Purple Bimonthly Edition: 1

COIMBATORE JUNE-JULY 2024

Vol. 1 No. 1 Established 2024 12 pages

PURPLE

Contact us on: purplebimonthly@gmail.com purple.editoriall@gmail.com Instagram: purplebimonthly

A Unit of DOE, KCW

Fresh faces on the block: The two new hires of the English Department INTERVIEW >> PAGE 4

Fitness meets fun on Campus

Student spotlight: celebrating talents

Mothika bags win after win

NEWS >> PAGE 6

LITERARY LENS >> PAGE 10

SPORTS FEATURE >> PAGE 12

THE LITERARY AND DEBATING ASSOCIATION OF From F-Block to E-Block!

"Change is the only constant" - a truth that resonates KCW EMBARKS ON A NEW JOURNEY deeply with the professors of the Department of SRIDEVI MEENAL SHANMUGAM

The Department of English Aided recently inaugurated the Literary & Debating Association for the year 2024-2025. III-year UG students, I and IIyear PG students, research scholars, and department professors were the audience of this insightful event. This inauguration was a grand success accompanied by an invigorating lecture on the topic, Poetics & Politics in Post-Colonial Studies, by the renowned resource person, Dr. Samuel Rufus. To say the lecture was an eye-opener for the audience would be an understatement. The knowledge imparted by Dr. Rufus wasn't limited to the students who study literature as a subject but was addressed to everyone who speaks any language. Setting aside the fact that this was a literature-centered lecture, the way Dr.Rufus beautifully explained how language influences people on a daily basis was remarkable and had the power to make anyone with little interest in language listen to what he had to say.

The lecture started with a discourse on stereotypes and their harmful nature, how language itself could be derogatory based on the user, and how the user is directly influenced by their culture and the people around them. He stated how language could be used as a micro-aggressive tool that targets a specific group of people and delightfully depicted how language evolved along with its users. He further covered topics that dealt with dominant and subjugated discourses and how colonists dehumanised the minds of the natives and influenced their narratives.

Mega Book Fair: A Pilgrimage for Book Lovers The Mega Book Fair in Coimbatore, which concluded on July 28, 2024, left an indelible mark on the literary landscape of the city. The 10-day event, held at CODISSIA, brought together book lovers, writers, and publishers in a celebration of literature that will be remembered for a long time. With 285 stalls showcasing thousands of titles, the fair offered a treasure trove of reading material that catered to diverse interests. The event also provided a platform for like-minded individuals to connect, share ideas, and inspire each other. As the city returns to its usual rhythm, the impact of the fair continues to be felt, with attendees still buzzing about their discoveries and experiences. The Mega Book Fair has once again proven itself to be a beacon for literary enthusiasts, and its legacy will continue to inspire and nurture the love of reading in the days to come.

FULL ARTICLE >> PAGE: 10

Warm welcome: HOD addresses gathering at Literary & Debating Association Inauguration | VISMAYA V

Dr. Rufus ended his insightful lecture by citing the quote, 'Humans are textual beings,' highlighting the most important takeaway: that only through true liberation of mind and language can humans genuinely experience a true celebration. Time flew by so fast that the two hours Dr. Rufus lectured us seemed like a mere two minutes. It could be due to the fact that the lecture was interactive from start to end and left the audience wanting for more and even capturing the attention of a passing fly. As Dr. Rufus mentioned, this is the power that language holds: the power that makes people listen and change their perspective. As literature students and aspiring writers, we promise to carry this power respectfully and use it to its fullest potential.

As part of our Inauguration, Dr. Rufus inaugurated our newly initiated department Blog, The Literarians, under the name WoW_Weavers of Words. This blog is an assembly of the various artistic and literary talents of our department students.

Continued on Pg. 3

THE POP STORE

English, KCW, as they bid farewell to their 60year-old nest in F-Block and embrace their new home in E-Block. The old department, steeped in memories and nostalgia, has been a second home to many. As they settle into their new space, professors share mixed emotions - from missing the reading room and stage to appreciating the modern architecture and spaciousness. While some find solace in the new department's professionalism, others cherish the memories of celebrations and farewells. As they adapt to this change, they remind us that memories remain etched in our hearts even as we embrace the new.

FULL ARTICLE >> PAGE: 7

Student Council Elections 2024 PSGR Krishnammal College for Women held its student council elections in July 2024. Nominations were filed for President, Fine Arts Secretary, Quiz Club Secretary, and General Secretary. Online campaigning took place, and elections were held on July 11th. Midhubashni B B, Sanjana L, Gomathi D, Krishna Priya U, and Pavishna S G were elected to the respective posts. They inherit a legacy of student leadership and are tasked with fostering community, promoting student welfare, and providing a platform for self-expression. The college wishes them the best in their endeavours and looks forward to positive changes.

FULL ARTICLE >> PAGE: 6

"Welcome to THE POP STORE, where fashion meets elegance! I'm Yaswanthi, the founder and owner, and I'm thrilled to share my passion for creativity and style with you. Growing up, I dreamed of becoming an entrepreneur, inspired by the joy of creating unique accessories that spark admiration. Today, I oversee every aspect of THE POP STORE, from design to customer service, driven by a mission to inspire self-expression and confidence through our diverse range of products. We believe that high-quality accessories should be accessible to all, without compromising on style or affordability. I'm excited to share our innovative designs with you and help transform your look and mood. Thank you for your support!!”

CONTACT NUMBER:

9500281131

2 ABOUT US

PURPLE

June-July 2024 Edition COIMBATORE

ABOUT US

Introducing PURPLE, the official bi-monthly newspaper of the Department of English (Aided).

Under the guidance of Ms. J. Jesnie Evangeline (Assistant Professor), this student-led newspaper is dedicated to bringing the latest news updates and creative literary works from the vibrant community of students and staff. PURPLE offers comprehensive coverage from department events and guest lectures to student achievements and original writings. Get ready to indulge in the best of what the Department of English (Aided) offers - immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of literary expression.

OUR VALUES

Community, Equity & Inquisitivity—PURPLE takes pride in amplifying the student voices within the community through words. The PURPLE team works hard to maintain an equal balance of ethics and respect those who contribute. PURPLE strives to grow the newspaper by shaping stories out of the pages and cherishing and conserving all the stories, works, and articles that are put out. It also works hard to make sure they are precise and unprejudiced.

HOW TO SUPPORT PURPLE: CONTENT CONTRIBUTION: Share your articles, photographs, or artwork with us. Whether it's a news story, opinion piece, or creative writing, we wish to include your contributions. Send us your submissions and have your works published!

ADVERTISE WITH US: Partner with us to reach the reader's community. Our newspaper is read by students, faculty, and staff, making it the perfect platform to promote your business or organisation.

LETTERS TO EDITOR: Submit your Letter to the Editor to share your opinions and perspectives with our readers. Email us at purple.editoriall@gmail.com with your thoughts (150-200 words). Include your name and contact information for publication.

PROVIDE FEEDBACK: Send us your suggestions and ideas to help us improve through our official Mail ID, purplebimonthly@gmail.com. We value your opinion and want to hear from you.

FOLLOW US: Stay updated with the latest news and stories through our official Instagram page. Follow us there @purplebimonthly CORRECTION POLICY: Accuracy and objectivity are paramount in our newspaper. While every effort is made to ensure the reliability of the information presented, errors can occasionally occur. We invite readers to bring any discrepancies to our attention and welcome feedback. In the event of an error, a correction, clarification, retraction, or editor's note will be published in the subsequent edition. To request a correction, please submit your query to purple.editoriall@gmail.com.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICY: The News-Review welcomes the opinions of all in the form of letters to the editor, as long as the submissions are not in bad taste and refrain from attacking individuals without supporting documentation or a rational and legally defensible justification. In any event, the newspaper reserves the sole discretion to decide whether or not a reader submission will be published. If your letter is selected it will be run on a single occasion and you agree to give us the right to publish it in print and digital form. The News-Review will not accept duplicated, reprinted, copied, or otherwise reproduced letters. Letters should be original, typewritten or neatly handwritten. Letters should not exceed 150 words.

INSIDE

peek through the pages of Purple's debut edition.

HIGHLIGHTS [Page: 1] Our front page highlighting all our major stories and achievements. Our coverage spans a wide array of topics, ensuring you are always in the loop about the latest news and events.

ABOUT US [Page: 2] Our dedicated team, primarily composed of students from the Department of English (Aided), brings a fresh and energetic perspective to journalism and a breakdown of our team members and ways to reach you can reach out to us!

COMMON NEWS [Page: 3] From detailed updates on departmental activities, such as international conferences, workshops, and guest lectures, to comprehensive reports on major campus events, we’ve got it all covered.

LITERARY LENS [Page: 10] "Literary Lens" section unlike no other newspaper offers engaging art works, poetry, opinion pieces and reviews that delve into the literary world created by the students of our department.

EDITORIAL [Page: 11] Opinionated articles from our beloved editors on researched and selected topics that discusses a particular working field, discovery or current debates. this section also includes letters sent to editors to ensure free communication between the readers and our team.

SPORTS [Page: 12] Exclusive insights into the sports arena, featuring interviews with our college athletes, match reports, and previews of upcoming sporting events.

