Editor's Pick
Devika Rani: The First Lady of Indian Cinema
From making history to living her life as unapologetically herself, Devika Rani remains a force to be reckoned with to this date.
A woman’s world is already challenging given that she is born with twice the societal burden than any man ever was. Imagine being the first in any field as a woman. Sounds exciting but is highly difficult. Being told left, right and centre how a man can do it better just because he is a man. Making resilience your second skin just so you could do your job right if not better is tougher than one would give a woman credit for. Then imagine trying to be first in a highly patriarchal country. Especially one riddled with superstitions and prejudices against women like colonial India. Unimaginable. But Devika Rani proved us all wrong. Her outstanding acting skills took centre stage every time she starred in a film.
Devika Rani: Early Life & Becoming The First Lady of Indian Cinema
Devika Rani was born to an affluent Bengali family to Col. Dr. Manmathnath Choudhury and Leela Devi Choudhury in 1908. Given her parents’ highly educated and affluent background, it was understandable how Devika Rani was given the freedom to explore many career options which were considered unsuitable for women in those times. Being related to the legendary Bengali polymath Rabindranath Tagore from both her maternal and paternal sides, her artistic inclination did not come as a surprise.
After completing her schooling she enrolled herself in the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and the Royal Academy of Music in London. Given her love for the world of art and aesthetic, she enrolled herself in a bunch of other courses from architecture to textile design. All of these courses helped her understand the world of art a little better.
In 1928, Rani met her soon-to-be husband Himanshu Rai who will eventually help her make history in Bollywood. First helping him out in the production process such as costume designing and art direction she eventually transitioned into acting. She made history with her acting debut as the first lady of Indian cinema with the movie “Karma” in 1933. Receiving rave reviews in the London media and good critical response she was seen as a star with a lot of potentials. It was one of the earliest Indian films to feature a kissing scene. And it was also the first English language talkie made by an Indian. Furthermore, this film featured a bi-lingual song sung by Devika Rani in English and Hindi. This song is credited as being the first English song in a Bollywood film.
Devika Rani: Bombay Talkies & Later Days
Although “Karma” did not get much good reception among the Indian audience it didn’t deter a rising star like Devika Rani. After the critical success of “Karma”, Devika Rani and Himanshu Rai now married, returned to India. They started a film studio named Bombay Talkies partnering with Niranjan Pal and Franz Osten. During those times Bombay Talkies was credited as one of the best-equipped film studios in the country. Launching several stars such as Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor, Mumtaz, etc. it successfully released some of the milestone movies of modern Bollywood.
One would assume that after starting Bombay Talkies, Devika Rani would take a backseat from the world of acting and focus more on producing. But that assumption was far from being a fact. Bombay Talkies only helped Devika Rani establish herself as an actor. By giving her the freedom to choose which movie she wanted to produce and act in she explored many genres.
By taking on roles of women involved with men who hailed from certain social backgrounds that were not accepted by the social norms of those times, she managed to bring forth social issues such as untouchability. Her films mostly focused on social themes and were tragic romantic dramas. She was highly influenced by German cinema because of her training at the Universum Film AG studio in Berlin. But her acting style was always compared with the Swedish-American actress Greta Garbo. Thus, giving her the nickname, “Indian Garbo”.
Devika Rani: Later Days
After her husband’s death, Devika Rani took over the reign of Bombay Talkies. But despite her best efforts the studio started to decline. And finally, she quit the film industry and married the Russian painter Svetoslav Roerich in 1945. She spent the remainder of her life with her husband in Bengaluru, Karnataka. After buying an estate on the outskirts of the city, the couple lived a very reclusive life.
Afterword
Known as the “Dragon Lady” for her “smoking, drinking, cursing and hot temper” as mentioned by Tilak Rishi in his book, “Bless You Bollywood!: A tribute to Hindi Cinema on completing 100 years”, Devika Rani was truly a dragon lady who took the centre stage and shone all the time. Although her dressing style was considered risqué for her time she lived her life by being unapologetically herself. She was awarded a Padma Shri in 1958 and was the first-ever recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1969. In 1990 she was honoured with the Soviet Land Nehru Award by Soviet Russia. A play on Devika Rani’s life was directed by Lillette Dubey and was performed at Dindayal Upadhyay Auditorium in Raipur in 2022.
