The Times of India

Maharishi Ved Vyas, a revered sage, is celebrated on Guru Purnima for his immense contributions. He compiled the four Vedas and authored the epic Mahabharata, a monumental literary work. Legend states Lord Ganesha wrote the Mahabharata as Vyas narrated it nonstop. Vyas is also considered one of the eight immortal Chiranjeevis in Hindu scriptures. His birth on an island gave him the name Dvaipayana, meaning island-born.

Across the globe, infants exhibit a fascinating range of sleep practices. In Japan, co-sleeping is common, with babies nestled between parents on traditional futons. Indian culture embraces soothing lullabies and the support of extended family. Meanwhile, Finnish parents cherish baby boxes, while Swedes encourage outdoor naps in prams. These cultural traditions emphasize the significance of comfort and familial bonds during infancy.

Lucky bamboo shows up everywhere from office desks to housewarming gift baskets, prized for how little it seems to ask in return for its tidy, architectural good looks. But before getting into care, it's worth clearing up what this plant actually is, because the popular understanding gets it wrong on nearly every count. Despite the name, lucky bamboo isn't a bamboo at all; it's a tropical, perennial shrub from West Africa belonging to the asparagus family, and its species name commemorates a 19t

For over thirty-three years, Bharat Borah has dedicated his life to caring for injured wildlife in Tepsalibam village, Assam. His home acts as an unofficial sanctuary, where he has nursed many birds back to health, including rare hornbills. In a remarkable effort, he crafts artificial legs for handicapped storks. Supported by his family and enthusiastic young volunteers, Borah exemplifies unwavering compassion for animals in need.

Type loudest animal on earth into any search bar and you'll get a dozen confidently different answers, some articles say 230 decibels, others say 236, a few throw around 200-plus for a shrimp barely two inches long. Much of that confusion comes down to how the number was measured and reported, not genuine disagreement in the underlying science. Once you go back to the actual peer-reviewed studies behind these claims, a clearer, genuinely fascinating picture emerges. One caveat worth keeping in m

Psychologists often describe school refusal as a signal rather than the problem itself. The real challenge lies in understanding what that signal is trying to say. Here are some of the most common reasons children begin avoiding school and how parents can respond in a way that helps instead of hurts.

That flavour is vanilla. It may seem ordinary now because its everywhere, but vanilla was once among the rarest and most expensive spices on Earth, second only to saffron. Its journey from the tropical forests of Mexico to becoming the worlds favourite flavour is a fascinating story of history, science, and global trade.

Michelangelo's quote highlights genius as eternal patience, not just innate talent. His life demonstrates immense effort behind extraordinary artistic achievements. Modern society expects quick success, but creative work requires sustained effort. Patience allows talent to mature and turns effort into excellence over time. This perspective reminds us to trust the process of nurturing skills.

Ram Dass taught that everyone shares wisdom through their unique life experiences. Personal struggles and successes offer valuable lessons for others to learn. Individuals express their insights through various actions and creative endeavors. Positive influence occurs daily in subtle and often unnoticed ways. No contribution is too small in the chain of shared understanding.

Leafy greens lose a noticeable share of their nutrient value with every extra day spent sitting in a market crate or refrigerator shelf before they reach your plate, which is exactly why homegrown saag has an edge that store-bought bunches simply can't match. India's culinary tradition already leans heavily on leafy greens each winter, and several of the most nutrient-dense varieties turn out to be remarkably easy to grow in a container, needing nothing more than a sunny balcony ledge and a few

Wild tigers once roamed extensively across Asia and parts of Europe. However, these magnificent animals have now vanished from many of their historical territories. Several countries, including Cambodia and Laos, have officially declared tigers functionally extinct. Habitat loss and hunting caused these widespread disappearances over time. Responsible tourism and conservation efforts are crucial for remaining tiger populations.

True travel rewards often emerge from unexpected challenges and unplanned moments. Adversity in travel, like flight delays, mirrors an airplane taking off against the wind. Seasoned travelers learn that adapting plans is as crucial as initial preparation. Airports serve as vital lessons in patience, prioritizing safety over convenience. Nature's unpredictable schedule teaches explorers to discover their own unique paths.

A traveler seeking accommodation for a Baguio trip mistakenly contacted a women's jail. The jail's social media page clarified the misunderstanding with a polite response. Screenshots of the humorous exchange were later shared online with permission. Social media users found the situation amusing and appreciated the courteous interaction. The incident highlights a viral moment stemming from a genuine human error.

Muskaan Mittal and Aashish Gupta left tech careers for content creation. Their income grew from 6.5 lakhs in the first year to 45.3 lakhs. In their third year, earnings reached 1.09 crore through diverse income streams. They earned 21.6 lakhs in the first four months of the current year. This journey highlights the financial potential of full-time content creation.

The good news is that clearing mental clutter doesn't require a digital detox or a complete lifestyle change. Often, it's the small, everyday habits that make the biggest difference.

