Indian Academia: Five Indian Series to Watch for Back-to-School Vibes
Whether you're returning to the classroom or simply missing the vibe, these five Indian series offer a perfect blend of drama, emotions, and youthful energy. Here's your ultimate back-to-school watchlist.
1. Big Girls Don't Cry (Amazon miniTV)
Set in an elite all-girls boarding school, Big Girls Don't Cry explores themes of friendship, rivalry, self-discovery, and rebellion. With a strong all-female cast and a progressive storyline, the series dives into the challenges modern young women face, from societal pressures to personal identity. The show strikes a balance between heartwarming and hard-hitting, making it a powerful yet relatable watch.
2. School of Lies (Disney+ Hotstar)
If you prefer a darker twist to your school stories, School of Lies is a gripping mystery set in a prestigious boarding school. When a 12-year-old boy goes missing, secrets unravel, and the narrative delves into the hidden emotional trauma among students. With its atmospheric setting and layered storytelling, this series offers suspense, social commentary, and a deep look at the complexities of adolescence.
3. Class (Netflix)
Adapted from the Spanish hit Elite, Class transports viewers to the upscale Hampton International School in Delhi, where three working-class students navigate life among the ultra-rich. The series explores themes of privilege, inequality, sexuality, and murder, all while maintaining high school drama at its core. Visually sleek and emotionally intense, Class captures the essence of a high-stakes academic environment.
4. School Friends (Amazon miniTV)
School Friends is a light-hearted coming-of-age series that follows five close friends through their final school year. It celebrates everyday moments—crushes, heartbreaks, classroom antics, and emotional growth. The show is rooted in nostalgia and simplicity, offering a wholesome escape into the carefree, chaotic world of teenage friendship and dreams.
5. Crushed (Amazon miniTV)
Crushed is a charming teen romance series that revolves around two underdog students from Lucknow's Lucknow Central Convent. As they navigate academic competition, young love, and personal insecurities, the story unfolds with warmth and authenticity. The series captures the essence of first crushes, study pressures, and that universal longing to stand out.
From mysteries and melodrama to lighthearted nostalgia, these Indian series provide all the ingredients for binge-worthy back-to-school vibes. Whether you're reliving your own school memories or diving into the complexities of today's student life, each show on this list brings something unique to the table. So grab your snacks, open that homework tab (or don't), and start streaming.
This article was previously published on kuwaitmoments. To see the original article, click here
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
UAE Moments
13 hours ago
- UAE Moments
Indian Academia: Five Indian Series to Watch for Back-to-School Vibes
As the new academic year kicks off, there's no better time to dive into school-themed stories that capture the joys, struggles, and nostalgia of student life. Whether you're returning to the classroom or simply missing the vibe, these five Indian series offer a perfect blend of drama, emotions, and youthful energy. Here's your ultimate back-to-school watchlist. 1. Big Girls Don't Cry (Amazon miniTV) Set in an elite all-girls boarding school, Big Girls Don't Cry explores themes of friendship, rivalry, self-discovery, and rebellion. With a strong all-female cast and a progressive storyline, the series dives into the challenges modern young women face, from societal pressures to personal identity. The show strikes a balance between heartwarming and hard-hitting, making it a powerful yet relatable watch. 2. School of Lies (Disney+ Hotstar) If you prefer a darker twist to your school stories, School of Lies is a gripping mystery set in a prestigious boarding school. When a 12-year-old boy goes missing, secrets unravel, and the narrative delves into the hidden emotional trauma among students. With its atmospheric setting and layered storytelling, this series offers suspense, social commentary, and a deep look at the complexities of adolescence. 3. Class (Netflix) Adapted from the Spanish hit Elite, Class transports viewers to the upscale Hampton International School in Delhi, where three working-class students navigate life among the ultra-rich. The series explores themes of privilege, inequality, sexuality, and murder, all while maintaining high school drama at its core. Visually sleek and emotionally intense, Class captures the essence of a high-stakes academic environment. 4. School Friends (Amazon miniTV) School Friends is a light-hearted coming-of-age series that follows five close friends through their final school year. It celebrates everyday moments—crushes, heartbreaks, classroom antics, and emotional growth. The show is rooted in nostalgia and simplicity, offering a wholesome escape into the carefree, chaotic world of teenage friendship and dreams. 5. Crushed (Amazon miniTV) Crushed is a charming teen romance series that revolves around two underdog students from Lucknow's Lucknow Central Convent. As they navigate academic competition, young love, and personal insecurities, the story unfolds with warmth and authenticity. The series captures the essence of first crushes, study pressures, and that universal longing to stand out. From mysteries and melodrama to lighthearted nostalgia, these Indian series provide all the ingredients for binge-worthy back-to-school vibes. Whether you're reliving your own school memories or diving into the complexities of today's student life, each show on this list brings something unique to the table. So grab your snacks, open that homework tab (or don't), and start streaming. This article was previously published on kuwaitmoments. To see the original article, click here
The National
18 hours ago
- The National
Raksha Bandhan 2025: Why do Indians tie rakhi and exchange gifts and sweets?
