UNIT – I

1. Poem: Ecology - AK Ramanujan

2. Prose: What’s the Language of the Future? -Henry Hitching
3. Vocabulary: Indianisms
4. Grammar: Framing Questions ( Including Tag Questions)

Unit II Gender Sensitization I

A Note to the Teachers
1. Poem: Girl - Jamaica Kincaid
2. Prose: Gender Equality Is Your Issue Too - Emma Watson
3. Vocabulary: Analogy and Odd Word Out
4. Grammar: Verbs

UNIT-III

1. Review Writing: Film Review, Book Review

2. Vocabulary: Technical Vocabulary (Film, Literature)
3. Grammar: Conditionals

UNIT -I
1. Poem: ECOLOGY- Attipat Krishnaswami Ramanujan (AK Ramanujan)

Short Answer Question & Answers: (Comprehension-I)

Essay Type Questions: (Comprehension-II)

1. Attempt a character sketch of the mother, as portrayed in the poem “Ecology”.
2. Describe the Champak trees and their effect on the people and the place.
3. Compare and contrast the attitudes of the speaker and the mother towards the
Champak trees.
4. Explain how Ramanujan humanises the issue of ecology in the poem.
5. Give an account of the house and its occupants as described in the poem.
6. Discuss the tone and the use of irony in “Ecology”.
Attipat Krishnaswami Ramanujan (AK Ramanujan) is an Indo-Anglican writer. His literary
work represents the Indian culture and tradition. His poem ‘Ecology’ is a mix of the Indian
tradition and modernity. The poem highlights the relationship between human beings and
nature. It stresses the need for protecting our ecology and environment. She has a kind of
emotional attachment to the tree, saying that it is as old as she is.

The speaker’s mother is the centre of the poem. Her attitude towards nature represents the
traditional attitude of the Indians towards nature. She suffers from a severe migraine due to
the pollen from the Champak trees in their backyard. Every year the tress blossoms at the
beginning of the rainy season. The speaker wants to protect his mother from the Champak
trees. He is angry and wants to cut the trees. However the mother strongly opposes his move
and is ready to suffer. She argues that the trees give her flowers for offering to God. She
thinks about her daughters and granddaughters find happiness in the beautiful flowers. She
loves the Champak trees which are as old as she is. She feels as a part of her family. As she
says that the trees are sown by a bird’s providential droppings. The speaker’s mother is
sentimental towards the trees and finds happiness among trees in nature. She represents the
Indians’ attitude towards Nature.
The Champak trees are a cause of happiness and joy for the mother. But they are the reason
for the speaker’s rage, as their pollen causes severe migraine to his mother. The trees are red
in colour. They blossom at the beginning of every rainy season. Their yellow pollen causes
severe migraine to the mother. The speaker loves his mother very much. He worries about his
mother’s health. He becomes angry and wants to cut down the trees to protect his mother.
The mother is sentimental towards the trees. The son has great affection for his mother. Their
attitudes are contrary to each other. Here lies irony in the poem.
A.K. Ramanujan humanises the issue of ecology in the poem. The poem depicts the
contrastive attitudes of two kinds of people. The mother loves the trees, though they cause
her pain and suffering. She is sentimental and represents the Indian tradition. Her son is
indifferent to ecology and represents modernity. He wants to cut down the trees for their
inconvenience to his mother. The poem sensitizes the readers towards the need to protect
ecology.
The poem speaks about a house and its occupants. There are two red Champak trees in the
backyards of the house. The mother feels that the trees are the members of the family. ‘The
black-pillared house whose walls had ears and eyes.’ It had holes and cracks. The walls of
the house are able to absorb almost everything-the sounds, sights, the human voices, the
harsh sounds produced when new shoes are worn. But they cannot stop the fog of pollen dust
from the Champak trees. The speaker, his mother, the daughters and the grand daughters are
the occupants of the house. All of them, except the speaker, enjoy the flowers from the trees.
In the poem “Ecology” Ramanujan employs an empathetic tone towards nature. Irony plays
an important role in the poem. It depicts the traditional and sentimental attitude of an Indian
mother towards ecology. She has a kind of emotional attachment to the tree, saying that it is
as old as she is. The speaker represents modernism. His rage towards the Champak trees
comes from his affection for his mother. Though the trees give migraine to the mother, she
loves them. Irony is visible.

2. Prose: What’s the Language of the Future? Henry Hitchings

Short Answer Question & Answers: (Comprehension-I)

Essay Type Questions: (Comprehension-II)

1. Explain the main argument of the essay?

2. Discuss the current status of English as a global language.
3. Describe the image and the advantages that English has vis- a- vis the other languages
mentioned in the essay.
4. According to the propagation of English is neither ‘a happy accident” nor “an act of
altruism”.
5. According to the author, what kind of English is likely to emerge in the near future?
6. What, according to Hitchings, is the likely impact of the “centre of gravity of English”
moving?

Henry Hitchings (born 1974) is an author and critic specializing in language and cultural history. The
present essay, “What’s the Language of the Future?” is an excerpt from his book The Language
Wars: A History of Proper English (2001). The essay outlines the factors that helped the spread of
English in the past, the reasons for the ‘English Fever’ in the present and the challenges that English is
likely to face in the near future.
Presently, English serves as the lingua franca (link language) business and popular culture. In the
countries like, the UAE, English “is symbolic of modernity, work, higher education, commerce,
economics, and science and technology.” The spread of English has a business or monetary purpose
because excellent books are available in English. According to Sir Richard Francis, the Director
General of the British Council, “Britain’s black gold is not North Sea oil, but the English Language.”
Hence the propagation of English is an industry, not a happy accident. The spread of English is for the
benefit of the British corporate interests. It is not an act of altruism- welfare of others. As Robert
Phillipson says, “English for business is business for English.”
Hitchings feels that there are challenges to the position of English in the 21st century.

The main challenges are from Spanish and Mandarin Chinese. Both have more first-language users.
But they are not used as lingua franca (link language) and limited to a specific geographical areas.

