Life & Style

Representational image of a mountaineer during an ice climbing session at Everest base camp in Nepal
| Photo Credit: Reuters

Nepal is planning to restrict expeditions to Mount Everest only to those mountaineers who have climbed at least one peak above 7,000 metres aimed at reducing deaths in the high altitude zone, a media report said.

Why is climbing Mount Everest so dangerous?

Ever since New Zealander Edmund Hillary and Nepal’s Sherpa Tenzing Norgay summited the 8,849 metres (29,032 feet) high Mt Everest, popular as Sagarmatha in Nepali, on May 29, 1953, thousands of climbers from all over the world, including India and Nepal, have been attracted to the highest peak in the world.

Official data shows that since 1953’s Hillary-Norgay summit, around 9,000 mountaineers have successfully scaled Mt Everest while over 300 have lost their lives.

‘Prove yourself first’

“The 8,848.86-metre Everest is about to get a stricter gatekeeper. No longer will just any climber with ambition and a permit be able to attempt the world’s highest peak. A new draft law says: ‘Prove yourself first’.

Nepal hikes Mount Everest climbing fee by 36%

“According to the Integrated Tourism Bill registered in the upper house of Parliament on April 18, any climber wishing to set foot on Everest must first have conquered a mountain over 7,000 metres,” The Kathmandu Post said.

Pointing out that this spring alone, more than 400 enthusiasts have been granted permission for the Everest climbing and the number will likely increase to at least 500, a leader in the Kathmandu Post on Tuesday said: Such high numbers, no matter how beneficial for Nepal’s economy, have a darker side: unusual traffic jams, an increase in the deaths of climbers (for instance, 17 deaths in 2023 and eight in 2024), rapid glacier melt and the spreading image of Everest as the “world’s highest garbage dump”.

Health check mandatory

Among the many restrictions mentioned in the Bill, health checks will be mandatory; climbers will need a certificate from a government-approved medical institution, issued within the past month, to confirm their medical fitness for ascent, and individuals with health complications will be excluded from participating in an expedition.

The bill is still in draft form and must pass through debates in both houses of Parliament with changes likely before the final law is signed off, the newspaper said, adding, “Still, what’s already outlined in the bill paints a clear picture: the government is trying to bring order, accountability, and safety to the mountains.”

Expensive to retrieve bodies

Retrieving bodies of those who die on Everest is an expensive and risky operation, often costing anywhere between $20,000 and $200,000. The new bill proposes better dead body management insurance.

Another top priority for the government is cleaning up Everest and the draft bill replaces the current $4,000 refundable garbage deposit with a non-refundable garbage fee, the Kathmandu Post added.

Waymo started collecting data in Tokyo with test rides operated by human drivers to map key areas of the Japanese capital [File]
| Photo Credit: REUTERS

Toyota Motor and Alphabet’s Waymo said on Wednesday they have agreed to explore a collaboration on speeding up the development and deployment of autonomous driving technology.

The two companies in a joint statement said they aim to combine respective strengths to develop an autonomous vehicle platform, while also exploring ways to enhance next-generation personally owned vehicles (POVs).

“The companies aim to further accelerate the development and adoption of driver assistance and automated driving technologies for POVs,” they said.

The firms said they will discuss the possibility of expanding the scope of their cooperation, adding that Toyota’s autonomous driving technology unit Woven by Toyota will join the potential collaboration.

Earlier this month, Waymo started collecting data in Tokyo with test rides operated by human drivers to map key areas of the Japanese capital and get a better understanding of local infrastructure and driving patterns.

Woven by Toyota is developing an automotive software platform, Arene, and building a testing site named Woven City for mobility-related systems and services in Shizuoka Prefecture, west of Tokyo.

Choosing the right gold carat depends on purpose and preference. 22k gold, with its rich color, suits traditional occasions and investment, while 18k gold offers durability for everyday wear and gemstone settings. 21k gold balances purity and practicality, though availability may vary. Always prioritize trusted jewelers and hallmarking for genuine quality.