Japan has developed human refrigerator cooling booths to combat extreme summer heat. These personal cooling chambers rapidly lower body temperature after prolonged sun exposure. The Do Hiemon Box maintains a cool internal temperature for workers in hot environments. This invention offers a practical solution for increasingly harsh summer conditions across the country. As temperatures rise, these booths may appear at public tourist destinations.

According to Dr. Mahesh Balsekar, a balanced perspective on children's screen time is key. He encourages parents to weave technology into their children's daily lives rather than impose rigid restrictions. By focusing on engaging content and watching together, families can foster a positive relationship with screens. Additionally, he highlights the importance of sleep, outdoor play, and social engagements, emphasizing the value of holistic childhood development.

Between hours hunched over laptops, phones held at odd angles, and desks that were never quite set up right, neck pain has become something close to a universal complaint. Research reviewing the evidence has found yoga to be an effective way to reduce neck pain intensity while improving mobility and overall quality of life, which is part of why so many physiotherapists and yoga teachers now recommend it as a complementary approach alongside standard care rather than a replacement for it. That sa

A software engineer left his Microsoft job after achieving his career goal. He realized his work life had become predictable and lacked excitement. Verma's notice period allowed him time to reflect on his personal growth. He believes career milestones lead to new chapters and evolving ambitions. Social media users shared similar experiences of growth beyond comfort zones.

Optical illusions often trick our eyes and brains, as these images seem to be something else at first glance and turn out to be completely different when looked at from another perspective.Although these ests aren't backed by science, but that hasn't stopped them from becoming a genuine internet pastime,This optical illusion personality test claims to let you know how you handle leadership, decision-making, or stress on the basis of what you spot first.Before you scroll down to the meanings, ta

Norse mythology has captivated people for centuries with its tales of powerful gods, fearless warriors and magical realms. Beyond its legendary stories, it also offers a rich collection of meaningful names that continue to inspire parents around the world. Whether you're drawn to names that symbolise strength, wisdom, healing or beauty, these mythology-inspired choices combine timeless heritage with modern appeal.

Japanese farmers in Inakadate village are turning their rice fields into mesmerizing canvases, creating intricate designs that reflect popular culture and utilize various rice species. This unique agricultural art draws in tourists between mid-July and mid-August annually, breathing new life into the local economy while simultaneously preserving age-old farming traditions.

Career conversations now focus on future prospects and job satisfaction. Ajay Suneja shared three key indicators for seeking new employment opportunities. These include a lack of recognition, stagnant learning, and inadequate compensation for experience. He stressed that job changes should be strategic and well-prepared decisions. Professionals should avoid making moves based solely on frustration or emotion.

Pistachio shells offer gardeners practical uses beyond simple disposal. They create excellent drainage layers and durable mulch for plants. These shells also deter slugs, snails, and digging garden pests effectively. Adding shells to compost bins enriches the soil with vital carbon content. Crushed shells improve heavy, compacted soil by creating necessary air pockets.

Sania Mirza's parents prioritized her education alongside her tennis career. They believed school provided essential social skills and confidence beyond sports. This approach ensured Sania remained connected to her peers and teachers. Her parents' philosophy highlights education's importance for developing well-rounded individuals. This balanced approach protected both passion and academic growth for Sania.

For centuries, people debated bird migration, lacking concrete evidence for their theories. A wounded stork found in Germany in 1822 accidentally settled this long-standing debate. This bird carried a spear from tropical wood, indicating its long journey from Africa. The Pfeilstorch became a key exhibit, proving seasonal bird movements across continents. Similar cases of birds with foreign projectiles have been documented since then.

Parents can foster open communication by greeting children with love and no questions. Joining a child's activity for ten minutes helps them decompress after school. Sharing personal experiences first makes family games like Rose Bud Thorn feel mutual. Asking open-ended questions prompts detailed stories instead of one-word answers. Respecting a child's 'no' builds trust and encourages future sharing.

In a groundbreaking move, Indian Railways has unveiled a solar-assisted passenger coach equipped with rooftop solar panels to deliver clean energy for onboard services. This initiative not only aims to reduce reliance on conventional power but also seeks to cut down carbon emissions and boost energy efficiency in train operations. Should the pilot project succeed, it could usher in a new era of sustainable rail travel across India.

While every offering carries spiritual significance, some temple prasads have become legendary in their own right, drawing food lovers and pilgrims from across the country. Here are 11 temples where the prasad is just as memorable as the darshan.

For twenty-four years, Guo Gangtang embarked on a heart-wrenching quest across China to find his kidnapped son. Traveling over 500,000 kilometers on ten different motorcycles, he did not cease his search. His unwavering determination not only birthed a touching film but also a community platform aiding other families in similar predicaments.

Beneath the charming city of Krakow lies the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a breathtaking underground marvel recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stretching over nine levels with 245 kilometers of intricate tunnels, this historic site boasts chambers and chapels carved entirely from salt. Although salt extraction ended in 1996, the mine continues to allure thousands of visitors, showcasing both its rich heritage and remarkable artistry.

To celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi 2026, Central Railway will provide 246 special trains, including 184 reserved and 62 unreserved MEMU services. Reservations for the reserved trains will start on August 1, 2026, with bookings available through PRS counters and the IRCTC website. This effort aims to cater to the expected surge in festive travelers while improving overall transport connectivity during the holiday season.

Sudha Murty shared an old photo of early Infosys founders and their wives. This image recalled the company's humble beginnings from a rented apartment. Sudha Murty provided crucial seed money from her personal savings. The wives of founders provided unstinted support during early struggles. Both couples built significant legacies beyond the corporate world.

Flowers get most of the attention in a garden, but it's often foliage that does the real heavy lifting when it comes to creating a genuinely polished, high-end look. Yellow and golden leaves in particular have a way of catching light that green foliage simply can't match, adding warmth, contrast, and a sense of drama that holds up through every season, not just during a flowering window. It's no accident that hotels, resorts, and upscale landscaped properties in India lean so heavily on golden-l

A Dutch mother shared her experience of giving birth in Mumbai. She found hospital care excellent but felt isolated afterward. The lack of family support and city heat intensified her loneliness. Her dog provided comfort during these challenging postpartum weeks. Ultimately, she returned to the Netherlands for much-needed rest and support.

A Gurgaon resident was denied a confirmed hotel stay in Manali after traveling with his family. The resort refunded the advance payment, but the tourist sought further compensation. The consumer commission ordered the resort to pay thirty-one thousand rupees for the inconvenience. This ruling highlights consumer rights against service deficiencies in the hospitality sector. Travelers can seek redressal for mental trauma and unexpected disruptions to their plans.

Billionaire Steve Wynn's Beverly Hills mansion has finally sold for $47.75 million. The lavish estate, known as Villa Lulu, was on the market for over five years. After extensive renovations and price adjustments, the property found a buyer. This sale highlights challenges in the ultra-luxury real estate market. The transaction concludes a significant chapter in Los Angeles' high-end property sales.

An eleven-year-old boy gained significant weight to donate bone marrow to his ailing father. Lu Zikuan ate five meals daily for three months to reach the required weight. Doctors successfully performed the bone marrow transplant in September 2019. His father's condition improved significantly after the life-saving procedure. This story highlights the profound strength of family bonds and childhood responsibility.

Across India, countless families put their children's chess aspirations above personal comfort. Sabarinathan Iyyappan's father, a construction worker, faced immense financial difficulties yet continuously supported his son's dream. With technology being a rare privilege, Sabarinathan practiced using an outdated mobile phone; however, support from benevolent strangers ensured he received necessary coaching. This narrative powerfully underscores the belief and dedication of parents as a cornerston

Empty tin cans offer practical household reuse possibilities. They can be transformed into small planters for herbs and succulents. Tin cans also serve as organizers for desk and kitchen clutter. Punched-tin lanterns provide a warm evening glow for outdoor spaces. Simple hanging bird feeders can be easily constructed from these items.

Nandan Nilekani, Infosys co-founder, leads a new task force for exam reforms. He previously chaired the UIDAI and architected the Aadhaar system. Nilekani met his wife, Rohini, at a college quiz competition in 1977. Rohini is a prominent philanthropist and author, founding the Arghyam Foundation. The couple signed the Giving Pledge together in 2017.

The FDA revoked authorization for BVO in 2024 and banned Red No. 3 in 2025, with manufacturers currently transitioning away from both. Here are six ingredients that are still permitted in many US foods but remain banned or significantly restricted in several other parts of the world.

There's a particular kind of dread that comes with popping the hood and finding chewed wires, shredded insulation, or a scatter of droppings where your engine components should be. Rats and mice are drawn to parked cars for the same reasons they're drawn to any quiet, enclosed space, warmth, shelter, and, increasingly, something to chew on, since several modern vehicles use soy-based coatings on their wiring, which rodents find genuinely appetising. The damage isn't just cosmetic either; chewed

Prime Minister Narendra Modi appointed Nandan Nilekani to lead a new task force. This panel will recommend changes for India's examination system. The task force aims to ensure fair conduct of future national exams. Nilekani, a prominent tech leader, will guide the structural and technology-based reforms. This initiative follows recent student protests and paper leak concerns.

One leans on the soothing qualities of fermented dairy, while the other celebrates variety through vegetables, fermentation and seasoning. The contrast offers a fascinating glimpse into how food traditions evolve around climate, agriculture and culture.

Budapest's Fat Policeman Statue offers visitors a unique good luck ritual. Rubbing the bronze figure's belly is believed to bring prosperity and safe journeys. This quirky sculpture has become one of the city's most photographed attractions. It is located near St. Stephen's Basilica in the city center. Travellers enjoy this delightful and shared experience while exploring Budapest.