#Heavy Rains in Mumbai

[bhaskarlive]

Maha postpones Class 10 and 12 board supplementary exams amid IMD rain alert

In the wake of torrential rains in various parts of Maharashtra and also due to the India Meteorological Department’s red alert, the supplementary board examinations for Class 10 and 12 have been postponed, it was announced on Thursday.

The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education has shifted the supplementary examination for Class 10 from July 26 to July 31 and for Class 12 from July 31 to August 9.

Source: bhaskarlive.in

[werindialive]

Mumbai Monsoon Mayhem: Trains Cancelled, BEST Buses Diverted Amid Waterlogging; Schools Declared Holiday

Heavy monsoon rains have lashed Mumbai, leading to significant disruptions across the city. Persistent downpours since early Monday have resulted in extensive waterlogging, causing authorities to cancel trains, divert BEST buses, and declare a holiday for schools.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued a red alert for Mumbai, predicting extremely heavy rainfall. True to the forecast, several areas, including Sion, Dadar, Andheri, and Kurla, witnessed inundation. The relentless rains have brought Mumbai to a near standstill, reminiscent of the infamous July 2005 deluge.

Transport Woes

The waterlogged tracks forced the cancellation and delay of several local trains, the lifeline for millions of Mumbaikars. The Central Railway and Western Railway services were particularly affected, with many trains running significantly behind schedule or being halted altogether. Commuters stranded at various stations expressed frustration, with many unable to reach their workplaces or return home.

BEST buses, another critical mode of transport, faced severe disruptions. Multiple routes had to be diverted due to waterlogged streets, leaving commuters to find alternative means of transportation. The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) officials stated that they were closely monitoring the situation and making adjustments to routes as necessary to ensure passenger safety.

Schools Closed

In a move to ensure the safety of children, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) declared a holiday for all schools in Mumbai. The decision was taken early in the morning, following reports of severe waterlogging in several parts of the city. Parents were notified through various channels, including SMS, emails, and social media, advising them to keep their children at home.

Rescue and Relief Operations

The BMC, along with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), has been actively engaged in rescue and relief operations. Pumping stations across the city have been operating at full capacity to reduce water levels in the most affected areas. However, continuous rainfall has hampered these efforts. The BMC has also set up emergency helplines and urged residents to avoid non-essential travel.

Public Advisory

Authorities have advised residents to stay indoors and refrain from venturing out unless absolutely necessary. The IMD has forecasted that heavy to very heavy rainfall will continue over the next 24 hours. Citizens are urged to stay updated through official channels and avoid spreading or reacting to unverified information on social media.

Looking Ahead

As Mumbai grapples with the current situation, there is a growing call for better infrastructure and more robust measures to handle such extreme weather events. While the city's resilience is well-known, the frequent disruptions caused by monsoon rains highlight the need for long-term solutions to ensure smoother functioning during the rainy season.

In the meantime, Mumbaikars are bracing for more rains, hoping for a quick return to normalcy as the city battles yet another monsoon fury. For more latest news India, subscribe to our newsletter today.

[milindmk]

Watch "#Mumbai #Rain #heavyrain #mumbairain #waterlogged #stayhomestaysafe #mumbaitrains #monsoon #shorts" on YouTube

[folklore-girl]

ek ladki bheegi bheegi bhaagi si — a short story

a/n: okok so i tried my best for you @androgynous-pavbhaji <3 since this is your secret santa gift? im so sorry for posting this so late, this was supposed to come out a long time ago.. but ig happy new year? hope you like this!

word count: 0.6k

warning(s): bad writing, cringe dialogues + a shitty asf story in general :( im so so sorry.

raindrops splattered on the sidewalk as i hurriedly made my way to the bus stop, my clothes drenched from the downpour. my hands held up my handbag to shield my head from the rain and to try and deflect some heavy raindrops, but all in vain. for the millionth time, i cursed my stupid self for not carrying an umbrella, even though we were deep in winter, and there was no way I could’ve predicted this. i still should have.

and, to top it all, i was horribly late to my bus.

when i reached the bus stop a thousand years later, my shoes were soaked and my head was in an overdrive. i noticed a guy—probably my age—waiting at the stop too and decided i should probably wipe the mess off my face.

so, i took out my napkin, just to drop it on the ground like an absolute idiot. and as i bent to pick it up, the guy on the right offered me his napkin, in spotless white.

i was scared. not of the guy, but of ruining his napkin by using it. he saw me hesitate and said, “arey, it’s fine. i have spare.”