OUR TEAM

Ms J Jesnie Evangeline - Staff Incharge Vementhaanee S. A. - Chief Editor (III B.A.) Sridevi Meenal S. - Associate Chief Editor (III B.A.) Varshini S. - Managing Editor (II M.A.) Lakshna E. - Copy Editor (I M.A.) Bhavana C. - News Editor (III B.A.) Shrujana R. - News Editor (III B.A.) Sandhiya N. - Sports Editor (III B.A.) Anusha C. - Editorial Illustrator (III B.A.) Mothika G. - Sports Reporter (III B.A.) Ishwarya S. - News Reporter (III B.A.) Bala L. R. - News Reporter (II B.A.) Bhavinaya J. - News Reporter (I B.A.) Madhu Bharathi M. - Columnist (II B.A.) Shalini S. K. - Columnist (I B.A.) ⁠Yaswanthi T. ⁠- Columnist (I B.A.) Dhiyana A. - Photojournalist (I B.A.) Vismaya V. - SM Manager (III B.A.)

Your Story Our Pages

June-July 2024 Edition COIMBATORE

PURPLE

A FOCUS ON DR. RUFUS'S LECTURE: LANGUAGE, IDENTITY, AND RESISTANCE The Literary and Debating Association of KCW embarked on a new journey with the inauguration of the Association for the year 2024-2025. The event was a grand success, featuring a lecture by renowned resource person Dr. Samuel Rufus on "Poetics & Politics in Post-Colonial Studies."

The lecture also touched upon the hierarchy of stereotypes, comparing and contrasting different groups. Dr. Rufus emphasised that stereotypes always have one at the top and one at the bottom, creating a harmful dynamic. He encouraged the audience to be aware of these stereotypes and to resist them.

Dr. Rufus's lecture was an eye-opener, exploring how language influences people daily. He discussed stereotypes and their harmful nature, highlighting how language itself could be derogatory based on the user and their cultural background. He explained how language can be used as a microaggressive tool that targets a specific group of people.

Dr. Rufus also discussed the importance of resistance against dehumanising language, citing examples from feminist writers like Virginia Woolf, Jane Austen, and the Brontë sisters. He highlighted Woolf's essay "Killing the Angel in the House," where she argued that women should be addressed as women, not adorned with metaphors that men use for their advantage.

The lecture delved into the concept of language as a tool, identity, and innate object that connects inherently to the user. Dr. Rufus emphasised that language can be used to degrade and uplift, citing examples from African American Vernacular English. He highlighted the power of language in shaping our perceptions and identities.

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The lecture concluded with Dr. Rufus quoting, "Humans are textual beings," emphasising the importance of liberating the mind and language. He encouraged the audience to use language responsibly and to challenge harmful stereotypes and norms.

The lecture was interactive, engaging the audience for two hours. As literature students and aspiring writers, we promise to carry the power of language Dr. Rufus also explored the idea of linguistic with respect and use it to its fullest potential. resistance, the ability to change language to make it one's own. He quoted Kamala Das, "The language I Overall, the inauguration of the Literary and speak becomes mine." This concept resonated Debating Association was a resounding success, deeply with the audience, emphasising the thanks to Dr. Rufus's thought-provoking lecture. importance of reclaiming language and making it We look forward to more engaging events and discussions in the future. our own.

WELCOMING THE CLASS OF ‘27 SOUNDARYAA K

The sun was as bright as every day, but it hit differently today as it lit up the Fresh Young Minds of the students. Yes! It was the first day of college which was both exciting and nervewracking! The Student induction program which were designed to familiarise newcomers with campus facilities, academic policies, and extracurricular opportunities was a grand success!

To begin with, a warm welcome note by our Chairperson Dr. R. Nandini soothed our flowing minds. Next, our Principal Dr. P. B. Harathi made us walk through the campus life. The Chief Guest of the day Dr. Kezevino Aram, President of Shanthi Ashram, graced us with her motivating speech and enkindled the fire of light within us.

Following that, Our College Alumna Ms. P. Geetha Priya, District Revenue Officer, Salem made an impact on our hearts by her energizing speech.

Then, Ms. Charumathi Muralidharan, a multitalented artist, showed us that by following our passions we can make our lives even more beautiful! Our Student Ms. Parvathy R. Pillai, a TEDx speaker, showed us a new way to the future. As a final note, Dr.J. Bala Vijayalakshmi, our dedicated IQAC coordinator, delivered the Vote of Thanks.

One of the first year UG student who attended the program said, "The program was structured perfectly and I am glad to know about the fascinating clubs" and another student added that "The program was good and I got familiarized with all college activities".

The writer identifies six key functions of language, Exploring Rural Innovation! Adjunct Faculty Lecture with the poetic function focusing on the aesthetic use of language. The essay bridges linguistics and literary theory, highlighting how linguistic principles can deepen the understanding of poetic texts.

The lecture was informative and gave a deep insight into Jakobson’s thoughts.

Can you lit?

DHIYANA SHRI A

The institute offers a variety of courses to learn for free with a few starting from just Rs.100. Out of all the courses and activities provided, the girls got to witness and experience baking cookies, crocheting, making plates, millet based pastas, organic napkins, and even got to visit a solar dryer.

They also communicated with the people, asking about their thoughts and opinions. I’m glad to say that each and every woman there was happy to learn something new and enhance their skills in the hopes of becoming successful entrepreneurs.

On the whole, the people in the institute were kind to the students and made them realize the importance of uplifting fellow citizens.

Students attending Dr. Maheshwari's lecture on Language and Poetics | MEERA KRISHNAKUMAR

An adjunct faculty lecture was delivered on the seminal essay, Language and Poetics written by Roman Jakobson at PSGR Krishnammal College for Women, Coimbatore. The extensive lecture was presented by Dr Maheshwari R, former Associate Professor of English at PSGR Krishnammal College for Women. The lecture was organised for II MA English Literature students for the subject Literary Theory II. The lecture was held through online mode in the last two hours on the following dates: 16/07/2024, 21/07/2024, 22/07/2024, 23/07/2024 and 24/07/2024.

Madam explored the essay’s structure coherently and provided us with relevant examples. The classes were masterfully delivered by elaborating on the key points of the essay. The power point presentation was detailed and handy to jot down the notes for our reference.

To give a brief summary, Roman Jakobson's Language and Poetics examines the multifaceted nature of language, emphasising the poetic function, which prioritises the form and structure of language to enhance meaning

2. This author is revered throughout the world with even an adjective named after them. An author who burned their manuscripts because of self-doubt but was a lover of literature who took law to study longer in university. Who is this author who has three unfinished novels that were published posthumously?

3. What is the title of the first book to feature the character Sherlock Holmes?

4. Viola and Sebastián are the characters of which play written by Shakespeare?

5. A little boy going home from school was captivated by the beauty of the landscape and stole a boat to row in the lake. Later, it became an experience that led the poet to see nature as both terrifying and compassionate. Who is this poet who felt that poetry is the result of emotions recollected in tranquillity?

6. Who earned the title of "Queen of Mystery" in the world of detective fiction?

4. Twelfth Night 5. William Wordsworth 6. Agatha Christie

The land for the institute was donated by the villagers as a goodwill gesture, thanks to their belief in development. Krishnammal’s mission to empower the underprivileged in our communities has helped reach the present status. Skill training programmes are conducted for rural women with funding from DST (Department of Science and Technology) across 21 Panchayats.

1. Who wrote the novel “Pride and Prejudice,” exploring themes of love, class, and societal expectations in 19th-century England?

Answers: 1. Jane Austen 2. Franz Kafka 3. A Study in Scarlet

The first year students of B.A. English Literature, PSGR Krishnammal College for Women, got an opportunity to visit the Rural Women's Technological Park camp (RWTP) on 12th July, 2024.

Their journey began at 8:40 am in the morning from the campus all the way to Annur. 53 students along with their tutor Ms. Anuradha made the visit.

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NEWS

June-July 2024 Edition COIMBATORE

Fresh faces on the block: The two recent hires of the English Department

Under the many old footsteps that have walked through our department, we had a casual interaction with our new professors. This article centres on the vision and perspective of the new generation of professors. The conversations below will help the students get to know the new professors better.

It might be challenging for a student to find motivation unless they were disciplined from the beginning, but it is important to know that it is never too late to find motivation. Here are four steps that would help the students achieve whatever they want: 1. Find what you love and cultivate that passion 2. Devise a plan or schedule 3. Be consistent in your thoughts and efforts 4. Always keep yourself motivated by exploring new things and stay determined.

ISHWARYA S & BALA L R Prof. Keerthana completed her undergraduate degree here at PSGR Krishnammal and postgraduation at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham. She is currently pursuing her PhD in Pandemic Literature at Krishnammal.

Professor Manjupriya completed her undergraduate studies at Krishnagiri Adhiyaman Arts and Science College. She pursued her postgraduate education at Vallalar College of Arts and Science for Women. She also cleared the National Eligibility Test (NET) and was awarded the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF). She did her Ph.D from Avinashilingam University for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, specialising in Indian literature. They both are well known to the faculty as…

A spark of fire that is needed to bring a candle to life. Likewise, was there any spark that ignited you to be the person you are today?

Prof. Keerthana said that it did not come to her as a spark but as a slow realisation.

‘My mother has always been my constant booster; she used to tell me that education is the best and most permanent asset I could have in my life. I initially wished to become a dentist, but couldn’t due to circumstances. That didn’t mean the end of my life and my passion to become a professor led me to where I am today. So, I would say that my mother is responsible for who I am today.’

