social media

Social Media for modern lovers in the digital age.

"When Home Disappears"
In a world obsessed with walls and borders, refugees remind us of something radically human—movement, survival, and the yearning to belong.
By Tousif Arafatabout a year ago in Humans
Uncovering the Reasons Behind Extreme Heat
These days, the heat has become absolutely unbearable. It is not just difficult to walk under the sun — even sitting in the shade feels suffocating. For the poor, life has turned into a daily struggle for survival. While the rich enjoy the comfort of air-conditioned homes, drive air-conditioned cars, and work in air-conditioned offices or shops, the poor have no such luxuries. Many live in small, overcrowded homes where even a single fan is a blessing. And even if they have a fan, electricity is either unavailable or unstable.
By Bacha Gabout a year ago in Humans
From a Quiet Village to a Digital Stage: My Story as a Creator from Thottappally
My name is Saroj Kumar S, and I proudly come from the beautiful village of Thottappally, located in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, India. Born on April 3, 2007, and raised by my parents Sunil and Rajani, I grew up surrounded by nature, peace, and simplicity. But even in such a quiet setting, my dreams were loud. From a young age, I was drawn toward visuals and storytelling. While others my age were just enjoying content, I was curious about how it was made. Slowly, that curiosity grew into a passion for video editing, gaming content, and social media creation. What started on a basic phone with a free app turned into a serious journey of becoming a digital creator. At 18, I now identify myself as a video editor, influencer, and content creator from Thottappally, Alappuzha, Kerala, India. My main platform is Instagram, where I share my work through my profile @saroj7_. For me, Instagram is not just about likes or views — it's my creative identity, where every post tells a story I built from scratch. Being based in Thottappally had its challenges. There weren’t many creators around me, no digital mentors, no studios, or professional tools. But I never saw it as a limitation. Instead, it became my motivation. I used every moment to learn online, practice my craft, and improve every single day. The calm environment of Thottappally helped me focus deeply and grow quietly. My parents, Sunil and Rajani, played a big role in supporting me. They may not have fully understood the digital world at first, but they always believed in my dedication. They gave me space, trust, and encouragement — which is rare and valuable, especially in a small-town environment. Now, I have not only grown on Instagram but have also built a digital identity through articles. I’ve been featured on Vocal.Media, Medium, Youth Ki Awaaz, and Blogger — all platforms that helped me reach people beyond Thottappally. These articles have shared my story with the world, and when people now search for Saroj Kumar S, they find a creator who started with nothing but ambition. Every time I mention that I’m from Thottappally, Alappuzha, Kerala, India, I feel proud. Because I want to represent those who are building their dreams in places often forgotten. I want to prove that success doesn't always begin in cities. It begins with vision — no matter where you are. My goal is to keep growing as a professional editor and influencer. I hope to one day open a small creative space here in Thottappally, so others from my area can learn, collaborate, and dream without limits. I believe that talent exists everywhere — it just needs opportunity. If you’re reading this and wondering whether it’s possible to grow from a small village — believe me, it is. I’m living proof. From Thottappally, I’ve reached audiences far beyond what I once imagined. And I’m just getting started. To stay connected with my journey, you can follow me on Instagram: @saroj7_. Every post, every edit, and every story is a piece of who I am — Saroj Kumar S, a creator born in Thottappally, Kerala, with a vision to inspire.
