The Game of Flying Fun and Fair Play

ULTIMATE FRISBEE 

🌟 Introduction

Imagine a sport that mixes the running of football, the passing of basketball, and the teamwork of soccer — but with a flying disc instead of a ball! That’s Ultimate Frisbee, often simply called Ultimate. It’s one of the fastest-growing sports in the world and is loved for its energy, excitement, and emphasis on fair play.

⚙️ What Is Ultimate Frisbee?

Ultimate Frisbee is a non-contact team sport played with a flying disc. Two teams compete to score points by catching the disc in the opponent’s end zone. What makes Ultimate unique is that players cannot run with the disc — they must pass it to move it forward.

🏃‍♂️ How to Play

Each team has seven players on the field.

The game starts with a “pull”, which is like a kickoff — one team throws the disc to the other.

Players pass the disc from one to another, trying to reach the end zone to score.

If the disc is dropped, intercepted, or goes out of bounds, the other team gains possession.

The first team to reach the set number of points (usually 15) wins!

🧭 The Field

An Ultimate Frisbee field looks similar to a football field but slightly smaller. It has:

A playing area in the middle

Two end zones at each end (where points are scored)

Standard size: 100 meters long and 37 meters wide

🤝 Spirit of the Game

Ultimate Frisbee is special because it has no referees!

Instead, it is guided by the idea of “Spirit of the Game.”

This means players must show:

Honesty in calling fouls,

Respect toward teammates and opponents, and

Good sportsmanship at all times.

Winning is important — but playing fair is even more important!

💡 Basic Rules to Remember

1. You cannot run while holding the disc.

2. You have 10 seconds to throw the disc.

3. If the disc is dropped or intercepted, it’s a turnover.

4. A point is scored when the disc is caught in the end zone.

5. Substitutions can be made after a point or during an injury timeout.

⚡ Skills and Techniques

To play Ultimate well, players learn a few key throws:

Backhand: The most common throw, like tossing a regular Frisbee.

Forehand (Flick): A quick side throw using wrist action.

Hammer: A high overhead throw that curves down.

Players also practice jumping, catching, sprinting, and defensive marking to stop opponents’ passes.

🌍 A Short History

Ultimate Frisbee began in 1968 at Columbia High School in New Jersey, USA.

From a simple student game, it spread across colleges and countries.

Today, it’s played worldwide, with official tournaments organised by the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF).

It is even featured in the World Games — a major international sports event!

🇮🇳 Ultimate Frisbee in India

Ultimate Frisbee has taken off in India over the past two decades and continues to grow in popularity.

🌱 Beginnings

The game was introduced around 2004–2005 by expats and students who had played abroad. It soon caught on in cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, and Auroville, where young people started forming teams and playing regularly.

🏢 Governing Body

The sport is managed by the Ultimate Players Association of India (UPAI), which promotes Ultimate across the country through tournaments, workshops, and youth programmes. UPAI is also a member of the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF).

🏆 Major Indian Tournaments

Indian National Ultimate Championships (INUC) – the country’s biggest tournament.

Chennai Heat, Mumbai Ultimate Open, Bangalore Ultimate Open, and the Auroville Hat Tournament – popular national events that attract players from all over India.

🌍 India on the World Stage

India has proudly represented itself at Asian-Oceanic and World Ultimate Championships. Both men’s and women’s teams have earned praise for their sportsmanship and spirited play.

🏫 In Schools and Colleges

Many schools and universities in India have started Ultimate Frisbee clubs and use the sport to teach students about teamwork, respect, and fair play.

🌈 Fun Fact

Ultimate is also played on beaches, especially in places like Goa and Chennai, making it not just a sport but a joyful community activity that brings people together.

🏆 Major Competitions

WFDF World Ultimate Championships (held every 4 years)

World Games

National and College Championships in many countries

💪 Benefits of Playing Ultimate

Ultimate Frisbee is not only fun but also great for your health! It helps you:

Build stamina, strength, and coordination

Learn teamwork and communication

Develop honesty and leadership

Stay fit while having lots of fun

🎯 Fun Facts

● The disc used in Ultimate usually weighs 175 grams.

● Players often play barefoot on beaches in Beach Ultimate.

● Ultimate is one of the few sports that values “fair play” as much as victory!

💬 Did You Know?

⭐ The term “Frisbee” comes from the Frisbie Pie Company — students used to throw its pie tins before the plastic disc was invented!

⭐ Ultimate Frisbee is played in more than 100 countries around the world.

⭐ There’s even a professional Ultimate league in the United States.

