Minimalism never goes out of trend. It is because minimalism is not about owning nothing but is also about things that matter and has real value. At its heart, it clearly means choosing quality over quantity. It is also a kind of feeling that doesn’t allow people to do impulsive shopping. Rather than a style of fashion, it’s a state of mind and psychology of choice. On this note, let’s have a deeper look into five categories of items minimalists walk past and why you must skim them too.Decorative items that have no useUsability is the first thing a minimalist sees in an item. It’s an incredibly amazing thing and deliberate choice that they make because for them, their space is sacred. Decorative pieces that serve no purpose are useless for minimalists. Things like seasonal trinkets, and word-art signs without any emotional connection do not work for them. These items may look cute, but don’t have any real purpose. Instead, minimalists love meaningful items such as real flowers, an heirloom piece of art, or antique objects with some fascinating history. They connect with timeless and personal pieces. Single-use or specialized gadgets

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Single-use or specialized gadgets are a strict no-no for minimalists. They find it as a perennial trap. Kitchen gadgets such as apple slicers or egg boilers have no use in a house of minimalists. They stay away from these items. They love gadgets which they can use for real. Like they may put their money in a set of quality knives or a good set of cookware. It’s not anti-technology, it’s about versatility. They clearly don’t like clutterBooks and mediaWell, don’t get them wrong but, books (despite being beloved treasures for many!) if don’t serve purpose, don’t have a place in a minimalist house. They don’t buy books with no real intention to read them. For avid readers, alternatives include borrowing, e-readers, or buying only if they are genuinely interested in the title. Impulsive purchases Minimalism strictly avoids impulsive purchases. They also don’t go for things simply because they were on sale. For them, bargains or low price tags can be traps. While others get tempted, they slowly walk past as such purchases serve no purpose. Minimalists often enjoy simple rules and pause helps filter genuine needs from unnecessary desires.Excess mugs, throw pillows

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Sometimes clutter is not created by electronics or furniture, the main culprits can be objects like mugs, throw pillows, or unnecessary seasonal decor. Minimalists often keep just a few of their favorite mugs rather than a cupboard full. They would love to have neutral throw pillows that are always useful. Minimists choose items which have purpose and usability, else they don’t. This is the best thing as they don’t like clutter. Living with less becomes not about deprivation, but about making room for what truly matters and adding value. Whether it’s time, focus or relationships, what doesn’t work, throw it out. If you’re considering becoming a minimalist, start asking yourself the question of whether it truly belongs in your life and personal space. You might find that having less doesn’t feel empty, it feels complete.

Vinegar works wonders on keeping ants away. It is one magical remedy considered the most effective solution. Ants rely on scent trails to reach between food and their colonies. And that’s where vinegar works. Its strong smell breaks their trails, and makes it harder for ants to find their way. And the chain breaks!

How to make it:

All you need to do is mix equal parts white vinegar and water. You can also put a few drops of any essential oil. Pour in a spray bottle.

Spray this solution at every entry point, and in areas where ants commonly appear.

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Have you been to Chhattisgarh before? If not, here we give you reasons to plan a trip soon. Tucked away in the northern hills of Chhattisgarh, there is a small hill station, known as Mainpa, which feels strikingly different from the state’s largely forested and plateau landscapes. It lies around 55 km by road from Ambikapur, the divisional headquarters, and is often referred to as the ‘Shimla of Chhattisgarh’ or the ‘Swiss of Chhattisgarh.’ This destination is gradually emerging as a low-key alternative to India’s crowded hill towns. Perched at a higher elevation, Mainpat enjoys a cooler climate, rolling meadows, forested valleys and wide open fields that turn yellow and white during harvest season. Its relative isolation has long kept it off mainstream travel maps, but recent improvements in road connectivity and basic tourist infrastructure have begun to change that.Read more: “A man with bloodshot eyes and a machete blocked my path..” European traveller recounts his India trip, lists common scams to watch out for

