New Delhi, Dec 18 (SocialNews.XYZ) Renowned sculptor Ram Vanji Sutar, whose works shaped the visual identity of modern India and whose artistic vision gave form to the Statue of Unity in Gujarat, passed away at his residence in Noida.

Sutar was 100. Family sources said he died due to age-related ailments. His death marks the end of a defining chapter in Indian monumental art.

Condolences poured in from across the country following the news of his demise. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute, describing him as an artist whose creations immortalised India’s history and values.

Leaders and cultural institutions called his death an irreparable loss to the nation’s artistic heritage. Ram Sutar is survived by his family and an extraordinary legacy carved into India’s landscape.

His sculptures, standing in city centres, institutional complexes and open public spaces, continue to interact with everyday life, silently narrating the story of a nation.

Born on February 19, 1925, in Gondur village of Dhule district in Maharashtra, Ram Sutar rose from humble beginnings to become the country’s most influential public sculptor.

Trained at the Sir J.J. School of Art in Mumbai, where he graduated as a gold medallist, Sutar went on to dedicate more than seven decades to sculpting figures that came to embody India’s political, cultural and historical consciousness.

Sutar’s most celebrated contribution is the Statue of Unity, the colossal statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel located at Kevadia in Gujarat.

Standing at 182 metres, it is the tallest statue in the world and a landmark that has redefined India’s presence in global monumental architecture.

Ram Sutar was the chief sculptor and conceptual designer of the statue, entrusted with translating Patel’s role as the architect of India’s unification into a form that combined authority, realism and restraint.

Unlike abstract monumental traditions, Sutar insisted on realism, ensuring that Patel’s posture, facial expression and attire conveyed firmness without aggression. The statue depicts Patel in a forward-moving stance, symbolising leadership and resolve.

Despite the unprecedented scale of the project, Sutar personally oversaw the artistic detailing, working closely with engineers and designers to preserve proportional accuracy and human expression. His involvement continued well into his 1990s, reflecting his lifelong commitment to craftsmanship.

The Statue of Unity, inaugurated in 2018, has since emerged as a symbol of national pride and a major tourism hub for Gujarat, while also standing as the artistic culmination of Sutar’s career. Art historians have noted that the statue’s success lies not only in its engineering but in its sculptural coherence, a rare achievement at such a scale.

Beyond the Statue of Unity, Ram Sutar’s works occupy prominent public spaces across India and abroad. His sculptures include the iconic Mahatma Gandhi statue outside the Indian Parliament, the equestrian statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Parliament House, and statues of national leaders such as B.R. Ambedkar and V.D. Savarkar.

His sculptures are known for their dignity, balance and emotional restraint, avoiding exaggeration while commanding presence.

For his contribution to Indian art, Sutar received several prestigious honours, including the Padma Shri in 1999 and the Padma Bhushan in 2016. He was also conferred with Maharashtra’s highest civilian award, the Maharashtra Bhushan, recognising his lifetime contribution to public art.

As India mourns his passing, the Statue of Unity and his many other works remain enduring reminders of an artist who transformed metal and stone into symbols of collective memory.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Oct 24 (SocialNews.XYZ) As October fades and the countdown for the new year begins, India’s favourite travel spots glow with festive energy. From beachside bonfires to palace galas, the country offers countless ways to welcome the New Year.

Goa’s beaches come alive with music, fireworks, and late-night parties, while Manali’s snow-covered slopes invite travellers to gather around crackling bonfires. Rajasthan’s royal cities host elegant celebrations in age-old palaces, and Kerala’s backwaters offer peaceful houseboat cruises where the first sunrise of the year reflects on quiet waters. Across India, from the hills to the coast, each destination carries its own charm and rhythm of festivity.

Travelling during this season needs some planning. Hotels and flights fill quickly, and weather changes sharply between regions—warm woollens for the north, light cottons for the coast. Confirm event timings, entry passes, and transport options beforehand. Keep identification handy, avoid overcrowded areas after midnight, and follow local customs and eco-friendly practices to keep celebrations safe and mindful.

With a little preparation, ringing in the New Year in India becomes a journey in itself.

Here are ten destinations that offer unforgettable ways to welcome 2026:

1) Goa

Goa, India’s favourite seaside destination, bursts into celebration during the New Year with its beaches, music, and cheerful crowds.

From luxury retreats to budget stays, the state offers something for every traveller. Baga, Anjuna, and Calangute beaches remain the liveliest spots, with beach shacks hosting all-night parties, bonfires, and fireworks. For a calmer atmosphere, Palolem, Agonda, and Colva beaches provide relaxed gatherings and candlelit dinners by the sea.

Budget travellers can find many affordable hostels and guesthouses near Anjuna. Modest hotels and homestays across Candolim and Morjim also offer comfortable stays at reasonable rates. Many of these houses are old Portuguese-style villas with tiled roofs, courtyards, and gardens filled with coconut and banana trees.

Luxury hotels in Goa have become popular venues for New Year celebrations, offering a blend of festive atmosphere and refined comfort. Most high-end resorts curate exclusive packages that include gala dinners, live entertainment, fireworks, and beachside parties. These events are organised with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring guests experience both elegance and local charm.

Beyond festivities, Goa’s cultural charm lies in its heritage monuments and architecture. The Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, Fort Aguada, and the old Latin Quarter of Fontainhas reflect its Portuguese legacy. Visitors can explore flea markets at Anjuna or night bazaars in Arpora for local crafts and food. With its beaches, music, history, and welcoming spirit, Goa offers an unforgettable New Year celebration for every budget.

During the festive week, security is tightened across beaches and major venues. Police patrols, traffic control, and coastal surveillance ensure public safety. Special assistance centres are also set up for tourists, making Goa’s New Year celebrations both joyous and secure for all.

2) Kovalam (Kerala)

Kovalam, a serene coastal town near Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, is a charming destination to welcome the New Year. Famous for its crescent-shaped beaches - Lighthouse, Hawa, and Samudra- it attracts visitors from across the country for its lively yet peaceful atmosphere. On New Year’s Eve, the beachfront comes alive with music, dance, and fireworks that reflect beautifully over the Arabian Sea.

For those who are looking for luxury, top-end hotels and resorts offer fine dining, spa treatments, and private sea-facing rooms. Budget travellers can find good accommodation in guesthouses and homestays near the beach, which provide clean rooms and warm local hospitality. Several budget homestays also give visitors a taste of Kerala’s traditional food and lifestyle.

Restaurants and beachside cafes host live bands and themed dinners, while some resorts arrange cultural shows and countdown parties. The area remains safe for tourists, with police patrols ensuring order throughout the celebrations. The people of Kovalam are known for their friendliness and helpful nature, adding to the charm of the experience. With its mix of tranquillity and celebration, Kovalam offers a memorable way to usher in the New Year by the Arabian Sea.

3) Fort Kochi (Kerala)

Fort Kochi, with its blend of colonial charm and coastal beauty, is one of Kerala’s most vibrant destinations for New Year celebrations. The narrow streets, lined with Portuguese and Dutch-era buildings, fill with music, lights, and festivities as the year draws to a close. The highlight is the famous Cochin Carnival, held at the Fort Kochi beach, featuring parades, cultural shows, and the symbolic burning of the giant Pappanji effigy at midnight to mark the end of the old year.

Visitors can choose from both luxury and budget stays. The luxury options are set in restored heritage buildings and seaside resorts, offering elegant rooms, curated dinners, and quiet celebrations within historic surroundings. Many such places provide rooftop views of fireworks and the harbour, along with fine dining and cultural performances.

For budget travellers, Fort Kochi has numerous homestays and guesthouses that capture the area’s local warmth. These smaller establishments are ideal for those who prefer a homely environment and easy access to public celebrations at the beach and streets.

The seaside promenade and cafés near Princess Street and Vasco da Gama Square become lively spots for gatherings and open-air parties. Many restaurants host gala dinners and live performances on New Year’s Eve. Security arrangements are well-managed, and the local people are known for their hospitality and cheerful spirit. With its artistic energy and festive air, Fort Kochi provides a unique and culturally rich way to welcome the New Year.

4) Munnar (Kerala)

Munnar, nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is an enchanting hill station that offers a wonderful New Year celebration. Surrounded by tea plantations, misty valleys, and cool mountain air, it provides a peaceful yet lively setting to welcome the year ahead. During the New Year season, the town and nearby resorts host bonfires, live music, and open-air dinners under starlit skies.

Luxury stay facilities are available, offering fine dining, spa services, and scenic views of the hills. Budget and comfortable accommodations such as small lodges, cottages, and homestays are also available in plenty, where hosts often arrange local cuisine and cultural evenings.

The central market area and viewpoints like Pothamedu and Top Station see cheerful gatherings, while several resorts organise private countdown parties for guests.

Despite the crowd during the festive period, Munnar remains calm and secure, with police patrols and travel assistance for tourists. The warm hospitality of the local people adds to the experience. With its cool climate, natural beauty, and relaxed celebrations, Munnar is an ideal destination to begin the New Year amidst the hills.

5) Ootty (Tamil Nadu)

Ooty, often called the Queen of Hill Stations, is a favourite destination in Tamil Nadu for New Year celebrations. Surrounded by rolling hills, eucalyptus forests, and serene lakes, it offers a charming mix of festivity and tranquillity. The town takes on a cheerful mood with illuminated streets, music, and bonfires that draw both locals and visitors. The Ooty Lake area, Botanical Garden, and Charing Cross are popular spots where people gather to celebrate amid cool mountain air.

Visitors can choose from both luxury and budget accommodation. The luxury stays are located amid tea estates or overlooking valleys, offering refined rooms, fireplaces, fine dining, and private bonfire evenings to welcome the New Year in comfort and style. These places often arrange small gatherings or themed dinners, providing a relaxed celebration in a serene atmosphere.

Budget travellers have a wide range of guesthouses, cottages, and homestays that offer basic facilities with local hospitality. These stays are usually close to the market or main attractions, allowing guests to join public festivities and enjoy Ootty’s cheerful New Year mood at a modest cost.

Security arrangements remain well-coordinated, ensuring safe celebrations for all.

The friendly nature of the local people, combined with Ooty’s scenic beauty and pleasant weather, makes it an ideal place to welcome the New Year in peaceful surroundings.

6) Mamallapuram (Tamil Nadu)

Mamallapuram, also known as Mahabalipuram, is a lively coastal town near Chennai that blends heritage and festivity, making it an ideal destination for New Year celebrations.

Known for its ancient rock-cut temples and seaside charm, the town takes on a festive look as travellers gather along the shore to welcome the New Year. The beachfront near Shore Temple becomes a hub of activity, with music, dance, and fireworks lighting up the night.

Luxury stay options in Mahabalipuram offer elegant rooms, sea-facing views, and private celebrations in tranquil surroundings. Guests can enjoy curated dining, live music, and open-air parties set against the backdrop of the waves, combining comfort with cultural ambience.

Budget travellers can find affordable options in hotels along with several guesthouses and homestays offering simple, clean rooms and traditional Tamil hospitality. Homestays in Fisherman’s Colony also give visitors a glimpse of local life and cuisine.

The cafés along Othavadai Street and the beachside shacks host live bands and bonfires, drawing both locals and tourists. Security arrangements are well managed, and the friendly nature of the local people ensures a safe and cheerful celebration.

With its blend of heritage, music, and seaside beauty, Mamallapuram offers a memorable way to begin the New Year by the Bay of Bengal.

7) Pondicherry (Puducherry)

Pondicherry, with its blend of French charm and coastal beauty, is one of South India’s most popular destinations for New Year celebrations. The town’s colonial streets, vibrant beaches, and relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for both lively parties and quiet reflection. On New Year’s Eve, the Promenade Beach becomes the heart of the festivities, with fireworks, live music, and open-air gatherings stretching late into the night.

Luxury travellers’ hotels offer elegant accommodation, fine dining, and special New Year events. Budget stays also provide good facilities at moderate rates. Many charming homestays in the White Town area offer a more personal experience with colonial-style rooms and home-cooked meals.

Cafes and rooftop restaurants along Mission Street and Beach Road host countdown parties, while Auroville nearby provides a quieter celebration focused on meditation and community gatherings. The local administration ensures safety with police patrols across main areas. Known for its friendly people and artistic spirit, Pondicherry offers a unique New Year experience where culture, sea breeze, and celebration meet in perfect harmony.

8) Udaipur (Rajasthan)

Udaipur, the City of Lakes, takes on a regal glow during the New Year. Its tranquil waters, illuminated palaces, and festive streets create an atmosphere of warmth and celebration. The city blends royal heritage with a relaxed holiday spirit, drawing visitors from across India and abroad.

Luxury stays in Udaipur offer lakeside views, traditional performances, and elegant dinners that reflect the grandeur of Rajasthan. Guests can enjoy fireworks from rooftop terraces, boat rides on Lake Pichola, and cultural evenings with folk music and dance. The experience is graceful and serene, ideal for couples and families seeking a refined celebration.

Budget travellers can choose from several guesthouses and homestays within the old city, close to the main attractions and local festivities. The markets, cafés, and lakeside ghats remain lively late into the night, giving a festive yet homely feel.