“pakka?” i asked, uncertainly.

“yup,” he said and i thanked him, smiling.

he smiled back. and i thought, wow. i guess men aren’t all bad, then.

i took the napkin from him and dabbed my face with it gently, still scared to damage it. when i was giving it back, he said “it’s ok, you can keep it.”

“you sure?” i asked again.

“yes!!” he laughed, “it’s alright, you know. i don’t bite.”

“no, but, i’m not used to all this,” i gestured with my hands and his eyebrows rose in confusion. “kindess?” i finished lamely.

“well then, you will be soon,” he winked and i looked away because i was in a loss of words.

meeting a decent man made me feel like i was in some other dimension, some dream where kind strangers were real and not a thing to read in tumblr posts and fawn over.

by now, my heartbeat had slowed down and my breaths were much less frantic, so we talked about our buses.

“oh, me too,” he smiled, “we’re both going to mumbai.”

“that’s nice,” i smiled as the bus approached the stop, “i bet the ride is gonna be fun.”

he smiled, “hopefully.”

we hauled up our luggage and sat in the bus, me in the window seat with him by my side.

we talked for almost the entire ride there, exchanging our names and talking shit about distant relatives (my lord, we had the same type of humour). and when we grew bored of talking, we both decided to do something else. he plugged in his earphones and i found out that i couldn’t find mine anywhere.

i looked out of the window and i could tell it was going to be a long road.

he noticed and offered to share his wired ones. feeling utterly helpless, i gave in.

later, we discovered that our music tastes were very similar and i soon found myself scooting closer to him as we listened to his playlist together.

by the time shuffle lead us to ‘i guess i’m in love’, i knew the feeling burning up in my chest, threatening to spill over. it was beautiful and warm, like sunlight filtering in through the curtains. like the first day of spring, my heart was blooming and after a long time, i felt the butterflies.

but it couldn’t be, could it?

i woke up to the sound of mumma calling my name. i’d fallen asleep with my head in my arms, crossed on the windowsill while rain poured outside and my chai grew colder with each passing minute. right next to it, my phone had just finished playing the song “ek ladki bheegi bhagi si” on my wired earphones and suddenly the surreal scenario in my head made sense.

i guess it was a dream, after all.

xoxo

[srbachchan]

DAY 5541

Jalsa, Mumbai               Apr 18,  2023                Tue  10:53 PM

EF birthday greetings .. ❤️

🪔 .. April 19 .. birthday happiness to Ef Arth Vaishnav .. Ef Beejal Bhatt from Indore .. Ef Devang Joshi from Gujarat .. and Ef Meenakshi Sethi from Delhi .. be well all and happy .. love from your Ef Family ever .. ❤️🌿🙏🏻🚩

.. ✨

Birthday Ef - Beejal Bhatt .. Arth Vaishnav Wednesday, 19 April ... and my wishes as of the Ef for this day in your lives .. stay well and protected .. prayers .. 🙏

It has been long since the spending of hours of connect and consult with the makers to understand and assess the work on hand to be .. the next .. the fresh and new .. 

Seems odd to be referring to it .. but time waits for no one .. slip on to the wheel and ride .. before the circulation of the water works come to a halt because the river has either frozen or drifted away in the ‘horse shoe water body’ .. the cross bow , the Oxbow .. 

Familiar with your Geography lesson ?

Remember the study of the river flows and the resultant formation after the floods occur  ..? No .. ?

Well an explanation ..

Rivers when they flow under normal conditions , meander in the sluggish flow of their stream , snake like , over the plains after coming down from the mountainous regions .. 

