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The Times of India

Lifestyle / The Times of India

Blake Lively vs Justin Baldoni settlement explained

Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni's legal battle has concluded without any financial payout for either party, despite an estimated $60 million in combined legal costs. The settlement came as their film It Ends With Us faced a trial, with both sides expressing pride in the project's message.

6 May 2026 8:49 am
5 plants that are secretly destroying your pepper garden this season

Companion planting is crucial for pepper success, as certain plants hinder their growth. Fennel's allelopathic chemicals, mint's aggressive spread, disease transmission from other nightshades, root disturbance from root vegetables, and pest attraction and soil disruption by brassicas all negatively impact peppers. Careful planning ensures a thriving pepper harvest.

6 May 2026 8:42 am
The simple May lavender habits that lead to more blooms all summer

May presents a key window for lavender care. Gentle tip trimming encourages bushier growth. Reduce watering as lavender prefers dry soil. Avoid fertilizer to boost blooms. Clear weeds for better airflow. Ensure six hours of direct sun for vibrant flowering. These simple steps ensure your lavender thrives all summer long.

6 May 2026 8:31 am
Hantavirus outbreak timeline: Cruise ship cases escalate to 3 deaths

What started as a picturesque journey on the MV Hondius took a dark turn when a Hantavirus outbreak struck, morphing a luxurious cruise into a serious health scare. With roots traced back to South America, the virus quietly claimed lives and necessitated the immediate evacuation of affected travelers.

6 May 2026 7:19 am
Why do tiny flies keep coming back to your plants, no matter what you do

Tiny flying gnats plaguing your houseplants? The real culprits are larvae hidden in damp soil, feeding on fungi. A simple seven-day plan focusing on drying out the top soil layer breaks their breeding cycle. Mastering mindful watering and choosing well-draining soil are key to preventing their return and keeping your green friends healthy.

6 May 2026 4:45 am
These garden perennials bloom from spring to frost and come back every year

Discover resilient perennials, plants that return annually, offering a low-effort gardening solution. These vibrant blooms not only beautify your space but also demonstrably reduce stress and anxiety. From shady corners to sun-drenched spots, 11 easy-care varieties promise year-round rewards and a deeper connection with nature, boosting confidence and self-esteem.

6 May 2026 4:30 am
The reason your tomato plants keep failing has nothing to do with your soil

Proper spacing is crucial for a successful tomato harvest, preventing overcrowding that leads to disease and reduced fruit yield. Understanding whether your tomato variety is determinate or indeterminate dictates the necessary space, with indeterminate types requiring more room to vine and sprawl.

6 May 2026 4:15 am
In 1945, Percy Spencer felt a candy bar melt in his pocket and built the microwave, changing how the world eats

A World War II scientist, Percy Spencer, accidentally discovered the microwave's cooking potential when his candy bar melted near a magnetron. This led to experiments with popcorn and eggs, revealing how microwave energy rapidly heats food. From a large, expensive Radarange to today's compact appliances, the technology continues to evolve, revolutionizing food preparation and daily life.

6 May 2026 3:59 am
In 1938, Ruth Wakefields simple choice of mixed chopped chocolate into cookie dough created Americas favourite dessert

Contrary to popular belief, the iconic chocolate chip cookie wasn't born from a happy accident. Ruth Wakefield of the Toll House Inn intentionally created the recipe in the late 1930s, using chunks of chocolate rather than melted. This deliberate innovation, predating widespread chocolate chip availability, revolutionized baking by introducing a unique texture and paving the way for countless modern recipes.

6 May 2026 3:35 am
In 2004, Jeremy Stoppelmans failed search for a doctor recommendation online changed how people choose services

A personal struggle to find a good doctor in 2004 sparked an idea. Jeremy Stoppelman envisioned a platform for sharing reviews. This concept grew into Yelp, a popular service for local business decisions. Initially focused on healthcare, Yelp expanded to cover restaurants, mechanics, and more. Structured information and user reviews guide millions in making informed choices.

