The Indian Panorama

Year: 2023

  • The soaring success of Pathaan is set to change the face of Indian cinema

    Pathaan poster

    By Murtaza Ali Khan

    After a long smear campaign that tried to put it down, the highly-anticipated Shah Rukh Khan starrer Pathaan has finally hit the theatres the world over. For the fans of Shah Rukh Khan, it is nothing less than a carnival. They are coming to the theatres in huge numbers which is reflected by the long queues that can be seen outside the theatres everywhere. All this has resulted in a huge opening for Pathaan (with the domestic collection crossing the 55-crore mark on Day 1, making it the biggest opener ever for Indian cinema).The total India collection on Day 2 was 70.50 crore nett (82.94 crore gross). It thus became the first Hindi film to breach the 70 crore nett collection on a single day. Meanwhile, overseas collection was also incredible as it collected 30.70 crore gross.

    ‘Pathaan’ created more history on its second day when it beat its own record for the highest day ever which it set on the opening day — Rs. 55 crore in Hindi format + Rs. 2 crore in dubbed formats — amounting to a total of Rs. 57 crore nett on Day 1.

    Shah Rukh Khan in a still from Pathaan.

    Pathaan is a paean to the unsung heroes of India who day in and day out put their lives on the line in order to protect the glory of the motherland by guarding it against its countless enemies and forces that are trying to weaken it. These are spies, soldiers on covert operations, members of the intelligence network, whose sacrifices often go unnoticed. The Siddharth Anand-directed Pathaan in its unique own way takes us on a whirlwind global adventure with these selfless soldiers committed to the highest ideals of duty and sacrifice.

    Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone in a still from Pathaan.

     In terms of massy cinematic entertainment, Pathaan has everything that anyone can ask or hope for: adrenaline-pumping action, non-stop thrill and adventure, endless twists and turns, exotic locations, a-list actors at the top of their game, cutting edge CGI and VFX, and jaw-dropping stunts.  Also, both the film’s songs are already chartbusters. The time-tested pairing of SRK and Deepika Padukone is another major crowd puller. Not to mention, John Abraham’s return to playing antagonistic badass characters after a long hiatus. Also, watch out for a surprise cameo from someone very special.

    The mad rush to watch Pathaan at a Cinema Hall.

    The soaring success of Pathaan is set change the face of Indian cinema. It will encourage more filmmakers to make big budget action extravaganzas and multi-starrers shot across very many different locations across the world, not unlike the James Bond, Fast and Furious, and Mission: Impossible films. Also, the birth of the YRF Spy Universe is set to usher in a new era of franchise-based storytelling unpinned by not just sequels but also crossovers and spinoffs. Henceforth, whenever we look at the Hindi cinema, it will always be marked by the following dichotomy: Bollywood before Pathaan and Bollywood after Pathaan.

    (Murtaza Ali Khan is an Indian Film & TV Critic / Journalist who has been covering the world of entertainment for over 10 years. He tweets at @MurtazaCritic and can be mailed at: murtaza.jmi@gmail.com)

  • REMEMBERING THE HOLOCAUST JANUARY 27

    By Mabel Pais

    Discover the incredible true story that inspired the film ‘PLAN A’ in the new non-fiction book ‘NAKAM’ from Prof. Dina Porat, former Chief Historian for YadVashem (Israel’s official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust – yadvashem.org).

    “This meticulous and empathetic study gives an overlooked chapter of Jewish history its due” writes Publishers Weekly.

    What if your family was murdered: your brothers, sisters, parents and children.

    Everyone. Murdered.For no sane reason at all.Ask yourself… What would you do?

    In 1945, hundreds of thousands of Holocaust survivors answered that question by getting as far from Europe as possible. But a small group refused to leave without extracting a full measure of vengeance – not only against SS guards and Nazi leaders but on the German people themselves by poisoning the water supply.

    PLAN A poster (Photo credit: Menemsha Films)

    ‘PLAN A’ is a powerful English-language drama based on the incredible true story of these “Avengers” – a group of Jewish vigilantes, men and women, who vowed to avenge the death of their people – “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.”

    Based on the book ‘Nakam’ by Prof. Dina Porat, chief historian at Yad Vashem (yadvashem.org), PLAN A asks the impossible question of how survivors plagued by such memories struggled with conflicting feelings about lust for justice and the desire for payback.

    PLAN A

    Dirs: Doron & Yoav Paz l 2022 l Germany, Israel l Drama l English l 1h 49m

    ‘PLAN A’ is based on the incredible true story of the “Avengers“. A group of Jewish vigilantes, men and women, who after surviving the holocaust are vowing to avenge the death of their people – “an eye for any eye, a tooth for a tooth“ – as is written in the Bible. As far as they were concerned, there was no need for warnings, arrests or trials.

    Max, a holocaust survivor, has lost all his family in the camps. Full of rage and with nothing left to live for other than revenge he helps the Jewish Brigade, soldiers under British command, to off the record find and execute Nazis accused of leading positions in the Nazi system. When the brigade is called off, Max follows Anna and a group of former partisans to Nuremberg, where they soon realize that they will not find redemption in the upcoming Nuremberg trials.

    Led by charismatic leader Abba Kovner, they formulate the biggest revenge operation in history – “Plan A“. They infiltrate German water companies as undercover engineers with only one goal: to poison the drinking water in Nuremberg, Munich, Cologne, Weimar and Hamburg and “to kill six million Germans, one for every Jew slaughtered by the Germans“.

    Opening: Available on major streaming platforms. Available on Blu-ray.

  • FILMMAKERS FOR THE PROSECUTION

    Dir: Jean-Christophe Klotz l 2022 | USA/France | English & French w/Eng Subs 60m

    Filmmakers for the Prosecution. (Photo credit: Kino Lorber) 

    The Thrilling Story of How Motion Pictures Were Used to Convict the Nazis at the First Nuremberg Trial

    Adapted from a monograph by Sandra Schulberg, Filmmakers for the Prosecution retraces the hunt by brothers Budd and Stuart Schulberg for film evidence used to convict the Nazis at the first Nuremberg trial. Seventy-five years later, Jean-Christophe Klotz uncovers never-before-seen footage and interviews key figures to unravel why the resulting film about the trial was intentionally suppressed by the U.S. government.

    Opening: January 27 at DCTV’s Firehouse Cinema, New York.

    (Mabel Pais writes on Social Issues, The Arts and Entertainment, Health & Wellness, Cuisine and Spirituality)

  • Sikh History This Week- January 27 to February 2

    27th January

    1682       Janam Din Baba Deep Singh Ji. Known as Deepaa in his childhood, he was born on 14 Magh Sunmat 1737 to mother Mata Jeeonee and father Bhai Bhagtoo at Paahoowind, Amritsar. He is remembered as one of the most revered martyrs of Sikh history.

    1846       Anglo-Sikh war was fought at village Aliwal, Tehsil Jagraon. The Sikhs suffered severe losses due to internal dissensions.

