The Times of India
Elections 2026Others / The Times of India
Shravan Maas, a sacred Hindu month dedicated to Lord Shiva, begins soon. Devotees prepare for fasting, chanting, and temple visits during this period. Rituals like Rudrabhishek and Mahamrityunjaya Jaap offer spiritual benefits and healing. Offering Bilva leaves and observing Shravan Monday fasts connect devotees to Shiva's energy. Daily meditation and complete surrender are emphasized for spiritual fulfillment and prosperity.
A Laguna Beach oceanfront estate is now on the market for $112 million. The owners invested $20 million to extensively renovate the property over two years. This remarkable residence spans 14,400 square feet and includes six bedrooms. The owners are selling as they have relocated and no longer need the large home. This listing aims to set a new residential sales record for Orange County.
An Irishman named Caron Rawnsley became a local hero in Jodhpur. He began cleaning the city's neglected stepwells and reservoirs. Rawnsley's dedication inspired many locals and volunteers to join his efforts. His work has revived several historic water bodies and earned widespread praise. This story highlights the importance of heritage conservation and responsible tourism.
The concept of karma is far more layered than the internet often makes it seem. Different Indian philosophical traditions explain it in different ways, and many everyday beliefs about karma are actually oversimplifications. Here are five misconceptions that are worth rethinking.
Reporter Kapil Raut showed grace after students heckled him during protests. He later reassured the students, stating no one was to blame. The students who jeered him later offered sincere apologies for their actions. Raut accepted these apologies, emphasizing that such incidents are part of journalism. His compassionate response brought relief to his family and inspired many.
Every generation believes it understands love better than the one before it. Children often mistake questions for interference, rules for control, and repeated phone calls for unnecessary monitoring. Parents, on the other hand, often struggle to explain why they do what they do. Their love is not always expressed through words. More often, it appears in habits, routines, worries, and sacrifices that children may only understand years later.According to a spiritual teacher, Purushottam Das, some
Not everyone has the time, or the patience, for a terrace garden that demands daily attention, but that doesn't mean lush greenery has to stay out of reach. Several hardy, low-maintenance plants can thrive on an Indian terrace or balcony with barely any fuss, needing little more than a weekly watering and the occasional check-in. These are the kinds of plants that forgive a missed watering day, tolerate heat and inconsistent care, and still reward you with greenery, colour, or the occasional blo
Proailurus, a fascinating feline from 30 million years ago, is recognized as the earliest true cat. This agile tree climber weighed between seven to ten kilograms, akin to a sizable domestic cat. Over eons, it gave rise to various feline species, each adapted to their unique habitats. Today, the essence of Proailurus echoes in the characteristics and behaviors of every domestic and wild cat around the world.
Eight-year-old Iya Krish from Kerala scaled North Africa's highest peak, Mount Toubkal. Her father nurtured her passion for mountains through gradual hikes and local training. The family postponed an earlier summit attempt due to harsh winter conditions. Iya's determination to continue despite exhaustion showed her inner strength. This story highlights how allowing children to face challenges builds resilience and confidence.
Parents seeking twin girl names find inspiration in the letter J. The article presents fifty unique name combinations for twin daughters. These suggestions range from classic to contemporary styles for families. Tips are provided to help choose names that sound good together. Consideration is given to individual identity and surname pairing.
China is among the world's megadiverse countries, home to an extraordinary range of ecosystems. Given its unique and varied landscapes, China is home to the worlds most unique endemic species, many of which cannot be found anywhere else on Earth.
Watering your plants might feel like the simplest task on your gardening to-do list, but the time of day you choose to do it quietly shapes how healthy your plants stay, how much water actually gets used, and how likely disease is to set in. According to gardening guidance from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Penn State Extension, Oregon State University Extension Service, and the EPA's WaterSense program, watering during the hottest stretch of the day is consistently the least eff
Mirabai Chanu secured a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. She achieved a total lift of 190kg, setting new records in snatch and clean and jerk. This marked her third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medal win. Her journey began in a small Manipuri village, carrying firewood for her family. Chanu's success highlights her remarkable grit and dedication to weightlifting.
Ever wondered why even a compact hotel room often feels more elegant, spacious, and relaxing than a much larger bedroom back home? It's rarely about expensive furniture or lavish dcor. Interior designers lean on lighting, colour choices, furniture placement, and a sense of visual balance to create that feeling of comfort and quiet luxury, and most of those tricks are far simpler to recreate than people assume; no renovation required. Here are seven hotel-inspired ideas that can genuinely change
They travelled thousands of kilometres by land and sea, passed through the hands of merchants and were often so rare that only the wealthy could afford them. Their value wasnt just about flavour. They were symbols of status, tools of survival and engines of global commerce. Heres how two ingredients that now cost less than 20 once became some of historys greatest treasures.
For a player who is usually seen celebrating wickets with a calm smile, Arshdeep Singh gave fans something completely different to cheer about this time. The India pacer has finally made his relationship with Samreen Kaur public.
