The Impact of Your Footwear

 

Footwear is often overlooked in discussions about personal presentation. Yet it is one of the first things people notice. A well maintained pair of shoes speaks volumes about an individual’s personality, attention to detail, and even their priorities. This observation is not just anecdotal but rooted in psychology.  

Studies in social perception reveal that humans are wired to form judgments based on subtle cues. Research published in the "Journal of Research in Personality" found that people can accurately deduce personality traits like conscientiousness and agreeableness just by looking at footwear. Clean and polished shoes suggest discipline and orderliness, while shabby or untidy footwear can imply carelessness.  

But why do shoes matter so much? Footwear occupies a unique position. It bridges functionality and fashion. Unlike clothing, which may go unnoticed in certain contexts, shoes are often directly in the line of sight. They endure wear and tear more than any other accessory. A clean, well maintained pair indicates that you care for your belongings and by extension, other aspects of life.  

Moreover, maintaining your footwear is practical. Dirt and moisture can erode materials, leading to shorter lifespans for your favorite boots or sandals. Regular cleaning, waterproofing, and sole repairs ensure longevity and save money in the long run.  

On a deeper level footwear maintenance reflects self respect. When you step out, clean shoes or boots are like an extension of yourself shows that you are confident, prepared, and ready to face the world. A scuffed or dirty pair can unintentionally send the opposite message, regardless of your actual personality.  

So the next time you are in a rush, take a moment to check your shoes. They are not just footwear. They are silent storytellers, shaping impressions before you even speak.  

Source:

Journal of Research in Personality - Shoes as a Source of First Impressions

What If PR Stunts Are Shaping Your World

In the age of social media, it feels like everything we see and feel is spontaneous. But what if our likes, dislikes, emotions, and reactions are being engineered? What if everything we encounter, be it a meme, a song, a political figure, or even our own feelings is part of a crafted strategy to shape what we love, hate, laugh at, and even how we feel about ourselves?

Think about this. You hear a song and dislike it. It does not suit your taste so you move on. But soon it is everywhere like in memes, clips, and posts calling it a "vibe" now slowly you start to reconsider. Did the song actually get better, or were you influenced by how often it appeared? Now imagine watching a movie you did not like. The plot felt weak and it did not connect with you. Yet your feed is flooded with praise calling it a "masterpiece". You begin to wonder if you missed something, and now you hesitate to criticize it afraid of being mocked or bullied. Could this be genuine public love, or is it a calculated PR move to change your opinion?

This influence extends beyond hate and laughter. It shapes what we like, dislike, and support. The more we see something, the more we are pushed to form an opinion, even if we had no interest at first. Social media, ads, and viral content are designed to guide our thoughts, making us love or hate things without realizing it. What if our feelings, our choices, are not entirely our own, but shaped by what we are shown?

Politics is shaped by PR teams too. Candidates, issues, and narratives are framed to appeal to our emotions. Through social media campaigns, biased coverage and even comments, we are often pushed toward certain views, blurring the line between what we truly think and what we are encouraged to think. Our political opinions may not be as personal as we believe as they are often crafted to shape public perception.

But here is the real question: What if everything we consume, feel, and believe is carefully calibrated? What if our likes, dislikes, and opinions are not our own, but the result of a hidden hand guiding our choices? What if we are not as free in our reactions as we think? 

Mufasa: The Lion King Review

 

Directed by Barry Jenkins and released in 2024, "Mufasa: The Lion King" is a prequel to the iconic Lion King. As expected from Disney the film is visually stunning. The effects, colors, and overall quality stand out, and the 3D experience is immersive. The technical team deserves applause for delivering a good product.  

However when it comes to the story the film stumbles. While it is aimed at kids, even they need a plot they can connect with. A well animated lion alone is not enough. Films like "Cars" managed to engage audiences of all ages with a strong emotional core. This film fails to do that. The story feels underdeveloped, distant, and does not make you root for the protagonist.  

The musical segments, though catchy ended up feeling like an unnecessary distraction. The lack of detail in the plot is already a problem, and the songs only stretch the runtime. More focus on the narrative instead of the musical drama could have added much needed depth to the film.  

