Month: July 2021

Marriage is a bond that two people willfully choose to enter with one another. Besides the mutual consent, it takes constant effort and understanding to make it work. And hey, guess what? The good news is it can be fun and exciting (if the two of you develop a good bond). All you have to do is make an effort to get to know each other and grow together in this beautiful union.

Try these 5 fun ways to keep your relationship (and the spark, of course) alive:

• Surprise One Another

No matter for how long you’ve been together, surprising your spouse is a must! It could be anything as simple as cooking their favorite meal or buying them an item from their wish list. These sweet gestures are beyond enough to make your partner feel loved. You’ll see! 😀

• Do an Activity Together

Take some time out from your busy schedule and sign up for an activity together. Do something fun like joining the gym (if you and your partner are into fitness) or a salsa class (if the two of you are love dancing). These fun activities will bring you closer and keep the spark in your marriage alive.

• Being Spontaneous

You might be good at planning things (in advance) for your partner but hey, have you tried doing things on the spur of the moment? No? Try it, it’s exciting! Go restaurant/bar hopping, try unconventional cuisines, jump right in the middle of the dance floor with your partner, or hell, just plan an impromptu trip! Trust us, you won’t regret this. It is a great way to spice things up! 😉

• Appreciate Each other

Look for new ways to appreciate your spouse. For starters, start with the little things. Tell them how great their organization skills are or perhaps, about the breakfast they made for you. Remember the goal here is appreciating the smallest things (that will make their day).

• Respect Your Spouse’s Family

Arranged marriages are not only a union of two souls but also families. Well, in that case, learn to show some genuine respect to both the families. This will help you bond with your in-laws as well as improve your relationship with your spouse.

Be it love or arranged, marriage has never been a cakewalk for anyone. Like all bonds, the relationship between two partners needs time to strengthen. One beautiful story of such a marriage is portrayed in the Baarish web series in which, Sharman Joshi plays the role of a Gujrati businessman (Anuj) and Asha Negi plays a Maharashtrian employee (Gauravi). This romantic web series is about marriage, couple, romance, and the journey of two individuals who overcome their marriage problems together. Get an ALTBalaji subscription plan of Rs. 100* (3 months) & Rs.180* (6 months). The services for an annual subscription plan is for Rs. 300/- you can stream unique content online without interruption at 80 paise per day.

It’s normal to have pet peeves in a relationship. But hey, out of all, dishonesty tops the charts. You know why? Well, it can easily erode the connection between you and your significant other in many unfortunate ways. Dealing with a lying partner in your relationship in fact drains you emotionally. Either way, it’s the worst possible thing you have to put up within a relationship or a marriage.

If you’ve recently sensed that your partners are perhaps keeping something from you, here’s how you can spot lies in a relationship:

• You will spot a change in their behavior. For instance, your partners may avoid eye contact while talking or become extremely secretive about their lives.
• Your partner will react to everything in a negative way.
• You will find them making excuses for everything (even for hanging out with you).
• You will see them become evasive.
• You will notice they will make you feel guilty either for your actions or your choice of words.

If you’ve spotted the above-mentioned red flags, it’s time to face the reality.

Find the best possible way to deal with it. Here’s how you can do it the right way:

• Confront your partner

It’ll be painful. But somebody has to do it. So, pull yourself together and get this over with. You can either confront your partner privately or talk in front of people. And if your significant other is not ready to admit the fault (just yet), show the evidence.

• Give a chance to explain

Now, we know you may have assumed the worst possible reasons for the way they acted. But hey, give them the benefit of doubt and accept what they have to say for now (even if it is hard-hitting). Remember that the goal here is to listen and understand the reason behind their lie without lashing out.

• Respond with grace

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed. But, you cannot let your emotions get the best out of you (at least not right now!) Take a deep breath, collect yourself together after your partner’s startling confession and respond peacefully. Express your concerns in a calm state of mind and wait for your significant other’s reaction.

• Set boundaries

We hate to break it to you but you need to set boundaries with your loved ones (especially the ones that end up hurting you). All you have to do is take some time to think, set clear limits, and say it out loud in front of your partner. And hey, relax. It’s absolutely fine to draw the line. You’ll see!

