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Water discharge from Red Hills reservoir, a key drinking water source of Chennai, increased on Wednesday evening as its storage touched 96% of its capacity
The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for very heavy rainfall in coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Kerala, with schools in Chennai and Tiruvallur closed due to incessant rain. Meanwhile, parts of North India are experiencing cold wave conditions and dense fog, impacting mobility and traffic. The IMD has warned of cold wave conditions for Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and north Rajasthan.
Cyclone Ditwah has brought heavy, persistent rain to Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, prompting school closures in Chennai and Tiruvallur. IMD predicts continued light to moderate showers with isolated heavy spells as the system weakens into a low-pressure area.
Madras Art Weekend reimagines the city through art
In Chennai, art is not merely something that hangs on walls; it drifts through salt-sweet sea breeze, stains fingers with filter coffee brown, echoes from temple corridors, and hums along the tracks of a metro line cutting through old neighbourhoods. The city itself is a living canvas. It is this sentiment that Madras Art Weekend (MAW) returns to celebrate, where Madras and art are nearly synonymous, each reshaping and reimagining the other. In its fourth edition, the theme for Madras Art Weekend 2025 is Madras Reimagined, asking a pertinent question: how do we preserve the memory of a city while sculpting its future? The annual festival, founded by Upasana Asrani, has evolved into a highly anticipated cultural event in Chennais creative calendar, bringing together artists, designers, architects, gallerists, collectors, and audiences. Madras Art Weekend is a festival for the city and for its people. It celebrates the spirit of Chennai and its creative pulse, says Upasana, reflecting on the journey since MAW began in 2022. What started as a niche space for contemporary art has since transformed into a movement that now shapes and mirrors Chennais cultural imagination. The festival has grown from strength to strength, year after year, evolving into a massive movement. People have been eager to be part of it, and it has now become an annual legacy of the city of Chennai, she says. The theme was conceived after months of conversations across the artistic ecosystem, which Upasana refers to as cultural custodians. MAWs visual identity, this year, was conceptualised with branding collaborators Whoa Mama Design, who worked closely with the festival to give shape to a narrative rooted in the cinematic, emotional, and historical layers of the city. We wanted to look at Madras through the lens of its past as well as its future, and the idea of Madras Reimagined emerged, she says. This edition expands its creative geography far beyond a single venue. While the VIP preview and Gallery Exhibit at Taj Coromandel remain the central showcase, featuring leading galleries such as Saralas Art Centre, DakshinaChitra Museum, Memeraki, among others, the festival spills into the city through collaborations with spaces including Raw Mango, Gallery Veda, Lakshana, and others. MAW has built a growing community through year-round engagement. We dont wake up a month before and scramble to put a programme together. We host events every month to stay connected with our community, Upasana notes. This includes collector home tours, studio visits, gallery collaborations, and digital storytelling formats that take audiences behind the scenes of the art-making process. Among the most anticipated additions this year is the Art Vandi, created in collaboration with NalandaWay Foundation. It is a mobile art van that has travelled through rural pockets, carrying art materials to children in remote communities. The vandi has enough art material for students to come in and do workshops with facilitators, says Upasana. Schools and institutions across Chennai have been invited to engage with the programme, reinforcing the festivals intent to plant seeds for the next generation of makers. The programming also includes a special workshop with Rainbow Fish Studio led by Sara Vettet, alongside a dynamic line-up of panel discussions, exhibition walkthroughs, and performances that bring together industry leaders, celebrated designers, architects, and artists from across the country, culminating in a poetic closing performance by Lekha Washington at Wild Garden Caf, Amethyst. For someone stepping into Madras Art Weekend for the first time, Upasanas message is simple: Explore all the parallel shows happening across the city, and then come to Taj, where all the galleries are exhibiting. Come, soak in the art, experience it. She reflects with quiet emotion, sharing that she is dedicating this edition to her late mother, whose support shaped her journey, and to her guide and mentor, Mata Amritanandamayi Devi. MAWs commitment to inclusivity is visible in its educational and social outreach initiatives last years effort saw Chennais art community contribute supplies to students of Government College of Fine Arts, and this year, the festival hopes to fund the education of two deserving art students. In this edition of MAW, Chennai does not gaze nostalgically backwards; it walks forward with its history at its side. Madras Art Weekend 2025 unfolds across venues in Chennai, with the Gallery Exhibit at Taj Coromandel open to the public from today until December 6. Visit @madrasartweekend on Instagram.
On December 4, 2025, gold prices in India range from Rs 13.059 per 1 gram for 24K gold and Rs 11,971 per 1 gram for 22K gold. Silver is priced at Rs 1,91,100 per kilogram. Check city-wise rates here.
The last month of the year is here, and it brings with it rains and a pleasant weather. How about a cup of hot chocolate to enjoy the season? Chennais cafes have been stirring decadent happiness with cocoa for a few years now, and CE has made its list of spots you must visit for a quick pick-me-up. Nolita Can a regular melted chocolate and milk/water mixed with a sweetener taste like a warm hug in a mug? The answer is yes. It is served in a pot and a cup at the citys very own Nolita. Across its branches, the Hot Velvety Nutella hot chocolate is a hug. It is thick and creamy, with the goodness of hazelnuts, appealing to all audiences and served aesthetically for the perfect Instagram picture. Arunima, head of operations at Nolita, says, Nutella hot chocolate tastes like liquid dessert, with just enough sweetness to keep you going back for one more sip. She suggests, One sip of the Hot Velvety Nutella paired with a bite of our flaky croissant pizza, a recent launch, takes you straight to a cosy heaven, total bliss every time. Priced at Rs 325/- plus tax, you too can enjoy this sweet comfort at your homes by ordering from Swiggy and Zomato. If missed, grab milk, cocoa, sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon, heat it up, give it a quick whisk, and boom, you have a cosy hot chocolate ready in minutes, shares Arunima. Writers Cafe Writers Cafes hot chocolate is made with Belgian dark chocolate, full-fat milk, and high-quality dairy cream. Its served warm with fresh cream and a shortbread biscuit, for a truly indulgent experience. Its priced at Rs 165 plus tax, and we dont offer delivery on Swiggy or Zomato as we believe its best enjoyed in the caf. We dont have a Christmas-special version this season just our classic. For anyone making hot chocolate at home, we recommend using pure chocolate and full-fat milk for a rich, comforting cup, shares Padu J, brand development manager, Writers Caf. Madras Interval Chennai never sits out on a trend, especially when it is Insta-worthy. This winter, Chennaiites feeds are overflowing with New York Citys famous Smores Hot Chocolate, brought to the city by Madras Interval in Teynampet. We wanted to bring something thats trending in New York to Chennai this Christmas. Chennai people love to catch onto trends, so we thought, why not bring the viral hot chocolate here? says Mohanaraman, CEO of Madras Interval. Priced between Rs 250 and Rs 300, they offer different flavours of molten, glossy hot chocolate poured thick and slow, each cup crowned with a perfectly torched marshmallow ring that melts into the drink like snowfall meeting fire. The recipe was meticulously developed with the help of their chef, using imported ingredients and premium hotel-grade cocoa to closely replicate the viral New York experience. Sandys Chocolate Laboratory Sandys hot chocolate is their signature creation, crafted from a closely guarded recipe perfected over the years to deliver a rich, indulgent cup, a drink they take pride in introducing to Chennais hot chocolate culture. They offer five varieties of hot chocolate, each in milk, dark, or white chocolate options. Priced between Rs 320 and Rs 380 depending on your pick, its designed to offer premium quality at a fair rate. Unlike many cafs, Sandys does offer delivery on Swiggy and Zomato, so you can enjoy it from anywhere. This season, theyre also gearing up to reveal a Christmas-special hot chocolate, promising a festive twist to their beloved classic. For those making it at home, they recommend keeping it simple, equal parts cocoa powder, milk, and cream, gently heated and whisked for a smooth finish, with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. For us, hot chocolate is more than a drink; its a tradition. We introduce a new version every Christmas and another in summer, so theres always something exciting on the menu, shares Adarsh Tripathi, manager, Sales and Marketing at Sandys Kitchen & Chocolate Laboratory.
