Projects

Neeyat (2023), directed by Anu Menon, is a captivating murder mystery that combines the traditional elements of a whodunit with a contemporary twist. The film stars Vidya Balan as Mira Rao, a calm and methodical CBI officer, who is tasked with solving a mysterious death at a billionaire's lavish birthday party. Set in an isolated Scottish mansion, the film builds a sense of suspense and tension as dark secrets begin to unravel.

The story begins with Ashish Kapoor (played by Ram Kapoor), a wealthy businessman, hosting a birthday party in a luxurious but remote castle. He invites his closest friends and family for the celebration, but the festive atmosphere quickly shifts when Ashish falls to his death under mysterious circumstances. As suspicions rise among the guests, Mira Rao steps in to investigate what initially appears to be an accident but soon reveals itself to be something far more sinister.

Vidya Balan shines in her portrayal of Mira, bringing a quiet intensity and determination to her character. Mira’s calm and composed approach to the investigation stands in stark contrast to the panic and chaos experienced by the other guests. Balan’s performance anchors the film, drawing the audience into her journey as she methodically uncovers the hidden motives and dark histories of each suspect.

The supporting cast, which includes Shahana Goswami, Rahul Bose, Neeraj Kabi, and others, brings depth to the narrative. Each character is given enough backstory and nuance to make them potential suspects, and their interactions with Mira add layers to the mystery. As the story progresses, it becomes clear that each guest has something to hide, making the investigation all the more intriguing.

Visually, Neeyat makes great use of its setting. The eerie, isolated mansion and the dark, stormy weather create an atmosphere of unease, amplifying the tension as the investigation unfolds. The film’s pacing is slow but steady, carefully building up suspense without rushing through the plot. This slow-burn approach keeps viewers guessing until the final reveal, even though some twists may feel familiar to avid fans of the genre.

While Neeyat does fall into some predictable moments, especially in terms of plot twists, it manages to maintain a sense of intrigue, largely thanks to Vidya Balan’s strong performance and the well-developed characters. The film does a good job of balancing suspense with moments of emotional depth, as the characters' motivations are explored in the context of their relationships with Ashish.

In conclusion, Neeyat is an engaging and well-crafted murder mystery that delivers a satisfying experience for fans of the genre. With Vidya Balan’s compelling portrayal of Mira Rao leading the way, the film keeps the audience hooked as it explores themes of greed, betrayal, and hidden truths in the midst of wealth and luxury. Despite its occasional predictability, the film’s atmospheric tension and strong performances make it a solid addition to the murder mystery genre.

The Revival of Analog: Why Gen Z Is Embracing Vinyl, Film Cameras, Typewriters, and Polaroids

In a world dominated by digital technology and instant gratification, it might seem surprising that younger generations—especially Gen Z—are gravitating toward outdated, analog devices like vinyl records, film cameras, typewriters, and even Polaroid cameras. As more young people are ditching their smartphones and streaming platforms for these vintage technologies, we have to ask: what’s driving this shift? The revival of analog may seem like a trend rooted in nostalgia, but it goes much deeper, reflecting larger cultural movements, desires for authenticity, and a need for slower, more intentional experiences in an overwhelming digital age.

One of the primary reasons Gen Z is embracing analog technology is the desire for tangible, real-world experiences. Vinyl records, for example, offer a physical connection to music that streaming services simply can’t replicate. The tactile sensation of holding a record, dropping the needle, and listening to music that crackles and pops creates a sense of engagement and ritual. In a time when almost everything can be accessed through a screen, the ability to hold, touch, and interact with physical objects brings a layer of intentionality that digital formats often lack.

This return to analog isn't just about music—film photography has also seen a massive resurgence. Digital cameras and smartphones may allow for instant photos and endless retakes, but the process of shooting on film requires patience, precision, and a certain level of skill. Film photography demands that the photographer slow down and think about each shot, making it an art form that challenges the instant gratification that comes with digital technology. For Gen Z, film offers an opportunity to escape the constant pressure of producing picture-perfect, Instagram-ready photos and instead focus on the imperfections, raw emotions, and authenticity that analog images capture. There’s an element of surprise in not knowing how a photo will turn out until it’s developed—something that feels exciting and meaningful in a world where everything else is so easily edited and polished.

