10 most beautiful countries in the world; India on the list



The internet is introduced to a number of “most beautiful places in the world” lists, at regular intervals. They’re shared, debated, screenshot taken, fought over in comment sections, and promptly forgotten, until the next one drops.
This time, Infodex posted its take on X, ranking the most beautiful countries in the world. This list isn’t about one perfect beach or a single Instagram-famous mountain. Instead, it celebrates variety, the kind of beauty that changes every few hours, sometimes every few kilometres.
From dramatic coastlines and dense rainforests to ancient cities and everyday streets that somehow feel cinematic, these countries prove that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some wow you with scale, others with colour, history, chaos, calm, or all of the above at once. Here are the ten countries that made Infodex’s list, and why they linger in your head long after you’ve left.



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Jamali And Kamali Tomb: “Remove your perfume, tie your hair, or they will come after you”: Historian recounts ‘strange’ experience at this Delhi tomb |


“Remove your perfume, tie your hair, or they will come after you": Historian recounts 'strange' experience at this Delhi tomb

“I often visit the historical sites around Hauz Khas and Mehrauli, and almost always stop at the tomb of Jamali and Kamali,” says Eric Chopra, a 23-year-old historian from Delhi. “It’s usually locked. You can only stand outside, looking in.”While lingering around the site in the evenings, Eric recalls being repeatedly warned by the phoolwalas who sit nearby. They would tell him to tie his hair and remove his perfume -advice that puzzled him—lest the djinns come after him and slap him. In Islamic lore, djinns are spirits believed to be born of smokeless fire, occupying a space between the visible and invisible worlds. Eric’s fascination with Delhi’s layered past led him to start an Instagram page in 2019, at the suggestion of his father to document forgotten monuments and stories that live on through whispers. That interest has now taken the shape of his debut book, Ghosted: Delhi’s Haunted Monuments, which explores the folklore, history, and hauntings associated with five of the capital’s most evocative sites-Firoz Shah Kotla, Jamali-Kamali, Khooni Darwaza, the Mutiny Memorial, and Malcha Mahal-blending archival research with lived belief.Among these, the tomb of Jamali and Kamali holds a particular pull for him.

The tomb complex (Credit: Sameer Seshadri)

Jamali was the pen name of Shaikh Fazlullah. He was a celebrated Sufi saint and poet who lived during the Lodi period and early Mughal rule. He was an important figure during his time. It is known that he had a wife and two children and was deeply respected in his lifetime. His children later played in important role in court politics. Kamali, however, remains an enigma. Historical records are silent on who Kamali was: a disciple, a close companion, a lover, or perhaps even a woman whose identity was later coded as male for burial. The shared tomb, with two graves placed side by side has sparked decades of speculation about their bond. That Kamali was a male is testified by the presence of a pen box, which was carved only in mail tombs.Located within the Mehrauli Archaeological Park, the Jamali Kamali mosque and tomb complex was built around 1529, with Jamali laid to rest there in 1536. It is an important monument from archeological point of view, a transition between late Lodi and early Mughal styles. It is beautifully adorned with domes, arches, glazed tiles, and delicate floral motifs. Apart from archeology and historical value, this place has come to hold deeper meaning for many—especially within the LGBTQIA+ community, who see in the shared burial a rare, tender suggestion of queer intimacy preserved in stone.

The tomb mostly remains closed (Credit: Sameer Seshadri)

But it was one particular night that stayed with Eric.“I had always found the tomb locked,” he says. “One day, by sheer luck, I found the guard there. Since I’m a regular, he recognised me, and we began talking.” The guard asked him, “Can you smell the agarbattis around the tomb area? When Eric replied in affirmation as the smell was very distinct, the guard said, ” I smell it every day in the evening but have never seen anyone who came to light them!” When Eric asked if he could see the tomb from inside, the guard agreed and unlocked the door.

