The Indian Panorama

Month: August 2024

  • Weekly Horoscope- September 2 to September 8, 2024

    Weekly Horoscope- September 2 to September 8, 2024

    • By Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla 

    Aries

    Ganesha says this week, Aries people will get support from family members. You will get a chance to go out somewhere with your family, where everyone will look very happy. You will achieve success in the field of education. Sweetness will remain in love relationships. Married people will seem happy in their domestic life. The obstacles coming in the way of the brother’s marriage will be removed. A promising program will be organized at home. Employed people will have to complete the tasks given in the job on time. Will get support from higher officials. You will be a business success. There are chances of getting financial benefits, expenses will also be more, but income will also be more. You can buy a new vehicle for yourself. Your health will be fine. Students will study diligently. Instead of paying attention here and there, concentrate completely on your studies, by doing this you will get the desired results. Trying to go out may be successful. Avoid lending your money to anyone this month. There is also a possibility of buying a new car, so get ready to be happy and ready to distribute sweets.

    Taurus

    Ganesha says this week is going to be good for the people of the Taurus zodiac sign. Married people will look happy in their life. The blessings of senior members will remain on you. You will get your mother’s company and support. Your love life will be better. You can get into a new relationship with your love partner. The financial situation will be good. You will be a business success. There is a possibility of getting benefits from government sectors also. There will be opportunities for advancement in jobs. There are signs of unemployed people getting good employment. Time is good for higher education. You will get a chance to show your performance. A puja will be organized at home, in which everyone will be coming and going. Your health will be better than before. People who do import-export work from abroad will get good news. You will achieve success in the field of education. Students will get guidance from their special teacher, which will greatly benefit them in their studies.

    Gemini 

    Ganesha says this week is going to be better for the financial situation. You will get new contacts, through which you will be successful in taking your business forward. You will be ready to bear all the expenses. You will also spend a lot of money on home decoration and repairs. The obstacles coming in the way of my sister’s marriage will end. Auspicious programs will be organized. Everyone will go shopping together. Employed people will have to complete the tasks given in the job on time. While talking to a senior, it is better to think carefully before speaking. You will get a chance to do good to the society. For this, you can join any social organization. There will be happiness and peace in family life. Will sing love songs with your spouse. People living a love life will express their feelings to their beloved, which will make them look very happy. You will participate in religious programs with your family, where your mind will get peace. A plan will be made to go on a pilgrimage.

    Cancer

    Ganesha says this week there will be ups and downs in the lives of married people with the Cancer zodiac sign. Due to ego, you will say something which may make your spouse feel bad. There will be great coordination between you and your beloved character. You will plan a trip to a pilgrimage place with your family. Students will study diligently. Time is good for higher education. Your financial condition will be good. Daily income will increase. You can also make any investment. People doing business will get the desired profits. Working people will seem happy in their jobs. There will be ups and downs in health due to changing weather. There is a possibility of success in the competition. Your hard work will bear fruits. Worship will be organized at home. You will get the company of your mother. Will get their affection. Avoid being too emotional and listen to your mind, this will benefit you a lot this week.

    Leo

    Ganesha says people of the Leo zodiac sign will have to learn to have confidence in themselves, due to which they will start getting good results this week. Be it love relationships or family life, you will feel happy and satisfied. Your confidence will increase by getting support from your partner in some important tasks. You will be successful in earning a good income amid economic ups and downs. Time is good for business, you will get a chance to take your business in a new direction. Employed people may be successful in getting a good position. Students will get pleasant results in education by studying purposefully and their inclination towards education will also increase. This week you should pay maximum attention to your health because weakness may occur.

    Virgo

    Ganesha says people with the Virgo zodiac sign will get support from their spouse. Will spend loving moments with your spouse. You will get full support from your children. The blessings of senior members will remain on you. There is a possibility of getting financial benefits from ancestral property. Your health will be better than before. There will be ups and downs in love life. Your financial condition is going to be good. Expenses will increase. You will achieve success in the field of education. Employed people will get opportunities for promotion in the job. Income will increase. You will be successful in business. There will be new opportunities. Will get success in competition. People who are working away from home will miss their families. For single people, there can be talk of a relationship. All the family members will together plan a trip to some religious place.

    Libra

    Ganesha says this week is going to be good for love relationships. Your relationship will become even stronger. You can introduce your lover to your family so that the marriage is not delayed. There will be happiness and peace in family life. You will spend happy moments with your spouse. People who are employed will do some side work along with their job, in which their spouse will fully support them. People doing business will be successful in whatever efforts they are making to take the business forward. The economic situation will be strong. The pending money will be returned. If you have borrowed money from someone then you will return it on time. Will achieve success in politics. Havan, puja, recitation, bhajan, kirtan, etc. will be organized in the house, in which everyone will be seen working together.

    Scorpio

    Ganesha says this week, that people with the Scorpio zodiac sign can express their feelings to their lover. You can also give them a gift, which will make them look very happy. Interference with another person in family life can create tension, so be careful. You will get the pleasure of a new vehicle. There is a possibility of getting financial benefits from ancestral property. Your financial condition will be good. Your expenses will increase a lot, but your income will also increase. You will also get benefits from government sectors. You will get a promotion in your job. You will get new contracts in business. Students will pay full attention to their studies, which will bring them success. Time is good for higher education. You will get a chance to study your favorite subject. The obstacles coming in the way of the brother’s marriage will be removed. An auspicious program will be organized at home.

    Sagittarius

    Ganesha says will get support from family. Will spend time with family members. You will be seen sharing your happiness and sorrow. You will learn from senior members how to save money so that there is no problem in the future. You will feel ups and downs in family life. There are chances of going on a trip, which will be pleasant for you. Your love life will be full of happiness. You may have to face challenges in the workplace. There are signs of the arrival of money. You can also buy a property. People doing business will have to be a little careful. Employed people will get success through their hard work and honesty. Students will not feel interested in studies at all. Parents will look very sad. Time is favorable for higher education. This week is going to be weak from a health point of view.

    Capricorn

    Ganesha says this week, married people will enjoy their domestic life and can get their spouse to do some new work. Sister’s health will improve. Parents will look very happy if their child gets a good job. You will get new income opportunities, which will strengthen your financial position by earning profits. You will also spend a lot of money on household chores. You will attend a wedding at a distant relative’s place and will interact with everyone. Time is good for higher education. There will be opportunities for education from abroad also. There will be ups and downs in love relationships. You will be successful in taking your business forward. In the workplace, you will do your assigned work with full dedication. You will get support from your seniors and juniors. Take blessings by touching the feet of senior members, all your work will be completed.

    Aquarius

    Ganesha says love relationships will become stronger this week. You can introduce your loved one to your family so that your marriage does not get delayed. Married people will feel good in their domestic life. You will be seen working with your spouse for the welfare of the family. The financial situation will be fine. You will get the full benefit of the investment made earlier. Your friends and relatives will help you in strengthening your income. People who are doing business in partnership will get good profits. Employed people will have to complete the tasks given in the job on time. This week looks weak for higher education. You will feel less interested in your studies. You will get guidance from senior members. There can be talk of relationships between unmarried people.

    Pisces

    Ganesha says, this week married people will live happily in their domestic life. Will plan to travel somewhere with the family. There are chances of a love marriage. For those who are alone, a good relationship will come as they want. From the financial point of view, this week will be full of expenses. Daily income will be good, due to which you will not have to face any problems. People doing business will get good profits. Your health will improve. Time is good for higher education. You will get a chance to study your favorite subject. The blessings of senior members will remain on you. You will get success in your desire to buy a house, shop, plot, etc. Parents will look very happy if their child gets a good job. This week, family problems will attract your attention, due to which you will not be able to concentrate on your studies.

  • Birthday Horoscope-September 2 to September 8

    Birthday Horoscope-September 2 to September 8

    • By Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla 

    September 2 

    Ganesha says although you have a pleasant disposition and are highly diplomatic, you need to curb your tendency to occasionally act spendthrift, fickle-minded, and restless. You may face unexpected issues at work that are to be expected. You must approach these issues with more poise and tact. Traveling during this time will not only provide you with crucial information but also guarantee financial rewards. Later in the year, some couples will tie the knot.

