Asianet Newsable

Fatty Liver, Colorectal Cancer and Gut Infections: Why India's Digestive Disease Burden Is Changing

Asianet Newsable English — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 17:30:08 +0530

India is facing a double burden of digestive diseases as fatty liver, colorectal cancer and chronic gastrointestinal disorders rise alongside H pylori, intestinal worms. Obesity, diabetes, unhealthy diets and delayed diagnosis are driving the shift.

India is seeing a major shift in its digestive health burden. While improvements in sanitation, vaccination and public health have helped control several infectious diseases, metabolic and lifestyle-related conditions are rising rapidly.

Doctors say the country is now dealing with both old and new challenges at the same time. Persistent infections such as Helicobacter pylori and intestinal worm infestations continue to affect millions, while fatty liver disease, colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease and coeliac disease are becoming increasingly common.

The changing pattern will be a key focus at the World Congress of Gastroenterology (WCOG) 2026, scheduled to be held in India for the first time from September 30 to October 3 at Yashobhoomi in Dwarka, Delhi.

One of the biggest concerns is the rapid rise of fatty liver disease. An AIIMS-led systematic review and meta-analysis found fatty liver disease in 38.6 per cent of Indian adults and 35.4 per cent of children.

The condition occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver. It is closely linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and other metabolic problems.

What makes fatty liver particularly worrying is that it can progress silently. Many people may have no obvious symptoms until significant liver damage has already occurred.

A recent study also found clinically significant liver fibrosis in one in four people with type 2 diabetes, highlighting the close link between metabolic disease and liver health.

India included fatty liver disease in its National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases in 2021 and later introduced guidelines to help detect it at the primary-care level. However, doctors say screening and early awareness remain major challenges.

Rapid urbanisation and changing lifestyles are playing an important role.

Sedentary jobs, reduced physical activity, unhealthy diets and rising obesity have increased the risk of metabolic diseases. Diets high in refined carbohydrates, processed foods and unhealthy fats can also contribute to obesity and insulin resistance.

India's growing burden of diabetes is another major factor. The combination of diabetes, excess body weight and hypertension increases the risk of fatty liver and its complications.

Doctors say treatment alone will not be enough. Prevention, healthier diets, regular exercise and early screening will need to become a larger part of the country's healthcare approach.

Colorectal cancer is another growing concern. India recorded an estimated 40,430 new colorectal cancer cases among men and 24,433 among women in 2022.

Doctors are also reporting more cases among younger adults.

The reasons behind this trend are complex and may involve changes in diet, obesity levels, physical inactivity and other lifestyle factors. Greater access to diagnostic tests may also be leading to more cases being identified.

Experts say one major problem is the tendency to ignore early warning signs. Blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss and persistent changes in bowel habits are sometimes dismissed as minor digestive problems.

Doctors stress that symptoms lasting more than two or three weeks should be medically evaluated rather than ignored.

Old infections have not disappeared

Despite the rise of lifestyle-related diseases, India continues to face a significant burden from gastrointestinal infections.

Helicobacter pylori, a bacterial infection linked to peptic ulcers and an increased risk of gastric cancer, remains widespread. Intestinal worm infections also continue to affect children and can contribute to anaemia, poor nutrition and impaired growth.

This creates what doctors describe as a double burden. The health system must continue addressing infectious diseases while also preparing for a growing number of chronic illnesses that require long-term monitoring and treatment.

Conditions such as coeliac disease and inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, are also being diagnosed more frequently.

A community-based AIIMS study found coeliac disease in around one in 96 people in northern India.

Experts say some of the increase may be due to better awareness and improved diagnostic facilities. However, changing environmental and lifestyle factors may also be contributing.

For patients, delayed diagnosis can make these conditions more difficult to manage. Symptoms such as persistent diarrhoea, abdominal pain, bloating, unexplained weight loss and blood in stools should not be repeatedly ignored or treated without proper evaluation.

The focus must shift towards early detection

India's changing digestive disease burden shows why prevention and early diagnosis are becoming increasingly important.

Doctors say the country has skilled specialists and advanced medical technology, but many patients still seek help only after symptoms become severe.

The message from experts ahead of WCOG 2026 is clear: persistent gastrointestinal symptoms should be taken seriously.

Early testing can help identify fatty liver disease, cancer and chronic digestive disorders before they cause major complications. At the same time, healthier lifestyles and stronger public awareness could reduce the risk of several metabolic diseases.

As India continues to fight old infections, it must also prepare for a future in which obesity, diabetes, fatty liver and digestive cancers form a much larger part of the country's healthcare burden.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sleeping Polar Bear: Waking One Up Could Land You A Hefty Fine HERE

Amrita Ghosh — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 12:43:29 +0530

A person in Norway has been fined 50,000 Norwegian kroner (around $5,350) after using a ship’s horn to wake a sleeping polar bear.

The incident took place earlier in August in Lomfjorden, a fjord along the western side of Hinlopenstretet in Svalbard. A vessel spotted a polar bear sleeping on land when someone on board decided to sound the ship’s horn.

The loud noise startled the animal and caused it to wake up and move to another location.

According to the Governor of Svalbard, the incident was later reported by other people who were on board the vessel. Officials concluded that the polar bear had been intentionally disturbed. The person involved has not been identified.

Person Accepts $5,350 Fine

The individual was fined 50,000 Norwegian kroner, equivalent to approximately $5,350, for violating Section 30a of the Svalbard Environmental Act. The person accepted the fine and paid it.

Norwegian law has specific rules governing how people must behave around polar bears. The legislation prohibits anyone from unnecessarily disturbing, luring or pursuing the animals.

The rules are particularly strict because encounters between humans and polar bears can potentially put both sides at risk.

How Close Can You Get to a Polar Bear in Svalbard?

People in Svalbard are required to maintain a distance of at least 300 metres from polar bears. The minimum distance increases to 500 metres between March 1 and June 30.

The law also states that anyone who finds themselves closer to a polar bear than the permitted distance must retreat to maintain a lawful distance.

People are also required to take necessary precautions to avoid dangerous encounters and protect themselves from potential polar bear attacks without unnecessarily injuring or killing the animal.

In other words, approaching or deliberately disturbing a polar bear is not something authorities take lightly.

Why Are Polar Bears Protected in Svalbard?

Svalbard is an important habitat for polar bears and is located between mainland Norway and the North Pole. Polar bears have been protected under international law since 1973. Hunting polar bears was also banned in Svalbard that year.

According to Polar Bears International, there are around 26,000 polar bears remaining across the world. Around 250 polar bears from the Barents Sea population are estimated to live on Svalbard. With their Arctic habitat already under pressure, authorities place considerable emphasis on limiting unnecessary human interference.

Climate Change Remains a Major Threat

Human disturbance is only one of the challenges facing polar bears. Climate change, declining sea ice, pollution, disease, inadequate habitat protection and increasing commercial activity are among the other threats facing the species.

A study published in Scientific Reports in January offered a somewhat encouraging finding. Researchers discovered that adult polar bears in Svalbard maintained their body condition between 1995 and 2019, despite the region experiencing rapid sea-ice loss.

However, scientists warned that the finding should not be interpreted as evidence that Svalbard’s polar bears are safe from climate change. Continued loss of sea ice could eventually make it increasingly difficult for the animals to find food and survive in the Arctic.

A Costly Reminder to Leave Wildlife Alone

The Svalbard incident may sound unusual, but it highlights why strict wildlife rules exist in the Arctic.

A person apparently decided to wake a sleeping polar bear with a ship’s horn. The result was not just a startled animal moving away, but also a 50,000-kroner fine.

For visitors travelling through Svalbard, the message from authorities is clear: seeing a polar bear in the wild may be an extraordinary experience, but keeping a safe distance and avoiding unnecessary disturbance is essential.

Would You Eat Here? Ahmedabad's 72-Year-Old Restaurant Serves Chai Beside Graves

Divya Danu — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 20:51:40 +0530

Unique dining experiences are becoming increasingly popular, with people searching for more than just good food. They want a story, an unusual setting and something worth remembering. In Ahmedabad, one restaurant has been offering exactly that for decades.

At Lucky Restaurant, also known as New Lucky Restaurant, diners can sit down for a cup of chai and bun maska while old graves stand just a few feet away from their tables. For some, the idea may sound unsettling. For others, it has become one of Ahmedabad's most fascinating and unusual landmarks.