And when the rains occur , the flow of the stream gets strength and the flow races on with speed , flood like .. the force of the flow is so large and strong that it cuts straight through the meandering body , leaving the looped portion by itself .. thus forming a semicircular water body lake in isolation .. shaped like the bend of the river at the time of the flood .. which is horse shoe shaped , like an oxbow , a cross bow .. 

Thus the cross bow lake .. 

Brilliant eh ..?

The memory of the 4th STD., suddenly awakens .. 🤣

meandering rivers .. but in the rains and the heavy fall , like say during the monsoons when the flow of the water has increased due to the excessive rain .. the force of the flow moves in a somewhat straight line , and cuts the looped portion .. and the ox bow lake of the remaining water body is formed  ..

brilliant eh .. 👏

nothing like some self praise  ..  !!!!!

The lesson then if it can be devised by the BLogoamaestre is that , when life meanders in the luxury of time and absence of certain elements , be wary of the force of the excess that come by, in the form of the gushing waters, cutting off the meander .. flowing on to its normal existence .. BUT leaving behind your meander in an isolated looped form .. alone .. and in survival , dependence of the circumstances , your isolated condition shall give you .. which is meagre and limited .. and in time shall disappear in evaporated fumes to the elements ..

Be in aware .. be in discipline .. be in ethical order .. be in conditions of exist ..

Amitabh Bachchan

[beardedmrbean]

A 50-year-old American woman was found chained to a tree and left to die in a forest in India, police said.

The woman, identified as Lalita Kayi Kumar, was rescued after a shepherd heard her cries on Saturday evening in Sonurli village, located about 450km from India’s financial capital of Mumbai in the south-western state of Maharashtra.

Police registered a case of attempted murder against Ms Kumar’s former husband based on a note scribbled by her at the hospital.

The authorities ascertained her identity and residential address from photocopies of a US passport and a national identity card recovered from her.

”Based on the note written by the woman at the hospital, a case has been registered against her former husband on charges of attempted murder, act endangering life or personal safety of others and wrongful confinement under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS),” Saurabh Agrawal, superintendent of police of Sindhudurg district, said. BNS is India’s official criminal code.

She was transferred to a hospital in the neighbouring state of Goa, Mr Agrawal told the wire agency Press Trust of India. She is “weak” and “not in a position to give her statement”, he said.

Officials do not yet know how long she was left tied to the tree. “The area where she was found had experienced heavy rain,” Mr Agrawal said.

“We have found that the woman, who appears to have been born in the US, had also resided in Goa for some time. We are trying to find out whom she was in touch with in the past few months,” he added.

Police say she appears not to have eaten for several days. The husband, whose name was not disclosed by officials, allegedly hails from Tamil Nadu. Forest inspector Vikas Padve told The Hindu newspaper that while doctors told the authorities she was doing “fine”, Ms Kumar was “suffering from psychiatric issues.

“She is unable to speak and remains under observation,” Mr Padve said.

“She reportedly left her husband after a quarrel,” a police official was quoted as saying by the outlet.

The victim was believed to be living in India for the past ten years, reported the Hindustan Times, quoting officials from the local police station. The authorities have sent a team of investigators to Tamil Nadu and Goa to trace her relatives.

[dertaglichedan]

American woman is found chained to a tree and left to die in Indian jungle before local shepherd heard her shouts and saved her

An American woman who was chained to a tree in the Indian jungle and left for dead has been rescued after a local shepherd heard her distressing cries for help.

Lalita Kayi Kumar, 50, was found in a forest near Sonurli village, roughly 280miles from Mumbai, on Saturday morning. She had been tied to a tree with an iron chain.

Kumar, whose right leg was swollen from the chain, was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. She was severely dehydrated, unable to speak and likely had not eaten in several days, the Lokmat Times reported.

It is unclear how long Kumar was in the jungle, as the area experienced heavy rains recently, but according to India TV, she told investigators that her former husband had tied her to the tree. She also claimed to have gone 40 days without food.

Police have launched an attempted murder case against Kumar's ex-husband. He also faces act endangering life or personal safety of others and wrongful confinement charges.

[ghumindiaghum]

Pondicherry Travel Guide 2024: Best Places to Visit & Things To Do

Welcome to your ultimate Pondicherry travel guide for 2024! This guide is designed to help you explore the best places to visit and things to do in this charming coastal town. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for another visit, Pondicherry offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Let’s dive in!

