YouTube antidote

In many of my earlier write-ups here I've expressed my antipathy towards social media, and how I think it's a real nuisance most of the time (which is why I gave a silent thumbs up to the lady featured in It's My Life in this issue: she said she dreams of a time when she can dump social media altogether). But I have to give the devil its due, so for a little while I will be eating humble pie. Vloggers on YouTube are talking about their issues - depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, suicidal tendencies etc - and opening the field wide open for inclusive engagement. Viewers now realise they are not alone (not that they ever were, but spoken to by an 'influencer' makes a world of difference I presume) in their struggles; more importantly, the struggles don't have to be as medically buttonholed as they fear - because these YouTube stars share their playbook of silver linings as well. Very instructive, very inspiring, and very liberating. Maybe for this reason alone, I'll give social media a second chance. Have a look at 'YouTube and the Vlogging Cure'.
The trailer of Victoria & Abdul is out, and if you haven't watched it already, you definitely should. Queen Victoria's unlikely bond with an Indian manservant Abdul Karim is a story that's stayed out of public records - and mindshare - but it's seeing the light of day thanks to author-journalist Shrabani Basu's revelations-laden book that's now been made into a film. We catch up with Shrabani for a session of 'royal intrigues'.
Our cover girl this time is Dubai-based artist Charlotte Hudders, who likes to wear her art on her body by customising clothes and accessories in line with her works. Bhutan, that magical kingdom of happiness, features on our Travel pages (I felt happy just reading about the place!). In Bollywood, all eyes are on the new Salman Khan release Tubelight; this could very well cement his Emperor Khan status all over again. The Dubai Stone: fact or fiction... and if it is the former, what you can do to melt the stone. Loads of fun, generous stuff you can do for Eid. All this and much more.
Enjoy reading WKND and have a great weekend.