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Where graves became part of the restaurant

Located in the Lal Darwaja area, Lucky Restaurant has been serving customers since the 1950s. The story goes that the establishment began as a small tea stall on land that contained old graves.

Instead of removing or disturbing them as the business expanded, the owners built the restaurant around them.

Today, the graves remain part of the dining area. Small metal railings separate them from the tables, while customers sit nearby, drinking tea, eating bun maska and carrying on with everyday conversations.

The unusual arrangement has become the restaurant's defining feature.

Graves are cleaned and decorated every day

The graves are not treated as props or simply as part of a marketing gimmick. According to the restaurant's long-told story, staff members clean the graves every morning and decorate them with fresh flowers as a mark of respect.

Over the years, locals have also associated the restaurant with good fortune. The graves, rather than being viewed purely as a reminder of death, have become woven into the identity and folklore surrounding the old eatery.

That combination of everyday food, local belief and an unusual setting has helped Lucky Restaurant build a reputation far beyond Ahmedabad.

Interestingly, the restaurant has achieved much of this fame through word of mouth. Its story has travelled from one visitor to another, while photographs and videos shared online have introduced the place to a wider audience.

A favourite of M. F. Husain

Lucky Restaurant also has a connection with celebrated Indian painter M. F. Husain, who was known to visit the establishment, according to a report by the Times of India.

One of Husain's paintings has long been associated with the restaurant's interior, adding another layer to the story of a place already filled with character and history, the TOI repot added..

Despite its fame, the food remains simple. Chai and bun maska continue to be among the best-known items associated with the restaurant.

There is no elaborate fine-dining concept. The appeal lies in the contrast: an ordinary cup of tea served in an extraordinary setting.

Cemetery cafés are not unique to Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad's Lucky Restaurant is unusual, but the idea of eating or drinking near burial grounds is not entirely unique.

In cities such as Berlin, cafés have also been established in or near cemetery spaces, including old chapels and former cemetery buildings. These places often offer visitors a quiet environment away from busy streets.

The experience is usually presented less as something frightening and more as an opportunity for calm, reflection and a different relationship with spaces traditionally associated with mourning.

A place that continues to divide opinion

Not everyone is comfortable with the idea of a restaurant operating around graves. Some people have criticised such businesses as disrespectful to the dead.

Others see Lucky Restaurant differently. For them, it is part of Ahmedabad's local history, where an old burial site and a bustling food joint have existed side by side for decades.

Perhaps that is why the restaurant continues to attract attention. Visitors arrive for the chai and bun maska, but they leave with a story.

At Lucky Restaurant, a simple tea break comes with something few dining experiences can offer: a table beside history, mystery and a reminder that life and death sometimes occupy the same space.

So, would you want to have chai and bun maska here?

Not Originally Indian? The 1,000-Year Middle Eastern Journey of Your Favourite Crispy Jalebi

Divya Danu — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 23:36:10 +0530

Jalebi may feel unmistakably Indian, but its earliest recorded relatives can be traced to West Asia, where sweets called zalabiya appeared in medieval Arabic cookbooks. Bengal's jilipi to Indore's jaleba show how a sweet became a part of our culture.

The next time you bite into a hot, crisp jalebi, there is a good chance you will not think about medieval cookbooks, travelling recipes or centuries of culinary exchange. You will probably think about its syrup, its crunch and whether you should have one more.

Yet behind those familiar orange spirals is a remarkably long journey.

Jalebi is deeply woven into Indian food culture today, but its earliest recorded history points beyond the subcontinent. Similar fried sweets were known in West Asia as zalabiya, zulabiya or related names. One of the earliest surviving written records comes from the 10th-century Arabic cookbook Kitab al-Tabikh, compiled by Ibn Sayyar al-Warraq. A later 13th-century cookbook by Muhammad bin Hasan al-Baghdadi also describes zalabiya.

That does not mean today's jalebi was simply imported into India unchanged. Its story is better understood as one of adaptation.

Food rarely travels in a straight line. Recipes move with merchants, travellers, cooks and communities, changing as they enter new kitchens.

Over centuries, the West Asian sweet found its way into the Indian subcontinent and acquired a form and identity that became distinctly South Asian. The name itself is believed to be related to the older words used for zalabiya, although the exact linguistic journey is not completely settled.

The earliest widely cited Indian literary reference is found in Priyamkarnrpakatha, a Jain work associated with Jinasura and dated to around 1450 CE. The sweet appears in the account of a merchant's dinner, showing that it was already familiar in India by the 15th century.

Later Indian culinary writings provide further evidence that the sweet had become part of the local food landscape.

So, while its ancestry appears to reach West Asia, the jalebi that Indians know today is the product of centuries of Indian culinary evolution.

Part of the fun is that there is no single jalebi experience across India.

The familiar version is generally made by piping batter into hot oil or ghee in tight spirals, frying it until crisp and then soaking it in sugar syrup. But recipes, thickness, texture and serving styles vary considerably from one region to another.

In Bengal, for example, jilipi can refer to several preparations. There are versions made with different batters, while chhenar jilipi uses chhena and can be fried in ghee. In parts of Bengal, moong dal is also used for a preparation known as moong jilipi or papri.

Then comes imarti, jalebi’s more intricate cousin, known as amriti or jangiri in different parts of the subcontinent. It looks related to jalebi but is made differently, traditionally using urad dal (black gram) batter, and has a thicker, flower-like shape. The two sweets are therefore similar but should not simply be treated as the same dessert.

Travel across India and the sweet keeps changing.

In some places, jalebi is thin and sharply crisp. Elsewhere, it is thicker, softer or more intensely syrupy. Madhya Pradesh is known for its large jaleba, while regional versions such as khoya jalebi add another layer of texture and richness.

In Bengal, the word jilipi itself has become part of the local food vocabulary. Similar naming variations can be found across South Asia, reflecting how recipes travelled and were absorbed into different culinary traditions.

This regional diversity is perhaps the strongest evidence that jalebi's story in India is not simply about an imported recipe. It is about what happened after the recipe arrived.

Today, jalebi comfortably moves between different parts of Indian life.

It appears at weddings, festivals and religious celebrations. In some cities, it is an early-morning treat, eaten alongside milk, curd or other breakfast foods. In Gujarat, the famous pairing of jalebi and fafda has become closely associated with festive eating, particularly around Dussehra.

Street-side halwais have also turned its preparation into a spectacle. A steady hand squeezes batter into bubbling oil, creating almost perfect spirals within seconds. Once fried, the coils are lifted and dropped into warm syrup, where they absorb sweetness while retaining their characteristic bite.

That combination of crunch, warmth, sweetness and slight tang is what makes a good jalebi instantly recognisable.

The simplest answer is: its ancestry appears to be West Asian, but its identity is unmistakably Indian today.

Trying to give jalebi a single modern nationality misses the more interesting part of its history. The evidence shows an older family of fried sweets in West Asia, followed centuries later by clear references to jalebi in India. Between those points came movement, experimentation and adaptation.

India did not merely receive jalebi. It reshaped it.

That is why the question of whether jalebi is 'Indian' has a more delicious answer than a simple yes or no. Its origins may cross borders, but generations of Indian cooks, halwais and families turned those syrup-soaked spirals into something that now feels completely at home here.

And perhaps that is the real story behind jalebi: a sweet that travelled across regions and centuries, only to become one of India's most recognisable tastes.

Age Is Just a Number: 72-Year-Old Bihar Man Paraglides From 24,000 Feet in Himachal Pradesh

Divya Danu — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 21:18:45 +0530

At 72, Kapildev Rawat from Bihar's Jamui district has shown that age need not stop people from trying something new. During a family trip to Himachal Pradesh, Rawat decided to go paragliding and took a leap from an altitude of 24,000 feet. A video documenting the experience shows Rawat soaring over the mountains for around 30 minutes before landing safely.

'For the first few seconds, I felt everything was over'

Speaking about the experience, Rawat said the initial moments after the jump were frightening because of the enormous height.

“When I jumped from the mountain, for the first three or four seconds, it felt like everything was about to end,” he said, as reported by India Today.

Rawat recalled looking down from 24,000 feet and described the view as something extraordinary.

“It was so deep that if something went wrong, everything would be over. But for the next half an hour, it felt like real life. From a height of 24,000 feet, the world below seemed like paradise,” he said.

