It is found that celebrity endorsement, that is, using attractive, trustworthy, and familiar celebrities to advertise online gambling applications, has a statistically significant impact on young people's propensity to gamble.

 The Shameless Promotion of Gambling by Celebrities

In today's world, celebrities will do just about anything for a buck. They have become shamelessly shameless, from endorsing questionable products to promoting dubious causes. But perhaps one of the most alarming trends in celebrity culture is the shameless promotion of gambling. Yes, you read that right - gambling! It seems that the rich and famous are not content with their fortune and fame; they also want to tempt Lady Luck. But let's take a closer look at this recipe for disaster. 

How Online Gambling Has Become Fashionable Today

In today's digital age, online gambling has become all the rage. Gone are the days of travelling to a casino to try your luck. Now, with just a few clicks, you can access a world of temptation right from your home.

 

From poker tournaments to online slot machines, youngsters are tempted to join the fun. However, they fail to recognize the dark side of online gambling - the addictive nature, the hidden costs, and the potential for financial ruin. As per one report by thelancet, gambling has become a public health issue in different parts of the world.

Gambling - A Recipe For Disaster

Gambling is like baking a souffle - one wrong move, and everything comes crashing down. And who better to lead us down this treacherous path than our beloved celebrities? They make it seem glamorous and exciting but don't be fooled. Behind the glitz and glamour lies a dark and dangerous world that can lead to financial ruin and emotional despair.

 

But why are celebrities drawn to gambling like moths to a flame? Is it the thrill of risking it all? Is it the adrenaline rush of winning big? Or is it simply a desperate cry for attention? Perhaps it's a bit of all three. Whatever the reasons may be, the consequences can be dire. 

Frightening Trends Of Gambling in India

If there's one country that knows how to take gambling to a whole new level, it's India. From online poker tournaments to betting on cricket matches, the increasing participation of people in online gambling in India is frightening. And who better to lead the charge than our beloved Bollywood celebrities? They dance, they sing, and now they gamble too! But what's truly frightening is the influence they have over the masses. Their shameless gambling promotion has normalized it in society, making it seem like just another harmless pastime.

Hence, it is no surprise that India's Online Sports Betting market is projected to reach US$1.70bn in 2023. It shows an annual growth rate (CAGR 2023-2027) of 9.79%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$2.47bn by 2027.

How Shameless Can Celebrities Be?

When you think celebrities couldn't sink any lower, they surprise us again. From reality TV stars to A-list actors, they shamelessly promote tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, and now online gambling. They plaster their faces on billboards, appear in flashy commercials, and entice novices to join the mobile apps. It's as if they have completely lost touch with reality. But hey, who needs morals when there's money to be made, right?

Examining the Effects of Celebrity Gambling Ads on the Public

It's no secret that celebrities hold a tremendous amount of influence over the public. Whether it's their fashion choices, political views, or favourite food, we tend to follow their lead. So, it should come as no surprise that celebrity gambling ads profoundly affect the public's perception of gambling. As per one report, the influence of celebrities on young minds is enormous. 

 

These ads make it seem like gambling is glamorous, exciting, and full of opportunity. They create an illusion that anyone can strike it rich with just one spin of the wheel or one roll of the dice. 

 

Interestingly, Social media has become a breeding ground for the normalization of gambling in pop culture. From celebrities sharing their big wins to influencers promoting betting apps, it's hard to escape the constant stream of gambling-related content. 

 

With impressionable minds and a desire for validation, young people are more susceptible to the allure of gambling than ever before. It's time we put an end to this normalization and start promoting healthier forms of entertainment.  

Examining the Impact of Celebrity Endorsement on Gambling 

Celebrity endorsement has always been a powerful marketing tool. From perfumes to clothing lines, celebrities can influence our purchasing decisions. But when it comes to gambling, their impact goes far beyond a simple purchase. 

 

When a celebrity endorses a gambling brand, they are not just promoting a product; they are promoting a lifestyle. And for their fans, that lifestyle becomes aspirational. They want to be like their favourite celebrity - rich, famous, and lucky. But the reality is that only some people will win big. They will lose big. 