Another year ends. Another begins. Looking back at the year must be a mixed bag of emotions for athevast majority. Gathering up the months that comprised both tears and bliss, accolades and failures and to sift through them all, often becomes an annual ritual in the belief that we can step into the new year with lessons learnt. Unfortunately, we rarely try to address the silent killer within us all Stress! A holiday at the end of the year to a destination that fits into ones budget is mandatory. Trekking, sightseeing, vacationing by the beach, looking up historical relics you name it, and there would be a tourist operator with the right package for you. Once out there, wearing outfits that befit the surroundings, you indulge in every activity offered, for no trip on earth is ever planned to simply rest your tired soul. You fill your days to make the most of the vacation. You sincerely believe that you have done the needful for the stress that life puts you through everyday and then, come back all rejuvenated enough to take on the same stress. Nothing actually changes. Artists, on the other hand, live the ideal stress-free life, you may falsely assume. For, isnt art often recommended as a therapy to relax, to cure, and to pause amid your busy days? Artists must then be leading lives that are on eternal vacation mode. Nothing can be further from the truth. Art as a hobby may be calming indeed, but once adopted as a career, it is definitely as demanding as any other. Art history is replete with stories of burnouts consuming the lives and sanity of too many creative minds. The Scream is one of the most recognisable artworks in history. The creator of it also had moments of these terrifying screams erupting within him. In 1908, on the brink of exhaustion, Norwegian artist Edvard Munch had a nervous breakdown, which was attributed to stress and overwork. An intense creative drive that translated into 106 art exhibitions in 17 years, led to his mental collapse, along with alcohol abuse, which were short fixes for his weariness. The worlds beloved artist, Vincent Van Gogh, may have left us a legacy of his bright sunflowers and starry nights, but his manic periods of painting, when he worked with such furious frenzy, ultimately led to depression and his early death by suicide. In recent years, the extremely talented and popular Japanese Manga artist, Kentaro Miura, died at the age of 54, due to a rare medical condition caused by hypertension. The long hours of intense, meticulous work, often combined with impossible deadlines and an excess of creative energy, can prove to be more lethal at times than any corporate assignment. The solitary practice that art is, does not provide the comfort of having fellow workers alongside to help unwind or distract oneself. Stress is a frightening reality today. A vacation may be a temporary solution, but reorganising life with the emphasis on mental health is the only way forward. Let this be the resolution for the year that beckons us all!
Sitheri lake chokes on toxic waste
Complex surgery performed at city hospital to remove screwdriver from mans skull
Cyber cops nab key agent who trafficked youths to Myanmar
TN to get high-res satellite imagery to modernize, digitize land records
Labour department freezes migrant worker survey
Digital boundary of Pallikaranai marsh yet to be fixed: TN to HC
Conservancy workers stage protest to press demands
CCB arrests man for forging land documents in Neelankarai
Vijay blames incomplete drains for waterlogging
HC impleads 40 firms to curb plastic use in hill stations
Resonia to enter into JV with IIT-M startup Amber Wings
PLI scheme drives 43,000 jobs in solar module manufacturing
IIT Madras crosses 500 deep-tech incubations
Govt reconstitutes BC Commission with new members
Scuffle at Thiruparankundram in Madurai; prohibitory orders imposed; 2 cops injured
ED attaches properties of cough syrup maker, accuses firm of unfair trade policy
TN sanctions pending RTE funds of 875cr to pvt schools
Guindy race course ponds brim, prevents flooding
Roller coaster riders stuck due to snag
Man held for forging land documents
Case registered against Goondas Act detenueAjithraj
Film firm settles dispute with Ilaiyaraaja over use of old songs
City police to strengthen cybercrime wing
Relentless Rains In Nellore, Tirupati Districts Turn National Highway Into River
Traffic on the Chennai-Kolkata National Highway (NH-16) has come to near standstill, as high floodwater is flowing dangerously across multiple stretches between Kakuturu and Venkatachalam and near Manubolu.
OMR barely passable; potholes slow down traffic
Traffic is slow,causing stress to motorists who also face hardships due to who are already getting badbackspotholes thathave appeared on recently-laid surfaces.
Makers of Good Bad Ugly and Dude settle dispute with Ilaiyaraaja, pay him Rs 50 lakh
Tamil Nadu Expands Physiotherapy Access with 150 New Clinics for SC/ST Entrepreneurs
A new partnership between Tahdco and Rewin Health aims to improve physiotherapy access in Tamil Nadu's smaller towns by establishing 150 clinics. These centers will be run by SC/ST entrepreneurs, fostering both healthcare access and economic opportunity within communities. The initiative offers significant subsidies and facilitated loans to reduce financial barriers for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Missing public park: Madras High Court orders inquiry by Collector, Chennai Corporation
Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava and Justice G. Arul Murugan say alleged encroachment of a public park by a private hospital is a serious issue
Chennai and Tiruvallur districts have announced that all colleges and schools will remain closed Thursday due to heavy rain from Cyclone Ditwah. The city and surrounding areas have faced persistent rainfall and waterlogging for the past few days. The IMD has forecast continued very heavy rain across Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, and Kancheepuram districts. University of Madras exams have been postponed, transport is disrupted, and cultural events in Tiruvannamalai continue amid flooding.
Andhra Pradesh School Holiday on December 4: Will schools be closed? Check full update
Cyclone Ditwah is moving towards the coasts of Chennai, Puducherry, and southern Andhra Pradesh. Heavy rainfall is expected until December 4, 2025. Some districts in Andhra Pradesh have declared school holidays. Decisions for December 4 will be made based on weather conditions. Chennai and surrounding districts are experiencing continuous rain and waterlogging.