72 की उम्र में सपनों को दी उड़ान! ❤️बिहार के इस बुजुर्ग ने हिमाचल में करीब 24 हजार फीट की ऊंचाई पर पैराग्लाइडिंग कर अपना जिंदगी भर का सपना पूरा किया। उम्र नहीं, जज्बा मायने रखता है! Hashtags:#Paragliding #HimachalPradesh #Bihar #Inspiration #AgeIsJustANumber pic.twitter.com/EaAUSv3V8c

— Rashtriya Prastavana (@rprastavana) September 14, 2026

The experience, despite the initial fear, turned into an unforgettable adventure for the 72-year-old.

Elderly paragliders inspired him

Rawat said he had heard about elderly people taking up paragliding before deciding to try it himself.

He had learnt about an 80-year-old woman and a 75-year-old man who had taken part in the adventure sport. Their experiences made him question why he could not do the same at his age.

That thought eventually turned into action when he travelled to Himachal Pradesh with his family.

Rather than allowing his age to become a reason to stay away from adventure, Rawat decided to take the opportunity and experience paragliding for himself.

Rawat says travelling is his passion

Rawat runs a hotel in Bihar and said he has always enjoyed travelling and exploring new places. He revealed that he sometimes even closes his shop when he wants to travel. He added that pursuing new experiences remains important even at the age of 72.

His recent paragliding adventure has now become another memorable addition to his travels.

Family support gave him confidence

Rawat also credited his two sons and other family members for supporting his decision. According to him, their encouragement gave him the confidence to take the leap and try something he had never done before.

His experience highlights the fact that trying something new does not necessarily have an age limit. A family trip to Himachal Pradesh became an opportunity for Rawat to challenge his own limits and spend 30 minutes flying above the mountains.

'One Step At A Time': Mother's Heartwarming Cane Lesson For Visually Impaired Daughter Wins Internet

Divya Danu — Sat, 15 Aug 2026 14:19:43 +0530

A heartwarming video of a mother patiently teaching her visually impaired young daughter to walk with the support of a cane has touched thousands of people online. The video, shared by Aeny Mishra's mother on her Instagram handle, captures a quiet lesson in confidence, independence and perseverance.

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Little girl takes one step at a time

In the video, the little girl walks along a corridor holding a cane in one hand and using a railing for support with the other. As she approaches the stairs, she repeatedly says, 'downstairs, downstairs', while carefully preparing to descend.

Her mother stays close, calmly guiding her through every step. 'Watch your step', she tells her daughter, encouraging her with reassuring words such as 'yes' and 'one step at a time'.

The child listens closely and follows her mother's instructions as she carefully makes her way down the stairs. She then climbs back up, showing remarkable concentration and confidence.

At one point, she stumbles while climbing, but quickly regains her balance. She even says sorry to her mother. Her mother immediately reassures her that it is alright and encourages her to continue slowly and carefully.

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Her curiosity makes the video even more special

What has particularly touched viewers is the girl's awareness of what is happening around her despite being unable to see.

While climbing the stairs, she notices the sound of a vehicle outside and tells her mother, “Mumma, the police car is going outside on the road.”

The moment highlights how closely she listens to the sounds around her and how naturally she communicates with her mother while learning to move independently.

The video also shows that the mother is not simply helping her daughter get from one place to another. She is teaching her to explore her surroundings, follow instructions and build confidence in her own abilities.

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Internet praises mother and daughter

The video has drawn an outpouring of emotional reactions, with viewers praising both the mother's patience and the girl's determination.

One commenter said the mother was 'instilling confidence' and teaching her daughter self-reliance, while another admitted that the moment the girl stumbled made their 'heart skip a beat'.

Several users called the child brave, smart and confident. Others praised the mother for allowing her daughter to learn rather than constantly stepping in to protect her.

Responding to the appreciation, the woman said that her daughter also does karate and participates in STEM activities. She added that she was simply doing her role as a mother and wanted her child to 'explore the world happily like other kids'.

The video has resonated with viewers not because the child takes a perfect journey, but because every careful step shows determination and every word from her mother reminds her that she can keep moving forward.

8 Of The World's Most Colourful Buildings And The Stories Behind Them | SEE Pics

Divya Danu — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 20:40:44 +0530

From a centuries-old temple in Tamil Nadu to a colourful waste plant in Osaka, 8 buildings show how architects have used colour to transform architecture. Featured in Chromatic Architecture, the structures use vivid pigments, ceramics and mosaics.

Colour has been part of architecture for thousands of years. From painted temples and ancient mosaics to stained-glass windows and bold modern buildings, architects have repeatedly used colour to make spaces more memorable, dramatic and joyful.

A new book, Chromatic Architecture - the Craft of Colour in Design, as mentioned in a report by BBC explores this relationship between buildings and colour. Designer Adam Nathaniel Furman and author Kate Mazade argue that colour can do much more than decorate a structure. Used well, it can change how people experience a building and even give an ordinary place a strong identity.

The book brings together striking examples from around the world. They range from a huge temple complex in Tamil Nadu to a waste incinerator in Osaka and a public library in Spain.

Here are eight buildings where colour is not an afterthought but a central part of the architecture.

Tamil Nadu has a long tradition of using vivid colours in religious architecture. One of its best-known examples is the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam.

The Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam in Tamil Nadu is dedicated to Lord Ranganathar, a form of Vishnu. Built in Tamil architectural style, it is the world’s largest functioning religious complex. The temple has been expanded over centuries and features 21 gateways. It received a UNESCO Asia-Pacific Award of Merit in 2017.

Construction of the temple complex began in the 1st Century AD and continued under several dynasties for centuries. Later additions continued into modern times. Today, the complex covers more than 150 acres and is among the world's largest functioning Hindu temple complexes.

Its 21 towering gateways, known as gopurams, are covered with brightly painted sculptures. Gods, mythical figures, animals and other decorative forms fill the gateways, creating a striking wall of colour.

For Furman, the use of pigment is closely linked to the spiritual experience of the place. The intense colours help separate the temple from the ordinary world and create an atmosphere of wonder for visitors and worshippers.

Barcelona's Palau de la Música Catalana opened in 1908 and quickly became a symbol of Catalonia's cultural confidence.

Designed by architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, the concert hall combines elements of Art Nouveau, Gothic Revival and Romanesque architecture, along with Moorish and Valencian influences.

Colour appears almost everywhere. Decorative tiles, stained glass, mosaics, columns, sculptures and intricate stonework work together to create an interior that feels closer to a fairytale than a conventional concert hall.

Furman describes the building as a place where every architectural detail contributes to the overall effect. Rather than being applied simply as decoration, colour becomes part of the building's identity.

The Guardian Building in Detroit was completed in 1929 and is one of the city's best-known Art Deco landmarks. Designed by Wirt C. Rowland, it became known locally as the "Cathedral of Finance".

The building's exterior is covered with nearly two million orange-toned bricks and terracotta tiles. Inside, the main lobby is even more dramatic, with a three-storey vaulted ceiling and a rich arrangement of tiles in strong primary colours.

The colourful interiors also reflect the craftsmanship of the Great Lakes region during the early 20th Century.

At a time when Detroit was becoming a major centre of American industry and commerce, the building made a confident statement. Its colours and decoration still communicate that sense of ambition today.

The large, windowless building could easily have become another dull concrete structure. Ponti took a very different approach.

He covered the exterior with a striking geometric pattern of green tiles. Reports suggest that the design was inspired by the patchwork appearance of Dutch farmland when seen from above.

The result was a building that stood out strongly from its surroundings.

Furman sees the project as an example of how colour can rescue an otherwise plain modernist structure. Instead of hiding its large concrete form, Ponti turned the building into something closer to a giant piece of public art.

The Reversible Destiny Lofts in Tokyo were completed in 2005 by artist-architect Shusaku Arakawa and poet Madeline Gins.

The unusual residential complex was created as a tribute to American disability rights advocate and writer Helen Keller. Its nine apartments contain brightly coloured cylinders, spheres, cuboids and uneven surfaces.

The unusual design was intentional. Arakawa and Gins believed that an environment that challenged the body and senses could encourage people to remain active.

Colour plays an important part in that idea. Strong shades cover different surfaces, while uneven floors and unusual room shapes prevent the apartments from feeling like conventional homes.