As part of the New Year celebrations, visitors often explore Udaipur’s historic landmarks such as the City Palace, Jag Mandir, Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace), and the old havelis that overlook the lake. A visit to these places during the season adds a cultural depth to the festivities, making Udaipur a perfect blend of history, hospitality, and celebration.

9) Jaipur (Rajasthan)

Jaipur, the Pink City, is another historic and royal destination in Rajasthan to welcome the New Year. The city’s palaces, forts, and bazaars come alive under glowing lights, creating a festive mood that blends history with celebration. Cool winter evenings and the grandeur of Rajasthan’s heritage make Jaipur a captivating destination for the season.

Visitors can explore the city’s historic monuments, such as Amber Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Nahargarh Fort, where panoramic views of the illuminated skyline offer a memorable start to the year. The Albert Hall Museum and Jantar Mantar provide glimpses of Jaipur’s rich artistic and scientific heritage.

Luxury travellers can enjoy cultural evenings, traditional performances, and fine dining in elegant settings, while budget guests will find numerous comfortable guesthouses and heritage homestays near the old city, offering warmth and easy access to local festivities.

The markets of Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar bustle with shoppers, while rooftop cafes and open-air venues host countdown gatherings and music events. Fireworks light up the night as locals and visitors celebrate together. Combining royal architecture, cultural heritage, and joyful festivity, Jaipur offers an unforgettable New Year experience that reflects the heart and colour of Rajasthan.

10) Manali (Himachal Pradesh)

Manali, nestled in the snow-covered Himalayas, offers a magical setting for New Year celebrations. The town’s crisp mountain air, pine forests, and white peaks create a festive atmosphere that feels both lively and serene. As winter deepens, bonfires, music, and cheerful gatherings light up the valleys, making Manali one of the most sought-after hill destinations for the season.

Luxury stays in Manali offer warmth, mountain views, and elegant celebrations with local cuisine and traditional music. Budget travellers can choose from homely guesthouses and cottages that provide comfort and a friendly environment close to the main town. The Mall Road remains the centre of activity, with cafés, bakeries, and shops bustling late into the night.

Visitors can explore local attractions such as the Hidimba Temple, Manu Temple, and Vashisht hot springs, all of which add a cultural and spiritual charm to the holiday. Adventure enthusiasts often head to Solang Valley for skiing and paragliding, while those seeking calm enjoy scenic walks along the Beas River.

With snowflakes in the air, glowing lights, and a mood of togetherness, Manali captures the spirit of winter festivity, offering the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and celebration for the New Year.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, April 11 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Sensex witnessed a sharp rally of more than 1,300 points on Thursday after US President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on trade tariffs for most countries, including India.

The announcement lifted investor sentiment in the country, even as some Asian markets remained under pressure due to renewed trade war tensions between the US and China.

The Sensex jumped 1,310.11 points, or 1.77 per cent, to close at 75,157.26. During the day, the index touched an intra-day high of 75,467.33, while it slipped up to 74,762.84.

The Nifty also surged by 429.40 points, or 1.92 per cent, to settle at 22,828.55.

The Nifty faced resistance around the 21-EMA on the daily timeframe, leading to a close off the day’s high.

“The trend appears bearish unless it decisively moves above 23,000, where significant open interest has been added. On the downside, support is placed at 22,750; a break below this level could intensify the bearish sentiment,” said Rupak De of LKP Securities.

The market rally was broad-based as strong buying across sectors lifted investor sentiment. The BSE Midcap index gained 1.84 per cent, while the Smallcap index shot up by 3.04 per cent.

All major sectoral indices closed in the green, with Metal, Energy, Pharma, Auto, and Banking stocks leading the gains. The Nifty Metal index was the top performer, rising over 4 per cent.

Out of the 50 stocks on the Nifty index, Hindalco led the gain with a rise of 6.52 per cent, followed by Tata Steel, JSW Steel and Coal India which were all up between 4.4 to 4.8 per cent.

However, Asian markets painted a mixed picture. Japan’s Nikkei 225, South Korea’s KOSPI, and Singapore’s Straits Times ended in the red.

This came after China retaliated against the US by announcing higher tariffs of up to 125 per cent on American goods, following Trump’s recent decision to raise tariffs on Chinese imports to an effective 145 per cent.

“Despite the global uncertainty, Indian markets cheered the temporary relief in the global trade environment, driving a strong rally across sectors and market segments,” analyst noted.

Rupee traded positive with strong gains of 0.70 at 86.00 per dollar, supported primarily by a weaker dollar index and a significant sentiment boost from the US decision to relax tariffs on Indian goods by 10 per cent for the next 90 days.

Source: IANS

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Panaji, Nov 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) It is not just music and its staple food that Goa people love, but sports like football is also enjoyed in the coastal state, which has a long history. Now the tiny state is eager to watch the FIFA World Cup, which will be be held from November 20 to December 18 in Doha, Qatar.

Football lovers in Goa show their passion for their favourite team by painting their face and displaying the logos on their vehicles and at restaurants. Besides this, T'shirts of favourite football teams and players are also bought by fans, which they wear while watching these games.

FIFA world cup brings the mood of football lovers to a high level, which is also seen in bars and restaurants and clubs, where large projector screens show all the matches. Not only the restaurants, but some sports clubs also make arrangements to watch the games on big screens.

Watching the game with friends in restaurants and in the open gives them reason to cheer louder during matches. Some restaurant owners also create a menu of FIFA themes to attract the customers by creating a frevent environment.

Goa has many restaurants in the coastal area wherein people flock to cheer for their favourite teams.

Speaking to IANS, Shailesh Naik, a bar and restaurant owner from south Goa said that football matches during FIFA World Cup helps make a good business. "Many football lovers prefer to watch matches with their friends and they visit restaurants in groups. This picture can be seen across Goa in restaurants that run till late (permitted time)," he said.

Bars and restaurants also provide offers on cocktails and food items during the football tournament season, wherein they get a packed crowd.

Another restaurant owner from coastal area, on condition of anonymity, said that sometimes it gets difficult to manage crowd and provide services during the matches. "As the matches takes place during night, we have to manage the crowd and provide services within permitted time. It becomes difficult to convince our customers about our time limitations, as they wish to sit till the match gets over," he said.

Adlear D'Cruz, Acting General Secretary of Goa Football Association (GFA) said that the vibrant environment which gets created during the FIFA World Cup helps boost football in Goa. "During these matches very a good environment gets created with big screens in restaurants, where many football fan comes and enjoy the games. This really helps to encourage budding players," he said.

Goa has a rich history of football games, which was played by Portuguese here and later in 1923, the first international match in India between Britain and Portugal was hosted by Goa.

Since then, Goans have a bent for this game and after Liberation, it got a major boost through the tournaments organised in the coastal state.

After the Liberation of Goa, the 'Bandodkar Golden trophy' was organised from 1962 to 1970, which gave a major boost to footballers.

Since then, Churchill Brothers, Sesa Football Academy, Vedanta Football Academy, Dempo Football Academy and other football clubs have helped to encourage footballers at national and international levels.

Former Chief Minister Late Manohar Parrikar had announced football as the state game.

Besides this, football legends Padma Shri Brahmanand Sankhwalkar and Arjuna awardee Bruno Coutinho have brought laurels to the state by playing at national and international level.

And not just boys, girls of the coastal state also enjoy and play football.

Source: IANS

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M000anchester, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) Ilkay Gundogan contributed a brace as Manchester City staged another incredible final day fightback, scoring three goals in five second-half minutes to dramatically beat Aston Villa 3-2 and so retain the Premier League title at a spellbound Etihad.

Having gone 2-0 down midway through the second half Pep Guardiola's side looked to be in danger of losing the crown to Liverpool, who beat Wolves 3-1

However, in amazing scenes reminiscent of their first Premier League triumph 10 years ago, with the same uncanny scoreline, City staged the most unbelievable of comebacks to seize the crown, as a brace from substitute Ilkay Gundogan and a Rodrigo strike lifted the lid off the Etihad.

It was a fightback full of grit and character and one worthy of any title-winning side.

And it meant Manchester City retained the crown, secured a fourth title in five years under Pep Guardiola, and handed departing Club captain Fernandinho the perfect emotional send-off, said a report on the club's official website.

As thousands of fans filled the stadium, City made a nervous start as they sought the win that would confirm a fourth Premier League title in five years.

And Villa sent a stark reminder that they hadn't merely come to make up the numbers, a timely early intervention from Fernandinho denying Brazilian compatriot Philippe Coutinho a clear header on goal.

They also restricted time and space as Pep Guardiola's side sought to convert territory and possession into that all-important goal. And it almost arrived 25 minutes after a typical lung-bursting rampage by Kevin De Bruyne. His charge helped open a fraction of space for Phil Foden on the right side of the box, with his snapshot deflected agonizingly wide.

However, it was Villa who made the Etihad breakthrough as they struck with a breakaway 37th-minute goal through Matty Cash. Emiliano Buendia made the initial foray deep into City's half before feeding the onrushing Lucas Digne on the left flank. The Frenchman delivered a pinpoint dipping cross into the heart of the box and fellow full-back Cash was there to head home past Ederson.

A tense afternoon had suddenly got even more nerve-racking and though City pressed and harried, Villa proved dogged and resolute, throwing bodies on the line to try and deny us.

There was a change to the City formation after the break with Oleks Zinchenko replacing Fernandinho, Stones moving to centre-half with the Ukrainian on the left of defence and Cancelo switched to the right full-back berth.

And Zinchenko almost made an instant impact when his superb twisting mazy run almost found Jesus before the Brazilian saw a close-range shot fizz over.

With half an ear trained to events at Anfield, the tension was almost unbearable as the game entered the last quarter.

Guardiola rang the changes, bringing on Raheem Sterling and Ilkay Gundogan in an effort to find an opening.

Instead, however it was Villa who struck what felt like a decisive second goal 21 minutes from time through Coutinho. The Brazilian latched onto a high ball on the edge of the City box and ran on the outside of Aymeric Laporte before dispatching a low shot past Ederson and inside the near post, the report said.

Sterling and Gundogan combined to narrow the deficit 15 minutes from time, with the German heading home his fellow substitute's inviting arcing ball from eight yards.

And within two minutes there was pandemonium at the Etihad as City dramatically drew level. Zinchenko was the provider this time, breaking down the left channel before intelligently cutting the ball back to the waiting Rodri on the edge of the box. The Spaniard dispatched a low shot that rifled into the corner of the net to spark wild scenes.

But that was nothing compared to what happened two minutes later as Gundogan struck again to lift the roof off the Etihad with his second and City's third goal of the night.

De Bruyne was the architect of the move, latching onto a loose ball and driving into the heart of the Villa box. The Belgian then pinged in one of his trademark curling balls and Gundogan directed it home with a superb finish.

It sparked scenes of absolute joy and mayhem on the pitch and sidelines but there was still work to be done especially with Liverpool beating Wolves 3-1.

But with the atmosphere at fever pitch and with City's passionate fans acting as a 12th man, Guardiola's side ran the clock down to secure the most dramatic but richly deserved of Premier League title wins.

Source: IANS

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London, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Ilkay Gundogan contributed a brace as Manchester City struck three goals in six minutes to come back from a two-goal deficit to score a dramatic 3-2 win against Aston Villa and retained their Premier League title on a dramatic final day of the season on Sunday.

City, in a tight race for the title with Liverpool, were staring at a humiliating defeat as Matty Cash (37th minute) gave Aston Villa the lead and Philippe Coutinho made it 2-0 after 69 minutes. With Liverpool taking the lead against Wolverhampton Wolves at Anfield, which would have taken them to 92 points with City remaining at 90 in case of a defeat.

But that was not to be as Gundogan, who was brought in as a substitute, scored the first and the third goal as City produced an unforgettable fightback -- scripting an Aguero-moment like 10 years ago. Gundogen (76, 81) and Rodrigo Hernandez (78) scored three goals within six minutes as Pep Guardiola's side emerged 3-2 winners at Aston Villa and claimed the crown in a dramatic fashion.

This was Manchester City's 8th Premier League title and their fourth title in the last five seasons.

With this win, Manchester City finished with 93 points, just one ahead of Liverpool from 38 matches. Liverpool beat the Wolves 3-1 at home. In 38 matches, City won 29, drew eight, and lost only three whereas Liverpool won 28 matches, drew eight, and lost only two games.

City's sensational victory ended Liverpool's hopes of quadruple titles as they get ready to play the Champions League final.

As the final whistle sounded at Villa Park, Aston near Birmingham, the entire Manchester City travelling party and their hundreds of fans invaded the ground to celebrate the victory with the players.

Source: IANS

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Mumbai, April 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) She made her mark in Bollywood as well as in the web space with films like 'Margarita with a Straw', 'Fan', 'Jolly LLB 2','Article 15' and 'Axone'.

Actress Sayani Gupta says even though in the public places people recognise her as an actor, it's funny for her to get the weird yet curious look.

She also appeared in web series like 'Inside Edge', 'Four More Shots Please!'.

