Meaning, Types, Law and Key Judicial Views

DEFAMATION 

Defamation is an offence that arises when false statements are communicated to a third party, causing harm to the reputation of a person, group, or organisation. A person’s reputation is considered an essential part of their dignity, and damaging it—whether through spoken words, written statements, signs, or visual representations—can attract legal consequences.

In India, defamation can be treated as both a civil wrong as well as a criminal offence.

Civil vs. Criminal Defamation

Although both deal with injury to reputation, civil and criminal defamation differ significantly:

1. Purpose of Action

Civil defamation aims to compensate the aggrieved person.

Criminal defamation seeks to punish the offender and deter similar conduct in future.

2. Legal Basis

Civil defamation is governed by tort law and largely depends on judicial decisions.

Criminal defamation is specifically defined under Sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

3. Burden of Proof

In civil cases, the proof required is based on the preponderance of probabilities.

In criminal cases, it must be proved beyond reasonable doubt.

Civil Defamation

Civil defamation arises from tort law and does not have a statutory definition. It is broadly classified into:

● Libel – defamation in written, printed, or published form.

● Slander – defamation through spoken words or gestures.

A civil suit may be filed in a district court or a high court, depending on the value of compensation sought. The plaintiff may ask the court to:

● Restrain the defendant from further publishing defamatory material.

● Issue an injunction to prevent anticipated defamatory statements.

The primary remedy in civil defamation is monetary compensation for the harm caused.

Criminal Defamation

Criminal defamation is a penal offence defined under the IPC:

● Section 499 IPC: Explains what constitutes defamation. A person commits defamation if they make or publish any spoken/written words, signs, or visible representations with the intent to harm another’s reputation.

● Section 500 IPC: Prescribes punishment—imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both.

Procedure for Filing a Criminal Defamation Case

The proceedings follow the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC):

● The offence is non-cognisable and bailable, meaning the police cannot arrest without a warrant.

● The complainant records their statement before a magistrate.

● If the magistrate finds enough grounds, a summons is issued.

● The trial begins only if a prima facie case exists; otherwise, the accused is discharged.

● The offence is compoundable, allowing both parties to settle the matter amicably.

Defences and Exceptions

Certain lawful actions are protected from being considered defamation:

● Truth: A complete defence in civil cases; in criminal cases, it is valid only when the statement is made for the public good.

● Good faith communications: Statements made by persons having legal authority or moral duty, such as a performance report by a superior officer, may be exempt.

● Statements made in good faith for public interest are also protected under the exceptions to Section 499.

Criticisms of Criminal Defamation

While criminal defamation exists to protect reputation, it has been widely debated. Critics argue that:

● It may restrict freedom of speech and expression, a key fundamental right.

● Civil remedies are adequate without imposing criminal penalties.

● At times, criminal defamation cases are used to harass journalists, activists, or critics.

● Because of these concerns, many democracies have abolished criminal defamation laws, or limited their application.

View of the Supreme Court of India

In the landmark Subramanian Swamy vs. Union of India (2016) case, the Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of criminal defamation.

Key observations of the Court include:

● Criminal defamation does not violate Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.

● It is a valid reasonable restriction under Article 19(2).

● Right to reputation is a human right and part of Article 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty).

● Freedom of speech cannot be used as a licence to harm another’s dignity.

● Democracy thrives on dissent, but dissent must be exercised with responsibility.

Thus, criminal defamation continues to remain part of Indian law.

Conclusion

Defamation law aims to strike a balance between two important values—freedom of expression and the right to reputation. While individuals have the right to voice their opinions, they must do so responsibly and truthfully. As society becomes increasingly digital and interconnected, understanding defamation—both civil and criminal—becomes essential for responsible communication.

🟦 Do You Know?

● The word “defamation” comes from the Latin term diffamare, which means “to spread evil reports about someone.”

● In many countries, criminal defamation has been abolished, but India continues to retain it as a punishable offence.

● Posting false statements on social media, including WhatsApp, Instagram, or Facebook, can also amount to defamation if it harms someone’s reputation.

● Even a sarcastic cartoon or meme can be considered defamation if it damages a person’s public image.

● Under Section 499 IPC, even the deceased can be defamed if the statement harms the reputation of their family.

● Truth is not always a full defence in criminal defamation— it must also be proved that the statement was made for public good.

● Defamation is one of the few offences in India that is non-cognisable, bailable, and compoundable, meaning parties can settle the matter outside court.

● Companies, organisations, and institutions can also file defamation cases—not just individuals.

● A person can be held liable for defamation even if they merely share or forward a defamatory message.

The Legendary Bollywood Movie

🎬 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SHOLAY 

The Journey of Indian Cinema: The Indian film industry—especially Hindi cinema, popularly known as Bollywood (a blend of Bombay and Hollywood)—is one of the most vibrant and influential film industries in the world. Over the past century, it has grown from silent films to sound films, and from black-and-white reels to colourful modern-day blockbusters that entertain millions across the globe.

