MELBOURNE, Jun 5: The Australian and Victorian Governments’ North East Link project continues to forge ahead with two massive Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) relaunching from Lower Plenty Road to continue their journey towards Bulleen.
Earlier this year, TBMs Gillian and Zelda both broke through the earth into a 30 metre deep box at Lower Plenty Road, which will soon create a vital interchange point for the North East Link project.
Recently, the TBMs also relaunched to excavate the remaining stretch of the 6.5 kilometre tunnels to Bulleen to build Victoria’s longest road tunnels.
The TBMs are 15.6 metres in diameter and 90 metres long, and have each travelled 1.6 kilometres – or about 40 per cent of their total journey – collectively installing more than 16,000 concrete segments that were made locally in Benalla.
Construction will continue at the Lower Plenty Road site to build the entry and exit ramps to the tunnels.
Space equivalent to five MCGs will be developed into the new Borlase Reserve
parklands along Banyule Creek, returning green space to the community.
Major upgrades along the Eastern Freeway and the M80 Ring Road are ongoing, with foundation structures being built to connect the freeways to the tunnels.
Crews also continue works to realign Bulleen Road onto its permanent alignment, with these works expected to be completed later this year.
More than 8,000 people are currently working across the North East Link project, with 10 per cent of work hours being delivered by apprentices, trainees and cadets.
The project is set to create more than 12,000 jobs in total.
The North East Link tunnels, M80 Ring Road Completion and Eastern Freeway Upgrades are jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian Governments and will be complete in 2028.
The project is expected to slash travel times by up to 35 minutes, and take 15,000 trucks off local roads.
Stronger Protections for Retirement Village Residents
MELBOURNE, Jun 1: The Allan Labor Government is helping ensure Victorians living in a retirement village will benefit from stronger protections so they can retire in comfort with peace of mind, thanks to legislation that passed Parliament this week.
Minister for Consumer Affairs Nick Staikos said the Retirement Villages Amendment Bill would deliver a suite of reforms to help residents make informed choices about entering, living in and leaving the village of their choice.
The Bill was prompted by the 2019 Review of the Retirement Villages Act, which found
that overly complex retirement village contracts left residents with unexpected and burdensome financial obligations, unfairly treated, uncertain about their rights, and suffering from ineffective dispute resolution processes.
The new legislation is the biggest change to the Retirement Villages Act since it was made law in 1986 and was informed by extensive stakeholder feedback, with over 500 submissions from residents, their families, industry and consumer advocates.
Under the reforms, standard contracts will be introduced that provide clear information about entry and exit processes, so prospective residents are better informed before signing. The reforms will regulate how exit entitlements are calculated, helping residents to better understand these calculations.
Retirement villages will also be guided by
new principles, including that operators must respect residents’ rights to remain in a village, treat residents with dignity and respect, and conduct annual financial checks of contracts.
Dispute resolution processes will be strengthened with new streamlined procedures set up in all villages, and a new conciliation and complaints scheme established. This service will be free to use and will help parties reach an agreement at the earliest opportunity to reduce stress and disruption for residents.
More serious disputes, such as around termination of contracts or significant financial matters, can proceed to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), which will have expanded powers to hear these disputes.
To further support these reforms, the role of the Commissioner for Residential Tenancies will be expanded to provide independent advice to government on the retirement villages sector.
A mandatory Retirement Villages Code of Practice will also be developed this year, informed by consultation with the community and retirement village sector. The new laws will come into effect on 1 May 2026.
(MEDIA
Improving Wait Times and Emergency Care for Victorians
MELBOURNE, Jun 1: The Allan Labor Government is relieving pressure on Victoria’s busy emergency departments – to help patients get the care they need, sooner.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Mary-Anne Thomas visited the Austin Hospital where a $58.4 million investment in the Victorian Budget 2025/26 will support the faster handover of patients arriving via ambulance right across the state.
This investment will increase the capacity of short stay units across Victoria, so that health services can treat more patients in the emergency department without admitting them to a ward – improving the flow of patients in the hospital, keeping beds for the sickest patients and helping more patients return home sooner.
We’re also putting nurse practitioners in more emergency departments, working with senior clinicians they will be able to provide treatment for patients who don’t require a short stay or an inpatient bed – this will mean more patients get seen sooner.
This package will also deliver more nurses and inpatient beds to emergency departments – to speed up admissions during peak periods of demand and ensure
timely transfers to wards. Work is underway to decide where these additional nurses and beds will go.
This investment builds on the new Standards for Safe and Timely Ambulance and Emergency Care, which is helping deliver faster care, support staff in busy emergency departments, and get paramedics back on the road sooner.
Rolling out at major hospitals across Victoria – it has so far seen the Austin, Frankston, Monash Clayton, Maroondah, and Royal Melbourne hospitals improve handover times between paramedics and emergency staff by more than 10 per cent.
The standards are about ensuring patients can get world-class care faster and closer to home, through measures including re-direction to alternative care settings, enhanced patient transfer procedures, more timely inpatient admissions and early discharges.
They are being rolled out in a phased approach, recognising every hospital has a different capacity and capability.
(MEDIA RELEASE)
More Cameras On Our Roads Deterring Dodgy Drivers
MELBOURNE, May 24: The last of 35 new road safety cameras has been switched on, helping reduce road trauma and catching more dodgy drivers.
As part of a $49.4 million investment by the Allan Labor Government, the new red-light and speed camera located at the intersection of Dandenong and Clayton Roads in Clayton has started enforcing. Research by the Monash University Accident Research Centre shows a 47 per cent reduction in crashes where speed and red-light road safety cameras are installed.
Speed contributes to approximately one third of all road trauma in Victoria, or around 100 deaths and 2,000 serious injuries every year. Even small increases in vehicle speed can significantly raise the risk of a driver having a crash.
Exceeding the speed limit by just 3km/h increases your risk of being involved in a crash by 25 per cent, and drivers travelling at 65km/h in a 60km/h zone double their risk.
Every dollar received from road safety camera enforcement goes to the Better Roads Victoria Trust, where it is spent on road restoration, surface replacement, bridge strengthening and other improvements.
The Labor Government’s second Road Safety Action Plan will invest more than $1.1 billion over the next four years to deliver life-saving road safety infrastructure and strengthen enforcement efforts to reduce road trauma.
The plan includes $350 million of funding for new initiatives to reduce risky and unsafe behaviours, including the extension of the Distracted Driving and Seatbelt Camera Program in some of the highest risk areas on our roads.
(MEDIA RELEASE)
Critical Funding Delivered to Relieve Mortgage Stress
May
The Allan
Government is supporting Victorian homeowners are struggling to pay their mortgage – with a massive boost for Mortgage Stress Victoria.
Minister for Consumer Affairs Nick Staikos this week visited Mortgage Stress Victoria – which received $4 million in the Victorian Budget 2025/26 – to speak with the team of lawyers, social workers and financial counsellors who provide free advice to Victorians experiencing mortgage stress.
The funding will support the expansion of Mortgage Stress Victoria’s free services, including legal and financial support to help Victorians stay in their homes.
Mortgage Stress Victoria can help at any stage of mortgage stress, from situations in which payments are up to date to those in which there are court orders for repossession of a home.
The service started as a pilot in Melbourne’s western suburbs and before being expanded statewide last year.
Since 2022, Mortgage Stress Victoria has helped prevent more than 190 home repossession cases. Approximately one third of its clients are victim-survivors of family violence.
Victorians can access support if they live in their mortgaged primary residence, own only one property, or are affected by family violence.
For more information call 1800 572 292 or visit mortgagestress.org.au.
MELBOURNE,
28:
Labor
Machete Sales Banned
MELBOURNE, May 26: The Allan Labor Government will use extraordinary powers to totally ban the sale of machetes.
Premier Jacinta Allan joined Minister for Police Anthony Carbines and Minister for Consumer Affairs Nick Staikos to announce the unprecedented ban on machete sales.
The dangerous knives are coming off retail shelves now to dry up the machete market ahead of a legislated ban on machete possession coming into effect on September 1.
Commonwealth consumer law allows a state minister for consumer affairs to introduce an interim ban on the sale of certain consumer goods for a time-limited period.
Using these powers, Victoria will ban the sale of machetes from 12:00 noon Wednesday, 28 May.
The interim machete sale ban will expire when it is superseded by the legislated prohibition on the sale and possession of machetes that will come into effect on 1 September.
When the interim sale ban is declared on Wednesday, a supplier (e.g. a retailer) must not supply the banned item for sale or possess them with the intent to sell during the banned period.
The interim sale ban will cover machetes, which are broadly described as a cutting
edge knife with a blade of more than 20 centimetres. The interim sale ban does not include knives primarily used in kitchens.
The purpose of the interim sale ban is to dry up the supply of these items as much as possible before the possession ban comes into place. A supplier who fails to comply with the ban may be found guilty of a criminal offence.
This is the toughest ban on the sale of machetes that has ever been attempted in Australia, and it is fair because of the ban on possession that will follow it.
There will be no exemptions to allow the sale of machetes during the interim sale ban – Australian consumer law doesn’t allow it. It is a total ban on sales.
This means some consumers who will be entitled to possess a machete with an exemption when machetes are prohibited will be denied the ability to buy them at all during the interim sale ban.
The Government acknowledges this will affect some legitimate users – but we are still proceeding with the interim sale ban to put community safety above all.
Retailers are advised to store excess stock in a safe location until the disposal, amnesty and exemption schemes for banned machetes starts alongside the prohibition coming into force on 1 September.
The Government thanks retailers for their attention to the interim sale ban, plus those who heeded the Premier’s call on 13 March to immediately stop placing orders on stock.
We recognise the interim sale ban affects your existing stock and sales – but we must get these knives off shelves, off streets, and out of our lives. (MEDIA
Keeping Luna Park Smiling
MELBOURNE, May 24: The Allan Labor Government is resurrecting an iconic building at the world-famous Luna Park, making sure the amusement park can continue being a favourite family day out destination for locals and visitors for generations to come.
That’s why the Victorian Budget 2025/26 invests $5 million to return the world-famous Luna Park’s Luna Palace back to its former
glory as a fun day out for Victorian families and tourists.
For decades the Palace Building was home to attractions central to Luna Park’s appeal including the Penny Arcade and Dodgems, in more recent times however the more than 100-year-old building has fallen into disrepair and been closed to the public for safety.
With this new injection of funding the former arcade space and function venue will be reopened and expanded to host events and be an ongoing revenue source to sustain the park into the future.
With a co-contribution of $17 million from the site manager Luna Park Melbourne, works are already underway and it is expected the Luna Palace building will be open for business by November.
800,000 people visit Luna Park annually which helps support over 250 jobs at Luna Park and draws visitors to surrounding businesses at cafes, restaurants, bars and shops.
In operation since 1912, Luna Park is the oldest amusement park in Australia and one of the few heritage amusement parks left in the world with 20 rides in operation, including the award-winning Carousel which was built in 1913.
The Great Scenic Railway is one of the world’s oldest continually operating roller coaster operating under its original mechanism and has been voted as one of the top 8 roller coasters worldwide.
While bringing new life to the iconic site and expanded operational capacity, the works are expected to generate increased revenue to ensure Luna Park remains open for generations to come.
(MEDIA RELEASE)
New Powers to Help Keep Students Safe
MELBOURNE, Jun 4: The Allan Labor Government is helping keep our students, school staff and communities safe by giving principals stronger tools to keep their schools safe.
Effective day one term three of this year, Victorian school principals will have the authority to suspend or expel students when their behaviour outside school or online puts fellow students and staff at serious risk, a power currently restricted to within the school gate.
The changes bring Victoria into line with NSW and South Australia and will address
concerns around harmful behaviour that happens outside school hours – particularly online – but affects student and staff safety.
School principals will use these expanded powers only when necessary to protect their school community. With these expanded powers, the Labor Government is putting in place the appropriate framework to ensure school leaders have the authorisation to act where necessary.
The changes strengthen the Labor Government’s existing school safety measures, including the nation-leading 2020 mobile phone ban and the Safe Socials
resources to help students and families use technology safely.
The new powers build on the $10.4 million invested in the Victorian Budget 2025/26 to expand the School-wide Positive Behaviour Support program.
The program helps schools teach students how to behave appropriately, create safe spaces for learning, support students who need extra help with behaviour and ultimately keep teachers and staff safe from violence.
The Labor Government is also investing $4.2 million to ensure students who have experienced sexual harm and abuse from another student, including online, receive targeted therapeutic support through Sexual Assault Services Victoria, with support also provided to students using these behaviours to prevent further harm.
This builds on the work of the Education and Training Reform Amendment (Protection of School Communities) Bill 2021, delivering on a key recommendation from the 2018 Protective Schools Ministerial Taskforce –keeping our schools safe from threatening or abusive behaviour.
These new measures ensure that harmful behaviour – no matter where it happens – doesn't disrupt the safe, supportive environment every student deserves in the Education State.
