#Bengali Subtitling

[davidcclopez]

How Bengali Subtitling Helps to Reach More Engagement?

Discover the impact of specific Bengali subtitling on video views and engagement. Increase accessibility and attract a larger audience today!

Read More- https://medium.com/@davidcclopez/how-can-use-bengali-subtitli-to-drive-more-views-and-engagement-ef489250b00f

[starryalpacasstuff]

Queer Indian Media: A Compilation

A couple of days ago, @impala124 sent @lurkingshan an ask about the lack of discussion about Queer Indian Media in fandom spaces. I wrote about it here, @neuroticbookworm here, and @waitmyturtles here (both of them have excellent points, I highly recommend you read their posts!). It's become quite apparent that people are willing to watch and engage in discourse about queer Indian media, it's just that the lack of popularity and accessibility makes it harder for people to start. So, I've decided to make a list tracking all of the queer Indian media I know of, and hopefully also any meta/discourse about it, which is an idea I've had floating in my head for months now.

This list is by no means comprehensive, so if you have recs, send them my way! Text me on DM, send an ask, tag me in your posts, whatever. And though it's not possible for me to watch everything on the list, I will be slowly going through as many of these as I can and writing about them, as well as hopefully finding more stuff and easier to access versions for the ones that are harder to access right now. This post is going to be a slow work in progress, but I'm hoping to update it regularly. So, if you'd like me to keep you updated, let me know through the tags/replies and I will tag you in future posts!

I've tagged the people who've recommended certain shows alongside each show. Everything on here is available online. The hyperlinked titles lead you to the media itself, meaning that it's available for free online with subtitles. Other details will be mentioned separately.

Disclaimer: The media I have watched/read have recommendation ratings (which will not always reflect my enjoyment of something, rather are based on how much I'd recommend it). While I did lightly screen everything on here, the criteria was 'has a trailer or otherwise showing queerness to be a central theme in the story' and 'is available online', so take that into account if you decide to pick something up, and definitely watch trailers and/or skim the wikipedia pages beforehand.

Movies

Fire | English | @neuroticbookworm 

Recommendation: 9/10 A 1996 movie surrounding a lesbian couple packed with commentary on religion, class, purity culture and more. Quick Pitch + Historical Context

Kapoor & Sons | Hindi | @neuroticbookworm

Available on Netflix, Prime, and paid on Youtube and Apple TV

Kaathal-The Core | Malayalam | @neuroticbookworm 

Officially on Prime, also available grey without subtitles

Meta by @ineffable-opinions

Super Deluxe | Tamil | @neuroticbookworm 

Officially on a paid streaming service called aha, grey on youtube

Dear Dad | Hindi | @neuroticbookworm 

This is grey on youtube without subtitles, available officially on Disney Hotstar and Amazon Prime

Recommendation: 7.75 Follows a father and a son on a road trip, during which the son accidentally learns that his father is gay. The son struggles with reconciling with the new information, leading to conflict.

Geeli Puchi (Ajeeb Dastaans) | Hindi | @blorbingqls @neuroticbookworm 

Available on Netflix

Cobalt Blue | Hindi | @blorbingqls

Officially on Netflix, also available grey without subtitles

Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga | Hindi | @fallsouthwinter @usertoxicyaoi @neuroticbookworm

Available officially on Netflix, but can also be found grey in two parts without subtitles

Recommendation: 8.5/10 What seems like a typical bollywood movie about a man falling in love with a girl who's family opposes their marriage takes a turn halfway through when it is revealed that the girl has a secret girlfriend. The protagonist then resolves to help the pair by convincing the family to accept them.

Chitrangada: The Crowning Wish | Bengali | @silverquillsideas @neuroticbookworm 

I believe it's available on prime, but you might need to do some digging. Also available grey on youtube without subtitles (the movie is in part Bengali, part English)

Shubh Mangal Zyada Savdhan | Hindi | @silverquillsideas @twig-tea @neuroticbookworm

Officially on Amazon, grey on youtube without subtitles

Maja Ma | Hindi | @flyingrosebeetle @silverquillsideas 

Available on Amazon Prime

Badhaai Do | Hindi

Officially on Netflix, available grey on youtube without subtitles

Loev | Hindi

Available on youtube with Spanish (I think?) subtitles

Margarita With A Straw | Hindi

I believe this is a cut version, it is officially on Netflix which is likely the uncut version

Recommendation: 9/10 A self-discovery story about an Indian woman named Laila with cerebral palsy with great rep and beautiful execution. Meta by @wen-kexing-apologist

Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui | Hindi | anon

Available grey without subtitles, officially on Netflix

Amar Prem Ki Prem Kahani | Hindi | @flowerbeasblog @aneechan

Officially on Jio Cinema, also available grey without subtitles

Time Out | Hindi

Available on Netflix

My Brother…Nikhil | Hindi

Available on youtube without subtitles, also on Amazon Prime

My Son Is Gay | Tamil

Hindi dub available on youtube without subtitles

Little Hearts | Malayalam | @ineffable-opinions

Available officially on Amazon Prime

There's multiple storylines, one of which is queer Meta by @ineffable-opinions

Moothon | Malayalam | @non-beingnary

This is grey on youtube without subtitles, it's officially on Amazon Prime and Zee5, both need subscriptions

Aligarh | Hindi | @ayoungroyal

This is grey with subtitles, it says the subtitles are in hindi for some reason but they're actually in English. Officially on several subscription platforms: JioCinema, Zee5, Amazon Prime, Apple TV

Sisak | Hindi | @blorbingqls

Recommendation: 8.5/10 A fifteen minute silent film about two men who experience mutual attraction to one another while on the same train during their daily commute. It's impactful, and it says a lot without saying anything.