     September 3 

    Ganesha says you live each day to the fullest and have the potential to become a writer, philosopher, or thinker, but you need to learn to regulate your often restless and stubborn behavior. If you mingle with your coworkers, clients, and clients after work this year, you will build stronger relationships with all of them. Your investments will soar to new heights, and your financial situation will improve, causing you to spend more on comforts and luxuries. There will be nice romantic entanglements and good opportunities to form a marriage union. 

    September 4 

    Ganesha says you’ll face new problems this year, but your perseverance and the support of your friends and family will assure your success. With time, your financial situation will get better. Gains from investments and speculation are both possible. Being a responsible parent, you’ll provide your kids with nothing but the best. Towards the middle of the year, some unsettling news from a faraway location is to be anticipated. A spiritual person offers consolation and mental calm. 

    September 5 

    Ganesha says if you put your best effort forward, you can turn sand into gold. However, you need to curb your tendency to act vindictively, stubbornly, and moodily at times. Your international business activities will be very profitable and prosperous for you. Your financial situation will improve and your confidence level will be at its highest if you find new sources of income. Professional modifications that are made in the middle of the year will be advantageous. 

    September 6 

    Ganesha says if you have been concerned about the lack of advancement in your professional career, now is the time to rejoice and celebrate. Your work will be much valued and will earn you the respect of your superiors, coworkers, and clients. Gains will also come from property-related issues. The home’s renovation and other construction-related tasks will likewise be high on your priority list. Patients with chronic conditions need to pay closer attention to their health. At all costs, preventative medications shouldn’t be ignored. 

    September 7 

    Ganesha says you have a fantastic personality and may quickly make friends because of your helpfulness, but you need to curb your tendency to occasionally act gloomy, wasteful, and inconsiderate. Gains and rewards are guaranteed this year, but you must remain entirely committed to your objectives. You will suffer losses or suffer a great deal of embarrassment if you are unable to obtain appropriate and reliable information. Financial transactions will go much smoother during the second half of the year, but partnerships and joint ventures should be avoided. 

    September 8 

    Ganesha says although you have a fantastic imagination and can easily outsmart your competitors, you need to curb your occasionally vengeful, impulsive, and stubborn behavior. Gains in both health and wealth are anticipated in the upcoming year. There will be lots of praise and incentives for your achievements. Your self-assurance and tenacity will grow, helping you to complete challenging tasks with ease. You’ll spend more money on entertainment at this time, and you’ll also buy costly items for your home.

  • Why did India return from Paris with 16 and not 18 hockey Olympians?

    Why did India return from Paris with 16 and not 18 hockey Olympians?

    By Prabhjot Singh

    While fervor, gaiety, celebrations, and felicitations to mark back-to-back bronze medal triumphs in the Tokyo and Paris Olympic Games are almost nearing their end, at least two members of the Indian hockey squad must have been left wondering why they did not return home as “Olympians” with bronze medals hanging down their necks.
    This million-rupee question probably did not agitate the minds of officials of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and Hockey India (HI), who were part of the official entourage to the Paris Olympic Games.
    When the medal ceremony was held after the gold medal match, there were 18 players each of the new champions, the Netherlands, and the runners-up Germany, on the podium, and India, the winner of the bronze medal, had only 16 players. After the conventional ritual was gone through, three of the Indian players – Krishan Bahadur Pathak (goalkeeper), deep defender and drag-flicker Jugraj Singh and midfielder Neelkanta – who watched all the games from the stands, joined their colleagues on the ground to celebrate the bronze medal triumph. The Indian hockey team’s bronze medal win at the Paris Olympic Games was a moment of triumph, but two reserve players, Krishan Bahadur Pathak and Jugraj Singh, were left wondering why they didn’t receive medals.
    Despite being part of the team throughout the tournament, they were not included in the medal ceremony as they did not take the field of play. The International Hockey Federation (FIH) clarified that only athletes who participate in a match can be considered Olympians and receive medals. India did not utilize the Alternate Athlete (Ap) rule, which allows teams to swap in reserve players during the tournament. In contrast, other teams, including the Netherlands and Germany, used this rule to give more players the opportunity to participate and receive medals. The Indian team management’s decision not to invoke this provision has left the reserve players feeling disappointed and wondering what could have been.
    With bronze medals hanging around their necks, 16 Indian players were busy greeting each other besides acknowledging compliments from their accompanying family members, friends and well-wishers, Indian reserve players looked heartbroken as their opportunity to return home as Olympians with a similar bronze medal hanging down their necks had slipped away without any fault of theirs. They were with the team throughout, discharging their roles as well as they could.
    They wondered why reserve players of other teams, including new champions, the Netherlands, and the silver medalist Germany, had blooded 18 players each during the Games, they were denied a legitimate chance of sharing the same honors.Understandably such questions are seldom asked as they have their future in sport at stake.
    When contacted, Nicolas Maingot, Senior Communications Manager of the International Hockey Federation (FIH), said that the IOC rules state that to become an Olympian, and to be awarded a medal, an athlete needs to take the field of play. Any athlete who does not, even if they are named as a reserve, is neither an Olympian nor can they be awarded a medal. This is true of all sports.
    Therefore, for hockey, only those athletes from the medal-winning teams who were named in a matchday squad of 16 and took the field of play during a match, were awarded medals.
    The Netherlands and Germany both used the new Ap athlete rules in place during Paris to swap in their Ap athletes during different matches in the tournament and, therefore 18 athletes received medals. Neither reserve goalkeeper did, however. India did not make any changes during the tournament to their matchday 16 and therefore only 16 medals were awarded and their 3 Ap athletes are not considered Olympians or medalists for Paris as they did not play at any stage.
    What is the Ap rule?
    The International Olympic Committee (IOC) circulates rules and guidelines for all participating National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and their affiliates National Sports Federations (NSFs) for their teams and players participating in the Olympic Games. It notified the Alternate athlete (Ap) as follows:
    Alternate athlete (Ap)
    As per the “Accreditation at the Olympic games – Detailed applications” NOCs can activate alternate athlete (Ap) in the following sports and disciplines: Artistic swimming, Athletics, Cycling – BMX racing, Cycling – Track, Equestrian, Fencing, Handball, Hockey, Football, Rowing, Rugby, Table Tennis, Volleyball and Water Polo (TBD).
    All Ap athletes need to be identified at the time of the final Entries Submission. In addition, before the sport-specific deadlines set in the Late Athlete Replacement Detailed Annex by Discipline, the NOCs can either activate their Ap athlete(s) or to use a replacement from the long list and be in a position to appoint another Ap athlete. To replace an Ap athlete the LAR process using the e-LAR process using the e-LAR tool as described above is applicable.
    Once competition has started, the activation of the Ap athlete has to follow the same e-LAR process as above and adhere to the timelines stipulated in the Late Athlete Replacement Detailed Annex by discipline.
    Why did India decide not to make use of the Ap rule?
    The Indian team management in its prudence may have decided not to invoke this provision so as not to upset the rhythm of the team. There could be other reasons, including some technical aspects which are not out in the public domain.
    Statistically speaking, India needed to use this rule more than other teams as it was the only team to be given a red card and that too at the beginning of the second quarter of a crucial quarterfinal match against Great Britain. Losing a dependable deep defender and an alternate drag flicker with a semi-final against the defending world champions Germany in hand, India needed reinforcements to tighten its defense line. It was available under the Ap rules. India had the option to bring in Jugraj Singh.
    Though the Indian team played the semi-final against Germany without Amit Rohidas by using former captain and midfielder Manpreet Singh as a deep defender, it did affect two positions, one at which Manpreet plays originally and the second at the position he played in the semi-final. Had Jugraj been there, it would have come as a blessing for he would have come in deep defense and allowed Manpreet to play at his natural position.
    Though Amit Rohidas was the only player to get a red card and two-match suspension, Germany had landed in a similar but a little less severe situation after its opening game against France. Christopher Rueher, one of their most experienced players, was shown a yellow card during the game. After the game, a one-match ban was imposed on him for arguing with the umpire.
    Germany managed the challenge and used the Ap rule. It was not only Germany but almost all teams that made use of the Ap rule. Interestingly, none of the teams used it for bringing in their reserve goalkeepers.
    Rest, all is history.

