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Friday 15 March 2024

Trivia 轉: Seesaw by SUGA of BTS - #FeatureFriday

March 15, 2024 0 Comments

Whenever I discover a new song that I like, I usually listen to it repeatedly for a week (or two) and then it trickles away for when mood strikes me again. This ONE song has been playing on loop for 2 months straight! I just cannot move on from this one. So, I have to rant… (and hope that helps me get it out of my system).


For context - I am new to the k-pop world. I loved ‘Standing Next to You’ & ‘Too sad to Dance’ by Jungkook and he got me curious enough to look into K-Pop. The logical next steps would be to go to BTS songs, but IG Reels took me to Run BTS clips and somehow I landed up listening to ‘D-day’ Album by August D (Suga’s alter ego for his solo stuff). ‘Life Goes on’ and ‘Amygdala’ had their hooks into me. After listening to his solo album and the mix-tapes, I went into SUGA’s solo songs as part of BTS albums. Once I heard ‘Trivia : Seesaw’, I have been stuck. FOR.TWO. MONTHS. NOW.


"Trivia : Seesaw" is SUGA’s solo song from the album Love Yourself: Answer. SUGA & Slow Rabbit have co-written co-produced the song. ‘See-saw’ is a toy/game for children that you see at a park. It is all about ups & downs and balance. At a glance (or a simple listen), it seems like Suga has used the ‘seesaw’ metaphor to convey the emotional push-and-pull between a couple and the constant shift of power in a romantic connection that has run its course. But it is Min Young we are talking about - so it is never that simple. I don’t know if I have caught all the ‘see-saw’ (balance) aspects of the song or not, but here are the ones that I found (and can’t let go of).


Seesaw 1 - Lyrics

Though the lyrics sit perfectly about a romantic relationship, I personally feel that the song could also be about life. Most of us live with an illusion that we are in control of our life. But, life likes to remind us every now and then that the feeling of being in control is just an illusion. So, I see a parallel there - between the constant struggle of people to get things under control and the pushbacks from life from time to time. Only, I think there is no getting off that see-saw until the final moment.

Seesaw 2 - Melody & Lyrics

The melody & the lyrics are at complete contrast with each other. For once, I think my language handicap came in handy because when I heard the song for the first time, I thought it must be a sweet song about the beauty of either life or relationships. Then I looked up the lyrics here and couldn’t believe how wrong I was. While the melody has a feel good vibe, the lyrics bring out the darker side of relationships. Ironically, the part where I feel that the melody is the sweetest is where the lyrics are about how conniving people can be.



Seesaw 3 - Rap & Vocal

SUGA likes to pretend he can only rap & not sing. Yeah well, this is one of the many songs that say otherwise. The constant back and forth between his rap and vocals should have been more jarring, yet there’s a smooth balance there. His low tone is perfect for the vocal sections. Adora provides a soft touch with her backup vocals too.

Seesaw 4 - Tempo

The song constantly shifts between slow and fast(er)-paced, rhythmic portions. These tempo changes conveys the emotional rollercoaster to reflect the emotions of the lyrics. During the verses, where the lyrics focuses on the complexities of a relationship, the tempo is slow giving it an introspective feel. In contrast, the tempo picks up during the emotionally charged sections - specifically the rap & chorus sections.

Seesaw 5 - Dynamics

The dynamics of the song compliments the tempo very well. The softer tones help create a  sense of vulnerability and introspection. On the other hand, the chorus and rap sections often feature increased dynamics, creating a sense of urgency and intensity.


The metaphors in the lyrics, SUGA’s vocals and the tempo changes certainly stand out as the highlights of this song.


#QOTD - Have you heard this song before? If you have, what's the one thing that stood out for you? If you haven't, are you going to listen to it now?




Tuesday 6 February 2024

#WOTY – Word of the Year 2024

February 06, 2024 0 Comments

I know I am very late in posting about my ‘Word of the Year’ as we are into February as I start writing this. Fact is, I had decided on the word in 2023 but I took the month of January to analyse what it would really mean; start living in accordance to that and see whether it is something I can carry on not only for this year but for rest of my life. Whether it is something truly feasible and sustainable. 

I have always been proud of the fact that I can see multiple perspectives in a situation. I may not truly understand each of them, but I do see them and try to understand them. When I got this Tattoo, it was to remind myself that there are multiple perspectives in every situation and that it doesn’t make my personal experiences wrong or insignificant. That I had every right to believe in my own perspective of my experience. That my feelings weren’t wrong just because someone else couldn’t see it nor were other people’s feelings wrong because I couldn’t understand it.


