Petals of Blood by Ngugi Wa Thiong’o

This blog post is a response to the assignment provided by Megha Ma'am. Within this blog, I will delve into various questions posed by Ma'am based on the novel "Petals of Blood" authored by Ngugi Wa Thiong'o.

Here are some Questions:- Write a blog on any two topics.

1) Write a detailed note on history, sexuality, and gender in Ngugi’s Petals of Blood.

2) Write a detailed note on “Re-historicizing the conflicted figure of Woman in Petals of Blood.

3) Write a detailed note on Fanonism and Constructive Violence in Petals of Blood.

4) Write a note on the postmodern spirit in Petals of Blood. (With the concepts of Homi K. Bhabha)

5) Write a note on the ideological orientation of Ngugi Wa Thiong’o’ Petals of Blood.

6) “Petals of Blood begins from the premise that dwelling is best articulated as a desire for peace and oneness with the earth, if not the all of the fourfold.” Explain.

7) How neo-colonialism is represented in the novel Petals of Blood.

Question and Answers

1. Write a detailed note on history, sexuality, and gender in Ngugi wa Thiago's novel Petals of Blood:-

Petals of Blood deals extensively with Kenyan history, exploring the effects of colonialism and post-independence politics on the people of the fictional village of Ilmorog. Ngugi portrays the land and its people as feminine, frequently referring to Africa as "she" and "mother." The rape of the land under colonial rule represents the rape and subjugation of the African people.

Gender roles and sexuality are also examined. The four central characters - Munira, Karega, Wanja, and Abdulla - grapple with shifting gender dynamics as Kenya modernizes. Wanja emerges as the strongest and most independent female character, refusing to be constrained by traditional gender roles. Her bold sexuality and outspoken nature contrast sharply with Munira's meek wife Nyakinyua.

The novel suggests that rapid social change has disrupted traditional sexual mores. Urban migration and the decline of village life has led to more casual sexuality with prostitutes like Wanja. But it has also brought more open inter-ethnic relationships like Wanja's affair with Karega, which would have been taboo in the past.

Overall, Ngugi portrays female sexuality as a force of empowerment in the face of historical oppression. Wanja's frequent references to her "rock" represents her ability to control her own body and sexuality. The novel also explores the crisis of modern Kenyan masculinity through characters like Munira, who suffers from sexual and spiritual impotence. In depicting these complex gender and sexual dynamics, Ngugi implicates imperialism, religion, and modernity in the distortion of African sexuality. The body emerges as a key site of political and social control in the novel.

Ngugi wa Thiago's Petals of Blood intricately weaves history, sexuality, and gender into a powerful tapestry of Kenyan struggles against colonialism and its lasting legacies. Examining these elements reveals the depth and complexity of the novel's critique of oppression and its call for liberation.

History as Context:

Colonialism's Scars: The backdrop of British colonization shapes the characters' lives. Land dispossession, cultural alienation, and economic exploitation fuel resentment and motivate resistance. The Mau Mau Uprising becomes a focal point, highlighting the brutality of colonial rule and the yearning for freedom.

Patriarchal Traditions: Gikuyu traditions intersect with colonial influences, creating a complex gender landscape. While some customs empower women (e.g., land ownership), others restrict them (e.g., female circumcision). Colonial education further disrupts traditional gender roles, creating tensions and opportunities for both men and women.

Sexuality as Power and Agency:

Wanja's Journey: Wanja, the central female character, embodies the multifaceted relationship between sexuality and power. Forced into prostitution by circumstance, she reclaims agency through her control over her body and economic independence. However, her experiences expose the vulnerability and exploitation women face in a patriarchal society.

Male Perspectives: The novel critiques the hypocrisy of some male characters who advocate for anti-colonial liberation while perpetuating gender inequalities. Karega, for example, despite his revolutionary ideals, struggles to fully respect Wanja's choices and desires.

Sexuality as Resistance: Wanja's act of killing Kimeria, her rapist and exploiter, can be interpreted as a powerful act of resistance against both colonial and patriarchal domination. It reclaims her agency and challenges the norms that objectify and silence women.

Gender Roles in Flux:

Challenging Traditions: The novel portrays women actively challenging traditional gender roles. Drunken Hakim's wife questions female subservience, while Esther, Karega's sister, rejects arranged marriage and pursues education. These characters disrupt the status quo and demonstrate the potential for female agency and empowerment.

Masculinity in Crisis: Colonial masculinity, characterized by violence and dominance, is shown to be fragile and unsustainable. Characters like Kimeria and Jeri demonstrate the destructive consequences of this toxic masculinity, while others, like Munira, grapple with redefining masculinity in a post-colonial context.