Is Government Blind?

With all this shameless gambling promotion happening right before our eyes, one can't help but wonder - is the government blind? Are they ignoring the emerging social catastrophe in exchange for tax revenue? It certainly seems that way. 

 

The government is allowing celebrities to lure people into a dangerous game. It's as if they say, "Go ahead, gamble your life away. Just make sure you pay your taxes." It's a sad state of affairs. 

Money makes the world go round, and celebrities are no exception. The allure of accessible cash is hard to resist. The shameless promotion of gambling by celebrities is a dangerous trend that needs to be addressed. It's time we hold celebrities accountable for their actions and take responsibility for our choices. Let's not gamble with our future - there's too much at stake. 

Videos and Photos Courtesy - Google - Veed 

River pollution is a problem in India, and experts warn that it is generating a lethal catastrophe that jeopardises the country's health and development.

 Why Indian Rivers Are Dirty And Toxic?

The Indian rivers once had a spiritual significance. River banks were also popular for picnics and family outings. It didn't escape Bollywood's attention and facilitated the fantasy of youths towards rivers. 

There are several films with themes around Indian rivers in which performers take joy in bathing or singing. A generation has grown up romanticizing rivers. However, things aren’t that rosy now. 

 

Within a short time, rivers in India became a joke. Rivers are progressively withering and have turned into a sea of waste, unlike in the past when they were venerated and depicted in splendour. In this post, I will highlight a few factors primarily to blame for the current state of affairs, so buckle up.  

 Exploring the Reasons Why Indian Rivers Are Dirty

As I walked along the banks of the river, I couldn't help but notice the putrid smell emanating from the water. The once crystal-clear river was now murky and filled with debris. I couldn't help but wonder why Indian rivers were so dirty and toxic. Our rivers are in trouble, from the Ganges to the Yamuna and even small tributaries. And the effects of water pollution don't end there; they can be felt in every corner of India. 

 

Post-Independence Industrialization

India's post-independence period, which began in 1947, saw tremendous economic growth, industrialization, and a boost in agricultural production. The government invested heavily in infrastructure, including dams, canals, and barrages

 

However, this growth came at a high cost, leading to an alarming increase in water pollution. The problem has only persisted with time. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), almost 37,000 million litres per day (MLD) of untreated sewage water runs into rivers across the country. Today, the rivers in India are among the most polluted in the world, with high levels of toxic chemicals, sewage, and industrial waste.

Rapid Population Growth and Urbanization
Urbanization has been a double-edged sword for India. While it has brought about economic growth and development, it has also resulted in severe environmental degradation, particularly in river pollution. India is rapidly urbanizing, with a population set to surpass 1.5 billion by 2030. 

 

The rapid population growth in urban areas has put a tremendous strain on the already limited resources of the cities. The demand for water supply and sewage management has far exceeded the capacity of the cities to provide these basic amenities. Consequently, many untreated sewage and industrial effluent enter the rivers. 

Inadequate Waste Management Systems

Waste management remains a systemic issue in India. The majority of urban areas still need efficient waste management systems. Municipal solid waste management is still nascent, with minimal waste segregation. It has led to massive open dumpsites, causing the leaching of toxins into the soil and groundwater, which eventually ends up contaminating the rivers. As per some reports, nearly 80% of Indian water is severely polluted, and the condition is horrifying in urban areas. 

Encroachments and Riverbank Construction

Encroachments along the riverbanks and illegal constructions seriously threaten the river's ecosystem. These constructions and encroachments disrupt the river's natural flow, leading to erosion of the riverbanks and altering the river's course. Additionally, the lack of buffer zones causes the sedimentation of the river's bed, compromising the river's self-cleansing capacity. 

Agricultural Practices

Agricultural practices are another significant source of river pollution. Farmers use an enormous amount of chemical fertilizers and pesticides without adequate precautions. Excessive use of these elements leads to runoff into the rivers and other water bodies, leading to toxicity. The buildup of nutrients results in eutrophication. 

 

Lack of awareness among the general public and insufficient government actions to curb pollution are also contributing factors. 

