Ikigai is your “reason for being”. It is the sweet spot where passion, mission, vocation, and profession intersect. It’s why Okinawans, some of the world’s longest-living people, hop out of bed every morning eagerly – even at the age of 90! To find yours, simply ask: What do you love the most? What are you great at? What does the world need? What pays? No need for a soul-crushing job hunt; it could be gardening, mentoring kids, or coding apps. Find your ikigai and pursue it in small doses daily.

In Indian tradition, Thursday is known as Guruvar, the day ruled by Jupiter. Jupiter, or Guru/Brihaspati, stands for wisdom, growth, learning, and grace. Many families believe that babies born on Thursday carry these calm and thoughtful traits. Choosing a name linked to Jupiter can feel like a quiet blessing that stays for life. Here are some Jupiter-inspired baby names.

Ever wondered why some couples grow stronger together decade after decade of being married, while others fizzle out? It’s not simply their luck or chemistry. Poet Robert Browning nailed it over a century ago with this wisdom: “Success in marriage is more than finding the right person: it is being the right person.“Think about it. We spend so much time swiping on apps, going on dates, and looking for “Mr or Miss Perfect”. But Robert Browning says it’s more important to be the right person, instead of looking for one. He reminds us that a thriving marriage isn’t a solo quest for Mr. or Mrs. Right. It’s being the perfect person, you wish your partner to be.

How “being the right person” can transform your relationship

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to point fingers at your partner when things go wrong in your relationship. But Browning’s words challenge us to look in the mirror first. Becoming the right person means cultivating qualities that nurture love: These include patience, kindness, forgiveness, and a willingness to grow together.Science backs this up, too. Relationship expert John Gottman, who studied thousands of couples, found that successful marriages aren’t about avoiding conflict. Instead, they’re about how partners repair it. Afterall, we are all humans, and we are bound to make mistakes. And so, the “right person” isn’t flawless; they’re committed to being better.

Practical ways to become the right person today

Ready to put Browning’s advice into action? Here are five simple, doable steps to start:1. Practice daily gratitude: Each evening, share three things you appreciate about your partner. It shifts your mindset from criticism to celebration.2. Own your growth: Read self-help books or try couples therapy – not as a last resort to save your marriage, but as maintenance.3. Practice active listening with your partner. If you have an argument, pause and repeat back what you heard instead of reacting. This helps prevent any miscommunication.4. Forgive freely (but wisely): Holding grudges poisons love. Let go of small stuff, but address patterns with honest talks.5. Keep the spark alive by planning fun dates together.Browning wasn’t just waxing poetic; he lived it. His marriage to Elizabeth Barrett Browning was legendary – two strong-willed artists who chose each other and chose to evolve together, eloping against her family’s wishes and thriving for 15 years.

The bottom line: Marriage is hard work

Finding the right person is magical, but being the right person is the real superpower. It turns “I do” into “We grow together”. If you’re single, use this as your mantra for dating. If married, share this article with your spouse- it’s a gentle nudge toward deeper love and lasting marriage.What’s one way you’ll “be the right person” this week? Share in the comments section below.

Melinda French Gates (file photo)

Author-philanthropist Melinda French Gates’ voice trembled just a little on the NPR podcast, Wild Card with Rachel Martin, as she faced the elephant in the room. New Jeffrey Epstein files had just dropped, dragging her ex-husband, billionaire, philanthropist, and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, back into the spotlight and reopening wounds from her 27-year marriage that ended in a divorce in 2021. “I had to leave my marriage,” Melinda French Gates said in the recent interview, her words heavy with a sadness that’s hard to miss. It’s a raw admission from a woman who’s spent decades building empires of good, now reckoning with betrayal that cut deeper than anyone imagined.

The painful echoes of Epstein’s Files

Picture this: Millions of pages unsealed by the U.S. Justice Department, and there it was – Epstein’s bizarre 2013 emails, masquerading as notes from Bill’s adviser.

