Life & Style

Madison Square, Fifth Avenue, Go To Jail, Grand Boulevard. Do these words and places ring any bells? Most of us would have stumbled upon them while playing the popular board game Monopoly. Imagine being a woman in the United States way before they got voting rights who worked hard to create a unique game to teach the negative outcomes of a monopolistic economy to the masses without much success. Fast-forwarding years, the board game went up to one of the most-loved household games to date without any credit given to the woman behind it. This is exactly what the inventor of Monopoly went through, unfortunately.

The mind behind the board

In 1866, in Macomb, Illinois, a daughter was born to James Magie, a newspaper publisher and an advocate of economic reform. Being an ardent fan of Georgism (idea based on the writings of Henry George, a political economist who argued that wealth inequality stemmed from land monopolisation and that land should be taxed heavily to prevent the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few), he had instilled the idea that inequality is one of the greatest threats in his child. This young girl grew up to be an independent and forward-thinking woman who was a strong advocate for economic and gender equality. This was Elizabeth ‘Lizzie’ Magie.

A Georgist since a young age, Magie loved to create board games that helped convey and educate major economic concepts to the masses. It was in 1903 that Magie designed The Landlord’s Game to illustrate the economic principles of Henry George. The Landlord’s Game also began as an illustration of the dangers of unchecked capitalism and monopoly power. The game had two sets of rules to help the players understand the aftermath of a monopolistic society. One encouraged monopolistic behaviour, while the other promoted a tax-based, anti-monopoly approach. Magie hoped that players would see the negative consequences of monopolistic practices and adopt a more equitable economic mindset.

Elizabeth ‘Lizzie’ Magie.
| Photo Credit:
Wikimedia Commons

She patented the game in 1904, making it one of the first board games designed by a woman to receive official recognition. She was part of the less than 1% of the female population who held a patent even before having the right to vote! Despite Magie’s best efforts to promote The Landlord’s Game, it failed to gain widespread commercial success. However, it did not go unnoticed. Over the next few decades, various versions of the game were copied and modified by different groups, including colleges and schools, who used it to teach economic principles.

“a practical demonstration of the present system of land-grabbing with all its usual outcomes and consequences. It might well have been called the ‘Game of Life,’ as it contains all the elements of success and failure in the real world.”Elizabeth Magie about her game ‘The Landlord’s Game’

The Landlord’s Game to Monopoly

Until the late 20th and early 21st Centuries, the same game under a different name—Monopoly— was credited to Charles Darrow. An unemployed salesman and a capitalism (an economic system that emphasises private ownership and profit) enthusiast, he came across a modified version of the original game at a social gathering and “reinvented” it by making additional changes like the introduction of fixed property names and a more polished design. He then further marketed it as a new game called Monopoly. In 1935, he sold the game to Parker Brothers, who, believing Darrow to be the sole inventor, promoted him as the genius behind the game’s success.

After acquiring Monopoly, Parker Brothers soon discovered Magie’s patent for The Landlord’s Game when people started reaching out, saying they had been playing the game for years. Realising the potential legal complications, they purchased Magie’s patent for $500. Magie, happy that her brainchild would finally reach the masses, accepted the deal, but she soon realised that her vision had been fully stripped away. The version of Monopoly that Parker Brothers produced glorified monopolistic wealth accumulation rather than critiquing it like how she originally invented it. In a 1936 interview with The Washington Post, she expressed her disappointment that a game she designed to warn against monopolies had become a celebration of capitalist dominance, with no reference to the Georgist ideology she wanted to pass on.

The one that stood out

Unlike most women of her era, she supported herself and didn’t marry until the age of 44. In addition to working as a stenographer and a secretary, she wrote poetry and performed comedic routines onstage. An anecdote popularly known about Magie is how fearless she was in standing up for her beliefs. Finding it difficult to support herself on the $10 a week she was earning, Magie staged an audacious stunt mocking marriage as the only option for women. She purchased an advertisement offering herself for sale as a “young woman American slave” to the highest bidder. The stunt shouted her political stand loudly as she said, “We are not machines. Girls have minds, desires, hopes and ambition.”