Historically, rivers in India were seen as a symbol of purity and prosperity. The degradation of these holy rivers is a symptom of India's rapid growth and lack of environmental awareness. 

 

As I concluded my walk along the river, I couldn't help but feel a sense of despair. The situation seemed bleak, and it was evident that drastic measures were the need of the hour. The government, industries, and the public must unite to make a concerted effort to clean up the rivers and prevent further pollution. Today, Indian rivers are in disastrous condition. Our moral responsibility is to clean them up, restore their lost radiance, and allow actors to return to the rivers as they once were.

Image Courtesy: Google Images

A wide variety of bathroom designs have evolved over time from the traditional and western styles. It can be overwhelming to select a design for a home when there are so many options available.

 Bathroom Designs (Part -2)

When it comes to bathroom singing, most young boys and girls are passionate about it. No wonder it’s their favourite spot. Regardless of age, the bathroom is the perfect place to meet someone truly special -- and that's you. 

 

Here, we will discuss some more bathroom designs.

 

Split Bathroom

Divided bathrooms are popular decorating ideas. These are intended to split the entire region in half. One has the sink, vanity cabinets, and mirror storage areas, while the other has the bathtub, shower, and toilet seat. These designs are practical, modern, and customizable. In addition, the split bathroom provides much-needed privacy. In any case, it is crucial to ensure no compromising on style on either side. 

Furthermore, based on your preferences and needs, they can be carried out in various ways. One of the designs worth considering is mentioned below.

 . 

Dry and wet split bathroom

The toilet is split between dry and wet portions on this site. For example, the shower or bathtub is enclosed, while the toilet seat, basin, and bathroom cabinetry are on the other side. A glass door separates it, giving it a contemporary and pleasing image. Furthermore, it avoids water stains and marks on the bathroom's dry sections and keeps household members from sliding.

Couple’s Bathroom

Despite the best intentions, a bathing area created for one person can be a hassle for two. All of this might inspire you to look into a couple's bathroom ideas to gain extra space. Bathrooms for couples allow people to move comfortably around the room without tripping over each other. Some of the concepts to explore in a couple restrooms are mentioned below.

• Double sink:  A double vanity enables each person to customize the sink and surrounding area to their needs, from beauty products to décor. Separate your locations in large restrooms by installing independent sinks on adjacent walls or dual vanities. Nevertheless, one giant mirror can be installed to create a feeling of cohesiveness.

• Double shower:  Depending on your space and needs, choose a tub/shower combo or a walk-in shower. In a couple's bathroom, a single soaking tub anchors the area, providing harmony with a twist.

Spa Bathroom Designs

With the wellness trend sweeping the country, bathrooms are becoming sanctuaries of indulgent relaxation. The very essence of spa bathrooms is to let you relax and unwind in a luxurious environment. 

 .

Featuring luxurious marble, granite, quartz countertops and under-mount sinks, it takes luxury to a whole new level. You may also look for bathroom vanity ideas that inspire a spa-like feel. Consider adding a chandelier and bathroom plants to create a standout spa style. Further, to make a statement, purchase a unique washbasin and a customized mirror. 

Things to Consider When Designing Your Dream Bathroom

There are several bathroom designs accessible, but in order to get the optimal creation, specific vital components must be taken into account. Remember these bathroom design ideas and recommendations as you create your perfect place. 

 

1. Space

It is essential to use the entire space available. The layout of the lavatory will depend on the general area. The design of a bathroom should meet both aesthetic and functional requirements. A well-designed bathroom will not only look lovely, but it will also be practical. While developing your bathroom plan, consider your daily schedule, style, and how the space can best accommodate that. Additional considerations include ventilation, storage space, plumbing, and electrical outlets.

        

 2. Lighting

Bathroom lighting is very vital and should not be overlooked. However, you may use other forms of illumination besides natural light. You may, for example, employ soft mood lighting to convert the space into a soothing setting. 