The actress recently appeared in a short film titled 'Shameless' along with the co-actor Hussain Dalal.

In conversation with IANS, Sayani shares, one such incident of how it feels to be what she calls a 'semi-popular' actor.

Sayani said, "I think unless you are Shah Rukh Khan, or a superstar of his level, many actors must have faced it. It is a little weird where in public places like cafe, resturant etc people walked up to us saying, 'I have seen you somewhere'...and then there is a moment of silence because something is buffering in their head (laugh)! Sometime even the onus comes on you that you have to explain where they have seen you! Funny but reality."

Directed by Keith Gomes, produced by Shabinaa Khan - 'Shameless' released on Amazon miniTV.

Source: IANS

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Mumbai, April 10 (SocialNews.XYZ) Actress and model Himanshi Khurana went on to become a household name after her stint in season 13 of the show 'Bigg Boss'.

The actress is a fitness enthusiast herself who opened up about what fitness means to her.

She says: "Fitness for me is being flexible and comfortable in my own body. Unfit people tend to face a lot of health problems and difficulties in carrying day to day activities, therefore being fit is very important"

She furthermore adds how important working out is to her. Talking about the same, the actress shares: "Working out for me is very important. I work out regularly no matter what, even in my busy schedule I take out time to work out. I tend to skip my workout only when it is literally impossible but I try to make it up by following a proper diet."

The actress further briefs about her diet and says: "My diet mostly consists of Indian food because Indian food is very nutritious. We can get all the required nutrition and protein from our Indian food."

Lastly, the actress concludes by giving out a message to the youngsters.

"My only advice to motivate youngsters is to stay persistent and consistent. Make fitness a habit and not an option by exercising regularly."

Source: IANS

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Madrid, Oct 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta revealed on Friday that he has been in constant contact with Xavi Hernandez since he was re-elected to the club presidency in March.

Former Barca midfielder Xavi is the favourite to replace Ronald Koeman as first team coach in the wake of Koeman's sacking in the early hour of Thursday morning.

Although Xavi is currently coaching Al-Saad in Qatar, the 41-year-old has always been clear that his ambition is to one day coach the club where he helped establish a style of play, reports Xinhua.

"I have been talking with Xavi since the electoral campaign and contact has never been broken... They are private conversations between friends," commented Laporta, who was speaking at the presentation of Barca's B-team coach Sergi Barjuan as caretaker coach.

Laporta said he had "very good references from people who are very close" to Xavi. I know what he thinks of the team we have and what he wants to do."

"I have always said that Xavi will train Barca one day. He is a person who lives for football, he belongs to Barca and he has it as a priority objective in his life. What I think is that I have a very good relationship with him and that he is surrounded by excellent people," said the Barca president.

Sergi will be in charge until Xavi (or someone else) takes over, with his first game at home to Alaves on Saturday night.

Barca will be without midfielder Pedri and forward Martin Braithwaite, while Ronald Araujo, Ansu Fati and Sergi Roberto are all doubts.

"I'm taking over at a difficult moment, but we are already working and it's easy to work with players like this," said Sergi, adding that he wouldn't try to make big changes to the team.

"We have to get the players going and we have to be united for tomorrow... The way we play won't change but, but maybe I will slightly alter some tactical concepts," said Sergi, who explained the side needed to "recover the idea of vertical football".

Source: IANS

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Even before I could read, my favourite book was Kamla Bhasins 'Ulti Sulti Meeto. It was about a girl who would like to be naughty and playful. The illustrations in that book were so beautiful that I didnt need words to understand it. It helped me accept my quirks from a very young age.

Her book 'Ghar ka kaam hai sabka Kaam' (Household chores is for everyone) set the tone for me as a woman. I never looked at my mother having to fullfill domestic responsibilities. I expected the same responsibility from my father and I too helped in the housework by doing my favourite work of 'jhadu' as a 6 year old child.

Just like Kamla's poems taught me I also chose an unconventional road. I chose to make films and to pay a tribute to her I wanted to make a film on her. I was surprised to find no film or video material back then and was overjoyed when she agreed. Till date my film is the only one that gives a rare glimpse into Kamla's life.

I also made Kamla recite her poetry for the film and my favourite on was -- Ki hawaon si hoti hain ladkiyan/ Unhe behne me maza aata hai/ Unhe manzoor nahi unhe bewajah roka jane. (Girls are like the wind/ They delight in frolicking freely/ They cannot accept being stopped for no reason.)

Working with her was such a joy, she was down to earth and simple. She was not afraid to be vulnerable and walked us through her life so openly. She was warm to me and my team, I remember being sad on the last day of filming, we had such a beautiful time shooting it that no one wanted it to come to an end.

Kamla Bhasin was a woman who did not obey. She is known for her courage and enormous contribution to the women's movement and women's history in India. She is an inspiration for so many women of her generation and more. She has created history with her work in South Asia and the pouring of love for her wherever she went is a testament to that.

As a child I heard stories from my mother -- of their glorious women's movement in the the 80's, women fighting for equality together. Her spirit inspires us even today! I want to tell more such stories of resilience and hope through my work, so we can honour women like Kamla and their legacies, pay our tribute to them for the liberties and freedom we enjoy today as women of 21st century.

Kamla's strength lay in her communication -- she could talk to and connect with anyone from any background. This skill made Kamla unique and she would quickly become a favorite in a crowd. She had immense energy and she never stopped working. She would be doing multiple things during a hot summer day, starting her day with yoga and then driving her red electric car to Sangat I South Asian Organization for Women that she founded. When we were filming her we found there was a TV crew there to interview her for a news channel.

She was deeply affected by her daughter Meeto's passing and worried for her son Chotu who suffers from autism. Kamla's political life is very well known and only a few know her personal journey and sacrifices. My film was an attempt to make the world take a peek in to her personal one.

Kamla Bhasin's life inspired many women like me to break barriers and establish my own legacy in the film TV and advertising industry. She helped reveal my true purpose -- to empower and support women through my work. Not only do my production teams always have women in the majority. We also go out of our way to try and employ female talent and crew. I used my success to empower women and mentor young filmmakers not only in India but worldwide. Currently I am producing films, I feel strong enough to carve my own niche and produce films that are a reflection of women and their experiences.

Kamla's words and journey are etched in my memory and soul.

Someday I would love to produce a full-length documentary or a feature film on her.

Source: IANS

The post Kamla’s words & journey are etched in my memory and soul appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By IANSlife

New Delhi, Sep 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) 'Stories from the Womb', will unravel mythical stories of the Mother Goddess by ace storyteller and eminent dancer Anita Ratnam. The virtual story telling session hosted by National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) will be followed by a Garba Raas workshop by renowned Bharatanatyam and Kathak dancer Avani Shah.

Navratri exudes music and colourful attire in its finest form. This festival celebrates the spirit of Devi, the feminine form of divinity and her nine forms. Garba -- originally a Sanskrit word 'Garbha' or the womb has a symbolic interpretation of being the body, within whom divinity (in the form of the Devi) resides. Keeping this sentiment in mind, NCPA starts the celebrations early this year.

"Navratri is almost incomplete without Garba and with the current Covid scenario we have missed the grandeur associated with the nine-day festival. Hence, this year, NCPA decided to start the celebrations early with Anita Ratnam and Avani Shah hosting a virtual session that pays homage to the forms of Devi through a curated storytelling and Garba Raas," said Swapnokalpa Dasgupta, Head of Dance Programming at NCPA.

Anita Ratnam is an Indian classical and contemporary dancer and choreographer. Classically trained in Bharatanatyam, she has also received formal training in Kathakali, Mohiniattam, and T'ai chi and Kalarippayattu, thus creating a dance style which she has coined "Neo Bharat Natyam". She is the creative brain behind India's first digital portal for dance -- the Narthaki.com. She is known for her out of the box ideas and innovation.

Avani Shah is a trained Bharatanatyam and Kathak dancer, mentoring and schooling since 1989. She has choreographed for several Garba and Dandiya festivals along with video and film songs. She has co-choreographed and assisted Sanjay Leela Bhansali for the films "Devdas" and "Ramleela". Embark on a magical journey with Avani Shah as she presents a fun and energetic Garba raas dance workshop.

IANSlife caught up with Dasgupta to get more details and find out what the NCPA has lined up for the season. Read excerpts:

Q: Are you looking forward to events going back to normal and performances in front of a live audience?

A: Well, pre-Covid, that was our entire world. Ninety-nine per cent of our lives was about being excited about live performances, but I think what has been, has been and virtual shows have become a welcome, addition to our world. Now as we have started presenting digitally we have online workshops, we have presentations, dance, training classes for children from underprivileged even schools are being run online.

We look at virtual performances as a part of our lives now, you know, and that's so fascinating. The excitement has changed, we are as happy about this as we were about live performances before. We are just happy that we are not dependent. It's tension-free, we ae happy for live or virtual performances.

Q: What are the biggest takeaways from the world of virtual art and culture for professionally?

A: The world is our stage and the world is our audience. So I think there are many, many takeaways from the Virtual World which have helped us. I'm talking as a curator we are able to introduce artists who are not at their pinnacle of fame. New work can be presented which sometimes becomes a problem. When you have the pressure of filling a certain capacity auditorium and keeping them engaged that is a different pressure. So I think that way we are curating is changing with a virtual platform. This is not just in the Arts and Performing Arts, but in general, I think even for the Netflix or other OTT platforms. we can see a lot of new talent coming up in every field. So and I'm excited about that, this is going to be the case in dance too. So that's wonderful. Its a real way to democratize the field.

Q: Personally what have you learnt and enjoyed most in this time?

A: Personally, I'm a dancer and I have been experimenting a lot with the camera. You know, you always wear heavy makeup in live performances, you need the attention all the way to the back row, are they able to see my expressions, what I'm portraying. But in the virtual world, the camera is always close-up, it gives a very good feel the facial expressions. Similarly when we are having a workshop, the upper body, the expressions are all crucial and they can be in the spotlight.

Q: There is resurgence of Baithaks and going back to old traditions, how do you feel about this?

A: I really feel variety plays a very important role in inexperience, doesn't it? I was actually missing the Baithak, it used to be how we used to learn in class. I was a student of Guru Shri Karijaranthan Mahabharat Ji, who was known for his Abhinayak; one of my fondest memories of him is on a moonlit night, lamp lit and noisy, and Guruji was sitting on the floor and doing Abhinayak. Goosebumps!! And there has not been a more profound experience of watching an artist so we can imagine the effectiveness of such Baithaks or such interactions, which is being made possible again by the virtual world. I'm sure it's going to translate and create live audience when the time is right for physical baithaks also. We are going more to the heart of the tradition.

Q: What are you looking forward to in the festive season?

A: Well, we have three workshops that are running. So we're definitely looking forward to all. It has been a super fascinating journey with all our curations and workshops. Of course, storytelling by Anita Ratnam Ji and the Garba workshop by Avani Shah is something we are really looking forward to. To speak of the Devi traditions and Mother Goddess, how female energy is at work, and how we need to celebrate the feminine and protect the feminine is all part of 'Stories from the Womb'. So this, this undivided attention that we are giving to the female energy during the season is very gratifying.

• Dates: September 30

• Day and Time: Thursday at 4 pm over Zoom

• Duration: 2 hrs

• Fees: Rs. 1000/-

• Age Group: 12+ years

• Registrations -

• Call: 8879114939/9819002515

• E-mail: dance@ncpamumbai.com/ sdasgupta@ncpamumbai.com

  (IANSlife can be contacted ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS

The post Celebrating Devi, the Mother Goddess appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By IANSlife

New Delhi, Sep 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) International Coffee Day is here and coffee lovers have been granted a whole day to indulge in all things caffeine, be it morning cappuccinos, evening lattes or midnight mochas. But there's another way to give your coffee an extra kick; by simply adding a little spirit, you can turn your regular coffee into an enticing cocktail and celebrate the day with something a little stronger other than a regular flat white.

Beam Suntory's brings you a caffeinated concoction inspired by South India and homemade cinnamon that combines the classics -- coffee, whisky, and bourbon!

Kaapi Rituals

Inspiration:

Across south India, and even in the rest of the country, long before people took to their cappuccinos or lattes, everyone's cup of coffee in the mornings would be a filter coffee. Made with a combination of coffee beans and chicory, this hot beverage has a distinct taste and aroma and one which is a firm favourite for many.

Recipe:

• Oaksmith Gold 50ML

• Coconut Milk 50ML

• Filter Coffee Decoction 30ML

• Dark Jaggery Syrup 45ML

• Ice

  Glass:

• Filter Coffee service ware

  Method:

  Add all the ingredients together in a shaker with ice and pass the liquid between the two shakers to mix. Just like how a professional coffee maker would 'throw' filter kaapi between two mugs. This will bring in a nice element of theatre into your drink.

  Kentucky Coffee

  Inspiration:

  In addition to Maker's Mark and coffee, this recipe is rounded out with the sweetness and spice of creme de cocoa liqueur and homemade cinnamon simple syrup. The syrup lives up to the "simple" in its name and is worth revisiting for use in other recipes. If caffeine gets you easily wired, there's no need to deprive yourself of this cold-weather classic. Substituting your favourite decaf coffee will work just as well with this recipe.