    (Prabhjot Singh is a senior journalist. He writes with equal aplomb on sports and politics. He can be reached at Prabhjot416@gmail.com)

  • Shillong: An abode of clouds, rolling hills

    Shillong: An abode of clouds, rolling hills

    An abode of clouds, the rolling hills around the town and the hill station of one of the smallest states of India, Meghalaya. With the best places to visit in Shillong, it is geography synonymous to heaven, is the painting hung on your drawing-room wall, a collage of memories yet to be lived.
    This prepossessing land is a beauty that floats on high over vales and hills, where the tall pine trees are seen fluttering and dancing in the breeze, and the clouds find a space along the margins of a hill unfolding the enchanting blue sky. The mystique land perched on an escarpment is more than enough to leave your imagination spell-bound.
    The capital city of the state Meghalaya – a perfect blend of old charm and fresh essence, this bliss of solitude carries a number of things like falls, parks, peaks, landscapes and museums to keep a traveller’s head tossing in sprightly dance.
    With the best places to visit in Shillong, this surprising holiday destination will make you forget to stop the shutters of your cam. The god’s honest harvest is ready to find a space among the favourites in your travel diary.
    What to see
    Living Root Bridge
    In Meghalaya, bridges aren’t built, they are grown. The Living Root Bridge is an example of that. About a two-hour drive from Shillong, near Mawlynnong, the bridge is made of sturdy roots and is often used by villagers. While this bridge is a popular tourist attraction because of its accessibility, the one situated in Cherrapunji is not for the weak-hearted; it involves trekking down over 3,000 steps.
    Mawlynnong
    You’ll pass through this village on your way to the Living Root Bridge. We suggest making a pit stop here, on your way back. The village is very clean and the people from the village are friendly and welcoming. Walk through the tiny lanes and make it a point to check out the neatly-divided residential areas, small drainage canals built along the huts and the bamboo dustbins installed every few meters. Make it a point to grab a meal at the local shacks; these offer a peek into the cuisine from the state. A vegetarian meal here consists of plain dal, rice and a curry, and a non-vegetarian meal is usually chicken cooked with bamboo shoots and served with rice and spicy pickle.
    Dawki, Umngot River
    Crystal clear water is not just an expression, but a reality at Dawki. Passing through the India-Bangladesh border, the Umngot River makes for an ideal spot for camping and barbecues, or just to laze around. Take a boat ride (priced at `400 per hour) along the river and go nuts gawking at the large pebbles on the river bed. Yes, you can see through the water — even 15ft deep at some places.
    Mawphlang Sacred Forest
    The Khasi Hills have many forests that have been preserved by local religious sanctions, which means that these forests cannot be harmed or tampered with. “Don’t even dare picking up a leaf as a souvenir,” instructed our guide. About 25km from Shillong, this sacred forest is an ideal spot for nature lovers, and those who are looking for a moment of peace and quiet. Dense trees, orchids and butterflies are in abundance, and so are religious stones that stand tall in the forest.
    Elephant Falls
    Named after an Elephant like stone at its foot, the Elephant Falls are amongst the most popular falls in the North-East, situated next to Shillong. It is a tourists’ paradise with three layers of the falls accessible to the layman from different vantage points. The Britishers named this fall so owing to the presence of an elephant-shaped rock on one side of the fall. However, the stone disintegrated and was washed away due to an earthquake in 1897. Elephant Waterfalls is a superb place for spending some time in the midst of nature while capturing the incredible moments for your keepsake.
    The breathtaking Elephant falls were referred to as ‘Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew’ by the local Khasi people, which means ‘The Three Step Waterfalls’, as these falls consist of three mesmerising falls in succession. The first of the three waterfalls are tucked between the dense trees and are very broad. The second waterfall reduces to thin strands of water and is almost negligible in winters due to the receding water levels. The third and the most visible waterfall is the tallest with clear water flowing like a sheet of milk on the dark rocks in the backdrop. Out of the three, the third waterfall tends to strike the visitors as the most impressive. Elephant Falls is a great stopover destination before one head for further journeys into Meghalaya. Located 12 km away from the capital city of Shillong, it is one of the most visited falls in the beautiful state.
    Umiam Lake
    Umiam Lake, a mesmerizing man-made reservoir, is located at a distance of 15 kilometres north of Shillong which is the capital of the north-eastern Indian state of Meghalaya. The lake was formed after a dam was constructed to generate hydroelectric power. The scenic Umiam Lake is encircled by lush green East Khasi hills that form one of the best panoramic sights for nature-lovers in the country. The sunrise at the lake is a treat to watch and shouldn’t be missed. The Umiam Lake has a park adjoining it which is a hotspot for picnics and frequented by locals for a getaway from their busy scheduled.
    The serene lake or the reservoir is surrounded by thick coniferous forests and expands over an area of about 222 square kilometres.

  • First Prakash Divas of Shri Guru Granth Sahib

    First Prakash Divas of Shri Guru Granth Sahib

    The First Prakash Divas of Shri Guru Granth Sahib falls on September 1. The compilation of the Adi Granth was completed on August 29, 1604, and its first Parkash
    (i.e. the first reading) took place inside the Darbaar Sahib at Amritsar on September 1, 1604.

    The first Prakash Divas of Shri Guru Granth Sahib, also known as the First Parkash, took place on September 1, 1604 at the Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, in Amritsar. The fifth Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Arjun Dev Ji, illuminated the Guru Granth Sahib on this day. Baba Budha Ji was appointed as the first Head Granthi, or priest, to care for the Adi Granth Sahib and recite its Bani to all. Baba Budha Ji read the Hukamnama Sahib, which said, “Santa ke karaj aap khloya har kam kravan aya ram,” which means “the Lord himself has stood up to resolve the affairs of the saints; he has come to complete their tasks”.
    The Guru Granth Sahib is considered the spiritual authority in Sikhism and is installed in every Sikh gurdwara, or temple. Sikhs often prostrate before the Guru Granth Sahib when entering a gurdwara. The Guru Granth Sahib’s vision is of a society that is based on love, mercy, divine freedom, justice, and belief in one god. It also acknowledges and respects the scriptures of Hinduism and Islam, but it doesn’t imply a moral reconciliation with either of these religions. Today, the Prakash Guruparv of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is celebrated annually with great religious devotion and respect. During this occasion, the Sri Darbar Sahib is decorated with colorful flowers from all over the world.
    The Guru Granth Sahib is Sikhism’s sacred scripture, and it is regarded by Sikhs as the eternal Guru after the tenth Guru’s commandment to the Sikhs: Sabh Sikhan ko hukam hai guru maneyo granth.
    As Bhai Kahan Singh’s Mahankosh tells us, the Guru Granth Sahib contains the bani (sacred compositions, literally utterances) of six Gurus, 15-non Sikh bhagats (saints) whose bani was in consonance with the teachings of the Gurus, 17 bhattas (bards) and four others. Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Guru of the Sikhs, had the bani of the first four Gurus compiled in a manuscript for which he asked Bhai Gurdas, a major Sikh theologian, to be the scribe. It was this manuscript, the Adi Granth, which was ceremoniously installed in the sanctum sanctorum of Harmandir Sahib at Amritsar in 1604 AD.
    According to Professor Sahib Singh’s book Kuch Hor Dharmik Lekh, the Bani compilations of the first Guru, Guru Nanak Sahib, were recorded in a written work known as the “Pothi” which he wrote and complied during his life and travels. The Pothi was handed down to the succeeding three Gurus who also added their own compositions to the Bani. The Pothi and the succeeding Gurus’ Bani compositions were handed down to the fifth guru, Guru Arjan Sahib (1563-1606), when he commenced his Gurgaddi. Guru Arjun Sahib took on the responsibility of not only adding to Guru Nanak Sahib’s Pothi and the Bani compositions of the three succeeding Gurus’ before him, but also commenced the work of rearranging and editing all these compositions into the first version of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib – the Adi Granth.
    In the selection of the Bani included in the Adi Granth, Guru Arjan kept ‘Anubhavi Rachna'(Personal experience) as the criterion. The compilation of the Adi Granth was completed on August 29, 1604, and it’s first Parkash (i.e. the first reading) took place inside the Darbaar Sahib at Amritsar on September 1, 1604. The only further additions made to the Adi Granth after this were undertaken by the tenth guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who added the compositions of the ninth guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib. This was done in 1705 – 1706 at Talwandi Sabo near Bhatinda (now known as Takht Sri Damdama Sahib) where Bhai Mani Singh Ji scribed the sacred text. This became the Guru Granth Sahib as we have it today.
    Guru Arjan Sahib gave the responsibility of scribing the text of the Adi Granth to Bhai Gurdas Ji. Bhai Gurdas was the nephew of Guru Amardas Ji and a great scholar of the time, who PEHLA (FIRST) PARKASH PURAB OF GURU GRANTH SAHIB JI composed “Varaan” and “Kabit”. Though his compositions are not included in the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, they are held in high esteem by Sikh religious scholars. Guru Arjan Sahib referred to his writings as the Kunji (key) to better understand Gurbani.
    Thus it took almost 3 years between 1601-1604 to edit, compile and scribe the sacred text in Amritsar, Punjab. In all, the Adi Granth contained the compositions of the first five gurus, fifteen Hindu and Muslim saints (e.g. Bhagats Ramanand, Kabir and Namdev and Sheikh Farid among others), eleven Hindu bhatts (bards), and three Gursikhs. The message of the Adi Granth centered around the theme of One God, One Creation and One Humanity. It conveyed the message of tearing down divisions of caste, race, religion, gender, etc that were then prevalent in Indian society and espoused us to become better human beings everyday by imbibing virtues in our daily living in lieu of letting ourselves being controlled by vices.