Former Minister blames poor implementation by government for chaos in Chennai
India Pacer Mohit Sharma Announces Retirement From All Formats Of Cricket
ODI World Cup: India pacer Mohit Sharma has announced his retirement from all formats of cricket, bringing the curtains down on a career that spanned nearly 14 years. Mohit made his international debut in 2013 and represented India in 26 ODIs and eight T20Is, claiming 37 wickets across formats. He was part of Indias squad reaching the semifinals of the 2015 Mens ODI World Cup, held in Australia and New Zealand, apart from representing Haryana in the domestic cricket circuit. Today, with a full heart, I announce my retirement from all formats of cricket. From representing Haryana to wearing the India jersey and playing in the IPL, this journey has been nothing short of a blessing, wrote Mohit on his Instagram post on Wednesday. A very special thank you to the Haryana Cricket Association for being the backbone of my career. And my deepest gratitude to Anirudh Sir, whose constant guidance and belief in me shaped my path in ways words cannot express. Thank you to the BCCI, my coaches, my teammates, IPL franchises, support staff, and all my friends for their love and support, he added. Known for his disciplined newball spells and variations like cutters, slower balls, and slow bouncers in the death overs, Mohit was also a prominent figure in the IPL, picking 134 wickets in 120 games. He turned out for Chennai Super Kings, Punjab Kings, Gujarat Titans, and, more recently, for Delhi Capitals. Mohit was one of CSK's main bowlers in his first three seasons with the wickets and took 20 wickets in 15 innings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2013. He won the purple cap in the 2014 edition of the league after picking 23 wickets in 16 games. Known for his disciplined newball spells and variations like cutters, slower balls, and slow bouncers in the death overs, Mohit was also a prominent figure in the IPL, picking 134 wickets in 120 games. He turned out for Chennai Super Kings, Punjab Kings, Gujarat Titans, and, more recently, for Delhi Capitals. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He was also GT's highest wicket-taker in IPL 2024, with 13 wickets in 12 matches. Special thanks to my wife, who always handled my mood swings and anger, and supported me through everything. I look forward to serving the game in fresh ways. Thank you so much, Innings over, gratitude forever, added Mohit. Article Source: IANS
NGT issues notice to CPCB over pollution by Fresh Cut's waste treatment unit in Kozhikode
NEW DELHI: The National Green Tribunal has sought a response from the Central Pollution Control Board, Kerala State Pollution Control Board and others in a matter related to pollution caused by a waste treatment plant in Kozhikode. The green body had taken suo motu cognisance of a news report that claimed that Fresh Cut Organic Products Pvt Ltd in Ambayathode village in Kerala's Kozhikode district was causing air and water pollution. In a December 2 order, a bench of NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava (retd) and expert members, A Senthil Vel and Afroz Ahmad, noted that according to the report, the foul odour from the unit had made life miserable for the locals. The main river that provides drinking water is also polluted by the effluents discharged from the unit. Skin diseases and allergies have become common in the area. Presently, the unit is closed down due to agitation. However, there is a need to ascertain that the unit meets all norms before starting and to clean up the area as the pollution persists, the bench said, noting the report. The tribunal said the report raised substantial issues relating to compliance with the environmental norms. It impleaded the Central Pollution Control Board, Kerala State Pollution Control Board, the District Magistrate of Kozhikode and the Bengaluru regional office of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) as respondents or parties. Issue notice to the respondents for filing their response/reply, the green panel said. The matter has been posted for further proceedings before the southern zonal bench in Chennai on January 29. On the run, yet in the race: UDF fields fugitive fresh cut protest chief
Cyclone Ditwah: Chennai battered by heavy rains as storm stalls near Tamil Nadu coast, check updates
Earlier a deep depression, the storm has weakened into a well-marked low-pressure area along the North Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coastline. But it has continued to bring repeated bursts of heavy downpour over Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and northern coastal districts since early Tuesday.
AAI begins pre-feasibility study of two sites for Rameswaram airport
The State government had shortlisted two sites one near Uchipulli and another near Keelakarai
'Bow Down To The King': Indian Cricket Fraternity Reacts As Kohli Scores Second Consecutive ODI Ton
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: The Indian cricket fraternity heaped praise on Virat Kohli after the stalwart notched up a second consecutive century during the second ODI between India and South Africa on Wednesday at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur. Kohli continued his fine form from Ranchi, where he played a 120-ball 135-run knock in the first ODI to help India win, and went on to score his 84th international century, the 53rd of his ODI career. Kohli stitched a humongous 195-run third-wicket stand with Ruturaj Gaikwad as the Chennai Super Kings skipper too got to the three-figure mark, his first-ever in ODIs. After a statement performance by Kohli, current and former India cricketers reserved high praises for the 37-year-old as they took to X to share their opinion on the knock. Shreevats Goswami wrote, Virats this 100 is even better than the ranchi one. The pitch wasnt as easy as these 2 have made it look which the ball stopping a bit here & there. The guy is a absolute run scoring machine. While Aakash Chopra noted, Back to back centuries. Beast mode activated. Irfan Pathan stated, On Sunday king plays for sure but on weekdays he plays with your plans. Brilliant 100 by Virat Kohli. Former India legend Virender Sehwag, meanwhile, penned, Virat Kohli ko 100 ka nasha hi alag hai. Hum log centuries gin rahe hote hain, woh bas routine ka kaam samajh ke kar deta hai. Back-to-back 100s for the King. 53rd ODI hundred. Virat hai toh mumkin hai. A brilliant century from Ruturaj Gaikwad as well making batting look very easy. Without Kohli cricket is nothing.. pure vintage! wrote Mohammad Kaif. Former India legend Virender Sehwag, meanwhile, penned, Virat Kohli ko 100 ka nasha hi alag hai. Hum log centuries gin rahe hote hain, woh bas routine ka kaam samajh ke kar deta hai. Back-to-back 100s for the King. 53rd ODI hundred. Virat hai toh mumkin hai. A brilliant century from Ruturaj Gaikwad as well making batting look very easy. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India finished their innings on a high with 358/5 on board, courtesy of centuries from Gaikwad (105) and Kohli (102) and a fine unbeaten 66 by skipper KL Rahul, jelp hosts set a competitive target for the Proteas to chase. Article Source: IANS
Inside Chennais Anglo-Indian heart: The people keeping a vanishing heritage alive
Ahead of the 13th World Anglo-Indian Reunion, to be held in January 2026, Chennais Anglo-Indian community is working on keeping its music and stories alive from restoring old Pallavaram villas to maintaining digital archives
What to expect at No Name Chennai the new multi-level resto bar on Chamiers Road
Chennai gets Christmas-ready with stores bringing nostalgia, trends and festive charm
From wholesale markets to boutique stores, the spirit of Christmas is already here in the city, with each store bringing its own flavour
Watch dragons, Vikings and demon hunters onstage at The Little Theatres How To Sway Your Dragon
From December 12 to 18, The Little Theatre is back with song, dance and drama at its annual Christmas pantomime, How To Sway Your Dragon at the Museum Theatre in Chennai
Chennai readies for four days of art, design, and dialogue at Madras Art Weekend
The four-day festival brings together galleries, artists, designers, thinkers, institutions, and patrons to celebrate the many languages of Indian art
RPFsub-inspector rescues man who slipped while boarding moving train in Salem
Jayamani, who was travelling from Chennai to Kottayam, had alighted to buy a water bottle and attempted to board the train again as it began to move. He slipped and became trapped between the platform and the moving train
MP Cough Syrup Deaths: ED Seizes Assets of Coldrif Promoter in Chennai
The assets, located at Kodambakkam in Tamil Nadu's capital city, are owned by G Ranganathan and his family members, it said in a statement.
M.P. cough syrup deaths: ED attaches assets of Coldrif promoter in Chennai
The Enforcement Directorate has attached two Chennai flats worth 2.04 crore belonging to G. Ranganathan, promoter of Sresan Pharmaceuticals
91Springboard signs leases for new hubs in Bengaluru and Chennai, expands South India footprint
91Springboard is expanding its South India presence by adding two new flex-workspace hubs in Bengaluru and Chennai, totaling over 1 lakh sq. ft. and nearly 2,500 seats. These new centers, set to open by February 2026, underscore the company's commitment to meeting rising demand from enterprises and startups in the region.
Chennai school holiday December 4 update: Schools in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, Cuddalore, Kallakurichi and Villupuram districts in Tamil Nadu were shut on Wednesday, December 3 due to the incessant rainfall in the state. There is no official confirmation on the update of closure of schools in Chennai for December 4.
MP Cough syrup deaths: ED attaches assets of Coldrif promoter in Chennai
The Enforcement Directorate has attached two Chennai flats worth 2.04 crore belonging to G. Ranganathan, promoter of Sresan Pharmaceuticals, whose Coldrif cough syrup has been linked to the deaths of at least 20 children in Madhya Pradesh.
Over 100 houses flooded in Chennai's Palavoyal after heavy rains; lakes breach, 56 rescued
Heavy rains flooded at least 100 houses in Palavoyal near Red Hills, trapping over 200 residents in hip-level water. This recurring issue, exacerbated by breached lakes and poor drainage in the low-lying neighborhoods, saw water rise to chest level in some areas. Fire and Rescue Services conducted multiple rescue operations, shifting 56 people to safety.
Embassy REIT acquires 3 lakh sq ft office property in Bengaluru for Rs 852 cr
Embassy REIT owns and operates a 50.8 million square feet portfolio of 14 office parks in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune, Delhi-NCR and Chennai. The portfolio comprises 40.9 million sq ft of operational area.