6 May 2026 3:15 am
In 2007, John Maloof paid $380 for a box of old negatives that led to the discovery of one of the greatest street photographers ever

A Chicago real estate agent stumbled upon over 100,000 negatives and prints by Vivian Maier, an unknown nanny and street photographer, at a storage locker auction in 2007. This remarkable discovery brought Maier's profound 20th-century photographic work to light posthumously, transforming her from an unnoticed artist into a celebrated figure in street photography.

6 May 2026 3:05 am
Michael Bloomberg lost his only job at 39, but his payout funded a company that became revolutionary

Michael Bloomberg's 1981 dismissal from Salomon Brothers at 39, his sole employer, became a career turning point. Receiving a partnership buyout, he leveraged this severance to launch Innovative Market Systems, the precursor to Bloomberg L.P. This financial cushion, combined with his market expertise, fueled his entrepreneurial journey, transforming adversity into a foundational success story.

6 May 2026 2:59 am
Top Dressing Raised Beds: Experts back annual compost layer; avoids full soil replacement

Transform your lackluster garden beds effortlessly without breaking the bank on soil replacement! Garden specialists suggest the quick and effective method of 'top dressing'layering a few inches of rich compost or premium topsoil each year. This straightforward approach not only boosts your soil's vitality and moisture retention but also elevates your garden's overall charm.

6 May 2026 2:49 am
5 unique national parks in South America where waterfalls, wildlife and wilderness come alive

South America is one of the most beautiful and underexplored continents where nature exists in its most dramatic form. For those who have visited and explored the continent swear by its natural beauty.

5 May 2026 11:58 pm
Mere paas itne paise nai they ki logon ko mithai khila sakun: Father shares success secret of his son who scored 498/500

Abhay Gupta from Sidhi District, Madhya Pradesh, achieved second rank in the Class 10th state board exams with 498/500. Despite living in a dilapidated house and his father being a daily wage laborer, Abhay's determination shone through. His story emphasizes the importance of persistence in overcoming challenges and achieving success.

5 May 2026 11:13 pm
Isha Ambanis Met Gala 2026 look stole the show

Isha Ambani captivated at the Met Gala with a custom Gaurav Gupta creation, a gold tissue saree intricately woven with real gold threads and adorned with hand-painted Pichwai motifs. Her look was elevated by a reworked heirloom blouse from Nita Ambani's collection, featuring diamonds and zardozi work, and a unique mango-shaped sculpture by Subodh Gupta.

5 May 2026 10:55 pm
5 things parents unknowingly do that break a child's heart

Parents unknowingly impact children's emotions through everyday interactions. Dismissing excitement, invalidating feelings, breaking promises, focusing only on behavior, and shaming mistakes can leave lasting scars. Understanding and consistent guidance, rather than perfection, are crucial for a child's emotional well-being.

5 May 2026 8:30 pm
Personality test: How you hold your glass can reveal if you are protective, chilled out, reliable, or too expressive

In a world of big personality tests and long quizzes, its the tiniest habits that often slip under the radar. And so, the particular way you cradle your coffee, the angle of your phone in your hand, or even the way you hold your glass at a partythese small gestures can quietly echo your comfort zone, your boundaries, and the way you connect with the world around you.This personality test, which was shared by The Minds Journal, claims to reveal your subtle traits based on your everyday glassholdi

5 May 2026 7:57 pm
Greater Noidas top 5 real estate hotspots fuelled by the upcoming Jewar Airport

Greater Noidas real estate story is synonymous with the rise of the Noida International Airport (NIA) all set to open for the public on June 15 at Jewar. As per industry reports and government-backed assessments, the airport has emerged as a game-changer in Uttar Pradeshs real estate infrastructure, triggering sharp price appreciation and new residential corridors.