Back then I used to take pride in the fact that I could see the perspective of the person in front of me and cut them slack because of it. Yes, you read that right. I USED TO take pride in that. I no longer do because I came to realise that while I was trying to be kind and understanding towards other people - it meant (most of the time) being unkind and unfair to myself. I was the collateral. When I realised that late last year, I turned inwards and started being kind to myself instead. It wasn’t a conscious decision - it just started with ‘I don’t want to deal with this negativity anymore’ and it has brought me more peace than I expected.



In a world that constantly demands our attention, it's easy to lose sight of our own needs and desires. I want 'Perspective' to offer the opportunity to shift the focus inward, creating a space for self-reflection and introspection. I realised that my life is filled with noise. So is your’s, I am sure. If you stop and take stock of the responsibilities, the expectations of others, societal pressures, the constant influx of information, the general confusion and lack of focus around us - you’ll see how exhausting  and completely useless it really is. And, your personal growth is often stunted due to it. 

So, this year I have started to turn the lens inwards and ask myself - ‘do I want/need this’ and ‘is this good for me’ very consciously about every single thing. Whether it is good or bad - everything will be questioned and acted upon. I will slowly filter out the unnecessary and hone in on what truly matters to me and my own well being. Instead of being overly critical of myself, I will try to view my experiences through a lens that acknowledges my handwork, learnings and growth. I will continue to learn more things and subjects so that I can use it to understand myself better and make my own life better.

I know that I am going to disappoint a lot of people around me and am ready for people to start calling me selfish for not giving them time, space and understanding any longer. And, that’s okay.




Monday 15 January 2024

'Soundtrack #1’: A Symphony of Friendship #WebSeries #Review

January 15, 2024 0 Comments


"Soundtrack #1," a Korean web series streaming on Disney+ Hotstar, unfolds a heartwarming tale of friendship, music, and the delicate dance between platonic and romantic relationships. The show, featuring the talented duo Park Hyung-sik as Han Seon-woo, a photographer, and Han So-hee as Lee Eun-soo, a lyricist, takes viewers on a nostalgic journey through nearly two decades of shared memories and creative collaboration.

‘Soundtrack #1' stood out to me for weaving a tale that transcends time and summarizes the depths of connection between two long-standing best friends. At the core of this exceptional drama is the beautifully portrayed 19-year friendship between the two protagonists, a narrative thread that binds the entire series into a harmonious symphony of emotions. From the very first episode to the poignant finale, the audience is taken on a mesmerizing journey through the highs and lows of a friendship that defies the passage of time.

At its core, "Soundtrack #1" revolves around the lives of two inseparable friends, Han Seon-woo and Lee Eun-soo. Their relationship takes a turn when Seon-woo moves in with Eun-soo to help write a song, thus embarking on a musical journey about one-sided love. The narrative beautifully navigates their individual pursuits in photography and songwriting, providing a rich backdrop for the evolution of their relationship through flashbacks.



Seon-woo, portrayed by Park Hyung-sik, harbors a long-standing love for Eun-soo but refrains from confessing his feelings to avoid jeopardizing their deep-rooted friendship. However, as the series unfolds, the delicate balance between friendship and romance becomes increasingly challenging to maintain. Han So-hee's portrayal of Eun-soo brings depth to the character, highlighting the intricacies of her internal struggle as she grapples with the evolving dynamics of their relationship.

One of the standout features of "Soundtrack #1" is its ability to encapsulate the essence of a nearly two-decade-long friendship. The series adeptly weaves together flashbacks and present-day moments, providing viewers with a comprehensive view of the characters' shared history. This nostalgic journey serves as a powerful backdrop for the emotional complexities that arise as Seon-woo and Eun-soo navigate the uncharted waters of romance. The series acknowledges the complexities of relationships, the inevitability of change, and the bittersweet beauty of letting go.

The chemistry between Park Seo-joon and Kim Ji-won is nothing short of extraordinary. Their on-screen dynamic is imbued with genuine warmth that makes their friendship believable and relatable. Whether they're sharing laughter, navigating conflicts, or finding solace in each other's company, the actors bring authenticity to their roles that elevate the viewing experience.

