Author: Sandesh Bhosle

Green Tech, Bright Future – Top 10 Sustainable Tech Companies

Tech companies are playing a significant role in shaping the future of our planet by prioritising sustainability. They are revolutionising the tech landscape and making efforts to create a greener and more sustainable world. Through their cutting-edge technologies, bold initiatives, and unwavering dedication, these forward-thinking organisations inspire us with their ingenuity and impact. Let’s celebrate ‘Earth Day’ with the top 10 sustainable tech companies that are at the forefront of sustainable tech excellence.

Amazon

Amazon is leading in promoting a greener and more sustainable future. As the world’s largest corporate purchaser of renewable energy, Amazon has set ambitious sustainability goals. It has pledged to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 and to source 100% renewable energy by 2025. Amazon is meeting and exceeding its targets by accelerating its timeline by five years. This demonstrates the company’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. Additionally, Amazon invests in sustainable technologies and practices, promoting waste reduction and resource conservation.

Apple

Back in 2020, Apple made a commitment to sustainability and pledged to become carbon neutral across its entire business, manufacturing supply chain, and product life cycle by 2030. The company has already achieved carbon neutrality for its global corporate operations, and this new goal means that by 2030, every Apple device sold will have a net zero climate impact.

Apple is offering various ways to help customers learn about and connect with the environment while taking action to reduce their impact on the planet. One way customers can do this is by bringing their old devices back to Apple. The company provides trade-in services and free recycling, making it easy to recycle devices, reduce electronic waste in landfills, and save precious materials in the pursuit of taking less from the earth.

Apple is working in collaboration with Conservation International in Latin America to support the leadership of Afro-descendant communities by providing economic opportunities that promote efforts to address climate and biodiversity crises. Additionally, Apple is collaborating with the Society of Entrepreneurs and Ecology Foundation to develop a certified methodology for blue carbon in China, which involves extracting carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in oceans and coastal ecosystems.

Samsung

Samsung Mobile set its sustainability goals three years ago, aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030 with the help of its “Galaxy for the Planet” vision. The team, now operating under the Samsung Mobile eXperience (DX) division, is committed to transitioning to 100% renewable energy by 2027 and improving product energy efficiency by 30% by 2030 using energy-saving technologies. They also plan to achieve zero standby power consumption in smartphone chargers by 2025. In addition to this, Samsung DX aims to achieve zero-waste to landfill in its global operations by 2025. This will be achieved by minimising waste generated across global operations, optimising product lifecycles to last longer, and promoting reuse and recycling.

Motorola

At Motorola Mobility, the company is working to shrink their energy use and carbon footprint by focusing on efficiency and sourcing energy from clean, renewable sources such as wind power. By doing so, they’re trying to improve efficiency, cut costs, and honour their corporate responsibility commitments. The company has identified ways to make every product greener by following design principles such as using environmentally preferred materials, increasing the amount of recycled materials used, improving energy efficiency, reducing packaging and increasing the recyclability of our products.

The company is also working to reduce the amount of potentially hazardous substances in its products and find environmentally sound alternatives while maintaining performance and quality. They have a continuing program to research and monitor independent scientific reviews of materials’ environmental and health impacts. The result is a growing list of product restrictions and environmentally sound alternatives. In terms of packaging, Motorola Mobility’s Global Packaging team works hand in hand with its carrier partners to reduce the weight and volume of their retail packaging while expanding the use of recycled materials. 

Motorola Mobility supports the CTIA Green Packaging guidelines, and wherever possible, they design and engineer the product packaging with “minimizing environmental impact” as an integral part of their design brief. The company have identified ways to make every product greener by following design principles such as using FSC® certified paper, water-based adhesives, soy/vegetable-based inks as well as zero VOC UV inks, 100 per cent recycled content pulp packaging parts, and replacing plastic parts.

Dell

Dell Technologies is leading the way towards a more environmentally friendly future through its ambitious targets and innovative approaches. The company aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and has embarked on a sustainability-driven research and development journey. In an effort to tackle the staggering amount of e-waste generated each year, Dell has committed to reusing or recycling an equivalent product for every purchase by 2030, thereby promoting a circular economy.

Google

Google stands at the forefront of sustainability, harnessing its global influence to combat climate change. Through its vast range of products and platforms, Google empowers individuals, organisations, and governments to make informed choices for a greener future. Collaborating with partners, Google actively reduces emissions and pioneers carbon-neutral technologies. Drawing on its expertise in artificial intelligence, Google drives innovation to tackle environmental issues head-on. Committed to a net-zero emissions goal by 2030, Google leads by example, powering its infrastructure with renewable energy. Optimistic about technology’s potential, Google envisions a sustainable world for generations to come. With dedication and collaboration, Google inspires others to join the journey towards a brighter, greener future.

