Petals of Blood by Ngugi Wa Thiong’o

TOPIC OF THE BLOG:-

This blog is a part of Thinking Activity assigned by Megha Trivedi Ma'am, a visiting faculty at the Department of English, MKBU. In this blog I am going to discuss some of the ideas about Petals of Blood by Ngugi Wa Thiong’o. 

NGUGI WA THIONG'O

Ngugi wa Thiong'o, born on January 5, 1938, in Limuru, Kenya, was a prominent writer in East Africa. He was recognized as the foremost novelist in the region. His widely acclaimed work, Weep Not, Child, published in 1964, marked a significant milestone as the first major novel in English by an East African author. In response to his growing awareness of the impact of colonialism in Africa, Ngugi embraced his traditional name and began writing in the Bantu language spoken by Kenya's Kikuyu people. (Britannica)

To know more about him here is the video available in YouTube:-

PETALS OF BLOOD:-

“It is rather that I believe in the reality of what’s being named more than in the name itself.”

"Petals of Blood" is a novel written by Kenyan author Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o, Originally written in Gikuyu and published in 1977. The novel is set in post-colonial Kenya and explores various themes such as the impact of colonialism, the struggles of the working class, political corruption, and the search for identity and meaning in a changing society. The story revolves around four main characters - Munira, Karega, Wanja, and Abdulla. These characters come from different backgrounds but are brought together in the small village of Ilmorog to confront the challenges of modern Kenya. Each character represents a different facet of society.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE TITLE:-

The name "Petals of Blood" comes from a part of Derek Walcott's poem "The Swamp." In the poem, Walcott suggests that nature has a dangerous power that deserves our respect. This challenges the idea that humans can peacefully live together with nature.

Conceals within its clutch the mossbacked toad, 

Toadstools, the potent ginger-lily, 

Petals of blood,

The title, "Petals of Blood," is metaphorical and suggestive of the sacrifices, struggles, and suffering of the characters in the novel. The "petals" may symbolize the lives, dreams, and aspirations of individuals, while "blood" alludes to the pain, violence, and societal conflicts that form a backdrop to the narrative. The juxtaposition of "petals" and "blood" in the title creates a powerful contrast, highlighting the intersection of beauty and struggle.

CHARACTERS:-

In this novel there are some important characters like Munira, Wanja, Karega, Abdulla, Kimeria, Nderi wa Riera, Chui, Mzigo, Nyakinyua, Joseph, etc. but These four are the main characters who drove the whole story.

Munira:-

Munira is a schoolteacher who plays a central role in the novel. His occupation reflects his commitment to education and the transformative power he believes it holds for society. Munira is portrayed as an idealist who sees education as a means of bringing about positive social change. His character embodies the hope for a better future through the enlightenment of the younger generation. Throughout the narrative, Munira faces personal and ideological struggles. His dedication to education and social justice puts him at odds with the oppressive forces in the society, and he becomes entangled in the larger conflicts unfolding in Ilmorog.

Karega:-

Karega is another teacher and intellectual in the village who becomes an influential figure. He is critical of the impact of colonialism and capitalism on the community, reflecting the broader themes of the novel. Karega's character serves as a voice of social critique. Through his intellectual pursuits, he challenges the existing power structures and ideologies, contributing to the novel's exploration of post-colonial issues. As the narrative progresses, Karega undergoes significant personal and ideological transformations. His character development is intertwined with the larger socio-political changes in Ilmorog.

Wanja:-

Wanja is a barmaid who becomes a symbolic figure representing the struggles of women in a patriarchal society. Her character highlights the exploitation faced by women, but she also strives for independence and dignity. Wanja's character is nuanced, portraying the complexities of women's experiences in a changing society. Despite facing challenges, she exhibits agency and resilience in her quest for a better life.

Abdulla:-

Abdulla is initially portrayed as a successful capitalist, running a prosperous shop. His character represents the allure of economic success within a capitalist framework. As the story unfolds, Abdulla becomes disillusioned with the capitalist system. His character arc explores the moral and ethical consequences of pursuing wealth at the expense of social justice and human well-being. Abdulla's character contributes to the novel's examination of economic inequality and the impact of capitalism on individuals and communities.

THEMES OF THE NOVEL:-

Colonialism: The novel explores the impact of colonialism on the people and the land, examining how it has shaped the characters' lives and the societal structures they navigate. 