According the author, the main challenge to English may come from within. Due to the embrace of
English by Indians and Chinese, the language is changing. Hitchings feels that English’s centre of
gravity is moving. In the 21st century, there are many centres. This leads to the creation of many
“Englishes”. Increasingly, English is taking more local colour in different places where it is used.
Hence the number of Englishes is increasing. The non-native speakers of English, especially creative
artists and political figures, are now using the English language for anti-English ends by distancing
themselves from Englishness or Britishness or American-ness. Hence, the “English-ness” or
“American-ness” of English is being diluted. As a result, the native speakers of English may find
themselves at a disadvantage. The number of non-natives speakers increases, the competitive
advantage the native speakers enjoy decreases.

Vocabulary: Indianisms

Exercise I: Match the expressions in column 1 with the words in column 2.

1 Answer 2
English
1. medicine e a) Complaining
2. Cent per cent i b) Lighter skin colour
3. Cut the call g c) Blender, mixer
4. Non-veg h d) Best
5. Batchmate j e) Allopathy
6. Wheatish b f) Memorize, cram
7. Cribbing a g) Hang up abruptly
8. Mixie c h) Food containing meat
9. Level best d i) Hundred per cent
10. Mug up f j) Classmate
Exercise II : Make the following sentences more acceptable.

1. I ordered for a coffee. (I ordered a coffee.)

2. Let us discuss about common errors in English. (Let us discuss common errors in
English.)
3. The meeting is preponed. (The meeting is advanced.)
4. I was out of station last week. (I was out of town last week.)
5. I am sending you an application. Please do the needful. (I am sending you an
application. Please do what needs to be done / Please do what is required.)
6. He bought this car a few years back. (He bought this car a few years ago.)
7. He had studied law. He passed out last year. (He had studied law. He graduated last
year.)
8. Kindly revert back at the earliest. (Kindly respond / reply at the earliest.)
9. “My computer is not working”. “Ok. Do one thing”. (“My computer is not working”.
“Ok, what you can do is” … / “Ok, you can do this” / “Ok, do this …” / “Ok, here is
what you can do.”)
10. I am having a headache. (I have a headache.)
11. On Sundays, I am sitting at home only. (On Sundays, I stay at home.)
12. I can be able to do it. (I can do it. / I will be able to do it.)
13. Take the umbrella, rain is coming. (Take the umbrella, it is raining.)
14. I forgot to give key to the watch. (I forgot to wind the watch.)
15. He failed to get a job and so he is keeping quiet. (He failed to get a job and so he is
doing nothing.)
16. What is your good name, please? (May I know your name, please?)
17. I’ll go and come. (I’ll come back.)
18. No parking before the gate. (No parking in front of the gate.)
19. Parking at the backside. (Parking at the back. / Parking in the rear.)
20. Have you taken your meals? (Have you had your food? / Have you had your lunch (or
dinner)?
21. She is my cousin sister but he is my real brother. (She is my cousin but he is my
brother.)
22. Kindly attend the meeting without fail. (Kindly attend the meeting.)
23. He told he was going to America. (He said he was going to America.
24. I will explain you. (I will explain to you.)
 25. Let me suggest you something. (Let me suggest to you something. / Let me suggest
something to you.)
26. Why not you try this idea? (Why don’t you try this idea?)
27. Please correct if I’m incorrect. (Please correct me if I’m wrong.)
28. You are calling regarding?
29. Can you repeat it again, please? (Can you repeat it, please? / Could you please repeat
it?)
30. Sorry for the delay in replying to your letter. (Sorry for the delay in replying your
letter. / Sorry for the delay in replying to you.)

Grammar: Framing Questions

Exercise I : Frame questions to elicit the following answers:

1. Who is that man? / Who is he?

2. What is this? / What is it?
3. What day is today? / What day is it today?
4. What is your favourite subject? (Where selection among indefinite number is
involved) / Which is your favourite subject? (Where selection among a limited
[definite] number is involved)
5. What would you like to become?
6. Where do you study?
7. Where is it?
8. When did you join (the college)?
9. How do you go to college?
10. How old are you?

Exercise II : Frame questions to elicit the following answers:

1. How far is your college from your home?

2. How much do you spend on transport?
3. How often do you go to the playground?
4. What game do you play?
5. How well do you play?
 6. How long have you been playing?
7. Which one is your jersey?
8. Who do you like the most? Which player do you like the most?
9. Would you like to meet him?
10. Do you watch cricket?
11. Did you ever play cricket?
12. What do you prefer to play?
Exercise III : Add question tags to the following statements:
1. Seema sings well, doesn’t she?
2. He did not go to college, did he?
3. She is suffering from fever, isn't she?
4. He doesn’t swim well, does he?
5. They are celebrating their victory, aren’t they?
6. Gautham should buy this book, shouldn’t he?
7. He can walk fast, can’t he?
8. She would like this gift, wouldn’t she?
9. They had their lunch, hadn’t they?
10. She will listen to you, won’t she?
11. They don’t go to the market often, do they?
12. You paint well, don’t you?

Unit II Gender Sensitization I

A Note to the Teachers
1. Poem: Girl - Jamaica Kincaid
2. Prose: Gender Equality Is Your Issue Too - Emma Watson
3. Vocabulary: Analogy and Odd Word Out
4. Grammar: Verbs

Girl poem summary

prose poem reads like prose, but it follows the rules of conventional poetry. The only
characters in 'Girl' are a mother and a daughter. 'Girl' is a somewhat of a stream-of-
 consciousness narrative of a mother giving her young daughter advice on important life
issues and concerns. The poem is one long sentence of various commands separated by semi-
colons.

The advice consists of how to do certain domestic behaviors, including making Antiguan
dishes, as well as the more assertive points of being a respectable woman and upholding
sexual purity. There is a lot of discussion from the mother about how the daughter must
interact with people as well as how to behave in a romantic relationship with a man.

