Houston Embraces Yoga in Parks, Temples, and Town Squares
By Juhi Varma
houston: Houstonians gathered for the 11th International Day of Yoga, their mats forming patchwork quilts across parks and grounds, as the city embraced a day of wellness, community, and cultural connection.
More than 30 outdoor and indoor events took place across Houston this year to celebrate IDY 2025.
“I am so happy to witness participation in Houston Metro area,” said Sharad Amin, overall coordinator for IDY 2025 in the Houston Metro. “We are ready to organize a grand International Day of Yoga at one place on June 21, 2026 where more than 1000 yogis and yoginis can participate.”
SVYASA Houston, a nonprofit dedicated to yoga education, provided certified instructors to organizations in need of teaching support.
“We have been preparing for IDY 2025 since last December,” said Vishwarupa N, Executive Director of SVYASA. “SVYASA organized many events in community centers and provided teachers for 15 plus events.”
Hindus of Greater Houston supported media outreach efforts, with all events compiled into a single flyer coordinated by Bharat Patel, which helped attendees choose which event to attend.
India House
On Friday evening, India House partnered with the Consulate General of India in Houston and community organizations to host a spirited celebration.
“Yoga has truly become a movement and way of life of many Houstonians,” said CGI DC Manjunath. “This is manifest in the large number of events held this year to celebrate the 11th IDY in the Greater Houston region,”
The India House yoga session was led by Dr. David Frawley, a.k.a Pandit Vamadeva Shastri, a Padma Bhushan awardee. His message was clear-- that “Yoga is
not merely physical; it harmonizes inner and outer life”
“Yoga is India’s timeless gift to the world, a profound practice that nurtures not only the body but also the mind and the spirit,” said Pankaj Malani, president of India House. “Let us remember that yoga is more than just exercise, it’s a path towards holistic health, harmony and inner peace.”
Despite the heat, more than 400 people attended.
“This gathering reflects our shared commitment to health and harmony,” Col. Vipin Kumar said. “I am deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to making India House the vibrant hub of Houston’s IDY celebrations.”
Sugar Land
Nonprofit Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh hosted several yoga sessions, including one at Sugar Land Town Square on the morning of Saturday, June 21.
Organized by the youth wings of HSS and Hindu Yuva, the event reflected this year’s global theme, ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’.
More than 250 participants gathered, including CGI D.C. Manjunath, Council Member Sanjay Singhal, and over a hundred youth volunteers. The session was led by Priyanshu Sheth and Vibhor Nigam. All attendees pledged to embrace yoga not just for a day, but as an integral part of daily life to contribute to a healthier self, a united community and a more peaceful world.
The office of Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers hosted a free, all-ages yoga event at the Precinct 3 Annex. Newly elected Sugar Land Mayor Carol McCutcheon was among those in attendance.
“My office organizes this event each year because I’ve seen firsthand how yoga brings our diverse community together in a meaningful way,” Meyers said. “When we practice yoga as neighbors, we’re not just improving our physical
health – we’re strengthening the bonds that make Fort Bend County such a special place to live.”
The Universal Door Meditation Center in Sugar Land held its first outdoor event, led by Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien, drawing a diverse group of participants.
Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple held their yoga session in the presence of the 90-foot Abhaya Hanuman statue. “It was greatly empowering as Hanuman is the embodiment of strength, vitality and great focus with mastery over the senses,” said Dr. Aparna Tamirisa.
Several indoor events were also held across the city, with yoga studios offering different styles of practice. In Sugar Land, the Sewa Seniors group hosted a special chair yoga session led by yoga teacher and therapist Varsha Pangarkar.
“For many seniors it is very difficult to do mat yoga, so we decided to have a chair yoga session to introduce new people to yoga,” said Sewa member and community leader Vijay Kane.
“It was a very peaceful session, they chair yoga for the first time,” said Pangarkar. “We did a little bit of toning. We had a fun quiz about Father’s Day to break the ice.”
Eternal Gandhi Museum
The Eternal Gandhi Museum held its first International Day of Yoga celebration Sunday evening, quickly relocating the yoga session indoors when rain disrupted the planned outdoor setting.