The truth comes out

It was in the 1970s that the involvement of Magie in creating Monopoly came out during a legal battle. Ralph Anspach, an economics professor and creator of the game Anti-Monopoly, was in a legal battle with the Parker Brothers when he discovered documents that traced Monopoly’s origins back to The Landlord’s Game. And that’s how the deceitful story behind the popular board game came about.

Today, Magie is slowly gaining recognition for her work, as historians acknowledge her as the true creator of Monopoly, and her contributions to economic education and game design are celebrated. Nevertheless, her story is a reminder of how women’s achievements have often been erased by history due to inequalities and the societal structures of the past and present.

niranjana.ps@thehindu.co.in

Losing weight doesn’t always require extreme diets or hours at the gym. Sometimes, the smallest lifestyle changes bring the biggest results. Many people have shared simple yet powerful habits that have helped them shed extra kilos effortlessly. From chewing food properly to walking after meals, these tiny adjustments can prepare the body for weight loss and prevent unnecessary weight gain.
Here are some tried-and-tested home remedies and everyday habits that truly work like magic.

One of the simplest ways to control food intake and improve digestion is by chewing food thoroughly—ideally around 32 times per bite. This habit slows down eating, allowing the stomach to send fullness signals to the brain, preventing overeating. Well-chewed food is also easier to digest, reducing bloating and improving gut health, both of which play a role in weight loss.

We all are on our feet almost every day. This daily activity, walking, is also considered one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay fit. But did you know that small mistakes in our walking routine can lead to pain, injuries, and even long-term health issues?

A short walk after eating can do wonders for digestion and metabolism. Walking at least 1000 steps (or around 10–15 minutes) after meals helps regulate blood sugar levels, preventing fat accumulation. It also aids in better nutrient absorption and reduces post-meal sluggishness, making it an easy and effective weight-loss trick.

Starting the day with a glass of warm water, preferably with lemon or a pinch of turmeric, helps flush out toxins and kickstarts metabolism. Warm water improves digestion, prevents constipation, and supports fat breakdown. Many people swear by this simple habit for maintaining a healthy weight.

Eating the last meal at least 3–4 hours before bedtime gives the digestive system enough time to process food. Additionally, maintaining a 12-hour fasting window between dinner and breakfast can improve fat-burning, control blood sugar, and promote weight loss. This approach, often called intermittent fasting, has been backed by many studies for its effectiveness.

The size of the plate directly affects portion control. Switching to smaller plates creates an illusion of a fuller meal while reducing calorie intake. This psychological trick has helped many people eat less without feeling deprived. Mindful portion control prevents excessive calorie consumption, leading to steady weight loss over time.

In its 25th year, the Lakmé Fashion Week 2025, in partnership with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) was less about spectacle and more about sensibility. Theatrics took a backseat to thoughtfulness, as designers re-evaluated what fashion means in a climate of change — climatic, cultural, and consumer-driven. There was no singular aesthetic dominating the five-day showcase, but rather a quiet recalibration of technique, proportion, and intent.

From seasoned couturiers to new-gen labels, the collections spoke of dualities — tradition meeting tech, comfort meeting structure, and art meeting wearability. Instead of chasing virality, designers leaned into craft. Surface embellishment was purposeful. Colour palettes were restrained. Gender norms blurred. Heritage, once treated with nostalgia, was now layered with a future-facing lens.

Refined maximalism

While the West continues to orbit around quiet luxury, Indian designers at Lakmé Fashion Week offered a counterpoint — maximalism, but measured. It was a season of drama laced with discipline; ornamentation wielded with intent.

Anamika Khanna’s Silver Collar collection set the tone. Deconstructed tailoring met opulent embroidery — structured bralettes, high-waisted metallic trousers, and chainmail flourishes. It was less about flamboyance, and more about confidence laced with craft.