Polaroid cameras, in particular, have also made a remarkable comeback among Gen Z. While digital photography offers convenience, Polaroid cameras bring back the thrill of instant, physical photos. There's something magical about watching a Polaroid photo develop right in front of your eyes. The imperfection of these images—the grainy texture, the soft lighting, the occasional blurriness—adds to their charm. In a world full of carefully curated and edited digital images, Polaroids offer an unfiltered, real glimpse of a moment frozen in time. For many young people, Polaroid cameras provide a way to create lasting memories that feel tangible and irreplaceable in a world where most photos are stored on a cloud, often never to be looked at again.

Similarly, typewriters have made a surprising comeback among younger generations. While computers and smartphones offer the ability to write and edit effortlessly, the act of typing on a typewriter forces people to slow down and focus on the act of writing itself. There’s no backspace or delete key, which means every keystroke counts. This analog form of writing pushes people to be more thoughtful with their words and more mindful of the creative process. For Gen Z, who grew up surrounded by the fast-paced, distraction-filled world of technology, using a typewriter feels like an escape from the noise, allowing for deeper reflection and creativity.

The embrace of analog also ties into a broader cultural movement toward mindfulness and a slower lifestyle. As Gen Z becomes increasingly aware of the negative effects of constant digital engagement—anxiety, burnout, and digital fatigue—many are seeking ways to unplug and reconnect with themselves and the world around them. Analog technologies provide a way to slow down, disconnect from the immediacy of digital life, and engage in more mindful activities. Whether it's listening to a vinyl record from start to finish without skipping tracks, taking the time to carefully frame a photo on a film camera or Polaroid, or even typing slowly on a typewriter, these experiences offer a form of mental escape and relaxation that digital technology often fails to provide.

Another significant factor driving this shift is the yearning for authenticity. In an era where social media often encourages the pursuit of perfection, analog technologies offer something different: imperfection. Vinyl records come with scratches and static, film photos and Polaroids can be blurry or off-color, and typewritten pages are often full of typos. These imperfections make the final product more personal and real, reflecting the natural flaws of the human experience. For many young people, there is a growing recognition that perfection is not always attainable—or even desirable. Analog devices embrace flaws, and in doing so, they resonate with a generation that is increasingly rejecting curated, filtered versions of reality in favor of something more genuine.

The environmental impact of digital consumption also cannot be ignored. Streaming services, cloud storage, and endless photo backups all require massive amounts of energy and data. In contrast, analog technologies like vinyl and film offer a more sustainable alternative. Physical records, film cameras, and Polaroids don’t rely on constant data streams or server farms, and while they may take up more physical space, they offer a long-lasting and tangible way to preserve art and memories. Gen Z’s awareness of environmental issues may also be driving the desire to turn to analog, which feels less disposable and more meaningful than the endless scrolling and digital consumption encouraged by modern technology.

Ultimately, the revival of analog among Gen Z is a reflection of deeper cultural values and changing perspectives on media consumption and self-expression. The younger generation’s embrace of vinyl records, film photography, Polaroids, and typewriters points to a longing for more authentic, hands-on experiences in a world that has become overwhelmingly digital. Analog devices offer a sense of permanence, connection, and individuality that digital technologies often fail to provide.

As we move into the future, it’s likely that digital and analog will continue to coexist. For Gen Z, it’s not about rejecting technology entirely, but rather finding balance—using digital tools for convenience while turning to analog for deeper, more meaningful experiences. This blending of old and new technologies allows for a richer, more diverse form of self-expression, where both imperfections and innovations are embraced.

In conclusion, the revival of analog is more than just a trend—it's a cultural movement driven by a desire for authenticity, mindfulness, and a return to slower, more intentional ways of engaging with the world. As Gen Z continues to explore these outdated technologies, they’re redefining what it means to create and consume art, music, and media in the 21st century. The future may be digital, but the past still holds a special place in the hearts of those who are seeking something more meaningful. 

The Ethics of AI-Generated Art: Who Owns Creativity?

In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has made amazing strides in the world of art. From creating original paintings to composing music and even writing poems, AI can now generate works that rival those made by humans. However, this rapid development raises important questions about creativity, authorship, and who owns the rights to these creations. As we dive deeper into this AI-driven world, it’s essential to consider the ethics surrounding AI-generated art and figure out who really “owns” these creative outputs.

At the heart of this debate is the question of authorship. When an AI creates a piece of art, who should be credited as the artist? Is it the AI program itself? The person who designed the algorithm? Or the individual who provided the prompts or guidelines for the AI to follow? These questions aren’t just philosophical; they have real-world implications for intellectual property rights and how artists get paid. As more artists explore the possibilities of AI, understanding who deserves credit for the work becomes crucial.

