SENSEX
NIFTY
GOLD
USD/INR

Weather

image 31    C

Others News

The Times of India

Others / The Times of India

Optical illusion personality test: Human face or cat? What you see first reveals if you have a creative mind or peaceful nature

Optical illusions reveal how your brain processes information, with the first image you notice offering insights into your personality. Whether you see a face or a cat in a cliffside image can indicate if you're a big-picture thinker or prefer a grounded, quiet life. These fun tests highlight individual perspectives and self-awareness.

15 May 2026 11:03 pm
Can Pranic healing help manage stress-driven hypertension naturally?

Stress, a major contributor to high blood pressure, particularly among youth, is increasingly being managed through therapeutic methods like Pranic Healing. This energy-based practice, focusing on vital life force, aims to balance the body's energy field, promoting relaxation and emotional well-being.

15 May 2026 8:51 pm
How to grow butterfly-friendly native plants in Indian city home gardens

A butterfly-friendly garden can bring a very special kind of life to an Indian city home. Even a small balcony, terrace, or courtyard can become a wholesome space when the right plants are chosen and cared for well. The best part is that this kind of gardening does not need to be complicated or expensive.What matters most is balance. Plants need sunlight, water, and enough space to grow, but they also need to be chosen with care so they suit local weather and butterflies. In cities, where space

15 May 2026 8:37 pm
Can a fathers age and daily habits influence a childs health? Expert says it may matter more than you think

New research highlights fathers' pre-conception health significantly impacts child's long-term well-being. Factors like age, lifestyle, and stress influence sperm quality and genetic health. Experts now advocate for shared parental responsibility in reproductive health planning, emphasizing that fatherhood begins long before birth.

15 May 2026 8:00 pm
8 modern TV unit designs to instantly upgrade your living room

Its no longer just a wall to hang your television. Today, the TV wall has become the visual focal point of the living area. Well-designed TV units can instantly make your home interiors look trendy, elegant, and luxurious. Here are eight top TV unit design trends to explore:

15 May 2026 7:53 pm
5 adorable dog breeds that stay puppy-sized forever

Dogs are not just our best pals, but also our best playmates, and some of these dogs stay small enough to look like puppies even when they are fully grown.That is part of their charm and one reason why so many people adore them and want to keep them as pets.Their tiny size, sweet expressions, and lively personalities make them feel especially lovable and easy to enjoy in daily life.These dogs often fit well into many kinds of homes because they do not take up much space and usually bring a lot o

15 May 2026 7:49 pm
5 ways to prevent mosquitoes from biting you and keep them away from home

Mosquitoes can turn a peaceful home into an uncomfortable place. Their bites are not only irritating but can also disturb sleep, spoil outdoor time, and make daily life uncomfortable. But we can try to keep them away just at the right time, before it becomes too problematic.The good news is that mosquito control does not always need to feel complicated. Small changes at home and a little care in your routine can make a real difference, and the entire idea is to make the entire house a little les

15 May 2026 5:50 pm
Tech-free evenings: 6 simple habits that strengthen family bonds

Screens are impacting family connections, but tech-free evenings can foster stronger bonds. Implementing a device-free hour, shared meals without phones, evening strolls, and family reading time can significantly improve interaction. Engaging in simple games and ending the day with gratitude further cultivates closeness and a sense of shared joy, helping families reconnect.

15 May 2026 5:02 pm
10 simple habits of happy couples

Real love isnt like the movies. Its rarely about the rain-soaked airport reunions or the expensive flower arrangements. Most of the time, happily ever after is built in the quiet, boring, in-between moments. Its about how you treat each other when the coffee runs out or when work is stressing you both to the breaking point.Happy couples arent lucky; theyre just consistent. Theyve built rituals that keep them connected even when life feels like a whirlwind. Here is the actual, non-clinical breakd

15 May 2026 4:21 pm
How to actually own your morning (Without the chaos)

Weve all had those disaster startshitting snooze five times, tripping over a shoe, and realizing youre already behind before youve even found your keys. Its exhausting. But heres the truth: the way you handle those first few hours determines whether youre running the day, or the day is running you.Success isnt about waking up at 4:00 AM to do a triathlon; its about being intentional. Its about protecting your energy before the rest of the world starts demanding it. Here is a realistic, five-step

15 May 2026 3:25 pm
The biggest mistake people make with full-sun flower beds that start looking dull by late summer

Sunny gardens often lose their charm by late July due to heat and poor planning. Experts reveal that focusing on foliage, heat-tolerant plants, and staggered bloom times, rather than just early flowers, ensures lasting vibrancy. Simple, repeated forms and deep watering also help maintain a healthy, attractive border throughout the summer.