The ancient Hindu festival of Raksha Bandhan celebrates the bond between brother and sister. During the annual celebration, sisters tie a rakhi, or string bracelet, around the wrist of their male siblings. The ritual is meant to cement bonds as well as protect the brothers from misfortune and the evil eye. The festival has evolved over the years, with the essence being the celebration of the brother-sister relationship. The day is a bank holiday in most parts of India and Nepal. The ritual is not limited to siblings, with cousins, friends and even colleagues tying rakhis. The person receiving the rakhi traditionally reciprocates in the form of money or gifts. Raksha Bandhan, which literally translates to 'bond of protection', is usually celebrated on the last day of Shraavana, the fifth month in the Hindu lunar calendar. This means the date changes annually, and this year, the festival falls between August 8 and 9. How is Raksha Bandhan celebrated? While various iterations exist, the tradition usually involves a ritual where the sister offers prayers and applies a tikka or vermilion paste on her brother's forehead. She then ties a rakhi around his wrist. The brother in turn proffers gifts and vows to protect her. The duo then feed each other sweets to celebrate their bond. Since the day is a public holiday in most parts of India and Nepal, it usually entails family visits and feasts, with many dressed in their traditional best. The festival is also a major commercial event, with shops, big brands and restaurants offering Raksha Bandhan deals. Many celebrities also join in, with everyone from Priyanka Chopra to Anushka Sharma celebrating. Bollywood star Akshay Kumar starred in a film called Raksha Bandhan in 2022, which is based on a brother's relationship with his four sisters. In an interview with The National, the actor said the family drama was one of the best films he's done. When is the best time to tie a rakhi? There are no specific timings for Raksha Bandhan, but in some cultures, sisters fast until they've offered prayers and tied rakhis on their brothers. As a result, the ritual is usually completed early in the day, with celebrations going on all day and into the evening. According to some astrologers, this year the Purnima Tithi, or auspicious time, begins at 3.42pm on August 8 and ends at 2.54pm the next day. So, rakhis can be tied at any time during that period. Evolution of rakhi designs The look of the rakhi has evolved over the years. The bracelets vary widely in price and design, from simple woven threads to bejewelled charms. Bluetooth rakhis are also popular. Available online and designed to look like a traditional rakhi, this high-tech version comes with an accompanying app allowing the sister to record her brother's vow of protection. For people looking for an environmentally friendly option, there are brands that offer colourful designs made with organic cotton threads. Some rakhis even come embedded with seeds that can be planted. In the UAE, gifts platform IGP has launched a range of rakhis and hampers for different budgets. The range includes Navratna rakhi (Dh55), adorned with nine gemstones, each representing a planet and symbolising good luck and prosperity. The Rakhi hamper (Dh255) includes two rakhis, made with semi-precious stones, as well as traditional Raksha Bandhan snacks in a luxury gift box. Vego, the plant-based cafe in Dubai, is also offering a range of rakhis starting at Dh15, as well as a Rakhi Essentials hamper comprising a range of chocolates and other snacks. Dubai-based catering and cloud kitchen brand Paprika has launched Raksha Bandhan gift boxes including a Rakhi Special mini box (Dh30), which contains four ladoo flavours, and a Rakhi Special 4 Dessert box (Dh200) comprising four desserts plus fresh flowers. Indian restaurant The Spicery in Deira is hosting a Raksha Bandhan meal on August 9 from 6.30pm to 11pm, where guests get a buy-one-get-one-free deal on select menu items, from paneer to biryani and naans. A version of this story was first published on August 19, 2024
What's On
19 hours ago
- What's On
Best Wednesday night deals and events in Abu Dhabi
