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Showing posts from November, 2023

Journey Into the Shadows : Explore India's Top Seven Dark Tourism Spots

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India, with its rich history and diverse culture, is home to a plethora of fascinating destinations that cater to all kinds of travellers. For those with a penchant for the macabre and a curiosity for the darker side of history, India offers a unique and hauntingly captivating experience through its dark tourism spots. From sites associated with tragic events to places steeped in legends of the supernatural, this blog post will delve into the lesser-explored corners of India, guiding you through some of the most intriguing dark tourism spots that are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Dark tourism also known as Thanatourism  refers to tourism that involves visiting sites associated with death, disaster, and the seemingly macabre. In the past few decades, this extraordinary form of tourism has gained significant momentum amongst the masses, who find an unusual allure in exploring sites that dish up a generous dose of history, tragedy, and haunting tales. In this light, India,...

Hymn for the Weekend by Coldplay: A Cultural Appreciation or Cultural Appropriation?

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In the world of music, artists often draw inspiration from different cultures, incorporating elements that add depth and richness to their work. However, this blending of cultures can sometimes be a subject of debate, leading to discussions on whether it constitutes cultural appropriation or cultural appreciation. One such example is Coldplay's popular song, "Hymn for the Weekend.The song has been met with a whirlwind of both awe and criticism from the moment it was released in 2016. In this blog we will explore the discourse surrounding the music video’s cultural integration and probe whether it is an act of cultural appreciation or cultural appropriation. The term 'cultural appreciation' underscores the process of seeking knowledge, understanding, and respect for other cultures but when it adds inappropriate or unsolicited borrowing of cultural elements, then it manifests as 'cultural appropriation'. Let us consider the music video's attributes and their ...

5 Books Set in November: An Expository Examination

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 There is arguably no storytelling medium quite as immersive and effective as literature. Books harness the power of words to paint vivid images and encapsulate specific experiences. One approach that authors commonly use to heighten this realism is to set their stories during particular times of the year, capitalising on the symbolism and atmosphere of these seasons. Here are 5 compelling books, each uniquely set within the November timeframe. 1. "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak Markus Zusak's critically acclaimed novel, "The Book Thief," is one story that unfolds in November. The novel takes place during World War II in the fictional town of Molching, Germany, with a major part of the story unfolding in the harsh November of 1940. The use of November, typically bringing to mind themes of loss and sacrifice, underscores the novel's exploration of destitution, death, and the possibility of beauty even in the most horrific circumstances. 2. "Indian Horse...

My Lingering Love for Halloween: A Narrative of Cultural Fusion from the Heart of Kolkata

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 Growing up in the bustling metropolis of Kolkata, nestled in the heart of West Bengal, the rich tapestry of Indian culture, heavily punctuated with vibrant religious festivities, encapsulated my childhood. As quintessentially Kolkata as jhal muri (puffed rice with spices) and the iconic Yellow Ambassadors crawling through the cityscape, I found a deep-rooted affinity, not for our customary celebrations, but quite intriguingly, for the decidedly western charm of Halloween. Exotic and fascinating, Halloween stood out for me amidst the cacophony of colourful Durga Pujas, gleeful Holi celebrations, and illuminated Diwali nights. I've often questioned why my heart beats in excited anticipation when October 31 inches closer on our Gregorian calendars. And the answer, though seemingly strange for a Bengali bhadralok, manifests itself as a captivating tale.  An exhilarating mixture of mirth, adventure, and a dash of the supernatural, Halloween, in its essence, embodied all that captu...