Capitalism: The narrative critiques the effects of capitalism on the rural and urban poor, highlighting economic exploitation and social inequality. 

Identity and Cultural Struggles: The characters grapple with issues of identity and cultural conflict in the face of modernization and Western influences. 

Corruption and Injustice: The novel addresses political corruption and social injustice, with the characters seeking justice against a backdrop of systemic problems.

Let's see some of the Articles on Petals of Blood.

HISTORY, SEXUALITY, AND GENDER IN NGUGI’S PETALS OF BLOOD:-

This article contends that Petals of Blood presents two distinct models for anti-imperial history. The first model portrays a global historical struggle, often termed epochal struggle. The second model delves into the national struggle within Kenya, characterized as a generational struggle.

Notably, Petals of Blood is intriguing because it showcases Ngugi's political perspective evolving from a focus on decolonizing nationalism to a broader identification with anti-imperial ideologies. This shift can be linked to Ngugi's research at the University of Leeds, particularly on George Lamming, and his broader exploration of Caribbean literature.

The novel draws its title from Derek Walcott's poem, 'The Swamp,' and references V.S. Naipaul's novels, 'The Mystic Masseur' and 'The Mimic Men.' However, the influence of Lamming, especially his work 'In the Castle of My Skin,' is particularly evident in the structure of Petals of Blood.

In exploring Caribbean literature and the black diaspora, Ngugi identifies a shared global historical narrative and a community with interconnected grievances. Petals of Blood, therefore, engages in an aesthetic of reconnection, intertwining the struggles for liberation in the Caribbean, African-American, and African contexts.

The article suggests that Petals of Blood can be seen as a bible of African world-historical experience, with a vision of socialist liberation and black world history reaching a culmination akin to apotheosis. This vision, rooted in global Cold War politics, consciously opposes anti-Communist Christian evangelism.

The second historical model in Petals of Blood is framed around Kenyan national history as a generational struggle. The novel employs Gikuyu customary institutions, such as age-set naming and the practice of itwika, to conceptualize a democratic form of political power.

Generational history, seen through the age-set naming mechanisms, implies a lineage of struggle. The novel revives the concept of itwika, emphasizing a peaceful transfer of power every 30 years as a form of revolutionary democracy. Through characters like Ndemi, Kimathi, and Karega, Petals of Blood advocates for a 'democratic' Gikuyu government, opposing colonial and neocolonial rule. However, the article notes the complexity introduced by the novel's treatment of paternity, pointing out the proliferation of signs and the challenges to stable notions of lineage in a novel with diverse literary allusions and political affiliations.

In conclusion, the article suggests that the two models of history in Petals of Blood—generational and epochal—face challenges in working together due to the novel's nuanced treatment of femininity, lineage, and paternity. It proposes that examining the covert history of female struggle in Kenya, particularly the role of revolutionary prostitutes in the Mau Mau movement, could offer a broader understanding of revolutionary agency in the novel. (Nicholls)

postmodern spirit in Petals of Blood:-

Ngugi's novel, Petals of Blood, explores the deceptive idea that there is a clear break in knowledge and culture between colonial and post-colonial times. According to Homi K. Bhabha, postmodernism is significant because it makes us aware of the limits of ethnocentric ideas and opens up space for diverse voices and histories, like those of women, colonized people, and minority groups.

In Petals of Blood, Ngugi challenges the colonial view by reversing the binary distinctions imposed by the neo-colonial regime. He moves away from the Eurocentric idea that places Ilmorog under the dominance of Western culture. Bhabha discusses the paradox of colonial discourse, which portrays the colonized as both 'other' and entirely knowable. Ngugi's novel disrupts this binary power dynamic, embracing the concept of hybridity, where a new identity emerges from the blending of colonizer and colonized elements.

The story unfolds in Ilmorog, transforming from a rural village into a capitalist society with problems like prostitution, social inequality, and inadequate housing. The capitalist system, with its class struggles, profoundly impacts all aspects of society. Bhabha argues that this blending of identities challenges the validity of any fixed cultural identity. Ngugi shows Ilmorog as fragmented, with different parts serving the interests of the powerful and the marginalized.

The characters in the novel, like Munira, Abdullah, Karega, and Wanja, grapple with their own transformations and the collective struggle against oppression. Ngugi presents an ambivalent state, where characters are neither fully colonizer nor colonized. The novel questions the authenticity of cultural identity, particularly with the fragmented reality of the New Ilmorog.

