Vol.1 No.1 Established2024 12pages
THE LITERARY AND
DEBATING
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ASSOCIATION OF KCW EMBARKS ON A NEW JOURNEY
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
MegaBookFair:APilgrimage forBookLovers
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 FULLARTICLE>>PAGE:10
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
THEPOPSTORE
"Changeistheonlyconstant"-atruththatresonates deeplywiththeprofessorsoftheDepartmentof English,KCW,astheybidfarewelltotheir60year-oldnestinF-Blockandembracetheirnew homeinE-Block.Theolddepartment,steepedin memoriesandnostalgia,hasbeenasecondhome to many. As they settle into their new space, professorssharemixedemotions-frommissing thereadingroomandstagetoappreciatingthe modern architecture and spaciousness. While some find solace in the new department's professionalism,otherscherishthememoriesof celebrationsandfarewells.Astheyadapttothis change,theyremindusthatmemoriesremain etchedinourheartsevenasweembracethenew. FULLARTICLE>>PAGE:7
PSGRKrishnammalCollegeforWomenheldits studentcouncilelectionsinJuly2024Nominations werefiledforPresident,FineArtsSecretary,Quiz Club Secretary, and General Secretary Online campaigningtookplace,andelectionswereheld onJuly11thMidhubashniBB,SanjanaL,Gomathi D,KrishnaPriyaU,andPavishnaSGwereelected totherespectiveposts Theyinheritalegacyof studentleadershipandaretaskedwithfostering community, promoting student welfare, and providing a platform for self-expression The collegewishesthemthebestintheirendeavours andlooksforwardtopositivechanges FULLARTICLE>>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!!”
Fitness meets fun on Campus
Student spotlight: celebrating talents Mothika bags win after win
Fresh faces on the block: The two new hires of the English Department
Warmwelcome:HODaddressesgatheringatLiterary&DebatingAssociationInauguration
ABOUTUS
ABOUTUS
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
OURVALUES
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.
HOWTOSUPPORT 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!
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CORRECTIONPOLICY:
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
LETTERTOTHEEDITORPOLICY:
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
peekthroughthepagesofPurple'sdebutedition.
HIGHLIGHTS
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Ourfrontpagehighlightingallourmajorstoriesand achievements. Our coverage spans a wide array of topics, ensuring you are always in the loop about the latest news andevents
ABOUTUS
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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!
COMMONNEWS
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From detailed updates on departmental activities, such as international conferences, workshops, and guest lectures, to comprehensive reports on major campus events, we’ve gotitallcovered
LITERARYLENS
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"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 ourdepartment.
EDITORIAL
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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 communicationbetweenthereadersandourteam
SPORTS
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Exclusive insights into the sports arena, featuring interviews with our college athletes, match reports, and previewsofupcomingsportingevents
OUR TEAM
Ms J Jesnie Evangeline
Vementhaanee S A
Sridevi Meenal S.
Varshini S
Lakshna E
Bhavana C
Shrujana R. Sandhiya N
Anusha C
Mothika G Ishwarya S.
Bala L R
Bhavinaya J
Madhu Bharathi M
Shalini S. K. Yaswanthi T
Dhiyana A
Vismaya V
AFOCUSONDR.RUFUS'SLECTURE: LANGUAGE,IDENTITY,ANDRESISTANCE
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 "
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
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
Dr Rufus also explored the idea of linguistic resistance, the ability to change language to make it one's own He quoted Kamala Das, "The language I speak becomes mine " This concept resonated deeply with the audience, emphasising the importance of reclaiming language and making it our own.
ExploringRuralInnovation!
The first year students of B.A. English Literature, PSGR Krishnammal College for Women, got an opportunity to visit the Rural Women's TechnologicalParkcamp(RWTP)on12thJuly,2024 Their journey began at 8:40 am in the morning from the campus all the way to Annur. 53 students alongwiththeirtutorMs Anuradhamadethevisit
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)across21Panchayats
The institute offers a variety of courses to learn forfreewithafewstartingfromjustRs100 Outof allthecoursesandactivitiesprovided,thegirlsgot to witness and experience baking cookies, crocheting, making plates, millet based pastas, organicnapkins,andevengottovisitasolardryer
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 Onthewhole,thepeopleintheinstitutewerekind to the students and made them realize the importanceofupliftingfellowcitizens
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 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 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 with respect and use it to its fullest potential
Overall, the inauguration of the Literary and Debating Association was a resounding success, thanks to Dr Rufus's thought-provoking lecture We look forward to more engaging events and discussions in the future.