    1921       Gurudwara Sudhar Dal was named Akali Dal and Sarmukh Singh Jhabal was elected its first President. This body was to serve as a central body controlling and directing various Akali Jathas that had mushroomed from mid-1920.

    1923       The Kar-Sewa of Amritsar Sarowar was initaited. All participant Sikh sangats gathered at Gurdwara Sri Putali Sahib to do their ardas before proceeding for kar-sewa at Sri Harmandie Sahib.

    1983       Akali members of Parliament and Assembly resigned in support of Sikh’s righteous demands.

    28th January

    1520: Guru Baba Nanak Dev in the course of his udasis (travels) arrived at Mecca, the Centre of Islam, accompanied with his GurSikh Bhai Mardana. Here he convinced the Hajies and other dignitories that God is omnipresent. His abode is not confined to Mecca alone. He preached the Message of Universal love and brotherhood.

    1757: Baba Aalla Singh and Sardar Chadhat Singh together attacked the forces of Abdali and rescued the Hindu women that were being forcibly taken from their residence. The Sikh forces safely returned each women to her rightful home.

    29th January

    The Babbar Akali conspiracy case, Supplementary I, was brought before the committing magistrate.

    1925       14th Shahidi Jatha of 500 valiant Akali Satyagrahies, led by Saradar Darshan Singh Pheruman courted arrest upon reaching Gangsar, Jaito.

    1928       All Party Sikh Conference held at Amritsar.

    1970       Indira Ghandhi announced the so-called award on Chandigarh. It was to be given to Punjab in exchange for 114 villages to Haryana. It was like buying a white elephant to save the life of Fateh Singh. Though Fateh Singh would not have died even otherwise; a coward, as he was.

    1976       Articles of Organization for the Sikh Dharma Brotherhood were promilgated.

    1986       The the Panthic Committee, appointed by Sarbat Khalsa on Jan. 26, 1986, announced the Declaration of Independence, from Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Amritsar.

    1989       The US Congress condemns India for its prosecution of the Sikhs. The Congressmen expressed their sympathies for the Sikh national cause and condemned Indian Nazism.

    30th January

    1850: Bhai Maharaj Singh was deported to Calcutta from Jalandhar.

    1855:     Baba Dayal Singh Nirankari passed away.

    1892       Lal Singh, a Bar Student charged with an offence, insisted to give his evidence on oath by saying: I am a Sikh. I have a religion. When he was examined on solemn affirmation and not oath, the matter went up in appeal. It was held by Justice Hawkins that it was wrong to let Lal Singh make a solemn affirmation instead of taking an oath. Wills, Charles, Lawrence, and Wright JJ all concurred.

    31st January

    1630       Seventh Patshash, Guru Har Rai Ji came to this planet. He was born at Kirtapur in the house of Baba Gurditta, eldest son of Guru Hargobind, and Mata Nihal Kaur. He was the second grandson of Guru hargobind, the first being Baba Dhir Mal. Today is the actual date of birth, although it is observed on a different date by Guru Khalsa Panth (Please NOTE the contention on the actual date. Some have suggested Jan. 16, 1630.)

    1922       The management of Gurudwara Guru Ka Bagh was handed over to the Sikhs after a long agitation.

    1927       Saint Attar Singh passed away.

    1st February

    1998       The British Army announced a revolutionary dress code, which is aimed to allow it Sikh members wear their traditional dresses. The Sikhs will be able to carry a miniature version of the kirpan in their wallets. They would also be permitted to wear army-issue special design knee-length underpants.

    2nd February

    1534       Bibi Bhani Ji, was born at Basarkae.

    1807       Maharaja Ranjit Singh attacked Kasur, as Quitbuddin had sided against him in the battle of Bhasin. Qutbuddin was caught while fleeing. However, he was pardoned with a jagir at Mamdot. Kasur was annexed to Lahore Darbar. Pasrur town was also annexed.

    1958       Sikhs held a Protest March in Delhi against numerous acts of the sacrilege of their Gurdwaras by the Hindus.

  • It’s Belgium vs Germany in Hockey World Cup final

    It’s Belgium vs Germany in Hockey World Cup final

    Bhubaneswar (TIP)- Defending champions Belgium had to use all their experience to overcome a young and inspired Netherlands side and set up the title clash with Germany, who again saved their best for last to stun world No. 1 Australia. For the second game in a row, Germany fought back from 0-2 down. Having chased the game for almost 40 minutes, Germany scored two goals in the final three minutes to beat a below-par Australia 4-3. The win took Germany to their first major final in over 10 years. They are looking for their first major title since the gold medal at the 2012 Olympics.

    A famed rivalry in the first decade of the new millennium, the Australia-Germany tie is known more for its battles of attrition than tactics.

    The first semifinal was no different today as it became a tussle for territorial dominance from the starting whistle. If Germany were the more aggressive and motivated, and had more possession and attacks, Australia were the more clinical. Jeremy Hayward scored from their second penalty corner in the 11th minute and Nathan Ephraums doubled their lead 15 minutes later. Rather than breaking their morale, the goals further energised Germany. For Australia, the goals had a reverse effect. Already losing most of the battles, Australia became a bit complacent because of the two-goal cushion. With Germany wasting their penalty corner chances, Australia felt a false sense of security. Missing a top-grade penalty corner specialist has been the missing link for Germany for some time. The inclusion of Gonzalo Peillat, who led Argentina to the Olympics gold in 2016, raised the German hopes. After seven missed penalty corners, Peillat struck in the 42nd minute. Nine minutes later, he made it 2-2. A stunned Australia found their purpose again, and Blake Govers gave them the lead again from a penalty corner in the 57th minute. A minute later, Peillat shot his drag-flick into the roof of the goal, through the keeper’s gloves, bringing back memories of the Rio Games.        Source: TNS

  • India beat New Zealand by 8 wickets to enter final

    India beat New Zealand by 8 wickets to enter final

    Potchefstroom  (TIP)- Opener Shweta Sherawat smashed an unbeaten fifty after Parshavi Chopra’s triple strike as India notched up a comprehensive eight-wicket win over New Zealand to storm into the final of the inaugural Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup here on Friday, January 27.

    India restricted New Zealand to 107 for nine with Parshavi (3/20) leading a disciplined bowling effort after skipper Shafali Verma won the toss and elected to bowl in the first semifinals.

    The 16-year-old leg-spinner broke the backbone of the Kiwi batting line-up with three successive wickets to leave them at 74 for 5 in 13th over.

    Titas Sadhu, Mannat Kashyap, Shafali and Archana Devi also scalped one wicket each.

    For NZ, Georgia Plimmer (35), Isabella Gaze (26) and Izzy Sharp (13) and Kayley Knight (12) reached double figures as they struggled to score runs at the Senwes Park.

    Chasing 108, the women in blue romped home comfortably after Sehrawat produced a scintillating 45-ball unconquered knock which was studded with 10 hits to the fence.