    The First Parkash on 1 September 1604
    On the day of the first Parkash, Baba Budha Ji carried the Adi Granth Sahib Ji on his head while Guru Arjan Sahib Ji did chaur seva, and a procession of sangat lined behind to escort the Adi Granth Sahib Ji to the darbar hall in Darbaar Sahib, Amritsar. In reverence of the scripture, Guru Arjan Sahib Ji sat on ground along with the sangat and placed the Adi Granth on a platform as a mark of respect of the eternal wisdom enshrined in it and as a mark of its high status. Baba Budha Ji was appointed as the first Head Granthi (Priest) with the responsibility of taking care of the Adi Granth Sahib and reciting its Bani to all. The first Parkash’s Hukamnama Sahib read by Baba Budha Ji was: Santa ke karaj aap khloya har kam kravan aya ram which means the Lord himself has stood up to resolve the affairs of the saints; he has come to complete their tasks (SGGS Ji, ang 783).
    Conclusion
    Guru Arjun Sahib Ji preached that the Adi Granth is akin to a Ship that lets us cross this worldly ocean; that whosoever will listen, recite, abide and act according to its teachings, will easily make their way across this deep, treacherous sea. Guru Arjan Sahib Ji urged Gursikhs to respect the Gurbani more than they did him by explaining that the physical body will eventually vanish away, but Gurbani would always be present to enlighten their lives. Gurbani is thus referred to by Sikhs as Guru and Nirankar (God).

  • Nanda Vrat: Dedicated to Shiva

    Nanda Vrat: Dedicated to Shiva

    Nanda Vrat is dedicated to Shiva and it is believed that Goddess Sati observed this fast to get Shiva as her husband. Sati followed the rituals of Nanda Vrat and made a Shivling of clay and followed the Vidhi Poorvaka Vrat and got Lord Shiva as her husband.
    This fast is especially observed to get a good husband or wife. Goddess Sati observed this fast to get Shiva as her husband as she only wanted him to be her husband.
    Goddess Sati observed Nanda Vrat to get Lord Shiva as her husband. She worshipped Lord Shiva with various food items and flowers at home with great devotion and concentrated mind on the following days:
    Ashwin month
    On Pratipada, Shashthi and Ekadashi, worshipped Lord Shiva with some rice and salt.
    After offering Namaskar, spent the entire month with the same ritual.
    Kartik month
    On Chaturdashi, worshipped Shiva with Malpuas and spent time in contemplation.
    Margashirsha month
    Worshiped Shiva with sesame, barley and rice on Ashtami of Krishna Paksha.
    Spent the day by showing a lighted lamp or performing aarti.
    Paush month
    Stayed awake all night on Saptami of Shukla Paksha and offered Khichdi as naivedya in the morning and worshipped Shiva.
    Magh month
    Stayed awake all night on Poornima and bathed in the river in the morning and worshipped Lord Shiva with wet clothes.
    Phalgun month
    Stayed awake at night on Chaturdashi of Krishna Paksha and worshipped Lord Shiva in all four prasads.
    Chaitra month
    Remembered Shiva day and night on Chaturdashi of Shukla Paksha. Worshipped Lord Shiva with Dhaak flowers and Davan.
    Vaishakh month
    On Shukla Tritiya, ate sesame and worshipped Lord Rudra with new barley rice.
    Jyeshtha month
    Worshipped Lord Shankar at night on Poornima with beautiful clothes and Bhatkataya flowers. Spent the month without food.
    Ashadha month
    Worshiped Rudra Dev with black clothes and Bhatkataya flowers on the Chaturdashi of Shukla Paksha.
    Shravan month
    Worshiped Shiva with Yagyopavit clothes and Kusha pavitri on the Ashtami and Chaturdashi of Shukla Paksha.
    Bhadrapada month
    Worshiped Shiva with various types of flowers and fruits on the Trayodashi of Krishna Paksha.
    On Chaturdashi, took only water as diet.
    Sati worshipped Shiva with different types of flowers and grains produced from them in all the months. She remained engaged in chanting only, taking very regular diet throughout the month. Sati remained engrossed in worshipping Shiva day and night in all the months.
    In her human form, Sati used to observe Uttam Vrat as per the prescribed method. Thus, after completing the Nanda Vrat, Sati meditated with great love, concentrating on Lord Shiva with exclusive devotion and became steadfast in that knowledge.
    Procedure of Nanda Vrat
    This fast can be observed on Shukla Paksha Saptami, which is the seventh day during the rising phase of the moon in any Hindu month, particularly in Phalguna, Chaitra, Ashadha and Shravan. The procedure of the fast is as follows:
    – Fasting: Fasting has to be observed from sunrise on the day of the fast to sunrise the next day.
    – Purification and worship: Purify yourself before sunrise and worship Shiva.
    – Mantra chanting: Include chanting the mantra ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ in the prayers.
    – Prasad: Offer Bilva leaves and white coloured flowers to Shiva. You can make a simple sweet dish and offer it as prasad.
    – Fasting foods: Fruits or other fasting foods can be eaten during the fast.
    – Prayers: Offer prayers in the morning and evening.
    – Ending the fast: The fast ends after sunrise the next morning. After completing the fast, donate food to poor children or elderly on any date.
    By following this simple procedure of Nanda Vrat, devotees receive the blessings of Lord Shiva and get their desired life partner.

