Positive Reads

---

Silent Thunder: How Gandhi's Non-Violence Shook the Foundations of British Raj

In a world often shaped by conflict and aggression, Mahatma Gandhi's unwavering commitment to non-violence emerged as a powerful force that forever altered the course of India's struggle against British colonial rule. Through his philosophy of satyagraha, Gandhi inspired millions to embrace peaceful resistance and ignited a movement that would ultimately lead to India's independence. Gandhi's non-violent approach was impactful against the British Raj for several reasons. Firstly, it challenged the oppressors' reliance on violence, exposing the moral bankruptcy of their rule. By refusing to respond to brute force with brute force, Gandhi highlighted the stark contrast between the oppressors' methods and the principles of justice and compassion. Secondly, non-violence allowed for widespread participation in the freedom struggle. Gandhi's inclusive approach attracted people from all walks of life, transcending barriers of caste, religion, and socioeconomic status. The masses found solace and strength in his message of unity and non-violent resistance, joining together to create a formidable force against the British Raj. Furthermore, Gandhi's non-violence stance garnered international attention and support. His peaceful protests, hunger strikes, and civil disobedience movements resonated with people across the globe who were seeking justice and freedom. This international solidarity put significant pressure on the British government, forcing them to confront the moral implications of their oppressive rule. Ultimately, Gandhi's non-violence stance exposed the underlying fragility of the British Raj. By refusing to engage in violence, he denied the colonial authorities the opportunity to justify their use of force and oppression. Instead, Gandhi's peaceful resistance highlighted the strength of conviction and the power of truth. His legacy serves as a reminder that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, peace can prevail, and justice can be achieved through steadfast adherence to principles of non-violence and truth.

14 Aug 2023

Positive Reads

Why Are Blackboards Green? The Surprising History Behind a Classroom Staple

Blackboards have been a staple in classrooms for centuries, but have you ever stopped to wonder why they are most commonly green and not black? It turns out that the color of a blackboard has a long and fascinating history. The first blackboards were actually black, made from slates that were quarried in England and Wales. However, these blackboards were expensive and difficult to maintain, which led to the development of a more affordable alternative: the greenboard. In the 1800s, manufacturers began producing boards made from a material called Masonite, which was cheaper and easier to work with than slate. These boards were painted green, which was found to be easier on the eyes than black, especially when used for extended periods of time. The green color also provided a high contrast for white or colored chalk, making it easier to read what was written on the board. Over time, the name "greenboard" was shortened to "chalkboard," and the green color became the standard. In the mid-20th century, however, manufacturers began producing whiteboards, which quickly gained popularity due to their ease of use and clean appearance. Despite the popularity of whiteboards, many classrooms still use chalkboards today, and the green color remains the norm. In fact, some educators argue that the tactile experience of writing on a chalkboard and the sound of chalk against the surface can be beneficial for students.

14 Apr 2023

Positive Reads

Why It Always Rains in England

England is famous for its rain, which seems to fall from the sky at any time of the year. There are many reasons why England experiences rain throughout the year, which can be both a blessing and a curse.   Firstly, England's location plays a significant role in the amount of rain it receives. The country is located in the North Atlantic, and it is affected by the prevailing westerly winds. These winds bring moist air from the Atlantic Ocean, which results in frequent rain showers. Additionally, England is located near the Gulf Stream, which is a warm ocean current that carries warm water from the Gulf of Mexico. This current helps to keep England's climate mild, but it also brings more moisture to the country, leading to more rainfall.   Secondly, England's geography plays a role in the amount of rain it receives. The country is surrounded by hills and mountains, which cause the rain to fall more frequently. This is because the rain clouds are forced to drop their moisture when they reach the higher elevations. Additionally, the many rivers and lakes in England also contribute to the rain by providing the clouds with moisture.   In conclusion, England experiences rain throughout the year because of its location, geography, and prevailing winds. Although the rain can be a nuisance, it is also essential for the country's ecosystems and provides fresh water for the inhabitants. So, the next time you find yourself in England, don't forget your umbrella, but appreciate the rain as well.  