(MEDIA RELEASE)
PM Modi meets Australian Dy PM Marles; lauds 5 years of Strategic Partnership
NEW DELHI, Jun 4: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister
Marles in the national capital, holding productive discussions to deepen the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership on its fifth anniversary. The leaders during the discussion shared their visions for a stable, secure,
and prosperous Indo-Pacific region and highlighted the strengthening of bilateral ties between the two nations, focused on enhancing defence and strategic cooperation amidst regional security challenges.
"Glad to meet Deputy Prime Minister of Australia Richard Marles. Had a productive discussion on deepening the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which marks its fifth anniversary today. Our shared vision for a stable, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific continues to guide our collaboration," PM Modi stated.
Earlier today, the Australian Deputy Prime Minister laid a wreath at the National War Memorial here, underscoring the tribute to India's fallen heroes.
"Australian Deputy Prime Minister & Minister for Defence Mr Richard Marles visited the National War Memorial in New
Delhi and laid a wreath in solemn tribute to India's fallen heroes. The gesture underscores the shared respect, sacrifice, and growing defence cooperation between India and Australia," the Ministry of Defence stated on X.
Marles arrived in Delhi as part of his highlevel meetings in the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Indonesia and India from June 2-5, as per the Australian Defence Government release.
The Deputy Prime Minister will meet leaders and counterparts in South and Southeast Asia as part of the Government's commitment to deepening diplomatic and defence partnerships in the Indo-Pacific.
He also met Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, discussed regional and global security issues, and deepened Defence Cooperation between the two countries.
During the meeting, the Defence Minister reaffirmed India's and Australia's strong defence partnership and commitment to combating terrorism and acknowledged the growing strategic ties between the two nations and thanked Australia for its support following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
(ANI)
Australian Defence Minister Marles makes first 'port of call' at 'chai' stall in Delhi
NEW DELHI, Jun 4: Tapping into a typical Indian habit of starting one's day with tea, Australia's Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, on Wednesday, went for an early morning walk and had a cup of tea.
"A morning run at Nehru Park followed by chai at Malcha Marg- an active start to the Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles MP's day in Delhi. Look forward to a busy but productive day ahead," Australia's High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, said. Richard Marles said he went out for a run
at Nehru Park and then had tea at Malcha Marg.
"First port of call in India is a run and a chai from the local market!" Marles said in a post on X.
Marles arrived in Delhi late on Tuesday night.
Green said in a post on X, "Welcome to India, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles. 5 years ago tomorrow, Australia and India signed our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Your visit to India so early in your second term
reflects the strength & continuity of our enduring relationship."
Rajnath Singh will meet Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles in New Delhi on Wednesday, an official statement said.
Both leaders will discuss regional and global security issues and the deepening of defence cooperation ties.
In a post on X, the Ministry of Defence stated, "Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh will meet Australian Deputy Prime Minister & Defence Minister Richard Marles MP in New Delhi today, to discuss regional and global security issues and deepen Defence Cooperation. Defence and security are key pillars of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with both nations committed to peace, stability, and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific."
Marles is travelling to the Maldives, Sri Lanka, India and Indonesia from June 2-5 for high-level meetings, as per the Australian Defence Government release.
The Deputy Prime Minister will meet leaders and counterparts in the South and Southeast Asia as part of the Government's commitment to deepening diplomatic and defence partnerships in the Indo-Pacific.
Richard
Reason for India-Australia 'Dosti' is strong leadership of both countries: EAM S Jaishankar
NEW DELHI, Jun 4: External Affairs
Minister S Jaishankar met the Deputy Prime Minister and the Defence Minister of Australia, Richard Marles. The two leaders participated in the celebration of the 5th anniversary of the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in New Delhi.
The EAM said, "Delighted to meet DPM & Defence Minister @RichardMarlesMP this evening in New Delhi. His presence here today as we celebrate the 5th anniversary of India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership is testament to the significant strides our ties have made. Discussed the state of the world and our assessments on various issues of mutual interest."
In his speech delivered during the event, EAM Jaishankar extended greetings to Marles and his colelagues on their impressive election victory. He said, "We really appreciate your visit to India in the early days of your second term, just actually as you did as your first term commenced."
Noting how the India-Australia ties have grown by leaps and bounds in the last five years, he called the relationship having
transformed across various areas.
"A decade ago, if I had stood here and told you all that Australia would actually be amongst our closest political friends, our strongest security partners, a country with whom we would have a Free Trade Agreement, whose University would be among the first to actually set up an establishment in India - in fact if I told you that we would have many more things to discuss other than cricket - I don't think any of you would have believed me. And yet, here we are - not just with a transformed relationship, but actually marking 5 years of the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. And the reason for that - the 'Mateship' or the 'Dosti' - has actually been the strong leadership that we have seen from both countries, the trust and the mutual respect, and today we saw one example of that as the Deputy Prime Minister reiterated the strong sense of solidarity and support that we got when the Pahalgam terrorist attack happened, and I recall that the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, despite being in the middle of a very intense election campaign, actually reached out and called Prime Minister Modi to express those sentiments."
Jaishankar enlisted several mechanisms established between the two countries, aimed at further deepening and diversifying the cooperation.
"We have established the practice of Annual Summits, in fact I think the last few
years have seen more meetings between our Prime Ministers than probably we ever had in the 80 years of history before that. We have our 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministers' Dialogue, we have Foreign Ministers' Framework Dialogue, we have a Joint Commission for Trade, for Skills, for Education, for Energy. So when we speak about a strategic partnership today - a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership - these are not just words. These are actually a deepening of our cooperation in so many domains which are expressed so productively, and in a way, on the ground , I spoke about the ECTA Trade Agreement, we have a Mobility and Migration Partnership as well, we have the Work and Holiday visa Program, the MATES Program, the Mutual Recognition of Educational Qualifications, and of course as the Deputy Prime Minister said really - a real transformation in areas like Defence, I would even point to energy, as another example. And not the least, we have today a millionstrong Indian- Australian community , which is truly a very, very unique bridge between us."
In his concluding remarks, Jaishankar reaffirmed India's strong commitment to take the relationship to greater heights. He listed areas of cooperation. "I am here today to reaffirm...a strong commitment to take this relationship to still greater heights, to look at areas like critical minerals, cyber, technology, space, sports as further domains of collaboration, and to work on mechanisms - most of all the Quad, but in the East Asia Summit platforms, the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the United Nations, even the trilateral grouping that we have with France."
Expressing optimism on the great five years, Jaishankar said, "I think these have been five great years in our ties. Many more to come."
India has undertaken over 600 development projects in 78 nations: EAM Jaishankar
NEW DELHI, May 30: External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar informed that India has undertaken more than 600 development projects in 78 nations across various continents.
“Our resources may be limited, but India has always had a large heart. And that is why, still being a developing country, we have undertaken more than 600 development projects in 78 nations across various continents,” said EAM Jaishankar while addressing the Parul University Convocation in Gujarat’s Vadodara.
He emphasised that for that very reason, even while India was in the midst of taking care of its own, the country was able to supply vaccines to 99 nations and medicines to 150 during the COVID pandemic.
“When we advocate the interests of the Global South, it is for a reason that only a member of that fraternity can appreciate. Doing the right thing is also doing the smart thing,” he said.
During his address, EAM Jaishankar said that India’s endeavour, even while building on bonds of proximity, sociology and heritage, has been to promote goodwill through development.
“To that end, we have utilised two broad approaches that drive our activities abroad. One is to share our experiences in a very concrete manner with partners, conscious that they are probably more relevant to their needs than those that our partners could access elsewhere.
The other is to continuously strengthen capacity building, so that partners have a better ability to evaluate and make their own choices. Together, what it does is to give our partner countries, especially those of
the Global South, more options as well as a stronger hand in negotiating with others in the world,” he said.
EAM Jaishankar further added that the Jal Jeevan Mission has been a flagship initiative of the Modi government. “Now, if you look abroad, that very objective has been executed by us in a major way in Tanzania, in Mozambique, in the Maldives and in Malawi. Or take electricity and its efficient transmission. Capabilities developed at home are being deployed today in Bhutan, in Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, Benin and Gambia,” he said.
He said that there are other pressing challenges too faced by the world, especially by India’s partners of the Global South.
“We all realised during the COVID pandemic how much our health security was
dependent on others,” he said.
EAM Jaishankar said that the Ukraine conflict brought home the vulnerabilities of energy security, adding that the shortage of fertilisers and the scarcity of food grains left many economies deeply impacted.
“Debt situations have worsened even as trade prospects deteriorated in the face of financial decisions taken far away. And through all this, the pressures of climate change have grown steadily, although the resources to combat them have shrunk.
I highlight these concerns not to alarm you, but to urge an awareness and understanding of the larger challenges faced by humanity. Each one of us, in whatever we do, can find some way of making a difference,” he said.
(IANS)
Elon Musk's father visits Ram temple in Ayodhya
AYODHYA, Jun 5: Errol Musk, father of Tesla CEO Elon Musk, arrived in Ayodhya and offered prayers at the Hanumangarhi Temple and Lord Ram Temple.
"I feel great, wonderful," Errol Musk said
about his visit to Ayodhya
Earlier, talking to the media, Errol Musk praised India, saying the people are full of love, kindness and "probably the best people you can meet".
"India is a wonderful place. As many people as possible should come to India. There are a lot of Indians in the country where I come from, so I know the Indian culture. The people are full of love, kindness--probably the best people you can meet. We have some smart (business) plans which are being looked at. I think India-US relations will be very good," Errol Musk said.
Vishnu Dasji Maharaj, a saint, said that Elon Musk's father's visit to Ayodhya reflects India's spiritual strength.
"People around the world are drawn to Ayodhya. I welcome and congratulate him and pray that God continues to guide him with wisdom," he said.
Echoing the sentiment, Sitaram Das Ji Maharaj said, Lord Ram stands for the welfare of all humanity.
"Those who come to Ayodhya and take the Lord's name are truly blessed. India is progressing toward becoming a global spiritual and cultural leader," he said.
World's oldest complete bible goes on display in Tel Aviv
TEL AVIV, May 29: In a moving event marking both historical continuity and personal resilience, the Anu-Museum of the Jewish People in Tel Aviv celebrated the permanent installation of the Codex Sassoon, the world's oldest complete Bible.
The 1,100-year-old manuscript, purchased for USD 38.1 million at Sotheby's in New York, was donated by Ambassador Alfred Moses, who designated the Anu-Museum as its home. Although Moses could not attend the event, the audience stood in applause to honor his gift. "This Bible belongs to the
"If
Jewish people," he said in a message read aloud at the event. "It is fitting that it be displayed in Israel, the heart of Jewish history and identity."
The Codex Sassoon is the oldest known nearly complete Hebrew Bible. It dates back to circa 900 CE, making it over 1,100 years old. The text includes all 24 books of the Hebrew Bible written in Biblical Hebrew on parchment, using a proto-
Masoretic text -- the authoritative version of the Bible preserved by Jewish scribes.
Unlike the older, more fragmentary Dead Sea Scrolls, the Codex Sassoon contains virtually all of Scripture.
The Codex was part of the private collection of David Solomon Sassoon (18801942), a bibliophile and descendant of a prominent Iraqi-Jewish family. The manuscript was sold at Sotheby's in New York for USD 38.1 million in May 2023, becoming the most expensive Jewish manuscript ever
sold and one of the most valuable historical documents of any kind.
One of the most emotional moments came with the appearance of Agam Berger, a 21-year-old survivor of Hamas captivity, and her mother, Merav. Last summer, while Agam was still held hostage, a birthday event was held for her in the same hall. By chance, Agam saw a recording of her mother's blessing from that event while in Gaza. "It gave me strength when I needed it most," Agam said.
Merav reflected, "For us, the Codex symbolizes life. This is the closing of a circle."
The event, held in partnership with Mifal HaPais, featured short lectures on the Bible's cultural impact, personal significance, and role as a unifying foundation of Jewish life.
In a recorded message, President Isaac Herzog called the Codex "a bridge between generations and a light for the future." Other notable speakers included Israeli media personalities Kobi Arieli, Natalie Marcus, and Yair Sharki.
The Codex Sassoon is now on permanent display for the public.
Shavuot commemorates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. The holiday begins at sundown on Sunday.
(ANI/TPS)
get an opportunity, would love to act in Bollywood": Miss World 2025 Opal Suchata
HYDERABAD, Jun 1: Thailand's Opal Suchata, who has been crowned Miss World 2025, said that she would love to work in Bollywood if there is an opportunity.
In a conversation, she said, "I feel very happy and proud. It is an honour to take the first Miss World crown to Thailand... I hope I have made them proud. If I get the opportunity, I would love to (act in Bollywood films); it is a wonderful opportunity..."
She shared her experience of visiting India and said, "It was amazing. Since the first day I was here, everyone has been so nice people are amazing, they have been so wonderful to me, and we went to so many placed. All are so beautiful...whether it is infrastructure or nature... it's great to be here and I will definitely be back."
Expressing her gratitude for all the arrangements made by the government, she added, "I would like to thank the Telangana government and all the people here for providing us with the best accommodation and allowing us to have such a great time in your home."
Meanwhile, Miss World Ethiopia 2024 Hasset Dereje shared what she is planning to do next, " I want to do different social projects with different organisations back at home because I believe that whatever chance I got, every girl should have."