The Birth of Indian Cinema: India’s first full-length feature film, Raja Harishchandra, was made in 1913 by Dadasaheb Phalke, the father of Indian cinema. As it was a silent movie, dialogues appeared on screen in Hindi, English, and Marathi.

By the 1930s, India was already producing more than 200 films every year. Today, the number has grown to around 2,000 films annually, in languages such as Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada—each with its own unique style and fan base.

The First Sound Film: A major revolution came in 1931 with Alam Ara, India’s first talking film. Audiences were amazed to hear actors speak and sing on screen! This marked the beginning of a new era and paved the way for many talented actors, directors, and memorable movies.

🌟 The Making of a Legend — Sholay (1975)

Among the countless classics of Indian cinema, one film that stands tall even after five decades is Sholay, directed by Ramesh Sippy. Released in August 1975, Sholay became a nationwide sensation. Starring Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, and Amjad Khan, the movie broke box-office records and ran in some theatres for over five years!

🧡 The Story of Friendship and Courage

The film tells the exciting tale of two friends, Jai (Amitabh Bachchan) and Veeru (Dharmendra), who are hired by retired police officer Thakur Baldev Singh to capture a feared dacoit, Gabbar Singh.

Filled with action, emotion, adventure, humour, and unforgettable songs, Sholay remains one of India’s most loved films.

💥 The Iconic Characters

Gabbar Singh — The Terrifying Villain

Who can ever forget Gabbar Singh, played by Amjad Khan, with his wild look and chilling voice asking, “Kitne aadmi the?” (“How many men were there?”). Gabbar became one of the most iconic villains in Indian cinema. In fact, the character was inspired by a real-life dacoit who lived near Gwalior in the 1950s!

Jai and Veeru — Friendship Forever

The deep bond between Jai and Veeru became a symbol of true friendship. Their famous song “Yeh Dosti” celebrates loyalty and togetherness and is still sung as a friendship anthem today. Another evergreen song, “Mehbooba Mehbooba,” continues to charm audiences across generations.

🌍 Global Impact

Sholay captured not just Indian hearts but also audiences around the world. Its themes of friendship, bravery, and justice resonated with viewers in Russia, the USA, the UK, Australia, Canada, and the Middle East.

🎉 50 Glorious Years of Sholay

In 2025, as Sholay completes 50 years, fans across India are celebrating with special screenings, events, and documentaries. Many parents and grandparents are introducing this timeless film to today’s young generation, sharing memories of when they first watched it.

🎞️ A Timeless Classic

Even after half a century, Sholay continues to shine brightly in the history of Indian cinema. Its memorable dialogues, unforgettable characters, and powerful storytelling have made it an everlasting masterpiece that transcends generations.

So, if you haven’t watched Sholay yet—this is the perfect time to sit with your family and discover why it’s still called the greatest Bollywood film ever made!

💡 Did You Know?

● Sholay, though a blockbuster hit, surprisingly received only one Filmfare Award—for Best Editing.

● The train robbery sequence in Sholay took nearly 20 days to shoot on the Mumbai–Pune line.

● Gabbar Singh’s character became so popular that Britannia Biscuits featured him in a commercial—the first time a villain was used to advertise a product! The ad became a huge hit, and the product’s sales doubled.

● Sholay was the first film in Indian cinema history to achieve a silver jubilee (25 weeks) at over 100 theatres simultaneously.

● There really was a dacoit named Gabbar Singh in the 1950s, who operated near Gwalior and was known for his cruel methods—he reportedly cut off the noses and ears of policemen!

A natural rhythm of life

THE PARTS OF THE DAY 

The day is a cycle that follows the path of the sun, influencing not just the environment, but also our moods, activities, and routines. Understanding the parts of the day helps us structure our lives more effectively and tune in to nature’s rhythm. Each part of the day has its own unique characteristics and significance.

Early Morning (Pre-dawn to Sunrise): 

Approximately from 4:00 AM to 6:00 AM, the early morning is often considered the most peaceful time of the day. The world is still asleep, and nature begins to stir gently. This period is traditionally associated with meditation, spiritual practices, and a quiet start to the day. Many believe it to be the ideal time for reflection and mental clarity.

Morning (Sunrise to Late Morning): 

From 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM, the morning marks the beginning of activity. The sun rises, lighting up the world with energy and warmth. People begin their daily routines, including exercise, breakfast, and heading to work or school. This is a time of productivity, focus, and freshness.

Afternoon (Noon to Mid-Afternoon)

Spanning 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, the afternoon is often characterised by high energy and the continuation of work or study. It is also when the sun is at its highest, often making this part of the day the warmest. Lunch is typically eaten during this time, followed by a brief period of renewed activity.

Evening (Late Afternoon to Sunset)

Between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM, the evening brings a gradual slowdown. As the sun begins to set, many people wrap up their work and return home. The sky often displays beautiful colours, and there is a sense of winding down. It’s a good time for leisure activities, walks, or spending time with family.