1 Feb 2023

Positive Reads

Wanderlust

---

Heartwarming Escapes: Free Holidays for Those Who Truly Deserve a Break - Spreading Joy and Positivity

Three UK-based holiday destinations are offering free breaks to those who need it most. The Dreaming, a wellness retreat in mid-Wales, Taigh Whin, a two-bedroom cottage and studio on Scotland's west coast, and Kingham Cottage, a converted farm building near Bath, are all offering free stays to people who might not otherwise be able to afford a break. Taigh Whin is aimed at community leaders, campaigners, artists, and carers, offering deep restoration and stunning views of the Isle of Skye. The Dreaming, set up by singer-songwriter turned activist Charlotte Church, is a wellness retreat in Wales, where participants can take part in forest bathing, sound healing, and cold-water immersion. One pay-as-you-can space is available on each retreat. Kingham Cottage is owned by the charity After Umbrage, which provides free short breaks for those caring for loved ones with life-limiting and terminal conditions. It is also available for carers who have lost the person they were caring for. The holiday destinations are a reminder of the importance of taking a break for one's well-being, especially for those who may not have the means to do so. They also highlight the positive impact that individuals and organizations can have by offering their resources and space for the benefit of others.

28 Jul 2023

Wanderlust

Global News

---

Swifts Get New Homes in UK: 10,000 Bricks with Built-in Bird Nests Installed for Nesting Season

In an effort to provide more nesting opportunities for swifts, an innovative new building technique has been used in the United Kingdom. Over 10,000 bricks with built-in bird homes have been installed in homes across the country, providing much-needed nesting holes for these birds. Swifts are migratory birds that visit the UK each summer to breed, but their numbers have been in decline due to a lack of suitable nesting sites. With traditional building methods making it difficult for swifts to find suitable places to nest, the new bricks have been designed with small nesting holes built into them, providing a safe and comfortable place for the birds to lay their eggs and raise their young. The initiative, which has been led by the Swift Conservation group, has been welcomed by conservationists and bird enthusiasts across the country. By providing more nesting opportunities for swifts, it is hoped that their numbers will increase in the coming years, helping to ensure the long-term survival of this beautiful and important species. The new bricks are just one example of the innovative ways in which technology and design can be used to help protect and conserve our natural world. With more and more people becoming aware of the importance of preserving our planet's biodiversity, initiatives like this are likely to become increasingly common in the years to come, helping to create a more sustainable and wildlife-friendly future for us all.

7 Jul 2023

Global News

The London Library Has Appointed Its First Female President

The London Library, one of the world's leading independent libraries, has recently announced the appointment of its first female president. Opened in 1841, the library has a long and rich history, but it is not until now that a woman has been chosen to lead it. The new president, actress Helena Bonham Carter, who took over author Sir Tim Rice, is excited to take on this new challenge and looks forward to leading the London Library into the future. In a statement, she said: "The library is truly a place like no other, inspiring and supporting writers for over 180 years, many of whom have in some way informed my own career. Its unique resources, history and membership help to connect the literary greats of the past with those of the future, and I am proud to support this incredible and vital establishment.” As the London Library's new president, Carter will be responsible for overseeing the library's operations, including its collections, programming, and finances. She will also be responsible for building relationships with donors, sponsors, and other stakeholders, as well as working with the library's board of directors and staff to ensure the library's continued success and growth. The appointment of Carter as the London Library's first female president is a significant milestone, and one that reflects the library's commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and equality. 

2 Jan 2023

Global News

Scientists Have Made a Startling Discovery in Antarctica

Scientists have made the astonishing discovery of a major river in Antarctica that was concealed by thick sheets of ice. A team of glaciologists researching how climate change is affecting glaciers came upon the river during a recent airborne radar survey. According to experts, the river extends 460 kilometers beneath the ice, a longer distance than the river Thames, which flows across southern England and through London. The journal Nature Geoscience carries a published article on the study of the waterway and its offshoots. According to glaciologists, the river may have a significant impact on the flow and melting of the glacier ice above it. It is known to scientists that water flows beneath ice sheets. However, this new research demonstrates that rivers are being formed as a result of the melting of ice. As the glacier's base loses stability, it is claimed that these freshwater channels could hasten the ice-melting process. Scientists discovered the river by combining the data from water flow modeling and airborne radar surveys. They studied a sizable area, which included ice from the Antarctic's east and west sheets as well as water flowing into the Weddell Sea. The study's base region has enough ice to increase the sea level worldwide by 4.3 meters. How quickly and how much of this ice melts depends on how slippery the ice base is. According to Martin Siegert, a glaciologist at Imperial College London in the UK and a co-author of the paper, the recently discovered river system "may greatly affect this process."  

