Ardhanarishvara – half Shiva, half Parvati – symbolises perfect harmony: male strength meets female nurture, logic dances with emotion. No hierarchy, just interdependence.

But today’s marriages falter on imbalances. While one partner dominates finances, the other dominates in emotions. But equality in marriages/relationships means shared decisions, acknowledged labour, and growing together as a couple.

Psychologically, equitable partnerships report higher satisfaction. Shiva didn’t rule Parvati; they amplified each other. Modern couples can learn from them that marriage isn’t a conquest. Instead, it is a dance where both partners lead and follow, creating unbreakable bond.

Mahashivaratri is one of those Hindu festivals that is celebrated not only in Indian sub-continents but across the globe. One such country that celebrates the glory of Shiva is the island nation of Mauritius. Surprised, right? For many travellers, Mauritius is synonymous with untouched beaches, honeymoon vibes, and Creole culture. But this heartfelt video on Instagram shared by Ilona Aubert will change your view of Mauritius in seconds. The island reveals a spiritual side of the island nation where Mahashivaratri is being celebrated as the Great Night of Lord Shiva. In her social media post, IIona calls Mahashivaratri as her favourite time of the year and how she has been a part of the festivities from the past three years. She speaks of walking modestly, compared to pilgrims who walk for days. And how she holds deep respect for their devotion. Her words captured a feeling many visitors and locals alike experience during this sacred period.Describing her love for the festival, she says, “Come celebrate Mahashivaratri in Mauritius with me. This is my third time doing it and I love it more each time. The energy was incredible, I was so happy. This was the first time I didn’t go all the way to the Grand Bassin itself. Instead we walked from Vacoas to Plaine Sophie and spent the day helping at the stand doing human service. Everyone was so kind and so welcoming and I felt like I was a part of the family and the community.”Mahashivaratri: The soul of Hindu Mauritius For those who don’t know, Mauritius is home to one of the largest Hindu populations outside India, and Mahashivaratri is among the most significant religious events on the island. It is celebrated in honour of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. As per mythology, this is the day when Shiva and Parvati got married. It’s a day of devotion, celebration and serving humanity.In the video, IIona also talks about the community service which she loves the most about the Maha Shivaratri celebration in Mauritius. “Everyone was so kind and so welcoming and I felt like I was a part of the family and the community. And honestly this is where I feel most aligned. I met so many amazing people and I am really grateful that I could contribute through service. What I love the most about Maha Shivaratri beyond the religious and cultural aspects is the community service. Everyone helps each other in their own way. From money, service, walking, everyone contributes what they can”, she says.The Ganga Talao in MauritiusThe celebration here is centered around the Grand Bassin lake, also known as Ganga Talao by locals. As per belief, the lake is spiritually connected to the River Ganga in India. In the days leading up to Mahashivaratri, hundreds of pilgrims walk from their homes to Grand Bassin, carrying kanwars. A spiritual journeyWhat sets Mahashivaratri in Mauritius apart is the scale. Devotees walking the roads, covering long distances over several days. It’s a divine spectacle, coastal roads filled with Hindu pilgrims chanting prayers, sharing food, supporting humanity and doing charity services. For a foreign traveller, witnessing such an event is a deeply moving experience. Grand Bassin turns into a sea of devotees’ devotion. Oil lamps flickering along the pathways, processions carrying idols of Ganesha, Kali, Parvati and more, people dancing and chanting mantra, is a frenzy so rare. The Mauritian air carrying the fragrance of incense and flowers is a different experience. Many observe fasts on the day, spending the night in prayer and meditation.A different Mauritian experience Experiencing Mahashivaratri in Mauritius shows the country’s diversity. A place where Indians and Africans coexist harmoniously, bound together by mutual respect. The whole point is practicing spiritually and submerging yourself in Shiva’s devotion. As many who experience it say, including voices like Ilona, it is a time when the island feels aligned.“This is how the entire country shows up for each other and this is how the community works so beautifully. At the end of the day, we started walking back to Vacoas as the sun went down, the energy shifted and the nightlife was so different. You could see the beautiful Mauritian flags everywhere and what I love is how patriotic and how proud everyone is, we are one nation walking together. This is my third year celebrating and I can’t wait to do it again next year,” and she signs off. Until next year.