Miss World America 2025 Jessica Pedroso also expressed her love for Hyderabad, its culture, people and food, saying, "I'm very happy and honoured, and I just love Hyderabad. I think this was the best place for
Miss World to be held, because Hyderabad is just amazing because of the culture and the food. I've tried butter chicken, it's so amazing. I think here it's a mix of flavours and traditions from the local communities, and here we have these different dialects like Namaskaran, and I love them. I think that's something magical."
Miss World Asia Krishnah Gravidez added, "I am just really grateful to be here as Miss World Asia from the Philippines. We have come this far, and it is because of the love and support of my fellow people, and here (in India) I've created beautiful memories."
Miss Martinique Aurelie Joachim expressed her love for Telangana, "I feel very happy, very honoured, and very grateful. I really loved Telangana. My stay here was amazing. The people are amazing, and I really love them. I will feel very sad when I leave. I really love the people of Telangana, and I want to say thank you so much for your hospitality. I wish to come soon."
While Thailand rejoices in Opal's crowning, India's hopes were dashed as Nandini Gupta, the country's representative, failed to make it into the Top 8 finalists.
The announcement came through Miss World's official Instagram page.
Nandini had made it to the Top 40 after a standout performance in the earlier rounds, where she was among the 18 contestants who 'fast-tracked' to this prestigious category. However, she could not make it to the final cut as the competition progressed. (ANI)
Meditation Maestro Radhika Das Announces 2025 Australian Tour
Globally acclaimed kirtan musician unveils Mantra That Will Move Soul concerts for September and October 2025
MELBOURNE, Australia, 27 May 2025:
Internationally revered kirtan artist and Bhakti Yoga teacher Radhika Das will return to Australia next spring with four exclusive East and West Coast performances under the banner Mantra That Will Move Soul. The tour opens in Perth on Friday 26
September, travels to Melbourne and Sydney, and concludes in Brisbane on Thursday 2 October. (Melbourne: Palais Theatre, Sunday 28 September)
Raised in the United Kingdom by parents of Indian heritage, Radhika Das discovered devotional music while seeking purpose
during his university years. After an extended immersion at Vrindavan in Northern India he embraced Bhakti Yoga and dedicated his life to sharing the transformative power of mantra. Over a fifteen year career he has collaborated with spiritual luminaries Krishna Das and Jai Uttal, and his kirtan sessions have accumulated more than forty five million online views.
He has presented concerts at landmark venues including London Union Chapel, the British Museum, Mumbai DOME Stadium and New York Town Hall. Festival appearances at Wanderlust and World Yoga Festival regularly draw capacity crowds, and his immersive retreats at the ashram made famous by the Beatles in Rishikesh as well as annual gatherings in Tuscany are usually booked out within days.
In January he added bestselling author to his achievements when Penguin published Mantra Meditation: The Life Changing Secret of Connection, Joy and Calm, praised by global wellness leader Jay Shetty. Television audiences discovered his work through a recent performance on BBC One Sunday Morning Live, and his podcast For Soul’s Sake with Radhika Das, featuring candid conversations on spirituality, Ayurveda and conscious living, now streams in more than fifty countries.
Beyond the stage Radhika Das serves as an ambassador for Food For Life Global, directing proceeds from select recordings toward meal programmes for vulnerable communities.
“Each night will guide audiences on a journey of devotion, music and transformation where voices rise, hearts open and we immerse ourselves in the sacred vibration of mantra,” Radhika Das said. “This is more than music; it is a soul awakening and I look forward to sharing it across Australia.”
Tour and ticket information: radhikadas.com and livenation.com.au.
Getting married in Australia
Amendments to the Marriage Act 1961 (Part I)
Changes to the Marriage Act 1961 (Marriage Act) are summarised below.
Separate Meetings: The Marriage Act will require an authorised celebrant to meet separately and in person with each party to the marriage before the marriage is solemnised. The purpose of the meeting is to ensure that each party is freely and voluntarily consenting to the marriage.
A separate meeting needs to occur in the absence of the other party to the marriage and in a culturally safe environment – but this does not mean the celebrant need to meet alone with a party. Other persons can attend with the party’s permission.
The timing of the separate meetings is at the discretion of the celebrant and the couple. It can occur at any time up to and including the day of the marriage, providing it occurs before the marriage is solemnised. Additional guidance material was provided to all Commonwealth-
registered celebrants and other stakeholders in June 2024 to assist authorised celebrants to meet these requirements.
Evidence of date and place of birth: The amendments reorder the acceptable evidence of date and place of birth under paragraph 42 of the Marriage Act. The amendments clarify that where it is impracticable for the party to the marriage to obtain a certificate or official extract of an entry in an official register and they do not have a passport, only then should they rely on a statutory declaration to declare to the best of their knowledge, their date and place of birth.
What is a startup?
BY GURPAL SINGH
A startup is a new business idea seeking to introduce a product or service to the market.
It is typically founded by individuals who want to introduce it to a new product or a service in the market. This new product may be a new, innovative design, or something they have developed from their own passions.
In these early stages, the individuals (founders) will work on developing and validating a scalable business model that can generate more traction in the market. And in turn, generate profit and attract new customers.
Characteristics of a Startup
Startup businesses have some unique characteristics. This includes:
Has limited resources but is aiming for rapid growth and scaling.
Heavily relies on information and communication technology (ICT) to market its products and services.
Aims to create a new market segment or disrupt an existing market segment.
Is a high-risk business venture due to uncertainty of market acceptance/volatility. The new product or service the individual wants to introduce to the market may be something that has not been seen by consumers before – so individuals may have to navigate hesitancy and speculations.
Is financed with money from its founders -sourced through personal savings, angel investors, crowdfunding, venture capital and grants.
Examples of Companies That Were Originally a Startup
There are many popular companies that originated as startups and have since scaled in ways that are both profitable and manageable. You may be familiar with a few of these companies – as they have now gained substantial success.
Amazon Fb.
How is a startup different from a small business?
VISION Startups and small businesses differ in three major ways:
01 GROWTH AND VISION
Startups aim for rapid, large-scale growth and disruption. Small businesses focus on stable, local operations.
02 INNOVATION AND FUNDING
Startups often introduce new technologies and seek venture capital. Small businesses
typically use traditional models and selffunding or loans.
03 RISK AND EXIT STRATEGY
Startups accept higher risks with plans for acquisition or IPO. Small businesses prioritise stable income, long-term sustainability and succession.
Success Ratio
Stats – 90 % of the start-up fails in threeyear time.
Causes of Startup Failure
01 Inadequate market research.
02 Emotional superhero attitude coated with great passion - “I will!”
03 Immature Leadership and management.
04 Assumptive and untested decisions have been made.
05 Lack of business direction, or one that is not defined and specific.
06 Product and services issues.
07 Internal disputes - good faith/bad faith.
08 No exit strategy.
A startup may fail because of a combination of these issues.
Structuring a startup Company
In the present day, where there is a complex commercial world, setting up the strong structure for the company is most important.
1. SHAREHOLDERS A 50% shareholding each between two stakeholders is the common prevalent norm.
2. ASSESSMENT Assessment is often made over evening drinks. Half of the value is allocated to technology contribution and the other half to the financial contribution. Or some portion of the shareholding is attributed to the sweat equity. Need to introduce an expert (Do you have spare money for the professional costs?)
3. TECHNOLOGY/INNOVATION COMPONENT How to quantify and value the technology/innovation component which has not yet been tested in the market?
4. SOURCE OF FUNDING A loan against principal home. Personal loans with or without guarantee. Generally, the principal home of residence or investment property is kept as a security.
5. EMPLOYEES AND CONTRACTORS Contracts for employees and contractors - a
must. Salary and founders.
6. TRUST COMPANY Do not set up a trust company even when your accountant advised you to do so. A trust does not absorb losses and only absorbs profit.
7. PERSONAL GUARANTEE This is the most difficult concern faced when structuring a company.
8. DOMAIN AND IP OWNERSHIP.
9. WORK ETHICS Good faith and bad faith.
Exit Strategy
Often, setting up a new partnership or a company is done without involving the experts as they cost a lot of money and without considering an exit strategy.
If the startup succeeds, it will attract buyers or seek mergers and acquisitions. In this situation, exiting based on the agreed value of the business seems easy.
However, the problem is manifested when there are three stakeholders, each having 33.33% of the company, and they each refuse to accept responsibility of the failure. Contributions by shareholder Tech transfer – valuation Discrimination issues – race/ nationality.
Issues
1. VALUATION OF THE COMPANY
2, SOURCE OF SUCH VALUATION
3, GOOD FAITH/BAD FAITH
4, ALLEGATIONS OF NONPERFORMANCE TO THE TUNE OF SHAREHOLDING
5, OPPRESSION
Court Application
01 Winding up of the company
02 Expensive
03 Wastage of resources
RECENT CASE
A company who hired talent for the startup companies.
Two stakeholders - 50/50% each. Could not resolve in mediation.
Application to wind up the company. Against a claim of one million dollars. We settled by paying $106,000. Great win indeed.
Cinema Investor with a Global Lens
Sanatan Kadakia funds diverse narratives while steering a festival ready slate
Hidden Ridge Productions founder Sanatan Kadakia reveals how a script-first philosophy and cross-cultural experience shape his festival-bound slate and investment strategy.
In the Q and A with G’day India, the Hidden Ridge Productions founder traces his journey from projection booth to global festivals and outlines the script centred strategy guiding his film investments
Q. From Gujarat to Texas to Cannes – how have your personal experiences influenced your approach to filmmaking and investment in cinema?
A. During my childhood cinema was primarily entertainment, nothing more. While studying for my Master’s degree in the United Kingdom I worked as a projectionist for a major cinema chain and came to understand how profoundly film affects global culture and social perception. That realisation convinced me to join the industry so that I could contribute to its evolution and connect with audiences worldwide.
Q. You ran cables, shot stills, and now call the shots – what continues to drive your passion for filmmaking?
A. Film is an unrivalled medium for building empathy. By allowing viewers to see life through unfamiliar eyes, it expands our understanding of cultures, beliefs, and social realities. What sustains my passion is the collaborative process itself. Being on set with talented, dedicated professionals who pursue a common goal is extraordinary. I make a point of spending time with cast and crew on almost every project because there is always something new to learn.
Q. You have backed projects across genres and countries – what draws you to a particular film and compels you to support it?
A. Everything starts with the screenplay. A well-crafted script is the lifeblood of any production. I analyse structure, turning points, and character authenticity to gauge how an audience will engage. When the narrative aligns with the director’s vision, I evaluate whether my involvement can add value.
Q. Independent filmmaking offers creative freedom but also financial risk. How do you evaluate return on investment before deciding to back a project?
A. Independent cinema is undeniably high risk, so I enter each opportunity with that reality in mind. Beyond the script, I examine the filmmaker’s record within the genre, the distribution plan, and credible
revenue projections. If those pillars are sound, I participate in whatever capacity is most useful, whether financing, executive producing, or providing on-set support.
Q. What advice would you offer aspiring filmmakers and creatives hoping to break into the industry?
A. Pursue your passion relentlessly. Difficulties are inevitable, but persistence is essential. If the first attempt falls short, write another screenplay, film another short, or join another crew. Each new effort refines your craft and brings your voice closer to its audience.
Q. How do you envision the future of Hidden Ridge Productions over the next few years?
A. I intend to remain deeply engaged in the independent sector, partnering with filmmakers who tackle complex themes
through innovative storytelling. I am currently polishing a personal screenplay and am considering producing it through Hidden Ridge Productions to bring that vision to life. In the nearer term, several projects are completing the festival circuit, including the supernatural drama Séance, which will premiere at Dances With Films in Los Angeles in 2025.
Q. Your slate already spans seven feature films, a Netflix documentary, and a Broadway production. What motivates such breadth?
A. Independent cinema provides the freedom to explore diverse narratives and experiment with form, and I find that freedom invigorating. My aim is to champion stories that cross borders and challenge convention while maintaining commercial viability. That balance keeps the work intellectually
rewarding and financially responsible.
Sanatan Kadakia’s trajectory from projectionist to producer illustrates both the power of perseverance and the importance of a script-centred investment philosophy. His willingness to bridge cultures, champion emerging voices, and accept measured risk has positioned Hidden Ridge Productions at the forefront of contemporary independent cinema.
With several festival selections on the horizon and an original screenplay in development, Kadakia remains committed to advancing bold storytelling while keeping commercial realities in clear view. His career serves as a reminder that independent film-making thrives when creative ambition is matched by disciplined strategy and unwavering passion.
By Tonee Sethi
Bounded by Script
An invitation to culture, care and Courage
Tracing Mithila Gupta’s lyrical journey through stories of love, identity, and cultural wholeness.
With credits that span continents and genres—from Neighbours to The Heights, The Unlisted to Doctor Doctor, and the uproariously successful Four Years Later— Mithila Gupta has carved a singular voice in contemporary screenwriting.