  Recipe:

• 1 part Maker's Mark Bourbon

• 3 parts hot coffee

• 1/2 part creme de cocoa

• 1/4 part cinnamon simple syrup

• Top with heavy cream or whipped cream

• Grated chocolate or cinnamon for garnish

  Glass: Irish Coffee Glass

  Method:

  Add all ingredients to a mug or Irish Coffee Glass and stir. Top it with heavy cream or whipped cream and garnish with grated chocolate or cinnamon (or both!). To make cinnamon syrup, mix equal parts sugar and water with one broken-up cinnamon stick per half-cup. Bring to a boil. Once sugar is completely melted, remove the pan from heat and let sit for at least 30 minutes. Strain out the cinnamon. The syrup can be stored for up to three weeks.

  Beam Suntory's portfolio of brands consists of world-renowned bourbons, Japanese whiskies, single malt scotches, gins and cognac crafted beautifully to bring out diverse, rich and unique flavours from different regions across the globe.

  (IANSlife Features can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS

The post Whip your regular coffee into a cocktail appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By IANSlife

New Delhi, Sep 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) On the heels of the 16th Hotel Investment Conference -- South Asia (HICSA 2021), Marriott International, announced it has signed 22 new hotel agreements in South Asia -- comprising India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Nepal -- in the past 18 months, expecting to add more than 2,700 rooms to its fast-growing portfolio. It is currently the hotel chain with the largest number of rooms in the South Asia region and expects to continue its solid growth with these new signings.

"In a highly unpredictable year, these signings are a testament to Marriott International's resilience and agility in driving strong growth within a hospitality landscape that continues to evolve," commented Rajeev Menon -- President Asia Pacific (excluding Greater China), Marriott International. "It is a sign of confidence from our owners and franchisees who have been an integral part of our growth journey. We are grateful for their continued support and trust in the power of our brands as we continue to welcome back travellers."

"These signings reinforce our commitment to South Asia as a high potential region where we continue to grow and engage with an expanding customer base by introducing more of Marriott's brands and unique experiences in exciting destinations," emphasized Kiran Andicot -- Regional Vice President Development, South Asia, Marriott International. "We look forward to the opening of these new hotels in the future and to exploring future development opportunities throughout the region."

Owner Desire for Luxury Brands

More than a third of the newly signed projects in South Asia in the last 18 months include hotels and resorts in the luxury tier, comprised of brands such as JW Marriott and W Hotels. This reflects travellers' growing demand for bespoke and superb amenities and services. Travellers can anticipate the debut of the W Hotels brand in Jaipur with W Jaipur in 2024. Once opened, the hotel expects to disrupt the norms of traditional luxury with its iconic service, infectious energy, and innovative experiences. Rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole -- present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit. Expecting to debut across several distinctive locations within South Asia over the next five years, travellers can look forward to JW Marriott Ranthambore Resort & Spa located at one of India's most prominent wildlife sanctuaries, The Ranthambore National Park; JW Marriott Chennai ECR Resort & Spa on India's beautiful southern coastline; JW Marriott Agra Resort & Spa in the land of the Taj Mahal; and the debut of the JW Marriott brand in Goa and Shimla -- two of India's most famous resort destinations -- with JW Marriott Goa and JW Marriott Shimla Resort & Spa.

JW Marriott Hotel Bhutan, Thimphu, is expected to mark the debut of the JW Marriott brand in Bhutan, is anticipated to open in 2025 and offer curated experiences that celebrate the peaceful spirit of the land.

Maldives anticipates its second JW Marriott hotel in 2025, when the JW Marriott Resort & Spa, Embhoodhoo Finolhu -- South Male Atoll featuring 80 pool villas is expected to open. The signing follows the newly opened The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, strengthening Marriott's footprint on the famed leisure destination.

(IANSlife Features can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS

The post With 22 new signings in 18 months, Marriott International expands footprint In South Asia appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

New Delhi, Sep 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Doing business directly with end consumers is undoubtedly the best possible proposition for any business, and that explains the surge in the number of D2C brands across different industries and verticals in the recent past. It's almost a phenomenon with the outbreak of pandemic, as the whole supply chain came to a complete standstill.

A number of D2C brands have grown exponentially and a major enabler in their growth journey has been endorsements by celebrities and influencers at the macro as well as micro levels. There are no qualms that as a digital marketing tool, celebrity and influencer marketing is a game-changer for D2C brands, owing to their direct bond and connection with the end consumers.

"Influencer and celebrity marketing has grown to be a very effective medium to connect with the masses. The most propelling factor behind it is the psyche of us humans to connect and relate more with someone we know. We have been working with some big celebrities like Neena Gupta, Divya Dutta, Gauahar Khan, Tisca Chopra, Rupali Ganguly and Rubina Dilaik, among others, along with a pool of nearly 5,000 micro and macro influencers," says Himanshu Gandhi, co-founder and CEO of baby and mother care brand Mother Sparsh, which has apparently invested diligently in the tool.

When asked as to how exactly they measure the outcomes of such engagements with celebs and influencers, he said that, "opting for this route has added significantly to our growth as a D2C brand. The correlation that we have noted is that a push toward influencer and celebrity marketing results in a surge in website growth. Over the past three months, we have clocked a three-time spike in our website sales and we cannot ignore the fact that during this period we have worked with some of the most eminent names."

Another aspect of celebrity marketing is a long-term engagement with one celeb in the form of a brand ambassador. Herein, the attempt is to reach out to larger masses, rather than a niche and a reputation is built for the brand in sync with the widespread acceptance of the celeb. Fire-Boltt, which as per the latest IDC report is one of the three homegrown brands driving the Indian wearable market, earlier this year onboarded popular Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal as its brand ambassador.

Arnav Kishore, the company's co-founder says, "Having a celebrity or known face associated with the brand adds a sense of aspiration toward the product or service being offered. These celebs, who many people follow as a role model and idolize, directly or indirectly tend to influence the buyer decision majorly."

"However, if one aims to grow in the D2C space, it is very important that the celebrity brought onboard synchronizes with the brand ethos. When we signed Vicky Kaushal as our brand ambassador, the decision was driven majorly by the coherence we see in his persona and our brand philosophy. The dynamism, energy and the 'Josh' of the two combined, reaffirming our position as a leading D2C brand in the Indian wearable space. If done the right way, influencer and celebrity marketing can prove to be a real game-changer for D2C brands," he added.

While the perspective stands explained and the whole pool of D2C brands are vying for this route, what exactly should be the differentiator? "When it comes to reaching out to the target audience for any brand, more often than not the influencers or creators relevant for the campaign are divided across different geographies, languages and platforms. While brands are constantly on the lookout for the perfect fit of celebrity or influencer, they should not restrict their outreach in terms of platform or language barriers," says Prerna Goel, co-founder of WhizCo, an influencer and talent management platform that recently tied up with leading Indian short video app Josh for influencer management and workshop for micro and macro creators.

Asserting the significance of connecting with end consumers divided across region and language lines, she further says, "It assumes even more significance for ones that intend to make it big as D2C brand, as they cannot ignore the virtue of connecting with the consumer at a regional level, and there can be no better alternative than an engaging diverse set of creators or influencers. The reality cannot be ignored that many of these influencers have already turned into micro-celebrities at regional levels and they can impact consumers' decision at times more than a known celebrity."

(N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe can be contacted at lothungbeni.h@ians.in)

Source: IANS

The post D2C customers should crack influencer and celebrity marketing appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By IANSlife

New Delhi, Sep 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Do you want to add extra shine to your hair? Straight out of Hollywood, #GlassHair trend has been a celebrity favourite on the red carpet. Frizz? No way! Blunt ends? Definitely no! Pale colour? Nope. Instead, you'll enjoy a shiny, smooth mane as this treatment makes your hair look healthy again.

Despite its name, this hair trend isn't about using glass to style your hair, so what is glass hair? It's the art of using products to give your hair a mirrored, glass-like surface that reflects light from all angles. Whether you have a long or short bob, the gloss finish will create a halo-like effect around your face!

The colour of your locks plays a major role in getting this style just right. With Schwarzkopf Professional, you can be rest assured that you are in the best hands to achieve the #GlassyDazzle look with the new IGORA Vibrance. Versatile and elegant it ensures you get an irresistible red-carpet shine lasting up to 25 washes.

IGORA Vibrance offers a whole range of fresh looks suited for Indian hair and skin tones making it extremely versatile. The colour possibilities with their compelling hues are endless and they complement a variety of exciting styles.

Some tips from from the Schwarzkopf Professional experts to achieve the #Glasshair look with the New Igora Vibrance range are --

• For hair to shine beautifully, it needs to be in good condition and well cared for. The look will be impossible to achieve if your hair is dried out or frizzy.

• A fresh haircut also would do wonders. It's best to go for a hairstyle that is all one length since layers will cause the light to reflect differently, meaning the effect won't be as dramatic.

• Your hair washing routine should include shampoo, conditioner, and a hair treatment once a week.

• It is best to use all products from one care line, as they are optimally coordinated with each other.

• Opt for products that smooth your hair, so you'll have no flyaways ruining your silky mane always remember to apply heat protection before styling.

  Bespoke Looks

  IGORA Vibrance offers a whole range of fresh looks suited for Indian hair and skin tones making it extremely versatile. The colour possibilities with their compelling hues are endless and they complement a variety of exciting styles.

• Gold Shimmer -- a golden sheen for the hair that is luminous and bright for an effortlessly elegant look

• Pastel Expressions -- a bold, fashion-forward look replete with punchy shades and prominent placements

• Cendre Tints -- cool highlights in an otherwise understated clean look accentuated by abundant shine

• Chromatic Straight -- a classic, chic look with enhanced colour and a vibrant finish

• Amplified Blush -- a look replete with stand out, high impact shades that make for quite a statement

• Glassy Dazzle -- Exceptionally elegant, this look is all about glossy, super shiny hair that is smooth and with a reflective like finish.

  It is key to note that the colour of this unique product does not fade. Since it is ammonia-free and uses a low level of peroxide, the colour is not rendered dull but gains a new dimension after every wash making you enjoy a new look every time! Again, a perfect solution if entertaining and party-hopping keeps you busy in the festive time!

  This range is an ideal fit for today's edgy GenZ who are known to be inherently experimental and bold with their choices. Unwilling to commit to permanent hair colour, they can choose to change their hair colour as often as they want and are sure to rock the #GlassHair trend too!

  Schwarzkopf Professional hosted celebrity hair artists and industry stalwarts from the salon community to discuss the latest hair trends and happenings in the industry. The session titled "Cutting Edge Dialogues" hosted on Monday, September 27, 2021, was organized to bring together the community of hair artists and experts to highlight the trends that will be witnessed over the festive period and in the coming year.

  The intimate gathering saw some top hair masters of the industry catching up with the Schwarzkopf Professional team. Kartik Kaushik, Country Head and General Manager, Shama Dalal, Head of Marketing, Henkel Beauty Care India, Melissa Hughe, National Head of Education, India and Srinivasan Subramanium, National Sales Head were present from the Henkel Beauty Care, India team.

  Guests included Kanta Motwani & Anees -- Kromakay Salon, Savio Pereira -- SJP Salon, Ryan D'Rozario -- Muah Salon, Placid -- Placid Salon, Renne Malik -- Renne Malik Salon, Sylvia Chen -- Butterfly Pond, Natasha from Nalini & Yasmin Salon, Avani Yashwin -- Happy in the Head and Coleen Khan along with Karthik Kaushik, Country Head General Manager Henkel Beauty Care (Professional), India, Shama Dalal, Head of Marketing, Schwarzkopf Professional, were present at the event.

  Karthik Kaushik, General Manager, Schwarzkopf Professional, says, "As a beauty brand, we truly value the voice of industry masters who have shaped hairdressing in our country. Their perspective on the pulse of the market and consumer behaviour together with our state of the art assortment helps us create future-ready hair solutions for all. At Schwarzkopf Professional, we believe in offering hair transformation solutions inspired by and for all artistic talent. This is one of many more to come from our popular Cutting Edge Dialogue series -- with hair experts. We endeavour to continue offering the finest with the support of our salon partners and customers."

  Shama Dalal, Head of Marketing Schwarzkopf Professional India, said, "Schwarzkopf Professional has always been a front-runner when introducing cutting-edge, technologically advanced products and also a trendsetter in hair colour and styling. We are truly honoured to have some great salons and hairdressers in the country associated with the Schwarzkopf family who share the same passion for haircare as we do. The session was truly insightful and interesting, and we look forward to hosting such events in the future as well."

  (IANSlife Features can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS

The post #GlassHair effortlessly appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

New Delhi, Sep 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) There are quite a few difficulties when it comes to designing, and afterwards, there's sorting out some way to adorn a studio apartment. How would you fit the lounge, kitchen, and bedroom into one room and still have space to move around? Enriching a small place requires a bit greater resourcefulness, arranging, and altering, but the outcome is certainly worth the additional effort.