Art offers solace to individuals experiencing life's hardships. Vincent van Gogh believed art consoles those broken by life's struggles. Creative expression provides a safe space for difficult emotions. Art therapy and hobbies support emotional well-being today. Van Gogh's own life exemplified art's healing potential.
Every home has one that corner nobody quite knows what to do with. Maybe it's the dead space beside a window, the awkward little gap near the staircase, or just an empty triangle in the living room that's collected a stray bag and a phone charger over the years without anyone deciding that should happen. Interior designers look at exactly this kind of space and see something different: an opportunity nobody's cashed in on yet. With a handful of small, deliberate touches, that ignored corner can
Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam's quote inspires hard work and dedication for success. It reminds people that intense effort precedes achieving bright achievements. This message serves as a wake-up call in an era of instant gratification. Kalam's own life journey exemplifies this principle of overcoming challenges. Embracing difficulties prepares individuals for future endeavors and personal growth.
Aluminium foil's shiny and dull sides result from its manufacturing process. The dull side is unpolished as two sheets are rolled together. Both sides possess identical composition and thickness for heat conduction. There is no significant difference for most everyday cooking applications. Specific uses like non-stick coatings may require orienting the dull side.
BK Sister Shivani explains how constant worrying has become a habit in modern life. She states that worrying drains energy and hinders clear decision-making processes. Shivani encourages viewing worry as a changeable mental script, not an unavoidable aspect. She emphasizes that individuals are the scriptwriters, directors, and actors of their lives. Replacing negative thoughts with realistic and hopeful ones fosters confidence and calmness.
German parents instill responsibility and discipline through early life skill teachings. Children learn the value of earning by managing their own pocket money. Household responsibilities are assigned, fostering a habit of hard work and contribution. Punctuality is taught as a vital life skill, respecting others' time. German parents delay gratification, teaching children patience and earned rewards.
Ever looked at a picture and seen something completely different from what your friend saw, staring at the exact same image?That is exactly what optical illusion personality tests do. They're pictures designed with more than one image hidden inside, and whichever one your brain grabs onto first is supposedly a clue about how you think, feel, or solve problems.The trick isn't really magic; it's just how your brain works.Optical illusions are teasers that not only trick the eye but also the brain.
Kandula Jessie, a fourteen-year-old student, secured a place in Mission ShakthiSAT. This global project aims to encourage girls in STEM fields through space science. Jessie was chosen from thousands of applicants worldwide for this unique opportunity. She will undergo training in satellite design and mission operations starting soon. Jessie is balancing her studies and this exciting space science endeavor.
Michelle Obama believes parents should not prioritize being their child's friend. Her view emphasizes preparing children for life's difficulties and disappointments. Parents must allow children to experience unhappiness and unfairness at home. This approach equips them to handle future challenges independently and confidently. Ultimately, good parenting involves setting boundaries and fostering resilience.
A two-year-old girl tragically died after falling into Lake Pichola from a hotel window. The incident occurred while her parents were at the hotel's dining area. This heartbreaking event underscores overlooked safety aspects for families traveling with toddlers. Beautiful destinations can present unexpected and unforeseen risks for young children. Parents must remain vigilant and conduct quick inspections of hotel rooms and surroundings.
Retired wind turbine blades are finding new life as pedestrian bridges. Engineers and environmentalists sought solutions for difficult-to-recycle fiberglass components. Ireland pioneered this concept, leading to the formation of the Re-Wind Network. Researchers tested blades extensively to ensure their structural integrity for crossings. Similar bridges have since been constructed in the United States.
Brain development is now taking centre stage. Parents are looking for ways to help develop their childs brain from an early age. Some parents even look for gadgets and toys in attempts to make their baby smarter. But, what are the most effective ways to nurture a baby's developing brain? According to a pediatrician, some of the most effective ways to nurture a baby's developing brain are surprisingly simple- and they cost little or nothing.In a recent video, pediatrician Dr. Abhishek shared five
Certain countries offer transformative travel experiences through vast natural landscapes and low population density. These destinations provide unique combinations of wilderness and dramatic scenery for travelers. Spending time in these natural environments significantly reduces stress and improves mental well-being. Destinations like Iceland, Norway, and New Zealand encourage mindful and slow travel experiences. Such places offer restorative qualities which help individuals recharge and feel h
Few household pests are as unwelcome or as hard to get rid of completely as cockroaches. They turn up in kitchens, bathrooms, and storage spaces across Indian homes, drawn in by the promise of food, warmth, and moisture, and once they settle in, clearing them out can feel like an uphill battle. Many people would rather try natural, kitchen-shelf remedies before reaching for chemical sprays, but it's worth setting expectations early: no common food ingredient can actually kill cockroaches instant
Keibul Lamjao National Park in Manipur is the world's only floating national park. This unique ecosystem floats on Loktak Lake due to its phumdis. The park serves as the last natural habitat for the endangered Sangai deer. Several legends and sacred sites surround this remarkable natural wonder. The park's ecological richness is recognized by UNESCO's Tentative List.