AdjunctFacultyLecture
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
The sun was as bright as every day, but it hit differently today as it lit up the Fresh Young Mindsofthestudents.Yes!Itwasthefirstdayof college which was both exciting and nervewracking!TheStudentinductionprogramwhich 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 ChairpersonDr R Nandinisoothedourflowing minds Next,ourPrincipalDr P B Harathimade uswalkthroughthecampuslife TheChiefGuest of the day Dr Kezevino Aram, President of Shanthi Ashram, graced us with her motivating speechandenkindledthefireoflightwithinus Followingthat,OurCollegeAlumnaMs 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 VoteofThanks
OneofthefirstyearUGstudentwhoattended theprogramsaid,"Theprogramwasstructured perfectly and I am glad to know about the fascinatingclubs"andanotherstudentaddedthat "The program was good and I got familiarized withallcollegeactivities"
Thewriteridentifiessixkeyfunctionsoflanguage, with the poetic function focusing on the aesthetic use of language The essay bridges linguistics and literary theory, highlighting how linguistic principlescandeepentheunderstandingofpoetic texts
The lecture was informative and gave a deep insightintoJakobson’sthoughts.
1. Who wrote the novel “Pride and Prejudice,” exploring themes of love, class, and societal expectations in 19th-century England?
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?
DHIYANA SHRI A
StudentsattendingDr
Freshfacesontheblock:ThetworecenthiresoftheEnglishDepartment
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.
& 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.”
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 wouldbestdescribeeachother?
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 alwaysputsupastrongfrontdespiteallherstruggles. 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 workinghardtoachievetheirdreams?
Hereissomevaluableadvicegivenbytheprofessors 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 threemonths,butwemustremainpersistent
PG students found themselves filled with wonder and remarked that it helped with their studies.
Dr B Padmanabhan’sLectureon “CognitiveApproachestoLiterature”|FILEPHOTO
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.
The chief guest was dutifully welcomed by an Associate professor in the Department of English ,Mrs. P. Subhapriya, in her Welcome Speech. The lecture started at 9.15 a.m. and covered a wide range of subjects, including textual subjectivity, embodied cognition, shifting conceptions about literature, and the advantages of reading literature. The emphasis of the speaker was on the mental, emotional, and imaginative processes.
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.
Itmightbechallengingforastudenttofind motivationunlesstheyweredisciplinedfromthe beginning,butitisimportanttoknowthatitisnever toolatetofindmotivation.Herearefourstepsthat wouldhelpthestudentsachievewhatevertheywant: 1Findwhatyouloveandcultivatethatpassion 2Deviseaplanorschedule
3Beconsistentinyourthoughtsandefforts Alwayskeepyourselfmotivatedbyexploring newthingsandstaydetermined 4
Managingstudentsofthisgenerationhasprovento bedifficultforteachersIfyoucouldhaveany superpowertomakethestudentslisten,whatwould itbe?
ProfKeerthanarushedtoanswerthisquestion;‘I lovestudentsandwantthemtobethemselves.The onlythingIwantisforthemtolistentomeinclass.I wishIhadasuperpowerwheretheywould automaticallylistentomewhenIenteredtheclass andnotgetdistractedbyanythingelse.Iwantmy studentstointeractwithmeandIwanttomake learningfunforthem’
ProfManjupriya,excitedlyaddedherfantasy;‘In theanimeNaruto,thereisamindpowercalled Genjutsu,whichallowsmetocreateillusionsthat willmakethestudentsseeorfeelwhateverIwant themtoIthinkthiswouldhaveasignificantimpact onthestudents’
Whichrecentlyreleasedbookwouldyourecommend toyourfellowhumans?
ProfKeerthanarecommendedahistoricalfiction novel‘Avarana’byS.L.Bhyrappa.‘Isuggestthisbook becauseittalksaboutafewcontroversialtopicssuch ashistory,religion,identityandmulticulturalism, closelyrelatedtothepeopleofourcountry.’ Here’swhatProfManjupriyahadtosay: Iwouldrecommendabookcalled‘TheSeekerof Nothing’byKabirMunjal,publishedin2022The bookexploreslifelessonsthroughvarious adventuresandwillleavethereadersfeeling optimisticItpersonallyhelpedmegetthrougha difficultperiodinmylife
The presentation came to an end and Dr C Keren Vinita, Assistant Professor, Department of English, gave a formal Vote of Thanks to the respectable chief guest
A student from Ist UG English Literature suggested a feedback about this session, “It was truly wonderful and inspiring ”
Gettingacquainted: Ourteamsinteractionwiththenewstaff|ISHWARYA
HandwovenEleganceonDisplay!
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 goldenjubileeauditorium
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 1230pm 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 acknowledgedfortheirTalent.
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 participantsfromtheDepartmentofEnglish
“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 securedfirstplace;EliweluAEliafrom3rdUG 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.
ThefirstweekatKCWwasmind-blowingforboththecharming freshersandthebelovedfaculty.Theambiencewasplushwith gorgeouspeacockseverywhere.TheKCWfamilyissofantastic!
Therewasawarmwelcomingforfresherson24thJune,2024in the Golden Jubilee Auditorium. The volunteers ushered the parents and newcomers to the auditorium politely and the programwassmoothlytakenupbythemanagementandthe seniors.Haveyouheardofthesong"Thangamey"?Yes,itwas beautifullysungbyoneoftheseniorstowelcomethefreshers.All thestudentsstartedtosingalongwithhertocheerheron.We weresohappytobeapartoftheKCWfamily.