Microsoft

Microsoft aims to be carbon-negative by 2030 and remove more carbon emissions than it has generated since its inception. It also plans to achieve zero waste and water positivity by 2030, invest in R&D to reduce waste and conserve resources, and launch the Cloud for Sustainability in 2022. Microsoft plays a vital role in global sustainability efforts, accelerates climate tech through its Climate Innovation Fund, and advocates for inclusive skilling and a just transition in the global south. Microsoft and Amazon are industry leaders and catalysts for positive change, shaping a future where innovation and sustainability coexist.

NVIDIA

NVIDIA, a leader in technology innovation, is committed to building a sustainable future. They have developed cutting-edge GPUs, including the revolutionary Hopper architecture, prioritising energy efficiency while delivering top-notch performance. NVIDIA sets new standards with a staggering 26x advantage over CPUs in energy efficiency. They talk the walk by powering the most efficient supercomputer on the prestigious Green500 ranking, demonstrating their dedication to environmental stewardship.

Intel

Intel has announced its plans to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its global operations by 2040. The company focuses on renewable energy and waste reduction to achieve this target, which has already resulted in significant progress. In 2021, Intel saved 486 million kilowatt-hours of electricity and reduced total greenhouse gas emissions by 2%, indicating Intel’s unwavering commitment to sustainability. In the ever-evolving technology sector, Intel is one of the leaders in following environmental responsibility, conducting with innovation and a conscience towards a greener future.

Meta

Meta has set a goal to become carbon neutral across its value chain by 2030. To achieve this, they strive to reduce Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions through operational efficiencies and relying solely on 100% renewable energy. By 2030, Meta aims to offset any remaining emissions through carbon removal projects. In 2021, they led initiatives in Kenya and Mexico, facilitating the sequestration of over 200,000 tons of carbon through reforestation and soil conservation efforts. Through their determination and innovation, Dell and Meta set an example of corporate responsibility in the fight against climate change, leading the way towards a more sustainable future.

Dharna D – Comic Creator of the Month

  • Ex: How did you get started in content creation?

Dharna: So basically, I have done theatre in college, but when the lockdown happened, I thought, what to do? During that time, I used to make fun videos and I just used to share it with my friends very randomly, not at all with the intention of posting it somewhere. Then, one day, my friend told me, why don’t you post it on Instagram, it’s very funny. This is how I randomly posted my first ever IGTV video on Instagram, and this is how I entered my content creation.

  • Ex: What sort of reaction were you expecting when you first started posting online? 

Dharna: When I posted my first video, I wasn’t expecting anything. The only thing I wished for was to make my then-followers happy with my content. I wasn’t worried about the reach, likes or comments.

  • Ex: How do you go about writing your skits?

Dharna: I like to write in a subtle manner as I believe that skits should be something that happens in daily surroundings and something that I observe in my life. Also, I keep my focus on the mass audience and prefer to make relatable content.

  • Ex: What’s the inspiration behind your relatable humour and skits?

Dharna: I come from a Punjabi family, and I like to spend a lot of time with my family and relatives. The base of my humour comes from there, be it picking characters or writing skits with relatable humour.

  • Ex: How did it feel to expand your career? 

Dharna: Expanding my career in content creation was the best decision I’ve ever made. I believe in the saying, ‘Do what you love, and you’ll never work another day in your life.’ Since I’ve entered the world of content creation, I haven’t felt tired because that’s what I love.

  • Ex: What did you want to become when you were a kid?

Dharna: When I was a kid, for one day, I wanted to become something, while on the other day, I wanted to become something else. As a kid, like every other kid, I was confused about what I really wanted to become, but I think thats fine as exploring is a part of life.

Quick bytes:

  • One must-have app on your phone besides WhatsApp? 

YouTube

  • iOS or Android?

iOS

  • Cats or dogs?

Dogs

  • Texting or calling? 

Calling

Thugesh – Comic Creator of the Month

  • Ex: How did you get started in content creation?

Thugesh: I started in 2014-15 and was making thug life videos. At the same time, I was watching many creators like Bhuvan Bam, Ashish Chanchlani and Carryminati, who were in the emerging stage then. I have always wanted to make something, and that’s why I started.

  • Ex: What sort of reaction were you expecting when you first started posting online? 

Thugesh: At first, when I wasn’t making videos where my face was involved, I had zero expectations, but when I blew up, I had to post videos with my face due to the YouTube policy. Initially, I expected hate, and that’s what I got: a lot of hate for showing my face because people didn’t want to see my face. They only wanted to see memes and thug life videos.