Her work pulses with authenticity, humour, and emotional truth. Whether she's crafting heartfelt comedy (Desi Down Under for Audible India) or pioneering South Asian visibility on mainstream TV (Bump, Five Bedrooms, The Unlisted), Gupta brings the full weight of lived experience to every project.
As Four Years Later continues its award run—most recently winning the Bronze Laurel at the New York Film Festival TV & Film Awards—we sat down with the powerhouse writer to talk about identity, truth, and the stories that shape us.
Q. Which formative childhood memory, in Jaipur or in Melbourne, first ignited your passion for storytelling?
A. It’s been a series of memories in Melbourne—being only 4 years old when we moved from Jaipur, I’ve grown up watching Hindi cinema. This was my main access to my culture and the reason I can still speak fluent Hindi. I used to swoon over SRK movies in particular. They not only entertained, but they also made me feel like I was a part of something. These films brought me so much joy and pride that they distilled this burning desire in me to create stories that will make others swoon and feel seen too.
Q. Growing up across two cultures, what lasting lesson most shapes your storytelling today?
A. That it’s important to be truthful. I think this is why people say, “write what you know.” It can be damaging to guess or glorify when it comes to cultural representation. It’s important to dig deep and write from the heart, even though it can be scary at times.
Q. From introducing the Kapoor family on Neighbours to creating Four Years Later, what single thread connects those milestones in your career?
A. A desire to tell South Asian stories for a global audience. This passion comes from a deep longing to see nuanced IndianAussie stories as an audience member myself… With these stories out in the world,
I hope many storytellers like me will get the opportunity to do the same!
Q. Four Years Later received an AACTA nomination, yet awards aside, which onset memory will you treasure most?
A. Being on set across India and Australia was a dream come true on so many levels!! It was so cool to shoot in India and speak to crew members in Hindi. And then so cool to bring Shahana and Akshay over to Aus and share that experience with them. I was worried I would feel like an imposter, but I truly felt like I belonged in both places through my work. This is a feeling and identity
shift that will stay with me forever. I’m not half Indian and half Australian… I am allowed to be whole in both places.
Q. Yash’s panic attacks place SouthAsian male mental health in the spotlight. Why was including this theme nonnegotiable for you, and how have viewers responded.
A. Sridevi’s character has a lot of depth because I identify with her so deeply. I wanted to make sure we do justice to Yash too and give him a story that highlights the truth of his experience. With all the pressure on him, being away from home,
the responsibility of his family’s future on these shoulders, how could he not suffer from anxiety?! But we often don’t tell this side of the story—what’s behind the hard work and achievements. With writer Shakthi Shakthidharan attached, we dug deep into Yash’s psyche in the writer’s room. It was so exciting to get into the specificity of Yash’s immigrant experience. The audience response has been hugely heartening. Many people have reached out directly to say the story resonated and helped them feel seen.
Q. You now mentor emerging writers and adapt works such as Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens. What is the one piece of advice you always give about keeping culturally specific stories universal?
A. I believe specific stories are, at their core, universal. We have more in common than what sets us apart. So, tell your story and tell it with truth. It will resonate.
Mithila Gupta’s writing reminds us that culture doesn’t confine—it connects. It defies borders, creating a space where identity is not split, but shared uniting characters. Her stories breathe life into the in-between spaces—between countries, generations, and expectations—offering a rare kind of magic that comes from deep personal truth.
In an industry saturated with content, Mithila offers something far more enduring: emotional honesty, cultural nuance, and stories that don’t just entertain, but invite us to feel, reflect, and belong. Her voice is a bridge between worlds, and through it, we are reminded that the most powerful stories are often the most personal ones-told with courage, care, and heart.
By Nandita Chakraborty
AUSTRALIA PLANNING TO GIVE A GREAT SEND-OFF TO VIRAT & ROHIT IN ODIS LATER THIS YEAR
Todd Greenberg, the Cricket Australia (CA) CEO, said he hopes to give a memorable send-off to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should the duo play in Australia one last time later this year. With Rohit and Kohli retiring from Tests and T20Is in the last 12 months, it means they will now be playing only ODIs for India.
India is slated to tour Australia for three ODIs in Perth, Adelaide and Sydney from October 1925 and is followed by five T20Is happening from October 29 to November 8. In an Australian home summer headlined by the five-match Ashes, the Indian interest looms large with the women’s team also slated to tour the country for a multi-format series after WPL 2026 is over.
“It’s a massive summer of cricket highlighted by both the Indian women’s and men’s teams. Also the Ashes is here, and for the first time in nearly two decades, Australian cricket will be playing international matches in every single capital city and territory across the entire country, which is amazing when you think about the logistical exercise that goes with that.”
“But to answer the question, look, there’s a lot of work in bespoke marketing plans for every game in every city.
Some of those will be nuanced to local markets, whether we’re playing, like in far North Queensland when South Africa is here or in our big cities when both Indian men’s and women’s are here. So, a lot of work going into that,” said Greenberg.
With CA announcing that it has officially
recorded its highest individual day of ticket sales when it opened up its priority pre-sale window on Tuesday, one will surely expect the fans in Australia and the overseas spectators to get their money’s worth when the dual India tours and the Ashes take place, especially on the back of attendance and ticket sales touching new heights in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.
“I think we saw real momentum last year on the back of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series – some record-breaking numbers on ticket sales. I anticipate that we’ll see a number of sellouts across the summer, really starting in August, and going through to March. So, this may be a summer like we’ve never seen before with the amount of content that we have.”
“If you think about the quality of the players that will be coming, particularly from India, this might be the last time that we get to see Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma play in our country.
If that is the case, but who knows, it might not be. But if it is, we want to make sure we give them a great send-off, which is a reflection of the incredible contribution they’ve made to international cricket,” added Greenberg, who previously served as the chief of the Australian Cricketers Association (ACA).
Aside from the excitement generated by another big home summer, Australia is also going big on the ‘A’
team’s programme. Last year, it hosted the India women’s ‘A’ team for a multi-format series in Queensland. This time, the Sri Lanka men’s ‘A’ team will be in Australia for three 50-over games and two red-ball matches in July.
Australia ‘A’ team is also coming to India in September for two multi-day games and three limited overs matches in Kanpur and Lucknow respectively. The revival of ‘A’ tours programme, after being halted for a while due to the Covid-19 pandemic, is also high on Greenberg’s agenda, despite a crammed international schedule.
“It’s hard to find the balance because the A tours are very important. Everybody saw the way that our Australian men’s team played in Sri Lanka earlier this year when we won that series. But what people don’t see is the amount of time that a lot of our players have spent playing there, touring there in A series games and others in order to then get their opportunity to succeed at the highest level.”
“So, the A series games are a very important part of the development of our players in long-term play. It’s a significant investment from countries to play A series cricket because ultimately, you’re not generating the revenues like you would in normal Test cricket.”
“But they are very important, and I get a sense that we’ll continue to talk to our counterparts in other countries about how we find meaningful parts of the schedule to put those players and give them chances to play in different conditions and particularly younger players who will come through our systems.”
“We want to make sure they’ve had opportunities to play in the subcontinent and other parts of the world. So, when they do get the opportunity to play for their country, they’re ready and they’ve been developed to a point where they can succeed,” he concluded.
"Safety of everyone is of utmost importance to us": RCB mourns loss of lives in Bengaluru stampede
BENGALURU, Jun 4: Following the death of 11 people in a stampede on Wednesday near the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise expressed "heartfelt condolences" to the families of the deceased.
The incident occurred during the Royal
Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) IPL winning celebrations near the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium when thousands of fans gathered to catch a glimpse of their favourite player.
"We are deeply anguished by the unfortunate incidents that have come to light through media reports regarding public gatherings all over Bengaluru in anticipation of the team's arrival this afternoon. The safety and well-being of everyone is of utmost importance to us. RCB mourns the tragic loss of lives and extends our heartfelt condolences to the affected families," RCB said in a statement.
"Immediately upon being made aware
of the situation, we promptly amended our program and followed the guidance and advice of the local administration. We urge all our supporters to please stay safe," the statement added.
Earlier, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that 11 people died in the incident while 33 others were injured.
CM Siddaramaiah said that the government will also provide free treatment to the injured.
"A major tragedy occurred during the victory celebrations. It happened near the Chinnaswamy Stadium. The government has announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the deceased. The government will provide free treatment to the injured," the CM said.
Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, CM Siddaramaiah said, "11 died and 33 were injured in the stampede. This tragedy should not have happened. The government expresses deep sorrow over this incident."
RCB finally ended an 18-year wait for the coveted IPL trophy, defeating Punjab Kings by six wickets in the finals of IPL 2025, held on Tuesday at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
"It was too crowded": Bengaluru stampede victim
BENGALURU, Jun 6: Venu, one of the injured in the stampede that took place outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on June 4, is undergoing treatment at a hospital, recounted the tragedy that left eleven people dead and many more injured.
The incident occurred when a massive crowd of fans gathered to greet the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) after they had won the IPL.
"We went to watch the event near gate no. 6 around 3:30 pm yesterday. The barricade fell and caused injury to me. I received a fracture. I'm better now, but I can't walk. Three of us went there, it was too crowded yesterday," Venu said.
Venu's father at the hospital also said, "Yesterday we got a message around 5:30 pm. I was at work as a welder. He's my second son. My wife called me and informed me. Then I came here."
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday said that a one-member commission has been formed to probe the incident.
CM Siddaramaiah also announced that the state government has decided to suspend top police department officials, including the Commissioner of Bengaluru City Police.
Speaking to the media, the Karnataka CM
stated, "Under the chairmanship of Justice Michael D'Cunha, a retired judge of the High Court, we have appointed a one-man commission to investigate the incident. “He emphasised the government's commitment to ensuring accountability.
The Chief Minister said that action will be taken against those responsible for the
mismanagement of the event. "On RCB, the event manager DNA Entertainment, and KSCA, who represented them, we have decided to arrest them," Siddaramaiah said. Taking strong action, the government has suspended several senior police officials immediately.
(ANI)
YOUTUBE INTRODUCES AI-GENERATED BACKGROUND MUSIC TOOL FOR CREATORS
YouTube has launched a new AIpowered tool that generates free background music for videos, allowing creators to avoid copyright claims.
The feature, demonstrated on the Creator Insider channel, enables users to input prompts like “uplifting and motivational music for a workout montage” and generates multiple tracks for review and download, as per The Verge.
The Music Assistant tool is part of YouTube’s Creator Music beta section. Creators can access the tool and enter prompts to generate music that fits their video’s tone and style.
The tool is being rolled out gradually to users with access to Creator Music, as per The Verge. YouTube’s Music Assistant is one of several AI music-generating tools available.
Other companies, such as Stability AI and Meta, have developed similar tools that can create background audio and synthesize sounds using prompts. YouTube has explored AI music generation in other ways, including a music remixer that lets
users “restyle” popular songs for Shorts and Dream Track, which allows users to hum songs and turn them into music
GOOGLE INTRODUCES AI-POWERED SEARCH UPGRADE FOR GMAIL
Google has announced the introduction of an AI-powered upgrade for Gmail’s search function. The new feature, which is being rolled out for users worldwide, promises to provide more accurate and relevant results by taking into account a range of factors beyond just keywords.
The upgraded search function will consider “recency, most-clicked emails, and frequent contacts” when returning search results, The Verge reported. This means that users will be more likely to find the emails they are looking for at the top of their search results, saving them time and effort.
“With this update, the emails you’re looking for are far more likely to be at the top of your search results -- saving you valuable time and helping you find important information more easily,” Google said in its blog post. The new “most relevant” search results feature is available to users with personal Google accounts and can be accessed through the Gmail website or via Google’s Android and iOS Gmail apps.
The feature won’t replace Gmail’s traditional chronological keyword search results. Instead, users will have the option to
toggle between the two approaches, allowing for greater flexibility and control.
As Google continues to harness the power of artificial intelligence to enhance its suite of productivity tools, the upgraded Gmail search function is expected to make a significant
impact on user experience. With its ability to provide more accurate and relevant results, the feature aims to save users time and effort, making it a valuable addition to the Gmail platform.
tracks in the style of participating artists. (ANI)
SIX PRACTICAL WAYS TO ACCELERATE HEALING AFTER SURGERY
Recovering from a surgical procedure places significant physical and emotional demands on every patient. The length of that recovery varies with the type of operation, overall health, quality of care, and individual determination. Yet there are universal habits that help the body mend more efficiently once you leave hospital care. Australian orthopaedic surgeon Dr Srikanth HS outlines six evidence-based measures that can shorten the journey back to strength and routine.
1. Follow medical instructions without exception
Surgeons design pre-operative and post-operative protocols for a reason. Restrictions that appear inconvenient—such as avoiding lifting, bathing, or swimming— protect delicate tissue as it knits. Rather than bending the rules, discuss any concerns with your practitioner so you understand exactly why each restriction exists and how long it must remain in force. Consistency now prevents complications that could add weeks to rehabilitation.
2. Treat rest as active therapy
Most major procedures require at least one to two full days of bed rest, while spinal or regional anaesthesia may demand that you lie flat for eight hours or more. Quality sleep releases growth hormone, modulates inflammation, and conserves energy for cellular repair. Schedule daytime naps, delegate household tasks, and reintroduce normal activity only when fatigue has eased.
