<![CDATA[Radhapriya - Inside Insider]]>http://blog.insider.in/Ghost 0.5Wed, 22 May 2019 15:43:33 GMT60<![CDATA[Insider Recommends: Best Pet Apps]]>On the occasion of International Dog Day (August 26), we thought we'll share some pooch love with our community members.

Have one? Then you know that nothing compares to them licking your face, climbing on to your lap, consoling you on a bad day, or jumping with joy as you walk through that door. Dogs can make the worst of days better and have the power to melt the coldest of hearts with their unconditional love.

To give back the love, here are a few apps that can help you become a more fun and efficient pet parent (or uncle/aunt).


Did your dog just chew on something unfamiliar? Wondering if he can eat a particular food item? iKibble lets you find out how healthy/unhealthy/safe that thing is for your pooch.


Clickers have been proved to be quite useful for training dogs. For those who are new to them, you are supposed to 'click' in front of the dog everytime he obeys the command or performs an action perfectly. The 'click' is always followed by a treat/reward and hence, becomes a signal for an upcoming treat for the dog.

iClicker lets you do all of this, with simple and easy-to-execute instructions.

PetMD Symptom Checker

Not sure what a rash, loss of appetite or excessive drowsiness might be? With the PetMD Symptom Checker, you can check for symptoms, what they might mean and take action accordingly.

Dog Translator

Understand your dog's actions better and what he might be trying to tell you, with this free app. Just record the dog's bark using this app, and by studying the vocal tones, it shall give you an answer.


Walk your dog, see how much distance you both have covered and how much you both have burned!

Looking for more dog-friendly activities? Click here to find some!

http://blog.insider.in/insider-recommends-best-pet-apps/bbe0b8af-325f-4663-adc6-f9d842b2d847Sat, 27 Aug 2016 04:32:25 GMT
<![CDATA[Insider Favourites: Best Documentaries About India]]>With Independence Day around the corner and a long weekend to spare, it seems like a good time to find out a little more about the country. Covering people, places, traditions, history and cultures that say ‘India,’ these documentaries share some interesting stories. This year, skip the Sholay tv screening and watch these instead.

India's Frontier Railways (2015)

A BBC production, this one is a three-part series marking a significant infrastucture milestone. The documentary talks about trains crossing borders in India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan, reconnecting families, cultures and history.

Jashan-e-Azadi (2007)

In Srinagar, August 15 has often been marked with sullen and cold acts of protest by the public. Jashn-e-Azadi shows the uprising for freedom in Kashmir and explores what freedom means to them.

Cobra Gypsies (2015)

Made by musician and filmmaker Raphael Treza, the film sheds light on the Kalbeliya community, the gypsies of Rajasthan.

Forest Man (2013)

Forest Man is the story of Jadav Payeng, an Indian man who single-handedly planted nearly 1400 acres of forest to save his island, Majuli. A short film, but with heaps of inspiration.


A Being Indian production, the film explores the thriving stand-up comedy scene in India and the problems faced by them, thanks to the political parties of the country.

Katiyabaaz (2013)


Hotel India (2014)

Shedding light on Indian hospitality, the film shows all that goes on at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai.

Want to do more this weekend? Click here for some fun things.

http://blog.insider.in/insider-recommends-best-documentaries-about-india/aa535448-4c7b-42d5-b865-45e8c523d811Sat, 13 Aug 2016 05:18:59 GMT
<![CDATA[Bacardi NH7 Weekender Line-Up 2016]]>What makes for an exciting weekender experience? Buckets (lots of them obviously), fun costumes, dance moves invented on-the-spot, running between stages (to catch your favourite artists on stage and not just Pokemon) and of course, a fantastic line-up. Gathering some stellar performers from around the world, Bacardi NH7 Weekender 2016 is turning out to be just our kind of festival, one full of good music and happy vibes.

Here's the city-wise break-up.

Steven Wilson, Jose Gonzalez, The Joy Formidable, DJ Premier, Shankar Mahadevan: My Country, My Music, Nucleya, Anoushka Shankar, Papon, Skyharbor, RAC (DJ Set), Vangoffey, Eagulls, Abish + Kenny, Aswekeepsearching, Borkung Hrangkhawl, Divine (Gully Gang), Dossers Urge, Easy Wanderlings, Imphal Talkies, Kanchan Daniel & the Beards, Komorebi, Mali, Mosko, NAFS, Nicholson, Parekh & Singh, Rhythm Shaw, River, Sapta, Sempre Libera, Shri, Sid Vashi, Thaikkudam Bridge, The F16s, The Ganesh Talkies, Underground Authority, When Chai Met Toast

Steven Wilson

Why you should go for this set: For those who love prog-rock, Porcupine Tree, music and have had enough of the EDM movement.

Jose Gonzalez

Why you should go for this set: Think Damien Rice meets Zero 7, a perfect mix of ambient and acoustic music.

Anoushka Shankar

Why you should go for this set: World and fusion music at its best, plus you get to see her sitar chops.

DJ Premier

Why you should go for this set: Go for the best hip-hop party of the festival.


