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<keyword id="20090902" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Javed-Akhtar" source="keywords">Javed Akhtar</keyword>, one of <keyword id="19897820" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Bollywood" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Bollywood" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Bollywood">Bollywood</keyword>'s most celebrated lyricists and screenwriters, made a significant decision in the late 1990s that altered the course of <keyword id="20060213" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-cinema" source="keywords">Indian cinema</keyword> history the slightest bit. He famously turned down the opportunity to work on <keyword id="19901337" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Karan-Johar" source="keywords">Karan Johar</keyword>’s iconic film <keyword id="19965749" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Kuch-Kuch-Hota-Hai" source="keywords">Kuch Kuch Hota Hai</keyword> (1998), a movie that went on to become a cultural phenomenon. In a recent chat on comedian <keyword id="22251029" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Sapan-Verma" source="keywords">Sapan Verma</keyword>’s YouTube channel, Javed Akhtar revealed that when Karan Johar approached him to work on Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, he initially agreed. However, when Johar decided on the film’s now-famous title, Javed had second thoughts. “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai… kya hota hai?” he wondered aloud, sharing how he couldn’t quite wrap his head around the vague phrase. Javed refused to write lyrics for a film with a title he found meaningless. At the time, Johar was a debutant director and Mr Akhtar, known for his profound and poetic sensibilities, probably felt that the title lacked the gravitas he typically looked for in a project. Instead, the film’s songs were penned by <keyword id="20407788" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Sameer-Anjaan" source="keywords">Sameer Anjaan</keyword>, who delivered chartbusters like "Tujhe Yaad Na Meri Aayi" and the iconic title track "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai." The soundtrack went on to become one of the most beloved of the decade, contributing greatly to the <keyword id="19900227" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Shah-Rukh" source="keywords">Shah Rukh</keyword>, Rani and Kajol-starrer’s success. And as Karan himself revealed during a discussion with designer Prabal Gurung on the Gold House YouTube channel, Javed Akhtar did call him after the movie’s success and admitted that he was wrong. Fortunately, all was not lost and Karan and Mr Akhtar joined forces on the 2003 film <keyword id="20040378" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Kal-Ho-Naa-Ho" source="keywords">Kal Ho Naa Ho</keyword>. Suffice to say, the music was a hit there as well. But looking back, it’s fascinating to think how the lyrical landscape of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai might have been different had Akhtar taken up the project — even if we adore the existing songs!

Did you know that Javed Akhtar refused to work on 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai' because he didn’t like the movie’s title?

Megastar <keyword id="6357912" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="amitabh-bachchan" source="Orion">Amitabh Bachchan</keyword> is all set to don the host's hat again for the sixteenth season of '<keyword id="17940" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="kaun-banega-crorepati" source="Orion">Kaun Banega Crorepati</keyword>'. Taking to the official Instagram handle, Sony Entertainment Television, shared the exciting news with the 'KBC' fans. The promo started with the emotional speech of <keyword id="2217" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="big-b" source="Orion">Big B</keyword> that he gave while wrapping up the last season. However, as it ends a voice can be heard, saying, " Har aarambh ka ant taye hai magar apnon ke pyar mein jo anand hai.. to har ant ke baad shubharambh nishchit hai.." Big B later said, "Gunja jo aapke pyar ka shankhnaad , to aana padega fir" (If the sound of your love echoes, I will have to come again.) The makers also announced that registration for <keyword id="15468743" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="kbc-16" source="Orion">KBC 16</keyword> will start from April 26. The caption reads, "Aisa mila pyar ki laut raha hai fir ek baar, #KaunBanegaCrorepati.. shuru ho rahe hai #KBCRegistrations 26 April raat 9 baje..@amitabhbachchan #KBConSonyTV #KBC16 #kbcisback" After the post, fans shared their excitement. One of them wrote, "thanks for bringing <keyword id="21324433" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="new-season-of-kbc" source="Orion">new season of KBC</keyword>". Another mentioned, "Yessss.....waiting for Mr. Bachchan sir". https://www.instagram.com/reel/C5z-uStqGKM/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== While wrapping up the 15th season, Big B said, "Devi aur sajjano, ab hum jaa rahe aur kal se yeh manch ab nahi sajega. Apno se yeh keh pana ki kal se hum yahan nahi aa payenge, na kehne ki himmat hoti aur na kehne ka mann hota hai (Ladies and gentleman, now it's time to go as the stage won't be the same. It's difficult to let everyone know that we won't be returning here from tomorrow)." https://www.instagram.com/reel/C1cD-GXqoVX/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link The 'Agnipath' star started hosting the quiz show in 2000, and since then he has been a constant part of the show except for one season. In 2006, Shah Rukh Khan replaced Big B as a host for the third season of the show.

Amitabh Bachchan set to return with season 16 of 'Kaun Banega Crorepati', deets inside

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], November 9 (ANI): The latest episode of '<keyword id="3779" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="koffee-with-karan" source="Orion">Koffee with Karan</keyword>' season 8 saw actresses <keyword id="823990" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="sara-ali-khan" source="Orion">Sara Ali Khan</keyword> and <keyword id="3805597" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ananya-panday" source="Orion">Ananya Panday</keyword> gracing the famous talk show couch. In a candid conversation with host <keyword id="3778" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="karan-johar" source="Orion">Karan Johar</keyword>, the two opened up about their personal and professional lives. Surprisingly, Karan also claimed that at one point, <keyword id="19438997" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="sara-and-anaya" source="Orion">Sara and Anaya</keyword> dated the same actor, <keyword id="2104801" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="kartik-aaryan" source="Orion">Kartik Aaryan</keyword>. Karan initiated the topic of Kartik by asking whether it's easier for them to be cordial with each other considering they once dated the same guy. Instead of mentioning names, Sara talked about dating and breakups in general. "I don't want to say that ya, it's all easy because then it comes across as a little more frivolous than it is. It isn't always easy. When you are involved with anybody, whether it's friends, professionally, romantically, espically if I am, I get involved and invested. It is not like, 'Oh yeah, it doesn't really matter, whatever its today, whatever its tomorrow'. It's not like that. It does affect you. But ultimately you have to rise beyond that," Sara said. She added, "I have realised, without sounding semi negative, there are actually no predicaments in this business. In my limited experience, there is no point making permanent best friendships, pinky promises saying I'll never talk to you again. All these nevers and always nahi hota (doesn't happen)." Karan then told Sara and Ananya about his past rifts with his closest friends Kareena Kapoor Khan and Kajol. Karan revealed, "Twice in my life, I had differences with close friends of mine. One was with Kareena way back in 2003, we didn't speak for a year and half. It was over a film, it was over Kal Ho Na Ho and it was only when my father was diagnosed with cancer that actually she called me, she was silent, I was silent. She was like I don't know what to say, I said, don't say anything, I know you are there. When he passed away, she was in Bangkok, we still had not mended, the point she landed from her shoot, she came home. We spent all night just chatting. We went back to where we were. When we fought, I said I am never going to speak with her again." Talking about his rift with Kajol, he said, "It happened years later, with Kajol, which was also like such an emotional bond. We felt we would never be together, both landed up. I remember messaging Kajol when my babies were born and we haven't spoken in two years. I just sent her images of Yash and Roohi. I said you don't need to reply but these are what my children look like - Yash and Roohi. She messaged back and she said, I am just full of love right now. Month later, she said it's my birthday, you don't have to come but I went. We hugged, we cried and it was done." 'Koffee with Karan' streams on Disney+ Hotstar. (ANI)