Lighting is no longer purely functional; sculptural lamps, pendant clusters, and designer chandeliers are being used to define ambience and visual hierarchy within rooms. Thoughtfully planned lighting enhances textures, highlights décor, and shapes emotional atmosphere, making it a central element in contemporary Indian interior styling.

Interior design in modern Indian homes is moving toward a balanced blend of sustainability, cultural identity, efficient space usage, and expressive aesthetics. From eco-friendly materials and smart layouts to artisanal décor and dramatic lighting, these trends reveal a deeper focus on comfort and individuality rather than uniform luxury. As lifestyles continue to evolve, Indian interiors are becoming more personal, practical, and emotionally engaging living environments.

Image Credit: Canva

Disha Patani made a striking appearance in a fiery red Tarun Tahiliani saree, blending tradition with modern runway drama. The outfit featured a fitted corset top and a flowing pallu, creating a bold yet recognizably Indian look. Minimal styling and statement jewellery complemented the Kanjivaram-inspired concept sari, making it a memorable fashion moment.

Bollywood red carpets give us glam almost every week, so it actually takes effort to make people pause mid-scroll. This time, that job was done by Disha Patani. She stepped out in a fiery red sari that clearly wasn’t playing by the usual rules. Created by Tarun Tahiliani, the outfit felt like tradition and runway drama had a very stylish meeting.Instead of the classic blouse-and-pallu situation, the saree came with a fitted corset top that shaped her silhouette sharply – almost like something straight off a couture show. But the drape still moved softly, so it didn’t lose that familiar saree grace. The colour helped too. This wasn’t romantic red; it was confident red. The kind that walks into a room before you do.She posted pictures on Instagram with Aashiqon Ki Colony playing in the background, and, as expected, the comments section exploded. People loved that it looked modern without trying to erase the desi feel – bold, but still recognisably Indian. The outfit had Tahiliani’s signature touch: taking something rooted in heritage and reshaping it for today. The corset gave structure and posture, while the flowing pallu kept things easy and elegant. It didn’t look costume-y or stiff, more like regal meets red carpet.She wisely kept the styling minimal. A sleek braid, clean makeup, and jewellery from Kalyan Jewellers – just statement gold earrings and a delicate necklace. Enough sparkle to finish the look, not enough to fight with it.The Kanjivaram-inspired concept saree reportedly costs about ₹5.58 lakh, which puts it firmly in fantasy wardrobe territory. But honestly, this look wasn’t meant for practicality anyway. It was fashion theatre, and it knew it.On the film side, she’s currently promoting O’Romeo, directed by Vishal Bhardwaj and co-starring Shahid Kapoor. With the songs already floating around online and appearances like this grabbing attention, both the movie and her wardrobe are staying in conversation.If there’s one thing consistent about Disha, it’s this, she rarely chooses the safe option. And that unpredictability is exactly what keeps people interested.

Recent studies indicate an intriguing correlation between the emotional attachments formed with video game characters and reduced desires for parenthood among young adults. These immersive gaming experiences can create profound parasocial relationships, potentially meeting emotional needs that might ordinarily drive family planning.

Low birth rates are no longer a private choice. They have become a social concern across many countries. In China, surveys show that fertility intentions among adults aged 18 to 35 remain low. Researchers now suggest that digital life may shape this shift. A recent study explored a link: emotional attachment to game characters and how people think about starting a family. Here is everything we need to know about what the research found and why it matters for parents and the next generation.

A world where virtual bonds feel real

Researchers collected questionnaire data from 612 game players and examined their responses using statistical modelling. The study drew on two key ideas: parasocial relationship theory and attachment theory. In simple terms, parasocial relationships describe one-sided emotional bonds people form with media figures. Attachment theory explains how emotional bonds shape human behaviour and decisions.The study tested whether deep involvement in games could shape thoughts about parenthood.

Emotional pathways, not logical ones

The results were clear but nuanced.Game concentration, or how immersed someone feels while playing, increased three things:

However, game immersion did not directly increase fertility desire.Instead, emotional attachment acted as a bridge. When players felt strong emotions toward characters, those feelings kind of indirectly influenced how they thought about having children. The cognitive route, meaning purely thinking about characters, did not show strong effects.In short, feelings mattered more than thoughts.

