7 modern apartment features homebuyers look for



Today’s apartment buyers may own cars and require parking facilities, including EV charging points. Connectivity is another aspect that is in high demand, including easy access to public transport, robust internet connectivity, and proximity to essential services. Apartments that are future-ready, with facilities such as EV charging points and high-speed connectivity, are highly sought after in the current market.

Modern homebuyers look for apartments that are more than just a living space; they look for smart, functional, comfortable, and future-ready homes. Facilities such as smart technology, functional design, wellness facilities, quality interiors, functional utilities and future-ready facilities help apartments become highly sought after in today’s competitive real estate market.

Image Credits: Canva



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Ankur Warikoo shares 5 smart tips for starting a new job and standing out early: “Start with curiosity, not…” |


Ankur Warikoo shares 5 smart tips for starting a new job and standing out early: “Start with curiosity, not…”

Starting a new job is always a mix of excitement and panic. It seems like everyone expects instant results. You want to show your worth. But rushing in can backfire. The first 90 days often decide how smooth or messy the next few years will be. Experts say the real challenge isn’t speed. It’s understanding the culture, the people, and the unspoken rules. Many of us make the mistake of confusing activity with impact. Doing a lot doesn’t mean doing the right things. It might even hurt your reputation.If you get this phase right, it can set you up for years of success. Get it wrong, and it feels like walking uphill every day. It seems obvious, but many overlook it. And honestly, it’s not just about doing your job well. It’s about how you’re seen. How people listen to you and how do they take you seriously.

Ankur Warikoo reveals 5 things to set yourself up for success

It might feel like a short period, but it shapes the future. Observing, connecting, listening carefully, asking, reflecting, holding ideas lightly; it all quietly adds up over time. Ankur Warikoo shares that these small, consistent steps seem minor, almost invisible, but they often decide whether your years ahead are smooth, meaningful, or frustrating.So, pause. Look around. Ask questions. Be curious. Stand your ground gently. Stay patient, stay aware, and remember: speed isn’t impact. Understanding is.Your career might just thank you for it.

Ankur Warikoo reveals 5 things to set yourself up for success

Source: LinkedIn

Don’t rush and start with curiosity

It might be tempting to offer solutions immediately. Don’t. Not yet. The smartest move is to observe. Ask questions. Listen. Watch how teams work. Who talks? Who doesn’t? What matters, really?Curiosity shows you care. People notice. It’s subtle, but it builds trust. Jumping in with answers too soon can make you seem overconfident. Or worse, out of touch.

Connect beyond your team

It seems small, but those coffee chats, brief hallway conversations, even awkward hellos matter. You never know which connection will help later.Some colleagues might appear distant at first. Don’t take it personally. Experts say building relationships across departments often gives insights you can’t get from emails or meetings.

Listen more. Talk less.

Simple advice. Hard to follow. Many of us fill silence with words. But silence is powerful. It lets you understand dynamics, catch nuances, and notice what really matters.You might learn more by listening than by giving advice. It appears obvious, but it’s easy to forget.

Ask for feedback and mean it

It feels uncomfortable, doesn’t it? Asking people how you’re doing. But feedback early on can save months of mistakes.Try small steps. Quick check-ins. Short questions. “Did that make sense?” “Was this helpful?” People often respect it when you show you want to learn.

Hold your opinions lightly

Having ideas is good. Pushing them too hard? Not so much. People can sense when approval matters more than your opinion. And when that happens, respect fades.Not everyone will agree. That’s fine. Your thoughts still deserve space. Sometimes stepping back shows confidence more than pushing forward.

Earning respect without losing yourself

Once you’ve settled in, the next challenge is influence. How to earn respect without chasing nods or validation. It seems tricky. But reportedly, people notice authenticity more than effort to please. Ankur Warikoo explains that when you’re too focused on approval, influence drops. People might nod politely, but they stop taking you seriously. The trick is subtle. Speak clearly. Stand by your ideas. Listen when it matters. And don’t fear disagreement.Even small gestures count. Eye contact. Following up on promises. Owning mistakes. It all adds up. Respect isn’t about being liked it’s about being reliable and confident, without pretending to be someone else.