15 May 2026 2:25 pm
Gurmukhi, wheat motifs and pind vibes: Roopi Gill brings Punjabi royalty to Cannes

While most celebrities at Cannes 2026 arrived in dramatic gowns, glittering corsets, and giant couture trains, Punjabi actor Roopi Gill chose to do something far more personal. She walked the red carpet carrying a piece of Punjab with her - and honestly, thats what made her debut feel so memorable.

15 May 2026 2:01 pm
Why repeating plants makes a garden border look instantly better

Landscaping experts advise against overcrowding garden borders with too many plant varieties. Instead, repeating plants, colours, forms, or textures creates rhythm and harmony. This principle, crucial for visual continuity, ensures borders remain appealing even without blooms. Strategic repetition, typically three to five times per species, provides balance and structure, making gardens look professionally designed and inviting from afar.

15 May 2026 2:00 pm
Smart money habits every child should learn early in life

Early childhood is crucial for developing healthy money habits, as children absorb lessons about spending, saving, and value through everyday family choices. These foundational lessons help them understand money's limitations and connect it to decisions, fostering financial confidence and avoiding extremes of careless spending or fearful hoarding.

15 May 2026 2:00 pm
From hypertension to Hyrox podium finish: Ashu Jain, a 58-year-old grandma almost quit before the big win that changed her life

A grandmother in her late 50s, Ashu Jain, defied expectations by achieving a third-place podium finish at a Hyrox event in Bengaluru. Despite initial struggles and anxieties, Jain's dedication to training led her to complete the challenging fitness race, proving it's never too late to find passion and purpose.

15 May 2026 11:59 am
Sara Ali Khan's home is all about an artist's abode: 5 art inspirations that you must take away

Sara Ali Khan is set to win all hearts with the recent release of her movie, Pati Patni Aur Woh Do, with her personality that feels warm, expressive, and lived-in, and so does her home. It brings together elegance, comfort, and colour in such a seamless way that it feels personal rather than purely decorative.That is why it can be seen as more than just a celebrity apartment and can also work as a creative reference for anyone who enjoys spaces with character.What makes her home stand out is the

15 May 2026 11:57 am
5 elite localities in Chandigarh powering its luxury property boom

Chandigarh is known for its planned layout, greenery, and high standard of living. Over the years, certain sectors - especially the single-digit ones, have emerged as prime real estate hubs due to their exclusivity, infrastructure, and elite residents.

15 May 2026 10:58 am
Thought of the day, inspired by the Bhagavad Gita: Your purpose lies in your actions

Todays world often measures success through salaries, followers, grades, or public recognition. Many people spend their lives searching for one big answer to a simple question: What is my purpose? Some look for it in achievements, while others wait for the perfect moment to discover it. But the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita has a different perspective altogether.The Gita does not teach that purpose is something hidden far away from us. Instead, it reminds us that purpose is created through the way

15 May 2026 8:37 am
Vijays Chief Minister Style is going viral - This Tamil Nadu store is already selling the look

Actor-turned-Chief Minister Vijay's sharp formal attire has become Tamil Nadu's latest style obsession, with clothing stores now promoting his signature black blazer and white shirt look. This trend, dubbed 'CM core fashion,' is a stark departure from traditional political dressing and is resonating strongly with younger audiences, showcasing Vijay's significant visual influence.

15 May 2026 8:37 am
Petrol and diesel prices rise in India: What travellers can do to save money on the road

Fuel prices in India have surged by approximately 3 per litre, impacting travellers with rising costs for road trips and daily commutes. This hike is attributed to global crude oil price increases driven by West Asian geopolitical tensions. Travellers are advised to plan smarter by opting for trains, metros, EVs, carpooling, and shorter trips to mitigate increased fuel expenses.

15 May 2026 8:23 am
I never studied 15 or 12 hours, but I: Student who scored 99.2% in class 10th shares 5 practical study tips

Class 10th student Sanvi Ladha achieved 99.2% by prioritizing smart preparation over exhaustive study. She advocates for consistent, quality study, maintaining hobbies, and limiting social media. Ladha stresses self-study and persistence, proving that balance and supportive environments foster academic excellence. Her approach offers valuable lessons for students and parents alike.

15 May 2026 7:00 am
No CCTV, no librarian - This Nagaland village lets anyone borrow books freely: Lessons for cities and communities

In Nagaland's villages like Kigwema, a profound culture of trust allows libraries and shops to operate on an honor system. Without locks or cashiers, these communities demonstrate how mutual respect and shared responsibility can sustain public goods and foster strong neighborly ties. This unique approach offers a powerful lesson in building social capital.