“To our surprise and joy, no one complained, Attendees simply found their space — on stairs, in corners, by exhibits — transforming the museum into a peaceful sanctuary for practice,” said Saumil Malek.
The event was organized by Union is Creation and sponsored by HGH, Brahma Kumaris, and CGI – Houston, said Manish Wani.
Baytown
Baytown celebrated IDY in Baytown square. Mayor Charles John-
son presented a proclamation at city council proclaiming June 21, 2025, as the International Day of Yoga. This recognizes the universal appeal and numerous benefits of this practice.
“A successful IDY united our town in harmony,” said Bankim Shukla from Baytown.
NASA
NASA celebrated the 11th International Day of Yoga at Space Center Houston, in an event hosted by the CGI India and supported by Rasa Yoga School of Ayurveda Yoga. A diverse crowd gathered for an asana practice under the shuttle and shuttle carrier aircraft.
Organizer Kristen Wollard said the event embodied this year’s theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” highlighting the connection between personal well-being and planetary health.
Katy-Fulshear
HSS hosted an IDY event on June 14 at Irene Stern Center, drawing 200 participants for general and chair yoga, said Pradeep Parekh , HSS coordinator. The event opened with a flag hoisting by Boy Scouts Pack 1836 and was attended by Mayor Don McCoy, city officials, and the Fulshear Police K-9 unit. Sixteen community groups supported the celebration including AOL, Gayatri Temple, HDYC, and KHC.
Olga Prieto led a Spanish-language IDY event at Active Coffee
Shop in Katy, where more than 125 members of the Hispanic community took part.
“That was one of the best events I’ve been to,” said Vishwarupa N. “First time we heard of yoga happening in Spanish. I think we were the only few Indians there.”
Pearland
Vishva Hindu Parishad of America hosted a Sunday evening yoga session at Southdown Park, organized by Achalesh Amar. The event drew a strong turnout, as participants gathered with mats and water bottles to celebrate yoga in a festive atmosphere.
Hindu Temple of The Woodlands
The Hindu Temple of The Woodlands hosted a special workshop as part of the celebrations.
During a pranayama workshop, neonatologist, author, and TEDx speaker Dr. Nitin Ron demonstrated how breathwork can reduce stress and promote mental clarity. He shared insights from his book Pranayam: Breathing Techniques for Health, Healing and Tranquility.
“Our temple vision says, ‘one community, one temple, and one shared vision’,” Dr. Neeta Hiray said. “Just like yoga pioneer BKS Iyengar, once said ‘yoga is a light , which once lit, will never dim, the better the practice, the brighter the flame.’”
Yoga enthusiasts at NASA.
Zohran Mamdani: Can an Indo-American Socialist be NYC Mayor? POLITICS
new york: He had name recognition, $25 million in super PAC backing, and deep ties to the city’s political machinery. But Mamdani, a Ugandan-born IndianAmerican, upended the race with a savvy campaign that focused on affordability - New York’s defining issue. His platform: Mamdani pledged to freeze rents on over a million regulated apartments, offer free public buses, build city-owned grocery stores, and fund universal childcare. These proposals would be bankrolled by $10 billion in new taxes on the rich and corporations.
His style: Leaning into TikTok and Instagram, Mamdani reached voters where they live - on their phones. His viral videos paired sharp critiques of economic inequality with hopeful messaging. Young voters, especially in gentrifying neighborhoods, turned out in force.
His support: Rep Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders didn’t just endorse Mamdani; they helped power his volunteer army of 50,000 - a scale rarely seen even in national races. It worked. Mamdani received nearly 44% of first-choice votes to Cuomo’s 36.3%, according to the New York City Board of Elections. With ranked-choice tabulation still ongoing, his lead is expected to widen thanks to a cross-endorsement strategy with third-place finisher Brad Lander. What they are saying Cuomo, conceding Tuesday night, acknowledged defeat: “Tonight is his night. He deserved it. He won.”
As The New York Times reported, New York attorney general Letitia James compared the energy surrounding Zohran Mamdani’s campaign to a political moment not seen in over a decade. “It really represents the excitement that I saw on the streets all throughout the City of New York,” James said. “I haven’t seen this since Barack Obama ran for president of these United States.”