TheStart!
Thefirstdaywasamazingastheteachersgavemanybrain gamesandfunactivitiestothestudentstomotivatethemand makethemmorecomfortable.Studentslovedallthefun-filled gamesandeventsTheycametoknowabouttheClubs,JOCsand Add-oncoursesthatwereofferedbythecollegeSeniorsfromthe departmentgavewarmgreetingstothejuniorsandencouraged themfortheirgoldenjourneywiththemtogether!
Thebeginningofthenewera!
Itwassplendid,refreshingandcalmwhenallthedepartment studentsreunitedduringthebreakCanteenwassimplyamazing‘yummyyummyfoodforyourtummy’ Thearomaofthenewly preparedfoodinthecafeteriamadeusgomad
Thecollegestoreofferedbooks,notebooksandstationery,making iteasierforthehostellers
Wedidn’thaveagreatdaywemadethedaygreat!
GIRL,EAT!WHYABALANCEDMIDDAYMEALMATTERS
Formostcollegestudents,lunchtendstobethe firstmealoftheday.Aidedstudentswhomust arriveatcollegeearlyinthemorningrarelyeat breakfast.Whereas,SFstudentswhostayuplateat nightandwakeuplateinthemorningtypicallytake theirfirstcourseofmealintheafternoon.
Ascollegestudents,wearenaturallypreoccupied withourlivesdailyIntheprocess,wecompromise onwhatfoodweconsume,prioritisingtasteover qualityandquantityofmealsYoumayhavenoticed studentsatthecollegecafeteriaandstoresgrabbing snacksorpackageddrinksbeforeclassestosatiate theirappetite Thequestionis,howdoesitsatisfy theneedsofyourbody?
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
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
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
habitsandnutritionaldeficiencies.Whilehaving lunchasthefirstmealmaybesuitableforsome people,itiscriticaltoensurethatalldietaryand nutritionalrequirementsaremetthroughoutthe day for optimal health. Every girl moving into adulthood should cherish the last years of adolescencebyembracingherbodyandproviding itwithappropriatesustenance.
Allnourishmentbeginswithwhatweconsume, andhowwell-balancedourmealsare.Asidefrom this,drinkingwaterorotherhydratingfluidsinthe morning helps maintain hydration levels and promotesgeneralwell-beingtillthenextmealof the day. Developing healthy eating habits at an early age not only helps students balance their physicalhealth,academicperformance,andmental well-being, but also lays the groundwork for lifelongwellness.
BHAVINAYA JEYAKUMAR
The ILOVEKCW boardwelcomesfresherswithopenarms(andcameras!)
YASWANTHI T
StudentForumElectsNewOfficeBearersfor2024-’25
The student council election 2024 of PSGR KrishnammalCollegeforWomenbeganwiththe filingofnominationsforthepostsofPresident,Fine arts secretary ,Quiz club secretary and general secretaryinthefirstweekofjulyafteranofficial announcementaboutitfromthePrincipalinthe generalassemblytheweekbefore Whiletheeligible candidatesforthepostofgeneralsecretarywas2nd yearUGstudents,3rdyearUGstudentswerethe eligible candidates for the other postsEvery departmentcancontestforthe4positionsandonly onestudentfromeachdepartmentcannominatefor eachpostManystudentsenthusiasticallynominated for the various positions and the last date for nominationwas2ndjuly2024 Thecandidateswere allowed to do their campaigning through online mode Theycirculatedvideosandpostsentailing theirpromisesandmottosinit Therewere8nominationsforthepostofpresident
The candidates were Aishwarya s from III BA History Aided, Elamathi SS from III BA English aided,MadhumithaPfromIIIBAEconomicsaided, MidhubashniBBfromIIIBComsf,NiviyaSriSfrom III BCom AF , Sanjana from III BSc CS AI , ShonaleghaMfromIIIBAEnglishsf,SriniSIIIBSc cognitivesystem
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.
MOVINGTOTHEBEAT:COLLEGE
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 .
You know working out isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but eventually everyone does want to look good,moreimportantlytofeelgoodintheirown bodiessopeoplethesedayshavestartedtofind alternate ways to lose fat, even me I’ve tried so manymethodstoloseweightstartingfromgym, online workout session, online classes, dieting but eventually at the end of the day, it kind of getsannoyingespeciallywhenyouhavetocount caloriesandallthatand,nomatterwhatyoudo 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 andtobehonestIcan’tcontrolmymouthwhen it comes to food but I’m not blaming anyone cause that’s on me, but I have come to another conclusionafterthatzumbasessionthatImight be able to lose some weight and upon further research,thatisunderstandingofthetopicitis quiteeasy
From what I’ve collected zumba originated in the1990sbydancerandchoreographerLushane, 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 musiccollection,whichincludedLatintracks,to leadtheclass
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 rolledaroundafillingandcoveredwithasavorysauce. 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 oftheDeadorDíadelosMuertos.