Model walks the ramp during the LAKMĒ X AK|OK ANAMIKA KHANNA PRESENT ‘SILVER COLLAR’ show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 26th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide
| Photo Credit:
Sanjay

Showstopper Ananya Panday with designer ANAMIKA KHANNA during the LAKMĒ X AK|OK PRESENT ‘SILVER COLLAR’ show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 26th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide
| Photo Credit:
Sanjay

Rahul Mishra’s The Silk Route, under his prêt label AFEW, drew from flora, folklore, and textile legacies. The collection wove Nature into couture, presenting hand-embroidered ecosystems that rippled with detail but never tipped into excess. The intricacy was intense, but the message — sustainability and quiet wonder — came through loud and clear. The collection highlighted visual exchanges across borders, mirrored in the parallel evolution of India’s bandhani and Japan’s shibori. A quiet ode to craft, culture and shared histories.

Model during RAHUL MISHRA show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 29th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide

Models during the NEXA PRESENTS AFEW RAHUL MISHRA show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 29th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide

Show stopper Janhvi Kapoor with designer RAHUL MISHRA show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 29th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide

Amit Aggarwal took maximalism in a futuristic direction. His collaboration with tech brand Nothing resulted in a line where Banarasi brocade collided with industrial polymers — ballooning trousers, corseted blouses, and sharp tailoring gave tradition a glossy, sci-fi sheen. The palette was monochrome, but the craftsmanship spoke volumes.

Show stopper Bhumi Pednekar during the NOTHING X AMIT AGGARWAL show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 28th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide
| Photo Credit:
RAJNEESH

Models during the NOTHING X AMIT AGGARWAL show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 28th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide
| Photo Credit:
RAJNEESH

Models during the NOTHING X AMIT AGGARWAL show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 28th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide
| Photo Credit:
RAJNEESH

Falguni Shane Peacock, known for high-octane glamour, showed restraint — relatively speaking. Their collection delivered sculptural jackets, crystal-studded corsets and feathered gowns, but with a controlled silhouette and tonal palette that leaned urban rather than theatrical. There was still shimmer and drama, but anchored in a kind of futuristic femininity.

Showstopper Tamanna Bhatia during the LUFTHANSA PRESENTS FALGUNI SHANE PEACOCK show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 28th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide
| Photo Credit:
RAJNEESH

Showstopper Karan Johar during the LUFTHANSA PRESENTS FALGUNI SHANE PEACOCK show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 28th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide
| Photo Credit:
RAJNEESH

Models during the LUFTHANSA PRESENTS FALGUNI SHANE PEACOCK show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 28th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide
| Photo Credit:
RAJNEESH

Models during the LUFTHANSA PRESENTS FALGUNI SHANE PEACOCK show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 28th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide
| Photo Credit:
RAJNEESH

Reimagining masculinity

This year, a quieter menswear revolution took shape — one that moved beyond functional staples to embrace emotional nuance, historical references, and craft-led expression. The GenNext designers moved away from minimalism without tipping into costume, offering garments that were expressive, yet wearable.

Models during the NIF GLOBAL PRESENTS GENNEXT – ABHICHIQ show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 27th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide

Models during the NIF GLOBAL PRESENTS GENNEXT – ABHICHIQ show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 27th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide

Abhishek Shinde, under his label Abhichiq, offered a Sicilian summer through Ciao — a collection of handwoven, block-printed separates layered with embroidery and nostalgic tailoring. Oversized blazers, striped shackets, and Bermudas hinted at ease but were grounded in artisanal polish. His approach balanced playfulness with longevity, creating resort wear with structure.

Models during the NIF GLOBAL PRESENTS GENNEXT – THAT ANTIQUEPIECE show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 27th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide

Models during the NIF GLOBAL PRESENTS GENNEXT – QUARTER show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 27th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide

Yash Patil, of That Antiquepiece, drew from archival photographs of the Rana queens of Nepal, blending moulded silhouettes, corsetry and ballroom drama. Though presented as womenswear, the construction-heavy garments (a visual treat of rich detailing with braids, jewels and sheer textiles) shared a meticulous, sculptural quality often aligned with contemporary menswear’s move towards androgyny and theatricality.

