The Economic Times

Alexander Pushkin's profound quote, A deception that elevates us is dearer than a host of low truths, explores the human preference for uplifting illusions over harsh realities. The article delves into Pushkin's life and literary achievements, highlighting how his works, though sometimes controversial, shaped modern Russian literature by focusing on realism and human complexity.

Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise are reportedly being linked to a potential private reunion with their adopted children, Bella and Connor, more than two decades after their 2001 divorce. Sources suggest discussions are underway for a low-key family dinner in either London or Florida, depending on logistics and availability. The reported plan follows major personal changes in Kidmans life after her separation from Keith Urban.

Iran and the US face a prolonged standoff. The US is intensifying economic pressure on Iran's economy. Iran indicates it can withstand the strain. The situation suggests a lengthy impasse. Both nations are showing endurance. The global economy may feel the impact of this deadlock.

Sudden food cravings often signal more than just indulgence. Nutritionist Lovneet Batra explains common urges. Sweet cravings might mean low energy, while salty ones could indicate dehydration. Carb cravings may point to low protein. Fizzy drink desires can be thirst. Sour food urges might relate to digestion. Batra offers healthier alternatives for each.

A Harvard-trained gastroenterologist has identified eight common daily habits that could be silently impacting your health. From holding your pee and sleeping with your mouth open to poor posture and eating too fast, these seemingly minor actions can lead to infections, pain, and digestive issues. Learn how to adjust these routines for better well-being.

A Gurugram-based software engineer earning Rs 13 LPA, worried about possible layoffs amid rising AI adoption, sought advice from ChatGPT on building a side income. With monthly expenses around Rs 60,000, he wanted a practical backup plan, and the AI suggested three options, freelance tech work for quick earnings, AI-driven automation services for scalability, and content creation for long-term growth, along with a focused 30-day plan to help him start small, find clients, and aim for his first R

African proverb of the day: An African proverb, 'Ugliness with a good character is better than beauty,' challenges superficial definitions of worth. It emphasizes that inner qualities like kindness and integrity hold more value than outward appearance, guiding us to build meaningful connections and self-perception based on true character.

In a move to strengthen economic ties, France is pushing for actionable measures to eliminate trade obstacles between India and the European Union. Minister Delegate Nicolas Forissier emphasized the urgency of addressing non-tariff challenges. With the recent Free Trade Agreement in place, the aim is to ensure it serves as a win-win for both regions.

Electricity bills are going down for some people in Connecticut from May 2026. The new rule will give automatic monthly savings on power bills. This is to help families facing high energy costs. The discount depends on the company you use. But the full bill may not drop much. Prices can also change later based on actual costs and updates.

Bob Dylans quote, Sometimes its not enough to know what things mean, sometimes you have to know what things dont mean, is a striking reminder that understanding life goes beyond fixed definitions. It suggests that clarity often comes not from what is explained, but from what is left unsaid, unseen, or undefined.

KB Chaat in Karol Bagh, New Delhi, offers a unique eggless omelette called moonglet. This vegetarian dish originated from leftover moong dal batter. The vendor's father established the stall in 1970. Today, the stall sells around 200 moonglets daily, alongside other popular chaat items. The moonglet has become a special attraction.

A major breakthrough in a decade-old bank fraud case. Kamlesh Parekh, a fugitive wanted for Rs 2,672 crore fraud, has been arrested. He was extradited from the UAE to India. Parekh is accused in a case involving Shree Ganesh Jewellery House. The CBI had filed charges against him.

The government has extended the minimum import price (MIP) on virgin multi-layer paper board at 67,220 per metric tonne until September 30, 2026, according to an official notification.

China's Commerce Ministry has blocked U.S. sanctions on five Chinese oil refiners. These companies were accused of purchasing oil from Iran. The U.S. Treasury had previously imposed sanctions on Hengli Petrochemical and four other refineries. China states these sanctions violate international law. The injunction prevents the U.S. from recognizing or implementing these sanctions.

New rules allow overseas firms with up to 10 percent Chinese ownership to invest in India automatically. This applies to sectors open for foreign direct investment. However, companies registered in China, Hong Kong, or countries sharing a land border with India are excluded. These changes aim to streamline investment while maintaining oversight. The Finance Ministry has notified these updated regulations.

Berkshire Hathaway now has very high cash and a new CEO after Warren Buffett. The company is not investing much and is selling stocks. Experts are asking what it will do next. Some say it may give dividends. Others think it will focus on energy and business growth. Big changes may happen soon.