    Following the early exit of Shafali (10), who has not performed as per expectations in the tournament, Sehrawat and Soumya Tiwari (22) added 62 runs to take them to the threshold of victory.

    Sehrawat and Gongadi Trisha (5) then completed the job with the former bringing up the winning runs with a four off Browning as India scored 110 for 2 in 14.2 overs.

    Parshavi was adjudged the Player of the Match for her three-wicket haul.

    India will face the winner of the other semifinal between England and Australia.

    T20I: New Zealand outplay India

    by 21 runs in first T20I

    Ranchi: Opener Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell struck half-centuries to guide New Zealand to a comfortable 21-run win in the first T20I of the three-match series in Ranchi on Friday, January 27.

    Conway made a 35-ball 52, while Mitchell smashed a 30-ball unbeaten 59.

    For India, Washington Sundar (2/22) scalped two wickets, while Kuldeep Yadav (1/20), Shivam Mavi (1/19) and Arshdeep Singh (1/51) accounted for one batter each.

    Washington later came up with his maiden half-century in T20Is, scoring 50 off 28 balls and in-form batter Suryakumar Yadav scored a 34-ball 47 but it was not enough.

    Left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner chocked India in the middle overs, giving away just 11 runs in his four overs and dismissing two batters.

    Brief Score:

    New Zealand: 176 for 6 in 20 overs (Daryl Mitchell 59 not out, Devon Conway 52; Washington Sundar 2/22).

    India: 155 for 9 in 20 overs (S Yadav 47, W Sundar 50; Mitchell Santner 2/11).

     

  • Happy tears for Sania Mirza as Grand Slam journey ends with loss in mixed doubles final

    Happy tears for Sania Mirza as Grand Slam journey ends with loss in mixed doubles final

    Indian tennis star Sania Mirza capped her trailblazing Grand Slam career with a runners-up finish alongside “best friend” Rohan Bopanna in the Australian Open mixed doubles final in Melbourne on January 27.

    With Sania pairing up with her first-ever mixed doubles partner Bopanna, the duo went down 6-7(2) 2-6 to Brazilians Luisa Stefani and Rafael Matos in the final at the Rod Laver Arena. “If I cry, these are happy tears. That’s just a disclaimer. I’m still going to play a couple of more tournaments but my journey of my professional career started in Melbourne,” an emotional Sania said as she struggled to hold back tears. “Rohan was my first-ever mixed doubles partner when I was 14 and we won the Nationals. It was 22 year ago and I couldn’t think of a better person — he’s my best friend and one of my best partners — to finish my career,” Sania said, thanking Bopanna, who has one French Open mixed doubles title to his credit.

    The 36-year-old, who had announced that the WTA event in Dubai next month would be her swansong, is India’s most decorated woman tennis player, having won six Grand Slam doubles titles, including three mixed doubles trophies.

    She won the mixed doubles titles at the 2009 Australian Open and 2012 French Open with Mahesh Bhupathi, and the 2014 US Open with Brazilian Bruno Soares. The Rod Laver Arena has been a happy hunting ground for the Hyderabadi. She has won a women’s doubles title and a mixed doubles title at the Australian Open, and finished as runners-up four times. “It started in 2005 when I played Serena Williams in the third round as an 18-year-old, and that was scary enough 18 years ago. I have had the privilege to come back here again and again, win some tournaments here and play some great finals amongst you all,” she added.     Source: PTI

  • Magha Ganesh Jayanti

    Magha Ganesh Jayanti

    Ganesha Jayanti is celebrated to mark the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha. As per the Hindu calendar, it is observed on Shukla Chaturthi during Magha lunar month. Ganesha Jayanti is observed in Maharashtra and coastal regions of Konkan during Magha month. In most parts of India, Lord Ganesha’s birth anniversary is observed during Bhadrapada month, known as Ganesha Chaturthi.

    As per Drik Panchang, it is Ganesha Jayanti during Magha month which is considered the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha. In Maharashtra, Ganesha Jayanti is also known as Magha Shukla Chaturthi Varad Chaturthi and Tilkund Chaturthi.

    To mark the auspicious occasion, devotees tend to observe a day-long fast and offer prayers to Lord Ganesha to seek wisdom. Just like Ganesh Chaturthi, many worshippers also install idols of the Lord Ganesha in their homes to seek prosperity. Lord Ganesha, who is also known as Vighnharta, the remover of all obstacles, is also offered sweets including Modak which is deemed to be his favourite.

    History and significance

    Ganesh Jayanti differs from the more popularly celebrated festival of Ganesh Chatuthi which is celebrated across India in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada (August/September). According to some traditions, Ganesh Chaturthi is also considered the birthday of Lord Ganesh.

    Ancient customs dictate that on the occasion of Ganesh Jayanti, devotees are prohibited to look at the moon as it supposedly brings the viewer bad luck and suffering. If any person accidentally views the moon on this day, they have to observe a fast for the rest of the day and offer prayers to Lord Ganesh.

    Legend has it that on this day, Chandra Dev, the Moon God, mocked Lord Ganesh’s appearance and teased him about his elephant’s head. Chandra Dev also boasted about his own good looks, which greatly angered Lord Ganesh and led him to curse Chandra Dev. Lord Ganesh told him that from that moment on no one would be able to witness the beauty that Chandra Dev so egotistically boasted of.

    Shamed by his behaviour and fearful of the curse, the Moon God begged for mercy. Lord Ganesh then said that it would be impossible for him to take the curse back, but he could alter it. Lord Ganesh instructed Chandra Dev that from that point on, he will have to wax for 15 days and wane for the other 15, ensuring that the moon could only be witnessed in its complete glory for a short time.

    Celebrations

    In order to celebrate the auspicious occasion, devotees observe a day-long fast and offer prayers to the God of wisdom. Some even bring in new and adorned idols of Lord Ganesh into their home to ensure the prosperity of themselves and their family. Lord Ganesh, who is also known as the remover of obstacles is offered red cloth and sweets. Devotees as the Lord to remove any obstacles from their lives and allow them to follow Lord Ganesh in the path of the light.

    On the festival day, an image of Ganesha, in symbolic conical form is made out of turmeric or sindhoor powder or some times of cowdung and worshipped. It is later immersed in water on the fourth day after the festival. A special preparation made of til (sesame seeds) is offered to Ganesha and then distributed to the devotees as prasad for eating. A fast is observed during worship during the day time followed by feasting in the night as a part of the rituals.

    In addition to fasting on this day, before observing the puja rites for Ganesha (also known as “Vinayaka”), devotees take bath with water mixed with til seeds, after smearing a paste made out of til (sesame) on their body. The fast observed on this day is stated to enhance the name and fame of the individual.

    Even though Ganesha is considered a celibate god in Uttar Pradesh (in other places, he is considered as “married”), but on the occasion of the Ganesh Jayanti celebrations, couples worship him to beget a son.