Ocasio-Cortez celebrated the win: “Billionaires and lobbyists poured millions against you… and you won,” she posted on X. But not everyone is cheering. “This is a capitalist city that has a historic relationship with Israel,” said Kathy Wylde of the Partnership for New York City. “Should he win the primary, he’s going to have to deal with that. Or there will be a serious surge to try and prevent him from becoming mayor.”
Some Democrats view Mamdani as unqualified. Cuomo, in one debate, scoffed at his opponent’s short résumé: “He’s never dealt with Congress. Never negotiated with unions. He’s never even managed an infrastructure project.”
mo, I have never had to resign in disgrace.”
Between the linesMamdani’s background is a mosaic of contrasts and symbolism.Born in Uganda to Indian parents, he immigrated to New York at age 7.
He became a US citizen in 2018, worked as a housing counselor, and was elected to the state Assembly in 2020. His resume may be thin, but his personal story resonates - especially in a city that thrives on reinvention and defiance.
Zoom in
cal support for Palestinian rightshas made him a hero to progressives and younger voters.
The November general election is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in city history.
Adams, despite skipping the primary, remains a potent force. He’s leaning into outsider status after being politically rehabilitated by the Trump Justice Department’s abandonment of his case. Cuomo hasn’t ruled out continuing on the independent line.
If Mamdani survives this gauntlet, it will be over the objections of many of the city’s unions, party leaders, editorial boards, and busi-
ness interests - a clean break from Democratic norms.
If he makes it to City Hall, he’ll inherit a bureaucracy of 300,000 employees and a fiscal structure resistant to radical reform. His ideological purity will meet the realpolitik of budget crises, federal interference, and labor negotiations. A crash is not unthinkable. Still, even the possibility of an Indian-American socialist mayor governing the world’s most influential city was unimaginable just a few years ago. -- ToI
His grassroots campaign was something new - and arguably, something the Democratic Party desperately needs:
Volunteer-powered: Mamdani built a 50,000person ground game - a rare feat in any race, let alone a city primary.
Youth-centered: He dominated among voters under 50, particularly in gentrifying parts of Brooklyn and Queens.
Clear contrast: Where Cuomo ran a nostalgiaheavy campaign focused on his Covid-era briefings and past infrastructure wins, Mamdani looked forward, offering transformative ideas on cost of living, transit, and equity.
Even critics admit Mamdani tapped into something real. “I like youth,” said Sheryl Stein, a voter in Manhattan. “But him having no experience and no proven track record to run the largest city in this country… is pretty scary.”
Too bold to scale?
Mamdani’s retort? “To Mr Cuo-
When strengths become liabilitiesMamdani’s appeal in New York City-his sharp leftist message, unapologetic socialist label, and vo-
BAPS Charities Hosts Healthcare Conference in Houston
houston: BAPS Charities hosted its first-ever Healthcare Professionals Conference (HPC25), drawing more than 1,150 delegates from over 30 medical and allied disciplines. This groundbreaking event offered a rare convergence of clinical excellence and spiritual insight, centered on the theme “Enrich, Explore, Empower.”
With nine focused breakout tracks, over 60 speakers and facilitators, and up to 14 CE/CME-accredited sessions, HPC25 set a new standard for inclusive, interdisciplinary healthcare education— while also inspiring reflection on the deeper meaning of care.
“This wasn’t just a conference,” said Mahima Dave, PharmD, of Chicago. “It was a reawakening of what it means to heal with compassion, purpose, and humility.”
A Conference with a Conscience
At a time when burnout, detachment, and system fatigue challenge the global healthcare profession, HPC25 rekindled the original spirit that draws individuals to a life of healing.
“Most other conferences focus on what to do technically,” reflected Dr. Yagnesh Dave, an internist from Atlanta. “This one helped me reflect on how to become a better physician to treat my patients.”
“This experience was more than just another conference,” said Niki Patel, PharmD, MBA, CDCES, from Robbinsville, NJ. “It was about finding your heartbeat and empowering your life with the skills to serve society.”
Elevating Science with Soul Accredited sessions explored cutting-edge topics such as artificial intelligence in medicine, clinical burnout, health equity, and the future of patient-centered care. But the emotional tone of the conference also touched many deeply.