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The Eri ‘Ahimsa’ silk stole worn by Ursula von der Leyen carries a powerful message


The Eri 'Ahimsa' silk stole worn by Ursula von der Leyen carries a powerful message
Prime Minister Modi and EU leaders sported matching Northeastern Eri silk stoles, a thoughtful Republic Day gift highlighting India’s rich craft traditions. This ethical ‘Ahimsa silk,’ known for its warmth and durability, signifies a commitment to sustainability and cultural heritage on the global stage, subtly weaving India’s story into international diplomacy.

When Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood beside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to announce the India–EU Free Trade Agreement, it wasn’t just the deal that grabbed attention. What really made people pause was what they were wearing. Draped over both leaders’ shoulders was a simple, elegant stole from India’s Northeast – understated, yes, but packed with meaning.After nearly 18 years of back-and-forth, the trade agreement is being called one of India’s most important global partnerships. Ursula von der Leyen summed it up in an X post, calling it the “mother of all deals” and pointing to a new free trade zone connecting almost two billion people. But while policy headlines did their rounds, social media zoomed in on something else entirely: those matching Eri silk stoles.

A Republic Day gift with deep roots

The stoles weren’t a random styling choice. They were part of India’s Republic Day 2026 invitation extended to Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa. The idea was simple but thoughtful – spotlight the living craft traditions of the Northeast.The design honoured the Ashtalakshmi states – Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim, and the artisans who keep these traditions alive. During the 77th Republic Day celebrations, several ministers and visiting dignitaries were seen wearing the same stole, quietly reinforcing that India’s global image today isn’t just about power and policy, but also about culture and craft.

So, what exactly is Eri silk?

Eri silk isn’t your typical glossy, high-shine silk. It’s softer, warmer and far more grounded. It carries a Geographical Indication (GI) tag and is often called an “Ahimsa silk” – because no silkworm is killed in the process. The moth is allowed to emerge before the cocoon is spun, making it one of the most ethical silks in the world.This fabric has been traditionally nurtured by indigenous communities, especially the Khasi people of Meghalaya. The spinning and weaving are done by hand, often within homes, passed down through generations. Every Eri stole comes with stories – of patience, skill and a slower way of making things.

Why it’s called the ‘wool of silks’

What really sets Eri silk apart is how wearable it is. It keeps you warm without feeling heavy, and breathes beautifully even in milder weather. Soft, sturdy and comfortable, it works across seasons – which is why it’s often called the “wool of silks”.Eri stoles and shawls are known to last for years, even decades. Beyond stoles and gamosas, the fabric finds its way into sarees, scarves, dresses, sweaters and blankets – pieces meant to be used, loved and lived in, not locked away.It’s also naturally hypoallergenic, making it a favourite for people with sensitive skin – a detail that matters more than ever as people become choosier about what they wear.

More than just a fashion choice

At a time when fast fashion dominates and trends change overnight, choosing Eri silk for a moment of global diplomacy sends a quiet but clear message. It speaks of sustainability, ethical choices and respect for regional craft – and puts the Northeast front and centre on the world stage.The stoles worn by PM Modi and EU leaders weren’t about flashy luxury. They stood for something deeper – a fabric that values life, honours tradition, and carries India’s cultural story into global conversations, without needing to say a word.



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What is ‘drag path’ on TikTok? The viral trend that is breaking hearts


TikTok trends usually promise chaos, humour or a new slang word that makes millennials panic. This one is different. Over the past week, a deeply emotional trend centred around the phrase “drag path” has taken over feeds, leaving viewers confused, teary-eyed and unexpectedly reflective.

Instagram/hercampuse | A drag path is literally a visible trail or mark that has been left on the ground by dragging an object.

Image credit : Instagram/hercampuse | A drag path is literally a visible trail or mark that has been left on the ground by dragging an object.

A new TikTok trend that hits a little too hard

At first glance, the videos look simple. A short clip. Muted music. Text on screen. But then you read it, and it lands right in your chest. Creators are sharing moments connected to someone they lost, often a final interaction they did not realise was the last at the time.

In its literal sense, a drag path is a physical trail left behind when something is pulled across the ground. On TikTok, though, the phrase has evolved into something far more emotional.