TVK chief Vijay slams DMK government over incomplete stormwater drain work in Chennai
Remnant of Cyclone Ditwah continues to batter north Tamil Nadu
RMC issues orange alert in Chennai and neighbouring districts and Ghat areas
Heavy rain batters TN coasts, interiors as depression moves inland; 9 rescued by boats in Chennai
Coastal Tamil Nadu and certain interior parts in the state experienced widespread rain on Wednesday as the depression weakened into a well-marked low-pressure area. Nine persons were rescued from their marooned houses in Red Hills a suburb of Chennai by boats by the Fire and Rescue Services department personnel and lodged in relief camps. Anticipating heavy rain, the administration announced a holiday for schools and colleges in several districts for today. Rain pounded Chennai and neighbouring Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, and Kancheepuram districts triggering sudden inundation in residential areas and arterial roads. Wednesday turned out to be the third consecutive wet day this week, though parts of the state have been witnessing rainfall activity since last week, disrupting the livelihood of small traders and hindering the free movement of residents. Ditwah weakens into well-marked low pressure area, brings widespread rains in Chennai The depression (remnant of cyclonic storm Ditwah) over southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts moved slowly southwestwards and weakened into a well-marked low-pressure area over north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts and neighbourhood, the IMD said. It was very likely to continue to move southwestwards slowly across north coastal Tamil Nadu and Puducherry and weaken further into a low-pressure area during the next 24 hours, the weather office said in its bulletin associated with this system. Villupuram, Cuddalore, Tiruvannamalai too experienced heavy frequent spells with brief intervals, as the depression moved inland. Braving the adverse weather conditions, priests at the Arunachaleshwar temple in Tiruvannamalai commenced the activities related to the annual Karthigai Deepam festival in the hill shrine and lit the first flame, the Bharani Deepam, early today. Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department Minister P K Sekar Babu, officials, and hundreds of devotees had gathered to witness the event. Ramanathapuram continued to reel under massive inundation while the residents of Nungambakkam, Perambur, Vyasarpadi and Kilpauk in Chennai had to wade through knee-deep water. An official of the Greater Chennai Corporation said the civic body has been bailing out water and restoring normalcy in traffic. We are striving to ensure that the subways don't get inundated so as to cause hardship to the people, he said. Free food was being provided at over 200 relief camps where families displaced by the inundation have been temporarily lodged, he added.
Schools, Colleges Shut Today In Chennai Due To Rain Triggered By Cyclone Ditwah
School, Colleges Closure Today: Parts of northern Tamil Nadu recorded heavy rainfall this morning as the system moved inland, while Chennai experienced moderate showers.
Chaos erupts at Hyderabad airport as multiple flights cancelled
Hyderabad: Many flights were cancelled on Tuesday after a technical disruption at the Hyderabad airport. It caused major inconvenience for travelers. Passengers bound for major domestic cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Ahmedabad were among the worst affected. Those with connecting international journeys also faced inconvenience. Many reportedly missed critical appointments, including visa interviews. Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Wonderla Chennai faced ride glitches and power outages on opening day due to cyclone conditions. Arun Chittilappilly apologized, assuring safety and improved processes.
Dr. Kamakshi Memorial Hospitals (Dr. KMH) successfully performed a complex emergency brain surgery on a 33-year-old businessman who arrived with a screwdriver lodged deep inside his skullan injury experts describe as extremely rare and often fatal without immediate intervention . L-R: Ms. Kanish Bai; Dr. Devachandran; Dr. Lakshmi Narayanan; Mr. Vinothkumar (Patient); Dr. Rahul Srinivasan (Consultant Neurosurgeon); Dr. Kiruthika; Mrs. Gnanakani According to the hospitals spokesperson, the patient, Mr. Vinoth, was rushed to the Dr. KMH Emergency Room after being assaulted with a screwdriver that penetrated the right side of his brain. Although conscious at admission, he showed signs of early neurological decline. A CT scan revealed that the screwdriver had pierced a critical motor control region responsible for movement of the left side of his body. It was also dangerously close to major blood vessels that, if injured, could have resulted in catastrophic bleeding. " This was a race against time. Even a slight delay could have caused permanent paralysis or devastating vascular damage ," said Dr. Rahul Srinivasan, Neurosurgeon, who led the surgery . " Removing the object demanded meticulous precision and step-by-step dissection around vital brain tissue. " A High-Stakes, Two-Hour Operation The patient was immediately shifted to the hospitals advanced neurosurgical theatre. In a tense two-hour procedure, Dr. Rahul Srinivasan safely removed the screwdriver and accompanying bone fragments without injuring critical structures. "Penetrating brain injuries pose severe risksswelling, infection, delayed bleeding, seizures, and long-term neurological deficits ," the neurosurgeon explained. " Every millimetre mattered ." Intensive Critical Care Ensured a Safe Recovery Following surgery, the patient was kept on ventilator support for two days to control brain swelling and stabilise vital functions. " The risk of infection was our biggest concern, especially since the object was contaminated. Brain infections like abscesses or meningitis can be fatal. Timely antibiotics, continuous monitoring, and coordinated neuro-critical care played a crucial role in preventing complications ," said Dr. Devachandran, Head of Critical Care . Initially, the patient experienced weakness on the left side of his face, arm, and leg. Intensive physiotherapy and neuro-rehabilitation helped him regain strength steadily. Within a few weeks, he made a remarkable neurological recovery and is now fully independent. Hospital Management Commends Multidisciplinary Expertise " This case exemplifies the outstanding emergency responsiveness and neurosurgical prowess available at Dr. KMH. Our state of the art OR equipped with cutting-edge technology such as neuro-navigation system, advanced neuro microscope, best in class imaging technology, and round-the-clock robust critical care support enables us to handle even the most challenging trauma cases with precision and confidence ," said Dr. Sivaranjani, Director, Dr. Kamakshi Memorial Hospitals . She pointed out that the hospitals Neurosurgery Department is a centre of excellence, offering complex brain and spine surgeries, minimally invasive neuro-endoscopy, trauma management, aneurysm care, and comprehensive neurological rehabilitation. A Rare Survival Story That Highlights the Power of Timely Care Penetrating brain injuries caused by sharp objects are extremely uncommon and often fatal. Many patients do not reach medical care in timeor succumb to complications such as swelling, infection, or vascular injury. " The fact that the patient not only survived but made a complete recovery is a testament to the speed of intervention and the expertise of our neurosurgical and critical care teams ," said the hospital spokesperson. About Dr. Kamakshi Memorial Hospitals Dr. Kamakshi Memorial Hospitals, Chennai, is a premier multi-specialty healthcare institution renowned for excellence in neurosurgery, Robotic Joint Replacements, emergency trauma care, oncology, cardiology, womens health, IVF, advanced imaging, and intensive care services. Its state-of-the-art Neurosciences Department is equipped to manage the most complex neurological conditions with advanced technology and highly specialised teams. www.drkmh.com .
Heavy vehicles not to be permitted on Thirumukkudal bridge during peak hours
The bridge in Kancheepuram district is notorious for accidents caused by heavy vehicles from nearby stone quarries
Cyclone Ditwah: 4 dead, thousands of homes and crops destroyed in Tamil Nadu; key points
Northern Tamil Nadu grapples with severe flooding after Cyclonic Storm Ditwah brought heavy rains, submerging Chennai and its districts. Four lives were lost, over 1,600 homes damaged, and crops on 2.11 lakh acres destroyed. Authorities are deploying thousands of personnel for relief efforts as heavy showers are expected to continue.