Shows

Romil and Jugal | Hindi | @anixknowsnothin

You do need a vpn if you're outside India to watch it with the above link, it's also grey on youtube without subtitles

Recommendation: 8.5/10 India's modern gay remake of Romeo and Juliet, five years before Bad Buddy Random thoughts

The Married Woman | Hindi | @a-not-knowing-bisexual-wizard

Dev DD Season 2 | Hindi

Legitimately no clue whether this and the prev are grey or official

Made in Heaven | Hindi | @flyingrosebeetle @non-beingnary @neuroticbookworm

Available on Prime

All About Section 377, Still About Section 377 | Hindi

The Story Tales S2 | Gujrati

Insomnia | Hindi

It's a streaming service I've never heard of before, not unlike Gaga, this is one of the darker shows on the list so please do check out the trailer beforehand

Amra 2GayTher | Bengali

Available on two streaming services here and here, both paid

Happy Family, Conditions Apply | Hindi | @non-beingnary

Officially on Amazon Prime, first episode available for free on the official youtube

As far as I know, it's a sitcom with a queer subplot, but I'm not sure how relevant it is to the story

His Storyy | Hindi

Officially on Zee5 for free but you do need to register, unsure of whether or not subtitles are available but guessing no

Murder In Mahim | Hindi | @soberbutsleepless

This is grey without subtitles, its available officially on JioCinema but you need a subscription

Mini gls from @twig-tea (og post here)

Firsts S3 | @tinyreadinglifelight

Neverland

Maaya 2

Last two eps do not have subtitles but the story is followable

The ‘Other’ Love Story @/silverquillsideas 

Just Another Love Story

Books

Memory of Light

Recommendation: 5/10 A historical book set during the colonial era, the lesbian romance is mostly a subplot that loses its way towards the end. It's kind of a drag, but the history component is somewhat interesting.

Don't Let Him Know

Recommendation Rating: 7.5/10 with serious trigger warnings including rape. It's a brutally honest book designed to make the reader uncomfortable, so proceed with caution. I personally liked it quite a lot, but that's majorly because of how authentic the book felt.

Falling Into Place

Recommendation Rating: 8/10 A modern lesbian romance that follows similar beats to the typical thai bl/gl. A little underdeveloped in some places, but overall quite good.

My Magical Palace

Cobalt Blue

The Paths Of Marriage

Marriage Of A Thousand Lies

[adamnablelittledevil]

One day I'll learn French, Spanish, Italian, Arabic and Urdu understand everything Faouzia, Pedro Pascal, Assad Zaman and IWTV characters speak/sing without subtitles or translation. Maybe even Bengali too. I mean, it's Assad's first language, but I don't think he's used it for a character? At least I haven't seen it yet, not even on interviews or real life stuff, but in case he starts using it publicly, I'd like to learn it as well. I'll become a polyglot through the power of being insane and hyperfixations. Trust.

[4uru]

To my non bengalis this is a good channel to get the info about Bangladesh from. They have English subtitles

Taglist: @thevagabondexpress @chaosandtwo @quantummeep @lesbocrocker @faithfromanewperspective @tleeaves @fangirlghost-19 @purgatory606 @totheidiot @nashoe @elksewer @cult-of-the-eye @eaglelarusso @alastaircarstairsdefenselawyer @alastaircarstairsismybff @thechangeling @littlx-songbxrd @backpackingspace @still-mourning-polites @sarkylittlemonster @im-out-of-it @h0bg0blin-meat @orgasming-caterpillar @likemmmcookies @coloursflyaway @jochona @heliopixels @sourlemons262 @heavenwontbethe-same

[byomkesh-bakshi-enthusiast]

I wish you could watch the Bengali movie of Byomkesh because he's so different there!!! You can find the English subtitles for the Byomkesh Bakshi series on hoichoi by Anirban!!! it's so fascinatingly different from the Hindi one!!

ohhh yes i love reccs!! what is the bengali movie called? id love to see a version of byomkesh that's from the same indian culture as the original novels!! im just scared i wont like it & the 90s series because i adore dbb! so much and sushant singh rajput plays SUCH a good byomkesh...

[giantjupiter]

Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay, a Bengali writer, lived in his own native land, yet he could describe places in quite a picturesque manner. He did work as a forest officer though.

For those who are getting to know him for the first time, I'd really recommend watching the film Chander Pahar with English subtitles. It's quite a family-friendly movie, if your kids can handle gore and action scenes. I'd rather say that it's better for teenagers though because of all the adventure through the mountains of Africa.

One of his stories I'm listening to is called "Moroner Donka Baje" (The Death Knell Resounds; the pronounciation is quite different from the word "moron," the first o in that word sounds more like 'a' from "ball").

A short synopsis: The story is set in the 1930s. It is from the POV of a medicine-seller and a doctor, who were trying to earn money by going overseas. Soon, they reach Rangoon and then to Singapore. From there, the two 'are (secretly) asked' if they could go as medical professionals to help the Chinese people and the soldiers against the Japanese invasion. From there, using a junk (a kind of boat), they try to reach Shanghai. What happens to them next?