Within this trend, a “drag path” refers to the emotional marks left behind by loss. It is the memory, object or moment that still drags through your life long after someone has gone. It is not loud grief. It is the quiet kind that sneaks up on you in random moments.

People are using the phrase to describe memories that only gained weight after tragedy struck. A final birthday. A hospital visit. A casual question that now feels unbearable in hindsight.

The trend pulls its name from the song Drag Path by Twenty One Pilots. The track explores the idea of leaving behind deliberate traces, evidence that something once existed and mattered. While the song itself has been interpreted in many ways, TikTok users have reshaped the phrase into a shorthand for emotional residue.



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Yasuko Tamaki: Meet the 95-year-old Japanese woman who has worked for over 65 years at the same job: “I was born to be useful to others” |


Meet the 95-year-old Japanese woman who has worked for over 65 years at the same job: "I was born to be useful to others"
Meet the 95-year-old Japanese woman who has worked for over 65 years at the same job

Imagine clocking into the same office for 65 years straight—not switching jobs, not chasing promotions, just showing up with quiet dedication while the world around you spins through recessions, tech revolutions, and generations. That’s Yasuko Tamaki, a 95-year-old from Osaka, Japan, whose story feels like a warm hug for anyone who’s ever wondered, “What’s my purpose in life after all these years of work?” In November 2020, the Guinness World Records crowned her the world’s oldest office manager, but reports rom 2024-2025 suggest she’s still going strong at Sunco Industries. At 95? That’s not a career; that’s a love letter to life and work itself!

Meet Yasuko Tamaki, who is still working in her 90s

Born May 15, 1930, Yasuko joined Sunco Industries, a tiny company back then, in 1956 at age 26—a fresh-faced dreamer amid just 20 coworkers. Roughly seven decades later, Sunco now has over 430 employees– including Yasuko. As per reports, over the years, she has evolved from basic admin to general affairs powerhouse: crunching numbers, streamlining communications, even mastering computers in her late 60s when most people of her age were learning solitaire. She was promoted to section chief at 40, and she never stopped growing. Yasuko even aced the Japan Kanji Aptitude Test at 86 to keep her mind razor-sharp. Who says age is a limit?Her daily ritual includes waking up at 5:30 a.m., doing 30 minutes of yoga, reciting Buddhist sutras for wisdom, and then commuting to work by foot, bus, or metro. In her free time she enjoys reading books, mahjong marathons, card games, and dishing gentle advice to her coworkers.



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From Manali to Spiti, 5 places in India that are seeing minus temperatures right now



It seems winter has once again tightened its grip across the Himalayas, with several popular destinations in North India recording sub-zero temperatures. Chill nights, frost mornings and snow-covered roads – these are some of the issues that a few regions are grappling with as cold waves intensify. There are places from hill towns to isolated high-altitude cold deserts that are under blankets of snow and biting winds. Water pipes freeze, travel is hindered, and residents try to grapple with the way of life that challenges both the infrastructure and one’s endurance. The brutal cold, while inconvenient for travel and daily life, also turns the region breathtakingly beautiful. Here are five locations where temperatures have fallen far below freezing, where most of the roads are closed, and are likely facing the last touches of winter, but are at their best form in snowy white.



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Umbrella slug: The animal that holds the world record for growing the most teeth |


Umbrella slug: The animal that holds the world record for growing the most teeth
Umbrella slug: The animal that holds the world record for growing the most teeth (Image source: Wikipedia)

When you consider animals that have a lot of teeth, sharks are likely to be the first ones that come to mind, since they can grow and shed thousands of teeth in their lifetime. However, as shocking as it may sound, the animal that holds the world record for the most teeth in a lifetime is not a ferocious predator. The world record for the most teeth in a lifetime belongs to a gentle, slimy creature known as the umbrella slug, which has more teeth in its lifetime than any other animal. According to the Guinness World Records, this peculiar creature produces an astonishing number of teeth as it grows and replaces them in its lifetime. In fact, the total number of teeth it produces, through generations of replacement, is more than that of any other animal on Earth.