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 daydeathisjustapartoflife.
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 yourway!
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 :)
SHALINI S K
ISHWARYA S
Don’tyoufeelanounceofdejectionwhenyoushift from the class you had studied for a year to a new onesothattheothersmightcomethereandcreate theirmemories?Whatdoyouthinkprofessorswho have worked in an institution for years think when askedtoshifttoanewplaceawayfromtheirnestof nearlysixtyyears?
The Department of English in KCW has been functioningfornearlysixtyyears Itislocatedinone of the first buildings built for the college Every professor, including students, has always felt immenseprideandpleasureinclimbingthosesteps tothedepartment Theprofessorshavestayedthere long enough to call it their home Along with the college's transformation, the buildings over sixty yearsoldarebeingtorndowntobuildmoresturdy structures.
Students and professors must embrace the inevitable changes. The Department of English, located in the F-Block, has been moved to the EBlock,whichwasbuiltafewyearsago Itboastsofits welcoming nature, creating the best professors out ofitsstudents Adaptingtothissuddenshiftofflying to a new home is an enormous task for the professors,andweaskedthemhowtheyfoundtheir newhaven
TheHoD,Dr Sushil,clearlyexpressedherviewsof missing the old department where she had worked for 38 years. It had been a place of emotional investmentforaverylongtime.Asaloverofbooks, she mentioned that she always missed the reading room,whichwasnearby Thenewdepartmentisnot to be under prejudice in her eyes She comments that it has more space and is more professional in stateoftheartandarchitecture
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 friendlyandisokaywiththechange.Sheemphasised thepointofchangewiththechangingtimes.
Dr Jayasree,whohasalsoservedinthedepartment 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 departmentsinceeverythingandeveryonewasnear Shehadbeensoclosewiththeprofessorsregarding proximityandrelationships Theolddepartmenthad seen a lot of people coming and leaving The place hadexperiencedallkindsofmemoriesthatweretoo greattobecounted.Shefondlyaddedhermemories of the students who had their farewells on the terraceoftheolddepartment,whichlookedonto
Peacockfightsalimp
the open sky She feels that she has to compromise and miss things, such as the reading room attached to the old department, which is now far away. Her vast experience told us that change is natural and thatweshouldadapt
Dr Dhanalakshmi mentioned that she missed the old department terribly, where many students and professors walked together She finds the new departmenttobespacious
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,butsheisgivingherselfsometimetoforman opinion about it The downsides she mentioned are that the library is far away, and she feels nostalgic aboutleavingthedepartmentafteralongwhile
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 heartis”
Mrs Ramya said that she likes the new department, which is more spacious and properly ventilated In addition,shegivesathumbs-uptotheLCDprojector 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 newspaceistheechoing.
Dr Sasirekha is new to the department but not to thecollege Sheisanalumnawhoalsohasmemories of the old department, which she misses When talking about the old department, she reminisces about the bygone days with a touch of sadness She felt the old department was like a mother’s home with a pleasing ambience and a beautiful compact library.
Even though Jesnie Ma’am had been in the old department only for a year, she had some positive points to add She felt the old building had an exterior leisure space to communicate with the students and help the slow learners with special lecture hours after the regular classes The new one also has its positives She likes its spacious and airy interior
Times are changing, and we have no choice but to followthisruleofthumb However,timechangesthe things around us, and our hearts hold dear all the memoriesandexperiencesofourlives,etchingthem deepandstrong.
An injured peacock with a broken left ankle was seen limping near the E-Block of KCW by one of the staff of the English department The forest officials were alerted, and they arrived shortly They examined the limp from a safe distance and stated that a few peacocks tend to get shy and die if they are caught and treated From then on, the peacock was left without any disturbance, and food was provided regularly On July 29th, 2024, after nearly two weeks, the peacock showed signs of improvement, and now it is smoothly working on self-healing
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 homeremainselusive Wesearchforhomesinpeople andplaces,butneverinfrontofus.Homeisnotjusta physical space or a sense of belonging; it's a feeling of comfort where we don't need any excuses to be ourselves.
Wetendtosearchforhomeinthefacesoflovedones, in familiar places, and comforting routines, but we oftenoverlookthemostobviousanswer
Thisprofoundsenseofhomeisnestledintheheartof nature, where the soothing sounds of the natural world envelop us in a sense of serenity The gentle rustlingofleaves,thesweetmelodiesofbirds,andthe whispers of the wind all conspire to create an atmosphere of tranquillity, making us feel like we've finallyfoundourhaven
Theairisalivewiththesweetsongsofbirds,achorus of joy that fills our hearts with delight In this idyllic setting, we find the freedom to be ourselves, explore, learn, and grow, unencumbered by the world's burdens Here,inthissanctuaryofnature,we'vefound our true home - a place where we can breathe, relax, andbeauthentic
Aswestepintoourcampus,avibranthuboflearning and growth, we're enveloped by this sense of home
The trees stand tall, their branches swaying gently in the breeze, their leaves rustling softly, creating a symphonyofsoundsthatcalmsthemindandsoothes thesoul.Wefeelthishomeaswestartourdayonour campus, where we can breathe, relax and be the way we want to be as we dwell in the sound of nature surroundingourcampus.