Pacing yourself in this early window sets the tone for an uncomplicated recovery.
3. Move gently, but move daily
Complete inactivity slows circulation and raises the risk of blood clots. Unless your doctor advises otherwise, start with short, level walks inside the home, then progress to quiet streets or a park. The goal is steady circulation rather than cardiovascular training, so keep your heart rate low and pause if dizziness, nausea, or sharp pain arises. Patients prescribed formal physiotherapy should attend every session, as targeted exercises restore range of motion and muscle tone without stressing surgical repairs.
4. Drink more water than you think you need
Adult Australians generally require ten to fifteen cups of fluid each day, and that need increases after blood loss or when taking certain medications. Aim for clear water as your primary beverage, supplemented by diluted fruit juices, herbal teas, and high-water foods such as watermelon, strawberries, cucumber, and lettuce. Optimal hydration maintains blood volume, supports nutrient transport, and helps prevent the constipation that often accompanies post operative pain relief.
5. Fuel recovery with nutrient dense foods
Protein, vitamin C, vitamin B 12, and healthy fats are cornerstones of tissue repair. Choose lean
meat, eggs, tofu, legumes, and fortified plant milks for protein and B 12. Add citrus, berries, broccoli, and capsicum for vitamin C, which drives collagen synthesis. Insoluble fibre from whole grains and vegetables keeps the bowel moving when opioid analgesics slow gut motility. Finally, include olive oil, avocado, nuts, and seeds for sustained energy and immune support; almonds are a convenient source of vitamin E, shown to minimise scarring.
6. Guard the incision as if it were priceless
Keep dressings clean and dry, change them exactly as directed, and wear loose clothing that will not chafe the wound. Monitor for redness, heat, swelling, or discharge, and contact your surgeon immediately if any sign of infection appears. Once the skin has closed, protect the area from sunlight; fresh scar tissue lacks pigment and burns readily. A broad-spectrum sunscreen recommended by your medical team will shield the site and keep future discolouration to a minimum.
The long view
Adhering to professional guidance, nourishing the body, and balancing gentle movement with ample rest create the conditions for steady progress. Attend all follow up appointments, be honest about pain levels, and celebrate incremental gains rather than rushing the finish line. Recovery is rarely linear, but patience and disciplined self-care can return you to work, sport, and family life sooner than you expect.
By Dr Srikanth HS
5 REASONS WHY MARRIED HEARTS FLUTTER
Within the complex world of human interactions, the idea of marriage and mixing represents a dynamic interplay of feelings, desires, and societal expectations. Many people struggle to strike the perfect balance between commitment and their desire for unbridled freedom. The mysterious energies and hidden sparks that motivate people’s behaviours and goals are revealed in a tapestry by this enthralling phenomenon.
Being married yet still accepting of dating illustrates the complex qualities of human nature and the complexity of contemporary relationships. It is clear that people’s hearts and thoughts frequently stray in quest of meaningful relationships and connections that go beyond the confines of conventional marriage. In addition, curiosity and a drive to explore are human traits that may be more than one partner is able to satisfy.
According to a thorough study conducted by Global Market Research Specialist IPSOS, 67 percent of respondents indicated an interest in learning more about non-monogamous relationship styles and practices, such as polyamory, swinging, and open partnerships. The study polled a demographic sample of 1,500 people in 12 Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities (Kolkata and Patna in the East; Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Indore in the West; Delhi, Ludhiana, Jaipur in the North; Bangalore, Kochi, Hyderabad in the South; Guwahati in the North East.) in India. Surprisingly, 61% of respondents have at least once in their lifetimes engaged in one or more of these behaviours.
“Although it is commonly believed that marriage is a union of love and devotion between two individuals, it is not immune to the challenges presented by human nature. Despite being married, some people may find themselves drawn to the possibility of other romantic relationships. Some married persons discover that they are drawn to the forbidden fruits of novelty and attraction because of their marital position. Even though these feelings might not be discussed or publicly stated, it is important to understand the underlying factors that give rise to such feelings. “says Sybil Shiddell, Country Manager, Gleeden, India.
The Enchantment of Innovation
One convincing reason why some married people look for experiences outside of their committed marriages is the pull of novelty. A long-term relationship’s familiarity and comfort might eventually produce a sense of regularity and predictability. It can become too alluring to resist the possibility of meeting someone new, having interesting conversations, and learning about common interests. It provides people with a break from the routine of everyday life, reviving sentiments of vigour and desirability.
The IPSOS poll found that an impressive 34% of respondents who have had extramarital affairs described their desire for the thrill of a new romance as their main driving force.
Emotional separation
A significant 33 percent of respondents openly admitted to cheating and justified their behaviour by saying that their partners had not shown them enough love, care, or attention. Emotional disengagement within a marriage frequently causes the desire for connection elsewhere. People may go for comfort and understanding outside of their marriages when communication breaks down and emotional requirements in a partnership are not met. This can appear through exchanges on social media, through emails or discussions, and frequently takes the shape of online flirting or the development of emotional bonds with other people.
Temptation and Improvisation
Sometimes fleeting attractions might lead people to make rash choices. One-night stands or having sex with someone other than their spouse can be an effort to date a transitory
need without necessarily holding plans of terminating their marriage. In fact, 33 percent of respondents acknowledged cheating because they were in a circumstance where they might engage in physical contact with someone, they found attractive and gave in to the urge.
Personal Unhappiness
Sometimes the desire to look into alternatives to marriage comes from inner discontent rather than dissatisfaction with one’s spouse. People may feel unfulfilled in a variety of areas of their lives, such as their professions, self-esteem, or personal development, which drives them to look for approval or excitement elsewhere. Integral parts of infidelity are the ego and self-confidence. In fact, 31 percent of respondents admitted to cheating in order to prove their persuasive skills and desirability to others as well as to oneself.
Desires and Fantasies
Compromise and shared obligations are common in marriage, which can muddle individual identities within the constraints of the union. Some people have a great desire to rediscover who they are and follow their passions and interests. Many people have fantasies about being with someone except their current partner. Fantasy can give an escape from the constraints of everyday life by giving one a safe place to explore urges that would not be appropriate or realistic to act upon in reality. Surprisingly, 55 percent of respondents acknowledged having dreams about having physical contact with someone except their official spouse, and 37 percent said they thought it was feasible to cheat on your partner while still feeling devoted to them.
MINDFULNESS CAN COMBAT ANXIETY?
If you’re worried about job, money, the status of the world, or anything else, try a moment of mindfulness. Paying close attention to the present moment without judgment -- the basic idea behind all mindfulness techniques -- can help calm anxiety and improve focus, said Resh Gupta, a postdoctoral research associate with the Mindfulness Science and Practice research cluster.
“A lot of research has shown that mindfulness can reduce anxiety symptoms,” she said. The calming power of mindfulness is well-known to people who have made the practice a part of their daily lives. Still, experts continue to investigate how it works, and which types of mindfulness might be most useful for different types of anxiety, ranging from fleeting bouts of worry to more chronic, clinical anxiety disorders. “We all experience anxiety, but it can manifest in many different ways,” Gupta said. “It’s a tough problem to pin down.”
In a paper published in Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews, Gupta and co-authors laid out a new approach to understanding the relationship between mindfulness and anxiety. Instead of taking a one-size-fits-all approach, they propose that different kinds of mindfulness practices might be helpful for different varieties of anxiety. The proposed framework should ultimately help us understand how to match anxiety sufferers with more precise treatments, Gupta said.
Todd Braver, the William R. Stuckenberg Professor in Human Values and Moral Development and a professor of psychological and brain sciences, is a co-author of the paper. The other co-author is Wendy Heller, a professor of psychology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The work was supported in part by the Mindfulness Science and Practice cluster and the Arts & Sciences’ Incubator for Transdisciplinary Futures.
Braver said that the new paper is emblematic of the kinds of work being done by the cluster. “There is a growing recognition that these practices can be incredibly useful in enhancing psychological well-being,” Braver said. “But we still do not fully understand the mechanisms of action by which mindfulness can produce beneficial effects. That’s where the scientific research can be so valuable, by helping us more precisely identify why and how certain practices are effective.”
Gupta, Braver, and Heller suggest that mindfulness combats anxiety by improving a mental process called cognitive control.
“Cognitive control is the ability to regulate your thoughts and your actions in a way that helps you achieve your goals,” Gupta said. “For example, if you know you have to go to the grocery store right after work, you can keep that goal in mind during the workday and turn down an offer to do something else after work.”
As Gupta explained, mindfulness and anxiety have opposite impacts on cognitive control. People who are more mindful generally perform better on tasks requiring cognitive control. That observation is supported by neuroimaging studies, which have shown that mindfulness meditation can effectively modulate activity in brain regions that support cognitive control.
On the other hand, anxiety can worsen cognitive control. “Worry occupies a lot of space in the brain’s working memory system,” Gupta said. “This is where your goals are stored.” This impairment in cognitive control can intensify worry symptoms, but using mindfulness to improve cognitive control can help interrupt the harmful cycle of worry.
Depending on the type of anxiety people are experiencing, some approaches might work better than others, Gupta said. People who spend a lot of time worrying may especially benefit from a type of mindfulness meditation called focused attention. “Focused attention teaches you to choose an anchor, such as your breath or a sound,” she said. “You keep bringing your attention back to that anchor every time your mind wanders. Instead of focusing on the worry, you’re focusing on the present moment experience.”
People who are hypervigilant and experiencing a lot of physical symptoms of anxiety -- rapid heartbeat, sweaty palms, tightness in the chest -- may do better with a different approach. “For this type of anxiety, a form of mindfulness meditation called open monitoring may be beneficial,” Gupta said. “Instead of focusing on one thing, such as the breath, you can observe all internal and external experiences from moment to moment in a non-reactive, non-judgmental way.”
WashU’s Mindfulness Science & Practice cluster offers many resources for university and community members who want to add mindfulness to their lives. The cluster sponsors regular talks as well as other events, including those in which participants can learn mindfulness practices from trained practitioners. “We’re dedicated to helping the WashU and greater St. Louis community get access to tools to learn about mindfulness science and practice,” Gupta said.
Braver is enthusiastic that recent research from the cluster and other institutions will help people gain a greater appreciation of the wide variety of practices that fall under the mindfulness umbrella. “People have different options they can choose from, so it becomes easier to find one that best fits your particular temperament, concerns, or current situation,” he said. “It’s quite empowering to learn these types of practices, and to feel like we can be in charge of how we use them to improve our quality of life.”
HEALTH
EVEN LIGHT EXERCISE CAN HELP SLOW COGNITIVE DECLINE IN PEOPLE AT RISK OF ALZHEIMER’S
Researchers at University of California San Diego and Wake Forest University have found that both low and moderatehigh intensity exercise could be valuable tools in the fight against Alzheimer’s. The new research, published as two papers in Alzheimer’s and Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, describes the results of the EXERT study (Exercise in Adults with Mild Memory Problems).
It is a multi-site clinical trial of lower or moderate-high intensity exercise in sedentary older adults with amnestic mild cognitive impairment, a major risk factor for Alzheimer’s dementia. The researchers also compared their results to an existing dataset of comparable individuals who only received usual care, such as regular check-ups with health care providers and medication management.
Individuals with amnestic mild cognitive impairment, a condition characterised by memory complaints and objective memory decline, are at high risk of developing Alzheimer’s dementia, with approximately 16% of people with this condition progressing to Alzheimer’s each year.
“This is a critical time to intervene in this population, because they don’t have dementia yet, but are at a very high risk,” said Aladdin Shadyab, Ph.D., M.P.H., lead author of one of the new papers and associate professor at the UC San Diego Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science and School of Medicine.
“Together, these findings show us that even low-intensity exercise may slow cognitive decline in at-risk older adults,” added Shadyab. “EXERT was one of the first large clinical trials of exercise that partnered with the YMCA and its trainers to bring the intervention closer to home for research participants,” said Howard Feldman, M.D., ADCS director.
“This approach brings us one step closer to its implementation in the community,” added Howard. EXERT included nearly 300 sedentary older adults with mild cognitive impairment who were randomly assigned to either moderate-high
intensity aerobic training or lower-intensity stretching, balance and range of motion activities.
Participants completed their assigned exercise 3-4 times per week for 12 months under the supervision of a YMCA trainer, and the study also included regular assessments of cognitive function and brain volume.
Though the researchers expected to see further cognitive decline in EXERT participants, they found that cognitive function remained stable for both exercise groups over the course of the study.
This suggests that both lower and higher intensity exercise could slow cognitive decline. Another possible explanation for the results is that participating in research itself, regardless of the treatment, may offer protection against cognitive decline due to the intellectual and social stimulation involved.
Eating more bananas, broccoli may help curb high blood pressure
Eating bananas or broccoli, rich in potassium, may effectively help lower hypertension -- affecting over 30 per cent of adults globally, according to a study. Hypertension or high blood pressure is the leading cause of coronary heart disease and stroke and may also lead to other afflictions like chronic kidney disease, heart failure, irregular heartbeats, and dementia.