Solidarity and Conflict: Despite the challenges, the novel also suggests possibilities for solidarity across gender lines. The shared experiences of oppression under colonialism create moments of unity and collaboration between men and women in the struggle for liberation.

Conclusion:

Petals of Blood offers a nuanced and critical exploration of the interconnectedness of history, sexuality, and gender. It exposes the oppressive structures that constrain individuals and communities, but also celebrates the resilience and capacity for resistance. Ultimately, the novel challenges readers to envision a future where liberation encompasses not just political freedom, but also gender equality and respect for diverse sexualities.

Further Discussion Points:

• The role of intertextuality in shaping the novel's representation of gender and sexuality.
• The complex relationship between individual agency and systemic forces.
• The enduring relevance of the novel's themes in contemporary society.

This note provides a starting point for further analysis. Feel free to expand on these points, add specific examples from the text, and engage with your own interpretations to develop a deeper understanding of the novel's rich tapestry.

2. How neo-colonialism is represented in Ngugi wa Thiago's Petals of Blood:

- The village of Ilmorog is a microcosm of how Kenya suffers under neocolonial forces even after formal independence. Foreign control of the economy, skewed land distribution, and the power of transnational corporations all contribute to the oppression of working-class Kenyans.

- Ngugi portrays the rapid development of Ilmorog as reflecting the worst excesses of neo-colonial capitalism. The village's growth into a diverse town centered around the Theng'eta brewery and Wanja's bar benefits only an elite few like Kimeria and Chui. 

- The coming of the highway and modern technology to the region furthers the interests of the ruling classes, entrenching the power of the post-independence government which is in alliance with foreign capitalist interests.

- The displacement of peasants like Nyakinyua from their land indicates the powerlessness of the working class against forces of modernity and development that favor neo-colonial elites.

- Ngugi suggests the Christian church in Kenya, as represented by Rev. Jerrod Brown, has been co-opted to support neo-colonialism instead of fighting for the oppressed. The church ignores issues of social justice.

- Karega's socialist critique exposes how neo-colonial forces continue the economic exploitation of the Kenyan people. He argues for rejecting Western capitalism for an egalitarian society. But Karega is jailed for his dissidence.

- The novel's ambiguous ending indicates the enduring power of neo-colonial hegemony in Kenya. Despite flashes of resistance, the majority of citizens have internalized capitalistic values of property and individualism.

So in essence, Ngugi presents a searing critique of how neo-colonialism operates in post-independence Kenya through the microcosm of Ilmorog and its inhabitants. The forces of modernity and foreign control further disempower the African people.

Neo-colonialism is a central theme in Ngugi wa Thiago's Petals of Blood, woven into the narrative through various characters, events, and social structures. Here are some key ways the novel represents this subtle form of post-colonial exploitation:

Continuation of Economic Structures:Land alienation: Despite independence, land remains concentrated in the hands of wealthy elites, often former colonial settlers or their corporations. This perpetuates economic inequality and dispossesses many Kenyans, particularly rural communities.

Foreign control of resources: Multinational corporations exploit Kenya's resources for their own gain, leaving limited benefits for the local population. The novel shows how these corporations replicate colonial patterns of extraction and exploitation.

Dependency on foreign aid: The post-colonial government's reliance on foreign aid creates a power imbalance and limits its ability to pursue independent development policies. This dependency echoes the economic control exercised during colonialism.

Political Exploitation and Repression: Authoritarian rule: The post-colonial government, despite promises of democracy, exhibits authoritarian tendencies. It suppresses dissent, silences critics, and manipulates elections to maintain its power. This mirrors the repressive tactics used by colonial regimes.

Cultural alienation: The continued privileging of Western values and languages over traditional Gikuyu customs contributes to cultural alienation and undermines national identity. This echoes the imposition of colonial culture during British rule.

Corruption and nepotism: The novel exposes rampant corruption within the government, where positions and resources are distributed based on personal connections and not merit. This echoes the corrupt practices often associated with colonial administrations.

Psychological and Social Effects: Internalized inferiority: Many characters, particularly the younger generation, grapple with feelings of inferiority due to the legacy of colonialism. They struggle to embrace their own culture and history, reflecting the lasting psychological impact of colonial domination.

Loss of community: The breakdown of traditional social structures and values leads to alienation and a sense of isolation within communities. This weakens the collective resistance against neo-colonial forces.

Gender and sexuality: The novel also shows how neo-colonialism reinforces existing gender inequalities and exploitative sexual practices. Wanja's experiences highlight the vulnerability of women in a society still influenced by colonial and patriarchal norms.