This was Prof. Manjupriya’s inspiring response; When I was young, I was oblivious to my parents’ struggles. Later on, when I started realising them, I was determined to make their lives comfortable.

I studied hard to get to where I am today without forgetting who I am. Personal struggles open our eyes to reality and my favourite quote reflects the same: “Poverty can teach people more things than a degree can.”

Getting acquainted: Our team's interaction with the new staff | ISHWARYA

A lot of people have similar personalities, but comic characters are varied and always exceed the qualities of humans. So which comic characters do you think would best describe each other?

Manju is someone I know who has faced a lot of personal struggles in her life but I have never seen her complain. I would compare her to the Disney character ‘Elsa’ from the movie Frozen. Elsa is also a strong woman of great character; said Prof.

Keerthana.

Meanwhile, Prof. Manjupriya compared Keerthana Ma’am to Lady Tsunade from the anime series ‘Naruto’. Lady Tsunade is a brave character, who always puts up a strong front despite all her struggles.

Prof. Keerthana encourages her students to work hard and helps them step out of their comfort zones.

She is a supportive pillar to her students who are struggling.

What advice would you give to students who are working hard to achieve their dreams?

Here is some valuable advice given by the professors.

People tend to compare their progress with others, often undermining their achievements. To avoid this, I recommend the students who are pursuing their passion, to be consistent in their work. There will be hardships and no visible progress in the first two to three months, but we must remain persistent.

Managing students of this generation has proven to be difficult for teachers. If you could have any superpower to make the students listen, what would it be?

Prof. Keerthana rushed to answer this question; ‘I love students and want them to be themselves. The only thing I want is for them to listen to me in class. I wish I had a superpower where they would automatically listen to me when I entered the class and not get distracted by anything else. I want my students to interact with me and I want to make learning fun for them.’

Prof. Manjupriya, excitedly added her fantasy; ‘In the anime Naruto, there is a mind power called Genjutsu, which allows me to create illusions that will make the students see or feel whatever I want them to. I think this would have a significant impact on the students.’

Which recently released book would you recommend to your fellow humans?

Prof. Keerthana recommended a historical fiction novel ‘Avarana’ by S.L. Bhyrappa. ‘I suggest this book because it talks about a few controversial topics such as history, religion, identity and multiculturalism, closely related to the people of our country.’

Here’s what Prof. Manjupriya had to say: I would recommend a book called ‘The Seeker of Nothing’ by Kabir Munjal, published in 2022. The book explores life lessons through various adventures and will leave the readers feeling optimistic. It personally helped me get through a difficult period in my life.

PG students found themselves filled with wonder and The presentation came to an end and Dr. C. Keren COGNITIVE APPROACHES remarked that it helped with their studies.

Vinita, Assistant Professor, Department of English, TO LITERATURE MADE EASY gave a formal Vote of Thanks to the respectable chief The chief guest was dutifully welcomed by an guest.

Associate professor in the Department of English ,Mrs. P. Subhapriya, in her Welcome Speech. The A student from Ist UG English Literature suggested a lecture started at 9.15 a.m. and covered a wide range feedback about this session, “It was truly wonderful of subjects, including textual subjectivity, embodied and inspiring.” cognition, shifting conceptions about literature, and the advantages of reading literature. The emphasis of the speaker was on the mental, emotional, and imaginative processes.

Dr. B. Padmanabhan’s Lecture on “Cognitive Approaches to Literature”| FILE PHOTO

Another day! Another guest lecture delivered by yet another admirable chief guest. Well this day it was Dr. B. Padmanabhan, Assistant Professor, Department of English and Foreign Languages, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore. On 30.07.2024 he addressed a lecture on the topic “Cognitive Approaches to Literature.” in depth to the Students of 1st UG, 1st PG and 2nd PG. Every student in the hall could be seen listening to this lecture with deep admiration.

Additionally, he emphasised how modern literary texts are shaped by the psychology and neuroscience of reading, social behaviour, and awareness.

Furthermore, Dr. Padmanabhan discussed our perception of the story (textual subjectivity) and the needlessness of identifying the author with his work.

He gave an analysis of a number of literary masterpieces and stressed the need to examine them critically since, as he put it, "literature is the most powerful instrument of human thought." He indicated how pervasive science is and how literary texts may be analysed via the prism of cognitive science, independent of shifts in society and culture.

The speaker answered a few questions from the students after the session.

PURPLE

June-July 2024 Edition COIMBATORE

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Handwoven Elegance on Display! FRESHERS WEEK VISMAYA V

BHAVINAYA JEYAKUMAR

The first week at KCW was mind-blowing for both the charming freshers and the beloved faculty. The ambience was plush with gorgeous peacocks everywhere. The KCW family is so fantastic!

There was a warm welcoming for freshers on 24th June, 2024 in the Golden Jubilee Auditorium. The volunteers ushered the parents and newcomers to the auditorium politely and the program was smoothly taken up by the management and the seniors. Have you heard of the song "Thangamey"? Yes, it was beautifully sung by one of the seniors to welcome the freshers. All the students started to sing along with her to cheer her on. We were so happy to be a part of the KCW family.

Colors of culture shine bright at KCW on Handloom Day | BALA L R

Handloom day is celebrated to value and respect the handloom weavers of India.

Handloom clothes are an integral part of India's ancient culture that has been existing for almost 12,000 years. Every year on 7th August, National Handloom day is celebrated to represent the Indian fashion culture.

Commemorating this day, KCW celebrated Handloom day on 26th of July 2024 in the golden jubilee auditorium.

The Fine Arts Club and Department of Tamil jointly organised and conducted an event called “The fashion parade”, giving an opportunity to the students of KCW to showcase their elegance and to represent and appreciate the handloom culture of Indian fashion. Third year UG students were the audience of this event and the program started at 11 am and lasted till 12.30pm.

Deepthi R, Supraja M Kannan, Aaruthraa Sree N K, and Anusha C of 3rd UG participated in the Fashion parade, representing the department of English.

Remarkably, Aaruthraa Sree N K has secured 3rd place marking a moment of pride to her Department. The other participants were also acknowledged for their Talent.

Each participant wore saree, designed and draped with the help of their family and friends. “My mom was the one who designed the costume, she designed it in an Indian Maharani style” says Anusha, one of the participants from the Department of English.

“Through this event, we learned the importance of hand looming” says another participant, Supraja. Aaruthraa who secured 3rd place, wore ‘Iyer Madi Saree’ for her ramp walk, exhibiting the South Indian Tamil Brahmin hand loom culture. “I didn't even have the thought of winning, I just wanted to participate and gain knowledge about hand loom culture,” she remarked in her victory oration.

59 Students from different Departments took part in this fashion parade showcasing their unique sense of styles. 2nd year UG student Christina from The Psychology department secured first place; Eliwelu A Elia from 3rd UG BBA RM secured the 2nd place and Aaruthraa Sree N K from the Department of English secured 3rd place in the fashion parade. The involvement of other participants were also well appreciated by the audience and the judges.

The Start!

The first day was amazing as the teachers gave many brain games and fun activities to the students to motivate them and make them more comfortable. Students loved all the fun-filled games and events. They came to know about the Clubs, JOCs and Add-on courses that were offered by the college. Seniors from the department gave warm greetings to the juniors and encouraged them for their golden journey with them together!

The beginning of the new era!

It was splendid, refreshing and calm when all the department students reunited during the break. Canteen was simply amazing‘yummy yummy food for your tummy’. The aroma of the newly prepared food in the cafeteria made us go mad.

The college store offered books, notebooks and stationery, making it easier for the hostellers.

We didn’t have a great day, we made the day great!

The 'I LOVE KCW' board welcomes freshers with open arms (and cameras!) | VISMAYA V

GIRL, EAT! WHY A BALANCED MIDDAY MEAL MATTERS

Nourishing meals on a budget at The GRG Mess | VISMAYA V

For most college students, lunch tends to be the first meal of the day. Aided students who must arrive at college early in the morning rarely eat breakfast. Whereas, SF students who stay up late at night and wake up late in the morning typically take their first course of meal in the afternoon.

As college students, we are naturally preoccupied with our lives daily. In the process, we compromise on what food we consume, prioritising taste over quality and quantity of meals. You may have noticed students at the college cafeteria and stores grabbing snacks or packaged drinks before classes to satiate their appetite. The question is, how does it satisfy the needs of your body?

Food influences our emotions and overall wellbeing. What we eat significantly impacts our mood, energy level, and mental state. Getting to enjoy our favourite meal can boost our spirits. While eating nutritious meals can foster a balanced and pleasant state of mind, unhealthy eating habits may result in discontent. Essentially, our dietary choices can influence how we feel physically and emotionally.

habits and nutritional deficiencies. While having lunch as the first meal may be suitable for some people, it is critical to ensure that all dietary and nutritional requirements are met throughout the day for optimal health. Every girl moving into adulthood should cherish the last years of adolescence by embracing her body and providing it with appropriate sustenance.

Students are mandated to be mentally and physically active during class hours, engage in extracurricular pursuits, and participate in various college initiatives, all of which require excessive energy and may exhaust them. Having said that, it is vital that the meals they take are both balanced and nutritious to compensate for all.