The music in the series serves as a captivating element, mirroring the emotional highs and lows of the characters. The individual career efforts of Seon-woo and Eun-soo in the realm of music and photography offer a unique lens into their bond, showcasing how their creative pursuits are a reflection of their personal emotions as well.


The series delivers a narrative that is poignant, authentic, and deeply resonant. Ji-hoon and Min-ju's 19-year journey is a symphony of emotions, a testament to the enduring power of friendship. As such, it emerges as a heartfelt and resonant web series that seamlessly blends the worlds of friendship, romance, and music. The performances of Park Hyung-sik and Han So-hee bring authenticity to the characters, while the narrative skillfully captures the nuances of evolving relationships.

Whether you're a fan of Korean dramas or simply looking for a series that tugs at the heartstrings, "Soundtrack #1" should undoubtedly be a delightful addition to your watchlist. Especially so, if you love the Friends-to-Lovers trope in romances.

Happy Watching!




Friday 24 November 2023

5 Reasons Why You Should Watch the K-Drama “Healer" - #FridayFeature

November 24, 2023 0 Comments
 

Asian dramas have taken the world by storm; K-dramas in particular. One that stands out as a must-watch for any Asian drama enthusiast is "Healer." If you are new to the world of K-dramas (or Asian Dramas) I need to put a disclaimer for you - this one is going to ruin you for a while. I know, because I started my Asian Drama journey with Healer and it took me a while to like anything else. It is THAT good. 


“Healer” is an action-packed series with an amazing romance running in parallel. It is sure to keep you hooked from the very first episode. Whether you are a newbie to this world of dramas, or a veteran - “Healer” is a must watch for you and I will give you 5 reasons why without too many spoilers!




1. Unconventional Protagonists: 

Our male protagonist is Seo Jung Hoo (played by Ji Chang-Wook) is a chameleon of sorts. He is a ‘night courier’ who runs unconventional errands for money. At first glance, he is not your knight is shining armour. But he is someone who plays any role required convincingly - from the night courier who is an expert in martial arts to a scaredy-cat reporter to a son trying to find out about his past. Our female protagonist is Chae Young Shin (played by Park Min-Young) is a fiery but ‘failed’ reporter. She aspires to be the best yet puts other people’s safety before her own aspirations. She is not fearless, but she is someone who do what is necessary despite her fears.


2. Well-Developed Characters:

It is not just our protagonists and antagonists that are well developed in the series. Each character brings in something to the plot. 

For instance, Kim Moon-Ho (played by Yoo Ji-Tae) is an ace reporter who refuses to access certain resources that are available to him because his sense of honour tell him that those resources are tainted. He is haunted by the past and wants to do what’s best for the victims even if it means that he has to go up against those close to him. Then there is the character of Chae Chi-Soo (played by Park Sang-Myeon) who through his actions show how blood doesn’t matter to be a family. His kind moments with his adoptive daughter will touch the audiences heart and ultimately is what shaped our female protagonist. 

Overall, there is a diverse set of characters who add depth to the over all plot.



 

3. Intriguing Plot and Thrilling Action:

The story revolves around secrets from the past of a group of friends, that not only affect the cast of characters in the present, but also the political situation of the country. As the characters dig up the secrets, they realise what they are really dealing with. The fight scenes involving Ji Chang-Wook are stylish and exciting enough to make you want to see more action sequences. The romance element of the story really works because of the chemistry between the characters is palpable as they really compliment each other.


4. Heartwarming Romance:

If the action sequences and the mystery angle of the plot gets your blood roaring, the romance in the series will get your heart thumping. If you are someone who loves ‘love-at-first-sight’ tropes, only then maybe this may not be your cup of tea. Our protagonists fall for each other slowly and steadily. They build a camaraderie that is bot fun and sweet. Their personalities are so different, yet similar at places that really matter. As a viewer, you will hoot and cheer for them to be together.


5. Memorable Soundtrack:

I don’t think I will ever be able to listen to ‘Eternal Love by MLTR’ and not think of this series ever again. Other than that ‘I will protect you by Ji Chang-wook’, ‘You by BEN’ and the Healer theme song just adds to the overall ambience of the series in a way that it is impossible to separate them.




Bonus Reason: Ji Chang-Wook! Yes he is easy on the eyes as most asian drama heroes are. The reason why I like him is because he is an expert at micro-expressions. Small things that he does in his acting really make you involved in the story telling. 