Look at the following design tricks by Raghunandan Saraf, Founder and CEO, Saraf Furniture, to redo your small space smartly:

Plan out Bookshelf as room divider:

Studio apartments generally offer limited space for basic planning and designing. One good way of utilising the space could be smartly using a bookshelf as an interface between two spaces. This will help to utilise the space better.

Transform bed into a daybed:

In case you're lacking in space, you can transform your bed into a daybed. This would permit you to utilize your bed as a sofa during the day to make additional seating alternatives in your studio. This is a good way to maximise limited space.

Add a Signature Wall:

Making a signature wall in a little studio is an incredible method to make some visual interest. Make use of an intense, unique backdrop to characterize the space in the room. The signature wall will easily encompass the small space with a better view.

Make use of Every Corner:

Try fitting in some accessories while redoing the apartment. Bring in some unique chairs in one corner while lighting up the other with lamps and other lightings. Corners help define the space with a structure.

Incorporated Soft Interiors:

Add pastel and soft-hued interiors. Since it reflects light, it makes the space look bigger. Incorporate the colour in your bedsheets and wallpaper as well. Lighter tones visibly make you feel the change.

In a small apartment, it's a good idea to pick some multi-purpose furniture pieces. Don't simply pick a bed -- observe one to be that has implicit storage under it. On the off chance that you don't have space for a feasting table, pick a footstool that is large enough for you to sit at when you have your suppers. Try investing in these simple yet quality hacks while redoing your small apartment to get that smart look.

(IANSlife Features can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS

The post Decorate your apartment smartly appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By Mahua Venkatesh

The World Bank said the shock of the Covid 19 wave caused the economy to contract by 2.6 per cent in the first quarter of 2021, following a 6.1 per cent drop in GDP in 2020--one of the steepest contractions among Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states.

While the official unemployment rate has remained at 2 per cent in the first quarter of 2021, up from 1 per cent in the first quarter of 2020, it does not present the real picture, an analyst told India Narrative.

"A very large part of the workforce is in the unorganised sector, the data of which is not captured in the official employment figure, the unemployment scenario is alarming to say the least," he said.

Joblessness has also pushed suicide rates in Thailand. Consider this. Even prior to the pandemic, Thailand had the highest rate of suicide among Southeast Asian nations, the Daily Telegraph noted.

But Covid blues have made things worse.

Quoting statistics provided by the country's Ministry of Health, the newspaper said that the rate of suicide had already been increasing year-on-year in Thailand pre-pandemic, but during Covid-19, the figure leapt by 11 per cent from 2019 to the end of 2020.

Desperate citizens have also resorted to stealing, reports said.

According to WalkthroughIndia, India was the 7th most foreign tourist revenue generating country for Thailand and Bangkok was the most frequently visited by international tourists along with Pattaya, Phuket and Krabi.

"The face of Thailand has changed, the country known for its vibrant beach towns now presents a ghost-like situation. While the Thai government has now started allowing tourists to come, people are not keen to visit due to the tight restrictions and also because the place does not anymore appeal to tourists as they wear a deserted and glum look," an executive with Make My Trip told India Narrative.

Thailand's loss has been Maldives' gain. Indian tourists looking for international destinations opted for an "upmarket" Maldives as most other countries closed their doors. According to Maldivian government, Indians accounted for 23 per cent of the overall tourist arrival.

Nikkei Asia in a report pointed out that Covid-19 has only exposed how Thailand had become over-reliant on tourism for creating jobs and economic growth.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com)

--indianarrative

( 464 Words)

2021-09-27-14:15:04
Source: IANS

The post Thailand’s battered tourism sector big blow to economy, pushes suicide rates appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

New Delhi, Sep 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) India is a land of different cultures and traditions where festivals play an important role in bringing people closer. The contagious festive spirit witnesses a surge of a different level as soon as the month of October and November approach and the incredible diversity of the country can be seen in the wide array of religious and cultural festivals, celebrated differently all across the nation.

However, amid all the fun and enjoyment, festivals are also the time when people overindulge in different delicacies which can lead to weight gain and other issues. Thankfully, there are plenty of healthy alternatives which can help your maintain your health goals.

Sushma P S, Chief Dietician -- Jindal Naturecure Institute, Bengaluru, shares few easy recipes to keep in mind:

SATTU LADDU

1 serving = 80Kcal = 1 person

Ingredients:

• Sattu powder (Barley Powder: Roasted

• Kala Channa Powder; 1:2): 200gms

• Organic Jaggery: 150gms

• Elaichi Powder: 1tsp

• Refined Sunflower Oil: 60ml

• Seasame seed Roasted: 1tbsp

  Method:

• Heat the pan and add Sattu powder

• Roast till it's brown

• When it is done, add organic jaggery to the Sattu mixture along with Elaichi powder and oil for binding

• Make the mixture into round shapes and coat them with sesame seeds

  SPROUTS DAHI VADA

  1 serving = 120Kcal = 2 persons

  Ingredients:

• Moong/ mixed sprouts: 100gms

• Onion : 1 chopped

• Coriander leaves: few chopped

• Chilli powder: 1/2 tsp

• Dhania powder: 1/2 tsp

• Salt: to taste

• Chutney

• Tamarind and dates chutney; green coriander chutney

  For Dahi Vada:

• Thick curd: 1cup

• Urad dhal: 100gms

• Salt: 1 pinch

  Method:

  For Dahi Vada:

• Soak urad dal and grind it to a fine paste

• Make the batter into small vadas

• Steam the vada stuffed with sprouts

• Dip this steamed vadas in curd and garnish with the above ingredients and chutney

  CHATPATI CUTNEY

  1serving=10gm=15Kcal

  Ingredients:

• Green capsicum- 2 nos

• Onion (chopped) - 1 nos

• Ginger -2 tsp

• Tamarind-50 gm

• Salt & Green chilli - to taste

  Method:

• Steam capsicum, onion, ginger, tamarind juice

• Then add the other ingredients to it

• Grind them together into a fine paste

  GREEN VEGETABLE PANCAKES

  1 serving = 90Kcal = 1 person

  Ingredients:

• Wheat flour: 100gms

• Besan: 50gms

• Methi and Palak leaves: 150gms

• Tomato: 20gms

• Green chillies: 1 no

• Onion: 2 nos

• Garlic: 4 cloves

  Method:

  Mix all the ingredients and make them into small pancakes

  OATS PORRIDGE

  1 serving = 100gm = 95Kcal

  Ingredients:

• Oats: 200g

• Flax seeds powder: 10gms

• Sunflower seeds powder: 10gms

• Salt and pepper: to taste

• Sesame Seeds (white): 1/2 tsp

• Water -1/2 litre

  Method:

• Cook the oats with the ingredients in water for 20 minutes and serve.

  APPLE CAKE

  1 serving = 120Kcal = 1 person

  Ingredients:

• Whole wheat flour: 2cups

• Cinnamon powder: 1/2 tsp

• Jaggery: 1/2 cup

• Chopped apple: 1cup

• Nuts chopped: 1/4 cup

  Method:

• Mix all the above ingredients and bake at 175?c for 45 minutes.

  BARLEY & VEGETABLE SOUP

  1 serving = 145Kcal = 100 ml

  Ingredients:

• Barley: 50 gm

• Spring onion: 2 nos

• Salt and Pepper: to taste

• Vegetable Stock: 1/2 litre

• Chopped Vegetables: 50 gm

  Method:

• Soak the barley for more than four hours

• Cook the barley and make it into a paste

• Add stock spring onion

• Add salt and pepper and boil again

• Add chopped vegetables and serve hot

  (N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe can be contacted at lothungbeni.h@ians.in)

Source: IANS

The post Healthy alternatives for the festive season appeared first on Social News XYZ.

New Delhi, Sep 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) In a bid to make the festive season more exciting, India's most trusted smartphone brand itel announced that it has entered into home audio category with the launch of four new soundbars in the country.

Exclusively available on Amazon, the new line-up of itel soundbars caters to the ever-growing demand of at-home entertainment and the aspirations of audio enthusiasts, delivering dynamic sound output through advanced features.

itel has introduced India's first soundbar -- XE-SB1040 WL -- with a 25.4 cm wireless woofer raising the bar of immersive home entertainment.

All the four models -- itel XE-SB505, itel XE-SB515, XE-SB625 WL and XE-SB1040 WL are available for Rs 3899, Rs 6499, Rs 7999 and Rs 10,999, respectively, on Amazon.

"The need for immersive home entertainment has taken a center stage with enormous demand for premium audio products to elevate the audio experience," Arijeet Talapatra, CEO, TRANSSION India, said in a statement.

"In India, the OTT market is estimated to reach about $15 billion by 2030. This fuels the demand for home audio solutions to empower the aspirers and millennials in Tier 2 and below towns," Talapatra added.

With rising OTT consumption, there has been a surge in the demand for cinematic audio systems at home that improve the home entertainment experience for consumers.

Addressing this demand, the new itel Soundbar range comes with an array of technologically advanced features such as digital signal processing (DSP), deep bass woofers, multiple connectivity options including HDMI-ARC, FM, Bluetooth, USB and much more.

The foray into the home audio entertainment segment once again reiterates the brand positioning of 'itel hai. Life sahi hai' and the singular objective of 'democratising technology for masses'.

"Our latest soundbar range fulfills the aspirations of music enthusiasts and cinema lovers who are looking for a high-quality and immersive sound experience from the comfort of their homes," Talapatra said.

"We are excited to foray into the home audio category with a competitive range of soundbars including India's first Soundbar with a 25.4 cm wireless woofer. We are confident that our latest offerings will be another feather of success for itel in India," he added.

It is worth highlighting that itel's in-depth understanding of consumer demands and aspirations has helped the brand to secure the number 1 position in the feature phones and sub-6K-smartphone segment.

The wide variety of itel product categories backed with an innovation-led technologically advanced product portfolio under the affordable price point has kept the growth trajectory flourishing for itel.

With this latest portfolio expansion, itel once again reinstates its commitment towards providing consumers with superior technology features at an affordable price point.

Experience superior sound for home entertainment:

itel XE-SB505 soundbar: This entry-level soundbar delivers 35W sound output amplifying the audio experience of a TV. The 12.7 cm (5) wired woofer provides punching bass and the four speaker design caters to the aspiration of enhanced audio even in compact rooms. With seamless Bluetooth, AUX and USB connectivity, it is very easy to connect the device with most phones, tablets, or music devices. For music lovers, the soundbar is also equipped with FM Radio and an SD card feature. The wall-mountable Soundbar becomes a stylish addition to the room owing to its wooden finish and trendy looks.

itel XE-SB515 soundbar: This fully loaded model by itel delivers 80W crystal clear sound output owing to the DSP that further refines audio signals. Its 13.3 cm (5.25) wired subwoofer delivers deep bass enhancing the overall sound quality. Multiple connectivity options such as HDMI-ARC, Bluetooth, AUX, USB, Optical Input and SD Card access make it a complete package for a user looking at upgrading their home entertainment experience. Moreover, the slim and sleek design gives it a premium look.

itel XE-SB625 WL soundbar: Enter a new dimension of refined acoustics with this powerful 120W Soundbar. The 16.5 cm (6.5) woofer delivers strong bass and convenience owing to its wireless design. The sound clarity is enhanced further by the DSP providing a cinematic experience. For connectivity, you get to choose between Bluetooth, HDMI-ARC, AUX, USB, SD card and Optical Input. The premium metallic finish of the soundbar becomes a sophisticated addition to the overall room aesthetics. The device also comes with a remote control which makes it easy to control the soundbars features and sound levels.

itel XE-SB1040 WL soundbar: Packing 170W audio power, this powerful device is India's first soundbar with a 25.4 cm (10) wireless woofer. The power output is supplemented by the thumping bass of the elegantly designed subwoofer that comes in a compact side table design, fitting perfectly in the Indian living room arrangement. With DSP, the soundbar enables a clear and rich sound output while multiple connectivity options such as H-ARC, Bluetooth, AUX, USB, SD card and Optical Input makes it compatible with most devices. A true work of art, the contemporary arc design beautifully enhances the look of your entertainment system.

All the soundbars can be controlled by a remote, so you don't have to get up to change the settings.

Source: IANS

The post itel forays into home audio category, unveils four new soundbars in India appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

New Delhi, Sep 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) On a fashion note GenZ's style trend has been all about trendy, simple and functional, it bridges the gap between comfort and fun.

Bollywood's youth icon, Shanaya Kapoor who joins the #LabelSquad as the face for Label Ritu Kumar said, "Label Ritu Kumar is the epitome of being spontaneous and stylish mixed with a little fun and embraces my edgy yet carefree vibe extremely well. It's all about being comfortable in your own skin and that's what I believe in most. I'm very grateful and super excited to be the face of the brand!"

Amrish Kumar, Managing and Creative Director, Label Ritu Kumar and Shanaya Kapoor reveal more:

Q: Your go-to style while you twirl and sway to beats?

Shanaya Kapoor: The collection is very fun and really reflects my vibe, but if I had to pick one piece, it would be the black dress. Everyone needs that perfect LBD in their wardrobe and this sequined dress is very chic for going out yet comfortable enough to dance in all night!