As a visual product, the movie is impressive. Kids might enjoy the colors, songs, and action. But for adults expecting the magic of the Lion King" from the 90s, it will be a letdown.  

Overall it is a decent effort in terms of quality but lacks the heart and soul of its predecessor. 

Rating: 5.5/10⭐️

Five Years with the Interceptor 650

 

Five years ago, owning the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 was not even on my radar. I was all set for the Classic 350, but one spontaneous visit to the showroom and a glimpse of the Interceptor in red completely changed my plans. The retro modern design, the promise of power, and the twin exhausts drew me in. On a moment, I canceled my Classic 350 booking and chose the Interceptor. What started as an impulsive decision turned into one of the best choices I have ever made. Got my bike delivered on 22-11-2019. 

The Ride

The Interceptor 650 does not rush you into a wild burst of power, it is a gentle, steady pull that makes you fall in love with its effortless ride. On smooth, open roads, it feels stable, planted, and ready to conquer any distance. It is a joy to cruise on highways. But when you venture off the road or in stop and go traffic, it shows its limitations. The suspension is stiff, making it difficult to handle uneven roads, and the low ground clearance often gets in the way. The stock CEAT tires are decent for everyday use, but they are not ideal for high speed corners, heavy rain, or off road trails. 

The Comfort

While the Interceptor excels in performance, comfort is where it falls. The firm seat and rigid suspension do not make for the most comfortable long distance rides. The cramped pillion seating position is hardly ideal for passengers, and the bike can become unbearably hot in traffic. On highways the heat recedes, and the ride becomes more manageable. For short weekend trips it is fine, but for hours of riding the discomfort starts to show.

A Motorcycle of Character

To me the Interceptor 650 is still more of a machine than a companion. It has served its purpose faithfully over the years, with its weight being a challenge at times, but also a reminder of its solid build. I have learned to maneuver it better, adapting to its quirks. It has been dependable, taking me on rides across different landscapes, always ready to get me from point A to point B. And though it is just a bike, over the years it has quietly become a part of my journey.

The Bigger Picture

While it is true the Interceptor has some drawbacks, like its weight, bad seat and stiff suspension, it has more than made up for these with its performance and reliability. Even with the price now crossing ₹4 lakh, it still feels like a worthy investment. The engine has surprised me with its refinement, and the handling on the road continues to impress. What truly stands out is the ability to personalize it by adding custom parts or tweaking it here and there has made the bike feel like an extension of myself.

Five Years Later

Looking back at the last five years, I realize the Interceptor is not just about specs or the ride itself. It is more about the countless experiences that have been built around it. The memories, the moments, and the lessons learned with it. It has not always been the most comfortable ride, nor has it been flawless, but it has been reliable, it has been mine, and that is what makes it special.

Would I choose the Interceptor again?
Without a doubt.

Film Appreciation: The Silence of the Lambs

 

There are films that entertain, films that disturb, and then there are those rare ones that crawl under your skin and linger there. "The Silence of the Lambs" does just that. It is not merely a psychological thriller but a masterclass in subtlety, performance, and the unsettling charm of the human mind at its darkest.  

At the heart of the film lies the complex dynamic between rookie FBI agent Clarice Starling and the imprisoned Dr. Hannibal Lecter. It is a relationship that blurs the lines between predator and prey, power and vulnerability. Clarice, played by Jodie Foster is earnest and determined, carrying the weight of her past while navigating a male dominated world with resilience. Lecter, portrayed by Anthony Hopkins is chillingly polite, terrifying not in his physicality but in the way he dissects minds with precision.  

Every interaction between them feels like a carefully choreographed dance. There is an elegance in Lecter’s words, a calculated charm that makes you lean in, despite knowing the monster that lurks beneath. The brilliance of Anthony Hopkins lies in the restraint he brings to the character. It is not what Lecter does but what he might do that keeps you on edge.  