The “emotional compensation” idea

The researchers proposed what they call an “Emotional Compensation Hypothesis.”Young adults today face heavy pressure: career uncertainty, high living costs, and social expectations. Many also develop a strong “risk consciousness,” meaning they are highly aware of possible failures and burdens.Virtual worlds offer comfort. They give gamers a sense of worth, community, and emotional support. These emotional ties could reduce stress in everyday life.What does this have to do with fertility, then?The need to find connections in real life may shift if emotional demands are partially met in digital places. When emotional fulfilment is already found elsewhere, parenthood, which demands major emotional engagement and long-term responsibility, may seem less urgently required.In this context, it implies that emotional experiences can subtly influence people’s framing of life decisions in virtual environments.

Why this matters for future families

Low fertility is discussed in economic or policy terms. But this study highlights something more personal: emotional life.If digital environments increasingly shape emotional habits, they may influence how young adults define connection, responsibility, and care. Parenthood is deeply emotional. It requires attachment, patience, and long-term bonding.When emotional bonds are practiced in virtual settings, the meaning of real-life bonding may evolve. Some may feel more prepared for nurturing roles. Others may feel emotionally satisfied without seeking parenthood.The study encourages deeper investigation, especially across cultures and over time. The authors recommend longitudinal research to see how these patterns unfold in the long run.

What parents should notice today

For parents raising teenagers and young adults, this insight is important.Gaming is not only entertainment. It can be an emotional training ground. Instead of dismissing gaming as a distraction, families may benefit from conversations about emotional experiences in games. Which characters feel meaningful? Why do certain stories move them? What does caring for a character feel like?These discussions can gently connect virtual emotions to real-life relationships.

Correlation, not conclusion

The study used self-reported questionnaire data from 612 players and applied Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling to test relationships. While 11 out of 16 hypotheses were supported, the research design does not prove cause and effect.The findings show associations, not certainty.Cultural factors, economic realities, and personal values also strongly influence fertility decisions. Digital life is one piece of a much larger puzzle.

The bigger question

What happens when emotional fulfilment increasingly moves online?Parenthood has always been shaped by culture, economy, and personal dreams. Now, digital attachment may quietly join that list. The study opens a thoughtful conversation: in a world where virtual bonds feel real, how do young adults redefine family?Disclaimer: This article is based on findings from a specific research study using survey data and statistical modeling. The results indicate associations and do not establish direct cause-and-effect relationships. Fertility decisions are influenced by multiple social, economic, cultural, and personal factors. Readers are encouraged to view these findings as part of an ongoing academic discussion rather than definitive conclusions.

India is a country of living legends. From temples to rivers, every nook and cranny of the country narrates a tale from the past when gods used to walk on Earth. And when it comes to gods, especially Lord Shiva, there are some rivers that are not only important for humans but also carry the story of mythology and devotion related to Shiva. From Himalayan streams to ancient west-flowing waters, Shiva’s presence is felt wherever these rivers flow. Travelling along them feels like a spiritual map drawn thousands of years ago. Here are five rivers associated with Lord Shiva and where they flow.Narmada River – Shiva’s daughter

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Not many must be aware of the fact that the Narmada River, as per Hindu mythology, is the daughter of Lord Shiva. Narmada holds a unique bond with Shiva and its mythological name is Shankari. Legend has it that the river emerged directly from Shiva’s body when he was in deep meditation. Unlike other rivers, every stone found in the Narmada is believed to be a natural Shiva Linga.

Where it flows:The river starts at Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh. Surrounded by temples and natural beauty, the river flows westward and reaches Omkareshwar, which is home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. Here, the river forms the sacred shape of ‘Om’. The river flows across Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat before merging with the Arabian Sea near Bharuch.Ganga River – Lives in Shiva’s Jata

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The Ganga needs no introduction. It is an inseparable part of Shiva, also known as Gangadhara, or the one who bears the Ganga. It is mythologically believed that when Ganga descended, its force threatened to shatter the earth. It is then Shiva captured her in his hair (jata). releasing her gently in streams.Where it flows:Ganga’s journey begins high in the Himalayas. The Gaumukh Glacier is from where Ganga emerges and flows through Gangotri, Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Varanasi. The Ganga flows east across northern India. The river then meets into the Bay of Bengal.Godavari River – Shiva’s Dakshin Ganga