• Propose a relationship workshop

To save a relationship built on lies you must get help from a professional who might be the answer to your problems. So, go ahead and suggest your partner to take up relationship coaching. It might end up working its wonders on both of you!

It can be difficult to recover after realizing your relationship was a lie. But hey, cheer up, lovelies. You’ve got our back. With the above-mentioned ways on how to tackle lying in a relationship or marriage, you will get past it with ease (*hallelujah*). Oh, and hey, you can always take cues from Sakshi on how to handle the same in His Storyy. This Hindi drama web series revolves around the life of Sakshi, Kunal and his lover Preet whose lives get caught up in the web of lies. Starring Satyadeep Mishra, Priyamani Raj, and Mrinal Dutt in prominent roles. You can watch His Storyy on the ALTBalaji platform. Witness how she deals with her husband’s lies in His Storyy with a subscription service starting only at Rs. 100 for 3 months.

Let’s admit it: Growth in any relationship is not linear. It evolves during its many phases. While the good days are worth cherishing, bad days should not be treated any differently. They highlight the areas in a relationship that needs effort. But hey, guess what? That’s what growing old in romance looks like. Either way, what really matters is how you handle your relationship or marriage problems.

We’ve done the legwork and curated some of the best possible ways for solving marriage problems and relationship concerns.

Keep your ship sailing smoothly (despite the fights) with our list mentioned below:

• Get to the root of the problem

Now, we know you’ve had a fight. But hey, do you know where everything came from in the first place? Well, if you take a step back and analyze everything, you might sooner or later realize the problem lies in the little things. So, it’s best to evaluate the tiniest details and put yourself in your partner’s shoes rather than making your point.

• Keep yourself calm

We get it. You’re mad at them. But hey, guess what? You’ve got to stay calm (even though it is difficult). It might not be the easiest thing to do but it’s not impossible. All you have to do is take a moment, breathe, and keep your emotions in check. Believe us when we say it’ll only help you view things clearly.

• Listen to your partner

Here’s a little secret: Don’t listen to react. But, to understand. It’s important that you know where your partner is coming from. So, give your significant others a chance to express themselves freely. And the only best way to do so is by hearing them out patiently with an open heart.

• Avoid the blame game

Let’s face it: It’s easier to blame each other than to admit one of you is wrong. Isn’t it? But hey, the truth is, there is never a winner in these arguments. So, give it up right now! Save the two of you some trouble and own up to your mistakes before it’s too late. You know why? Well, nothing good really comes out of blaming one another.

• Think before you react

It’s normal to blurt something out in the heat of the moment. But, we hate to break it to you, it can cause some serious damage to your relationship. So, think twice before you respond. Ensure that your response helps the two of you move forward in a positive direction.

• Work towards a solution

Now, dealing with conflicts in a relationship is normal. But it can be a total mess if nobody draws a conclusion. So, save everyone time and energy. Come up with a possible solution to bounce back stronger than ever. Believe us when we say it’s the best you can do for the two of you. You’ll see!

• Practice forgiveness

Both of you’ve made mistakes. Forgive each other and move forward. Don’t hold grudges against each other. Put all your issues to bed and start afresh. That’s exactly how you deal with a relationship conflict in the best possible way, ladies and gentlemen!

In a nutshell, dealing with an issue with your partner speaks lengths about your relationship. So, do it the right way and watch the two of you evolve into better people with our above-mentioned ways. Besides, you can take notes from Sakshi (Priyamani Dutt) and Kunal (Satyadeep Mishra) on how to handle relationship problems together in His Storyy web series. It highlights the social issue of acceptance of homosexuals by society, relationship issues and family.

In this Hindi drama web series, the couple keeps their differences aside and tackles the trouble in their paradise with maturity. Watch how they find a solution to their problem on ALTBalaji’s His Storyy. ALTBalaji subscription services are quite affordable starting from Rs. 100* (3 months) while their annual subscription is just Rs. 300/-.Which means you can watch all episodes of the series at 80p/day. Thank us, later! 😀

Gentlemen, correct us if we’re wrong: It’s no secret that you have a hard time expressing your feelings (especially to your friends). Isn’t it? (c’mon now) Despite your unconveyed emotions, your best buds never fail to have your back. They religiously follow the bro code rules about girlfriends and go above and beyond for you at every step.