How many times in a day have we ever appreciated nature while we spend time in college? Half of our 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 aroundthecampus,givingapleasantfeelingtoallthe studentsandstaff Theentireday,thecampusisfilled with the melody of birds, a constant reminder of the beauty surrounding us as we spend time with our fellowlearners
Thereismagicintheplacewelivein,inthehomethat wehavenow Thetrees,thewind,theanimals-weare allconnected,intertwinedinthedelicatedanceoflife. Weareapartofnature,butweoftenfailtoappreciate how much we must feel grateful to live among these beautiful creatures. The college campus is filled with theloveofnature,anditfeelslikemagiceverytimewe look at the branches of the trees dancing as the wind singstothem Thesoundoftheleavesislikethesound ofmagicthatechoesinoursouls,agentlereminderof thebeautyweoftenoverlook.
VISMAYA V
BeyondthePages:Thoughtson ‘The Shiva Trilogy’
THANU SHREE R P
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.
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.
Shiva is celebrated as a saviour, a God by the people of Meluha. He wars against Chandravanshis but later learns that they were also waiting The Blue Throated God to come save them. This pushes Shiva into a moral dilemma. He many a times looses path in his 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
AMYSTERIOUSSENSE
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 romance reads. A much needed reimaginated version of the Indian legends!
DISCLAIMER: The opinions, perspectives, and statements presented in Purple are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or views of 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
Wemaythinkthattheonewholovesuscanneverhurtus Butyouknowwhat,nothingisperfectinthisworld Evena saintwouldhavemademistakes,thenhowdoyouexpect someonetobeperfect?
“Toerrishuman,toforgivedivine.”
-AlexanderPope
Peopletendtomakemistakes,that'swhatmakesthem human beings Forgiving them sounds easy but it’s also difficult for many of us Sometimes we feel like crying, runningawayandescapingreality,butwecannotdenythe feelingofthatlittlebrokenheartMendingourheartscanbe atiringprocess,It’sakintoremovingneedlesthatprickthem sohard Buthowpainfulitcanbemadeisourchoice It dependsonthethoughtsinourminds
Wecanneverreallyhealuntilweforgive.Haveyouever thoughtthatifGodcanforgiveamanwhoisfullofsins,why can'twetrytoforgiveamanwhohadjustdoneonewrong thingbyconsideringallthegoodthathehaddoneinthe past?
Forgivenessisnotforgettingwhattheyhavedonetoyou Forgivenessisacknowledgement Acknowledgingthatthey hurtyouwhetheraccidentallyorbydesignWemustpractice letting go of the feeling of wanting to control people's behaviourtowardsus;becausetheonlythingthat’sunder ourcontrolisourreactiontowardsthatsituation
Holdingagrudgeagainstapersonislikegrowingpoisonfor thatpersonandthendrinkingitourselvesWhenyouforgive, itdoesn'tmeanthatyoucanbeasnormalasbeforebutyou simplyrefusetoallowwhattheydidtoyoutocontrolyouany further Whenforgivingishard,tryputtingyourselfintheir shoesandfindyourperceptionofitTryempathisingsothat youcanforgiveeffortlessly
Forgiveothers,notbecausetheydeserveforgivenessbut becauseyoudeservePEACE!
THERISEOFAI:WILLAIMAKE30%OFUSJOBLESSBY2030?
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?
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
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
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!
