Author: Bindu

Hello, my name is Bindumadhavi and I am passionate about blogging. In today's fast-paced world, it can be difficult to connect with others who share our interests and values. That's why I believe blogging is such a blessing - it allows us to express ourselves freely and connect with like-minded individuals from all over the world. Whether we're sharing our thoughts, experiences, or creative endeavors, blogging gives us a platform to connect, learn, and grow. I feel grateful to be a part of this community and I look forward to continuing to share my voice through my blog.

Puneet Rajkumar: The Evergreen Icon of Kannada Cinema

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Puneet Rajkumar, often fondly referred to as “Power Star” by his fans, was a true luminary in the world of Indian cinema. Born on March 17, 1975, in Bangalore, Karnataka, he was destined to carry forward the illustrious legacy of his legendary father, Dr. Rajkumar, one of the most iconic figures in the Kannada film industry. Puneet’s journey from childhood to his prolific acting career, which spanned until his untimely passing in 2021, was nothing short of extraordinary.

Puneet Rajkumar’s cinematic journey began at a tender age. As a child artist, he made his debut in the Kannada film industry with the movie “Bhakta Prahlada” in 1986. His endearing portrayal of the young Prahlada showcased his innate talent and marked the beginning of what would be a magnificent career.

However, Puneet Rajkumar’s true ascent to stardom came when he transitioned to lead roles in the late 1990s. His debut as a lead actor in the film “Appu” (2002), directed by Puri Jagannadh, set the stage for a series of remarkable performances. The film was a blockbuster, and Puneet’s portrayal of a rebellious young man catapulted him into the limelight. His nickname, “Appu,” became synonymous with the youthful energy and charisma he brought to his roles.

Over the years, Puneet Rajkumar proved his versatility as an actor. He effortlessly slipped into various genres, from romantic dramas to action-packed thrillers. His acting prowess shone in movies such as “Milana,” where he played a compassionate teacher, and “Jackie,” which showcased his action-hero persona.

One of the defining features of Puneet Rajkumar’s career was his ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level. His performances were marked by authenticity and relatability, making him a beloved figure in Karnataka and beyond. His role in “Akash” touched hearts with its portrayal of a visually impaired young man, and “Raj – The Showman” captured the essence of a struggling actor’s journey.

Beyond his acting, Puneet Rajkumar was a multifaceted talent. He was a gifted playback singer and lent his voice to several soulful songs that became chart-toppers in the Kannada music scene. His dedication to perfecting his craft extended to every aspect of filmmaking.

Puneet Rajkumar’s enduring appeal stemmed not only from his cinematic achievements but also from his humility, grounded personality, and his connection with his fans. He remained a role model and inspiration to many, carrying forward the values instilled by his illustrious father.

Tragically, Puneet Rajkumar’s life was cut short when he passed away on October 29, 2021. His untimely demise left a void in the hearts of millions of fans and a profound sense of loss in the Kannada film industry.

In conclusion, Puneet Rajkumar’s journey from a child artist to becoming an iconic figure in Kannada cinema is a testament to his immense talent, dedication, and the profound impact he had on the industry. His legacy lives on through his timeless performances and the indelible mark he left on Indian cinema. Puneet Rajkumar will forever be remembered as the “Power Star” who illuminated the silver screen with his charisma and talent, leaving an enduring legacy for generations to come.

Gangadhar Pantawane – Marathi Writer

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Gangadhar Vithoba Pantawane (28 June 1937 – 27 March 2018) was a prominent Indian Marathi writer, literary critic, and a committed follower of B. R. Ambedkar, the visionary behind the Indian Constitution. Hailing from Maharashtra, he played a pivotal role in championing the rights and literature of the Dalit community. His influence on the Dalit literary movement in Maharashtra was profound, and he was a trailblazer in this regard.

In 2008, Pantawane achieved the honor of being elected as the president of the inaugural Marathi Vishwa Sahitya Sammelan (World Marathi Literature Conference) held in the United States. His groundbreaking journal, “Asmitadarsh,” served as a source of inspiration for countless Dalit writers and intellectuals, providing a platform for their voices to be heard and their concerns addressed.