The result is deliberately intense. Rather than allowing residents to disappear into a predictable domestic routine, the designers wanted the building to keep them alert and engaged with their surroundings.

Perhaps the most surprising building on the list is the Maishima Waste Incineration Plant in Osaka.

Designed by Austrian artist and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the plant looks more like a colourful fantasy castle than an industrial facility.

Hundertwasser strongly opposed the rigid lines and uniform appearance associated with much of modern architecture. He believed buildings should feel more like living organisms.

That philosophy is clearly visible at Maishima. Yellow stripes appear to drip down parts of the building, while red stripes decorate its tall cylindrical tower. Rounded structures, colourful walls and unusual shapes make the plant look remarkably playful.

The building's appearance also challenges the usual image of waste facilities as purely functional spaces. Its bright colours turn an essential but often overlooked public service into a visual landmark.

Completed in 2019, the Leganés Central Library was designed by BN Asociados Arquitectos.

The building uses colour to reflect what is inside it. Large pastel ceramic panels cover its rounded exterior, creating a soft and unusual appearance.

The architects were also responding to the character of the surrounding neighbourhood, which lacked major cultural landmarks. The library was designed to become a visible public destination.

As sunlight moves across the curved ceramic surface, the colours and textures change during the day. The pale tones can resemble sheets of paper, creating a visual connection between the building and the books housed within it.

Here, colour helps the library communicate its purpose before a visitor even enters.

The Croydon Colonnade in East Croydon was completed in 2003. Designed by Adam Nathaniel Furman, it creates a colourful pedestrian space near the railway station.

The 50-metre structure consists of 16 large columns and two walls covered with thousands of handmade porcelain tiles.

The tiles are coated in thick, translucent glaze. The colour begins with a deep blue near the bottom and gradually changes to creamy white towards the top.

The effect is designed to surround pedestrians with colour rather than simply present it as a distant feature.

Furman drew inspiration from the long history of blue-and-white architectural ceramics used across different civilisations and regions, including ancient Egypt, Portugal, Turkey, Iran and Babylon.

The result gives an otherwise ordinary transport setting a more memorable character.

These eight buildings show that colour can serve very different purposes.

It can express religious devotion, as seen at the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. It can represent cultural identity, as at the Palau de la Música Catalana. It can celebrate commercial success, as in Detroit's Guardian Building.

In other cases, colour can make an industrial building more welcoming, give a new neighbourhood a landmark or turn a transport route into an experience.

That is why colour remains such a powerful architectural tool. It can change how people feel about a building before they have even understood its design.

For Furman and Mazade, that is precisely the point. Architecture does not have to be grey, restrained or purely functional. Colour can give buildings personality, create memories and connect them with the communities around them.

From an ancient temple in southern India to a futuristic apartment complex in Tokyo, these examples make one thing clear: when architects use colour boldly, a building can become much more than a structure. It can become an experience.

10 Best Vegetables to Grow on Your Terrace Garden This August

Divya Danu — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 18:22:45 +0530

August can be a useful month to start a small terrace vegetable garden in many parts of India, particularly with warm-season and kharif-friendly crops. The key is good drainage, adequate sunlight and protection from prolonged heavy rain.

The monsoon can make gardening a little easier in many parts of India. Warm temperatures, regular moisture and longer growing days can give several vegetables a good start. But there is one important catch: a terrace garden during the rainy season needs drainage, not just water.

August is not automatically the right month for every vegetable in every part of the country. Local temperature, rainfall, sunlight and the variety being grown all matter. Still, several vegetables are suitable for warm, rainy conditions and can be grown in pots or grow bags.

Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) advisories list crops such as okra, brinjal, tomato, beans and several gourds among vegetables that can be cultivated in kharif conditions.

If you have a sunny balcony, terrace or even a small outdoor corner, these 10 vegetables are worth considering.

Okra or Bhindi is one of the easiest choices for a beginner's terrace garden. It enjoys warmth and can be grown in a suitably sized container.

Sow the seeds directly in well-drained potting soil and place the container where the plant gets several hours of sunlight. Keep the soil lightly moist but never waterlogged.

ICAR records varieties of okra that are specifically suitable for rainy-season cultivation, with some varieties producing their first harvest roughly 45 days after sowing under suitable conditions.

Radish does not need a huge amount of space, making it useful for balcony gardeners. Choose a reasonably deep pot or grow bag so the root has room to develop.

Use loose soil that drains quickly and avoid compacting it. Sow the seeds directly rather than moving young seedlings unnecessarily.

The exact harvest time depends on the variety and growing conditions, so the seed packet is a better guide than assuming every August-sown radish will be ready in exactly 30 days.

French beans can be grown in containers, provided the soil is fertile and drains well. Bush varieties are particularly convenient when space is limited.

Sow the seeds directly and give the plants plenty of sunlight. If you choose a climbing variety, provide a simple support structure before the vines become heavy.

ICAR lists French bean varieties among crops that can be grown in suitable Indian conditions, with some varieties capable of producing pods in around 70 days.

Brinjal is another practical choice for an Indian home garden. It needs warmth, sunlight and a reasonably large container.

Instead of planting too many plants together, give each one enough space for air movement. This becomes particularly important during humid weather, when poor ventilation and excess moisture can encourage disease.

ICAR lists brinjal among vegetables cultivated in kharif conditions and recommends varieties suited to different regions.

Tomatoes can be grown at home, but August needs a little more care than a dry season. Continuous rain can leave foliage wet and soil saturated, creating problems for the plant.

If you are starting from seed, use a small container or seed tray initially. Once the seedlings are established, move them into a larger pot. Place the plant where it receives good sunlight and use a stake or support as it grows.

Tomato is cultivated during kharif conditions in India, although the best planting window varies by region and variety.

Lauki or bottle gourd is an excellent option if you have a terrace with room for a vine. The plant needs space to spread, so a strong trellis or similar support is important.

Use a large container with fertile, well-drained soil. Avoid allowing rainwater to collect around the roots.

Bottle gourd is recognised as a kharif crop, and ICAR lists varieties suitable for kharif and rabi cultivation.

Karela can also make good use of vertical terrace space. Instead of allowing the vine to crawl across the floor, train it upwards on a sturdy support.

Good drainage is particularly important during the monsoon. Waterlogged soil can damage roots, so make sure the container has unobstructed drainage holes.

Bitter gourd is among the cucurbit vegetables grown during the kharif season.

Ridge gourd is another vine that can be trained vertically. This makes it more suitable for a terrace than its size might initially suggest.

Give it a large enough container, sunlight and a strong trellis. ICAR lists ridge gourd varieties with early first picking in suitable growing conditions, although home-garden results will vary.

Pumpkin needs considerably more room than radish or beans, but it can still be grown on a terrace if you have space and a strong support system.

Its vines can spread widely, so plan where they will go before sowing. Keep the container away from areas where excess rainwater collects.

Pumpkin is among the cucurbit crops associated with kharif cultivation in India.

Cucumber can be another useful addition to a monsoon kitchen garden, particularly where temperatures remain warm.

Give the plant a large enough container, good drainage and a trellis. Training the vines upwards saves floor space and also improves air circulation around the plant.

ICAR includes cucumber among cucurbit vegetables suitable for kharif cultivation, while also stressing the importance of drainage during periods of heavy rain.

The most important August gardening rule

The biggest mistake during the monsoon is assuming that plants need extra watering simply because they are growing.

They don't. Check the soil first. If rain has already kept it damp, do not add more water. Make sure every pot has drainage holes and that excess water can escape freely.

Terrace gardeners should also watch for cloudy spells that reduce sunlight, remove damaged leaves and avoid overcrowding plants. For vegetables such as gourds and beans, provide support early rather than waiting until the vines become difficult to manage.

August can therefore be a rewarding month for a kitchen garden, but success depends less on planting a long list of vegetables and more on choosing crops suited to your local conditions. Start with a few containers, give them sunlight and drainage, and let the monsoon work for you rather than against you.

Teacher Shows Fake 'Worms' In Stomach To Stop Children Eating Junk Food | Viral Video Sparks Debate

Divya Danu — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 19:51:55 +0530

A classroom demonstration intended to discourage children from eating junk food has sparked a debate online after a teacher appeared to show 'worms' forming inside a child's stomach after eating chips, biscuits and chocolates. A 39-second video shared on social media shows the teacher using props, including what appeared to be a fake ultrasound scan, during the classroom demonstration.