  • Apple eyes bigger slice of India’s streaming market with Airtel deal

    Apple eyes bigger slice of India’s streaming market with Airtel deal

    Bengaluru (TIP)- Apple is tying up with India’s Airtel to offer the telecom firm’s premium customers its music and video streaming services for free, potentially giving the US firm access to thousands of consumers in a price-sensitive market. The move comes as competition tightens in India’s $28-billion entertainment market and an $8.5-billion merger of the Indian media assets of Reliance and Walt Disney faces close scrutiny from regulators.
    “Apple TV+ will come bundled with premium Airtel WiFi and Postpaid plans,” Airtel said in a statement on Tuesday, though the companies did not disclose a deal value for the partnership or information on costs.
    With mostly English-language content, Apple TV+ is a small player in the Indian market, where its rivals include Netflix , Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar and billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s JioCinema. Apple is following competitors in bundling streaming services with telecom plans to grow its audience more quickly.
    Premium users of Airtel’s broadband and postpaid services can access Apple TV+ and Apple Music later this year as part of their plans. Airtel will shut its music app Wynk in this process, two sources with direct knowledge of the matter said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Airtel has about 281 million subscribers for its India telecom offerings, while its top rival, Ambani’s Reliance Jio, has about 489 million.
    Ambani announces suite of AI tools called ‘Jio Brain’
    Reliance Jio is developing a suite of tools and applications that span the entire artificial intelligence (AI) lifecycle called ‘JioBrain,’ Reliance Industries’ Chairman Mukesh Ambani said during the conglomerate’s 47th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday, August 29.
    The company will set AI-ready data centres at Jamnagar, in Gujarat powered by the company’s green energy, said Ambani. “We are also starting to use JioBrain to drive a similar transformation across other Reliance operating companies, and to fast-track their AI journey as well,” Ambani said.
    “I anticipate that by perfecting JioBrain within Reliance, we will create a powerful AI service platform that we can offer to other enterprises as well,” he added.
    JioBrain integrates 5G’s high speed, and low latency with machine learning capabilities such as anomaly detection, predictive forecasting and automation. The platform can train and apply machine learning (ML) models at the network edge and in the service provider cloud.
    “This enables CSPs (cloud service providers) to apply machine learning to not only the network but also to a wide range of 5G services and industrial applications including image and video AI at the edge, probing at the edge, healthcare, education, gaming, and entertainment use cases,” as per Jio Brain’s website.

  • CCI greenlights Rs 70,350-cr Reliance-Disney India merger

    CCI greenlights Rs 70,350-cr Reliance-Disney India merger

    New Delhi (TIP)- India’s competition watchdog has approved Reliance Industries Ltd’s Rs 70,350-crore merger with Disney’s Indian media assets, subject to certain voluntary modifications, setting the stage for a media powerhouse.
    “Commission approves the proposed combination involving Reliance Industries Ltd, Viacom18 Media Pvt Ltd, Digital18 Media Ltd, Star India Pvt Ltd and Star Television Productions Ltd, subject to the compliance of voluntary modifications,” the Competition Commission of India (CCI) said in a post on X platform.
    The voluntary modifications pledged by the parties will lead to swift regulatory approval, Dharmendra Kumar, former chairperson of the CCI, Ltd, told CNBC-TV18 in an interview.
    “This is a very significant development, as it will lead to a large entertainment conglomerate with a large viewership base,” Kumar said.
    Kumar said that the CCI was likely concerned about the formation of a dominant player in the cricket broadcasting space. He added that the proposed modifications were likely aimed at preventing any adverse impact on competition while ensuring broader access to cricket coverage across India.
    Disney-Star holds the exclusive digital and TV rights to ICC events from 2024 to 2027 and IPL broadcasting rights from 2023 to 2028), while Jio has secured IPL streaming rights.
    The CCI’s decision comes on the eve of Reliance Industries’ 47th AGM on August 29, setting the stage for the annual shareholders’ meeting.
    In February, Viacom18, a unit of Reliance Industries, and Disney’s Star India merged their media businesses in a bid to create India’s largest TV and digital streaming entity. Under the terms of the agreement Viacom18’s media operations will be merged with Star India Pvt Ltd (SIPL) through a court-approved scheme of arrangement. The joint venture, valued at Rs 70,350 crore ($8.5 billion) on a post-money basis, will see RIL injecting Rs 11,500 crore ($1.4 billion) into the venture to support its growth strategy.
    The Reliance-Disney combine will compete with Sony, Netflix and Amazon, with 120 TV channels and two streaming services. The new board will have 10 members, with RIL nominating five, Disney three, and two independent directors. The merger is expected to be completed in the last quarter of 2024 or the first quarter of 2025.
    Nita Ambani will assume the role of Chairperson of the merged entity, with former Walt Disney executive Uday Shankar, joining as Vice Chairperson. The joint venture’s ownership structure will consist of RIL holding 16.34 percent, Viacom18 with 46.82 percent, and Disney at 36.84 percent, with RIL retaining control under the merger terms.
    On August 28, RIL’s shares were little changed at Rs 2,999 on the NSE. CCI’s announcement came after the end of trading in Mumbai.

  • US second quarter growth stronger than estimated: Govt

    The US economy expanded more than initially estimated in the second quarter this year, the Department of Commerce said Thursday, August 29, on stronger consumer spending than originally anticipated. The world’s biggest economy grew at an annual rate of 3.0 percent in the April to June period, up from 2.8 percent according to an earlier estimate. Analysts had expected no revision to the figure. “The update primarily reflected an upward revision to consumer spending,” said the Commerce Department.
    Unexpectedly robust consumption — even in the face of high interest rates — has helped to bolster the US economy in recent times. But with households depleting pandemic-era savings, the anticipation was for consumption to pull back.
    In the latest revision, the higher spending was was partly offset by downward revisions in other areas like business investment, exports and government spending.
    Imports, however, were revised higher. The 3.0 percent number for the second quarter this year was an uptick from 1.4 percent growth in the first quarter.
    Although the Federal Reserve has rapidly hiked interest rates to tackle surging inflation in 2022, it is widely expected to make its first post-pandemic rate cut in September. This could provide a boost to the economy.
    Source: AFP

  • WhatsApp for iOS reportedly testing AR capabilities for call effects and filters in Beta

    WhatsApp for iOS reportedly testing AR capabilities for call effects and filters in Beta

    WhatsApp for iOS is testing a new feature that leverages augmented reality (AR), according to claims by a feature tracker. The said feature is said to bring AR capabilities for video calls on the platform, enabling users to customise factors such as lighting conditions and surroundings. The feature, available via a beta update, also reportedly includes the ability to add touch-up filters that tweak the appearance in real time and a dedicated low-light mode.
    WhatsApp Update
    According to the feature tracker WABetaInfo, AR support was first spotted on WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.24.16.7 in July. It has now arrived on its iOS counterpart too, following the reported rollout of WhatsApp beta for iOS version 24.15.10.70 update via the TestFlight program.
    As per the shared screenshot, WhatsApp’s new AR capabilities include dynamic facial filters. Users can now reportedly tweak their appearance, such as the overall colour tone of the video feed. It is also said to include a background editing tool that enables users to blur their background or replace it with a preset background provided by the instant messaging platform. Additionally, the WhatsApp for iOS beta update is also reported to include two dedicated modes: touch-up and low-light. While the former is said to add a facial filter that removes blemishes and smoothens the skin akin to face beauty filters present on smartphones, the latter is claimed to enhance visibility in low-light environments.
    The feature tracker suggests this new functionality is still in development and only beta testers who have registered themselves via Apple’s TestFlight program may have access to it. The will likely be rolled out to more users over the next few weeks.
    Other New Features
    In addition to in-development AR capabilities, WhatsApp also recently expanded its sticker lineup with the introduction of GIPHY-powered stickers. Users can also now search for relevant stickers without leaving the app. Additionally, the custom sticker maker, which was introduced on iOS in January, is now available on Android.
    If users still cannot find a relevant sticker from the library, they can simply generate their own using Meta AI – the conversational artificial intelligence (AI) assistant which is available on Meta Platforms’ apps such as WhatsApp and Instagram.
    WhatsApp has been working on adding support for chat themes on more than one occasion, and a feature tracker has now given us a peek at what the feature could look like when it is launched. The messaging app is expected to let users change the colour of the chat bubbles as well as the background using preset themes, or pick their own colour and wallpaper. The company was also spotted working on the ability to pick a username and set a PIN that protects them from unknown users on WhatsApp.
    WhatsApp has been developing a username feature that will allow users to start new conversations without sharing their phone numbers, but that feature is yet to be released to beta testers. It appears that the company is now working a feature that will protect users from unwanted contact after they set up a username. Source: NDTV