Night (After Sunset)

From 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, night sets in. The environment becomes calmer as people settle down for dinner and rest. Artificial lights replace sunlight, and the focus shifts from productivity to relaxation. For many, this is a time to unwind, watch TV, read, or engage in hobbies.

Late Night (Bedtime to Early Morning)

Covering 9:00 PM to 4:00 AM, late night is a time of rest and recovery. Most people sleep during this phase, allowing their bodies and minds to recharge. It’s the quietest part of the 24-hour cycle, preparing us to begin anew with the next dawn.

A chronological view of global and Indian contexts

GENERATIONS THROUGH TIME 

Understanding generations helps us make sense of how historical, social, and technological events shape people’s values, behaviour, and identity. While Western generational labels are widely used, India’s distinct history offers its own unique generational milestones. Below is a chronological exploration of generations from both perspectives.

1. The Lost Generation (approximately 1883–1900)

Global Context: Born in the late 19th century, this generation came of age during World War I. Disillusioned by war and societal collapse, many questioned traditional norms.

Notable Traits: Cynicism, existentialism, artistic innovation.

Indian Parallel: Early freedom fighters and thinkers under colonial rule, facing oppression and beginning the intellectual foundations of the independence movement.

2. The Greatest Generation (approximately 1901–1927)

Global Context: Survived the Great Depression, fought in World War II, and rebuilt the world post-war. Often seen as exemplars of sacrifice and patriotism.

Indian Parallel: The generation that actively participated in India’s independence movement, including key leaders and countless unsung heroes who resisted British rule and laid the groundwork for a free nation.

3. The Silent Generation (approximately 1928–1945)

Global Context: Grew up during World War II but were too young to fight. Known for conformity, discipline, and traditional values.

Indian Parallel: Children of partition and independence. Many faced the trauma of 1947, communal riots, and mass migrations, growing up in the uncertainty of a newly formed India.

4. Baby Boomers (approximately 1946–1964)

Global Context: Born after World War II in a time of economic prosperity, cultural shifts, and social revolutions.

In India: This generation was born post-independence. They experienced Nehruvian socialism, the License Raj, early wars (1962, 1965, 1971), and the Green Revolution. Their worldview was shaped by scarcity, resilience, and national development.

5. Generation X (approximately 1965–1980)

Global Context: Grew up during the Cold War, oil crises, and rise of personal technology. Known for independence and skepticism.

In India: Witnessed political instability (Emergency era, 1975–77), state-controlled media, and the early signs of liberalisation. Doordarshan and transistor radios were cultural staples.

6. Millennials / Gen Y (approximately 1981–1996)

Global Context: Came of age with the internet, globalisation, and 9/11. Values include flexibility, purpose, and tech-savviness.

In India: First generation shaped by post-1991 liberalisation. Saw a boom in education, IT jobs, mobile phones, and cable TV. Culturally global, yet rooted in traditional family values.

7. Generation Z (approximately 1997–2012)

Global Context: Digital natives raised on smartphones, social media, and instant connectivity.

In India: Grew up during the smartphone revolution, e-learning, and social media dominance. Shaped by global pop culture and issues like climate change and mental health. Also faced the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic during their formative years.

8. Generation Alpha (approximately 2013–2024)

Global Context: The first generation fully born in the 21st century. Expected to be the most technologically immersed so far.

In India: Raised with AI, digital classrooms, and streaming content. Heavily influenced by the pandemic-era shift to virtual life and early exposure to devices and online learning.

9. Generation Beta (approximately 2025–2039) (Future)

Global Context: Expected to grow up in a world dominated by AI, automation, climate action, and augmented reality.

In India: Will likely face the challenges of urban density, sustainability, and new-age education formats. May be more globally connected yet locally rooted.

10. Generation Gamma (approximately 2040–2054) (Speculative)

Could witness space tourism, synthetic biology, and hyper-immersive digital realities. Traditional ideas of identity, learning, and work may be radically transformed.

11. Generation Delta (approximately 2055–2069) (Speculative)

May live in an era of post-Earth ambition (like Mars colonisation), advanced AI-human integration, and a redefined concept of "reality."

Conclusion: While labels like Gen X, Y, Z, and Alpha are globally recognised, India’s historical timeline—from colonial rule to tech-boom modernity—adds rich texture to each generational experience. Understanding these layers helps us see not just when people were born, but how their worlds were shaped—and how they, in turn, shape ours.

The backbone of civilizations

ROADS

We drive on them, walk, watch parades, and run marathons on them, yet we spare them little thought, and take them for granted. When they are closed for repairs however, or rendered impassable because of floods, landslides, or potholes, we miss our roads very much indeed.

From the earliest times, one of the strongest indicators of a society’s development has been the presence or absence of a road system. The people of the over 5000 year old ancient Indus Valley Civilization, constructed wide, straight roads, paved with stone, in a grid formation with a drainage system that ran along their sides.