The interiors of the tomb (Image: Sameer Seshadri)

“What I witnessed felt almost ethereal,” he recalls. Moonlight streamed in through the windows, falling directly onto the two graves. They seemed to glow softly, suspended in light. The space was filled with a deep, undisturbed silence—peaceful, but powerful. “I suddenly felt like an intruder, as though I was disturbing the privacy of something sacred.”Overwhelmed, he stepped out almost immediately and asked the guard to lock the tomb again. “My heart felt full—of love, not fear,” he says. “And no, the djinns did not slap me.”



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This tree secretes bright red “dragon’s blood” and science explains why |


This tree secretes bright red “dragon’s blood” and science explains why
This tree secretes bright red “dragon’s blood” and science explains why (Image source: Wikipedia)

First impressions reveal that this tree has almost a surreal quality to it, a tree that seems to bleed bright red when its bark is sliced. This is no mythological setting; it is actually a natural occurrence found in the Dracaena, or dragon tree, species of trees. The bright red liquid that drips from the tree is known as dragon’s blood, and it has long fascinated mankind. Though ancient civilisations believed it to have something to do with dragons and magic, and that it possessed healing properties, current scientific research has revealed that the dragon’s blood is actually a component of the tree’s survival mechanism. Scientists are currently analysing the chemical composition of the dragon’s blood because of its long history of use in traditional medicine. The dragon tree continues to be a fascinating example of how traditional natural resources can lead to both mythological and scientific exploration.

What exactly is “dragon’s blood”

Despite the ominous name, dragon’s blood is not actually blood, but rather a plant resin.When the bark of a Dracaena tree is damaged, the tree secretes a red, thick resin that dries in the air. This resin is very similar to a natural bandage. The resin covers the injured area, protecting it from infection, insects and microorganisms. It effectively serves as a protective barrier for the tree.

Why does the resin turn red

The red pigment in dragon’s blood is a result of bioactive compounds in plants, which include phenols and flavonoids.A scientific study published in Science Direct, titled “Morpho-anatomical basis of dragon’s blood secretion in Dracaena draco stem”, investigated the chemical properties of the resin of the Dracaena tree. The study showed that the resin is made up of chemicals that have been demonstrated to have antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. These chemicals safeguard the tree against bacteria, fungi, and other environmental conditions. The red pigment is just an indicator that the tree is activating its chemical defence mechanism.

What science says about its medicinal properties

The use of dragon’s blood in traditional medicine has been for the healing of wounds, inflammation, and dermatological conditions, and current research is validating these traditional uses.A study published on PubMed, titled “Dragon’s Blood from Dracaena Worldwide: Species, Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology”, discussed the interaction of some plant resins, such as those with high phenolic content like dragon’s blood, with human tissues. The study concluded that these substances have been found to influence the regulation of inflammation, tissue repair, and antioxidant activity at the cellular level. This explains why dragon’s blood was traditionally used to treat cuts and wounds, not for its magical properties, but because of its ability to facilitate healing.Notably, the researchers emphasise that while the laboratory data is encouraging, dragon’s blood should not be used as a replacement for current medical treatment.

Where dracaena trees grow

Dracaena trees are found in arid and rocky areas, where wounds caused by wind, animals, or adverse environmental conditions are prevalent. The most well-known variety, Dracaena cinnabari, is found on the island of Socotra, while other varieties are found in Africa and Asia.In this extreme environment, the ability to produce a quick-acting protective resin is essential for the tree’s survival. Dragon’s blood prevents water loss and provides an unfavourable environment for microbes, which is a very smart adaptation.

Why scientists are still studying dragon’s blood

Today, dragon’s blood is being researched for possible uses in:

  • Natural antimicrobial products
  • Anti-inflammatory research
  • Plant-based antioxidants
  • Traditional medicine validation

Scientists are particularly fascinated by the way plants such as Dracaena can create very effective protective agents that do not harm the plant itself, and how this information can be used to develop new materials or drugs.

