Amongst all other animated movies, ‘Inside Out’ not only stands out due to its new way of telling stories but also for its profound study into the human mind. It was a 2015 release from Pixar Animation Studios that looked at emotions in a very complicated manner, focusing on how an 11-year-old girl called Riley operates internally. As I saw the sequel “Inside Out 2,” in a theatre full of parents, kids, and young adults, it is important to revisit what we learnt in the original film and why it should be watched by teenagers and their parents.

“Inside Out” personifies five primary emotions: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust. These are the characters that walk with Riley through life’s difficulties especially after her family moved to another city. This movie ingeniously demonstrates this emotional rollercoaster which accompanies such major changes making it relatable for children as well as adults.” Inside Out” helps adolescents who often cope with multiple emotional issues identify and understand that they are real.

Teenagers usually feel overwhelmed by growing up’s flood of emotions. The transformations accompanying the shift from childhood to adolescence are generally confusing and hard to express in words. “Inside Out” addresses these changes by showing that it’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions, sometimes all at once. Riley’s journey teaches teenagers that it’s okay to feel Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust; these emotions are all part of the human experience.

Among the most touching messages of the film is that one must accept all the emotional states, not only positive ones. Joy, at first, tries to put Sadness aside and believes Riley should always be happy. Eventually however Joy realizes Sadness is vital for Riley’s emotional health. This could be a great revelation for teenagers who are mostly pressured to maintain an image of being ever-happy. “Inside Out” teaches them that it’s okay to feel sad and that acknowledging and expressing this emotion is a crucial part of emotional well-being.

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As for parents, “Inside Out” serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder on why empathy and open communication are important in parenting. With our curriculum known for its single-minded commitment towards good grades and high moral standards, mental health has often been pushed aside. This movie indicates that one way of doing this is by understanding the children’s emotions’ needs. Parents can watch Inside out with an aim of learning how they can create an atmosphere where their children will have freedom to express themselves without fear.

The characters’ interactions in Riley’s mind might help parents understand how complex their teenager’s emotional world can be sometimes. As soon as they see that each emotion contributes to Riley’s overall wellbeing, parents may grow more patient and empathetic toward their children’s emotional struggles. This understanding is pivotal in nurturing a child’s emotional health and building a strong, supportive relationship.

“Inside Out 2,” introduces new emotions like Anxiety, Envy, Ennui, and Embarrassment, and makes it clear that the emotional landscape becomes more intricate as children grow into teenagers. The sequel delves deeper into the emotional challenges that accompany adolescence. A memorable scene from the upcoming film features Anxiety taking over from Joy, emphasising the need for more sophisticated emotions to navigate Riley’s more complex life. This transition is a stark reminder that growing up is not just about physical changes but also about evolving emotional needs.

One of the critical aspects of “Inside Out” and its sequel is the portrayal of anxiety. In the sequel, Anxiety explains that Riley’s life now requires more sophisticated emotions. This portrayal can help teenagers and their parents understand that anxiety is not inherently bad. Instead, it’s a natural response to challenging situations. The film can be an essential tool in discussing mental health issues like panic attacks, which are often overlooked in Indian communities.

By presenting anxiety as a part of Riley’s emotional toolkit, “Inside Out 2” can teach teenagers to listen to their inner voice and reassure themselves that everything will be okay, even in difficult situations. This understanding can help them develop healthier coping mechanisms and reduce the stigma associated with anxiety and other mental health issues.

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Inside Out is more than just an animated film; it serves as an important resource for teenagers and parents alike. It allows viewers to have a nuanced understanding of emotions; stresses on embracing all feelings and assists them in becoming empathetic as well as encourages open communication. Now that Inside Out 2 has been released and is currently running at theaters across the country, this may be a good time to take the kids to watch the film or to revisit the original movie so that our kids and their guardians can watch it.