No point making permanent best friends, pinky promises: Sara Ali Khan

'<keyword id="400044" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="freedom-at-midnight" source="Orion">Freedom at Midnight</keyword>', a <keyword id="6785745" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="new-web-series" source="Orion">new web series</keyword> about the Partition of India, based on the book of same name by Dominique Lapierre and Larry Collins, is currently in the works. The show, described as an epic political thriller/drama that highlights several incidents from the year of India's independence and interconnected stories about crucial events and personalities who played a significant role in writing the country's history as we know today. The series will see 'Kal Ho Naa Ho' director Nikkhil Advani as the show runner with the story penned by Abhinandan Gupta, Adwitiya Kareng Das and Gundeep Kaur. Commenting on the development, Nikkhil said in a statement, "The year 1947 has been etched in India's history as the year that shaped its fate. A riveting, emotional tale of an incident that altered the course of the nation, 'Freedom at Midnight' is an attempt to bring to Indians the whole truth about the events that led us to our freedom - the courage, and the hope instilled in people by the personages who gave us the new India." StudioNext and Emmay Entertainment (Monisha Advani, Madhu Bhojwani and Nikkhil Advani) have joined the forces on the project to co-produce the same. Once ready, the series will stream on OTT platform SonyLIV, which recently clocked 18.2 million subscribers placing it as India's second largest video-on-demand or SVoD service only after Disney+ Hotstar, media report said. Nikkhil further mentioned in his statement, "This is a story every Indian should know, and I feel honoured to be able to tell it along with my partners, Monisha and Madhu, and the team of writers, along with StudioNext. It is even more special for Emmay Entertainment that we get to bring this story to SonyLIV after our successful stint with 'Rocket Boys'. The platform has been at the forefront of narrating the stories of the homeland, and I look forward to associating with them on this project too." Danish Khan, Head - Sony LIV, Sony Entertainment Television and StudioNext added to Nikkhil's comments as he said, "Our goal has been to bring to light untold stories from contemporary history. From 1947 to present day, India experienced many watershed moments that are significant in shaping our futures. "One such story of the country's struggle for independence is 'Freedom at Midnight'. We are delighted that StudioNext and Emmay Entertainment are collaborating on this intriguing series, and cannot wait to get started on this one with Nikhil and his talented team." SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/ecommerce/news/amazon-flipkart-and-myntra-sales-all-unaffected-by-low-consumer-sentiment/articleshow/92245806.cms">Amazon, Flipkart and Myntra sales – all unaffected by low consumer sentiment</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/remote-connectivity-platform-teamviewer-appoints-new-india-business-head/articleshow/92247325.cms">Remote connectivity platform TeamViewer appoints new India business head</a>

The most famous book on Indian independence 'Freedom at midnight' to be made into a web series