Teachers ensuring children stay away from junk food by creating fear. pic.twitter.com/mgEsCWs7DU

— Indian Tech & Infra (@IndianTechGuide) September 11, 2026

One of the children can be seen lying down while the teacher displays ultrasound-like images and appears to suggest that eating junk food could cause harmful objects or 'worms' to form inside the stomach.

Children appear frightened during demonstration

The children's reactions soon became the focus of the video.

Several students appear wide-eyed and frightened as the demonstration continues, while some look visibly distressed. A few children also appear to have tears in their eyes.

The demonstration appears to have been designed to make children think twice before eating unhealthy food. However, the use of fear and an apparently fictional explanation about worms forming in the stomach has drawn criticism online.

The intention may be good, but the method matters.A viral school clip shows a teacher using props and a fake ultrasound to scare children away from junk food.Teaching kids healthy eating is important. But fear, misinformation and shock tactics at such a tender age can leave a… pic.twitter.com/SgNgqRBgKj

— Neetu Khandelwal (@T_Investor_) September 11, 2026

The video does not establish where or when the classroom demonstration took place, and the claims being presented to the children should not be treated as a medical explanation.

Why did the video spark criticism?

Sharing the clip, netizens questioned whether frightening children was an appropriate way to teach them about healthy eating.

Many argued that the intention to encourage better food choices may be understandable, but said the method also matters. According to several social media users, children should be taught about healthy habits rather than frightened into avoiding certain foods.

Other viewers agreed, particularly objecting to what they described as lying to children for a supposedly good purpose.

One X user wrote that the best advice they had received about raising children was not to lie to them, adding that children should instead be told honestly why junk food can be unhealthy.

Another user said the approach could leave children with a lasting fear of having worms or insects inside their stomachs.

Viewers divided over teaching method

Not everyone criticised the teacher. Some users defended the basic idea of discouraging children from eating too much junk food, arguing that a strong reaction could make children think about their food choices.

Others, however, said there was a difference between teaching children about the health effects of processed foods and deliberately frightening them.

The discussion has also prompted comparisons with warnings commonly given to children by adults, where frightening consequences were used to make them eat certain foods or follow instructions.

At the centre of the debate is not whether children should learn about healthy eating, but how that lesson should be delivered.

The video has left viewers divided over whether fear can be an effective teaching tool or whether children should be given age-appropriate, factual information instead.

Man Tattoos Friend and His Wife on His Chest, Groom's Reaction Goes Viral (WATCH)

Divya Danu — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 18:26:40 +0530

A viral video of an unusual gift has left social media users laughing, confused and divided. The clip shows a man presenting his friend and his wife with a hand-drawn sketch of the couple on their special day. At first, the gesture appears simple and heartfelt. But the moment takes an unexpected turn when the man reveals that he has gone one step further. He opens his shirt to show that the very same sketch of the couple has been permanently tattooed on his chest.

Friend tattooed his friend and his wife on his chestThe friend’s emotions might genuinely be pure and heartfelt, but look at the husband’s face the moment he sees his wife permanently tattooed on his friend’s chest. Bro went from “aww, that’s wholesome” to “wait… why exactly… pic.twitter.com/mkSiDpKSgO

— Ritik (@ThenNowForeve) August 24, 2026

What may have been intended as a grand tribute to friendship quickly became the part of the video that caught everyone's attention.

The groom's expression steals the show

Viewers were particularly amused by the groom's facial expression after he saw the tattoo. One viral reaction summed up the moment perfectly, saying the groom appeared to go from thinking, “That’s wholesome” to wondering, “Why exactly did you choose my wife?” in just seconds.

Another user joked that tattooing a close friend might still be understandable, but including the friend's wife on the chest made the gesture feel “creepy”.

Several people also joked about what could happen if the couple ever divorced. Comments such as “Divorce loading”, “What if they get divorced?” and “This is guaranteed to end badly” flooded the post.

Internet divided over the unusual friendship gesture

Not everyone saw anything strange in the tattoo. Some users described the gesture as touching, praising the man for showing deep affection and loyalty towards his friend.

One person wrote that people should stop judging a relationship they knew nothing about, while another suggested there could be a meaningful personal reason behind the tattoo.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sorry Girls (@sorryygirlss)

However, the mixed reactions kept coming. Some found the act sweet and emotional, while others questioned why someone would permanently tattoo another man's wife on his chest.

A few users made jokes about the trio's friendship, while others focused entirely on the groom's visibly surprised reaction.

'They Are Security Bhaiyas': Little Girl Ties Rakhis to Society Guards, Wins Hearts | WATCH Viral Video

Divya Danu — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 15:49:26 +0530

Raksha Bandhan is more than just a festival of brothers and sisters for millions of Indians. The festival celebrates affection, trust and the promise of protection, with sisters traditionally tying a rakhi around their brothers' wrists. Ahead of the festival, a little girl has reminded the internet that some of the sweetest sibling-like bonds do not always come from blood relations.

A little girl in her society tied rakhis to the security guards this Rakshabandhan. Her mom said she insisted on tying the same rakhis for her “security bhaiyas” no different from her own brothers. Some bonds don’t need blood. pic.twitter.com/JDnQpRgeMr

— Ghar Ke Kalesh (@gharkekalesh) August 26, 2026

'Security bhaiyas' get the same rakhis

A heartwarming video shared online shows the young girl tying rakhis to the security guards in her housing society.

According to her mother, the child insisted that her “security bhaiyas” should receive the same rakhis as her own brothers. For the little girl, the men who watch over her society and greet residents every day were deserving of the same affectionate gesture.

The simple moment has struck a chord with social media users, with many praising both the child and her mother.

Internet calls it a lesson in respect

“Children should learn to respect people. Maybe the next generation will be better than us,” one user commented.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Brief India (@thebrief.in)

Another wrote that a rakhi could be tied to everyone who protects us, while several others simply called the child adorable and praised the gesture as thoughtful and beautiful.

Many viewers felt the video perfectly captured the wider spirit of Raksha Bandhan, recognising care and protection beyond conventional family relationships.

A small gesture with a big message

Not everyone agreed though with the gesture. One user argued that the sacred tradition should not be diluted beyond its usual meaning. However, most reactions focused on the warmth of the child's gesture.

As Raksha Bandhan approaches, the little girl's decision to include her society’s guards has given the festival a touching modern expression.

After all, some bonds are formed by family, while others grow through everyday kindness, care and respect. And sometimes, all it takes is a small rakhi to acknowledge them.

This year, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on Friday, August 28. For Delhi, the main morning window for the rakhi ceremony falls between 5:57 am and 9:48 am, while the exact timing may vary slightly by location.

4 AM Alarm, Skincare & Prayers: 7th Grader's Viral GRWM Video Divides Internet Over Self-Care

Divya Danu — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 17:53:02 +0530

A schoolgirl’s elaborate 'Get Ready With Me' (GRWM) video showing her morning routine before her first day of middle school has gone viral online. Her video drew millions of views and sparked a debate over makeup, self-care and childhood. The girl, whose Instagram account is based in Bahrain, shared the video with the caption, 'First day of middle school!'.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shaikha Ajaj (@shaikhasdailyylife)

In the video, she starts her day at 4:13 am and takes viewers through her morning routine. She begins by removing a lip-care peel-off mask that she had kept on overnight before washing her face and massaging it.

She then offers her prayers, feeds her pet and continues getting ready for school. She shows her make-up routine including doing her eyebrows and eyelashes, applying lipstick and lip balm and using some foundation and other makeup products.

The schoolgirl then prepares her lunch before leaving for school at around 5:44 am.

Video goes viral

The video has received more than 3.2 million views, with thousands of people weighing in on her routine. While some users questioned the amount of time and effort being spent on makeup and skincare at such a young age, others praised her for being organised and taking care of herself.

One commenter wrote, “7th grade in the 80s. No makeup, no skincare routine, no self-care. We didn’t know contour, we knew corners. We didn’t do skincare, we did homework.”

Another user said they would “rather sleep” for another hour than follow such an elaborate morning routine.

Some comments focused specifically on the girl’s age and appearance. One user wrote that she appeared much older than a typical seventh grader and questioned whether children should be using makeup for school.

“I see lost childhood,” another commenter wrote.