The daughter only speaks twice in the story. First she stands up for herself against one of her
mother's questions that turned into an accusation, and again at the end where she asks her
mother a clarifying question. It concludes abruptly with a rhetorical question from the mother
wondering if her daughter didn't understand how to behave based on everything she was told.
Gender Equality Is Your Issue Too
September 22, 2014

Last Saturday night, I was lucky enough to see Emma Watson deliver a beautiful and inspiring
speech at the UN Headquarters in NYC. She spoke about feminism and the critical role that the
other 50% of the world’s population play in standing in solidarity with women. The event
launched the He For She campaign, a UN Women endeavor and the largest solidarity movement
for gender equality to date.
In her speech, Watson talked about how she became a feminist, and how uncomplicated the
decision was for her. She began to question the assumptions people made about gender when she
was only eight years old! After being appointed as the UN Women Goodwill Ambassador for the
last six months, Watson said she has realized that fighting
for women’s rights has too often become synonymous with man-hating, and that the myth about
the meaning of Feminism needs to be put to rest.

For the record, feminism by definition is: “The belief that men and women should have equal
rights and opportunities. It is the theory of the political, economic and social equality of the
sexes.”
She went on to say that no country in the world can yet say they have achieved gender equality. It’s
hard for me to believe that this is still true in 2014!
Though Watson joked that we must all be wondering why this Harry Potter girl is giving a speech
at the UN, her words convinced us of how much she cares about this issue. I can’t imagine there
was a single person in that room with me who wasn’t inspired to get involved. Watson reminded
us that we can all make a difference, quoting English statesman Edmund Burke with: “All that is
needed for the forces of evil to
triumph is for enough good men and women to do nothing.” She also left us with her own
powerful words:
“In my moments of doubt I’ve told myself firmly—if not me, who, if not now, when?"

Vocabulary: Analogy and Odd Word Out

1. Rose; flower; Hammer;_________(a)

a) tool b) instrument c) car d) song
2. Pencil; write; knife; _____(b)
a) Erase b) cut c) clean d) cook
3. Banana; yellow; carrot; ______(c)
a) blue b) red c) orange d) pink
4. Hungry:eat::Tired:__________(d)
a) play b) run c) limp d) rest
5. up : down :: ___________: right (a)
a) right b) center c) arrived d) after
Exercise II

Choose the sentences that make sense as per the analogy type.

1. Function
a. A car is used to walk.
b. A house is used to move.
c. A cup is used to drink.

2. Type/Kind
a. Salmon is a kind of fish.
b. Rice is a type of dessert.
c. Parrot is a type of insect.

3. Characteristic

a. A characteristic of rain is to sing.

b. A characteristic of a book is to be interesting.
c. A characteristic of ice cream is to be cold.

4. Part to Whole
a. A sister is part of home.
b. A word is part of a sentence.
c. A window is part of cupboard.

5. Degree
a. Something that is scrumptious is very tasty.
b. Something that is tiny is heavy.
c. Something that is huge is terrible.

Exercise III

Read the following verbal analogies and choose the correct alternative.
1. Big: Huge :: Tiny: _______________
a. Good b. Happy c. Small d. New
2. Amnesia: Memory :: Paralysis: _______________
a. Movement b. Limbs c. Handicapped d. Legs
3. Homeless: Home :: Unemployed:_______________
a. Salary b. Job c. Money d. Sad
4. Milk: White :: Honey:_______________
a. Good b. Costly c. Sticky d. Healthy
5. Selfish: Compassion :: Childish:_______________
a. Playfulness b. Imagination c. Intelligence d. Maturity
6. Contract: Agreement::_________________:_______________
a. Limerick: Poem b. Human: Monster c. Scarf: Jewellery d. Dog: Feline
7. Conclusion: Essay :: _________________:_______________
a. Theme: Song b. Meal: Dessert c. Scene: Play d. Music: Party
8. Nearby: Distant :: _________________:_______________
a. Permanent : Eternal b. Criminal: Illegal C. Timid: Brave d. Speech: Language
9. Enigma: Mysterious :: _________________:_______________
a. Professor: Glib b. Bigot: Prejudiced c. Beetle: Venomous d. Politician: Obtuse
10. Blatant: Obvious :: _________________:_______________
a. Preeminent: Important b. Legendary: Incredible c. Novel: Obsolete d. Powerful:
Dominant
 Grammar: Verbs
Exercise IV

Choose the odd word.

1. Nylon Silk Wool Cotton

2. Chalk Brush Pencil Ink
3. Garlic Onion Radish Cauliflower
4. Banana Cashew Guava Mango
5. Revolve Rotate Spin Linger
6. Faithful Robust Loyal Devoted
7. Astonished Shocked Amazed Elated
8. Illusion Dream Derision Vision
9. Still Tranquil Serene Placid
10. Feeble Frail Faint Fake
11. Explain Elucidate Explication Clarify
12. Walk Crawl Creep Talk
13. Mend Refund Send Bend
14. Cut Cease Can Come
15. Flute Violin Cello Guitar

Unit III Film Review & Book Review

Film Review: 1
Review: MLA – Politics mixed with some fun
It is a typical mass masala movie
Release Date: March 23, 2018
Starring: Kalyan Ram, Kajal Aggarwal
Director: Upendra Madhav
Producer: Kiran Reddy
Music Director: Mani Sharma
Editor: Tammi Raju