In recognition of his significant contributions to literature and social change, Gangadhar Vithoba Pantawane received the prestigious Padma Shri award from the Government of India in 2018, a fitting acknowledgment of his enduring legacy in the realms of literature and social reform.

Some of his notable books include:

  1. “Pratibimb”: This is one of Pantawane’s acclaimed novels, known for its exploration of human relationships and societal norms.
  2. “Kalokhachya Lagnala”: Another significant novel by Pantawane, it delves into various aspects of rural life and culture in Maharashtra.
  3. “Kumudini”: This is a collection of his short stories, celebrated for their simplicity and deep themes, often portraying rural life.
  4. “Asmitadarsh”: While not a traditional book, Pantawane’s journal “Asmitadarsh” played a crucial role in the Dalit literary movement, galvanizing generations of Dalit writers and thinkers.
  5. Various Essays: Pantawane also wrote numerous essays on topics such as literature, folklore, and social issues.

These are some of the notable works by Gangadhar Pantawane, and his literary contributions have left a lasting impact on Marathi literature and the Dalit literary movement in Maharashtra.

Smart Presentation in Zoom meetings.

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Zoom provides a feature called “Presenter View” that allows you to see speaker notes while presenting a PowerPoint, while the audience sees only the slides. Here’s how you can do it in Zoom:

  1. Prepare Your PowerPoint: Make sure your PowerPoint presentation includes speaker notes for each slide.
  2. Start a Zoom Meeting: Begin a Zoom meeting or join an existing one.
  3. Share Your Screen:
    • Click the “Share Screen” button in the Zoom meeting controls.
    • Select the window or application that displays your PowerPoint presentation.
  4. Enter Presenter View:
    • Once your PowerPoint presentation is being shared, click on the “Slide Show” tab in PowerPoint.
    • Click on “From Beginning” to start your presentation.
    • You will now see the presenter view with speaker notes on your screen, while the Zoom audience will only see the slide show.
  5. Navigate Through Your Presentation: You can use the presenter view to navigate through your slides and see your speaker notes. Your audience in Zoom will only see the slides.
  6. Interact with the Audience: While in presenter view, you can still interact with your Zoom audience through video, audio, chat, or Q&A features.

Why do we celebrate Teachers Day on September 5th?

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Teachers’ Day is celebrated on September 5th in India as a tribute to Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, who was not only a renowned philosopher and scholar but also the second President of India. The significance of celebrating Teachers’ Day on his birthday lies in his own request.

Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was born on September 5, 1888. When he became the President of India in 1962, some of his students and friends approached him and suggested that his birthday should be celebrated as a public holiday. However, Dr. Radhakrishnan, who had a deep reverence for teachers and the teaching profession, suggested that instead of celebrating his birthday, it should be observed as Teachers’ Day as a mark of respect to all teachers.

His belief was that teachers should be honored and appreciated for their contributions to society, and he wanted to emphasize the importance of teachers in shaping the future of the nation. Consequently, since 1962, September 5th has been celebrated as Teachers’ Day in India to acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and significant role that teachers play in the lives of students and in the development of the nation. It’s a day when students express their gratitude and appreciation for their teachers through various activities, ceremonies, and gestures of respect.

Mono and Bilingual Learners

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Mono and bilingual learners refer to students who are either monolingual (speak only one language) or bilingual (speak two languages) in the context of ESL (English as a Second Language) education. Understanding whether a student is mono or bilingual is important because it can influence how they approach and experience the process of learning English.

Mono Learners: Mono learners are individuals who speak only one language fluently. For them, learning English is often a journey of starting from scratch. Their primary language may not have much in common with English in terms of vocabulary, grammar, or phonetics. This can present both challenges and advantages:

Challenges:

  • Limited Linguistic Connections: Mono learners may have fewer linguistic similarities between their native language and English, making it harder to draw on existing language skills.
  • Pronunciation Struggles: English sounds that do not exist in their native language can pose challenges for accurate pronunciation.
  • Conceptual Adjustments: Understanding grammatical structures and idiomatic expressions unique to English may require more effort.