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The Godavari is also known as the Dakshin Ganga. The river carries Shiva’s presence deep into the heart of India. As per legend, Lord Shiva himself brought the Ganga south at the request of Sage Gautama. He wanted to cleanse the sins here. The river originates at Trimbakeshwar near Nashi. The town is home to one the most unique Jyotirlingas, where Shiva is worshipped in a three-faced form, depicting Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. The river passes through towns and ghats and attracts millions for ritual baths every year.Where it flows:The Godavari flows east across Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh before ending up in the Bay of Bengal.Mandakini River – Flowing Past Kedarnath

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The Mandakini River flows through the Garhwal Himalayas and is closely associated with Kedarnath, one of the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The river originates near Chorabari Glacier and flows alongside the trekking route to Kedarnath. Its cold waters, roaring through steep valleys, showing Shiva’s silence and his destructive power. Where it flows:The Mandakini merges with the Alaknanda River at Rudraprayag.Alaknanda River – The Carrier of Shiva’s Energy

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The Alaknanda is one of the main streams of the Ganga. It holds immense Shaivite importance and flows past ancient pilgrimage towns. The river goes through Badrinath, Joshimath, and Rudraprayag and meets the Mandakini. It’s a sacred confluence. Where it flows:The Alaknanda meets the Bhagirathi at Devprayag to form the Ganga.These rivers are a traveller’s spiritual map and travelling along these rivers is experiencing a life-changing transformation. These five rivers flow through extremes: silence and chaos, creation and destruction.

Part of the reason this trend is exploding right now is the “skinimalism” movement. We are tired of 10-step routines. We want one product that does three things. A good mushroom serum can hydrate, soothe, and protect all at once.

Plus, there is the sustainability factor. Mushrooms grow quickly, require very little water, and are biodegradable. For the eco-conscious buyer, swapping a synthetic chemical for a fungi extract feels like a responsible choice.

For anyone trying to be a bit greener, swapping out synthetic ingredients for a fungi extract feels like the responsible move. And don’t expect the hype to die down anytime soon in 2026. The ‘Shroom Boom’ has officially left its niche corner of the internet. With everyday brands dropping mushroom-spiked toners and serums, it’s safe to say this isn’t just a passing trend – it is the new gold standard for fixing your skin.

A man found himself in a difficult position, caught between his devoted mother and his wife. When his mother pressured his wife about having grandchildren, he defended his partner, leading to a strained household. He sought advice online, with most users supporting his decision to protect his wife.

For many married men, the ultimate emotional tug-of-war is being caught between their mother and their wife. For one 32-year-old man, that nightmare actually played out in real life, and even though he defended his partner, the guilt stayed with him afterwards.He posted his dilemma on Reddit’s popular r/AITAH forum, asking strangers if he had crossed a line.

Torn between two women he loves

The man explained that his mother raised him alone after his father passed away when he was just 16. He credits her for everything – calling her strong, devoted, and his biggest pillar growing up. Because of that, he feels deeply protective of her.He met his wife during his first year of college. Over the years they built a life together, and after five years of marriage, she has become just as central to him as his mother. The couple currently lives in the same house as his mom, something he once considered a blessing.Both partners are career-focused and doing well professionally. They’ve consciously decided not to have children for now because the wife doesn’t feel ready for motherhood – and may never want it. Although he personally hopes to have kids someday, he respects her feelings and has agreed not to pressure her.

Where things went wrong

Trouble began about a year ago, when his mother started hinting, then insisting, she wanted a grandchild. At first he ignored the remarks, assuming she would eventually drop the topic.Instead, the comments slowly became sharper.One evening after guests visited with their children, the tension finally exploded. According to him, his mother confronted his wife and said she should at least give her one grandchild, adding that “this is what women are meant for” and warning her biological clock was running out.

His wife responded that the decision belonged to her.That’s when he stepped in.He admitted it was the first time he had ever raised his voice at his mother. He told her firmly to stop pressuring them and that the final decision rested with his wife. He also made it clear she couldn’t speak to her that way.