⭐ The first-ever World Championship was held in 1983 in Sweden.

⭐ In India, Ultimate is taught in schools to promote honesty, teamwork, and self-officiation.

🌈 Conclusion

Ultimate Frisbee is more than just a game — it’s a lesson in teamwork, respect, and fairness. Whether played on grass, sand, or indoors, it teaches players to compete with spirit and integrity. So next time you see a flying disc, grab it, gather your friends, and enjoy the thrill of Ultimate Frisbee — the game where fun and fairness fly together!

Do you know

WHO ARE ANGLO-INDIANS?

Anglo-Indians are a distinct community that originated during the British colonial period in India. The term generally refers to people of mixed Indian and British ancestry, as well as, historically, to British people who lived and worked in India. Over time, however, the meaning has evolved.

Here’s a detailed explanation:

🏛️ Historical Background

During the British rule in India (roughly 1600s–1947), many British men who worked for the East India Company, the British Army, or in administration married or had families with Indian women. Their children, born of these unions, formed a unique cultural group—the Anglo-Indians.

Initially, they were known by various terms such as Eurasians or Indo-Britons, but the Government of India Act of 1935 officially defined "Anglo-Indian" as:

> “A person whose father or any of whose other male ancestors in the male line is or was of European descent but who is domiciled within the territory of India and is or was born of parents habitually resident therein.”

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Cultural Identity

Anglo-Indians developed a culture that blended Indian and British influences:

Language: English is their mother tongue.

Religion: Most are Christians, mainly belonging to Roman Catholic, Protestant, or Anglican denominations.

Lifestyle: Their food, clothing, music, and social customs mix Western and Indian traditions.

Education and Employment: Many Anglo-Indians worked in railways, postal services, teaching, and nursing — sectors established during the British Raj.

🇮🇳 After Indian Independence (1947)

After 1947, the Anglo-Indian community faced uncertainty about their identity and place in independent India. Some migrated to countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, while others remained in India.

The Indian Constitution recognised the community’s contribution:

Reserved seats: Two members of the Anglo-Indian community were nominated to the Lok Sabha (Lower House of Parliament) and one to certain State Legislative Assemblies to ensure representation.

These seats were abolished in 2020 through the 104th Constitutional Amendment.

🌏 Present Scenario

Today, Anglo-Indians continue to live across India—in cities like Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Mumbai—and abroad.

They are known for their hospitality, good command of English, music, and community spirit.

In Summary: Anglo-Indians are a community of mixed Indian and British descent with a unique culture, language, and identity that bridges the East and the West.

First Friday of October

WORLD SMILE DAY 

Introduction: A smile is a universal language. It costs nothing but has the power to brighten lives, spread hope, and build connections across cultures. Every year, on the first Friday of October, the world pauses for a collective moment of cheer to celebrate World Smile Day. Far more than a celebration of happiness, it is a global call to kindness, reminding us of the profound impact that even a small act of goodwill can create.

This year, 2025, World Smile Day is observed, today, October 3.

The Origin of the Iconic Smiley: World Smile Day has a heartwarming history tied to one of the most recognisable icons: the yellow smiley face.

This symbol was created in 1963 by Harvey Ball, a commercial artist from Worcester, Massachusetts. Tasked by an insurance company to design something to boost employee morale after difficult mergers, Ball drew a simple yellow circle with two oval eyes and an imperfect arc for a smile. He completed it in less than ten minutes, earned just $45, and never trademarked it.

Over time, the smiley face became a global phenomenon, appearing on buttons, posters, and merchandise. Yet Ball grew worried that its true meaning—simple goodwill and cheer—was being overshadowed by commercialisation. To bring back its essence, he established World Smile Day in 1999, with a motto that remains timeless:

“Do an act of kindness – help one person smile.”

A Day Devoted to Kindness: Harvey Ball envisioned a day when everyone would commit to making others smile. The power of a smile, as he described, is that it transcends politics, geography, and religion. It is a universal bridge of positivity.

After Ball’s passing in 2001, the Harvey Ball World Smile Foundation was created to honour his legacy. The foundation continues to sponsor World Smile Day and supports many charitable causes, particularly those benefiting children.

Why World Smile Day Matters:

Promotes Positivity: In stressful times, a smile serves as a ray of hope.

Breaks Barriers: Smiles unite people across cultures and languages.

Encourages Kindness: Even small acts—helping a stranger, cheering up a friend—spread joy.

Improves Health: Research shows smiling lowers stress, boosts immunity, and enhances well-being.