Here’s a peek into the unspeakable bro code girlfriend rules that keep the friendship between men alive:

• Be honest with each other

Tell us something. Does your friendship matter to you? Well, if it does, be brutally honest with him (come, what may!) Don’t keep any secrets from your brother that can ruin your relationship with him (especially if it’s about a girl). Whether you have a crush on his girlfriend or if you think she is bad news, tell him the truth at all times. That’s the first bro code rule when it involves girlfriends.

• Keep distance from your friend’s girl

What to do if you and your friend like the same girl? Well, you must talk it out and come to a conclusion. But once she’s your bro’s girlfriend flirting with his girl is a big, fat ‘NO’ gentleman. You know why? Well, it might end up ruining your bond with him. So, respect his feelings and avoid being the third person in their relationship. The best thing to do is to offer a friendly vibe and not get ‘too cosy’ with your pal’s girlfriend.

• Watch out for him

Never let your favorite buddy do bad things (alone). Whether it is dealing with his cheating girlfriend or getting him out of a brawl, always have his back. Stick with him through thick and thin. Quite literally!

• Give him his space

Now, the concept of space is quite legit even in friendships. Yes, you read that correctly. So, give your bud the desired time that he needs. Understand what he wants and let him have it. Remember the goal here is to provide him with space (as much as he wants) without interfering with his break.

• Push him to do better

Let’s face it: There will be days when your bro feels blue. On those days, don’t let him give up. Cheer your buddy up and direct him towards a brighter life that motivates him to do better in every possible way. Trust us, you can do this!

• Keep his secrets safe

Now, you may not be allowed to keep things from him. But hey, guess what? It is your duty to NOT spill his secrets. Whether it’s something dark either about his past or personal family matter, ensure that it is safe with you (and you only). Take his secrets to the grave and never utter a word about it in public.

In a nutshell, bro code is nothing but a set of principles among men that they keep up with. Although the list is neverending, the above-mentioned bro code rules about girlfriends and what to do when you and your friend like the same girl remain universal. You can also watch and learn from Nawab (Parth Samthaan) and Lala (Arslan Goni) on how not to fall head over heels in love with the same girl (if you want to keep your bromance intact). Don’t repeat their mistakes from ALTBalaji’s Mein Hero Boll Raha Hu Web Series for a healthy brotherhood between you and your best buddies! With the ALTBalaji subscription plan, you can stream your favourite web series online and watch all episodes on the OTT at 80 paise per day.

Let’s face it: Conflicts are inevitable in any organization. Cultural differences, personal aspirations, unrealistic job expectations, and competitiveness can lead to disagreements within the workforce. But hey, guess what? Although these arguments are common, it’s wise to manage them with expertise (and no, you cannot escape it). Buckle up and get ready to resolve the unsolved issues at work (like a ‘pro’) with our best conflict resolution strategies.

We’ve enlisted down some of the effective steps for resolving conflicts at your workplace.

• Set ground rules

Repeat after us: Laying out ground rules is a must. You know why? Well, for starters, having rules in place will help you in solving issues as well as drawing conclusions. It’s in fact a win-win situation, TBH. So, step into your managerial role ASAP and get everybody on board with it.

• Clarify the issue at hand

Everything begins with a small disagreement, doesn’t it? But hey, the real question over here is how well are you aware of those tiny details. How minor the problem was at first? What was the root cause? Why did it escalate? Find out these answers. Dig deeper into the scenario, connect the dots, clarify your doubts, and good you’re to go.

• Listen carefully

Now, you’ve got your facts straight, no? So, block the time and set up a meeting with everyone (involved in the conflict) for a healthy discussion. Give them a fair chance to express themselves and hear everything out peacefully. Remember the goal here is to listen carefully without rushing to make any hasty decision.

• Establish a common goal

We hate to break it to you but this step might seem a tad daunting. But hey, don’t give up (just yet). All you have to do is discuss with both the parties a common ground to end the conflict, have them agree to you, and voila. Everybody will be ready to put their issues to bed! 😀

• Determine the responsibilities

They’ve finally called a truce, haven’t they? Well, kudos to do. But hey, your job isn’t done there. Yes, you read that correctly. After establishing a common goal, get started with assigning them roles for resolving the conflict. Trust us, it’s for the best. You’ll see!

