Movie Review: Chhaava

Chhaava is a 2025 Hindi-language historical action film directed by Laxman Utekar, featuring Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the second ruler of the Maratha Empire. Based on Shivaji Sawant's Marathi novel, the film also stars Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna in pivotal roles. The narrative delves into Sambhaji Maharaj's life, highlighting his valor, sacrifices, and the challenges he faced during his reign.

Vicky Kaushal delivers a compelling performance, embodying the complexities of Sambhaji Maharaj with depth and intensity. His portrayal captures the essence of a leader torn between personal desires and royal duties. Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna provide solid support, adding layers to the storyline.

The film's production values are noteworthy, with grand set designs and authentic costumes that transport viewers to the Maratha era. A. R. Rahman's musical score complements the narrative, enhancing the emotional and dramatic moments.

However, Chhaava has received mixed reviews from critics. Some have praised its ambition and the passionate performances, while others have criticized its lengthy runtime and the depiction of violence. For instance, Anupama Chopra from The Hollywood Reporter noted, "This is a film with ambition and passion."  Conversely, Shubhra Gupta of The Indian Express described it as "an exhausting blur," highlighting the film's pacing issues. 

In summary, Chhaava offers a cinematic portrayal of a significant historical figure, brought to life by Vicky Kaushal's dedicated performance. While the film's grandeur and musical composition are commendable, its reception suggests a divide among audiences and critics regarding its execution and narrative depth. 

Book Review: Gunaho Ka Devta by Dharamveer Bharti

Gunahon Ka Devta by Dharamveer Bharti is one of the most celebrated Hindi novels, known for its deep emotional intensity and tragic love story. First published in 1949, the novel beautifully explores love, sacrifice, and the complexities of human emotions in a deeply conservative society.

The story revolves around Chander and Sudha, two individuals who share a pure and innocent bond. Chander, an intelligent and idealistic young man, is deeply attached to Sudha, the daughter of his mentor. Their relationship is filled with unspoken love and respect, but societal norms and personal sacrifices prevent them from uniting. As fate takes them in different directions, the novel portrays the pain of separation and the struggles of unfulfilled love.

What makes Gunahon Ka Devta special is its exploration of emotions beyond just romance. It delves into the moral conflicts faced by individuals when they are forced to choose between their hearts and societal expectations. Bharti’s poetic and philosophical writing adds depth to the novel, making the reader feel every moment of joy and sorrow experienced by the characters.

The novel is more than just a love story—it is a reflection on life, duty, and selflessness. It questions rigid traditions and the price people pay for following societal rules. Even after decades, Gunahon Ka Devta continues to touch readers' hearts with its timeless themes and heartfelt storytelling.

If you enjoy books that beautifully capture the pain of love, personal struggles, and the emotions of a bygone era, this novel is a must-read.

Book Review: Revolution 2020 by Chetan Bhagat

Revolution 2020 by Chetan Bhagat is a story of love, ambition, corruption, and the struggle between right and wrong. Set in the city of Varanasi, the novel follows three childhood friends—Gopal, Raghav, and Aarti—who have different dreams and take different paths in life.

Gopal comes from a poor background and dreams of becoming rich. Raghav, on the other hand, is from a well-off family and wants to bring change in society through journalism. Aarti, the girl they both love, is caught between her feelings for the two. As they grow up, their choices shape their lives—Gopal gets involved in corruption to achieve success, while Raghav fights against the system, risking everything for his ideals.

The novel highlights the flaws in India’s education system, where success is often determined by money and influence rather than talent. It also explores the idea of morality—can a person justify doing wrong if it leads to personal success? Gopal’s journey from an innocent boy to a man trapped in a corrupt world is both tragic and thought-provoking.

Chetan Bhagat’s writing is simple and engaging, making the book an easy read. He captures the emotions of young people who struggle between personal ambitions and doing what is right. While some may find the love triangle predictable, the novel keeps the reader interested with its fast pace and relatable themes.