Why you should go for this set: Perfect for those who miss the 90's. Think Nirvana and The Who.


Why you should go for this set: Expect some essential English rock music.


Why you should go for this set: This producer is behind some of the best remixes we have heard. The kind that make dancing easier.

The Joy Formidable

Why you should go for this set: A Welsh alt-rock band that we can't seem to get enough of. Perfect for all the Paramore and Beach House fans.


Why you should go for this set: Who doesn't love some Koocha-flavoured bass music?


Why you should go for this set: A fitting post-rock sundowner. In Hindi.

Thaikkudam Bridge

Why you should go for this set: Tapping into their roots for their music, this Kerela band puts up some intense performances.


Why you should go for this set: This guy is a bass god. Be there to see what he can do.

Easy Wanderlings

Why you should go for this set: Guitar riffs that will transport you, we love this folky-indie act.

Shankar Mahadevan: My Country, My Music

Why you should go for this set: Hear the Bollywood singer and composer pay tribute to Indan music, with some fine musicians.


Why you should go for this set: Because folk music from the hills can never go wrong. Plus, we love his voice.


Why you should go for this set: Shiny, happy and gripping alt-punk music with an unparalleled stage energy.


Why you should go for this set: A treat for all electronic and ambient music lovers.

Kanchan Daniel & the Beards

Why you should go for this set: Watch our for Daniel's electric vocals and the band's blues-inspired composisitons.


Why you should go for this set: Because we have never seen a cappella music done this well.

Abish + Kenny

Why you should go for this set: Music + comedy = endless LOL'ing.

Underground Authority

Why you should go for this set: Some metal goodness for everyone.


Why you should go for this set: Japanese anime-inspired ambient music. Can't get any more chill.

When Chai Met Toast

Why you should go for this set: They have the most infectious and cheerful acoustic ballads.

Dossers Urge

Why you should go for this set: We love their fuzzy guitar hooks and edgy vocals.


Why you should go for this set: Marti Bharath knows how to get the crowd going, with his trail-blazing knob tweaking.

Divine (Gully Gang)

Why you should go for this set: True stories told through rap, Divine is the new face of Indian hip-hop.

The F16s

Why you should go for this set: These guys will be playing songs from their new album. Be the first one to hear it!


Why you should go for this set: These girls sing in perfect pitch and can pull off some crazy harmonies.


Why you should go for this set: Cute like a sapling, this singer-songwriter's songs are filled with delicate melodies and guitar chords.

Borkung Hrangkhawl

Why you should go for this set: Reppin' north-east hip-hop, this rapper has an exciting set planned.

Rhythm Shaw

Why you should go for this set: This western classical guitar player can mezmerize you with his skills.

Parekh & Singh

Why you should go for this set: Featuring Nischay Parekh's melodies and vocals, and Jivraj Singh's beats.

The Ganesh Talkies

Why you should go for this set: They know to sing Bappi Lahri-like tunes, and dance and dress like him.


Why you should go for this set: Because one of the best prog-rock bands from India is back to weekender after two whole years.

Nucleya, Farhan Live, Indian Ocean, The Raghu Dixit Project, Dinosaur Pile-Up, Parikrama, Arjun Vagale, Dualist Inquiry, Vir Das' Alien Chutney, Alluri, Anish Sood, Ankur & The Ghalat Family, Aswekeepsearching, Baiju Dharmajan Syndicate, Bhayanak Maut, Black Letters, Dhruv Visvanath, Hriday Gattani, Komorebi, Lagori, Madboy/Mink, Murthovic, Nicholson, Parvaaz, Peepal Tree, Prateek Kuhad, Sandunes, Sapta, Skrat, Spud In The Box,, Swarathma, The F16s, The Ganesh Talkies, The Ska Vengers, Until We Last

Dinosaur Pile-Up

Why you should go for this set: For their guitar-driven rock music that hits you hard.

Bhayanak Maut

Why you should go for this set: Because you can never see them live too many times.

Farhan Live

Why you should go for this set: Watch the Rock-On actor sing and perform some of his hit songs.

The Ska Vengers

Why you should go for this set: Watch this for some electronic dub mudic, lots of dancing and Begum X's moves.


Why you should go for this set: Choppy guitar riffs and drums, with songs about their favourite things like samurais.

Dualist Inquiry

Why you should go for this set: The kind of electronica music that never gets boring.


Why you should go for this set: Eerie, haunting and catchy music that will serenade you.


Why you should go for this set: Mixing reggae, soul and pop with Indian vocals, these guys are super engaging on stage.

Indian Ocean

Why you should go for this set: They've been around for two decades and sure know how to do it right on stage.

Spud In The Box

Why you should go for this set: Brilliant pop-rock music guaranteed.

The Baiju Dharmajan Syndicate

Why you should go for this set: Watch him blend Carnatic tunes with rock music.

Dhruv Visvanath

Why you should go for this set: Watch out for this one-man band, with some surprising percurssive-guitar skills.

Arjun Vagale

Why you should go for this set: For all the techno fans out there.

Ankur & The Ghalat Family

Why you should go for this set: The sweetest love ballads, with Ankur's spectacular vocals.