It’s not really known when and how the very first roads came into existence. Early roads or dirt tracks were probably formed when people and animals walked over the same paths repeatedly, as they hunted for food and water. Eventually, as groups of people started living in small communities, these early footpaths probably turned into better defined routes.

After the wheel was invented about 7000 years ago, larger, heavier loads began to be transported in carts that trundled along the rough dirt roads. However, the limitations of these roads soon became apparent. As soon as it started raining, the roads turned into muddy bogs where the wooden wheels got stuck into. Thus, the need for paved roads was born out of sheer necessity. The people of the ancient city of Babylon paved their roads with asphalt, a sticky, black, naturally occurring substance, between 625 and 604 B.C. The world’s finest road builders were undoubtedly the ancient Romans, who, at the height of the Roman Empire, built and maintained about 80,000 kilometres of complex, superbly built roads.

These covered all of the north of England, a large part of Western Europe, spread throughout the Iberian Peninsula, and circled and crisscrossed the entire Mediterranean area. The roads built by these champion road builders, were usually perfectly straight. This was because Roman roads were meant primarily to move armies of soldiers along, and winding roads with bends in them not only took longer to navigate, but also provided robbers and enemies with perfect hiding places.

Roman roads were always built a little higher at the centre, and tapered off to ditches at the sides, to allow rainwater to drain away, leaving the road free from mud. Whenever a Roman Emperor conquered a new territory, roads would immediately be built to link it with the rest of the Roman Empire. 

The Romans built their roads very intelligently – they generally used material that was available locally, and when they had to build across boggy ground. Roman engineers put down bundles of sticks and sheepskins as foundations, to stop the road from sinking. Below the Temple of Saturn in Rome, Emperor Augustus placed a ‘golden milestone’ ‘Millarium Aureum,’ which recorded the distances that separated his capital, Rome, from the principal cities of his Empire.

There were ‘miliaria’ or milestones, on all principal roads too – they had the name of the emperor inscribed on them, and indicated to travellers how many miles away they were from Rome. This is the origin of the famous proverb ‘All roads lead to Rome’, which means that there are different ways to achieve the same results.

Rome was the capital of the Roman Empire, and the road network was constructed and maintained to connect every province of the empire to this nerve centre. There were post houses, where horses could be changed, and inns every fifteen to twenty kilometres on Roman roads. Though the Romans did not have maps, they had an ‘itinerarium’ which listed the structures along the course of each Roman road. This allowed travellers to plan their routes in advance.

Roman roads were constructed by Roman soldiers or legionnaires who were well disciplined, extremely tough, highly trained, and ruthless. They did their work with dedication and efficiency, which is why Roman roads still exist in many parts of Europe, 2000 years after the empire ended! In England, many existing roads are the original ones built by the Romans, re-touched and re-done numerous times. Roman soldiers made prisoners of war and slaves do hard manual labour on roads. Roman emperors wanted to make sure that their soldiers were always fit and occupied, even when there were no military campaigns; so building and maintaining forts and roads was a routine part of a soldier’s duties. Roman roads were not free – tolls were collected at towns along the course of the road.

The Incas, who lived more than seven centuries ago, were also prodigious road builders, and built over 22,000 kilometres of roads during their rule. Since the wheel had not been invented during their time, they lived in one of the world’s most precipitous and difficult terrains, high up in the Andes Mountains. 

Inca roads were completely different from other roads. Though some Inca roads were four to five metres wide, some were so steep that walls had to be built at their sides to prevent travelers from falling off them!

Ordinary people needed special permission to travel on the roads in the Inca Empire, which were meant mainly for the use of the army, government officials, and a 24-hour messenger service which was organized rather like a superbly co-ordinated relay race. Messengers lived in small huts located about eight hundred metres apart on the major roads. Trained to run at high speeds, a messenger would repeat his message at the next hut, where another messenger would be waiting to sprint to the next hut ahead. In this way, news traveled at 240 kilometres a day! News was always conveyed verbally through messengers running on roads, as the Incas had no written script to write things down. Since their terrain was full of tall cliffs, mighty rivers, and deep gorges, the Incas built amazing, hand-woven bridges called chacas to cross them. These unique bridges lasted as long as 500 years, and were held in very high regard by the Incas. The punishment for tampering with such a bridge was death. The hanging or suspension bridge was undoubtedly the Incas’ masterpiece. These bridges were built from huge cables fashioned from woven reed that were replaced every two years. An Incan bridge over 75 metres long, built in 1350, lasted until 1890! 

The Incas employed bridgekeepers or ‘chacacamayocs’ at every bridge, and they were responsible not only for maintaining and administering the bridge, but also for collecting tolls, and helping frightened travelers across. Sadly, it was their superbly constructed roads that led to the downfall of the Incas. Invading Spanish explorers used the Incas’ own roads to move armies and weapons deep into their empire, to eventually conquer, and subjugate the Incas. Roads had great importance in ancient India. Under the Mauryans, the entire subcontinent was criss-crossed with roads. A royal highway connecting Taxila and Pataliputra was built - a road, which survives to this day as the Grand Trunk Road.