Man held for cheating woman cop of gold, cash in TN
CHENNAI: A 36-year-old man from Dharmapuri was arrested by the Anna Nagar All-Women Police on Tuesday on charges of cheating a woman police constable of cash and gold after entering into a relationship with her under the pretext of marriage. The police have seized gold, silver ornaments, mobile phones, and multiple SIM cards from him. The 33-year-old constable, who lives in Kilpauk after separating from her husband, began receiving persistent text messages from an unknown number belonging to Singaravel, the accused, a few months ago. They developed a close rapport and he gradually convinced her to part with money on the pretext of starting a business for their future. Believing him, she gave him Rs 3.4 lakh and a gold chain weighing six sovereigns over a period of time. When he allegedly demanded Rs 3 lakh more, she became suspicious. As she delayed payment, he reportedly threatened her. Realising she had been duped, she filed a complaint on Monday.
Chennai doctors perform mid-air rescue, save crew member from severe allergic shock
CHENNAI: Two senior doctors saved a crew member who developed an anaphylactic shock on an international flight on Monday. The health condition is a potentially life threatening severe allergic reaction that can be caused by certain food items, latex, insects or medications. According to a release by MGM Healthcare Hospital, the incident happened when doctors M Gopinathan and Sudharshan Balaji, who work at the hospital, were on board an Etihad Airways flight from Addis Ababa to Abu Dhabi. They were returning to India after a medical camp in Ethiopia. Around 40 minutes after take off, a young crew member developed a severe anaphylactic shock. His condition quickly deteriorated with zero air entry into his lungs and oxygen saturation dropping to 80%. As the aircraft was already in the non-return zone, the doctors stepped in and initiated critical life saving measures, which included administration of steroids, bronchodilators to improve airway flow, and antihistamines to counter the allergic reaction. Continuous medical grade oxygen supply was also provided. After nearly an hour of continuous resuscitation efforts, the crew member regained adequate lung ventilation. By the time the aircraft landed, he was stable and required only low-dose oxygen for added safety, the release added.
Chennai police nab trio for abduction, extortion in disputed land transaction
CHENNAI: Three people were arrested on Monday after a man who acted as a broker in a land deal, along with his accomplices, allegedly abducted and extorted a client. On Sunday, Pachaiyappan (42), a driver, was abducted and assaulted at Neelankarai by a group led by his acquaintance Vetri, who allegedly tried to extort Rs 15 lakh from him. According to the Neelankarai police, Pachaiyappan had returned from Tiruporur Murugan Temple and was waiting outside an eatery when Vetri and others arrived in a car, forced him inside, and drove away. He was taken to an apartment in Poonamallee where he was beaten and threatened at knifepoint. Based on his complaint, the police arrested Joseph (52) of Kottur, Deepak John (43) of Perambur, and Muthukumar (48) of RV Nagar, Jafferkhanpet. The police seized a car, an autorickshaw, a motorcycle, and the knife used in the crime. Inquires revealed Vetri had earlier taken Rs 1 lakh advance for a land deal he arranged for Pachaiyappan in Vellore. Believed he had more money, they abducted Pachaiyappan. Vetri is yet to be nabbed. The arrested trio were remanded on Monday.
Rs 200 crore WRD land retrieved in Chennai to be transformed into public park
CHENNAI: A Water Resources Department (WRD) land parcel worth Rs 200 crore in Sathya Nagar, Saidapet, encroached through illegal fencing by individuals, has been retrieved following coordinated action by the district administration and Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), Health Minister Ma Subramanian said on Tuesday. Inspecting the cleared site, the Minister said the reclaimed land would soon be developed for public use. A boundary wall, walkway, childrens park and restored water bodies will be created here. Work will begin shortly, he said. The minister said the state is prioritising waterbody restoration. As part of Adyar river rejuvenation, 226 hutments from Sathya Nagar have already been resettled. Responding to queries on Cyclone Ditwah, he said Chennai remained largely safe despite heavy rain, and criticised opposition leader Edappadi K Palaniswami for making claims without visiting the city. If he can point out any affected area, we will act immediately. Even during Cyclone Gaja, he visited only after a week, he added.
Despite pumping efforts, North Chennai struggles with persistent flooding after heavy rains
CHENNAI: With the city recording an average of 15.75 cm of rainfall in the 36-hour period from Monday morning till Tuesday evening, mainly concentrated in its northern parts, inundation persisted in many vulnerable areas in northern Chennai even as most parts saw a decline in water stagnation, mainly due to the deployment of high-capacity pumps by Greater Chennai Corporation. The Ganesapuram subway in Vyasarpadi, which had become inaccessible since Monday due to inundation continued to remain so as of Tuesday evening even as rains subsided significantly during the day. Many localities in Perambur, MKB Nagar and Vyasarpadi also remained waterlogged with water even entering houses in Sathyamoorthy Nagar and Ponnappan Street. The inundation continued despite full-fledged operation of several high-capacity pumps to evacuate the water, exposing inadequacies in sustainable, long-term solutions in these areas that get affected every year. Residents in affected pockets in Sathyamoorthy Nagar said the power supply had been cut since Monday after water levels rose. I Dhivya, a resident of Mullai Nagar, said shops nearby remained closed and residents had to wade through sewage-mixed stagnant water to buy essentials. Renuka, another resident, alleged that the area remained neglected and no one visited to deliver essentials like milk packets or water. While Ganesapuram subway had neck-deep water on Tuesday, the Perambur BB road and approaching roads from Ganeshapuram were inundated. In Vyasarpadi Ponnappan Street, residents were bailing out water from their houses as pumps were being operated to clear the streets. The stench from continuous movement of garbage-laden trucks on the way to Kodungaiyur dumpyard added to the woes of residents. The residents get cut off from the city when the Ganeshapuram subway gets inundated. In Mullai Nagar, residents said that despite severe water stagnation every year, construction of new stormwater drains began only recently. KP Anand from Vyasarpadi said that, after four years of being in power, the DMK government has initiated the works only last month. This should have been their priority and the works should have been completed long ago, he said. He further said that desilting works on Captain Cotton Canal began only in August, with Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin launching the work. The desilted waste from the canal was kept along the banks. Now, with the rains, they are finding their way back, he alleged. Most parts of Chennai remained free from inundation, barring some stretches in Kodambakkam and T Nagar, including Rangarajapuram Main Road and Corporation Colony Main Road. In Rangarajapuram Main Road, where waterlogging remains an annual problem, GCC had deployed pumps. However, residents complained that the water was diverted to Corporation Colony Main Road, where it subsequently collected on a vacant private plot, inundating the adjoining road. Harsha Koda of Federation of OMR Resident Associations alleged that OMR was in poor shape after three days of rain. Complaining of battered roads and water stagnation at many spots, he said water continued to collect in vacant plots and low-lying areas despite the government spending thousands of crores on stormwater drains. Meanwhile, Udhayanidhi held a review meeting at the Ripon Buildings on Tuesday to assess the status of relief operations. He also inspected a few places to monitor ongoing relief efforts.
Sky-high rescue: 2 doctors save cabin crew members life mid-air after severe allergic shock
Two Indian doctors, Dr. Gopinathan M and Dr. Sudharshan Balaji, saved a young Etihad Airways crew member suffering a life-threatening anaphylactic shock mid-flight. Returning from Ethiopia, the physicians administered rapid resuscitation, including steroids and bronchodilators, to the unconscious patient. Their swift actions ensured the crew member regained consciousness and adequate breathing before landing, averting a critical mid-air emergency.