 

3. Storage

Storage is a critical factor in ensuring a clean and organized bathroom. Besides being unsanitary, dirty countertops and damp towels will spoil any sense of calm you aim to achieve in your bathroom. Vertical shelves are one option for storing bathroom supplies in small bathrooms. 

 

4. Budget

When designing a bathroom, it is essential to remain within budget. Remember, lavatories can look attractive without breaking the bank. All it takes is for a skilled bathroom designer to use new concepts to create your perfect place. 

A well-designed toilet is an essential component of your house. There are several concepts that combine modern and classic elements. In addition, modern fixtures and materials are incredibly adaptable and blend well with various housing styles. Thus, whether you're remodelling a small bathroom or updating your main bathroom, modern fixtures, tiling, colours, and hardware may help you improve your design. But nonetheless, it is critical to prepare ahead of time and think about how you and your family will utilize the space depending on individual requirements. 

Bathrooms are versatile, safe, and comfortable spaces. Often, they're where you begin and end your day, and where you feel the most at ease.

 Bathroom Designs ( Part-1)  

Every home needs a well-designed bathroom. They are one of the most frequented rooms of a house, so it stands to reason that they should look great! 

 .

Bathroom designs have dramatically evolved over the past few years. As a result, it is a spot for inhabitants to retreat to unwind, think, and even rejuvenate after a hard day at work. All of this has a significant impact not only on how the space looks but also on how we design it.

Many bathroom design ideas are available, and incorporating the best suited to your space and style takes a lot of work. It is because there are various elements to consider while planning your perfect get-away room. A deliberate curation of ideas might be helpful whether you are building or updating your master bathroom or intending to convert an underused section in your home into a luxury lavatory. 

   .

Here, I have compiled a list of the most innovative and inspiring bathroom design ideas for people looking for fantastic ways to re-decorate their bathroom spaces.

Best Bathroom Design Ideas For Your Home

When designing a functional and reliable bathroom, many behind-the-scenes mechanics and elements must be considered. Here are some of the most stunning bathroom design ideas that will inspire you to design the place of your dreams.

 

Simple and Elegant Bathroom Design

Simple bathroom designs have an attractive and timeless quality to them. You are at ease the moment you step inside. Clean, uncluttered environments look great and are easy to create. While they are more appropriate for small spaces, they are nevertheless appealing for huge ones.

You should begin by painting the bathroom walls in light colours. A softer tone provides a soothing impression while also creating the illusion of more space. It is vital to keep the area uncluttered, which necessitates the use of practical storage solutions. You may utilize mirror storage and wall-mounted vanity cabinets to store the items. It also assists in organizing the space, making cleaning easier and providing greater mobility.

 . 

Further, you may customize the furniture and taps and add moisture-absorbing plants to your liking. 

Luxury Bathroom Design

Several luxury bathroom design ideas can make your room appear lavish and magnificent. For example, using exotic stone surfaces can create a luxury look that is second to none. 

 

Marble is one of the few stones that can evoke a sense of grandeur in modern bathroom design. A marble bathroom is a luxurious space that is classy, subtle, and absolutely gorgeous. In addition, the stone's ageless beauty makes it an attractive choice for both walls and floors.

 

If money is not an issue, you may use the stone in conjunction with some more bathroom decorations. This includes the following:

• Installing sauna, 
• Decorating the space with artwork, 
• Coloured sanitary-ware
• Using exotic stones such as Onyx  as a backsplash or shower backdrops
• Mood lighting or waterproof lights fitted in the shower 

Drinking chai with loved ones is a ritual, a celebration, and a break from the grind of everyday life. Taking tea breaks is an indispensible aspect of most Indians' lives.

                     Why Do Most Indians Drink Chai?

India is renowned for its addiction to chai. Even movie stars like dancing to chai-themed tunes. 

It is an integral part of Indian culture; from the bustling metropolis streets of Mumbai to the dusty by-lanes of Bihar, you are never far away from a tea stall. But what is it about chai that makes it so popular among Indians? 

What about this spicy drink makes it so unique and indispensable in Indian society? If you are searching for answers, sit back and relax because we're about to go on a journey through time to discover the exciting story of India's favourite beverage. Learn how tea became essential to Indian customs and why most Indians order chai as their go-to beverage. 