Vir Das's Alien Chutney

Why you should go for this set: The one comedian who can sing just as well as he tells jokes.

Black Letters

Why you should go for this set: Hear some fresh sounds out of the Bangalore rock scene.


Why you should go for this set: Tight folk performances with a female bassist!

Until We Last

Why you should go for this set: Ketan Bahirat has been making some sick tunes with his projects and this one's our favourite.


Why you should go for this set: They have been rocking Indian stages for years now. Watch them as they do it again.

The Raghu Dixit Project

Why you should go for this set: Stellar performance guaranteed.

Anish Sood

Why you should go for this set: This guy knows when to spin the right tunes for the crowd.


Why you should go for this set: This synth player from Mumbai makes eclectic electronica music and can do no wrong.


Why you should go for this set: Probably one of the most fun sets of the festival.

Hriday Gattani

Why you should go for this set: One of the freshest voices in the scene, this guy performed with A R Rahman last year.

Peepal Tree

Why you should go for this set: These guys are super tight on stage. Don't miss them!

Prateek Kuhad

Why you should go for this set: Currently, everyone's favourite indie singer-songwriter.


Why you should go for this set: An eclectic Bangalore rock band, playing never-heard-before music.


Why you should go for this set: Another house and techno delight, performing in his hometown.

Steven Wilson, Vertical Horizon, Nucleya, Papon, Farhan Live, Soulmate: History of the Blues, Dualist Inquiry, Mr.Woodnote & Lil Rhys, Fossils, Vir Das's Alien Chutney, Dhruv Voyage, Wild Palms, Natty, Aberrant, Alobo Naga & the Band, Aswekeepsearching, Bipul Chettri, Blue Temptation, Dhruv Visvanath, Dossers Urge, Imphal Talkies, Kumail, Madboy/Mink, Nanok, Prateek Kuhad, Rhythm Shaw, River, Sapta, Sickflip, Su Real, Tejas, The Ritornellos, Undying Inc, When Chai Met Toast

Wild Palms

Why you should go for this set: Hear their inventive, imaginative songs, filled with lingering soundscapes.


Why you should go for this set: Talking about the History of Blues, this one's a special set by this band.

Undying Inc

Why you should go for this set: Shillong loves some metal, and these guys are here to deliver that.


Why you should go for this set: Bangla rock is exciting and unlike anything else we have heard before.


Why you should go for this set: Can't go wrong with some metal music and headbanging.

Vertical Horizon

Why you should go for this set: Miss some good alt-rock? Get it here.

Dhruv Voyage

Why you should go for this set: A fine mix of folk music within a western arrangement. And it's their first time in Shillong!


Why you should go for this set: Because his sets are always flawless, and so is his cover of the Powerpuff Girls theme song.

Mr.Woodnote & Lil Rhys

Why you should go for this set: These guys can deliver some sick beatboxing, along with improv jams.

Bipul Chettri

Why you should go for this set: Never heard Nepalese music? Start here.


Why you should go for this set: Ethereal electronic music with heavily manipulated live recordings.

Alobo Naga & the Band

Why you should go for this set: One of the best acts from the north-east, don't miss this one!

Imphal Talkies and The Howlers

Why you should go for this set: Folk-political music, laden with organic vocal lines and arrangements.


Why you should go for this set: Nanok's sets are always fun and have a great vibe. This one's a no-brainer.


Why you should go for this set: Watch this multi-instrumentalist create magic on stage.


Why you should go for this set: Effortlessly combining lush, electronic riffs with heavy bass, this is music you can chill and dance to.

Blue Temptation

Why you should go for this set: Enjoy some handcrafted and easy-going funk and blues with these guys.

Su Real

Why you should go for this set: Su Real is known for playing a slamming set, high-octane and groove-worthy.

The Ritornellos

Why you should go for this set: This Kolkata super group has members from over the city and promises some exciting rock n' roll music.

Buy tickets here.

http://blog.insider.in/bacardi-nh7-weekender-line-up-2016/8b90c063-9819-4aa9-ad88-da517fd13ac8Fri, 05 Aug 2016 08:41:52 GMT
<![CDATA[New on Insider: Your Festival and Conference App]]>Our biggest motivation behind launching Insider was to help event organisers sell more. And in the process of building tools and content for the same, we discovered how our products can help them do more.

We want to help organizers create more awesome events and to do that, we want to help them drive more value to their audiences and sponsors!

To do this, we started focussing on a wide range of tools that not only boost ticket sales, but also help organizers make the most of their sponsorships.

Today we are launching the first of these tools which help organizers maximum user attention and drive more value to their sponsors by integrating them into the app.

Introducing - A White-Labelled Festival and Conference app.

This one’s our first tool and offering outside of the ticketing ecosystem, and we believe that it will help you (the organizer) gather attention from users and drive more value to the sponsors.

Oh, and it’s free for any festival /conference listed on Insider.

The app has a whole range of features, making it the best tool for audiences to experience the festival/ conference.

1) Login

You can login with Facebook, and the button below the FB login makes your profile searchable (lets others find you on the app).