The Greek diplomat, Megasthenes, who spent 15years in Chandragupta Maurya’s court, wrote in his account of the Mauryan kingdom that a ‘Ministry of Public Works’, with an army of officials was responsible for the construction, marking, and maintenance of the roads and rest houses. The numerous spies of Emperor Ashoka Maurya, disguised as common traders, entered and exited from his capital through an elaborate system of tunnels that lay under the city’s main roads. 

Some ancient roads have had a great influence on the course of human history. The Silk Road, more than 6000 kilometres long, is not one single road, but a historical trade route that stretched westward from China across Asia’s deserts and mountain ranges through the Middle East, until it reached the Mediterranean Sea. 

This ancient international trade route was as plendid cultural bridge, linking the cultures of China, India, Persia, Arabia, Greece, and Rome. It was called the Silk Road because silk, which was made only in China in ancient times, was the item most coveted by traders who traversed this route.

Four great ancient Chinese inventions - paper making, printing, gunpowder, and the compass, as well as the skills of silkworm breeding and silk spinning were transmitted to the West through the Silk Road. Many products from the West flowed into China through this route, including grapes, clovers, walnuts, carrots, peppers, beans, spinach, cucumbers, pomegranates, rare animals, and jewellery. Chinese porcelains and lacquers were sent to the West as well. Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Buddhism reached China through the Silk Road. The Silk Road, a forum for the spreading of knowledge, ideas, culture and religion for over 3,000 years, had a far reaching effect on world civilization.

The Khyber Pass, an ancient mountain pass that connects Afghanistan and Pakistan, which is an integral part of the Silk Road, has great historic importance. 

It was through the biting cold of this pass that invaders like Alexander the Great, Mahmud Ghazni, and Muhammed Ghori swept into the Indian subcontinent. Zahiruddin Babur made use of this pass to establish a mighty Mughal Empire that ruled India for more than three centuries. 

Throughout history, roads have been used as a metaphor for life’s journey. Living our lives is rather like traversing a long road. Sometimes, we have smooth stretches that we travel along with ease, but occasionally, we encounter twists, turns, and bends of difficulty. There are times when our road is divided, and we have to decide which way we will turn. We sometimes meet narrow passes of opportunity on life’s road, when we have to make the difficult choice between security or adventure, as we move towards achieving our goals.

Do you know:

● The ancient Chinese living in mountainous regions over rivers and gorges dug holes in rocky cliffs, rammed thick wooden or iron pegs into them, and placed wooden boards on the pegs to make narrow, plank roads.

● The native Indians, original inhabitants of the North American continent, followed the walkways created by migratory animals. These became their paths or trails. By the time European explorers arrived on the continent, there were many networks of trails, and the Europeans built roads on them.

● The petroleum company that introduced an improved quality petrol called ‘Speed’ is Bharat Petroleum. 

● One of the reasons why Napoleon Bonaparte failed to conquer Russia when he invaded it in 1812 with 6,00,000 men, was because the country had such poor roads. The army could only advance at a snail’s pace in very bad weather, and this took its toll on the French soldiers.

● The longest road in the world is the Pan-American Highway. It is a network of roads that stretches from Alaska to Argentina. It is over 25,000 miles long.

● Asphalt is a sticky, black material that is made from oil and sand. It is a very good material for roads, because it is durable and it can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

● Roads made from recycled car tyres were first built in the USA in the 1960s. These environmentally friendly, rubber roads make less noise.

● The most beautiful road in the world is said to be the Great Ocean Road in Australia. It winds along the coast of Victoria and it is known for its scenic views.

Some of your favourite foods created by accident

ACCIDENTALLY DELICIOUS 

Have you ever been really hungry, but there wasn’t much to eat in your kitchen? Did you throw together a bunch of stuff you had on hand and were pleasantly surprised when it tasted good? You aren’t alone. Some of our favorite foods were created by accident. Here’s a sample menu of some familiar foods that might never have happened if someone hadn’t created them by mistake.

Ice cream cone: Before the ice cream cone, people ate their ice cream out of dishes or paper wrappers. This changed at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair in Missouri. A vendor, the story goes, ran out of dishes to serve his ice cream. Luckily, Ernest A. Hamwi was set up next to him and was selling crisp waffle-like pastries called zalabia. The quick-thinking Hamwi rolled a zalabia into a cone shape. It cooled quickly, and the ice cream vendor filled it with ice cream for his customers. He was able to continue selling ice cream, and customers got a second treat when they realized they could eat the cone. 

Chocolate Chip Cookies: Chocolate chip cookies are a favorite all over the world. But the baker who might have invented them likely was trying to make a different kind of cookie. In 1930, Ruth Graves Wakefield and her husband were running the Toll House Inn in Massachusetts. One day, Wakefield was making cookies for her guests, but she was out of baker’s chocolate to melt and add to the dough. Instead, she chopped up a block of semi-sweet chocolate and added the pieces. She thought the pieces would melt and make the entire cookie chocolate. But the chocolate pieces stayed intact, melting into gooey little bits inside the cookie. The chocolate chip cookie was born. These cookies are often called Toll House cookies because of where they were first made popular.