However, many others defended the schoolgirl and said the focus should not only be on her makeup. One user pointed out that she woke up on her own, offered her morning prayer, fed her pet and packed her own lunch.

Another commenter wrote, “I see a responsible kid taking care of herself, her faith and her health.”

Several users also praised her for praying before getting ready for school. One comment said people were noticing the makeup while overlooking the fact that she had offered Fajr prayer and prepared for her day independently.

Others took a more relaxed view, describing her routine as simple grooming rather than excessive makeup. “It’s good to be groomed,” one user wrote.

Another comment summed up the reaction with humour: “This 7 grader has better self care routine than me... u go Gal.”

The viral GRWM video has therefore triggered two contrasting reactions, some viewers see it as a sign that childhood is becoming increasingly focused on appearance, while others see it as an example of a young girl developing independence, discipline and self-care.

What's your take?

Raksha Bandhan 2026: Chant This Sacred Sanskrit Mantra While Tying Rakhi for Brother's Protection

Divya Danu — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 22:27:39 +0530

Raksha Bandhan is not only about tying a rakhi but also about expressing prayers. Chanting Raksha Sutra mantra while tying the sacred thread is said to be auspicious. The mantra recalls King Bali and symbolises protection, strength and goodwill.

Raksha Bandhan is one of the most cherished festivals celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. While the colourful rakhi, sweets and gifts are central to the celebration, Hindu tradition also attaches importance to the prayers and rituals performed while tying the sacred thread.

According to religious belief, chanting a traditional Raksha Sutra mantra while tying the rakhi adds a deeper spiritual meaning to the ceremony. Raksha Bandhan in 2026 will be celebrated on Friday, August 28.

While tying the rakhi on her brother's wrist, a sister may recite:

येन बद्धो बली राजा दानवेन्द्रो महाबलः। तेन त्वामपि बध्नामि रक्षे मा चल मा चल॥

(Yena baddho bali raja danavendro mahabalah, tena tvamapi badhnami rakshe ma chala ma chala)

The mantra refers to the sacred thread with which the powerful King Bali was bound. In simple terms, the sister invokes the same protective spirit while tying the thread around her brother's wrist and prays that the bond of protection remains firm.

येन (Yena) = By which

बद्धो (Baddho) = Bound

बली राजा (Bali Raja) = King Bali

दानवेन्द्रो महाबलः (Danavendro Mahabalah) = The great king of demons, who was very powerful

तेन (Tena) = By that same thread

त्वामपि (Tvamapi) = You too

बध्नामि (Badhnami) = I am tying

रक्षे (Rakshe) = O Raksha / protective thread

मा चल मा चल (Ma Chala Ma Chala) = Do not move, do not go away from your vow of protection

The Raksha Bandhan matra thus translates, "The thread by which the mighty demon king Bali was bound, I tie that same thread around you. O Raksha thread, stay firm and don't move away from your vow of protection."

The phrase “मा चल, मा चल” is traditionally understood as a prayer asking the protective thread to remain steadfast.

For many families, Raksha Bandhan is not simply about the exchange of gifts. The rakhi represents affection, trust and the wish for each other's happiness and safety.

After tying the rakhi and chanting the mantra, the sister may offer a heartfelt prayer for her brother's health, happiness, success and well-being. The brother, in turn, traditionally gives a gift and expresses his love and support for his sister.

The ceremony usually begins with both siblings preparing for the festival and arranging a puja thali. The thali may include roli or kumkum, akshat, a diya, sweets and the rakhi.

The sister applies a tilak on her brother's forehead, places akshat on it and performs the traditional ritual. She then ties the rakhi while chanting the mantra.

After the ceremony, the siblings exchange sweets and gifts.

It is important to remember that the meaning and method of celebrating Raksha Bandhan can vary between families and regions. The mantra and rituals mentioned above are based on Hindu religious traditions and beliefs.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on religious beliefs and traditional practices. It should not be treated as a scientific or universally prescribed practice.

Struggling To Write A 15th August Speech? Easy Independence Day Ideas For Students

Divya Danu — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 14:43:21 +0530

A powerful Independence Day speech does not have to be long. Keep it short, creative and easy to understand. Add interesting facts and trivia to make your speech engaging, memorable and enjoyable for everyone. Read on for topics, ideas and tips.

Writing an Independence Day speech can feel difficult when you want to sound patriotic without repeating the same lines about freedom fighters, the Tricolour and India’s independence. For schoolchildren, the best speech is usually simple, personal and meaningful. Teachers can also use these ideas to help students prepare speeches for school assemblies, competitions and 15th August celebrations.

India celebrates Independence Day on 15 August every year, marking the country’s independence from British rule in 1947. This year, India will mark its 80th Independence Day celebration as the country completes 79 years since independence.

The first few lines matter. Instead of beginning with a long list of historical facts, students can open with a question, a thought or a short reference to freedom. For example:

"What does freedom mean to you? Is it simply the right to live independently, or is it also the responsibility to make our country better?"

Another option is to begin with a simple greeting:

"Respected Principal, teachers and my dear friends, today we have gathered to celebrate a day that changed the history of India i.e.15 August."

Keep the opening short and confident.

Students can choose a topic according to their age and speaking ability. Some useful Independence Day speech topics are:

The importance of Independence Day
The sacrifices of India’s freedom fighters
What freedom means to young Indians
India’s journey from 1947 to today
The role of students in nation-building
Unity in diversity
My vision for India
Freedom and responsibility
How young people can serve the nation

For younger children, “Why We Celebrate Independence Day” is easier. Older students can explore topics such as democracy, equality, responsible citizenship and India’s future.

Leave you audience with some thoughts. A good speech should teach the audience something. India became independent on 15 August 1947, following a long freedom struggle involving leaders, movements and ordinary citizens across the country - everyone knows this, but tell your audience with a trivia or historical fact that may leave a lasting impact.

Students can also mention Jawaharlal Nehru's famous 'Tryst with Destiny' speech, delivered during the midnight session of the Constituent Assembly on 14-15 August 1947.

However, do not overload the speech with dates and names. Two or three accurate facts are more than enough.

The conclusion should connect freedom with responsibility. Students can talk about respecting others, protecting public spaces, studying sincerely, helping people and contributing positively to society.

A strong ending could be:

"Our freedom was won by the generations before us. Our responsibility is to protect it and build an India that future generations can be proud of. Jai Hind!"

Quick tips for students and teachers

Keep it short: A two- to three-minute speech is easier to remember and deliver well.

Use simple English: Clear words are more effective than complicated vocabulary.

Practise aloud: Students should practise pronunciation, pauses and eye contact rather than simply memorising every sentence.

Sound natural: A speech should feel like a student is talking to the audience, not reading an essay.

End confidently: Look up, pause and deliver the final line clearly.

For teachers, one useful approach is to encourage students to connect the meaning of freedom with their own lives. That makes an Independence Day speech more thoughtful, relatable and memorable.

From Marriage Proposal To Matchmaker: After Viral LinkedIn DM, Woman Gets Another Rishta Request

Divya Danu — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 14:34:29 +0530

A Rajasthan-based woman who recently received an unusual marriage-related message on LinkedIn has now found herself at the centre of another matchmaking request. Mudrika Kavdia, a brand marketing professional from Udaipur, was first approached by a mother looking for a bride for her son. Now, another family has contacted her, not to propose a match for her, but to ask if she can connect them with the same woman.

NRI family asks Mudrika for help

Mudrika shared the latest message on X after receiving it on Instagram. The family, who said they are NRIs settled in Africa, are looking for a suitable match for their 26-year-old daughter.

I wish this rishta gets pakka https://t.co/HHr6RIPnwR pic.twitter.com/zwpJTW514R

— Mudrika (@MudrikaKavdia) September 10, 2026

According to their message, the woman works as a commercial pilot in Dubai. The family referred to Mudrika’s earlier post about the mother searching for a bride for her son and asked if she could somehow put them in touch with her.

“Our search is also on,” the family wrote in the message.

Sharing a screenshot, Mudrika added a light-hearted caption: “I wish this rishta gets pakka.”

The unexpected request quickly gave the story another twist, with social media users joking that Mudrika may have accidentally started a new career as a matchmaker.

How it all started on LinkedIn

The latest message came just days after Mudrika shared a LinkedIn message from a woman who had approached her about marriage.