History of Pondicherry

Pondicherry, often referred to as “Puducherry” or simply “Pondy,” boasts a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The town has been influenced by various cultures over the centuries, from the Romans and Greeks to the Cholas and Vijayanagara Empire. However, the most significant period in Pondicherry’s history began with the arrival of the French in the late 17th century.

In 1674, the French East India Company established a trading post in Pondicherry, which eventually grew into a thriving colonial settlement. The French influence is still evident today in the town’s architecture, cuisine, and overall ambiance. Walking through the streets of the French Quarter, also known as White Town, feels like stepping back in time to a French colonial era. The grid-patterned streets, colonial buildings, and vibrant bougainvillea-covered walls add to the town’s charm.

Pondicherry remained under French control until 1954, when it was formally transferred to the Republic of India. Despite this change, the town has retained its unique blend of French and Indian cultures, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.

When to Visit | Pondicherry Travel Guide

Pondicherry enjoys a tropical climate, with warm temperatures throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

October to March: This period is considered the best time to visit Pondicherry. The temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, making it comfortable for exploring the town, visiting the beaches, and enjoying various outdoor activities. The weather is also perfect for indulging in water sports.

April to June: These months mark the onset of summer in Pondicherry. Temperatures can soar to around 40°C, making it quite hot and humid. If you plan to visit during this time, ensure you stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours.

July to September: This is the monsoon season in Pondicherry. The town receives moderate to heavy rainfall, which can sometimes disrupt travel plans. However, the rains also bring a refreshing change and make the town’s landscapes lush and green. If you enjoy monsoon travel, this can be a good time to visit.

How to Get to Pondicherry

Pondicherry is well-connected to major cities in India, making it easily accessible by plane, train, car, and bus.

Plane

The nearest airport to Pondicherry is Chennai International Airport, located about 135 kilometers away. Chennai Airport is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Pondicherry. The drive from Chennai to Pondicherry takes approximately 3 hours.

Train

Pondicherry has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai. Several trains run regularly to and from Pondicherry. The train journey offers scenic views of the countryside and is a comfortable option for travelers.

Car

If you prefer driving, you can reach Pondicherry by car. The town is connected to Chennai via the East Coast Road (ECR), which offers a picturesque drive along the coast. The journey takes about 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. You can also drive from Bangalore, which is approximately 320 kilometers away and takes around 6-7 hours.

Bus

Top 5 Reasons to Visit | Pondicherry Travel Guide

Pondicherry offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern amenities. Here are the top five reasons to visit this charming town:

1. Fascinating Culture and History

Pondicherry’s rich history and cultural diversity make it a captivating destination. The town’s French colonial heritage is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and way of life. Explore the charming streets of the French Quarter, visit historical landmarks, and immerse yourself in the town’s unique blend of French and Indian cultures.

2. Fabulous Food

Pondicherry is a food lover’s paradise, offering a delightful mix of French, South Indian, and international cuisines. From charming cafes serving croissants and coffee to traditional South Indian eateries, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Don’t miss the chance to try local specialties like seafood dishes, crepes, and filter coffee.

3. Shop Local

Pondicherry is known for its vibrant markets and boutique shops. Explore the bustling streets of the town and discover a wide range of handmade products, from textiles and pottery to jewelry and handicrafts. The Sunday Market on Mahatma Gandhi Road is a must-visit for unique souvenirs and local treasures.

4. Hit the Beach

Pondicherry’s coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches, offering a perfect escape for beach lovers. Relax on the sandy shores, take a dip in the clear waters, or indulge in water sports like kayaking and surfing. Popular beaches like Promenade Beach, Paradise Beach, and Auroville Beach are ideal for a day of sun and sea.

5. Auroville

What to Do in Pondicherry

Pondicherry offers a wide range of activities and attractions to suit every traveler’s interests. Here are some of the top things to do in Pondicherry:

1. 300 Years And Counting

Pondicherry’s rich history spans over 300 years, making it a treasure trove of historical landmarks and sites. Visit the Pondicherry Museum to learn about the town’s past, explore the ancient Arikamedu archaeological site, and marvel at the beautiful churches and colonial buildings that dot the town.