2) Day-wise schedules and filters

The day-wise schedules will show the timing, venue and genre of every session taking place. You can even apply filters to find events under particular genres/verticals/venues/stages.

3) Session information

Clicking on any session will give you a comprehensive write-up about it, along with speaker/artist information. You can use the purple button here to add the session to your itinerary.

4. Feedback

By clicking on the Feedback option (next to the session information), you can rate the session on different aspects.

5) Your itinerary

Remember that purple button? All the events added to your schedule show up under My Coalition/Weekender/Whatever the event's name is. This will be your personal itinerary for the event (so you don’t have to keep sifting through the original time-table).

6. Search for people

Looking for attendees who might have the same interests as you? You can go to the Search option and find them. You can even look for people the traditional way, using their names.

7) Friend’s activities

Under the Friends tab, you can see what your friends are attending. You can also see who is attending under each session.

8) Your profile

Your profile will have all your details. Make sure yours looks fun.

Have a conference, festival or any event that can use a similar app? Mail us at shreyas@insider.in and let us know.

P.S: The app is based on the F8 app which Facebook open sourced with our own custom features and secret sauce on top!

http://blog.insider.in/new-on-insider-your-festival-and-conference-app/1461e668-e1db-44f0-a6da-8a119f55d5e6Wed, 27 Jul 2016 12:51:36 GMT
<![CDATA[Why We Should All Start Painting Again]]>Let’s face it. De-stressing has never been easy and usually makes you worry more. Once you take up activities like meditation or yoga, the need to do them perfectly (for them to really work) is enough to make you start dreading them the night before. Plus with our shortening attention spans, it doesn’t look like we’ll be very good at ‘imagining a flame with our eyes closed and focussing on it’ (Google Flame Meditation).

The answer? Drawing on an empty canvas. It does the same job, but its way more fun. Here’s why we strongly recommend painting to every young, hardworking and suffering millennial:

1) It gets those creative juices flowing

Because we believe that every single person is creative and can think of great ideas and surprise themselves every day. And with painting in the picture, it’s not that difficult.

2) It helps you focus

While concentrating on your painting, you tune out everything that is bothering you. Like we mentioned before, it’s meditation, but for restless people.

3) It calms you down

Artistic pursuits act like a pause button. In that moment, it is the only task at hand (without the pressure of delivering results). Think of painting as a mini-vacation for your mind.

4) It gives you a sense of achievement

Every piece completed will make you feel like you did something productive with your time. Better than spending hours in front of a screen.

5) It allows you to day dream

You draw and paint from your imagination. While painting, it’s completely okay to conjure up scenarios in your mind, relive a conversation or stare at an empty wall.

What you need to get started: A beginner’s kit to painting (again)

1) Pencils
2) An eraser
3) Paints (whichever kind you prefer. New to painting? Try watercolours)
4) Crayons (if you want to start with some basics)
5) Brushes
6) A palette
7) Old clothes (to be worn)
8) A rag
9) An empty canvas or sheet
10) A chill playlist (to be played in the background)
11) Some snacks to munch on
12) Drink of your choice (chai or wine, both work)
13) A comfortable room temperature

To paint with friends, click here.

http://blog.insider.in/why-we-should-all-start-painting-again/d300b013-a407-480a-bb62-b58202335566Thu, 21 Jul 2016 12:26:15 GMT
<![CDATA[Delicious Under 5 Minutes Recipes And When To Make Them]]>Life is too short. And we rather watch a video on how to make a five-layer cake than prepare an entire meal by our self. How to make this dilemma easier? Our list of recipes is perfect for lazy people and a lazy day, when you are low on patience and staying in front of the TV is a matter of life and death. And no, there is no maggi on this list.

Coffee & Tonic Water

You need:

• 30 ml of Espresso Coffee (1 short black)
• 100 ml of Tonic water

What you need to do:

• Make a usual Espresso (if you have a pod machine, then use an unflavoured shot).
• Fill a tall glass with ice and fill three-quarters of it with Tonic water.
• Then pour the Espresso over it very slowly, to get a nice crema and layered drink.

Mango on Toast

You need:

• 2 tablespoons of Cream Cheese
• A sprinkle of Cinnamon
• One of cheek of a peeled Mango
• Toast of your choice

What you need to do:

• Slather some Cream Cheese on the Toast.
• Finish with a sliver of fresh Mango and sprinkle the Cinnamon on top.
• Best enjoyed with a cup of Coffee.

Watermelon Strawberry Sorbet

You need:

• 1/2 cup of cold water
• 5 cups of seedless Watermelon, cut into chunks then frozen.
• 1 1/4 cup frozen Strawberries
• 3/4 cup sweetener that measures like sugar.
• 2 tbs Lemon juice (or according to taste)

What you need to do:

• Place all of the ingredients in a blender or food processor, and blend until smooth (add extra water if needed).
• Enjoy sorbet immediately or place in a Tupperware container and freeze until you are ready to enjoy!