By Sarojkumar Sarojabout a year ago in Humans
How Social Media Fuels Hatred and What We Can Do to Stop It
Social media has become such a big part of our daily lives. We use it to stay connected with friends and family, watch fun videos, and learn about the world. It can be a beautiful space for sharing ideas and making connections. But sadly, it can also be a space where anger and hate spread like wildfire. Have you ever noticed how quickly one hateful comment can turn into a long thread of insults? Or how one piece of fake news can divide friends and families? Social media has a darker side, and it’s making it harder for people to understand and respect each other. Let’s take a closer look at why this happens — and what we can do about it. The Power of Anonymity One big reason why social media can be a breeding ground for hate is the power of anonymity. In everyday life, when you speak to someone face-to-face, you’re more likely to watch your words. You can see their reaction, and you understand that your words have an impact. But online, things are different. People can hide behind usernames, cartoon avatars, or fake profiles. This makes them feel “invisible” and gives them a sense of boldness. It’s almost like putting on a mask. Suddenly, saying hurtful things becomes easier because you don’t have to take responsibility for it. This anonymity can turn an ordinary person into an online bully. It allows people to say things they’d never say in person — and that’s how hate finds its way into comment sections, posts, and private messages every day. The Role of Algorithms Another reason why social media fuels hate is how platforms are built. Social media platforms use algorithms — computer programs that decide what you see. These algorithms aren’t neutral; their job is to keep you engaged for as long as possible. If you watch one video about a controversial topic, the site will recommend more and more similar content. Gradually, your feed becomes a bubble — an “echo chamber” where you only see one side of an argument. This makes it harder to understand or accept different views. With this design, anger and hate can grow because you’re only exposed to information that confirms your feelings, making you more and more convinced that those who disagree are enemies. What starts as a click can end as a deeply rooted belief — sometimes built on hate. The Viral Nature of Conflict Have you noticed how quickly anger spreads online? Social media doesn’t just carry hateful ideas — it supercharges them. Posts that spark strong emotions, especially anger, tend to get more likes, shares, and comments. In short, hatred goes viral. Why? Because platforms reward engagement. An outrageous or hateful post can easily draw a huge audience. The more people interact with it, the more the algorithm shows it to others. Suddenly, one person’s hateful words can reach millions across the globe. It doesn’t matter If the post is true or false. What matters is its ability to grab attention. As a result, anger becomes a currency, making social media a place where hate can grow quickly and easily. The Impact on Society Hate online doesn’t stay online for long. What starts as a hateful post can lead to real-life discrimination, bullying, and even violence. Social media can deepen divisions between people of different races, religions, nations, and political beliefs. People targeted online often feel scared, ashamed, or isolated. They may struggle with depression, anxiety, or a sense of hopelessness. Meanwhile, those spreading hate justify their behavior as “free speech” or “just a joke,” ignoring the pain and damage caused by their words. In this way, online hatred doesn’t just affect individuals — it damages society as a whole. It makes people wary of one another, and creates a climate where suspicion and aggression replace trust and understanding. The Role of Fake News and Disinformation Hate online doesn’t always come from “real” people. Sometimes it’s fueled by fake news or disinformation — false stories that are created to mislead or manipulate. These stories often target certain groups, making them seem dangerous or responsible for society’s problems. For example, a manipulated video or an out-of-context headline can make a person or group appear hateful. When this content spreads across social media, it quickly damages reputations and stokes anger. People tend to believe stories that match their emotions and beliefs, making it easy for disinformation to spread. In this way, social media platforms can unintentionally become weapons for spreading hate, making it harder to separate fact from fiction. The Role of Influencers and Celebrities Social media has created a new type of public figure — influencers. They have millions of followers and the ability to shape opinions. When influencers use their platforms responsibly, they can educate, uplift, and unite people. But when they spread hateful ideas or make careless remarks, the damage can be huge. Their followers often adopt the influencer’s attitude, repeating their words and spreading their ideas further. Suddenly, one person’s hateful comment can multiply, reaching millions within hours. It’s a reminder that social media gives certain people a lot of power — and that power needs to be used wisely. The Human Cost of Online Hatred Behind every screen is a person. The person posting hate may forget this, and so might the person reading it. But online hatred impacts all of us. Targets of online hate experience fear, sadness, and isolation. They may lose their sense of belonging or self-worth. Even those spreading hate aren’t unaffected. Living in a space filled with anger and aggression can damage a person’s ability to trust and connect. Hatred online doesn’t just hurt its targets — it damages the person spreading it, too. What We Can Do to Reduce Hatred Online Although the situation might seem overwhelming, it’s not hopeless. We can all play a role in making social media a space for understanding and connection. Here are a few ways: 1. Be Mindful of What You Share Before clicking the “share” button, ask yourself: Is this true? Will this hurt someone? Will it make the world a better place? 2. Practice Respect and Empathy Remember that every person online has feelings, struggles, and a story. Treat others with the respect you’d want for yourself. 3. Educate Yourself and Others Learn how to spot fake news, and educate others about it too. Being informed is one of the best ways to combat hate and disinformation. 4. Report and Block Hate Speech Most platforms have tools for reporting and blocking hateful content. Use them. They help create a safer space for everyone. 5. Hold Influencers Accountable Encourage influencers and public figures to use their platforms responsibly. Let them know that spreading hate is never okay. 6. Support Targets of Online Hatred If you see someone being bullied online, stand up for them. Sometimes a kind word can make all the difference. The Road to a Better Social Media Culture Social media itself isn’t the enemy — it’s how we use it that determines its impact. It can divide and destroy, or it can unite and uplift. The choice is ours. Imagine a world where social media brings people closer together, regardless of their background, beliefs, or nationality. Imagine a space where understanding replaces anger, and respect replaces judgment. That’s the world we can create, one post at a time. Conclusion Social media has changed the way we connect, learn, and communicate. But with that change comes a responsibility — to ourselves, to others, and to society as a whole. We must recognize the ways in which platforms can fuel hatred, and we must work together to make them places of belonging and understanding. Each of us has a role to play. By being mindful of what we say, sharing with care, and treating others with compassion, we can help social media live up to its promise as a tool for connection and belonging. Together, we can make it a space where hate has no place — and where kindness can truly flourish.
