July 31 clues & answers
Every clue of this Indian mini crossword by Mangesh Ghogre, with the answer and, where it helps, how the wordplay works. Solve it yourself first: the puzzle is open to subscribers.
Across
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1A
Mahals : Palaces :: Jhopdis : ___
HUTS
The clue compares two pairs of words. "Mahals" are grand palaces, while "jhopdis" are simple, small homes. Just like mahals represent luxury, jhopdis represent modest living. Therefore, the best word to match "jhopdis" is "huts," as they are both basic forms of shelter.
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5A
___ Ambani
ISHA
Isha Ambani is a well-known Indian businesswoman and the daughter of Mukesh Ambani, one of the richest people in the world. She is involved in various business ventures and is known for her work in the Reliance Industries group. The crossword clue fits because "Isha" is the first name of Ambani, making it a perfect match.
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6A
Goddess on a lion
DURGA
Durga is a Hindu goddess known for her strength and power. She is often depicted riding a lion, which symbolizes courage and fearlessness. In many stories, she battles evil forces, showcasing her role as a protector. This connection to a lion makes "Durga" the perfect answer to the clue "Goddess on a lion."
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8A
The "R" of ORVM, for a car
REAR
The clue "The 'R' of ORVM" refers to the letters in the abbreviation for "Outside Rear View Mirror." In this case, the "R" stands for "Rear." In cars, the rear view mirror is located at the back, allowing drivers to see what is behind them. Therefore, "REAR" is the correct answer to the crossword clue.
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9A
___ chart, in project management
PERT
A PERT chart is a project management tool used to plan and schedule tasks. The acronym PERT stands for Program Evaluation and Review Technique. It helps teams visualize the sequence of activities and identify the time needed to complete a project. This makes it easier to manage complex projects efficiently.
Down
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1D
Kept under wraps
HID
The answer "HID" fits the clue "Kept under wraps" because it means to keep something out of sight. When you hide something, you are not allowing others to see it. This matches the idea of wrapping something up to keep it hidden. Therefore, "HID" is a perfect answer for this clue.
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2D
Grab power
USURP
The word "usurp" means to take control or power from someone else, often in an illegal or unfair way. This fits the clue "grab power" perfectly, as both phrases suggest seizing authority. When someone usurps, they are not just taking something; they are forcefully claiming power that does not belong to them. Thus, "usurp" captures the essence of grabbing power.
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3D
Value of pi (just about)
THREE
The value of pi is approximately 3.14, which is close to the whole number 3. In the clue, "just about" suggests that we are looking for a rough estimate rather than an exact figure. Therefore, "THREE" fits perfectly as it is the nearest whole number to pi.
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4D
Ramanand ___, of "Ramayan" TV series in 80s
SAGAR
Ramanand Sagar was the creator and director of the famous "Ramayan" TV series that aired in the 1980s. The show was a huge hit and is remembered for its faithful adaptation of the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana. Sagar's vision and direction brought the characters and stories to life, making it a beloved part of Indian television history. His last name, Sagar, fits perfectly in the crossword clue.
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7D
One hanging by a thread?
ART
The answer "ART" fits the clue "One hanging by a thread" because it sounds like "aRT," which can refer to a piece of art that might be delicately suspended or displayed. Additionally, art can often be seen as something fragile or intricate, much like something hanging by a thread. The wordplay in the clue suggests a clever twist, linking the idea of art with the image of something that is delicately balanced.