<ul><li>LG Tone Free Buds are available at a price of ₹12,989</li><li>Fit TF7 are the first fitness centric Tone Free buds from LG</li><li>These TWS Buds support ANC and spatial sound</li></ul>LG recently introduced a new pair of TWS buds, the LG Tone Free Fit, retaining the classic features that we are accustomed to with the Tone Free range. It follows a minimalistic design, promises great audio performance with its ANC and features UV nanotechnology. Priced at par with some more exciting and well-received products like the Sony WF-1000XM4 and Apple's AirPods 2, these Tone Free buds have some tough competitors. What does set them apart is the fitness centric theme around which they are mounted. So do they deliver on their promise? And is it worthy of your ears? I answer that question in my in-depth review. Price &amp; Availability LG Tone Free Fit TF7 is available for a price of ₹12,989 on LG’s official online store and Amazon. Design &amp; Build LG took a different approach with the Fit TF7 compared to its predecessor. While it still maintains the iconic shell-shaped case, it's slightly larger. This increase in size provides more room inside, which, in turn, can make it a bit challenging to carry in your pockets and may require some adjustment. Nevertheless, this design choice actually results in a more compact form factor compared to the AirPods Pro. I’ve used the blue variant which exudes a premium look. Its design is minimalistic, devoid of any unnecessary patterns or curves that might seem out of place. The only noticeable branding is the subtle "Tone" logo on the top. The matte finish not only adds to its aesthetics but also ensures it remains free from unsightly scratches. One thoughtful addition to the case is the LED indicator that conveys connectivity status and battery life. LG's attention to detail shines here, with a green light indicating ample battery backup, an orange LED showing it's reached the halfway mark, and a red indicator signaling low battery levels. This feature kept me well-informed about the battery status, allowing me to charge it accordingly. The case also features a neatly placed USB Type-C charging port at the bottom for convenient charging. Perhaps the most distinctive feature of the case lies within it – the UVnano lights, as claimed by LG, provide protection against 99.99% of bacteria. While I can't independently verify this level of protection, it might provide peace of mind to a certain segment of buyers. More on the impact of this feature on battery life in the latter part of this article. Now, shifting our focus to the earbuds themselves, the TF7 buds are smaller in size compared to the AirPods Pro and regular AirPods. They sport a dot design, which personally, I'm not a fan of. Given that my ears stick outwards, I often face difficulties with dot-shaped buds. Typically, I need to find the right ear tips for a secure fit. However, in this case, the default tips worked exceptionally well, which is good news. The buds strike a balance in size, offering ample space for interaction without causing discomfort during activities like walking. The build quality of these buds is impressive. They feel sturdy, and the plastic used is of high quality. Aesthetically, LG could have pushed the envelope further, as the buds don't exude the same level of sophistication as the AirPods or Galaxy Buds. Considering the price point, one might expect a more refined design in the next iteration. In terms of comfort, the TF7 buds hit the mark. Their compact size, combined with an ergonomic build, makes them an excellent choice for both desk work and workouts. The TF7 buds boast an IP67 water resistance rating, further enhancing their durability. I have been using the buds for my running sessions and so far I haven't faced any issues. I can quantify how much I sweat, but its enough to test the buds out. Definitely a reliable product. I used them with the default ear tips, and the experience was quite satisfying. The buds remained securely in place while I was seated or in motion. They are indeed a suitable option for workouts, where maintaining a firm grip is a top priority. The swivel feature is also a welcome addition, enhancing their overall usability. Performance Pairing and Connectivity: The TF7 is equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, and it generally performs admirably with only a few minor hiccups. In my testing, I initially paired them with an Android device, the OnePlus 11R, and the process was swift, requiring just a couple of taps. Notably, with Google Fast Pair enabled, the case automatically detected the FP9 when my device's Bluetooth visibility was turned on. Connecting my Android smartphone to the buds was a breeze, and this efficiency was highly impressive. However, the situation took a turn when I attempted to pair them with my iPhone. I found myself refreshing the Bluetooth list multiple times before they finally appeared. The same struggle persisted when I tried connecting them to another Apple device, the iPhone 11. Yet, when reconnecting them to an Android smartphone, the process was as swift as the initial setup. It's worth noting that I've encountered this issue before with Tone buds FP9. One consistent factor in both scenarios was the buds' ability to maintain robust connectivity once paired. Over a month of usage, the buds exhibited no sudden disconnections or connectivity issues. An additional noteworthy feature is multi-device pairing, which proves especially convenient for those who work from home. Switching between my laptop and smartphone was effortless, as I didn't need to manually disconnect and reconnect the buds. I'd like to emphasise the importance of multi-device pairing when purchasing TWS buds or any Bluetooth audio product. It greatly enhances the overall user experience, providing seamless transitions between devices. Gestures The TF7 features touch-sensitive controls with a preset of gestures that come in handy. As previously mentioned, the buds' ideal size makes interaction with them effortless. To enhance convenience, LG has included a dedicated touchpoint where you can tap to engage with the buds. The execution of these touch controls is commendable for two key reasons. Firstly, it accurately responds to your gestures without missing a beat. Secondly, it's straightforward to remember how to use them. These touch-sensitive buds offer a range of functions. A single tap on either bud allows you to play or pause your media. A double tap on the right bud increases the volume, while the same action on the left bud decreases it. A triple tap assists in moving forward or backward in your playlist. These gestures are intuitive and uncluttered. For activating Active Noise Cancellation, a long press on either bud does the trick. Furthermore, you have the option to customise these settings through the TONE Free application. However, it's worth noting that altering these settings may lead to issues when connecting the buds to different devices, so I wouldn't recommend frequent adjustments unless necessary. Tone Free Application Audio Customization: It's common to find a dedicated application for high-end TWS earbuds, and in this case, LG offers the LG Tone Free app. This app is available for both Android and iOS devices and provides several options to tailor the performance of the TF7 to your preferences. You can use the app to control ambient sound and ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) settings. Additionally, there are three preset sound modes available to cater to different needs. With the app, you can easily toggle noise cancellation on or off and choose the ambient sound mode, which lets you hear conversations while limiting ambient noise. The app also allows you to fine-tune the equaliser settings for the buds, offering options like Immersive, Natural, Bass Boost, Treble Boost, and 3D Sound Stage. You can even create up to two custom sound profiles based on your preferences, which I'll discuss further in the performance section. However, it's important to note that while the app provides a plethora of options, it could benefit from improved stability. During my month of usage, the app frequently crashed and froze when attempting to create a custom sound profile. This issue persisted on both Android and iPhone platforms. Audio Performance: Now, let's dive into the audio performance, where the TF7 truly shines, almost without a doubt. Despite having relatively modest 6mm drivers on paper, the finely tuned hardware delivers crystal-clear audio quality. To provide some context, I tested the buds with two iconic Bollywood classics. The first was the bass-heavy track "Zinda Banda" from the movie "Jawan 2023." Right from the first note, the TF7 showcased its ability to reproduce distinct sounds from the source. This high-energy track, featuring guitar, drums, and electronic elements, created an electrifying party in my ears. The music output was impressively bass-heavy, rivalling the best I've experienced, even compared to the WF-1000XM4. The next song in my playlist was the title track of "Kal Ho Na Ho," sung by Sonu Nigam. This soothing number has subtle low mids and an unforgettable melody. With the TF7, I could fully appreciate the low mids while discerning every instrument in the song. While the bud's smaller drivers might lead you to expect lower volume output, this issue is effectively balanced when you activate ANC. Speaking of noise cancellation, the TF7 excels in this department. When set to the "ANC ON" preset, these earbuds efficiently blocked out a significant amount of surrounding noise, creating a noticeable sense of isolation. For instance, ambient noise from an AC or fan in a room remained virtually imperceptible, and even when someone used their phone on speaker nearby, only a minimal amount of sound reached my ears. At the gym, where loud music blared around me, I could barely hear a faint murmur from the outside world, drowning out the entire playlist effectively. However, I would advise against using the buds with ANC turned on at the highest-quality setting, as it can be risky when you're outdoors. For outdoor use, I would recommend opting for the ambient sound mode. This not only allows you to engage in conversations but also significantly reduces the risk when walking outside. While the audio performance might feel slightly underwhelming compared to the full-fledged ANC mode, it remains more than satisfactory. It's worth noting that while the ANC performance of the buds is impressive, it's important to remember that dedicated headphones often outperform earbuds in terms of noise cancellation. So, if you're primarily seeking an audio device for music, it's something to keep in mind. Now, let's delve into the audio settings. I found the "Bass Boost" mode particularly enjoyable during workouts, especially when combined with ANC set to a lower frequency. For outdoor use, I favoured the "Immersive" preset as it struck a harmonious balance between bass and volume. It allowed me to maintain a comfortable 60% volume while enjoying my music and remaining aware of my surroundings. However, it was the "3D Spatial Sound" feature that left me somewhat disappointed. Marketed to create a surround sound experience, I attempted to watch a movie with this preset. Contrary to expectations, it resulted in a noticeable echo. While it's possible that this issue can be rectified by tinkering with settings in the TONE Free app, who has the time for such adjustments? LG should consider providing a more refined spatial sound preset. In terms of call quality, the TF7 performed decently. I experienced no call drops or interruptions during my testing. Call reception was satisfactory, and the person on the other end could hear me clearly. Additionally, I used the buds for Google Meet calls on my laptop, and the connection remained stable in that context as well. Battery It’s time to highlight the battery life of the TF7. LG claims the entire package offers 30 hours of battery backup. Individually that translates to 10 hours on the buds and 20 hours on the case. The real-time mileage is considerably lower than what is claimed. On average, I was getting 7 hours of battery life on the buds, while the case did deliver two more charges on its best day. So that brings us to a total of 15 hours. This is not bad especially considering I had the ANC turned on throughout the day. Verdict The LG TONE Free Fit TF7 can be considered a premium TWS earbud, primarily tailored for fitness enthusiasts due to its design and intended use. However, if you approach its purchase with versatility in mind, you won't be disappointed. These earbuds excel in terms of battery life compared to their competitors, and they offer a distinctive design complemented by a thoughtfully crafted mobile application. Nevertheless, if you're an iPhone user, it's worth exploring Apple's AirPods more extensively, considering the benefits that come with the Apple ecosystem.