Aftermath at home

The confrontation changed the atmosphere in the house overnight.His mother stopped speaking to him for two days, barely ate, and even hinted she might move out. Seeing her hurt left him shaken.He wrote that he felt torn – guilty for shouting at the woman who sacrificed so much for him, yet convinced that staying silent would have meant failing his wife.So he asked Reddit: was he wrong?

How people reacted online

Most commenters believed he did the right thing by supporting his partner.Some pointed out that wanting grandchildren is normal – but shaming someone for not having them is not. Others stressed that marriage means protecting your spouse from disrespect, even when it comes from family.However, many also felt he should have intervened much earlier. Several users noted that allowing the situation to continue for a year likely made it harder for everyone.A few offered more balanced criticism: they agreed he defended his wife, but said he shouldn’t have framed it as only her decision – it should have been presented as a decision the couple made together.

The “Wrong Shoe Theory” suggests intentionally pairing outfits with contrasting footwear to create visual interest and a more personal style. This trend, popularized by stylists, encourages breaking traditional fashion rules by opting for unexpected shoe choices, making outfits feel modern and lived-in.

Have you ever put together a look that made perfect sense on paper but felt incredibly boring in the mirror? You wore the floral kurta with the matching juttis. You paired the tailored office trousers with sensible pumps. You did everything “right,” yet the result looked more like a mannequin display than a personal style statement.If this sounds familiar, your problem might be that your shoes match your outfit too well.Enter the “Wrong Shoe Theory,” a styling trick that has quietly taken over the fashion world – from the streets of Milan to the hustle of Mumbai. It suggests that the most stylish choice is often the one that feels completely incorrect.

What is the Wrong Shoe Theory?

The concept is simple. Instead of finishing a look with the obvious footwear choice, you intentionally choose the shoe that opposes the vibe of your clothes. If your outfit is feminine and flowery, you skip the delicate sandals and reach for chunky sneakers. If you are wearing stiff corporate tailoring, you ditch the heels for casual chappals.

The term was popularized by stylist Allison Bornstein, the author of Wear It Well. The idea is to create visual friction. When everything matches perfectly, the eye glides over the outfit without stopping. But when you introduce a contrasting element -like a heavy boot with a chiffon saree, it forces the viewer to pay attention.

The desi edit: How to make it work here

While the theory started in the West, it was practically made for Indian wardrobes. We often fall into the trap of thinking ethnic wear must be paired with ethnic shoes. The Wrong Shoe Theory asks you to break that rule.The Saree Update: We usually default to heels or embellished wedges with a saree. But have you tried the “Sonam Kapoor approach”? Try pairing a crisp cotton saree with brogues or ankle boots. It instantly shifts the vibe from “wedding guest” to “art curator.”The Kurta Twist: A simple cotton kurta and palazzo set is a summer staple. The expected shoe is a Kolhapuri or a jutti. To apply the theory, swap them for a pair of chunky “dad sneakers” or loafers. It toughens up the look and makes it feel modern rather than purely traditional.The Anti-Corporate Suit: For the office-goers, take your favorite oversized blazer and trousers. Instead of the usual oxfords, try a simple pair of leather flip-flops or thong sandals. It’s a classic move popularized by the Olsen twins, but it works perfectly for the Indian climate. It says you mean business, but you’re relaxed about it.

Commuter Chic: Fashion meets survival

Let’s be real, this trend is a blessing for anyone navigating the Delhi Metro or a Mumbai local. We’ve been told for years that “beauty is pain,” but the Wrong Shoe Theory argues that comfort is actually cooler.

Wearing running shoes with your lehenga or heavy work gear isn’t just a commute hack anymore; it’s a legitimate style statement. It signals that you are busy, you have places to be, and you aren’t going to let a pinch-y pair of heels slow you down. It transforms a practical necessity into a deliberate fashion choice.

The celebrity seal of approval

It isn’t just a Western obsession, either. While Hailey Bieber might be the global poster child for pairing ballgowns with dad sneakers, Bollywood has fully embraced the art of the clash. We have seen a massive shift in Indian wear, with stars like Alia Bhatt normalizing the use of comfortable kicks under heavy lehengas.They understand that perfection is overrated. We are moving away from perfectly curated aesthetics toward a style that feels lived-in and real.The best part? You don’t need to buy new clothes to try this. You just need to swap the shoes you already own. The next time you get dressed, look at your shoes. If they feel like the “safe” choice, put them back. Reach for the pair that feels a little bit weird. Because sometimes, being a little bit wrong is exactly right.