2. Remembering French Culture

Pondicherry’s French Quarter, also known as White Town, is a charming area with a distinct European vibe. Stroll through the tree-lined streets, admire the colonial architecture, and visit landmarks like the French War Memorial and the statue of Joseph François Dupleix. Enjoy a coffee at one of the many quaint cafes and soak in the town’s French ambiance.

3. Views Of The Water

Pondicherry’s coastline offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal. Spend time at the Promenade Beach, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the seafront, watch the sunrise, and take in the refreshing sea breeze. The scenic beauty of the coastline is sure to leave you mesmerized.

4. In The Heart Of White Town

White Town is the heart of Pondicherry, known for its colonial charm and vibrant atmosphere. Explore the colorful streets, visit art galleries and boutique shops, and dine at the many restaurants offering a mix of French and Indian cuisines. The lively vibe and unique character of White Town make it a must-visit.

5. Strolling On The Edge Of The Bay Of Bengal

Take a stroll along the Promenade, a 1.2-kilometer-long stretch along the coast. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering beautiful views of the sea, statues, and landmarks like the Mahatma Gandhi statue and the Old Lighthouse. The Promenade is perfect for a leisurely walk, jogging, or simply relaxing by the water.

Where to Eat in Pondicherry

Pondicherry’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of French, South Indian, and international flavors. Here are some of the best places to eat in Pondicherry:

Le Café: Located on the Promenade, Le Café is a popular spot for enjoying coffee and snacks with a view of the sea. It’s open 24/7, making it a convenient stop any time of the day.

Baker Street: This French bakery offers a range of delicious pastries, bread, and sandwiches. It’s a great place for breakfast or a light meal.

Villa Shanti: A charming restaurant in White Town, Villa Shanti offers a mix of French and Indian cuisine in a beautiful courtyard setting.

La Maison Rose: This colonial-style restaurant serves a variety of French and continental dishes. The ambiance and food make it a perfect spot for a leisurely meal.

Appachi Chettinad: For a taste of traditional South Indian cuisine, head to Appachi Chettinad. The restaurant offers a range of Chettinad dishes, known for their rich flavors and spices.

Where to Stay | Pondicherry Travel Guide

https://www.ghumindiaghum.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/1024px-Hotel_Palais_de_Mahe_Pondicherry_9_36846122873.jpg

Pondicherry offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, or budget-friendly stays, you’ll find plenty of choices. Ghum India Ghum, a leading tour and travel company in India will arrange these packages along with other destinations of your choice.

Popular Neighborhoods in Puducherry

White Town: Colonial architecture, charming streets, and proximity to major attractions characterize this area.Staying in White Town offers a unique experience with easy access to cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Auroville: Located a short drive from Pondicherry, Auroville offers a tranquil and alternative stay experience. It’s ideal for those looking for a peaceful retreat and a chance to explore the unique community of Auroville.

Promenade Beach Area: Staying near Promenade Beach offers beautiful sea views and easy access to the beach. It’s a great choice for beach lovers and those who enjoy seaside walks.

Heritage Town: Heritage buildings and cultural significance mark this area. If you’re interested in exploring Pondicherry’s history and local culture, it’s a great place to stay.

FAQs on Pondicherry Travel Guide

1. What is the best time to visit Pondicherry?

The best time to visit Pondicherry is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

2. How can I reach Pondicherry?

Pondicherry is well-connected by plane, train, car, and bus. The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 135 kilometers away. Pondicherry has its own railway station and is well-connected by road to major cities.

3. What are the top attractions in Pondicherry?

Some of the top attractions in Pondicherry include the French Quarter (White Town), Promenade Beach, Auroville, Pondicherry Museum, and the ancient Arikamedu archaeological site.

4. What kind of food can I expect in Pondicherry?

Pondicherry offers a delightful mix of French, South Indian, and international cuisines. You can enjoy everything from croissants and coffee to traditional South Indian dishes and seafood.