Ngugi explores the mimicry of the colonizer by the colonized, creating a threatening yet reassuring ambivalence. The people of Ilmorog imitate the powerful, engaging in schooling, business, and adopting city vices. However, their mimicry is never complete, ensuring they remain 'different' from the colonizer. This difference revitalizes the power dynamics and reinforces binary distinctions.

The character Wanja represents a postmodern, subversive figure challenging traditional gender roles. Her story reflects the complexities of female agency in a changing society. The novel ends with Wanja, symbolic of Kenya, continuing the struggle for survival and resisting destruction in the face of uncertainty.

In the shifting social, political, and linguistic landscape, Ngugi questions authority, individuality, and dependence. This constant destabilization of binary oppositions aligns with postmodern ideas. The novel's emphasis on micro-narratives and the assimilation of marginalized groups into a complex whole reflects postmodern themes. Ngugi's narrative disrupts fixed ideologies, emphasizing the instability of relations and rejecting a unified narrative.

Homi K. Bhabha's concepts of mimicry, ambivalence, and hybridity contribute to a postmodern understanding of Petals of Blood. The novel challenges traditional dichotomies, exploring the hybrid and liminal nature of cultural experience. Bhabha's critique of elite language and his questions about the politics of struggle align with postmodern challenges to established norms. Ngugi's work, through its deconstruction of binary oppositions, invites readers to see the fluid and diverse nature of cultural and historical relations. (Akter)

Here is a video available in YouTube Titled Ngugi Wa Thiong'o - Why Africans hate their own languages | Diaspora Connect: Ep. 23:-

WORKS CITED:-

• Akter, Ms. Sharifa. “Postmodern spirit in Ngugi Wa Thiong’o’s Petals of Blood based on the concepts of Homi K. Bhabha.” American International Journal of Research in Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences, 2014.
• Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. "Ngugi wa Thiong’o". Encyclopedia Britannica, 1 Jan. 2024, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Ngugi-wa-Thiongo. Accessed 28 January 2024.
• Petals of Blood. United Kingdom, Pearson Education, 1977.
• Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o. Petals of Blood. Pearson Education, 1977.
• "Ngugi Wa Thiong'o - Why Africans hate their own languages | Diaspora Connect: Ep. 23". Madaraka Festival, YouTube, 5 April 2019, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnF6XdOh5HY.
• Nicholls, BL. “History, Intertextuality and Gender in Ngugi wa Thiong’o’s Petals of Blood.” Moving Worlds: A Journal of Transcultural Writings, 2014, pp. 71-76. E-print, https://eprints.whiterose.ac.uk/97268/.
• Open AI. "Chat GPT-3.5"

NOTE:- If you have any suggestion or want to say something please comment below or contact me on my social media.

Words:- 1979

Evaluating Sources: MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers (7th Edition)

TOPIC OF BLOG:-

This blog is about a little guidance and points about how to Evaluate Sources which scholars use for their Research. All the points are from the book named 'MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers'. This blog is given by Vaidehi Hariyani, teacher of Department of English, MKBU, Bhavnagar. The chapters of this book is divided into several parts between the classmates and in my part the chapter name 'Evaluating Sources' falls which I am try to summaries it according to my understanding.

All researchers, including students and professional scholars, must carefully assess the quality of any work before using or citing it. Evaluating sources is particularly challenging for students writing their initial research papers. Not all sources are equally reliable, and assumptions should not be made about their truthfulness based solely on their appearance in print or online. Material may be outdated, inaccurate, or biased, and authors may have limited knowledge or a skewed perspective. It's crucial to weigh the information against your own understanding and consider the authority, accuracy, and currency of the sources. If uncertain, seek assistance from your instructor or a librarian.

Let's discuss some of the ways from which we ca understand how it works.

1. Authority
• Peer Review
• Internet Sources
• What to look for
• Author
• Text
• Editorial Policy
• Publisher or Sponsoring Organization
2. Accuracy and Verifiability
3. Currency

Let us discuss it in details.

AUTHORITY:-

PEER REVIEW:-

Scholarly journals and academic book publishers often use a process called "peer review." In peer review, they ask experts, called referees, to check a manuscript before deciding to publish it. These referees write reports giving their opinions and recommendations. They look at things like how important the topic is, how original and valid the argument is, if the facts are accurate, and how up-to-date the research is. Additionally, many journals and publishers have a group called an editorial board that reviews the manuscript and considers the feedback from the referees before deciding whether to publish it. This careful examination ensures that a manuscript goes through a thorough evaluation before being accepted for publication.