Conclusion:-

Through these diverse aspects, Ngugi paints a complex picture of neo-colonialism in Kenya. He reveals its insidious nature, showing how it operates not just through overt control but also through subtle cultural, economic, and political mechanisms. Ultimately, the novel calls for a deeper understanding of these dynamics and a continuous struggle for genuine liberation from all forms of oppression.

Thank you so much for reading this blog... 

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Research and Writing: Selecting the Topic

This blog is a response to the thinking activity assigned by Vaidehi Ma'am as part of our learning in Paper-209 Research Methodology, specifically from Chapter 1 on Research and Writing. In this blog, I will be discussing the topic assigned to both Gayatri and me by Ma'am from the book 'MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers - Seventh Edition.' The topic we received is 'Selecting the topic,' and I will be sharing my insights in this blog post.

Click on the link to view the spreadsheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1krZQjXGnotAvUAG4Xe5FPSXacoXlg_K0lc1YIibihqI/edit?usp=drive_web&authuser=0

You can access the book via this link: https://eclass.uoa.gr/modules/document/file.php/ISLL125/MLA+Handbook+for+Writers+of+Research+Papers.pdf

Unit-1 Research and Writing:-

'Topic:- Selecting the Topic'

 

These Chapter has two Subtitle:-

 

1. Freedom of Choice 

2. Finding an Appropriate Focus

I am going to write a gist of these topic here in this blog so, let's start.

Tips of Selecting the Topic?

Choosing an interesting research topic is your first challenge. Here are some tips: Choose a topic that you are interested in! The research process is more relevant if you care about your topic.

Narrow your topic to something manageable. If your topic is too broad, you will find too much information and not be able to focus.

Background reading can help you choose and limit the scope of your topic.

Review the guidelines on topic selection outlined in your assignment. Ask your professor for suggestions.

Refer to lecture notes and required texts to refresh your knowledge of the course and assignment.

Talk about research ideas with a friend. S/he may be able to help focus your topic by discussing issues that didn't occur to you at first.

Think of the who, what, when, where and why questions: 

WHY did you choose the topic? What interests you about it? Do you have an opinion about the issues involved?

WHO are the information providers on this topic? Who might publish information about it? Who is affected by the topic? Do you know of organizations or institutions affiliated with the topic?

WHAT are the major questions for this topic? Is there a debate about the topic? Are there a range of issues and viewpoints to consider?

WHERE is your topic important: at the local, national or international level? Are there specific places affected by the topic?

WHEN is/was your topic important? Is it a current event or an historical issue? Do you want to compare your topic by time periods?

Freedom of Choice:-

 

The amount of freedom students have in choosing research paper topics varies widely between courses and instructors. In discipline-specific courses, the instructor may provide a list of approved topics or require the paper to connect to course material. With a general requirement to relate the paper to the course, look over notes and readings for interesting angles to pursue, discussing possibilities with classmates and the instructor. Even with a set topic list, decisions still must be made regarding which specific aspects to explore and how to approach the topic. In writing courses, instructors may pose a broad issue for students to respond to based on their own interests and knowledge. With complete freedom, tapping into personal interests that can be researched in-depth is recommended, as are issues of public interest and debate. It is common for writing courses to require submitting chosen topics for the instructor's approval early on, to ensure appropriateness. If available, the campus writing center can provide useful guidance on selecting a strong research paper topic as well.

In essence, while topic selection freedom varies between courses, some key principles apply: leverage personal curiosity, connect topics clearly to course material, consider public debates, run ideas by the instructor and writing center, and ensure substantial depth and rigor in the chosen angle of investigation. Carefully choosing a fruitful research paper topic helps lay the foundation for success.

Finding an Appropriate Focus:-

When selecting a research paper topic, it is important to ensure the scope aligns with the assigned length and timeframe. An overly broad topic like "international politics" would be impossible to thoroughly address in a 10-page paper. It is recommended to start with a general area of interest and then narrow down to a more focused angle through contemplation and preliminary research. For example, one could start with "violence in media" and then narrow to "effects of cartoon violence on preschoolers." Specifying a particular aspect or lens helps delimit the topic. Background reading from reference works, articles, books, and online searches can aid in evaluating and refining topic ideas, while also revealing if enough material exists to support thorough research.

Even after settling on a viable topic, be open to revising your choice or approach as research progresses. Preliminary reading and investigation may uncover the need for modifications to produce a topic that can be fruitfully addressed within the scope of the assignment. Selecting an appropriate, focused research topic is an iterative process that often involves initial exploration, re-evaluation based on searches and reading, and refinements to arrive at an angle of inquiry that is interesting yet suitably narrow and delimited. Building in opportunities to revisit and reshape the topic as research gets underway can help land on a fruitful direction for in-depth study.