5. Is Pondicherry a good destination for shopping?

Vibrant markets and boutique shops make Pondicherry well-known. You can find a wide range of handmade products, including textiles, pottery, jewelry, and handicrafts.

6. Are there good beaches in Pondicherry?

Yes, Pondicherry has several beautiful beaches, including Promenade Beach, Paradise Beach, and Auroville Beach. These beaches are perfect for relaxing, swimming, and water sports.

7. What is Auroville?

Auroville is an experimental township located near Pondicherry. They founded the organization in 1968 to promote human unity and sustainable living. Visitors can explore the Matrimandir, attend workshops, and learn about the community’s unique way of life.

We hope this Pondicherry travel guide for 2024 helps you plan an unforgettable trip to this charming coastal town. Enjoy your journey and make the most of everything Pondicherry has to offer!

[sunblonderealtors]

Mumbai is a epicenter of real estate properties in India, categorized in top pricing and also in top listing. Blessed by nature, Mumbai has an immersive sea coast of 149 km and approximately 16 km of beaches. From the above facts, we know how precious the land it is. From the month of June, it's the arrival time for monsoon in Mumbai and its suburbs to refresh these area to green & aesthetic colors. Mumbai's monsoon typically begins in early June and lasts until late September. The heaviest rainfall usually occurs in July, which can account for a significant portion of the total annual rainfall and water supply to Mumbai's ground.

Prime Locations For Mumbai Monsoon Lovers

Marine Drive Famous as the Queen's Necklace, the vast circular coastline of Marine Drive is also renowned for its rainy season activities. The immersive view of high tides and waves of the Arabian Sea in the monsoon months is noted as a must-watch once in a lifetime. Properties in this area are popular for offering these beautiful views.

Bandstand & Carter Road, Bandra Bandra is a place of heritage in terms of its beaches and retro Indian-style coastlines, which are preserved and well-maintained to this date. Most of the crowd is seen here during the rain season. An ideal walk in the rains, with the Arabian Sea along with most restaurants, cafes on the side, and top lifestyle amenities provide comfort with views of Juhu Beach. Property in this area has seen a value appreciation of 2x in the last 5 years due to the best natural view of monsoon and beaches.

Powai & Vihar Lake An excellent place to visit in Mumbai during the monsoon for a quiet walk in the rains. Here's a catch: Mumbai's most famous township, Hiranandani Gardens, is situated in the same location. Most of the residents enjoy Powai Lake and its surroundings. Fun fact: This township has many gardens and private hill areas to explore lush greenery during the rainy season. Many small to medium waterfalls at Vihar Lake can be found at the arrival of monsoon.

Worli Sea-Face & New Atal Setu at Sewri Framed by the stunning Haji Ali Dargah, Worli Fort, and Bandra-Worli Sea Link, this area is known for high tides that thrill any visitor and also residents who have lived here for a long time. The monsoon season brings fewer visitors, making it a perfect place in Mumbai for those seeking solitude. The Sea Link, beautifully lit at night, also offers a delightful drive. The property in this area is most attractive for Worli Sea Link connectivity and its monsoon and off-season beauty. The new Atal Setu (Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Trans Harbour Link Road) is a new attraction in Mumbai. From the nearby locations of Wadala, Sion, and Sewri, people are attracted to this massive build on the sea surface to get views of Elephanta Caves and high tides during the rainy season.

Natural Resilience

Rich Greener The monsoon renovates Mumbai's parks and green spaces, such as the Sanjay Gandhi National Park and the city's numerous gardens.

Cultural Importance Monsoons are an integral part of Mumbai's cultural landscape, influencing local festivals and lifestyle.

Infrastructure Challenges

Drainage System: Mumbai's aging drainage system struggles to cope with the heavy downpours, leading to frequent waterlogging.

Urban Planning: Rapid urbanization and inadequate infrastructure development exacerbate the impact of heavy rains.

[notasapleasure]

Behind the Beautiful Forevers, National Theatre (2015)

David Hare's adaptation of Katherine Boo's book about a Mumbai slum. It follows various people and their interconnected stories, and Joplin is one of those playing multiple characters in the play: Sub-Inspector Shankar, the Prosecutor, and an unnamed extra.