Recipe via dashingdish.com

Brownie in a Cup

You need:

• 2 tablespoons of Butter
• 2 tablespoons of Sugar
• 1 tablespoon of Light Brown Sugar
• ¼ teaspoon of pure Vanilla Extract
• Pinch of Salt
• 1 Egg yolk
• 4 tablespoons of Flour
• 1 tablespoon of Hershey’s unsweetened Cocoa powder
• 2 heaping tablespoons of semi-sweet Chocolate chunks

What you need to do:

• Melt Butter in microwave safe mug.
• Add Sugar, Vanilla and Salt to it and stir.
• Add and stir (only) the Egg yolk.
• Add Flour and Cocoa powder and stir again until well combined.
• Finally, add the Chocolate chunks.
• Cook for about 45 seconds in microwave.

Recipe via number-2-pencil.com

Omelet in a Mug

You need:

• 2 large Eggs
• 2 tablespoons of Milk
• Salt and Pepper according to taste

What you need to do:

• Crack open the Eggs in a mug and add the Milk, Salt and Pepper to it.
• Whisk it into a fine mix.
• Microwave for a minute.

When to make them:

1) During commercial breaks of Masterchef Australia.

2) While your mum tells you about a prospective life partner.

3) While your geyser heats up the water.

4) During a song in a Karan Johar movie.

5) While procrastinating before a workout.

6) After you’ve slept for an extra hour.

For more food fun, click here.

http://blog.insider.in/delicious-under-5-minutes-recipes-and-when-to-make-them-2/e808d148-52e5-4aae-82d7-6e9cee9f4378Tue, 12 Jul 2016 10:23:27 GMT
<![CDATA[Camping Myths Busted: It’s Really Not That Bad]]>Some people like a good challenge. And for such peeps, camping presents as the perfect opportunity to test their skills and mental stamina, and a chance to bond with others while sharing bare necessities like toothpaste.

While camping (especially during the rains) might seem like an uphill task to many, it can be a liberating experience. All those things you dread about spending a night in the wild, aren’t as half as bad as you presumed.

Here’s what you probably think:

1) It’s uncomfortable

There is excellent equipment available everywhere. From spacious, waterproof and comfortable tents to foldable chairs that make sitting a pleasure, there is no reason for you to sit or sleep on the ground.

2) Too many bugs and animals

Most camping sites are free of any carnivores or violent animals, and only harbour harmless insects. Just pack a mosquito spray and it should do the job.

3) There is bad (or no) food

Camping is great for putting your barbecuing skills to test. From Chicken marinades to Paneer chunks covered in masala, these Kebab-like treats will leave you satiated.

4) It’s too cold or rainy

Once again, good quality tents, along with warm sleeping bags and an extra jacket or two can make everything easier. Plus, camping in hot weather is much worse.

What you get in return:

1) It’s quiet out there.

Camping venues include hills, forests and other spectacular terrains that have nothing to do with roads, trains, buildings and pollution. Free from all the city chaos and noise, the only thing you will hear while pitching your tent is birds and leaves rustling.

2) Small victories

You get to take pleasure in successfully completing the smallest tasks. Trek for 20 minutes? Done. Make some noodles without a microwave? No problem. It’s a chance to pat yourself on the back and be proud about doing things you never thought you’d do.

3) New people

Probably the best part. While the outdoors are great with friends, or even alone, joining an unknown group of travellers for a trip can be immensely satisfying. You get to meet new (and hopefully interesting) people, who can easily translate into new friends.

4) New skills

Sink or swim. To survive in the midst of nature, some basic skills are necessary. Everything from pitching a tent and basic cooking to cleaning up with minimal water and carrying a heavy load, camping teaches you a thing or two.

5) Good stories

Good or bad, each camping trip has that one story to laugh about all your life. And more adventurous the trip was, better the story is.

Planning to give camping a shot? Click here to get started.

http://blog.insider.in/camping-myths-busted-its-really-not-that-bad/cf297f9e-618f-4538-b99a-60a36818be52Fri, 01 Jul 2016 14:36:21 GMT
<![CDATA[Insider Favourites: Best Tracks Used In Video Games]]>A number of video games today use licensed music (music by other artists) and like so many, we too have discovered tons of artists through games. Some of the most popular tracks on Youtube have comments from gamers, stating “on which game they heard it first.” Here’s a list of some of our favourite tracks, used in some of our favourite games.


1) “Helicopter” by Bloc Party

2) “Club Foot” by Kasabian

3) “Machu Pichu” by The Strokes

Sound Shapes:

1) “Cities” by Beck

Grand Theft Auto:

1) “It Takes Two” by Rob Base, DJ EZ Rock

2) “Need You Tonight” by INXS

3) “Flashing Lights” by Kanye West

4) “Oye Como Va” by Tito Puente


1) “Papa Loves Mambo” by Perry Como

2) “20th Century Blues” by Noël Coward

Need For Speed:

1) “Feels Just Like It Should (Timo Maas Remix)” by Jamiroquai

2) “Decadence” by Disturbed

3) “We Control” by Hyper

4) “Love Me Or Hate Me” by Lady Sovereign

Tony Hawk:

1) "Electric Feel" by MGMT

2) “Cyclone” by Dub Pistols

3) “Blitzkrieg Bop” by The Ramones

Songs that almost made it to the list:

“Song 2” by Blur in Fifa

“Crystals” by M.O.O.N. in Hotline Miami

“The Number of the Beast” by Iron Maiden in Tony Hawk

To register for Super Nova, India's leading gaming/Counter Strike competition and festival, click here.

http://blog.insider.in/insider-favourites-best-tracks-used-in-video-games/e67bd908-d49c-45f1-b2bc-736ad45b5e9dTue, 28 Jun 2016 05:46:59 GMT
<![CDATA[Insider Favourites: Best Counter Strike Fails Ever]]>We all love the game. Hours have been spent in closed rooms, with over-heated laptops and hurling abuses at your friends, or even better, watching them make that extremely doltish mistake. Here's a list of our favourite bloopers, ones so good, even our tech team is laughing.

1) When killing somene is easier than diffusing the bomb.

2) The time you didn't see your death coming.

3) When you think you have him but you don't.

4) When you procrastinate while diffusing the bomb.

5) The other time you didn't see your death coming.

More such bloopers:

For more Counter Strike fun, click here.

http://blog.insider.in/insider-favourites-best-counter-strike-fails-ever/7c4a5fd9-ef56-421f-a566-c4666b6e9462Sat, 18 Jun 2016 10:23:03 GMT
<![CDATA[What Dads Really Want This Father’s Day]]>While Kindles and ties might seem like great gifts for this Father’s Day, ever thought of presents that cost (almost) nothing? Just muster some enthusiasm and we’re in business.

1) Chai

A hot cup of chai/coffee that you have prepared (with your own hands). Even if it doesn’t taste great, a simple gesture can make up for no sugar.

2) Champi

Give him a good head massage that doesn’t end with a request for a new phone. A hearty kneading that will put him to sleep.

3) Nap

For anyone who works ten hours a day, sleep is the best gift you can offer. Make sure the house is quiet and all chores are taken care of, so your dad can snooze in peace.

4) Films

Shammi Kapoor or Sean Connery, whatever he likes, rent or download at least one movie that he loves.

5) Food

Either order in his favourite dish and make sure it tastes just the way he likes it, or have someone prepare it at home. Good food never disappoints.

6) Alcohol

A cold beer or a glass of whisky to relax with, while he enjoys his film and kebabs.

7) Appreciation

Parents are always wondering if they have done a good job with you. This day, thank your dad for that one small thing he might have taught you. Even boiling an egg counts.

For more Father’s Day plans, click here.

http://blog.insider.in/what-dads-really-want-this-fathers-day/50e67af8-a78d-4f90-b6c3-d49cf41cc963Tue, 14 Jun 2016 07:16:49 GMT
<![CDATA[Books That Should Be Made Into Movies]]>The key element of any great film? A great story. Hence, here we are, going through a list of our favourite books that we feel need to scale the silver screen soon.

1) The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt

This Pulitzer-winner was published in 2013 and illustrates the story of 13-year-old Theodore "Theo" Decker. Once his mother passes away, Theo moves in with a wealthy family, living in an affluent New York City neighborhood. The story shows how The Goldfinch painting at the Metropolitan Museum of Art reminds him of his mother and ultimately sucks him into the underworld of art.

Actor who should play the role of Theo: Elijah Wood or Freddie Highmore.

2) The Bone Clocks by David Mitchell

A must for those obsessed with psychic dramas, The Bone Clocks follows the story of protagonist Holly Sykes, a 15-year-old who hears voices and runs away from home. Just like Mitchell’s bestseller Cloud Atlas, The Bone Clocks highlights Holly’s story from different people’s perspectives, all encountered at different times.

Actress who should play the role of Holly: Ellen Page or Anna Kendrick.

3) The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Although there is an animated adaptation of this novel which was released in 2015, we would love to see this one with real actors. The Little Prince is about a pilot who crash lands and is now stuck in a desert with a strange boy. The boy recounts various stories of him visiting planets of all shapes and sizes, and how each planet had a different kind of occupant.

Actor who should play the role of the Little Prince: David Mazouz or Jacob Tremblay.

4) Prey by Michael Crichton

A sci-fi treat by the writer of the Jurassic Park and the Andromeda Strain, Prey revolves around nanotechnology and micro-robotics. All hell breaks loose in a distant Nevada-based lab, when a hive of nano-robots escapes and starts hunting and reproducing. We feel The Wachowski twins should give this one a shot.

Actor who should play the role of Jack Forman: Edward Norton or Ben Affleck.

5) Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

Mahabharat narrated by the daughter of Panchal, the wife of the five Pandavas, Draupadi. The novel traces her life as a princess, the one with a miraculous birth (from the fire) and how her husbands struggled to get their rightful throne and kingdom back from the Kaurvas. We also get an insight into her relationship with the cunning diplomat Krishna, who promised to replay her debt after she nursed his bleeding finger.

Actress who should play the role of Draupadi: Konkona Sen or Huma Qureshi.

6) Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts

Shantaram highlights the story of Lin, an escaped Australian convict and a runaway traveler who gets lost in the streets of Bombay with his partner-in-crime, Prabaker. Follow Lin as he discovers the underground life of the lowly, including the beggars, gangsters, prostitutes and Bollywood, in search of love and the meaning of life.