Out of the two films, Kalyan Ram is doing, a typical commercial entertainer called MLA has
hit the screens today. Let’s see how it is.
Story:-
Kalyan (Kalyan Ram) is a happy-go-lucky youth who falls in love with Indu (Kajal). He
proposes to her but Indu rejects him and sets off to her village. Kalyan follows her and
requests Indu’s family for her hand. This is the time when Indu’s dad (Jaya Prakash Reddy)
throws a challenge at Kalyan and asks him to become an MLA and then marry his daughter.
Why did Indu’s dad ask Kalyan to become an MLA? Will Kalyan take up the challenge? And
how does he become an MLA is the whole story of the film.
Plus Points:
Kalyan Ram is perfect in the central character of MLA. He looks quite handsome and fit in
his new look and carries his role sincerely. Kalyan Ram has improved a lot with his
performance and mouthed all the mass dialogues with ease. All his confrontation scenes with
Ravi Kishen have been executed well.
Kajal looks lovely as always and the whole story revolves around her. Performance wise, she
has nothing much to do but Kajal does her best in whatever she gets. Posani generates a few
laughs here and there.
The interval bang has been highlighted quite well and ends the first half on an interesting
note. Certain emotions regarding the kids in the second half have been executed well.
Minus Points:
MLA is yet another routine commercial drama which has nothing new to offer. The same old
storyline, hero challenging the villain and helping the village people have been showcased in
many films to date.
The story of the film only kick starts during the interval point and till then the proceedings
that are showcased are just below average. The way Kalyan Ram and his gang cheat Ajay
looks a bit silly. More romance should have been added between Kajal and Kalyan Ram to
make things better.
Technical Aspects:
Production values of the film are pretty decent as the village set up and mass elements have
been showcased well. Mani Sharma’s music is good as all the songs have been also shot well.
The camerawork is top notch and so was the background score which elevated the mass
scenes quite well. Editing is decent and so was the production design.
Coming to the director Upendra, he has done just an okay job with the film. He chooses a
simple story and narrates it in a okayish manner. The only problem with his direction is that
he has showcased the same old stuff which we have seen in many movies. The difference
here is the energetic performance of Kalyan Ram.
Advice:
On the whole, MLA is a routine commercial entertainer with some good moments here and
there. The confrontation scenes between Kalyan Ram and Ravi Kishan and some decent
emotions are major assets. There is nothing new that this film showcases and all those who
do not mind this factor and want to watch a typical mass masala movie, this film is for them.
Others can look out for better options.
Rating: 3/5 ***

Film Review: 2
Karthavyam – Exposes loopholes in the system
It is serious and thought provoking

Release Date: March 16, 2018

Starring: Nayanthara, Ramachandran, Sunu Lakshmi
Director: Gopi Nainar
Producer: Sharath Marar
Music Director: Ghibran
Editor: Ruben

Lady Superstar, Nayanthara’s critically acclaimed Tamil film, Aramm has been dubbed in
Telugu as Karthavyam. Touted to be a social drama, the film has hit the screens today. Let’s
see whether it impresses us or not.
Story:
Varshini (Nayanthara) is a sincere IAS officer who takes up the challenge of rescuing a four-
year kid who falls into a bore well. In this process, Varshini also comes across some
unnoticed and political issues which are causing problems in the rural areas where she is
deployed. She decides to sort all these issues and the rest of the story is as to how she goes all
out and saves the kid and also changes the system for good.

Plus Points:
As expected, Nayanthara is a major plus to the film. She literally lived in her role of a sincere
government official and acted with a lot of ease. Being a commercial heroine, Nayan should
be appreciated for accepting this unique script which addresses a core issue.
The film has a very realistic approach without any deviations. The last ten minutes of the first
half and interval episode are executed well. Especially, the pre-climax sequence and the
rescue operation scenes are narrated on an intense note.
All the family members, who were showcased as poor and backward citizens did a good job
in their given crucial roles. The ending which hints us of a sequel with strong political
content looks good.
Minus Points:
Though the film is straight to the point and narrated on a convincing note, it lacks proper
commercial elements which may not appeal to the regular audience. Those who expect some
good entertainment and glamour from Nayanthara may get disappointed as the film runs on a
serious note.
Nayanthara resigning from her reputed post at a crucial conflict point has not been addressed
properly. If the director would have handled those episodes quite effectively, things would
have been a lot better.
Technical Aspects:
Director Gopi Nainar shines in addressing a social issue and interlinking it with various
burning problems in the rural areas. His intention and questioning the loopholes in the system
will make us think for a while. Music by Ghibran is apt for the film’s mood and his
background score brings a lot of depth to proceedings. Production values for this limited
budget film are good.
Cinematography by Om Prakash is superb. As the core film happens in a remote village, he
succeeded in bringing the rustic texture in every frame. Editing by Ruben is good as he kept
the film’s run time short and crispy.
Verdict:
On the whole, Karthavyam addresses a burning issue in a very straight forward and gripping
manner. Nayanthara’s commandable screen presence and director’s intention to expose
loopholes in the system are impressive. But the film clearly lacks the regular commercial
elements and this might not go well with the regular entertainment-seeking audience. For all
those who like films which are serious and thought provoking, this film is surely worth a
watch this weekend for its unique storyline.
Rating: 3/5
Film Review: 3
MCA – Nani’s Show
A Family Entertainer

Release Date: December 21, 2017

Starring: Nani, Sai Pallavi, Bhumika Chawla
Director: Sriram Venu
Producers: Dil Raju, Sirish, Lakshman
Music Director: Devi Sri Prasad
Cinematographer: Sameer Reddy
Editor: Prawin Pudi

Natural star Nani, is in full swing with back to back hits in his career. His new film is MCA
which has been produced by Dil Raju. Touted to be an action family drama, this film has hit
the screens today. Let’s see how it is.
Story:
Nani (Nani) is a middle-class guy who stays with his sister in law(Bhumika). He leads a
happy go lucky life with his girlfriend(Sai Pallavi) but things change all of a sudden when his
sister in law who is a government servant lands into problems with a dreaded criminal(Naresh
Vijay) in Warangal. Rest of the story is as to how a simple guy like Nani confronts the
dreaded gangster and saves his sister in law.