Received a LinkedIn message from a PhD mother looking for a suitable bride for her son. I was not expecting a mother looking for a suitable bride for her PhD son on LINKEDIN. pic.twitter.com/feJhVOESFq

— Mudrika (@MudrikaKavdia) September 9, 2026

The woman, who said she was around Mudrika’s mother’s age, had politely asked whether Mudrika was single, engaged or married. She said she was looking for a suitable bride for her son, who was born in 1997, has a PhD in Biomedical Sciences and is settled in the US.

Rather than making a direct proposal, the woman suggested that she and Mudrika, or their parents, could exchange information if Mudrika was open to the possibility.

Mudrika’s post about the unusual LinkedIn interaction attracted considerable attention online, with many users amused by the idea of a professional networking platform being used for traditional matchmaking.

'LinkedIn has replaced Shaadi.com'

The second matchmaking message prompted another round of jokes on X.

One user called Mudrika a “match making service”, while another suggested that she update her profile to describe herself as an “accidental matchmaker”.

“LinkedIn has completely replaced Shaadi dot com and nobody wants to admit it,” another user joked.

Several others encouraged Mudrika to start her own matrimonial service, with some jokingly suggesting that she should charge a commission or a finder’s fee.

One user said Shaadi and Jeevansathi may have found their strongest competition yet, while another joked that it was time for Mudrika to update her bio and call herself a matchmaker.

The reactions also included references to her becoming a mediator for marriage proposals, with one user joking about the beginning of her “matchmaker” era.

Though there is no indication if either matchmaking request has led to an actual match, but after two unexpected approaches in just a few days, Mudrika’s LinkedIn post has certainly given her an unusual new role online, the one she never appeared to be looking for.

Rajdhani Express Slows Down In Assam To Let Elephant Herd Cross Safely (WATCH)

Divya Danu — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 16:50:53 +0530

A Rajdhani Express train was slowed down in Assam after a herd of elephants was spotted crossing railway tracks, helping prevent a potentially fatal collision. The incident has since gone viral, with social media users praising the railway crew and forest officials for working together to protect the animals.

WATCH | Rajdhani Express was slowed down to allow herd of elephants to safely cross the tracks in Assam pic.twitter.com/sOzxGEqdGX

— The Tatva (@thetatvaindia) August 19, 2026

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Train slows as elephants cross tracks

According to information shared online, alert staff from the Lanka Range of the Assam Forest Department, along with the loco-pilot of the 167/8 Down Rajdhani Express, helped avert a major accident in the Habipur section.

The control room in-charge at Lumding Station also supported the operation, allowing the train to slow down while the elephants safely crossed the tracks.

A video of the incident shows the herd making its way across the railway line as the train remains at a safe distance. The footage has attracted widespread attention online.

The coordinated response was praised as an example of how quick communication between railway and forest officials can prevent wildlife deaths on railway tracks.

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Internet praises the response

Many social media users called the incident a 'wonderful' and 'excellent' example of responsible action. Several praised the forest guards and the train crew for putting the safety of the elephants first.

One user said real-time coordination between the Lumding control room and wildlife teams 'made the difference', while another said the train crew deserved recognition because ignoring such warnings can lead to deadly accidents.

This morning, alert staff from Lanka Range of @assamforest along with the loco-pilot of 167/8 down Rajdhani Express with support from the control room in-charge, Lumding Station under @RailNf averted a major accident from happening involving elephants on the Habipur section. pic.twitter.com/0KDAvD9HQ8

— Kaushik Barua (@Airawat) August 19, 2026

Several users also thanked the officials for saving the elephants and said such incidents showed the value of patience and cooperation between government agencies.

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Calls for safer elephant crossings

The incident also prompted questions about long-term solutions. Some users asked why dedicated animal underpasses or wildlife crossings had not been built along the railway route.

Others suggested creating elephant corridors, underpasses or specially designed crossings to allow animals to move safely without depending entirely on last-minute warnings to train drivers.

One commenter questioned whether trains should routinely slow down in known elephant movement areas rather than relying only on alerts when animals reach the tracks.

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'Every App Is A Dating App': Woman's Unexpected LinkedIn Marriage Proposal Leaves Internet Amused

Divya Danu — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 20:34:42 +0530

A woman named Mudrika Kavdia has gone viral after posting about an unusual LinkedIn DM. In a post on X, she wrote that she never expected LinkedIn to become a place where she would receive a marriage proposal. But a message from a woman looking for a suitable bride for her son has turned into a talking point on social media.

Mudrika shared a screenshot of the message on X, saying she was not expecting a mother to approach her on LinkedIn while searching for a bride for her son. In the message, the woman addressed Mudrika as 'beta' and congratulated her before explaining why she had contacted her.

She said she was looking for a suitable bride aged between 24 and 29 for her son, who was born in 1997, has a PhD in Biomedical Sciences and is settled in the US.

The woman said she had started looking on her own and wanted to know whether Mudrika was single, engaged or married. She added that, if Mudrika was open to it, they could exchange information with her or her parents. The polite and straightforward nature of the message made the post even more amusing for many users.

'Every app is a dating app'

The post quickly attracted a range of reactions, with several users joking about LinkedIn entering the matchmaking space. One user quipped, “Every app is a dating app if you're Indian enough,” while another joked that LinkedIn had “everything” now.

Another user said the mother appeared to be sweet and argued that using any platform for such a message was not necessarily wrong as long as it was private and respectful. Some users also shared their own experiences. One person recalled receiving a marriage proposal from a woman on LinkedIn who had moved to the UK for her Master's degree and was settled there.

Many users found the message 'cute'

Not everyone thought the unusual approach was strange. Several commenters described the message as cute, polite or even heartwarming.

One user shared that he and his wife are both doctors and childhood sweethearts, adding that their mothers had once made a similar approach through their families. Another commenter suggested that the mother may not have specifically been searching for brides on LinkedIn. Instead, she may have come across Mudrika's profile or post, liked what she saw and decided to reach out.

Some users raised scam concerns

While most reactions were light-hearted, a few users urged Mudrika to be cautious. Some wondered whether the message could be a scam or whether someone might have created the account while pretending to be the mother.

Others simply joked about what could happen next, with one user asking whether the mystery mother might move to X after seeing Mudrika's post.

The post has ultimately opened up a humorous conversation about how professional networking platforms are increasingly being used for purposes far beyond jobs and careers.

For Mudrika, however, the unexpected LinkedIn message has certainly made for an unusual social media story.

H1N1 Surge In Delhi-NCR: Symptoms, Risks And What Experts Are Saying | All You Need To Know

Divya Danu — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 13:52:09 +0530

Delhi has reported 1,777 H1N1 cases in 2026, with the virus emerging as dominant subtype among 2,392 Influenza A infections. ICMR says no new strain has been detected and most cases are self-limiting. Authorities are reviewing hospital preparedness.

A noticeable rise in influenza cases across Delhi-NCR has put seasonal flu back in focus, with H1N1, commonly known as swine flu, emerging as the dominant influenza subtype in the national capital this year.

The latest figures show that Delhi had recorded 1,777 H1N1 cases till August 20. The city reported 2,392 Influenza A cases during the same period, while a further 210 Influenza B cases took the overall influenza tally to 2,602.

On August 20 alone, Delhi recorded 159 fresh influenza cases, including 114 cases of H1N1 and four cases of Influenza B.

The numbers have triggered closer monitoring by health authorities and a review of hospital preparedness. At the same time, scientists at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) have sought to calm fears, saying that no new H1N1 strain has been identified in India and that the virus currently in circulation is a seasonal influenza strain.

H1N1 is a subtype of Influenza A and has long been popularly known as swine flu. However, the current rise does not mean that a new virus has emerged.

Of the 2,392 Influenza A cases reported in Delhi this year till August 20, H1N1 alone accounted for 1,777 infections. This makes it the predominant influenza subtype currently being reported in the capital.

The pattern is also different from last year, when H3N2 was the predominant influenza subtype in Delhi. During the corresponding period in 2025, Delhi had reported 229 H1N1 cases, making this year's tally significantly higher.

The rise is also being reflected in clinics and laboratories, where more people are seeking tests after developing upper respiratory symptoms.

Arjun Dang, CEO of Dr Dang's Lab, said the laboratory had detected dozens of positive cases in recent weeks and had seen a marked increase in testing requests from people reporting respiratory symptoms.