Researchers from the University of Waterloo, Canada, found that increasing the ratio of dietary potassium to sodium intake may be more effective for curbing blood pressure levels than simply reducing sodium intake. “Usually, when we have high blood pressure, we are advised to eat less salt,” said Anita Layton, Professor of Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Pharmacy and Biology at the University of Waterloo.
“Our research suggests that adding more potassium-rich foods to your diet, such as bananas or broccoli, might have a greater positive impact on your blood pressure than just cutting sodium,” Layton added. Potassium and sodium are both electrolytes -- substances that help the body send electrical signals to contract muscles -- affect the amount of
Health tip:
Have a cut or burn? Sprinkle turmeric powder on the affected area to speed up the healing process
How Can Noise Cancellation Headphones Help You Get Good Teeth?
Does the noise of drills at the dentist’s make you run for life? You are not alone. The noise of dental drills cutting deep into your teeth is so scary people often avoid going to the dentist because of it. But what suffers the most from this dislike is your dental health. And you cannot compromise your dental health.
water in your body and perform other essential functions.
The study was published in the American Journal of Physiology-Renal Physiology.
“Early humans ate lots of fruits and vegetables, and as a result, our body’s regulatory systems may have evolved to work best with a high potassium, low sodium diet,” said lead author Melissa Stadt, a doctoral candidate in Waterloo’s Department of Applied Mathematics.
“Today, western diets tend to be much higher in sodium and lower in potassium. That may explain why high blood pressure is found mainly in industrialised societies, not in isolated societies,” Stadt said. To understand how increasing potassium intake can help control blood pressure, the team developed a mathematical model.
The model successfully identifies how the ratio of potassium to sodium impacts the body. It showed that men develop high blood pressure more easily than pre-menopausal women. However, men were also more likely to respond positively to an increased ratio of potassium to sodium.
To solve this issue, we, at Healthy Smiles Dental Group have introduced noise cancellation headphones at our clinic. Our principal dentist, Dr Ved Berani, says, “Noise cancellation headphones are becoming very popular these days. You can see hordes of people syncing to their favourite rhythms without disturbing others. So, we thought, why not use them for dentistry and provide comfort to our patients suffering from dental anxiety due to dental drilling noise. And it is working just fine. We treat many of our patients while they are using these headphones. Our greatest joy comes when we see them smiling carefree.”
Noise cancellation headphones have positively comforted anxious dental patients.
Let us learn more about how these noise cancellation headphones prove beneficial to the patients:
1. Music can uplift your mood faster
As we all know this proven fact, music is one of the best remedies when it comes to uplifting spirits. No matter how stressed a person is, good music can soothe all the lines on the forehead. When it comes to dental patients who are anxious about their dental treatment, we use the same concept. Our Healthy Smiles clinic provides Spotify streaming in all rooms. You need to select your favourite genre and tune in while we operate on your teeth. Patients have had a great experience with noise cancellation headphones.
2. It works to distract you from worries
Patients suffering from dental anxiety have all kinds of worries and troubling thoughts about a dental procedure. But when we explain the whole dental process in advance, it helps them feel in control of their surroundings with the knowledge of the proceedings in advance. And the noise cancellation headphones add to this comfort. They distract the patients from whatever that is left of the worries. Patients can relax throughout the whole dental procedure.
3. You can also watch a show of your choice on our screen
These noise cancellation headphones can also be synced with a TV screen on the ceiling. You can watch a TV show while our dentists work on your teeth. When the patients are relaxed, our dentists can also concentrate more on the treatment.
The aim behind using noise cancellation headphones for dentistry is to provide patients with a comfortable dental care experience. Our dentists enthusiastically work towards providing the best dental treatments using state-of-the-art technology so that you can leave all your anxieties behind and walk out with a confident smile.
Do not neglect to look after your teeth and oral health because a lot of health issues can stem from oral health conditions. Contact us today to make use of this new method of cancelling out the drill noise and pay your teeth all the attention they need. Visit our Blackburn clinic or call us on 03 9877 2035.
Ved Berani
Exercising daily at same time may realign body clock, boost health
Consistent daily patterns of exercise and rest can synchronise the local body clocks associated with joints and spine with the brain clock, potentially helping individuals to maintain skeletal health, improve athletic performance and avoid injury, according to research. Though the study, published in Nature Communications, involved mice, the scientists suggest there is a high probability human cartilage and intervertebral disks -- which have very similar physiological properties -- will respond in a comparable way.
Scientists have long known that misalignment between the central body clock in the brain and other organs which have their own body clock -- can increase the risk of pathology and diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. However, until now, very little was understood about the relationship between the clocks in joint cartilage -- which has no nerve or blood supply -- and the brain.
“We have in effect identified a new mechanism to understand how our body clocks align to the external environment. The clocks have evolved to prepare you for predictable rhythmic changes in the environment,” said Professor Qing-Jun Meng, a body clock expert from the varsity.
“Our results showed that physical activities in the morning, associated with daily patterns of sleep/wake cycle, convey timing information from the light-sensitive central clock in the brain to the weight bearing skeletal tissues. In effect
it’s telling your skeletal system it’s time to wake up,” Meng said.
However, when this alignment is uncoupled with the brain, then like in other organs and tissues, it can result in adverse impacts on your physical health. Further, constantly changing the time of exercise can make a person more prone to this desynchronisation, the team said.
“However, if you change when you exercise, but then maintain that regime for some time, we show that your body clocks will eventually re-align with each other and you will adapt to it,” Meng said. The scientists examined the mice who were given daily exercise on a treadmill
during their resting time to show what happened to the clocks in the cartilage, intervertebral disk and the brain. They confirmed the findings by compressing mouse intervertebral disks or cartilage explants in the lab or exposing them to higher osmolarity culture medium within a normal physiological range. Both resulted in a similar clock synchronising effect.
“Our work showed that clocks in skeletal tissues of older animals remain responsive to daily patterns of exercise. As such, walking groups organised for older people could be more beneficial for their health if they happen at a similar time every day,” Meng said.
(IANS)
Study finds effect of coffee on a sleeping brain
Coffee can help you stay awake, but what does caffeine actually do to your brain once you’re asleep? Using AI, a team of researchers has an answer: it affects the brain’s ‘criticality’. In a study published in Nature Communications Biology, a team of researchers from Universite de Montreal shed new light on how caffeine can modify sleep and influence the brain’s recovery both physical and cognitive overnight.
The research was led by Philipp Tholke, a research trainee at UdeM’s Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience Laboratory (CoCo Lab), and co-led by the lab’s director Karim Jerbi, a psychology professor and researcher at Mila Quebec AI Institute. Working with sleep-and-ageing psychology professor Julie Carrier and her team at UdeM’s Centre for Advanced Research in Sleep Medicine, the scientists used AI and electroencephalography (EEG) to study caffeine’s effect on sleep.
They showed for the first time that caffeine increases the complexity of brain signals and enhances brain “criticality” during sleep. Interestingly, this was more pronounced in younger adults. “Criticality describes a state of the brain that is balanced between order and chaos,” said Jerbi.
“It’s like an orchestra: too quiet and nothing happens, too chaotic and there’s cacophony. Criticality is the happy medium where brain activity is both organised and flexible. In this state, the brain functions optimally: it can process information efficiently, adapt quickly, learn and make decisions with agility,” added Jerbi.
Added Carrier: “Caffeine stimulates the brain and pushes it into a state of criticality, where it is more awake, alert and reactive While this is useful during the day for concentration, this state could interfere with rest at night: the brain would neither relax nor recover properly.”
The researchers also discovered striking changes in the brain’s electrical rhythms during sleep: caffeine attenuated slower oscillations such as theta and alpha waves -- generally associated with deep, restorative sleep -- and stimulated beta wave activity, which is more common during wakefulness and mental engagement.
“These changes suggest that even during sleep, the brain remains in a more activated, less restorative state under the influence of caffeine,” says Jerbi, who also holds the Canada Research Chair in Computational Neuroscience and Cognitive Neuroimaging. “This change in the brain’s rhythmic activity may help explain why caffeine affects the efficiency with which the brain recovers during the night, with potential consequences for memory processing.”
The study also showed that the effects of caffeine on brain dynamics were significantly more pronounced in young adults between the ages of 20 and 27 compared to middleaged participants aged 41 to 58, especially during REM sleep, the phase associated with dreaming.
People with irritable bowel syndrome can find relief with Mediterranean diet
A team of US researchers has found that the Mediterranean diet may provide symptom relief for people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Irritable bowel syndrome affects an estimated 4-11 per cent of all people, and a majority of patients prefer dietary interventions to medication.
The low FODMAP diet leads to symptom improvement in more than half of patients but is restrictive and hard to follow. Previous investigations from Michigan Medicine researchers in the US into more accessible alternative diets led to a proposed “FODMAP simple,” which attempted to only restrict the food groups in the FODMAP acronym that are most likely to cause symptoms.
In the new study published in the journal Neurogastroenterology & Motility, participants were randomised into two groups, one following the Mediterranean diet and the other following the low FODMAP diet, a common restrictive diet for IBS.
In the Mediterranean diet group, 73
per cent of the patients met the primary endpoint for symptom improvement, versus 81.8 per cent in the low FODMAP group.
“Restrictive diets, such as low FODMAP, can be difficult for patients to adopt,” said Prashant Singh, Michigan Medicine gastroenterologist and lead author on the paper.
“In addition to the issue of being costly and time-consuming, there are concerns about nutrient deficiencies and disordered eating when trying a low FODMAP diet. The Mediterranean diet
interested us as an alternative that is not an elimination diet and overcomes several of these limitations related to a low FODMAP diet,” Kumar added.
The Mediterranean diet is already popular among physicians for its benefits to cardiovascular, cognitive, and general health. Previous research on the effect of the Mediterranean diet on IBS, however, had yielded conflicting results.
While the Mediterranean diet did provide symptom relief, the low FODMAP group experienced a greater improvement measured by both abdominal pain intensity and IBS symptom severity score.
“This study adds to a growing body of evidence which suggests that a Mediterranean diet might be a useful addition to the menu of evidencebased dietary interventions for patients with IBS,” said William Chey, chief of Gastroenterology at the University of Michigan.
RASIKA DUGAL REFLECTS ON THE NEW AGE OF ‘INTROVERTING’ AMID CANCELLED PLANS
Actress Rasika Dugal recently opened up about her experience navigating a month filled with unexpected cancellations — plans she hadn’t cancelled herself.
In a candid and relatable reflection, Rasika shared how she found herself spending more time alone, sitting on the couch, processing both the disappointments and unexpected joys that came with the sudden free time. Describing this period of self-reflection as “introverting,” Rasika pondered a modern twist on the term.
Taking to Instagram, the Anwar actress posted a series of her candid shots where she is seen sitting on a coach and striking poses for the camera. For the caption, Duggal wrote, “I called a friend recently and she said she is ‘introverting.’ I had a series of cancelled plans this month (none that I cancelled!) ... and found myself sitting on the couch a lot... running through the disappointments (and joys) that some of these cancelled plans came with. I thought
maybe this introspection could be best described as ‘introverting.’ But then is introverting still introverting if you take a photo of it?”
Professionally, the actress has been making waves with her film “Little Thomas” which was nominated in the best actor, actress, and debut film category in the upcoming 25th edition of the New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF). The film festival, which is a celebration of Indian cinema, will take place on June 20-22, 2025.
Rasika Duggal, who plays Jessie Miranda in ‘Little Thomas’, had earlier shared that she is “delighted” to be nominated for the comedy-drama. She stated, “I am grateful that the work is being noted and appreciated, and I am looking forward to the response of the audience when the film is screened at the festival. Audiences at film festivals are discerning, and it is always wonderful to receive their view of the work.”
SAIF ALI KHAN REVEALS WHAT REAL SUCCESS MEANS TO HIM
Saif Ali Khan dons many hats - an actor, a father, a husband, a brother and a son. But to give every role his best requires a perfect work-life balance. Addressing the Arab Media Summit, Saif shared what according to him success really looks like.
Unlike others who believe in the idea of non-stop hustle, according to Saif, success lies in choosing family over frenzy. For him, small things matter the most, such as reaching home before his children fall asleep, taking his family on holidays, and regularly talking to his mother and kids.
Sharing more, Saif said, “I hate coming home and seeing the kids already asleep. That’s not success. Success is being able to say, ‘No, I need to go home now to catch that half hour with them. We get four holidays a year, and when my kids are on break, I don’t work. That time is sacred.”
The ‘Jewel Thief’ actor shared that he
is at the stage of his life where he has to check up on both his mom and his kids. “I’m at that crazy age where I have to call both my mom and my children. You think it’s just your parents you have to check on — then you realise it’s both.” he added.
For Saif, showing up for your loved ones is what life is all about. He stated, “Working is important, yes. But so is cooking pasta together, having a meal, and focusing on the kids. That’s the real glue of life.”
Revealing his idea of success, Saif added, “Success and privilege, for me, is being able to say no to work and yes to time with my family.”
Work-wise, Saif has “Race 4”, a biopic with Rahul Dholakia, a yet-to-be-titled project with Priyadarshan, and a social thriller with Hansal Mehta in his kitty.