Potato Chips: One of the world’s favorite snacks might have been the result of a complaint. In 1853, a man was eating dinner at Moon’s Lake House in Saratoga Springs, New York. He ordered fried potatoes, a popular side dish. But when they came out of the kitchen, he didn’t think they were crispy enough. He sent them back to the kitchen, where chef George Crum was so angry at having his cooking criticized that he sliced the potatoes really thin, put lots of salt on them, and fried them. Not only did the diner love them, but everyone else did, too. They soon became a specialty of the restaurant. 

Tofu: Tofu, or bean curd, is made by curdling fresh soy milk, pressing it into a solid block, and then cooling it. Tofu was accidentally invented in China 2,000 years ago, when a cook added seaweed to soy milk, which made it curdle. This is the same process that is used for making cheese. Like cheese, tofu is a great example of how really messing up a recipe can create something unexpectedly good.

Cheese Puffs: Who in the world could have thought up cheese puffs? you ask. The company that invented them wasn’t even trying to make food for people. It was producing animal feed. In the 1930s, the Flakall Company of Wisconsin made food for livestock from small, flaked pieces of grain. One day, an employee, Edward Wilson, watched workers pouring cornmeal into the flaking machine, moistening it to keep it from clogging. Because the machine was hot, the wet cornmeal came out of it in puffy ribbons that hardened when they hit the air. Wilson took some of the ribbons home, added oil and flavoring to them—and voilà: cheese puffs!

Popsicles: On a hot day, nothing tastes better than an icy-cold popsicle. This summer treat was invented by an 11-year-old boy. In San Francisco in 1905, Frank Epperson mixed some sugary soda powder into a glass of water, but then he left it out on his porch with the wooden stirring stick still in it. That night, temperatures dropped so low that the mixture froze. The next morning, Frank took the frozen mixture out and used the wooden stick to hold it while he licked it. Frank knew he’d made something special, and soon he was selling the frozen treat to people in his neighborhood. He named it the “Epsicle.” (“Sicle” was a shortened version of “icicle.”) As an adult, he patented the frozen treat. His kids convinced him to change the name to what they called it: “Pop’s Sicle,” which soon became the popsicle.

An exalted award

THE NOBEL PEACE PRIZE 

One of the most highly regarded prizes in the world is given to honour the person who has done the most toward promoting peace in the world.

The Nobel Peace Prize is one of five prizes created by Swedish businessman and inventor Alfred Nobel (1833–1896). He left money for the awards in his will and specified how each should be bestowed. Awarded on a yearly basis, the Peace Prize consists of a diploma, a medal, and a monetary award that varies a bit over time. Not long ago, the amount was 10,000,000 Swedish kronor (more than $1,600,000). The prize is presented annually in Oslo, Norway, on December 10, the anniversary of Nobel’s death.

First given in 1901, the Peace Prize, in Nobel’s own words, is awarded “to the person who shall have done the most or the best work for fraternity between the nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies, and for the holding and promotion of peaceful congresses.” This may also include people or groups who have worked to resolve conflicts or create peace.

The recipient is chosen by the Norwegian Nobel Committee, which is appointed by the Norwegian Parliament. Initial nominations for the prize may be made by a large group of people considered qualified, such as former recipients, university professors, and special advisers to the committee. The committee reviews the nominees and chooses a winner. In some years, no award has been given.

Some famous people have received the Nobel Peace Prize over the years. They include President Woodrow Wilson in 1919 for his part in promoting the League of Nations after World War I; Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1964 for his role in leading a peaceful civil rights movement; and Mother Teresa in 1979 for her charity work with underprivileged people in Calcutta, India. In more recent decades, the prize has gone to the United Nations and its secretary general, Kofi Annan, in 2001 for their work toward a more peaceful world; the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and former U.S. vice president Albert Gore in 2007 for their efforts to increase awareness of global warming; and the Japanese organization Nihon Hidankyo in 2024 for its atomic bomb survivors’ efforts to share their testimony to help keep nuclear weapons from ever being used again. 

HIDDEN BENEFITS OF COMPETITIONS

Why competition matters 

Competitions are a part of student life. They can be about anything – mathematics, science, sports, art or even building robots. Sometimes, students might feel scared or unsure about entering competitions. However, they have hidden benefits that can help students grow and learn in different ways. Let’s find out why participating in competitions matters:

Why does participation matter?

● Learning new things: Competitions help develop new skills and knowledge. Whether it’s solving maths problems, writing stories or building something interesting, students learn by doing. This hands-on experience is different from regular classroom learning. It makes lessons come alive.

● Building confidence: Competitions help students believe in themselves. Sharing your work in front of people can be scary, but the fear starts to fade once you give it a try. This boost in confidence can help students in other areas of life, like making new friends or speaking in public.