Fun isn't on standby until the weekend. Not in Abu Dhabi and definitely not tonight. While most people are waiting for Friday to roll around, there's a handful of locals who've figured out the secret to beating the midweek slump: get out, move your body, and meet people who are just as tired of routine as you are. Wednesday nights in the capital have quietly become the city's best-kept secret. From sweat sessions with strobe lights to dancing in heels and games that feel more like a social club than a sport, these are the things that make the workweek worth it. Whether you're looking to break a sweat, meet new people, or just not eat dinner in front of the TV again, here are three ways to turn your midweek into a full-on vibe. Hit the courts, then hit the dance floor: Padel & Coffee Party This is not your average 'hit a few balls and go home' kind of night. This is where padel meets party and the courts light up with more than just forehands and backhands. You'll play friendly matches with no pressure, no points, just vibes and court-side cocktails with a live DJ spinning tracks that'll get your paddle moving faster than your Spotify playlist ever could. There are dance breaks, surprise cheers, flashing lights, and yes, even friendships formed between serves. It's part game night, part social club, and part dance party. Basically, it's what your Wednesday night's been missing. Location: Panoramic Padel Courts, Abu Dhabi Contact: Join via Whatsapp (055) 539 4811 Get your squash on at Zayed Cricket Stadium Squash might not come with a live DJ or cocktails, but if you're after a midweek calorie burn and some wholesome fun, this is your spot. It's low-cost, high-energy, and open to everyone. That includes guys, girls, pros, beginners, and that one friend who always forgets the rules but shows up anyway. All you need to do is register, show up, and get moving. Beats Netflix. Every time. Location: Zayed Cricket Stadium, ask for the squash court Cost: Around Dhs15-25 Contact: (055) 411 191 Own the room at an Afro-Heels Workshop For the ladies who know their power lies in their step and their strut, the kizomba, afro-latin dance workshop is calling. Think fierce footwork, bold beats, and a lot of hip-swaying confidence. This is the kind of class where you leave taller, sweatier, and 100% more empowered than you came in. There are only 10 slots, and they're going fast. So if you've been looking for a sign to do something bold and fun with your Wednesday night, consider this it. Location: Universal Dance Studio, Airport Road Time: 6:30pm to 8pm Cost: Dhs120 Contact: (050) 407 5795 The G.O.A.T. If sweating it out on the squash court or dropping it low in heels isn't your idea of midweek fun, that's perfectly fine. What's On Abu Dhabi's got you. Wednesday is also ladies' night, and the city comes alive with music, cocktails and irresistible deals. Whether you're after tacos, dancehall or a few hours of bottomless bubbles, these spots are pouring the good times. Three free house beverages and 30% off food? Yes, please. Add in live band Goat Beatz and DJ Roy and you've got yourself a midweek party. Location: Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi. Times: 8pm to 11pm Contact: (050) 499 3953 Ting Irie Jamaican flavour meets Abu Dhabi energy. Ladies get a two-course meal and unlimited drinks from Dhs145, plus a live DJ spinning dancehall, hip-hop, RnB and Afrobeats. Location: Mamsha Al Saadiyat Time: 7pm to midnight Contact: (02) 886 7786 Ornina Lounge Get the girls together for a night of good food, unlimited house drinks and chilled waterfront vibes. Location: Al Rahah, Al Bandar Time: 9pm to midnight Contact: (050) 696 9312 Loca Unlimited Mexican drinks plus an appetiser and main for Dhs145. From tacos to tostadas, this is a fiesta worth dressing up for. Location: The Galleria, Al Maryah Island Time: 7pm to midnight Contact: (02) 582 3639 CRAFT by Side Hustle Three hours of free-flowing cocktails, wines and spirits for Dhs99, with DJ tunes to match the mood. Location: Galleria Mall, Al Maryah Island Time: 7pm to 10pm Contact: (02) 631 9855 Heroes Never Die Ladies get free drinks or 20% off food at this laid-back downtown gem. Location: Millenium Downtown Time: From 5pm till late Contact: (050) 525 6364 Sorso Bar For Dhs111 you get two hours of house drinks and two bites. Settle in, sip slow and let the midweek magic do its thing. Location: The Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi Time: 6pm to 8pm Contact: (02) 818 8888 Images: Unsplash