INTERNET SOURCES:-

Evaluating internet resources poses a unique challenge. Unlike traditional print publications, which are typically released by reputable publishers such as university presses that vouch for the quality and reliability of their works, many electronic publications lack comparable authority. While some online materials undergo peer review, a significant number do not. Internet publications can be self-published without external review, making it crucial for users to exercise caution and critically assess the credibility and reliability of the information they encounter online.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR:-

If we want to evaluate any source whether it is print or online, we have to keep following aspects in mind. 

This example may help to understand how to apply this aspects to particular websites. Let's explore this in little detail.

• General Editors: Neil Fraistat, Steven E. Jones, and Carl Stahmer - The editors responsible for the Web site are identified on the opening page. The names are links leading to information about the editors' credentials.
• Romantic Circles is a refereed scholarly Website devoted to the study of Romantic-period literature and culture. It is published by the University of  Maryland and supported, in part, by the Maryland Institute for Technology , In the Humanities (MITH), and the English Departments of Loyola L University of Chicago and the University of Maryland. Find Out More. - This lines referring about Reputable Organization sponsor the site.
• Advisory Board - Experts advise the editors on the site's contents.
• Editorial Policy - The editorial policy describes how material is carefully evaluated before being published.
• Robert Mitchell - The contributors are clearly identified. 
• Robert Mitchell, Duke University & Article Abstract, About the Author, Search Volume - Information about contributors' credential is provided. 

Author:-

When you read a book or article, you usually see the author's name right away. It's important to know who wrote what you're reading, whether it's a printed book or something online. Check if the author's name or the group responsible for publishing the material is clearly mentioned.

Once you know who the author is, check if they know a lot about the topic. Sometimes, the publication might share details about the author, like their job title or other achievements. On the internet, you can find this information by clicking on a link to the author's homepage or a page that tells you more about the people running the website. You can also search online to learn more about the author.

For example, if you're looking at a book, you could check resources like Book Review Index and Book Review Digest to see what experts say about this book and others written by the same author. This helps you make sure the information comes from someone knowledgeable and reliable.

Text:-

If you're dealing with old documents or literary texts that have different versions, it's important to use reliable editions. For instance, the versions of Shakespeare's plays printed while he was alive or right after he passed away can be quite different. Modern scholars work to compare and analyze these versions, creating editions that are as historically accurate as possible.

So, if you're using an electronic version of a Shakespeare play, make sure it clearly says who edited the text and when the electronic edition was made. It should also mention the printed source it used for the electronic version. This way, you can trust that the information is accurate and trustworthy.

Editorial Policy:-

When you're using a book or website, pay attention to the whole thing, even if you're only interested in one part of it. For example, if you're on a website or reading a journal, see if there's a statement that tells you why the site or journal exists. Look for signs that the document you're reading was checked by experts, like if there's a list of people on an editorial board. This helps you understand the overall goal of the source and ensures that the specific document you're interested in went through a thorough review.

Publisher or Sponsoring Organization:-

Just like you find the name of the person who wrote something, you can usually find the name of the company or group that published a book. Similarly, for websites, it's important to see who published or supports the site. Look for this information, often found under "About the Project" or something similar. 

You can also get a clue about the type of organization by looking at the end of the website's address. For instance, if it ends in .com, it might be a business, if it's .edu, it's probably related to education, .gov means it's a government site, and .org often indicates a nonprofit organization. 

However, just because a site ends in .edu doesn't guarantee it's always reliable. Educational sites can have both trustworthy scholarly projects and personal pages without supervision. Still, knowing the organization can give you a hint about how useful or reliable the information might be. For example, many .com sites give helpful information, but some might just be advertisements, like a book company praising its own books.

ACCURACY AND VERIFIABILTY:-

When you're looking at scholarly stuff, make sure it shows where it got its information from. Usually, you can find this in a list called "works cited." This list can give you an idea of how much the author knows about the topic and if there's any possible bias.

On the internet, there might be clickable links that take you to the sources. Also, check if there's an email address or information on how to contact the author or the organization behind the document or site. This way, if you need more details or have questions, you know how to reach out for more information.

CURRENCY:-

For books and other printed things, when it was published tells you how recent the information is. On the internet, things can be updated, but not always. Some online stuff stays the same, and depending on the topic, it might be old. So, when you're looking at any source, make sure it has at least one date mentioned.