Q: #JustDanceWithLabel; what's the inspiration behind the collaboration with the brand?

Amrish Kumar: LABEL Ritu Kumar, for us, embodies individuality and attitude. The collection has a young, bold, global personality. Dance and fashion are both art forms for individuals to express themselves and showcase their personalities. Collaborating with Shanaya was effortless -- her infectious personality shines through and conveys the Label philosophy.

Q: What is the unique design elements in this collection?

Amrish Kumar: Our new collection marks the first athleisure collection from Label Ritu Kumar with co-ords sets being introduced as a part of our core collection. For the colder months, we have printed puffer jackets, another first. The collection is functional and on-trend, ideal for those seeking to elevate their wardrobe with a contemporary touch.

Q: Do you think fashion is moving towards a more season-less approach?

Amrish Kumar: With the onset of the pandemic, individuals have become increasingly aware of how they invest. People want to buy pieces that are timeless and last in their wardrobe and are not governed by transient trends. We are moving to a world where the core of one's wardrobe is set to remain constant, with fun accessories and weather-governed garments being added in accordance with the season.

Q: What is your take on responsible fashion?

Amrish Kumar: Responsible fashion has always been central to the Ritu Kumar ethos, we have always kept the art and the artisan at the heart of everything we create. For fashion to be responsible, the entire lifecycle of the garment needs careful consideration, from the manufacturing to the ultimate disposal of the garment. The idea is to not be polluting, manufacture ethically and source sustainably. The responsibility lies both with the manufacturer and the consumer -- the two need to come together to drive real change in the fashion industry.

(N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe can be contacted at lothungbeni.h@ians.in)

Source: IANS

The post Shanaya Kapoor joins Ritu Kumar’s squad appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By IANSlife

New Delhi, Sep 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) The works in "The Porcelain Rose" are a space of folly. All flora and fauna are juxtaposed with each other in unlikely and improbable combinations, in which they cannot possibly exist. As opposed to the forest that abides by the natural order, the works here are rife with illogic, unreason and contrariness.

The exhibition showcasing a new body of work by artist Paula Sengupta opens at 'Gallery Espace' virtually today, and will be on view until October 24, 2021, on the gallery website. It includes drawings which speak of Paula's continuing engagement with chintz, digital photo prints and animation, a medium she works in for the first time.

"Every work conjures a space of fantasy and inevitable folly. Much of the smaller reptilian and cacti-like flora and fauna drift into this series from the earlier body of work in 'Of herbariums, hortoriums and home', exhibited in 2018. Observed mostly from a visit to the Udawallawe National Park in Sri Lanka on a visit in October 2018, visits to the Yala and Wilpattu Sanctuaries in Sri Lanka, as also another visit to Tanzania remain derailed due to the ongoing pandemic," notes Paula Sengupta.

"The Porcelain Rose" dedicated to Chintz, "chintz" derived from the Hindi word "chheet" is a common printed cotton textile popularly used across the Indian Subcontinent. Chintz was originally a woodblock printed, painted or stained calico produced in India from 1600 to 1800. Around 1600, Portuguese and Dutch traders were bringing examples of Indian chintz into Europe on a small scale, but the English and French merchants began sending large quantities. By 1680, more than a million pieces of chintz were being imported into England per year, and a similar quantity was going to France and the Dutch Republic.

"The porcelain rose or Etlingera elatior, a succulent plant indigenous to regions with tropical climate, does indeed encapsulate the essence of Sengupta's most recent project in many ways. A native of the Southeast Asian humid rainforests, it is also found in the equatorial regions of Africa. The genus is named after 18th century German botanist Andreas Ernst Etlinger, reflecting a well-established strategy of colonial nomenclature. The interregional associations of the plant are further enhanced by the evocation of porcelain-specialized pottery integral to Chinese art history. Furthermore, this flower embodies a duality: its awe-inspiring appearance combines with the fragility of porcelain. This contradiction enmeshed with interregional travels and colonial histories constitutes the core of Sengupta's venture, offering a middle ground between organization and chaos, visuality and abstraction, unravelling and camouflage," says Rajarshi Sengupta, academician, practitioner and art historian in his essay on "The Porcelain Rose".

Trained as a traditional printmaker, Paula's repertoire as an artist includes broadsheets, artist's books, objects, installation-performance work, and community art projects. She works across mediums that include printmaking, textiles and embroidery, papermaking, and much else.

You can view the exhibition online at www.galleryespace.com

(IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS

The post A virtual exhibition dedicated to Chintz appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By IANSlife

New Delhi, Sep 25 (SocialNews.XYZ) Escaping into greener environs has been interesting in people for many years but has piqued thanks to the pandemic. Add to that the emerging desire to be truly transported to own a holiday home at a comfortable driving distance from your city home, usually nestled in some exotic location, and you have in place the plot on which rests The Venya, a symphony of experiences, architecture and cultures that harmoniously blends social responsibility with technology-driven living.

Simply put, The Venya answers your desire to recess in peace and also fractionally own a second home in a verdant region, all while helping you make profits from your dream home. It has handpicked an array of beautiful locations with homes designed to complement the natural beauty of its surroundings supported by intelligent technology to redefine the standards of experiences.

Ensuring each home is perfection personified in its design, exclusivity, location, views and transformational experience, the project has laid the foundation stone with Jalna, a cosy hamlet in the Almora district of Kumaon in Uttarakhand.

With its brand philosophy of care, creation and collaboration, it aims to deliver the promise of sustainable, refined living. An amalgamation of environment-friendly design and world-class services they hold the promise of an intimate, luxurious experience. Privy to the most beautiful Himalayan views, The Venya at Jalna is envisaged as an estate development with luxury residential homes that goes beyond one's imagination and provides the finest epicurean hospitality experiences.

Nestled amidst deodar trees and a lush natural landscape, this boutique property is like a home-stay meets boutique escape for those who prefer a simple, hassle-free but luxuriously comfortable escape. From panoramic Himalayan views to energetic life-transforming activities, Uttarakhand has plenty to offer to all types of travellers and sun-seekers.

Research shows that luxury consumption has shifted away from goods and towards experiences such as travel and gastronomy, which grew faster than luxury goods. In tandem with less ostentation, trends also show that luxury consumers seek higher spiritual and emotional motives such as the need for inner fulfilment, creativity, self-esteem, belonging and contentedness, thus driving the desire to travel. Consequently, an increasingly important aspect of luxury travel is wellness as travellers accompany their traditional holidays with meditation, yoga, fitness and spa services. Catering for such needs it shares a vision of creating a community of like-minded people who link travel to ecology and want to go for escapes that feel Zen-like.

Personalisation is at the heart of the brand, which seeks to offer customised experiences for consumers, particularly appreciated by luxury travellers. Committed to the ecology, the eight well-heeled villas at Jalna will be solar powered for operations while the management proposes to give live updates to guests for each property on how much their stay is helping the environment.

The creative team blends local produce with global flavours inviting celebrated chefs to create a venerable gastronomic experience. Their intent is also to relook at wellness luxury from a 6th sense that digs deeper into your mind, body and soul.

(IANSlife Features can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS

The post A sustainable luxury travel & hospitality company launches appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By IANSlife

New Delhi, Sep 25 (SocialNews.XYZ) Rasa Siddhi, a collective of artists which aims to promote Indian classical music and art forms in association with The Pink Lotus Academia, an online and offline tutorial platform focused on Indian classical art forms and yoga, organizes "Swaradhyay" workshops to revive the traditional culture of Baithak, for over a year. Swaradhyay is organized by "Rasa Siddhi '', a promotion of Indian Classical music organisation dedicated to honouring eminent musicians late Pt. Nikhil Bannerji and the late Shri Prashant Thakur.

"Rasa Siddhi" is a collective of Sitar artists led by Shri Soumitra Thakur, which aims to reintroduce the historic culture of Baithak singing back to the larger public's eye. With the 4th edition of Swaradhyay scheduled on 2nd October 2021, the organization is set to celebrate the musical mastery of gifted performer Sowmya Gurucharan.

Music is celebrated and revered for not only being entertaining but highly meditative. That art connects people irrespective of societal divides and backgrounds is a well-known fact. Swaradhyay espouses this celebration of art in a baithak presentation, where both the artist and the audiences participate in an intimate emotional exchange and interact on a common platform. Such a tradition, away from the current culture of stage performances in auditoriums, adds a personal touch to the participants' experiences and is exactly what Swaradhyay endeavours to bring to life.

Rasa Siddhi is a collective that aims to promote The Indian Classical music and Arts forms honouring eminent musicians Late Pandit Nikhil Banerjee and Late Shri Prashant Thakur. It is a registered trust under the norms of the Government of India which comprises many students and artists of Indian Classical music. It is led by a protegee Sitarist Shri Soumitra Thakur. The trust was established in the year 2019.

Music invokes various emotions and feelings which is where the name of the organisation comes in. There is a concept of Navarasa in Indian classical form, so through this, we try to bring out the emotions deep-seated in you. It organises a type of music gathering Baithak or Chamber style which means there is a closed interaction and limited audience. The artist and audience interact with each other and become part of the performance. As compared to large audience concerts which lack the personal touch, Baithak style is more personalised and interactive.

This type of music was popular until the amplification of sound began, and aims to do things in a little more traditional way.

Music is celebrated and revered for not only being entertaining but highly meditative. Art connects people irrespective of societal divides and backgrounds. Swaradhyay espouses this celebration of art in a Baithak presentation.

The last three editions of Swaradhyay received tremendous appreciation with a footfall of over 150 members, including senior artists and musicians, in each of the Baithaks.

(The Swaradhyay workshop and the concert will be held on Oct 2, 2021 at 7.30 p.m., at The Pink Lotus Academia in GK II, New Delhi, with all due safety protocols.)

(IANSlife Features can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS

The post Fourth edition of Baithak Series ‘Swaradhyay’ appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By IANSlife

New Delhi, Sep 24 (SocialNews.XYZ) Maserati has a long-standing practice of naming its cars after the world's most famous winds. It all started in 1963, with the legendary Mistral. This was followed by Ghibli, Bora, and Khamsin. In 2016 Levante, the Brand's first SUV.

An explosion of colours anticipates the power of a new breeze, as Maserati announces the date of the Global Premiere of Grecale, November 16 in Milano. Grecale is a wind that turns the every day into something exceptional and will blow across the Maserati range. The countdown to the discovery of the new model bearing the name of an intense, revolutionary and exceptional wind has officially begun. Grecale, will play a key role for the Brand and transform an everyday driving experience into something outstanding and extraordinary.

(IANSlife Features can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS

The post New Maserati Grecale to premiere globally appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By IANSlife

New Delhi, Sep 24 (SocialNews.XYZ) When you think of the colours on your plate, do you ever think of black? Well, its time you do! As they are the new power food. We all know greens, yellows and reds are loaded with nutrients -- so are the lesser spoken about black ones too!

What are black foods? Foods with the pigments called anthocyanins are known as black foods. Anthocyanins are found in black, blue and purple coloured foods and have hidden nutrients and benefits galore. These pigments have rich anti-oxidant properties which promote health and have the potential to reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease and stroke. They play a huge role in immunity. They are fun, healthy, offbeat and make for a nice visual treat too.

Abhilasha V, HOD and Chief Clinical Nutritionist -- Cloudnine group of hospitals, Bengaluru, few interesting ones and their benefits:

Black Rice

Cultivated in South East Asian belt, this rice has a nutty flavour and can be used in many recipes. In China this was known as the Forbidden rice in ancient times as it was reserved for only royalty. Now, some parts of north East India grow black rice too. They are loaded with lutien and zeaxanthin and promote good eye health. They have cancer fighting properties due to their high anti-oxidant and fiber content. They can be used in puddings, stir fries, risotto, porridge, noodles, bread and even makes a great idea for a good kheer!

Black Dal

A closer to home surprise! Indians have used black dal since ages. They are used as gravies and in mixed dal preparations. They are rich in fibre, iron, folate and protein and can be quite delicious too.

Black Olives

With the western influence on our eating habits, it has brought along a long list of good foods. Olives are one of them and they are versatile in their flavour. They can be added to salads, pastas, stir fries and some pickles and drinks too. Olives contain monounsaturated fats, Vitamin E, Polyphenols and oleocanthal -- which is a strong anti-inflammatory and pain-killer compound found in olives. This little power-packed food can protect your arteries from clogging, maintain eye health, prevent DNA damage, promote good skin health and also hair health.

Black sesame seeds

Commonly known as Til, they come with a huge bunch of benefits, loaded with fibre, protein, magnesium, potassium, iron, calcim, zinc, copper, selenium and Vitamin E. It also contains sesamin, which helps reduce inflammation and plays a vital role in joint pain. Yes! All of that in a daily allowance of 1-2 teaspoons can do wonders for your health. They can be used in salads as garnish, in laddoos, in breads, smoothies, soups, hummus, dips and even tahini. They can be consumed soaked, sprouted, baked or roasted too.