  • iPhone 16 event, launch set for September 9

    iPhone 16 event, launch set for September 9

    Apple has finally announced the launch event of the iPhone 16 series. After months of leaks and rumours, the company has confirmed that its 2024 iPhones are coming soon. Apple has started sending out special Apple event invites with a mysterious message. The iPhone 16 launch event will take place on September 9.
    The brand was heavily rumoured to launch its new iPhone 16 series on September 10 but it seems that Apple might have made some last-minute changes. The official Apple announcement also includes the Apple logo with a cryptic message – “It is Glowtime.” Well, this sounds quite interesting, but no one really knows what it means. We will likely get clarity in the coming days and hopefully before the iPhone 16 launch event. The latest Apple event will include an in-person component at Apple Park but those who are interested in watching the full iPhone 16 series launch event will be able to livestream it online. In India, the iPhone 16 event will start at 10:30PM, just like every year. The event will likely be live-streamed via Apple’s official YouTube channel.
    Apple will likely introduce four models, including iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. The standard models are expected to receive minor upgrades. The standard and the Plus models are said to retain the old displays and camera setup but offer a new chipset, a bigger battery, a new vertical rear camera layout, and a new Action button. The Pro models, on the other hand, are tipped to come with big camera upgrades, a slimmer design, a larger display with minimal bezels, a new chipset and a bigger battery. It is currently unknown whether Apple will offer faster charging or not. We do know that all the iPhone 16 models will likely come with support for Apple Intelligence features.
    The price details have also leaked online ahead of the official Apple event. The iPhone 16 base model is tipped to cost $799 (about Rs 67,100 in India). The larger iPhone 16 Plus may cost $899 (around Rs 75,500), as per leaks. The iPhone 16 Pro with 256GB might be priced at $1,099 (about Rs 92,300), and the iPhone 16 Pro Max with the same storage is tipped to start at $1,199 (around Rs 1,00,700). The India prices will likely be higher, as is the case with every launch because of customs charges.

  • NASA to keep 2 astronauts in space until Feb, nixes return on troubled Boeing capsule

    NASA to keep 2 astronauts in space until Feb, nixes return on troubled Boeing capsule

    NASA has decided that it’s too risky to bring two astronauts, including Indian-American Sunita Williams, back to Earth in Boeing’s troubled new capsule, and they’ll have to wait until next year for a ride home with SpaceX.
    What should have been a week long test flight for the pair will now last more than eight months.
    The seasoned pilots have been stuck at the International Space Station since the beginning of June. A cascade of vexing thruster failures and helium leaks in the new capsule marred their trip to the space station. They ended up in a holding pattern as engineers conducted tests and debated what to do about the trip back.
    After almost three months, the decision finally came down from NASA’s highest ranks on Saturday. Butch Wilmore and Williams will come back in a SpaceX spacecraft in February. Their empty Starliner capsule will undock in early September and attempt to return on autopilot. As Starliner’s test pilots, the pair should have overseen this critical last leg of the journey, with a touchdown in the US desert.
    “A test flight by nature is neither safe nor routine,” said NASA Administration Bill Nelson. “And so the decision … is a commitment to safety.” “This has not been an easy decision, but it is absolutely the right one,” added NASA Associate Administrator Jim Free.
    It was a blow to Boeing, adding to the safety concerns plaguing the company on its airplane side. Boeing had counted on Starliner’s first crew trip to revive the troubled program after years of delays and ballooning costs. The company had insisted Starliner was safe based on all the recent thruster tests both in space and on the ground.
    Boeing did not participate in Saturday’s news conference by NASA but released a statement, “Boeing continues to focus, first and foremost, on the safety of the crew and spacecraft. We are executing the mission as determined by NASA, and we are preparing the spacecraft for a safe and successful uncrewed return.” Source: AP

  • Is HPV secretly hurting men’s fertility?

    Is HPV secretly hurting men’s fertility?

    Men having the high-risk form of the cervical cancer-causing virus, or HPV, were found to possess higher amounts of dead sperm, thereby negatively affecting their fertility, according to a new study.
    Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, comprises high-risk and low-risk viruses. While the former is known to pose a high risk for developing malignancies and the latter is known for causing largely benign warts or marks, researchers explained in the study, published in the journal Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology.
    The researchers from Argentina, including those from the National University of Cordoba, looked at the quality of 205 adult men’s semen.
    About a fifth of them, or 39, tested positive for HPV — 20 having the high-risk form of the virus, seven with the low-risk form and 12 in whom the team could not identify high-risk or low-risk. The 39 HPV-positive men were compared with 43 HPV-negative men.
    While semen quality of men across these groups did not differ, upon looking more closely, the researchers found that the samples taken from the men infected with the high-risk virus contained a significantly lower count of immune cells known to help fight infection — CD45 white blood cells.
    Senior author Virginia Rivero explained that the lower count of immune cells seen in these samples were a result of the HPV’s known ability to dodge an immune response.
    This would lead to fewer white blood cells moving to the site of HPV infection, thereby impairing their ability to clear this infection, Rivero, a professor at the National University of Cordoba, said.
    The researchers also found evidence that sperm of the men infected with the high-risk version of the HPV could suffer repeated damage due to oxidative stress, judging by these men’s elevated production of reactive oxygen species (ROS).
    While low levels of ROS are a product of normal sperm function, elevated levels can lead to rupturing of cells’ outer covering, breaks in genetic material and cell death. Consistent with this, the researchers found more numbers of dead sperm cells in HPV-positive men having the high-risk virus.
    “… higher frequencies of ROS dead spermatozoa were shown by HR-HPV infected individuals with respect to those infected with LR-HPV genotypes,” the authors wrote.
    “We concluded that men infected with high risk-HPV, but not men infected with low risk-HPV, show increased sperm death due to oxidative stress and a weakened local immune response in the urogenital tract,” Rivero said. Source: PTI

  • Even placebos can help reduce stress, anxiety: Study

    Even placebos can help reduce stress, anxiety: Study

    A team of scientists has found that even placebos can help reduce stress, anxiety and depression in people remotely.
    The study, published in the journal Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being, found that the non-deceptive group showed a significant decrease in stress, anxiety and depression in just two weeks compared to the no-treatment control group. Participants also reported that the non-deceptive placebos were easy to use, not burdensome and appropriate for the situation.
    For the study, researchers recruited participants experiencing prolonged stress from the pandemic for a two-week randomised controlled trial.
    The participants interacted with a researcher online through four virtual sessions on Zoom.
    Those in the non-deceptive placebo group received information on the placebo effect and were sent placebo pills in the mail along with and instructions on taking the pills.
    Jason Moser, co-author and professor in Michigan State University’s Department of Psychology, said that exposure to long-term stress can impair a person’s ability to manage emotions and cause significant mental health problems long-term.
    “We are excited to see that an intervention that takes minimal effort can still lead to significant benefits,” Moser added. “This minimal burden makes non-deceptive placebos an attractive intervention for those with significant stress, anxiety and depression.”
    The researchers are hopeful in the ability to remotely administer the non-deceptive placebos by health care providers. “This ability to administer non-deceptive placebos remotely increases scalability potential dramatically,” said Darwin Guevarra, co-author of the study and postdoctoral scholar at the University of California, San Francisco. Source: IANS

  • Neoadjuvant chemotherapy may boost cancer treatment outcomes: Experts

    Neoadjuvant chemotherapy may boost cancer treatment outcomes: Experts

    Neoadjuvant chemotherapy — used to shrink tumours before cancer surgery — can significantly improve treatment outcomes and boost survival rate, said experts. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment where chemotherapy drugs are administered before surgical extraction of the tumour just before primary cancer treatment. It can shrink a cancerous tumour before moving on to other treatments such as surgery. It can also allow doctors to test a chemotherapy drug to gauge how the body responds to it.
    According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), the treatment shrinks cancerous tumours which then helps surgeons to remove them easily. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy may also kill cancerous tissue that is not yet visible on imaging tests. The effectiveness of neoadjuvant chemotherapy depends on many factors, including the type and stage of cancer a person has, as well as their response to different drugs. “When chemotherapy is your first treatment for cancer, it’s called ‘neoadjuvant therapy’. It’s often used for advanced breast cancer or large tumours that complicate surgery and it has other equally important benefits,” said Dr Ashish Gupta, Chief of Medical Oncology at Unique Hospital Cancer Centre in New Delhi. “Oncologists recommend neoadjuvant chemotherapy depending on various factors, including, cancer type, cancer progression, and treatment goals, such as easing symptoms or slowing growth. Neoadjuvant therapy is widely used across the world and it has the potential to improve cancer treatment outcomes and boost survival in India,” he added.
    The use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy is gaining popularity in both the US and Europe, particularly for older and frail patients, because it is associated with less surgical toxicity.
    A prospective randomised study of neoadjuvant chemotherapy from the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer found that it has the potential to improve survival rates.
    “Neoadjuvant chemotherapy can revolutionise cancer treatment in India by shrinking tumours before surgery,” said Dr Rahul Bhargava, Principal Director of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant at Fortis Memorial Research Institute. He added that the line of treatment also helps reduce cancer recurrence, and improves survival rates. “Scaling its use nationwide would allow more patients to access this life-saving intervention, ultimately enhancing the quality of care and outcomes in oncology,” Bhargava said.

