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.

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.

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.

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

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.

SoFi Stadium, located in Inglewood, California, was completed in 2020 with a construction budget of approximately $5.5 billion, making it the costliest sports stadium ever constructed. The stadium has a seating capacity of 70,000 and boasts a translucent roof and a massive double-sided video board. The stadium was constructed on the site of the former Hollywood Park racetrack and will host major sporting events such as the Super Bowl. It will also host the Olympic Games in 2028.

The world’s most costly buildings illustrate how architectural design can integrate religious belief, commerce, entertainment, and national identity into massive physical structures. Ranging from the religious majesty of Masjid al-Haram to the futuristic entertainment space of Marina Bay Sands and the technological wonder of SoFi Stadium, each building embodies distinct human values with an unprecedented level of financial expenditure. They collectively illustrate that the value of iconic buildings goes beyond mere financial expenditure to encompass their cultural significance, innovation, and global significance.

Image Credit: Wikipedia

For years, moving abroad has been sold as a one-way upgrade, better pay, cleaner cities, efficient systems, and a lifestyle that signals success. For many Indians, returning home after “making it” overseas is framed as a compromise, or worse, a quiet failure. But that narrative is beginning to crack. Across online forums and private conversations, a growing number of Indians who once built lives in the US and Europe are questioning whether the trade-offs are still worth it. Rising living costs, subtle social exclusion, long healthcare waiting times, and emotional distance from family are pushing some to reconsider a decision that was once considered irreversible. One such account recently sparked discussion on Reddit. Shared by an Indian professional, with the handle name nandhini92, who spent four years abroad, two in the US and two across major European cities, the post offers a candid look at what life looks like after moving back, not to a metro, but to a tier-3 town in South India.

The user didn’t return out of compulsion or career burnout. She works remotely, earns well, and lives comfortably. Her story contrasts with the popular idea that life abroad is inherently superior. She describes her experience saying, “I lived for about two years in Texas, followed by another two years in Europe, specifically in Amsterdam, Paris, and Munich. A year ago, I moved back to India, and I can confidently say it has been the best decision of my life.”Now living in a tier-3 town in South India, working remotely, and earning a strong income, allowed her to evaluate life back home without the usual pressures of unemployment or adjustment.

In terms of racism, not even the subtle kind, “I feel genuinely good knowing my kids will go to school where no one will call them Jeets, brown curry, poop blocker, or whatever the latest insult might be,” she adds. She admits that she never faced direct racism abroad, but notes that subtle forms were hard to ignore, particularly in the US. “Like waiters hesitating to attend to us. Not using ‘please’ when interacting with us, while they did with others,” she adds.Read more: Anand Mahindra wonders why the world is not visiting this unique travel destination, calls it heaven Medical access is also one of the crucial things that has been discussed. “There’s zero wait time for medical appointments,” she added while recalling waiting nearly a month abroad after a cracked, root-canaled tooth, eventually returning to India for treatment.“In India, you can get a same-day appointment with a brain surgeon or super-specialty doctor, and it’s surprisingly affordable.” In terms of infrastructures, it’s actually better than people assume, and we agree with him. Although potholes and inconsistencies, many parts are livable and constantly improving, she adds.As for finances, she added, “I’ve invested in several commercial properties and earn about INR 1 lakh per month in rent, while my monthly expenses are under INR 20,000.”

Living in a family home, hiring domestic help, and avoiding frequent eating out have made her lifestyle both affordable and comfortable. Many of us face this emotional trauma too, as we stay most of our life away from our parents to earn a living. “Seeing my mom every day matters more than I realised,” that thought, she says, stayed with her throughout her time abroad. “Now, I see her every day, and that kind of comfort is irreplaceable,” she says now.Read more: Indian runner sets Guinness record for fastest Manali–Leh run across high Himalayan passes, finishes under 100 hours “India can feel chaotic and overcrowded, like a carnival every day. But I actually thrive on that constant buzz.” In contrast, she describes the US as feeling ‘eerily quiet,’ especially after dark.The trade-offs still exist, she says, like public transport isn’t as clean as in the US or Europe, corruption exists, and other small things. Still, her conclusion is clear that she made the best decision of her life by coming back to India.

Are you someone who needs to visit Japan quite often? Or if you are someone who wants a multiple-entry Japanese visa, this article will guide you in the best possible way. Indian passport holders, who travel to Japan frequently for tourism, business, or cultural exchange, can apply for this multiple-entry temporary visitor visa, which will allow them to visit the destination repeatedly for short stays over a longer validity period. Issued by the Japanese diplomatic missions, this visa is designed for travellers with strong travel history or financial capacity and does not permit paid work or revenue-generating activities. For more details, check this. Below is a detailed breakdown of who is eligible, what documents are required, and how the application process works.

Multiple-entry temporary Visitor Visa (tourism, business, visiting relatives)

For these purposes, you can get a visa validity of up to 5 years, and extend your maximum stay per visit for around 90 days.Permitted purposes: Tourism, business affairs (non-remunerative), Visiting relatives or acquaintancesThings that are not permitted: Paid employment, and revenue-generating business activities

Eligibility criteria for Indian nationals

Applicants must hold an ordinary Machine Readable Passport (MRP) or e-passport compliant with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation) standards and fall under one of the following categories:

Documents required (Tourism / general multiple-entry visa)

For applicants with two or more Japan visits

For applicants with one Japan visit and financial capacity

For applicants with Japan and G7 travel history

For applicants applying based on financial capacity

For spouse or children

Note: Additional documents may be requested during examination. The Japanese mission reserves the right to issue a single-entry visa instead of a multiple-entry visa after review.Read more: Anand Mahindra wonders why the world is not visiting this unique travel destination, calls it heaven

Where to apply

Visa applications are accepted only at the Japanese Embassy or Consulate-General that has jurisdiction over the applicant’s place of residence.