Umbrella slug produces more teeth than any other in the world

The umbrella slug is a species of sea slug that lives in oceanic waters, and one of its most fascinating characteristics is its radula, which is a tongue-like structure covered in rows of tiny teeth. While humans and most other animals have a set of teeth that remain with them for their entire lives, the umbrella slug grows and replaces teeth constantly. It can produce as many as tens of thousands of teeth, which is more than any vertebrate animal.These teeth are not like the ones you think of as biting teeth; instead, they are microscopic and come in hundreds of rows on the radula, which allows the umbrella slug to graze on algae and small particles for food. While the teeth are small, the number of teeth that the umbrella slug produces in its lifetime is what gives it the world record.

How the slug’s teeth work

In contrast to mammals, which rely on teeth for biting and chewing, the umbrella slug’s teeth are more like a conveyor belt for rasping. Here’s how it works:

  • The radula is lined with tiny teeth in rows.
  • As the teeth wear out, new ones grow in the back and move forward like a conveyor belt.
  • Because of this process, the slug can continue to eat efficiently throughout its lifetime.

This is similar to how many snails and slugs eat, but the umbrella slug’s tooth replacement rate is unbeatable. Eventually, the total number of teeth that the umbrella slug produces is more than that of any other animal, even sharks, which are well-known for replacing their teeth many times.

How does this record compare to other animals

To give you some perspective on this record:

  • White sharks can replace thousands of teeth in their lifetime by growing new teeth to replace old ones.
  • Elephants have six sets of molars that are replaced only a few times in their lifetime.
  • Humans have two sets of teeth in a lifetime – baby teeth and permanent teeth.

The umbrella slug produces teeth at such an incredible rate that it blows all of the above away just because of the sheer volume of teeth it is producing. This is why it has the Guinness World Record for the most teeth produced in a lifetime.

Why it matters

The record-breaking number of teeth of the umbrella slug may appear to be an interesting piece of trivia about an animal, but it also points to the vastly different ways in which life has developed on different species. Researching animals that have continuously regenerating teeth can help scientists learn more about survival, feeding patterns, and the processes of renewal in nature. The way in which the slug’s radula is structured makes it clear that some animals have developed the ability to renew and replace continuously, which is a far cry from the way in which human teeth function. It is important to remember that the most interesting things in the natural world are not always the most apparent.



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Think dandelions are pointless? Health benefits of dandelion you probably didn’t know about |


Think dandelions are pointless? Health benefits of dandelion you probably didn’t know about

Dandelions are literally everywhere, sprouting up in gardens, lawns, and even the cracks of pavement, and are considered by most people to be nothing more than a nuisance weed. However, the bright yellow blooms of the dandelion plant are much more than that. For many years, the dandelion plant (Taraxacum officinale) has been used in traditional medicine, and many of its healing properties are now being confirmed by modern science. Each part of the dandelion plant, from the leaves to the roots to the flowers, has been found to have nutrients and natural compounds that work to support the body in a variety of ways. From supporting healthy digestion and liver function to helping to boost the immune system and protect the body from oxidative damage, dandelions are a wonderful addition to any natural health regimen. Dandelion has a mild effect on blood sugar, joints, and even weight, making it a true all-around herb.

8 Benefits of dandelion plant

As per a study titled “A comprehensive review of the benefits of Taraxacum officinale on human health”, dandelion has properties that can be used for digestive, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial purposes, among others.Some of the most important uses of dandelion are listed below, so you can understand how this common plant can help you with your health.

  • Helps the body get rid of extra water

Dandelion can help your body get rid of excess water naturally. Traditionally, people have used dandelion leaf tea to promote healthy kidneys and alleviate mild swelling without the use of harsh drugs.

  • Supports healthy liver function (Hepatoprotective)

The root part of the dandelion helps your liver remove toxins and promotes digestion. It increases the production of bile, which helps in the breakdown of fat and promotes digestion. It may help your liver function better, and that is why dandelion has been traditionally used in herbal supplements for the liver.

  • Strengthens the immune system (Immunoprotective)

Dandelion has the ability to provide your body with the necessary nutrients to boost its immune system. This will help your body fight off common ailments. It can also help boost your body’s immune system to fight off infections. Moreover, it can also help your body recover from common illnesses.