“A truly inspiring gathering where clinical excellence met spiritual depth,” said Sara Rogers, a pharmacist and researcher from Houston. “The reminder that healing is both a science and a service was powerful.”
“This conference gave me science—and also how to use it,” added Dr. Sachin Shah, PharmD,
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FACC, FAHA, of San Jose. “It reignited the spirit of service in every attendee I spoke with.”
Keynote Spotlight: Compassionate Leadership
The keynote address by Jason Glover, CEO of Memorial Hermann Texas Medical Center, emphasized the human element of care through his “Four L’s” philosophy: Love, Learn, Little Things Matter, and Larger Than Each of Us. His message resonated with delegates striving to maintain compassion amid growing technological complexity.
“How to actually maintain spirituality, even in the rough experiences—I really thought that was excellent,” said Larry Wedekind, CEO of IntegraNet Health, Houston.
“What I appreciate about Indian culture,” noted Prof. Juergen Scheele, CMO of Innoplexus from Germany, “is how intelligently they combine spirituality with the sciences.”
Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges
From practicing clinicians to
aspiring healthcare professionals, the conference created space for collaboration, mentorship, and introspection. Specialized tracks catered to physicians, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, public health experts, and students—encouraging new connections across regional and professional boundaries.
“True networking in healthcare means collaboration without boundaries,” said Mayank Amin, PharmD, RPh, MBA, from Philadelphia, PA. “This conference helped break down invisible walls between professions.”
“The experience expanded my understanding of patient-centered care and reminded me of the humanity behind healthcare,” said Sneh Patel, a pre-med student.
“Surrounded by passionate professionals, we left feeling empowered, enriched, and deeply connected to a shared purpose of selfless service,” said Dr. Monica Patel, a dentist from Robbinsville, NJ.
Global Service, Local Impact BAPS Charities also spotlighted international outreach initiatives
in India, inspiring delegates to apply their skills in rural and underserved settings. These programs reaffirm the organization’s ethos: selfless service (seva) through professional excellence.
“In a profession where burnout and detachment are common,” said Rasesh Patel, a pharmacy consultant from Tampa, “this event offered something rare: healing, purpose, and reconnection.”
“Every moment was meaningful,” reflected Ami Patel, PharmD. “And ending with darshan made it unforgettable.”
As delegates return to their hospitals, clinics, and communities, many carry a renewed commitment to deliver care with not just excellence but empathy. HPC25 proved that when compassion guides technology and values shape leadership, healthcare becomes more than a profession—it becomes a service rooted in humanity.
For more details visit: https:// www.bapscharities.org/hpc25/ Highlights video: https://youtu. be/hvXlpKWp_fI
Panelists engage healthcare professionals in a breakout session under the theme “Enrich, Explore, Empower.”
Delegates from 30 diverse healthcare specialties, totaling 1,150 professionals, gathered at the BAPS Charities Healthcare Professionals Conference
Job Posting
About the Role & Team
NEWSCAST DIRECTOR -- KTRK
Disney Entertainment’s eight owned ABC stations are multiplatform leaders in local news and information. For over 50 years, ABC13 has been Houston’s news leader from sign-on to sign-off. Broadcasting 49 hours of locally produced newscasts each week, ABC13 is the toprated and most-watched news station among the Houston-area viewers. ABC13 also leads the market in its digital media efforts, with top rankings for its website, abc13.com, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. ABC13 delivers live and streaming content on Roku, Fire TV, Amazon, and Apple TV in the ABC13 Houston App. ABC13 is deeply invested in the Houston community, spotlighting Houston’s diversity with community affairs programs covering issues that affect different segments of the population, from local town halls to ABC13+. The station also hosts several community projects throughout the year, including Share Your Holidays, an annual food drive benefiting the Houston Food Bank, and our E-cycle Drive, a collection/recycling effort for outdated electronic equipment in conjunction with Earth Day. ABC13 is also known for broadcasting the city’s major events, including the annual July 4th Freedom Over Texas celebration, the Chevron Marathon, Houston Pride, and the Houston Rodeo Parade.
