Windows to the world

NEWSPAPERS 

Imagine waking up every morning, sipping on your favourite cup of milk, coffee or tea, and flipping through the crisp pages of a newspaper. You must have seen your parents or grandparents doing it too, right? For centuries, newspapers have been a staple in households, connecting people to the world. They’re not just about news; they are a blend of stories, opinions facts and entertainment. But what makes newspapers so significant, and why do they continue to hold their charm in the digital age?

The origin of newspapers: The concept of newspapers dates back to ancient Rome, where news was carved into stone or metal tablets and displayed in public places. Fast forward to the 17th century, the first printed newspapers began circulating in Europe. These publications played a crucial role in shaping societies by informing people about politics, trade and local happenings. The first English language newspaper, The Weekly News, was published in London in 1622. In India, Hicky’s Bengal Gazette, launched in 1780, became the country’s first newspaper. Over time, newspapers evolved into daily publications, becoming an integral part of people’s lives.

Why newspapers are more exciting than digital media: There’s a unique thrill in discovering stories within the folds of a newspaper. Unlike digital platforms that bombard you with endless notifications, newspapers let you explore at your own pace. Every page holds surprises, from captivating headlines to hidden gems in the classifieds section. The absence of distractions like pop-up ads or autoplay videos makes reading newspapers a peaceful and immersive experience. Plus, the rustling sound of turning pages and the distinct smell of fresh print add a sensory charm that no digital screen can replicate. With newspapers, the excitement lies in uncovering information organically, rather than having it curated by a machine.

Fun sections in newspapers: Newspapers aren’t just about serious news; they also offer entertainment and leisure. The comics section brings laughter with its humorous strips and witty jokes, while puzzles like crosswords and Sudoku provide an engaging way to boost problemsolving skills. Sports sections keep young readers like you updated on their favourite teams and players, while entertainment pages cover movie reviews and music trends. These sections make newspapers a delightful mix of information and fun.

Making newspapers part of your routine: Incorporating newspapers into your daily routine can be both enjoyable and enriching. You can start by exploring sections that interest you, such as sports or entertainment, and gradually expand to other topics. Discussing interesting articles with friends and family can spark engaging conversations and broaden your perspectives. If you find an inspiring story or an informative piece, cutting it out and saving it in a scrapbook can be a fun way to create a personal archive. Some newspapers also invite readers to share their opinions through letters, so write to the editor, and maybe even see them published.

So, grab a newspaper today and dive into a world of knowledge and fun! After all, every page has a story to tell.

Do you know

WHY ARE RAILWAY TRACKS ALWAYS LAID ON GRAVEL?

Ever noticed the rough gravel under railway tracks and wondered why it’s there? Well, it’s not just for looks! The gravel, called ballast, plays a crucial role in keeping the tracks stable. It evenly spreads the heavy weight of trains, preventing the tracks from sinking into the ground. It also helps with drainage, allowing rainwater to pass through so that the tracks don’t get damaged. Plus, it absorbs vibrations from moving trains, making rides smoother and reducing noise. Without gravel, tracks would shift, wear out faster, and become unsafe. So, next time you see a train zooming by, you’ll know the secret beneath its tracks!

The tallest statue in the world

THE STATUE OF UNITY

Imagine stacking 200 elephants on top of each other—it’s crazy, right? Well, that’s how tall the Statue of Unity is! It is 182 metres (597 feet) tall, making it the tallest statue in the world.

Located in Gujarat, this statue is dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India. It was built in just four years with over 3,000 workers and 250 engineers working day and night. The most exciting part? You can go inside the statue and reach a viewing gallery 135 metres high, from where you get a breathtaking view of the Narmada River!

Did you know? The statue is so tall that if you stand at its feet and look up, it feels like you’re staring at a skyscraper!

History

SHOELACES 

The history of shoelaces goes back thousands of years. Here’s an overview of how they evolved:

Ancient Origins (Prehistoric Times - 1000s BCE)

The oldest known evidence of shoelaces comes from the Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,300-year-old mummy found in the Alps. His shoes were made of leather and grass, fastened with primitive laces.

Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans used leather straps to secure sandals, a concept similar to shoelaces.

Medieval & Renaissance Period (500 CE - 1600s)

Shoelaces became more common as shoes evolved. They were typically made from leather, hemp, or other natural fibers.

By the Middle Ages, shoes featured holes (eyelets) through which laces were threaded, much like modern designs.

Industrial Revolution & 19th Century (1700s - 1800s)

Shoelaces became standardized with the mass production of shoes.

In 1790, Harvey Kennedy is often credited with "inventing" the modern shoelace and aglet (the small plastic or metal tip on laces), though laces existed long before.

20th & 21st Century (1900s - Present)

Synthetic materials like nylon and polyester replaced leather and cotton for durability.

Elastic and Velcro closures emerged, but shoelaces remained dominant in most footwear.

Today, shoelaces come in various styles, materials, and even self-tightening versions, like Nike’s self-lacing sneakers (2016) inspired by Back to the Future.

Do you know

WHY DO WE SCRATCH WHEN A PART OF OUR BODY ITCHES?

We have all experienced itching at some point or the other in our lives. You may even feel this rather unpleasant sensation at the very moment. 

An itch, known also by its Latin name Pruritus, is a sensation to which your body wants you to respond with scratching. You may either feel an intense desire to scratch or simply have an involuntary reaction - a scratching reflex. 

Itch signals are received by the same part of the brain that receives pain signals. 

It is believed that about 5% of our pain nerves are preset to send itch signals. Itching is one of our defense mechanisms in many ways like tickling and pain itself. 

Do you know

WHY ARE CHOCOLATES PACKED IN METALLIC FOIL?

Chocolates are often packed in metallic foil for a couple of yummy reasons! First, the foil helps keep the chocolates fresh by protecting them from things like air and light that can make them go bad. Just like how you might put your favourite cookies in a jar to keep them tasty, chocolate needs a little wrapper to stay delicious. 

Second, the shiny foil makes the chocolate look extra special and fancy. It’s like giving the chocolates a shiny outfit! This makes them more appealing when you see them in the store or get them as a gift. Plus, the foil helps keep the chocolate from melting too quickly in your hands, so you can enjoy it without making a sticky mess. 

So, next time you unwrap chocolate with that crinkly sound, remember that the foil is like a superhero cape, protecting and presenting your sweet treat in the most delightful way!

A World of Fun

 CARTOONS 

Cartoons are a fantastic way to tell stories through visuals, and it’s amazing to see how different cultures bring their own unique animation styles to life! Take Japan, for example, known for its anime style, which is filled with vibrant colours and intricate details that make characters feel like they’re truly alive. Shows like Naruto and One Piece are popular worldwide for their thrilling adventures, magical moments, and deep friendships from touching romances to epic battles.

In the United States, the approach is often more exaggerated and whimsical. Cartoons like The Simpsons and Sponge Bob Square Pants find humour in everyday life, with simple character designs, but their adventures are just as exciting and funny. And, of course, we can’t forget the iconic Disney cartoons and movies, which have captured hearts all over the world.

Europe also brings something special to the table with their animation styles. French cartoons, for instance, often have a beautifully artistic, charming feel. Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir is just one example, blending stunning visuals with captivating storytelling. Countries like Germany and the UK also create unique animations, with a perfect mix of art and narrative that appeals to audiences of all ages.

And it’s not just these regions- South Korea, India, China, Canada, and Australia and manymore countries all have their own distinctive styles. In the end, what makes cartoons so magical is not just how they look, but the stories they tell. Which cartoon’s storyline is your choice?