The film’s direction by Jonathan Demme heightens this unease. The camera often stays uncomfortably close, forcing the viewer into Clarice’s shoes. You feel her fear, her determination, and her growing realization that Lecter the monster might be the only ally she has in catching Buffalo Bill. The visual language of the film is haunting with its dimly lit corridors and the visible contrast of Lecter’s sterile cell.  

The score, understated yet persistent mirrors the film’s tone. It does not overwhelm but creeps in, amplifying the tension. Every note seems to echo the unspoken fear, power, and the thin thread of trust between Clarice and Lecter.  

What makes "The Silence of the Lambs" unforgettable is its refusal to offer comfort. There is no clear resolution, no easy moral takeaway. Instead it leaves you questioning the thin line between good and evil, sanity and madness. Lecter’s parting words, “I’m having an old friend for dinner", send shivers down your spine.

Few films manage to balance character depth with narrative tension the way this one does. It is  a film that does not just demand your attention but holds it hostage much like Lecter himself. You walk away from it haunted, fascinated, and in some inexplicable way, grateful for the discomfort it leaves behind.

Marco Review

 

Directed by Haneef Adeni and starring Unni Mukundan, Siddique, and Jagadish "Marco" takes Malayalam cinema into uncharted territory with its unapologetic dive into the mass commercial genre. Backed by music from Ravi Basrur, the film blends emotion, violence, and grandeur. That makes it a unique addition to Malayalam films experimenting with this style.  

Malayalam cinema, once known for its subtle and story driven narratives is now embracing mass entertainers, a trend that seems to be gaining traction. Following the success of "RDX", "Marco" joins the list of films that cater to the action packed, larger than life template. The story revolves around Marco, a gangster who lives for his family. When his family is threatened, he fights back with unrelenting fury.

The film’s visuals are undeniably impressive. Each frame is crafted with attention to detail, and the rich production quality stands out. From the luxurious cars to the meticulously chosen costumes and locations, everything feels well done. The cinematography plays a major role in amplifying the film’s grandeur, giving it a larger than life appeal.  

The story and screenplay stay true to the genre. As the trailer suggests, it is best to watch this film with the mindset of enjoying a mass entertainer. Logic takes a backseat, and the narrative leans on high moments and visuals. The plot is simple and predictable but designed to entertain, relying heavily on cinematography and screenplay to drive the film forward.  

In terms of acting, the film does not demand much in terms of emotional depth. It is more about presence and style. Unni Mukundan as Marco is the highlight. He embodies the character with ease, and his performance is packed with the kind of charisma that a mass film like this requires. While the supporting cast does their part, it is clear the focus is on Marco, and Unni carries the film on his shoulders.  

Music is another standout element. Ravi Basrur’s background score elevates several scenes, pulling the audience into Marco’s world. The songs are impactful, but it is the BGMs that truly shine, adding the energy and vibe needed for a film of this scale.  

The film’s most talked aspect is its violence. Marketed as the “most violent Malayalam film ever made", it lives up to the claim. The brutality, especially in the climax is relentless with a bloodbath that might shock even seasoned action fans. However the violence feels purposeful rather than gratuitous, moving with the story. 

That said the film is not without its flaws. The pacing, especially in the first half, feels slow as it focuses heavily on character and plot building. While the second half picks up the pace, some of the characters introduced earlier are reduced to mere placeholders, making their initial buildup feel pointless. 

Dialogues however are one of the film's biggest letdowns. For a mass film like this, impactful dialogues are crucial as they elevate key scenes and leave the audience cheering. Unfortunately, Marco falls in this department. While the delivery by the actors, especially Unni Mukundan is on point, the dialogues themselves lack the punch needed to make a lasting impact. They feel flat, failing to match the energy and intensity of the film’s tone. 

Another issue is the lack of narrative clarity. The story shifts abruptly between murder, investigation, betrayal, revenge, love, and emotions. While each element has its moment, the transitions feel disconnected, and the irregularity disrupts the overall flow.  

The violence though integral to the story is largely directed toward Marco’s family, making it feel personal. While this does create a sense of urgency and makes you root for Marco, it does not produce the larger impact one might expect from a protagonist driven revenge saga.  