VARSHINI P
RAVANA:AGOODFATHERORADREADFUL VILLAIN?RETELLINGOFAGREATMYTH
BHAVYA SHREE
History is a branch of knowledge that has been taught to us since our childhood Have you ever wondered who would have written all the stories in history? Have you ever questioned yourself before believing the facts in the books of history? Most of us would answer no When we hear the very word "Ramayana", we are reminded of the adorable love story of Ram and Sita, and also the dreadful villain of this story, Ravana This image of Ramayana arises from Valmiki’s representation of the story You might be startled when you get to know the Jain version of Ramayana written by Sanghadasa Let’s discover other faces of epic history Sri Lanka was flourishing under the reign of its greatest ruler, Ravana This period is said to be the golden age of Sri Lanka Ravana was also a loyal devotee of Lord Shiva Mandodari was Ravana’s beloved wife, and the couple had a beautiful baby girl Ravana had an unshakeable faith in astrology When their daughter’s horoscope was written, the astrologers predicted, “The girl will be a great queen in the future, such that the world will remember her forever But the Sri Lankan kingdom will be ravaged if she stays with her father ” Ravana grew anxious upon hearing the prophecy Janaka, the king of Mithila, had been yearning for a child for a long time With a heavy heart, Ravana decides to leave his baby in the kingdom garden of Janaka When Janaka discovers the baby girl lying in the garden, he considers her a blessing from Bhoomidevi (Mother Earth) and accepts her as his child He names the child Sita Sita grows into a beautiful woman with all the love and wealth showered on her Ravana ensures that his daughter is well cared for by King Janaka, from a distance When Sita attains maturity, a Swayamvaram (a royal practice in which a girl is allowed to choose her groom herself) is arranged Sita falls in love with Ram, the prince of Ayodhya, who is well-known for his courage, loyalty, and righteousness
After a few years of Ram and Sita’s wedding, Ram goes into exile in the forest with his wife and brother Lakshman at the request of his stepmother Kaikeyi Ravana, worried about the banishment of his inlaws and daughter from their kingdom, assigns his men to search for them so that he can offer them accommodation in his kingdom and ensure his daughter doesn’t suffer
READING RENAISSANCE: COIMBATORE BOOK FESTIVAL 2024
SHALINI S K & PRAHARSHA N G
TheEighthEditionoftheCoimbatoreBookFestival was held from July 19, 2024 to July 28, 2024 at the CODISSIA Trade Fair Complex in Coimbatore The ten day event was inaugurated by the District Collector Kranthi Kumar Pati, who emphasized the importance of reading, saying, “Reading a book is like meditation, it enhances concentration and boostscreativity”.
The event was jointly organized by the District Administration and the Coimbatore District Small Industries Association (CODISSIA) The festival featured 280 stalls showcasing a diverse range of booksandpublicationsfromacrossthestate,witha focusonTamilbooksandauthors.
“The festival’s spotlight on Tamil literature was a surprise It showcased the richness
This is when Surpanakha, Ravana’s sister, sees Ram in the forest Attracted by his striking looks, she tries to converse with him Infuriated by a dark-skinned woman flirting with his brother, Lakshman chops off Surpanakha’s nose Surpanakha reaches out to her brother, fabricating stories about the brothers to seek revenge Ravana was enraged by the ill-treatment of his sister and was concerned for his daughter's safety He finds Sita in the forest Sita was unwilling to trust Ravana despite giving his explanations, so he abducted her to Asoka Vana, said to be the largest garden in Asia, in Sri Lanka Despite the royal treatment given to her, Sita inflicts pain on herself, unable to bear the separation from her husband
Ram sets out to find Sita and receives help from various people on his way to Ravana’s place (In Valmiki's Ramayana, Sugriva and Hanuman are portrayed with monkey faces, but critics believe they were ordinary South Indian men misrepresented due to their darker skin and native features ) People were sent from both sides for negotiation, but to no avail
Finally, Ram declares war to bring back his wife and defeats Ravana Unfortunately, the prophecy predicting the devastation of the Sri Lankan kingdom when Sita was near her father, comes true
The Jain version of Ramayana answers a few puzzling questions that arose from Valmiki’s representation of Ramayana:
1. As per Valmiki’s Ramayana, Ravana abducts Sita out of attraction. So why didn’t he even touch her? It’s because Sita was Ravana’s daughter, and he doesn’t intend to harm Sita. Moreover, Ravana was an upright king and devotee of lord Shiva, living a happy married life. There was no reason for him to get attracted to a young girl like Sita.
2. Were there men with monkey faces, as said in Valmiki’s Ramayana?
No, they were misrepresentations of South Indian men.
3. Has Ravana got 10 faces as portrayed in Valmiki’s Ramayana?
Ravana was good at multitasking and could do 10 jobs at a time. So, his mother gifted him a jewel. The reflection from this jewel could display him with 10 faces.
of our language and culture, from ancient epics to modernworks,”saidSelvapriyaS ofIIIBA English
This year’s festival saw a significant increase in footfallandsalescrossingRs.3crore.Thefestivalalso hosted various programs and events, including workshops, speeches, poetry recitals, short film screenings, book launches, storytelling sessions, literary competitions and book donation drive The stalls featured a wide range of genres, including romance, action, adventure, crime, fantasy, biographies, autobiographies, comics, epics, dictionaries,andencyclopedias
Thefestivalprovidedaplatformforthelocaltalents toshowcasetheirworkandconnectwithreaders It also fostered a culture of reading and inspired visitors to discover new writers and genres The event was a vibrant and lively celebration, with people of all age groups in attendance Overall, the Coimbatore Book Festival 2024 was a resounding success, promoting literature, learning, and communityengagement Ithassetabenchmarkfor future events and has become a significant literary festivalintheregion
WHOSTOLEMYCOOKIES? YASWANTHI T
“When you are down, think like a boxer: If you are 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
COMICBYSHERLINJ
LITERARYLENS
Intheworldofbooks!