Models during the NIF GLOBAL PRESENTS GENNEXT – QUARTER show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 27th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide

Somya Lochan’s label Quarter took a more introspective route. Her collection The Dichotomy of Loss was born from a social experiment on grief, translated into garments made from Tanchoi silk and Himroo brocade. Embellished with handmade brass buttons and beaded embroidery, the pieces — boxy jackets, flared trousers, and padded coats — were gender-fluid in structure and emotional in tone.

Together, these designers challenged the binary of menswear as either utilitarian or ostentatious. Their work suggested a middle ground: introspective, referential, and unafraid to be emotionally resonant.

The rise of active-leisure

This season, designers brought clarity to a shifting category: clothes that sit comfortably between function, movement, and leisurely indulgence.

Namrata Joshipura continued her exploration of performance-driven fashion with a collection anchored in engineered fabrics like R|Elan Kooltex and GreenGold. Bodysuits, cropped jackets, singlets, and shorts were cut for movement but styled for the street — mirroring the global mood where activewear is no longer confined to the gym. Breathable textiles and recycled fibres underlined the emphasis on wearability and conscious design.

Malaika Arora for Namrata Joshipura
| Photo Credit:
Dipayan Bose

Models during the R l ELAN PRESENTS NAMRATA JOSHIPURA show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 28th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide
| Photo Credit:
RAJNEESH

Shivan & Narresh leaned into art-as-leisure with a capsule inspired by French painter-sculptor Fernand Léger. Their resort wear — swim trunks, ponchos, relaxed robes and knit coordinates — tapped into a holiday state of mind, but with deliberate cuts and saturated prints. Textural summer knits and hand-finished accessories created an easy tension between craft and escapism, offering men and women equal space in a wardrobe designed for transit, sea, or poolside pause.

SHIVAN & NARRESH 

Saaksha & Kinni, through their Myrah collection for Lakmé’s Sun Stopper show, used Gujarat’s Adalaj Stepwell as a springboard. Their silhouettes comprising layered kaftans, printed jackets, and pleated dresses balanced movement with structure. Lycra-infused swimwear sat beside breezy cottons, while sandstone tones and water-inspired blues grounded the palette in place. It was resortwear as a state of cultural storytelling, shaped by geography and intention.

Models during the LATELIER 1664 X SHIVAN & NARRESH show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 29th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide

Indie cool: emotion with edge

A new wave of designers leaned into a softer, more self-aware fashion — marked by slow techniques, layered storytelling, and a firm sense of identity. Less trend-chasing, more intention. Less gloss, more grit.

Designer Anurag Gupta during the FDCI presents The Boy’s Club – Anurag Gupta show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 27th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide

Models during the FDCI presents The Boy’s Club – Anurag Gupta show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 27th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide

Anurag Gupta’s Metamorphosis captured this shift. With a palette drawn from dawn and dusk, and silhouettes that eased between structure and fluidity, the collection explored personal growth as process, not performance. Textures felt grounded, even raw, while 3D-embellished layers and tonal gradients kept things visually sharp. This was not fashion for show, but self-reflection.

Designers during the R| ELAN CIRCULAT DESIGN
CHALLENGE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE UN IN INDIA PRESENTS R-KIVE CITY show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 27th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide

The R-KIVE CITY show

The R-KIVE CITY show

Rkive City, the winner of the R|Elan Circular Design Challenge, channelled the same spirit through Reclaim The City. Their pieces comprising overlays, trousers, and shirts, built entirely from salvaged textiles, revived old workwear and rejected garments into fashion that carried memory, place and subculture. Sleeves referenced municipal uniforms; pockets nodded to everyday street life. Nothing flashy. Everything felt lived in.

New-age luxury: fashion that fits the everyday

This season, Indian luxury moved out of the drawing room and into daily life. On the Lakmé Fashion Week runway, designers redefined what it means to invest in fashion: less fantasy, more flexibility.

Shantnu & Nikhil’s Piazza Nova marked five years of their bridge-to-luxury label, S&N. The collection reflected the brand’s core idea: heritage tailoring with urban sensibility. Slim bandhgalas, printed shirts, and embroidered jackets allowed wearers to mix statement with staple. Designed for the aspirational buyer, it bridged occasion and everyday through modular pieces that lean modern but nod to tradition.