As we roll out the red carpet for World Theatre Day, celebrated every year on March 27, let’s shine the spotlight on the dazzling world of theatre arts in education—a realm where creativity knows no bounds, and every student gets a backstage pass to explore the endless facets of their personality. Theatre arts isn’t just about taking a bow on stage; it’s a grand production that includes acting, scriptwriting, directing, set design, costume creation, and even the magic of lighting and sound effects. It’s where the shy kid in class becomes a roaring lion, and the daydreamer directs their first masterpiece.

Diving into the eclectic mix that is theatre arts, students embark on a thrilling adventure into storytelling, embodying characters from realms far and wide. But wait, there’s more! Ever fancied crafting a world from scratch? Set design and costume creation offer a canvas for the wildest imaginations, turning dreams into tangible realities. And for the tech-savvy, lighting and sound effects provide the perfect playground to amplify the drama or set the mood. It’s like being the wizard behind the curtain, where a flick of the switch can transport the audience to another dimension.

But theatre arts in schools is more than a ticket to the creative Olympics; it’s a masterclass in life itself. Through the laughter of improvisation and the discipline of rehearsals, students learn the art of expression and the power of voice. Theatre teaches us to walk in others’ shoes, sparking empathy and understanding in a performance that extends beyond the stage and into the corridors of daily life.

And let’s not forget the standup comedians, the jesters of the modern age, who wield humour like a sword, cutting through tension and bringing light to the darkest rooms. Standup comedy, an exhilarating facet of theatre arts, schools students in the art of storytelling and the bravery of vulnerability, proving that sometimes, laughter truly is the best medicine.

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Integrating theatre arts into the curriculum is like adding a pinch of magic to the mundane, transforming the classroom into a space where learning is an adventure, not a chore. It’s where students can be themselves (or someone else entirely) in a judgment-free zone, discovering their potential and pushing boundaries, one act at a time. Schools that embrace theatre arts offer students a safe space to explore their identities, confront societal issues, and express themselves authentically. Through theatre, students learn the importance of voice and agency, discovering their capacity to effect change in their communities and beyond.

So, as we celebrate World Theatre Day, let’s champion for theatre arts to take centre stage in schools. After all, in the grand theatre of life, we’re all players, and what better way to prepare for the world’s stage than by embracing the creativity, collaboration, and sheer joy of theatre arts? Here’s to the scriptwriters, the directors, the set designers, and the stars of tomorrow—may your light shine bright, both on and off the stage.

In the immortal words of Shakespeare, “All the world’s a stage,” and it’s high time we all play our part, ensuring that the wonders of theatre arts are not just an act, but a fundamental chapter in the story of education.

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“As we tune into the electrifying atmosphere of the Indian Premier League, where the clash of willow against leather sends pulses racing, we’re not just spectators of a thrilling spectacle. We’re witnesses to a living, breathing classroom where science dances with agility, leadership commands the play, and economics paints the bigger picture. Today, let’s embark on a journey beyond the boundary ropes, exploring how the IPL isn’t merely a cricket tournament but a dynamic, fun-filled educational odyssey.”

The Science Behind the Ball and Bat

At the heart of cricket lies a ballet of physics, each ball bowled a lesson in motion, energy, and force. The journey of a cricket ball, from the bowler’s hand to the bat, is a vivid demonstration of aerodynamics in action. Factors like air resistance, spin, and the Magnus effect collaborate to dictate the ball’s trajectory. A spinner’s delivery, curving through the air, isn’t just a challenge for the batsman but a practical example of physics. The materials of the game, especially the cricket bat made from willow, offer insights into material science, chosen for their capacity to absorb the shock of the ball’s impact and minimize damage to the hands.

The biomechanics of players, whether it’s a batsman executing a perfect cover drive or a bowler’s seam position at the point of delivery, are a testament to the human body’s potential when understood and harnessed through the principles of physics. Integrating these aspects into the curriculum can transform a standard physics lesson into a riveting session that connects students’ passion for cricket with the wonders of science.