Akshaya Tritiya is here today, and if you are considering buying gold, you are not alone. This auspicious day is all about attracting prosperity, and buying gold is seen as a powerful ritual to usher in endless blessings and good fortune. But once you are at the jewellery store or scrolling online the choices can be overwhelming. One of the most common questions people ask is: Should I go for 18k, 21k or 22k gold? Each type has its pros and cons depending on whether you are buying for investment, tradition, or everyday style. Choosing gold isn’t just about the design or budget, it’s also about understanding what caratage suits your purpose best. While the sparkle might be universal, the type of gold you pick can make a big difference in how your jewellery performs over time. Let’s break it down so you can make the smartest and most sparkling decision today.

Let’s start with what “carat” in gold means. It’s not the same as carat for diamonds. In gold, carat refers to purity. Pure gold is 24 carats, basically 99.9% gold but it’s also incredibly soft and not practical for making jewellery that lasts. That’s why it’s mixed with other metals like silver, copper, or zinc to make it more durable. The result? Different carat levels like 18k, 21k and 22k, each with its own unique blend of gold and alloy.
Let’s talk about 22k gold first. This is what most people traditionally think of when they picture “real gold” especially in India and the Middle East. With 91.6% gold content, it’s very close to pure, which makes it both valuable and vibrant in colour. It has that rich, unmistakable yellow glow that screams tradition and luxury. It’s the go-to choice for weddings, festive gifts, and heirloom pieces. But there’s a catch: 22k gold is quite soft. While it’s okay for necklaces and earrings, it’s not ideal for rings or jewellery with intricate stone settings that get jostled around. So, if you are buying something you’ll wear often or that needs to last through rough use, 22k might not be your best bet. However, if you are thinking of long-term investment, or buying for traditional occasions, it’s a timeless pick.

Now, here’s where 21k gold comes in – a bit of a sweet spot that many people don’t talk about enough. With 87.5% gold, it sits right between 18k and 22k in terms of purity. You get almost the same glow and prestige of 22k, but it’s a little more durable and slightly more affordable. It’s not as common in India, though it’s quite popular in the Middle East. The main issue is availability – you might not find a wide variety of designs in 21k at every store. But if you do come across it, it’s a smart middle ground for those who want both value and practicality.
Then there’s the modern favourite: 18k gold. With 75% gold and 25% alloy, it’s significantly more durable than 21k or 22k, making it perfect for everyday jewellery. It doesn’t bend or scratch as easily, which means it can handle the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s also the best option if you love diamonds or gemstone-studded jewellery. Why? Because 18k gold is strong enough to securely hold stones in place without the metal giving way. It also allows jewellers more creative freedom with designs, so you will find a ton of trendy, contemporary options in 18k. On the flip side, it doesn’t have that deep yellow colour that’s synonymous with traditional gold. So, if you’re buying gold for cultural or religious significance, or for gifting to someone who prefers classic gold tones, 18k might not be the right fit.

When choosing between these gold types, the best approach is to think about why you’re buying the piece in the first place. If it’s for investment, or you want something that will hold traditional value, 22k is ideal. It’s also perfect for ceremonies, gifting, and bridal sets. If you’re looking for something that offers both durability and richness, and don’t mind the limited design options, 21k could be a good balance. For everyday wear – think rings, bracelets, and minimalistic chains that you wear to work or on holidays – 18k is a no-brainer. It’s strong, stylish, and goes well with western and Indo-western outfits alike.
It’s also important to remember that no matter which carat of gold you choose, always buy from a trusted jeweller and check for proper hallmarking. In India, for instance, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) hallmark ensures that your gold is genuine and the purity is exactly what’s claimed. This becomes crucial not just for peace of mind, but also for resale or exchange later on.
So, what should you buy? If you’re someone who wants jewellery to be part of your personal style and daily look, and you’re not too focused on resale value or religious traditions, 18k is your best bet. If you’re drawn to the warm glow of traditional gold and want to preserve family customs or gift something meaningful during festivals or weddings, go with 22k. And if you’re open to trying something that offers a good mix of both worlds, and you come across 21k designs you love, don’t hesitate.
Gold is more than just metal – it’s emotion, memory, and heritage wrapped into something beautiful. Whether you choose 18k, 21k or 22k, make sure it reflects your style, your needs, and most importantly, your story.

