17 March 2024 · 12 clues

Mar 17 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

  1. 1A Herb used in Thai cuisine BASIL

    Basil is a common herb used in Thai cooking. It adds a fresh and aromatic flavor to many dishes. Thai basil, in particular, has a slightly spicy taste that enhances stir-fries and soups. This makes basil an essential ingredient in authentic Thai cuisine.

  2. 6A Deep valley, like one along the river Chambal RAVINE

    A ravine is a deep, narrow valley often formed by the erosion of water. The Chambal River, which flows through India, has many ravines along its banks. These features are characterized by steep sides and a winding shape, making "ravine" a perfect fit for the clue. Thus, the answer captures both the geographical aspect and the specific reference to the Chambal River.

  3. 7A "___ pe ___": Bollywood dialogue, perhaps apt for the Indian election scene TAREEKH

    The answer "TAREEKH" fits the clue "___ pe ___" because it is a famous dialogue from the Bollywood movie "Sholay." In the film, the phrase is used to emphasize the importance of time and dates. This is particularly relevant in the context of Indian elections, where dates and timing play a crucial role in the political landscape. The dialogue captures the urgency and significance of making choices in a democratic process.

  4. 8A The "E" in E=mc^2 ENERGY

    The "E" in E=mc² stands for energy. This famous equation, created by Albert Einstein, shows how energy and mass are related. In simple terms, it means that mass can be converted into energy and vice versa. So, the answer "energy" perfectly fits the clue!

  5. 9A Common sense? TASTE

    The word "taste" can mean having good judgment or common sense. When someone has taste, they often make wise choices in things like art, food, or fashion. This connection makes "taste" a fitting answer to the clue "Common sense?" because it reflects an understanding of what is good or appropriate. So, in this context, having taste is like having common sense.

Down

  1. 1D Uncovers, as events in "The Indrani Mukerjea Story: Buried Truth" BARES

    The word "bares" means to reveal or uncover something. In the context of "The Indrani Mukerjea Story: Buried Truth," it suggests that the events in the story expose hidden truths. Just like when you bare something, you show it to the world. This makes "bares" a fitting answer to the crossword clue.

  2. 2D Duck AVERT

    The answer "AVERT" can relate to the clue "Duck" because to duck often means to avoid something. When you avert your gaze or your body, you are effectively ducking away from whatever is coming at you. In this sense, both words share the idea of moving away or avoiding an obstacle. So, "AVERT" fits the clue by capturing the essence of dodging or ducking.

  3. 3D Prolonged battle, often of EMI against salary SIEGE

    The word "siege" refers to a prolonged battle, especially when an army surrounds a place to capture it. In the context of the clue, "EMI" can represent an ongoing financial burden, like a loan payment, while "salary" is the income someone earns. When you have to pay off debts like EMI, it can feel like a long struggle or "siege" against your money. Thus, "siege" fits perfectly as it captures the idea of a drawn-out conflict, especially in financial terms.

  4. 4D Like a thumb after physically signing an agreement with a thumb-print INKY

    The answer "INKY" fits the clue because when you sign an agreement with a thumbprint, your thumb often gets covered in ink. This ink can make your thumb look dark or "inky." The word describes the appearance of your thumb after using an ink pad. So, it perfectly matches the idea of a thumb after signing.

  5. 5D Capital city near Pangong lake LEH

    Leh is the capital city of the Indian union territory of Ladakh. It is located near Pangong Lake, which is famous for its stunning blue waters and beautiful landscapes. Many tourists visit Leh to explore the lake and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. This makes Leh a fitting answer to the crossword clue about a capital city near Pangong Lake.

  6. 6D Actor Daggubati of "Baahubali" RANA

    Rana Daggubati is a well-known Indian actor who played a significant role in the blockbuster film "Baahubali." He portrayed the character Bhallaladeva, which made him very popular. The clue specifically mentions "Actor Daggubati," leading to the answer "RANA." His performance in the film was praised and contributed to the movie's massive success.

  7. 7D Vietnamese New Year TET

    Tet is the Vietnamese New Year, celebrated on the first day of the lunar calendar. It is a time for families to come together, honor ancestors, and welcome the new year with hope and joy. During Tet, people often clean their homes, prepare special foods, and give gifts. The festival is an important cultural event in Vietnam, marking new beginnings and fresh starts.

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