All nourishment begins with what we consume, and how well-balanced our meals are. Aside from this, drinking water or other hydrating fluids in the morning helps maintain hydration levels and promotes general well-being till the next meal of the day. Developing healthy eating habits at an early age not only helps students balance their physical health, academic performance, and mental well-being, but also lays the groundwork for lifelong wellness.

Lunch may nevertheless stimulate metabolism if it contains a variety of proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. A nutritious lunch gives students the energy they need to stay focused and active during the afternoon, as well as nourishment after an exhausting day of carrying out their responsibilities at college. The College Mess, where GRG Hostellers dine, provides students with such an option to have an adequate and balanced meal on a limited budget.

Skipping lunch can occasionally lead to bad eating

QUOTE QUEST:

Can You Find the Source of this literary quote?

QUOTE: “You’re mad, bonkers, completely off your head.

But I’ll tell you a secret. All the best people are.”

ANSWER: Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, written by Lewis Carroll

Y⁠ ASWANTHI T

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June-July 2024 Edition COIMBATORE

NEWS Student Forum Elects New Office Bearers for 2024-’25

BALA L R

The newly elected office bearers of the Student Forum 2024-25 | Special Arrangements

The student council election 2024 of PSGR Krishnammal College for Women began with the filing of nominations for the posts of President , Fine arts secretary ,Quiz club secretary and general secretary in the first week of july after an official announcement about it from the Principal in the general assembly the week before . While the eligible candidates for the post of general secretary was 2nd year UG students , 3rd year UG students were the eligible candidates for the other posts.Every department can contest for the 4 positions and only one student from each department can nominate for each post. Many students enthusiastically nominated for the various positions and the last date for nomination was 2nd july 2024 . The candidates were allowed to do their campaigning through online mode. They circulated videos and posts entailing their promises and mottos in it.

There were 8 nominations for the post of president . The candidates were Aishwarya .s from III BA History Aided, Elamathi. S.S from III BA English aided, Madhumitha P from III BA Economics aided, Midhubashni B B from III BCom sf , Niviya Sri S from III BCom AF , Sanjana from III BSc CS AI , Shonalegha M from III BA English sf , Srini S III BSc cognitive system.

There were 8 nominations for the post of fine arts secretary . The nominees were Posa Kusama from III BSc CS AI , Malavika Unni K from III BBA BPM , Laharidha M from III BCom BA, Subathra R from III BCA B, Prasannavadhani S from III BCom CA - B, Supraja M Kannan from III BA English , Mounigga E B from III BA English, Gomathi D from III BCom A. Arthi S from III BSc Chemistry, Davana Dharshini S G from III BA English, Krutiga T from III BA Economics, Yazhini S from III BSc Maths, Bhairavi MA S from III BCom (e-com), Gnana Thaarani D R from III BBA (BPM), Krishna Priya U from III Bsc Physics, Madhumitha C B from III BSc Cs (AI), Priyanka S from III BA English were the 9 contestants for the post of quiz club secretary.

Amrutha P Rajesh from II BSc Zoology (Aided), Dhatshanyaa K of II BA History (Aided) , Samrithi Ramesh from II BCA, Pavishna.S.G from II BSc Cs (B), Rithikaanjali .B from II BCom B, Sahana. K from II BSC CS(AI) , Shalini V T from II BSc Biotech, Shathriya R from II BCom (e-com) , Shri Roshini K of II BBA (BPM) were the 9 nominees for the post of general secretary.

The E-election of the student forum took place on 11th july 2024 and results were announced the same evening. Midhubashni B B, Sanjana L, Gomathi D, Krishna Priya U, and Pavishna S G were elected as President, Vice President, Fine Arts Secretary, Quiz Club Secretary, and General Secretary respectively. As they take office, they inherit a legacy of student leadership and a responsibility to shape the future of our college.

We wish them all the best in their endeavours and look forward to seeing the positive changes they will bring, fostering a sense of community, promoting student welfare, and providing a platform for students to express themselves.

MOVING TO THE BEAT: COLLEGE COMMUNITY ENJOYS ZUMBA TOGETHER

A DHIYANA SHRI Zumba in simple words, an exercise with dance movements that are sometimes like a pattern or keeps you on your feet at all times. It is pretty known on what all the students did on the 31st of July. A quick reminder, the students of PSGR Krishnammal had the opportunity to cut an hour of class to enjoy themselves by attending a zumba workout session and to be fair it was the best, we all witnessed how energetic the instructors were how lively us students were (obviously) and not to mention how time flew so quickly .

A GATEWAY TO MEXICO

You know working out isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but eventually everyone does want to look good, more importantly to feel good in their own bodies so people these days have started to find alternate ways to lose fat, even me. I’ve tried so many methods to lose weight starting from gym, online workout session, online classes, dieting but eventually at the end of the day, it kind of gets annoying especially when you have to count calories and all that and ,no matter what you do losing weight consists of 40% the food you eat , 50% about the exercise you put in and the remaining 10% does go to the persons thought and to be honest I can’t control my mouth when it comes to food but I’m not blaming anyone cause that’s on me, but I have come to another conclusion after that zumba session that I might be able to lose some weight and upon further research, that is understanding of the topic it is quite easy.

From what I’ve collected zumba originated in the 1990s by dancer and choreographer Lushane, an aerobics instructor in Cali, Colombia and where fitness instructor Alberto Perez accidentally left his aerobics music at home.

Instead of canceling the class, he used his own music collection, which included Latin tracks, to lead the class.

SHALINI S K Planning a trip abroad can often be hectic and stressful.

Explore the vibrant city of Mexico with this travel review and have a stress-free journey. Mexico’s capital city serves as a gateway to many other destinations.

The Benito Juarez International Airport is known for its hot and sweltry atmosphere. As you make your way through the busy airport, a huge crowd of chauffeurs awaits you with cards that read “BIEVENIDA”(Welcome). The Hyatt Hotels, one of the five-star hotels in Mexico City offered me a six-day trip.

On the first day, as a troop, we headed to the UNESCO World Heritage site and the birthplace of the Mayas, Chichen Itza. As it was the day of the equinox, the giant shadow of a slithering snake marked the Castillo temple. On the way back to our camp a giant pronghorn was spotted which is extremely rare. Some people consider it a symbol of good luck. After what seemed like an hour, Enchiladas were brought. It is an authentic Mexican dish consisting of a corn tortilla rolled around a filling and covered with a savory sauce.

Visiting Mexico at the beginning of November allows you to be part of an annual festival where the country comes alive with tradition, as the dead and the living are reunited. This two-day holiday is known as the Day of the Dead or Día de los Muertos.

Thousands of people gather in graveyards to pay tribute to their ancestors. The graveyards are also decorated with life-size papier mache and miniature plastic skeletons lining the entrance. A holiday celebrated with so much joy is what this day offers.

There is a deeper meaning in celebrating the daydeath is just a part of life.

Colourful buses pass through the streets reminding the visitors of the Disney movie ‘Coco’. A wide array of cultures is what one sees. Not just natives, people from across the world come to Mexico to explore its cultural heritage. The flight back to India is what makes us realise that ‘Mexico is a mosaic of different realities and beauties’.

Stay tuned for more exciting travel reviews coming your way!

In comparison of whether gym is better or if zumba is better both gym and Zumba have their own set of benefits, and the one you choose entirely depends on your end goal. If your goal is to lose weight faster and improve your overall health, Zumba is the way to go. On the other hand, gym is ideal for toning up and building muscles. With its high-intensity intervals, Zumba exercise for weight loss helps you burn significant calories, boosts cardiovascular health, and enhances metabolism. Additionally, it improves flexibility, builds endurance, and offers mental health benefits by reducing stress and anxiety.

Personally I think it’s the most fun and entertaining way to lose weight also a way to keep yourself healthy and enjoy it while you do so, plus it comes along with a whole bunch of benefits so why not?

So take your step today :)

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UP THE STAIRS TO THE NEW DEPARTMENT! SERENITY IN OUR the open sky. She feels that she has to compromise ISHWARYA S CAMPUS SANCTUARY Don’t you feel an ounce of dejection when you shift and miss things, such as the reading room attached from the class you had studied for a year to a new one so that the others might come there and create their memories? What do you think professors who have worked in an institution for years think when asked to shift to a new place away from their nest of nearly sixty years?

The Department of English in KCW has been functioning for nearly sixty years. It is located in one of the first buildings built for the college. Every professor, including students, has always felt immense pride and pleasure in climbing those steps to the department. The professors have stayed there long enough to call it their home. Along with the college's transformation, the buildings over sixty years old are being torn down to build more sturdy structures.

Students and professors must embrace the inevitable changes. The Department of English, located in the F-Block, has been moved to the EBlock, which was built a few years ago. It boasts of its welcoming nature, creating the best professors out of its students. Adapting to this sudden shift of flying to a new home is an enormous task for the professors, and we asked them how they found their new haven.

The HoD, Dr. Sushil, clearly expressed her views of missing the old department where she had worked for 38 years. It had been a place of emotional investment for a very long time. As a lover of books, she mentioned that she always missed the reading room, which was nearby. The new department is not to be under prejudice in her eyes. She comments that it has more space and is more professional in state of the art and architecture.