Plus Points:
MCA works only because of Nani’s star value and amazing performance. Right from the
word go, it is Nani and his captivating screen presence which makes matters work. He is
perfect as a middle-class guy and carries the entire film on his shoulders.
Apart from Nani, Bhumika has a major role and she makes a perfect comeback in a good
role. Her chemistry with Nani is spot on as both the seasoned actors hold the proceedings
well most of the time.
Sai Pallavi plays her supporting role well and is good in the first half. The main villain,
Naresh gets a meaty role and he is good in his character. The first half has some good
moments like Nani’s comedy episodes with Bhumika and Sai Pallavi.
Minus Points:
The basic drawback of the film is that there is no entertainment in the second half. The film
gets quite serious as it is only a cat and mouse game that becomes the main agenda.
Even though the villain does well, his track could have been made more effective. The first
half an hour of the second half has nothing great to boast about as the film dips to an extent.
The story of the film is quite old and does not have any novelty in it. You exactly know what
is going to happen next. If not for Nani’s agile performance, this film would have been a bit
disappointing.

Technical Aspects:
Production values by Dil Raju are pretty good as the film is showcased in a decent manner.
The way Warangal and its surroundings are showcased through some good camerawork is yet
another bonus. Dialogues have been written well and give a lot of depth to the proceedings.
Surprisingly, DSP’s music is quite disappointing as none of the songs manage to impress.
The fights composed look decent on screen.
Coming to the director Venu Sriram, he has chosen a very old story and has tried to make it
novel by Nani’s interesting character. Apart from Nani and Bhumika’s role, none of the
proceedings in the second half manage to create an impact. Though Venu narrates the first
half quite decently, it is the second half where things fall apart and the film looks interesting
only during the last fifteen minutes.
Verdict:
On the whole, MCA is a routine commercial entertainer which does not have any novelty
story wise. But it is Nani’s who leads from the front and makes things interesting. His
comedy, angry avatar in the second half holds things together and saves the film from going
haywire. If you ignore the predictable proceedings, Nani makes sure that MCA ends up as a
onetime watch this weekend.
Rating: 3/5 ***

Film Review: 4
Baahubali 2 – Salute to Rajamouli
It is a visual treat to the film lovers

Release Date: April 28, 2017

Rating: 4/5
Director: S. S. Rajamouli
Producer: Shobu Yarlagadda, Prasad Devineni
Music Director: M. M. Keeravani
Starring: Prabhas, Anushka Shetty, Rana Daggubati, Tamannaah

Off late, where ever you go, there is only topic and that is how Baahubali 2 is going to be.
Directed by the genius Rajamouli, the magnum opus has released in over 8000 screens all
over today. Let’s see whether the film reaches our expectations or not.
Story:
As shown in the first part, Baahubali (Prabhas) is declared as the king of Mahishmati. As part
of the kingdom’s ancestral ritual, the would-be king needs to visit the countryside to know
what problems the people in his kingdom are facing. In this process, Baahubali visits a small
kingdom called Kuntala and falls in love with its princess Devasena (Anushka).
He woos Devasena with his charm and brings her to Mahishmati. But to his shock,
Baahubali’s mother, Shivagami (Ramya Krishna) changes her decision suddenly and
announces Bhallaladeva (Rana) as the king. Why did Shivagami suddenly announce
Bhallaladeva as the king? What is the back story behind her decision? and why did Kattappa
kill Baahubali? To know answers to these questions, you need to watch the film on the big
screen.
Plus Points:
There are way too many things that impress you in Baahubali 2 but it is practically
impossible to pen all of them down in this review. Let me start by talking about the gigantic
scale of the film. It is like a never before and never again kind of scenario as Baahubali 2 is
huge in every aspect. Every visual of the film is filled with surprises either in terms of
graphics or the extravagant sets that have been put up. The costumes, drama showcased and
performances are a first of its kind in Telugu films.
Credit should go to Rajamouli for taking Indian films to another level with his mind blowing
story telling. The way he has induced a terrific conflict between the two brothers is the major
asset of the film. Prabhas unleashes his beastly side in the second part and takes away your
senses with his striking performance. From the first scene, his screen presence is top notch
and the way he takes Bhallaladeva head on is just terrific.
A lot was said about Anushka’s weight but boy she looks top class in this film. Right from
her traditional costumes to her mature look, she has pulled off both the roles with ease. She
looks slim and quite beautiful throughout the film. Coming to Rana, it would not be
exaggerating to say that Rana will never get such a magnanimous role in the future. What
makes the film even more fiery and ghastly is his fabulous villainous avatar. No other actor
apart from him could have played this role of a lifetime and Rana has done full justice to it.
Nassar and Satyaraj are excellent in their roles and especially Nasser, is the major highlight
among the supporting cast. Ramya Krishna showcases superb emotions and brings a lot of
depth to the film. The family emotions are yet another highlight of the film as they elevate the
proceedings with a lot of depth. The fist fight between Rana and Prabhas is a feast to the eye.
Minus Points:
A number of audiences might get disappointed with the way Rajamouli has answered why
Katappa killed Baahubali. Even though, the twist gels well with the script, it might not meet
the expectations of many. Once the twist is revealed, the film becomes a bit predictable. The
climax looks a bit rushed upon as things happen way too quickly.
Tamanna is hardly seen in the film and only appears during the climax. There are certain
areas in the film where pace gets slow and some unforced drama overtakes the proceedings.
The romance between Prabhas and Anushka could have been edited out a bit to make things
better.
Technical Aspects:
Baahubali 2 is one of the most technically efficient films made in India. If part one surprised
you with its scale, then second part will leave you speechless with excellent visual effects and
emotions. The kingdoms shown and sets created look top notch on screen. The entire team of
Makuta should be appreciated for taking the film to another level with their VFX work.
What takes Baahubali to its peak is the stunning background score of M.M. Keeravani. Even
though his songs are not that effective as the first part, the way he elevates the proceedings
with his score is impressive. Dialogues are decent and so were the lyrics. Costumes done for
every character look top class. The weaponry created and props used look quite lethal.
Coming to the director Rajamouli, he has surely done India and the film fraternity proud with
Baahubali. He has dreamt of something out of the box and has also succeeded in bringing life
to India’s biggest motion picture. The way he has continued the story in the second part and
made the drama even more intense is superb. There is more depth in the proceedings and
every character has been given complete justification.
Every frame of Baahubali is his creation and you can’t but salute to the genius of this
filmmaker who will be the next big thing in Indian cinema. At times, you just wonder how
did he perceive all this in his mind and execute it in such a convincing manner. Technicians
like him are rare and Telugu folks should be proud that our own director has gone ahead and
proved that nothing is impossible.
.
Verdict:
On the whole, Baahubali 2 is one film which leaves you speechless. Right from the word go,
it has intense drama and action as every frame in the film is a visual wonder. Be it the heroic
fights or the lavish war scenes, Rajamouli showcases some never before scenes in Indian film
history. This film will be remembered and spoken about for years to come and break every
possible record in the country. The performances, drama and the lavish scale look jaw
dropping and make this film a never before experience for every movie lover. Finally, just
ignore the simple story line and do yourself a favour by taking your entire family to watch
this magnum opus called Baahubali as wonders like these only happen very rarely.
Rating: 4/5 ****