Here are some Concluding points of this Topic:-

• Give yourself plenty of time to think through and rethink your - choice of a topic.

• Look for a subject or an issue that will continue to engage you throughout research and writing.

• Consult library materials and other print and electronic information resources to refine the topic and to see if sufficient work has been done on the subject to make it a viable topic for the research paper. e Before settling on a final topic, make sure you understand the amount and depth of research required and the type and length of paper expected.

• If you encounter problems at any point in the project, do not hesitate to consult your instructor, whether to clarify the assignment or to get help in choosing, developing, or researching a topic or in preparing the paper. A campus writing center can be a useful resource.

Thank you for taking the time to visit this blog. I appreciate your engagement with the content. If you have any questions or thoughts, feel free to share. Once again, thank you for your time!

Film Review and Comparative Study of 12th Fail

This blog is movie Review of movie 12th Fail, Directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra. This blog is in response to the task given by Dilip Barad sir. In this blog I am going to write some Points which i have noticed during movie Screening of this movie. 

Here is a Link of that Blog as well where you can see all attachment of articles and videos based on this  Movie:- https://drashtijoshi.blogspot.com/2024/01/movie-screening-of-12th-fail-film.html

12th Fail: Film Review and Comparative Study

Here are some Points to Ponder on that I am going to write my Blog:-

1. Introduction:

• Begin with a captivating introduction that sets the tone for your review.
• Briefly introduce the film, providing necessary details about its background.

2. Theoretical Framework:

• Apply relevant literary and film studies theories to analyze the cinematic elements of the film.
• Discuss how the film aligns with or challenges these theoretical frameworks.

3. Contextualization:

• Place the film within broader discourses, such as its implications in the education system, government jobs, cultural context, or its reflection of youth aspirations.
• Explore the socio-cultural relevance of the film.

4. Thematic Study:

• Conduct a thematic study, delving into the core themes of the film.
• Analyze how these themes contribute to the overall narrative and societal commentary.

5. Comparative Analysis:

• Compare the film with a similar one from a different culture, time, nation, or regional language.
• Highlight similarities, differences, and the cultural significance of each.

6. Conclusion:

• Summarize your key observations and insights from the review.
• Conclude with your overall assessment of the film's impact and relevance

Introduction:-

The recently released inspirational drama film depicts the incredible journey of a small-town boy striving to become an IPS officer despite all odds stacked against him. Set in the dusty bylanes of rural India, the film sheds light on the real struggles faced by aspirants from humble backgrounds who dream of cracking the prestigious UPSC exams. Through the protagonist Manoj's story, it provides a raw and realistic glimpse into the world of India's civil service aspirants. This movie is Adaptation of book with the same name "12th fail" it was written by Anurag Pathak. I have read that book as well. There are many differences in film and book.

The movie faces criticism for its monologue and exposition problems, with characters being introduced based on their righteousness, and the love story between Manoj and Shraddha feeling rushed and convenient. (Tyagi)

Theoretical Framework:

There are so many loop holes one can find while watching movie. like there are many frames as well to study. Hare are some frames which I have noticed during Film Screening. 

1. Beginning of Film and Book:-

when we look at the Beginning of the both of the thing like movie and book both are different. Film start with Long drone shot where object is small.

In the book it is very different like it began like Manoj is reading loudly because there where ladies out there and they can hear him, so he was aggerating this.

2. Frame of Grandmother and Gun:-

Another very interesting frame is when that person come to give letter of Manoj's Father's Suspension his Grandmother was saying ,"Nikal bandhuk(Gun Out)"... Here is a Picture of that Frame.

This Represent Power Dimension of Manoj Sharma's Cast. Like he is a Sharma so he is from upper cast and he has weapon in his house and it give them power to talk about honesty and all. 

There is One Article which also focuses on same thing, this Article is focuses on if Manoj was Dalit?:-(Satkar)

What is it? We can call It as a Caste privilege because he was getting help from everywhere. If the Character had been a Dalit, would he/she have gotten this help instantly? No. It is hard for a Dalit to get the kind of help that Manoj Sharma in the Movie was getting. Does the main character of the movie face discrimination because of his Caste in School? Did he drop out of School because of Caste discrimination and Humiliation? Does he get beaten because of his Caste? Faced Humiliated because of his Caste? Does Manoj’s Father get Humiliated because of his Caste? Do Manoj’s father and his forefather put human excrement on his head? Does Manoj not allowed to mingle with others because of his Caste? Did he have to hide his Father’s Surname in School and college because of his Caste? Did his Mother got Humiliated Because of her Caste? This was the Caste privilege of the hero in the Movie, who doesn’t have to go through all this that what a Dalit Aspirant goes through. This is the Caste privilege That Manoj Sharma in the Movie got, and he got help from everyone whom he met. 