Actor who should play the role of Lin: Michael Fassbender or Hugh Jackman

7) The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami

Another melancholic piece of writing by Murakami, although the book is based in Japan, we would love a contemporary Indian adaptation of this. The original story features the life of a young man named Toru Okada, who sets out to look for his wife’s missing cat. What starts out as a hunt for a missing pet, soon evolves into a chain of bizarre events.

Actor who should play the role of the husband: Neil Bhoopalam or Randeep Hooda

To discover the joy of films, click here.

http://blog.insider.in/books-that-should-be-made-into-movies/b5af1f52-878e-4e0f-8880-e2ca085235c0Mon, 06 Jun 2016 12:34:33 GMT
<![CDATA[The Traveller's Dictionary: Words For The Modern-Day Explorer]]>The modern millennial ain’t just a traveler anymore. With innovative ways to visit places and kill time, he needs more terms to define his favourite pastime. Here are a few.

1) Couchsurfing (n)


A Couchsurfer is a financially unstable person who is too broke to rent a place. He is also super cheap. Hence, he crashes at friend’s place for a while. Usually, couchsurfers sleep on the couch or the floor.

This phenomena is now a website (and a rampant travelling trend), where you can stay at a registered user’s place, anywhere in the world, without paying any money.

2) Staycation (n)


A Staycation involves staying home and exploring different parts of your city, which are within driving range, and then coming back home at night. Most of the time, it involves dining out more frequently than usual.

This is the perfect vacation when you don’t have enough moolah to take a trip overseas, but still want to enjoy all the perks of a vacation. It really opens your eyes to the beauty of your own backyard.

3) Resfeber (n)


Used to describe the anxiety, excitement and the influx of hormones felt right before the start of a trip/vacation. Yes, the Instagram generation truly felt that they needed a word for this.

4) Wayfarer (n)


No, not the Ray-Ban glasses. Wayfarers are those who like walking and therefore, travel to different places on foot. The only legit word on this list.

5) Fernweh (n)


A synonym for Wanderlust. Essentially, this term is used to describe a person who feels a deeper sense of belonging, like homesickness, but for other places.

6) Bratpacker (n)


Bratpacker is used to describe a bunch of ill-mannered people or brats, whose main interest is drinking large amounts of beer and getting ripped, rather than learning the local culture or exploring.

It’s your average frat party, but instead of frat guys, there are fratpackers or in this case, bratpackers.

7) Glamping (n)


Glamping offers the experience of outdoor activities, without having to cut back on luxury. There’s no tossing and turning on hard forest grounds, instead you sleep on luxurious beds and use built in bathroom in tents which are just as equipped as hotels.

Click here to test these words out.

Written by Manasi Chandu.

http://blog.insider.in/the-travelers-dictionary-words-for-the-modern-day-explorer/6b1fb2c6-72df-4de2-8903-97987d9b202aMon, 30 May 2016 08:33:17 GMT
<![CDATA[Sunday Brunches: How Did They Start?]]>Happiness usually comes in small doses, except when it’s dressed as a brunch. An extravagant western tradition that has slowly spread to (almost) all habitable masses of land, Sunday brunches were born to make the week ahead feel slightly more bearable. The post-Saturday night meal is known for its unparalleled variety and decadent dishes that set the mood for a lazy Sunday. Where and how did it start? Time to find out.

Back in 19th century Britain, wealthy English men indulged in the weekly Sunday hunt, where they chased down deers and scoured the woods for game birds. The hunt would start early and could stretch for hours, leaving the gentry hungry. Ever seen a famished Englishman? It ain’t pretty. To satiate themselves, the upper-class hunters would end the morning with a lavish feast. Brunches were also a bonus for all fasting Sunday church attendees, who would first pray, and then prey.

20th century travellers on ships from UK to USA carried the tradition with them and soon enough, the city of New York was obsessed with ‘drunches’ (brunches + drinks). Hosted either in personal residences or rarefied clubs, brunch in the 1920's gave rise to two of the meal’s most important modern-day components: the Mimosa and the Bloody Mary.

What started out as an activity for the upper class, eventually percolated down to the upper-middle and middle class. Easter, Christmas and weddings, all had huge spreads, which became the mark of a true celebration. 1950's America saw the first brunch cookbooks like Poppy Cannon’s Can Opener Cookbook, with its semi-homemade dishes featuring processed and prepared foods and potluck became a favourite among all American households.

In the last 50-60 years, the brunch has become a diluted version of its predecessor, with a focus on eating a big meal, rather than ‘what’ is being eaten. While Paranthas and Rajma Chawal or Puri and Sabji would do just fine in Delhi, Bangalore still prefers its Utthapams and Dosas. And for those who have some extra time and moolah to spare, international cuisine brunches have become an absolute essential.

Got the munchies? Click here.