KTRK-TV is seeking an innovative Newscast Director who will be part of a hands-on directing team responsible for the production side of 70+ Weekly Hours of Newscasts as well as other content, including Weekly Shows, Live Major Special Event Remote Productions, and Sponsored Content Studio Tapings.
What You Will Do
• maintaining the highest standards for on-air presentations and technical quality.
Direct linear & streaming newscasts and other locally produced station content while
• and executing broadcasts
Work closely with show producers, anchors, production, and technical crews in planning
Troubleshoot any on-air issues promptly to minimize disruptions
• Review and provide feedback on newscasts for continuous improvement
• Other production duties as assigned (studio setup & maintenance, stage manager, graph-
• ics, camera operator, clipping & uploading taped shows, remote production assist, etc.)
•
Required Qualifications & Skills
Job Posting
REPORTER -- KTRK
About the Role & Team Disney Entertainment’s eight owned ABC stations are multiplatform leaders in local news and information. For over 50 years, ABC13 has been Houston’s news leader from sign-on to sign-off. Broadcasting 49 hours of locally produced newscasts each week, ABC13 is the top-rated and most-watched news station among the Houston-area viewers. ABC13 also leads the market in its digital media efforts, with top rankings for its website, abc13.com, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. ABC13 delivers live and streaming content on Roku, Fire TV, Amazon, and Apple TV in the ABC13 Houston App. ABC13 is deeply invested in the Houston community, spotlighting Houston’s diversity with community affairs programs covering issues that affect different segments of the population, from local town halls to ABC13+. The station also hosts several community projects throughout the year, including Share Your Holidays, an annual food drive benefiting the Houston Food Bank, and our E-cycle Drive, a collection/recycling effort for outdated electronic equipment in conjunction with Earth Day. ABC13 is also known for broadcasting the city’s major events, including the annual July 4th Freedom Over Texas celebration, the Chevron Marathon, Houston Pride, and the Houston Rodeo Parade.
KTRK-TV is looking for a collaborative, innovative, creative, hard-working and fiercely competitive reporter who loves to dig and enterprise stories for multiple platforms as a general assignment reporter and loves to work on investigative, in-depth pieces covering race and culture in our very diverse market.
The stories we are looking for are not localizations of national stories. We are looking for breaking, hard-hitting, exclusive, and enterprise stories about our local markets that no one else is talking about. You must be an excellent multitasker who can develop stories and sources for general assignments and for race and culture. All roles at KTRK can be assigned to any day, any shift, so working any day part and weekends is an expectation.
What You Will Do
Candidates must be master storytellers who can identify, develop, shoot, write, edit,
• produce, and report high-quality, enterprising stories for multiple platforms. Our ideal candidate also knows how to tell high-impact stories utilizing data and
Minimum of three years of major market live Newscast Directing Experience using
• automated production systems (i.e., Ross Production Switchers and Graphic Systems, Grass Valley Ignite, Sony ELC, Calrec Audio Consoles)
• other research tools and is willing to experiment with new technology.
• tacts and exclusive story ideas.
Must have a desire to serve the community and a knack for quickly cultivating con-
Thorough Knowledge of conventional and automated television production systems,
•
• studio and field video and audio production, and video editing software. In addition, keep updated on industry innovations.
• during live productions
•
Technical know-how to resolve existing issues and to work around problems that arise
Knowledge of current broadcast industry standards and practices
• ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances
Proven track record working in fast fast-paced and deadline-driven environment with the
• ability to remain calm under pressure
Must have Excellent Leadership, Communication, and Organizational Skills, and the
• tion needs of the station.
Ability to work early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays to support the produc-
Required Education
High School Diploma
Preferred Education College or Technical School Diploma
Interested candidates apply via Disneycareers.com reference JOB ID # 10123350
About Disney Entertainment:
At Disney Corporate you can see how the businesses behind the Company’s powerful brands come together to create the most innovative, far-reaching and admired entertainment company in the world. As a member of a corporate team, you’ll work with world-class leaders driving the strategies that keep The Walt Disney Company at the leading edge of entertainment. See and be seen by other innovative thinkers as you enable the greatest storytellers in the world to create memories for millions of families around the globe.