Models during the S&N BY SHANTNU NIKHIL show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 29th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide
| Photo Credit:
Sanjay

Models during the S&N BY SHANTNU NIKHIL show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 29th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide
| Photo Credit:
Sanjay

Show stopper Ibrahim Ali Khan during the S&N BY SHANTNU NIKHIL show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 29th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide

Tarun Tahiliani’s OTT Season 2 took a similar route. The focus was on fluidity — layered separates, draped gilets, and convertible silhouettes styled live on stage to highlight versatility. Traditional crafts like chikankari and Rabari embroidery were recast in contemporary forms, and archival prints reappeared in fresh palettes. The idea was simple: luxury that adapts to the wearer, not the other way around.

Models during the OTT TARUN TAHILIANI show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 29th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide
| Photo Credit:
RAJNEESH

Models during the OTT TARUN TAHILIANI show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 29th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide
| Photo Credit:
RAJNEESH

Models during the OTT TARUN TAHILIANI show in the 25th year – Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 at Jio World Convention centre in Mumbai, India on 29th March 2025.

Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide
| Photo Credit:
RAJNEESH

Together, both collections signalled a shift. Luxury was less about exclusivity, more about expression — quietly confident, wearable, and rooted in the idea of fashion as a personal tool, not just a spectacle.

Rising heartbeat, breathlessness, shaking, and sweaty palms—many of you might have experienced these when a teacher asks you a random question or when you are on stage for public speaking. While it could be occasional fear or anxiousness, if it goes beyond certain situations and starts interfering with your daily life, relationships, and wellbeing, it might be a sign of anxiety disorder. Now, what is anxiety disorder, and how do we understand what’s happening to us without typing out your symptoms to Google or ChatGPT?

Well, anxiety disorder is one of the most common mental health conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide. Anxiety disorders are characterised by excessive fear, nervousness, and apprehension, which can lead to physical and emotional distress. Unlike normal stress, which may be situational and temporary, anxiety disorders persist over time and can become debilitating. In order to fully understand whether you have an anxiety disorder, it is extremely important to seek professional help through a psychologist and a psychiatrist.

Is it the same for everyone?

Anxiety disorders are of various types, and some of them are generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, specific phobias, etc.

Anxiety disorders, as mentioned before, can show a wide range of physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms. These symptoms can vary depending on the specific type of anxiety disorder, but often include physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat or palpitations, breathlessness, dizziness or lightheadedness, sweating and trembling, and gastrointestinal issues where you might experience nausea, diarrhoea, or stomachaches, as well as insomnia or difficulty sleeping. If any of these symptoms persist for a long time, it is best to consult a psychologist or ask for professional help. 

Anxiety disorders can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, apart from interference in their daily activities. Chronic anxiety may also contribute to physical health problems, such as high blood pressure, digestive issues, and weakened immune function. Additionally, individuals with untreated anxiety disorders are often at a higher risk of developing depression and substance abuse disorders as well.

The brave art of seeking help

Telling someone that you need help when required is one of the bravest things an individual can do, and there are a variety of ways in which you can help yourself through professional aid when it comes to anxiety disorders. 

– Therapy is one of the most widely used methods to cope with anxiety disorders, as it helps individuals to identify and challenge negative thought patterns through various techniques. There are different kinds of therapy, like cognitive behavioural therapy, or CBT, psychodynamic therapy, humanistic therapy, etc. 

– Medications can often help manage anxiety symptoms, along with therapy. A psychiatrist will be able to help you out with understanding whether you need medication and dosage. 

– Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise to release endorphins and improve mood, eating a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, meditation and relaxation techniques, adequate sleep to improve overall mental health, and avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and recreational drugs that can trigger anxiety. These can help in managing your mental health better, especially while seeking help. 