Myth meets modern science

Dragon’s blood may have gotten its name from myths and legends, but it is not just that. It is a very advanced plant defence mechanism that is full of chemicals that protect the tree and, possibly, human tissue under certain circumstances.The Dracaena tree teaches us that sometimes the most mysterious events in nature can be explained by very practical biological processes that are hidden behind the veil of mystery.



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How to remove pet hair from clothes using a simple wet wipe |


How to remove pet hair from clothes using a simple wet wipe
How to remove pet hair from clothes using a simple wet wipe (Image source: AI-Generated)

Anyone who lives with pets will know how stubborn pet hair is: it clings to clothes, blankets, and couch covers, even after repeated washing. Still, there’s one less-known laundry trick that many pet owners can utilise: popping a wet wipe into the washing machine. This tiny step helps to loosen pet hair and trap it so that your clothes and fabrics emerge from a cycle both clean and fur-free. It works because the wet wipe creates some minor surface friction and develops a mild anti-static effect while in the wash, which aids in helping hair lift off fabrics and into the washer filter or drain rather than sticking around. It’s inexpensive, quick, and uses items you likely already have at home, and no special tools or products are required. Let’s break down why this hack works and how you can use it effectively the next time you wash pet-hair-covered laundry.

How to use a wet wipe in the washing machine to remove pet hair

Here’s a simplified way to make this work for you:

  • Choose a suitable wet wipe: A disposable, unscented, and alcohol-free wet wipe would be a good option. Wet baby wipes with lotions may not be appropriate since the presence of a high lotion content may leave a mark on fabric.

  • Add to the load: Place one or two wet wipes directly in the wash drum with your clothes; you don’t even need to soak them in advance.

  • Wash as usual: Wash your washing cycle as you normally do, depending on the fabric type. The pet hair will loosen and gather around the wipes.

  • Remove and dispose: Finally, take the wet wipes that were used. These will probably be covered with pet hair. Dispose of them with your regular trash.

This trick is best used on lighter pet hair or regular laundry items. For heavy pet shedding, the wet wipe trick might be combined with lint remover tools.

Why this wet wipe hack works

This basic laundry works due to the following reasons:

  • Reduces static: Wet wipes can help reduce static. The lower the static, the less likely the pet hair is to stick to fabric.

  • Loosens pet hair: The wipe, moving gently, rubs against the fabric during washing, helping loosen any hair that may be entangled.

  • Collects hair in the washer: The detached hair clings to the wet wipe or floats in the water, making sure fur does not accumulate on the washed clothes.

This doesn’t replace a lint roller or pet hair brush. You still have to use them. It just greatly enhances washing results on clothes with stubborn hair.

When this hack isn’t enough

For extremely hairy fabrics, such as heavy blankets or pet beds, you may still need to:

  • Use a pet-hair brush or lint roller before washing
  • Wet the item gently with your hands to loosen the hairs
  • Wash these items separately on a heavy-duty cycle

It is also important to keep in mind that the wet wipe trick is best used as a complementary hack, rather than a complete replacement for deeper pre-cleaning when hair loads are very high.

Does this hack work for all fabrics

The outcome for this hack may vary depending on the fabric. It works best on:

  • Cotton clothing
  • Bedsheets
  • Towels
  • Light blankets

Heavily textured fabrics such as fleece or wool may require pre-cleaning.



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How to sharpen dull kitchen knives at home using simple tricks |


How to sharpen dull kitchen knives at home using simple tricks

A dull kitchen knife, in addition to being very inconvenient, can, in fact, be very unsafe to use. When knives get dull, you have to apply much pressure in order to slice through the vegetable you are chopping, and this, in turn, can make the knife slip, leading to injuries. It is thought that a dull knife has to be professionally sharpened or even replaced if it has gotten too dull. The good news, in this case, is that the majority of dull knives can be sharpened or fixed in the comfort of your own home without having to spend a lot of money or even go out to purchase expensive equipment. Knowing how to sharpen dull knives in the comfort of your home can, in fact, help you take better care of your kitchen knives. Sharpening dull knives at home is an easy, inexpensive, and worthwhile endeavour. With routine maintenance and appropriate technique, your household knives are sure to become sharp, safe, and efficient at all times, thus making your culinary experiences delightful.