Bengaluru to get 4,500 more electric buses under PM e-Drive Scheme
BENGALURU: Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) will get 4,500 more electric buses under the PMs e-Drive Scheme with Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) finalising bids last month, according to Union Minister of State for Heavy Industries Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma. The minister was responding to a question by Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya in the Lok Sabha. Surya had sought details on the number of buses sanctioned, funds allocated, operational status, and the reasons for the delay. In his reply, the minister said under the scheme, 4,500 e-buses have been allotted to BMTC. These buses are among the 10,900 e-buses for which bids were finalised by CESL on November 14. Procurement and deployment of these buses are on. Under the FAME-II Scheme, BMTC received 1,221 e-buses and Rs 517.23 crore as central assistance. All 1,221 buses have been deployed. Bengaluru did not receive any buses under the earlier FAME Scheme, despite Karnataka getting 425 buses, the minister said. According to information provided by the minister, 6,862 electric buses have been deployed in the state under the FAME-II Scheme and 13,800 under the PM e-Drive Scheme. 236 charging stations set up In all, 236 electric vehicle charging stations have been set up across four major corridors in Bengaluru, the Union Minister of State for Heavy Industries told Bengaluru Central MP PC Mohan in the Lok Sabha. In a written reply, the minister said oil marketing companies (OMCs) have set up 236 EV charging stations across these corridors, including 109 on Bengaluru-Pune Highway (NH 48), 64 on Bengaluru-Hyderabad Highway (NH 44), 33 on Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway (NH 275), and 30 on Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway. However, it was clarified that no centralised data is available on battery-swapping stations, nor has any study been conducted to assess whether the current infrastructure is adequate for heavy EVs such as electric buses and freight trucks.
Heavy rains from the remnants of Cyclone Ditwah forced the closure of schools and colleges in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, and Kancheepuram. IMD issued an Orange Alert as the deep depression nears the Tamil Nadu coast, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and widespread waterlogging.
Chennai weather update: Chennai is likely to receive moderate rainfall on Wednesday due to the impact of cyclone Ditwah. Many other districts in Tamil Nadu such as Nilgiris, Coimbatore and Erode are likely to get heavy rainfall today. Schools and colleges in Chennai remain shut today. The uninterrupted rain brought normal life to a halt in many parts of the city.
Take that middle partition to avoid hair loss
At first, it was just a hairstyle, a harmless act of imitation. A new heroine would arrive on screen, and overnight college corridors, wedding albums, and salons would echo her look. In the 1940s and 50s, women watched TR Rajakumari and Vyjayanthimala glide across the screen with their hair combed low, softly draped over the ears or hugging the cheek; and an entire generation adopted their style. In the late 90s and early 2000s, Simran and Jyothika made the side partition not just fashionable but aspirational. Their hairs deep swoop, the feminine cascade, and the effortless glamour, made young women across Tamil Nadu position their combs exactly like those stars. Now, in the 2020s, heroines and influencers have brought back the centre partition, both sharp and minimalistic, redefining symmetry and beauty. But time has a way of revealing the quiet cost of beauty. What dermatologists today call traction alopecia is, in many cases, the result of years of repeated strain along the same partition line and the tightly braided or pulled back style, which was more than just fashion. It was cultural and societal reinforcement too as schools mandated tight braids and households insisted on tightly wound hair for discipline, for an unspoken rule is that loose hair is inappropriate or even rebellious. Dr MK Chandhanah, a Doctor of Medicine in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy, says she has clinically noticed how these hair trends impact patterns of hair loss. When a trend becomes widespread, we see a corresponding rise in temporal thinning and frontal hairline recession that aligns with how the style distributes tension. Social media also normalises these trends forcing young women to adopt them earlier and wear them for longer hours, increasing follicular stress, eventually leading to permanent hair loss if continued for a longer time, she informs. Millennials and early Gen Z, who once followed actors with deep side partitions, are now confronting receding hair along the very edges they styled so carefully. The new generation may favour the clean, straight centre part, but Dr Chandhanah warns that repeated stress along any single line, side or centre, can quietly weaken follicles over time. Trends like ultra-sleek ponytails, micro-braids, high-tension buns, and middle-parted clean girl styles often lead to recurrent pulling on the same zones. This creates constant mechanical stress and over time, leads to irritation and inflammation due to which the hair shaft weakens, eventually causing traction alopecia, she explains. So, will this reduce the risk of traction alopecia? The answer is still no, Dr Chandhanah says, adding that the hairline, just like the temples and parting lines, is vulnerable as they have finer and more delicate hairs; and are also most commonly affected by traction hairstyles. Dr Deepika Lunawat, dermatologist, Mahi Skin Hair & Laser Clinic, Chennai, says that she has been seeing more people with complaints of traction alopecia after Covid. I believe that during Covid people were seeing themselves more on their screens, and were aware of their presentability. Many began noticing thinning of hairs and frontal hair recession, mostly caused by traction alopecia. The duration of wearing tight hairstyles, hair fragility, and the presence of inflammation are all determinants in concluding how reversible the condition is. Reversibility, the doctors add, depends entirely on whether scarring has set in, and behavioural changes such as reducing traction is enough for regrowth. But, once scarring occurs, the follicles are permanently destroyed. In this stage, regrowth is limited, and patients often require medical interventions such as topical minoxidil, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), or in advanced cases, hair transplantation, concludes Dr Chandhanah. Tips to reduce traction from side or straight parting Change the parting line frequently: Rotating between a middle part, left part, right part, or a soft zig-zag part helps distribute tension evenly. Keeping the same line daily creates chronic pulling on a narrow strip of follicles. Avoid tightening the part with a comb: This can lead to micro-trauma. Instead, allow the part to fall naturally or create it gently with your fingers. Switch to low-tension accessories: Instead of clips or pins that clamp tightly, use soft, cushioned clips. Keep baby hairs free: Avoid brushing tiny frontal hairs into the parted section. These hairs are genetically thinner and get damaged first. Plan rest days for the scalp: At least two to three days a week, wear styles that dont rely on defined parting like loose ponytails, soft updos, or letting the natural fall guide the division. Watch for early warning signs: If the part is widening or the scalp becomes more visible along the same strip, thats an early sign.
Senior citizens make a master stroke at swim meet
When the whistle blew, swimmers dove in, aiming to finish first. Among them, Vidya Gajapathi Raju Singh, princess of Vijayanagaram, powered ahead with efficient strokes and flutter kicks to win gold in the 50m freestyle at the 21st National Masters Swim Meet in Hyderabad held between November 21 and 23. The 72-year-old won four medals in the womens category: gold in 50m freestyle, 50m breaststroke, 100m breaststroke, and silver in 100m freestyle. At first glance, the Masters Swim Meet appears to be any other sporting event. But the story behind each splash is different. These athletes aged 25 years and above are individuals who returned to the water at a different phase in life, simply because they never stopped swimming. Among them is 76-year-old Arun Krishnan, one of Indias oldest Ironman triathletes, who has competed in the Masters for over a decade. I started swimming at the age of 13, when I was in the College of Engineering, Guindy. I used to participate in competitions. And then, I made it to the state-level competition in those days, he recalls. From intercollegiate to national-level championship, it is his years of discipline, stamina, and personal rigour that have built his competitive spirit. For the past 10 years, I have been swimming in various age categories. Starting from 60-65, to now 75-79, he adds. As a triathlete, swimming is an integral part of Aruns training. Swimming is something very essential, and I keep in touch with it, he notes. His favourite is the 400m freestyle, where endurance, rhythm, and an almost meditative focus are prerequisites. He shares, For longer distances like 400 metres, the idea is to keep on pushing right throughout. And you get into a nice rhythm. It is very blissful. At this edition of the Masters, he walked away with two silvers in the 400m freestyle and 200m freestyle in the 75-79 category. Hurdles and motivation The win came at a moment when the lack of support laid bare the gaps in the system. The Tamil Nadu government did not extend any support. When players from Karnataka and other states wore state jerseys in matching colours, we were the only people who didnt, he rues. What disappoints him more is the absence of a state-assembled Masters team. I dont think I have ever seen a Tamil Nadu state team. Sufficient importance is not given to the masters because we are not exactly going to bring laurels at a national-level meet. Arun presses for the governments initiative to form a team. He wishes, If we had a team, we could have secured several points and eventually won the championship. Despite these hurdles, the meet remains deeply motivating. Arun reflects on competitors who inspire him. Most of the people who do well there are those who have been national champions. I have learned from the competitor who beat me, who won the gold this year. The person was a national champion about 40 years ago. Their longevity in the sport, he notes, is not accidental. What I learnt is that these people keep in touch with the sport and remain fit. Some of them even work for the government and government organisations. And if they secure a victory at the Masters Meet, I think that helps them with their promotions. For Arun, the meet is also about health as much as medals. It is essentially fitness and also helps in mental faculties. I have learned from doctors that aerobic exercises help in keeping oneself mentally alert right throughout. Vidya Gajapathi Raju Grit and glory With the same level of enthusiasm for fitness, Vidya added swimming as another dimension to my fitness routine 15 years ago, and I found I was really enjoying it. Her relationship with water began quite early. From the age of four or five, Ive been swimming. I grew up with a swimming pool at home, but I never used it for exercise, as I was a tennis player. Then, 10 years ago, we (from Madras Club) went for our first national Masters event in Bhopal. Since then, she has participated in eight national Masters competitions. The competitive and encouraging environment makes her want to return every year. Its highly inspiring because there are about 800 to 900 swimmers who come from all over India. Its extraordinary, she says. Vidya admits that each year she learns something new from her fellow players and levels up her game in each competition. She celebrates the diversity among the swimmers. A lot of these swimmers have come out of national events; some have represented India in international swimming events, a lot of sports quota students and job seekers, some of them are coaches, and then there are people, like me, who are recreational swimmers. Vidyas practice sessions reflect her passion for the sport. Her workouts at the Madras Club involve swimming 80 lengths of the club pool, which is a 2km swim in freestyle and breaststroke. At this point, I feel I am fitter today at 72 than I was when I was 30, she says. Along with Arun and Vidya, Venkataraman and Geetha Venkataraman from Tamil Nadu also participated. Their journey shows the true spirit of the Masters Meet. They not just strive for records, but the pursuit of possibilities. These participants in water find a version of themselves that is alive, fitter, and is learning throughout.