Sometimes, for online documents, you'll see more than one date. For example, if something was a printed document before being put online, it might have both the date it was printed and the date it was put on the internet. There could also be a date showing when the material was last changed or updated. It's best if a document shows all the important dates (you can check section 5.6 for how to list them). Lastly, if you look at the dates of the sources mentioned in the text, it helps you know how current the information is.

SUMMING UP:-

When you're using sources for your research, look closely at a few things: 

• Who wrote it?
• Find out who the author is and why they are qualified to write about the topic.

• Is the information right?
• Check if what the author is saying matches what you've read before, and if it makes sense. Is there any bias in their argument?

• Where did they get their information?
• Make sure the author tells you where they got their information. This helps you check if what they're saying is accurate.

• Are the sources up-to-date?
• Check if the sources the author used are recent or if they are old. This is important for making sure the information is current.

• Who published it?
• See who published the work or supports it. Knowing this helps you understand if it's from a reliable source.

• Did experts review it?
• Check if experts in the field read and recommended the work for publication. This is called peer review and makes the information more trustworthy.

Works Cited:-

• MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers. United States, Modern Language Association of America, 2009.
• Open AI. "Chat GPT-3.5"

NOTE:- If you have any suggestion or want to say something please comment below or contact me on my social media.

Film Screening & Review - 12th Fail #Restart

TOPIC OF THE BLOG:-

In this blog, I discussed some points and my point of view about the movie 12th Fail which has a slogan of #Restart. This blog is like a Movie Review of this film and I also tried to relate it with some other movies and elements as well.

MOVIE SCREENING:-

If we see a Movie or Film Screening in simple terms, A film screening is when a movie is shown to people, usually in a special way while making and releasing the film. These showings often happen in small, comfortable theaters with top-notch picture and sound quality. Sometimes, there might be extra things like food, drinks, and comments from the people who made the movie. These special screenings usually happen at times when movies don't normally play in theaters. The various types of screenings are explained here in the order they happen during a movie's creation.

But here this Movie Screening is about a Movie Screening that is like a tradition in the Department of English, MKBU, Bhavnagar under the Movie Screening Committee from the last 10 or more years. 

INTRODUCTION:-

WHAT IS A FILM REVIEW?:-

"A film review is when the critic or reviewer (the person who reviews the movie) watches a film and gives his honest feedback on how the film could have done better or how it has performed as per his view. A film review is a real one if it doesn’t boast about any particular person or incident’s performance in the film and talks more about what the audience can get as a value addition to watching the film. No bias is involved in such film reviews." (Bishnoi)

- Amit Bishnoi

While Reviewing the Movie one has to maintain some manner of it. Here are some points that were generated by Claude AI:-

• Start with a catchy opening to draw readers in. Perhaps include an intriguing fact about the film or an attention-grabbing quote. However, don't give away too many details or spoilers.
• Provide some essential background details in the first paragraph - the film's title, release year, director, key actors, genre, etc. Context helps readers understand your review.
• Make your personal opinion and verdict clear early on. State whether you liked the film or not and give a brief justification. 
• Then provide a more detailed analysis of aspects like plot, character development, acting performances, cinematography, and direction. Point out the most striking strengths and weaknesses. 
• Compare the film to others by the same director or in the same genre - this gives helpful context. But don't focus too much on similarities/differences at the expense of critiquing the film itself.
• Support your critique with concrete examples from the film. This shows you really know what you’re talking about! But beware of too many plot summaries or spoiler reveals.
• Close the review with a summation of your overall judgement and whether or not you recommend watching the film. Invite readers to share their thoughts too. 
• Express your critique in an unbiased tone even if you really hated or loved the film. Avoid excessive cynicism or fawning praise. (Claude.ai)

While writing the review of the movie one can compare it with other movies and works as well which can be helpful to understand and read the plot of particular scenes. In the movie, not only scenes but Words, Shots, Music, Expression, Acting, etc also play a vital role. So, Let's try to see what I have seen in this movie.

