May 3 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
Whom Ravan abducts, in Ramayan
SITA
In the Ramayana, Ravan, the demon king of Lanka, abducts Sita, the wife of Lord Rama. This event is a central part of the story, leading to Rama's quest to rescue her. Sita represents purity and devotion, making her abduction a significant plot point. Therefore, "SITA" is the correct answer to the crossword clue.
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5A
Puneri ___: Kabaddi team
PALTAN
The answer "PALTAN" fits the clue "Puneri ___: Kabaddi team" because it is the name of the kabaddi team based in Pune, India. The team is part of the Pro Kabaddi League and has a passionate fan base. "Paltan" means "troop" or "team" in Hindi, which reflects the spirit of the players. This makes it a perfect match for the crossword clue.
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7A
Point in the right direction
ORIENT
The word "orient" means to guide or point someone in the right direction. It comes from the idea of finding the east, which is where the sun rises. When you orient someone, you help them understand where to go or what to do. This makes "orient" a perfect fit for the clue "Point in the right direction."
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8A
Way to split bill, in Mumbai (abbr.)
TTMM
The answer "TTMM" stands for "To The Mumbais," which is a common way to refer to splitting a bill in Mumbai. In this context, "TT" can mean "to" and "MM" can represent "Mumbai," making it an abbreviation. This fits the clue perfectly as it captures the essence of how people in Mumbai might refer to splitting expenses. Using abbreviations is common in everyday conversation, making "TTMM" a clever answer.
Down
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1D
What you need not be to become a top model
SLIM
The answer "SLIM" fits the clue because it suggests that you do not have to be slim to become a top model. Many successful models come in different shapes and sizes. The fashion industry is becoming more inclusive, celebrating diversity in body types. Therefore, being slim is not a requirement for success in modeling.
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2D
Thing in an online cart
ITEM
The answer "ITEM" fits the clue "Thing in an online cart" because an item is a product that you choose to buy. When shopping online, you add items to your cart before checking out. Each item represents something you want to purchase, like clothes, electronics, or groceries. So, "ITEM" is a perfect match for what you find in an online shopping cart.
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3D
"___ Tana ___ ___ ___ Tara, Chalti Hai Kya Nau Se Barah"
TAN
The answer "TAN" fits the clue because it is part of the famous Bollywood song "Chalti Hai Kya Nau Se Barah" from the movie "Judwaa." In the lyrics, the phrase "Tana Tana Tan" is repeated, which makes it a catchy and memorable part of the song. The clue cleverly uses the structure of the song to lead to the answer. Overall, "TAN" is a key element in the song's rhythm and lyrics.
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4D
Kitchen pest
ANT
Ants are common pests found in kitchens because they are always on the lookout for food. They can enter homes through tiny cracks and often travel in trails to find crumbs or spills. Their ability to quickly gather in large numbers makes them a nuisance in any kitchen. This is why "ANT" is a fitting answer for the clue "Kitchen pest."
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5D
Janmashtami target
POT
Janmashtami is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna. One of the popular traditions during this festival is the "Dahi Handi" event, where people form human pyramids to reach and break a pot filled with curd or butter. The goal is to break the pot, making "pot" a fitting answer to the crossword clue. This activity symbolizes the playful and mischievous nature of Krishna as a child.
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6D
BSC : Science :: BA : ___
ART
The clue compares two types of academic degrees. A BSC, or Bachelor of Science, is a degree in scientific fields. Similarly, a BA, or Bachelor of Arts, is a degree focused on the arts and humanities. Therefore, the answer "ART" fits perfectly as it represents the field associated with a BA degree.