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Bhupinder Singh passed on recently, leaving behind a stark void in the Indian music scene. Who else could evoke that kind of nostalgia, that kind of yearning? When that husky, slightly-warbled voice sang out, you were compelled to stop in your tracks. The routine business of living gave way to a world of memories and longing. It was like a koel had called out in the still night. The sound of raindrops on parched earth. The laughter of a baby in a crowd of people. It came from another sphere, a dream-like world of love, affection, bonding, warmth and oneness.  Can anyone remain unaffected when Bhupi's songs are played? You remember lost loves, childhood days, missed opportunities, the death of your parents, forgotten houses and cities, lost friends, and much more when you hear that rich, sad voice singing in perfect melody.    Here are some of my soul-songs: Zindagi, zindagi, mere ghar aana...aana zindagi This is one of his happier songs. Bhupinder Singh's husky voice entr...

Any great work of art must comprise an immersive experience, a stirring of the soul, something that uplifts the spirits. Cinema is the ultimate form of artistic expression, with its multi-dimensional ability to move the viewer. The Indian, in particular, the Hindi film industry is one of the oldest ones in the world, one that has contributed gems that have stood the test of time. While the classics have been much discussed and feted at festivals and the like, mainstream (read commercial) films are usually given a miss, due to the sentimental overkill, blatant romanticism and chest thumping jingoism.  However, there are exceptions. This is a listicle of ten recent Hindi films (released in the past twenty years) that tread the fine line between art and commerce, delivering moving experiences that linger long after leaving the cinema hall. And yes, usher in change too! Films that Evoke Love for our Land Rang De Basanti (2006) is a wake-up call to all Indians. A group of youngsters be...

Getting sick of running the rat race? What a struggle it is - the daily commute, regular bickering with the boss, same work everyday, delayed incentives, squabbling colleagues, office politics, the rigmarole! As if you signed up for a prison sentence! The workplace can be a very dog-eat-dog world. Everyone is out to outshine each other and get ahead of competition. You can't trust anybody, and the daily grind ruins your peace of mind and health after a time. Things you do day in and day put begin to look meaningless, your pay is inadequate, work-life balance - what is that? In short, your life sucks. Before you fall into the trap of self-blame, hopelessness or guilt, check out these strategies to cope with work stress. 5 Fail-proof Ways to Deal with  Work Stress v Learn to identify your stressors and journal your thoughts and anxieties. Try to verbalize your anxieties and negativities. What is troubling you exactly? There is no shame in feeling left out or belittled or hurt....