● Teamwork and communication: Some competitions require working in teams. This teaches students how to cooperate with others, share ideas and solve problems together. Even in individual competitions, students often get help and advice from teachers, friends or family. Learning to communicate and work with others is a valuable life skill.

● Dealing with challenges: Not everything goes perfectly in competitions. Competitions teach students how to face challenges, find solutions and keep trying even when things get tough. 

● Discovering passions: Competitions can help students find what they are passionate about. It might be sports, music, writing or something else. This discovery can guide them in choosing hobbies, subjects to study, or even future careers.

● Meeting new people: Competitions are a great place to meet students with similar interests.  Meeting new people can open up new opportunities and help students build a supportive network.

● Fun and excitement: Lastly, competitions are fun. The thrill of preparing, participating, and seeing the results is great. Even if students don’t win, the experience itself can be enjoyable and memorable. 

How to start -

Here are some easy tips to help you make the most out of competitions:

☆ Choose the right competition: Pick a competition that matches your interests and skills. This will make it more fun and less stressful.

☆ Prepare well: Research, practice and study for the competition. The more you practise, the better you will get.

☆ Manage your time: Plan your time well so you can balance studying, practising and relaxing.

☆ Learn from others: Watch and learn from other students. See what they do well and try to improve your own skills.

☆ Ask for help: Don’t be afraid to ask teachers, friends or family for help. They can give you good advice and support.

☆ Stay positive: Believe in yourself and stay positive. It’s okay to make mistakes because they help you learn and grow.

☆ Learn from failure: Don’t be discouraged by failure. Instead, use it as an opportunity to learn and improve.

By following these easy tips, you can do well in school and life.

Overcoming fears: Many students avoid competitions because they feel they’re not good enough and have no chance of winning. Some worry that their friends might tease them if they don’t perform well. There’s also the fear of disappointing parents and teachers. However, it’s important to remember that competitions are more about learning and growing than just winning. With the right support and a positive mindset, these fears can be overcome, and you can participate with confidence. If you feel pressure from friends, parents or teachers to win, remind them of Confucius’ wise words: “Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising every time we fail.”

THE ACCLAIMED ANIMATION HOUSE

Walt Disney Company

Who does not love a good Disney animation? With characters ranging from Mickey Mouse to Rapunzel to Mirabel in Encanto, Disney has got something to satisfy everyone's palate. Named after its titular co-founder Walt Disney, the company has revolutionized the genre of animation. So much so that the term animation has become synonymous with Disney for millions the world over. 

Now, let us take a brief dive into the origin and evolution of Disney:

The Beginnings: Known officially as the Walt Disney Company, Disney was established on 16 October, 1923. The company was founded by Walt Disney and his brother, Roy Disney. It was first named the Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio. The studio was located in California, USA. 

In 1928, Disney introduced Mickey Mouse in a short film titled, 'Steamboat Willie'. The film was also the first of its kind to feature synchronized sound. Mickey went on to become a huge sensation, popularizing the young animation studio and revolutionizing the animated film industry. Mickey Mouse later became the mascot of the company.

A turning point in Disney’s history happened with the release of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’; the company’s first feature length animation film. The movie was released in 1937. A roaring success, this movie further cemented Disney as an authority in animation and imagination. 

Disney after War: Post Second World War (1939-1945), Disney became more successful and produced several more animated feature films. It also diversified into live-action films, television cartoons and theme parks in the 1950s.

In 1961, Disney released ‘101 Dalmatians’, which was another pivotal moment in the history of the company. The film made use of a new and improved type of animation technology known as Xerox animation. The technology made it possible for animators to transfer their drawings directly to animation cells, instead of tracing them by hand. Thus, the process of animation became much faster and smoother. 

The Dark Ages: The 1970s-1980s are known as the Dark Ages in the history of Disney Animations. The studio suffered a decline and most of the films produced were not commercial successes. ‘The Aristocats’ and ‘The Fox and the Hound’ are some examples of films released during the dark ages.

The Renaissance: The term renaissance means a ‘comeback’. Thus, after a time of steep decline, Disney bounced back during its Renaissance. This period began in 1989 with the release of the feature film, ‘The Little Mermaid’. A huge sensation, the film helped Disney regain its foothold as the dominant force in animation. Disney continued its success streak with several other features during this period. A few notable examples are: ‘Beauty and the Beast’, ‘The Lion King’, ‘Aladdin’ and ‘Mulan’.

Disney after Renaissance: Post renaissance, Disney went through a period of transition in the 1990s and 2000s. And from 2010 onwards, Disney experienced yet another resurgence, commonly known as the ‘Disney Revival’. 

The Revival Era started with the release of ‘Tangled’ in 2010. Several successful films like ‘Frozen’, ‘Big Hero 6’, ‘Zootopia’ and ‘Moana’ followed the release of ‘Tangled’. 