About The Walt Disney Company:
The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise with the following business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, Disney Parks, and Experiences and Products. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.
This position is with KTRK Television, Inc, which is part of a business we call Disney Entertainment.
KTRK Television, Inc is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Disney fosters a business culture where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a rapidly changing world.
Required Qualifications & Skills
Qualified candidates must have a minimum 2-year major market television news
• experience with excellent editorial, writing, shooting, editing, and on-air presentation skills, including live reporting & ad lib expertise.
• days) and adaptable to change.
Must be flexible with working hours (late nights, overnights, Weekends, and holi-
Background check clearance and a clean driving record will be required.
• Must be a team player with an exceptional work ethic, the ability to work under a
• deadline, multi-task, prioritize assignments, and have the flexibility to work any shift required.
• with a strong presence on social media.
We want a respected, knowledgeable, ethical station representative and team player
• tacts and exclusive story ideas.
Must have a desire to serve the community and a knack for quickly cultivating con-
Required Education College or Technical School Diploma
Interested candidates apply via Disneycareers.com reference JOB ID # 10123351
About Disney Entertainment:
At Disney Corporate you can see how the businesses behind the Company’s powerful brands come together to create the most innovative, far-reaching and admired entertainment company in the world. As a member of a corporate team, you’ll work with worldclass leaders driving the strategies that keep The Walt Disney Company at the leading edge of entertainment. See and be seen by other innovative thinkers as you enable the greatest storytellers in the world to create memories for millions of families around the globe.
About The Walt Disney Company:
The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise with the following business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, Disney Parks, and Experiences and Products. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.
This position is with KTRK Television, Inc, which is part of a business we call Disney Entertainment.
KTRK Television, Inc is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Disney fosters a business culture where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a rapidly changing world.
Is It Better to Start Your Day with Coffee or Tea? What Experts Recommend
By kirsten nunez
For many people, no morning routine is complete without a caffeinated beverage. This usually involves coffee or tea—two drinks that are very popular, especially at the start of the day. However, if overall wellness is at the top of your mind, you might wonder if either drink is superior in terms of health benefits. To find out, we asked dietitians to call out the better morning drink, plus how each beverage affects the body.
Benefits of Drinking Coffee
If you’re a coffee fan, you’ll be glad to know that there are many benefits to a cup of joe. “Brewed coffee provides antioxidants, including chlorogenic acid and other polyphenols,” shares registered dietitian Maddie Pasquariello, MS, RDN. And as Pasquariello notes, antioxidants are compounds that protect the body from cellular damage by scavenging for free radicals. This may help reduce the risk of chronic conditions, such as heart disease and cancer.
“The antioxidants in coffee can also support brain health, metabolic function, and liver detox pathways,” explains registered dietitian Samantha Peterson, MS, RD. Even the caffeine in coffee has some health benefits, as it can help protect against inflammation, according to Pasquariello.
Benefits of Drinking Tea
As with coffee, caffeinated teas like green and black tea are beloved morning brews. They also boast their own list of impressive benefits for the body. According to Peterson, green and black teas are antioxidant powerhouses, as they’re rich in catechins— particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in green tea and theaflavins in black tea. “These antioxidants support cardiovascular health, metabolic shifts, hormonal balancing, and immune resilience,” Peterson says. “Plus,
tea provides a gentler energy lift thanks to its L-theanine content, which promotes a calm, focused alertness without the jitters or cortisol spike that some people experience with coffee.”
Is Coffee or Tea the Better Morning Drink?
Ready for a plot twist? Neither coffee or tea is superior to drink in the morning. “Overall, the difference between swapping tea for coffee or vice versa won’t make a huge difference when it comes to your overall health, with all else being equal,” shares Pasquariello.
And while it is possible you could get more polyphenols and caffeine by drinking black coffee instead of black or green tea, nutrition is much more complex. “Your health is made up of so many more habits and components, [so] you probably wouldn’t notice a huge difference in terms of preventing chronic disease or improving overall health,” Pasquariello adds.
How to Choose
If neither drink is technically better, how do you choose between coffee vs. tea? Consider factors like energy stability, mood,
focus, digestion, and sleep quality, advises Peterson. “It’s less about one being ‘right’ and more about honoring your unique needs,” she explains.