Here is a video which talks about importance of Movie Criticism:-

ABOUT THE MOVIE '12TH FAIL':-

12th Fail is a movie made in 2023 in India. Vidhu Vinod Chopra directed, produced and wrote the film. (Chopra) It tells the true story of Manoj Kumar Sharma, who faced very tough times but managed to become an Indian Police Service officer. The movie is based on a book written by Anurag Pathak in 2019. Vikrant Massey plays the main character, and other actors include Medha Shankar, Anant V Joshi, Anshumaan Pushkar, and Priyanshu Chatterjee. (The Indian Express)

Here is a trailer of that movie available in YouTube:-

PLOT: "12th Fail" is a movie about a man named Manoj Kumar Sharma. He had a tough time growing up and didn't do well in his 12th-grade exams. He was cheating but after being inspired by Dushyant, a loyal and honest police officer, he leaves cheating and fails one time as well. But instead of giving up, he worked really hard to make his dreams come true. The film shows how Sharma faced many difficulties but never lost hope. He was determined to make a positive impact, and eventually, he became an officer in the Indian Police Service. The movie tells the story of Sharma's journey, with all its ups and downs, to inspire people to keep trying even when things are tough. It's a tale of hard work, resilience, and the power of never giving up on your dreams.

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK:-

Let's start this with the observation I did while watching the movie.

• The Beginning scene of the movie and Last scene of the movie can be related with the life of Manoj. First he has no understanding of life and in the end he achieves his goal and also has a happy family. 
  
• The second one is a Long Shot or Wide Shot in which people are transforming from Manoj's jugadu rikshaw to Mukhya's bus which is like transferring the power and the one who has it is the one who decides it.
  

• The third scene is a contradictory point made in the movie. Father of Manoj beat up his boss for bribing and at the same time Manoj is making the cheats for Exams. And the school also openly allows them to cheat. 
  
• While talking about the music it was mostly about the characters and does not have that much significance but silence is also there to convey the message.
• The message of #restart is beautifully conveyed by the characters in it as well that it doesn't matter how many times you failed to restart your journey again.
  
  
  
• There is also a scene which is like a normal shot but conveys the message that coaching is like a business for someone.
  
  
  
• In one of the last scenes in which every student is waiting for the result which is like they are in the jail waiting for die or live. 

CONTEXTUALIZATION AND THEMETICL STUDY:-

• If we see this movie under the criteria of education somewhere it is inspired from real life but yet can't be the originality which is happening in most people's lives.
• Education system discussed in this movie has reality in the context of coaching that it is a business nowdays.
• Manoj has to make money for his family while studying. It can also be seen that all these people and the government failed to secure the minutes of students and somewhere family and he himself is also responsible for that.
•  seeing so many people mad behind the job and yet from thousands of people some of them are getting the jobs.
• Not only in this profession but in others as well the government is failing to recruit people for jobs.
• The movie talks a lot about how it's tough for some people to get a good education and a good job. It could show the problems in the system that make it hard for individuals to reach their education and career goals.
• The movie might be mainly about someone chasing their dreams even when things are really hard. It shows how the main character never gives up and keeps going after what they want, even when there are a lot of tough obstacles in their way.
• The movie wants to make people feel excited and ready to do things by showing how the main character changes a lot during the story. It teaches us that if you really try hard and don't give up, good things can happen.
• The film might delve into themes of identity and self-discovery as the protagonist navigates challenges and discovers their strengths and capabilities.
• The overall context of the movie is about Manoj and his struggle to get a job.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS:-

The question of students failing and struggling is a well-known and important issue in India as well as in other countries. Let us discuss some other Movies and Web Series related to the themes of the '12th Fail' Movie.

3 Idiots (2009 - Movie):-

"3 Idiots" is a funny and thoughtful movie from 2009 made in India. It's about three friends in college, played by Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, and Sharman Joshi. The film, directed by Rajkumar Hirani and produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, is based on a book by Chetan Bhagat called "Five Point Someone."

The story is told in two parts: one happening now and the other ten years ago. It follows the adventures and friendship of these three students in an Indian engineering college. The movie makes fun of the pressures students face in the Indian education system. Apart from the main actors, Kareena Kapoor, Boman Irani, and Omi Vaidya also play important roles. It's a comedy-drama that makes you laugh but also makes you think about the challenges students go through. (Hirani)

Taare Zameen Par (2007 - Movie):-

While not directly related to the theme of Job, but it talks about the situation of student and study.