First off, just a warning for anyone who might need it, as Sub-Inspector Shankar is not above committing a little light torture to get the results he wants. The story is pretty heavy too - there's self-immolation, suicide and violence.

And yeah, I am just here taking my little screenshots, and I am not above saying a uniform can look good on the right body even when said body is wielding a stick or belt as an instrument of torture. But you all know that from these blog posts already... First watch was for going oof at the story, second watch was just for going mad taking screencaps.

---

Oh HI Assad Zaman! He has a motorbike.

He.....oh dear. He had a very bad time as Deepak Rai, aka Kalu. Brutally murdered for breaking into the airport grounds to steal metal. (but he also turns up as a number of other characters)

Hmmmm hello Mr Officer Sir. That IS a moustache!! Sub-Inspector Shankar Yeram aka Fishlips 🙃 (I'm not making it up!)

He wants to keep the murder rates low! Get the certificates, look after his kids....just say the murder victim was suspected of having TB, the coroner will know what to do. Tell the other pickers he was murdered though, we wanna keep them scared!

Among the British actors putting on their Indian accents, he's at least doing a posher one but umm. If you know he's a Cockney you still know.

Holy SHIT did he just pick up Sunil the picker one-handed skdjdjjfjfjff 💀

The problem is I'm trying to have critical thoughts and then it's just 'HURRR. LOOK HOW BIG HE IS.'

Oh no, torturing a man for evidence is bad for his back :(

"Can you tell me what they've been charged with?"

"Yes, I can." 😐🤌

The tick of pulling the trousers up is splendid. The moustache is glorious. The bribery by tiffin is kind of charming. But the accent....bb it's not your best :') I guess it's a struggle to project and do this accent together?

Beginning of the second act (the rains have arrived - hence hat).

He sort of takes pity on the woman whose eldest son, husband and daughter have been jailed for beating a woman who then self-immolated (which they didn't do). I say sort of, because money and tiffins are very much involved, but he helps get Abdul a school certificate to ensure he'll go to juvie rather than adult prison.

As an aside, the second act hits SO much harder. The audience laughter is rarer, quieter, more nervous - in the first half it often made me uncomfortable, like the characters were grotesques to be laughed at. The themes come together too - younger generations who have seen either tenuous opportunity or brutal reprisal based on their parents' approach to getting on, asking themselves why they have to act 'dishonourably' or unjustly to improve their lot. And their parents standing by the hard work they've put in - whatever the cost - in order to improve things for their families.

Probably my least finest hour was trying to get a shot of Joplin's butt dancing in the background while Meena is in agony from the rat poison she's taken.

But if you do watch the play - and I really do recommend it - fair warning that Meena and Manju's interactions will wreck you, even if nothing else does (and there's plenty else that should).

THE MOUSTACHE IS GONE

He's now the lawyer for the prosecution (against the Husseins for Fatima's death).

LIES! DAMNATION AND LIES!

gosh isn't he big though.

I think the accent is better without the moustache?

They still have him hauling bits of stage around in his suit :') And once you're on the look out for him in the unnamed role in between scenes as the copper and the lawyer he's on stage quite a lot. But the cast is large and the story is dense, so if you do watch, be aware that focussing on Joplin will make the story near-incomprehensible and in focussing on the story you might miss a lot of his background appearances. Which is why I'm glad I watched twice :)

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Rating

Dead? Nope! Not one version!

Evil? Nearly everyone in the play is morally compromised and sees the bribes and the selfishness simply as the only way of surviving with the hand life has dealt them. It's worse from the professional classes because of the additional power they wield, as you'd expect, and though S-I Shankar does what he does for his children's education, one feels he does relish it somewhat, too.

Affects the plot? He does indeed!

It took a while to warm on me, but the second act really made it all come together, and re-watching with a better idea of the characters and themes was really satisfying. The performances all round are great. And on a thoroughly basic note, the uniform is hot, the suit is well-fitted, and yes there was that time he picked up a dude one-handed. 3/5. The speaking roles he has really aren't nice people, looks notwithstanding, and the accent...not his best.