    On Ganesh Jayanti, devotees flock to the Moreshwar temple in Morgaon, Pune district, Maharashtra – in large numbers. The temple is starting and ending point of a pilgrimage of eight revered Ganesha temples called Ashtavinayaka. Legend has it that Ganesha killed demon Kamlasur at this place, riding a peacock (in Sanskrit, a mayura, in Marathi – mora) and thus is known as Mayureshwar or Moreshwar (“Lord of the peacock”). Another temple on the Ashtavinayak circuit is the Siddhivinayaka temple at Siddhatek, Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra. Large crowds visit the temple on the occasion of Ganesh Jayanti. This ancient temple located on the eastern bank of the Bhima River – has an idol of Ganesha, seated in a crossed leg posture flanked by his consort Siddhi. The Ganesha image is adorned with saffron paste and has its trunk turned to the right, which is considered a rare depiction. Thus, it is held in deep reverence and a strict set of religious vows are observed to please the deity. Devotees take a pradakhsina (circumambulation) of the hill seven times in the rough hilly terrain to seek favour of Ganesha. Legend states that god Vishnu invoked the blessings of Ganesha at this venue before killing the demons Madhu-Kaitabh to put an end to their depredations.

    On the Konkan Coast, at Ganpatipule, a beach temple houses a swayambhu (self-manifest) idol of Ganesha, which is much venerated and visited by thousands of devotees every year. The Ganesha deified in this temple is popularly known as the Paschim Dwardevta (“Western sentinel god of India”). Ganesh Jayanti is also celebrated at this Konkan coastal temple.

    Shri Aniruddha House of Friends, Mumbai, India also celebrates Maaghi Ganesh Utsav (celebrations) every year on Ganesh Jayanti. Lord Ganesh is believed to activate and operationalize eight important centres in our body representing each Ashtavinayak (8 sanctums of Lord Ganesha) for which thousands of devotees across India participate in Maaghi Ganesh Utsav and take blessings of Shree Brahmanaspati (Lord Ganesh’s name as mentioned in Rigveda) and Shree Ashtavinayak.

  • Chikmagalur: The coffee land of Karnataka

    Chikmagalur: The coffee land of Karnataka

    Popularly known as the ‘Coffee Land of Karnataka’, Chikmagalur is situated in the foothills of the Mullayangiri Range and is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Karnataka. Chikmagalur has a perpetual fragrance of coffee lingering in the air with it plenty of coffee plantations. Famous for its tall mountains, lush green forests and its tranquil environment (apart from its coffee production), Chikmagalur is a very popular tourist destination and is a quick retreat for the people of Karnataka.

    COFFEE CULTURE

    Perfect for a traveller who is happy sauntering between the thick undergrowth of the wild coffee bushes, eyes peeled for exotic birdlife and animals, Chikamagalur is the ideal pick. Most of the accommodations lie in the backdrop of coffee plantations, giving the traveller an opportunity to stay in the middle of a million shades of green. Coffee plantation walks organised by the owners are an essential orientation to understand the variety, seasons, wildlife around the area, history of coffee making, processes and what a planter’s life might be like. Coffee plantations of Chikmagalur offer a brilliant atmosphere for both outdoor junkies and those who like to switch off and do nothing. Outdoor enthusiasts during their short hikes to the top of a plantation often make their way through forest streams and spot an array of local avian and animal occupants.

    Birding enthusiasts should remember to carry their binoculars. For those who need to unwind without a packed itinerary or an activity should grab a book or an i-pod and sink into a lounging chair or a hammock, and succumb to the sound of nature around. Miles of stunning views, ludicrous amount of green and the whiff of coffee accompany the copious amount of mugs you can down.

    MOUNTAIN CIRCUIT

    The main highlight of Chikmagalur for most travellers lies in covering the three main peaks of the town?Sheethalagiri, Baba Budan Giri and Mullayanagiri. Head towards Kaimara junction to start at the foothills of this loop and head first towards Sheethalagiri. This is an ancient temple whose history can be traced back to 1000 years and is dedicated to Mallikarjuna Swamy. The temple itself is not very elaborate but is worth your while for its history and the ‘prasadam’, a fistful of water from a natural trickle of waterfall inside. Next on the same route is Baba Budan Giri hill, also known as Dattagiri Hill Range or Inam Dattatreya Peetha after the famous saint who brought coffee to India. This small shrine is propped at 1895 m offering a breathtaking view of the valley below. The shrine is visited by people of all religions. The next stop is Mullayanagiri, the highest peak (1930 m) in the state of Karnataka. Predictably windy and bone chilling cold, it’s apt to stay for a short time to enjoy the view. Many trekkers take on the mammoth mountain despite the winds and near invisible paths due to the mist. The trio are known as the Chandradrona Parvatha Shreni.

    KEMMANAGUNDI

    Even though Kemmanagundi lies almost 500 m below the highest Karnataka peak, Mullayanagiri, the views from here are equally riveting as the hills cascade down, draped in coffee bushes. It is more accessible than the higher mountain loop and is embellished by pit stops for tourists; an unimpressive rock garden and a government run children’s park are part of Kemmanagundi area but can be avoided. This does not hamper dozens of camera happy tourists enjoying the lush green environs as a backdrop to perfect pictures. What is not to miss is the few spots from where you can see the clouds fill up the valley for a mesmerising view. This was the very reason King Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV chose this as a summer retreat. There are a handful of restaurants, viewing decks and even a place to stay maintained by the Karnataka State Tourism Development Board. Raj Bhavan is one of the most popular viewing points of the hill top. If you’re running short of time, stick with the Sheethalagiri-Baba Budan Giri- Mullayanagiri circuit and give this one a miss. The only veritable reason why one should visit Kemmanagundi, is because it is the only access point to Hebbe Falls. Local four wheel jeeps can be hired from here to get to the beautiful untouched waterfalls.

    HEBBE FALLS

    Adventure lovers are promised a bone rattling yet thrilling drive of 13 km, through forested paths (sometimes no paths at all) from Kemmanagundi to Hebbe Falls. A four wheel experience is the only way to manoeuvre through the bumpy road. There are local jeeps available at the base of Kemmanagundi that charge anywhere around Rs 300-500 for a return trip on a sharing basis. After the 13 km ride, one has to reach the falls on foot, after crossing two shallow streams. The effort is absolutely worth your while as you watch the 551 ft drop from the base. There are two stages of the waterfall: Dodda Hebbe (Big Falls) and Chikka Hebbe (Small Falls). The white frothy water cascades down with gusto but even though it looks tempting to go stand under it, it is not recommended. The falls are slightly cut off and isolated. It is likely that no medical help can reach soon. It is recommended to remain at its fringes. This is most voluminous after or during monsoons, but this also means that the area is likely to be infested with swift leeches. Carry a small packet of salt to get rid of them soon.