Multiple-entry visa for business purposes and cultural or intellectual figures

This category is meant for professionals travelling for business or recognised cultural, academic, or intellectual activities.

Visa validity and stay

Eligibility: Business purpose applicants

Applicants (and their spouse or children) must fall under one of these categories:

Eligibility: Cultural or intellectual figures

Applicants (and their spouse or children) may qualify if they are:

Read more: Indian runner sets Guinness record for fastest Manali–Leh run across high Himalayan passes, finishes under 100 hours

Documents required (business / cultural categories)

Important: Even under these categories, Japanese authorities may issue a single-entry visa after examination.

Key points to remember

“I genuinely don’t understand why the f**k property prices are so insanely high here when the city barely offers anything”, these are the words of a young professional struggling to buy a home. A recent Reddit discussion in the r/indianrealestate community (Naive-Awareness-6832) underscores the problems of buying homes in Gurugram (Gurgaon, Haryana) with raw honesty and hard hitting questions. It is not a rant, but a deeply human expression of irritation, confusion, and despair. These feelings are shared by thousands of middle-and upper-middle-class professionals who are doing everything “right,” and saving every penny to fulfill their dreams of ‘Home Sweet Home’. It’s a fact that Gurgaon, now officially Gurugram, has been marketed as India’s symbol of modern aspiration for years. From glass towers and high-rise societies and cyber hubs to prominent MNCs, the city has become a living embodiment of the “where ambition meets opportunity”. However, under this rosy image lies a growing sense of disillusionment (delulu), especially among first-time homebuyers. The deeper they get the more they discover the real condition of Gurgaon’s real estate.Impressive salary yet no home!In his Reddit post, the man shares,

“Both of us together earn around 1 Cr per year. We’ve set our budget at 1.5 Cr, and we’re willing to stretch maybe to 1.7 Cr. And guess what? There is literally nothing worth even that money in Gurgaon.”So yes, on paper, he is a perfect homebuyer. He says that on paper, my situation looks comfortable. We have enough savings and we are also careful with money. Our budget is ₹1.5 crore, and at most, we are willing to stretch to ₹1.7 crore. But still there’s no home for them in Gurugram. He also compares his condition with his friends and gets disappointed because all of them have their own house. “Most of my friends in Pune and Noida have already bought homes, all under 1 Cr. One friend bought a 2 Cr apartment because she had ancestral property money. Meanwhile, here I am feeling completely left behind.”I never imagined that buying a home would make me feel this defeating. Yet here I am, months into house hunting, emotionally tired, confused, and questioning whether this city still makes sense.Only disappointments

He further describes his ordeal and says that for months now, we have been visiting projects, meeting brokers, and walking through apartments that are supposed to justify their sky-high price tags. But what we are offered feels like an insult to our savings. “We’ve been searching for months and all brokers show us the same nonsense—either too old, too far, terrible construction quality, or no maintenance issues.”Who wants to pay for an too old, poorly maintained, and terribly mediocre house for the price tag. While new constructions offer luxury but deliver questionable quality. The condition is too disappointing. Somewhere it’s thin walls or poor ventilation and sometimes the quality of the material used is questionable. The city that charges high but gives nothing

In his post, he further questions the city’s value and compares Gurugram with cities such as Bengaluru and Pune. He writes about his issues with the city and what troubles him the most is not just the price, but the absence of value. “I genuinely don’t understand why the f**k property prices are so insanely high here when the city barely offers anything. IT industry? Way better in Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune. Infrastructure? Please. Roads? Don’t even get me started. Rainy season? Might as well buy a boat. Air ? polluted”He further mentions that he has lived in Bangalore and Pune before moving to Gurgaon. In those cities, the builders whose names inspire confidence—developers who care about quality, planning, and long-term livability. You know what you are paying for.In Gurgaon, “you can’t trust a single builder’s name”.Infrastructure here feels fragile. Roads flood every monsoon. Air quality is also bad. Winters bring toxic smog, and even the rest of the year feels heavy and polluted. And yet, Gurugram is among the most expensive real estate markets in India.Brokers, builders, and a broken market“This is a good deal for Gurgaon,” every time the broker says the same. Nobody talks about maintenance issues or construction quality. For a first-time homebuyer, this is emotionally draining. There’s no stability, or safety, or a sense of belonging.He further narrates his frustration with the narrative around cost of living. “Bangalore is more expensive.” When he moved from Bangalore to Gurgaon for work, he was told that salary adjustments were limited because Bangalore is more expensive.Misleading assumptionGurugram has a high cost of living. From rent and maintenance to schooling and healthcare, almost everything is costly. While the city has not much to offer at that price tag and that’s why it feels deeply unfair. Leave the cityIs leaving the city the only option left? This is the thought with which he ends the discussion. He shares his honest feelings of ‘Leaving’ this city and relocating for better. Reddit reacts:

Reddit user, Terrible-Pattern8933 asks him not to take it personally and think rationally:You need to understand how markets work and not take it personally. The same 1 CR flat you can easily buy in Pune, is totally unaffordable for someone who earns 10LPA in Pune. You see how that works?Commenting on the post, Reddit user Scary_Animal3938 said, Gurgaon, you are competing with big shots. Bengaluru Pune is more about IT only.