With the introduction of technology in the education sector and several debates about banning smartphones in schools in the country, we need to understand the good and the bad side of the internet. While the world is literally at your fingertips, the same is true vice versa; your data is also at the world’s fingertips. Thus pointing out how important it is to look into privacy and safe browsing while surfing the internet. The other side of the internet is the abundance of opportunities to learn and develop various skills. Diving into the internet to learn something can be often overwhelming, and despite many useful platforms being there right in front of us, it is easy to get lost. So, here are a few free platforms from which you can access

Swayam Prabha

SWAYAM Prabha is an initiative of the Ministry of Education to provide 80 high-quality educational channels through DTH throughout the country on a 24×7 basis. It covers all the major subjects and ensures new content is out there regularly.

National Digital Library of India

The National Digital Library of India (NDLI) functions as an online repository of educational resources, including textbooks, articles, videos, audiobooks, lectures, simulations, fiction, and other instructional materials for the academic community. This initiative is managed by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, through its National Mission on Education via Information and Communication Technology (NMEICT). The platform is developed, operated, and maintained by the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur.

eGyanKosh

eGyanKosh is a national digital archive to store, index, preserve, distribute and share the digital learning resources developed by the open and distance learning institutions in the country, maintained and run by IGNOU.

SWAYAM

SWAYAM is a free, open online platform provided by the Indian government that offers educational courses for university and college learners. The SWAYAM initiative was launched by the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) (now Ministry of Education), Government of India, in 2017 under ‘Digital India’, covering all advanced education, high school, and skill sector courses.

freeCodeCamp

freeCodeCamp (also referred to as Free Code Camp) is a non-profit educational organisation that consists of an interactive learning web platform, an online community forum, online publications and local organisations that intend to make learning software development and computer programming accessible to anyone, beginning with tutorials that introduce students to HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, C#, etc.

Khan Academy

Khan Academy is an American non-profit educational organisation created in 2006 to create a set of online tools that help educate students. The organisation produces short video lessons as well as supplementary practice exercises and materials for educators. It has produced over 10,000 video lessons teaching a wide spectrum of academic subjects, including mathematics, sciences, literature, history, and computer science, that are available for free.

ePathshala: NCERT

ePathshala is a portal or app initiated jointly by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, CIET, and NCERT and launched in 2015. It hosts educational resources for teachers, students, parents, researchers and educators in English, Hindi and Urdu. The platform offers a slew of educational resources, including NCERT textbooks for classes 1–12, audio-visual resources by NCERT, periodicals, supplements, teacher training modules and a variety of other print and non-print materials. These materials can be downloaded by the user for offline use with no limits on downloads.

DIKSHA

DIKSHA, or Digital Infrastructure for Knowledge Sharing, is a national platform for school education, an initiative of the NCERT, under the aegis of the Ministry of Education. DIKSHA can be accessed by learners and teachers across the country and currently supports 36 Indian languages. DIKSHA policies and tools make it possible for the education ecosystem to participate, contribute and leverage a common platform to achieve learning goals at scale for the country. Under the PM eVidya initiative, which was declared as part of the Atma Nirbhar Bharat, DIKSHA has been declared as ‘One Nation, One Digital Platform’.

A few platforms you can check for materials are resources for higher studies, including e-PG Pathshala, ShodhGanga, which is a reservoir of Indian theses from the INFLIBNET, the National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL), and TestHQ: aptitude tests.

Kareena Kapoor arrives in Manish Malhotra costume for the Gala dinner at Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 on March 30, 2025 in Mumbai, India.
| Photo Credit: Getty Images

Bollywood star Kareena Kapoor Khan says she has walked down the ramp many times, but the one when she was pregnant with her first child Taimur Ali Khan, will always be memorable.

Kareena was speaking at the Lakme Fashion Week X Fashion Design Council of India gala which marked the 25 years of the fashion extravaganza on Sunday (March 30, 2025) night.

The event, which closed the 2025 edition of LFW X FDCI, was hosted by Indian-origin American actor Kal Penn.

At the gala, Kal asked Kareena which has been her most memorable walk at LFW and why.

