Mar 3 - 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
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1A
Magnetic quality
CHARM
The word "charm" can refer to a magnetic quality that attracts or fascinates people. When someone has charm, they often draw others in with their personality or presence. This makes "charm" a fitting answer to the clue about a magnetic quality. It captures the idea of allure and appeal that can be both personal and captivating.
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6A
Refined oil product?
ART
The answer "ART" fits the clue "Refined oil product" because it plays on the word "refined." In this context, art can be seen as a refined product of creativity and skill. Just like oil is refined to create a pure product, art is refined through practice and inspiration. Thus, "ART" cleverly captures the essence of something that is polished and developed.
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9A
Assam : Bihu :: Gujarat : ___
GARBA
Bihu is a popular festival celebrated in Assam, known for its vibrant dance and music. Similarly, Garba is a traditional dance associated with the festival of Navratri in Gujarat. Both Bihu and Garba represent the cultural heritage of their respective states and are important in their festive celebrations. Thus, the answer "Garba" fits perfectly in the analogy.
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10A
Rival
FOE
The word "foe" means an enemy or opponent. This fits the clue "rival" because a rival is someone you compete against, just like a foe. Both words suggest a sense of conflict or competition. Therefore, "foe" is a perfect answer for the crossword clue.
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11A
"The ___ husband understands every word his wife doesn't say" - Alfred Hitchcock
IDEAL
The answer "IDEAL" fits the clue because it suggests a perfect or exemplary husband. Alfred Hitchcock's quote implies that an ideal husband can understand his wife's feelings and thoughts, even when she doesn't express them verbally. This highlights the deep emotional connection and understanding that an ideal partner should have. Overall, it captures the essence of what many consider a perfect relationship.
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12A
"Tunak Tunak ___": Daler Mehndi song
TUN
The answer "TUN" fits the crossword clue because it completes the title of Daler Mehndi's famous song, "Tunak Tunak Tun." This catchy song became very popular in the late 1990s and is known for its energetic dance moves. The repetition of the word "Tun" is a key part of the song's fun and memorable chorus. Thus, "TUN" is the perfect fit for the clue.
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13A
Regret deeply
LAMENT
The word "lament" means to express deep sorrow or regret. When someone laments, they show their feelings of sadness about something that has happened. This fits perfectly with the clue "regret deeply," as lamenting involves a strong sense of loss or disappointment. Overall, "lament" captures the essence of feeling regretful in a profound way.
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15A
Lawns at the rear of the house
BACKYARDS
The clue "Lawns at the rear of the house" describes a specific area of a home. Backyards are typically the grassy spaces found behind houses. They are often used for relaxing, gardening, or playing. This makes "BACKYARDS" a perfect fit for the clue.
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18A
Like cricket shots taken by drones
AERIAL
The word "aerial" describes something that is related to the air. In cricket, "shots" can refer to the different ways players hit the ball, and if these shots are taken from above, they would be aerial shots. Drones fly high in the sky and can capture images from above, making the shots they take aerial as well. Therefore, "aerial" fits perfectly as the answer to the clue.
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19A
Nifty's org.
NSE
Nifty's org refers to the organization that manages the Nifty 50 index in India. NSE stands for the National Stock Exchange, which is the official exchange for trading stocks and other securities. The Nifty 50 is a stock market index that represents the top 50 companies listed on the NSE. Therefore, NSE is the correct answer to the clue.
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20A
State of uncertainty
LIMBO
The word "limbo" refers to a state of being in between two conditions or situations, often leading to uncertainty. It is commonly used to describe a feeling of being stuck or not knowing what will happen next. In many contexts, being in limbo means that decisions or outcomes are pending, which perfectly captures the essence of uncertainty. This makes "limbo" a fitting answer to the crossword clue.
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24A
What's the point?
DOT
The answer "DOT" fits the clue "What's the point?" because a dot is a small round mark that can represent a point. In writing, a dot is used at the end of a sentence, making it a literal point. Additionally, in geometry, a dot can represent a specific location or point in space. So, "DOT" captures both meanings of the word "point."
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25A
Devil's opposite
ANGEL
The clue "Devil's opposite" refers to a being that represents goodness and light, which is often seen as the opposite of the devil. In many religions and stories, angels are considered messengers of God and embody virtues like love and protection. This makes "angel" a fitting answer, as angels are commonly viewed as the antithesis of evil spirits like the devil. Thus, the word "angel" perfectly aligns with the idea of being the opposite of the devil.
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26A
Mud bath spot
SPA
The answer "SPA" fits the clue "Mud bath spot" because a spa is a place where people go to relax and enjoy various treatments. Many spas offer mud baths as part of their services, which are believed to have health benefits. These mud baths can help with skin conditions and promote relaxation. Overall, a spa is a perfect spot for enjoying a mud bath experience.
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27A
Acted without speaking
MIMED
The word "mimed" means to act out a scene without using words. When someone mimes, they use gestures and facial expressions to communicate. This fits perfectly with the clue "acted without speaking." Miming is a form of silent performance art that relies solely on physical actions.
