Two British acting titans have teamed up to amaze audiences in The Good Liar, a thriller about filthy secrets and shady intentions.

 A Good Liar

Who doesn't vouch for the acting credentials of Helen Mirrer? The seductive lady charmed young hearts with her performances in films such as Body of Work or The Cook, The Thief, His Wife & Her Lover, and many others. The actress can simply dazzle the audience with her talent in any part, and one such film is "A Good Liar".

Given the choice between Enola Homes and A Good Liar on Saturday night, I chose the former. The decision was self-evident. My favoured pick was a film with a detective theme, the promise of action (violence), and the expectation of a thriller that would refresh my senses. However, 30 minutes into the film, I realized my error. I won't go into greater detail or review it because it was simply not my cup of tea; therefore, I gave up halfway through.

 

"A Good Liar" was the next one on the list. A terrific decision, and I'm about to explain. Why?

 

Before I go any further, I must commend the charismatic Ian McKellen on his amazing performance. But, of course, we're all familiar with his work, which, in my opinion, is a Holy Grail for aspiring actors. And he made the film truly memorable. However, if you're wondering why I didn't include his name and work in the same sentence as Helen. Because I am a feminist, and this is my only support for "Feminism" (and it ends here)😀

Now, enough of a pep talk; let's return to the topic. So buckle up, amigos and get ready for a wild ride as we unravel the secrets of 'A Good Liar'!

Brief Synopsis of the Movie

A complicated web of deception and deceit lies at the heart of "A Good Liar." The film follows the lives of seasoned con artist Roy Courtnay, played by the charismatic Ian McKellen, and his prey, the affluent widow Betty McLeish, played by the ever-talented Helen Mirren. So, prepare yourself to be enthralled from the first scene!

 

Roy Courtnay, a charming conman with a lifetime of experience, sets his sights on Betty McLeish, a retired "Oxford" teacher who appears to be the ideal victim. What begins as a basic case of deception quickly escalates into a cat-and-mouse game that will keep you on the edge of your seat. 

As the plot thickens, we meet a cast of supporting characters that bring depth and complexity to the drama. Vincent, Roy's longtime associate, is performed by the outstanding Jim Carter. His unshakable devotion to Roy gives a sense of camaraderie to the pandemonium. We also meet Betty's grandson, Stephen, who is played by Russell Tovey. Stephen's scepticism about Roy's motives adds tension and raises the stakes. 

  

The film puts us on an emotional rollercoaster as we see the lengths Roy will go to manipulate Betty. His web of lies becomes increasingly sophisticated as he forges documents and fabricates elaborate backstories. We are forced to question our capacity to tell the difference between fact and fiction with each twist and turn.  

McKellen and Mirren play their roles in a compelling and terrifying way. Roy and Betty's power dynamics continually shift, leaving me wondering who has the upper hand. 

The Intriguing Premise

 The movie immerses us in the world of Roy and Betty, exploring the depths of their characters and the motives that drive them. As Roy's schemes become more audacious, Betty's intentions remain mysterious. Is she a victim or a fellow mastermind? I question every action and word, eagerly awaiting the next revelation. 

Plot Twists and Turns                                        

'A Good Liar' is a film that challenges our perceptions and keeps us on the edge of our seats until the very end. Prepare to be enthralled by the intricate plot, stellar performances, and constant unease. This movie will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about trust and deceit. 

If you thought you had this movie figured out, think again! Just when you feel you have unravelled the mystery, another layer of deception is unveiled. This movie kept me guessing until the end, a testament to its brilliant storytelling.

Final Touches 

Are you in the mood for a mind-boggling thriller that will keep you guessing until the end? Look no further than 'A Good Liar,' a gripping tale of deception and betrayal. So gather your popcorn, turn off the lights, and embark on a journey filled with deception, betrayal, and surprising revelations. You won't want to miss this!

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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

PCOS is the leading cause of infertility in women worldwide, with a prevalence of 6-26% worldwide and 3.7-22.5% in India.

 Why do Indian Women Struggle to Manage Conditions like PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder that affects many women worldwide, including those in India. However, Indian women, in particular, face unique struggles when managing this condition. This document aims to explore the reasons behind the challenges Indian women encounter while managing PCOS and shed light on the factors contributing to this issue.

 

 

Understanding PCOS: A Brief Overview

PCOS can significantly impact a woman's reproductive health, overall well-being, and quality of life. It can cause irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen, and multiple small cysts on the ovaries in women.

The exact cause of PCOS is still not fully understood. Still, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated levels of androgens such as testosterone, play a crucial role in developing and progressing PCOS.

 

Symptoms and Diagnosis of PCOS

The symptoms of PCOS can vary among woman but often include irregular periods, fertility issues, acne, weight gain, and excessive hair growth. These symptoms can significantly impact a woman's physical appearance, emotional well-being, and self-esteem.

Diagnosing PCOS can be challenging as there is no definitive test. The diagnosis usually involves a combination of physical exams, medical history evaluation, blood tests, and ultrasound imaging. These tests help rule out other possible causes of the symptoms and confirm the presence of PCOS.

 

It is important to note that PCOS is a lifelong condition, and early diagnosis and management are crucial in preventing or minimizing potential complications. Women with PCOS often require ongoing medical care and support to manage their symptoms. It reduces the risk of long-term health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and infertility.

In conclusion, understanding PCOS's symptoms, diagnosis, and management is necessary in providing appropriate care and support for women with this condition.