The mystery of Ulta Pani (Bisar Paani)

Mainpat’s most talked-about attraction is Ulta Pani, also known locally as Bisar Paani. Located around 5 km before Mainpat on the Ambikapur–Mainpat road, this spot appears to defy gravity. Water in a small canal seems to flow uphill for nearly 30 ft, giving rise to decades of local curiosity, folklore and visitor fascination. For years, villagers and travellers described the phenomenon as unexplained, with no visible devices or mechanisms involved. However, academic research has since clarified the mystery. A study conducted by researchers from Ravishankar University identified Ulta Pani as a classic gravity hill, a natural optical illusion. Using Digital Elevation Modeling (DEM), the study showed that the terrain actually slopes gently downward, but the surrounding landscape and visual cues trick the human eye into perceiving an uphill flow. The findings place Ulta Pani alongside similar gravity hills found around the world, reinforcing that the effect is perceptual rather than magnetic or gravitational. Read mor: This Japan town brings the curtain down on its 10-year-old cherry blossom festival to protect the dignity of its citizens

Waterfalls, viewpoints and unusual landscapes

Besides Ulta Pani, other attractions of Mainpat that are located at different points of the plateau include Tiger Point Waterfall, Fish Point Waterfall, Ghaghi Waterfall, which get a new lease of life during and after the monsoon when water flows down the rock edges into the ravines. Viewpoints like Parpatiya provide sweeping views of the surrounding valleys, especially striking at sunrise and sunset.

Another unique feature is Zalzali, often called the “bouncing land,” where the ground appears to move slightly underfoot due to its soft, marshy surface. While harmless, it adds to Mainpat’s reputation for unusual natural phenomena.

Tibetan settlements and cultural identity

One of the distinctive attributes of Mainpat is that it is home to the Tibetan community. One is able to visit the Buddhist temples that are dedicated to the Buddha, witness the prayer rituals, and buy woollen garments and designer mats from the Tibetan families. There are religious exiles from Tibet, and they settled in this place decades ago.This blend of tribal Chhattisgarhi culture and Tibetan heritage gives Mainpat a social landscape unlike most hill stations in central India.

Adventure and slow tourism

With its open terrain and gentle slopes, Mainpat has also begun to position itself as an adventure destination. Treks, rappelling and zorbing are some of the newer additions in certain pockets, catering to the traveller seeking some adventure sans crowds. Yet, it essentially remains a destination for slow tourism — its strongest selling points are long walks, quiet drives and unhurried exploration.

How to reach Mainpat

The Sub-Divisional town is best reached by road via Ambikapur, which provides the nearest major bus terminal and rental vehicle options. Ambikapur Railway Station is the closest railhead, connecting the region to other parts of the state. In the future, air connectivity will improve. Ambikapur Airport is coming up and is proposed to connect the region with Raipur and Varanasi after flights start operating. Still largely untouched by mass tourism, Mainpat stands out not for luxury or spectacle, but for its quiet landscapes, cultural depth and natural curiosities, especially the Ulta Pani that continues to intrigue first-time visitors.