For example, if you need a stronger cognitive kickstart or you’re engaging in high-intensity mental or physical work in the morning, coffee might be the way to go. That’s because it offers a more immediate energy boost, per Peterson. “It’s also a great option for those who metabolize caffeine well and don’t experience negative side effects like anxiety, digestive upset, or disrupted sleep,” she says. In contrast, tea provides a calmer, more sustained energy boost. This might be the better option if coffee makes you feel jittery, or you find it tough to drink on an empty stomach, notes Pasquariello. “The same goes if you tend to wake up with anxiety, have a slow caffeine metabolism, or you’re working on hormonal balance, adrenal health, or gut healing,” Peterson explains. Finally, tea can be a good option if you struggle to stay hydrated with water alone (though plain water is always optimal, of course), according to Pasquariello.
“Ultimately, the right choice depends on your body, goals, and how you respond to caffeine,” Peterson concludes.-- Real Simple
TCC SPRING 2025 PREMIER | WINNERS: WOMCC | RUNNERS-UP: CSK
houston: In one of the most thrilling finals in TCC Taped Ball history, WOM Cricket Club (WOMCC) emerged victorious over Cypress Super Kings (CSK) to clinch the TCC Taped Ball Spring 2025 Premier title. The victory was especially sweet for WOMCC, who had previously fallen just short as runners-up in both the Spring T20 2024 and Summer T10 2024 editions of the Premier series. For CSK it was their first appearance in a Premier final.
Batting first, CSK posted a competitive total of 145 in their 20 overs. Khurram Nawaz Khan played a sensational knock of 55 off 34 balls, anchoring the innings after early breakthroughs. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, CSK managed to build partnerships and keep the scoreboard ticking. WOMCC bowlers were disciplined, with Jayanth Kalakuntla (4-0-17-2) and Abhiram Sirigineedi (4-0-28-1) playing key roles in limiting the total. A flurry of late wickets and sharp fielding from WOMCC restricted CSK to a chaseable score.
The innings also featured a crucial turning point: a smart and decisive run-out engineered by Harsha Teja and Abhiram Sirigineedi, to get Mohammed Asfar right when CSK were attempting a late surge. In addition, wicketkeeper Prakash Parthiban was outstanding behind
the stumps, affecting four dismissals, including three catches and one run-out. His sharp glovework and awareness played a massive role in keeping CSK from posting a more imposing total.
In response, WOMCC’s innings began in complete disarray, collapsing to 35/7 in just 8 overs. CSK’s bowling was led by Sriram Sureshkumar, who bowled a good spell and got 4 wickets for just 10 runs, shaking WOMCC’s top and middle order. At that stage, CSK looked destined for glory.
However, what followed was an unbelievable comeback, scripted by Abhiram Sirigineedi, who delivered one of the finest underpressure knocks in TCC history.
Walking in with the team in tatters, Abhiram played a sensational unbeaten innings of 71 off 41 balls, blending calculated aggression with calm composure. He lit up the final with 6 towering sixes and 5 piercing fours, thrilling the crowd and carrying WOMCC’s hopes single-handedly in a pressure-packed chase. He was well supported by Sreekanth Tangella, who scored 34 off 20 balls, helping bring WOMCC back into the contest with a crucial partnership for the eighth wicket.
With just one wicket remaining and 48 needed in the final 5 overs, the pressure was immense. But Abhiram held his nerve, finishing the game with a quick running
between the wickets in the final over to lead WOMCC to a onewicket win, sealing their first TCC Premier championship in dramatic fashion.
The final was followed by a lively presentation ceremony, hosted by TCC organizers Jagadish Biradar and Dinesh Kasliwal. Abhiram Sirigineedi was named Man of the Match
for his heroic match-winning effort. Vishwatej Mudigonda was declared the Man of The Series. The Winners’ Trophy was jointly received by WOMCC Captains Harsha Teja and team Owner Neelesh Musale, while the Runners-up Trophy was accepted by CSK captain Krishnan Narayanan, who led his team with great spirit and resolve in their debut final. For tournament awards, Hamza from CSK was best batsman with 275 runs, Sarvanakumar from CSK was the best bowler with 15 wickets, Sukitha from Tuskers was the best keeper with 23 dismissals, Kiran from ECC was best allrounder with 231 runs and 10 wickets, Paul from Bulls and Saad from Gladiators got special awards for centuries and Vishal from ECC got a special award for Hat trick
This victory marks a major milestone in WOMCC’s journey in TCC, showcasing resilience, fight, and championship character. For CSK, this final was a proud statement of their rise in the TCC Premier ranks and a glimpse of future success to come.