5 May 2026 7:23 pm
Ditch black fences and paint them green to make your garden look bigger through 'green drenching'

Gardens are embracing a new trend in 2026: 'Green Drenching.' This approach involves painting fences in various shades of green to create a calming, immersive landscape that makes yards feel larger and more tranquil. Deep forest green, muted sage green, and olive green are recommended for different garden styles, enhancing natural elements and overall appeal.

5 May 2026 7:00 pm
The Big Four snakes of India and where travellers can spot them in the wild

India is home to more than 300 species of snakes. But there are four particular species which dominate the newspaper headlines for being deadly. The infamous Big Four are the Indian cobra, common krait, Russells viper, and saw-scaled viper.

5 May 2026 6:59 pm
I still cant believe Im sitting in this car; Im telling the truth: Parents get teary as son surprises them with BMW after pretending it was a scooty

A heartwarming social media video captures the moment a son surprises his parents with a BMW. Initially believing it was a scooty, the parents' confusion turns to shock and then overwhelming emotion as they realize the magnitude of the gift. The son's gesture, driven by gratitude, resonated deeply with viewers, highlighting strong family bonds.

5 May 2026 6:56 pm
5 simple and mindful steps for office goers to grow jade plants that attract prosperity and positivity

Jade plants are those fresh green succulents that brighten any windowsill. In many cultures they are also believed to bring prosperity, fortune and positive energy, and are often called money bringing plants.They're tough as nails, living for decades with minimal fuss, and are just perfect for people with busy lives who want some greenery without the hassle.Jade are best green pals to office folksThey are native to South Africa, and the mini tree-like beauties store water in plump leaves, making

5 May 2026 6:05 pm
Jennifer Anistons art-filled home decor

Jennifer Aniston's homes are a testament to her refined taste, blending luxury with art. Her Beverly Hills residence boasts a breathtaking Murano glass chandelier and a million-dollar Robert Motherwell painting as focal points. Even her powder room in Bel Air features a striking, backlit onyx sink, showcasing her unique approach to design and making every space a personal statement.

5 May 2026 5:27 pm
Meet Mako Komuro, the Japanese Princess who gave up her royal life to marry a commoner for love

Japan's Princess Mako renounced her royal status to marry commoner Kei Komuro, embracing a life of normalcy in Connecticut. The couple, now parents, live a financially independent life, far from the scrutiny of the imperial household. Mako, an art historian, and Kei, a lawyer, have prioritized love and family over royal duties and luxury.

5 May 2026 3:27 pm
5 most common places where snakes can hide in homes in the US (You might miss some out, right in front of your eyes)

Snakes are slithering creatures with a fearsome reputation that sends chills down the spine when someone accidentally encounters one spinning out its forked tongue.It only gets worse when these sneaky survivours sometimes slip into our homes seeking warmth, food, or shelter. With over 20 venomous species like rattlesnakes and copperheads, along with harmless ones like garter snakes, encounters can spook anyone, especially in warmer states like Texas, Florida, or the Southeast in the US.These int

5 May 2026 3:00 pm
10 early signs your child may be exceptionally bright

What makes early intelligence so fascinating is that it rarely looks one-dimensional. A highly intelligent child may be advanced in some areas and unusually sensitive, stubborn or distracted in others. The signs are often scattered, subtle and deeply personal. Here are 10 early clues that may suggest your child has exceptional mental potential.

5 May 2026 2:20 pm
Not Ayodhya but this is the most visited temple in India

India's Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati is a global spiritual magnet, attracting tens of millions annually and standing as the most visited temple by April 2026. Dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, the temple offers a profound experience beyond darshan, with unique rituals like hair offerings and a GI-tagged laddu prasadam.

5 May 2026 1:32 pm
5 common parenting mistakes that create emotional distance

Most parents do not set out to hurt their children. In fact, many of these mistakes come from love, worry or the belief that authority is the same as guidance. But children remember how they felt long after they forget the exact words. And when a home begins to feel like a place of correction rather than connection, communication starts to thin out. Here are five common parenting mistakes that can slowly create emotional distance.