    KALHATTI FALLS

    Given that Chikmagalur has a large forest cover and entire hillsides covered with plantations, it is not uncommon to see many small and big waterfalls and rivulets around the area. One of the most popular amongst the religious travellers is the Kalhatti waterfall, even though it is far smaller than the nearby Hebbe Falls. From Kemmanagundi, the drive to Kalhatti is only 10 km. The spot can be recognised with a swathe of people, buses and cars on the main road itself. Stop here, and walk a short distance to the base of the falls. Even though it does not match up to the impression of Hebbe Falls, it makes for a great stop for those who like to tick things of the list when visiting a destination. A temple of Lord Veerabhadra stands at the base of the 122 me drop. The falls are also known as the Kalahasti falls by the locals. There are a few local shops here where one can stop for a quick snack. The waterfall lies on the same loop of Mullayangiri, Baba Budan Giri and Seethalagiri hills along with Kemmanagundi. It is easy to pack this in one day of sightseeing, in the same direction.

     

  • As Big Tech is firing employees by thousands, what is driving layoffs and how worried should we be

    As Big Tech is firing employees by thousands, what is driving layoffs and how worried should we be

    Durham (TIP)- Tech companies are always in the news, usually touting the next big thing. However, the tech news cycle recently hasn’t been dominated by the latest gadget or innovation. Instead, layoffs are in the headlines. In the last year, more than 70,000 people globally have been laid off by Big Tech companies – and that doesn’t count the downstream effect of contractors (and other organisations) losing business as budgets tighten.

    What exactly led to this massive shakeout? And what does it mean for the industry, and you?

    What’s the damage?

    Since the end of the pandemic hiring spree, large numbers of employees have been fired from major tech companies, including Alphabet (12,000 employees), Amazon (18,000), Meta (11,000), Twitter (4,000), Microsoft (10,000) and Salesforce (8,000). Other household names share the spotlight, including Tesla, Netflix, Robin Hood, Snap, Coinbase and Spotify – but their layoffs are significantly less than those mentioned above.

    Importantly, these figures don’t include the downstream layoffs, such as advertising agencies laying off staff as ad spend reduces, or manufacturers downsizing as tech product orders shrink – or even potential layoffs yet to come.

    And let’s not forget the folks leaving voluntarily because they don’t want to come into the office, hate their managers, or aren’t keen on Elon Musk’s “hardcore work” philosophy.

    The knock-on effects of all of the above will be felt in the consulting, marketing, advertising and manufacturing spaces as companies reduce spending, and redirect it towards innovating in AI.

    So what’s driving the layoffs?

    The canary in the coal mine was reduced advertising spend and revenue. Many tech companies are funded through advertising. So, for as long as that income stream was healthy (which was especially the case in the years leading up to COVID), so was expenditure on staffing. As advertising revenue decreased last year – in part due to fears over a global recession triggered by the pandemic – it was inevitable layoffs would follow.

    Apple is one exception. It strongly resisted increasing its head count in recent years and as a result doesn’t have to shrink staff numbers (although it hasn’t been immune to staff losses due to work-from-home policy changes).

    What does it mean for consumers?

    Although the headlines can be startling, the layoffs won’t actually mean a whole lot for consumers. Overall, work on tech products and services is still expanding.

    Even Twitter, which many predicted to be dead by now, is looking to diversify its streams of revenue.

    That said, some pet projects such as Mark Zuckerberg’s Metaverse likely won’t be further developed the way their leaders had initially hoped. The evidence for this is in the layoffs, which are concentrated (at least at Amazon, Microsoft and Meta) in these big innovation gambles taken by senior leaders.

    Over the past few years, low interest rates coupled with high COVID-related consumption gave leaders the confidence to invest in innovative products. Other than in AI, that investment is now slowing, or is dead.

    And what about the people who lost their jobs? Layoffs can be devastating for the individuals affected. But who is affected in this case?

    For the most part, the people losing their jobs are educated and highly employable professionals. They are being given severance packages and support which often exceed the minimum legal requirements. Amazon, for example, specifically indicated its losses would be in tech staff and those who support them; not in warehouses.

  • India a ‘bright spot’ in world economy right now: Top UN economist

    India a ‘bright spot’ in world economy right now: Top UN economist

    United Nations (TIP)- India is a “bright spot” in the world economy currently and is on a “strong footing”, projected to grow at 6.7 per cent next year, a very high growth rate relative to other G20 member countries, a top UN economist said. These remarks were made by the Chief of the Global Economic Monitoring Branch, Economic Analysis and Policy Division, UN-Department of Economic and Social Affairs Hamid Rashid.

    “I think India is a bright spot in the world economy right now,” Rashid said at a press conference here Wednesday at the launch of the World Economic Situation and Prospects 2023 report.

    The flagship report said that India’s GDP is projected to moderate to 5.8 per cent in 2023 as higher interest rates and global economic slowdown weigh on investment and exports.

    India’s economic growth is expected to remain “strong” even as prospects for other South Asian nations “are more challenging.” India is projected to grow at 6.7 per cent in 2024, the fastest-growing major economy in the world.

    Rashid said, “we believe the Indian economy is on a strong footing given the strong domestic demand in the near term.” Noting that India’s economic growth is expected to pick up in 2024 to 6.7 per cent, he said this is “very high growth relative to other G20 member countries.”

    The Group of Twenty (G20) comprises 19 countries (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, United Kingdom and United States) and the European Union. “This is a sustainable growth rate for India. India also has a significant number of people living in poverty. So this would be a great boost. If India can sustain this growth rate in the near term, that would be good for the Sustainable Development Goals, good for poverty reduction globally,” Rashid said. Responding to a question on the Indian economy, Rashid, who is the lead author of the report, attributed three factors to India’s current economic strength.

    He said India’s unemployment rate has come down significantly in the last four years to 6.4 per cent and is lower than what it was around 2017. “That means the domestic demand has been pretty strong,” he said.

    India’s inflation pressure also has “eased quite significantly” and it is expected to be about 5.5 per cent this year and 5 per cent in 2024.

    Rashid said this means that the country’s central bank would not have to aggressively go for monetary tightening.

    The third factor benefitting India is that its import bills have been lower, “especially energy import cost has been lower than in the previous years. That has also helped India’s growth prospect in 2022 and 2023,” he said.

  • Boeing plans to hire 10,000 workers in 2023 as it increases jetliner production

    Boeing expects to hire 10,000 workers in 2023 as it recovers from the pandemic and increases jetliner production, but will trim some support jobs, the U.S. planemaker said Friday, January 27.

    The Arlington, Virginia-based company boosted overall employment by about 14,000 workers in 2022 to 156,000 as of Dec. 31, up from about 142,000 in 2021. Boeing employs about 136,000 workers in the United States.

    Boeing acknowledged it will “lower staffing within some support functions” – a move meant to enable it to better align resources to support current products and technology development. It declined to comment on how many jobs it will cut in 2023. Most of the growth will occur in Boeing’s business units, as well as engineering and manufacturing, to meet airlines’ growing demand.

    The company plans to increase deliveries of the 737 MAX from 374 aircraft in 2022 to between 400 to 450 planes this year, with deliveries of the 787 expected to hit between 70 and 80 aircraft.