Taking her last breath in 1994, she taught us all an important lesson. She taught us to march forward and do what feels right to us and history shall remember your name.
Editor's Pick
Carnatic Maestro: D. K. Pattammal
In every note, D.K Pattammal immortalised the essence of Carnatic music, going beyond boundaries and uniting hearts in a timeless melody.
In the world of Carnatic Music, one name shines brightly alongside the likes of M.S.Subbulakshmi and M.L. Vasanthakumari- Damal Krishnaswamy Pattammal, affectionately known as D.K Pattammal or DKP. As we reflect on her journey, let us traverse the remarkable life and musical contributions of this legendary artist who carved her name in the annals of Indian classical music.
Early Harmonic Echoes
Born on March 19, 1919, in the culturally rich soil of Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu, D.K.Pattammal’s musical odyssey commenced under the tutelage of her musically inclined father, Damal Krishnaswamy Dikshithar. Despite the constraints of orthodox tradition, her innate talent flourished, nurtured by her family’s devotion to music.
A Symphony of Learning
Pattammal’s musical education defied conventional norms. Absorbing melodies from various mentors, including the enigmatic Ambi Dikshitar and the illustrious Papanasam Sivan, she honed her craft without formal training, setting the stage for her unconventional yet illustrious career.
Singing into the Limelight
From her first radio performance at age 8 to captivating audiences at prestigious venues like Madras Music Academy, Pattammal’s journey was adorned with accolades and milestones. Her mastery and knowledge of intricate compositions, especially those of Muthuswami Dikshitar, solidify her status as a luminary of Carnatic music.
Breaking Barriers, Creating Melodies
Pattammal’s indomitable spirit was the one that shattered societal norms, becoming the first Brahmin woman to perform Carnatic music publicly. Her rendition of Ragam Thanam Pallavi, a bastion of male artists, showcased her prowess and paved the way for generations of female musicians.
Harmonizing Tradition with Modernity
Venturing beyond classical realms, Pattammal graced the silver screen with her celestial voice. From patriotic anthems to devotional melodies, her cinematic journey is integrated with the socio-political fabric of India, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences.
Echoes Across Continents
Pattammal melodies knew no bounds. From concert halls in Chennai to international stages in the United States, Canada and beyond, her mellifluous tunes resonated far and broad, captivating audiences with their divine essence.
Legacy of Harmony
Beyond her music, Pattammals legacy endures through her disciples, including her brother D.K . Jayaram and the multigenerational lineage of students who continue to carry forward the legacy with pride.
A Final Crescendo
On July 16, 2009, the world bid farewell to a musical luminary, D. K. Pattammal, who left behind her a legacy that inspires generations of musicians and music lovers alike.
On July 16, 2009, the world bid farewell to a musical luminary such as D.K Pattammal. Who left behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers alike.
As we remember the melodic journey carved by D.K Pattammal, let her life serve as an artist, a symphony of inspiration. Reminding us to embrace our passions fearlessly and harmonise tradition with innovation in our pursuit of excellence.
Editor's Pick
World Down Syndrome Day: Cultivating Inclusive Communities
Exploring the mental health hurdles faced by individuals with Down syndrome and fostering a more inclusive and empathetic environment
Every year, on March 21st, we observe World Down Syndrome Day. To raise awareness, promote understanding and advocate for the rights, inclusion and well-being of individuals with Down Syndrome. Beyond that, it is also essential to shed light on the mental health challenges that often are part of this genetic condition and examine how societal attitudes and support systems can make a significant difference in the lives of these individuals.
What Is Down Syndrome :
In clinical terms, Down Syndrome is a chromosomal condition ( also known as Trisomy 21) that often results in intellectual disabilities and distinctive physical features. This condition is prevalent in approximately 1 in every 700 people worldwide. While individuals with Down Syndrome lead fulfilling lives and contribute meaningfully to their communities, they often face unique mental health hurdles stemming from societal stigma, limited opportunities and varying levels of cognitive functioning.
Research Studies :
A variety of research studies have found that people with Down Syndrome are at higher risk of developing anxiety, depression, and related mental health conditions as compared to the general population. Factors such as social isolation, difficulties in communication and feeling misunderstood or marginalised contribute to their vulnerability. Additionally, challenges in accessing appropriate mental health care further heighten these issues.