Film Review: 5
PSV Garuda Vega – Slick Action Thriller
It is a good pop-corn action entertainer and gives Rajasekhar his much-needed
success.

Release Date: November 03, 2017

Director: Praveen Sattaru
Producer: M Koteswara Raju
Music Director: Sricharan Pakala
Starring: Rajasekhar, Pooja Kumar, Kishore, Shraddha Das, Adith Arun

The success of Garuda Vega is quite crucial for Rajsekhar as he and his team have spent a lot
of money on the budget. The action entertainer has finally hit the screens today. Let’s see
whether Rajasekhar gets his much-needed success or not.
Story:
Sekhar (Rajasekhar) is a coveted undercover cop with the NIA. He hides his identity and
because of this, he always ends up in problems with his wife (Pooja Kumar). This is also the
time he is assigned a very delicate case of a hacker (Adit) who is on the run. Who is this
hacker? Why is everyone after him? What crucial data does he have? and What is the whole
scam behind all this? To know the answers, you need to watch the film on the big screen.
Plus Points:
The first thing that hits you while watching Garuda Vega is the huge scale of the film.
Everything looks top notch. Right from the NIA set up to the performances, everything looks
quite stylized and yet realistic. The money that has been spent on the film is clearly visible on
screen in terms of fights, visuals, and thrills.
Hero Rajasekhar makes a comeback as he delivers a very settled performance. Not once does
he goes overboard and behaves perfectly as a tough cop who is in charge. The way he deals
the case and goes about doing the action part is also very good. Adit plays the role of the
hacker to perfection and is good in the film.
Heroine Pooja does a decent job as the nagging wife. Shraddha Das is okay in her cameo.
Adarsh Balakrishna looks menacing in his small role. Credit should go to director Praveen
Sattaru for showcasing the thrills in an awesome manner. The entire bomb tracking episode
during the first half has been showcased with some edge of the seat action.
The first half of the film is very intense and thrilling. There are car chases, fist fights and
many more interesting moments which keep you glued. Sunny Leone sizzles in an item song
and will please the masses.
Minus Points:
It is not that the second half is dull but as Praveen Sattaru builds up things so well during the
first half that the later part slows down a bit. The film needs serious editing as a song in the
first half and some scenes featuring Rajsekhar and Pooja Kumar need to be trimmed right
away.
As in every action film, too many cinematic liberties have been taken and this shows on
screen. The way the entire scam is revealed and showcased in not that clear and is hard to
understand. The main villain Kishore has nothing much to do except for appearing in a few
scenes.
Technical Aspects:
Technical wise, Garuda Vega is one of the best films that have come out in the recent times.
The camerawork by Anji is just top notch and reminds us of many Hollywood films with its
style. The way he has shot the action sequences and thrills is just too good. As said earlier,
the film needs serious editing. Yet another highlight of the film is the stunning background
score of the film which elevates the film to another level altogether.
Coming to director Praveen Sattaru, he will surely go to the next level with this film. The
way he has used Rajasekhar and made a true blue action film with such high standards is very
good. He once again proves that with a good budget, one can create a superb effect and make
a Hollywood style movie in Telugu as well. Had he narrated the second half in a bit racy
manner, things would have been too good.

Verdict:
On the whole, Garuda Vega is a true blue action film which has its heart in its right place.
Very rarely do you get to see such stylized and huge scale movies which are good fun and
quite realistic as well. The entire set up, grand making and a thrilling first half are huge assets
of the film. If you ignore the slightly slow second half and cinematic liberties taken in the
film, this movie ends as good pop-corn action entertainer this weekend and gives Rajasekhar
his much-needed success.
Rating: 4/5 ****