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Leadership on and off the Pitch

The IPL is a crucible of leadership, each match a case study in strategy, decision-making, and human management. Players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, with their tactical acumen and ability to inspire their teams, embody the essence of effective leadership. “Sports has taught me a lot. It helps reveal character. Sport teaches you about facing challenges, overcoming challenges on a regular basis which apply to every work of life.” Kohli once remarked, encapsulating the spirit of sportsmanship that transcends the cricket field. This philosophy can seamlessly be integrated into educational discussions, illustrating how leadership isn’t confined to high-pressure matches but is equally relevant in group projects, student councils, and beyond. MS Dhoni, a legendary cricketer and former Indian cricket team captain also believes that it is important to push every youngster to take up sports. “Be it, mentally or physically, sport teaches a lot to the students and that actually helps in practical life. Sports should play a big role in students’ life and everyone should be pushed to it,”

The Economy of Runs and Rupees

The IPL, a dazzling spectacle of cricket, is also a multi-billion-dollar industry that serves as a fascinating model for financial literacy and understanding the global economy of sports. The auction room, where players are bid on like prized artworks, offers a live demonstration of market dynamics and valuation. Sponsorships, media rights, and merchandising around the IPL introduce students to concepts of branding, revenue generation, and the economic impact of sports on national and global scales. It’s a practical lesson in economics, illustrating how supply and demand, investment, and financial management play out in one of the world’s most popular sports leagues.

IPL: A Classroom Without Walls

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The IPL’s fusion of high-stakes cricket with lessons in physics, leadership, and economics presents an unparalleled opportunity to make learning interactive and engaging. It encourages students to see the relevance of their studies in real-world scenarios, thus igniting a passion for subjects that might previously have seemed abstract or disconnected from their interests.

Incorporating IPL-themed lessons into the curriculum can transform the traditional classroom, making learning a lively, participatory experience. As students analyse match strategies, calculate batting averages, or explore the economic model of the IPL, they’re not just learning; they’re engaging with the material in a way that’s both meaningful and enjoyable.

Cricket commentator and former cricketer Ian Bishop‘s words resonate deeply here: “The heart and soul of the game is what makes it so special.” In the context of education, the IPL embodies this spirit, proving that when you blend passion with learning, the classroom becomes a place of endless possibilities and discoveries.

The Indian Premier League offers more than just entertainment. It provides a vibrant, multifaceted platform for learning, encompassing physics, leadership, and economics, among other subjects. By viewing the IPL through an educational lens, we can inspire students to engage deeply with their studies, showing them that education, like cricket, can be filled with excitement, challenges, and lifelong lessons.

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In the echoing halls of Indian broadcasting, the voice of Mr. Ameen Sayani resonated with a warmth that touched millions, uniting a diverse nation in the golden era of radio. Today, at the age of 91, as we bid farewell to this stalwart of the airwaves, his absence leaves a silence that is palpable and profound. Mr. Sayani was not merely a radio presenter; he was a cultural icon who personified the soul of India, a voice that became the soundtrack of our collective memory.

The voice of Mr. Ameen Sayani has been a familiar comfort in the homes of countless Indians, a testament to his incredible journey in broadcasting. He is best known for his work on “Binaca Geetmala”, a radio program that became a weekly ritual for listeners, showcasing the latest and greatest in Hindi film music. His distinctive voice and charming style turned the show into an institution, one that charted the musical landscape of India for years. His journey in the world of radio began at a young age, and his natural ease behind the microphone made him a household name. Through his programs, he didn’t just play songs; he wove tales around them, connecting with his audience on a personal level, making each listener feel as though they were a part of a larger Indian family.

Why should Mr. Sayani’s legacy be a part of our schools and colleges? It’s simple: he was a master storyteller and communicator, whose skills go beyond radio. He showed us the power of reaching out and touching hearts, of crafting stories that linger in the memory. These are the kinds of lessons that are vital for every student, no matter what they want to do in life.

Mr. Sayani’s voice brought people together, crossing barriers of region and language. His approach to communication is something we should all try to learn from – it’s about engaging with others, being culturally aware, and building a sense of community with our words.