Cultivating inclusivity:
We have a collective responsibility as a society to dismantle the barriers that hamper the mental well-being of individuals with Down Syndrome. This starts with creating inclusive communities where acceptance, empathy, and support are the norms. Education is pivotal in challenging misconceptions and fostering a more inclusive and understanding environment. We can combat stereotypes and encourage inclusivity by promoting awareness and understanding of Down Syndrome.
How Can We Start:
Additionally, ensuring access to quality healthcare and mental health services is essential; Healthcare professionals must receive training on how to effectively support individuals with Down Syndrome, recognising their unique needs and providing tailored care. Additionally, advocating for policies that prioritise mental health services for individuals with disabilities is essential in ensuring equitable access to care.
Employment opportunities and social inclusion are also critical components of promoting mental well-being. Individuals with Down Syndrome can develop a sense of belonging and purpose by creating inclusive workplaces and recreational activities. Moreover, fostering friendships and social connections can significantly enhance their quality of life and resilience against mental health challenges.
Support :
Family support plays a vital role in the well-being of individuals with Down Syndrome. Providing families with resources, guidance and supportive networks can alleviate stress and enhance their ability to support their loved ones. Additionally, encouraging peer-support groups and community organisations can facilitate networking and information sharing among families facing similar challenges.
On World Down Syndrome Day and every day, let us reaffirm our commitment to promoting the mental health and well-being of individuals with Down Syndrome; by challenging stigma, advocating for inclusive policies and fostering supportive communities, we can create a world where everyone, regardless of ability is valued, accepted and empowered to thrive. Together, we can promote inclusivity in a society where everyone can reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.
Editor's Pick
Puppetry Art : Strings of Expression
Puppetry art is a canvas of culture for Indian artists. Dive deep into the origin and intricacies of the art.
From narrating folktales and dancing on Nimbuda Nimbuda to grooving to Shakira’s Waka Waka, puppets in India have done it all. Puppetry, a unique art form, is an inherent part of Indian culture. Its presence dates back thousands of years. As an art form, puppetry holds a certain level of philosophical essence as well. Legend has it that God has been depicted as a puppeteer in the Bhagavad Gita. He is shown controlling the entire universe with three strings namely Satta, Raja and Tama. Today, as we celebrate World Puppetry Day, it’s time for us to dive back into the history and significance of Indian puppetry.
Origin of Puppetry
Puppets are dolls or figures that are controlled by a person and they appear to move on their own. Puppetry is believed to have developed more than 3,000 years ago. Egypt is considered to be the cradle of the earliest puppets. Archaeologists have discovered puppets made of ivory and clay in tombs. Ancient Greek scholars like Aristotle and Plato also mentioned them as early as 422 BC.
In the excavation sites of Harappa and Mohenjo Daro, puppets with sockets have been unearthed which indicates that puppetry was a popular art form at that time. One can also find mentions of puppetry in the great Indian epic The Mahabharata and the Tamil classic Silappadikaram written in the first and second centuries BC. ‘Sutradhar’ which means ‘string bearer’ is referred to as the storyteller in Indian theatre.
Types of Puppets used in India
Glove Puppets
Also known as hand puppets, sleeve puppets and palm puppets, they are popular in Indian states like Kerala, West Bengal, Odisha and Uttar Pradesh. Sakhi Kundhei Neta is the glove puppetry popular in Odisha. Stories of Radha Krishna formed the basis of the stories. It is mostly popular in the districts of Cuttack and Bhubaneswar. Beni Putul, popular in East Midnapur, Murshidabad and 24 Parganas districts refers to the dolls used for commercial purposes. It was used as a tool against the oppression of the British. Pavakoothu, another type of glove puppet that is popular in Kerala depicts the themes based on The Mahabharata and The Ramayana.
Shadow Puppets
They are generally popular in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha and Tamil Nadu and have six types. They are flat and transparent leather or paper cut-outs that are fastened to a supporting stick and moved by at least two other thin sticks or rods. Ravan Chhaya from Odisha and Tholpavai Koothu from Kerala are the two most prominent shadow puppet theatre traditions in India.