Why do kitchen knives become dull, and how to fix them

Knives lose their sharpness gradually, a process which may occur without you noticing. Using knives on hard surfaces, improper knife storage, and washing knives can also reduce their sharpness. Cutting knives on marble, glass, or a granite board, and storing knives in an untidy manner in drawers, among others, may result in knives losing their sharpness.The best way to sharpen dull knives is by using a whetstone. The stone should be soaked in water for about 10-15 minutes. The dull knife should be placed at an angle of about 15-20 degrees and drawn slowly along the surface of the stone from the bottom to the top. The process should be repeated on both sides. This technique, although it takes a long time, is effective in sharpening very dull knives.

  • Sharpen with the bottom of a ceramic mug

Your tea mug can act like a knife sharpener. Simply invert your tea mug, and with the unglazed ring on the base, sharpen your knife as you would on a stone. The unglazed ring is rough enough to act as a makeshift sharpening stone.Honing does not sharpen a knife; it only aligns the knife’s edge. Honing a knife using the honing rod straightens the knife’s edge. Hold the honing rod upright and draw the knife down the length while at an angle, switching sides as you draw the knife down the honing rod. This is the best approach if the knife is not too dull and just requires honing.Sandpaper is also an option, though only when nothing else is available. Place fine-grit sandpaper (around 1000–2000 grit) on a flat surface. You then run the blade over the sandpaper gently, moving it with a constant angle. While not ideal for frequent use, it can help restore some sharpness temporarily.

  • Avoid these common mistakes

Bad habits can undo all your sharpening efforts very quickly. Small changes in how you use knives can keep them sharp longer.

    • Don’t cut on hard surfaces like stone or glass
    • Avoid dishwashers, as heat and movement dull blades
    • Don’t scrape food off boards using the blade’s edge

Why a dull knife can be a safety hazard in the kitchen

Though the dull knife in itself might appear to pose no serious threat, it does contribute to the risk of accidents in the kitchen.If the knife is dull, this will require more pressure to cut the food. Applying pressure to the knife increases the chances of the knife slipping off the place it is cutting, leading to injuries on your fingers and hand. Another implication of using dull knives is the discomfort they may lead to, especially when handling them over a long period of time. This will, therefore, make cooking more complicated, leading to safety hazards, and this is where the importance of sharp knives is seen.

How to keep knives sharp for longer

Preventing this problem is far simpler than continually trying to resharpen dull knives. This involves the use of wooden or plastic chopping boards, a knife block or magnetic knife strip for storage, as well as regular honing. Hand washing and drying also help in maintaining the knives.



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Snowfall in Kashmir disrupts air travel; all incoming and outgoing Srinagar flights cancelled |


Snowfall in Kashmir disrupts air travel; all incoming and outgoing Srinagar flights cancelled

Kashmir wore a fresh blanket of snow on Tuesday as renewed snowfall across the Valley forced the closure of the Srinagar–Jammu national highway and disrupted flight operations.Flight operations at Srinagar International Airport were suspended on Tuesday after continuous snowfall and adverse weather conditions rendered the runway unsafe for aircraft movement, officials said.Airport authorities confirmed that persistent snow accumulation affected runway conditions, making it unavailable for safe take-offs and landings. As a precautionary measure and in the interest of passenger safety, all incoming and outgoing flights to and from Srinagar were cancelled for the day.As many as 50 flights to and from Srinagar International Airport were cancelled on Tuesday due to snowfall in Kashmir, as PTI reported. The cancellation of flights left hundreds of tourists, who were scheduled to return home after spending the weekend and the Republic Day holiday in the Valley, stranded.Srinagar airport shared the following update on social media:

srinagar airport

“Due to unfavorable weather conditions and continuous snowfall in Srinagar, the runway is currently not available for safe air operations. In view of passenger safety, all flights arriving at and departing from Srinagar for today have been canceled. The airline and airport authorities are continuously monitoring the weather situation, and as soon as conditions improve and the runway is deemed safe for operations, flight arrivals and departures will resume. Passengers are requested to contact their respective airlines for the latest status of their flights and to stay updated with information issued by official sources. We apologize for the inconvenience caused and are grateful for the cooperation and understanding of passengers.”Officials said operations would resume only after weather conditions improve and the runway is cleared and certified safe for aircraft movement.The airport further shared, “In view of adverse weather conditions at Srinagar Airport and prevailing operational constraints, airlines have cancelled certain flights for today as per the attached list. Passengers are advised to stay in touch with their respective airlines for the latest updates and alternate arrangements.” Check the list of cancelled flights as shared by the airport.





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Relationship tip of the day: Premanand Maharaj on what keeps the spark alive in marriages- “Love means finding…” |


Relationship tip of the day: Premanand Maharaj on what keeps the spark alive in marriages- "Love means finding..."

We live in a fast-paced, digital world where people are often stressed and have less time or patience to preserve long-term relationships. And so, casual relationships have become the norm, and divorces have become common, too. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, many couples often get occupied with bills, kids, or work deadlines. And they easily lose the initial spark they had in their relationship/ marriage. But, can this be changed? What’s the secret to long-lasting marriages?Popular Indian spiritual guru Premanand Maharaj once said, “Love means finding your happiness in someone else’s joy.” And rightly so!This quote isn’t just poetic; it’s simple yet profound. It’s a secret that helps keep the spark alive in your marriage. Imagine celebrating your partner’s promotion not out of duty, but because their win make you happy. That’s the magic Premanand Maharaj describes— a love that grows on mutual joy and support!

Relationship Repair: Avoid These Common Communication Mistakes

This quote shows how genuine love dissolves selfishness. Instead, it merges two people into one– they are a team for a time. And so, their happiness is also intertwined with each other, rather than their own personal gains. Based on empathy and care, this love nurtures lasting bonds and spiritual progress.Premanand Maharaj ji also emphasises on the fact that true happiness in marriages comes from surrender, not from score-keeping. In a world which is obsessed with “what’s in it for me,” his advice flips the script and teaches one to love one’s partner unconditionally.

How this mindset helps reignite the spark

Think about your early dating days or the honeymoon phase of your marriage: Your partner’s laugh made your heart race; their achievements felt like yours. But over time, routines dull this. But Premanand Maharaj ji tells us to prioritise their joy, and this will create a loop of positivity in your relationship. It’s not about ignoring your needs— it’s about abundance. Their happiness becomes yours, weaving emotional threads that time can’t fray.On the contrary, selfishness erodes the spark in relationships.

How to practice this in your life daily

1. Practice active listening to your partner.2. Celebrate their wins– big or small.3. Let go of control.4. Be grateful to have them in your life.5. Forgive them often; they are human too.What are your views on this? Tell us in the comments below.



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‘Reserve that table forever’: Sunita Williams’ Falooda break in Kerala goes viral


'Reserve that table forever': Sunita Williams’ Falooda break in Kerala goes viral
Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams, recently retired from NASA, was spotted enjoying a falooda in Kozhikode, Kerala. The video of her casually savoring the local dessert with strangers has gone viral, highlighting her grounded nature despite her remarkable achievements in space exploration.

From floating in zero gravity to sitting down for a chilled dessert in Kerala, Sunita Williams’ latest moment has the internet smiling.The Indian-origin astronaut, who recently retired from NASA, was spotted at a small falooda shop in Kozhikode – and the video has been making the rounds ever since. In it, she’s dressed simply in a peach T-shirt, chatting with people around her, and happily digging into a tall glass of falooda.For those unfamiliar, falooda is a classic Indian cold dessert drink made with sweet milk, vermicelli noodles, basil seeds, rose syrup and ice cream. It’s messy, colourful, and wildly comforting – the kind of treat you usually save for a hot evening or a celebration.