    European rival Airbus said this week it plans to add 13,000 employees this year. About 7,000 of those jobs are set to be newly created positions, with about 9,000 of the new hires based in Europe.

    Boeing did not comment on how many net new jobs would created in the United States in 2023.              Source: Reuters

  • US economy slowed but still grew at 2.9% rate last quarter

    The US economy expanded at a 2.9% annual pace from October through December, ending 2022 with momentum despite the pressure of high interest rates and widespread fears of a looming recession.

    Thursday’s, (January 26) estimate from the Commerce Department showed that the nation’s gross domestic product — the broadest gauge of economic output — decelerated last quarter from the 3.2% annual growth rate it had posted from July through September. Most economists think the economy will slow further in the current quarter and slide into at least a mild recession by midyear.

    The economy got a boost last quarter from resilient consumer spending and the restocking of supplies by businesses. Federal government spending also helped lift GDP. But with higher mortgage rates undercutting residential real estate, investment in housing plummeted at a 27% annual rate for a second straight quarter.

    For all of 2022, GDP expanded 2.1% after growing 5.9% in 2021.

    The economy’s expected slowdown in the months ahead is an intended consequence of the Federal Reserve’s aggressive series of rate increases. The Fed’s hikes are meant to reduce growth, cool spending and crush the worst inflation bout in four decades.

  • Jeff Bezos’ girlfriend prepares for all-female flight on Blue Origin mission

    Jeff Bezos’ girlfriend prepares for all-female flight on Blue Origin mission

    Lauren Sanchez, girlfriend of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, can soon be known as the first person to lead an all-woman space mission on Blue Origin. In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, she revealed that Bezos is encouraging her to put together a five-member female crew to fly on a Blue Origin rocket to space.

    The Emmy-winning TV host-turned-helicopter pilot became a well known name when her relationship with the Amazon founder was made public in January 2019.

    “It’s going to be women who are making a difference in the world and who are impactful and have a message to send,” Sanchez was quoted as saying.

    “I’m going to have to hold him (Bezos) back. He’ll be cheering us all on from the sidelines,” she added.

    Apart from recreational flights, the Bezos-founded private space company has performed missions for NASA that include taking up scientific equipment.

    Blue Origin last year successfully launched its fifth tourist flight to space.

    Six people were carried to space above the Karman line—an internationally recognised boundary of space that lies 62 miles (100 km) above the Earth’s surface—in a typical 11-minute flight.

    The flight was the 21st overall for Blue Origin and New Shepard. It was the second crewed flight for the company this year, following NS-20, which launched and landed on March 31, 2022.

  • WhatsApp rolls out new shortcuts for group admins on iOS San

    WhatsApp rolls out new shortcuts for group admins on iOS San

    Meta-owned messaging platform WhatsApp has reportedly rolled out some new shortcuts for group admins to quickly and easily perform actions for a certain group participant, on iOS.

    The new shortcuts simplify interactions with group members as now the platform supports large groups of up to 1024 participants, reports WABetainfo.

    The new update will help group admins to quickly manage and communicate with such a large number of participants in private.

    The feature is available for all users that install the latest update of WhatsApp for iOS from the App Store.

    With the new update, the phone numbers are now highlighted in group events when group participants join or leave a group and group admins can easily interact with them.

    If admins tap and hold a phone number, they can use new shortcuts that include the ability to quickly call and chat with participants in private and they can also add group participants to their contacts book and copy their phone numbers.

    “This feature can save group admins a significant amount of time as they no longer need to navigate through the group info screen to find contact information,” the report said.

    Meanwhile, last week, it was reported that the messaging platform was rolling out a new ‘voice status updates’ feature on iOS beta, which will allow users to share voice notes via status updates.

    Microsoft shutting down VR platform AltspaceVR

    Microsoft has announced plans to shut down its social virtual reality platform AltspaceVR, which offered immersive social spaces for people to interact with friends and colleagues as 3D avatars.

    In 2017, Microsoft stepped in and acquired the platform after AltspaceVR decided to shut it down, and now the company said it will shut down the service on March 10, 2023.

    The tech giant will shift its focus to support immersive experiences powered by Microsoft Mesh (a platform which enables presence and shared experiences from anywhere — on any device — through mixed reality applications.

    “With Mesh, we aspire to build a platform that offers the widest opportunity to all involved, including creators, partners and customers,” Microsoft said in a blogpost.

    “We look forward to what is to come, including our launch of Microsoft Mesh, a new platform for connection and collaboration, starting by enabling workplaces around the world,” it added.

    Moreover, the company mentioned, in the near term, it will be focusing its VR efforts on workplace experiences, learning from and alongside its early customers and partners, and ensuring that it delivers a foundation that enables security, trust and compliance.

    The news of the shutdown comes after Microsoft confirmed it would lay off 10,000 employees through the end of March.

    Higher priced subscription for ad-free Twitter

    Twitter Boss Elon Musk has announced that a higher-priced subscription to the microblogging platform with no ads will be available in the coming weeks.

    “Ads are too frequent on Twitter and too big. Taking steps to address both in coming weeks,” Musk tweeted.

    “Also, there will be a higher-priced subscription that allows zero ads,” he added.

    Moreover, a Twitter user known as “The Rabbit Hole” commented on Musk’s tweet, asking, “Can individual users opt to monetise accounts through ads? Currently, advertisers reach out individually to users; creating a solution integrated with the platform will let Twitter take a cut and give creators a pathway to monetising our content”.To which Musk replied: “Maybe there’s a way to do this by placing an ad below tweet details”.

    Meanwhile, fighting hard to stay afloat, Twitter offered a new incentive to skeptical advertisers where the micro-blogging platform will match advertisers’ ad spending up to $250,000.

  • Worst impacts of sea level rise will hit earlier than thought: Study

    Worst impacts of sea level rise will hit earlier than thought: Study

    The biggest increases in induntation will occur after the first two metres of sea level rise, covering more than twice as much land as older elevation models predicted, according to a study.

    The current models of sea level rise suggest the most widespread impacts will occur after sea level has risen by several metres. The study, published in the journal Earth’s Future, used high-resolution measurements of land elevation from NASA’s ICESat-2 lidar satellite, launched in 2018, to improve upon models of sea level rise and inundation.

    Previous assessments typically relied on radar-based data, which are less precise, the researchers said. “Radar is unable to fully penetrate vegetation and therefore overestimates surface elevation,” said Ronald Vernimmen, a researcher at the research firm Data for Sustainability in The Netherlands.

    Many coastal areas are lower than scientists thought they were. The underestimates of land elevation mean coastal communities have less time to prepare for sea level rise than expected, with the biggest impacts of rising seas occurring earlier than previously thought.

    The researchers found that after those first few metres of sea level rise, the rate at which land area falls below mean sea level decreases.

    They started using these more accurate measurements of land elevation when he realised that existing land elevation estimates were not suitable for quantifying coastal flooding risk.