  • Ex: How do you go about writing your skits? 

Thugesh: I see what’s trending and relatable, and the tricky part is everything has been made; everything you see on social media has been made before. Every reel we see is another way of telling the same joke. I think all jokes are finished in the world. Every joke is just another way of the same joke that has happened.

  • Ex: What’s the inspiration behind your relatable humour and skits?

Thugesh: I watch a lot of sitcoms such as Family Guy, two and a Half Men and Friends. So, lots of my humour comes from these sitcoms. Also, I consider myself to be a class clown. So, you know, it has always been there.

  • Ex: How did it feel to expand your career? 

Thugesh: I think my career expanded mainly during my show, “The Thugesh Show”, which was a super hit. I started with Bhuvan and ended with Carry Minati. I had one of the biggest creators from YouTube as my guest, and everyone’s waiting for season two. So, I think that’s when my career expanded, and it feels so good that people know you by the name of your show.

  • Ex: How do you deal with any viewer criticism?

Thugesh: I actually don’t care. I have been doing this for 8 to 9 years, and now I do not care and listen until there’s a wave of hatred coming towards you. I do not care about a few individuals because there’s always one guy who will hate you no matter what you do.

  • Ex: Who are some of your favourite comedians?

Thugesh: I love Kevin Hart. I’m not a big fan of dark humour, but I love Kevin Hart.

Quick bytes:

  • One must-have app on your phone besides WhatsApp?

Banking apps.

  • iOS or Android?

iOS

  • Cats or dogs? 

Dogs

  • Texting or calling? 

Texting

  • What’s a quote that motivates you?

You’ll have time to rest when you’re dead.

The 15 best comedy movies of all time (Bollywood)

Lights, camera, action! But wait, let’s rewind a bit and insert some laughter into the mix, shall we? Bollywood, the world of vibrant colours, melodious songs, and dramatic plot twists, is also home to some of the funniest movies ever made. Bollywood comedies have carved their niche in the hearts of audiences, providing much-needed doses of laughter therapy. Let’s have a bite!

Hera Pheri (2000)

Hera Pheri is a cult classic that continues to tickle funny bones with its absurd plot, memorable characters, and iconic catchphrases. The characters from Hera Pheri, such as Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, Raju, and Shyam, remain etched in the history of Indian Cinema.

Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. (2003)

Laughter is the best medicine, especially when prescribed by Munna Bhai and his trusty sidekick, Circuit. The heartwarming comedy follows the misadventures of a goon-turned-doctor as he navigates the world of medicine with unconventional methods and infectious charm.

Dhol (2007)

Get ready for a wild ride with Dhol, a madcap comedy that follows four friends on a quest for fortune and love. From mistaken identities to hilarious misunderstandings, this film is a laugh riot from start to finish, guaranteed to leave you in stitches.

Welcome (2007)

Welcome to the world of chaos, confusion, and comedy, courtesy of the Majnu and Uday Shetty duo. This laugh-out-loud comedy of errors takes you on a rollercoaster ride through the underworld, complete with eccentric characters, outrageous situations, and unforgettable punchlines.

Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007)

Enter the haunted haveli of laughter with Bhool Bhulaiyaa, a spine-chilling yet side-splitting comedy thriller. Akshay Kumar shines as the sceptical psychiatrist trying to unravel the mysteries of a possessed mansion, while Vidya Balan adds her own brand of charm to the mix.

Bheja Fry (2007)

Who would have thought that a simple dinner party could turn into a laugh riot? “Bheja Fry” serves up a delectable dish of humour with Vinay Pathak’s impeccable portrayal of a bumbling tax inspector who unwittingly becomes the life of the party. With its witty screenplay and brilliant performances, this film is a recipe for laughter.

Golmaal: Fun Unlimited (2006)

Golmaal: Fun Unlimited, a rib-tickling comedy that lives up to its name. With a stellar ensemble cast led by Ajay Devgn and Arshad Warsi, this film is a madcap ride through misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and mayhem.

Hungama (2003)

What happens when you mix love, lies, and a whole lot of confusion? You get Hungama, a laugh riot that explores the hilarious consequences of mistaken identities and tangled relationships. With a stellar cast and a generous serving of comic time, this film is pure comedy gold.

Dhamaal (2007)

Get ready for some dhamaal with this comedy caper that follows four bumbling friends on a quest for hidden treasure. From slapstick humour to outrageous stunts, Dhamaal delivers laughs aplenty, making it a must-watch for comedy enthusiasts.