He said widespread home-collection services and molecular testing systems were helping laboratories provide results more quickly, allowing doctors to intervene sooner when necessary.

The sharp increase in reported cases has naturally raised questions among Delhi-NCR residents, particularly because respiratory infections can spread quickly in crowded homes, workplaces, schools and other enclosed settings.

But the ICMR has stressed that there is no evidence of a newly emerged H1N1 strain behind the current increase.

According to the clarification cited by health authorities and reports, the Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses currently circulating in India are similar to the A/Missouri/11/2025(H1N1)pdm09-like strain. They belong to clade 6B.1A.5a2a and subclade D.3.1.1 and have been in circulation since 2025.

Scientists have also said that the circulating strains are well matched with the influenza vaccine strains recommended for the Northern Hemisphere.

The message from health experts is therefore one of caution rather than panic: influenza activity is being closely watched, but there is no indication that India is facing a new H1N1 variant.

Seasonal influenza can often begin in a way that feels similar to an ordinary viral illness.

Common symptoms include fever, cough, headache and body aches. Some people may also experience other upper respiratory symptoms and general fatigue.

The ICMR has said that seasonal influenza, including H1N1, is mostly self-limiting, meaning that many people recover with appropriate care and adequate rest.

However, not every patient should treat symptoms lightly. People whose condition persists, worsens or becomes severe should seek medical advice.

Doctors are also urging people not to assume that every fever or cough is automatically H1N1. Several respiratory illnesses can produce similar symptoms, making proper medical assessment important when symptoms are serious or prolonged.

Who needs to be particularly careful?

While many people recover from seasonal influenza without serious complications, some groups face a higher risk.

Young children, elderly people and those with underlying medical conditions may be more vulnerable to complications. Immunocompromised people and others with significant health risks have also been advised to remain particularly vigilant.

Arjun Dang said high-risk individuals should seek timely medical advice and testing if they develop symptoms.

Doctors have also reported that while most patients have responded well to treatment, some have developed complications such as pneumonia. Severe cases may require more intensive medical care.

The key point is that a rise in infections does not mean that every person with a cough will become seriously ill. But people in vulnerable groups should not ignore symptoms that are worsening or unusually severe.

The increase in influenza cases has prompted health authorities to review how prepared Delhi's healthcare system is to handle seasonal and vector-borne diseases.

Union Health and Family Welfare Minister JP Nadda recently chaired a review meeting to assess Delhi's preparedness for influenza as well as diseases such as dengue and malaria.

Delhi Health Minister Dr Pankaj Kumar Singh attended the review and briefed the Centre on surveillance measures and hospital preparedness.

The Delhi government has said influenza activity is being monitored through regular surveillance, including the tracking of influenza-like illness, severe acute respiratory infections and influenza cases.

Singh has said there is no shortage of beds, doctors, medicines or essential medical equipment and that patients will receive timely treatment.

The focus is not only on treating people who are already ill, but also on early detection, continued surveillance and ensuring that hospitals can respond if case numbers rise further.

Simple precautions can help reduce transmission

Public health experts continue to emphasise basic precautions.

Regular hand hygiene remains important. People should cover their mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing and avoid unnecessarily close contact when they are unwell.

Appropriate masking in crowded settings can also help reduce the spread of respiratory infections, particularly when someone has symptoms or is in close contact with vulnerable people.

According to Dr Dang, people who test positive should follow isolation and treatment advice given by a doctor.

The wider message is straightforward: do not panic, but do not ignore symptoms either. Rest, follow medical advice and take sensible precautions to avoid passing respiratory infections to others.

Delhi's H1N1 tally of 1,777 cases is a significant increase and explains why health authorities are stepping up surveillance and reviewing hospital readiness.

However, the ICMR's clarification is equally important. Scientists say no new H1N1 strain has been detected in India, and the virus currently circulating has been present since 2025.

For most people, seasonal influenza remains self-limiting. The greatest concern is for those at higher risk of complications and for patients whose symptoms become persistent, severe or worse over time.

As Delhi-NCR continues to see more influenza cases and testing requests, the advice remains simple: stay alert to symptoms, follow basic hygiene and respiratory precautions, avoid spreading illness to others, and seek medical guidance when needed rather than relying on self-diagnosis.

(With inputs from agencies)

'Gen Alpha's Harmful Trend': Mother's Viral Video Over 'Birthday Bumps' Sparks Debate Among Parents

Divya Danu — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 12:59:38 +0530

A mother’s complaint over 'birthday bumps' given to her children has sparked a debate online, as parents question whether hitting children in the name of celebration has gone too far. In a viral video circulating on social media, the woman shows her son’s reddened back as his father applies ice to it. She says the child was hit by friends as part of a birthday ritual.

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"Gen Alpha ka wrong trend", she says, questioning what joy children get from hurting someone on their birthday.

The mother says she is not claiming her children are innocent. She admits her son may have taken part in similar birthday hitting before and says he may have beaten another child on their birthday.

She also says her daughter (a twin) had a similarly red back after being subjected to the same practice.

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'This must stop'

The woman says she has never hit her children and is upset to see their backs reddened by a tradition she considers cruel. She says a 12-year-old girl was among those who hit her son and asks how often children will be expected to endure such treatment as they grow older.

She calls on children to stop the practice at schools, coaching centres and housing societies. She urges parents to pay closer attention to birthday celebrations.

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The mother tells her children that they must neither hit others nor accept being hit themselves. She says she will not tolerate them taking part in what she describes as a harmful trend.

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Social media divided over the ritual

The video has drawn a mixed response. Some users backed the mother and said birthday hitting should not be treated as harmless fun. Some parents described seeing children pounce on birthday boys or girls, hit their backs and leave them in pain.

One commenter recalled a 10-year-old being surrounded by children after a cake-cutting, slammed down and hit repeatedly. The commenter said the child was left crying with a red back while his father applied ice.

Others, however, argued that the practice is not new and should not be blamed on Gen Alpha. Users said they had experienced 'birthday bumps' during their school, college or hostel years. Some joked about having survived much harsher versions of the ritual.

The discussion has shifted beyond generations. While some users see birthday bumps as an old tradition, the viral video also renewed questions about consent, peer pressure and where playful celebration should end and physical harm should begin.

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Cabbage Worm Video Goes Viral: Are These White Thread-Like Worms Dangerous?

Divya Danu — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 18:34:33 +0530

A video showing extremely thin, white, thread-like worms found while a woman was cutting cabbage has triggered a wave of reactions online. The woman said in her caption that the worm was so small that she initially mistook it for a piece of thread. The footage shows the pale strands moving slightly as the camera zooms in. The woman said she noticed the object only after it came into her hand and urged people to be careful while preparing vegetables.

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Viral video sparks worm fears

The post quickly attracted comments from people claiming that the worms were tapeworms, 'brain worms' or dangerous parasites. Some users said they would stop eating cabbage, while others advised washing vegetables in salt water or avoiding leafy vegetables during the rainy season.

However, the identity of the worm cannot be confirmed from the video alone. Calling it a tapeworm or a parasite that can enter the human brain would be misleading without laboratory identification.

Some long, slender worms found on plants can be horsehair worms or other insect-parasitic worms. Horsehair worms are parasites of insects and other invertebrates and are considered harmless to humans.

Are worms found in cabbage dangerous?

Not every worm found on a vegetable poses a human health risk. Insects and their larvae can sometimes be present on fresh produce, particularly vegetables with tightly packed leaves such as cabbage.

It is also important not to confuse a worm seen on cabbage with Taenia solium, commonly known as the pork tapeworm. According to a WHO report, Human cysticercosis caused by T. solium occurs when people swallow the parasite's eggs, usually through faecal contamination of food or water. Neurocysticercosis can occur when larvae reach the central nervous system. This is a separate infection and cannot be diagnosed simply by seeing a thread-like worm on a vegetable.

How to prepare cabbage safely

Consumers should wash fresh produce thoroughly under clean running water before cutting or cooking it. The FDA also recommends removing the outermost leaves of cabbage and cutting away damaged areas. Soap, detergent or bleach should not be used to clean vegetables.

If a visible worm or insect is found, it can be removed and the affected leaves discarded. Cabbage should then be washed properly and cooked thoroughly.

The viral video is therefore a reminder to inspect and wash vegetables carefully, but it does not by itself prove that the worm shown is a dangerous tapeworm or a 'brain worm'.