That is the Caste privilege, Which Caste Privileged people haven’t acknowledged yet. This movie does not show the hidden privileges that he was getting because of his Caste. In this Movie, it is shown that Manoj gets a Chance to give an interview twice; if he had been a Dalit, he would not have gotten the chance to face an interview twice.

We don’t decide in which home we will take birth, but at least the unseen privileges which a person who is born in a Caste Which is regarded as superior in a Society, at least they should acknowledge that privilege; it is crucial that they reflect on the advantages they have and acknowledge the disparities faced by Dalits, Recognizing privilege is a crucial step towards fostering a more equitable Society, Dalits did nothing to deserve the Unequal treatment which happens with them daily. The Onus is not on Dalits to make a Casteless Society; The Onus is on the Castes Who enjoyed the privilege of their Caste since ages.

Another Article is based on Privilege of caste:-

Sharma performs poorly at the interview stage of the competitive exams. But he is still given another chance. Does that happen? And to whom? It makes you question the motives and biases of the members on the interview board. The film doesn’t talk about the social composition of the board, but I am curious. This kind of favor is not easy to get. As a third-generation individual, Sharma struggled to comprehend simple English. Despite this, the interview board was sympathetic to him. All India civil services officers are not selected like that. This was the biggest miracle that happened in the movie.(Mandal)

3. Frame of 3 People:-

When Movie move further we can see one frame which have 3 Character in one frame, here is a Picture of this Film.

In this frame, you can see a camera placed on a person's shoulder. From this, we can interpret that, in the power dimension, one is merely a spectator of wrongdoing. The person whose shoulder we see can witness the unjust events happening to Manoj's father. He is just a regular observer because he doesn't have the power to resist the force.

4. Power and Government:-

There is one Frame where cops are pawns of Pradhan of village. In this Frame we can see that there is a corrupt men who is in power or in system he was handling all people and Police as well, so that cops arrest Manoj and his brother and their "Jugad(Rickshaw)". 

In one frame that all are in one cops, Pradhan's Bus, and their Jugad. We can interpreted this as how people behave when they are in power. In the end that all corrupt men are seating in jugad. Then at that time Manoj was in power.

 5. Sound:-

Sound plays vital role in films. When we see film closely we can listen the pure and original sounds of musical instrument like piano, Drum, Flute sound etc. When we see these all scenes we came to know that there is different sound for both Manoj and Shradha like for Manoj there is low and Soothing sound of Instrument which are traditional and old instruments. In Shradha's world there is a Modern Sounds like Piano and other things as well. When we see they come together at that time both sounds merge. Here is a clip where you can see how sound merge. Another scene is when Manoj is Reading Letter by Shraddha at that time also Sound is merged with Traditional and go to Modern Instruments.

6. Shoes as Metaphor:-

when Manoj was giving his Interview and he go with tight shoes there is frame where camera is only focusing his Shoes because before he read shraddha's latter he was very uncomfortable and in fear of interview but after reading that letter and now he knows that if i failed in this shraddha will marry me any which way. So, here he became comfortable and give proper answers to panels and he has that confidence. Here we can interpret that he became Carefree about his job and Shoes used as a Metaphor there.

Contextualization:

In the context of the Indian education system, several issues arise, particularly concerning how the youth is predominantly oriented towards job pursuits. Currently, there is a prevailing sentiment that satisfaction is primarily derived from securing a government job. However, in today's India, we witness instances of individuals who have put in hard work facing challenges, as malpractices such as paper leaks adversely impact those who have earned their achievements through genuine efforts.

By emphasizing the protagonist's rural roots, the film situates itself within ongoing discourses about equitable access to education emerging from small towns and villages. Through Manoj's repeated attempts to clear the UPSC exams, it highlights the limited opportunities and intense competition faced by India's educated youth hailing from vernacular backgrounds. The film also comments on the continuing dominance of English and the regional skew in India's administrative services despite policy measures for inclusion.

Thematic Study:

Some of the prominent themes in the film are the transformative power of education, corruption in the education system, the role of mentors and social capital, as well as ideas of merit versus privilege. The film consistently explores how moral choices, hard work and integrity help Manoj overcome corrupt practices and social divisions. His relationship with the reformed police officer foregrounds the theme of idealism triumphing over cynicism.