Advantages:

  • Fresh Perspective: Mono learners might approach English with an open mind and fewer preconceived notions about how a language should work.
  • Focused Learning: Since they don’t have to balance the nuances of multiple languages, mono learners can focus more intently on mastering English.

Bilingual Learners: Bilingual learners, on the other hand, have a head start due to their familiarity with two languages. They already possess language learning skills and may draw upon similarities between their native language and English. However, being bilingual can also present certain challenges:

Challenges:

  • Interference: Bilingual learners might experience interference from their native language, where structures, vocabulary, or pronunciation differ from English.
  • Code-Switching: There might be a tendency to mix languages, leading to code-switching in speech or writing.
  • Cultural Implications: Bilingual learners might have to navigate differences in cultural expressions and linguistic norms between their languages and English.

Advantages:

  • Transferable Skills: Bilingual learners can apply their understanding of language structures and vocabulary from one language to another.
  • Enhanced Cognitive Skills: Being bilingual can enhance cognitive abilities like problem-solving, multitasking, and focusing attention.

Overall, whether a learner is mono or bilingual affects their learning experience in terms of the initial challenges they face and the unique advantages they bring to the learning process. Teachers can tailor their instruction to address these differences, helping students leverage their strengths while addressing specific areas of difficulty.

10 Foods Rich in Iron

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Here are 10 foods that are rich in iron and can help increase hemoglobin levels in your blood:

  1. Spinach: This leafy green is packed with iron and other nutrients that support healthy hemoglobin production.
  2. Lentils: Lentils are a great source of plant-based iron, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans.
  3. Beans: Beans, such as kidney beans and chickpeas, are rich in iron and can be added to soups, salads, and various dishes.
  4. Tofu: Tofu is a versatile protein source that contains iron. It can be used in stir-fries, sandwiches, and more.
  5. Quinoa: This whole grain is not only high in iron but also provides protein and other essential nutrients.
  6. Lean Red Meat: If you eat meat, lean cuts of red meat like beef or lamb are good sources of heme iron, which is more easily absorbed by the body.
  7. Poultry: Chicken and turkey also provide heme iron, along with other important nutrients.
  8. Fish: Fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines are not only rich in iron but also provide omega-3 fatty acids for heart health.
  9. Nuts and Seeds: Nuts like almonds and pumpkin seeds, as well as seeds like sunflower seeds, can contribute to your iron intake.
  10. Fortified Cereals: Certain breakfast cereals are fortified with iron and other vitamins and minerals, making them a convenient option.

Remember that vitamin C helps enhance the absorption of non-heme iron (the type of iron found in plant-based foods), so including foods high in vitamin C (like citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers) alongside these iron-rich foods can further boost your body’s ability to absorb iron and improve your hemoglobin levels

How to get H4 EAD after getting your visa stamping done.

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To get an H4-EAD after getting your H4 stamping on your passport, you will need to file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. You can file this form online or by mail. You will need to provide your passport information, your H4 visa approval notice, and proof of your identity and eligibility for employment in the United States.

The processing time for H4-EAD applications can vary, but it is typically around 90 days. Once your application is approved, you will be issued an EAD card, which will allow you to work in the United States.

Here are the steps on how to get an H4-EAD after getting your H4 stamping on your passport:

  1. Gather the required documents. This includes your passport, your H4 visa approval notice, proof of your identity and eligibility for employment in the United States, and a copy of your Form I-765.
  2. File Form I-765 online or by mail. You can find the form and instructions on the USCIS website.
  3. Pay the filing fee. The filing fee for Form I-765 is currently $520 for paper filings and $470 for online filings.
  4. Submit your application. You can submit your application online, by mail, or in person at a USCIS office.
  5. Wait for your application to be processed. The processing time for H4-EAD applications can vary, but it is typically around 90 days.
  6. Receive your EAD card. Once your application is approved, you will be issued an EAD card, which will allow you to work in the United States.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind:

  • You must be in the United States to apply for an H4-EAD.
  • You must have H4 status to apply for an H4-EAD.
  • You must be able to pass a background check to apply for an H4-EAD.

If you have any questions about the H4-EAD process, you can contact USCIS customer service.