Statistics on PCOS in India

PCOS is a severe medical condition that affects roughly one in every five Indian women. One survey found that nearly 25 per cent of respondents were unaware of PCOS, while 65% did not recognize its symptoms.

 

There are several symptoms that women and girls with PCOS experience, such as weight gain, thinning hair, fatigue, infertility, pelvic pain, acne, headaches, mood changes, sleep problems, and acne. These symptoms typically begin shortly after puberty and develop throughout the teen years and into early adulthood.

  

According to research done by the AIIMS, around 20-25 per cent of Indian women of reproductive age have PCOS. But why is PCOS becoming such a health scare for Indian women? 

Why is PCOS More Common in Indian Women?

There are multiple reasons why Indian women struggle to manage conditions like PCOS. Here are a few major reasons that make it difficult to handle the situation.  

 

Firstly, there is not enough understanding and education concerning the disease. Many women are ignorant of the signs and causes of PCOS, resulting in late diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, the lack of open communication and the inaccessibility of reliable information related to PCOS make PCOS management difficult.

 

Second, in many regions of India, addressing reproductive health concerns is frowned upon. It makes it harder for women to seek medical assistance and support.

 

Additionally, many areas need more affordable and quality healthcare, making it even more challenging for women to seek expert advice. 

 

Finally, the societal expectation that women prioritize family obligations over their health can make controlling disorders like PCOS harder. 

 

The impact of PCOS extends beyond physical health. The hormonal imbalances and the physical manifestations of PCOS can affect a woman's mental well-being.  To deal with the crisis, better understanding, awareness, and access to healthcare services are needed to assist Indian women in properly managing illnesses like PCOS.

It is important to address the prevalence of PCOS in Indian women and raise awareness about the condition. Early diagnosis, lifestyle modifications, and appropriate medical interventions can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for women affected by PCOS.

Images: Google Images

Pitra dosh is not a curse, but rather a reminder to be sympathetic and polite to the old and the feeble.

 

Everything You Need to Know Regarding Pitra Dosh or Pithru Dosham

In Indian Astrology, "Pitra Dosh" is regarded as one of the most damaging elements. Some consider it a curse from the ancestors. However, the reality is far from the myths perpetuated and requires correction. Here, I will shed some light on the impact of "Pithru-Dosham" and possible remedies.

So, What is Pitra-Dosha?

In reality, it doesn't imply any curse from forefathers. Instead, a karmic debt requires to be repaid. "Pithru-Dosham" is formed in a person's horoscope when their forefathers have committed crimes, mistakes, or sins during their lifetime. As a result, the individual is bound to repay this karmic debt; otherwise may experience various kinds of hardships in life. This cycle continues until the debt is discharged, either by facing the problems or substituting it with acts of kindness.

 

Different Types of Pitra-Dosha

Based on planetary positions, 14 types of doshas are mentioned and explained in Indian Astrology. Interestingly, the inappropriate position of mighty Rahu is considered the primary reason for Pitra-Dosh. Here, we will address three major types:

 

Ø Neglecting your parents/grandparents is one reason to face the problem. If you ill-treat your elderly, be prepared to face the wrath of god.

 

Ø It is also seen among families who continuously ignore/neglect essential rituals. This may include not conducting proper last rites, shraadh, pinda-daan, etc.

 

Ø Actions of your 'deceased or living ancestors' towards known/unknown persons may also create hardships for you in different forms.

Effects of Pithru-Dosham

Although the effects of "Pithru-Dosham" aren't the same on all individuals. You may successfully evade the consequences with your good deeds and compassion towards others. However, as per the  concept of Karmic astrology, individuals with "Pitra-Dosh" in the horoscope may have to face the following adverse effects:

 

• Difficulties in the job. The constant struggle at the workplace.
• Unsuccessful marriage and difficulty in conception or childbirth.
• Possibility of physical/mental disability among newborns. 
• Family disputes or unnatural deaths in the family
• Persistent health issues and financial instability
• Frequent dreams about snakes
• Dreams where ancestors ask for food/clothes
• Unfavourable family environment. Constant fights over trivial issues among family members.
• Loss of family reputation. In extreme cases, imprisonment

      

Powerful Remedies to Help You

•  Worship the 'Peepal' tree, especially on Saturday.
• Offer food/clothes to people in need or Brahmins.
• Be respectful towards elders and seek their blessings. It will strengthen your Sun. Be compassionate.
• Conduct "Rudra-Abhishek" in honour of your ancestors.
• Worship Lord Vishnu, particularly in the form of Shri Ram.
• Feed crows, street dogs or other animals.

 

Today's generation is responsible for repaying their predecessors' karmic debt. It can be done either by accepting the consequences of the "Karmic Law" or by participating in positive activities that can help reduce or lessen the severity of the obligation.

 

Note:  My sole purpose in discussing the subject is to warn people about the negative consequences of "Pitra-Dosh." I am not an astrologer or a subject matter specialist. I gathered information from multiple sources and compiled it to emphasise the need for respect, compassion, and love for our elderly. They have been left behind as we move forward and join the digital era. Instead of conserving time, today's generation is squandering it on social media, neglecting older adults. My main goal is to apprise youngsters about their primary obligations to family members, particularly older people. It's preferable to sit and listen to them, learning from their expertise, rather than searching for solutions to all of your problems on GOOGLE.