There is one article based on this "The Changing Priorities of Education in India: A Worrisome Shift Mirrored in Popular Films and Fictions"(Barad)

The exclusive focus on government job exams brings several negative consequences. Firstly, it fosters a 'herd mentality,' where diverse talents are overlooked as students chase limited posts. Secondly, the intense focus on exam preparation sidelines genuine learning and skill development. Thirdly, neglect of arts, humanities, and vocational subjects occurs as students opt for stereotypical 'safe options.' Finally, the intense competition gives rise to coaching centers, promoting spoon-feeding over self-study. The popular media portrayal of the craze for government jobs underscores the urgent need for educational reforms that prioritize diverse talents and knowledge for its intrinsic value.(Barad)

Comparative Analysis:

In today's era, numerous web series and movies share similar themes with the mentioned movie. For instance, a well-known web series by TVF titled 'Aspirants,' released in 2021, revolves around characters dealing with personal challenges while simultaneously preparing for the UPSC exam. The world of 12th Fail exists in the shadow of TVF’s Aspirants. But while the latter series delved into the motivations of each of its characters, the film’s supporting characters feel stock. There is Anshumaan Pushkar as Gauri, the know-it-all veteran of Mukherjee Nagar, who reminded me of Sandeep bhaiyya from Aspirants. But Gauri only had the skeleton and not the muscle of the popular TVF character.(Bhardwaj)

We can compare this film with film like "Super 30" which focused on how caste of class system work in education. This biographical drama not only celebrates academic excellence but also underscores the transformative power of education in shaping destinies. The film stars Hrithik Roshan as lead.

The film bears similarities to other memorable films about the UPSC like "Aarakshan". However, the two differ significantly in their gender representations. While Aarakshan focused on upper caste, upper class male protagonists, this film locates its hero in a more diverse social setting.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, my initial enchantment with the movie was undeniable, but after multiple viewings and engaging in critical thinking, I've identified certain aspects that raise concerns. Having read the original book, I observed significant omissions and additions by the writer and director, Vidhu Vinod Chopra. For instance, scenes involving the grandmother were entirely added by him, and discrepancies in Manoj's educational journey, such as his completion BA in Hindi Literature in Gwalior, differ from the book, where Pande met Manoj in college.

The film predominantly focuses on Manoj's struggle during UPSC preparation, yet a two-hour movie cannot fully capture the entirety of someone's life journey, as depicted in the book. While the film has its merits, these variations from the source material and the limited scope of a feature film raise questions about the thorough portrayal of Manoj's life. Perhaps a more extended format or a series could better justify the nuances present in the original book.

The film presents a stirring narrative of hope and human resilience against a grim social backdrop. While conforming to many conventions of the inspirational drama genre, the film also critiques systemic problems like corruption and discrimination. Its account of small-town aspirations and struggles will resonate with millions of young Indians dreaming of a better future. The film thus makes an important contribution to contemporary discourses around education, employment and inclusive nation-building.

References:-

Bahl, Vikas, director. Super 30. Phantom Films Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment Reliance Entertainment HRX Films, 2019.

Barad, Dilip. “(PDF) The Changing Priorities of Education in India: A Worrisome Shift Mirrored in Popular Films and Fictions.” ResearchGate, 16 November 2023, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/375641812_The_Changing_Priorities_of_Education_in_India_A_Worrisome_Shift_Mirrored_in_Popular_Films_and_Fictions. Accessed 18 January 2024.

Bhardwaj, Kartik. “'12th fail' movie review: Too long a ted talk.” The New Indian Express, 28 October 2023, https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/review/2023/Oct/28/12th-fail-movie-review-too-long-a-ted-talk-2627608.html. Accessed 18 January 2024.

Chopra, Vidhu Vinod, director. 12th Fail. Vinod Chopra Films, 2023.

Jha, Prakash, director. Aarakshan. Base Industries Group Prakash Jha Productions, 2011.

Karki, Apoorv Singh, director. Aspirants. The Viral Fever Media Labs, 2021.

Mandal, Dilip. “12th Fail not about Vikrant Massey's struggles but his caste privilege.” ThePrint, 3 January 2024, https://theprint.in/opinion/12th-fail-isnt-just-about-vikrant-masseys-struggles-its-really-about-his-caste-privilege/1908789/. Accessed 17 January 2024.

“Real-Life Inspiration: Indian Films Based on True Stories | 'Super 30', '12th Fail', 'Mission Raniganj.'” Outlook India, 24 November 2023, https://www.outlookindia.com/art-entertainment/-super-30-to-12th-fail-indian-films-based-on-real-life-stories-that-inspire-news-332692. Accessed 18 January 2024.