Dr. Angeline, also an alumna of the college, felt a sense of nostalgia when she was asked about the department so dear to her heart. She misses the times when the place saw a lot of celebrations. On the other hand, she thinks the new department is friendly and is okay with the change. She emphasised the point of change with the changing times.

Dr. Jayasree, who has also served in the department for quite a long time, said that she loved the space outside the department, where there was an openair stage. She could relax completely in the old department since everything and everyone was near.

She had been so close with the professors regarding proximity and relationships. The old department had seen a lot of people coming and leaving. The place had experienced all kinds of memories that were too great to be counted. She fondly added her memories of the students who had their farewells on the terrace of the old department, which looked onto

Peacock fights a limp

to the old department, which is now far away. Her VISMAYA V vast experience told us that change is natural and that we should adapt.

Dr. Dhanalakshmi mentioned that she missed the old department terribly, where many students and professors walked together. She finds the new department to be spacious.

Dr. Gomathi, who is always cheerful in the department, mentioned that the new department was spacious, airy, bright and easy to approach the HoD. Dr. Mathangi said that this change has been progressive. The new department is spacious and bright, but she is giving herself some time to form an opinion about it. The downsides she mentioned are that the library is far away, and she feels nostalgic about leaving the department after a long while.

Dr Poornamathi, an alumna of the college, shared that the old department was close to her heart, testifying to the ancient adage, “Home is where the heart is.”

Mrs Ramya said that she likes the new department, which is more spacious and properly ventilated. In addition, she gives a thumbs-up to the LCD projector and a board on which to write quotes. To her, it is a place where she can focus more, has privacy and feels comfortable. Psychologically, she feels calmer here, and she slightly likes this more than the old one, with the added benefit of exercising by walking up the stairs every day. The only downside of this new space is the echoing.

Some say home is people, home is our family, and some say home is where we educate ourselves with fellow learners. However, the true essence of the home remains elusive. We search for homes in people and places, but never in front of us. Home is not just a physical space or a sense of belonging; it's a feeling of comfort where we don't need any excuses to be ourselves.

We tend to search for home in the faces of loved ones, in familiar places, and comforting routines, but we often overlook the most obvious answer.

This profound sense of home is nestled in the heart of nature, where the soothing sounds of the natural world envelop us in a sense of serenity. The gentle rustling of leaves, the sweet melodies of birds, and the Dr. Sasirekha is new to the department but not to whispers of the wind all conspire to create an the college. She is an alumna who also has memories atmosphere of tranquillity, making us feel like we've of the old department, which she misses. When finally found our haven. talking about the old department, she reminisces about the bygone days with a touch of sadness. She The air is alive with the sweet songs of birds, a chorus of joy that fills our hearts with delight. In this idyllic felt the old department was like a mother’s home setting, we find the freedom to be ourselves, explore, with a pleasing ambience and a beautiful compact learn, and grow, unencumbered by the world's library. burdens. Here, in this sanctuary of nature, we've found Even though Jesnie Ma’am had been in the old our true home - a place where we can breathe, relax, department only for a year, she had some positive and be authentic. points to add. She felt the old building had an As we step into our campus, a vibrant hub of learning exterior leisure space to communicate with the and growth, we're enveloped by this sense of home. students and help the slow learners with special The trees stand tall, their branches swaying gently in lecture hours after the regular classes. The new one the breeze, their leaves rustling softly, creating a also has its positives. She likes its spacious and airy symphony of sounds that calms the mind and soothes interior. the soul. We feel this home as we start our day on our campus, where we can breathe, relax and be the way Times are changing, and we have no choice but to we want to be as we dwell in the sound of nature follow this rule of thumb. However, time changes the surrounding our campus. things around us, and our hearts hold dear all the memories and experiences of our lives, etching them How many times in a day have we ever appreciated nature while we spend time in college? Half of our deep and strong. campus is filled with trees that have stood firm for years, providing shade, shelter, and a sense of serenity. The birds, especially peacocks, greet us with their majestic presence, their voices echoing all around the campus, giving a pleasant feeling to all the students and staff. The entire day, the campus is filled with the melody of birds, a constant reminder of the An injured peacock with a broken left ankle was beauty surrounding us as we spend time with our seen limping near the E-Block of KCW by one of fellow learners. the staff of the English department. The forest There is magic in the place we live in, in the home that officials were alerted, and they arrived shortly. we have now. The trees, the wind, the animals -we are They examined the limp from a safe distance all connected, intertwined in the delicate dance of life. and stated that a few peacocks tend to get shy We are a part of nature, but we often fail to appreciate and die if they are caught and treated. From then how much we must feel grateful to live among these on, the peacock was left without any beautiful creatures. The college campus is filled with disturbance, and food was provided regularly. the love of nature, and it feels like magic every time we On July 29th, 2024, after nearly two weeks, the look at the branches of the trees dancing as the wind peacock showed signs of improvement, and now sings to them. The sound of the leaves is like the sound it is smoothly working on self-healing. of magic that echoes in our souls, a gentle reminder of the beauty we often overlook.

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NEWS

Beyond the Pages: Thoughts on ‘The Shiva Trilogy’

FORGIVE WHEN IT IS HARD TO FORGET

The Shiva Trilogy by Amish Tripathi was a fascinating read that took me through the golden mythical age of India. Tripathi did a mesmerising job infusing legends with contemporary ideas. The books of the trilogy including The Immortals of Meluha, The Secret of the Nagas, and The Oath of the Vayuputhras, gripped me with its intensity of overflowing mythical richness.

We may think that the one who loves us can never hurt us.

But you know what, nothing is perfect in this world. Even a saint would have made mistakes, then how do you expect someone to be perfect?

THANU SHREE R P

The trilogy follows Shiva - a flawed hero – navigating through personal and political struggles. Portrayal of the great Indian Gods as humans with their own troubles and tribulations was an interesting and novel concept. It was a compelling read and had a fresh take on the ancient Indian legends. The book was very much to my liking with no complications with a complex time period and without confusing clusters of characters. One thing I really loved about the book was that it doesn’t stick to the original legends but simply drew its characters from the legends. It also doesn’t require any pre-requisite knowledge on the topic.

They are never in trouble. However this unique portrayal of the greatest of all Hindu Gods caught my attention.

I was always under this misconception that Indian myth was full of Gods and their wonders. However, this book proved me wrong.

Ganesh was portrayed to be a monster who had to hide himself from the society and from even his own mother. Sati was a Vikrama woman, an untouchable, who was feared to bring bad luck upon the people who touched her. This unconventional portrayal was very brave and daring of Tripathi. Gods are never casted the lights of lowliness, however, Tripathi with his bold style broke all norms and cast the famous Gods in a lowly light. In spite of the God’s initial troubles, Tripathi mind blowingly constructed the story that made them the inevitable heroes in the last part of the trilogy.

The Shiva Trilogy was a refreshing break from my monotonous murder mystery and Shiva is celebrated as a saviour, a God by the romance reads. A much needed reimaginated people of Meluha. He wars against version of the Indian legends!

Chandravanshis but later learns that they were also waiting The Blue Throated God to come DISCLAIMER: The opinions, perspectives, and save them. This pushes Shiva into a moral statements presented in Purple are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily dilemma. He many a times looses path in his reflect the official policy, position, or views of mission and seeks help from the pandits.

In the end of the trilogy, Sati dies and Shiva becomes nearly mad. All these instances are unlikely portrayal of Gods. Divine creatures are always shown to be the know-all figures.

the Purple Team. This publication is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as formal guidance or endorsement. The Purple Editorial Team disclaims liability for any inaccuracies or omissions and reserves the right to modify or decline submissions for publication.

VARSHINI P

“To err is human, to forgive divine.”

- Alexander Pope People tend to make mistakes, that's what makes them human beings. Forgiving them sounds easy but it’s also difficult for many of us. Sometimes we feel like crying, running away and escaping reality, but we cannot deny the feeling of that little broken heart. Mending our hearts can be a tiring process, It’s akin to removing needles that prick them so hard. But how painful it can be made is our choice. It depends on the thoughts in our minds.

We can never really heal until we forgive. Have you ever thought that if God can forgive a man who is full of sins, why can't we try to forgive a man who had just done one wrong thing by considering all the good that he had done in the past?

Forgiveness is not forgetting what they have done to you.

Forgiveness is acknowledgement. Acknowledging that they hurt you whether accidentally or by design. We must practice letting go of the feeling of wanting to control people's behaviour towards us; because the only thing that’s under our control is our reaction towards that situation.

Holding a grudge against a person is like growing poison for that person and then drinking it ourselves. When you forgive, it doesn't mean that you can be as normal as before but you simply refuse to allow what they did to you to control you any further. When forgiving is hard, try putting yourself in their shoes and find your perception of it. Try empathising so that you can forgive effortlessly.

Forgive others, not because they deserve forgiveness but because you deserve PEACE!

A MYSTERIOUS SENSE

THE RISE OF AI: WILL AI MAKE 30% OF US JOBLESS BY 2030?

ARCHANA U

MADHU MANIVANNAN

Common men say that one becomes a true human only when he proves that he has that additional sense. We classify living beings with five senses as animals and the ones with six as humans. But how exactly has the common man interpreted this additional 6th sense?

Artificial Intelligence- what was once a fantasy in scifi movies is now taking over the world and is getting radically cheaper. AI is the simulation of human intelligence in machines programmed to think, learn, and solve problems. Imagine this: it's 2030 and AI has taken over the world—or at least our jobs. Are we all doomed to a future of binge-watching series and endless naps? Or is there hope for human beings?