The History and Origin of Chai in India

When foreigners visit India or spend time with Indians living abroad, they often notice that Indians prefer tea to coffee. You may be wondering why. So what's the backstory of this traditional Indian drink? Let's have a peek.

To begin with, chai has been a staple of Indian life for millennia. Historians claim it came to the nation via the historic Silk Road trade between Persia and India.

The original recipe comprised boiling black tea leaves blended with spices like cloves, cardamom, and ginger, which were considered medicinal properties. Over the years, locals added distinctive flavour combinations like cinnamon, cumin and milk to the recipe. These additional ingredients enhanced and intensified the flavour of the tea.

Today it is one of India's most popular drinks enjoyed by people from all walks of life - street-side vendors or royal families! 

Chai is an Integral Part of Indian Culture

For almost all Indian households, the day begins with a cup of tea. It is often served during social gatherings and celebrations. Here, tea is a means to replenish oneself while socializing with others.

Tea has also become a symbol of hospitality. When visitors arrive at homes or places of work, it is common to serve them a hot cup of chai. It is a means to reflect warmth and strengthen social relationships by providing an opportunity to exchange tales.

This tradition has been used for centuries to communicate news, share ideas and create memories. As such, it has come to be seen as a powerful tool for social bonding.

Chai has become more than a soothing beverage due to its significance and popularity in Indian society. It's a vital component of Indian tradition that connects individuals from all backgrounds and experiences.

The Popular Flavors and Varieties of Chai in India

Every street corner, whether in a metropolis or a tiny town, has a chai stall, with people of all ages and backgrounds sipping their favourite drink cup after cup. But why are Indians so fond of chai?

The answer lies in the many flavours and varieties of chai found in India. From spicy masala chai (a black tea blend that combines cloves, ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, and other spices) to creamy Kashmiri kahwah (made with green tea and saffron), there's something for everyone.

For those who prefer sweetened drinks, there are also sugar-infused versions like the popular Irani chai (which uses milk and a generous sprinkle of sugar).

Plus, tea is very affordable in India. For example, one can get a cup of hot chai for as little as 10 rupees (around 15 cents USD). This makes it accessible to everyone. What other beverage can offer you the same flavour experience at such an unbeatable price?

Health Benefits of Drinking Chai

Among other benefits, health-conscious Indians enjoy drinking tea for its many health benefits. From aiding digestion to boosting antioxidant levels, there is strong scientific evidence that drinking chai can benefit your health.

Digestion

Chai contains ginger and cardamom, known for their digestive properties. Cardamom is primarily known for aiding digestion and reducing stomach cramps and pains. Ginger has been used for centuries as a remedy for stomachaches, nausea, and other digestive issues. It also helps reduce inflammation and bloating.

Antioxidants

Chai is packed full of antioxidants! The spices used in it - black pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, ginger - all contain high doses of antioxidants that can help fight against damage caused by free radicals in the body. These antioxidants help protect cells from damage and can even neutralize cancer-causing agents in the body.

Immune System

The spices in chai also have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can boost immune system function and help your body fight off infections like colds or the flu. In addition, the caffeine found in chai helps stimulate the immune system by increasing white blood cell production, which is vital for fighting infections.

So not only does drinking chai make you feel cosy on a cold day - it also has numerous health benefits that make it an essential part of many Indian households!

Finally

Chai is more than just a drink – it's an integral part of Indian culture with its long and fascinating history. People have been drinking chai and its various regional variations for centuries, and its popularity continues. It encapsulates the warmth and comfort of being part of a family, community, and nation. Chai is shared among strangers and loved ones, uniting all with a purpose.

One of the primary advantages of IELTS online training is the fact that you will learn all of the most modern techniques and tips online.

Online IELTS Training 

The International English Language Testing System(IELTS) is conducted annually to check the English proficiency level of non-native English speakers. The candidates are judged based on their speaking, writing, listening and reading skills in the English language.

 

With an increasing number of people attempting to clear IELTS, there's growth in several online institutions that train the candidates for exams.