His radio shows did more than entertain. They taught listeners how to listen to each other, to share in the joys and sorrows of others, reflecting the society of the time. As educators, we should aim to teach our students not just to be good at a job, but to be good people – and Mr. Sayani’s life and work offer rich lessons in this respect.

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To include Mr. Sayani in our curriculum is to honor a man whose passion became the heartbeat of a nation. We should use his story to inspire students to find their own voices, to tell stories that matter, and to understand the incredible impact they can have on the world.

As we remember him, let’s bring the spirit of his work into our classrooms, so that the power of his voice continues to inspire future generations to make their own lasting impact.

Forget boring textbooks and dusty lectures! In India’s classrooms, the future of education is sizzling hotter than a samosa fresh out the fryer, and it’s all thanks to the entrepreneurial spirit of students. Startups are no longer just America’s playground – they’re popping up in schools like mango trees after monsoon season, and guess what? They’re changing the game! Integrating startups in school projects is a great way to teach entrepreneurship to students and help them understand the value of problem-solving. It also makes the projects more practical and engaging. In this article, we will explore how startups can be integrated into school projects and assignments.

As we celebrate National Startup Day on 16 January, in the Indian context, the Make in India campaign has given birth to a startup culture that is thriving. According to Statista, India has emerged as one of the leading startup ecosystems in the world, with over 61,000 recognized startups spread across 55 sectors and 635 districts . The Startup India initiative intends to catalyze and incentivize the startup culture through tax exemptions, funding, and support for incubators and accelerators.

Bonus fun fact: Did you know that India is now the 3rd largest startup ecosystem in the world? That’s right, these young entrepreneurs are shaking things up on a global scale!

Startups have become a major part of modern classrooms, and for good reason. They offer a unique perspective on problem-solving and innovation that can be applied to a wide range of subjects. For example, a startup that focuses on renewable energy can be integrated into a science project on climate change. Similarly, a startup that focuses on healthcare can be integrated into a biology project on human anatomy.

To integrate startups into school projects, students can work on various startup projects, appeal for funding, and then execute a whole idea in an assignment. This approach can help students learn about the various aspects of entrepreneurship, such as ideation, market research, funding, and execution. It can also help them develop skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork. Some successful startups working towards transforming education are:

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From coding wizards to eco-warriors:

Imagine learning to code by building your own robot that plants trees! That’s what WhizKid, a student-led startup, is all about. These tech whizzes are using their coding skills to tackle climate change, one line of code at a time. Fun fact: Their robots can plant a sapling in under a minute – faster than you can say “chai time!”

Turning science into superhero adventures:

Remember those boring biology diagrams? Not anymore! Tinkerly is turning science into a real-life Marvel movie. With their DIY science kits, students can build their own microscopes, dissect volcanoes (safely, of course!), and even create their own mini-ecosystems. Get ready, lab coats and goggles – science class is about to get epic!

History that rocks your world:

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History buffs, rejoice! StoryWeaver is weaving magic into the past. This platform lets students write their own historical fiction stories, collaborate with classmates, and even translate their tales into different languages. Imagine learning about the Mughal Empire through a rap song or the French Revolution through a graphic novel – history has never been so cool!

Another way to integrate startups into school assignments is to invite startup founders to speak to students. This can help students learn about the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship firsthand. It can also help them develop a better understanding of the startup ecosystem and the role of startups in the economy.

Integrating startups into school projects and assignments is a great way to teach students what lies beyond the world of their textbooks and the space outside of the walls they live in. With the right approach, startups can be integrated into a wide range of subjects and projects, making them more engaging and fun for students.

These are just a few sparks of innovation igniting in India’s classrooms. With the support of initiatives like Make in India, students are finding their entrepreneurial wings and building a future where education isn’t just about memorizing facts, but about creating solutions, solving problems, and having a blast doing it. So next time you hear the word “startup,” don’t just think Silicon Valley – think of the young minds in India, dreaming up the next big thing, one school project at a time!