Film Review: 6
Arjun Reddy – Story of a modern Devdas
The youth will surely love this break-up saga which single handedly relies on
Vijay Devarakonda’s stand out performance.
Release Date: August 25, 2017
Director: Sandeep Reddy Vanga
Producers: Pranay Reddy Vanga
Music Director: Radhan
Starring: Vijay Deverakonda, Shalini Pandey
Arjun Reddy has created a superb buzz for itself from the past few days. The younger
generation is going crazy about the film which has hit the screens today. Let’s see whether it
lives up to its expectations or not.
Story:
Arjun Reddy (Vijay Devarakonda) is a short tempered medical college student who falls in
love with his junior Preeti (Shalini). The couple shares a very close relationship for years but
later break up as Preeti’s dad gets her married to a boy in her caste.
This leaves a very strong and brutal impression on Arjun Reddy who becomes an alcoholic
and drug addict. Rest of the story showcases the journey of Arjun Reddy as to how he regains
his senses and gets back to normal.
Plus Points:
As the director said in many of his interviews, Arjun Reddy is surely a celebration of sadness.
The breakup story of the hero is showcased in such a dark manner that it has never been
touched in Telugu films before. In other words, you can say that the film is the story of a
modern Devdas which is shown in a contemporary manner.
Vijay Devarakonda stuns you with his performance which is surely award winning. The way
he brings the pathos and pain in his character is something else and drives the film
completely. His dialogue delivery, the aggression he shows and the emotional manner in
which he showcases his love is superb. With this film, his star status will surely go to the next
level.
Debutante Shalini is also impressive and does her role perfectly. Special mention should go
to Rahul Ramakrishna who plays the hero’s close friend. He is a good find and emotes
superbly. The way his character generates comedy and also supports Vijay in every aspect is
shown in a very moving manner. Kamal Kamaraju gets a decent role and so did yesteryear
actress Kanchana.
The first half is quite aggressive and showcases the love story in a very interesting manner.
The medical college scenes and the way Vijay behaves post his break up have been written
well.
Minus Points:
The film needs serious editing of at least 20 minutes. Too many smooches are shown which
looks a bit unnecessary. The film is undoubtedly slow and one needs to have a lot of patience
to sit through the proceedings.
Heroine’s character lacks a bit of clarity. The way she falls for the hero is not shown
properly. Also, during the second half, too much of alcohol and drug abuse is showcased
which could have been reduced to an extent. The film is clearly aimed at A centers and only a
section of people will end up connecting to it.
Technical Aspects:
The film is high on technical aspects and has some superb production values. Camera work is
neat as it showcases the pain and depth in the proceedings in a gripping manner. Background
score by Radan is awesome and elevates the proceedings in a good way. Dialogues are
impressive and so was the screenplay.
Coming to the director Sandeep, he makes a rocking debut with Arjun Reddy. His writing is
slick and the way he showcased Vijay’s role is just awesome. His detailing is very good as he
makes the film intense and quite raw. He has a long way to go in Tollywood and will be a
talent to watch out for. Had he trimmed the film, even more, the output would have been even
better.
Verdict:
On the whole, Arjun Reddy is a new age Telugu cinema which has never been attempted
before. It is intense, hard-hitting and quite adulterated with its intent. The youth will surely
love this break-up saga which single handedly relies on Vijay Devarakonda’s stand out
performance. This is not a family film and the masses might disown it. But the film will
surely do well at all centers. All those who like different films and can bear three hours of run
time, this film ends up as a pretty good watch this weekend.
Rating: 4 /5 ****

Film Review: 7
Nene Raju Nene Mantri – Intense & Dramatic
The film offers a bit of everything to a wide range of audiences.

Release Date: August 11, 2017

Director: Teja
Producers: D. Suresh Babu
Music Director: Anoop Rubens
Starring: Rana Daggubati, Kajal Aggarwal

Following the back-to-back successes of Ghazi and Baahubali 2, expectations are quite high
on Rana’s Nene Raju Nene Mantri. Teja, who is eagerly waiting to bounce back with a solid
hit, has directed NRNM. Kajal pairs up with Rana for the first time in this movie which has
hit the screens today after a huge round of promotions. Let’s see how it fared.
Story:
NRNM’s story is set in Uravakonda village in Rayalaseema. Jogendra (Rana) is a good-
natured financier. He loves his wife Radha (Kajal) so much that he rechristens his name as
Radha Jogendra.
An unfortunate incident involving the village Sarpanch (Pradeep Rawat) and his wife results
in Radha’s miscarriage. Jogendra avenges the injustice by becoming the Sarpanch. A series
of dramatic events motivate Rana to become an MLA and then a minister before he sets his
eyes on the Chief Minister’s chair eventually.
Can Jogendra overcome the impending powers that come in his way? Does his love for
Radha remain the same in his lust for power and fight for survival? You need to watch the
movie to experience the high-voltage drama.

Plus Points:
Performances and a dramatic narrative are the major highlights in NRNM. Rana surprises with his
menacing performance as Jogendra. He effortlessly transforms from being a kind-hearted village man
to a dreaded politician who lusts for power. His performance in emotional scenes shows his maturity
as an actor.
Kajal looks gracious in traditional saris. Her chemistry with Rana in romantic scenes and her
emotional performance in a few confrontational scenes with Rana and the pre-climax scene is a treat
for her fans. Catherine Tresa as an egoistic media baron, Devika Rani, who falls in love with Jogendra
is quite impressive. Navdeep as Rana’s trusted lieutenant has a substantial role and he plays his part
with elan.
Seasoned actors like Ashutosh Rana, Posani, Sivaji Raja, Ajay, Tanikella Bharani and others bring in
high-voltage drama to the narrative with their commendable performances.
After a long time, director Teja has come up with a racy and riveting story that is filled with intense
drama right from the word go. Certain scenes that elevate Jogendra’s heroism bring back glimpses of
the vintage Teja we have been missing all these years. The way he sticks to an unconventional ending
laced with a strong social message is praiseworthy.
Minus Points:
Can a simple village man become the state’s Chief Minister in 5 years? While the storyline sounds too
superficial, Teja makes his narrative even more unconvincing at times as he takes too many cinematic
liberties while showcasing Rana’s rise as a politician.
Even the climax scenes where Rana kills more than 200 MLAs and then the Supreme Court ordering a
re-enquiry into Rana’s death sentence just moments before his execution defy logic.
Technical Aspects:
Songs in NRNM are situational and serve the purpose of carrying the story forward. Anup’s
background score elevates the mood and adds intensity to the proceedings, especially in the pre-
climax and climax scenes. Dialogues by Lakshmi Bhupal are functional. He penned several punch
dialogues that play to the galleries.
The film is shot realistically in natural locales. Venkat C. Dileep explores the barren lands and the
gigantic canyons in Kurnool quite well. Editing it’s adequate as it complements the movie’s flow.
Production values are quite impressive.
Verdict:
On the whole, Nene Raju Nene Mantri is a conflict between love and power. What happens when a
common man seeks vengeance and takes on those in power and how his ego destroys his life forms
the main story.
The film’s first half is quite good with racy screenplay and thrilling emotional drama. However, the
second half leaves a lot to be desired as too many superficial scenes dilute the emotional experience.
The climax of the film is a letdown.
You will surely enjoy this hard-hitting drama if you leave the logics aside. The film offers a bit of
everything to a wide range of audiences. Overseas audiences who encourage different movies will
surely connect with NRNM. All said and done, the film’s box-office range depends on how well the
movie lovers accept the intensity of the story and the different climax.
Rating: 3.5/ 5 *** *

Vocabulary: Technical Vocabulary (Film, Literature)

Exercise I : Match the explanation in column I with the word in column II.