How to Celebrate World Smile Day:

The beauty of World Smile Day is in its simplicity. You don’t need wealth or fame—just a sincere heart. Here are ways to celebrate:

Perform Random Acts of Kindness: Pay for someone’s coffee, leave a kind note, or hold the door.

Share Your Smile: Offer a genuine smile to everyone—family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers.

Volunteer or Donate: Support a cause close to your heart, especially children’s charities in line with Harvey Ball’s vision.

Start a Smile Chain: Encourage others to do an act of kindness and challenge them to pass it on, creating a ripple effect.

Conclusion: In a world often filled with complexity and challenges, World Smile Day serves as a powerful reminder of the simple good we all can share. Harvey Ball’s little yellow smile has grown into a symbol of kindness, positivity, and hope.

This October 3rd, that is today, let us celebrate not just with a grin, but with actions that inspire smiles in others. After all, a genuine smile may be one of the most impactful forces for good in the world.

Celebrating 100 Years of Rashtra Sewa

RASHTRIYA SWAYAMSEVAK SANGH (RSS)

Introduction: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is one of the largest voluntary organisations in the world. It was founded in 1925 to promote social unity, discipline, and service to the nation. Over the years, the RSS has grown into a major cultural and social force in India, inspiring millions of volunteers to work for society.

Foundation and History: The RSS was founded on 27 September 1925, which was the day of Vijayadashami (Dussehra), in Nagpur, Maharashtra by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar. At that time, India was under British rule, and there was a need to instill patriotism, unity, and self-confidence among the people. Hedgewar’s vision was to create an organisation that would train individuals to dedicate themselves to the service of the country.

Organisation and Activities: The basic unit of the RSS is called a Shakha (meaning "branch"). In a Shakha, members, known as Swayamsevaks, gather regularly for physical training, group games, patriotic songs, discussions, and social service activities. The aim is to build discipline, leadership, and teamwork.

The RSS does not have a formal membership system—anyone attending Shakhas and contributing to activities becomes part of it.

Ideals and Principles - The RSS emphasises:

● Discipline and Character-building

● Selfless Service (Sewa) to society

● Nationalism and Patriotism

● Unity beyond caste, language, or region

● Preservation of Indian culture and traditions

Social Work and Contributions: The RSS and its volunteers are known for their social service. They have actively participated in relief work during natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The organisation also runs schools, hostels, and service projects in rural and tribal areas, focusing on education, health, and social welfare.

Influence and Legacy: Over time, the RSS has influenced many social, cultural, and political movements in India. Several organisations, such as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), have connections with the RSS.

Its impact on Indian society is significant, as it continues to inspire volunteers to dedicate themselves to the nation’s service.

Importance on Dussehra: The day of Dussehra (Vijayadashami) holds special importance for the RSS because it was on this day that the organisation was founded in 1925. Dussehra symbolises the victory of good over evil, truth over falsehood, and righteousness over injustice. For the RSS, this day represents the beginning of its mission to build a strong and united India through discipline, service, and cultural values.

Every year on Dussehra, the RSS holds its annual Vijayadashami address, where the Sarsanghchalak (chief of RSS) shares the organisation’s vision, achievements, and future goals. This tradition highlights how the ideals of courage, unity, and service—central to Dussehra—remain guiding principles for the RSS even today.

Centenary Celebration – 100 Years of RSS: This year, 2025, marks a historic moment for the RSS as it completes 100 years since its foundation. The centenary celebrations are not just an occasion to look back at its long journey, but also to renew its commitment to the ideals of nationalism, social service, and cultural pride. For millions of Swayamsevaks, this Dussehra is especially significant because it celebrates a century of dedication to the nation and sets the vision for the next hundred years.

Conclusion: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh is not just an organisation but a movement devoted to the values of unity, service, and patriotism. By promoting discipline and social service, it has played an important role in India’s cultural and social development. Its foundation on Dussehra gives it symbolic strength, and in 2025, its centenary celebration makes this day even more meaningful, reminding us that the spirit of service and victory of good are timeless values for every generation.

Towards a Data-Driven World

A CAREER AS A DATA SCIENTIST 

Have you ever wondered how Netflix suggests movies you’ll love, how Google Maps tells you the fastest route, or how Instagram shows you posts that match your interests?

The answer is data science. Data scientists are like detectives who search through huge amounts of information to find patterns and solutions. Their work helps companies make smart decisions.

What do Data Scientists do?

A data scientist’s job is exciting but challenging. Here’s what they usually do:

● Collect data from different sources like apps, websites, surveys, or social media.

● Clean the data (because real-world data is often messy!).