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Lights, Camera, Learn!

As we celebrate Teacher’s Day in the month of September, here are the list of films that featured some stories and teachers who left an indelible mark on the audience in cinema, showing the world how it only takes one teacher to inspire a million lives…

Dead Poet’s Society (1989): “Dead Poets Society” is an acclaimed drama film about an unconventional English teacher who inspires his students to embrace poetry, think independently, and seize the day. It explores the conflicts between personal aspirations and societal expectations, offering a thought-provoking exploration of individuality and the pursuit of dreams.

Where to watch- Disney + Hotstar
Directed by- Peter Weir

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The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (1969): “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” is a captivating tale of a passionate and unconventional teacher who leaves an indelible mark on her students at an all-girls school in 1930s Edinburgh, empowering them to embrace their individuality, challenge societal norms, and strive for greatness in a world that seeks to confine them.

Where to watch- YouTube
Directed By- Ronal Neame

Stanley Ka Dabba (2011): “Stanley Ka Dabba” is a heartwarming film that tells the touching story of Stanley, a young boy with a vivid imagination, who faces adversity when his schoolmates try to steal his lunchbox (dabba) every day. With the compassionate guidance of his teacher, Stanley finds solace, resilience, and the power to overcome obstacles, showcasing the transformative impact of friendship, mentorship, and the indomitable spirit of childhood.

Where to watch- Disney+Hotstar
directed by- Amole Gupte

“A Beautiful Mind” (2001): A biographical film that chronicles the life of mathematician John Nash. The story explores Nash’s struggles with mental illness and the challenges he faces in differentiating between reality and hallucinations. Supported by his dedicated wife, Alicia, Nash perseveres and makes significant contributions to the field of mathematics.

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Where to watch- Amazon Prime Video
Directed by- Ron Howard

English Vinglish (2012): A heartfelt film that revolves around the transformative journey of Shashi, a middle-aged Indian housewife who embarks on a trip to New York and enrolls in an English language course. With the guidance and encouragement of her patient and understanding teacher, Shashi not only improves her English-speaking skills but also discovers her self-worth, gaining confidence, and finding her voice in a world that underestimated her.

Where to watch- Jio Cinema 
Directed by- Gauri Shinde

Black (2005): A film that explores the life of Michelle McNally, a visually and hearing-impaired girl, and her relationship with her teacher, Debraj Sahai. Through their unconventional bond, Debraj strives to break through the barriers of Michelle’s disabilities, guiding her towards education, communication, and self-discovery, ultimately illuminating the triumph of the human spirit and the power of perseverance.

Directed by- Sanjay Leela Bhansali

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Super 30 (2019): “Super 30” is a film based on the true story of mathematician Anand Kumar. The movie depicts Anand’s journey as he establishes the “Super 30” program, where he selects talented but underprivileged students and trains them for the highly competitive Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) entrance exams. With his unconventional teaching methods and unwavering belief in his students’ potential, Anand empowers them to overcome social and economic barriers, offering them a chance at a brighter future. The film highlights the transformative impact of education, determination, and the power of dreams.

Where to watch: Disney + Hotstar
Directed By: Vikas Bahl

Taare Zameen Par (2007): ” A film that revolves around the story of Ishaan, a young boy with dyslexia, and his journey of self-discovery. When Ishaan’s struggles with academics and unconventional ways of learning go unnoticed by his family and teachers, a new art teacher enters his life. With his understanding and compassionate approach, the teacher helps Ishaan unlock his hidden potential, allowing him to thrive and shine in his own unique way. The film beautifully explores the importance of recognizing and nurturing the individual talents and strengths of every child.

Where to watch- Netflix
Directed by- Aamir Khan, Amole Gupte

Hichki (2018): “Hichki” is an uplifting film that tells the inspiring story of Naina Mathur, a woman with Tourette syndrome who dreams of becoming a teacher. Despite facing rejection and discrimination due to her condition, Naina secures a teaching job at an elite school. She takes on the challenge of teaching a class of unruly and privileged students, using her determination and unique teaching methods to break through their barriers and make a positive impact on their lives. “Hichki” portrays the power of perseverance, inclusivity, and the ability to overcome adversity.

