh at, be calm, be patient, debate like educated people and don't fling accusations like a monkey flicking channa. <\/p>"},{"type":"img","id":"img-uid-1506940339629","data":"59d216303d2d5"},{"type":"txt","id":"rich_1506940341584","data":"
Echo Chambers can be great comfort zones where everyone has the same political opinions you have, but change will not come when you tackle only the people in your echo chamber. It is imperative for progress in our society to come from people who are diametrically opposed to each other's opinions, yet come together to work on a single issue. There is a time and place for an echo chamber, but it is to not form opinions and feel bad about where the country is headed. It is, however, great to let off some steam about those who do not agree with you, so there's that. <\/p>
Don't box yourself into groups where everyone agrees with you, diversify instead, participate in various talks if you have to. Cheers! <\/p>"}]
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>"}] Published in clg-short-name Waiting for the approval by Admin Terms and conditions Message OK
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