Phir Hera Pheri (2006)

The gang is back for another round of hilarity in Phir Hera Pheri, the sequel to the beloved comedy classic. With Baburao, Raju, and Shyam finding themselves in yet another pickle, this film serves up laughs by the truckload, proving that lightning can indeed strike twice.

Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year (2009)

Who knew that the world of sales could be so uproarious? “Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year” takes a comedic spin on the corporate world, following a young man’s journey from a lowly salesman to an unlikely hero. With Ranbir Kapoor’s endearing performance and sharp humor, this film is a hidden gem worth discovering.

Andaz Apna Apna (1994)

If there’s one film that deserves the crown for the ultimate Bollywood comedy, it’s Andaz Apna Apna. Starring the dynamic duo of Aamir Khan and Salman Khan as two lovable goofballs competing for the affection of a wealthy heiress, this film is a riot of slapstick comedy, hilarious misunderstandings, and unforgettable one-liners.

Andhadhun (2018)

Who said comedy can’t be dark and twisted? Andhadhun turns the traditional Bollywood comedy on its head with its tale of a blind pianist who unwittingly gets embroiled in a web of murder and deceit. With its clever plot twists and pitch-black humour, this film is a rollercoaster ride of laughs and gasps.

Khosla Ka Ghosla! (2006)

When a middle-class man’s dream of owning a plot of land is shattered by a conniving real estate tycoon, he enlists the help of his motley crew of family members to outsmart the villain. “Khosla Ka Ghosla!” is a heartwarming comedy that celebrates the indomitable spirit of the common man with laughter and love.

Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron (1983)

The film is a dark satire on Indian politics and corruption. It revolves around two friends who are trying to protect themselves from gangsters, mafia and politicians. The characters are extremely funny, and Naseeruddin Shah and Ravi Baswani’s performances are sure to make you laugh. The climax features a stage recreation of Mahabharata, possibly the funniest scene in the history of Hindi cinema.

Review – Moto Edge 50 Pro

The Moto Edge 50 Pro emerges as a true standout, boasting a level of visual excellence that’s bound to turn heads and elevate your everyday viewing experience to new heights. Let’s see what it holds within.

Design

Moto Edge 50 Pro is a smartphone that has been designed to perfection. Right from the moment you lay eyes on the Moto Edge 50 Pro, it’s evident that every detail has been meticulously crafted to grab the attention. The harmonious blend of silicone vegan leather finish and metal frames exudes a sense of sophistication and refinement. Available in two captivating colours – Luxe Lavender and Black Beauty, the vegan leather not only adds a touch of luxury but also underscores Moto’s commitment to sustainability. And for those with a penchant for opulence, the world’s first handmade design in Moonlight Pearl Finish offers a level of exclusivity that is simply unmatched. The device we received for review was of a blue colour with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage.

Eco-Friendly Packaging

The Moto Edge 50 Pro arrives in eco-friendly packaging, a testament to Moto’s commitment to sustainability. As you peel back the layers, you’ll be greeted by materials that are not only gentle on the environment but also elegant in their simplicity. To make your smartphone experience sensorial, Moto has come up with the concept of ‘fragrance in an box’. As you lift the lid, a subtle yet tantalising scent wafts through the air, enveloping you in a unique sensorial experience. It’s a small touch, but one that elevates the unboxing process to new heights, leaving a lasting impression long after the initial excitement fades.

Display

At the heart of the Moto Edge 50 Pro lies the world’s first and only true colour display, validated by none other than Pantone, the global authority on colour. The core display specifications of the Moto Edge 50 Pro are nothing short of impressive, setting a new standard for what’s possible in mobile visual technology. With a generous 6.7-inch pOLED display, users are treated to a canvas that’s both expansive and immersive, perfect for indulging in your favourite content with the utmost clarity and detail. With support for a staggering 1.5K resolution, every image and video comes to life with breathtaking sharpness and clarity, pulling you into the heart of the action with unrivalled fidelity.

Thanks to its impressive 144Hz refresh rate, scrolling through your feed or engaging in fast-paced gaming feels smoother and more fluid than ever before, delivering a level of responsiveness that’s second to none. Combined with its 3D curved display, which not only enhances aesthetics but also adds to the overall immersion, the Moto Edge 50 Pro offers a visual experience that’s truly beyond compare. With HDR10+ support, colours are rendered with stunning vibrancy and contrast, elevating your viewing experience to cinematic levels of immersion.

Camera

The Moto Edge 50 Pro sports the world’s first AI-powered pro-grade camera system validated by Pantone, and let me tell you, it’s nothing short of extraordinary. The camera is not just about capturing moments; it’s about elevating them to art. With the AI Photo Enhancement Engine, even novice photographers can effortlessly achieve professional-quality images. From boosting dynamic range to refining software-based bokeh and reducing noise in low-light environments, every shot is a masterpiece waiting to happen.