14 May 2026 11:00 pm
Krunal Pandyas 30 crore sea-facing Mumbai home is a luxurious 8-BHK apartment reflecting cricketing success and strong family bond

Krunal Pandya is one of Indian crickets team. He is one of the most dependable all-rounders playing significant roles for the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026.

14 May 2026 7:12 pm
5 reasons why someone dislikes you - And why is it not your problem

People dislike others for reasons that often have nothing to do with the person they target. Its painful to be on the receiving end of coldness or criticism, especially when youve acted with integrity, kindness, or calm confidence. Yet understanding why someone dislikes you can be liberating: it shifts the focus from self-blame to clear observation. In many cases their reaction reveals more about their inner world insecurities, expectations, or past hurts than it does about your value. Below a

14 May 2026 6:56 pm
10 affirmations to attract calm and genuine love

Sometimes the problem is not that people cannot find love. It is that they have slowly started accepting less than what emotionally healthy love should feel like.

14 May 2026 6:41 pm
He worked as an electrician to support his family, yet scored over 97% in class 12th: This is the one habit that 18-year-old Gurpreet Singh focused on

Despite working as an electrician to support his family, 18-year-old Gurpreet Singh from Jalandhar achieved an exceptional 97.2% in his Class 12 exams. He focused on understanding concepts rather than rote memorization, a strategy that led to his success and offers a valuable lesson for students and parents alike.

14 May 2026 6:36 pm
Microplastics in baby feeding bottles. Another reason not to use them!

Indian parents are increasingly opting for bottle-feeding, but the containers themselves pose a growing concern. Recent scientific findings and a Supreme Court endorsement highlight the risks of microplastics and chemicals leaching from plastic bottles into infant formula. Experts now advocate for glass bottles as a safer alternative, emphasizing their inert nature and lack of health risks compared to plastic.

14 May 2026 5:09 pm
7 smart lighting ideas that instantly make your home feel luxurious

The role of lighting in contemporary interior design goes beyond mere illumination; it creates ambiance. Instead of resorting to bright lights, upscale residences deploy layered lighting to evoke emotions, enhance textures, and build depth.

14 May 2026 5:00 pm
Personality test: Waterfall, fire, forest? What you choose first reveals if you are sensitive, passionate or calm

Your instinctive choice between water, fire, and earth reveals your emotional wiring. Water types are empathetic and sensitive, fire types are high-energy and passionate, while earth types are resilient and grounded. Understanding your elemental nature offers insights into your strengths, blind spots, and how to thrive.

14 May 2026 4:59 pm
Neurodiversity: Why it is important for parents to understand it and how parents can identity neurodiverse children

Understanding neurodiversity is vital for parents as it reframes challenges from 'misbehavior' to 'different needs,' fostering patience and better learning outcomes. Recognizing signs like communication differences, sensory sensitivities, focus issues, and learning struggles empowers parents to provide tailored support, strengthening their bond with their children through acceptance and understanding.

14 May 2026 4:15 pm
These 5 evergreen shrubs make front entry beds look expensive all year

Evergreen shrubs are crucial for front entry beds, providing year-round structure and preventing plantings from appearing bare when flowers fade. They offer shape and interest, acting as the garden's framework. Selecting low-maintenance, compact varieties like boxwood, euonymus, inkberry holly, lavender, and osmanthus ensures a neat and purposeful appearance throughout the seasons.

14 May 2026 3:50 pm
The front yard shrub trick that makes landscaping look good even after summer flowers fade

Transform your yard beyond spring blooms with multi-season shrubs. These plants offer continuous textures, berries, and autumnal colours, ensuring a full and attractive landscape throughout the year. Experts recommend them for structural beauty and year-round appeal, preventing sparse gardens after peak flowering seasons.

14 May 2026 3:46 pm
Optical illusion personality test: Keyhole or a person crying? What you see first reveals if you are introvert or extrovert

Optical illusions do more than trick your eyes they shine a light on how your brain builds the world and, by extension, on parts of your personality. Because our minds evolved to process information quickly, they often fill in missing details and favour patterns that helped our ancestors survive. Those snap judgments tell a story about how you approach people, risk and emotion. Todays illusion is a simple, revealing example: whichever figure you notice first can point to whether youre driven ou

14 May 2026 3:19 pm
7 foods Indian grandparents ate regularly that are suddenly trendy again

The same ingredients that powered generations through long workdays, lean seasons, and busy family lives are now being rediscovered by a younger audience looking for better energy, better digestion, and food that feels real again. What grandparents understood through habit is now being validated through wellness culture and science. Here are 7 foods Indian grandparents ate regularly that are suddenly trendy again.