“From helping Bill to get drugs, in order to deal with consequences of s** with russian girls, to facilictating his illicit trysts, with married women, to being asked to provide adderall fro bridge toumamnts. as I am a medical doctor, but have no presriptions writing abiltiy,” Epstein wrote in an email to himself (with lots of typos), as per several reports.The email’s pretty confusing since Epstein wasn’t even a real doctor. But that bit about Bill Gates sleeping with “Russian girls” might tie back to a 2023 Wall Street Journal story, which claimed that Jeffrey Epstein tried to blackmail Bill Gates back then over his alleged affair with Mila Antonova, a Russian bridge player in her 20s.In the NPR podcast, when Melinda was asked about her ex-husband being named in the newly released documents from the Epstein Files, Melinda didn’t dive into the mud. Instead, she let her guards down and said, “It’s personally hard whenever those details come up… it brings back memories of some very, very painful times in my marriage.” Her words weren’t accusatory— they were exhausted, grieving. When pressed on the “muck,” including alleged secret meds and affairs, Melinda paused, then said, “(I feel) Sad. Just unbelievable sadness.” It’s the kind of sorrow that lingers, the slow drip of trust that eroded over years.

Bill Gates is one of many influential people mentioned by name in the 3 million newly released pages of Jeffrey Epstein’s personal communications.

A society’s reckoning, a mother’s heartbreak

What hit Melinda hardest wasn’t just how Bill’s association with Epstein affected their marriage, but it was also the girls, the victims. “No girl should ever be put in the situation that they were put in by Epstein,” she said, voice cracking with empathy. She remembered her own youth, her daughters at those tender ages, and further said, “It’s beyond heartbreaking.” Epstein’s web ensnared so many, and now, as survivors step to microphones in D.C., Melinda hopes for justice. It’s a fierce maternal instinct shining through her pain, turning personal loss into quiet advocacy.Meanwhile, Bill Gates has called it all “absolutely absurd and completely false.” His team insists the documents only show Epstein’s spite – no real ties, just a financier’s failed bid for influence. Past reports, like The Wall Street Journal’s on a threatened expose over Russian bridge player Mila Antonova, add layers. Bill’s always framed his Epstein meets as philanthropy-only, despite The New York Times revealing more frequent encounters. Melinda, stepping away from the Gates Foundation last year, seems that she’s done explaining. “Those questions are for those people… and for even my ex-husband. They need to answer to those things, not me,” she said in the NPR interview.

Moving on from the muck

Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates officially got divorced in 2021, after whispers of their strained marriage. But hearing Melinda now, it’s clear Epstein wasn’t the sole villain – more like the final straw in a tapestry of hurt in her marriage. “I wanted to leave my marriage… I felt I needed to eventually leave the foundation. So it’s just sad. That’s the truth.” Yet there’s light: “I’m in a beautiful place in my own life... happy to be away from all the muck,” she added.For the unversed, since their divorce in 2021, both Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates have moved on in their lives. While Bill Gates is currently dating Paula Hurd, Melinda French Gates is said to be dating tech entrepreneur Philip Vaughn.

In today’s naming landscape, parents are leaning towards classic and timeless baby names, steering clear of unconventional spellings and geographical inspirations. There’s a noticeable drop in names for boys that end with ‘y’ or kick off with ‘D’ and ‘K’, suggesting a shift towards names that are both elegant and easily recognisable.

Every year, BabyCenter records hundreds of thousands of baby names entered by parents across the US. These names shape school rolls, birthday charts, and future workplaces. But trends do not only rise. Some names fall sharply, and those drops reveal how parents think about identity and belonging.The BabyCenter data from 2024 to 2025 shows clear signals. Parents are not just picking new favourites. They are actively stepping away from certain styles of names. The patterns below explain what is changing and why it matters.

Parents are done explaining spellings

One of the clearest trends is the sharp fall of creatively spelled names. Names like Charleigh, Alivia, Maddison, Emmitt, and Mohamad dropped hundreds of ranks in a single year.The reason seems practical. Parents are choosing names that do not need constant spelling corrections at school, airports, or job interviews. A name that looks familiar on paper now matters more than one that looks unique online. The data suggests that ease is winning over novelty.

Place names are losing their charm

Location-inspired names once felt modern and global. But in 2025, that charm appears to be fading. London, Malaysia, and Dallas dropped significantly for girls, while Boston slipped for boys.This shift hints at a desire for names that feel personal. Parents may still love travel, but they seem less keen to turn destinations into lifelong labels for their children.

Short and cute boy names are falling behind

Boy names ending in y are slipping fast. Huxley, Grady, Rey, Corey, and Harry all dropped sharply in rank.These names often sound playful and youthful. The decline suggests that parents are thinking long-term. Names that sound strong and adaptable across childhood and adulthood are gaining preference over names that feel too nickname-like.