(IANS)
AMITABH BACHCHAN TALKS ABOUT CONSTANT CRITICISM
Megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who maintained a notable silence on platforms like X and his blog in recent days, has finally broken it and expressed frustration over constant criticism. Big B took to his blog after a long time and wrote: “And they tell me to change my signature ... to not put dots in it ... to not put curved lines ... to wear this to wear that ... to not visit here or there ... to not talk here, to not talk there ... when you talk they say why do you talk … when you do not talk they say why you do not talk. (sic)”
He shared a few lines from his late legendary father Harivansh Rai Bachchan’s poetry and wrote: “I may be carefree for myself; but I care for all ... I know that there is no value within me; but even then, I keep a valued relationship, a propinquity, with some.”
“I have learnt how to live life, from the seas and oceans; to flow quietly and to exist in your own ardour your own avidity and zest the learnings from Babuji, my revered Father ... an eternal gift for my living and learning ... my
gratitude and my affection ...(sic).”
Talking about India surpassing Japan and becoming the world’s fourth-largest economy, he said: “And as I said we become the 4rth largest economy in the World, beating Japan.... and in another 2.5 to 3 yrs shall become the 3rd largest economy in the World!!”
Calling it an “incredible achievement”, Big B added: What an Incredible achievement for a Country that became Independent just 75 yrs + ago... How many other nations that got Independent 75 yrs back, have attained this kind of achievement...”
Big B highlighted the bravery of “Agniveers” who protect the nation. “And what of the AgniVeers the young fighters that fought to protect us during this recent attack on our land The Agniveers are young, dynamic fighters serving under India’s Agnipath scheme. Trained with discipline and patriotism, they embody courage and commitment.”
“These soldiers serve for four years, gaining vital military experience. Agniveers represent a bold step in modernizing India’s defence forces with youth, energy, and nationalistic spirit at their core.’”
BHUMI PEDNEKAR LIKES STORIES WHICH CHALLENGE HER
Bollywood actress Bhumi Pednekar has completed a decade in Hindi cinema. The actress made her debut with the breakout hit ‘Dum Laga Ke Haisha’, in which she was paired opposite actor Ayushmann Khurrana. The actress shared that she is always drawn to stories that challenge her thoughtprocess and give her the window to grow as a person.
In 10 years of her cinematic career, the actress has taken up some brave choices like ‘Sonchiriya’, ‘Shubh Mangal Saavdhan’, ‘Badhaai Do’, ‘Govinda Naam Mera’, ‘Bhakshak’ and others. The actress shared it’s the “meaningful stories” that appeal to her the most.
Bhumi said, “I just want to be a part of stories that are meaningful, that give me an opportunity to do diverse kinds of roles, which give me an opportunity
THOUGHT-PROCESS
to challenge whatever my thinking is, because as humans, it’s very limited.
Stories and cinema most times have helped me expand my world and my universe”.
The actress further mentioned that because of the opportunities that she got, it has made her humble as a person. She continued, those stories have humbled me deeply as a person. I am a Bombayborn girl. I could have never imagined playing somebody who is from Chambal or Morena. Those are the kind of stories that I want to do. Stories that humble me, stories that let the empathy in me only grow and give me an opportunity to truly, truly challenge myself. I love what I do”.
“I wanted to be an actor from the day I realised what being an actor on screen is. It is liberating to me. It is my oxygen. That is all I know. And this is all I want to do”, she added.
(IANS)
GEETA BASRA OPENS UP ABOUT LEAVING BOLLYWOOD
Former actress Geeta Basra, known for Dil Diya Hai and The Train, revealed she left Bollywood early as industry perceptions changed after she met cricketer Harbhajan Singh. “I lost out on four films because people assumed I was getting married. And with no godfather in the industry, it was difficult to convince them otherwise,” citing traditional mindsets.
Former Bollywood actress Geeta Basra, who made her mark in the film industry with films like Dil Diya Hai and The Train, opened up about her decision to leave Bollywood at an early stage in her career. She shared that soon after meeting her husband, cricketer Harbhajan Singh, perceptions in the industry abruptly changed, with directors assuming she was getting married and stepping away from the industry.
Geeta said that when she met Harbhajan, she had just started her acting career and was also new to India. She shared that back then; the mindset was very different—an actress
couldn’t be publicly associated with a man. Not just the audience, but even producers, directors, and actors held very traditional views, which led to her losing out on four films after people assumed she was getting married.
She added, “With no godfather in the industry, it was difficult to convince them otherwise. But times have changed, thankfully. Today, no one cares if you’re married or have kids. What matters is your work on screen.”
When asked if her husband Harbhajan encouraged her to return to films after marriage, the cricketer said, “Whenever she had a choice to make in life, I always stood by her and supported her. But ultimately, everything happens as per God’s plan-when, where, and how much we can do is all up to Him. My job is to stand by her like a pillar and encourage her in whatever she chooses to do. And we always hope for success in whatever path she takes.”
(ANI)
‘KHOSLA KA GHOSLA’ WAS BOMAN IRANI’S HINDI DEBUT, REVEALS VINAY PATHAK
Actor Vinay Pathak, who is gearing up for the release of his upcoming film ‘Chidiya’, has revealed that ‘Khosla Ka Ghosla’ was actually Boman Irani’s Hindi film debut.
However, the release of ‘Khosla Ka Ghosla’ was delayed over issues with regards to its distribution. Vinay said that the film was “in the box” for 3 years, and eventually ‘Munna Bhai M.B.B.S.’ marked the debut of Boman in Hindi films.
Vinay spoke in the run-up to the film’s release and shared his experience of working on ‘Khosla Ka Ghosla’.
He said, “The fondest memory of ‘Khosla Ka Ghosla’ is working with friends, which is always my take away from any job that I do. Ranvir Shorey was there, I was there, then Boman Irani came. It was Boman’s first film because ‘Khosla ka Ghoshla’ stayed in the box for 3 years, and in between, Boman starred in ‘Munna Bhai M.B.B.S.’ and became extremely popular given his stellar work in the film.
Incidentally, both ‘Khosla Ka Ghosla’ and ‘Munna Bhai M.B.B.S.’ were breakout successes, and were directed by first time directors. While ‘Munna Bhai M.B.B.S.’ was directed by superstar director Rajkumar Hirani, ‘Khosla Ka Ghosla’ was helmed by Indian auteur, Dibakar Banerjee, who is known for his path-breaking cinema. Both the film fetched National Film Awards, and both of them saw Boman playing an antagonist.
Boman was also supposed to make his debut with the Aditya Chopra directorial ‘Mohabbatein’, however, the role went to veteran megastar Amitabh Bachchan after he requested the late producer Yash Chopra for a role in the film owing to his mounting debts after the failure of AB Corp, as creditors knocked his doors.
(IANS)
KAMAL HAASAN REVEALS WHY HE LIKES TO BE A STUDENT OF CINEMA
Tamil cinema legend Kamal Haasan, who is awaiting the release of his upcoming film ‘Thug Life’, may have seen it all and done it all but the actor still likes to be a student of cinema. Kamal belongs to a rare breed of actors, who have the privilege of growing up on celluloid. He made his debut at the age of 6 as a child artist and has grown up in front of the audience.
Kamal shared that given the rapid growth and expansion of cinema, the safest place is to be an actor. Kamal said: “Cinema is improving so fast and so many tools are coming in, the only safest place is to be a student and not start teaching. What we believe, our ideas might be trampled upon but still we have to believe in those ideas because we are keepers of this time and these ideas. We reflect it”.
He further mentioned, “So, no shame in it. Mr. K. A. Asif is equal to Mr. Satyajit Ray to me. Two different filmmakers”, he added. Meanwhile, Kamal is reuniting with Mani Ratnam after
almost 4 decades with ‘Thug Life’. The two last worked together in ‘Nayakan’ in 1987. A lot has changed in the past 38 years, India opened its economy, witnessed landslide political changes, television peaked, and cinema diversified. Earlier, the veteran actor said that in all of this, cinema has become a language, and a mode of communication for them.
Kamal earlier said, “Cinema has become a language. We don’t know how fluent we are in that, but we speak it. And we are improving. Like, we’ve lost the slur that we had. We lost that baby talk that we had. All that is gone now. But we are still, I think, work in progress (sic)”.
Produced by Kamal Haasan’s Raaj Kamal Films International, Mani Ratnam’s Madras Talkies, R. Mahendran, and Siva Ananth, ‘Thug Life’ is all set for a worldwide theatrical release on June 5, 2025.
I GO WITH MY GUT FEELING: RAJKUMMAR RAO
National Award-winning star Rajkummar Rao says he chooses projects based on instinct, not success or value. When asked how he chooses films whether based on the value they add to his life or the value he brings to them Rajkummar said: “It is not about the value it would add to me, because I go with my gut feeling. If I like a story something that excites you there is something about it… some kind of chemical reaction, a spark that happens inside when you hear a good story.”
Rajkummar, who is gearing up for the release of his upcoming film “Bhool Chuk Maaf”, says he picks films only when both the story and the maker feel right. He added: “And if the maker is right for that story because it is not enough for the story to be great if the maker isn’t then it’s a no. But if the story is good and the maker is also good, then I say yes to it.”
“I do not think about how big a success it will be or what value it will add to my life. If it is really good, then I just do it. Simple.” The disagreement between the production banner and the cinema chain commenced after Maddock Films cancelled the film’s theatrical release amidst the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan and chose
a direct OTT release on Amazon Prime Video. Upset by this, PVR Inox sought the court’s intervention for the breach of contract.
Talking about “Bhool Chuk Maaf”, directed by Karan Sharma, the film revolves around Ranjan, a small-town romantic boy from Banaras, who lands a government job to marry Titli but forgets his vow to Lord Shiva-only to be trapped until he fulfills his promise. A hilarious tale of love, fate, and redemption unfolds.
(IANS)
The film is produced by Dinesh Vijan under the Maddock Films banner, with music by Tanishk Bagchi, lyrics by Irshad Kamil, and vocals by Tanishk Bagchi and Madhubanti Bagchi.
Did you know:
Pour yourself a tall glass of pomegranate juice to keep heart disease at bay
Spices in the kitchen, indoor plants can be toxic
Spices like nutmeg (jaiphal), myrobalan (harad) and poppy seeds (posta) that add taste to dishes and are commonly found in the kitchen, can be toxic for health if consumed in excess, said experts at ‘Discover Tox’, an event organised by the forensic medicine and toxicology department of King George Medical University (KGMU), to spread awareness about toxic effects of the common household products.
“The safe limit of jaiphal consumption is up to 5gm daily. Overdose can cause vomiting, hallucination and increased heartbeat,” said Ashutosh Kumar.
Similarly, he said, commonly used household spice, which is used in ayurvedic
medicines, small and big ‘harad’ can cause hypoglycaemia and skin bruising.
“The most common spice that is used in food and dishes is poppy seeds (khaskhas or posta). Over consumption of this spice can cause bradycardia (low heart rate), pinpoint pupil and skin related problems.
"Even papaya and jatropha seeds, if consumed in large quantities, can cause dysentery and nausea. Papaya seeds are used to adulterate black pepper,” he added.
Meanwhile, Fatima Harsha said that people should also be careful with some indoor and outdoor ornamental plants like sago palm plant.
It contains cytosine toxin which if
consumed can cause gastric distress and liver failure.
“Other plants such as philodendron, dieffenbachia, arrowhead, monstera, pothos (money plant), jade, ZZ plant, peace lily and anthurium contain a toxic substance called calcium oxalate which can cause skin irritation, eye irritation, swelling of lips, tongue and mouth, oral paraesthesia and gastric symptoms like nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. It can also result in hypoglycaemia and renal damages. Similarly, the snake plant contains saponin chemicals that can cause swelling of mouth and lips and gastric distress,” she said.
(IANS)
10 MORNING THINGS TO HELP CONTROL BLOOD SUGAR AND CURB CRAVINGS
Managing your blood sugar in the morning sets the tone for how you’ll feel for the rest of the day. The right combination of foods can help you avoid sudden spikes or crashes in energy, while also keeping cravings for sugar and processed snacks at bay.
Experts say starting your morning with the right foods can play a pertinent role in reducing insulin resistance and naturally controlling blood sugar levels in the body.
Avoid sugary cereals, white bread, and fruit juices—these may give a quick burst of energy but often lead to blood sugar crashes and stronger cravings later in the day.
Here are 10 simple things to include in your morning meals to help control blood sugar and reduce unnecessary hunger later in the day:
1 Lukewarm water
Dr Manjusha Agarwal, senior consultant, internal medicine, Mumbai, recommends starting the day with a glass of lukewarm water. She says one can add a few drops of lemon juice to the lukewarm water. It can help kickstart your digestion and gently wake up your body without spiking blood sugar.
2 Vegetable smoothie
Vegetable smoothie (like spinach, cucumber, and mint) could be very fulfilling
and good for starting day afresh.
3 Eggs
Eggs are a great source of protein and healthy fats, both of which help keep your blood sugar stable. Scramble, boil, or poach them—however you like—just avoid pairing them with white bread or sugary sauces.