Artwork: Reva Sarma

http://blog.insider.in/sunday-brunches-how-did-they-start/eb5bf879-d248-4fea-bcf1-4f70554563fbFri, 20 May 2016 06:56:50 GMT
<![CDATA[How to Prepare For a Salsa Performance]]>We recently learnt that social dancing is the best fix to get your blood racing, and also the fact that a salsa or bachata performance needs a 24 hour (or more) preparation window. Whether it’s your moves or your make-up, social dancing is all about precision. Even a flyaway strand of hair needs to be dealt with a heavy hand. How to make sure they don’t move in the first place? Here are a few expert tips and tricks.

Here's your checklist to begin with:

Before the show

1) Make a checklist: Always make a check list before you start packing for a show. And check it again before you leave for the show (so you don’t forget anything). You can use the one above!

2) Practice makes perfect: In addition to your dance routine, make sure you practice your hair-do and make-up before you get on stage.

3) Invest in a hairspray: Nova Gold is our recommendation.

4) Eat an hour before: Not a minute closer to the performance. A stomach full of food when shocked with a big dose of adrenaline can make you faint or throw up during the performance.

After the show

1) Invest in a make-up remover: Sweat, gunk and foundation, when mixed, can never be good for your skin. Get it all off with an effective remover!

2) Storing costumes: Store your costumes with naphthalene balls. After each show, air out the costumes in a ventilated room with the fan on full. And remember to dry clean them after every third show.

3) Potassium: Avoid muscle cramping and soreness with foods or drinks high in potassium (Raisins, potatoes, bananas, tomato products, cooked spinach, yogurt).

Feel the need to bust out some moves? Check this out: https://insider.in/event/bailamos-uniting-the-world-to-celebrate-dance-apr8

http://blog.insider.in/how-to-prepare-for-a-salsa-performance/8afd9ffa-6c6e-4f00-822d-d764505c1ae4Tue, 29 Mar 2016 07:14:20 GMT
<![CDATA[Bhang Recipies For Holi]]>While drinking liquor (or how much of it) might still be a topic of discussion with your parents, bhang is a gift that you can ask for every year on Holi. Mostly consumed as a milk-based concoction, Bhang is actually a versatile ingredient. We scoured through the internet to find you some interesting stuff that you can try at home and with your family!

How to make the bhang paste:

• ½ cup cannabis leaves
• 2 tsp sugar
• ¼ cup water
• 1 tsp oil

• Crush the leaves and sugar in a mortar and pestle.
• Put the crushed leaves, water and oil in a pan and boil it. Reduce the flame and let it steep for around 15 minutes.
• Let the mixture cool at room temperature.
• Blend it properly to make the paste.
• Strain the paste using a muslin cloth to remove woody fibres, if any.

Now, on to bigger things.

Bhang Thandai

• Bhang
• ¼ cup almonds
• ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
• ¼ cup watermelon seeds
• ¼ cup cantaloupe seeds
• 1 tsp black peppercorns
• ½ cup water
• 2 tsp sugar
• 8 cups milk

• Soak the almonds in water overnight and in the morning, peel off the skin.
• Blend almonds, pumpkin seeds, watermelon seeds, cantaloupe seeds, black peppercorn and water until it becomes a thick paste. Add sugar and milk and store in a refrigerator for around one hour.
• Mix the bhang paste with thandai for more than a minute before serving with lots of ice cubes and dry fruits.

Too basic? Here’s something fun.

Bhang Chutney (Something to go with your chips and pakoras)

• ¼ cup cannabis seeds
• 2 serrano pepper
• 3 tsp fresh lime juice
• 2 tsp fresh peppermint leaves
• 3 tsp water
• ½ tsp salt

• Roast the seeds on medium heat for three minutes or till they turn brown. Turn off the heat and let the seeds cool at room temperature.
• Grind the seeds into a fine powder.
• Grind the seeds again with pepper, lime juice, peppermint leaves, water and salt and make a smooth paste.
• Serve fresh as an accompaniment to your snacks.

We saved the best for the last.

Bhang Masala Chai (For mummy and papa)

• ¼ cup dried cannabis leaves
• 2 cups water
• 4 cups milk
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 inch cinnamon stick
• 6 cloves
• 6 green cardamom pods (cracked)
• 6 black peppercorns
• 1 tsp fresh minced ginger
• 1 tsp oil
• Half-n-half cream

• Process the dried leaves and make a coarse powder.
• Put the powder, water, milk, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, green cardamom pods, black peppercorns, ginger and oil in a pan and let it boil.
• Reduce the flame and let it boil for around 15 minutes.
• Let it cool and strain the mixture in a jar and tighten the lid.

We also found this:

• Make sure to eat plenty of food before and after consuming bhang.
• Never consume it on an empty stomach.
• Mixing bhang with alcohol can be fatal.

With the right ingredients and precautions, bhang can make any kind of Holi (even if you are home, and dry, and clean) fun. Happy Holi!

For some fun Holi events, click here: https://insider.in/go/holi-2016

Source: http://www.whatshot.in/cities/easy-bhang-recipes-for-holi-c-782

http://blog.insider.in/bhang-recipies/a84f3a57-0f88-4e21-bc46-4aade7617ebeFri, 18 Mar 2016 09:29:21 GMT