"Taare Zameen Par," which means 'Stars on Earth,' is a movie from 2007 made in India. Aamir Khan produced and directed it, and he also stars in the film alongside Darsheel Safary, Tanay Chheda, Vipin Sharma, and Tisca Chopra.The story is about Ishaan, played by Darsheel Safary, who is an 8-year-old boy with a special talent for art. Even though he's good at drawing, he struggles with his schoolwork. His parents, worried about his grades, decide to send him to a boarding school. At the new school, a kind art teacher named Nikumbh, played by Aamir Khan, thinks that Ishaan might have dyslexia, a difficulty with reading. The teacher helps Ishaan overcome his reading challenges and discover his true potential. The movie is a drama that shows the life and imagination of Ishaan, highlighting the importance of understanding and supporting children with different learning needs.

Kota Factory (2019 - Web Series):-

"Kota Factory" is a TV series from India that you can watch online. It's made in Hindi and created by Saurabh Khanna, directed by Raghav Subbu, and produced by Arunabh Kumar for The Viral Fever.

The story happens in Kota, Rajasthan, which is a place famous for its coaching centers where students go to prepare for important exams. The main character is Vaibhav, played by Mayur More, who is 16 years old. He moves to Kota from Itarsi and the series shows what life is like for students in the city. Vaibhav is working hard to get into a top engineering institute in India, called the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT). He's trying to do well on a tough exam called the Joint Entrance Examination. The show also features other actors like Jitendra Kumar, Ahsaas Channa, Alam Khan, Ranjan Raj, Revathi Pillai, and Urvi Singh in important roles. It's a series that gives you a look into the life of students, their struggles, and their efforts to achieve their goals.

Laakhon Mein Ek (2017 - Web Series):-

"Laakhon Mein Ek," which means 'One in a Million,' is a TV series from India that you can watch on Amazon Prime Video. It was created by Biswa Kalyan Rath and produced by OML Production. In the first season, which started on October 13, 2017, the story is about a teenage student named Aakash from Raipur. He faces a lot of challenges because he is sent to a coaching center called Genius Infinity in Visakhapatnam to prepare for a tough exam called the IIT entrance exam.

The second season, which started on April 12, 2019, is about Dr. Shreya. She fights with the government for better healthcare in a village called Sitlapur. So, each season has a different story, but both are about people facing difficult situations and trying to make a difference in their own way.

CONCLUSION:-

In conclusion, the blog reviewed the movie "12th Fail," exploring its themes and drawing parallels with other films. The movie, directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, depicts Manoj Kumar Sharma's inspiring journey from poverty to becoming an Indian Police Service officer. Theoretical frameworks were applied to analyze cinematic elements, emphasizing the #Restart message of perseverance. Contextualization delved into educational challenges, and a comparative analysis with films like "3 Idiots" and "Taare Zameen Par" underscored common themes of student struggles. The blog ends by summarizing the central message of resilience and the power of restarting one's journey in the face of adversity.

WORKS CITED:-

• Bishnoi, Amit. “What is Film Review? – Buziness Bytes.” Buziness Bytes, 16 July 2022, https://www.buzinessbytes.com/concept-of-the-day/what-is-film-review/. Accessed 21 January 2024.
• Chopra, Vidhu Vinod, director. 12th Fail. Vinod Chopra Films, 2023.
• Claude.ai, https://claude.ai/chats. Accessed 21 January 2024.
• Hirani, Rajkumar, director. 3 Idiots. Vinod Chopra Films, 2009.
• Khan, Aamir, director. Taare Zameen Par. Aamir Khan Productions, 2007.
• Khanna, Saurabh, and Arunabh Kumar, creators. Kota Factory. The Viral Fever, 2019.
• Open AI. "Chat GPT-3.5"
• Rath, Biswa Kalyan, creator. Laakhon Mein Ek. OML Production, 2017.
• “Vikrant Massey and Vidhu Vinod Chopra on 12th Fail: 'It is an homage to bureaucrats of the country.'” The Indian Express, 24 November 2022, https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/vikrant-massey-on-working-with-vidhu-vinod-chopra-in-12th-fail-dream-come-true-8287904/lite/. Accessed 21 January 2024.

NOTE:- If you have any suggestion or want to say something please comment below or contact me on my social media.

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YouTube Summaries (AI): Presentation | 'On Translating a Tamil Poem' by A. K. Ramanujan | 12 January 2024

TOPIC OF THE BLOG:- 

This blog features both the summary and content produced by YouTube Summaries AI. The AI takes the link of a YouTube video and then generates a summary and blog post based on the content of that video.