Planning a weekly grocery list is one of the most effective habits for long-term nutrition success. Research shows that people who plan their meals and shop with structure have better diet quality, higher fruit and vegetable intake, and improved weight management. However, many individuals, athletes, professionals, or families, struggle to translate their nutrition goals into practical food choices. The 5-4-3-2-1 grocery rule is a simple, memorable framework that helps bridge that gap using evidence-based nutrition principles. This rule guides clients to choose foods in a balanced, intentional way, ensuring variety, adequate nutrients, and reduced decision fatigue. Each number represents a category to include when planning a weekly grocery list. 5: Vegetables & fruits Research consistently emphasises the importance of dietary variety, especially when it comes to plant foods. Different colours represent different phytochemicals, antioxidants that support immunity, gut health, and recovery. For example, green vegetables offer folate and magnesium, orange vegetables provide beta-carotene, and red fruits supply lycopene, all of which play roles in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Encouraging people to select five different colours or types of fruits and vegetables ensures they receive a wide spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants throughout the week. Studies show that consuming multiple colours of produce improves nutrient density and reduces chronic disease risk. For athletes, this variety supports faster recovery and better immune function during heavy training periods. 4: Protein sources Protein is essential not only for muscle repair but also for hormonal health, satiety, and metabolic function. Research in sports nutrition suggests that consuming a variety of protein sources helps distribute amino acids more evenly across meals, improving muscle protein synthesis. The 5-4-3-2-1 rule encourages choosing four protein-rich foods, such as eggs, chicken, fish, lentils, Greek yogurt, paneer, tofu, or chickpeas. A mix of animal and plant proteins ensures coverage of essential amino acids, micronutrients like B12 and iron, and gut-friendly fibres found in legumes. Athletes especially benefit from this diversity, studies indicate that an intake of 20-40 grams of high-quality protein per meal enhances recovery and adaptation. 3: Carbohydrate staples Carbohydrates remain the primary fuel source for both the brain and muscles. Research shows that athletes who consume adequate carbohydrates before and after exercise perform better, recover faster, and experience less fatigue. The framework suggests choosing three carb staples for the week, such as rice, oats, potatoes, whole-wheat bread, or pasta. Rotating among these ensures balanced energy intake, nutrient variety, and prevents monotony in meal planning. Whole grains also support gut health, while options like potatoes provide potassium and vitamin C. This approach aligns with evidence recommending diverse carbohydrate sources to maintain glycogen levels and support metabolic flexibility. 2: Healthy fats Healthy fats support hormone production, brain function, and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). Research shows that omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular health, while moderate intake of monounsaturated fats supports metabolic function. Selecting two fat sources, such as nuts, seeds, olive oil, ghee, or nut butters helps clients incorporate beneficial fats without overconsuming energy-dense foods. A small but intentional weekly selection promotes mindful use and prevents unnecessary snacking. 1: Snack or hydration booster Snacking is often where unplanned calories and poor choices creep in. Studies show that structured snacking improves diet quality and reduces overeating. The 5-4-3-2-1 rule ends with choosing one intentional snack or hydration aid, such as dark chocolate, a protein bar, Greek yogurt cup, coconut water, or an electrolyte drink. This prevents impulsive buying and ensures that snacking supports goals rather than derails them. Why the 5-4-3-2-1 rule works This system is backed by behavioural and nutritional science. It reduces decision fatigue, improves adherence, enhances nutrient distribution, and makes grocery shopping more efficient. By focusing on categories instead of rigid meal plans, clients gain flexibility while still maintaining structure. Whether working with athletes, families, or general wellness clients, the 5-4-3-2-1 grocery rule offers a sustainable, evidence-based way to build a balanced, goal-friendly weekly pantry, one that supports consistency, performance, and long-term health.