Traditionally, we view art as a deeply personal and human activity, tied closely to individual expression and experiences. A painting or a piece of music often reflects the artist’s emotions, thoughts, and ideas. The process of making art is usually seen as a unique human ability to convey meaning, evoke feelings, and reflect on personal or cultural experiences. However, when AI enters the picture, the process becomes much more complicated. AI lacks the consciousness, emotions, and personal experiences that we associate with artistic creation. Instead, it generates art based on patterns and data it has been trained on, pulling from vast collections of human-made artworks to create something new. While the results can be impressive, can they truly be called “original” in the same way as human-created art?

Another critical issue is fairness. Many AI programs are trained on existing works of art, often without the permission of the original creators. This raises concerns about copyright infringement, as AI-generated pieces may unintentionally (or even intentionally) copy styles, themes, or specific elements from living artists’ works. Some artists have expressed their frustration over AI systems that seem to replicate their techniques without any recognition or compensation. This situation feels especially unfair when artists put their hearts and souls into their creations, only to see their work used by AI without credit. The risk of exploitation looms large, and it’s essential for the industry to address these concerns head-on.

In light of these issues, some artists and organizations have called for stricter regulations regarding AI in creative fields. They argue that, just as musicians pay royalties for sampling existing tracks, AI developers should be required to pay for the data they use to train their algorithms. Others believe that AI-generated art should be treated differently from human-made art altogether, possibly requiring a new set of laws around intellectual property. This could help ensure that the rights of human artists are protected while still allowing for innovation in the field.

The question of creativity itself is also up for debate. Can machines truly be "creative," or are they merely mimicking patterns and styles derived from the works they’ve been trained on? Some people believe that while AI-generated art may produce visually striking results, it lacks the soul or emotional intention behind the creation, which are hallmarks of human artistry. On the other hand, others argue that creativity can be redefined in the age of AI—that machines can enhance human creativity by offering new ways to express ideas, even if they don’t create with the same motivations humans do.

As AI-generated art becomes more common, we also see its impact on traditional art forms. Some artists have started using AI as a tool to complement their work, blending human creativity with machine learning. This fusion can lead to new artistic styles and ideas that neither could achieve alone. As a result, the art world is evolving, and new collaborative processes are emerging, combining human imagination with the capabilities of AI.

Despite these challenges and opportunities, AI-generated art is here to stay and is likely to become even more sophisticated over time. As we wrestle with these ethical questions, one thing is clear: our understanding of creativity is evolving. Whether we see AI as a tool that can help artists enhance their work or as a competitor that challenges the essence of art, the conversation about AI’s role in creativity is just beginning.

Ultimately, we must find a balance that respects human artists and the creative process while allowing for innovation and exploration in the art world. As technology continues to advance, the way we think about art, ownership, and creativity will need to adapt, ensuring that everyone—both human and machine—can coexist in this new artistic landscape. The future of art is an exciting frontier, but it requires careful thought and consideration to navigate the ethical complexities it presents.

Profile: Arunima Datta Choudhary – Campus Mentor, Centre for Social Action (CSA), Christ University, Yeshwanthpur Campus

Personal Background: Arunima Datta Choudhary hails from Shantiniketan, a small town in West Bengal. However, her roots trace back to Assam, where she was born. Growing up in multiple cities, including Assam, Ahmedabad, and eventually settling in Shantiniketan, Arunima’s early life was filled with diverse cultural experiences. This multicultural upbringing helped shape her adaptability and open-mindedness, particularly as she transitioned from a small town to the bustling environment of Christ University. One of the significant milestones in her life has been this adjustment—overcoming the challenge of thriving in a big city after spending her formative years in a smaller community. Another significant achievement for Arunima is her ability to help people in need, which she holds close to her heart.

Educational Background: Currently, Arunima is pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) at Christ University. Coming from a small town where English was not widely spoken, her educational journey was initially challenging. However, her time at Christ University has been transformative. It helped her develop personally and professionally, as she was exposed to diverse people, rigorous academic schedules, and multiple events and fests. She believes this experience has significantly shaped her personality. Her mother, who is both a teacher and mentor to her, has been a major influence in her life, along with a teacher from her school who introduced her to social work, igniting her passion for giving back to society.