I Answer II
A boisterous comedy with absurd situations
1. and pranks g a) Melodrama
A recurring piece of music that represents a
2. character, theme, or action j b) Family saga
Someone the central character trusts and
3. confides in k c) Screen play
A film set in the past in which the actors are
4. dressed like people from the past m d) Premiere
5. A dramatized film based on real events l e) Western
A list of people involved in making a film,
6. usually shown at the end of it n f) Special effects
7. A combination of drama and music a g) Slapstick
8. Music that goes with a film o h) Foil
A film about cowboys in Western north
9. America e i) Stereotype
10. The story of the lives and actions of a family b j) Leitmotif
Someone whose character contrasts to that of
11. the protagonist h k) Confidant
12. A character who represents a type i l) Docudrama
13. The first showing of a film d m) Costume drama
Unusual sounds or images created artificially
14. using new technology f n) Credits
The script of a film, including acting
15. instructions and scene directions c o) Soundtrack

Exercise II : Fill in the blanks with suitable words from the box.
empirical setting hagiography hypothesis irony
omniscient parody opinion piece pastiche epic 1. A
personification persuasive point of view polemical verisimilitude
 biography that treats its subject with undue reverence: hagiography.
2. A mode of writing that uses vigorous and combative language to defend or oppose
someone or something: polemical.
3. Writing based on or verifiable by observation and experience: empirical.
4. An idea or theory that is not proven but that leads to further study or discussion:
hypothesis.
5. A work that imitates, makes fun of, or comments on an original work: parody.
6. A narrator who knows the thoughts and feelings of all the characters in the story:
omniscient.
7. A writing style that attempts to convince the reader adopt a particular opinion:
persuasive.
8. An article in a newspaper or magazine that mainly reflects the author's opinion about
a particular issue: opinion piece.
9. The quality of appearing to be true or real: verisimilitude.
10. A piece of writing which contains a mixture of different styles: pastiche.
11. The time and place of the action: setting.
12. The use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning:
irony.
13. Type of figurative language in which a nonhuman subject is given human
characteristics: personification.
14. A book that is long and contains a lot of action, usually dealing with a historical
subject: epic.
15. The perspective from which a story is told: point of view.

Exercise III : Fill in the blanks with suitable words from the box.
linguistics author Why What estimates
fascinating tongue Will three living

This is a commendably short book of only 142 pages, but it is a fascinating work which
addresses three questions: What makes a global language? Why is English the leading
candidate? Will it continue to hold that position? The author is a former professor of
linguistics at the University of Reading (England). He tells us that there are today around
6,000 living languages, but some estimates suggest that perhaps 80% will die out in the next
century. In terms of mother tongue use, Spanish is spoken in more countries and is growing
in use more rapidly than any other language.

Grammar: Conditionals

Exercise I : Make zero and first conditional sentences.

Ex: 1. (you / heat ice / it / melt) Ans: If you heat ice, it melts. (Zero
conditional)
2. If he (come), I (be) surprised.
Ans: If he comes, I will be surprised. (First conditional)
1. (people / eat / too many sweets / they / become fat)
Ans: If people eat too many sweets, they become fat.
2. (you / smoke / you / get cancer)
Ans: If you smoke, you get cancer.
3. (children / play outdoors / they / have healthy bodies)
Ans: If children play outdoors, they have healthy bodies.
4. (water / freeze / it / (be) very cold)
Ans: Water freezes, if it is cold.
5. (everyone / feel / happy / the weather / (be) good)
Ans: Everyone feels happy, if the weather is good.
6. I will come early if you want.
7. If they are invited, they will attend the meeting.
8. She will stay in the city, if she finds a job.
9. If he passes this exam, he will get a promotion.
10. I will buy a new dress, if I have extra money.
Exercise II : Make second, third, and mixed conditional sentences.

Ex: If she (study) Mandarin, she (go) to China. (Third

conditional)
Ans: If she had studied Mandarin, she would have gone to China.

1. If it won an international award, the book would sell in thousands. (Second

conditional)
 2. We would have arrived on time, if you had given the right directions. (Third
conditional)
3. I would ban the school bag, if I were the education minister. (Second conditional)
4. If she had prepared well, she would have answered all the questions. (Third
conditional)
5. If he had invested wisely, he would be living happily. (Mixed conditional)
6. If he hadn’t driven so rashly, the accident wouldn’t have happened. (Third
conditional)
7. “If wishes were horses, beggars would ride.” (Second conditional)
8. If he didn’t have to go to college tomorrow, he wouldn’t be so sad today. (Mixed
conditional)
9. You would have found the book, if you had looked carefully. (Third conditional)
10. I would have been happy to help you, if I was not in the middle of another meeting.
(Mixed conditional)
Exercise III : Match the clauses to make conditional sentences.

I Answer II
1) If you had informed in advance j a) if you had prepared well.
2) If I find your key h b) we would have won the match.
3) The door opens f c) if I were you.
4) We’ll be late i d) we’ll have enough time.
You would have had no problem
5) in the interview a e) you wouldn’t feel so awful.
6) I would inform the police c f) if you turn the knob.
g) the audience would understand
7) If we meet at 9 am d you.
8) If he had hit a boundary b h) I’ll call you.
9) If you spoke louder g i) if we don’t hurry.
If you hadn’t eaten too much oily j) I would have kept the lunch
10) stuff e ready.