Celebrating Hundred days of School – Ideas for art and craft

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In American schools, the milestone of reaching 100 days of school in an academic year is often celebrated with various activities and projects. Recently, our daughter’s school in New Jersey organized a special event to commemorate this achievement. As part of the celebration, the students were encouraged to create something that symbolized their 100 days of learning. Our daughter, with her artistic flair and concern for the environment, crafted a unique artwork using 100 plastic bottle caps. Additionally, she incorporated heart-shaped stickers to display her appreciation for the wonderful journey of education. This article delves into the significance of her creation, highlighting the themes of recycling, reusing, and love for learning.

Embracing Environmental Awareness: Our daughter’s decision to utilize 100 plastic bottle caps in her artwork was a thoughtful gesture that promotes the principles of environmental conservation. By repurposing these bottle caps, she highlighted the importance of the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to our ecosystem, and reusing materials can play a crucial role in minimizing this impact. Through her artwork, our daughter aimed to raise awareness and inspire others to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives.

Keeping Our Environment Clean: One of the underlying messages conveyed by our daughter’s art is the significance of reusing materials to keep our surroundings clean. While we may strive to eliminate plastic from our lives completely, it is not always practical or feasible. Plastic often finds its way into our homes, and rather than discarding it immediately, reusing can be an effective alternative. Our daughter’s use of 100 bottle caps showcased how simple acts of reusing can contribute to a cleaner environment.

Expressing Love for Learning: Alongside her creative display of environmental awareness, our daughter expressed her affection for the 100 days of school through heart-shaped stickers that formed the number “100.” This symbolic representation served as a testament to her enjoyment and appreciation of the educational journey she embarked upon. It is a reminder of the many opportunities for growth, knowledge, and personal development that each day of school brings. The heart-shaped stickers also served as a heartfelt thank you to her teachers, classmates, and the entire school community for making her experience special and memorable.

Conclusion: The celebration of 100 days of school holds great significance in the American education system. Our daughter’s artwork, composed of 100 plastic bottle caps and heart-shaped stickers, beautifully encapsulates the essence of this milestone. By promoting the principles of recycling and reusing, she exemplifies the importance of caring for our environment. Simultaneously, her expression of love for learning reminds us of the invaluable impact of education. Through her creation, she has not only left a lasting impression but also inspired others to consider their role in preserving our planet and cherishing the joys of learning.

Hiking at Mt Tammany Hills

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Mount Tammany Hiking Trail is in Hardwick New Jersey. It has both blue dot trails and red dot trails. Blue dot trail is the easier one and Red dot is the harder one and which is popular. We went in October and it was good. I guess its good in most of the seasons except in peak winters. Also it might get too hot in summers. Its always ideal to start early mornings if you are a beginner and hiking with kids. Because it will be difficult to get down once it gets dark. As you can see in the picture it has got dark by the time we reached down and having some snacks. Carry enough water and food with you in the car as you will not find any shops nearby. Also the rest rooms are of temporary kind not connected through the regular water supply so you can avoid it and use the nearest public restroom service by checking in google or GPS.

Also it might be a good idea to keep a rough map handy as these are in country side and signal might get lost.

The effort is worth it, you will get beautiful views and its very near to popular cities like Edison, East windsor etc so you should visit if you are living in NJ or Pennsylvania.

Always add insurance option while buying Travel Tickets

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Referring to the article on ET people who were affected by the Balasore Train accident could have got some solace if they had paid the extra 35 paise as a part of insurance while buying the tickets. They would have got death benefit of 10 lakh, permanent disability 10 lakh, hospitalization coverage 2 lakh and Transportation of mortal remains INR 10,000. So this is just one example and one case.

How often do we select that insurance option while booking tickets? Now that we know about it we can definitely add this extra few paise or rupees while buying a train ticket or bus ticket. But most often for flight tickets the insurance part would be more. So we might not choose that option. But remember risk is also more while flying. So better to opt for that every time that option is there. Now we need to cross check of all the people who opted for that how many get the benefit and how soon. Because the family members might not even be aware if they had opted for that or not!! Not everyone buys tickets online. Hope Government compensates everyone affected by the accident.