LG TONE Free Fit TF7 Buds review: Expensive and for a good reason

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Shah Rukh Khan is one of the biggest stars in Bollywood with a career spanning three decades.</li><li>For Indian women, he's not only a movie star but a symbol of their own autonomy.</li></ul><a href="https://www.insider.com/category/bollywood">Bollywood</a> icon <a href="https://www.insider.com/shah-rukh-khan-ted-talk-2017-5">Shah Rukh Khan has been one of the biggest movie stars</a> in the world for 30 years.Alongside the likes of <a href="https://www.insider.com/nick-jonas-priyanka-chopra-share-first-photo-of-baby-2022-5">Priyanka Chopra Jonas</a> and Amitabh Bachchan, the actor is one of India's most recognizable exports around the world. Khan is beloved across genders and generations in India, but for women in particular he is not just a swoon-worthy movie star, but also an emblem of autonomy over their lives, careers and even romantic desires."Women relied on Shah Rukh when they found the real world and all its pandemics and practicalities inhospitable," writes author Shrayana Bhattacharya in her book, "Desperately Seeking Shah Rukh: India's Lonely Young Women and the Search for Intimacy and Independence."The book examines the desires, dreams and difficulties of a diverse group of women, who are divided by religion, caste, and class, but united by their love for Khan.According to Bhattacharya, in loving and seeking Khan, women are unknowingly indulging in a silent act of rebellion. <h2>Shah Rukh Khan is a unifying force across economic divide</h2><div type="image" title="Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol" height="4010" width="5347" msid="93971249" hostid="261" sizebytes="518724"></div>Bhattacharya noticed the unusual ally that Khan had become for women across economic strata when she was surveying home-based working women in 2006.These women grew bored of the same questions about wages, and so she began asking them about their favourite actors. The love for Khan was palpable amongst them, and it was during this time that she understood that fandom was, in fact, a unique display of economic independence. In a sociological and economic study that spanned over 15 years, Bhattacharya explored the pain and pleasure of Indian women, and how she says Khan eases the former and provides the latter. "It started as an accident, but soon I became conscious of the fact that fandom is a proxy for women's economic power and quality of life," Bhattacharya explains to Insider. "In 'Seeking Shah Rukh,' they weren't only seeking the romantic love that he embodied, but also to simply watch their favourite actor on screen." K Jeshi, a journalist from Tamil Nadu, tells Insider that she loves Khan because "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PuLhbLxwSxE">he loves women </a>— the way he speaks to women, both on-screen and off-screen is beautiful."In movies such as "Kal Ho Na Ho" (2003), "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge" (1995), and "Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham" (2001), Khan weeps messily, finds himself working in the household, fasts for the woman he loves, and looks at them with awe instead of with lust. The latter is a trait that Devangi Vaishnav, a physiotherapist from Gujarat, finds particularly admirable."He has never maligned a woman's integrity. He has never been derogatory, or lascivious, even in chauvinistic scenes, there's something about his gaze that makes him honourable," Vaishnav says. Off-screen, Khan, too, appears to uphold these values. "I think the sheer regard he holds for women is admirable," says Shaheera Anwar, an entertainment journalist from Pakistan. "He was <a href="https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/bollywood/story/srk-pledges-to-name-actress-before-him-in-credits-155555-2013-03-07#:~:text=Superstar%20Shah%20Rukh%20Khan%20has,starting%20it%20with%20Chennai%20Express.">one of the first people</a> to start putting the name of the actress before his name, which is remarkable."Bhattacharya notes how women tend to put Khan's virtue above everything else and ignore the casual sexism that his films sometimes depict, which is why Khan "may not be a feminist icon, but he is certainly a female icon," she says.Khan, Bhattacharya argues, unites women across caste and class in India by allowing them to pose questions on masculinity, money, network wealth, pleasure, and love.<h2>What women see in Shah Rukh Khan: vulnerability and respect</h2><div type="image" title="Shah Rukh Khan with fans." height="2092" width="2789" msid="93971251" hostid="261" sizebytes="126912"></div>"There's a certain working-class quality to him that has stayed back, even after all the success and fame," Aseem Chhabra, an author and film academic, says of Khan's appeal. "He retains the values that he gained from his parents. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRHeRJRo5vo">He talks about the death of his parents</a> with such profound vulnerability, in a space where being forthcoming is a rare sight, and that in return allows his audience to know and love him."Prachi Verma, a civil rights lawyer from Jaipur, says: "Women in India have to deal with plenty, be it pay disparity, domestic violence, sexual assault, lack of education, and more, so when they say they want a man like Shah Rukh, they are actually just asking for dignity in both love and labour."Zara Chowdhary, a teacher at the University of Wisconsin, was a post-production supervisor and assistant director at Red Chillies, Khan's production company, when she was given three times her salary as a bonus after the success of "Om Shanti Om.""He treats the crew on his sets with so much love and respect, that it's inspiring. He is willing to give love, to get love, which makes him who he is," Chowdhary says.Gunjan S, from Chandigarh, who runs a social-media marketing firm, adds: "He made me a dreamer, be it about success or love. South Asian women as it is, have quite a regressive upbringing, and in such space, Shah Rukh gave me an escape."<h2>How Shah Rukh Khan reflects women seeking their own agency</h2><div type="image" title="Shah Rukh Khan on the red carpet." height="1975" width="2633" msid="93971254" hostid="261" sizebytes="152282"></div>It's not all romance for these women: "The daughters don't want to marry Khan, they want to be him — they want his success, fame, and autonomy," says Bhattacharya, adding that every fan of Khan conjures up their own image of him that resembles their lives."In talking about Shah Rukh, these women were actually talking about themselves — their lives, their troubles, their aspirations, and their desire for financial and emotional autonomy," Bhattacharya continues.Khan, then, is a lexicon for women to express their own wants and needs — and Bhattacharya's book isn't so much about Khan as it is a manifesto, of sorts, for women in India tapping into their own star power.As for Khan, Bhattacharya says: "How many icons can claim to be a research method? Especially if it is about womanhood. How many men can become a language of expressing aspiration for millions of women?"

Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan isn't just a heartthrob for Indian women. He's a symbol of their autonomy.

By Justin Rao Mumbai, Apr 16 () Actor-comic Vir Das says people will need to smile a lot more amid the coronavirus pandemic and comedians should step up to do the best job they've ever done. From his end, the comic is raising funds through 'Vir Das At Home' where he performs for an audience online."We are going to need to smile now more than ever and for a while. If you're a funny person, this is the time to do your job. The best you've ever done it... I'm trying to focus on fundraising. I'm doing a show every night on Zoom call where the proceeds are going to different charities. "This lockdown won't affect the privileged as much. We have got to do our part. So my main focus during the lockdown is to try and raise money," Das told .Before the pandemic brought everything to a standstill, Das had planned a world tour of 29 countries, which naturally got pushed.There has been a lot of conversation about how the way people consume entertainment stands to change post coronavirus. As a comic, who is used to performing in front of a large gathering, Das feels the impact will be there for sometime, but eventually, the urge to laugh will gather people together."Those are the things that come and go. From court jesters, impressionists, Jaspal Bhatti, Johnny Lever to us and the people who come after us, the urge to sit in a room and laugh with each other together, will always find a way back. That I'm not so worried about."The actor is currently gearing up for the release of the Netflix series, "Hasmukh", co-created by Das and filmmaker Nikkhil Advani.The series features Das in the titular role of a young man from Saharanpur, who has to kill people off stage to perform better on stage. The actor had written a pilot, nearly three years ago, and taken it to the "Kal Ho Naa Ho" director who felt it was funny but needed "more darkness and gravity."Together, they worked on it for six-seven months, got it green-lit and then ran a writers room. "Comedy isn't so much about telling jokes, it's about being yourself and telling jokes. 'Hasmukh' is this awkward, shy, man who has a lot of anger inside him. Which is who I was when I got into comedy, except I don't murder people. "But the first time I got a laugh was when I went on stage and yelled at a bunch of people. I was 22, life wasn't going well, I couldn't make rent, girls weren't talking to me and I yelled out all of that stuff."The series, directed by Nikhil Gonsalves, also features Ranvir Shorey, Manoj Pahwa, Ravi Kishan, Amrita Bagchi, Suhail Nayyar, Inaamulhaq and Raza Murad.With "Hasmukh", the 40-year-old "Go Goa Gone" actor got a chance to create a lot of the characters and deep dive in the "outrageous" universe of the show."I got to write them as really loud characters. Nikkhil really led me on 'Hasmukh.' We decided that I would be the in-charge of who Hasmukh is on stage and Nikkhil gets to shape who he is off stage. "He's a passive, underconfident character surrounded by these loud maniacs. That's what makes him frustrated and pop when he murders. He's only ever free when he murders or is on stage." Writing the show was a challenge on multiple levels for Das as Hasmukh is "diametrically opposite" to the comic. "He's a small town boy, a Hindi comedian. Also, to write for an artiste who doesn't know his voice yet. He's a terrible comedian, he's clueless. It's a very outrageous universe for a show."When I first came to Mumbai, I was a writer on various GEC (General Entertainment Channels) comedy and award shows. So a lot of it is also based on what I saw- the big, glamorous GEC world of those. But to try and add darkness to that was a challenge," he added."Hasmukh" produced for Applause Entertainment by Emmay Entertainment, will debut on Netflix on April 17. JUR BKBK

Vir Das on comedy in times of coronavirus: If you're funny, time to do your best job now