Revolution 2020 is a book for those who enjoy stories about love, friendship, and the realities of society. It makes us think about how corruption affects our dreams and whether true change is possible in a system that rewards the powerful. If you like books that mix romance with social issues, this one is worth reading.

Book Review: Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is one of the most beloved novels of all time. It is a story about love, misunderstandings, and the importance of character over social status. Set in early 19th-century England, the novel follows Elizabeth Bennet, a smart and independent young woman, and Mr. Darcy, a wealthy but reserved gentleman.

Elizabeth is one of five sisters in a family where marriage is considered the only path to security. When she meets Mr. Darcy, she finds him arrogant and proud, while he sees her as beneath him because of her lower social status. However, as the story unfolds, both Elizabeth and Darcy realize that their first impressions were wrong. Through misunderstandings, family drama, and moments of self-reflection, they slowly grow to understand and respect each other.

Jane Austen’s writing is witty and sharp, making the novel both entertaining and thought-provoking. She brilliantly captures the society of her time, where class and marriage dictated a person's future. The novel is filled with humor, strong female characters, and one of the most famous love stories in literature.

What makes Pride and Prejudice special is that it is not just a romance—it is a novel about growth and learning. Elizabeth and Darcy both have their flaws, but they change for the better. It reminds us that true love is not just about attraction but about understanding and respect.

If you enjoy classic novels with strong characters, humor, and deep emotions, Pride and Prejudice is a must-read. 

Book Review: The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is a deeply emotional novel about friendship, betrayal, and redemption. Set in Afghanistan and later in the United States, the story follows Amir, a young boy from a wealthy family, and Hassan, the son of his father’s servant. Though they grow up together like brothers, their different social classes create an invisible gap between them.

Amir and Hassan share a special bond, but one fateful incident changes everything. Amir’s guilt over his betrayal of Hassan haunts him for years, shaping his choices and his future. As war breaks out in Afghanistan, Amir and his father flee to America, leaving behind the past. However, memories of Hassan never leave Amir, and he soon gets a chance to make things right—but at a heavy cost.

Hosseini’s storytelling is powerful and deeply moving. He paints a vivid picture of Afghanistan, both its beauty and its suffering. The book captures the pain of lost friendships, the impact of guilt, and the hope for redemption. The characters feel real, and their emotions stay with you long after you finish reading.

The Kite Runner is not just a story about two boys; it is about the choices we make and how they shape our lives. It teaches us that while we cannot change the past, we can still seek forgiveness and make amends. If you enjoy books that make you feel and think, this novel is a must-read. 

Book Review: Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka

Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka is a short novel that leaves a deep impact on its readers. It tells the strange and tragic story of Gregor Samsa, a hardworking salesman who wakes up one morning to find himself transformed into a giant insect. From the very first sentence, the book pulls you into Gregor’s nightmare, making you feel his confusion, fear, and helplessness.

Despite his horrifying condition, Gregor’s first thoughts are not about himself but about his job. He worries about being late for work and disappointing his boss, showing how much pressure he feels to provide for his family. However, his transformation changes everything. Instead of seeing him as a son and brother, his family begins to see him as a burden. At first, they try to care for him, but as time passes, their kindness fades. Gregor is left alone, locked in his room, unwanted and unloved.

What makes Metamorphosis so powerful is the way it makes the reader feel Gregor’s pain. Kafka’s writing is simple yet effective, creating an atmosphere of loneliness and hopelessness. The book is not just about a man turning into an insect—it is about how quickly people can be forgotten when they are no longer useful. It is a heartbreaking story that stays with you long after you finish reading.

Even though Metamorphosis is a short book, it is packed with meaning. It makes us think about family, responsibility, and the way society treats people who are different. If you enjoy thought-provoking stories that make you see the world differently, this is a book worth reading.