“Healer” is a favourite among K-Drama enthusiasts because everything about the series just falls into place to take the audience on a journey of action, thrills, heartbreak and love. I assure you that once you start the series, you will not be able to stop. Happy binge-watching!






Thursday 10 August 2023

Embracing Self-Care and Self-Love: A Deeper Perspective

August 10, 2023 0 Comments


The concept of self-care and self-love has gained immense popularity. It is everywhere. People are talking about it across all social media platforms and  you hear about it in everyday conversations. However, if you really pay attention, it becomes quite apparent that many people discuss it without fully understanding it.

We have all been guilty of this at times - talking up things that we learn before understanding it completely. Personally, I too have been advocating for self-care for almost five years. Though with each passing year I have learnt and discovered more ~ its been a journey of continuous reading, watching, and learning.


Defining Self-Care / Self-Love

In the past, I would have described self-care as taking a little time out to pamper oneself. It could be something as simple as perhaps enjoying a cup of tea alone in the morning or indulging in a yearly body massage. But my understanding was limited to those small acts.

Despite these check-ins with myself, I rarely took meaningful action to address my physical and mental state. I would acknowledge the need for a break but felt burdened by responsibilities and obligations, convincing myself that putting myself first would be selfish. This mindset that the society has taught us, especially women, led me down a path of constant work, stress, and neglecting my well-being while taking care of everyone else until I experienced a severe burnout.

Looking back, I now realize that my understanding of self-care was superficial. While pampering oneself occasionally is essential, genuine self-love often demands more from us.

Discovering True Self-Love

Authentic self-care might sometimes push us to give ourselves the space we generously offer others; listening to and honoring what our minds and bodies are telling us. At times, it may even require us to embrace discomfort by being "selfish" enough to take that much-needed break or say no when we are already overwhelmed.

Self-love can also be painful, as it might require us to let go of relationships that no longer serve us or removing sources of negativity around us -even if they are friends or family.

However, before dismissing this as mere selfishness, consider three vital aspects:
The Definition of Selfishness: Is it selfish to listen to our minds and bodies, take a break from time-to-time, or set boundaries? Such steps are crucial for maintaining our well-being.
Who Defines Selfishness: If society deems these acts as selfish, reflect on whether those same people will support you during your darkest times or help pay your bills or help you with your mental and physical health needs.
The Importance of Self-Love: Without self-care, it becomes challenging to achieve our dreams or take care of others effectively. We must nourish ourselves to be capable of giving to others.



Embracing Self-Love: A Call to Action

At the core of it, self-love is about showing up for yourself every day and in every moment. It means saying no to things that don't align with our interests, cutting ties with toxic individuals, and prioritizing our well-being before caring for others.

As I look back on my enthusiasm for self-care when I first learnt about it without fully understanding its depth, I now realize the importance of introspection. By looking within, we can understand what our body and mind truly need. Only then can we start working on how to fulfill those needs without causing harm to others.

While this article provides insights into self-care and self-love that are my personal opinion from reading, learning, and experiencing things in own life, I suggest you to conduct further research and tailor these principles to suit your unique needs and personality.

Remember, genuine self-love requires continuous growth and understanding, making it a personal journey for each individual.




Thursday 3 August 2023

#ProductReview :: Echo Show 8 (2nd Generation)

August 03, 2023 0 Comments

I bought Amazon Echo Show 8 (1st Generation) back in mid-2022 during a Prime Day Sale. I have it set up on my work desk as I often have music playing in the background when I am working. And that is what I use my Amazon Echo Show for most of the time.



It has been a smooth sailing experience for most part. That is until May this year, when one evening I started hearing some disturbances while playing music. So, I did what all 'normal people' do 😜... I switched it off for 10 seconds and switched it back on. That usually solves half the problems, right? But it did not work this time unfortunately. So, I tinkered around and realised that there was some wear-and tear on the cable. I went on a search for new cable on Amazon itself, but couldn't find one. My next step was to contact Amazon Customer Care because I did not want to order a wrong cable (and I am a noob when it comes to electronics). That is when I realised that my device was still under warranty. It took about 15 minutes of chatting with the customer care to have an Amazon Echo Show 8 (2nd Generation) delivered to my home the very next day & a pick up of the old device the day after - completely free of charge!

You see, they first offered to replace the cable but then realised that both the cable or the 1st generation device was no longer in stock. So, the upgraded me to the 2nd Generation device without any issues or red tapes.