A major factor that distinguishes successful animation production companies, particularly Disney, is their focus not only on good illustrations and a captivating story, but also their close attention to details.

Disney after Revival: Post Revival, Disney continues to release smashing hits in animation, much to the joy of animation lovers worldwide. In 2021, Disney released widely acclaimed films like ‘Raya and the Last Dragon’ and ‘Encanto’. In 2022, Disney released critically successful films like ‘Turning Red’.

With its impeccable designs and beautiful storylines, Disney remains one of the most popular animation houses in the world. The many fictional characters created by Disney, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Cinderella, Rapunzel, etc., mesmerize as well as remain ever loved and etched in the minds of children the world over. Moreover, the magical worlds created by Disney are always an exceptional source of great joy and fun for kids everywhere. Even adults find refuge in the comforting magic of Disney. And thus, the legacy of Disney animations continues to shine brightly through the ages.

Do You Know?

● The original Disney logo featured Mickey Mouse. In 1928, Walt Disney created a mouse character, replacing Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. 

● Dumbo is the shortest feature length film made by Disney. The film is only 64 minutes long.

● The first movie to release a soundtrack was Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

● Since its inception, Disney has won 135 Academy Awards, the most by any organization.

● The first truly original Disney story was of The Lion King. The movies that came before were adaptations.

● In The Lion King, hyenas were portrayed as villains. A hyena biologist sued Disney for doing.

COLOUR STORY

The Origins Of Yellow

It’s not very hard to find the colour yellow all around us. Just take a look out the window and you’ll see flowers, insects and even our own clothing all brimming with this bright colour. But how did yellow come to feature in everyday life? That’s a story that starts far back in time.

Yellow in nature: Ochre

Nowadays, yellow isn’t just a colour used for decoration. It comes in a multitude of shades, from bright to light, and people use these to set a mood or depict certain emotions. But where did it all start? With yellow ochre. Known as an ‘earth pigment’, ochre is a natural mineral that is found in rocks or sand across the globe. It was among the first minerals used by humans.

Prehistory

Ancient peoples also seemed to paint their walls. One of the first cave paintings that uses yellow can be found in Lascaux, southwestern France. This cave painting of a horse is said to be around 17,300 years old! 

How it’s made…

Prehistoric yellow paint was made with clay containing yellow ochre that was mixed with spit or animal fat to create a paste. This paste would vary in shades from yellow to brown depending on the sand.

The Renaissance

How it’s made...

In the 1500s, artists used oil paints, made by mixing yellow pigment made with yellow ochre, with linseed oil. 

During the 16th century, yellow was associated with the disciple that betrayed Jesus Christ, Judas, and was used to depict envy or jealousy in artworks. It was often the colour of illness, as some cases of yellow fever would turn patients’ skin a mild shade of yellow. And later, in 18th century England, if you were seen to be a coward, you were called ‘yellowbellied’. Cowards were said to have a slippery nature, like reptiles. Some snakes and lizards have yellow undersides.

Ancient Egypt

How it’s made...

The ancient Egyptians used many natural minerals to create paints, including ochre. For brighter shades of yellow, they chose to use the mineral ‘orpiment’. Ground orpiment was blended with animal glues or natural gums to create a rich lemon or canary yellow.

In ancient Egypt, each colour had a symbolic meaning and yellow was the colour of the gods! It was believed that the skin and bones of the gods were made of gold. Meaning ‘eternal’ and ‘indestructible’, yellow was often blended with precious metals, like gold, to make depictions of the gods glow. Priests or priestesses of ancient Egypt were said to sometimes paint themselves yellow to ‘become’ closer to the gods.

The Modern Era

How it’s made…

In 1856, a chemical process that could create synthetic versions of natural pigments was discovered. This meant that more colours could be manufactured faster. At the end of the 19th century, there were over 8000 types of synthetic dyes to choose from, yellow being one of them!

New synthetic dyes meant that 18th and 19th century life was more colourful than ever! Yellow became the most popular way to attract attention in the French court. This meant that yellow hats, gloves and dresses were worn by all the fashionable folk of the time. Even famous artists were great admirers of the colour. Just think of Vincent van Gogh’s ‘Sunflowers’ painting.

What about now?

Think of Pikachu, Spongebob, the Minions and even the emojis on your phone. Yellow is a colour of cheerfulness and optimism. It is a symbol of happiness. Once a colour to help depict stories, yellow has become a main feature in our everyday lives.

TO BEE OR NOT TO BEE

It is not uncommon for certain species of insects and small critters to have evolved to have yellow markings as a way of warning predators against messing with them. Some fly-like insects mimic the distinctive yellow and black colouring of bees to trick predators into thinking they’re armed with a sting! Fire salamanders mean business though, as their bright yellow markings warn potential predators of their intensely toxic skin and their ability to squirt a highly irritating substance into the eyes or mouths of would-be threats.

From cave walls to famous artworks, clothing to a famous song, this undeniably cool colour has had a long journey through history and is bound to keep the future bright too.