  • Roasted Chicken

    Roasted Chicken

    Ingredients
    1 Kg Chicken (broiler-with skin)
    6 Tbsp Butter
    To taste Salt and Black Pepper ,
    For gravy
    1 Tbsp Cornflour1
    Tbsp Vinegar
    To taste Black Pepper and Salt,
    1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
    1 Tbsp Tomato ketchup
    How to Make Roast Chicken
    – Place 1 1/2 cups water, gizzard, heart and neck, salt and pepper in a pan and cook for 2-3 minutes.
    – Wash and wipe the chicken.
    – Mix butter with salt and pepper and apply inside and out side the chicken.
    – Truss the chicken (tie so that it stays in shape).
    – Place the chicken, in a roasting pan with the stock and cook in a pre-heated oven for one hour, basting and turning every 15 minutes.
    – Remove from oven.
    – Strain the drippings from the pan into a cup and add water to make up one full cup.
    – Untie chicken Add the gravy ingredients to the drippings solution and cook the mixture till a little thick.
    – Serve this on the side with the chicken.

  • How to make lipstick last longer: Tips & tricks

    How to make lipstick last longer: Tips & tricks

    Lipstick fading throughout the day can be frustrating, but understanding why it happens is the first step to finding a solution. Several factors contribute to the quick fading of lipstick, including:
    Natural oils on the lips: Our lips naturally produce oils, which can break down the lipstick formula and cause it to fade or transfer. Eating and drinking: When we eat or drink, the constant contact with our lips can cause the lipstick to wear off more quickly.
    Lip texture: Dry or chapped lips can make it difficult for lipstick to adhere properly, leading to faster fading. Now that we understand why lipstick fades quickly, let’s explore some tips and tricks to make it last longer.
    Prepping your lips for long-lasting lipstick
    Before applying lipstick, it’s essential to prep your lips to create a smooth canvas for better adherence. Here’s how to do it:
    Exfoliate: Gently exfoliating your lips removes dead skin cells and creates a smoother surface for the lipstick. You can use a lip scrub or make your own by mixing sugar and honey.
    Moisturize: Hydrated lips hold onto lipstick better. Apply a lip balm or moisturizer before applying any lip products. This step helps prevent dryness and promotes longer-lasting color.
    Use a lip primer: Lip primers can create a barrier between your lips and the lipstick, helping it adhere better and last longer. Look for a primer specifically designed for lips.
    By prepping your lips, you’ll provide a solid foundation for your lipstick, ensuring it stays put for hours on end.
    Choosing the right lipstick formula
    The type of lipstick formula you choose plays a significant role in its longevity. Here are some formulas known for their long-lasting properties:
    Matte lipstick: Matte lipsticks are known for their excellent staying power. They often have a drier formula, which helps them adhere better to the lips and prevent smudging or fading.
    Liquid lipstick: Liquid lipsticks offer intense color payoff and long-lasting wear. They typically dry down to a matte or satin finish, creating a smudge-proof and transfer-resistant lip look.
    Stain or tint: Lip stains or tints provide a natural-looking, long-lasting flush of color. They penetrate the lips, leaving behind a stain that lasts even after the initial application wears off.
    When selecting a lipstick, consider your preferences and the occasion. Matte lipsticks are great for events where you need long-lasting color, while lip stains are perfect for a more casual, everyday look.
    Lip liner and its role in making lipstick last longer
    Lip liner is an often overlooked but essential step in making your lipstick last longer. Here’s why lip liner is a game-changer:
    Creates a barrier: Lip liner can create a barrier around the edges of your lips, preventing the lipstick from feathering or bleeding outside the lip line.
    Enhances longevity: By filling in your lips with lip liner before applying lipstick, you provide a base for the color to adhere to, resulting in extended wear time. Adds definition: Lip liner helps define the shape of your lips, giving you a more precise and polished look. To ensure long-lasting lipstick, choose a lip liner that matches your chosen lipstick shade or use a universal lip liner that works well with various colors.

  • Sabudana Khichdi

    Sabudana Khichdi

    – Rinse 1 cup sabudana, sago or tapioca pearls a couple of times in running water until all the starch is washed away. Soak sabudana in water.
    – Using a strainer or colander, strain all the water from sabudana.
    – While sabudana is getting soaked, you can boil 2 medium-sized potatoes in a pan or in a cooker and keep aside.
    – Heat 3 tablespoons peanut oil or ghee (or your preferred oil) in a heavy kadai or pan. Keep the heat to a low or medium-low.
    – Add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds. Then, add 1 chopped green chilli
    – Now, add the chopped boiled potatoes. Next, add the sabudana-peanut powder mixture.
    – Sauté on a low heat, stirring continuously, for about 3 to 5 minutes.
    – Once cooked, turn off the heat. Do not overcook. Then, add 1 teaspoon lemon juice for some tang.
    – Serve Sabudana Khichdi hot or warm.

  • Beauty tips for healthy, glowing skin

    Beauty tips for healthy, glowing skin

    Chilled tea bags for puffy eyes
    Sipping green tea daily and throwing away the used tea bags? You may want to save it the next time. Other than flushing out toxins from your body, chilled black or green tea bags work wonders for your skin.
    Using this natural face beauty tip can instantly reduce puffiness around the eyes and make them look brighter and more awake. Put the bags on your eyelids and relax for 5 to 15 minutes as the tea bags work their magic.
    Gram flour for tan
    Gram flour or besan is used as a natural, mild exfoliator to get rid of dead skin cells, tan and sunburns. If you want clear, soft and naturally glowing skin here’s the natural face beauty tip you need to know. Take equal amounts of gram flour and curd in a bowl and mix them well to form a paste. Apply this paste evenly on your face and neck, let it dry for half an hour before rinsing off with water. It will gently lift away dead skin cells and deep-set dirt, thereby lightening your skin tone and making it even.
    Tomatoes to control excess oil
    Excessive oil on the face doesn’t only affect those with oily skin, in a country like India where the weather is humid in most parts, excessive oil is quite common. Enriched with lycopene, tomatoes contain anti-oxidants along with great cooling and astringent properties.
    It helps balance the natural oils of the skin and gets rid of any excess oil that you may be struggling with. This natural face beauty tip is also used for reduces signs of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines. Scoop the pulp one tomato and apply evenly on your face. Allow it to dry for 15 minutes and wash off with warm water and reveal naturally glowing skin.