<ul><li>Sony WH-1000XM5 has finally arrived in India at an introductory price of Rs 26,990, with an MRP of Rs 34,990.</li><li>It competes against the Bose NCH 700, QC45, and Airpods Max.</li><li>The XM5 is clearly among the best premium headphones that money can buy.</li></ul>After a long wait, Sony has finally launched its flagship wireless over-the-ear WH-1000XM5 headphones in India. For those unaware, Sony's WH-1000XM series has been among the best over-ear headphones in the market since its inception and the brand's most premium offering. As expected, the headphones are priced at a premium and will be sold at an introductory price of Rs 26,990, with an MRP of Rs 34,990. The headphones were released in mid-2022 and brought a significant design overhaul after four generations. It's now lighter and sleeker and is made of recycled and recyclable material. In addition to the looks, it also introduces enhancements in sound profile, mic performance, and noise cancellation. <div type="image" title="Sony WH-1000XM5" msid="94378998" hostid="261" sizebytes="84768"></div> Before I get going with the review, note that these headphones are best suited for commuters, office-goers, students and similar who want superior high-fidelity audio over Bluetooth. Whether a music producer or sound engineer, these or any wireless headphones aren't recommended; instead, it would be best to go for studio-grade wired audiophile headphones. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="It gets a new hingeless design" comment="subhead" text="It gets a new hingeless design">It gets a new hingeless design</cmsannotation> The Sony WH-1000XM5 sports a different design and looks, and you can easily distinguish between them. The headband has become rounder, and the earcups now have a slightly new look. However, the most notable change is the missing hinge that allows the earcups on XM4 to fold and rotate. This time it's one piece similar to the AirPods Max, so the cups don't fold inwards; they just rotate to make it sit flat in the case. <div type="image" title="Sony WH-1000XM5" msid="94379024" hostid="261" sizebytes="116724"></div> The cans are made of recycled plastic and have a smooth finish that looks premium. Most of its parts are made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), which has a satin-like texture, unlike its predecessor. Although this feels lighter, the texture felt more premium on the predecessor. <div type="image" title="Sony WH-1000XM5" msid="94379059" hostid="261" sizebytes="24390"></div> The build quality is impressive, but some might like the XM4 design better. I asked a few friends and colleagues, and they had mixed reactions. So design choice is subjective, but practically the new design does the job well. It is also quite sturdy and seems like it can bear a few drops unless smashed with force. Lastly, the XM5 also comes with a new carry case. It has a fabric finish and a sleeker profile that fits better and also seems like a sturdy material to protect it from damage and scratches. My only complaint with the platinum silver colour I have is that it has started catching dirt in about ten days of use. So, if you're going for this one, ensure you protect it from being touched by dirty hands or simply kept on a dusty surface. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Comfort, Control and Connectivity: How is it like to use?" comment="subhead" text="Comfort, Control and Connectivity: How is it like to use?">Comfort, Control and Connectivity: How is it like to use?</cmsannotation> Sony has constantly advertised comfort in these headphones since the first model, and the XM5s aren't any different. These headphones are made to be worn for long stretches, so there's a high focus on making these suitable for it. <div type="image" title="Sony WH-1000XM5" msid="94379099" hostid="261" sizebytes="43552"></div> In the last week, I've used them for over 15 hours, and it's fair to say that it feels one with the head, even with prolonged usage. These are adjustable, put the right amount of pressure, are stiff enough to stay on the head while running, and are lightweight. The padding on the XM5 is mushier than its predecessor, and so is the headband. I liked the new band design more than last year's design or even Airpods Max. In terms of controls, it's straightforward and intuitive to use and gives good feedback. You get touch-enabled volume control, call/music control, ANC on/off, voice assistant and talk-through control. All of it works as intended. You get a touch-sensitive surface on the right ear cup and two physical buttons on the left. Here are all the touch controls- Double tap: Plays/pause audio and answer/end a call. Swipe forward/backwards: Skips to the next/previous track. Swipe forward and hold: Fast forwards the track. Swipe backwards and hold: Backtracks the track. Swipe up/down: Turns the volume up/down. Swipe up and hold: Turn the volume continuously until you release the tap. Swipe down and hold: Turns the volume down continuously until you release the tap. Cover the ear cup with your palm: Turns down the audio volume to let you talk. It's unacceptable to have unresponsive or slow touch controls; Sony has taken care of that in this one. However, it would be interesting to see whether it retains the same responsiveness in the long run. <div type="image" title="Sony WH-1000XM5" msid="94379128" hostid="261" sizebytes="15888"></div> In terms of connectivity, it gets connected to Bluetooth in a jiffy. You can also use a TRS cable and a USB-Type C port for charging. In addition, the WH-1000XM5 can connect to your Bluetooth-enabled devices via the LDAC, AAC, and SBC Bluetooth codecs. Unfortunately, Sony did not return aptX support, which was last seen on the XM3. <div type="image" title="Sony WH-1000XM5" msid="94379226" hostid="261" sizebytes="139882"></div> Lastly, you can use Sony's companion Headphones Connect App for iOS and Android to get the maximum out of these headphones. You can optimise ANC, register 360 Reality Audio, use a custom equaliser and update the firmware. Not sure about the rest, but the last part makes it necessary. There are more options like find my headphones and ear analysis for 360-audio. While the former asks for access to your location, others need pictures of your ear to set it up for the best results. Sony is a reliable name and gives logical reasoning to collect this data, but if it tickles your anxiety, you will have to compromise on these features. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Impressive battery life and charging speeds" comment="subhead" text="Impressive battery life and charging speeds">Impressive battery life and charging speeds</cmsannotation> The headphones are hard to drain. I had to force use them to drain out the battery, and it delivered slightly over 30 hours of backup with ANC on. But here's what's more interesting - it can last over 52 hours without ANC, and that's practically a week's battery life even if you use it for seven hours daily. So if you use your cans for 5 hours a day with ANC, you'll be sorted for six days with a single charge or for a long flight. Still, when it dies, just three minutes of charging can provide 3 hours' worth of ANC playback. Worst case, if you are stranded with no battery or charging option, you can use the 3.5mm cable for direct playback. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Audio performance, ANC and microphone" comment="subhead" text="Audio performance, ANC and microphone">Audio performance, ANC and microphone</cmsannotation> The WH-1000XM5 continue on the same sound signature known to Sony's WH headphones. However, it comes with more emphasis on bass, loud highs and lows and softer mids. While some might love the default preset, especially with high-energy music, the audiophiles might need to tune the equaliser to get the desired sound profile. For example, rock music lovers might need to adjust mids and highs to boost vocals and instruments like guitar and horns. I personally like the bass-heavy, so I stuck to default settings where the bass is heavy but still very tight and precise. It's always advised to experiment with the equaliser settings to find the best as per your liking. If you are an audiophile, you might likely relate to the issue I noticed with the over-emphasis on highs. Take Kendrick Lamar's N95, for example - the track starts with clear vocals and snare, but as soon as the bass is introduced, the snare seems to subdue under bass and vocals. It gets more prominent as you move to multi-instrument genres like rock or metal, with more instruments in high frequency. However, it's pretty impressive if you are into pop, Bollywood or EDM. There's a track called Beat Freak by Chris Lake and Riva Starr, which has a variety of basslines, and a mix of different sound effects - which handles it impressively well. But again, the lows and mids are a bit suppressed if you listen at high volume. So songs with softer tones, like Kal Ho Na Ho's title track or Hey Jude by The Beetles, are best suited out of the box. Also, anything from The Weekend sounds lovely on this without tweaking the equaliser. Lastly, what I love is the soundstage. Put the headphones on, close your eyes, and it's very close to listening to a concert. The noise isolation has significantly improved, meaning that you are physically isolated from noises even when the headphones are switched off. So it's blocking the noise before cancelling it. Coming to ANC, it's excellent. Having used the two competitors - Aipods Max, Bose QC45 and Bose NCH 700 - I doubt if there's hardly any alternative to XM5's noise cancellation. It can cancel distant noises and people talking next to you, and it's so good that you can cut off from your physical surroundings by closing your eyes. So it's fair to say it's the best ANC headphones out there. The microphone doesn't seem to have noticeable improvement, but it doesn't mean it's terrible. It's still good enough for a premium set of cans. The call quality is excellent, whether via Zoom, Meet or a phone call. But if you are planning to record professional voice-overs, this might lack performance. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Verdict" comment="subhead" text="Verdict">Verdict</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="Sony WH-1000XM5" msid="94379244" hostid="261" sizebytes="20630"></div> If you are looking for premium headphones for the office, commuting or even working from home, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is a no-brainer. The highlights are ANC performance, battery life, good microphone, connectivity and, of course, the audio quality. The only issue you might face is the lack of IP rating and its high price. However, that does not mean that it's not worth the price. The only expert recommendation is to either buy it for the introductory price or wait for the prices to go down during a sale to make it even more value for money. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/asus-rog-flow-x16-review/articleshow/93894638.cms">Asus ROG Flow X16 review: The perfect 2-in-1 gaming laptop</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/asus-rog-strix-g17-2022-review-a-lovable-gaming-laptop-with-high-end-specs/articleshow/91010424.cms">Asus ROG Strix G17 (2022) review — a good-looking gaming laptop with flagship performance</a>

Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones review: Still the ANC king of premium headphones

<ul><li>LG Tone Free Buds are available at a price of ₹29,990</li><li>Tone Free FP9 is the successor to FN7.</li><li>These <keyword id="5617680" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tws" source="Orion">TWS</keyword> Buds support <keyword id="107923" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="anc" source="Orion">ANC</keyword> and spatial sound</li></ul>LG recently introduced a new pair of TWS buds, the LG Tone Free FP9. Here to replace the FN7, the FP9 sticks to some classic features. It follows a minimalistic design, promises great audio performance with its ANC and features UV nanotechnology. Priced at par with some more exciting and well-received products like the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/gadgets/news/sony-wf-1000xm4-tws-earbuds-review/articleshow/88898120.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink">Sony WF-1000XM4</a> and Apple's AirPods Pro, the Tone Free buds have some tough competitors. So does it fare well? And is it worthy of your ears? I answer that question in my in-depth review. Price &amp; Availability LG Tone Free FP9 is available for a price of ₹29,990 on LG’s official online store and Amazon. Design &amp; Build LG’s execution for the FP9 is different from its predecessor, the FN7. We still see a shell-shaped case, but it’s slightly bigger. A bigger case also means more real estate when carrying it. So, carrying it in your pockets can be tricky and require adjustment. Yet, its design makes it smaller than Airpods Pro. <div type="image" title="Case for the Tone Free Buds sports a minimal design" msid="93804658" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Case for the Tone Free Buds sports a minimal design&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> The variant with me is in white colour and looks premium. It sports a minimalistic design since there are no strikes or curves that look out of place. There is only a “Tone” branding on top. I wish it had a matte finish, though, since carrying it in your pockets without a case means scratches which spoil the look. The case also has an LED indicator that signifies the connectivity status and battery life. I appreciate LG’s attention to detail here. A green indication reads that the case has a sufficient battery backup, an orange LED indicates it has reached halfway through, and a red indicator means it’s running low. This helped me stay updated about the battery situation and charge it accordingly. There is also a USB Type-C charging port and a slider button to shift it to wireless charging. Perhaps, the most unique proposition of the case is inside of it. The UVnano lights, according to LG, protect the buds from 99.99% of bacteria. While I can’t verify the claimed protection, I believe it might give some mental peace to a certain section of buyers. Especially since we are in the middle of a pandemic. <div type="image" title="Tone Free Buds come with UV Nano protection" msid="93804715" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Tone Free Buds come with UV Nano protection&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> Where I can comment is this feature's impact on battery life, which I will do in the latter half of this article. Moving on to the buds, the FP9 are smaller than Airpods Pro or the regular Airpods. Unlike the dot design we see on Samsung Galaxy Buds, the tone-free version of the traditional TWS design is a shrunken-down version. And it does work! The buds are of the right size, giving you ample space to interact with them while not troubling you when walking around. <div type="image" title="FP9 buds are smaller than Apple AirPods Pro" msid="93804735" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;FP9 buds are smaller than Apple AirPods Pro&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> The build quality is also top-notch. They feel robust, and the plastic on them is of high quality. Aesthetically LG could have done better since the buds don’t look as swanky as the Airpods or the Galaxy Buds. Considering the price point, I expect something fancier in the next iteration. In terms of comfort, the FP9 hit the target. Their small size combined with an ergonomic build makes them a solid choice for sitting at a desk or working out. The FP9 are IPX4 water resistant, which adds to the durability. <div type="image" title="Tone Free Buds have a snug fit with default silicone tips as well" msid="93804742" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Tone Free Buds have a snug fit with default silicone tips as well&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> I used them with the default ear tips on the buds, and the experience was fairly good. The buds did not budge while I was sitting or moving around. While working out, I had to push them in sometimes, but nothing that would jargon your routine. LG also provides three pairs of extra ear tips inside the box, so it won’t be a problem for you to find your perfect fit. Performance Pairing and Connectivity- The FP9 features Bluetooth 5.0, which works well, and minor hiccups. During my testing, I paired them first with an Android device, the OnePlus 9RT. Quick to show up in the list, this was a two-tap process. Especially with swift pair, the case automatically pops up the FP9 if your device’s Bluetooth visibility is turned on. My Android smartphone was connected to the buds in under 10 seconds. This was very impressive. However, the situation was the opposite when I tried connecting them with my iPhone 12. I had to refresh the Bluetooth list multiple times for it to show up. It was on the 4th attempt when they popped up in the list. To be sure, I tried connecting them with another Apple device, the iPhone 11 and the struggle was constant. I tried to connect them back to an Android smartphone, and it was as quick as the first time. What remained constant in both situations was the fact that once paired up, the buds provided robust connectivity. In my month of usage, the buds have not shown me any sudden disconnections or connectivity loss. Another highlight is multi-device pairing which is convenient if you work from home. Switching between my laptop and smartphone was easy; I didn’t have to disconnect the buds to pair them again manually. Here I would like to point out that if you are buying TWS buds or any Bluetooth audio product, I strongly suggest getting one with multi-device pairing. Gestures The FP9 are touch-enabled and comes with a pre-set of gestures. As mentioned before, the right size of the buds makes it easy for you to interact with them. For added convenience, LG also provides a dedicated touch point where you can tap to interact with the buds. <div type="image" title="Touch gestures on the FP9 rarely miss out" msid="93804926" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Touch gestures on the FP9 rarely miss out&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> The execution is