One more thing I'd like to repeat: he neither visited Africa nor Shanghai. This 20th century writer relied solely upon the writings of others, including geographical/travel magazines.

If you're not much repulsed by research papers, you may read this one, because this is one of the only things written in English pertaining to this:

https://www.jstor.org/stable/44156606

[no--net]

WHY ARE THERE NO BYOMKESH MOVIES WITH SUBTITLES???????

I've watched the same things over a dozen times (not that they are not good but I feel the need to learn bengali now)

[himejoshibutch]

hi hi 👋 do you have any favorite movies?

hiii tbh i haven't watched movies in a while now i do still love spiderverse movies and itsv will be my all time fave, apart from that i really loved everything everywhere all at once, rocketman, fight club, parasite, bottoms, the handmaiden, moonlight etc (i can't think of anything else at the moment lol)

and i do have some favorite bollywood movies too like bulbbul, kahaani, 3 idiots, om shanti om, padosan etc... but my current favorite movie is a bengali movie named Gotro, it's such a good movie and i really recommend watching it (if the subtitles are available tho...)

[aclickbaittitle]

Language (s) in Moonbase Theta Out:

English as a language is taking over the world at an alarming rate, most other countries in which English is not the majority language have it as part of their school curriculum, and like math, you can fail the year if you do not pass the subject.

Why? Well, most of your job prospects will be severely impacted if you do not have at least a grasp of it. Though not as “present” as other consequences of USAmerican and England’s hold over the world, language imperialism is still something to worry about.

Like Minnie Degawan, activist of indigenous people’s rights says: “For Indigenous peoples, languages ​​are not only symbols of identity and belonging to a group, but also vehicles for ethical values. They constitute the fabric of the knowledge systems through which these peoples form a whole with the land and are crucial for their survival. The future of their young people depends on them.”

Of course it is not only the English language that is guilty of the linguistic masacre, my own mother tongue: Spanish is equally if not more guilty. And, unlike how I would like to blame the Western Europeans for everything, Hindi, Mandarin Chinese and many more also play their part. Please notice how all of this is backed by Nation-States Agenda of “Linguistic-Ethnic Unity” like Mexico’s “not-white, not indigenous but (light-skin) mestiz@” project that asked for indigenous peoples to exchange their language (and culture) for social integration.

But what does this have to do with a small little podcast called Moon Base Theta Out?

Moonbase Theta Out is a sci-fi audio fiction podcast produced by Monkeyman Productions. It is 2098. The Moonbase program has been determined unprofitable. The last base, Theta, is twenty weeks from being decommissioned. Most of the crew is in stasis awaiting retrieval. Five remain – Roger Bragado-Fischer, Nessa Cheong, Ashwini Ray, Michell L’Anglois, and Wilder. (monkeymanproductions.com)

In Moonbase Theta Out, our current way of organizing the earth in nation-states has fallen out of fashion. Instead we got corporate enclaves run by mega corporations, and if it sounds terrifying it is because it is. There is a saying that goes “english is the language of money” and in a world where neoliberalism has taken over every character is expected to know english from Brazil to North Africa to France.  It is not uncommon for US american media to portray a world in which everyone knows english somehow, but in Moonbase Theta, Out it actually makes sense. 

However, english is not the only language spoken in Moonbase Theta Out, within the constraints of the audio medium (in which subtitles are not possible, and the only way translations can be provided is through transcripts) the podcast manage to include portuguese, french, arabic (don’t ask me which dialect) and even some few words in spanish and bengali. The reason for this linguistic diversity? Because Moonbase, even amidst the cyberpunk hellscape, wants to show a future that is blooming with diversity and love. 

In a small mini-episode showcasing the poems used in the show, writer D.J. Sylvis talks about how poetry is the connecting vehicle between our main-lead Roger Brigado-Fisher and his husband, Alexandre Brigado-Fisher (their relationship also works to tie the events that happen in the moon and earth). I want to extend this sentiment, and argue that language is the way in which several characters expressed their unique relationship.

Alexandre, for example, is Brazilian (go my latin boy!) and a native Portuguese speaker, Roger on the other hand is not but has learned the language, however when he takes a job for the Consortium he is asked to only speak english. His job causes a rift between him and his husband which ends up in a fight, when Alexandre slips into Portuguese, Roger tries to do the same but ends up forgetting the words; just another example of how their relationship is deteriorating because of the corporate overlords.

Then we have Michelle and his sister Maria, both French. They have had a very rough life that led them to security jobs for the Consortium and said jobs have led them apart.

Michelle tries to establish contact with her while knowing that everything he says would be listened to by his boss (and his enemy Roger). He slips into French when in distress, and the only one to calm them is another French speaker, her sister. 

There’s also this very short moment in which Dr. Ashwini Ray has made a friend ze didn’t expect to make and can’t do anything about it because ze is going to the moon in just a few days with hopes of never came back, so ze says a few works in Bangla that ze knows hir friend, Jen Ponton, won’t be able to understand but that anyways, is a subtle way to express hir love for her.

Moonbase Theta Out is far from the only multilingual podcast out there (see: Desperado, MOONFACE, Hi Nay, Dos After You, Monster Dash and Celestial Blood) and I hope we continue to see more. 