Imagineaplacewheretheboundariesoftimeand spacedissolve,andallthat'sleftisthegentlerustle ofpagesandthesoftmurmurofbookloversinrapt conversation–welcometotheMegaBookFairin Coimbatore
Readingbooksmighttakeyoutodifferentworlds, butthemereactofbuyingpullsyouawayfromall rationalconsciousnessItisverysimilartobuyinga tickettoamovieorashow.Itislikeaportalthat opensfurtherintoyourjourney,farandwide, whereverthebooktakesyouto Thisselective consciousnesscreatesadeepvoidthatsucksinall theexternalvoices,andeverythingexceptthe imagesofbooksaresimplyfuzzyfiguresthatare eithernotworthanynoticeorthetime
It'squitedifficulttoarticulatetheexactthought processwhenIenterabookstore,orforadramatic explosion, say a book expo! "Water water everywhere,notadroptodrink,"saidColeridge, buthadhelookedattheseaofbooksthatI encountered,hemighthavepronounced,"Paper andhardbackseverywhere,allchokinginblack ink".SuchwasthefeelingthatcameovermeasI steppedintotheMegaBookFairatCODISSIAin CoimbatoreTheFaircommencedon19thofJuly anddrewtoanendon28thofJuly,2024
Asanhonesthoarderofbooks,Ifaithfullyvisited thestallsontheveryfirstdayoftheirinstallationI wentwithafriend(luckily,Irememberedthat whenIcameout)andvisitedjustaround20stallsI regrettednotvisitingallthe285stalls,butdeep down,Iknewthatitwasjustthebeginningofalong series.Iwenttheretwomoretimesandcameback withatleastadozenbookswhichI'mincredibly proudofandforwhichmyroommatesarenotso happyatall!
Torecordmyexactemotions,IwouldsaythatI feltlikeahamsterhoardingfoodforthewinter Lookingatallthecolourfulbooksstackedonboth axes(horizontallyandvertically),Iwastransported toanotherdimensionwhereIheardonlythesoft whisperings of each book trying to lure me withthe stories of the lives they held
Yes,Imetmillionsoffriendsreadytopatchupthe crevicesofmybrainwiththeirbalmywords I must confess that it was not just my love for reading that took me there thrice, but also the welcomingaromaofeachbookasIheldtheminmy hands(sometimes,youmighthavetosniff,butIask youtorefrainfromdoingthatinpublic)
Oldandnewbooksalikeenchantedmymind,and tobehonest,onlythebillingcounterscouldtollme back from the fairytale lands of endless books- of course,everythingcameataprice!
Iwenttothebookfaironlytobuybooks,butinthat excitingjourney,Ihadtheprivilegetoconnectwith like-mindedpeople Ihavealwaysdreamtoflong, late-nightconversationsonbooks,andthatborethe flowersoffruitioninthegrandexpo Imetaperson whowasasenthusiasticaboutbooksasmeandwe talked of Shakespeare, Marlowe, and literature in general for more than an hour He dropped interesting trivia on the conspiracy theories of Shakespeare'sauthorshipandquotedexcellentlines fromvariousplaysfromthegroovesofhisbrain!I came to the hostel happier than ever because the incidentwasatestimonynotonlytotheexistenceof bookloversbutalsototheexistenceofkind-hearted people The place was a consortium of interesting people lost inside their minds, but all the way reachingtheexitreluctantlyasiftheirbodieswere souls,andthebookstheirbodies
That'sawrap,butwaitasecond!Bethefirsttogo toabookexpothenexttimeonecomesup:ifnotfor thebooks,atleastforthebookmarks!
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
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!
SHRUJANA RAMALINGAM
BooksinCODISSIA |SHRUJANARAMALINGAM
Apuppythatmakesyouawe | Photograph by Praharsha NG
HENNY AND PENNY
Awalkthroughthewoods | Art by Elamathi S S
Illustration byAnushaC
EDITORIAL
REBEL WITH A CAUSE: PURSUING THE PASSION IN A WORLD FULL OF EXPECTATIONS
VEMENTHAANEE S A
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
As Robin Williams' character in Dead Poets Society so eloquently put it, "We read and write poetry because we are members of the human race poetry, beauty, romance, love, these are what we stay alive for." Let's embrace this spirit and pursue our ambitions, even if they seem unconventional or uncertain. Write that novel, start that blog, create that podcast or make that film The world needs more dreamers and creative people who refuse to be bound by societal expectations, push boundaries, challenge norms, and bring fresh perspectives to the table
Society's expectations can be overwhelming, pushing us towards traditional careers and secure futures Our well-intentioned parents often add to this pressure, driven by their own fears and financial worries
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 constraints and forge our own paths
Embracing your aspirations won't be without its challenges, and uncertainty will inevitably creep in However, remember that every remarkable accomplishment demands courage and perseverance Transform your challenges into opportunities, leverage societal expectations, parental pressure, and financial constraints to ignite your determination and fuel your success Navigate around these obstacles by seeking resources, support, and creative solutions Your passions and talents are worth championing Take advantage of the numerous scholarships available, and don't hesitate to consult our department professors, who can offer valuable guidance and support Ultimately, the choice is yours: what will you do with your English Literature degree?
LETTERSTOTHEEDITORS
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.