At its core lies the segment’s widest aperture primary 50MP 2um camera with OIS, capturing stunning detail and clarity in every shot. Accompanying this powerhouse are the 13MP ultrawide+macro secondary camera, the 10MP telephoto camera with 3X optical zoom and 30X hybrid zoom, and the segment’s highest 50MP selfie camera with autofocus and an improved aperture of f/1.9. And let’s not forget its ability to record 4K videos on both the front and back cameras, ensuring your memories are preserved in stunning clarity.

Performance

The Moto Edge 50 Pro sports the formidable Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset, a 4nm marvel that pushes the boundaries of performance to new heights. Thanks to its Generative AI features support, the smartphone offers a smoother gaming experience, support for higher resolution videos, and lightning-fast GPU/CPU speeds. And with faster 5G connectivity and greater power efficiency, the Moto Edge 50 Pro ensures that you’re always ahead of the curve, no matter where life takes you.

With a generous 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, this device is a multitasking powerhouse, effortlessly juggling multiple apps and tasks without breaking a sweat. Navigating the Moto Edge 50 Pro’s intuitive interface is a breeze, thanks to the innovative Hello UI. With all Moto apps conveniently housed in one place, customisation and personalisation have never been easier. And with the latest Android 14 onboard, along with assured 3 OS upgrades and 4 years of SMR updates, you can rest assured that your device will always be up to date and secure.

With IP68 underwater protection, the Moto Edge 50 Pro offers worry-free water usage, withstanding immersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for up to 30 minutes. Whether you’re caught in a sudden downpour or accidentally drop your device in water, rest assured that the Moto Edge 50 Pro can handle it with ease.

Battery

With the Moto Edge 50 Pro, you’re treated to not just one but two groundbreaking charging technologies. The segment’s only TurboPowerTM 50W wireless charging ensures that you’re always powered up and ready to go, without the hassle of tangled wires or cumbersome cables. And for those moments when time is of the essence, the 125W TurboPowerTM charging kicks into high gear, fully charging your phone’s 4500mAh battery in as little as 18 minutes under ideal conditions.

Verdict

Motorola has taken a conservative approach in a few areas to keep the pricing competitive. The Moto Edge 50 Pro does not have an ultra-high resolution screen or the most powerful zoom camera. It is not a benchmark setter in any critical area, but it offers a good combination of performance, camera capability, and general ease of use, complemented by ultra-fast charging. Compared to its predecessor, the Edge 50 Pro is superior in many ways, but we suggest purchasing it at an offered price rather than its actual price.

Price

8GB RAM/256GB with a 68W charger at ₹31,999 (offer price ₹27,999)
12GB RAM/256GB with a 125W charger at ₹35,999 (offer price ₹31,999)

Sales for the new Moto Edge 50 Pro will begin on April 9th, 2024 at 12 pm IST. The phone will be available for purchase on Flipkart, Motorola.in, and at major retail outlets, such as Reliance Digital. Additionally, Flipkart will offer exclusive early access to a limited stock of the Handmade Moon Light Pearl Finish variant during a live commerce event on April 8th, 2024 at 7 pm IST.

Also read: Review – HP Omen Transcend 14

Review – HP Omen Transcend 14

The HP Omen Transcend 14 laptop is specially designed for gamers and creators who want to play and create anywhere with an emphasis on portability. The laptop was unveiled at CES 2024 and labelled as the world’s coolest and lightest 14-inch gaming laptop. Like all gaming laptops, the HP Omen Transcend 14 is available in various customisable configurations. The machine we received for the review comes at a retail price of ₹1,74,999 and had an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H CPU, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 graphics, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD.

Design and Display

The HP Omen Transcend 14 boasts a sleek metal design with vibrant colours and a sturdy build. It lacks glowing logos but features an attractive RGB-lit keyboard. While the screen’s hinge doesn’t open to 180 degrees, efficient cooling ensures optimal performance. Connectivity options include Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, and HDMI 2.1, though they are limited. Its touchpad offers smooth navigation and decent sensitivity for everyday tasks and light gaming, though the pre-installed software may be overwhelming.

The Transcend 14 is a remarkable machine that stands out from the crowd thanks to its blend of style, performance, and immersion. However, its true magic lies in its OLED screen, which is mesmerising when turned on. The display has a luminance of 398.3 nits in SDR, producing vivid and vibrant colours that bring images to life. With a resolution of 2880 x 1800, the display is a masterful canvas that can render text, images, and videos with exquisite detail and clarity.