● Ask the right questions — for example: Why are customers leaving a shop? How can we improve a delivery system?

● Use statistics, mathematics, and computer programs to find answers.

● Build models that can predict future trends.

Explain their findings to managers, engineers, and even non-technical people in simple words.

● Work with different teams like marketing, operations, and customer service.

In short, they turn raw data into useful knowledge.

Where are they needed?

Everywhere! 🌍

■ Healthcare → predicting diseases and improving treatment.

■ Sports → improving player performance and team strategy.

■ Finance → detecting fraud and managing risks.

■ E-commerce → recommending products you’ll like.

■ Education, manufacturing, telecom, transport… the list goes on.

If you’re curious, enjoy problem-solving, and love learning, data science can open endless doors.

How do you become a Data Scientist?

1. Education

First, study Mathematics, Statistics, or Computer Science at school.

In college, take a degree in Math, Statistics, Economics, Computer Science, or Engineering.

2. Learn Programming

Languages like Python, R, SQL, and Java are must-knows.

Practice with small projects and competitions (like Kaggle).

3. Higher Studies / Courses

Postgraduate courses in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, or Business Analytics are helpful.

Subjects you’ll study: data visualisation, cloud computing, machine learning, database systems, and more.

4. Keep Practising

Build your own projects: analysing cricket scores, predicting exam marks, or studying YouTube trends.

This helps you gain confidence and stand out.

Skills you need

✔ Strong maths and problem-solving skills

✔ Good communication (to explain tough ideas simply)

✔ Creativity and curiosity to ask the right questions

✔ Patience and persistence (because not every experiment works!)

✔ Team spirit and time-management

✔ Attention to detail

Where can you study in India?

☆Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Kolkata – famous for statistics courses.

☆IITs – Kanpur, Bombay, Roorkee, Kharagpur, Bangalore (Mathematics, Computing, and Data Science programmes).

☆Indian School of Business (ISB), Hyderabad and Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai – offer Business Analytics courses.

☆IISERs – BS-MS programmes with a focus on science and data.

Many online platforms and short-term bootcamps also offer training.

How much can you earn? 💰

¤ Freshers (0–2 years): ₹6–10 lakhs per year

¤ Mid-level (3–5 years): ₹10–20 lakhs per year

¤ Senior experts (6–10+ years): ₹20–35 lakhs or more

Top cities for data science jobs in India are Bengaluru, Gurgaon, Hyderabad, Pune, and Mumbai.

Job Options

With data skills, you can become:

◇ Data Scientist

◇ Data Analyst

◇ Machine Learning Engineer

◇ Big Data Engineer

◇ AI Specialist

◇ Data Architect

Final word

Data science is one of the most exciting careers of the 21st century. It’s not just about numbers — it’s about solving real-life problems, helping people, and shaping the future.

If you enjoy maths, computers, and puzzles, and if you’re curious about “why” and “how” things happen, this field could be your perfect match!

✨ Remember: Data is the new oil, and data scientists are the engineers who refine it.

The mighty constrictors of South America

ANACONDAS 

Anacondas are a group of large, non-venomous snakes native to tropical South America. Belonging to the boa family (Boidae), these snakes are famous worldwide for their immense size and strength, making them some of the largest snakes on Earth. The most famous among them, the green anaconda (Eunectes murinus), is recognised as the heaviest snake in the world, with females significantly larger than males—a rare trait in the animal kingdom.

Types and Habitat

There are four recognised species in the genus Eunectes:

1. Green Anaconda (Eunectes murinus) – the largest and most widespread.

2. Yellow Anaconda (Eunectes notaeus) – smaller and found mainly in Paraguay and northern Argentina.

3. Dark-Spotted Anaconda (Eunectes deschauenseei) – a rarer species.

4. Bolivian Anaconda (Eunectes beniensis) – discovered more recently and found in Bolivia.

These semi-aquatic snakes thrive in slow-moving rivers, swamps, marshes, and flooded grasslands of the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Their eyes and nostrils on top of their head allow them to remain almost entirely underwater, perfectly adapted for ambushing prey while staying hidden.

Hunting and Diet:

Anacondas are ambush predators. Though sluggish on land, they are fast and graceful swimmers. They wait motionless beneath the water’s surface, then lunge at unsuspecting prey. Using their powerful coils, they constrict—not crush—the prey, squeezing until it can’t breathe.

Their diet includes:

Fish, turtles, and birds

Larger mammals like capybaras, deer, and peccaries

Even caimans and, on rare occasions, jaguars

After a huge meal, an anaconda may go weeks or even months without eating. Their flexible jaws and expandable bodies allow them to swallow prey many times wider than their head.