Satkar, Shubhangi. “12th fail Movie and Hidden Caste privilege: A Critical Analysis from Dalit Perspective.” दलित टाइम्स (दलित टाइम्स), 15 January 2024, https://dalittimes.in/twelfth-fail-movie-and-hidden-caste-privilege-a-critical-analysis-from-dalit-perspective/. Accessed 17 January 2024.

Tyagi, Sucharita. “12th Fail Movie Review — Sucharita Tyagi | by Sucharita Tyagi | Medium.” Sucharita Tyagi, 27 October 2023, https://sucharitatyagi.medium.com/12th-fail-movie-review-sucharita-tyagi-2aea58e90fd3. Accessed 18 January 2024.

Thank you for taking the time to visit this blog. I appreciate your engagement with the content. If you have any questions or thoughts, feel free to share. Once again, thank you for your time!

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Movie Screening of 12th Fail film

Greetings Readers,

In this blog post, we're excited to share details about an upcoming movie screening scheduled for January 13, 2024. My co-leader, Hetal Pathak, and I have curated an engaging experience around the film "12th Fail." We believe this movie offers thought-provoking content that can stimulate critical thinking among students. To enhance your viewing experience, we have outlined Pre-Viewing, While Watching, and Post-Viewing tasks for you to delve into.

"12th Fail" Movie:-

IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma fearlessly embraces the idea of restarting his academic journey and reclaiming his destiny at a place where millions of students attempt the world's toughest competitive exam: UPSC.

Release date: 27 October 2023 (India)

Director: Vidhu Vinod Chopra

Pre- viewing:- 

Here is a list of articles and videos related to the movie:

1. Vikrant Massey shares how he prepared for his role in '12th:-

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/vikrant-massey-shares-how-he-prepared-for-his-role-in-12th-fail/articleshow/103953127.cms

2. 12th Fail Review: A Gentle Little Film That Stays True To Its Purpose:-

https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/12th-fail-review-a-gentle-little-film-that-stays-true-to-its-purpose-3-5-stars-4518068

3. Vikrant Massey and Vidhu Vinod Chopra on 12th Fail: ‘It is an homage to bureaucrats of the country’:-

https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/vikrant-massey-on-working-with-vidhu-vinod-chopra-in-12th-fail-dream-come-true-8287904/lite/

4.‘12th Fail’ movie review: Vidhu Vinod Chopra delivers yet another hug of hope that is more earnest than magical:-

https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/12th-fail-movie-review-vidhu-vinod-chopra-delivers-yet-another-hug-of-hope-that-is-more-earnest-than-magical/article67460764.ece

5. The Changing Priorities of Education in India: A Worrisome Shift Mirrored in Popular Films and Fictions:-

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/375641812_The_Changing_Priorities_of_Education_in_India_A_Worrisome_Shift_Mirrored_in_Popular_Films_and_Fictions

6.  '12th fail' movie review: Too long a ted talk:-

https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/review/2023/oct/28/12th-fail-movie-review-too-long-a-ted-talk-2627608.html

Videos:-

Here is a Facebook Post of Dipak solya sir:-

1. https://m.facebook.com/story.php story_fbid=pfbid06t2KjRzrxGKKvG3XW2uipXPiiJejBSZqvweas1ztRkM9BqeA6x2dKuG168EB4Lx7l&id=581530137&mibextid=Nif5oz

2. https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02hWHbDqHDUBb16dMRk6mvEWVpzTAbs6RvGN9NBcjUzHgpVCRkTsvPgXTypiswEYSHl&id=581530137&mibextid=Nif5oz

While Watching:-

• Observe the beginning scene
• Analyze the character development and motivations of key figures in the movie.
• Pay attention to the cinematography, music, and other elements contributing to the overall atmosphere.
• Identify key turning points in the plot and consider their significance.

Post-viewing task:-

• Share your views (movie review)
• Share your thoughts on social media or with peers and invite discussions on different interpretations of the movie.
• Write a reflective piece on how the film impacted your perspective on certain issues.
• Consider the broader societal implications of the movie's message and its relevance to education and personal growth.

We hope these tasks add depth to your movie-watching experience and spark meaningful conversations. Enjoy the screening.

Summary and Blog of the video Representation of Queer in Cinema

This blog is a testament to the exploration of advanced technology seamlessly integrated into the realm of learning. I will leverage a YouTube summary website to summarize and convert my video on "Representation of Queer in Cinema" showcasing how technology effortlessly intertwines with our educational journey.

Here is a PPT:-

Queer Cinema.pptx from DrashtiJoshi21

Here is a Video Recording of this Presentation:-

Here is  Summary of this Video:-

Title: Queer Representation in Cinema and Social Media

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Queer representation in cinema has catalyzed social changes.