14 May 2026 3:00 pm
5 Indian states that consume the most petrol per person and why travellers should pay attention

Indias booming domestic tourism, and long-distance highway travel are among the prime factors driving petrol consumption to record highs. As per recent data from the Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC), some Indian states and Union Territories are consuming petrol significantly more per person than the national average.

14 May 2026 2:41 pm
I want her to finally We asked 10 people what they wished most for their mothers, and the answers were deeply emotional

Ten individuals shared heartfelt wishes for their mothers this Mother's Day, revealing a collective desire for their mothers to finally experience rest, peace, and personal fulfillment. The poignant requests highlight a deep appreciation for the sacrifices mothers make, with children yearning for them to prioritize their own well-being, health, and happiness after years of selfless giving.

14 May 2026 1:59 pm
How birds react to danger

Cornell University scientists have made an exciting discovery: they've successfully deciphered bird communication employing budget-friendly microphones. Their findings reveal insights into how birds evaluate risks and navigate their environments, particularly showcasing their vocal adjustments in the presence of predators, including the formidable American goshawk.

14 May 2026 1:18 pm
Are sarees the new cool-girl outfit? How 2026 turned Indian drapes into global fashions biggest power move

Are sarees the new cool-girl outfit? How 2026 turned Indian drapes into global fashions biggest power move

14 May 2026 12:49 pm
5 smart ways to give children the freedom to make choices without losing control

When children are allowed to decide within clear limits, they begin to trust themselves more, argue less, and cooperate better. Here are five smart ways to give children the freedom to make choices without losing control.

14 May 2026 12:00 pm
Achievement alone cannot guarantee fulfillment: Dr. Abraham M. George on purpose, wealth, and service

Dr. Abraham M. George's memoir, Mountains to Cross, chronicles his journey from military service and Wall Street success to a life dedicated to social change in India. The book emphasizes that true fulfillment comes not from wealth, but from service and uplifting others. Dr.

14 May 2026 11:58 am
From door to ventilation: Bathroom mistakes that can cause problems

Bathroom design might not appear to be complicated, but simple mistakes can create problems that can last for a lifetime and cost a fortune to fix. A properly designed bathroom is essential for increasing the property's value and usability.

14 May 2026 11:00 am
Productivity matters more than hours: National topper Bhavya Ranjan breaks the study myth

Bhavya Ranjan, a humanities student from Ranchi, achieved national topper status in CBSE Class 12 with 99.8%. Her success stemmed from consistent preparation, focusing on understanding concepts rather than long study hours. Supported by her school's Target 100 initiative and a nurturing family environment, Bhavya's achievement highlights the importance of sustained effort and a conducive atmosphere for academic excellence.

14 May 2026 10:39 am
Did Sourav Joshi and Avantika Bhatt have a love marriage or arranged marriage? Heres what the YouTuber said

Sourav addressed the chatter himself a few months ago - and according to him, this was not a love marriage.

14 May 2026 10:35 am
Thailand cuts visa-free stay for 93 countries; see if India is on the list and what it means for travellers

Thailand is reducing its visa-free entry period from 60 to 30 days for 93 countries, including India, due to concerns over misuse and illegal activities. This move aims to curb unauthorized business operations and illegal employment, impacting Indian travelers who previously enjoyed longer stays.

14 May 2026 10:02 am
Why India has banned sugar exports till September 2026: 6 alternatives to sugar in Indian kitchens

As supply pressures and price concerns grow, many kitchens are likely to lean more heavily on traditional sweeteners and fruit-based alternatives already used across Indian cooking. Here is why these six alternatives deserve attention now.

14 May 2026 9:20 am
Alia Bhatt just served peak Maharani energy at Cannes 2026

Alia Bhatt is clearly having her big Cannes fashion moment this year, and honestly, shes making sure every appearance feels completely different from the last one. After giving us soft fairytale gowns, elegant drapes, and old-Hollywood glam over the past few days, the actor stepped out for a L'Oral event looking like modern royalty and the internet is absolutely eating it up.

14 May 2026 9:15 am
Thought of the day, inspired by the Bhagavad Gita: The mind can be your friend or your enemy

Our lives have become quite fast-paced, amid work pressure, stress, personal worries, and constant comparison, so our minds rarely get a moment of peace.Some days, our thoughts motivate us, help us stay positive, and push us towards success. But on other days, the same mind fills us with fear, doubt, anger, and overthinking. This inner battle is something almost everyone experiences.The Bhagavad Gita reflects on this thought and helps us take the right decisions and channelise our thought proces

14 May 2026 8:00 am