Mar 10 - Midi 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
-
1A
When repeated, start of the song "Dekha Ek Khwaab..."
HMM
The answer "HMM" fits the clue because it is the first sound repeated in the song "Dekha Ek Khwaab." The song begins with the line "Dekha ek khwaab," but the sound "HMM" is often used to express a dreamy or contemplative feeling, which matches the song's theme. Additionally, the clue specifically mentions "when repeated," highlighting that the sound is echoed in the song. Thus, "HMM" is a clever and fitting answer.
-
4A
It holds liquid assets?
DAM
The answer "DAM" fits the clue "It holds liquid assets" because a dam is a structure that holds back water, which is a liquid. In this context, "liquid assets" is a clever play on words, as it refers to both water and financial resources. Just like a dam stores water, liquid assets in finance are easily accessible resources. Thus, the answer is both literal and a fun pun!
-
7A
"TBH..."
IMO
The clue "TBH" stands for "to be honest," which is often used in casual conversations. The answer "IMO" means "in my opinion," and both phrases express a personal viewpoint. They are similar in that they introduce a subjective statement. Therefore, "IMO" fits well as a response to "TBH."
-
8A
Point of view?
EYE
The answer "EYE" fits the clue "Point of view" because the eye is literally how we see the world. When someone talks about their perspective or opinion, they often refer to it as their "point of view." The eye represents seeing things from a personal angle. So, it makes sense that "EYE" is a clever answer to the clue.
-
9A
Pre-wedding ceremony, in Hindi
SANGEET
The word "Sangeet" refers to a musical celebration that often takes place before a wedding in Indian culture. It is a joyful event where family and friends gather to sing and dance. This ceremony is an important part of the wedding festivities, making it a perfect fit for the clue "pre-wedding ceremony, in Hindi." The answer captures the essence of celebration and tradition associated with Indian weddings.
-
11A
Kumbh mela feature
DIP
The Kumbh Mela is a major Hindu festival where millions gather to take a holy dip in sacred rivers. This ritual is believed to wash away sins and bring spiritual purification. The word "dip" perfectly describes this important activity during the festival. Thus, it fits the crossword clue as a key feature of the Kumbh Mela.
-
12A
Standing against
LEANING
The answer "LEANING" fits the clue "Standing against" because leaning means to rest against something for support. When you lean, you are not fully upright; instead, you are positioned at an angle. This action can be seen as standing against a wall or another object. Therefore, "leaning" captures the idea of being in a position that opposes a straight, upright stance.
-
16A
"Howzzat", say
CRY
The clue "Howzzat" is often used in cricket when a player appeals for a decision. When a player shouts "Howzzat," they are essentially crying out to the umpire for a ruling. The word "cry" captures this action, making it a fitting answer. Additionally, "cry" can refer to any loud vocal expression, which aligns with the excitement of the moment in cricket.
-
17A
Olympian boxer Mary
KOM
Mary Kom is a famous Indian boxer who has won multiple Olympic medals. She is known for her incredible skill and determination in the ring. The clue refers to her first name, "Mary," and the answer "KOM" comes from her last name. This makes it a perfect fit for the crossword clue about an Olympian boxer.
-
18A
"Zwigato" director Nandita
DAS
The answer to the crossword clue "Zwigato" director Nandita is DAS. Nandita Das is a well-known Indian filmmaker and actress. She directed the movie "Zwigato," which tells a story about the gig economy and its challenges. The surname "Das" fits perfectly as it is her last name.
-
19A
Bhil or Saura, e.g.
ART
Bhil and Saura are both indigenous communities in India known for their unique art forms. The answer "ART" fits the clue because these groups express their culture and traditions through various artistic styles, such as paintings and crafts. Their artwork often tells stories and reflects their way of life, making it an important part of their identity. Thus, both Bhil and Saura can be categorized under the broader term "art."
Down
-
1D
Welcome letters
HIS
The answer "HIS" fits the clue "Welcome letters" because it is a common phrase used to greet someone. When you say "welcome," you often mean that something belongs to someone. The letters "H," "I," and "S" stand for "his," indicating ownership or belonging, which connects to the idea of welcoming someone. Thus, "HIS" is a clever play on words for this crossword clue.
-
2D
Sport with kicking and boxing, for short
MMA
MMA stands for Mixed Martial Arts, which is a sport that combines different fighting styles. It includes techniques from boxing and various forms of kicking. This makes it a perfect fit for the clue since both kicking and boxing are important parts of the sport. The abbreviation "MMA" is commonly used, making it a short answer as requested.
-
3D
Longest days of the week?
MONDAYS
The answer "MONDAYS" fits the clue "Longest days of the week" because many people feel that Mondays are the longest day after the weekend. After a break, returning to work or school can make the day feel extra long. Additionally, some people may have a busy schedule on Mondays, adding to the feeling that the day stretches on. Overall, Mondays often feel like a challenge, making them seem longer than other days.
-
4D
Bollywood's Padukone
DEEPIKA
The answer to the crossword clue "Bollywood's Padukone" is DEEPIKA. Deepika Padukone is a famous actress in Bollywood, known for her roles in many popular films. She has received several awards for her performances and is one of the highest-paid actresses in India. Her last name, Padukone, directly matches the clue, making DEEPIKA the perfect answer.
-
5D
"___ Mere Humsafar..."
AYE
The phrase "___ Mere Humsafar..." is part of a famous song from the Bollywood movie "Baazigar." The missing word is "AYE," which completes the title of the song. This answer fits perfectly because it is a well-known expression in Hindi, often used to express agreement or acknowledgment. Fans of the movie and song will recognize this connection immediately.
-
6D
Faced
MET
The word "met" is the past tense of "meet," which means to come face to face with someone. When you meet someone, you are literally facing them. Therefore, "met" fits the clue "faced" perfectly. It captures the idea of encountering someone directly.
-
10D
Juniper-berry flavoured liquor
GIN
Gin is a type of liquor that is flavored with juniper berries, which give it a unique taste. The name "gin" actually comes from the Dutch word for juniper, "jenever." This drink is popular in many cocktails and is enjoyed straight or with mixers. Its refreshing flavor makes it a favorite for many people.
-
12D
Display letters
LCD
The answer "LCD" fits the clue "Display letters" because LCD stands for Liquid Crystal Display. This technology is commonly used in screens to show text and images. When you look at a digital screen, like a TV or computer monitor, it often uses an LCD to display letters and graphics clearly. So, LCD is directly related to how we see and read letters on screens.
-
13D
Ahilyabai Holkar's reign, say
ERA
Ahilyabai Holkar was a prominent ruler in India during the 18th century. Her time as queen is often referred to as an "era" because it marked a significant period of development and prosperity in her kingdom. The word "era" captures the idea of a distinct time in history, which fits perfectly with the clue. Thus, "ERA" is the correct answer.
-
14D
What may be found between here and there?
NOR
The answer "NOR" fits the clue because it is a word that can connect two ideas or places. When we think about "here" and "there," "nor" can indicate something that is neither one thing nor the other. It helps show a contrast or exclusion between two options. So, it makes sense to find "nor" between "here" and "there."
-
15D
___+530, for India
GMT
The answer to the crossword clue "___+530, for India" is GMT, which stands for Greenwich Mean Time. India is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of GMT. This means that when it is noon in GMT, it is 5:30 PM in India. Therefore, the clue correctly points to GMT as the time reference for India.