Let's dive into this digital dilemma.

Our five basic senses are sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch. Apart from these, some say there are senses like vestibular (balance), proprioceptive (movement) and interoceptive (internal). For ages, people have been saying that the sixth sense a man possesses is common sense. This includes intuition, problem-solving, reasoning, social awareness, etc. But modern science says that the sixth sense is equilibrioception (balance).

Furthermore, it was also said that our sixth sense is a soft whisper within us.

Some of the above statements might be true and some may be false. Interestingly, it can also be interrelated. But which one can a common man who doesn’t do much research about these believe?

Not only this additional sense but the whole human body is still remarkably complex.

First off, will AI make 30% of us jobless by 2030? It is possible, but don't panic just yet. AI is getting smarter —writing articles, diagnosing diseases, and even making music but remember, AI lacks one crucial component- the human touch. It is simulated only according to the prompts given by us.

Data entry, telemarketing, product analysis, and even customer service might feel the AI pinch sooner.

Repetitive jobs like these can be done much faster by AI than by humans. Jobs that need creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex decision making can never be replaced by technology. Think about therapists, teachers, and our streetside chaiwala; there is no way AI can make better tea while giving life advice!

The rise of AI is not all doom and gloom. It is also producing new jobs, jobs we haven't even foreseen.

Imagine being a "virtual environment designer" or an "AI ethics consultant." The current generation of students must be ready to adapt to life long learning and skill building to make these technologies work for them instead of replacing them.

So, should we be worried? Not really. Embrace the tech and remember that humans are adaptable.

We’ve survived revolutions before, and we’ll do it again. Plus, there's always the fallback plan of becoming a famous influencer. Some say engineers are working hard to replace themselves with AI. If they can program AI then they’d also be able to prompt it. The next time you see Adtiya Kachave popping up before a YouTube video with his Be10x workshop, better take his help in learning the AI tools to secure your future job and promotions.

AI isn't here to replace humans; it's here to work alongside us, to make life a bit easier and a lot more interesting. Just keep your mind open, keep learning, and maybe have a backup plan of opening a pani puri stall—just in case!

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RAVANA: A GOOD FATHER OR A DREADFUL WHO STOLE MY COOKIES? YASWANTHI T VILLAIN? RETELLING OF A GREAT MYTH “When you are down, think like a boxer: If you are BHAVYA SHREE

This is when Surpanakha, Ravana’s sister, sees Ram in the forest. Attracted by his striking looks, she tries History is a branch of knowledge that has been to converse with him. Infuriated by a dark-skinned taught to us since our childhood. Have you ever woman flirting with his brother, Lakshman chops off wondered who would have written all the stories in Surpanakha’s nose. Surpanakha reaches out to her history? Have you ever questioned yourself before brother, fabricating stories about the brothers to believing the facts in the books of history? Most of us seek revenge. Ravana was enraged by the would answer no. When we hear the very word ill-treatment of his sister and was concerned for his "Ramayana", we are reminded of the adorable love daughter's safety. He finds Sita in the forest. Sita was story of Ram and Sita, and also the dreadful villain of unwilling to trust Ravana despite giving his this story, Ravana. This image of Ramayana arises explanations, so he abducted her to Asoka Vana, said from Valmiki’s representation of the story. You to be the largest garden in Asia, in Sri Lanka. Despite might be startled when you get to know the Jain the royal treatment given to her, Sita inflicts pain on version of Ramayana written by Sanghadasa. Let’s herself, unable to bear the separation from her discover other faces of epic history. husband.

Sri Lanka was flourishing under the reign of its Ram sets out to find Sita and receives help from greatest ruler, Ravana. This period is said to be the various people on his way to Ravana’s place. (In golden age of Sri Lanka. Ravana was also a loyal Valmiki's Ramayana, Sugriva and Hanuman are devotee of Lord Shiva. Mandodari was Ravana’s portrayed with monkey faces, but critics believe they beloved wife, and the couple had a beautiful baby were ordinary South Indian men misrepresented girl. Ravana had an unshakeable faith in astrology. due to their darker skin and native features.) People When their daughter’s horoscope was written, the were sent from both sides for negotiation, but to no astrologers predicted, “The girl will be a great queen avail. in the future, such that the world will remember her Finally, Ram declares war to bring back his wife forever. But the Sri Lankan kingdom will be ravaged and defeats Ravana. Unfortunately, the prophecy if she stays with her father.” Ravana grew anxious predicting the devastation of the Sri Lankan upon hearing the prophecy. kingdom when Sita was near her father, comes true.

Janaka, the king of Mithila, had been yearning for a child for a long time. With a heavy heart, Ravana The Jain version of Ramayana answers a few decides to leave his baby in the kingdom garden of puzzling questions that arose from Valmiki’s Janaka. When Janaka discovers the baby girl lying in representation of Ramayana: the garden, he considers her a blessing from 1. As per Valmiki’s Ramayana, Ravana abducts Sita Bhoomidevi (Mother Earth) and accepts her as his out of attraction. So why didn’t he even touch her? child. He names the child Sita. Sita grows into a It’s because Sita was Ravana’s daughter, and he beautiful woman with all the love and wealth doesn’t intend to harm Sita. Moreover, Ravana was showered on her. Ravana ensures that his daughter an upright king and devotee of lord Shiva, living a is well cared for by King Janaka, from a distance. happy married life. There was no reason for him to When Sita attains maturity, a Swayamvaram (a royal get attracted to a young girl like Sita. practice in which a girl is allowed to choose her groom herself) is arranged. Sita falls in love with 2. Were there men with monkey faces, as said in Ram, the prince of Ayodhya, who is well-known for Valmiki’s Ramayana? his courage, loyalty, and righteousness.

No, they were misrepresentations of South Indian After a few years of Ram and Sita’s wedding, Ram men. goes into exile in the forest with his wife and brother Lakshman at the request of his stepmother Kaikeyi. 3. Has Ravana got 10 faces as portrayed in Valmiki’s Ravana, worried about the banishment of his in- Ramayana? laws and daughter from their kingdom, assigns Ravana was good at multitasking and could do 10 his men to search for them so that he can offer jobs at a time. So, his mother gifted him a jewel. them accommodation in his kingdom and The reflection from this jewel could display ensure his daughter doesn’t suffer. him with 10 faces.

our language and culture, from ancient epics to READING RENAISSANCE: ofmodern works,” said Selvapriya S. of III B.A. English.

COIMBATORE BOOK This year’s festival saw a significant increase in FESTIVAL 2024 footfall and sales crossing Rs.3 crore. The festival also

hosted various programs and events, including workshops, speeches, poetry recitals, short film The Eighth Edition of the Coimbatore Book Festival screenings, book launches, storytelling sessions, was held from July 19, 2024 to July 28, 2024 at the literary competitions and book donation drive. The CODISSIA Trade Fair Complex in Coimbatore. The stalls featured a wide range of genres, including ten day event was inaugurated by the District romance, action, adventure, crime, fantasy, Collector Kranthi Kumar Pati, who emphasized the biographies, autobiographies, comics, epics, importance of reading, saying, “Reading a book is dictionaries, and encyclopedias. like meditation, it enhances concentration and boosts creativity”.

The festival provided a platform for the local talents to showcase their work and connect with readers. It The event was jointly organized by the District also fostered a culture of reading and inspired Administration and the Coimbatore District Small visitors to discover new writers and genres. The Industries Association (CODISSIA). The festival event was a vibrant and lively celebration, with featured 280 stalls showcasing a diverse range of people of all age groups in attendance. Overall, the books and publications from across the state, with a Coimbatore Book Festival 2024 was a resounding focus on Tamil books and authors. success, promoting literature, learning, and community engagement. It has set a benchmark for “The festival’s spotlight on Tamil literature future events and has become a significant literary was a surprise. It showcased the richness festival in the region.

knocked down, you need to get up in ten seconds or less.

One extra second, and it’s all over.”

The drama of human emotion is a great preservative of ideas, it gives you a general sense of direction and to the world around you .You are not just another piece of marble. You are a masterpiece waiting to be set free. A picture may be worth a thousand words, but when it comes to getting your message to register in the minds of people or indeed in your own, nothing works quite as well as a story. They open the windows of hope. They inspire, and best of all, they are memorable. They stick to our minds. Life provides tasty treats, bursts of energy and a myriad of experiences, opportunities and challenges. Likewise human personal ingredients include determination and perseverance. The capacity to stay focused is filled with passion and enthusiasm.

The loudest noise today is the ringing of the wake-up call. People often get caught up in their daily routines and comfort zones. Blaming others is a common human behavior, but for individuals who feel insecure about their own abilities, the only way to succeed in life is to eliminate distractions and set clear goals.

“Fall seven times, stand up eight .” This Japanese proverb emphasises resilience and perseverance in the face of life’s challenges.

COMIC BY SHERLIN J

SHALINI S K & PRAHARSHA N G

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LITERARY LENS

GETTING STARTED WITH DIGITAL PAINTING USING IBIS PAINT X SHERLIN J Painting has been with us right from the beginning.

