The Toxic Side of Life: March 2024

For this month, we aimed to bring forth a unique take on life, one that is not widely portrayed in other publications: the toxicity we may face. From riveting articles to insightful photographs, the team at Casual Observer worked relentlessly this month to bring forth a compelling edition discussing the toxic side of life. We hope you enjoy this month’s reads, as well as reflect on the photos published!

Ivannah Jacob, Head of Casual Observer  
& Atreyi Roy, Deputy Head of Casual Observer

In this edition, we explore the side of life that isn’t all rainbows and happiness. The journalism team brings you their unique takes on the toxic side of life, grappling with a myriad of the world’s more troubling aspects. From social media to sport, our articles cover a diverse range of topics, with something for everyone!

Srisamvruta Sridhar, Head of Journalism

Within the intricate mosaic of human existence lies a spectrum of emotions and realities, not all of them shimmering with positivity. Our photojournalism edition delves deep into the shadows that lurk beneath the surface, exploring the often overlooked but pervasive presence of toxicity in our lives. Toxicity manifests in various forms, and through this edition, we uncover the subtle nuances of toxicity that seep into our lives, relationships, and environments. Our photographers bravely confront these uncomfortable truths, urging us to confront the darker aspects of our humanity, through a series of photographs that aren’t mere snapshots; they are reflections of the masked toxins that infiltrate our lives.

Laasya Savio, Head of Photojournalism 

“Don’t you know that you’re toxic?” As in the words of Britney Spears, the design team embraced this month’s theme by exploring how toxicity is prevalent in our everyday lives. In a world with fake news, hatred, and rapid technological advancement, the design team brings to you our take on coexisting and dealing with the toxic side of life.

Viraj Malhotra, Head of Design