“There have been so many over the years but the one that I walked with Tim in my stomach [belly] would always be special. I’m a mother, it’s emotional,” she said, recalling the LFW X FDCI finale held in August 2016 when she walked the runway in bridalwear by Sabyasachi.

Indian Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor Khan showcases a creation by designer Sabyasachi at Lakme Fashion Week (LFW) Winter/Festive 2016 in Mumbai on late August 28, 2016.
| Photo Credit:
AFP

Kareena gave birth to Taimur, who is now eight years old, in December 2016.

Kal, who was dressed in a black ensemble and jewellery designed by celebrity favourite designer Manish Malhotra, then fielded another question to the Crew star about her opinion on fashion critics.

“I love fashion critics because most of them speak the truth. We have movie critics who keep actors on their toes, so even fashion critics should keep some of the designers and models on their toes. It’s okay,” she said.

What goes on in her head when she’s about to get on the ramp?

“Don’t fall. But if I do I’ll pick myself up and suck my tummy in,” Kareena replied.

Kal also asked Kareena about a long-standing rumour about her in the Hollywood circles. The Namesake star said he‘s heard a story that once she was in her vanity van brushing her hair and the door opened with an assistant director telling Kareena that her shot was ready.

“You looked through the mirror and said…” he said as Kareena chimed in: “But I’m not.”

Asked if it was true, the actor teased: “What happens in my vanity van stays in my vanity van.” Earlier during the gala, Kareena also spoke about her “tremendous” association with Lakme as the face of the brand.

The actor, who was dressed in a beige bralet and lehenga created by her close friend Malhotra, also announced that she was “embarking on a new chapter” with Lakme.

“Whether it was walking the ramp when I was size zero or Taimur in my belly, whether it was size 10 or 12, that never mattered. What mattered was that my heart was on the stage with Lakme Fashion Week, with each and every designer I’ve walked for.”

“I’m back again with the Lakme family. Hopefully will be back on the ramp with all my favourite designers wearing their outfits, maybe not as size zero, but owning it completely,” she added.

The actor went off script during the event and declared that she was not going to use the speech on the teleprompter, inviting applause from the gathering which had the who’s who of Indian fashion industry such as Malhotra, Tarun Tahiliani, Falguni Shane Peacock, Gaurav Gupta and Ritu Beri in attendance.

Kareena gave a shout-out to the army of people behind the showstoppers and designers who make fashion shows a reality.

“The real icons are our fashion stylists, makeup artists, hairstylists, choreographers, and those smashing hot 60 models who are backstage. I’m honoured to be the face of Lakme, but 25 years of Lakme Fashion Week is not about us actors walking the finale, it’s about all and everyone who has been backstage. We owe it to them, they make us look amazing,” she said.

“All our designers who are out here, my darling friend brother Manish, Tarun, each and everyone. Tonight should also be about each person who has worked for the 25 years to make us all look amazing on the ramp,” she added.

As summer intensifies and the holiday season approaches, travel firms are seeing a significant surge in demand from the fast-growing Tamil Nadu market. What stands out in this trend is that the majority of this increase is being driven by Gen Z travelers. With a growing appetite for adventure, cultural tours, and personalised travel options, Gen Z is emerging as a key demographic for tour operators.

“Gen Z travellers (aged 13-27) are redefining luxury travel with a clear preference for international destinations that offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. They are not just looking for a quick getaway — they are investing in well-curated, memorable experiences, with an average deal size of ₹2 lakh,” said Hari Ganapathy, co-founder, Pickyourtrail, a travel startup headquartered in Chennai. “They are also decisive planners, typically finalising their bookings around 42 days before departure and embarking on their adventures within 58 days,” he added.

Santhosh Kanna S., senior vice president at Thomas Cook India Limited, pointed out that demand has been strong from the Tamil Nadu market for the travel period April-June. “Summers remains a favourite time to travel for not only families but also millennials, young professionals, Gen Z, and solo travelers,” he added. According to Mr. Kanna, easy visa and visa-free entry has been a game-changer, especially for destinations like Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Malaysia, Thailand, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, providing greater convenience and flexibility for last-minute plans.