From the caves, in the form of stick figures representing history, to a medium that expresses emotion, and now to the current realm of digitalisation. The shifts from traditional tools like pencils, inks, and paints to digital software and graphic tablets open new possibilities regarding creativity, efficiency, and versatility. This article will explore how to ace digital painting skills by leveraging a free application, Ibis Paint X. First thing first, let’s familiarise you with the basic and some unique tools available in Ibis Paint X as knowing the names of chess pieces is quite useless if you do not know the rules of the game.

A walk through the woods | Art by Elamathi S S

A puppy that makes you awe | Photograph by Praharsha N.G.

In the world of books!

SHRUJANA RAMALINGAM

Imagine a place where the boundaries of time and space dissolve, and all that's left is the gentle rustle of pages and the soft murmur of book lovers in rapt conversation – welcome to the Mega Book Fair in Coimbatore.

Reading books might take you to different worlds, but the mere act of buying pulls you away from all rational consciousness. It is very similar to buying a ticket to a movie or a show. It is like a portal that opens further into your journey, far and wide, wherever the book takes you to. This selective Books in CODISSIA | SHRUJANA RAMALINGAM consciousness creates a deep void that sucks in all Yes, I met millions of friends ready to patch up the the external voices, and everything except the crevices of my brain with their balmy words. images of books are simply fuzzy figures that are I must confess that it was not just my love for either not worth any notice or the time. reading that took me there thrice, but also the It's quite difficult to articulate the exact thought welcoming aroma of each book as I held them in my process when I enter a bookstore, or for a dramatic hands (sometimes, you might have to sniff, but I ask explosion, say a book expo! "Water water you to refrain from doing that in public). everywhere, not a drop to drink," said Coleridge, Old and new books alike enchanted my mind, and but had he looked at the sea of books that I to be honest, only the billing counters could toll me encountered, he might have pronounced, "Paper back from the fairytale lands of endless books- of and hardbacks everywhere, all choking in black course, everything came at a price! ink". Such was the feeling that came over me as I stepped into the Mega Book Fair at CODISSIA in I went to the book fair only to buy books, but in that Coimbatore. The Fair commenced on 19th of July exciting journey, I had the privilege to connect with like-minded people. I have always dreamt of long, and drew to an end on 28th of July, 2024. late-night conversations on books, and that bore the As an honest hoarder of books, I faithfully visited flowers of fruition in the grand expo. I met a person the stalls on the very first day of their installation. I who was as enthusiastic about books as me and we went with a friend (luckily, I remembered that talked of Shakespeare, Marlowe, and literature in when I came out) and visited just around 20 stalls. I general for more than an hour. He dropped regretted not visiting all the 285 stalls, but deep interesting trivia on the conspiracy theories of down, I knew that it was just the beginning of a long Shakespeare's authorship and quoted excellent lines series. I went there two more times and came back from various plays from the grooves of his brain! I with at least a dozen books which I'm incredibly came to the hostel happier than ever because the proud of and for which my roommates are not so incident was a testimony not only to the existence of happy at all! book lovers but also to the existence of kind-hearted To record my exact emotions, I would say that I people. The place was a consortium of interesting felt like a hamster hoarding food for the winter. people lost inside their minds, but all the way Looking at all the colourful books stacked on both reaching the exit reluctantly as if their bodies were axes (horizontally and vertically), I was transported souls, and the books their bodies. to another dimension where I heard only the soft whisperings of each book trying to lure me That's a wrap, but wait a second! Be the first to go with the stories of the lives they held. to a book expo the next time one comes up: if not for the books, at least for the bookmarks!

HENNY AND PENNY Illustration by Anusha C

Basic tools: Spades to lay your foundation Brush tool– this tool comes with a variety of brush styles from normal paint brush to oil pastel, stars to grass. Besides these numerous brush options, you can even create custom brushes that cater to your desires.

Swap tool– enables you to switch between eraser and brush on a single touch.

Layer icon– There is a lot you can do with the layer tool. This tool helps to separate your artwork, which makes it easier to edit. This is also useful in making changes to one layer without affecting the others, Use “+” to add new layer You can flip layer vertically or horizontally Even add effects, change the opacity (using the scale), merge two or more layers, clip, mask, rename and delete.

Tap on the eye button to make the layer visible or invisible.

Temporarily hide or lock the layer to avoid accidental editing.

Reference window – This tool can be found on the top tool menu, it looks like a switch. Flick the reference window option that will lead you to your gallery.

Choose the desired picture and done! You can even adjust the size of the reference window so that it will not hinder your canvas.

Colour tools: Hued companion Colour wheel – Ibis paint provides two wheels colour selection, along with this one can also compare the colour with previously picked colour and even reduce its opacity. Personalisation at its maximum.

Eyedropper – this helps one pick a precise colour that is already used on the canvas or from other pictures.

Fill tool – one sentence to explain this tool is, colouring made easy! A single touch and it covers the entire area.

Selection tool: Editing precisely Magic wand and lasso – both of these tools serve the same purpose of selecting a particular part to edit or make changes. This will come in handy if you are creating comics.

Smudge and Blur – these tools give your artwork a more edgy and detailed look.

Transform – a powerful tool whose magic kicks in when you want to move, rotate, distort or skew. You can change either the whole part or an individual element using a lasso or magic wand. If you are not a master of perspective, there is even an option for perspective scale with which you can adjust to make it look like another perspective.

Ruler tool – another tool that can help you with perspective, straight lines and perfect circles is this tool. This comes with various types such as linear, ellipse, circular, radial, symmetry, array, etc.

Gestures: Ibis Paint x app also provides some gesture feature for a seamless experience. For zooming, you can pinch in and pinch out. Double tap is to undo and triple tap is to redo.

The limitation of Ibis Paint x seems boundless!

Besides painting, you can edit pictures, create posters, retouch and even change your hair colour in your photos. Overall, IBIS PAINT X is a perfect app that gives aspiring artists a digital creative outlet, whether you’re serious about art or just want to have some fun Try it out today!

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June-July 2024 Edition COIMBATORE

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EDITORIAL

REBEL WITH A CAUSE: PURSUING Understanding Gender Bias and Discrimination THE PASSION IN A WORLD FULL SANDHIYA N OF EXPECTATIONS VEMENTHAANEE S A

Many people simply fail to understand the opinion on Gender, whether it's a discrimination, bias, stereotyping, or empowerment. Majorly, confusion is between Gender bias and Gender discrimination, so it should be crystal clear in the mind. By definition, gender bias refers to the attitudes that are held towards people on the basis of their gender. Gender discrimination refers to actions or practices that disadvantage people based on their gender.

When I tell my relatives I am majoring in English Literature, they frequently ask, 'What can you do with a degree in English Literature? Isn't it just about reading books and learning grammar?'. To be honest, I didn't know much more than that myself when I initially started. However, as I progressed through my courses of study, I realised that literature is far more than just grammar and Shakespeare. It is about appreciating culture, history, and society through the lens of great works of literature. It is about honing critical thinking skills, improving communication skills, and exploring the human experience.

As Literature students, we're often steered towards conventional career paths like becoming a professor or a journalist. But what if you truly want to pursue your passions rather than just a salary? It's time to shatter the notion that your degree must dictate a specific career path. Reflect on what initially drew you to pursue English literature - was it the genuine enthusiasm for the power of words, the magic of stories, or the exchange of ideas? This degree is a catalyst for selfdiscovery and not just a ticket to a 9- 5 career.

Art by Anusha C

The weight of their expectations can be crushing, leaving us feeling like we're letting them down if we don't conform. Financial constraints can also limit our choices, forcing us to prioritise stability over passion if our parents can't afford to support us. But here's the thing: our circumstances don't define us.

We have the power to break free from these As Robin Williams' character in Dead Poets constraints and forge our own paths.

Society so eloquently put it, "We read and write poetry because we are members of the Embracing your aspirations won't be without human race... poetry, beauty, romance, love, its challenges, and uncertainty will inevitably these are what we stay alive for." Let's creep in. However, remember that every embrace this spirit and pursue our ambitions, remarkable accomplishment demands courage even if they seem unconventional or and perseverance. Transform your challenges uncertain. Write that novel, start that into opportunities, leverage societal blog, create that podcast or make that expectations, parental pressure, and financial film. The world needs more dreamers and creative people who refuse to be bound by constraints to ignite your determination and societal expectations, push boundaries, fuel your success. Navigate around these challenge norms, and bring fresh perspectives obstacles by seeking resources, support, and creative solutions. Your passions and talents to the table. are worth championing. Take advantage of the Society's expectations can be overwhelming, numerous scholarships available, and don't pushing us towards traditional careers and hesitate to consult our department professors, secure futures. Our well-intentioned parents who can offer valuable guidance and support. often add to this pressure, driven by their own Ultimately, the choice is yours: what will you fears and financial worries. do with your English Literature degree?

LETTERS TO THE EDITORS Beaitific Badges - Our third year in the college feels more hectic yet lively, as we move forward with many stuff to do like our first attempt at Group Project, Viva & Industrial Visit.

It all feels very sudden and the only constant is our class coming together for every simple tasks, I find it comforting when we are able to come together as a class and work as one. One such incident where we joined hands together is for our “Carpe Diem” badges. Seize the Day! Seize away! To make most out of the present and live in the moment. What a wonderful phrase to have on a badge we get to wear daily! The subtle reference to a dialogue from

“Dead Poets Society”, a Literature & Film masterpiece. I thought back to the scene in which Mr. Keats utters the words “Carpe Diem” as he makes his students stand out and helped them live in the moment, cherish it. Only an idea suggested by our Professor coming to life beautifully through the support and strength from our classmates, it’s truly wonderful! I feel a sense of pride and belonging whenever I wear the batch high on my dress.