String Puppets
Also called marionettes, string puppets have spread throughout the continent of Asia. This is generally popular in the states of Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. These puppets are made out of wood and the long flowing decorative skirts hide the legs. Strings attached to a triangular wooden control manipulate the puppets. In Odisha, the ends of the strings are tied to a triangular wooden frame to a horizontal bar while in Rajasthan, puppets are simply looped around the puppeteer’s fingers. String puppets are believed to dominate the Indian classical theatre and they find their first mentions in the Mahabharata of the 4th century BC.
Rod Puppets
They are an extension of the glove puppets but are larger than them and are supported and manipulated by rods or sticks of different sizes. They are generally famous in the Indian states of West Bengal and Odisha and they are generally made of three joints. This technique is also used for the round or doll-type puppets. The trunk is formed by a stick, the lower extension of which is the handle for its manipulation. Daanger Putul Nach is the traditional rod puppet performance of Bengal. The Mahabharata, the Ramayana, the Puranas and the Jatras form the themes of this performance.
Here are some flawless puppetry performances that are a visual treat to your life :
Bengal’s Glove Puppetry Performance
Reciting the story of a wedding without dowry, the artist in his performance uses gloves to move the puppets. He simultaneously sings a song to which the puppets dance creating a theatre-like experience.
A Rajasthani String Puppet Performance
This puppetry performance by a Rajasthani artist shows string puppets grooving to the desi Bollywood music of today’s time. The art has now evolved beyond folk songs and ballads. It has reached the horizons of trending songs and pop tadka.
Kerala’s Shadow Puppetry Performance
Narrating the traditional folktales and legends of Kerala, this style of puppetry dwells deep in the culture of the state. This performance also presents a story by way of shadow puppets which is indeed a wholesome and enchanting experience.
Rod Puppet Performance by Bengali artists
Beginning with a mandatory concert to invite people from afar, these performances include announcements being made in the traditional ‘jatra’ style. This show by Bengali artists depicts an episode from the Indian epic Ramayana being enacted by rod puppets.
The prominence of puppetry art is diminishing gradually due to a lack of patronage in the modern era and the confinement of the art to mythological stories. Puppetry art remains one of the most pleasant and worthy experiences of one’s life. The artists are immensely skilled and carry a knack in their field. The World Puppetry Day is a beautiful reminder to delve back into the art, the artists and the magical aura it carries.
Editor's Pick
International Day of Happiness: Understanding Happiness
This International Day of Happiness learn how happiness can’t exist alone and does require a promise from your end.
Happiness is the feeling you feel when you heave a sigh of relief at making it to your meeting on time. Happiness is the feeling that engulfs you when your UPI transaction goes through on a day you forgot to bring your wallet. Happiness is the feeling that intoxicates you when you are next to the person with whom you can be the most immature version of yourself. Lastly, happiness is the feeling that feels like a warm hug when you finally accept your reflection for being unapologetically you. Happiness is a feeling that is not limited to any one experience. It can range from having that perfect pani puri to literally saving a person’s life. But we often confuse what it truly means. Let’s try to understand it better this International Day of Happiness.
Happiness Can’t Exist Alone
Unlike contrary belief, happiness is not the opposite of sadness. The opposite of it is unhappiness. And unhappiness encompasses a lot of emotions from sadness to anger. We are humans who exist in fifty shades of grey and not in black and white. Our emotions are complex. We can’t put it into binaries and expect it to remain that way forever. Sadness may not be the greatest experience one would encounter, but it is still a necessary one as it adds more value to your happiness.
To appreciate the days you feel like you’re on top of the world, you need to have a feel of what it feels like to stand on Earth and stare up. You can’t appreciate a sweet mango enough if you have never tasted a sour one. So, you see happiness needs company too. Someone to help it see how valuable it truly is. But at the same time ensuring that happiness doesn’t become too arrogant and ends up reigning over other emotions and feelings in the process. So, let’s not forget the importance of sadness this International Day of Happiness
Happiness: A Promise To Oneself
Every New Year resolution starts with “I will love myself this year”. By the end of the year, we have successfully crafted a list of flaws that make us unfit to be loved by anyone including ourselves. So, instead of making tall promises how about starting small?