Prince William plans to strip Meghan Markle and Prince Harry of their HRH titles. Media reports have added that this might happen after Prince William ascends the British throne.
Prince William will strip Prince Harry and Meghan Markle of their HRH (His/Her Royal Highness) titles when he becomes king, after Meghan made it clear she plans to continue using the honorific, the Daily Beast has reported citing sources. “Meghan and Harry promised the late Queen Elizabeth they would stop using the HRH titles when they left the royal family in 2020, but Meghan has reneged on that promise,” the report added.
She recently used “Her Royal Highness” in promotion of her personal brand, As Ever.

“Harry and Meghan retain their HRH titles; however, by agreement, they do not use them for commercial purposes. While they do not publicly use ‘HRH,’ this was a personal gift, and their titles remain,” the media outlet has cited a Meghan source. “This source said that the so-called Sandringham Summit, which settled the terms of Meghan and Harry’s exit from the ranks of working royalty, “made it clear they had agreed not to use the HRH titles at all, ever, in any capacity,” it added.

A statement from the Buckingham Palace, released in 2020 says, “The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are grateful to Her Majesty and the Royal Family for their ongoing support as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.
As agreed in this new arrangement, they understand that they are required to step back from Royal duties, including official military appointments. They will no longer receive public funds for Royal duties.
With The Queen’s blessing, the Sussexes will continue to maintain their private patronages and associations. While they can no longer formally represent The Queen, the Sussexes have made clear that everything they do will continue to uphold the values of Her Majesty.”
“The Sussexes will not use their HRH titles as they are no longer working members of the Royal Family,” it added.

While we interact with many people and they might say they’re our friends, not everyone is our well-wisher. They might seem sweet on our face, but our toxic side behind our backs. Such relationships deeply affect our mental health, self-esteem, and overall well-being in the long run. While no one is perfect, certain personality types can be emotionally draining, manipulative, or even harmful. So, here we list certain types of people one should be aware of and stay away from:

Akshaya Tritiya, one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar, isn’t just another date- it’s a powerful spiritual portal. Celebrated on the third day of the bright half of the lunar month of Vaishakha, this day is believed to magnify all good beginnings. The word Akshaya means “never diminishing,” making it the perfect occasion to invest in things that are meant to last- blessings, wealth, prosperity, and love. Traditionally, this has translated into the buying of gold and precious jewellery, acts considered especially auspicious on this day.
“As we honour the spirit of Akshaya Tritiya, may the jewellery you select be a source of joy and lasting blessings for you and your family,” says jewellery designer Archana Aggarwal, whose timeless pieces have long celebrated the connection between tradition and modern elegance. She believes that jewellery isn’t just an accessory- it’s a living legacy. “The right piece of jewellery is more than an accessory, it is an heirloom in the making, a tangible expression of love, and a celebration of artistry,” she shares.
So what should you buy this Akshaya Tritiya? Here’s a thoughtful guide!

Gold is the star of Akshaya Tritiya, revered not just for its beauty but for its deep-rooted cultural significance. Whether it’s a pair of temple-style jhumkas, a handcrafted necklace, or gold bangles passed from mother to daughter, each piece becomes a thread in the family’s story.

Opt for intricate patterns that carry echoes of tradition or go sleek with modern silhouettes that are perfect for everyday wear.