Real estate is a vast sector brimming with a number of legal compliance that at times may leave first-time homebuyers confused. Among many documents that determine the legality and usability of a property, the Completion Certificate (CC) and the Occupancy Certificate (OC) stand extremely important. These certificates are issued by local municipal or development authorities to buildings that are legally constructed and are safe for living. Let’s take a closer look at these closely.Completion Certificate (CC)A Completion Certificate (CC) is issued after the construction of a building is completed. It must be done lawfully with the approved building plans, rules and regulations. This certificate confirms that the developer has followed the sanctioned layout (such as height, and zoning regulations) mentioned at the time of approval.To obtain a CC, the developer must show:Approved floor plans Approved height Safety normsFire safety Environmental and zoning regulationsParking Common area Occupancy Certificate (OC)An Occupancy Certificate (OC) is issued to a building after its completion. It means that the building is fit for occupancy. The certificate confirms that the property complies with all essential infrastructure requirements including water supply, electricity, sewage and drainage systems, among other safety requirements. The OC is a primary document as it legally permits people to live in the building. A number of states consider it illegal to live without an OC.Difference between CC and OCThe two certificates are different and serve different purposes. The one thing that’s common is that both are issued by local authorities. While the CC is the verification of the completion of the construction as per approved plans, the OC confirms that the building is safe and ready for occupation. The CC is more about the construction compliance and the OC is about the occupancy readiness of the building. Importance of CC and OC in property purchaseLegal terms: A building without a CC may be classified as unauthorised construction, while an OC is deemed illegal for occupancy. Both situations can end up in legal complications.Services: All the major services such as water connections, sewage systems, electricity and gas meters are sanctioned only after the society gets an OC.Home loans: Even to get approval for loans, one needs to show the CC and OC.Resale Value: Buyers are now cautious and avoid properties missing these certifications.So, if you are someone planning to buy a property, do not miss out on checking the Completion Certificate and Occupancy Certificate as these are fundamental documents which secure your legal standing and long-term property value. In case you ignore these certificates, you may get involved in legal issues and financial losses in the future.

To handle the surge in passenger travel during the upcoming Holi festival, Indian Railways has announced plans to operate more than 1,410 Holi special trains across its network, with the number expected to go up to 1,500 services. As per the press release by the Ministry of Railways, the special trains will run throughout March, a peak travel period as people head home to celebrate the festival with family. The initiative is in a bid to provide improved travel connections between key cities and popular routes, by easing congestion on normal services. For perspective, the number of special train trips being planned by Indian Railways on Holi 2025 stood at 1,144 making this year’s proposed operations more than double.

Zone-wise deployment of Holi special trains

Of all zones, the East Central Railway (ECR) will run the maximum number of Holi special trains, which is precisely 285, to handle heavy rush of passengers over the eastern and north-central network. This is followed by the Western Railway (WR) with 231 trains and the Central Railway (CR) with 209 services, both catering to dense intercity and long-distance travel corridors. The South Central Railway has planned to run 160 Holi special trains, and the Northern Railway will operate 108 Holi special trains, mainly for northern states where Holi celebrations are widespread. The other zones have also developed substantial capacities:North Western Railway (NWR): 71 trainsNorth Central Railway (NCR): 66 trainsNorth Eastern Railway (NER): 62 trainsEast Coast Railway (ECOR): 62 trainsSouth Western Railway (SWR): 47 trainsWest Central Railway (WCR): 43 trainsSouthern Railway (SR): 39 trainsSouth East Central Railway (SECR): 15 trainsIn addition, the Konkan Railway (KR) will operate 9 special trains, while the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has planned 2 services to meet regional travel requirements.

Focus on smoother festive travel

Holi is usually the busiest travel period for Indian Railways, when a large number of passengers travel from metros and their work hubs to their hometowns. Taking into consideration the festive rush of passengers during the upcoming holiday season and anticipating demand for travel would increase on specific routes, the special train services will be put into place to ensure that passengers can be accommodated easily. Officials said the railways remain focused on passenger convenience, safety, and efficient operations during major festivals, and additional services may be introduced if booking trends indicate further demand in the coming weeks.

How Dinesh Karthik found love again in Dipika Pallikal

Imagine this: Just when you’re at the peak of your career, the two people you trust the most shatter your world. For Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik this was a reality. Born into a Telugu family, Dinesh picked up a bat at 10, made his international cricket debut in 2004, and soon became a sensation. But off-field, heartbreak nearly ended it all. Here’s his story, which is no less than an emotional rollercoaster of betrayal, hitting rock bottom in life, and getting a second chance at love, a story that still can give you chills.