Movie Review: Kalki

Kalki 2898 AD is a visually stunning and ambitious sci-fi epic directed by Nag Ashwin. It blends Indian mythology with a futuristic dystopian setting, creating a unique cinematic experience. The story revolves around Bhairava (Prabhas), a bounty hunter who gets caught up in a mission to protect SUM-80 (Deepika Padukone), a woman carrying a child who could change the world. The film also introduces powerful mythological characters like Ashwatthama (Amitabh Bachchan), who plays a key role in the unfolding events.

One of the film’s biggest strengths is its grand visuals. The world-building is impressive, with detailed futuristic cities, advanced technology, and a post-apocalyptic feel that makes the film stand out. The cinematography and production design create an immersive experience, though some of the CGI effects don’t always hit the mark.

The performances are solid, with Amitabh Bachchan stealing the show as the immortal Ashwatthama. Prabhas delivers a good mix of action and humor, while Deepika Padukone brings depth to her role. Kamal Haasan, in a brief but impactful role, adds a sinister edge to the story.

However, the film isn’t perfect. The first half drags at times, with unnecessary humor slowing down the pace. But the second half picks up momentum, leading to an exciting climax that sets up the next installment. Some parts of the story feel underdeveloped, but the overall vision keeps you engaged.

Critics have given Kalki 2898 AD mixed to positive reviews. Some praise its bold storytelling and visual grandeur, while others feel it’s too overwhelming and could have been more polished. Despite its flaws, the movie is a landmark in Indian cinema, pushing boundaries and setting the stage for more ambitious projects.

The Monkey's Paw by W. W. Jacobs

"The Monkey’s Paw", first published in 1902. This tale, filled with suspense and dread, warns us that fate is not something to be tampered with—and that every wish comes with a price.

∆ What is "The Monkey’s Paw" About?

The story follows the White family—Mr. and Mrs. White and their son, Herbert—who receive a strange, mummified monkey’s paw from an old friend, Sergeant-Major Morris. He warns them that the paw grants three wishes but brings terrible consequences.

Ignoring his warnings, Mr. White wishes for £200. The next day, tragedy strikes—Herbert dies in a factory accident, and the family is compensated exactly £200.

Grief-stricken, Mrs. White demands a second wish—to bring Herbert back. Later that night, they hear loud knocking at the door, but Mr. White, terrified of what they might see, uses the third and final wish… and the knocking suddenly stops.

What did he wish for? The story never tells us, leaving readers haunted by the unknown.

∆ Key Themes in "The Monkey’s Paw":

1. “Be Careful What You Wish For”

The central message of the story is that wishes can backfire. What seems like a blessing can turn into a curse, showing us that fate should not be tampered with.

2. The Power of Fate

No matter how hard humans try to control their destiny, fate always has the final say. The White family learns this the hard way—by wishing, they only bring themselves more pain.

3. Horror Through the Unseen

The scariest part of The Monkey’s Paw is not what we see, but what we don’t. Jacobs masterfully builds suspense—what’s behind the door? Is Herbert truly back, or is it something else? The mystery makes the horror even more chilling.

4. Greed and the Dangers of Desire

The White family had a happy, simple life—until greed and temptation led them to use the monkey’s paw. The story warns us that wanting too much can lead to devastating consequences.

∆ Why The Monkey’s Paw Still Haunts Readers Today:

More than a century after its publication, The Monkey’s Paw remains one of the most famous horror stories ever written. It’s not about ghosts or monsters—it’s about the dark consequences of human desires.

The Black Cat by Edgar Allan Poe

Edgar Allan Poe’s "The Black Cat" is one such tale—a chilling journey into the mind of a man consumed by guilt, madness, and the weight of his own crimes. First published in 1843, this short story is a masterpiece of psychological horror, showing us how a guilty conscience can be more terrifying than any ghost or monster.

∆ What is "The Black Cat" About?:

The story is narrated by an unnamed man awaiting execution, recounting the terrible events that led him to his fate. He starts as a kind and loving person, especially toward animals. But as alcoholism takes control, he becomes violent, first towards his wife and then toward his beloved pet—a black cat named Pluto.