Size and Physical Features:

Length: Green anacondas can grow over 9 meters (30 feet).

Weight: They can weigh 250 kg (550 lbs) or more.

Diameter: Up to 30 cm (12 inches) thick.

Their olive-green bodies with dark oval spots act as camouflage in murky waters.

They can hold their breath for up to 10 minutes, an adaptation for underwater hunting.

Reproduction and Life Cycle: 

Unlike many snakes that lay eggs, anacondas are ovoviviparous—they give birth to live young. After mating, females carry developing embryos inside their bodies for six to seven months. A single litter can include 20–40 baby anacondas, each already about 60–80 cm (2–3 feet) long and fully independent from birth.

Behaviour and Ecology: 

Solitary Lifestyle: Anacondas are mostly solitary, coming together only during mating season.

Activity: They are mostly nocturnal hunters.

Ecosystem Role: As top predators, they help control populations of capybaras, fish, and other animals, keeping wetland ecosystems balanced.

Cultural Significance and Myths:

In Amazonian folklore, giant anacondas—sometimes called “water spirits” or “sacred snakes”—feature in many legends. Stories of mythical snakes swallowing boats or entire villages have fueled their reputation as fearsome creatures. Popular movies have exaggerated these myths, but in reality, attacks on humans are extremely rare.

Conservation Status: 

Green Anaconda: Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN due to its wide range and stable population.

Other Species: Face habitat loss, water pollution, and hunting (either for their skin or out of fear).

Protection Efforts: Preserving Amazon wetlands and educating local communities are crucial for their survival.

Amazing Facts About Anacondas:

● Females can be up to five times heavier than males.

● They use heat-sensing abilities to detect warm-blooded prey in the dark.

● Indigenous peoples sometimes view them as guardians of water sources.

● Anacondas can regurgitate their prey if threatened, allowing them to escape quickly.

Conclusion:

The anaconda is more than a symbol of power—it’s a key part of South America’s delicate ecosystems. By understanding these giants, we not only discover their fascinating biology but also learn the importance of protecting rainforests and wetlands where they thrive. Far from being monsters, anacondas are reminders of the wild beauty and balance of nature.

The Ancient Shrine that Inspired Modern Architecture

CHAUSATH YOGINI TEMPLE, MITAOLI 

Perched atop a hill in the quiet village of Mitaoli, Madhya Pradesh, the Chausath Yogini Temple—also known as Ekattarso Mahadeva Temple—is a unique architectural and spiritual marvel. Built in the 11th century by King Devapala of the Kachchhapaghata dynasty, it is one of the few surviving temples in India dedicated to the 64 yoginis, powerful female deities revered in Tantric traditions.

A Temple of Yoginis

The term Chausath Yogini literally means “64 yoginis.” These goddesses, associated with mysticism and cosmic energy, played a vital role in Tantric worship practices. The temple’s design reflects this sacred purpose—an open-air circular courtyard surrounded by 64 chambers, each believed to have housed an idol of a yogini. At the very heart of the structure lies an open mandapa (pavilion) dedicated to Lord Shiva, symbolising the union of masculine and feminine energies in the universe.

Architectural Brilliance

The temple’s architecture is both simple and profound. Constructed entirely of sandstone, it stands as a testament to India’s medieval craftsmanship. The circular layout is particularly striking, creating a sense of harmony and cosmic balance. The open-to-sky design reflects the Tantric principle of worship under the vast expanse of the heavens—signifying communion with cosmic forces, beyond the confines of enclosed spaces.

Link to Parliament House

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Chausath Yogini Temple is its alleged influence on modern Indian architecture. Many historians and architects believe that its circular design and central dome served as the inspiration for the Parliament House in New Delhi, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker in the early 20th century. The resemblance is remarkable—both structures feature a circular form with chambers arranged around a central open space. This connection highlights how ancient Indian architectural wisdom continues to shape modern civic spaces.

A Blend of History, Spirituality, and Legacy

Beyond its architectural significance, the Chausath Yogini Temple represents India’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions. It preserves a rare glimpse into the Tantric practices of the medieval period while also standing as a symbol of continuity between India’s sacred past and its democratic present. Visitors who climb the stone steps leading to the hilltop temple are rewarded not only with breathtaking views of the landscape but also with a profound sense of connection to centuries of heritage.

✨ In essence, the Chausath Yogini Temple at Mitaoli is more than an ancient shrine—it is a living link between history, spirituality, and modern nation-building.