So, I have used both the 1st gen. & 2nd gen. devices now. This review will focus on the 2nd generation as the older model is no longer available.

Stunning Display Quality:

The 8-inch HD display is very clear and it has excellent viewing angles. Whether watching movies, or making video calls, or the screensavers - the visuals are crisp.

Improved Audio Performance:

The second-generation Echo Show 8 has quite a good audio quality. The dual stereo speakers delivers better sound compared to the 1st generation device. Whether I'm listening to music, or watching OTT content the sound is much better in the 2nd generation device. Though I wish the bass was a bit better.

Seamless Video Calls:

The built-in 13MP camera makes the video calling experience much better than the 1st Generation device. I have only called via the alexa app, but I had crystal-clear video view and audio. 

User-Friendly Design:

Setting up the Echo Show 8 (both devices) was a breeze. The great display helps me watch OTT content from weird angles while getting stuff done around the room. The physical camera cover is a great addition that I really appreciate.

Alexa, the Ultimate Assistant:

As expected, Alexa works flawlessly on the Echo Show 8. The voice recognition is top-notch and returns quickly with search results. From setting alarms to maintaining to-do lists, to setting reminders, Alexa has been such a time saver.

Entertainment Hub:

Echo Show 8 comes with Amazon Prime Video, Netflix,  and couple other apps installed and short cuts to some other sites like YouTube. With a voice command to activate, good quality display and audio output, this device is a perfect miniature entertainment hub.

Productivity Booster:

The device helps me stay organized and productive. As I mentioned earlier as well, I can set reminders, create to-do lists, and manage my calendar with ease.

Compatible with Smart Home Devices:

This is one aspect that I havent had a chance to experience for myself. But one of the features of Echo Show 8 is that you can streamline & your Smart Home Devices through it. 

In conclusion, the Amazon Echo Show 8 (2nd generation) comes with a smart display that far surpasses its predecessor in terms of performance, display quality, and audio output. With its improved camera, and Alexa's impressive capabilities, this device has become an integral part of my day. Whether for entertainment or personal productivity, the Echo Show 8 is a versatile and reliable addition.

Highly recommended!


Just to recap before the wrap up:

Pros:

Stunning HD display
Enhanced audio performance
User-friendly design and setup
Responsive Alexa capabilities
Productivity-enhancing features
Quick & hassle free service response from Amazon

Cons:

Alexa app for both android and ios is slow and clunky





Rating: ★★★★ (4/5 stars)






Thursday 6 April 2023

Winter Nights - #ThirstyThursday

April 06, 2023 1 Comments

 



A torn jacket belongs to someone else

Smells like old spice and sweat

Giving me all the warmth needed to survive this lonely, cold night

While I dream of the dream.


An overused t-shirt, 

So big, it could fit both of us…scent of tears and ocean

Hugged me in those nights

You were too busy to look at the starts


A second-hand copy of my favorite book

With blemish yellow pages and taste of old monk

Provided me with the comfort, I was looking in you

While I sleep, in the lap of clouds





Monday 13 March 2023

Home - #MondayBlogs

March 13, 2023 0 Comments


 The light is what guides you home, the warmth is what keeps you there. - Ellie Rodriguez



A messy hair bun, a laptop, an overused notepad, a mobile with a Joker back cover, and a blue pen, this has been my life for the last 3 years. No matter where I am, these treasures never leave me to take a hard day alone or to smile with me on the sunny ones.

I am sitting on my bed, thinking about squeezing in some workout (well, thinking about it for the last 5 years, still haven’t started) while a familiar face is smiling at me. Mr. Khan (The King Khan), has been there on my wardrobe for as long as I could remember, and he has never failed to make me feel good about myself, even on those days, when I can’t even get out of bed.

This bed, this wardrobe with Shahrukh pic on it, used to be my home, not my room, but home. However, last few years, there is a thought in the back of my mind, hiding in the dark corner, peeping from time to time.

And finally decided to address it head-on.

Where is my Home?

Since I could remember, the room, I had in our old, dampy, half-broken railways quarter was my world. I had an old radio. I used to listen to Radio-Mirchi nonstop on it. My favorite show was when they used to play old Hindi songs (I forgot the show's name). I loved that tiny corner beside the radio, listening to songs, dreaming of dreams, and hoping for a place of my own to call HOME.