    Using the new measurements of land elevation, Vernimmen and study co-author Aljosja Hooijer found coastal areas lie much lower than older radar data had suggested. Analyses of the new Lidar-based elevation model showed two metres of sea-level rise would cover up to 2.4 times the land area as observed by radar-based elevation models. Source: PTI

  • Google says will allow users in India to choose default search engine on Android phones

    After failing to get a court order to block an antitrust ruling, Google on Wednesday said it will allow users in India to choose default search engine on Android-based smartphones.

    Last week, the Supreme Court refused a stay a Competition Commission of India (CCI) order slapping a Rs 1,337.76 crore fine on Google for exploiting its dominant position of its popular Android operating system, which powers 97 per cent of around 60 crore smartphones in India.

    CCI imposed another Rs 936 crore penalty on the US tech giant in a case related to its Play Store policies.

    “We take our commitment to comply with local laws and regulations in India seriously. The CCI’s recent directives for Android and Play require us to make significant changes for India, and today we’ve informed the CCI of how we will be complying with their directives,” Google said in a blog.

  • Antidepressants may cause ‘emotional blunting’: Study

    Antidepressants may cause ‘emotional blunting’: Study

    Common antidepressants can cause many users to feel emotionally ‘blunted’, according to a study that offers new insights into how the drugs work and their possible side-effects.

    The research, published on Monday in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology, shows that the drugs affect reinforcement learning, an important behavioural process that allows us to learn from our environment.

    A widely-used class of antidepressants, particularly for persistent or severe cases, is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These drugs target serotonin, a chemical that carries messages between nerve cells in the brain and has been dubbed the ‘pleasure chemical’.

    One of the widely-reported side effects of SSRIs is ‘blunting’, where patients report feeling emotionally dull and no longer finding things as pleasurable as they used to, the researchers said.

    Between 40-60 per cent of patients taking SSRIs are believed to experience this side effect, they said.

    “Emotional blunting is a common side effect of SSRI antidepressants,” said Professor Barbara Sahakian, senior author of the study from the University of Cambridge in the UK. “In a way, this may be in part how they work — they take away some of the emotional pain that people who experience depression feel, but, unfortunately, it seems that they also take away some of the enjoyment,” Sahakian said. The study shows that this is because people become less sensitive to rewards, which provide important feedback.

    Most studies of SSRIs to date have only examined their short term use, but, for clinical use in depression these drugs are taken chronically, over a longer period of time.

    Researchers at Cambridge in collaboration with the University of Copenhagen, Denmark recruited healthy volunteers who were administered escitalopram, an SSRI known to be one of the best-tolerated, over several weeks.   Source: PTI

  • Vegan sources of calcium to maintain strong bones

    Vegan sources of calcium to maintain strong bones

    Osteoporosis can make your bones weak and fragile so much so that even a mild fall is enough to fracture a bone or two. Osteoporosis-related fractures most commonly occur in the hip, wrist or spine. Maintaining a healthy weight, saying no to alcohol and tobacco, eating a balanced diet and staying active can prevent one from this disease. A diet rich in calcium, magnesium, Vitamin K and zinc can help maintain bone health. Besides, regular exercise is important for improving bone density. According to recent statistics from the International Osteoporosis Foundation, worldwide, 1 in 3 women over the age of 50 years and 1 in 5 men will experience osteoporotic fractures in their lifetime. Symptoms of osteoporosis may not appear until a bone fracture occurs. Risk factors include age, being female, family history, low body weight, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.

    “Osteoporosis continues to be a major and common health issue. Bones are made up of calcium and store 99% of the calcium in the body while the remaining only 1% is stored & utilised in blood, muscles, and tissues. If you are not getting calcium from your daily diet, your body pulls it from your bones to sustain other functions that are very important for immediate survival. Also, some amount of calcium is continually excreted in the urine. So, if your dietary intake does not compensate for what is lost, your bones will lose calcium over time, which will lead you to the risk of developing osteoporosis,” says nutritionist Lovneet Batra in her recent Instagram post.

    “Maintaining adequate calcium, which is at least 1,000 mg of calcium intake per day through dietary sources or supplements is widely regarded as a safe and effective strategy for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. However, too much calcium can also cause issues such as constipation, gas, and bloating.

    Plant-based sources of calcium

    Batra says dairy is often thought of as the only source of calcium as 1 cup of milk gives 290 mg of calcium, but there are also plenty of plant-based sources that should be a part of your vegan diet as all of them are packed with several other nutrients needed to maintain healthy bones.

    1. Your body needs magnesium to maintain bone health and not getting enough magnesium in your diet could increase your risk of developing osteoporosis.
    2. Vitamin K is necessary for the function of proteins involved in bone formation and maintenance.
    3. Zinc is needed for proper bone growth and maintenance, and it also promotes bone regeneration. Low levels of zinc have been associated with postmenopausal osteoporosis.

    Top vegan sources of calcium

    1 cup turnip greens = 200 mg of calcium

    1 tbsp, sesame seeds = 146 mg of calcium

    1 cup soy bean = 175 mg of calcium

    1 cup mustard greens = 120 mg of calcium

    1 cup okra = 120 mg of calcium

    It is important to take care of your calcium intake along with vitamin D as it is necessary for maintaining strong bones, especially in older adults. It’s important to get enough calcium through diet or supplements, especially during childhood and adolescence when bones are still developing.           Source: HT

  • Study finds how pembrolizumab helps in cervical cancer treatment

    Chemotherapy and pembrolizumab have been approved for the treatment of women with metastatic, recurring, or persistent cervical cancer whose tumours express PD-L1. Chemotherapy can be administered with or without bevacizumab. Whether pembrolizumab in this combination provides patients with an added benefit in contrast to other treatments has now been investigated by the German Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Healthcare (IQWiG) in an early benefit evaluation.

    According to the findings, there is a hint of major added benefit for pembrolizumab when it is used as first-line therapy in patients who have not yet been treated with chemotherapy. The added benefit was shown in patients for whom chemotherapy with cisplatin or carboplatin – in each case plus paclitaxel with or without bevacizumab – has so far been the suitable therapy of physician’s choice.

    First early benefit assessment for the therapeutic indication of cervical cancer According to the Robert Koch Institute, around 4,575 women in Germany were diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2019. About 1,600 women die from this disease every year.

    Pembrolizumab is a monoclonal antibody which is used to treat many cancers. Since this year, it has also been approved for the treatment of women with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer whose tumours express PD-L1 – in combination with chemotherapy with or without bevacizumab.

    The Federal Joint Committee (G-BA) now commissioned IQWiG to conduct a dossier assessment of pembrolizumab for this therapeutic indication, specifying treatment of physician’s choice as the appropriate comparator therapy. The G-BA distinguished between two options of use: for first-line therapy and after first-line chemotherapy, if further drug treatment of the cancer is an option Hint of major added benefit in first-line therapy In its dossier on pembrolizumab for advanced cervical cancer, the drug manufacturer submitted data from the KEYNOTE-826 study – an ongoing, randomized, double-blind study.        Source: ANI

     

  • Benefits of oiling your hair

    Benefits of oiling your hair

    Oiling is perhaps the best thing you can do to your hair. In the long run, this practice is your key to healthier and stronger hair.