Spirit Airlines has shut down operations. This marks the first airline collapse linked to the Iran war, following a surge in jet fuel prices. The U.S. government has announced a relief plan for affected customers and the airline's 17,000 employees. Major carriers are capping ticket prices and offering reduced fares. Employee support includes job interview opportunities.

The Met Gala is facing unprecedented security preparations this year, with authorities treating the event as a high-risk gathering due to past protests and global tensions. The Metropolitan Museum of Art will be surrounded by armed officers, surveillance systems, drones, and restricted zones designed to control access. Officials are also preparing for possible demonstrations linked to geopolitical conflicts and labor-related activism.

Thyssenkrupp AG and Jindal Steel International have paused discussions on a potential stake sale in the German firms steel unit. The company said the assumptions for the deal have changed, citing progress in restructuring its steel business and a more favourable regulatory environment in Europe, which offers better growth prospects despite high energy costs.

Nawazuddin Siddiqui, known for his versatile roles, recently shared his early career struggles, including financial hardship and repeated rejections. He recalled surviving on Parle-G biscuits and the emotional toll of being fired from film projects just before shooting. Despite these setbacks, Siddiqui remained dedicated to his craft, practicing dialogues publicly.

Wrexham's dream of reaching the Premier League is over, for this season anyway. Ipswich is owned by U.S. investment group Gamechanger 20 Limited and counts pop star Ed Sheeran as a minority shareholder.

House of the Dragon Season 3 is set to stream in India. The new season continues the brutal Targaryen civil war, with Rhaenyra trying to strengthen her claim using new dragon riders while Aemond tightens control over Kings Landing. As battles spread and tensions rise, the fight for the Iron Throne begins to spiral into a larger destruction that could wipe out both sides.

V Anantha Nageswaran has called for India to build strategic buffers to manage the ongoing energy shock triggered by the West Asia crisis, warning it is the most severe in recent times.

Tightened US naval restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz have sharply reduced Irans oil exports, forcing the country to cut production as storage fills up. Despite the pressure, Iran is drawing on past experience with sanctions to manage the crisis, including reducing output in a controlled way and using floating storage to keep supplies moving.

Officials are still investigating the abduction of Nancy Guthrie, who went missing three months ago. DNA samples from the crime scene have been sent to the FBI. A man was seen outside her home shortly before her disappearance. Ransom letters have been sent to media outlets. The family is pleading for proof of her well-being.

Missing quarterly tax deadlines can cost you extra money in penalties and interest. People who earn on their own or expect to owe taxes must pay on time during the year. Knowing the correct dates, paying early, and staying organized can help you avoid problems. Simple planning and timely payments make tax filing easier and less stressful.

Iran has offered a new proposal to end the ongoing conflict. The plan suggests reopening shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and lifting the US blockade. Nuclear talks would be postponed for later discussions. However, US President Donald Trump has rejected this offer, stating he cannot agree to Iran's demands. This development comes after weeks of disrupted global energy supplies.

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed doubt over MS Dhoni's return for Chennai Super Kings' IPL 2026 clash against Mumbai Indians. Ashwin believes Dhoni is unlikely to play, and also suggested Rohit Sharma might be sidelined due to injury. The article highlights the crucial must-win nature of this encounter for both struggling franchises.

The bodies of a five-year-old boy and his six-month-old sister, killed in a Manipur bomb attack, were finally taken for last rites after 25 days in the morgue. The April 7 incident in Bishnupur had sparked widespread protests, leading to the case being handed over to the NIA.

Quote of the Day by John Milton: For what can war, but endless war, still breed? John Miltons quote is a powerful reflection on war, peace, and the repeating cycle of violence in human history. The timeless quote highlights how conflict rarely brings true resolution and instead leads to further destruction, suffering, and retaliation. It serves as a moral warning about the consequences of choosing force over dialogue and urges humanity to break free from cycles of hostility.

President Trump showed interest in government taking over companies like Spirit Airlines. He saw these moves as financial wins and a way to boost the US economy. This approach marked a shift from traditional Republican views. Trump believed in government stakes for economic security and to compete with China. His administration made several investments in key industries.

Actor Aamir Khan revealed his intense physical transformation for the film Dangal. He gained weight for the older version of his character and then lost 25 kilograms for the younger role. Khan achieved this by consuming only 1,500 calories daily and following a demanding fitness routine. This included trekking, weight training, swimming, cycling, and long walks.