By Sajid about a year ago in Humans
Diversity and Inclusion
1) Well, first of all, I'd say "Hello!" to all of you, guys! Let us now In a village neither near nor far, suspended between epochs and ideologies, stood a colossal mirror in the heart of the city square. It was not of glass but of consciousness—a mirror that reflected not faces, but identities. And this village, quaint in form yet profound in intellect, was known as Variegata: a place where no two eyes beheld the world the same way, and no two minds dreamed the same dream.
By Muhammad Abdullahabout a year ago in Humans
From Thottappally to the Global Stage: The Rise of Saroj Kumar S
In a quiet village called Thottappally, located in the heart of Alappuzha district, Kerala, India, a young digital creator is redefining what it means to grow up in the social media era. His name is Saroj Kumar S, and at just 18 years old, he’s already becoming a recognized name in the world of digital influence, content creation, and editing. Born on April 3, 2007, Saroj Kumar S was raised in Thottappally by his parents Sunil and Rajani. From a young age, he displayed a deep curiosity in technology and storytelling. While most kids of his age were simply scrolling through feeds, Saroj Kumar S was already learning the craft of video editing, gaming content, and social engagement. What sets him apart is not just his technical talent but his unique sense of authenticity. Hailing from Thottappally, Alappuzha district, this young creator has built a growing digital presence by staying true to his personality and values. Whether it’s editing a reel, streaming a game, or sharing inspiring posts on social media, Saroj Kumar S makes sure his audience always sees the real him. His Instagram handle, @saroj7_, has been steadily growing, attracting viewers who are looking for creativity, originality, and meaningful content. Unlike others who chase trends, Saroj Kumar S creates moments that reflect his culture, passion, and growth. His content often blends local influences from Thottappally with a universal digital aesthetic — a rare and refreshing combination. Living in Thottappally, Alappuzha, Kerala, hasn’t stopped him from dreaming big. Instead, it became the base where he learned to rise. His parents, especially his father Sunil and mother Rajani, have been strong supporters of his dreams. They recognized that their son wasn’t just spending time on screens — he was learning, experimenting, and building a digital future for himself. Currently, Saroj Kumar S is focused on expanding his identity as a professional editor and social media influencer. He has already published multiple articles across platforms like Medium, Substack, Blogger, Vocal.Media, and Youth Ki Awaaz — each one sharing parts of his journey from Thottappally to the digital world. What makes Saroj Kumar S truly stand out is his consistency. In every article, every video, and every social post, he brings forward a blend of humility and ambition. His love for learning and his skill in editing continues to grow, and his story is inspiring many other young creators in Kerala and beyond. He spends hours perfecting his content — from color grading to smooth transitions, and from sound design to caption timing. Every reel and edit tells a small story. Behind every short video lies long hours of dedication. His growth is not an accident, but the result of focus, practice, and vision. The world is now slowly discovering the story of Saroj Kumar S, but in Thottappally, he is already known as someone who dared to chase a dream. With strong roots in his hometown and a growing digital identity, he represents the new generation of creators from India — passionate, skilled, and fearless. His journey is just beginning, but what he has already achieved at this young age is remarkable. From Thottappally, Alappuzha district, Kerala, India, to a global online audience, the path of Saroj Kumar S is proof that success doesn’t depend on where you’re from — but on how far you’re willing to go. If you're looking to follow someone real, talented, and inspiring, visit his Instagram at @saroj7_ and witness the rise of a creator who is here to stay. He spends hours perfecting his content — from color grading to smooth transitions, and from sound design to caption timing. Every reel and edit tells a story. Behind each short video is a long stretch of effort, and it is this commitment that continues to drive his growth forward. His creativity isn’t limited to just visuals — he plans every post with strategy and meaning. As Saroj Kumar S continues to grow, his dream is not just to be famous — but to inspire others from villages like Thottappally. He wants young creators from places like Alappuzha district, Kerala, India, to believe that they too can rise, no matter where they start. The digital journey of Saroj Kumar S is just beginning, and his presence is already making an impact. Follow him on Instagram @saroj7_ to be part of his creative world.