If you’re looking to blend elegance with symbolism, diamonds are your best bet. As Archana notes, “Diamonds, known as symbols of strength and permanence, add emotional value to your purchase, making them a desirable choice on this auspicious occasion.” A sparkling diamond necklace or a sleek bracelet can mark this sacred day while also offering timeless style.

Jewellery sets that include matching earrings, necklaces, bangles, and maang-tikkas are a beautiful nod to India’s diverse heritage. Aggarwal recommends investing in traditional designs that celebrate artisanal techniques like kundan, meenakari, and filigree. “These intricate designs have the potential to become family heirlooms passed down through generations,” she says. These are not just purchases, they’re statements of legacy and continuity.

Akshaya Tritiya is a day of fresh starts. It’s no surprise that many couples choose to mark it with engagement rings or tokens of love. “Custom designs allow you to incorporate meaningful symbols and stones that reflect your partner’s personality and preferences. Such thoughtful pieces create a connection that is both romantic and timeless,” Aggarwal advises.

Choosing a ring on this day adds an extra layer of meaning to your love story.

For those wanting to branch out from gold, gemstone jewellery offers colour, charm, and meaning. According to Archana, “Gemstones, such as emeralds, rubies, and sapphires, are believed to bring abundance and prosperity.” Whether it’s a statement ring or delicate earrings, gemstone jewellery fuses visual beauty with energetic resonance.

For the style-conscious modern woman who favours versatility, Akshaya Tritiya is also a good time to explore minimalist pieces with subtle gold or diamond detailing. These can easily go from day to night and work beautifully with both ethnic and western outfits. Even a sleek gold chain or a dainty ring worn daily becomes a lucky charm purchased on this auspicious day.

The power of Akshaya Tritiya lies in its promise: that anything started on this day will flourish and multiply. “Whether you select a contemporary masterpiece or a timeless gold heirloom, remember, true value lies not in weight or price, but in the emotions and traditions they embody,” says Aggarwal. And that’s the essence of buying jewellery on this day- it’s not just a financial investment, but a spiritual one too.

As you walk into a jewellery store this Akshaya Tritiya or scroll through an online collection, let your heart lead the way. Whether you’re drawn to gold, diamonds, or colourful gemstones, let your purchase mark a memory, a celebration, or a new beginning. After all, Akshaya Tritiya is not just about buying jewellery, it’s about inviting in abundance, prosperity, and love in their most enduring forms.
May your Akshaya Tritiya be filled with sparkle, smiles, and stories worth telling, one jewel at a time.

While much is written about Google’s Indian-origin CEO Sundar Pichai, and his remarkable rise to success, not much is known about his personal life. His wife, Anjali Pichai, too, prefers to stay out of the spotlight. However, Anjali Pichai is not just Sundar Pichai‘s wife, but she has also carved a niche for herself in her own right. She is the woman whose quiet strength and unwavering support helped shape Sundar Pichai’s incredible career. Read on to know more about Anjali Pichai here:

Born and raised in Rajasthan, Anjali Haryani (her maiden name) was a bright and ambitious student. She pursued Chemical Engineering at IIT Kharagpur, one of India’s most prestigious institutions. It was there, amidst classrooms and campus life, that she met Sundar Pichai. During their college days, their friendship blossomed into a strong partnership for life— one that would become a pillar of Sundar Pichai’s personal and professional success.

Just like Sundar Pichai, Anjali too hails from a humble family. Her father, Olaram Haryani, was a government employee in Kota, Rajasthan. In a rare public moment, he made headlines in 2015 when he remarried at the age of 70. Despite being a power-couple globally, Anjali and Sundar Pichai prefer to keep their family life largely private. Anjali and Sundar Pichai got married August 10, 2015 and they are parents to two children: Kavya and Kiran. However, the couple prefers to keep their children away from the public eye and lead a private life.