5 May 2026 1:00 pm
A mother can do anything! This woman almost lost her life while trying to board a train, but she had to because her child....

A harrowing viral video captures a mother's desperate attempts to reunite with her child after falling from a moving train. Her relentless pursuit, fueled by primal instinct, has deeply resonated with viewers, highlighting the unglamorous yet absolute power of parental love in the face of extreme danger.

5 May 2026 12:15 pm
5 lesser-known traits that separate top performing employees from others

There is a massive, invisible gap between just having a job and actually excelling in it. Its not something they teach you in a lecture hall, and you definitely wont find it on LinkedIn. It lives in the messy, unglamorous momentshow you act when a deadline is breathing down your neck or how you treat the oring tasks that no one will ever clap for.Thats the space Ankur Warikoo chose to highlight in his recent social media post. He argued that moving up isnt about flashy talent; its about a few q

5 May 2026 11:15 am
Sudha Reddy flaunts 142 crore tanzanite necklace at Met Gala 2026

New Yorks biggest fashion night always brings the drama, the avant-garde, and the occasionally bizarre. But this May, as stars climbed the iconic steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the spotlight shifted to something genuinely breathtaking. The 2026 theme, Fashion Is Art, practically demanded museum-worthy looks. And honestly? Sudha Reddy delivered exactly that.

5 May 2026 11:00 am
5 Met Gala food rules you probably did not know

Together, they show that the Met Gala menu is built less like a feast and more like a carefully edited performance. Here is a list of the five Met Gala food rules you probably did not know.

5 May 2026 10:32 am
From Garlic to selfies: What items are banned at the MET Gala?

Every year, the Met Gala draws the world's fashion elite to the Metropolitan Museum of Art for a night of glamour, art, and fundraising.Although fashion fanatics wait with a bated breath to catch a glimpse of their favourite celebrities in couture, it's actually not just about who wears what!It's a tightly controlled affair where rules keep the magic alive, protecting priceless exhibits and ensuring that star-studded conversations flow without distractions.Hosted by Anna Wintour, this invite-onl

5 May 2026 10:27 am
Why trains have different-coloured coaches and what it means for travellers

Train coach colours serve as a visual language, differentiating train types, categories, and service levels for travellers. Blue signifies standard trains, red indicates safer LHB coaches, green denotes budget options, and white points to semi-high-speed services. These colours also reflect the evolution of railway technology.

5 May 2026 10:00 am
Why the Met Gala carpet turned green in 2026

The Met Gala 2026 ditched its iconic red carpet for a lush, moss-green landscape, transforming the entrance into an art installation. This shift, led by Ral vila, Baz Luhrmann, and Derek McLane, immerses guests in a Renaissance garden theme, emphasizing fashion's connection to environment and history.

5 May 2026 6:16 am
Karan Johars Met Gala debut is pure drama and deeply rooted in Indian art

When Karan Johar finally stepped onto the Met Gala carpet, he didnt just make an appearance - he made a statement.

5 May 2026 5:22 am
Nicole Kidman brings daughter Sunday Rose to the Met Gala

Nicole Kidman and her daughter Sunday Rose made a stunning Met Gala debut together, showcasing matching Chanel-inspired looks. Kidman stunned in a dramatic red sequined gown with feather accents, while Sunday opted for a soft, blush pink dress.

5 May 2026 4:38 am
From Tomatoes to Beetroot: 7 red foods that protect our heart every day

Red fruits and vegetables are rich in compounds that support heart health. From tomatoes and beetroot to strawberries and pomegranate, each offers specific benefits like improved blood flow, reduced inflammation, and better cholesterol balance. Including these foods regularly can quietly strengthen cardiovascular health over time.