Swaminathan Subramanian, co-founder of Exoticamp Adventures, also pointed out that a defining trend this year is the rise of Gen Z travellers — and they’re not holding back. Armed with EMI options, Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services like Simpl, LazyPay, and ZestMoney, this cohort is comfortably booking both domestic and international trips, he added. He explained that the summer traveler demographic is a diverse mix this year. “The two dominant groups are: young families seeking school vacation getaways and young professionals aged 22-30 leveraging the string of long weekends,” Mr. Subramanian said.

Spiritual and adventure tourism

Rakesh Bawa, senior vice president and head (holidays), SOTC Travel Limited, said that Tamil Nadu’s millennials and Gen Z, have been drawn to spiritual tourism coupled with leisure and adventure experiences such as white-water rafting, river rappelling, kayaking, and night treks, among others.

For Thomas Cook, escorted group tours are witnessing brisk demand, and top international favourites include Switzerland, France, Italy, Austria, Spain, Portugal, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, and new destinations like Azerbaijan, Georgia, Sabah (Malaysia), Bintan.

Tourist favourites

“Kashmir is drawing special attention this year with the Tulip Festival on and the recent opening of new train stations, making the region more accessible than ever. Down south, the staples — Kodai, Ooty, and Munnar — continue to be popular, especially among families from Tamil Nadu and Kerala looking for quick, scenic getaways,” said Mr. Subramanian.

Sharing his views on location trends of Gen Z, Mr. Ganapathy said: “Topping their list is the Maldives, reflecting their love for serene, tropical escapes. Bali follows closely, reaffirming their inclination toward picturesque island getaways. However, it’s not just beaches that attract Gen Z — Dubai and Singapore, with their vibrant cityscapes and dynamic experiences, show that this generation also seeks excitement beyond these shores.”

Tuesday, or Mangalvar, is dedicated to two Gods – Lord Hanuman and Maa Durga. And while the worship of Lord Hanuman on a Tuesday is more famous, in some regions, Maa Durga is worshipped.
Lord Hanuman is the greatest devotee of Lord Ram and is the symbol of devotion, power, and selfless nature. And it is said that worshiping Lord Hanuman on Tuesday can help remove fears, obstacles, and negative energies from life.
And for Maa Durga, people worship the fierce and caring nature of the Goddess, and it is believed that people who worship Maa Durga wholeheartedly are blessed with courage, wisdom, and love.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, the global icon and Bollywood diva, has long been admired for her unmatched beauty and impeccable sense of style. Each time she steps out, she manages to steal the spotlight, leaving her fans and fashion enthusiasts in awe. Recently, the actress made headlines for a jaw-dropping look at a family wedding, proving once again why she is one of the most admired fashion icons in the world.

At her cousin’s wedding, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan truly looked like royalty. She was seen wearing a resplendent red-toned Anarkali suit that featured intricate golden embroidery, perfectly complementing her fair complexion. The ensemble’s rich detailing and regal hues made her the centre of attention. The soft makeup, highlighted by a bold red lip, a stone bindi, and her voluminous open curls, further enhanced her ethereal appearance.
To complete her traditional yet contemporary look, Aishwarya adorned herself with statement jewellery – a stunning polki and kundan choker, matching earrings, a maang teeka, and delicate bangles. Every piece of jewellery added to her desi charm, making her look nothing short of a queen. Aishwarya’s grace and elegance were palpable, and her appearance at the wedding soon went viral, sparking admiration across social media platforms.

Earlier, a candid moment from the pre-wedding celebrations also captured Aishwarya’s effortless charm. In the photos, she was seen posing lovingly with her husband, Abhishek Bachchan. Aishwarya sported a chic black-toned outfit, while Abhishek kept it casual in a pink hoodie. Their daughter, Aaradhya, added to the cuteness quotient, looking adorable in a white dress. The family portrait exuded warmth, and Aishwarya’s beauty was the perfect highlight of the picture.

From her sartorial choices to her radiant smile, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan continues to inspire fashion lovers with every appearance. Whether in a traditional Anarkali or a contemporary outfit, her style remains timeless and awe-inspiring.