Black grapes

Known for their sweet taste and popular flavour, black grapes are a favourite for many. This seasonal fruit has a host of benefits to give us. Black grapes contain Lutein, Zeaxanthin which prevents retinal damage and macular degeneration. Resveratrol in grapes are known to have anti-cancer properties and have a huge protective effect on cardiac health by lowering LDL levels too. Proanthocyanidins present in this fruit has great benefits for skin health too. Use these grapes in salads, smoothies, jams, and even good old curd rice!

Black Garlic

Yes you heard that right. Well these aren't naturally found, but develop this colour due to a process that turns them black and used widely in Asian cuisine. It is regular white garlic that has been fermented or aged. It possesses a caramelized, savoury richness that adds flavour to stir fries, meat bakes, rice and noodles preparations and soups too. These have properties that prevent cell damage and hence protect us from cancers. Black garlic contains more anti-oxidants [almost 2X] than its white counterpart.So why wait -add them in small doses into your meals and let your health thrive.

• Advantages: As mentioned above they come with a host of benefits such as anti-cancer, anti-ageing, good for eye, heart, skin and hair health too.

• Disadvantages: Nothing in particular. There are no real toxicities associated with these foods that are reported and are considered generally safe, but always do remember, too much of anything is not the rule in nutrition.

• Points to remember: Always ensure you have a balanced diet that contains all food groups, myriad colours, nutrients and varieties -- choose in moderation and build them into your daily meal plan with the help of a nutritionist.

  (IANSlife Features can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS

The post Black foods are the new super-food appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

New Delhi, Sep 24 (SocialNews.XYZ) The festive season is a time of joy. Some people truly love it, but for many, it can trigger feelings of loneliness and anxiety. Feeling lonely is common and completely normal -- whether or not we're living through this pandemic. The social pressure to "be happy" can be relentless, but it is important to take a proactive approach to meet not only our emotional needs but also to maintain our mental stability and well-being. With the pandemic, holidays are likely to be challenging, instead, meet them head-on with a renewed dedication and a proactive mindset to avoid 'holiday blues'.

Kanchan Rai, Mental and Emotional Well-being Coach, Founder, Let Us Talk, mentions ways to turn your loneliness into action this season:

Say yes to socializing: When we are experiencing loneliness, it can be easy to slip into the habit of saying no to social activities. Seclusion can make it challenging to feel driven and the mere thought of physically seeing people can lead to stress. Hence it is recommended to saying yes to mingling to help build your confidence. Something as simple as going for a walk with a friend or chatting with your loved ones over the phone can make a huge difference.

Devote your time to others: An effective way to beat loneliness amidst the holidays is by helping others who are less fortunate. The good cause will remind you of all you have to be appreciative for. This will help you to be a part of something larger, thus immersing yourself in the true spirit of the holiday season.

Make the most of technology: For those with distant loved ones, technology can prove to be an enabler in helping to keep family traditions alive. For instance, celebrate the festive cheer virtually or opening festive gifts on video calls amidst all family members. Taking a moment to network with someone, communicating about shared interests or fond memories, even if it's online, can play a major role in reminding us of the good times.

Get distracted with healthy coping strategies: Distraction can be useful when it's done with the intention of proactively giving yourself a break. For instance, it is recommended to watch a movie to take your mind off stressful thoughts instead of drinking many glasses of wine to forget aloofness. Taking a break will help prevent burnout and will enable you to deal with problems better.

Don't be afraid to speak up: Confiding in reliable friends or relatives about how you feel can often lift the weight off your shoulders, thus making you feel less isolated. It can also be helpful to consult your counsellor if the seasonal isolation has been impacting your emotional well-being. Counselling can help in building your confidence and will facilitate you to discover coping strategies to process any issue.

(N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe can be contacted at lothungbeni.h@ians.in)

Source: IANS

The post Turn loneliness into action this festive season appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By Nazneen Jehangir

New Delhi, Sep 24 (SocialNews.XYZ) With the festive season right around the corner, get set to open your doors to friends and family after months and months of social distancing. Nothing dresses up a space quite like flowers, they're formal yet inviting, and can be dressed up or down keeping the occasion in mind. Here's a list of the top flower trends to try out in the coming months:

Foraged or Dried Flowers

Food Photographer | Jennifer Pallian

Dried foraged flowers are the big hit of 2021. Trends forecast two methods of using dried flowers -- either in bud and head form in a bowl as potpourri or as dried full flowers, branches and even using foraged items like feathers, leaf skeletons and the like.

Bespoke arrangements

Cody Chan

Ready arrangements are being replaced in favour of personalised bouquets wherein the customer chooses the pattern, container and variety of blooms themselves. People are more inclined to make their own 'creation' based on their individual tastes, lifestyle and fragrance than ever before. There seems to be a growing awareness of knowledge of flowers and also on the meaning/symbolism of each flower whilst making a purchase -- especially when the arrangement is being gifted.

Flower Subscriptions

Leonsa

There are several floral businesses online that are offering flower subscriptions to customers on a weekly or monthly basis to their residence or office either as loose stems or in a vase as a ready to use arrangement. Clients seem to prefer subscriptions to save time and effort and usually the agency will offer a better rate on a subscription than on retail. Customers give their personal preferences and an agreement is reached based on atmospheric conditions like AC or no AC, if housekeeping is available, arrangement size etc.

Sustainable purchases

J K

Sustainability is -- rightfully so -- a major topic of interest currently. People are more aware about reducing their carbon footprint and as a result customers prefer florists that offer sustainable flowers and foam free options. Sustainable flowers are still mass produced but are much more efficient at conserving the resources utilised and also tend to veer much more to using in season and localised produce.

Greens and Biophilic design

Jessica Arends

Covid has certainly left us all longing for more of the outdoors. This has filtered its way to the Biophilic trend where arrangements try to mimic natural designs. There is a lot less structure, a lot more use of greens and "wildflowers" rather than carefully placed greenhouse varieties.

(Nazneen Jehangir, Founder, Libellule. IANSlife Features can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS

The post Top flower trends for festive season appeared first on Social News XYZ.

By IANSlife

New Delhi, Sep 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) There has been a growing demand of wearable devices in India, and Noise, an Indian connected lifestyle brand, has been catering to this slowly becoming a leader on the category. The brand has ropes in actress Taapsee Pannu to headline its next campaign in the smart wearable category.

Commenting on the association, Taapsee Pannu said, "I am glad to be a part of Noise's journey. Not only that my profession demand but, I personally also follow a stringent fitness regime. I constantly strive to accomplish new fitness goals every day to be ahead in the game, likewise Noise. I have witnessed that more than ever, people are now conscious of the thriving fitness significance. Noise's smartwatches act as the health pattern that consistently helps me to connect with my true self."

Gaurav Khatri, Co-Founder, Noise said 'We are excited to welcome Taapsee Pannu on board in our journey to offer fitness gadgets to the Noisemakers. Our products are carefully designed keeping in mind the requirements of fitness and lifestyle enthusiasts who listen to their "dil ka shor" and dare to carve a new path. Taapsee resonates with the core of our brand's vision to inspire generations for a healthier today and tomorrow. She has been earning hearts with her award-winning performances and challenging roles. Noise's smartwatches and Taapsee, both motivate individuals to take up new challenges every day. With her strong persona and our commitment to offering unparalleled experience, we want to strengthen the trust of Noisemakers.'

Taapsee will be a part of Noise's campaigns in which she will be witnessed promoting a plethora of smartwatches including its upcoming launch - ColorFit Brio. Noise has been leading the industry for the past five consecutive quarters. According to the latest release by International Data Corporation's (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Wearable Device Tracker, Q2 2021, the brand is India's No1. Wearable Watch brand and leads the market with a considerable share of 28.6 percent in 2Q21 based on unit shipment.

With this announcement, the brand aims to reinforce its positioning as the leading homegrown smartwatch brand and liaison a deeper connection with fitness enthusiasts and millennials.

(IANSlife Features can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS

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By Purvi Rohit Pugalia

New Delhi, Sep 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) As ironic as it may sound, dressing up for work is a subtle combination of 'fitting in' while 'standing out'. Power dressing at the workplace creates an everlasting impression and helps cut through the clutter. Moreover, the outfit you wear also provides a way of freely expressing your personal style and being your expressive best at work.

A certain level of refinement is always expected at the workplace that neither makes you look pedestrian nor avant-garde.

So be it baseline casuals or boardroom attire, here is your guide to power dressing with just the right ingredients::

Attention to Detail Is Paramount: Right to the very last detail, the more attention you pay to your workwear outfit, the more it becomes your own. So go on, pick the one that goes best with your personality and suits your body just right from a variety of stylish shirts for women, and complement it with the right formal blazer for women, stylish trousers for women & fashion accessories.

Dress to Express: A key purpose of power dressing is to ensure that you get to be your expressive best. If that means breaking away from the status quo for workwear apparel, then why not? Because at the end of the day, your workwear must get you to be your bold and confident best above anything else.

Don't Be Afraid to Experiment with Colours: Gone are the days where workwear had to be mundane, dull and boring. Workwear today is all about experimenting and trying on different colours.

Keep Playing Around With Styles: Regardless of you having an easy or a strict dress code, always aim at adding variety and personality to your outfit. Try mixing and matching different tops and bottoms that suit your body just right and overcome the old fashion staple.

Accessorise Your Look: The right accessories go a long way to amp up your everyday workwear look. Another important tip is to go for multipurpose accessories over functional ones since their versatility opens up a variety of styling options for your workwear look.

Develop a Routine That Inspires: One thing about power dressing at work is that it's inspiringly infectious. Meaning when you decide to go the extra mile by paying greater attention to detail to your office work clothes, it's very likely that your co-workers will do the same too eventually, if not immediately.

In conclusion, power dressing is nothing short of an art form, which when practised diligently can get you to be the boldest, confident & expressive version of yourself.

(Purvi Rohit Pugalia, Co-Founder-Not So Pink. IANSlife Features can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Sep 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) With an aim to strengthen its smartphone portfolio, itel, India's most trusted smartphone brand, on Wednesday launched a new smartphone under A-series -- itel A26 -- ahead of the festive season in India at Rs 5,999.

itel A26 is a value for money smartphone as it can fulfil all the aspirations of a technology enthusiast, ranging from entertainment with a big HD+ waterdrop display, (Fluidic) experience with 2GB RAM and powerful battery, advanced security with smart face-unlock and high-definition photography experience.

"To fulfill the digital requirements of the masses and providing them with next-gen technology in the new world order, itel A26 will stand as a category disruptor that will democratise technology for the masses and redefine the overall smartphone experience by being the perfect choice for an entry-level smartphone user," Arijeet Talapatra, CEO, TRANSSION India, said in a statement.

The new smartphone is also equipped with a special Social Turbo feature from itel, which includes WhatsApp call recording, peek mode, call alert, and status save.

The smartphone also comes with a service assurance of a One Time Screen Replacement offer where consumers can avail free one-time screen replacement of a broken screen within 100 days of purchase.

Designed with superior features for tier 2 and below markets, itel A26 comes as a magical package with super trendy features that will provide all-round experience to the consumers at an affordable price point.

The smartphone is clad with a 5.7-inch HD+ IPS waterdrop display providing users with the best quality image. It is further adorned with 1520*720 HD+ display resolution for immersive and brighter video viewing with an aspect ratio of 19:9.

"itel A26 is a perfect amalgamation of superior design and innovative technology that is crafted with sheer perfection for users in the sub 6K segment," Talapatra said.

"We are highly optimistic that our latest addition will empower the consumers with seamless smartphone experience and will also help in meeting their digital needs available at an ultra-affordable price point,a he added.

Packed with a sleek and luxe design, itel A26 runs on the latest Android 10 (Go Edition) and is powered with a 1.4GHz quad-core processor for seamless multitasking functionality.

In terms of memory configurations, the phone comes with 2GB RAM and 32GB ROM, expandable memory up to 128GB. On the battery front, A26 is powered by a 3020mAh powerful battery so you can watch HD videos without having to stop for a charge.

The phone also comes with advanced security features like fast face unlock for seamless and easy unlock functionality.

itel A26 comes equipped with a dual 5MP AI+ VGA camera and a 2MP selfie camera for better picture quality, adding to the premium look and feel of the phone. The rear and the selfie camera captures the image with high-definition imaging capabilities ensuring bright and clear images, even in dim and almost no light areas.

It comes equipped with multiple camera effects like portrait mode, beauty mode, etc that will add professional tone to the image with utmost picture clarity. The smartphone offers dual SIM slots with a dedicated memory card. It also supports dual 4G VoLTE /ViLTE functionality.

The device is available in three gradient colours such as gradation green, light purple and deep blue. It comes with an adapter, USB cable, user manual, protective case and a warranty card.

Source: IANS

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By IANSlife

New Delhi, Sep 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Couples who prefer adventure, instead of lounging about all day can now pick Seychelles over Maldives for their getaway. As the country eases restrictions on travel, here's a list of all the fun you can explore.