commendable for two reasons. First, it doesn’t miss out on any of the prompts you make; second, it’s easy to remember how to use them. You can do a lot from the buds. A single tap on either bud means playing or pausing your media. Double tap on the right bud means an increase in the volume, while the same on the left bud means decreasing the volume. A triple tap will help you move forward or backwards in the playlist. These gestures are easy to learn and very minimal. A long press on either bud turns on the Active Noise Cancellation. You can customise these settings as well from the TONE Free application. Although I won’t suggest changing these settings since the buds tend to struggle when you connect them to different devices. Tone Free Application A native application for high-end TWS buds is not uncommon; in this case, it is the LG Tone Free app. Available on Android and iOS devices, it offers some respectable options to customise the performance of the FP9. You can control ambient sound and ANC settings from the app. There are also three sound presets on board for different needs. <div type="image" title="LG Tone Free app let&amp;#39;s you customise the equalizer &amp;amp; ANC settings" msid="93804941" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;LG Tone Free app let&amp;#39;s you customise the equalizer &amp;amp;amp; ANC settings&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> You can turn on the noise cancellation or turn it off completely. You can also choose the ambient sound option to hear the conversation and limit the ambient noise. The app also lets you change the equaliser settings for the buds. The choices are straightforward: Immersive, Natural, Bass Boost, Treble Boost, and 3D sound stage. You can also create upto two custom sets according to your preference. What are the ones I prefer? I talk about them in the performance section. Yes, the app does provide you with a plethora of options to choose from. However, LG should work on making it more stable. The app crashed multiple times in my month of usage and froze while I tried to create a custom preset. This problem was constant for both Android and iPhone. Audio Performance To start this section with a spoiler - FP9 wins big in audio performance. The 8mm drivers might not be big with the numbers, but the fine-tuned hardware delivers crystal-clear audio quality. For reference, I have picked up 2 Bollywood classics that are famous across our nation. The first is the bassy number Dus Bahane from 2005. From the first note, you can make out the different sounds from the source. The high-energy track is a mix of guitar, drums, and electronic music, all of which create a party in your ears. The music output is also bassy, perhaps the best I have experienced since the WF-1000XM4. The next song I played was Kal Ho Na Ho’s title track, sung by Sonu Nigam. This soothing number has low mids and an unforgettable tune. With the FP9, I could enjoy the low mids. While registering every possible instrument in the song. The volume output of the buds was on the lower side initially, and I had to keep them at the 70% mark to enjoy the music. However, once I turned on the ANC, there was no looking back. The execution of noise cancellation on the FP9 is commendable. Sticking to the first of the presets - ANC ON. The earbuds eliminated a considerable amount of noise around me, and I could feel the vacuum it created once I turned on the feature. For reference, AC and fan noise in a room does not penetrate your ears. Other cases include someone using their phone on speaker, but only a minuscule amount would reach my ears. The ANC makes its presence felt in outdoor situations the most. Taking a metro ride with the FP9, I could not hear announcements in Delhi Metro. For that matter, the usual chatter was eliminated. Delhi Metro announcements are fairly loud, yet I couldn’t hear them with the ANC turned on. Long story short, I missed my stop, but it makes a strong case for its noise-cancellation prowess. I would not recommend using the buds with ANC turned on with the high-quality setting with those surprising results. Especially if you are outdoors since it is very risky. Going with the ambient sound option is what I would recommend. Since it not only allows you to be part of conversations but also reduces the risk significantly when you are walking outdoors. Yes, the audio performance feels underwhelming once you have used ANC in its full glory, but it’s not bad. While the ANC on the buds is fairly impressive, it's important to point out that a pair of headphones generally fares well regarding noise cancellation. So, if you buy an audio device strictly for music, here is a heads-up. Now coming to the audio settings. Bass Boost is the one I thoroughly enjoyed while I worked out, combined with ANC at low frequency. I used the immersive preset while I was outdoors, mostly because it hits the right balance of bass and volume. I could keep the volume levels at 60% and walk around while enjoying my tracks and being aware of my surroundings. It was the 3D spatial sound that left me disappointed. Pitched to create a surround sound experience, I tried watching a movie with this preset. Unlike what was promised, there was a major echo. I believe this can be fixed if you fiddle around enough on the TONE Free app, but who has the time? LG should have provided a more solid spatial sound preset. The calling experience on the buds is decent. I noticed no call drops or breaks during my testing. The call reception was satisfactory, and the caller on the other end could hear me properly. I have also used them for my Google meets call with my laptop, and the connection was also stable there. Battery It’s time to highlight the battery life of the FP9. LG claims the entire package offers 24 hours of battery backup. Individually that translates to 10 hours on the buds and 14 hours on the case. This is in line with the competition like <keyword id="6358540" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sony" source="Orion">Sony</keyword> WF-1000XM4. The real-time mileage is considerably lower than what is claimed. On average, I was getting 5 hours of battery life on the buds, while the case did deliver two more charges on its best day. So that brings us to a total of 15 hours. This is not bad especially considering I had the ANC turned on throughout the day. You can charge the FP9 both wirelessly and through a cable. I usually charge them with a cable because I find it more reliable. I used a 30W adapter to charge the buds, which would go from 0-100% in about 2 hours. Verdict The LG TONE Free FP9 is perhaps one of the most underrated audio devices on the market today. We can blame that title on poor marketing or the brand’s track record. But as of today, I strongly recommend going for these TWS buds if you are looking for one. You can get them for as low as ₹18,000 on a good day on Amazon. That being said, if you have deep pockets, there are plenty of options.

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