00:03

• Queer theory supports people in expressing their sexuality and building gay and lesbian lifestyles. It promotes demands for sexual justice as part of social justice.
• Cinema, as a powerful medium, has contributed significantly to the queer movement in India, along with the influence of social media.

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Representation of queer people in cinema is evolving towards more sensitive and realistic portrayal.

02:53

• Gender stereotypes in films influence societal perceptions and result in misrepresentation of gender roles passed on through generations.
• The movie 'Aligarh' directed by Hansal Mehta portrays the real-life story of a gay professor at Aligarh Muslim University, shedding light on social and political ideologies.

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Professor Manoj Bajpai justifies portrayal of homosexual character in court

05:36

• Professor SAS's argument in court about privacy rights and discrimination
• Young journalist Deu Sebastian's sympathetic attitude and role in supporting Professor SAS

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Red White and Royal Blue represents queer relationships and diversity in a positive light.

08:21

• The movie is based on a book by Casey McQuiston, who is also a queer person.
• The story follows the developing relationship between Alex, the son of the first American female president, and Henry, the prince of Wales.

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Red, White and Royal Blue represents LGBTQ+ characters and queer authors in literature.

11:11

• The novel reflects readers' expectations of queer representation in literary works.
• The movie and TV industry's portrayal of queer intimacy still makes some individuals uncomfortable, but it offers hope for future generations.

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India's legal recognition of same-sex marriages

13:47

• The Supreme Court refused to grant legal recognition for queer marriages in India
• However, a committee has been directed to examine the rights of persons in queer union

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Supreme Court decision on queer unions sent for parliamentary consideration.

16:31

• Justice Chandra chud supports the decision and believes it should be left to the Parliament or high court.
• Justice s rendra bat opposes the decision, stating that a legal union of marriage should only be through enacted law.

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Indian cinema is starting to address homosexuality and queer themes but without openly using the word 'queer'.

19:03

• Filmmakers are encouraged to add more bisexual representation in their films.
• Challenges still exist in the way LGBTQ community is represented in Indian cinema, often portraying them as comic, victims, or tragic characters.

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Addressing challenges faced by the queer community in Indian society and high-class acceptance

21:59

• Highlighting the suffering of the queer community in Indian society
• Exploring the challenges of high-class acceptance for the queer community

Here is a Blog:-

Evolution of Queer Representation in Cinema

Introduction:

Queer representation in cinema is reshaping societal norms and influencing social justice. Cinema's role in promoting diverse and sensitive portrayals of queer individuals has led to significant shifts in societal perceptions of gender and sexuality.

Impact of Queer Theory

Queer theory has enabled individuals to embrace and express their sexuality, fostering the growth of gay and lesbian communities. The demand for sexual justice as part of broader social justice has gained momentum with the support of queer theory. This theoretical framework has played a vital role in advocating for the rights and representation of queer individuals in cinema.

Cinema's Contribution to Queer Movement in India

Cinema, as a potent medium, has significantly contributed to the queer movement in India. It has facilitated discussions and raised awareness about LGBTQ+ issues. Moreover, the influence of social media has further amplified the impact of cinematic representations of queer individuals by reaching a wider audience and fostering greater understanding and empathy.

Realistic Portrayal of Queer Characters

The representation of queer people in cinema has evolved towards more sensitive and realistic portrayals. The movie 'Aligarh', directed by Hansal Mehta, sheds light on the real-life story of a gay professor at Aligarh Muslim University. This film has sparked conversations about social and political ideologies, challenging the traditional portrayal of queer individuals in mainstream cinema.

Positive Representation in Literature

The novel 'Red, White and Royal Blue' has made significant strides in representing LGBTQ+ characters and queer authors in literature. The story revolves around the developing relationship between Alex and Henry, reflecting diverse and positive representations of queer relationships. Casey McQuiston, a queer author, has successfully captured readers' expectations of inclusive and authentic queer representation in literary works.

Legal Recognition and Challenges in India

India's legal recognition of same-sex marriages has been a topic of significant debate and contention. While there have been efforts to examine the rights of individuals in queer unions, the Supreme Court's refusal to grant legal recognition for queer marriages has sparked further discussions. The challenges faced by the queer community, including societal acceptance and representation in Indian cinema, continue to be areas of focus for advocacy and progress.

Conclusion:

The evolving landscape of queer representation in cinema and literature reflects the ongoing shift towards inclusivity and authenticity. While challenges persist, there is a growing momentum in advocating for diverse and realistic portrayals of queer individuals. Through cinema and literature, the queer community's stories and experiences are increasingly gaining visibility and contributing to a more empathetic and understanding society.

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