I also want to motivate you, reader, if you speak any other language, to write a story with it. The best way to help a tongue live is through the beauty of literature, afterall.

[zelihatrifles]

Bedanabala

The subtitle 'Her life. Her times.' suggests an autobiographical bent. However, the old narrator recounts the story mainly of her mother and her times. In fact, of her mother and her (surrogate) mother who was a victim of her 'mashi'. Indeed, the story goes back centuries, as long as there have been whores. Mahasweta Devi (and the translator rightfully retains the original Bengali words here) enumerates the different names which since the beginning of time have been used for those who are now called sex workers. If this small book is a little pedantic, it very well should be, because these 'fallen' women fall and stay fallen because men from noble families keep visiting and abusing them in secret. Sin gets transferred and branded onto the weaker sex who work only for their survival. Social work and the freedom struggle get intertwined in the whorehouses in the years leading up to India's independence, and yes, it should not surprise you that these women have heart and guts enough to shelter wounded rebels at the risk of getting raped by police officials. The lucidity of Devi's language is perhaps lost in translation, but its power is not. Bedanabala may be one special individual whose mother was born in a zamindar family, raised in a whore house, and married by a renegade but kind zamindar, but her life derives only from all those women who have come before her and struggled for their right to light.

[gaykarstaagforever]

Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007)

*Minor Spoilers*

Not technically a review but that apparently didn't stop me from writing this much. Lol.

After seeing this post, I reacted the way I assume most sheltered people from the Land of Burgers reacted to it: "Indian cinema does horror?? ...I mean, besides that Telugu Michael Jackson Thriller ripoff thing the early Internet used to make fun of all the time?"

(This is one weird part of a whole musical that is apparently mostly about police trying to stop gangsters. I haven't seen it.)

I'm getting distracted. OF COURSE India, a country with three times the US population, 121 different languages, and a continuous cultural heritage dating back to the Bronze Age, sometimes makes movies that get a little spooky. I just didn't realize it, distracted as I perpetually am by the cinematic masterpieces put out by Blumhouse interns.

Bhool Bhulaiyaa (Labyrinth) is a Bollywood "thriller" I really can't review, because my experience with Indian cinema is limited. Like I can't compare production and performance choices to people's other work, because I don't know who anyone is. And I don't know the tropes of the artform well enough, or the cultural context to call things brilliant or stupid. All I know is, every time I like an Indian movie, I read a review of it by a knowledgeable critic, who says that movie is lame and stupid and stealing a bunch of stuff from other Indian movies I don't know anything about. So I'm just going to say things about this movie that I, an unqualified fool, think about it, with a couple links to clips from it. Because finding screencaps from Bollywood movies is weirdly impossible? But T-Series loads tons of extended free clips of everything onto YouTube, which is better, I guess?

Free clips, and entire free movies, with English subtitles. ...Movies like BHOOL BHULAIYAA.

Here it is! The whole thing, legal, for free! Go ahead! Watch it! I did! That's why this post is happening!

(The subtitles are awkward because I think an AI did them, but they're good enough.)

For those of you who didn't immediately have 2 hours and 28 minutes free to watch this, I'll go back to typing about it.

The Chaturvedi family, the modern-day descendants of Indian royals, move back into their abandoned ancestral palace on the Ganges to prepare it for the arrival from America of Siddharth, the young heir to the family's fortunes.

But the palace and family itself are cursed to endure the vengeful ghost of Manjulika, a Bengali dancer whose lover was murdered in the palace by one of the last Chaturvedi royals, on a holy day of the goddess Durga. After witnessing her revenge first-hand on the next generation, the family managed to have the spirit ritualistically sealed in the palace, and this is why they abandoned it.

But Siddharth and his new wife Avni, being Americanized and highly educated, scoff at the Old World superstition, and ignore the devout Indian family's pleading that they continue to forsake the cursed palace. But after Avni wilfully breaks the seal that binds Manjulika to a floor in the palace, terrible things begin to happen, seemingly at Manjulika's invisble hands. The desperate but still-skeptical Siddharth summons his friend, quirky and unorthodox psychologist and parapsychologist Dr. Adi, to investigate the situation, and hopefully handle whatever is going on, as only he can. But the solution might just require Siddharth to sacrifice himself to save his family...

If you can't tell by that synopsis, this story is gothic as HELL. And it does that part beautifully, in a PG sort of way. The palace is labyrinthian (oo!) and packed with dark corners and echoey architecture and rooms filled with unexpected mirrors and decaying old portraits. Every time night falls, there is a palpable sense of dread, as everywhere, there are a dozen ways a lurking something can flit through the shadows and throw a giant metal bench at your face (a thing that totally happens). As tonally varied as the movie is scene-to-scene, night in the palace is always creepy and a new playground for bumps in the night. Even immediately after rousing songs or slapstick comedy, when night falls, Manjulika rises, and that girl? She's on that hard shit, complete with a horrifying grin and the unquenchable thirst for blood.

The connection to the Durga holiday also implies a complex religious dimension to all of this, as Durga is a mother-goddess who totally murders demons. The movie dips into some slight commentary about folk religion vs. modern secularism, but not deeply enough to offend anyone's sensibilities. But the "shadow" of ancient religion metaphorically dampens this whole thing, with extended shots of holy men doing rituals, and being set adjacent to the sacred Ganges. This only adds to the gothic flair, the sense that there is more troubled stuff going on below the surface than just selfish people doing foolish things for emotionally-disturbed reasons. It's handled tactfully and very effective.