Indian-origin NASA Astronaut Sunita Williams Says Her First Act In Space Was To Spot India, Home

The clip was shared by the outlet, Falooda Nation, and quickly crossed close to four million views. “An unreal moment we’ll never forget,” they wrote, clearly still in shock. “From space to our store – we’re so proud we got to serve her.”The comments section turned into a love fest almost instantly.Someone wrote, “The one who taught me to dream as high as the sky.” Another joked, “Reserve that table forever,” while a third pointed out how effortlessly grounded she seemed despite everything she’s achieved.And that’s what struck people the most. Here’s a woman who has lived aboard the International Space Station, walked in space, led missions – and yet looks perfectly at home enjoying a local dessert with strangers.Williams wrapped up her NASA career after 27 years, with three space missions and several records to her name. NASA chief Jared Isaacman called her a trailblazer who shaped the future of space exploration and opened doors for the next generation.But for the internet this week, she wasn’t an astronaut or a legend.She was just Suni, enjoying a falooda in Kozhikode – and somehow, that felt even more special.



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Quote of the Day by Robert Browning, “Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be, the last of life, for which…”


Quote of the Day by Robert Browning, "Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be, the last of life, for which..."

Robert Browning was one of the most iconic poets of the Victorian era. He was a master of the dramatic monologue and was able to look into people’s minds like no one else. He was born in 1812 and died in 1889. He had a life full of literary successes, a passionate marriage, and a style that mixed hope with harsh truth. His father worked as a bank clerk and loved books, and his mother was a musician who encouraged his creativity. His dad taught him Latin, Greek, and the classics at home, which sparked a lifelong interest in history and Renaissance figures. He had given up on formal schooling by the time he was a teenager and was writing poetry inspired by Shelley and Keats. His first book, Pauline: A Fragment of a Confession (1833), was full of teenage angst, but critic John Stuart Mill said it was too self-indulgent. Browning learned his lesson and stopped writing in a confessional style and started using objective voices. Next, he tried writing plays (Strafford, 1837), but poetry was more appealing. Paracelsus (1835) hinted at genius by looking into a Renaissance doctor’s soul-struggle, but Sordello (1840) confused readers with its many references to medieval Italy. Browning spent time in London, went to Russia and Italy for short trips, but stayed with his parents until love changed everything.In 1845, Browning wrote to Elizabeth Barrett, a sick poet who was stuck in her father’s house. This was fate. Letters flew, secret meetings followed, and they ran away to Italy in 1846. It was all very scandalous. They did well in Pisa and Florence. Their son Pen was born in 1849, and Elizabeth’s health got better in the Tuscan sun. Browning wrote Christmas Eve and Easter Day (1850), which was about faith and doubt, while she was also writing Aurora Leigh. Their home was full of art, politics (they supported Italian unification), and endless talking. He was heartbroken when Elizabeth died in 1861 from lung problems. The books that followed were-Men and Women (1855), it had amazing monologues like “My Last Duchess,” which was a Duke’s creepy brag about killing his wife, and “Porphyria’s Lover,” which was about an obsession that made someone snap their neck. His signature trick was to let readers judge warped minds by showing souls through jagged speech.One of his most famous lines are “Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be, the last of life, for which the first was made. Our times are in his hand who saith, ‘A whole I planned, youth shows but half; Trust God: See all, nor be afraid!”These lines are from Robert Browning’s poem “Rabbi Ben Ezra” They are among the most quoted lines and appear romantic at first glance but have a deep Biblical connotation. The best is yet to come underlines that aging not as decline but a phase where wisdom reveals the divine plan hidden in the hurried sketch of youth. The early years are just a prologue, full of impulses and half-formed dreams. Browning, whose wife Elizabeth Barrett Browning died young, was a brilliant optimist. Written in 1864, during Browning’s own later successes, these words are still a timeless cure for midlife dread. They are whispered at weddings and carved into tombstones, showing how poetry can change how we think about death as a beautiful opportunity.



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