Childhood sweetheart to shattered vows: Dinesh Karthik and Nikita Vanjara‘s failed marriage

Dinesh and Nikita Vanjara were that perfect story – childhood friends in Chennai, friendship turning to love, families cheering them on. At just 21, in 2007, they said “I do,” eyes full of forever. But their marriage was short lived and within five years, the cracks deepened. Nikita’s found love in Murali Vijay, Dinesh’s teammate and close friend. And Nikita and Murali’s betrayal to Dinesh was nothing less than gut-wrenching.

It was during the 2012 Vijay Hazare Trophy against Karnataka that Dinesh learned the truth about his wife and his best friend having an affair. The sting of double betrayal crushed him – public silence masking private agony. As their divorce papers were finalised, Nikita was pregnant with Murali’s child! Dinesh chose grace, stepping away without a word of mudslinging in public. Nikita and Murali soon got married and they welcomed their son Nirav in 2013, daughter Eva (year not known), and another boy Aarav in 2017. Meanwhile, Dinesh hit rock bottom in his personal life.

Rock bottom: Depression steals the cricketer’s spark

The man who once dazzled on IPL grounds went silent. Depression gripped Dinesh – gym skipped, practices dodged. Soon, he was dropped from the Indian team. Betrayal didn’t just break his heart; it dimmed his fire. Nights blurred into doubt: How do you rebuild when trust evaporates? Enter lifeline: Friend and mentor Abhishek Nayar, who encouraged him to restart his life. Abhishek urged, dragging him back to the gym. There, amid sweat and second chances, fate whispered hope.

Sparks at the gym: Falling for squash star Dipika Pallikal

It was at the gym where Dinesh met Dipiaka Pallikal a fellow sportsperson. They had the same coach Basu Shankar.While Dipipka initially kept hed distance from Dinesh to avoid wanted media drama, their friendship soon blossomed into love. Dipika became Dinesh’s quiet strength, pulling him from the pit. In an IANS interview, Dipika shared, “The first time we met was at a marathon five years ago… I left without even saying bye. Slowly, we got to know each other.”What sealed their love? Dinesh’s heart. February 2013: Dipika wins in Canada; Dinesh plays domestic in India. She heads to Leeds; he flies across oceans just to see her. “Not many would do that,” she told Sportskeeda. His humility and care won her heart. And soon, Dinesh and Dipika turned from gym buddies to soulmates, building their new life together.

A fairytale wedding and twins

Cricketer Dinesh Karthik and squash player Deepika Pallikal tied the knot on August 18, 2015.

Post-Champions Trophy 2013 win, Dinesh proposed to Dipika in London and she said ‘Yes’! They got engaged in Chennai that year, and got married twice in 2015: A Christian ceremony on August 18, followed by a Telugu Hindu style wedding on August 20. In 2021, Dinesh and Dipika welcomed their twins – Kabir Pallikal Karthik and Zian Pallikal Karthik. Dipika paused her career for her family, while Dinesh returned to cricket. In 2024, Dinesh announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.Dinesh’s story is a raw inspiration to many. Nikita and Murali’s betrayal could’ve ended Dinesh, but it instead made him stronger. He chose to close Nikita’s chapter gracefully, while Dipika’s chapter opened eternal love. From whispers of depression to his twins’ giggles, Dinesh shows: Love heals everything.

The 13th-century Sufi poet and mystic, Rumi, captivates readers across the world today even today. His wise words on love and joy feel as fresh now as they did centuries ago. Since love is a universal language and it speaks to every heart, here we list some of Rumi’s timeless quotes to warm yours.

Japanese authorities in Fujiyoshida, a picturesque town near Mount Fuji, have cancelled their annual cherry blossom festival this year, citing an unmanageable surge in tourist numbers that has begun to seriously affect daily life for locals. The decision brings an abrupt end to a decade-old spring event that had turned the town into one of Japan’s most photographed sakura destinations. During peak cherry blossom season, as many as 10,000 visitors a day now arrive in Fujiyoshida, drawn by the rare combination of cherry trees in full bloom framed against Mount Fuji’s snow-capped slopes. But what was once seen as a boost to local tourism has increasingly been described by authorities as a crisis. “We have a strong sense of crisis,” Fujiyoshida mayor Shigeru Horiuchi said while announcing the cancellation. “To protect the dignity and living environment of our citizens, we have decided to bring the curtain down on the 10-year-old festival.”