The Transcend 14 also supports HDR and can shine with a brightness of up to 500 nits, which creates a realm of breathtaking realism. It may not be the brightest display out there, but it delivers a well-balanced performance that elevates your gaming and multimedia experiences to new heights of immersion. The cinematic wonder of the display brings your favourite movies and games to life with unparalleled clarity and depth, drawing you into the heart of the action.

Webcam, Biometrics and Speakers

The webcam of the Transcend 14, while boasting 1080p resolution, falls short on sharpness and vibrancy, even in well-lit environments. Regarding the microphone, it’s functional enough for clear communication, though not remarkable. Biometric features like the IR camera for Windows Hello login perform reliably across diverse lighting scenarios. The laptop offers decent audio quality along with spacious sound with high-end detail and low-end bass, but it can become shrill and lose clarity at higher volumes.

Performance

We got our hands on the Omen Transcend 16/22 Core Ultra 7 155H, equipped with 16GB DDR5 RAM, a 1TB SSD, and an RTX 4060 laptop GPU. Despite opting for a slightly lower spec than its counterparts, it’s a sensible choice given the laptop’s slim profile and cooling capabilities, minimising throttling issues. In productivity and creative tasks, it competes closely with models like the Asus Zenbook 14 OLED and Acer Swift Go 14, slightly lagging in some benchmarks but excelling in others.

While gaming, it offers playable frame rates in AAA titles, albeit not at maximum settings or resolutions. For instance, in Returnal, it achieves 72fps at 1080p Epic settings but drops to 40fps at QHD and lower at higher resolutions. Despite its power, the Transcend 14 remains surprisingly quiet, with its fans emitting a mere whisper even under heavy load. Whether for work or play, it’s a versatile and efficient option, seamlessly balancing performance with portability.

Verdict

The HP Omen Transcend 14 is a fantastic gaming laptop that is also suitable for non-gamers. It boasts impressive gaming performance and features a stunning OLED display. The laptop is lightweight and portable, making it perfect for people who want a powerful yet easily transportable machine, but gamers who want maximum performance should look elsewhere.

Meme-orable Winks – 7 Movie Characters That Broke the Internet

With the rise of social media, memes have become an integral part of daily life for young people. Cinema is the most popular medium for making memes, while memes are the easiest way to reach a broad audience. They have the power to make your content go viral, with just one share being enough to change the game. Despite their mixed reputation, memes are undeniably effective in capturing people’s attention. Over the years, many popular meme characters have come and gone, but some remain as popular as ever. Let’s look at some of the most loved characters in the meme world and have a good laugh.

Calvin Candie (Django Unchained)

Tarantino’s Django Unchained is packed with thrilling gunfights and memorable dialogues with breakout performances from the actors that starred in the film, but the one that stayed with us for a long time was Leonardo DiCaprio’s portrayal of Calvin Candie which blends pure malice with the genteel manners of a southern aristocrat.

Patrick Bateman (American Psycho)

Christian Bale ignites the screen in American Psycho with a volatile brilliance, channelling the unhinged psyche of Patrick Bateman. His performance crackles with barely contained homicidal fervour, imprinting Bateman’s twisted persona onto the collective consciousness. Bateman’s peculiar brand of madness finds resonance in the world of memes, especially his “ooh” face.

 

Rick Dalton (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood)

Rick Dalton, a character from Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, portrayed by the illustrious Leonardo DiCaprio, captures our attention in a whimsical moment. With a sudden burst of energy, he points fervently at the TV screen, heralding his upcoming scene. This scene, ripe with comedic charm, became the perfect fodder for internet culture as users seized upon it to craft humorous memes encapsulating shared moments of recognition and amusement.

 

Jay Gatsby (The Great Gatsby)

As Jay Gatsby graces the screen for the first time in “The Great Gatsby” movie, fireworks illuminate the sky, while Gatsby, with a mischievous grin, raises a glass in a toast. Leonardo DiCaprio’s charismatic portrayal transforms this outrageous scene into a viral sensation, sparking online celebrations across the globe.

 

Mr Incredible (The Incredibles)

Pixar’s masterpiece, The Incredibles, stands as both a poignant deconstruction of superhero sagas and an enchanting family adventure. A timeless classic, it remains unmatched by its sequel a decade later. At its heart lies the magnetic presence of Bob Parr, alias Mr. Incredible, whose down-to-earth charisma captivates audiences.

Memes abound, celebrating his quintessential “dad energy,” immortalising iconic lines like “Math is math!” Yet, a new trend emerges, depicting Mr. Incredible with startling realism and depth. These memes, proliferating across the internet, serve as a vehicle to differentiate reactions such as “People Who Don’t Know vs. People Who Know.”