For anyone who loves the idea of birdwatching but doesn't have space for a full garden, a balcony filled with the right flowering plants can do the job just as well. Sunbirds, the small, fast-moving nectar feeders often spotted flitting between blooms in Indian cities, are especially drawn to flowers that produce nectar in abundance, particularly during their flowering season. No single plant can guarantee a visit on cue, but certain species have built a real reputation for attracting sunbirds.
For Indian travellers, visa-free travel has long been one of the biggest factors when choosing an international holiday. It saves time, reduces paperwork and makes spontaneous trips much easier.
The difficult part is that these lessons often arrive when the damage has already been done. Yet recognizing them can help people build healthier and more fulfilling relationships in the future.
Nepal has introduced new rules for climbing Mount Everest. Aspiring climbers must now summit a 7,000-meter peak first. This aims to reduce overcrowding and improve climber safety on the mountain. Experienced mountaineers support these new regulations for better preparation. Indian climbers will need to plan multi-year expeditions for their Everest dreams.
A viral video shows a bison damaging a car tire inside Yellowstone National Park. The incident occurred as traffic backed up and the vehicle was too close. This happened during the bison rut, a territorial period for the animals. Motorists are reminded to maintain safe distances from wildlife crossings. Responsible sharing of roads with animals is crucial for safety.
Used tea leaves offer valuable nutrients for plant growth. They enrich soil with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for healthy development. Tea leaves improve soil texture and its ability to retain moisture effectively. Gardeners can sprinkle them on soil or add them to compost piles. A diluted tea brew also serves as a gentle plant feed.
The DASTKAR collection at India Couture Week honored the artisans behind Rohit Bal's designs. This presentation celebrated the craftspeople who have supported the label for over three decades. Intricate hand embroidery graced rich velvets and fluid silks, showcasing timeless elegance. The collection featured familiar motifs like roses and botanical elements, reinterpreted with fresh appeal. DASTKAR offered a genuine acknowledgment of collective achievement in couture fashion.
India boasts two colossal banyan trees, the Great Banyan and Thimmamma Marrimanu. The Great Banyan in Kolkata covers nearly five acres with numerous aerial roots. Thimmamma Marrimanu in Andhra Pradesh is over 500 years old and holds a world record. This ancient tree also holds deep religious and cultural importance for local communities. Both trees continue to draw tourists and scientists with their impressive natural structures.
Aluminium foil sits in almost every Indian kitchen drawer, pulled out for everything from wrapping rotis and parathas to lining tandoor trays and covering leftover sabzi. It is affordable, easy to use, and endlessly adaptable, which is exactly why most of us never stop to think about whether we are actually using it the right way. But foil is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and a surprising number of everyday habits around it can quietly compromise food safety, taste, and shelf life. From rehe
Marie Curie's wisdom encourages curiosity about ideas, not just people. This focus fosters deeper understanding and more productive thinking. It helps build better habits of thought and decision-making. Choosing thoughtful articles over gossip supports personal growth. This approach respects individuals while prioritizing learning and truth.
Mild soap and warm water effectively remove everyday grime from silver items. The aluminium foil bath uses washing soda and hot water to lift tarnish. A homemade chalk paste tackles deeper tarnish without scratching the surface. Proper handling and storage significantly slow down the tarnishing process. These natural techniques help maintain silver's shine and longevity.
Adi Shankaracharya, an eighth-century philosopher, emphasized the rare opportunity of human birth. He urged people to avoid wasting this chance on comfort and ignorance. The philosopher believed true welfare lies in seeking wisdom and self-knowledge. He taught that life should be lived with awareness and purpose, not on autopilot. Daily life can be made meaningful through conscious choices and reflection.
It is not just a design choice or a tradition that schools decided to continue. The colour was picked for a very practical reason, one that has everything to do with safety, science, and making sure children are seen even from a distance.
Modern toilets feature two flush buttons for water conservation. The smaller button uses less water for liquid waste. A larger button provides a full flush for solid waste. This dual-flush system significantly reduces water usage in homes. These efficient toilets are now common in many public and private spaces.
A Delhi woman's video highlights remote work challenges at home. She explains family members often disrespect her work-from-home job. Her family expects her to handle chores while working long hours. Guests also assume her professional meetings can be easily postponed. Many social media users shared similar relatable experiences online.
Whether created in someone's honour or invented to satisfy a famous customer, these dishes have outlived the people behind them. Today, millions enjoy them without ever wondering whose names appear on the menu. Here are 10 well-known foods that owe their names to real people.
Optical illusions trick the brain by interpreting visual data rather than recording it directly. What you see first in a landscape illusion offers insights into your personality. Spotting the tree suggests a reserved initial demeanor which softens over time. Seeing the lion first indicates an outgoing and ambitious nature which is well-liked. These tests offer a lighthearted way to reflect on personal traits.

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