There are shitloads more screencaps too, but I couldn't be bothered to knit them together tonight - when I've watched the last three plays I'll set up a fan blog and a google drive with all of them in for people to take and use as they want.

[bhaskarlive]

Rain wreaks havoc in Pune, boats rescue stranded people, schools shut

Large tracts of Pune city and the district were submerged in flood waters as the state’s academic and cultural capital was pounded by heavy rain overnight, with schools shut and boats deployed to help out people, officials said here on Thursday.

Source: bhaskarlive.in

[mybharatguru]

PM Modi will inaugurate the Pune Metro Rail service tomorrow

Prime Minister’s visit canceled due to heavy rains in Pune. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had planned to inaugurate the Mumbai Pune Sivajinagar District Court-Swargate underground metro rail line on Thursday and inaugurate development projects worth Rs 22,600 crore. And SP in Pune for Prime Minister’s visit. A meeting was organized in the college grounds. Meanwhile, the trip was canceled due to…

[6nikhilum6]

Mumbai Rains: Flight Diversions and Weather Alerts Amid Heavy Showers

The IMD issued a red alert for Nashik and orange alerts for Palghar, Pune, Nandurbar, and Dhule. Almost all other cities in Maharashtra, including Mumbai, are under a yellow alert. The city is expected to experience ongoing rainfall, with temperatures ranging between 23°C and 31°C. The rain is projected to continue with varying intensity until early October. Mumbai’s Weather Forecast Until…

[shutupblogs]

Mumbai Rain

Mumbai Marooned: Heavy Rains Bring City to Standstill Yesterday, Mumbai witnessed one of the most intense spells of rain this monsoon season, bringing the city to a grinding halt. The relentless downpour, which started in the early hours of the morning, continued throughout the day, causing widespread disruptions and chaos. Rainfall Records Shattered According to the India Meteorological…

[hyderabaddeccannews]

Mumbai ki Barish

Water Logging witnessed in various parts of Mumbai City following heavy rains, Oberoi Mall

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1FVaD9deHX/?mibextid=oFDknk

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAZcKyuIP9F/?igsh=bDU1NTNldmEwM2I2

https://youtube.com/shorts/PnOlc-xy-s0?si=eWUk6u0cxf3En0cr

[srbachchan]

DAY 5609

Jalsa, Mumbai                  June 26/27,  2023                 Mon/Tue  10:59 AM

🪔 .. June 27 .. birthday greetings to .. Ef Ravi Patel .. Ef Diyansh Kumbhat from Chennai .. and .. Ef Ayush Mishra from Bilaspur .. wishes and affection from your Ef Family .. ❤️❤️❤️

... she stood there , a little one , half drenched in the heavy downpour a while before, a small bunch of red roses , worn out by rain and time , wrapped in rough paper plastic , moving from car window to car window at the traffic stop .. an expectation for the sale to feed herself and perhaps a few other small in her family .. on her soft weather worn face .. 

in a while as she got dis interested rebuttals from the cars ahead .. I was seeing her ..  I beckoned her .. the Police cop car in security behind gave warning signals to her .. do not approach .. she backed off for a while .. then when she noticed I was calling her .. she expressed apprehension to both the Police and then the window on mine that I was lowering for her .. 

I looked at her sad but filled with a face that wondered for her what lay in store .. I did not ask what the roses cost .. just gave her some money .. did not see or count what it was .. was it really necessary to do so , NO .. she hesitatingly took the money .. handed the bouquet equally hesitant .. wondering whether I would negotiate .. I told her that’s it .. go ..

 I have nothing more to say on this Blog but to express the face of that little one on getting a reward of feeding not just herself, but perhaps many more of her family .. for days perhaps .. 

The face of hunger being taken care of .. the face of fulfilment .. the face of , is this really happening to me .. the face of wanting to rush to the rest of the family to share her exuberance and joy ..

the face ..

unknown to us .. 

the face of a face fated for her .. 

I lived with that and still do  .. 

I do not have answers for that face  .. I have mirrored vision of it .. imbedded ..

EVER ..

Amitabh Bachchan

you never know what you have , until to meet a FACE !!