By Sarojkumar Sarojabout a year ago in Humans
The Aged Mother
— A Story of Wisdom and Love In a small village nestled between green hills and towering mountains of ancient Japan, there lived a kind-hearted farmer named Shinkichi. He was poor but hardworking, and though life often brought him hardship, he remained content because of the love he shared with his aged mother. Shinkichi’s mother was a frail old woman, her hair white as freshly fallen snow, her back bent with age. Her hands, though thin and trembling, were skilled in sewing and cooking, and her heart remained filled with warmth. The villagers respected her wisdom, often coming to seek her advice on matters of the heart and home. At the time, the land was ruled by a fierce and cold-hearted governor. The ruler believed that aged people were a burden to society — consuming food and resources while contributing little. In his cruelty, he decreed that all those over the age of seventy must be abandoned on the mountains to die. The villagers were stricken with grief at the command. Many wept but dared not disobey the governor, for he was known to be merciless. Word of the decree soon reached Shinkichi’s home. His mother, who had turned seventy-three the past year, understood the law. One night, as the moon hung low in the sky, she spoke to her son: "My dear child, you must obey the law. Take me to the mountain tomorrow, and leave me there. I have lived long and am ready for the end. You must not bring ruin upon yourself for my sake." Tears streamed down Shinkichi’s face. The thought of abandoning his beloved mother was unbearable. Yet the law was strict, and refusal would mean death for them both. With a heavy heart, he agreed. At dawn, Shinkichi prepared for the journey. He wove a basket large enough to carry his mother on his back and filled it with rice cakes and a small flask of water. Gently, he placed her in the basket and began the long climb up the rugged mountain path. The old mother, knowing her son would lose his way on the return journey, broke twigs from bushes and quietly dropped them along the path. Her trembling hands worked with care, leaving a trail for him to follow. She did this not for herself, but out of deep love for her son. When they reached a lonely spot near the summit, surrounded by gnarled trees and thick mist, Shinkichi set the basket down. He helped his mother out and built a small shelter of branches and leaves. "Mother," he said, his voice choked with emotion, "Forgive me. I will come again if I can. I will find a way." The old woman smiled gently, though her heart was breaking. "My child, do not grieve. Go home safely. Follow the trail of twigs. You must live well. That is all I ask." Shinkichi turned away, blinded by tears, and followed the trail his mother had made. The small broken twigs guided him safely back down the mountain. He reached home but could not find peace. Night after night, he lay awake thinking of his mother, alone in the cold heights. Finally, his love conquered fear. Under the cover of darkness, he gathered warm clothes and food and climbed the mountain once more. When he found his mother, she was weak but alive. "Mother! I cannot leave you here to die. Come home with me. I will hide you in my house, no matter what." Moved to tears, the old woman embraced her son. Together, they crept down the mountain under the cloak of night. Shinkichi built a secret room beneath his floor and cared for his mother in secret. She remained hidden, never stepping outside, while he brought her food and news of the village. Months passed. One day, the governor sent messengers to the village with an impossible task: "I command you all to create a rope of ashes. Only those who can do this will prove their worth to the province." The villagers gathered in confusion. A rope of ashes? Such a thing had never been heard of. Many feared they would be punished for failure. That night, Shinkichi spoke to his mother of the challenge. The old woman thought deeply, her eyes shining with wisdom. "Tell them to soak rope in salt water and dry it well. Then burn the rope on a flat surface. The salt will preserve the rope’s shape in ash." Amazed, Shinkichi shared her advice with the village elders. Together, they followed her instructions — and it worked. A perfect rope of ashes lay before them. When the governor saw this, he was astonished. “Who among you is so wise?” he demanded. At first, the villagers hesitated, afraid to speak of the hidden old mother. But Shinkichi, standing tall, stepped forward. "It was my mother’s wisdom, great lord. Though old, she saved us. If you must punish someone, let it be me." The governor was silent for a long time. Then, with a sigh, he spoke: "I was wrong. I see now that age brings wisdom. The old are not a burden but a treasure. I will revoke the cruel law at once." From that day forward, no more aged mothers or fathers were sent to the mountains. The village rejoiced, and Shinkichi’s mother was honored for her wisdom and love. And so, the story of the aged mother lived on, reminding all that love, wisdom, and sacrifice can change even the hardest of hearts.