I hate winters. But somehow I love snow, thanks to “Harry Potter and the depiction of snow in the Hogsmeade”. But the irony is, I had never seen snow before. Not the kind you see in movies or Instagram reels—soft, white, untouched and unreal. I mean real snow! Cold enough to burn your fingers but soft enough to disappear under your boots. And that’s the only reason that the dreamy snowlover in me decided to travel all the way to Lansdowne in Uttarakhand from Delhi recently. It was peak winter and the forecast promised snowfall. That’s when my soul whispered: this is it. If I didn’t go now, I might never get to see the white beauty. After battling hours of traffic jams, car honks, and vomiting, I finally reached. The town looked like it had paused mid-breath. And I was like, “ya, the sight is actually worth all the pain”!Snow rested gently on rooftops, some clung to tree branches just like I had seen in the movies. The roads were also covered in a soft white blanket. The endless valleys, layered in white and grey, fading into mist. The tin of the houses buried deep under snow looked smaller. Every step I was taking was making a crunching sound. There I stood still. Took a deep breath as coming from Delhi’s pollution, this was my moment to fill my lungs with clean, unpolluted air. It was an overwhelming moment.It was magic.It was pure.It was love at first sight.It was like I was in Hogwarts enjoying winters.It was everything I had imagined.And then I saw a bottle.

PC: Priya Srivastava/TOI

At first, I thought it would be snow in the shape of a bottle. But no, it wasn’t. It was a green and white glass bottle poking out of the snow. Somebody took their time to bury it close to the roadside walking path. I walked closer and saw it was a bottle of alcohol, half buried, frozen into the snow like it was its home.I looked around, there were little kids with families. My heart sank. Then I noticed another bottle, not far from it. And then I couldn’t stop seeing them. Beer bottles. Some dug deep into the snow, some tossed carelessly.But the doers didn’t realise that snow doesn’t erase bad behaviour. It only hides it for some time.That’s when I saw a little boy. He must have been eight or nine, all bundled up in a jacket too big for him, heavy gloves clinging to his small but strong hands. I saw him sitting across the road. The little boy was trying to pull something out with all his strength. His parents were also there, trying to help him while watching carefully.I walked closer. It was a dark brown coloured beer bottle, stuck solid in the snow. He, with the help of his father, was successful in removing the bottle. The boy looked up at anyone who passed by and said, “Let’s remove all these glass bottles. It’s bad. We can’t play in the snow because of these bottles. Someone might get hurt.”The irony! Kids are paying for adults’ misbehavior. Here was a child who had come all the way up in the hope of playing with snow, to build a snowman and instead, he was trying to clean up some adult’s mess.I felt ashamed for us.Soon, it became a quiet collective effort. Two-three youngsters joined in. Other snow lovers, photographers, travellers like me also paused, bent down, and one by one, we managed to move more bottles out.Six.Seven.More. I did not count.When we were done, the snow looked better and safe. It was just a small patch of snow. There was snow all over. And I was imagining how many more bottles the snow hides. Meanwhile, the boy smiled and ran off and started his game of making a snowman with his family.

PC: Priya Srivastava/TOI

Later that night, while scrolling through Instagram, I saw several reels and pictures from snowy destinations where people had spat paan and gutkha and liquor bottles. They don’t realise that snow is not our dustbin. Mountains are not the places where responsibility goes on vacation.We’ve somehow made “zero civic sense” a trend. But maybe it’s time we make bringing civic sense back a trend instead. If a little kid can understand that glass doesn’t belong in the snow, why can’t we?While Lansdowne gave me my first snowfall experience, it also gave me a lesson I didn’t expect. As travellers, we say “leave only footprints.” But maybe it’s time we actually mean it.Let’s stop hiding our mess under snow, sand, or sea.Let’s follow, “civic sense is cool”, a trend worth following.Disclaimer: The above account is based on the author’s personal experience, and The Times of India does not endorse or verify these views.