 

Raju (Hera Pheri Franchise)

Played by the actor Akshay Kumar, Raju’s antics and quirky expressions have inspired countless memes. His hilarious dialogues and memorable scenes have found a permanent place in internet humour, transcending the boundaries of cinema. Raju’s comedic timing and endearing persona have cemented his status as a timeless meme legend, beloved by netizens worldwide.

 

Uday Shetty (Welcome)

Uday Shetty, the boisterous and unforgettable character from the comedy film “Welcome,” has left an indelible mark on meme culture. Played with infectious energy by actor Nana Patekar, Uday’s eccentric mannerisms and quotable lines have sparked a wave of internet humour. His larger-than-life persona continues to inspire laughter and creativity, making him a cherished icon in online comedy.

The Origin of April Fool’s Day

Every year on April 1st, pranksters emerge from the shadows, ready to unleash their mischief upon unsuspecting victims. But have you ever wondered why this day is designated for such shenanigans? Well, if you don’t know, come along with us as we’re about to unveil the quirky history of April Fool’s Day.

Legend has it that April Fool’s Day originated in France in the late 16th century. Before the advent of smartphones and social media, news travelled at a snail’s pace. In those days, New Year’s Day fell on March 25th, and celebrations lasted until April 1st. However, in 1582, Pope Gregory XIII introduced the Gregorian calendar, shifting New Year’s Day to January 1st.

Now, imagine you’re living in 16th-century France, blissfully unaware of this calendar change. You’d be celebrating New Year’s in late March and early April, right? Well, that’s where the fun begins. Those who were slow to adapt or simply ignorant of the new calendar were mocked and ridiculed by their more informed counterparts. These clueless celebrants became the butt of jokes and hoaxes, earning them the title of “April Fools.”

But France wasn’t the only country to embrace this tradition of tomfoolery. In Scotland, they took it up a notch with the concept of “hunting the gowk” (gowk being Scottish for cuckoo bird, synonymous with fool). This involved sending people on fake errands or prank-filled quests, often culminating in embarrassment or confusion for the unsuspecting victim. As April Fool’s Day spread across Europe, so too did the creativity of its pranks. In England, pranksters would stick paper fish to the backs of their friends as a symbol of gullibility. This tradition, known as “April fish,” continues to this day in some parts of Europe.

But why April 1st specifically? 

Some historians speculate that it’s linked to the vernal equinox, a time associated with the arrival of spring and renewal. Others suggest it’s simply because April kicks off the blooming season, making it the perfect time for a bit of playful mischief. Regardless of its origins, April Fool’s Day has evolved into a global phenomenon, with people from all walks of life eagerly anticipating the opportunity to pull off the ultimate prank. From fake lottery tickets to toothpaste-filled Oreos, creativity knows no bounds on this day of jest and laughter.

So, as April 1st rolls around each year, remember to approach everything with a healthy dose of scepticism. After all, you never know when you might become the unwitting star of someone’s elaborate prank. And if you do fall victim to a clever ruse, just embrace the spirit of the day and join in on the laughter. After all, it’s all good fun, right? So, here’s to the fools, the pranksters, and the jesters who keep the spirit of April Fool’s alive and kicking year after year.

 

Cinematic Showdown – The Best Films to Catch in Theatres

Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life) / Releasing on 28th March

Are you a fan of heart-pounding survival dramas like 127 Hours, The Revenant, Cast Away, The Impossible, The Martian, and Maryan? If you are, then you won’t want to miss Aadujeevitham, an adaptation of the gripping 2008 Malayalam novel of the same name by Benyamin. The film is based on true events and stars Prithviraj Sukumaran in the lead.

With the national award-winning filmmaker Blessy at the helm, serving as writer, director, and co-producer, this movie promises to be an electrifying cinematic experience that you won’t soon forget. The soundtrack is surely going to be a treat to your ears, as the music is arranged by the legendary A. R. Rahman while the sound is designed by Resul Pookutty.

The First Omen / Releasing on 5th April

Experience the harrowing journey of a young American woman in Rome as she encounters darkness that tests her faith and uncovers a diabolical conspiracy aiming to birth pure evil. Directed by Arkasha Stevenson and featuring Nell Tiger Free, Tawkeef Barhom, Sonia Braga, Ralph Ineson, and Bill Nighy, this spine-chilling tale is based on characters created by David Seltzer and promises to be the most terrifying cinematic ride of the year.