4 Berries
Unlike many other fruits, berries like blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are low on the glycaemic index and rich in antioxidants. They’re a great natural sweetener for yogurt, oatmeal, or smoothies.
Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are packed with fibre and antioxidants that help control blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation, said Dr Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology, Zandra Healthcare and Cofounder of Rang De Neela Initiative.
5 Oats (preferably steel-cut or rolled)
Oats contain soluble fiber, which slows down digestion and helps prevent sugar spikes. Add a handful of nuts or seeds and some berries for natural sweetness instead of sugar or honey.
6 Greek Yogurt
Packed with protein and probiotics, Greek yogurt helps balance gut health and blood sugar. Choose plain versions and add your
own toppings like cinnamon, flaxseeds, or sliced almonds.
7 Chia Seeds
These tiny seeds are full of fiber, omega-3s, and protein. They form a gel when soaked in liquid, which slows digestion and glucose absorption. Make a chia pudding or add them to smoothies or oatmeal.
8 Whole-Grain Bread or Wraps
If you enjoy toast in the morning, switch to whole-grain options with high fiber content. Pair it with protein like eggs or nut butter.
9 Avocados
Avocados are rich in heart-healthy fats and fiber, both of which support balanced blood sugar. Mash them on whole-grain toast or enjoy slices on the side of your breakfast. Dr Kovil says adding avocado to your breakfast, for example, on whole grain toast, provides healthy monounsaturated fats that enhance insulin action.
10 Nuts (in moderation)
Almond, peanut, or cashew butter provides healthy fats and protein. Just make sure to use versions with no added sugar or hydrogenated oils.
Over time, these small morning choices can make a big difference in your energy, mood, and overall health.
(IANS)
Winter Wellness: Boosting Immunity, the Natural Way
BY DEEVYA GUPTA
As the winter chill sets in, many of us are looking for ways to keep our immunity strong and avoid the sniffles. You may be particularly susceptible to seasonal illnesses due to Australia's fluctuating climate. But don't worry, we've got you covered! Let's dive into some simple yet effective ways to boost your immunity using nutrition and natural remedies.
Vitamin C: The Immunity Superhero
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are packed with Vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in immune functioning. But you don't have to rely on just fruits –vegetables like capsicum and broccoli are also rich in this essential vitamin. So, make sure to add some Vitamin C-rich foods to your daily meals.
Vitamin D: The Sunshine Vitamin
As Indian Australians, we're no strangers to the importance of Vitamin D. With limited sunlight during winter months, it's essential to get your Vitamin D levels checked and
consider supplements if necessary. Foods like eggs, salmon, and fortified milks contain small amounts of Vitamin D, but sunlight and supplements are the primary sources. A Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to various health conditions, so don't neglect this crucial vitamin!
Gut Health: The Key to Strong Immunity
A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps keep your gut strong and your immunity boosted.
Fiber-rich foods like fruits and veggies provide prebiotics that feed the good bacteria in your gut, keeping your digestive system happy and healthy. Aim for 5 servings of veggies and 2 servings of fruits daily – it's easier than you think!
Hydration: The Unsung Hero
Staying hydrated is crucial, even when it's not scorching hot outside. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day to help flush out toxins and keep your cells hydrated. Warm water is fine, and you can add a slice of lemon or your favorite fruit for flavor.
Lifestyle Habits for Strong Immunity
Remember, a balanced lifestyle is key to maintaining strong immunity. Get enough sleep, reduce stress, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking. And when it comes to alcohol, moderation is key – limit your intake and have at least a few alcohol-free days.
Natural Remedies for a Speedy Recovery
If you're feeling like you're coming down with a cold, there are natural remedies that can help. From ginger and turmeric, there are plenty of options to explore. Just remember to consult with your doctor before trying anything new.
In conclusion, boosting your immunity during winter months is easier than you think. By incorporating Vitamin C-rich foods, maintaining adequate Vitamin D levels, eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and following a healthy lifestyle, you'll be well on your way to a winter wonderland – minus the sniffles! So, go ahead and give your immunity the TLC it deserves. Stay warm, stay healthy, and happy winter-ing!
Seafood Stew
This healthy, delicious Seafood Stew is one pot casserole. Quick and easy to make, ideal for cold winter nights. The herbs and spices used in this recipe aren’t overpowering and allow you to appreciate the natural flavours and textures of the flaky fish and meaty prawns. If preferred, add a dash or two of Tabasco for a little extra kick.
Ingredients:
• 500g firm white fish, cubed
• 300g peeled raw prawns
• 500g potatoes
• 2 dried red chillies, deseeded
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4-6 garlic cloves, chopped
• 3 med tomatoes, chopped
• 1 ½ tsp ground cumin
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan. Add the onion, garlic and salt and cook for 3 mins.
Method: Serve: Garnish:
2. Break and deseed the dried chillies and add to saucepan along with the cumin, paprika and tomatoes. Stir to mix well.
Puree the stock mixture until very fine. Pour the mixture back into the pan and bring to a boil and reduce to simmer.
5. Gently add the fish, prawns and potatoes and stir. Cover and cook until tender, for about 10 mins.
6. Add the lime juice and chopped coriander.
Variation
BY MANJIT SETHI
from the private collection
3. Pour in the stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 mins. with coriander and lime wedge
7. Serve hot.
Add clams, mussels, squid or any of your favourite seafood
How To Eat Better
It's crucial to choose nutrition over convenience in the fast-paced world of today. Our dietary decisions have a big impact on our health, affecting how we control our weight and prevent chronic diseases. A balanced nutrition strategy and mindful eating are crucial for general health. Our bodies perform best when we feed them nutrient-dense meals like whole grains, lean proteins, colourful fruits and veggies, and healthy fats. At the same time, it's important to pay attention to our bodies' signals of hunger and fullness and to portion sizes.
In addition, a fresh, contemporary diet is introduced every time we blink. A fad diet might be harmful to your overall health. The macro and micronutrient requirements will differ from person to person, so it's vital to keep in mind that following a diet without a doctor's advice can cause more harm than good.
The need of seeing a doctor before beginning a diet cannot be overstated. However, the following advice will assist you in adopting a balanced nutrition strategy while still enjoying the pleasures of eating properly.
Tips for improving your nutrition:
Limiting Saturated Fat and Sugar
Understanding the impact of fats and sugars on our health is vital. Saturated fats are generally considered unhealthy, while unsaturated fats are healthier, but in moderation. Reducing saturated fat intake, often found in processed foods and oils, is crucial for overall well-being. Similarly, managing sugar consumption is important
to prevent issues like obesity and tooth decay. Being mindful of added or naturally occurring sugars in food and drinks, limiting intake to under 5 grams per 100 grams, helps maintain a balanced diet. By making healthier fat choices and monitoring sugar intake, we can promote better health and well-being.
Active Living: Enhance Your Well-Being
Nutrition goes beyond just food; it encompasses staying active in our modern, often sedentary lives. For individuals with desk or office jobs, it's crucial to prioritize frequent movement rather than solely focusing on achieving milestones or goals. Regular movement not only aids in weight management but also establishes a cyclical relationship between mobility and body fat. Increased physical activity enhances the chances of burning fat and maintaining a healthy weight range. Conversely, a lower weight provides a boost of energy, motivating us to stay active. By recognizing the synergy between nutrition and staying active, we can unlock a healthier and more energized lifestyle.
Sodium Savvy
Recommended salt intake for adults and children over 11 is around 6g/day. Excessive salt consumption raises the risk of high blood pressure, a precursor to heart disease and stroke. When it comes to packaged foods, check the labels for salt content. Products with over 1.5g/100g should be consumed in moderation or avoided altogether.
Cravings and Comfort: Understanding the Connection
Comfort food holds a special place in our
serve with crusty bread roll, garlic bread or corn chips
hearts, often being sweet, fried, or high in fat. While they should be enjoyed occasionally within a balanced diet, moderation and portion control are key. Overindulgence can lead to regret and excess calories. Restricting these foods completely may result in feelings of deprivation and mood swings. Seeking guidance from a medical professional or health coach allows for a tailored approach, accommodating your favourite foods and drinks in reduced frequency or quantity.
Mood, mind, and food
Our emotional state greatly influences our dietary choices and overall well-being. Stress, anxiety, and burnout have become prevalent in urban and professional lifestyles, impacting how and what we eat. During times of stress, food can provide comfort and a sense of control, but relying on it as an escape may lead to overeating. By fostering awareness of mental health conditions and practicing emotional regulation, we can cultivate emotional resilience and work towards achieving our health goals.
In conclusion, healthy eating is a gateway to a vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle. It is crucial for individuals to find a way of eating that truly satisfies them. Further helps to have an expert doctor or a dietitian guide you towards the right diet. Embracing a balanced nutrition approach, can energize our bodies, boost our immune system, and enhance our vitality. Eat well and thrive! After all, we are what we eat!
By Rahul Maroli
4.
Mesha (Aries)
A loss of confidence and the ability to take the initiative would be very noticeable this month. This would tend to jam all progress, keeping you at a stand-still as it were.
Opportunities for financial advancement would also be missing. If you have any plans for investments, these should be shelved for a more opportune time. In fact, you have an unfavourable set of circumstances ahead. Keep your profile lower.
Best days: 3, 12, 30
Lucky Colour: Red, Orange, Cream
Simha (Leo)
This month the turn of events is bound to favour your financial prospects. Some of you would have a big way of managing your subordinates or workers, or even people simply below you in the social strata, in a manner that will enable you to derive optimum benefit from their services. This would be a very big gain for you. Further, there is every chance of a big boom coming to you from some elderly gentleman.
Best days: 5,3
Lucky Colour: White & Orange
Dhanu (Sagittarius)
Most important, this month you would surely lack whatever normal selfconfidence you possess, and also miss the ability to take the initiative. This would make for stagnation and no growth. The climate would also not be at all congenial for the investment and launching of new ventures, which should be shelved for a more opportune moment.
Vrishabh (Taurus)
A somewhat trying period ahead of you in so far as your financial prospects are concerned, the circumstances would not help much either. Delays and hurdles would mar any progress that you might make through the dint of your effort. In short, a negative spell of circumstances. The climate would also be far from congenial for investment. Therefore, if you have any plans, shelve them, and further stay away from risks of all sorts.
Best days: 9, 18, 27
Lucky Colour: Green, Blue
Kanya (Virgo)
There is a lot of cheer for your financial prospects in the augury, from the stars this month. Association with several gifted people of learning and spiritual stature would not only bring you substantial gains but would also impart a highly satisfying dimension of culture and a taste for higher spiritual achievements. Most of you would also be inclined to carry out your pursuits with a touch of boldness.
Best days: 3, 12
Lucky Colour: Orange, Green
Makara (Capricorn)
An excellent month, during which you would be able to function above normal and take your career to new heights. This month you will be endowed with a quality of leadership that would unable you to get the optimum benefit of from the service of your juniors and subordinates. The work-load would not be very heavy, and yet most of your expected gains would be realised.
By D. Narayan (Tantracharya) M: 0425 660 220
Mithuna (Gemini)
Mithun (Gemini)
You would also work quite hard, but your efforts will not be able to help you in the realization of your objectives. This would naturally make for dissatisfaction at your lot. This sort of thwarting of normal activity in terms of denial of rewards could make you over adventurous. This has an element of risk for you. Therefore, you must restrain yourself from pointless adventurous enterprises.
Best days: 2, 7, 9
Lucky Colour: Red, White, Yellow
Tula (Libra)
A favourable month, for your financial prospects, during which you should be able to achieve
success with a touch of boldness. In fact, this month, your most noteworthy assets would be well placed self-confidence and a great deal of courage. These would solve many problems for you and ensure gains. These would be medium sized gains but would accrue to you in quick time.
Best days: 9, 18
Lucky Colour: Red, Blue
Kumbha (Aquarius)
There are clear chances that some of you would be influenced by a mean streak that would goad you on to severely exploiting some of your juniors, workers or just people below you in the social strata for personal ends. Your efforts would meet stiff resistance and an extremely unpleasant situation could come about, curb such tendencies very firmly, failing which you would only have yourself to blame.
Karkat (Cancer)
The combination of stars facing you would bring a great deal of cheer to your financial prospects this month. Some of you would have a way of managing your subordinates, workers, or just simply people below you in the social strata, in a manner enabling you to derive optimum benefit from their services. This would be a big gain. Further there is every likelihood of a big boom coming your way from some elderly gentleman.
Best days: 9, 18
Lucky Colour: Red, Blue
Vrishchik (Scorpio)
There would be a shortage of any worthwhile opportunities. In fact, the climate will be totally unfavourable for investment and the launching of any new ventures. Any such plans should be shelved until a more opportune moment. The set of circumstances ahead does not augur success and may lead to unnecessary setbacks if caution is not exercised.
Best days: 1, 3, 4
Lucky Colour: Red, Orange
Meen (Pisces)
There would be a fair amount of travel which would however, fail to bear any fruit, though there might be some percentage in a sojourn towards the West. The circumstances would also demand a lot of hard work from you, at a time when contacts would not be very helpful.
