A scene from the blockbuster, Dhoom

While science has contributed to our society in many significant ways, its contribution in the field of entertainment remains crucial. Especially in case of cinema, which was invented some decades ago, and has become a national pastime.

I am an absolute movie-buff and watch at least three to four films every month. I think it?s the best entertainment option available and at a nominal rate, too. However, one has to admit, not all films are appreciable. Some of the recent films like Dhoom held very little appeal for me, though I must admit that rest of the young people simply loved it. The film didn?t have much substance, besides wasting reels on bike races, which is, in fact, a dangerous pastime. I love watching films like Silsila. Its songs and dialogues were in harmony with the theme of the film, not forcibly put in, as is often done. Films are very correctly called mirrors to society and we learn a lot from them. But, many films being made today have a more negative impact on the youth.

Shama Gulab,
Oxford Public School, Ranchi

Biker mania

I jumped up when I saw my father standing outside with a brand new Pulsar. It was for me. I was absolutely stunned and elated. I had been asking ? read, driving my parents crazy ? for a bike ever since I had appeared for the board exams. It was not just any ordinary bike, which I could use. It had to be special and there it was!

I gave my father a tight hug and for the day felt on top of the world. The next thing to do, was to take my stunning bike to a temple and do a puja for an auspicious start. My machine was too good-looking and needed to be protected from evil eyes. The day turned even sweeter as for the first time my father sat with me while I drove! It was a proud moment for me. I called my friends and decided to take my first drive on the bypass.

Sumit Banerjee,
Oxford Public School, Ranchi

That inner light

When it looks all dark,
And nothing seems right,
When all seems dead,
With no life in sight,
When you feel lost,
Deep within your soul,
And life has no meaning,
Aspiration, love or goal.
It is in this night ?
That stars join hands,
And light up the world,
Every sea and every sand.
The glow you then feel,
Is from your own might,
Your inner strength,
That inner light.
This illumination,
Gives you hope again,
So you never feel
Your efforts are in vain.
Love is the bard,
That makes this lovely sight ?
Of your determination,
Your inner light.

Arundhati Bakshi,
Sacred Heart Convent School, Jamshedpur

My brother

My cousin Abhimanyu and I had spent our early childhood together, till his family shifted to Mumbai. Though we grew up separately, we were always in touch and with time our bond only got stronger. Even today, we are the best of friends and keep in touch through e-mails. Abhimanyu is a great guy ? a fantastic guitarist and a pianist and a wonderful dancer as well. His teachers adore him for he has extraordinary oratorical skills.

My brother?s the best. Whenever he is in town, he helps me with my studies as well. He is my dearest brother, who ensures I get whatever I want.

Ankeeta Ghosh,
Class IX, Carmel Junior College

Mad ad world

Be it a cricket match or a television soap, a movie or a cartoon series, or empty walls or pamphlets, advertisements are the common link between them. In today?s world, advertisements are clearly ruling the roost. Even Bollywood actors, moneyed people and sportspersons are making their presence felt in the ad world.

Ishita Gupta,
Class IX, Carmel Junior College, Jamshedpur