Maidaan / Releasing on 11th April

Syed Abdul Rahim, the visionary football coach who transformed India’s sporting landscape in the 1950s and 1960s. From local pitches to global arenas, Rahim’s leadership and innovation earned the Indian Football Team the moniker “Brazil of Asia,” mastering the thrilling 4-2-4 formation. Amidst societal hurdles, they soared, clinching gold at the 1951 and 1962 Asian Games and pioneering a path to the 1956 Olympics semi-finals. The sports drama is directed by Amit Sharma and stars Ajay Devgn, Priyamani and Gajraj Rao in the lead roles.

Monkey Man / Releasing on 19th April

Indian-origin actor Dev Patel is living proof of the phrase, “You can take an Indian out of India, but you can’t take India out of an Indian.” He first captured our hearts with his lead role in the critically acclaimed Academy Award-winning movie Slumdog Millionaire, and now the ‘Lion’ actor is all set to take the film industry by storm with his directorial debut in ‘Monkey Man.’

The upcoming movie is an action thriller inspired by the legend of Hanuman and tells the story of a young man seeking revenge against corrupt leaders who murdered his mother and continued to exploit the poor and powerless. The trailer looks impressive, and the dialogue, “Everyday, I’ve prayed for a way to protect the weak,” captured my soul.

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire / Releasing on 19th April

The Spengler family finds themselves back at the iconic New York City firehouse. However, they soon realise they are in a world where the spiritual realm intersects with the physical world. In the modern era, the Ghostbusters have honed their skills to heights never seen before. However, when a lost artefact of immense power is discovered, it unleashes a harmful force that threatens to drag the world into an icy abyss.

Now, a new generation of Ghostbusters must team up with the old veterans, putting aside their differences to confront a menace that’s beyond their imagination. As the existence of humanity hangs in the balance, they must gather their bravery and protect their city. The fifth instalment of the Ghostbuster franchise is directed by Gil Kenan and stars Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, Mckenna Grace, Finn Wolfhard, and Celeste O’Connor in the lead.

Challengers / Releasing on 26th April

Tashi, a once-celebrated tennis player turned coach, ventures to revive her husband’s flagging career. With her guidance, he rises from obscurity to the heights of grand slam success, only to be entangled in a web of defeat. Determined to reignite his passion, Tashi orchestrates a risky move of returning to the grassroots tennis competition at a challenger event.

Yet, tensions flare when he faces off against Patrick, a former friend and rival, reigniting old conflicts and forcing Tashi to navigate a treacherous path of love, loyalty, and the pursuit of redemption. The upcoming romantic sports drama is directed by Luca Guadagnino and stars Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, Mike Faist and Jake Jensen in the titular roles.

Say ‘Yes’ to these 5 practices to achieve true inner peace

Attaining inner peace is a common aspiration for many of us, but it can often seem like a difficult goal to achieve. However, we have discovered that embracing certain attitudes and actions can make a significant difference. It’s not about agreeing to everything that comes your way or being a pushover. Instead, it’s about saying “yes” to specific things that can help you find peace within yourself. So, let’s learn about the top five practices for attaining true inner peace.

Adopt Gratitude:

Adopting gratitude is the easiest way to unlock our true inner peace. Every morning, we should reflect on something we’re grateful for, no matter how small. Gratitude is more than saying “thank you.” It’s recognizing the good in our lives, which can significantly impact our well-being and peace of mind. By embracing gratitude, we can appreciate the present moment and find joy in everyday things. Say “yes” to practising gratitude and experiencing lasting inner peace.

Acknowledge Discomfort:

To find inner peace, it’s important to face discomfort rather than avoid it. Avoidance can lead to more distress in the long run. By embracing discomfort and confronting challenges, we can build resilience and cultivate inner peace. Acknowledge discomfort as a part of life and try saying “yes” to it instead of avoiding it.

Be Present:

Mindfulness is about staying present and engaged in the moment. It means focusing on what’s happening now rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. By saying “yes” to the present moment, we can say “no” to distractions. Mindfulness encourages us to experience the world through our senses. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth the effort. After all, the present moment is the only one that truly matters.

Accept Impermanence:

Life is a constant flow of change. Everything changes, and nothing is permanent. Accepting impermanence means letting go of our attachment to specific outcomes and learning to flow with life’s rhythm. Embracing impermanence leads to true inner peace and helps us appreciate each moment as temporary, memorable, and precious.

Embrace Compassion:

To achieve inner peace, we should embrace compassion. Recognize suffering in yourself and others and act to alleviate it. Treat yourself and others kindly, even in challenging situations. This shift replaces judgment with acceptance and opens your heart to empathy. Saying “yes” to compassion transforms relationships with others and yourself. So, what’s stopping you from saying it? Say “yes” to compassion and make a difference.

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