As the temperature dips, the markets are filled with colourful fruits. Adding to their hues are the juicy oranges. From the imported Malta variant to the Kamala or Nagpur orange, there are many an option to choose from. Packed with vitamin C, they taste best when eaten as is. But this versatile fruit, and its peel, are used across households to make desserts, condiments, and more. Team CE brings you some recipes to try out this season. Orange Carrot Cake by Chef Firozi Karanjia Ingredients: For the cake: Orange juice (fresh): cup Vegetable oil: cup Eggs (room temperature): 4 All-purpose flour: 2 cups Baking powder: 1 tbsp White sugar: 1 cup Carrot (grated): 1 cup Orange zest: 1 tbsp For the orange glaze (optional): Orange juice: 2 tbsp Icing sugar (powdered sugar): 1/3 cup Orange zest: 2 tbsp Method: Preheat the oven to 175C (350F). Line a 22-cm (9-inch) round springform or cake pan with parchment paper and grease the sides with butter or nonstick spray. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until fluffy, using an electric whisk. Gradually, add the sugar and whisk again until well combined. Add the oil and orange juice to the egg mixture and whisk briefly. In a separate medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and orange zest. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and whisk until just combined. Finally, stir in the grated carrots using a spatula. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and level the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick or skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. To add the glaze: While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by combining the orange juice, powdered sugar, and orange zest in a bowl. Stir well until smooth. As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour or brush the orange glaze evenly over the warm cake. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before transferring to a wire rack and serving. Orange Peel Thuvayal by Chef Shribala Ingredients: Orange peel: 5 (approx. 250 g) Red chilli: 8 Rock salt: to taste Bengal gram: 2 tbsp Black gram: 1 tbsp Asafoetida: 1 tsp Tamarind juice: 1 tbsp Jaggery: 1 tbsp Oil: 2 tbsp For seasoning: Mustard seeds: 1 tsp Bengal gram: 1 tsp Black gram:1 tsp Curry leaves: 1 sprig Oil: 1 tbsp Method: Chop the orange peel into smaller pieces and wash it thoroughly. In a heavy-bottomed kadai , add a tbsp of oil and chopped orange skin and saut until soft. Remove and let it cool. In the same kadai , add the remaining oil and add Bengal gram, black gram, asafoetida, red chilli and saut till both the grams are golden brown. Add these sauted ingredients to the mixer along with orange peel, salt, tamarind, jaggery, and grind it nicely by sprinkling water. In a small kadai , add oil, crackle mustard, Bengal gram, black gram, curry leaves and pour it on the thuvayal . Lip-smacking orange peel thuvayal is ready to be served with plain rice and ghee. Orange Popsicle by Priyathama K Ingredients: Orange juice: 400 ml Nutmeg powder: 1 tsp Orange zest: 1 tsp Powdered sugar: 1-2 tbsp Method: Mix the above ingredients and transfer the liquid into popsicle trays. Cover the tray with foil, and make slits for each popsicle. Stick ice cream sticks into slits made on the foil and freeze before serving. Orange Tea By Archana Kiran Ingredients: Peel of one orange Tea powder: 1 spoon Water Honey Method: Dry the orange peels. Boil water in a pan and add a few pieces of the dried peel. After a few minutes, add tea powder and let it boil. Strain and serve, with or without milk, and honey. Note: Do not boil after adding milk. Orange Peel Vatha Kozhambu by Geetha Radhakrishnan Ingredients: Gingelly oil: 3 tbsp Mustard seeds: a pinch Fenugreek seeds: a pinch Bengal gram: 1 tsp Red chilli: 2 Sambar powder: 2 tbsp Cleaned orange peels from 1 or 2 small fruits Tamarind paste: 1-2 tbsp soaked and extracted with 2 cups of water Salt to taste Asafoetida: a pinch Curry leaves: a few Method: To a kadai , add gingelly oil. Once hot, add the first four ingredients, followed by the cleaned orange peels. Fry them until golden brown. To this, add the tamarind water, sambar powder, salt, and asafoetida, and boil it on medium flame. Once the curry reduces to half its quantity, temper it with curry leaves. If you desire a thicker concoction, you can mix rice flour to 2 teaspoon of water and add the mixture to the curry before removing it off the stove. Orange Posset by Ann Leah Sam Ingredients : Heavy cream: 1 cup Cane sugar: 1/3 cup Orange juice: 1/4 cup Vanilla: 1-2 tsp Zest from 1 orange Method: Part I: Cream mixture Take 3 orange peel halves or 4 ramekins. In a bowl, mix sugar with orange zest. Rub them together with your hands until the sugar turns fragrant and orange-tinted. Whisk in heavy cream and vanilla until smooth. Pour the mixture into a saucepan, heat on low, and bring to a gentle simmer. Remove from heat and stir in orange juice. Strain through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to remove the zest. Part II: Assemble & chill Cut 2 oranges in half and scoop out the insides. Pour the cream mixture into each hollowed orange half (or use ramekins if you prefer).Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set. Garnish with a mint sprig before serving, if desired. Orange Peel Pickle by Chef Shribala Ingredients: Orange peel: 500 g Ginger (chopped): 200 g Whole garlic: 100 g Tamarind juice: 100 ml Jaggery: 100 g Oil: 250 ml Red chilli powder: 150 g Whole red chilli: 10 Curry leaves: 1 sprig Salt: cup Roasted fenugreek powder: 1 tbsp Roasted mustard powder: 1 tbsp Apple cider vinegar: cup Asafoetida: 1 tbsp Mustard: 1 tbsp Kalonji: 1 tbsp Method: Start collecting the peels from the oranges; shade dry; scrape the inner side and remove the inner pith. Cut these peels into small strips. wash and pat dry these strips. In a kadai , add 100 ml of oil. Let it heat up. Crackle mustard, then fenugreek, kalonji , and curry leaves. Tear up red chilli into small pieces and add it to the oil. Add curry leaves, asafoetida, garlic and saut until golden brown. Add ginger saut till it releases nice aroma; add the tamarind pulp, orange peel, and salt. Add the remaining oil and switch off the stove; let it cool for five minutes. Now add the red chilli powder, jaggery, roasted fenugreek powder, and roasted mustard powder. Mix well after adding the apple cider vinegar and let it rest. Cool it in a clean glass jar for future use. Orange Sorbet By Rose George Ingredients: Orange juice: 2 cups Water: 1 cup Sugar: 1 cup (or less) Lemon juice: 1 teaspoon Method: Heat the water and sugar in a pot until the sugar dissolves. Let the syrup cool fully. Mix the cold syrup with the orange juice and lemon juice. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container. Freeze for 2 hours. Take it out and scrape the frozen edges with a fork. Return it to the freezer. Scrape it again every hour, 3-4 times. Freeze until firm. Scoop and serve cold. One Ingredient Mandarin Ice Cream by Priyathama K Ingredients: Mandarin oranges: 2 Condensed milk and whipped cream: optional Method: Take two mandarins, peel the skin off and place the fruit segments into a tray. Freeze it overnight. Once frozen, add the fruit segments to a blender or a food processor, and blend. Use a spoon to push the mixture down and continue blending until you get a smooth consistency and serve. Alternatively, you can blend the fresh fruit, beat it with condensed milk and whipped cream, transfer the mixture to a tray and freeze it overnight before serving. Orange Chicken By Meghanand S Ingredients: Chicken breasts (boneless skinless): 4 Eggs (whisked): 3 Cornstarch: 1/3 cup Flour: 1/3 cup Salt Oil for frying For orange sauce: Orange juice: 1 cup Sugar: 1/2 cup Rice vinegar (or white vinegar): 2 tbsp Soy sauce: 2 tbsp Ginger: 1/4 tsp Garlic powder or 2 minced garlic cloves: 1/4 tsp Red chilli flakes: 1/2 tsp Zest of 1 orange Cornstarch: 1 tbsp Water: 2 tbsp For garnish: Green onions Orange zest Method: Mix orange juice, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and chilli flakes in a pot. Heat for 3 minutes. Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoon water and add to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes until thick, then turn off heat and stir in orange zest. For the chicken, mix cornstarch, flour, and salt in a bowl. Dip chicken pieces in the egg, then coat in the flour mixture. Heat oil to medium-high. Fry chicken in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove and drain the oil. Toss the chicken in the orange sauce. Garnish with green onions and extra zest. Serve with rice.
The long struggle to remove a British military officers statue from Chennais Mount Road
The issue even reached the British Parliament where citizens of the western country suggested that the statue of James George Smith Neil be sent to London.
Arterial roads of south Chennai largely clear of inundation; interior roads on OMR face waterlogging
Vacancies in loco pilot posts cause hardship to commuters in Chennai division
The Chennai division of Southern Railway which operates hundreds of suburban, mail and express trains has been mainly facing shortage of loco pilots.
How old debt defaults came to haunt an ex-Minister in a corruption case many years later
In 1973, K. Ponnusamy was working as a Lecturer at a Government Arts College in Tamil Nadu, he availed of a 13,000 crop loan from the Bank of India but failed to repay the loan. The bank moved the court and collected the amount
More than 20cm rainfall ravages streets in north Chennai
TN seeks recall of SC order on CBI probe in Karur stampede
Tamil getting its rightful place of honour: Vice President Radhakrishnan
NEW DELHI, Dec 2: Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Tuesday said that Tamil is receiving its rightful place of honour and continued national support. In a video message for the fourth edition of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam, the vice president welcomed this years theme, Let us learn Tamil, which, he said, reinforces linguistic and cultural harmony. He also appreciated the initiative of 50 Hindi-speaking Tamil teachers and coordinators, trained by the Central Institute of Classical Tamil in Chennai, who [] The post Tamil getting its rightful place of honour: Vice President Radhakrishnan appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Draft map designating Pulicat sanctuary as eco-sensitive sent for Central clearance
Congress panel to hold talks with DMK today
