Apr 2 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
Upmarket area in Mumbai, slangily
SOBO
The answer "SOBO" is a slang term for South Bombay, which is an upscale area in Mumbai. This part of the city is known for its luxury homes, high-end shops, and trendy restaurants. Locals often use "SOBO" to refer to this fashionable neighborhood in a casual way. It perfectly fits the clue as it represents an upmarket area in Mumbai.
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5A
___-stew: Kerala dish
APPAM
Appam is a traditional dish from Kerala, a state in India known for its rich cuisine. The term "appam" refers to a type of rice pancake that is soft and fluffy in the center with a crispy edge. It is often served with a variety of stews, making it a perfect match for the clue "___-stew." This delicious pairing is popular in Kerala and showcases the region's unique flavors.
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6A
"Sau Aasmaan" singer Mohan
NEETI
The answer to the crossword clue "Sau Aasmaan" singer Mohan is NEETI. Neeti Mohan is a well-known Indian playback singer who has sung the popular song "Sau Aasmaan." She has gained recognition for her powerful voice and contributions to Bollywood music. Her name fits perfectly in the crossword as it directly relates to the singer mentioned in the clue.
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7A
Collection of wands and pentacles
TAROT
The answer "TAROT" fits the clue because tarot cards are often used in fortune-telling and divination. A typical tarot deck includes wands, pentacles, swords, and cups as its four suits. Each suit represents different aspects of life, making tarot a collection of these symbolic cards. Therefore, "TAROT" perfectly describes a collection of wands and pentacles.
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8A
Its flag has "Allahu Akbar" written 22 times
IRAN
The flag of Iran features the phrase "Allahu Akbar," which means "God is the Greatest," written 22 times along its border. This phrase is a significant part of the country's Islamic identity. The number 22 is also important in Iran, as it represents the date of the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Therefore, the answer to the crossword clue is IRAN.
Down
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1D
Primitive fishing tool
SPEAR
A spear is a long, pointed tool that has been used for fishing for thousands of years. It can be thrown or thrust into the water to catch fish. This makes it a very primitive and effective fishing tool. Many ancient cultures relied on spears for hunting and gathering food from rivers and lakes.
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2D
Musical drama enacted in "Dil Chahta Hai"
OPERA
The answer "OPERA" fits the clue because it is a type of musical drama that combines singing and acting. In the movie "Dil Chahta Hai," there is a scene where the characters experience a dramatic moment that resembles the emotions found in an opera. This connection between music and storytelling is a key feature of both opera and the film. Therefore, "OPERA" is a fitting answer to the clue.
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3D
Relay race handoff
BATON
A relay race involves teams of runners who pass a special object to each other. This object is called a baton. During the race, one runner hands off the baton to the next runner to keep the race going. The word "baton" perfectly fits the clue because it is the item used in the handoff.
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4D
N_gle_t to i_cl_de, e.g.
OMIT
The answer "OMIT" fits the clue because it means to leave something out. In the phrase "N_gle_t to i_cl_de," the word "omit" suggests that something is neglected or not included. When you omit information, you are not including it in what you are saying or writing. This action perfectly matches the idea of neglecting to include something.
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5D
Opposition leader?
ANTI
The answer "ANTI" fits the clue "Opposition leader" because "anti" means against something. In politics, an opposition leader often stands against the ruling party or government. The prefix "anti-" is used to describe someone who opposes a particular idea or policy. Therefore, it perfectly captures the essence of being an opposition leader.