4 May 2026 11:59 pm
Bengalurus 9-year-old Japseerat Kaur sets world record with 35-page storybook

A nine-year-old student from Karnataka, Japseerat Kaur, has achieved a global recognition from the International Book of Records for authoring the longest storybook by a pre-teen. Her 35-page book, 'Beyond the Glitter: A Journey of True Worth,' was completed before her tenth birthday, showcasing remarkable creativity and dedication alongside her schoolwork.

4 May 2026 11:19 pm
Personality test: The object you choose reveals where you are at life right now

This personality test reveals insights into your current headspace based on your first instinctual choice among four objects: a broken mirror, an old journal, a rusted key, or a wilted flower. Each object signifies a different emotional state, from self-rebuilding and nostalgia to protectiveness and resilient optimism. The test encourages self-awareness rather than boxing individuals into categories.

4 May 2026 11:00 pm
Overwatered your plant? Do this today to stop root rot before it's too late

Your wilting plant might be suffering from root rot, not thirst. Overwatering creates soggy soil, suffocating roots and inviting fungal infections. Carefully inspect the roots, trim away any mushy, dark ones, and repot in fresh, well-draining soil. Avoid the gravel drainage myth. Patience is key; monitor soil moisture before watering again to give your plant a fighting chance.

4 May 2026 10:59 pm
Tomato leaves curling? These 3 clues tell you exactly why

Tomato leaves curling can be alarming, but often a simple fix. Lower leaves curling upward usually signal heat or water stress, a plant's natural response. However, twisted new growth might indicate aphids or even herbicide drift. Inspecting your plants closely, from bottom to top, helps pinpoint the exact cause and the right solution, ensuring healthier harvests.

4 May 2026 10:50 pm
Why late spring is the best time to refresh mulch in your garden

Late spring is an ideal time to refresh garden mulch, but only after the ground has firmed and dried sufficiently. Rushing the process can harm waking plants and hinder their establishment. Proper mulching, done at the right time, suppresses weeds, retains moisture, and regulates soil temperature, offering significant benefits with minimal effort.

4 May 2026 10:45 pm
That bee hotel in your yard could be a trap, not a lifeline

Your backyard bee hotel might be doing more harm than good. While intended to help native bees, these structures can attract invasive species, diseases, and parasites. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and tube replacement, is crucial. Placement in areas lacking natural nesting materials and frequent monitoring are key to ensuring these hotels truly support pollinators, not create problems.

4 May 2026 10:29 pm
Why May is the best time to reset your yard

May offers a forgiving window for yard work with smart strategies. Observe blooming plants for climate suitability and wait for the last frost before planting warm-season varieties. Focus on adding structural woody plants and measuring beds to avoid overcrowding, creating a layered, intentional outdoor space.

4 May 2026 10:16 pm
Optical illusion personality test: Lion or monkey? The animal you see first reveals if you are a born leader or highly creative

Optical illusion personality tests, like the one featuring a lion and a monkey, offer a quick glimpse into how your mind processes information. Seeing the lion first suggests leadership qualities, while spotting the monkey first indicates creativity and curiosity. These visual puzzles highlight our dominant brain hemisphere tendencies.

4 May 2026 9:13 pm
Struggling with a small home? These smart design tricks can make your 200 sq ft space feel twice as big

A 200 sq ft home can feel larger with smart design choices. Open sightlines, layered lighting, multifunctional furniture, and careful use of colour and vertical space help create a sense of openness. Decluttering and thoughtful layout are key to making small spaces feel comfortable and livable.

4 May 2026 9:11 pm
Not your usual Kolkata trip: 5 rare and unconventional experiences every traveller should try

Kolkata is celebrated as one of the iconic cities in India rooted in legendary tales. Besides Howrah Bridge and Victoria Memorial, the city has an unexplored and unconventional side that rewards offbeat travellers.

4 May 2026 7:50 pm