Certain letters are quietly going out of style

Names starting with D and K saw consistent drops across genders. For girls, Danielle, Dylan, Kenna, and Kinley lost ground. For boys, Dominick, Dev, Kylian, and Karim declined steeply.This is not about the letters themselves. It reflects trend fatigue. Many of these names peaked years ago. Parents today seem eager to avoid names that already feel overused in classrooms and social circles.

Cross-cultural names are being reconsidered

Several names with strong cultural or global roots saw notable declines, such as Prisha, Aarya, Atharv, Ishaan, Rudra, and Avyaan.This does not signal rejection. Instead, it may show a pause. As more parents seek a balance between heritage and simplicity, they may be choosing names that feel culturally meaningful yet easier to use across different settings.

Familiar classics are no longer safe either

Even long-standing names are not immune. Nicole, Gabrielle, Regina, Frank, Bruce, and Harry all dropped significantly.The decline of these names suggests that “classic” alone is no longer enough. Parents appear to want names that feel both familiar and fresh, without sounding dated.

What this trend really means

The BabyCenter data does not point to one perfect name style. It points to intention. Parents are thinking about how a name sounds, looks, travels, and ages. Names that require less explanation, feel less trend-heavy, and work across life stages are becoming safer choices.Disclaimer: This article is based on BabyCenter’s analysis of the top 1,000 baby names for 2024 and 2025, using data submitted by parents of babies born in 2025. Name trends change over time and across regions. Popularity data should be used for insight, not prediction.

Your home’s main door is the most important line of defence. So it goes without saying that your door and its lock must be robust and strong as that’s the main safety barrier standing between you and the outside world. Though locks are important, it becomes a pivotal point in apartments, where hundreds of people share common spaces. Door safety becomes even more important in these places. Therefore spending money on a reliable main door lock becomes a priority. Beyond protecting your valuables, these locks offer a sense of safety and mental peace.

When it comes to which one is perfect, all of these work. Now everything depends on your budget and requirements. On this note have a look at five types of main door locks and which one is perfect for apartments.

A toddler’s life was saved after swallowing a full Hulk figurine, which was lodged in his stomach. Doctors successfully removed the toy via endoscopy, averting potential intestinal blockage. This incident underscores the critical role of parental instinct and the need for constant reassessment of toy safety as children explore their world.

It began like many normal days in a home with a toddler. A one-and-a-half-year-old boy was playing with his toys. At some point, a small green Hulk figurine went missing. Soon after, the child started vomiting and looked distressed. His mother sensed something was wrong and rushed him to the hospital. An X-ray revealed the truth. The entire Hulk toy, with arms, legs, and head, was lodged in the child’s stomach. Quick medical action saved him. Even slight delay could have changed the outcome completely.

What exactly happened inside the hospital

Doctors at the hospital confirmed that the child had swallowed the full toy. It had not broken into pieces. Removing it was extremely difficult. There is a natural valve between the food pipe and the stomach, and pulling a whole toy through it can cause serious damage. The doctors used upper GI endoscopy and carefully held the toy by its head to remove it safely. If the toy had slipped into the intestines, it could have caused blockage or even rupture, leading to surgery. The procedure was done on January 19, and the child recovered fully.

Why this incident is more serious than it sounds

This was not a case of a tiny bead or a coin. It was a full-sized character toy. Toddlers explore the world using their mouths, especially between one and two years of age. At this stage, curiosity is faster than judgment. What makes this incident alarming is how easily a commonly available toy turned into a life-threatening risk. The danger was not visible from the outside. There was no choking sound. The warning signs came later, through vomiting and distress.

The role of parental instinct

One particular detail is very noteworthy. When the mother saw that her child was uncomfortable, she quickly linked it to the missing toy. It was that awareness that changed everything. Many parents might believe that food or an infection is the cause of vomiting. In this case, observation and trust in instinct led to timely medical care. This incident reminds families that parents know their child’s normal behaviour best. When something feels “off,” it usually is.

Rethinking toys meant for “growing kids”

Most toy labels focus on age, but not on shape, size, or material behaviour inside the body. A toy that fits easily into a toddler’s mouth is already a risk. Figurines with rounded heads, smooth surfaces, or flexible material can slip through the throat silently. Even toys that seem too big can still be swallowed with effort. This incident shows that safety is not just about buying good brands. It is about constant reassessment as the child grows and explores each month.