While Sundar Pichai’s rise to success is well known, Anjali’s own career is equally impressive. After graduating as a chemical engineer, she began her professional journey with Accenture. She later moved to the U.S., where she currently works as a Business Operations Manager at Intuit, a leading American software firm.
While she’s often away from the spotlight, Anjali has been a constant source of strength and wisdom. According to reports by DNA, one of the most pivotal moments in Sundar’s career came when he received lucrative offers from other tech companies. It was Anjali who advised him to stay at Google—a decision that proved to be a turning point. Not only did Sundar remain at Google, but he eventually rose to become its CEO in 2015, and later the CEO of Alphabet Inc. in 2019.
Behind every great leader is often a strong partner. In Sundar Pichai’s case, that partner is Anjali—quiet, steady, and powerful in her own right.

Are you an office worker? Does the job require you to sit or stare at the computer all day? If your answer is yes, brace yourself, what you are going to learn will leave you petrified. The outside world might think the office workers are one clan of lucky folks. Sitting (or rather ‘relaxing’ in their words) all day, doing their job, and logging out. No exposure to pollution, no need to blame the weather, and hardly any physical effort. Office jobs might look glamorous on the outside, but the insider view is uglier than you imagine. From back pain to dry and strained eyes, weight gain, and stress, it only gets worse. If the outcomes of your job match this, we have some bad news for you. It’s only going to get worse! No, that’s not our verdict, but what scientists think.
Scientists have created a life-size model of how an office worker would look in 20 years, and it will leave you startled. A team of health experts has led by behavioral futurist William Higham, has demonstrated the future of an office worker after 20 years, based on the survey data submitted by more than 3,000 office workers in France, Germany, and the UK. The life-size doll named Emma does not look great, and no, we are not talking about the aesthetics.
Emma has a hump on her back, she is struggling with excess weight, her abdominal fat has risen to dangerous levels, her face is bloated and she has a double chin, her eyes are flat and dead, her legs are swollen and covered in varicose veins.

In the report titled The Work Colleague of the Future, the health experts hint at the alarming health issues office workers would face if changes aren’t made to the workplace environment.
“The most common health problems in the office today are physical inactivity and asymmetric physical strain, especially around phone calling or typing. These can all lead to degenerative processes impacting muscles, joints, discs, nerves, and tendons, and may cause pain and tissue damage. Lack of motion can lead to muscle degeneration. Overdoing motions, such as mouse-clicking, can cause inflammation and nerve compression.” German occupational and public health expert Dr Frank Emrich said in a statement.
“Modern technology has robbed us of traditional movements like standing up. We don’t even need to get up to answer the phone now. When was the last time you got up to answer the phone?” Ergonomics expert Stephen Bowden, of the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors, asks.

The study says that just sitting at a desk can have a huge impact on an individual’s health. Though the sedentary lifestyle may look physically easy, it can have devastating long-term effects.
The report points out that over three million people die due to physical inactivity each year. Sedentary lifestyle was the fourth highest cause of mortality in the world in 2019. Twice as many people die from inactivity as from obesity.
“Sedentariness will have the greatest negative impact on the body and mind of the worker of the future. The risks of a sedentary lifestyle are now very well known, and include obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease,” Fabienne Broucaret, wellness expert, notes.

A study by the researchers at Liverpool John Moores University in the UK found that sitting for prolonged periods can reduce blood flow to the brain, which can slow brain functionality and increase the likelihood of developing neurological disorders like dementia. A sedentary lifestyle not only kills your physical health but also has an impact on your mental wellness. The report also notes down some of the occupational hazards of office workers, such as poor air quality, artificial lighting, germ-filled surfaces, close proximity, stress related to targets, among others.
“The body requires low intensity, high frequency movements throughout the entire day,” Bowden adds.

Health concerns extend beyond immediate comfort issues. The body’s natural temperature drops between 4 and 6 am. When this is combined with prolonged cold air exposure, it can lead to skin problems, including dryness and itching. This further exacerbates acne, poor skin barrier, and low moisture levels. Skin with low moisture is susceptible to wrinkles, dullness, and dark spots over time.