IELTS Online Coaching Advantages!

Online IELTS training has many benefits, such as:

1)  An average student can get personalized attention from the teacher that enhances his confidence. It helps in removing doubts, as to one on one student-teacher ratio allows the teacher to work on weak points and devise a strategy for a particular student.

 

2)  A student can himself assess his performance based on IELTS score and can seek guidance under challenging areas while skipping the easy points. For example, some people are fluent in writing while others in speaking. Based on internal assessment, a student can work to hone his skills with the help of online training.  . 

3)  Online IELTS training is provided by expert teachers who are skilled to conduct online classes successfully. These certified instructors have a proven track record and are available throughout the day. The course material offered is continuously updated to improve the performance of the students.  . 

4)  The online classes are interactive. It helps the students to overcome their inhibitions and speak fluently with trainers and other attendees. Mock tests conducted by trainers help the students immensely.   .

5)  Another benefit of online IELTS training is, one can assess the class from anywhere, including the confines of your home. A student only needs a laptop or smartphone to study. Apart from flexibility to study it also saves time wasted in commuting.  

Final Takedown 

The IELTS test is beneficial to students who wanted to study abroad. The academic institutions of Canada, Britain, NewZealand, Australia, European countries and the USA accept the test scores. Getting a good score in IELTS is also beneficial to those workers who wanted to migrate and settle down in the countries mentioned above. The online IELTS reputed training institutes help in improving your skills in the English language and make your dream come true. 

Online shopping is both easy and fun. To get the best bargains, however, it is necessary to check and compare the costs of items before picking where to buy.

 How to Shop Smartly Online?

The increasing penetration of the internet and the ease to shop from home has led to exponential growth in online shopping. Moreover, the e-commerce sites provide a level playing field to all entrepreneurs and connect them directly to potential buyers. The platform is mutually beneficial to both the retailers and the consumers. However, online shopping has its own demerits.

An unsuspecting consumer is an easy prey for smart retailers who may dupe them with expensive good. Hence, it is prudent to follow specific steps that can help consumers to save money while doing online shopping. 

What are the different steps to shop online smartly?

A handful of tips that can make you a smart online shopper are :

1) Track prices
On E-commerce sites, the prices of the products are continually changing. Based on different analogies, the prices of goods vary. Even on the same day, the costs can change multiple times. It is therefore essential to keep track of the prices of the products you want to purchase. Nowadays, e-commerce sites send email alerts during the sale or any other promotional event. You can register yourself on e-commerce websites and get the benefit of email marketing.

You can also create an account and receive alerts during a sale or can use websites like savelist and camelcamelcamel  to track the prices of goods. By monitoring the prices, you can purchase the products at the discount prices. 

2) Use Cashback or Reward shopping sites
Certain websites help consumers get cashback or discount on their online purchase. These sites offer discount coupons and help consumers save money. A consumer should create an account on these sites to avail the offers. Some of these sites are: 

• Ebates
• Wikibuy
• Earny 
• Swagbucks
• Bitwalking
• Fronto
• Mobee
• Mypoints 

Checking for reward coupons or cashback is one of the easiest and simple way to drive a bargain while purchasing goods online.

3) Search on promo codes sites

In case of failure to get any bargain from discount coupon sites, a consumer can also check for promo codes on different sites such as:

• Retailmenot.com
• Groupon.com
• Coupons.com

This is one way of getting the goods at a bargain and become a smart shopper. 

4) Compare products across different e-commerce sites
Before making a purchase, it is essential to check all the options available on various e-commerce sites. Apart from the prices, there are some other things a consumer should dwell on, such as:

• Return policy
• Easy instalments
• Warranties
• Shipping chargesDate and time of delivery

By comparing the goods on various sites, a consumer can drive a bargain and also strike a deal that is best suited to his requirement. There are certain price-comparison websites like mysimon or bizrate that help consumers to compare goods prices and take the decisions accordingly. 

5)  Search goods on Google 

Before purchasing any item, type its name in Google, and you get a comparable price chart of the product available on different e-commerce sites. Another website that can make your work simple is priceblink . This is another way to shop smartly online. 