    Natural goodness for hair

    The first benefit is that natural hair oil, meaning the least processed, comes packed with several of the vitamins and micro-nutrients that are found in food. So hair oil is basically hair food.

    Revitalises hair tissues

    The second benefit of a hair oil massage is the way it penetrates the skin. A shampoo-conditioner, no matter how good its components, can’t match the way hair oil goes deep into the skin and does its job revitalising the skin tissue.

    Relaxing massage for healthy scalp

    The third benefit of a thorough hair oil massage is that it boosts blood circulation in the scalp. The oil is spread evenly around the scalp, sending nutrients directly to all the hair roots.

    Fights hair fall

    Hair oil does the job of fighting hair fall and of aiding hair regrowth. Therefore, whether you’ve got a hair loss problem or not, you can use a hair thickening oil, and the results can only be good.

    Tames frizz

    Using hair oil is a great way to control frizzy hair. On days when your hair seems all out of control and frizzy, rub some hair oil on your palms and run through the hair lightly. This will cause the frizz to settle immediately and also provide nourishment to the hair.

    Tips for oiling your hair

    –              Ideally, your scalp should be clean for the hair oil to work really well.

    –              Wash hair with a degreasing shampoo and let the hair dry out completely.

    –              Then apply hair oil the same day or the next day (before dirt builds up again on the scalp).

    –              Massage the oil in gently for about 10 to 15 minutes but thoroughly, covering every inch of the scalp. If you can warm the hair oil slightly before applying, it will spread better.

    –              Leave this on for at least 3 hours before washing off. You could even leave the hair oil on overnight, if you’re so inclined. Keeping it more than 24 hourswill make the hair weak as it will start accumulating dirt.

  • Appreciate your partner openly

    Who does not like to be appreciated? Human beings thrive on it, and even the tiniest of acknowledgements put wide smiles on out faces. When you are working day in and day out on your relationship, every once in a while it pays to let your partner know he’s appreciated, rather than assuming he already knows it. Here’s why.

    It makes him happy

    People enjoy doing things for others, and in a relationship, partners are no different. When your partner does something or thinks about the smallest detail for you, of course he is happy that he eased your work. This happiness will only multiply if you let him know how much it means to you. Just drop him a text on it, and see him grin away as he reads it.

    He will reciprocate

    When your partner realises that you thank him for every small aspect and always acknowledge his help, he will start appreciating similar things that you do for him. It will lead to a healthier and more communicative bond.

    He will know his opinion matters

    Factoring in his suggestions, asking him for ideas because you trust him, and valuing his inputs will provide him with the impetus to be more supportive. He knows his thoughts matter to you and he will share them in an uninhibited manner.

    It will make his day

    It’s not just about being grateful and showing it. It is also about looking at how he reacts to your gratitude. Leave him a note, send him a text, call him and surprise him in the middle of the day with these thank yous, and just see how his mood brightens up.

  • Spring chicken

    Spring chicken

    Ingredients

    1 tbsp olive oil, 1 onion chopped, 500g boneless, skinless chicken thigh, 300g small new potato, 425ml low-salt vegetable stock (such as Kallo low-salt vegetable stock cubes), 350g broccoli, cut into small florets, 350g spring green, shredded, 140g petits pois, bunch spring onion, sliced, 2 tbsp pesto

    Method

    –              Heat the oil in a large, heavy pan.

    –              Add the onion, gently fry for 5 mins until softened, add the chicken, then fry until lightly coloured.

    –              Add the potatoes, stock and plenty of freshly ground black pepper, then bring to the boil.

    –              Cover, then simmer for 30 mins until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked.

    –              Can be frozen at this point.

    –              Add the broccoli, spring greens, petit pois and spring onions, stir well, then return to the boil.

    –              Cover, then cook for 5 mins more, stir in the pesto and heat through.

  • Kangana Ranaut calls film industry ‘crass and crude’

    Kangana Ranaut calls film industry ‘crass and crude’

    Considered an outlier in Bollywood who doesn’t hold back when it comes to expressing her opinion on the Hindi film industry, Kangana Ranaut is back raising eyebrows with her tweets.

    The actor dropped a series of cryptic tweets, calling the film industry “Crass and crude.”

    “Film industry is so crass and crude that whenever they want to project success of any endeavour/creation/art, they throw flashing currency digits in your face, as if art has no other purpose.. it exposes their lowly standards and the kind of deprived lives they live…,” the actor tweeted.

    “Primitively art blossomed in temples and reached literature/theatres and eventually inside cinemas. It is an industry but not designed for major economic gains like other billion/trillion dollar businesses, that’s why art/artists are worshipped not industrialists or billionaires,” Kangana added.

    Kangana’s comments come on the day of release of Shah Rukh Khan’s much-awaited ‘Pathaan’, which opened to a bumper response.

    The Thalaivii actor further wrote, “So even if artists indulge in polluting the very fibre of art and culture in the nation, they must do it discreetly not shamelessly…” Source: ANI

  • Athiya & KL Rahul wedding gifts: From Rs 1.64 cr Audi by Salman to Suniel Shetty’s 50 cr apartment

    Athiya & KL Rahul wedding gifts: From Rs 1.64 cr Audi by Salman to Suniel Shetty’s 50 cr apartment

    Suniel Shetty’s daughter Athiya Shetty who also followed in her father’s footsteps and debuted in Bollywood with the film Hero. Even though she hasn’t been very active on the big screen much, she is an avid social media user and enjoys a massive fanbase. She had never kept her relationship with the Indian cricketer KL Rahul hidden from the media, and now on January 23, 2023, the madly-in-love couple tied the knot. It was rather an intimate wedding ceremony. However, do you know what gifts the newlyweds receive from their close ones? Scroll below to get the scoop which might leave you spellbound!

    Athiya and KL Rahul looked magical at their wedding ceremony where they can be seen wearing gorgeous shaadi ka joda. Athiya donned a pastel pink coloured self-embroidered lehenga choli with polki jewellery, while Rahul looked dashing in a soft cream coloured sherwani suit.

    The newlyweds Athiya Shetty and KL Rahul received a lot of luxurious gifts from their friends, family and relatives. It included an Audi worth Rs 1.64 crore that they received from Salman Khan. Suniel Shetty gifted his daughter and son-in-law a lavish apartment of Rs 50 crores as reported in ETimes. Jackie Shroff who is a close friend of Suniel Shetty gifted Athiya Shetty a Chopard Watch worth Rs 30 Lakh. On the other hand, the actress’s close friend Arjun Kapoor gave her a diamond bracelet of whopping Rs 1.5 crore.

    While KL Rahul’s cricket team mate and Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli gifted the newlyweds a BMW car of Rs 2.17 crore, Mahendra Singh Dhoni gave Rahul a Kawasaki Ninja bike that comes with a whopping price of Rs 80 lakhs.