23 Nov 2022

Global News

Good News

---

India Makes History As It Wins the Inaugural U19 Women’s T20 WC Beating England

The Women’s Under-19 Indian cricket team created history as they emerged as World Cup champions on Sunday, after a comprehensive victory over England in Potchefstroom in South Africa. The key to India's march to victory was again another superb use of the ball, with Titas Sadhu setting the tone and the spinners turning in yet another telling effort when it mattered.  The fine bowling was supplemented by outstanding fielding. The Indian ranks' unwavering resolve was best exemplified by the dismissal of England's captain, Grace Scrivens. When the left-hander hit Archana at long-off, Gongadi Trisha rushed in to make a great, falling catch. In many respects, it was the crucial wicket, as evidenced by the Indian jubilation. Even though Scrivens would later win the tournament's player of the year award, she would have sacrificed all of that for a stronger English batting performance. When Shafali Verma won the toss and decided to bowl, Sadhu had a winning over. Her figures of two for 6 in four overs deservedly earned her the Player of the Match award with just the start that India craved. She was backed up well by Archana (two for 17) and the irrepressible Parshavi Chopra, who snared two for 13 to close out a terrific tournament offering.  After dismissing Verma (15) and Shweta Sehrawat (5) in the first four overs, England's expectations for more miraculous bowling performances were increased. However, Verma smashed a four and a six in an attempt to put pressure on England early. Trisha and Soumya Tiwari weren't having any of it. Trisha became more and more fluent as the goal moved closer while Tiwari smashed three fours in her 24 not out from 37 balls. She attempted to end it in style, but Alexa Stonehouse bowled to end her 29-ball stay at 24. Soon after, the match was over, and India could finally celebrate their triumphant victory in South Africa. They came, they saw, and they won the newest trophy for women's cricket.

30 Jan 2023

Good News

Star Citizens

---

Her Love for Dogs Culminated Into an Amazing Career as a Canine Behaviorist

A canine behaviorist is an absolutely satisfying profession if you are in love with dogs. Canine behaviorists, also called dog trainers teach dogs to adapt to human communication and to respond to many commands and situations. Shirin Merchant is one such canine behaviourist who has 24 years experience and has revolutionized dog training techniques in India and has helped people to understand and enjoy their pets better than ever. Passionate About Dogs As a child, Shirin was absolutely in love with dogs and would sneak puppies into her home. In 1995, she attended a workshop by world-renowned canine behaviorist and trainer John Rogerson from England. Soon, Shirin was on a flight to England and spent four years over there studying canine psychology, competing in working trials and learning from best trainers in the country. She returned to India and disheartened by the primitive and abusive ways of training dogs, she founded ‘Canines Can Care’. Canines Can Care Canines Can Care is a one-of-its-kind organization established by Shirin that is centered entirely on dog-related activities. It trains dogs to provide assistance to people with disabilities. Such dogs can retrieve objects, open heavy doors, switch on and switch off lights, pull wheelchairs, get help in case of an emergency and similar other tasks. In fact, the Canines Can Care search dog team provided its valuable services in the aftermath of the Bhuj earthquake. For her persistent efforts with canines and educating people about their behavior, Shirin has won many laurels. Shirin was awarded the prestigious International Commendation award for Trainer of The Year by the KCAI, Kennel Club of England accreditation scheme for dog trainers and behaviorists.  She also received the First Ladies Award from the President of India, Ram Nath Kovind. Image Source: SheThePeople

19 Nov 2019

Star Citizens

Global Inspirations

---

This Starry Eyed Boy Fulfills His Dream of Watching Ashes by Picking Garbage of Neighbours for Four Years

12-year-old Max Waight is an embodiment of patience and determination. He worked for four years to earn the pocket money that would allow him to travel to England to watch his favourite team Australia take on the rivals in the ongoing Ashes series. Max who is from Australia had seen his country lift the World Cup in 2015 on their home soil. He soon nurtured a dream to travel to the UK to watch his favourite team take on England in the next high-voltage Ashes series. However, his father said that he could go to England only if he could raise AUD 1500 to make the trip. Max was not deterred by this difficult task of raising money. He and his mother came up with a plan to earn money by taking out the neighbour’s rubbish bins on weekends. Max wrote a letter to all his neighbours about his waste management services. He charged just AUD 1 per household for his services. Many of his neighbours accepted his offer and for four years, Max worked to earn money for his trip.    The much-awaited Ashes series is currently taking place in England and Max’s dream came true when he travelled all the way to the UK to watch the exciting cricket match between the rival teams. According to cricket.com.au, Max said that he sat next to Steve Waugh, Justin Langer, and Nathan Lyon. Justin Langer showed him the plan book and he was amazed to see all his notes. ‘Talking to Steve Waugh was amazing too”’ he added. Max was also thrilled to talk to his favourite players Steve Smith and Pat Cummins who shared information about how they prepare and play the game. There may be innumerable fans of the Australian cricket team, but 12-year-old Max stands out for going out of the way to earn money so that he could be present to cheer and support his most loved team. Image Source: MyKhel Tamil

8 Sep 2019

Global Inspirations