Shop Smartly
Online shopping is secure and fun if you abide by the rules and take smart steps to drive the best bargain. You will feel good about your decisions; however, for getting the best deals online, you need to go that extra mile and learn the tricks to become a smart shopper. 

Image courtesy - Google images

The Montreal Jazz Festival is a musical extravaganza that draws music lovers from every corner of the world. A total of 3,000 performers and musicians from over 30 nations entertain audiences in a variety of indoor and outdoor shows.

Montreal Jazz Festival  

Experience The Wonder Jazz

Have you heard about one of the most enigmatic music fests in the world? Yes, I am talking about the Montreal Jazz festival, the one with admirers around the world. If not, then do scroll down and read more about this fantastic event organized every year for music lovers.

 

Montréal International Jazz Festival organized in Quebec, Canada is one of the most sought-after musical events in the world today. For ten days music enthusiasts from across the globe converge in Montreal to witness and be part of, one of the most massive Jazz musical extravaganzas in the world. Yeah, you read it right, ten days of complete madness, isn’t it cool? The festival has flourished as a melting point of different styles of jazz music, much to the joy of the audience.

Part of history

Montreal Jazz festival inaugurated in 1980 with a limited audience and music bands have grown to become an annual pilgrimage for musicians and enthusiasts. Such is the craze that the audience, musicians, singers, technicians, organizers, wait in anticipation throughout the year to be part of the much-celebrated event on the calendar. You will be amazed to know that people plan their lives around the jazz festival.

The annual jazz festival has great significance for local Canadians who brave long harsh winters. The music event that falls during summer is a perfect excuse for Canadians to come out in large numbers and party. After all, who wouldn't like to have some fun after unforgiving, cruel winters?

 

Montreal Jazz Festival Line-up

Montreal jazz festival is the largest in terms of the crowd. Each year the music event is attended by more than 2 million people with a sizeable (12.5%) being tourists. The musical extravaganza also holds the Guinness World Record (2004) of being the most significant jazz event organized in any part of the world. If you don't believe it witnesses the event and comment :)

 

The performance of more than 3000 artists from different parts of the world adds to the diversity and popularity of the musical blowout. The concerts are organized in both outdoor and indoor venues. Throughout the ten days, around 650 shows, the majority of them free (about 450) enchants the audience.

 

It's all the climate Stupid.

One major contributing factor to the success of the Montréal jazz festival is the ideal climate during that part of the year. As the warm weather approaches Montreal city, it transforms into a gracious host, the ultimate destination for music lovers. It is the time of the year when thousands of musicians, enthusiasts groove to the rhythmic melodies of Jazz.

 

The city administration, on its part, enforces a significant shutdown of city traffic to facilitate the outdoor venues that organize concerts. The performances by artists typically begin at noon and continue till early morning. Approximately 100,000 to 200,000 people attend each site, and the number swells by weekends. There are live jazz performances held at small indoor venues for a limited audience.

 

The Jazz

Jazz music originated in Africa and traversed a long path to become part of the urban music scene in the Northern hemisphere. The rhythmic music was passed on from one generation to another before eventually taking the center-stage in western nations like Britain, Canada, and America. The penetration of the Jazz continued throughout the 1900s and gradually became popular among the general population.

 

As it transcended racial boundaries, its popularity breached geographical limits. The original tradition of swinging to beats, clapping, and performing songs to reflect human emotions is still the crowd puller. The soulful jazz music has evolved over some time with many new forms added much to the joy of the young generation.

 

At the Montréal Jazz festival, music fans can enjoy different genres and styles of Jazz in one place. Although the festival was conceptualized for jazz fans,  another type of music that is influenced by Jazz is additionally performed now. The variety of jazz forms, including Gypsy jazz, Bebop, Modal Jazz, Latin Jazz mesmerize the audience. Apart from it, music forms inspired by Jazz such as jazz fusion, hip-hop, electronica also enthralls the audience. The versatility ensures there is something available to match the musical tastes of every individual irrespective of age.