From tourism push to overtourism problem

The festival began in 2016, when city authorities opened the gates of Arakurayama Sengen Park to host visitors during the cherry blossom season. Home to a pagoda overlooking the town, the park quickly became famous for its sweeping panoramic views and “Instagrammable” spots that blended traditional architecture, sakura trees and Mount Fuji in a single frame. Officials initially hoped the event would create a lively atmosphere and enhance the town’s appeal. Instead, they say visitor numbers have “increased dramatically, exceeding the city’s capacity and resulting in overtourism.”Read more: Indian skies perfect for stargazing, and why February is the best time Residents have complained of chronic traffic congestion, overflowing rubbish, and increasingly intrusive behaviour. According to statements released by the city, tourists have been reported trespassing on private property, opening residents’ doors without permission to use toilets, littering, and in some cases even defecating in private gardens. Authorities also noted incidents of visitors causing disturbances when confronted by homeowners. The surge has been driven by multiple factors, including the weak yen, which has made Japan more affordable for overseas travellers, and the explosive reach of social media platforms that rapidly amplify visually striking locations.

Festival cancelled, visitors still expected

Despite cancelling the official festival, Fujiyoshida authorities acknowledge that large crowds are still likely in April and May, when cherry blossoms typically reach full bloom. The city says it is preparing for increased footfall even without organised events, underlining how difficult it has become to control visitor flows once a destination gains global visibility online.

A wider issue across Japan

Fujiyoshida is not the first place near Mount Fuji to take drastic steps. In 2024, officials in Fujikawaguchiko erected a large black barrier to block views of one of the area’s most famous photo spots. Residents there had accused tourists, particularly those chasing viral images, of littering, jaywalking and parking illegally.Read more: This tiger reserve near Delhi is an interesting mix wildlife adventure and spirituality

Global cities push back against overcrowding

Elsewhere, European cities are experimenting with new measures to rein in tourist numbers. Italian authorities recently introduced a €2 fee to access the viewing area of the Trevi Fountain in Rome, a site that had previously been free to visit. Officials say the fee will help manage crowds and fund maintenance of the historic monument. In Venice, day trippers visiting on select days between April and July are now required to pay €5 if they book in advance, or €10 for last-minute access. The policy is aimed at discouraging short, high-impact visits that strain infrastructure without benefiting local communities. As this Japanese town goes ahead with the cancellation of the cherry blossom festival, it reflects how overtourism can actually impact the lives of local people. Although the views in the town are considered iconic, and might continue to still attract tourists from across the globe, the town authority has made it clear that it will be prioritizing its people for now.

Encouraging parents to embrace their children with unwavering love is crucial; the emphasis shouldn’t solely be on correcting missteps. A child’s spirit flourishes when they feel accepted, rather than being subjected to endless adjustments. Nurturing self-esteem and inspiring personal development come from a foundation of love.

“Your kids require you most of all to love them for who they are, not to spend your whole time trying to correct them.” – Bill AyersThis quote cuts through a common parenting habit. Many parents spend days fixing, guiding, and improving. The intent is good, but the impact can feel heavy. Children do not grow best under constant correction. They grow best when they feel safe, seen, and accepted. This quote reminds parents that love is not a reward for good behaviour. It is the ground on which all learning stands.

Children are not unfinished projects

Kids are often treated like problems waiting to be solved. Their habits, marks, tone, or choices become daily targets. This approach quietly sends a message that they are never enough. Bill Ayers’ words ask parents to pause. A child is already a whole person, not a draft version of an adult. Guidance works better when it starts with respect, not repair.