By Huzaifa Writerabout a year ago in Humans
Be Your Own Hero
That night was strange. The city streets were quiet, and his steps felt heavier than ever. Not because he was tired — but because he was done. Done with trying, done with failing, and most of all, done with pretending to be okay. It was the third job he’d lost in six months. “You just don’t have the spark,” the manager had said with a polite smile that felt like a slap. “You’re not like the others. You’re… forgettable.” He didn’t argue. He never did. He just nodded and left, quietly, like he always did. That’s what the world had always told him in different ways: "You’re not enough." Not smart enough. Not strong enough. Not fast, sharp, funny, bold, exciting, confident... enough. And somewhere along the way, he started believing it. He walked home that night, past glowing billboards and laughing people, wondering how it all got here — how he got here. There was a time he had dreams. Big ones. The kind of dreams that kept you awake at night in the best way. He wanted to build something. To be someone. To leave something behind that mattered. But now? Now he could barely leave his room without feeling like a shadow. When he reached home, his apartment felt colder than usual. Or maybe it was just him. He sat down on the floor, back against the wall, staring at nothing. His phone buzzed — a notification from a motivational page he’d followed long ago, back when he still had hope. "No one is coming to save you. Become your own hero." He stared at those words for a long time. It sounded like a cliché. One of those Instagram quotes that people repost but never live by. But for some reason, this time, something shifted. Not outside — inside. He whispered to himself, “What if I did? What if… I stopped waiting to be rescued?” That night, he didn’t sleep. He wrote. He planned. He made lists, scratched them out, rewrote them. He opened YouTube, searched “how to build confidence” — something he’d never admit out loud — and watched videos for hours. Then came journaling, old TED talks, podcasts, self-assessments, typing practice, basic courses… anything. It was chaos. But it was movement. He didn’t change overnight. This wasn’t a movie. He still felt like shit the next morning. But he got out of bed. And that was the first win.
By TrueVocalabout a year ago in Humans
Reaction: Dirty Plays or Defying Directives?
The following is a reaction to the video found at this URL, and to many others like it: 🔗 https://youtube.com/shorts/OV_TLwoMYPs?si=vT1h5MqJ1r3UyulE
By Peter Thwing - Host of the FST Podcastabout a year ago in Humans
More Dangerous Than the Winged Bite
In the fever-thick jungles of dusk, she drones, Anopheles—needle-nosed, hunger-boned. She dances on air, a whisper of death, Syringe-laced with venom and stilled breath. Men curse her—the blood thief, the midnight wraith, That hums her hymns of parasitic faith.
By Muhammad Abdullahabout a year ago in Humans
I Quit My Phone for 7 Days — What Happened Destroyed Me… Then Rebuilt Me
I never thought I’d be that person—the one who says, “I’m quitting my phone for a week.” Phones were my lifeline, my escape, my connection to the world. But after months of feeling overwhelmed, distracted, and anxious, I finally decided: enough was enough. I was addicted. So, I took the plunge and quit my phone cold turkey for seven whole days.
By Izazkhanabout a year ago in Humans
Juneteenth: The Liberty We Celebrate, The Chains We Keep
I. They say freedom rang on June 19, 1865. Two and a half years late, but freedom—like most things in America—took the scenic route through oppression, confusion, and polite delay. General Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, with news that the enslaved were—imagine this—already free. The chains had been outlawed. And so the broken were told they were no longer broken, the owned were told they had never truly been owned, and the dying were told to get up and live.
By Muhammad Abdullahabout a year ago in Humans