In a fit of drunken rage, he gouges out one of Pluto’s eyes and later hangs the cat. But soon after, another black cat appears—identical to Pluto, except for a strange white mark on its chest. As paranoia and guilt consume him, the narrator’s violent tendencies escalate, leading to a shocking and gruesome climax.

∆ Key Themes in "The Black Cat":

1. The Darkness of the Human Mind

Unlike traditional horror stories that focus on supernatural elements, The Black Cat is a psychological horror—meaning the true monster is the narrator himself. Poe explores how guilt, addiction, and cruelty can transform a person into something monstrous.

2. The Power of Guilt and Conscience

Even though the narrator tries to justify his actions, his guilt manifests in terrifying ways—the second cat becomes a haunting reminder of his crime. Poe suggests that no crime goes unpunished, and sometimes, our own minds become the worst prisons.

3. Alcoholism and Self-Destruction

The narrator’s descent into madness is closely linked to his addiction to alcohol. Poe, who struggled with alcoholism in real life, uses the story to explore how addiction can turn even a good man into a violent and destructive force.

4. The Supernatural vs. Psychological Horror

Is the second black cat truly supernatural, or is it just a figment of the narrator’s guilt-ridden imagination? Poe masterfully leaves this open-ended, forcing the reader to question what is real and what is just the madness of the narrator’s mind.

∆ Why The Black Cat Still Terrifies Readers Today:

More than 180 years after its publication, The Black Cat remains one of Poe’s most disturbing stories. It’s not just a tale of horror—it’s a deep exploration of the human psyche, guilt, and the consequences of cruelty.

Even today, the story reminds us that the most terrifying horrors aren’t always ghosts or monsters—they can come from within ourselves. Poe’s dark and poetic writing lingers in the mind, making The Black Cat a timeless masterpiece of gothic horror.

The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy

"The God of Small Things", Arundhati Roy’s debut novel, is one such book. Published in 1997, it won the Booker Prize and quickly became a modern classic.

This novel isn’t just about what happens; it’s about how it happens. It’s about memory, love, caste, and the small moments that shape our lives in ways we don’t realize until it’s too late.

∆ What The God of Small Things is About:

Set in Kerala, India, the novel follows fraternal twins, Estha and Rahel, whose childhood is shattered by a tragic event. The story moves back and forth in time, slowly revealing how one fateful incident changed everything—for them, for their family, and for the people they loved.

At its heart, the novel explores forbidden love, particularly between Ammu, the twins’ mother, and Velutha, a lower-caste man. Their love defies social norms and leads to devastating consequences. Through their story, Roy highlights the rigid caste system, family pressures, and the lasting impact of societal rules.

∆ Why The God of Small Things is More Than Just a Story:

1. The Power of Memory

The novel doesn’t follow a straight timeline; instead, it unfolds in pieces, much like how memories come to us—sometimes sharp, sometimes blurred. Roy masterfully shows how the past is never really in the past.

2. The Politics of Love

Love in The God of Small Things isn’t just about romance—it’s about who is allowed to love whom. Whether it’s Ammu and Velutha, or the bond between the twins, Roy explores how love is shaped (and sometimes destroyed) by society, caste, gender, and family expectations.

3. The Caste System and Social Injustice

Velutha is an “Untouchable”, someone from the lowest caste in India. Even though he is kind, talented, and hardworking, his love for Ammu is seen as unacceptable. Roy doesn’t just tell a love story—she critiques a system that punishes people simply for being born into a certain group.

4. The Beauty of Small Things

The novel pays attention to tiny details—the way sunlight falls on a river, the sound of raindrops, the way children see the world differently from adults. This focus on “small things” reminds us that sometimes, it’s not the big events but the small moments that shape our lives the most.

∆ Why The God of Small Things Still Matters:

Even decades after its release, The God of Small Things remains a powerful reflection on love, loss, and the invisible rules that govern our lives. Its themes of social inequality, family trauma, and forbidden love are still relevant today.