  • Protects against microbes (Antiviral & Antibacterial)

According to research, dandelion has the ability to fight off some viruses and bacteria. However, this doesn’t mean that you should rely solely on dandelion for treatment. But it can definitely help boost your immune system.

  • Supports healthy blood sugar (Antidiabetic)

Dandelion can also help your body maintain a balanced level of blood sugar. Dandelion also has the ability to help your body process glucose more effectively. This will help your body maintain a balanced level of blood sugar.

  • Helps with weight management (Anti-obesity)

Dandelion can also be used as a digestive and metabolism booster, which can be very helpful in weight management. The diuretic quality of dandelion also helps in dealing with bloating. Using dandelion tea or leaves in food might be a good way to manage weight naturally.Some properties of dandelion have been found to naturally relieve stiffness or pain in joints. This is why dandelion is often used in herbal supplements for joint relief.Antioxidants help to counteract the negative effects of harmful molecules in your body that can cause damage to tissues over time. Using dandelion in your diet might help you age healthily and prevent chronic diseases associated with oxidative stress. Leaf, root, and flower parts all have antioxidant compounds, making the plant entirely useful.

Dandelion tea: A simple way to enjoy its benefits

Dandelion tea: A simple way to enjoy its benefits

One of the simplest ways to incorporate dandelion into your life is through dandelion tea, which can be prepared using leaves, roots, or flowers. Here’s how it can be useful to you:

  • Leaf tea: Works as a mild diuretic, which helps in reducing water retention.
  • Root tea: Supports digestion and liver health.
  • Flower tea: Offers antioxidant support and adds a natural, pleasant flavour.

To make dandelion tea, you can simply steep dried dandelion leaves, roots, or flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Drinking 1-2 cups of dandelion tea per day is a safe way to get many of the benefits listed above, although people with certain medical conditions should consult their doctor first.



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What is the 2% rule in Real Estate and why it matters?


What is the 2% rule in Real Estate and why it matters?

Some real estate terms and rules can leave people confused; especially for those from non-real estate background wanting to rent property. So there is a 2% rule which not many must be aware of. The 2% rule is a simple guideline that helps people assess the potential profitability of a rental property before diving into detailed calculations.Understanding the 2% RuleIn simple words, the 2% rule says that a rental property is financially profitable if the monthly rent is at least 2% of the total purchase price of the property, which includes acquisition and basic repair costs too.To understand it better, here is an example.Say you have bought a property for INR 60 lakh. Now as per the 2% rule the monthly rent should be around INR 1,20,000 (2% of INR 60 lakh). If the expected rent is less, the property may struggle to deliver strong cash flow.However, you should also know that the 2% rule is not a guarantee of profit. In fact, it acts as a screening tool which helps investors shortlist properties worth deeper analysis.Why do investors use the 2% Rule?The main feature of the 2% is its very simple rule as compared to several variables like loan interest, maintenance and taxes, among others. The 2% rule allows investors to choose properties that are unlikely to perform well. The rule came in markets where property prices were relatively low compared to rents. How the 2% Rule works Understand it with an example:Purchase price (including repairs): INR 60 lakhExpected monthly rent: INR 1,20,000Since INR 1,20,000 is 2% of INR 60 lakh, the property meets the 2% rule. This means that the rental income may be sufficient to cover mortgage payments, maintenance and taxes, while still leaving room for profit. If the rent were only INR 60,000 (1%), the property might still work, but it would be over expensive.Is the 2% Rule practical in today’s timeWell the answer is no, not really. It’s only a rule on papers not in practical life. In many metro cities, meeting the 2% rule is not possible. It is because of high property rates and regulated rental growth. In rare cases, the yields are closer to 2–4% annually, not monthly. As a result, the 2% rule is more commonly achievable in smaller cities or emerging markets. However, this doesn’t mean that it’s an outdated rule. Limitations It does not account for interest rates or tenure of the loan Operating expenses do not countIt does not factor in capital appreciationIt may not reflect local rental laws or vacancy risksIn short, the 2% rule works as a first-level filter when comparing many properties.



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