  • Why Selena Gomez was ‘nervous’ to join cast of ‘Only Murders in the Building’

    Why Selena Gomez was ‘nervous’ to join cast of ‘Only Murders in the Building’

    Actress-singer Selena Gomez has revealed that she was “nervous” about joining the cast of her comedy-drama streaming series, ‘Only Murders in the Building’.
    Selena made her name as a teenager with the leading role of ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’ but carved out a pop career in the years that followed, reports Female First UK.
    However, when she gave her nod to star in the Apple+ series alongside Steve Martin and Martin Short, it proved to be a major comeback to the small screen for her.
    Selena, who has been nominated for an Emmy for her role in ‘Only Murders in the Building’, told Extra: “I was nervous. This was my second TV show that I’d ever done. I was really excited, but I have to be genuine. The first day we shot I felt I could take a deep breath because I knew I was in good company.”
    As per Female First UK, the actress-singer is also a part of the reboot of ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’. However, she will be seen serving as an executive producer for the show, and will also appear in the first episode as she prepares to return to the role of Alex Russo on the magical show, admitted that she is “honoured” to be going back to her roots.
    She said: “It took years, honestly. It was just an idea and then after probably four years we came up with an idea. I was immediately on board, and I can’t wait to bring this show to a whole new generation. And I’m honoured to pay homage to where I started.”
    Selena’s Emmy nomination is the first time she has been up for any major award in the field of television and recently revealed that she had no clue about her sudden career milestone until her friend texted her. Source: IANS

  • It Ends With Us sequel in trouble over Blake Lively-Justin Baldoni rift

    It Ends With Us sequel in trouble over Blake Lively-Justin Baldoni rift

    The drama around the rift between It Ends With Us co-stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni may just spill into the film’s sequel. After the first part earned over $200 million globally, it’s no surprise that the producers must be raring to start working on the sequel already. However, the rumoured rift between Justin and Blake, who aren’t only actors but also co-producers on the film, refuses to die down, as per a Variety report.
    The story for the sequel to It Ends With Us is already there in the form of Coolleen Hoover’s 2022 bestseller It Starts With Us, the direct sequel to her 2016 book on which Blake and Justin’s film is based. It’s set a few months after where the first part ends. While Justin’s character Ryle has a relatively smaller part in the sequel, his production house Wayfarer Studios owns the rights of both the books.
    Justin, who helmed the first part, is also willing to step back from direction in the sequel. He told Entertainment Tonight at the film’s premiere, “I think there are better people for that. I think Blake Lively’s ready to direct.” Even if Blake directs (she’s previously directed BFF Taylor Swift’s 2022 music video I Bet You Think About Me), she’ll have to negotiate with Justin in his capacity as the leading producer, who owns the rights to the book adaptations.
    Rumors of their rift began surfacing when the two didn’t promote the film together. They weren’t clicked together at the premiere either. Reportedly, Blake commissioned an edit of the film, which was different from that of Justin, which eventually made it as the final cut. She’s also been reportedly telling people that Justin fat-shamed her and kissed her for too long in an intimate scene. The Variety report also states that Blake’s actor-husband Ryan Reynolds also wrote a key scene of the film, thus undermining Justin’s credit. “This is uncharted territory, and nobody has any idea of what a sequel could look like. There’s probably no world where these two will work together again,” the report quotes a source as saying.
    Source: HT

  • Amy Jackson, Ed Westwick get married in dreamy Italian wedding

    Amy Jackson, Ed Westwick get married in dreamy Italian wedding

    Actors Amy Jackson and Ed Westwick have officially tied the knot, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. The couple delighted their fans by sharing the first official pictures from their picturesque wedding held in Italy, offering a glimpse into their magical day.
    Amy Jackson looked radiant in a classic white gown that featured an ethereal veil cascading elegantly to the floor. She carried a delicate bouquet of white roses, complementing the serene and sophisticated ambience of the ceremony. Ed Westwick matched her grace in a white suit.
    Their joint Instagram post included a pair of photos from the event, capturing both the splendid decor and their tender moments. The first image showcased the wedding venue, adorned with an abundance of white flowers, creating a dreamy and romantic setting. Ed was seen holding Amy close, their love palpable in the intimate shot. The second image presented the couple gazing directly at the camera, exuding joy and excitement.
    The caption read, “The journey has just begun.”
    The couple’s engagement in January was equally charming, with Ed’s surprise proposal leaving Amy overjoyed. They also hosted an engagement dinner party in London, where Amy was seen arriving with her son Andreas, from her previous relationship with George Panayiotou.
    Amy Jackson made her relationship with Gossip Girl actor Ed Westwick Instagram official in 2022. Source: ANI

  • Kangana Ranaut calls Bollywood a ‘hopeless place’

    Kangana Ranaut calls Bollywood a ‘hopeless place’

    Kangana Ranaut is busy promoting her upcoming her upcoming film Emergency. The actor talked about her career and films in the latest episode of The Bombay Journey with Mashable India, where she said that she considers that Bollywood is a ‘hopeless place’ which thrives on people who got it easy.
    During the conversation, the actor said, “Only a people have a problem with me otherwise if you see me, I won an election and the kind of love that I receive from the industry, proves my point. So the problem is me or with them?”
    When the host asked about her stance on boycotting Bollywood, Kangana said, “Bollywood is, honestly I am saying, it is a very hopeless place. Kuch nahi hone wala inka. Ek toh talent se ye jalte hain. Jo bhi inko talented dikhta hain na uske piche pad ke ya toh usko khatam kar dete hain unka career barbaad kar dete hain unko boycott kar dete hain. Itna ganda PR kar kar ke unko badnaam karte hain (Nothing will happen with them. They are jealous of talent. If they see someone talented they go after them to destroy their career. Horrible PR is written on them and they are boycotted from the industry).”
    Kangana made her acting debut with Gangster, and went on star in several films like Woh Lamhe, Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai and Double Dhamaal. She had a career breakthrough with Queen, and achieved more box office success with Tanu Weds Manu Returns, and went on to win National Awards for both these films. Earlier this year, she won from the Mandi Lok Sabha seat in Himachal Pradesh on her electoral debut.
    Emergency will see her in the role of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Releasing in theatres on September 6, it also stars Anupam Kher, Mahima Chaudhary, Milind Soman, Shreyas Talpade, Vishak Nair, and the late Satish Kaushik.

  • Salman Khan to revive action image with new movie ‘Sikandar’

    Salman Khan to revive action image with new movie ‘Sikandar’

    Bollywood star Salman Khan is all set to revisit his action image in his upcoming project, Sikandar. The actor is set to perform some heavy-duty action scenes in the AR Murugadoss directorial. The actor, who was battling a nerve injury a few years ago, was advised against performing action scenes. But sources told India Today that Salman has been losing weight and also getting into a rigorous fitness regime to look his fittest best for Sikandar.
    The film also stars Rashmika Mandana, and a special workshop was held with Salman and Rashmika before they commenced the shoot.
    The actor is set to do a month-long schedule in Mumbai for the same. Special fight sequences that include hand- to-hand combat have been choreographed for the film. Salman has also been training to get in shape for his role. The actor was last seen in Tiger 3, where he shared screen space with Katrina Kaif and Emraan Hashmi. Salman also has Karan Johar’s The Bull and the actioner, Tiger vs Pathaan, in the pipeline, where he will once again share screen with close friend and superstar Shah Rukh Khan.
    Giving more information on it, the source further said, “While Sikandar has a lot of action in it, there are ample of emotional and dramatic moments in the screenplay, and Salman is looking forward for the high-octane moments under the direction of AR Murugadoss. Rashmika, Sathyaraj and Prateik Babbar too will be a part of this schedule. “The team is in the process of identifying a palace which brings scale and rich production values to the film. The third schedule will take place around November.”

  • Gangs of Wasseypur franchise to re-release in cinemas on Aug 30

    Gangs of Wasseypur franchise to re-release in cinemas on Aug 30

    Two-part modern classic Gangs of Wasseypur will re-release in theatres on August 30, director Anurag Kashyap announced on Tuesday. The 2012 intergenerational revenge saga starred Manoj Bajpayee in the lead, along with the then-budding actors Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Richa Chadha, Huma Qureshi, Rajkummar Rao, Pankaj Tripathi and Jaideep Ahlawat. Gangs of Wasseypur received critical acclaim upon its release with mostly positive reviews and also emerged as a commercial success.
    Kashyap shared the update on his official Instagram page. “In three days the Gang will be back… GOW back in cinemas (sic)” he wrote. According to a poster shared by the filmmaker, Gangs of Wasseypur will be available for theatrical viewing from August 30 to September 5. Tickets are available at the official website of Miraj Cinemas.
    Set in Wasseypur, a small town near Dhanbad in Jharkhand, the film series chronicles the story of the coal mafia spread across three generations of a family entangled in crime, extortion and murder.
    Source: HT