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Where to watch- Amazon Prime Videos
Directed by- Siddharth P. Malhotra

Parichay (1972): Ravi, a struggling job seeker, reluctantly accepts the daunting task of tutoring five unruly and privileged children who have managed to intimidate their previous teachers. As he navigates the challenges of teaching this challenging group, Ravi’s unwavering determination and unconventional teaching methods begin to transform not only the students but also his own life.

Where to watch- Zee5, YouTube
Directed by- Gulzar

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In today’s digital age, children have access to an abundance of entertainment options, including TV shows and movies. However, not all of these options are created equal when it comes to providing educational value. As parents and educators, we want to ensure that our children are spending their time on shows that are not only entertaining but also offer educational benefits.

Luckily, there are plenty of excellent educational shows for kids of all ages available today. These shows are designed to engage and inspire children while providing them with valuable knowledge and skills that can help them in their academic and personal lives.

Here are 8 shows—a cross-section of educational TV in terms of STEM, history/culture, the arts, and more—for toddlers to early teens.

1. Ask the Storybots

The show follows the story of how some friendly, funny bots discover the answer to a “big question.” The magazine format of this show allows for music videos, letter rhyming, songs, and field trips to different places within the episodes. Find it on Netflix, suitable for ages 3+

2. Julie’s Greenroom

Julie Andrews plays a performing studio owner and stars alongside original puppets from the Jim Henson Company (as well as some high-power actors) as she teaches kids all about putting on a stage show. Find it on Netflix, suitable for ages 4+

3. Rosie’s Rules

In addition to learning Spanish language skills and being exposed to Mexican traditions, Rosie’s Rules teaches children about cultural diversity with easy-to-understand lessons. The show is wholesome, educational, and entertaining. Find it on PBS Kids, suitable for ages 5+

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4. Baymax!

Loveable and huggable, Baymax is more than a cute, cuddly robot. He helps people stay well. Each episode teaches children about living a healthy life. Find it on Disney+, suitable for ages 5+

5. Wild Kratts

Saturday morning never had it so good. In this animated series, kids are introduced to a variety of wild animal species and learn about science concepts such as animal behavior, habitats, and adaptation in this show which is brimming with real-life zoologist brothers Chris and Martin Kratt’s trademark humor and sense of adventure. Find it on PBS Kids, suitable for ages 6+

6. Brainchild

This science-inspired educational series uses experiments and creative presentations to teach about concepts like the senses, neurology, marine biology, and gravity, all at a level relatable for kids—especially tweens. Find it on Netflix, suitable for ages 7+

7. El Deafo

According to Common Sense Media, “this beautiful three-part miniseries feels like an animated diary as the show uses audio effects to help viewers understand what the world sounds like with hearing loss. The combination of these effects and the narration helps kid viewers really feel Cece’s joys and struggles.” Find it on Apple TV+, suitable for ages 8+

8. The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder

Relatable stories, good role models, and zany comedy made The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder a great show for tweens, teens, and young adults. Find it on Disney+, suitable for ages 10+

In a recent interview with India Today, Vijay Shekhar Sharma, now one of India’s youngest billionaires and Founder of Paytm, remembered his days as a student and the struggle that he went through during everyday classes.

He recollected his years as a college student in Delhi, sitting in the front row of class and staring blankly at his teacher, who was teaching in a language. Despite being the only student from his school to qualify in the competitive exam and getting admission in DCE, he faced a language barrier in the new city. Since he had a Hindi-medium education background until high school, it became a struggle for him to understand the lessons which were majorly delivered in English.