• Learn from the lessons

Ladies and gentlemen. It’s time to pop open a glass of champagne. The war of words will finally get over and we couldn’t be happier. But hey, although the dust will settle and everyone will be at peace (at least for now!), don’t forget the lesson. Take a moment to look and see how you’ve positively impacted your organization. Thank us, later! (*patting ourselves on the back*)

To sum up, conflict management is crucial for every organization. So, what are you waiting for? Implement our conflict resolution strategies right away and wait for them to work their magic. You can also take additional help from our larger-than-life team player, Nawab who will teach you how to resolve arguments without getting into a war zone.

Nawab’s smart tricks, charm, and conflict management strategies will save him a lot of trouble and solve the issue at hand with ease. Watch ALTBalaji’s Mein Hero Boll Raha Hu to see Nawab (Parth Samthaan) and his effortless skills to become a powerful underworld don. This action web series stars Parth Samthaan and Patralekha in prominent roles. To watch the series, you can sign up for the annual plan for just Rs. 300/- and watch all episodes online at 80 paise per day.

Here’s a little secret. It is normal to have insecurities in a relationship, but obsessing about them is a bad idea. So how do you deal with insecurity in a relationship? Do you confess what’s bothering you? Do you keep it to yourself? Does it affect the relationship? Well, the best thing to do is obvious. Think through and identify the problem!

To help you better, we’ve enlisted below a few types on insecurities. Here, take a look:

• Second thoughts

The beginnings are always happy and lovey-dovey! The two of you enjoy each other’s company and develop a bond. When the ‘honeymoon period’ wears off, things may (or may not) get a tad tense. There can be fights, insecurity, possessiveness, lack of appreciation or more.

• Mismatched Goals And Expectations

Two individuals might not have the same goals. So, it is common to have anxious thoughts about it (when your partner doesn’t share similar ambitions). You might constantly find yourself thinking about the ‘what ifs.’ What if they don’t want kids? What if they want to live in a different city? Ugh!

• Fear Of Abandonment

Now, this feeling is common. Many couples deal with the same. Why? Well, it has a lot to do with past traumas or bad experiences. For instance, if your parents have had a bad marriage, you might fear the same or if your ex abanded you in the past, you might worry the same!

 Here are 5 effective steps to deal with such insecurities:

1. Avoid Blaming

Insecurities don’t just pop out of nowhere. Sometimes, certain events, such as your partner’s past comments about you or their last relationship (anything small) can start the problem. So, the best thing to do here is to take a moment and breathe! Focus on the things under your control. And hey, if it’s not, do what’s best! Stop blaming either you (or your partner). It’s indeed an excellent way to tackle your insecurities.

2. Communicate Your Feelings

Hey, you. Don’t sit alone with your thoughts. Speak up and let your partner know the real problem. Have an adult conversation and address your concerns.  Explain to them what your triggers are and make sure they avoid them (at all costs). Believe us when we say communication is the key. It will show you how to deal with relationship insecurity.

3. Focus On The Positive Aspects

We understand. This might be the last thing you want to hear, but hey, it actually works! A positive mindset turns things around! So, make a list of affirmations and read it out loud (the first thing in the morning and before going to bed). It’s a great way to make you feel better (amidst the chaos).

4. Stop Comparing Yourself To Others

The feeling of not being enough is something every individual deals with at some point in their life. But, it’s best to not associate it with your relationship. So, keep yourself away from comparisons to ensure a smooth and happy life with your partner.

5. Get Professional Help

If the real problem is deeply rooted in past trauma or repressed experiences, get professional help. A support group or a therapy session is always a great idea. It will help you view things clearly and move on from your toxic life.

Insecurities can be worked through, so don’t give up on healing yourself (just yet). All you have to do is rise above all of it and voila. You’re ready to build a safe space with your partner! After all, a good relationship is built on trust! Another way to deal with it is by expressing your emotions and affections to your partner (more often).