PRESENTATION | 'ON TRANSLATING A TAMIL POEM' BY A. K. RAMANUJAN

12 JANUARY 2024

PRESENTATION:-

On_Translating_a_Tamil_Poem.pptx from Pooja Bhuva

YOUTUBE VIDEO:-

SUMMARY OF THE VIDEO:-

"Translation of Classical Tamil Poems into English"

✦

AK Ramanujan's approach to translating classical Tamil poems into English

00:07

• Ramanujan was a poet, scholar, linguist, folklorist, and translator
• The paper explores the challenges of bridging linguistic structure gaps between Tamil and English

✦

Translation creates something unique and creative.

02:35

• The paper explores the process of translating a Tamil poem into Modern English, discussing units of translation and the role of the translator.
• The article delves into the intricate yet lucid second language landscape of Tamil poetry, which includes family, surroundings, and specific style.
• The author discusses the difficulty of translating classical poems and the idea that poetry is 'Lost in Translation'.

✦

Tamil poetry is deeply rooted in symbolism and landscape representation

04:53

• Tamil has unique consonants and syntax, which is distinct from English
• Translating Tamil poetry requires preserving its original beauty and not just focusing on word-to-word translation

✦

Translation requires attention to grammar and syntax

07:20

• The challenges of translating a Tamil poem to English involve multiple factors, including grammar, syntax, and cultural nuances.
• A closer look at AK Ramanujan's translation process reveals his attention to the nuanced meanings of Tamil words and their implications in English.

✦

The poem 'Kurin kurin' represents love, nature, and life's ups and downs.

13:09

• The first poem conveys wonder and the goodness of life, while the second poem portrays sadness and the pursuit of love.
• The poems in the Anthology in kururu are part of a single great poet's representation of the landscape, sharing similar themes and imagery but with individual designs and meanings.
• The article discusses the universal structure in literary works across different cultures and how it aids translators in conveying the meaning.

✦

Understanding language and culture through signifiers

16:03

• Signifiers refer to grammar and signified refer to the theme of a work
• Interiorized context or intertextuality is crucial for understanding classical Tamil poetry
• Systematicity in classical Tamil poetry requires translating clusters of poems rather than individual ones
• Mimicking the unique structure of each poem is essential for translation

✦

Translation is about conveying relationships and creating new meanings.

18:44

• Translation may not perfectly represent the original, but it carries the essence of the poem across languages.
• Translating classical Tamil poetry into Modern English is a challenging process that extends beyond languages, capturing the culture and neutral elements.

✦

Translation technology is beneficial but not perfect

21:37

• Technology like translation machines or Google is useful
• Understanding cultural and historical context is important for perfect translation

BLOG OF THE VIDEO:-

Unraveling the Art of Translating Tamil Poetry

Introduction:

Join me in exploring the fascinating world of translating classical Tamil poetry into Modern English through the eyes of A.K. Ramanujan, an esteemed poet, scholar, and translator.

The Intricacies of Language Bridging:

Ramanujan's paper delves into the challenging task of bridging the linguistic structure gaps between Tamil and English. Through real-world examples, we unravel the fascinating process of translation which creates something unique and creative.

The Lucid Landscape of Tamil Poetry:

Discover the intricate yet lucid second language landscape of Tamil poetry, encompassing family, surroundings, and a specific style. Explore how Tamil poetry is deeply rooted in symbolism and landscape representation, providing a rich context for translation.

Preserving the Essence of Poetry:

Uncover the unique consonants, syntax, and complex nature of Tamil poetry distinct from English, making the preservation of its original beauty in translation a formidable task. We delve into Ramanujan's attention to nuanced meanings and implications of Tamil words in English.

The Universal Structure in Translation:

Gain insights into the universal structure in literary works across different cultures and how it aids translators in conveying the meaning. We explore the importance of understanding languages and cultures through signifiers and signified, illuminating the essence of translation.

The Challenge of Conveying Relationships:

Delve into the challenges of translating classical Tamil poetry beyond grammar and syntax, capturing the culture and nuances of the original work. Understand how mimicking the unique structure of each poem is essential for a successful translation.

Conclusion:

In a world encompassing diverse languages and cultures, translation is an art that goes beyond the mere conveyance of words. A.K. Ramanujan's work exemplifies the beauty and complexity of translating classical Tamil poetry into Modern English, capturing the essence of a rich cultural heritage.

NOTE:- If you have any suggestion or want to say something please comment below or contact me on my social media.