Practical lessons parents can carry forward

Some difficult but important lessons can be learned from this case. Toy safety is a continuous process. It needs to be reviewed often. Homes with older siblings frequently have mixed toys, which increases the risk. Not only should parents watch what their children play with, but also how they play. Never ignore abrupt distress, vomiting, or tears without warning, especially if an object is missing. Early hospital visits can prevent major surgery and long-term damage.Doctors confirmed that a delay could have pushed the toy into the intestines. That would have meant possible blockage, rupture, and surgery. Instead, because the child was brought in on time, doctors managed removal through endoscopy. The child is now completely healthy. This outcome highlights how fast action can turn a potential tragedy into a story of recovery.Disclaimer: This article is for general awareness and parenting education only. It does not replace professional medical advice. If a child shows signs of distress or is suspected of swallowing any object, immediate medical attention is essential.

International superstar Shakira shares her journey into motherhood, illustrating how it completely transformed her worldview. She embraced a new definition of success, focusing on being present rather than striving for perfection. With time becoming a cherished emotional investment, her career choices now reflect a deeper consideration.

Shakira has spent decades in the public eye, but parenthood changed the way she looks at life, work, and herself. In several interviews over the years, she has spoken honestly about how becoming a mother grounded her and made her more aware of her emotional choices. As reported, Shakira has described motherhood as demanding but deeply clarifying. This article looks closely at what she has said, what she learnt from it, and why her words matter to parents everywhere.

Motherhood made her redefine success

Before becoming a mother, Shakira measured success through albums, tours, and global impact. After her children were born, that definition shifted. As reported by People, she once shared that success began to feel more personal and less public.

Motherhood taught her that showing up consistently mattered more than being perfect. That idea challenges the pressure many parents feel to “do it all” flawlessly. Her learning here is: being present can matter more than being impressive.

She learnt that time is an emotional choice

Shakira has said that time became her most valuable resource after becoming a parent. Work decisions began to carry emotional weight and not just professional value.This learning feels relevant because many parents struggle with guilt around work. Shakira’s experience highlights a critical thought: every “yes” to work is also a “no” to something else. Parenthood made her more intentional, not less ambitious.

Shakira is considered the Queen Of Latin Music

Motherhood changed how she listens

Shakira has spoken about how parenting improved her ability to listen without trying to control outcomes. She learnt that children respond better to patience than authority.This lesson stands out because it moves away from common advice about strict rules. Instead, it focuses on emotional awareness. Listening became a skill she practised daily, both at home and in her creative life.

She understood that vulnerability is strength

Shakira has openly acknowledged that motherhood made her emotionally softer, not weaker. She has said that becoming a parent made her more aware of her fears, but also more resilient.This learning is important because public figures hide their own vulnerability. Her honesty suggests that accepting emotional exposure can actually build inner strength.

Parenthood helped her reconnect with her roots

Shakira has stated in multiple interviews that having children pushed her to reconsider her cultural identity and values. She became more aware of the traditions and values she wished to preserve.This shows how becoming a mom can help adults rediscover their childhood memories. It includes not only parenting children, but also thinking on one’s own life and selecting what is most essential.

She learnt that growth comes with letting go

According to reports, one of Shakira’s most reflective thoughts is about letting go of power. She learned via parenthood that letting kids be themselves is the best way for them to develop.In a world where comparison is the norm, this realisation seems especially important.Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available interviews and reports from trusted media outlets. The content is for informational purposes only and does not intend to speculate or add unverified details about Shakira’s personal life.

Srajkund Mela has already started, and if you haven’t visited it yet, plan your visit soon. The 39th Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2026 was inaugurated by Vice President C P Radhakrishnan at Surajkund in Faridabad, Haryana. The Vice President also launched the Mela Sathi App, which is expected to assist visitors in navigating the fair and gaining information, as reported by newsonair.Addressing the gathering, Radhakrishnan said India’s artisans are the custodians of centuries-old knowledge and that empowering them is vital for building a strong, inclusive, and sustainable economy. He noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s cultural heritage and handicrafts sector have been placed at the centre of national renewal. He also talked about programs like the Pradhanmantri Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman Yojana, which help traditional craftspeople by giving them financial support and skill development.The inauguration ceremony was also attended by Nayab Saini.Read more: Indian runner sets Guinness record for fastest Manali–Leh run across high Himalayan passes, finishes under 100 hours

Theme, partner nation and highlights

The central theme of Surajkund Mela 2026 is ‘Local to Global’, which highlights the effort to give local artisans international exposure. Uttar Pradesh and Meghalaya are the theme states this year, showcasing their distinctive crafts, textiles, and cultural traditions. Egypt is participating as the partner nation, adding a global flavour to the fair through crafts, performances, and cuisine. Visitors can expect daily performances by renowned national and international folk artists at the two open-air theatres (Chaupals) inside the Mela premises. Special cultural evening programmes will also be held every night at the main Chaupal. The festival will continue until February 15, 2026.