SRIMATHI S | III B.A ENGLISH LITERATURE, AIDED.

A little requisition - We feel left out, really. Our class is willing to participate and engage in everything our college has to offer but we feel the chances

Individual Perspectives Sruthi T, a final year student says, “According to me, Gender discrimination is not just about equality but more about the empowerment of women who have been suppressed in their thoughts and actions from the ancient times till today”. Rahul R, a B.Tech Student, says, “First in my point of view, we can't just give a binary answer to this, I think it all started when people generalised the personality and characteristics of men and women, stating this is how a men/women should be”.

Sandhiya D, a working individual says, “In my own opinion, First of all, gender bias has not completely vanished. Though various steps had been taken by the government and other activists, it still remains a great challenge”. Geffrina Sharon Says, “Even at homes we are treated differently, they give freedom to boys to have fun but restrict girls to have fun”.

Evolution of Opinions Opinions on gender bias and discrimination change over time, influenced by knowledge, experiences, and societal shifts. Both men and women have faced struggles, and their voices reflect the society's evolution. The patriarchy and misogyny have been ingrained in society for ages, making it challenging to change mindsets.

Education and Liberty Mrinal Pande emphasises the need to address gender bias and discrimination. Education and liberty for both men and women can bring about positive changes. It's essential to recognise that men and women can be themselves, without conforming to traditional gender roles. As Mrinal Pande says, "When you people don't love girls, Why do you pretend to worship them?" This highlights the hypocrisy in societal attitudes towards women. Adding Michael Kaufman's lines, "To liberate women, we need to liberate men from the notion that they must always be in control and dominant." This stresses the importance of challenging traditional gender norms and promoting equality.

Creating Change To create lasting change, we must engage in open discussions, listen to diverse perspectives, and educate ourselves and others. We need to challenge our own biases and assumptions, and work towards a society that values individuality and promotes equality.

we are given is very little. We recently got a chance to participate in the college Fresher’s Day, “Adhiyayam”, which was terrific; we felt truly elated and happy. We wish we would be given many more chances like this from our Department, The last guest lecture we participated as guests was unforgettable, it was the first time we were asked to be part of an insightful lecture like that left an impression on my mind. We wish we’d be invited to attend many more events and guest lectures like that.

Literature has to offer for a single day!

Poetry, prose, drama, soliloquy, essays & so much more. The simple yet captivating beauty of Literature in many forms that drives us to be the best version ourselves, best writers, best artists, best poets and most importantly best creators.

I really wish our department could conduct Literary fests every now and then for us to indulge in and get inspired by. I think this is the spark that's missing in our college life, to P. SRI SRUTHI | I B.A ENGLISH LITERATURE, AIDED. reignite that spark would be Lit for Life- Literary fests are the truly marvelous. best experience for Literature ADRIJA DEY | II B.A ENGLISH LITERATURE, AIDED. students. To engross in all

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June-July 2024 Edition COIMBATORE

SPORTS

SUAVE SILAMBAM COMPETITOR Zumba: Feel the Fun of Fit SANDHIYA N MOTHIKA BAGS WIN AFTER WIN MEET MOTHIKA OF III BA ENGLISH LITERATURE (AIDED), THE FACE THAT REPRESENTED INDIAN SILAMBAM AND SECURED GOLD IN AN INTERNATIONAL LEVEL COMPETITION. SRIDEVI MEENAL SHANMUGAM

You won’t be surprised to know that this is just one of her many accomplishments, and there’s more to come. She has been vigorously practising Silambam since she was in grade 4 and continues to do so. She has secured gold in three different categories, Single Stick, Double Stick and Thodu Silambam (70kg weight category) at WUSF Zonal Championship 2022 held in Salem; a gold in State level International Youth Silambam & Karate Youth Games Championship 2023 held in Mothika remarked, ‘There is an undeniable feeling of pride in representing my home state and Kangeyam; a gold in Single Stick and a country.’ | SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT Fighting event at an International Martial How does it feel to represent your home state and Arts Festival held in Pondicherry the country in Silambam? Do you feel a sense of pride? same year.

There is an undeniable feeling of pride in representing Mothika recently participated in the my home state and country. This pride wasn't very International Silambam Open intense while I was competing at Zonal/State levels, but Championship 2024, which was organised when I represented our country, it overflowed to a by the International Silambam Federation point where I couldn't contain it. I was proud to be the under the Ministry of Youth & Sports of only Indian in the match held in Malaysia. It was unlike Malaysia. In the sub-senior category, she any other match and I cherish it a lot. secured gold for showcasing individual Out of all the matches you've competed in, which is the talent and silver for stick fighting. most memorable one?

Apart from her wins, she has been I have two memorable matches that I will never forget. awarded the “Thalaivi Viruthu” by People One is from my school days, the State Level SGIF Legal Rights Social Service Movements Tournament in Kovilpatti. If I had won, I would have and Universal Achievers Books of Records gone to Nationals directly, but I hurt my nose in the for her unwavering and excellent finals and was bleeding. I couldn’t move forward with contribution to society by participating the match and was placed second. The next one is and winning in the Zonal State and obviously my Malaysia match, it was surreal as it was International level competitions. my first time travelling outside India and I was very Here’s a comprehensive interview with honoured to be the only Indian in my category. the young Silambam star where she shares her personal experiences and how What advice would you give to youngsters who are just it has helped her grow into who she is starting out in Silambam ?

I strongly advise joining a Silambam class with an today; experienced trainer. Learn Silambam as a lifetime What sparked your interest in sport. Not only does it foster a sense of safety, security Silambam? and defence, but also help you gain confidence.

I have always enjoyed trying out different Silambam teaches discipline, just like any other sport. activities and picking up hobbies during This will help you greatly in your future endeavours. the holidays. Just like that, I found a Also, there are certain perks in learning Silambam, our summer class for Silambam in a government offers several scholarships and job Pamphlet and immediately wanted to try opportunities for people who do sports. I have it out. It soon became an interest. I even personally experienced these scholarship benefits, as I took a break from Silambam for about now study in our college totally free of cost. two years, but the constant cheers and encouragement from people around me truly kept me going.

Have you ever felt frustrated during matches because you felt like you were not doing as well as you’d like?

Many times! This happens to anyone who picks up a sport. They eventually get burnt out and feel like their practice hasn’t paid off. The key is to never give up. I recall an instance from my recent Malaysia Finals match where my stick accidentally struck my opponent, drawing blood. Since my opponent wasn’t wearing a helmet, I wasn’t disqualified, but they deducted one point from my score, leaving me unmotivated.

Nevertheless, I’m glad to have won the game.

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An exercise in disguise is not tedious but is all about dancing and having fun.

PSGR Krishnammal College for Women organized a Zumba session on International Yoga Day as a refreshing start to this semester. Instructors from Einstein Sports and Fitness Academy led the participants in a friendly, hospitable approach and personalised attention, which made it a unique and enjoyable experience. All the Aided and SF students had separate sessions at the PSGR Golden Jubilee Auditorium. The students were excited and had fun. This initiative by the college management made students feel better and refreshed.

This is not only for the students but also for the faculty members and other staff of our college to benefit from this program. The ultimate goal of this session was to make the students and faculty members fit. The motto of this event was, "Let's keep the spirit of fitness alive and continue to make healthy living a priority.”

Bhavya Sree, a final-year English literature student shares her experience on Zumba, “There were a whole group of students in the auditorium as it was something new; students were really, really eager, and they enjoyed the program to the max, despite the very few who were hesitant to dance initially, they gradually picked up. It was very good exercise beyond dancing; since it was between class hours, it was a great relaxation, and students felt extremely cheerful. There were 2 male and 1 female staff who were the main reason for the enthusiasm of the students. When students gave up a few steps, they motivated them and made them dance happily” Dr. Manjupriya S. a new faculty member of the English Department (Aided), describes her experience, “This Zumba recreational activity served as an energetic welcome for freshers like me. The event was inclusive, open to students, teaching faculty, and non-teaching staff alike, providing a great opportunity for collective physical and mental rejuvenation. The program facilitated socialisation among colleagues, giving me a sense of togetherness and community.

As an aerobic exercise engaging the entire body, the session was both invigorating and physically demanding, leaving us with a sense of accomplishment. The trainers showed exceptional talent, patience, and warmth, ensuring a comfortable environment and accommodating participants' song requests.

Such inclusive programs, where faculty and staff participate alongside students, are rare and commendable. The management and organisers deserve sincere appreciation from all of us for their efforts in hosting this successful event.”

ANOTHER GOLD

Dharshini, a first-year BA English Literature student at PSGR Krishnammal College for Women, has achieved a remarkable victory in the Tirupur District Silambattam Association competition. She secured the gold medal in the single stick event held at Bharath Matric School, Tirupur, on June 30, 2024.

Dharshini's outstanding performance earned her both a gold medal and a merit certificate, highlighting her dedication and skill in the traditional martial art of Silambattam. Her achievement brings pride to the college and serves as an inspiration to her peers.