A software professional detailed his journey from a 5 LPA entry-level salary to 14 LPA in under three years, overcoming a tough job market. He emphasized continuous skill development, proactive learning, and strategic networking through LinkedIn as key drivers for his significant salary growth, highlighting practical application over mere years of experience.

Sony Pictures Networks India has appointed Harsh Deep Chhabra as Head of Strategy and New Business, with the executive joining from Godrej Consumer Products Limited.

Popular actor-director Deven Bhojani, known for his vegetarianism, recounted two incidents of accidentally eating non-veg food. Early in his career, he unknowingly ate a chicken sandwich while working on 'Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar'. Later, he tried fish at a restaurant but felt nauseous. These experiences highlight his commitment to his diet.

Quote of the day by Nicole Kidman shares a message about change, risk, and progress. The quote explains how life moves with turns and uncertainty. This story explains the quote meaning, life lessons, and the journey of Nicole Kidman. It covers her early life, career growth, awards, films, television roles, personal life, and major achievements while linking the quote to real events from her career and life.

A Reddit user has shared how a simple mindset shift changed his job search after months of rejection. Instead of approaching interviews with desperation, he started treating them as if he already had other options, which helped him stay calm, confident, and more focused. He said this change improved how he answered questions and interacted with interviewers, eventually leading to multiple job offers.

Aldi pizza salmonella: At least 34 people in 13 states have been sickened with salmonella poisoning traced to contact with backyard poultry. Backyard poultry include birds like chicken, ducks, geese, guinea fowl and turkeys.

JetBlue Airways steps in after Spirit Airlines ceases operations. The airline offers $99 rescue fares for stranded Spirit passengers. JetBlue also caps fares and expands its service at Fort Lauderdale and San Juan. This move aims to maintain regional connectivity and keep travel affordable. JetBlue will add new destinations and increase daily flights.

Spirit Airlines shutdown creates travel problems for many passengers. American Airlines steps in with quick support like cheaper rescue fares and extra flights. The airline is also helping stranded staff and offering jobs. Many routes are covered to reduce issues. This move aims to make travel easier and support people affected by the sudden airline shutdown situation.

Chinese proverb of the day shares a lesson about curiosity, education, knowledge, success, and humility. The proverb explains why asking questions removes fear and builds understanding. It shows how silence creates ignorance. The message supports lifelong learning, problem solving, and critical thinking. The teaching also explains how schools, workplaces, and daily life benefit when people speak, ask, and learn without fear.

Alex Zanardi cause of death: Alex Zanardi, the Italian racing driver turned Paralympic champion, has passed away at 59. Known for his Formula One career in the 1990s and CART titles in 1997 and 1998, Zanardis life changed after a devastating 2001 crash that led to the amputation of both legs. He later reinvented himself as a para-cyclist, winning four Paralympic gold medals. Despite another serious accident in 2020, he remained an enduring symbol of resilience.

Israeli airstrikes hit southern Lebanon on Saturday, killing at least seven people. This occurred despite a ceasefire in place since April 17. Villages like Kfar Dajal, Lwaizeh, and Shoukin were targeted. The Israeli military conducted about 50 airstrikes in 24 hours. Hezbollah also reported drone attacks on Israeli troops. The conflict continues along the Lebanese-Israeli border.

A Nashik court on Saturday refused anticipatory bail to Nida Khan, an employee of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), in connection with an alleged sexual harassment and forcible religious conversion case, PTI reported.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi is in an unstable condition in an Iranian hospital. She was transferred from prison after a severe health crisis. Her family reports a catastrophic deterioration including loss of consciousness and a cardiac crisis. Doctors determined her condition could not be managed on-site. She remains in an unstable state receiving oxygen.

Tamil Nadu, renowned for its temples and hills, harbors a surprising red sand desert called Theri Kaadu. Spanning 12,000 acres in Thoothukudi and Tirunelveli, this unique landscape boasts crimson dunes rich in iron oxide. Despite its arid appearance, the porous sands sustain freshwater springs, supporting diverse wildlife and offering a blend of natural beauty and spiritual sites for exploration.

Commercial LPG cylinder prices have surged, impacting Delhi's food businesses. Restaurant owners and street vendors warn of higher menu rates and potential job losses. This steep hike, linked to global energy prices, is causing significant financial strain. Many businesses are exploring alternatives like piped natural gas.

The worlds largest container shipping company, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, is launching a new EuropeMiddle East service that avoids the Strait of Hormuz by combining sea, road, and feeder ship routes.