The plot itself, which I won't spoil, takes many turns of "will they or won't they" about whether actual paranormal stuff is happening. The resolution is predictable for this kind of movie, and awkwardly explained, but culminates in a spectacular over-the-top exorcism complete with fire and blood, that only isn't preposterous because the movie takes time to earn the melodrama. Like, sure, this is ridiculous and weird, but isn't every ending to a good gothic horror story? These people are emotionally fractured and living in a haunted ruin. Going out with a bang is what we're here for.

Though, this IS a Bollywood musical, so the bang is a happy ending, and involves a marriage proposal. Which is separate from the actual wedding that took place earlier. Because marriage is to Bollywood what blue sky beams are to Hollywood, apparently.

The Chaturvedi family is big and there are a lot of family members who don't have much to do and routinely disappear until the plot needs them, but all of the performances are good. The standouts are Vidya Balan as Avni / Manjulika and Akshay Kumar as Dr. Adi, both playing people who switch between two radically different personalities, depending on which one will get them what they want (Adi is basically Sherlock Holmes working the Baskervilles case, disarming the suspects with goofy behavior so he can draw them out and figure out who is faking ghosts. It's very good.) But each different personality is fully-formed and internally consistent, which would have been an easy thing to flub or ignore. It's almost like issues of identity and how people are perceived are themes, in a smartly-written movie about mental disorders and possession! Who would have guessed?

What does not need to be in this are the five? Six? Eight? different slapstick comedy characters who just...why? I get clowning has broad appeal for audiences of all ages, but how much of that does one movie really need? I understand this is a staple of Bollywood. But a little bit of a couple people overreacting and stumbling around goes a long way. Plus Dr. Adi himself does this! He's a main character! You don't need to layer more on top of it. There's counter-balancing serious and dark scenes with funny ones, and then there's dropping a circus into the middle of your ghost story. There is enough going on here that the movie really doesn't need what feels like wacky padding, even if some of it might be poking fun at self-serious religious people. The story itself already does that. You're needlessly repeating things, but in a funny voice. Don't do that.

THIS fucking guy...

Another gripe I have is with how this movie handles mental illness. I won't spoil it, but let's just say a central character's clinical mental disorder ends up being a major factor in what is going on. And the movie tries to make that work, and it's...borderline offensive. I appreciate that they went this way, because it grounds the movie in a world where Dr. Adi can use actual clinical psychology as a weapon against a rowdy ghost. But how he does that, and how the movie justifies it...kind of ew. It feels like something that would have been dated if it WERE a way that Sherlock Holmes solved a haunting. Maybe it's the translation, but I don't think so. The idea is still solid, they just should have consulted someone with insight and done it a bit more respectfully. It feels like something straight out of a 1960s Batman comic. And that should be a bar that is so easy to to step over, it should be ignored.

Also, and this is a minor quibble, there is a family member, not a major one, who is so traumatized by some prior incident with Manjulika that it effectively ruins her life. And the movie plays this for laughs, and there's never any resolution. Which is bad enough, but...given that Adi thinks all this recent ghost stuff is hokem, and sets out to prove it...what about this woman? What happened to her, then? This was before what is happening now. If she's just insane, why isn't THAT worth Adi dealing with? It feels like a loose end the movie just forgets to tie up. Maybe it's supposed to show how hopelessly lost in superstition these people in India are (after all, Siddharth, Avni, AND Adi are all very pointedly Indians who have spent a lot of time in America, as is the guy who ends up being a helpful exorcist). But then...that's a pretty meaty thing to deal with, and the movie refuses. So why bring it up at all?

Something I have no complaints about is the music. This soundtrack, as the kids say, hella slaps. It's early 2000s bhangra / Indian pop whatever-you-call-it that is just...if you know, you know. And if you don't, find out. Wonderful. I've been listening to this album non-stop for more than a week now. Even the remix tracks are great.

My favorite song is Allah Hafiz, a song that was clearly shoehorned into this, during a sequence that is barely plot-related and was clearly more an excuse to film somewhere fun. But good on them, it was totally worth it.

Just be warned that this will be stuck in your head for the rest of your life.

The show-stopper is Mere Dholna. Up until this point in the movie, Manjulika has been singing creepy snippets of a song in the palace at night. In this number, we find out it was a triumphant duet with her lover, that ended in the murder that incited the entire haunting. ...Or at least, that's what it LOOKS like. No spoilers. Get hooked by this clip, then go watch the movie. It's powerful out of context, and hits even harder in the movie.

As you should be able to tell from this last clip alone, Bhool Bhulaiyaa is cool, and I like it a lot, and you should watch it. It has some annoying aspects and plot holes, and doesn't handle its portrayal of mental illness well, but it does so much else right, it's obvious why this is such a cult classic.

And it did well enough to spawn at least 2 sequels, which I think are Dr. Adi fighting Manjulika / other monsters? Haven't seen those yet. But I probably will. This is good stuff.

[davidcclopez]

Why Specialized Bengali Subtitling Services Matter?

Discover about the relevant power of effective Bengali subtitling services and why does it matter?