Cric clubs score card is at https:// cricclubs.com/3T/fullScorecard. do?matchId=2580&clubId=8675 YouTube link is at https:// www.youtube.com/ watch?v=ntWF2WIngUY Report on TCC Taped Ball website is at https://triggerscricket. com/?p=1106
Winners: WOMCC
Runners Up: CSK
ENTERTAINMENT
‘Sitaare Zameen Par’: Wholesome & Feel Good
By dhaVaL roy
Story: Gulshan Arora (Aamir Khan) is a brash basketball coach suspended for punching the head coach and facing a jail term for drunk driving. Instead, he is sentenced to community service — training a team of players with intellectual disabilities to compete in a national basketball tournament. As he coaches them, he embarks on a journey of personal growth and learning valuable life lessons.
Review: An official remake of the 2018 Spanish hit Champions, Sitaare Zameen Par serves as an indirect sequel to 2007’s Taare Zameen Par. While the earlier film highlighted developmental disabilities through the lens of dyslexia and remedial education, this one shifts the focus to individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID), like Down Syndrome and invisible autism, on a basketball court.
Despite a sensitive and layered subject, R S Prasanna’s directorial venture, written by Divy Nidhi Sharma, remains a wholesome, feel-good watch. It strikes a commendable balance between delivering a message and educating viewers about ID, all with a lighthearted touch. At its core is a message of inclusivity—conveying
that people with ID are employable, independent, full of life, and deeply empathetic.
The film sensitively portrays the characteristic traits of the players’ conditions without reducing them to labels—Bantu’s (Vedant Sharma) stimming through ear-scratching, Guddu’s (GopiKrishnan K Verma) aquaphobia, Sharmaji’s (Rishi Shahani) speech impairment, and the less-recognised invisible autism in high-functioning Hargovind (Naman Misra). These are presented as facets of their personalities, not just symptoms.
The film mixes sentiment with spunk, avoiding overly preachy tones. ID is described through relatable lines like, ‘Humaari kismat haathon pe nahi, chromosome pe likh ke aati hai (Our destiny isn’t written on our palms — it’s written in our chromosomes).’ While the underdog sports narrative and troubled-coach arc feel familiar, the film’s heart and humour keep it engaging.
That said, the story does wander. Subplots involving his mother, Preeto (Dolly Ahluwalia Tewari), and their butler Daulatji (Bijendra Kala) contribute little to the core story. A few other sequences feel stretched, and pacing suffers in parts. The climax gets overly sentimental in parts.
Some scenes, like the team managing airfare and accommodation for the final match, come across as convenient and trite.Aamir Khan stands out as the brash, initially insensitive, and politically incorrect coach. He convincingly portrays a man who evolves while retaining a certain swagger.
Genelia Deshmukh is sincere as his wife Suneeta, though her character lacks depth. The ensemble cast—Ashish Pendse, Aroush Datta, Aayush Bhansali, Rishi Shahani, GopiKrishnan K Verma, Rishabh Jain, Vedant Sharma, Simran Mangeshkar, Samvit Desai, and Naman Misra—deserves applause for bringing energy, authenticity, and warmth to the film. Dolly Ahluwalia Tewari, Bijendra Kala, and Gurpal Singh offer solid support.
If Taare Zameen Par had the soul, Sitaare Zameen Par brings the spirit. It’s a heartwarming family watch that blends comedy, compassion, and charm, and is definitely worth a trip to the theatre.
The latest report states that Sitaare Zameen Par made an opening haul of Rs. 10.7 crore, and showed growth on Saturday and Sunday, earning Rs. 20.2 crore and Rs. 27.25 crore . Its total collections now stand at Rs. 82.4 crore.
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