He grew up in Harduaganj, a small town near Aligarh, with his father (a school teacher) and mother (a housewife). As he met with a language barrier in his engineering classes at the Delhi College of Engineering (DCE, now Delhi Technological University), his life in the premises became intimidating for him. He suffered from anxiety, the feeling of being an outcast, suffered a lack of friends and worried about getting a decent job.

He said, “I was the second engineer to graduate from my school. The first was in 1964. I see myself as an underdog, I was not supposed to be here. In school, I read a lot of books in the library; I read a lot about the glory of India but also realised that the glory was in the past.”

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“I believe that whatever comes my way, whatever I do, is part of god’s plan. If there is a challenge [before me], I am meant to solve it. Whatever comes my way is a tool or a resource for me to fulfil my purpose. It is surreal to believe that I am here,” added the tech-entrepreneur.

Shy and overwhelmed, he spent most of his time in the library or the computer lab. “I didn’t understand what the teacher was saying in the classroom. I never felt one with my peers. I couldn’t speak or understand their language. I was a failure in my class but a hero in the lab. I started to worry about whether I would get a job. I went from being a school topper to failing in subjects because I couldn’t understand the language.”

But what inspired him amidst this chaos were the stories of Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, who had made it big without a college degree. He got encouraged to start something of his own and even started a company out of his hostel with his few friends, named XS Corps. Their business card carried the address of their hostel and a phone number for the DCE’s computer centre.

Later, he went on to grab an on-campus job. “I took the job with the clarity that I had to learn how to run a company, like understanding what departments exist, etc. I did three stints in different companies, learning different aspects of running a business," he stated. 

Rest is history when, in 2001, he took an Rs 8 lakh loan and started One97, the parent company of Paytm. In 2010, he launched Paytm. In 2014, the company launched Paytm digital wallet. In 2016, demonetisation happened that helped Paytm grow tremendously. In 2017, Paytm became India’s first payment app to cross over 100 million app downloads.

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What does his story teach us? That no matter how big a failure you may think you're in school, your determination to polish yourself afterwards and perseverance towards that mission is all that matters.

Meet the most entertaining and humble comedians, talk show hosts and musicians like Ellen Degeneres, Ru Paul, Joe Dombrowski, Eddie B, BTS Band and One Voice Children's Choir.

Who: Ellen DeGeneres

Bio says: Comedian, talk show host and ice road trucker. My tweets are real, and they’re spectacular. 

X-Factor: Quirky observational humour  

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Viral post: There are hundreds of episodes that go viral from The Ellen Show but we remember the one when she met pre-K/Kindergarten teacher, Azel Prather from DC, who, after learning that many of his students couldn’t afford haircut because they belonged to low-income families, teamed up with local barbers, hairdressers, and nail technicians to pamper his students. On the show, Ellen surprised him with a brand new Hyundai Sonata and $20,000 for his NGO The Prather Foundation!

Favourite hashtag: #BurningQuestions

Top 5 accounts followed: Justin Willman, Earth Wind & Fire, The Real Talk Show, Hillary Clinton, Brielle

ScooNews loves: The episode with Memphis high school teacher, Michael Scruggs, who is known to start his class every day with a special mantra – “I am number 1, we all are number 1. Scholars get scholarships, we all get scholarships.” He’s been motivating his students every morning like this for almost a decade now. Go, watch it on YouTube now!

Follow at: @theellenshow (IG & Twitter), @ellentv (FB)

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Who: RuPaul Charles

Bio says: You're born naked & the rest is drag

X-Factor: One of the wittiest and most compassionate LGBTQIA+ artists to bring Drag-art to the international platform

Viral post: When RuPaul scared Jimmy Fallon on ‘The Tonight Show’ that mom Jimmy Fallon genuinely thought he’d been cancelled for calling RuPaul a ‘drag queen’. But RuPaul was just joking and the video got millions of views overnight.