Read More- https://www.a1a9u.com/read-blog/7833_what-is-the-power-of-bengali-subtitling-specialized-services-matter.html

[jranimator]

Top Tips to Release Your Video on All Digital Stores in India Successfully

In the digital age, video content is king, and the Indian market is one of the fastest-growing hubs for digital media consumption. Whether you're an independent artist, a content creator, or a brand, reaching your audience effectively can be a game-changer. Releasing your video on all digital stores in India is a crucial strategy to maximize reach, engagement, and revenue. However, with so many platforms available, it can feel overwhelming to ensure your content is optimized for success. This article shares actionable tips to help you successfully release your video on all major digital stores in India and make a lasting impact.

Tip 1: Understand Your Audience

Identify Your Target Demographic Before releasing your video, it’s essential to know who your audience is. India is a diverse country with a variety of languages, cultural preferences, and consumption habits. Analyze your audience's age, geographic location, language preferences, and the type of content they engage with the most.

Adapt Content for Regional Audiences Localized content performs exceptionally well in India. For instance, adding subtitles in regional languages like Hindi, Tamil, or Bengali can make your video more accessible to a broader audience. Platforms like Gaana and JioSaavn cater to specific regional users, so tailoring your video accordingly can boost engagement.

Analyze Platform Popularity Different platforms cater to different types of audiences. While YouTube is universal, services like Spotify and Apple Music attract urban, tech-savvy users. JioSaavn and Wynk Music have a more regional appeal. Distributing your video across all these stores ensures you reach every segment of the market.

Tip 2: Invest in Quality Production

Create High-Quality Visuals and Audio A poorly produced video can harm your reputation. Ensure your video is shot in high definition (HD) and has excellent audio quality. Many digital stores have quality requirements, and meeting them is crucial to getting your content approved.

Optimize File Formats and Resolutions Each platform may have specific file format requirements. For instance, MP4 with H.264 codec is commonly accepted across platforms. Research the guidelines of major digital stores to ensure your video meets their specifications.

Hire Professionals if Necessary If you're new to video creation, consider hiring professionals for editing, color grading, and sound mixing. A polished video stands out and increases the likelihood of being featured or recommended on platforms.

Tip 3: Choose Reliable Distributors

The Role of Aggregators Distributing your video to all digital stores individually can be time-consuming. Aggregators like TuneCore, CD Baby, or DistroKid can simplify the process by uploading your content to multiple platforms at once. These services often handle formatting and metadata requirements, saving you significant effort.

Research and Compare Distribution Services Not all aggregators offer the same features. Some may have a better reach in India, while others might provide better analytics. Compare pricing, platform compatibility, and customer reviews before choosing a distributor.

Direct Uploads for Specific Platforms While aggregators are efficient, consider directly uploading to major platforms like YouTube or Facebook to retain more control over your content. These platforms often have advanced tools for creators, including monetization options and detailed analytics.

Tip 4: Promote Your Video Effectively

Leverage Social Media Marketing Promotion doesn’t end with uploading your video. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook are excellent for building anticipation and engaging with your audience. Share teasers, behind-the-scenes clips, and countdown posts to generate buzz before the release.

Collaborate with Influencers Partnering with influencers who resonate with your target audience can amplify your reach. Influencers can help share your video across their networks, bringing in a new audience.

Use Paid Advertising Investing in paid promotions on platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Google Ads can give your video an initial push. These platforms allow you to target specific demographics, ensuring your content reaches the right viewers.

Engage with Your Audience Once your video is live, interact with your audience through comments, live sessions, or polls. Engagement helps build a loyal community and encourages viewers to share your content organically.

Tip 5: Analyze Results and Refine Your Strategy

Monitor Platform Analytics Each digital store provides analytics tools to help you track performance. You can monitor metrics like views, watch time, engagement rates, and revenue to understand what’s working and what isn’t.

Adjust Your Approach Based on Data Use insights from analytics to refine your future releases. For instance, if a particular platform generates more engagement, prioritize it for your next project. Similarly, analyze which types of videos perform best and adapt your content strategy accordingly.

Experiment with Release Timing Timing can significantly impact your video’s performance. Test different release days and times to identify when your audience is most active. For example, weekends or evenings might work better for entertainment content.

Stay Updated with Trends The digital landscape evolves rapidly. Stay informed about emerging trends, platform updates, and new features that can enhance your video’s visibility. For instance, short-form videos and vertical formats are gaining popularity on platforms like YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels.

Case Study: A Success Story Take inspiration from creators who have successfully released their videos across digital stores in India. For example, an independent musician used TuneCore to distribute a music video on JioSaavn, Gaana, and Spotify. By promoting it on Instagram and collaborating with a regional influencer, the video gained over 500,000 views within a month, significantly boosting the creator’s profile.

Final Words on Successful Video Distribution Releasing your video on all digital stores in India can seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be a transformative experience. By understanding your audience, investing in quality production, choosing reliable distribution methods, and promoting effectively, you can maximize your reach and engagement.

As India’s digital market continues to grow, now is the time to leverage the power of multi-platform video distribution. Are you ready to take your content to the next level? Start preparing your video for release today and unlock the potential of reaching millions of viewers across India. What strategies have you used to distribute your videos? Share your experiences in the comments below!