That dampy room was the witness to all my firsts, endless chatter with friends, my first journaling, first love, first heartbreak, my exams, sleepless night, and on and on.

And then the inevitable came, I left my hometown; Kolkata, to pursue my MBA in Hyderabad. I stayed in college hostels, and working women’s hostels, and shared a flat with roommates. But never, ever, I felt at home.

Then I got married, and rented beautiful flats for living, still, what was the thing missing…I still couldn’t figure it out. It’s like…

I have been to the unknown and felt most lost when I reached home.


No matter how comfy the bed is, and how familiar the faces were, I was not home. I have taken deep dives into the darkest corners of my mind, yet could never find an answer to the ever-haunting question…where is home?

I am still looking for my home, and I have no idea….

what is it or where is it or never the less who it is?

Over the years I have realized, my home was that corner beside the old shabby radio, my home was the salty torn bedsheet, the picture of Shahrukh.

What I have been looking for, for the last 13 years is not an address, but rather a warm cozy hug from you (Who are you?) to drench my soul with love.

The teenage girl, in that homey little corner, with stars and moon in her eyes listening to “yeh tera ghar, yeh mera ghar”, will not stop, until she finds her home, no matter where it is or who it is.  


“I am homesick for a place I am not sure ever exists. One where my heart is full. And my soul is understood. I am homesick for you my LOVE”




Monday 27 February 2023

Too Much - #MondayBlogs

February 27, 2023 0 Comments



It’s too much, 

Thing after a thing

Drowning in this black hot coffee, not enough

Being in that super-hero suit is not good anymore

Golden liquid doesn’t burn me as it used to.

The smoke coming out of my lungs are a voiceless scream


Living life in break and escape rooms are…well, not living

Holding my breath so I can breathe one day is merely surviving

My shivering frozen heart waiting for you seems like a lifetime

I forgot what is normalcy 


Hiding behind the sound of my bluetooth seems exhausting

The dark cozy room fails to provide comfort

Writing about it doesn't vent as it used to

The sound of your voice is lightyear far...


It’s just too much, 

Thing after a thing, and a thing 




Thursday 2 February 2023

11 reasons why you should you watch #Pathaan in the theatres. - #ThirstyThursday #ShahRukhKhan

February 02, 2023 0 Comments


This post is for the very few people who are sitting on the fence about watching the Pathaan in the theatres.

Fair warning to all: I am an unapologetic Shah Rukh Khan fan and I have been since 1990. So, as a person who has been fangirling through all the phases of his career, I have no qualms about admitting that I am highly biased when it comes to the King Khan.

But, I am also an INFJ who calls a spade a spade. So, trust me when I say that this post will give you the truth. 


  • Watch Pathaan in the theatres if you are a Shah Rukh Khan fan.

A No Brainer. If we go by the Box office collection of Pathaan, I should think that all SRK fans have already checked it out at the theatres. At the same time, I also know that some might be a little apprehensive after the ‘Zero’ experience. Fear not, SRK is hotter than ever, just as charismatic, his screen presence is as enigmatic as ever and he is more grounded in this movie than ever.

  • Watch Pathaan in the theatres if you are a Deepika Padukone fan.

Oh yes! She is just as amazing. She is looking toned and gorgeous. But more than that, she is not just an eye-candy (as it has been for ages for women in spy action movies). She has quite a bit of action and she rocks it. And I don’t think that I need to talk about her acting skills - it is a given that she is amazing.

  • Watch Pathaan in the theatres if you like SRK-Deepika chemistry.

There is no out an out romance between SRK-Deepika in Pathaan. Both are agents, who are working towards their goals. Yet, there is something. Their chemistry is only second to SRK-Kajol, and as such it is unavoidable. You’ll love seeing them on-screen together - again!

  • Watch Pathaan in the theatres if you love John Abraham.

I am NOT a John Abraham fan, yet I enjoyed seeing him onscreen. He looks fitter than ever. And he even manages a few expressions to shock the audience like me {Do you know what I mean?} He is nothing like what he is in Satyameva Jayate 2/3. A different avatar that’s more like OG Dhoom badass - cool and glamorous antagonist.

  • Watch this movie if you are a Salman Khan fan.

Let’s not even pretend that his cameo is a surprise. It’s been all over the internet for months. And it’s not just a cameo, it is an extended cameo where ‘Karan-Arjun’ do what they do best. Action! Their chemistry together is something to behold, especially now that SRK is stepping up his own action game. Plus the camaraderie and the inside jokes keep you entertained.