Besides, you can take notes from Ananya on how to deal with relationship insecurity in the web series “Kehne Ko Humsafar Hain“. It stars Mona Singh as Ananya and Ronit Bose Roy as Rohit in an intriguing story of love, loyalty, infidelity, and marriage. You can stream the latest web series show on ALTBalaji with a subscription plan and access the OTT platform anytime, anywhere. With a monthly membership starting from Rs.100* (3 months) & Rs.180* (6 months), you can watch unlimited TV shows, series and movies on the platform.

Tell us something. Have you recently embraced your sexuality? Kudos to you! Doesn’t it feel liberating? Well, while the feeling of accepting who you truly are can be satisfying, it also evokes the fear of facing reality (and more importantly, parents). Coming out to your parents naturally brings up multiple questions. How do I come out to my parents? Will they push me away? How will they react? It’s a lot to take in, TBH. But hey, the good news is you’ve got us (come, what may). Hang in there.

We’ve curated some of the best tips on how to come out of the closet to your parents below:

Come, let’s take a look at it. Shall we?

• Be in a good place in your life

Now that you’ve identified your sexuality, congrats! But hey, what’s next? But how to tell your parents your gay? Well, the first and the most obvious step is to embrace who you truly are. It’s important that you are confident about yourself. Why? Well, only then will you be able to overcome societal pressure and be in a healthy space. So, hold your chin high, lovelies. You’ve got this!

• Pick the right place and time

How do you come out to your parents in a proper way? Allow us to tell you something. This news deserves your parent’s undivided attention. So, choose a time and place without distractions. Ensure that you make the best possible use of this opportunity (that you are fully in control of). Don’t let it slip away!

• Be ready for their reaction

We hate to break it to you but your parent’s reactions can be mixed. While many parents might accept the reality with open arms, the rest of them may struggle to willingly embrace the startling truth. But hey, cheer up! These mixed emotions are normal. Give them the time to sink the news in their systems. Avoid starting a fight right after the revelation.

• Keep it cool

Repeat after us: Don’t lose calm after the situation gets tense. Losing patience after coming out to my parents can worsen things. Just take a deep breath and give them time. If your parents aren’t cool about it, sit them down, gently explain everything to them once again, and voila. You might have done some damage control, right there!

• Address their concerns

Now, pat yourself on the back for taking this bold step of coming out to your parents. But hey, guess what? Your job isn’t over (just yet). After you’ve revealed the truth about your sexuality, anticipate their concerns peacefully and help educate them.

• Know the exit

Here’s a secret: If things start to get overwhelming, make an exit. Knowing when to leave the room is important to ensure you (out of all the people) don’t feel emotionally drained. Take some time out, recharge, and start over (again!)

We get it. It’s tough to admit to them. But hey, our guide on the best ways to come out to your parents will most definitely help!

You can also take tips from Kunal who finally came out of the closet after 15 years of his marriage to Sakshi. Although his journey wasn’t smooth, his courage to admit it in front of her is applaudable. Witness Kunal’s coming out tale on ALTBalaji’s His Storyy. The web series stars Satyadeep Mishra as Kunal, Priyamani Raj as Sakshi, and Mrinal Dutt as Preet. To watch this romantic web series, get an ALTBalaji subscription plan that starts at as low as Rs. 100/- for three months and an annual plan of just Rs. 300/-. Get it today!

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose is among the few leaders of India whose life is quite intriguing to many (even today). Although there are many great stories to hear about him, one cannot help but wonder about his love story with an Austrian woman. Emilie Schenkl. So, who was this woman? How did he meet Emilie? Relax. We have your answers. Come, let’s find out together:

Read on further to know more about Subhas Chandra Bose’s wife, Emilie Schenkl.

Who was Emilie Schenkl?

Emilie Schenkl was an Austrian Catholic born in December 1910 in Vienna. At the age of 20, she became a nun and went to finish her schooling. However, she was unemployed for quite some time during the Great Depression in Europe. During her struggling period, Emily met Bose through a friend, Dr Mathur, an Indian physician in Vienna. After their brief meeting, Netaji hired her as private secretary. And hey, guess what? She even helped him with his book, ‘The Indian Struggle’.

While working together, they fell in love and got married as per Hindu rituals in 1937. Later that year, Bose came back to India without Emilie. But, after his return to Germany during the Nazi time, he started living with her. In the year 1942, the couple had a daughter, Anita Bose Pfaff.