 

An Abundance of Talent- Local and Foreign

Montreal jazz festival also serves as an excellent podium for emerging local talent in Canada to showcase their skills. Competitions are organized amongst different Canadian music bands much to the delight of the audience. Awards to budding musicians is a token of appreciation and encourage them to work hard.

 

The rich diversity of the music festival is also due to the plethora of world-class jazz artists apart from the local talent. The music at the festival spans classic Jazz to chart hopping reggae. There are even roaming bands that perform on the pedestrian section for free. The music blended with fun and comradeship captivates the audience. I am loving it.

 

Its also about Money Honey.

Festivals are an inherent part of the jazz culture and are sprinkled in different parts of the world. These festivals embrace the local flavors and enrich the overall music scene. Moreover, these festivals also give a significant boost to the local economies.

 

According to organizers, the Montréal jazz festival contributes more than $100 million to the local economy. It is a perfect outing for the whole family to visit the venue. Besides music, people can indulge in a variety of food cuisines to satisfy their taste buds. Apart from different cuisines food trucks selling street food are also in high demand—the organizers at Montréal jazz festival boost of sales of food and beer worth millions every year. I want golgappas too :)0

Multiple benefits

Music festivals provide opportunities and are beneficial to host countries, and the Montréal jazz festival is no different. But the massive scale of opportunities created by the Montreal festival makes it unique. Apart from providing a platform to local evolving music talent, the festival has far-reaching economic benefits to add to its legacy. Don't we need such festivals in India too?

Finally

The Montréal jazz festival conceptualized by Alain Simard and André Ménard as a pure jazz venue has evolved in the last 40 years. Today, a broad spectrum of events such as seminars, music workshops, competitions for specific instruments organized in the ten-day festival for spectators, and music enthusiasts is an added attraction.

 

What makes the Montréal International jazz festival spectacular is, it has something special for everyone; a tiny piece of souvenir in the form of memories to cherish and take home and a promise to come back next season. It has emerged as a major tourist destination where the tourists flock in droves to witness an enchanting life-changing moment. Impressive indeed. 

Image Courtesy - Google

A cryptocurrency is a type of digital currency that was generated employing encryption algorithms.

 Factors that Affect Cryptocurrency Prices 

What we all know about crypto?

Cryptocurrency, a type of digital currency operating on blockchain technology, was non-existent about a decade ago. Today, over 6,700 different types of cryptocurrencies are publicly traded demonstrating its popularity among investors and speculators alike.

But one intriguing issue is the fluctuation in cryptocurrency prices. With current (total) valuations of all digital currencies pegged at $645.7 billion, have you ever wondered what factors affect the cryptocurrency prices? Here, we discuss important factors that drive the cryptocurrency prices.

Now, the factors

v  Supply and Demand 

     One important factor affecting/influencing the prices of cryptocurrency is the supply-demand scenario. Increase in demand from end-users is what fuels the price value, higher the demand higher the prices and vice-versa.

v  Mining costs

     The cost of mining cryptocurrency influences its prices in the market. The cost of mining also includes the validation and the addition to the blockchain process. 

v  Legal issues

   There is no uniformity in regulating the cryptocurrencies around the world. Some countries are more receptive of the idea, while others have banned their use. The evolving rules and regulations to regulate digital currency impact cryptocurrency prices. 

v  Media analysis

   Sentiments drive the markets, and the media plays a pivotal role in creating market sentiment. Positive analysis, imparting knowledge on cryptocurrency and related news help in better understanding affecting the prices.

v  Financial volatility

    In case of any financial crisis, investors often flock to alternate places to park funds. One popular place to invest in the cryptocurrency market as the virtual market is insulated. The increase of participation results in fluctuation of prices of digital currency.

The final verdict

    Cryptocurrency is a speculative and risky asset to buy with multiple factors driving the prices. The volatility in the cryptocurrency prices is generally due to the above-mentioned factors, but other factors like manipulation by vested interests can not be ruled out. Cryptocurrency is not a uniformly recognized legal tender and hence needs caution to add to your portfolio. 

Images: Google images