In conclusion, "Marco" is a decent film that takes inspiration from movies like "Animal" and "John Wick". It is a mass commercial gangster film that embraces violence like few Malayalam films have before. However it is not for the faint hearted or family audiences. With its brutal action and emotions, it is a bold addition to Malayalam cinema.

Rating: 6.5/10⭐️

Viduthalai 2 Review

 

Directed by Vetrimaaran and starring Soori, Vijay Sethupathi, Manju Warrier, and Gautham Vasudev Menon, This film continues its exploration of oppression and resistance. With Ilaiyaraaja composing the music, the film builds its narrative around Marxist ideologies, focusing on the pain of the oppressed and their fight against domination.  

The story revolves around Vaathiyaar, played by Vijay Sethupathi, and his ideas. While the themes are thought provoking, the way they are conveyed feels repetitive. From start to finish, the ideologies are repeatedly emphasized. Vaathiyaar’s character is reduced to preaching, and the narrative feels like it is constantly trying to drive its message home, often at the cost of natural storytelling.

The visuals are a mix of good and underwhelming. While the cinematography captures the essence of the story, the limited budget shows in the locations, costumes, and makeup. The artificial look of certain props, especially the wigs, disrupts the authenticity of the setting. These flaws make the film feel dated, not in a good way but in a way that draws attention to its limitations.  

The performances are inconsistent. Some moments shine, but others feel unconvincing. Even Vijay Sethupathi who is known for his nuanced acting, delivers scenes that lack emotional depth. Soori, who had a significant presence in the first part is sidelined here and has little to contribute. Many of the supporting characters fail to leave an impact, with their appearances feeling more functional than meaningful.  

Ilaiyaraaja’s music despite his legendary reputation, does not live up to the film’s demands. The background score struggles to enhance the intensity of key moments, a flaw that was evident in the first part as well. While there are two love songs that stand out, the other tracks, especially those meant to create dramatic peaks fall short. This affects the overall emotional resonance of the scenes, making it hard to connect with the characters.  

The film does have moments of humor that is subtle and scattered. Though it is not a movie meant for comedy, a few reactions and interactions manage to evoke genuine laughter. These instances are brief but provide some relief amidst the heavy narrative.  

However the lack of quality in production, coupled with inconsistent acting and underwhelming music, creates a disconnect. The emotions do not fully reach, and the constant censorship of words and visuals further dilutes the impact. Blurred scenes and beeps break the flow, making it harder to invest in the characters or their struggles.  

The biggest drawback though is the way the ideologies are presented. Rather than allowing the story to naturally communicate its themes, the film force feeds its message, which becomes tiresome after a point. Vaathiyaar and his group spend most of their screen time delivering speeches, which overshadows the narrative and reduces its effectiveness.  

If you are planning to watch this for Vetrimaaran’s directorial brilliance, you might walk away disappointed. Perhaps it is the over saturation of films dealing with similar themes, or perhaps it is the way this one is executed. Either way, while it has its moments, "Viduthalai Part 2" is more of a decent watch than an unforgettable experience.

Rating: 6/10⭐️

The Auto Vs Bike Taxi Debate

In recent weeks the streets of Tamil Nadu, especially Chennai have been buzzing with a heated debate between auto drivers and bike taxi riders. Auto drivers claim their livelihoods are being affected by bike taxis and are demanding a ban on the service. Their frustrations have led to public statements that are both offensive and dehumanizing.

They have openly threatened to assault bike taxi riders, as if violence is a justifiable solution. One disturbing comment dehumanized auto passengers by calling them "beggars with no money" when questioned about overcharging. This hypocrisy not only insults the dignity of the very people who rely on their services but exposes the mindset they have. Who gave anyone the right to harm others just because their source of income feels threatened?

Safety has also been dragged into the argument, with some auto drivers raising concerns about women riding on bikes with male riders. This sudden concern seems less about genuine safety and more about a poorly constructed excuse. Have women not faced harassment or worse in autos? Can auto drivers truly claim their vehicles are always safe? If safety is the priority, addressing systemic issues across all forms of transport should come first, rather than using it as a shield for biased arguments.  