Animal Farm by George Orwell

Animal Farm by George Orwell, published in 1945, is one of those rare books that looks simple on the surface but carries a powerful message underneath.

At first glance, Animal Farm is just a story about animals taking over a farm. But if you dig deeper, you’ll see that Orwell wasn’t just writing about animals—he was writing about power, corruption, and how revolutions can go wrong. The book is a political allegory, meaning it uses a fictional story to represent real-life events, specifically the Russian Revolution and the rise of dictators like Joseph Stalin.

∆ The Story in a Nutshell:

The novel takes place on Manor Farm, where the animals are tired of being mistreated by their human owner, Mr. Jones. Inspired by the wise old pig Old Major, they rebel and take control of the farm, renaming it Animal Farm. The pigs, led by Napoleon and Snowball, promise a new society where all animals are equal.

But things don’t go as planned. Over time, Napoleon slowly gains power, gets rid of Snowball, and turns into a dictator. The pigs start acting just like the humans they overthrew, and the famous commandment “All animals are equal” is secretly changed to “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.”

By the end of the novel, the other animals realize that nothing has really changed—they are still oppressed, just by different leaders.

∆ Why Animal Farm is More Than Just a Story:

1. Power Corrupts

One of Orwell’s biggest messages is that power can change people. Napoleon starts as a leader fighting for freedom, but once he gets power, he becomes just as bad as the humans. This reflects what happened in real-world revolutions, where new leaders often become just as oppressive as the ones they replaced.

2. The Danger of Blind Loyalty

The hardworking horse, Boxer, represents the working class—loyal, strong, and trusting. His motto is “I will work harder”, and he believes Napoleon is always right. But in the end, he is betrayed and sent to his death. Orwell shows us how dangerous it can be to blindly follow leaders without questioning them.

3. Manipulation Through Propaganda

The pig Squealer is a master of propaganda, constantly twisting the truth to keep the animals loyal to Napoleon. Orwell uses him to show how governments use media, fear, and lies to control people. This is still relevant today, where misinformation is used to influence public opinion.

4. The Cycle of Oppression

In the beginning, the animals overthrow the humans because they want freedom. But by the end, the pigs become just like the humans. Orwell warns that without true equality and awareness, revolutions can end up repeating the same mistakes.

∆ Why Animal Farm Still Matters Today:

Even though Animal Farm was written about the Russian Revolution, its lessons apply to any time and place where power is abused. Whether it's politics, workplaces, or social movements, the book reminds us to question authority, stay informed, and fight against injustice.

Beloved by Toni Morrison

Toni Morrison’s Beloved isn’t just a novel—it’s an experience. It’s a book that lingers in your mind long after you’ve turned the last page. First published in 1987, Beloved won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and is widely considered one of the most powerful novels about slavery, trauma, and motherhood ever written.

At its core, Beloved is about the things that refuse to be forgotten—about how pain, love, and history shape us. It’s about Sethe, a formerly enslaved woman, who is haunted by the ghost of her dead daughter. But this isn’t just a ghost story. It’s a story about survival, about what it means to be free, and about the price people pay for trying to reclaim their own lives.

∆ A Story That Haunts You:

Set in post-Civil War America, Beloved follows Sethe, who has escaped slavery but cannot escape her past. She lives with her daughter, Denver, in a house that everyone believes is haunted by the spirit of her dead baby. One day, a mysterious young woman named Beloved appears, and her presence begins to unravel Sethe’s buried memories.

As the story unfolds, we learn the horrifying truth: in a moment of desperation, Sethe once made an unthinkable choice—to kill her own child rather than let her be taken back into slavery. The ghost of Beloved is not just a supernatural force but a symbol of unresolved trauma, history, and the unbearable weight of guilt.

∆ Why Beloved is More Than Just a Novel:

1. Memory and the Past

Morrison explores how the past never truly leaves us. For Sethe and other formerly enslaved people, freedom doesn’t mean forgetting—it means constantly struggling with the memories of what they endured. The novel reminds us that history is not something we can escape; it shapes who we are.