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
UnderstandingGenderBias andDiscrimination
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
IndividualPerspectives
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”
EvolutionofOpinions
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
EducationandLiberty
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
CreatingChange
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.
Lit for Life- Literary fests are the best experience for Literature students. To engross in all
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 reignite that spark would be truly marvelous
ADRIJADEY| IIBAENGLISHLITERATURE,AIDED
SANDHIYA N
Art by Anusha C
SUAVESILAMBAMCOMPETITOR MOTHIKABAGSWINAFTERWIN
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 wasingrade4andcontinuestodoso 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 Kangeyam; a gold in Single Stick and a Fighting event at an International Martial Arts Festival held in Pondicherry the sameyear
How does it feel to represent your home state and country in Silambam? Do you feel a sense of pride?
Mothika recently participated in the International Silambam Open Championship2024,whichwasorganised by the International Silambam Federation under the Ministry of Youth & Sports of Malaysia In the sub-senior category, she secured gold for showcasing individual talentandsilverforstickfighting
Apart from her wins, she has been awarded the “Thalaivi Viruthu” by People Legal Rights Social Service Movements andUniversalAchieversBooksofRecords for her unwavering and excellent contribution to society by participating and winning in the Zonal State and Internationallevelcompetitions
Here’s a comprehensive interview with the young Silambam star where she shares her personal experiences and how it has helped her grow into who she is today;
What sparked your interest in Silambam?
I have always enjoyed trying out different activities and picking up hobbies during the holidays. Just like that, I found a summer class for Silambam in a Pamphlet and immediately wanted to try it out It soon became an interest I even took a break from Silambam for about two years, but the constant cheers and encouragement from people around me trulykeptmegoing
Have you ever felt frustrated during matchesbecauseyoufeltlikeyouwerenot doingaswellasyou’dlike?
Manytimes!Thishappenstoanyonewho 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, drawingblood.Sincemyopponentwasn’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.
Anexerciseindisguiseisnottediousbutisallaboutdancing andhavingfun
There is an undeniable feeling of pride in representing my home state and country This pride wasn't very intense while I was competing at Zonal/State levels, but when I represented our country, it overflowed to a point where I couldn't contain it I was proud to be the only Indian in the match held in Malaysia It was unlike any other match and I cherish it a lot
Out of all the matches you've competed in, which is the most memorable one?
I have two memorable matches that I will never forget One is from my school days, the State Level SGIF Tournament in Kovilpatti If I had won, I would have gone to Nationals directly, but I hurt my nose in the finals and was bleeding I couldn’t move forward with the match and was placed second The next one is obviously my Malaysia match, it was surreal as it was my first time travelling outside India and I was very honoured to be the only Indian in my category
What advice would you give to youngsters who are just starting out in Silambam ?
I strongly advise joining a Silambam class with an experienced trainer Learn Silambam as a lifetime sport Not only does it foster a sense of safety, security and defence, but also help you gain confidence Silambam teaches discipline, just like any other sport This will help you greatly in your future endeavours Also, there are certain perks in learning Silambam, our government offers several scholarships and job opportunities for people who do sports I have personally experienced these scholarship benefits, as I now study in our college totally free of cost
PSGRKrishnammalCollegeforWomenorganizedaZumba sessiononInternationalYogaDayasarefreshingstarttothis semester. Instructors from Einstein Sports and Fitness Academy led the participants in a friendly, hospitable approachandpersonalisedattention,whichmadeitaunique andenjoyableexperience.AlltheAidedandSFstudentshad separatesessionsatthePSGRGoldenJubileeAuditorium The students were excited and had fun This initiative by the collegemanagementmadestudentsfeelbetterandrefreshed 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 makehealthylivingapriority”
Bhavya Sree, a final-year English literature student shares her experience on Zumba, “There were a whole group of studentsintheauditoriumasitwassomethingnew;students werereally,reallyeager,andtheyenjoyedtheprogramtothe max, despite the very few who were hesitant to dance initially, theygraduallypickedup Itwasverygoodexercise beyond dancing; since it was between class hours, it was a greatrelaxation,andstudentsfeltextremelycheerful There were2maleand1femalestaffwhowerethemainreasonfor theenthusiasmofthestudents Whenstudentsgaveupafew steps,theymotivatedthemandmadethemdancehappily”
Dr. Manjupriya S. a new faculty member of the English Department(Aided),describesherexperience,“ThisZumba recreational activity served as an energetic welcome for fresherslikeme.Theeventwasinclusive,opentostudents, 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
Asanaerobicexerciseengagingtheentirebody,thesession 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' songrequests.
Suchinclusiveprograms,wherefacultyandstaffparticipate alongside students, are rare and commendable. The management and organisers deserve sincere appreciation fromallofusfortheireffortsinhostingthissuccessfulevent”
ANOTHERGOLD
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.
SANDHIYA N
Mothika remarked, ‘There is an undeniable feeling of pride in representing my home state and country’ |SPECIALARRANGEMENT