Currently talking about: Entering the Guinness World Records list for winning the most number of Emmy awards for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition show

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Favourite hashtag: #DragRace

Top 5 accounts followed: J.K Rowling, Moira Forbes, Salon, Ts Madison, The Cut

ScooNews loves: RuPaul educates not just adults about the LGBTQIA+ community in an interactive and colourful way but also children. He/She recently inspired author Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara to write a book called ‘Little People Big Dreams,’ which explains children about the LGBTQIA+ community in a friendly manner. 

Follow at: @rupaulofficial (IG), @RuPaul (Twitter & FB)

Who: Joe Dombrowski

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Bio says: Comedian from the 313 currently residing in the 206 which unfortunately doesn’t sound nearly as hard

X-Factor: This educator and comedian is famous for his funny education-related social media content and most notably for his Spelling Bee prank video

Viral post: When he gave his students a fake spelling test 

Current talking about: His Social Studies Podcast

Favourite hashtag: #TeacherHumor

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Top 5 accounts followed: Andy Kindler, Gerry Dee, ClassCast Podcast, NatGeo Education, Meghan Mangrum

ScooNews loves: His teacher-memes like this one – “I’m not poor because I’m a teacher. I’m poor because of Amazon’s ‘Buy Now’ button…and I’m a teacher.”

Follow at: mrdtimes3 (IG, FB & Twitter)

Who: Eddie B 

Bio says: Eddie B is comedy on steroids. He started comedy in his senior year in college and never looked back. He has entertained crowds all over the U.S…funny and real!

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X-Factor: He’s a school teacher turned stand-up comic. He developed himself as the voice of teachers with his brutally honest comedy.

Viral post: “What teachers really say”

Currently talking about: His virtual comedy show “Unmuted & Virtually Confused” 

Favourite hashtag: #BoredTeacher

Top 5 accounts followed: Hilariously Infertile, MEL Science, Teach.org, Teachers Pay Teachers, Teachers Tips and Fun

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ScooNews loves: His current take on homeschooling, Google classrooms and virtual learning while schools all over the world are shut down due to the COVID-outbreak

Follow at: @eddiebcomedy (IG & FB)

Who: BTS

Bio says: This is the Official Instagram for #BTS, 'Life Goes On' Out Now

X-Factor: 7 member band has immense love for each other, world-famous but humble. Lovely voices and mad dance skill.

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Went viral: A mash-up video of members Jin, Suga, RM, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook dancing to a Bollywood song ‘Des Rangila’ surfaced on 15th August 2020 on IG @filmforfare. The video was dedicated to Indian Independence Day and read – ‘Here’s BTS and Team Filmforfare wishing everyone a very Happy Independence Day in India’.

Currently talking about: The band regularly talks about mental health, they believe those who have an international platform and millions of listeners should talk about these pressing matters.

Favourite hashtag: #BTS

ScooNews loves: Their lyrics usually focus on the themes of mental health, troubles of school-age youth, loss, the journey towards loving oneself, and individualism. Also, listen to the speech BTS delivered at the United Nations Group of Friends of Solidarity for Global Health Security.

Follow at: @bts.bighitofficial (IG), @bts_bighit (Twitter), @bangtan.official (FB)

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Who: One Voice Children's Choir

Bio says: We hope to spread a positive message and inspire the world with our music. Singing to make the world a better place!

X-Factor: Synchronisation, melody and a whole lot of adorable children all dressed in the colour theme performing a vast selection of music

Went viral: In 2014, the choir received national attention after releasing their performance of the Disney song "Let It Go"

Currently talking about: Christmas holiday music ‘Mary, did you know’ and ‘The More You Give The More You’ll Have!’

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Favourite hashtag: #OneVoice

Top 5 accounts followed: Good Morning America, The Ellen Show, The New York Times, The Tonight Show, Disney

ScooNews loves: This non-profit organisation brings together children and teaches them good music. The members meet up every week once to practice and perform over 50 times a year. The songs always mean more than the lyrics, the children bring a sense of unity for the world to see.

Follow at: @onevoicechildrenschoir (IG), @1VoiceChildrens (Twitter), @OneVoiceChildrensChoir (FB), One Voice Children's Choir (YouTube)

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