The core of this outrage seems to stem from financial insecurity. Auto drivers argue they are earning far less now because of bike taxis. But here is the uncomfortable truth: auto fares have been unreasonably high for years. Paying ₹300 to ₹400 for just 3 or 4 kilometers is a common experience. How is it fair to charge such huge amounts and expect passengers to remain loyal?  

Many people cannot afford these inflated fares, and for them bike taxis are an affordable alternative. Denying this choice is unreasonable. Each mode of transport serves a purpose and caters to different financial needs. People should have the freedom to choose what suits their budget and convenience.  

If auto drivers are genuinely struggling, they need to reconsider their approach. Charging passengers huge rates without considering their financial constraints has long been an issue. If fairness truly matters, auto drivers should push for reasonable fares and a return to mandatory meter usage.

Yes, Bike taxis do come with safety hazards. There are instances of rash riding and many riders along with passengers often do not wear helmets, which is a legitimate concern. The lack of proper safety standards is a problem, but it is not an argument to ban bike taxis altogether. Instead, the focus should be on improving regulations, ensuring helmet use, and enforcing safety protocols. If safety is the issue, let us address it comprehensively rather than using it as a convenient excuse to suppress an emerging mode of transport that meets a crucial need for many people.

The government must step in to resolve this issue rationally. Violence and threats cannot shape public policy. A fair solution would involve reasonable fares for autos and clear rules for bike taxis, allowing both to coexist. If auto fares are reduced and meters are enforced, passengers might naturally return to autos. However the ultimate choice of how to travel should rest with the people.  

This is not about taking sides. It is about fairness, affordability and giving people the freedom to decide what works best for them. 

Why India’s Tax Hikes Are Hurting

India's recent tax policies introduced under Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman have sparked significant debate regarding their potential impact on the nation's economy. While aimed at increasing revenue and promoting economic growth, these policies may lead to adverse outcomes, including economic downturns, increased tax evasion, and wealth migration.

Rise in Tax Evasion

Elevated tax rates often encourage individuals and businesses to seek ways to evade taxes, including stocking liquid cash and engaging in illegal financial activities. The presence of offshore banking and tax havens aggravates this issue, facilitating tax avoidance and evasion, which significantly impacts the national economy. Such practices erode the tax base, leading to lower government revenues and weakening the effectiveness of economic policies.

Migration of Wealth and People

High taxation may encourage some wealthy individuals and businesses to seek more favorable tax environments elsewhere. This results in the loss of significant financial resources and people, indirectly affecting domestic investment and innovation. The Cato Institute highlights that wealth taxes can encourage avoidance, evasion, and capital flight, creating challenges for the economy.

Poor Returns for Taxpayers

Taxpayers contribute a significant portion of their income in various forms of taxes, yet the returns they get in terms of basic public services often leave much to be desired. Take road taxes, for example upon paying 12% to 18% while using roads filled with potholes is just one visible discrepancy (According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, India saw over 40,000 deaths in 2022 due to poor road conditions). 

Similarly, in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, air pollution levels remain some of the highest in the world. But the issue goes beyond roads and air quality. Public healthcare also struggles with underfunding, resulting in inadequate facilities. In education, the promise of quality learning for all remains unfulfilled in many regions. With such widespread issues, taxpayers are left questioning why they bear such a heavy burden when the basic services they fund continue to underperform.

Conclusion

The questions raised by citizens about the fairness and impact of current tax policies are both valid and necessary. High taxation, when coupled with poor public services, rising tax evasion, and the migration of wealth, gives rise to justified skepticism. Taxpayers have the right to demand accountability when policies that aim to boost revenue risk slowing economic growth and driving away investments. It is essential for the Finance Minister to address these concerns and introduce reforms that create a tax system encouraging trust, ensuring equitable returns, and supporting sustainable economic progress.

Sources

1. International Monetary Fund (IMF) Report on India's Tax System

2. Cato Institute on Tax Avoidance and Evasion 

3. Financial Times on Offshore Secrecy and Tax Evasion

4. IMF Finance & Development on Taxpayer Returns