For the sake of full disclosure, I have a strong dislike for Salman, and haven’t watched any of his films since ‘Tere Naam’ yet his cameo in the movie made me wonder whether I should go back and watch the two Tiger movies.

  • Watch Pathaan in the theatres because it is a total fan service movie.

If you haven’t caught up onto it yet, the movie is a vehicle for SRK’s return to big screen. Everything in the movie revolves around how to give more of him to the fans. But also it serves other fans as well - whether John or Deepika or Salman or the mass entertainment lovers. There are multiple ‘Hero-shots’ with 5 seconds of almost nothing going on to give time to the audience to hoot & cheer for their favourite stars (and sometimes a salute to the past). It just will not be the same experience if you have decided to watch it when it comes to OTT in April. 

  • Watch Pathaan in the theatres if you love over the top action.

Did you love the action in MI series, the Fast & Furious movies? Well, Pathaan offers you all the logic defying action scenes - in the air, on the ice, on top of a train - you name it and the movie has it. Indian industry is finally catching up on serious VFX, but it has a way to go still with the budget that Indian movies work with. Also, once again the action scenes are such that it is best when watched on a large screen. It will NOT be the same on tv & tabs.

  • Watch this movie if you have always wanted a macho spy, but with a vulnerable side.


When I read this article, I was really shaking my head at Siddharth Anand. Really? Do we really need another spy/action star who just fights, shoots, looks cool doing it and be that ‘mard ko dard nahi hota’ type of hero? Let’s not forget what made SRK the icon of love and romance; in a time when heroes were doing the traditional ’macho’ roles, SRK was showing emotions, crying on screen & helping his ladies in the kitchen.

But Siddharth Anand knew his task well and I say that because he made Pathaan more real than any other spies we have ever known. Pathaan isn’t scared of showing signs of fatigue during fight scenes or asking for time-out in the middle of a fight or shedding a tear. SRK as Pathaan is a new kind of alpha male. He is someone who is willing to stand back and let the girl fight for once or take orders from a woman - and it doesn’t hurt his ego to do so.

  • This movie is for all those who enjoy spotting easter eggs.

From reference to War, Darr, Karan Arjun… etc, the side effect of the fan service that this movie delivers is that it is littered with references of other films and characters. It was complete fun spotting those through the movie. My personal favourite is of course the Darr reference - it was silly but hilarious.

  • Pathaan is a mass entertainer that doesn’t pretend to be anything else.

In recent times I have watched so many movies that are so pretentious trying to be serious cinema while giving into Bollywood clichés to ensure that it still appeals to the masses for the sake of box-office collections. Then there have been mass movies that took themselves too seriously and I do not even want to get into all the remakes! Pathaan is none of that. It is a mass entertainer that has been made to service the fans and it doesn’t pretend to be anything else.

  • Make a statement.

Last, but certainly not the least; it’s probably the most important point on this list. While I was all for the call for ‘Justice for SSR’ at the beginning, we all know that the actual incident is no longer relevant to what certain sections of the society are using the slogans for. I am not even going to use the ‘B’ word because I am tired of being told what to eat, what to wear, where I can or cannot go, what I can and cannot do. Now people are trying to dictate what we watch too. What’s next? Should I be also be told how much oxygen I can breathe in a minute?

Being an SRK fan, I was going to go for first day first show anyway. But this gang made sure that I went with a fan club so that I could just scream, dance & laugh when SRK came on screen and flip off the gangs in my own way.


This negativity has been spreading for a while and I know that I felt like a non-entity and wondered how could someone as small & insignificant as me can make a difference. But now SRK is making a statement (without speaking a word) with this movie that has made the way for a lot of other influential people (who probably feared a backlash) to come out and stand in support of him

Let’s do it - let us go and watch Pathaan and start claiming our basic rights back with this step. It’s no longer just about watching a movie - whether you love or hate the cast & crew or the kind of movie it is - doesn’t matter… It has now become a matter of whether you are going to let people continue to dictate our lives, encourage threats and vandalism in the name of nationalism and whether or not YOU believe that YOU have a right to decide what is right or wrong.

I rest my case. Now it’s your turn to tell me whether you will watch it in the theatres or not. And if you have watched it in the theatres, what was your experience?