Hopping the islands

Nothing puts you in touch with adventure and the grand diversity of this archipelago like island-hopping. Mahe, Praslin and La Digue are the principal islands but there are many others to enjoy as well. In contrast to the mountainous Inner Islands, Bird and Denis Islands to the north are flat coral island outposts offering wild nature at its finest while Fregate to the east and the Outer Islands of Desroches and Alphonse are the ultimate remote tropical getaways. Island-hopping around the Seychelles archipelago introduces you to the incredible diversity of these islands.

A network of air and sea connections places these islands within easy reach, with excursions by local operators offering the chance of day trips to the closer islands where you can enjoy nature walks, swimming, snorkelling and traditional Creole food which is a delicious fusion of old French kitchen and Indian and Chinese culinary traditions that produce such masterpieces as freshly baked fish basted with garlic, ginger and chillies; coconut curries; terrines and fruits used as vegetables in a variety of piquant chutneys.

Hitting the water

With limpid, warm turquoise waters and a climate of perpetual summer, Seychelles is ideal for water sports. Mahe Island's Beau Vallon bay is where to enjoy paragliding, water skiing, jet-skiing, banana rides and wind-surfing. The islands' water sports centres and hotels can hire your snorkelling equipment and sometimes canoes for that individual sortie into the big blue but watch for signage indicating strong currents or other hazards. Operators offer deep-sea fishing in waters offering one of the most varied catches on the planet, including marlin, sailfish, tuna, jobfish, dorado and barracuda. Land-based and boat-based dive centres can introduce you to some of the best diving on the planet on both granite and coral reefs.

Blazing the turquoise trail

A new activity that blends beautifully with the stunning Seychelles backdrop is horse riding, now available on Mahe Island. Stables are neatly arranged, professionally operated with a string of gorgeous Appaloosa horses. Travellers have the delight of riding beautiful horses with treks into the lushly vegetated countryside along little-used paths, especially carved out to make the most of the surroundings and to introduce you to the very best of Seychelles' natural beauty as you ride flanked by pristine forest and the mighty Indian Ocean. Travellers can now have riding lessons, countryside treks, riding on glorious Grand Anse beach, romantic picnics for couples in picturesque settings complete with Champagne and canapes, wedding celebrations and photoshoots, and even swimming with a horse in the ocean.

Ziplining & rock climbing

On the island of Mahe, you can find many other activities such as rock climbing, ziplining and abseiling facilities. Zip-lines range from 80 -120m, suspended both within and above a beautiful, pristine forest canopy, allowing the adventurer the opportunity to sail through the vegetation almost within touching distance on an exhilarating ride. This ride is an adrenaline rush as you speed through the emerald panoply at high speed catching glimpses of the ocean as you descend, as if on hidden wings. You can also have a sensational rock-climbing experience on an 18-metre granite cliff face in a controlled, safe environment which allows you to have a feel of mountaineering but without the danger.

Sailing and cruising the islands

With a near-perfect climate and islands well outside the cyclone belt, the Seychelles archipelago leaves little to be desired when it comes to sailing and cruising. Seychelles' extraordinary marine scene offers breath-taking panoramas, easy sailing distances and great moorings in many a secluded bay.

Sailing and cruising can be enjoyed from a state-of-the-art fleet of single hulls and catamarans which you can hire either skippered or bare-boat, choosing to stay within the area of the Inner Islands or setting your sails for adventure among the more remote Outer Islands to be greeted by reef islands, sand cays, sapphire lagoons and teeming wildlife.

The big advantage of sailing the Seychelles archipelago is that it is a year-round activity although sailors should bear in mind that the south-east trades which blow from May to September bring with them somewhat stronger winds and rougher seas. Another plus is that the waters around the islands are still relatively uncongested and, very often, the only sails you may see will be your own.

(IANSlife Features can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS

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By IANSlife

New Delhi, Sep 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Have you ever matched with someone online and realised you have no idea what to say to them? Do you worry about setting a bad impression with the first thing you say? In the world of virtual dating, it can be hard to think of ideas to go beyond 'hey' or 'hello', but nothing beats the chemistry of a good conversation to calm the nerves! Your first (virtual) date should be lighthearted and a two-way street. The easiest way to do so is to ask questions that matter to you and check your partner's interest in the same. All in all, don't be afraid to be yourself, after all the aim is to find someone as like-minded (or goofy) as you are.

Having introduced people to their love stories for over two decades from all around the world, dating app OkCupid lists down five conversation starters that will get you and your date talking!

'What's something that you really want to do?'

Being able to uninhibitedly discuss your dreams, goals, and desires on a first date can be a terrific approach to get to know someone better. Your goals don't have to be strictly professional-sharing what you'd like to achieve, whether it's learning to play the guitar or mastering Italian cooking, might help your date gain a better understanding of your life and priorities. Break the ice with your partner and ask what they seek from their life and what they truly wish for. In fact, 34 per cent of daters on the platform find questions around the partners' goals, plans and wishes a good conversation starter.

'Dogs or cats?'

Pets too have been perfect conversation starters for millennials; getting to know if your date is a pet parent, their views on adopting pets, and their bond with these furry creatures can reveal interesting insights about their personality while also giving them the opportunity to learn about you. Safe to say, millennial daters in their search for unconditional love, look at the relationships their potential partners have with their furry friends with 31 per cent of daters reveal that pets are an ideal way to start a conversation with their match.

'What's next on your watchlist?'

There's no shortage of streaming services or access to movies, shows, or literature in today's world. With this in mind, discussing TV shows you're watching, recommending must-see movies, and telling your match more about your all-time favourite novels can help keep the conversation flowing while you and your date learn more about each other's personalities and favourite characters. And who knows, this might even lead the way for a virtual movie date or book reading session!

'What do you want from a relationship?'

When seeking a long-term relationship, it's important to know if the person across the screen is looking for the same thing. Twenty per cent of the daters revealed that learning about their partner's perspectives and what they seek from a relationship is an intriguing conversation starter. This can stem from the fact that dating has changed phenomenally during the pandemic, and millennials have discovered an impatience with entertaining dead-end connections and instead truly investing in the one with potential. The focus has shifted to discovering romance and compatibility with a potential partner through the quality of conversation and time spent together.

'What's next on your travel bucket list?'

Travel! The perfect conversation starter to break the ice and transport your date into a dreamy world where you could go wherever you want to -- soaking under the sun by a beach, backpacking across the country, or watching the Northern lights. Travel will open the door to a multitude of other topics such as food, cuisines that your partner is fond of, places that they've been to already or what's on their wishlist. And this just might help you and your date decide where to get a bite in the city or try something that you wouldn't have otherwise!

(N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe can be contacted at lothungbeni.h@ians.in)

Source: IANS

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By N.Lothungbeni Humtsoe

New Delhi, Sep 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) If you feel that clean and well-groomed hands are just an essential prerequisite for women, you might like to think twice. Men should equally pay attention to their hands because our hand houses 1,500 bacteria living on each square centimetre of its skin. You can easily assume what havoc it can create in our body because in India we have the culture of eating with our hands and spaces beneath nails can become breeding heaven for germs.

Moreover, clean and maintained hands boost confidence in their daily life activities. Therefore, it's important to keep your hands clean irrespective of your gender by washing or sanitizing at regular intervals. And, to keep them groomed, you don't have to visit a salon.

Rajesh U Pandya, Managing Director, KAI India, gives easy and completely doable tips to follow at home:

• Refrain from harsh soaps: You should be mindful of the soap you are using to wash your hands. Your soap can have a moisturizing element in it like aloe vera or shea butter. Ensure that you're washing your hands with normal water as hot water can make your hand's skin dry and scaly.

• Clip your nails regularly: Make use of your personal nail clipper to cut your nails. After cutting your nails at a comfortable length also file them using a nail filer. Never share your nail care clipper as the germs can get transferred to your loved ones. Also, don't forget to use grime remover to remove hidden germs in corners and beneath nails. Also, you may like to file your nails to have a smooth finish.

• Good quality Nail Clipper: Do not use a rusted or chromium coated nail clipper as it might be harmful to skin and might cause dangerous bacterial infections.

• Stop the habit of nail chewing: Sometimes anxiety or extreme boredom can lead to chewing of nails. This habit only makes your nails uneven and ugly. Sometimes, our unclean nail folds give rise to viral, bacterial or fungal infections, which in turn can make us sick if we chew our nails.

• Exfoliate your hands: Similar to the way you exfoliate your face; your hands also need it. It helps to keep the dry skin at bay and keep your hands soft. You can buy a scrub or make one at home using brown sugar and olive oil. After scrubbing, you need to massage your hands with moisturizer.

• Don't use your nails as tools: Always keep in mind that your nails are like jewels. Never use them to pry things open such as pop cans, removing keys from the ring, opening letters or scraping off labels. This results in unnecessary breakage of nails, making your hands look dirty.

• Be aware of nail or cuticle inflammation or redness: If there are any signs of infection, disinfect the skin as soon as possible with an anti-bacterial or anti-fungal ointment.

  (N.Lothungbeni Humtsoe can be contacted at lothungbeni.h@ians.in)

Source: IANS

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By IANSlife

New Delhi, Sep 21 (SocialNews.XYZ) Alia Bhatt features in Mohey's digital film campaign which strives for a balance between tradition and equality, while celebrating the happy union of marriage.

Bhatt headlines the campaign starring in the video fueled with emotions, which celebrates brides and families who rethink wedding traditions in modern times, to redefine into progressive ones. In a refreshingly new manner, the film presents a small but significant gesture of respect and equality.

Mohey is one of India's leading women's bridal wear brands that redefines rituals by adding a new gesture of respect. A change from Kanyadaan to Kanyamaan.

In India, weddings are all about rituals and traditions. The 'Kanyadaan' is an age-old ritual which has been an intrinsic part of our society. Highlighting the conventional thought behind this ritual, the video tries to promote a more inclusive and equal space for women in marriage and in life. Through the film, Alia talks about a new idea that creates a union between the ritual itself and its underlying thought process placed in modern context.

Completely adhering to our traditions and being reverent to our rituals, this film at the same time takes a modern stance on the conventional belief. Heralding a paradigm shift in our mindset from considering a girl child to be a liability, the film talks about sharing each other's responsibility and journeying through thick and thin not only together but equally. The film ends with a small but significant gesture of respect and proposes a beautiful change from Kanyadaan to Kanyamaan.

Adding to the thought, the very revered Alia Bhatt shared, "I absolutely believe in this thought and this is something very close to my heart. I am glad that I could be a part of this film and convey a message that might bring about a positive change in the society."

"Mohey has always symbolized the progressive women of our society. Through this commercial, we have tried to bring about a shift in the mindset of the general populace while being respectful and fervent towards our traditions and rituals," said Vedant Modi, CMO, Vedant Fashions Limited.

Speaking about the making of the ad, the Director of Shreyansh Innovations, Shreyansh Baid opined, "we have always believed in progressive communication and our main thought behind making this film was to convey a strong message that is rooted in the rich Indian culture, and yet takes it a step forward by deriving inspiration from the new-age woman and the new-age society. With Alia onboard we have been able to create a communication that strikes a chord and invokes a positive change.

(IANSlife Features can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS

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By Nimerta C Sharan

New Delhi, Sep 21 (SocialNews.XYZ) After last year's virtual affair, this year's Primetime Emmy Awards made a stylish comeback with its 73rd- edition held in Los Angeles. Television's A-listers made a glamorous appearance on the red carpet -- the second most talked about feature, after the winners. Dazzling gowns, splashes of monotones and some show-stopping men's fashion ruled the style scene.

Popular series 'The Queen's Gambit' star Anya Taylor-Joy opted for a halter Dior Couture gown with a bold yellow train. She undoubtedly scored a spot on the best-dressed list.

Known for their illustrious body of work, actresses Catherine Zeta-Jones and Kate Winslet also attended the event. While 51-year-old Jones looked stunning in a burgundy Cristina Ottaviano slit gown paired with matching Louboutin heels, Winslet kept it safe in an all-black Armani Prive number. Joining the black bandwagon were Mindy Kaling in a Carolina Herrera gown, Kathryn Hahn in a Lanvin belted jumpsuit and Rita Wilson in a sparkling Tom Ford pantsuit.

Actress Kaly Cuoco's choice was a breath of fresh air. Nominated for her role in 'The Flight Attendant', the 35-year-old looked spectacular in a bright neon Vera Wang gown accented with flowers on the straps. Another one who turned heads at the event was Elizabeth Olsen who opted for a dress designed by her sisters Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen.

As for the men's fashion department, there were a few celebrities who made some bold choices on the red carpet. Comedy showcase 'Saturday Night Live' actor Bowen Yang might not have won, but his iconic silver heels grabbed all the attention. Television's favourite Dan Levy whose sitcom Schitt's Creek swept nine Emmys last year attended the event dressed in a royal blue asymmetrical suit. Striking prints, bold colours and statement jewels dominated the men's style choices.

Billy Porter, known for his very sensational fashion outdid himself sporting an all-black look featuring long sleeves, ruffled wings and gloves. The 'Pose' star completed his look with diamond jewels from Lorraine Schwartz.

(IANSlife Features can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

Source: IANS

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