Down
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1D
Software-driven FX
CGI
The answer "CGI" stands for Computer-Generated Imagery, which is a type of software-driven special effects used in movies and video games. CGI creates realistic images and animations that bring scenes to life. It plays a crucial role in modern visual storytelling, making it a perfect fit for the clue "Software-driven FX." This technology allows creators to produce stunning visuals that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional methods.
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2D
"I've ____ enough!"
HAD
The phrase "I've had enough!" is a common expression used when someone is tired of a situation or has reached their limit. The word "had" fits perfectly in this context, as it indicates a completed action or experience. This makes "HAD" the right answer for the crossword clue. It captures the feeling of being fed up or wanting to stop something.
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3D
You : u :: ___ : r
ARE
The clue "You : u" shows a relationship between the word "you" and its abbreviation "u." Similarly, "___ : r" needs a word that can be shortened to "r." The word "are" fits perfectly because it can be abbreviated to "r." Both pairs show how a longer word can be represented by a single letter or a short form.
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4D
"Cheeni Kum" or "Paa" director
RBALKI
The answer to the crossword clue is RBALKI because he is the director of both "Cheeni Kum" and "Paa." These films are well-known in Indian cinema and showcase his unique storytelling style. Balki has received praise for his ability to tackle unconventional themes in his movies. His work has made a significant impact on Bollywood, making him a notable figure in the industry.
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5D
Language which reads the same backward and forward
MALAYALAM
The answer to the crossword clue is "MALAYALAM" because it is a palindrome, meaning it reads the same backward and forward. When you spell "MALAYALAM" in reverse, it is still "MALAYALAM." This unique feature makes it a fun example of a language that fits the clue perfectly. Palindromes can be found in words, phrases, and even sentences, but "MALAYALAM" is one of the longest palindromic words in a language.
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6D
"___ you": When getting in a lift
AFTER
The phrase "After you" is a polite way to let someone go ahead of you, especially when entering a lift. It shows good manners and respect for the other person. When you hold the door open for someone, you might say "After you" to invite them in first. This makes "AFTER" the perfect fit for the crossword clue.
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7D
Shape of tabla top
ROUND
The tabla is a traditional Indian percussion instrument with a circular top. This round shape allows for better sound resonance and is essential for the instrument's unique tones. When you think of the tabla, its round surface is one of the first features that come to mind. Therefore, "ROUND" is the perfect answer to the crossword clue about the shape of a tabla top.
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8D
Circus setups
TENTS
The answer "TENTS" fits the clue "Circus setups" because tents are commonly used as the main structure for circuses. They provide a place for performers and audiences to gather under one roof. Tents can be large and colorful, creating an exciting atmosphere for circus shows. Without tents, many circuses would not have a proper venue to showcase their acts.
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14D
Bollywood's Hema ___
MALINI
Hema Malini is a famous actress in Bollywood, known for her roles in many classic films. She gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s and is often called the "Dream Girl" of Indian cinema. Besides acting, she is also a dancer and a politician. Her name perfectly fits the crossword clue as she is a well-known figure in the Bollywood industry.
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15D
Parikrama and Shakti, in music
BANDS
Parikrama and Shakti are both well-known music bands in India. They blend different styles and genres, showcasing the richness of Indian music. The clue refers to these groups as "bands," which is a common term for musical ensembles. Therefore, "BANDS" is the perfect answer.
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16D
Greek fable writer
AESOP
Aesop is known as a famous Greek storyteller who lived in ancient times. He is best known for his fables, which are short stories that often teach a moral lesson. Many of his tales feature animals that talk and act like humans. Aesop's fables have been passed down through generations and remain popular today.
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17D
Hyundai's SUV model
CRETA
The answer "CRETA" fits the clue because it is a model of SUV made by Hyundai. The Hyundai Creta is popular in many countries for its stylish design and comfortable features. It is known for being a reliable vehicle that can handle various driving conditions. Overall, the Creta is a great choice for those looking for a compact SUV.
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21D
Studio with a roaring lion
MGM
MGM stands for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, a famous movie studio. The studio is well-known for its logo featuring a roaring lion. This lion has become an iconic symbol of MGM films. Therefore, MGM perfectly fits the clue about a studio with a roaring lion.
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22D
Queen, e.g.
BEE
The answer "BEE" fits the clue "Queen, e.g." because a queen bee is an important role in a bee colony. In this context, "Queen" refers to the female bee that lays eggs and leads the hive. Additionally, bees are known for their social structure, where the queen is the central figure. This makes "BEE" a clever answer to the crossword clue.
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23D
Like many sepia-tinted photographs
OLD
Sepia-tinted photographs are often associated with the past, giving them an old-fashioned look. The color sepia is created by a process that was popular many years ago, making these photos feel nostalgic. Therefore, describing them as "old" perfectly fits the clue. Many people connect sepia tones with memories and history, reinforcing the idea of age.