They lived a marital bliss for nine years. Out of which, Emilie-Bose spent only three years together. However, Emilie Schenkl passed away in March 1996.

During their time apart, Bose kept his love alive for Emilie through secret letters. Below are a few letters exchanged between the couple:

Letters To Emily Schenkl

All of Bose’s letters had to pass through police censors and bear the stamp of approval of the superintendent of police in Darjeeling. Subhas and Emilie used formal modes of address — “Fraulein Schenkl” and “Mr. Bose” — when writing to each other.

The couple exchanged letters between April and December 1936 and conversed about a wide variety of topics like Austrian politics, books, music, the charms of Budapest and Prague, jokes in Viennese cafes, spirituality, and concern about each other’s health. Their long letters felt like a breath of fresh air in Netaji’s strenuous life.

In one of his letters to Emilie Schenkl, Bose asked her to find the German original of an English translation he sent her of Goethe’s poem inspired by Kalidasa’s drama Shakuntala:

Wouldst thou the young year’s blossoms and the fruits of its decline,

And all whereby the soul is an enraptured feasted fed:

Wouldst thou the heaven and earth in one sole name combine,

I name thee, oh Shakuntala! And all at once is said.

Subhas Chandra Bose and Emilie Schenkl secretly tied the knot on December 26, 1937. The reason behind their secrecy was Bose’s love for his own country and Emilie’s fear of disruption after a public announcement.

To get more insights into their love story, you can watch “Bose: Dead/Alive” on ALTBalaji. This Hindi web series is a tribute to the fascinating life of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose played by Rajkummar Rao. Purchase the affordable ALTBalaji subscription that starts from Rs. 100* (3 months) & Rs.180* (6 months). The ALTBalaji annual subscription fee is Rs. 300/-. So, choose a plan that suits your needs and get your subscription today. With a premium membership, you can enjoy all the benefits that the OTT platform offers.

One of the most prestigious and respected professions in India is that of an Army Officer. And hey, guess what? Today, India’s armed forces see women officers in combat roles (in the air force) and sailors (in the Indian Navy). However, despite their acceptance in the army, getting to the front line is tough for women. Therefore, they end up working in the following roles:

• Signals
• Engineers
• Army Aviation
• Intelligence Corps
• Judge Advocate General (JAG)
• Army Dental Corps (ADC)
• Army Air Defense (AAD)
• Electronics and Mechanical E-Ordnance(EME)
• Army Education Corps (AEC)
• AMC (Army Medical Corps)
• Army Service Corps (ASC)
• Army Ordnance Corps (AOC)
• MNS (Military Nursing Services

Here are the top 3 battles a lady army officer faces despite their abilities and skills:

• Gender Equality

Women officers have to struggle with ranks, promotions, pensions and longer tenures. Moreover, they are inducted through a short service commission of up to 14 years as well as a permanent commission only in the Army’s legal and educational wings.

• Post-Retirement Commission

On February 17, 2020, the Supreme Court of India upheld the right of serving Short Service Commission (SSC). It was stated that female army officers should be granted permanent status and entitlement to army pensions similar to their male colleagues. The judgment was based on the case filed by 17 SSC officers who served in the Army for 14 years. Ever since the Supreme Court’s verdict has helped women in the Army to reap the benefits they deserve.

• Physical and Mental Stress

The life of a female army officer is packed with challenges like relocations several miles away from home. They do not have the freedom of choice. This acts as a disadvantage that can be mentally and emotionally exhausting for a woman who bears the responsibility of her family.

Being an army officer is a tough job but, it gets a lot more strenuous for a lady officer.  To witness a woman’s journey, you can watch The Test Case, an ALTBalaji web series. This Hindi drama web series is a great example of Naari Shakti. It tells the story of Captain Shikha Sharma who becomes the first woman officer in the Indian Armed Forces combat unit.

Test Case proves that patriarchy has no place when it comes to gender equality in the Indian Armed Forces. With a subscription plan, you can make use of their affordable OTT services. Their monthly services start at Rs.100 and an annual subscription at Rs. 300/- Don’t miss the chance to watch this one-of-a-kind story on the OTT platform at just 80p/day.