Career & Work: Currently serving as the Campus Mentor for the Centre for Social Action (CSA), Arunima has always felt driven to make a difference. Seeing the suffering of others around her has motivated her to work for the betterment of society. For her, life is about lifting others and creating a positive impact. Though her long-term career goals include working in the corporate sector, she is committed to dedicating her life to social causes as well. Arunima's ultimate aim is to help those in need—whether through emotional, mental, or financial support—because she believes that humanism should be at the core of our purpose.

Personality Traits: Arunima describes herself as a friendly, extroverted person who enjoys being there for others, whether for personal or professional support. She believes her biggest strengths lie in her confidence and ability to stay calm under pressure. However, she admits her weakness is struggling to say no, even when it pushes her outside of her comfort zone. When faced with challenges, she prefers to stay calm, assess the situation, and make thoughtful decisions.

Social Media Presence: Arunima is active on social media, though mostly for personal use, sharing pictures and moments with loved ones. She also maintains a professional presence on LinkedIn, which she occasionally uses to explore opportunities related to her career.

Connections & Affiliations: Arunima is involved with two key organizations at Christ University: the Centre for Social Action (CSA), where she serves as a campus mentor, and the Centre for Academic and Professional Support (CAPS), where she is a peer group trainer. These affiliations have provided her with invaluable experiences, both in personal growth and in understanding how to make a positive impact in the world.

Outlook on Life: Arunima believes in humanism above all else, viewing it as the most important guiding principle in life. Her outlook has been shaped by listening to the stories of people from various walks of life. She believes that each individual has their own unique story, and by paying attention to these narratives, one can gain a deeper understanding of the world and learn to appreciate life’s challenges and triumphs.

Challenges & Overcoming Obstacles: Despite facing initial underconfidence, Arunima has worked hard to become a more confident individual since joining Christ University. This journey of self-improvement stands as one of her greatest achievements. Health-wise, Arunima manages hypothyroidism, but she remains optimistic and determined to not let it affect her life. She firmly believes in the power of will and perseverance.

Future Aspirations: While she envisions a future in the corporate sector, Arunima’s true passion lies in working for the betterment of society. She aspires to help others in need, not only through monetary support but also by offering emotional and mental support. This commitment to making a difference motivates her daily, and she looks forward to one day making a larger impact, both personally and professionally.

Arunima Datta Choudhary’s life story is a testament to her resilience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to giving back to society, making her a valuable leader and mentor at Christ University’s Centre for Social Action.

Feminism Isn’t About Women Being Better Than Men: It’s About Equality

In my opinion, feminism is often misunderstood by a lot of people. Many think it’s a movement pushing for women to be better or more powerful than men, but that’s simply not true. I believe that feminism is really about equality — the idea that men and women should have the same rights and opportunities. However, I’ve noticed that some people misinterpret this, thinking it’s all about women wanting to dominate men. 

I think this confusion happens because feminism focuses a lot on the struggles women face, which can make it seem like men’s issues are being ignored. But when I look at what feminism truly stands for, I see that it’s actually about creating a fair society for everyone, no matter their gender. Feminism isn’t just about helping women; it’s also about making sure men aren’t trapped by the pressure society places on them.

Take toxic masculinity, for example. In my view, this is one of the most misunderstood concepts. It doesn’t mean that being a man is bad, but it points out how society often forces men into harmful roles, like always needing to be tough or never showing emotion. I’ve seen how these stereotypes hurt men, making them feel like they have to hide their feelings or act in ways that don’t feel true to themselves. Feminism recognizes these problems and wants to change them, giving men the freedom to be who they are without judgment.

I’ve also noticed that some people mistake feminism because of a few extreme voices. Yes, some people push radical ideas, like men being less important or women needing to take over, but I don’t think these voices represent what feminism is really about. In my opinion, these extreme views are the exception, not the rule. Most feminists, including myself, just want a fair and balanced world where men and women can stand as equals.

Another thing I’ve realized is that some people feel threatened by feminism because they think it means taking something away from men to give to women. I disagree with this view. For me, equality doesn’t mean one side loses — it means everyone gets a fair shot. If women gain more opportunities, it doesn’t mean men lose theirs. It means we all get to move forward together.

In my opinion, feminism isn’t about one gender being better than the other. It’s about balance and fairness for everyone. Feminists like me want both men and women to have the same chances, to be treated with respect, and to live without being limited by outdated stereotypes. That’s what feminism means to me — equality, not superiority.