Constant correction can blur self-worth

Correction has a place, but too much of it can confuse a child. When most conversations point out what went wrong, children start linking love with performance. Over time, they may hide mistakes or stop trying new things. Loving a child for who they are builds a steady inner voice. That voice helps them handle feedback without feeling broken.

Love does not mean ignoring limits

This quote does not ask parents to remove rules. It asks them to change the order. Love comes first, limits come second. When a child feels accepted, rules feel safer and fairer. A calm boundary taught with warmth stays longer than one taught with fear. Discipline works best when it protects, not when it controls.

See the reason behind the behaviour

Children often act out before they can explain feelings. A messy room, sharp reply, or poor focus usually hides something else. It could be tiredness, jealousy, or pressure. Correcting the surface behaviour without noticing the cause misses the point. Love shows up when parents ask what the child might be feeling, not just what the child did.

Celebrate effort, not personality fixes

Many corrections target who the child is, not what they tried. Labels like “lazy” or “too sensitive” stick longer than advice. This quote pushes parents to shift focus. Notice effort, progress, and honesty. When feedback talks about actions, children feel safer being themselves. They learn that love stays, even when improvement is needed.

Everyday ways to practice this love

Loving children for who they are does not need big speeches. It shows up in small moments. Listening without interrupting.

Have you ever been in a situation with your partner where no matter what you say, it feels like you’re speaking different languages? You’re not alone. Melinda French Gates, American philanthropist and author, addresses this in her quote from the book ‘The Moment of Lift’ as she says: “When people can’t agree, it’s often because there is no empathy, no sense of shared experience. If you feel what others feel, you’re more likely to see what they see. Then you can understand one another. Then you can move to the honest and respectful exchange of ideas that is the mark of a successful partnership. That’s the source of progress.”It’s a simple yet profound truth: Empathy is the secret to real connection. Drawing from her own experiences, Melinda shows how stepping into other people’s shoes can help turn your problems into mutual growth. Let’s break it down and see how you can make it work in your relationships, too.

Why Empathy Unlocks Agreement (Even When You Disagree)

Disagreements are inevitable in any relationship. Money fights, parenting clashes, or even misunderstandings with colleagues – they pop up because we all carry our unique lenses shaped by our pasts. Melinda points out why they happen: Without empathy, we’re stuck defending our view, not understanding the other person’s thoughts. No shared emotional ground means no progress.Think of empathy as emotional detective work. It’s feeling their frustration, not just hearing words. Melinda calls this “the source of progress” because once you get it – truly feel it -you shift from being opponents to being teammates. Research from psychologists like John Gottman also highlights this: Couples who validate emotions during arguments are five times more likely to stay together. It’s not about agreeing on everything; it’s about agreeing to understand first.

5 easy ways to practice empathy

Here’s are some simple, doable steps inspired by Gates’ wisdom:1. Mirror their feelings: The next time you have an argument, say, “Sounds like you’re frustrated because…” Repeat until they nod. It shows you’re listening.2. Share your “why” vulnerably: Instead of “You’re wrong,” try “This bugs me because it reminds me of…” Opens the empathy door both ways.3. Pause for perspective: Ask, “What would this feel like for you?” Imagine their backstory. Melinda’s “shared experience” in action.4. Validate first, solve later: “I see why that hurt” before jumping to fixes. Builds trust fast.5. Daily check-ins: Talk over dinner and ask, “What was tough today?” This creates ongoing empathy habits.Over time, you’ll notice that your fights have shortened, and bonds have deepened.

Empathy: Your Partnership Superpower

Melinda’s quote isn’t just fluffy advice – it’s battle-tested from boardrooms to bedrooms. Long-term partnerships thrive on this cycle: Feel, understand, exchange ideas, and all of this will lead to progress. Singles, note it for dating. Parents, use it with kids. Friends, it mends rifts too.In a divided world, empathy’s radical. But in your relationship? It’s revolutionary. What’s one empathy move you’ll try today? Share below – let’s lift each other up!