"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

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Positive Reads

Marottichal: The Village That Checkmated Addiction with Chess!

Imagine a quaint village hidden away in the heart of Kerala, where a battle against the formidable foes of alcoholism and illegal gambling took place. This village is Marottichal, a place that chose to confront its demons head-on. Instead of surrendering to the clutches of addiction, its resilient residents found an ingenious solution: chess. In this unlikely setting, with a mere 6,000 inhabitants, more than two-thirds of the population have wholeheartedly embraced this timeless and strategic game. In the 1960s and 70s, Marottichal faced the scourge of alcoholism, causing social problems and domestic violence. Recognizing the dire consequences of their addictions, the villagers took proactive steps. They sought assistance from excise officials to eliminate illegal brewing operations, but the real challenge lay in combating addiction itself. Enter C. Unnikrishnan, a local restaurant owner with a heart of gold. He introduced the villagers to chess, offering free lessons. The game caught on like wildfire, transcending age and gender boundaries. Chess became their weapon to "checkmate" alcohol and gambling addiction. Unnikrishnan's efforts have since transformed over 700 villagers into chess aficionados. Unnikrishnan explained, "On a chess board, you are fighting, just as we are fighting the hardships in our daily lives. Chess helps us overcome difficulties and sufferings." Today, an astonishing 90% of Marottichal's population are avid chess players. It's not just a leisure activity; it's a way of life. With players as young as eight and as old as 80, the village has rightfully earned the title of the 'Chess Village' of India. In a world marred by addiction, Marottichal's story serves as an inspiring example of how a simple game of chess can change lives and uplift an entire community.

18 Sep 2023
Positive Reads

Unplugging Made Easy: 5 Simple Strategies to Cut Back on Screen Time

In a world where screens have become an integral part of our daily lives, it's no surprise that people are spending more time than ever before glued to their devices. However, excessive screen time has been linked to a number of negative health effects, including eye strain, poor sleep, and even anxiety and depression. If you're looking to reduce your screen time, here are five easy ways to get started. 1. Set Limits: One of the simplest ways to reduce your screen time is to set limits on how much time you spend on your devices. You can use built-in screen time features on your phone or download third-party apps to monitor and limit your usage. 2. Take Breaks: Taking regular breaks from your screen is an effective way to reduce eye strain and prevent burnout. Experts recommend taking a break every 20 minutes or so and looking away from your screen for at least 20 seconds. 3. Turn Off Notifications: Notifications can be distracting and make it difficult to focus on other tasks. Turning off non-essential notifications can help you stay focused and reduce your screen time. 4. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques can help you become more aware of your screen time habits and reduce your reliance on devices. Try meditating or practicing deep breathing exercises to help you stay focused and centered. 5. Engage in Physical Activity: Engaging in physical activity is not only good for your health but can also help you reduce your screen time. Take a walk, go for a run, or participate in a yoga class to help you unplug and recharge. Incorporating these simple strategies into your daily routine can help you reduce your screen time and improve your overall health and well-being. So, why not give them a try today?

8 Apr 2023
Positive Reads

‘No Screen Time' Rule - Could This Be the Next Global Trend?

One fascinating story has created a buzz on social media after Anand Mahindra, the well-known businessman and prominent social media personality, recently tweeted about it. A village in Maharashtra has imposed a daily 'no screen time' period starting at 7 pm. The story has caught the attention of his Twitter followers, many of whom are considering trying out the concept of a "digital detox" for themselves. The village, Mohite Vadgaon, located in Maharashtra has a population of around 3,000 people, and has implemented this rule to tackle online addiction. In addition to this, the village even has a patrolling team that checks every house to ensure that the rule is being followed. The initiative has also inculcated a culture of spending quality time with family members, which the villagers really appreciate. Mahindra's tweet has sparked a discussion on social media, with many people liking the idea and some saying that they are already following the practice and have benefitted from it. In addition, some people also shared other possible versions of similar practices that could be followed, such as having a 'car-free day' once a week. It is surprising to see that a small village in India has taken such an initiative and set an example for the rest of the world. In the age of digital overload, this practice can be beneficial in maintaining mental and physical health, as well as promoting family time and productivity. The fact that Anand Mahindra himself is experimenting with the idea shows how important it is to have a balance between our screen time and other aspects of our lives.

3 Apr 2023
Positive Reads

Global News

Childhood Unplugged: Parents Rally to Protect Kids from Smartphone Addiction

In the picturesque coastal town of Greystones, Ireland, an intriguing movement has taken shape among parents, aiming to delay their children's entry into the digital realm. The latest viral dance crazes may have to wait for these kids until their teenage years, thanks to a voluntary ban on smartphones that has gained widespread support within the community. According to The Guardian, parents from eight primary schools in the district have come together to enforce the ban, which prohibits smartphone usage until children reach secondary school, typically around the ages of 12 or 13. By implementing this restriction, parents hope to prolong childhood by reducing anxiety and shielding their children from exposure to adult content that often permeates smartphone usage. The ban, which applies not only during school hours but also at home, has found favor among many parents associations. By collectively adopting the ban, parents feel empowered to say no to their children's smartphone demands without feeling like the odd ones out. Laura Bourne, a parent whose child attends a primary school, expressed her support for the initiative, stating, "The longer we can preserve their innocence, the better." The ban has also garnered attention from Ireland's health minister, Stephen Donnelly who supported the initiative and  emphasized the need to protect children from harm in the digital world. While some children like Jane Capatina, a 10-year-old pupil, are willing to accept the ban for the sake of their well-being, others, like Josh Webb, 12, are more pragmatic about the situation. Webb acknowledged that although some of his classmates may not be thrilled, they understand that they are still kids and have limited control over such decisions. Looking beyond Greystones, many wonder if similar restrictions on smartphone use will gain traction in other communities. For now, this coastal town has embarked on a noble mission to preserve childhood innocence and protect the well-being of its youngest residents. Only time will tell if their endeavor will inspire others and become a lasting norm in the digital age.

7 Jun 2023
Global News

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