Related Articles:

For further reading, explore these related articles:

Release Your Video on All Digital Stores Globally: The Ultimate Guide

How to Release Your Video on All Digital Stores Step-by-Step

Release Your Video on All Digital Stores Easily

How to Release Your Video on All Digital Stores Without a Distributor

For additional resources on music marketing and distribution, visit DMT Records Private Limited.

[businessviewpointmag]

Creating Engaging Video Content: A Comprehensive Guide for the Indian Audience

Source: BlackSalmon

In today’s digital world, video content has become the go-to format for storytelling, brand awareness, and user engagement. For content creators, especially in India, understanding the nuances of creating engaging video content is crucial. With platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok booming in the country, it’s no longer enough to just upload videos; the challenge lies in standing out from the crowd and connecting with the audience.

In this article, we’ll explore the essential steps for creating engaging video content that resonates with Indian viewers, whether you’re a seasoned creator or just starting. From understanding your audience to leveraging the right platforms, we’ll cover everything you need to know.

Understanding Your Audience

One of the first steps in creating engaging video content is to know who you’re talking to. India, with its diverse culture, languages, and demographics, presents a unique challenge. A video that works for an audience in Mumbai might not resonate with viewers in Chennai or Kolkata.

Age Group: Understand the age bracket of your target audience. Are you targeting teenagers, working professionals, or retirees? Each group consumes content differently.

Language Preferences: While Hindi might be a dominant language for many, regional languages like Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, and Marathi have massive followings. Consider creating multilingual content or adding subtitles.

Cultural Sensitivity: Indian culture is rich and varied, with certain norms and values differing by region. Make sure your content respects these nuances.

By focusing on the preferences of your target audience, you can tailor your videos to cater to their specific tastes, which is key to creating engaging video content.

The Importance of Storytelling

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Indian audiences are deeply connected to stories, thanks to the long tradition of cinema and television in the country. Whether it’s a short reel or a full-length YouTube video, incorporating a story makes your content more relatable and engaging.

Start with a Hook: Indian viewers are bombarded with countless videos daily. Grab their attention in the first few seconds. This could be a question, a surprising fact, or a teaser of what’s to come.

Build a Narrative: Whether it’s a tutorial, a vlog, or a review, a clear narrative arc keeps viewers engaged. Introduce a problem or a challenge, then guide your audience toward a resolution.

Use Emotional Appeal: Emotions play a huge role in how Indian audiences engage with content. Whether you’re aiming for laughter, nostalgia, or inspiration, tapping into emotions helps build a deeper connection.

Good storytelling is a foundation for creating engaging video content that keeps viewers coming back for more.

Video Length: Short or Long?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to video length. However, understanding the type of platform you’re using and the nature of your content can guide you.

Short-Form Content (15 seconds – 1 minute): Platforms like Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and TikTok are popular among Indian users, especially younger audiences. The key to success with short-form content is to be concise and to the point. Grab attention quickly, deliver your message, and end with a call to action.

Long-Form Content (5 minutes and above): If your content requires a deep dive—like tutorials, interviews, or vlogs—YouTube is the ideal platform. Long-form videos give you the flexibility to explore topics in-depth and create more valuable, informative content. Ensure you maintain viewer interest throughout by breaking the video into clear segments.

Choosing the right length based on your content and audience expectations is essential when creating engaging video content.

Leveraging Trends and Challenges

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Indian audiences are highly responsive to trends, especially on social media platforms. One effective way of creating engaging video content is by jumping on viral challenges, popular hashtags, or trending topics. However, while it’s tempting to ride the wave of trending content, make sure it aligns with your brand and voice.

Stay Relevant: Keep an eye on what’s trending on platforms like Instagram and YouTube. Tools like Google Trends and Twitter’s trending section can help you identify what’s currently hot in India.

Add Your Unique Twist: Instead of copying a trend outright, add your unique flavor to it. Indian audiences appreciate creativity and originality. Whether it’s a humorous take or a more meaningful message, standing out will help your content rise above the noise.

By tapping into trending topics in a creative way, you can greatly boost your reach when creating engaging video content.

Visual and Audio Quality

In a highly competitive space, the quality of your video production can make or break your engagement levels. Even if you’re starting with limited resources, focusing on a few key aspects can elevate the quality of your content.

Lighting: Poor lighting can distract viewers, making it hard to focus on the message. Ensure your face or subject is well-lit, whether you’re shooting indoors or outdoors. Natural light works great, but affordable ring lights are also a good investment.

Sound Quality: Audio is just as important as video quality. A video with poor sound can turn off viewers instantly. Invest in a good microphone or ensure you’re recording in a quiet environment. Adding background music or sound effects can also enhance the viewing experience.

Editing: Seamless editing is key to creating engaging video content. Use transitions, text overlays, and effects to keep the audience hooked. Indian viewers enjoy fast-paced, dynamic videos, so avoid lengthy, unedited sequences unless they serve the narrative.

Engagement and Call to Action

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Engagement doesn’t end once the video is uploaded. To create a community around your content, interaction is essential.

Encourage Comments: Ask questions, invite opinions, and encourage your audience to share their experiences in the comments. Indian users love being part of discussions, especially when their feedback is acknowledged.

Call to Action (CTA): Every video should end with a CTA. Whether it’s subscribing to your channel, following you on social media, or checking out your website, guide your audience on what to do next.

Respond to Your Viewers: Engaging with your viewers in the comments section, or even shouting out loyal followers, can build a sense of community and increase viewer loyalty. In India, especially, where there is a strong sense of community, acknowledging your audience can go a long way.