2. The Power of Motherhood

At its heart, Beloved is about a mother’s love—both its strength and its devastating consequences. Sethe’s love for her children is so fierce that she makes a choice most people can’t even imagine. Morrison doesn’t tell us whether she was right or wrong—she simply forces us to understand her pain.

3. The Ghost as a Metaphor

Beloved, the ghost-turned-human figure, isn’t just Sethe’s daughter. She represents all the lost voices of enslaved people, all the stories that history tries to erase. She is both personal and universal, a reminder that the past demands to be acknowledged.

4. The Importance of Community

Throughout the novel, Sethe is isolated, weighed down by her guilt and grief. It is only when her community—other formerly enslaved women—steps in to help that she can begin to heal. Beloved teaches us that trauma cannot be faced alone; we need others to help us carry the burden.

∆ Why Beloved Still Matters Today:

Even though Beloved is set in the 1800s, it speaks to modern struggles with trauma, racism, and history. It forces us to confront painful truths about the past and how they still shape the present. Morrison’s language is poetic, sometimes challenging, but always deeply moving.

This is not an easy book—it demands patience and emotional investment. But if you let it, Beloved will change the way you see the world. It will make you think about love, loss, and the ways history refuses to stay buried.

ThAct: Poems

∆ Write a critical note on “To the Negro American Soldiers” by Leopold sedar senghor.

Ans-> Léopold Sédar Senghor’s poem To the Negro American Soldiers is a poignant and powerful tribute to Black soldiers who fought in World War II, particularly those from America. As a poet, philosopher, and one of the key figures of the Négritude movement, Senghor often used his poetry to explore themes of racial identity, colonialism, and the Black experience. In this poem, he acknowledges the bravery of African American soldiers while also exposing the racial injustices they endured.

Themes and Analysis

1. Recognition of Black Bravery and Sacrifice:

Senghor’s poem honors the African American soldiers who fought in the war, portraying them as courageous warriors who shed blood for a cause that did not fully recognize them. He acknowledges their sacrifices, not just in battle but also in a society that continued to oppress them.

2. The Irony of Fighting for a Racist Nation:

One of the strongest elements of the poem is its critique of the paradox in which African American soldiers fought for the ideals of democracy and freedom abroad while being denied those same rights in their own country. Senghor highlights this hypocrisy, exposing the deep-rooted racism that persisted in America even after these soldiers proved their loyalty and bravery.

3. Négritude and Racial Pride:

As a leader of the Négritude movement, Senghor’s poetry often sought to reclaim Black identity and dignity. In To the Negro American Soldiers, he does not just mourn the injustices these soldiers faced but also celebrates their resilience. He places them within the broader struggle for Black liberation, linking their fight to the larger history of oppression and resistance among people of African descent.

4. A Lyrical and Emotional Tone:

Senghor’s language is rich and evocative, filled with deep emotion. His poetic voice is both reverent and sorrowful, acknowledging the pain of racial discrimination while also uplifting the soldiers as symbols of strength and dignity. The rhythm and imagery in the poem reinforce a sense of both mourning and admiration.

Historical Context

The poem was written in the context of World War II, during which many African American soldiers served in the U.S. military despite facing segregation and discrimination. They fought in a war against fascism and oppression, only to return home to a country that still treated them as second-class citizens. Senghor, himself a colonial subject from Senegal, understood the struggles of Black soldiers and used his poetry to highlight their dual oppression—both as warriors and as members of a marginalized race.

Conclusion

To the Negro American Soldiers is a deeply moving and politically charged poem that both honors and mourns the experiences of Black soldiers. Through vivid imagery, irony, and the themes of sacrifice and racial injustice, Senghor delivers a powerful critique of the racial contradictions in America. His poem is not just a tribute to these soldiers but also a call for justice, dignity, and recognition of Black humanity in a world that often sought to erase it.