Stalls and attractions

Surajkund Mela is best known for bringing India’s craft heritage under one roof.Craft stalls: Handloom textiles, pottery, jewellery, woodwork, leather products, metal crafts, and handmade décorFood stalls: Regional cuisines from across Indian states, street food, and traditional sweetsCultural performances: Folk dances, music, puppet shows, and international actsLive workshops: Artisans demonstrating traditional craft-making techniques

How to reach Surajkund Mela 2026

Metro nearest stations: Badarpur Border Metro Station (Violet Line), Faridabad Sector 37/38 Metro Stations (depending on entry gate)Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and shuttle services are available from metro stations.Road: Easily accessible by taxi, private car, or bus from Delhi, Gurgaon, and FaridabadClear road signage guides visitors to the venueBus servicesSpecial buses operate from ISBT, Gurgaon, Faridabad, and major metro stopsAirIndira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi): Approximately 25–30 km awayRead more: Japan multiple-entry visa for Indian nationals: Eligibility, documents and application process explained

Parking arrangements

Authorities have created 10 designated parking zones around the venue. Visitors are advised to use only authorised parking areas. Vehicles entering Faridabad from Prahladpur (Delhi Border) or Shooting Range should use NH-44 via Badarpur. Heavy vehicles from Gurugram are advised to take the KMP Expressway or other alternate routes.

What to expect at Surajkund Mela 2026

This year’s event is expected to offer a vibrant mix of crafts, performances, and culinary experiences, with Egypt being the partner country. To enhance the evening ambience, the Tourism Department has renovated some areas of the venue and installed new lighting. Visitors can look forward to a comprehensive experience of Indian and international folk cultures, crafts, and cuisine all under one roof at the fair. So, make your weekend plans now!

Over the years, the laundry practice has changed significantly. Among several developments, dryer balls and dryer sheets are widely used during the drying cycle. These add to the laundry outcomes. For those who don’t know, the two serve similar purposes but differ greatly in composition, performance and environmental impact. It is important to understand the difference between the two to make better decisions. Both dryer balls and sheets are used in the dryer only. These play a crucial role in post-wash fabric care. These reduce drying time and also minimise static electricity. These also help improve fabric softness and reduce wrinkles. They also improve drying efficiency.Let’s take a look at these:Dryer BallsFor those who don’t know, dryer balls are reusable laundry accessories. These are mainly made from wool, rubber, or plastic. We put them in the dryer along with wet clothes and as the dryer rotates, these balls move between garments, and keep them physically separated.Advantages:The main benefit of this is improved air circulationAlso, dryer balls save clothes from cluttering together. This can reduce drying time by up to 20–30 percent, and lower energy consumption.Fabric SofteningWool dryer balls also act as natural fabric softener. These soften fabrics through mechanical action rather than chemical coatings.Cost effectiveAlso, the dryer balls can last for many (around hundred) drying cycles. Most of the time, for years, making them a cost-effective option.Environmental friendlyClearly these are friends of the environment! These are reusable and free of any chemical. These generate less waste and also contribute to energy savings. However, the dryer balls are not that useful when it comes to eliminating static cling. What are Dryer Sheets

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Now, dryer sheets are mainly single-use fabric sheets. These are coated with softening agents. We put them in the dryer at the very start of the cycle.Advantages:Static Reduction: Dryer sheets neutralise static electricity. These work very well against static cling.Fragrance: A number of users prefer the fresh smell of dryer sheets. It stays on clothes after drying, making laundry feel and smell nice.Convenience: There’s absolutely no maintenance required. One of the main concerns with these is that chemicals used may irritate sensitive skin. Sometimes, it can also leave residues on clothes and dryer sensors. Over time, this residue may reduce towel absorbency.So what’s betterChoosing between dryer balls and dryer sheets completely depends on individual’s preference:Dryer balls are best for energy efficiency and sustainability. These are also chemical free.Those who prefer fragrance, dryer sheets are a better option.For cost savings, dryer balls are great.So choose your pick wisely.