Loving yourself is a process and it clearly can’t be achieved in a year. Especially, if you just stare at the end goal without looking at the steps to reach it. What do these steps include? Ask yourself what is the true essence of loving yourself. Loving yourself essentially means being happy with yourself. And what are the things that make you happy or will make you happy? There you have it! Your own personal staircase to loving yourself. Some steps may not be very steep or drastically different from one another. But that doesn’t mean they are not different or don’t have value.
Promise yourself that you will appreciate and value each moment of happiness in your life be it a warm cup of coffee, or a long-awaited promotion. Happiness is a feeling that you must promise yourself to truly let yourself experience it. This International Day of Happiness promise yourself to stop measuring your happiness and just live it!
Editor's Pick
All About The Zzz’s: Sleep and Mental Health
Discover how prioritising sleep can revolutionise your mental well-being and turbocharge your performance!
In today’s busy world, where productivity and performance are more often than not prioritised over rest. Sleep is frequently overlooked as a fundamental pillar of mental health and well-being. However, quality rest’s significance goes far beyond physical rest- it plays a crucial role in nurturing our mental faculties, enhancing cognitive function and promoting emotional resilience.
As we celebrate World Sleep Day on 19th March, it’s imperative to recognise the essential impact of sleep on our mental health and overall productivity.
Many research studies have shown the intricate connections between sleep and mental well-being. Adequate rest is not just about feeling refreshed in the morning; it’s about providing our brains with the needed downtime to process information and emotions, consolidate memories and regulate mood.
The lack there-of, on the other hand, can lead to a plethora of mental health challenges, including increased stress, anxiety, depression and decreased cognitive function.
The most remarkable aspect of sleep is the ability to rejuvenate and optimise cognitive function and performance. When we rest, our brains undergo intricate processes vital for learning, memory, problem-solving and creativity. During the rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep, the brain is still active, consolidates memories and integrates new information- a process crucial for skill acquisition and knowledge retention. By prioritising good rest, individuals can unlock their cognitive potential, leading to sharper focus, improved decision-making, and heightened creativity.
Moreover, sleep plays a vital role in emotional regulation and resilience. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation can significantly upset the brain’s ability to regulate emotions, leading to heightened reactivity to adverse situations and impaired stress management. On the other hand, sufficient rest fosters emotional stability, enabling individuals to go through life’s challenges with greater ease and resilience. By prioritising sleep, people can cultivate a stronger sense of emotional well-being, fostering healthier relationships and a more positive outlook on life.
Additionally, sleep has a direct impact on productivity and performance. Contrary to the prevailing notion that burning the midnight oil leads to increased productivity, research suggests that sacrificing the Zzz’s often results in diminished productivity, attention span and impaired decision-making– ultimately undermining performance in the long run.
How do we catch those power-pact zzs to enhance our mental health and productivity? First, we must prioritise sleep as a non-negotiable aspect of self-care. Establishing a consistent bedtime schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and optimising the bedtime environment are essential to cultivating healthy night-time habits. Mindfulness and stress reduction techniques can help alleviate sleep disturbances and promote more profound, restorative sleep.
As we commemorate World Sleep Day, let us recommit ourselves to the pursuit of better night-time habits and recognise the profound impact that sleep has on our mental health and productivity. By embracing sleep as a cornerstone of well-being, we can unlock our full potential, nurture our cognitive faculties and lead happier, more fulfilling lives. Remember, quality rest is the ultimate game-changer regarding mental health and productivity.
-
Interviews4 days ago
Dhir Jakharia: From Dreams to Wildlife Frames
-
Editor's Pick3 weeks ago
We’ll be there for you: supporting a loved one starting Therapy.
-
Short Films3 weeks ago
Chaitra: A Film to Remind You to Be Kind to Others
-
Editor's Pick2 weeks ago
Farida Jalal: In The Realm of Cinema, Some Stars Never Fade
-
Editor's Pick2 weeks ago
Toxic Work Culture: The Sad Reality We All Live In
-
Editor's Pick2 weeks ago
Raavan: The Enemy of Aryavarta: A Review
-
Editor's Pick1 week ago
All About The Zzz’s: Sleep and Mental Health
-
Short Films2 weeks ago
Chaara: Human Relationship With Food