Conclusion

Creating engaging video content for the Indian audience is a combination of understanding cultural nuances, leveraging platform-specific trends, and maintaining high production standards. With India’s ever-growing appetite for video content, there’s ample opportunity for creators to connect with audiences and build a loyal following.

Whether you’re focusing on storytelling, riding the latest trends, or simply improving your production quality, the key lies in consistently offering value and entertainment. Keep these strategies in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of creating engaging video content that resonates with India’s diverse and vibrant audience.

[desicinema2]

"The Global Rise of DesiCinema: How Indian Films are Conquering the World"

Indian cinema, also known as DesiCinema, has long been a force to reckon with, captivating millions of viewers both in India and abroad. In recent years, however, DesiCinema has exploded onto the global stage, earning accolades and achieving unprecedented success in international markets. From awards at prestigious film festivals to record-breaking box office numbers worldwide, the influence of Indian cinema has reached new heights. But what is behind this growing global recognition, and why are international audiences flocking to desicinema in droves?

A New Era of Global Storytelling

DesiCinema has historically been known for its larger-than-life spectacle, songs, and dances, but the new wave of Indian filmmakers is pushing the boundaries of storytelling. Directors are increasingly creating content that resonates not only with Indian audiences but also with global viewers. The success of films like Gully Boy (2019), which was inspired by the Indian rap scene, and RRR (2022), which broke records worldwide, signals a shift in Indian cinema's approach to narrative, style, and themes.

These films tackle universal themes—such as self-expression, rebellion, and friendship—that resonate across cultural boundaries. RRR’s success, in particular, is a testament to the power of DesiCinema to appeal to global audiences. The film's combination of jaw-dropping action, compelling storytelling, and emotional depth earned it widespread praise, not only in India but across the world, culminating in a win for Best Original Song at the 2023 Academy Awards.

Social Media & Streaming Platforms: Catalysts of Change

The rise of streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ Hotstar has played a crucial role in making DesiCinema accessible to international audiences. These platforms offer a convenient way for non-Indian viewers to explore Indian cinema, often with subtitles in multiple languages. This accessibility has democratized Indian films and allowed viewers from all corners of the world to explore the diverse narratives of DesiCinema.

Films like The Lunchbox (2013) and Dangal (2016) have garnered massive global audiences through these platforms, showcasing India's rich culture and unique storytelling style. The availability of regional films from industries like Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Bengali on international streaming services has opened up a whole new world of cinema that was previously inaccessible to non-Indian viewers.

Moreover, social media has played a pivotal role in spreading the word about DesiCinema. Hashtags like #Bollywood, #Tollywood, and #RRR have trended on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, creating viral moments and attracting global attention. The use of social media platforms to engage with fans directly has allowed Indian filmmakers to cultivate a global fanbase that is enthusiastic and vocal about their work.

The Appeal of DesiCinema: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

So why are global audiences falling in love with DesiCinema? One of the key reasons is its ability to blend traditional cultural elements with modern cinematic techniques. Indian films are renowned for their rich music, vibrant dance sequences, and colorful visuals, but they also tackle complex and relatable issues. Whether it’s the human struggles depicted in Barfi! (2012), the socio-political commentary in Article 15 (2019), or the celebration of identity in Dil Dhadakne Do (2015), DesiCinema finds a way to connect deeply with audiences.

Furthermore, Indian cinema’s unique form of storytelling—whether it’s through fantasy, action, drama, or romance—offers something distinct from Hollywood and other global film industries. Desi films have a way of immersing viewers in their worlds, blending emotion, spectacle, and culture in a way that feels fresh and exciting.

International Film Festivals and Recognition

The international recognition of DesiCinema has been marked by an increasing presence at prestigious film festivals around the world. Films like The Lunchbox, Court (2014), Masaan (2015), and Gully Boy have all made waves at major festivals such as Cannes, Toronto, and Berlin. Additionally, Indian filmmakers like Satyajit Ray, Anurag Kashyap, and Zoya Akhtar have earned critical acclaim for their work, helping put desicinemas on the global map.

This visibility has helped Indian cinema break through traditional cultural and language barriers, making it a respected part of the global film landscape. The Indian diaspora, which spans continents, has been instrumental in spreading the love for DesiCinema, but the appeal is no longer limited to them. Non-Indians are now discovering the joy of watching Indian films, and their global success is evidence of the growing influence of DesiCinema worldwide.

Conclusion: A Cinematic Revolution

DesiCinema is in the midst of a revolution. From the groundbreaking work of contemporary filmmakers to the global embrace of Indian stories, the future of Indian cinema is brighter than ever. As Indian filmmakers continue to experiment with new forms of storytelling and embrace global sensibilities, DesiCinema is poised to captivate audiences worldwide for years to come.

In a world where cinema is becoming increasingly globalized

[no--net]

THEY SHARED A BED

TGIS IS NOT A JOKE . IN EP2 OF THE OTT SERIES BYOMKESH. AJIT AND BYOMKESH SLEPT TOGETHER

the series is on jio cinema (it does not have have subtitles so I've just been listening to bengali most of it a dont understand EXCEPT THE FACT THAT THEY SHARED A BED)

OMGGGGGG IT HAPPENED . SOMEONE GO WATCH IT PLEASEEEE