Nature’s Harmony in Bloom: Exploring the Art of Japanese Ikebana

Decorative flower arrangements illuminate people’s aesthetic preferences, customs, and cultural values. Culturally significant floral designs reveal aspects of symbolism, exquisite workmanship, and a mirror of nature’s marvels. Various cultures have their own unique ways of depicting flowers in art. Ikebana of Japan Ikebana is a minimalistic Japanese flower arrangement that is closely connected with traditions. The origin of this art dates back to several centuries. The word ‘Ikebana’ means arranging flowers. In ancient times, people in Japan followed the custom of erecting flowers and plants and placing them into a beautiful bouquet. Ikebana is one of the three classical Japanese refinements ( Kodo, Chado, Ikebana). Connection With Nature Ikebana connects nature, time, and space. More than a simple flower arrangement, Ikebana teaches us the value of life. Life is precious, and we should live it to the fullest, as Ikebana tells us. Symbolism The most important rule of Ikebana is the natural appearance. This means the whole arrangement should represent a tree or plant seen in nature. Flowers play a significant function and can generate moods, much as the stems indicate three major lines. They are selected based on their inherent colours and shapes. The chrysanthemum represents the sun, the camellia represents longevity and happiness, and the iris represents heroism. The Arrangement Go for a stroll around the neighbourhood. Look around you; do you hear the elements communicating with you? There are beautiful flowers. Observe them and understand what emotions they evoke inside you. Let your feelings dictate your choice. Pick out some lovely blossoms, healthy leaves, and firm stems. No need to seek for perfection here. Ikebana is an art that finds beauty in imperfections! Take a shallow container filled partially with water. Trim and arrange the stems, leaves and flowers in such a way that they give natural and pleasing feelings. To arrange the stems in the correct position, you have to use a round-shaped object called a kenzan, a pincushion used to arrange the stems. Everything about Ikebana, from the lines to the motifs, is typically asymmetrical. Add accents and flora to represent the theme and the design’s beauty and harmony.

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Trends

Introducing ‘Bhashini’ – Digital India’s First Language Translation Application

The distinctive cultural diversity of India has always been evident, and the country’s linguistic diversity is no exception. Our nation is home to a variety of languages. But when it comes to communications, we all may face some barriers due to this diversity. The Digital India Bhashini Division(DIBD), a part of the Digital India Corporation, created ‘Bhashini’ as a linguistic tool to facilitate the easy communication of Indian languages. Our hon. Prime Minister Sri Narendra Modi introduced the official app of Bhashini at Kashi Tamil Sangamam, which was held in Varanasi in December 2013. India’s AI-powered Linguistic Platform Bhashini is an AI-powered language-translation tool that has been exceptionally curated to translate all Indian languages into the user’s mother tongue. At the 2022 Digital India Week, which was held in Gujarat, the prime minister unveiled a new initiative named “Digital India Bhashini” to ensure that all Indian languages have easy access to the internet and digital services. It is fantastic to use digital services and the internet in one’s native language. The AI-based language translation application,’ Bhashini’, is compatible with both Android and iOS devices and can be downloaded from the Google Play Store. With the help of this program, we can break down language barriers and build a community of digital contributors. Bhasha Daan – A Great Way To Contribute And Be Part Of Our Development Chain Bhashini presents ‘Bhasha daan’, an initiative that allows everyone to contribute to this mission and become a part of it. They welcome individual contributors who can contribute anonymously to enrich the database and support this AI model training. Transcription, voice recording, translation, and image labelling are the possible contributions. How Can You Benefit From This? Aside from these, Bhashini’s primary goal is to provide a user-friendly and technologically advanced platform that allows students to learn in their own languages. The Bhashini app is a great tool that can enhance the distribution of digital content, and it also helps you learn other languages. Consequently, it inspires startup companies to create innovative applications using the resources. So far, many people have benefited from it. A user can use the Bhashini app for four purposes. This facilitates communication by giving users a forum to engage with individuals who are not fluent in their native language. It also allows users to convert voice to text and translate any Indian language to their mother tongue. The ability to create a voiceover from text is another helpful feature.

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Design Lifestyle

The Future of Luxury is Sustainable: How Concierge Services are Going Green

Are you a person who gives equal importance to quality and sustainability? But you may wonder how these two components can provide such a high-end experience when combined. Usually, when we hear the word ‘sustainability’, we tend to brand it in less flashy categories. However, modern bespoke concierge services have a lovely blend of both, providing the luxury experience you deserve. They follow ethical outsourcing of eco-friendly materials. Without allowing any environmental hazards, they present pure artisanal craftsmanship throughout their services. Nowadays, you can get bespoke concierge luxury services in almost all fields without compromising the quality. Home Designing Numerous architecture and design companies are giving priority to eco-friendly homes these days. You can get guidance from such firms and make the perfect choices by focusing on sustainable materials for the exterior and interior. With these design companies’ assistance, you can choose passive designs, prioritising houses with temperature control. Mud houses, renewable energy systems, etc, are some examples of eco-friendly choices for your home. In addition to being a safe option, they also add a touch of class and style to the house. Bespoke Travel Experiences Many travel agencies focus on responsible tourism services as their customers are more interested in eco-friendly travel options. They provide itineraries that are close to customer preferences while remembering the importance of sustainable choices like eco-friendly accommodations and food. Without compromising the luxury aspect, customers can enjoy a sustainable forest safari or cultural getaway with the help of such services. Bespoke Fashion The ever-changing fashion industry is always on trend, bringing new concepts and elegance to the forefront. What are your thoughts about high-end, eco-friendly fashion? Get in touch with a luxury fashion atelier that focuses on sustainable fashion trends crafted with eco-friendly clothing such as cotton, hemp, jute, and bamboo, which are outsourced from morally sound suppliers. To reflect your style without losing the charm, clients can work closely with such designers and understand more about their supply chain and design methods. An Eco-Friendly Chef Service It is quite a royal experience to enjoy plant-based cuisine prepared by a personal chef in the comfort of your home! Culinary services tailored to your requirements are available to help you with this. There are trained, personalised chefs who come to your home and create a menu based on your choices. They source local or regional ingredients to prepare the dishes and follow sustainable materials and practices for preserving and serving the food items. Sustainable, Personalised Beauty Services Many premium brands sell cruelty-free and vegan products for makeup and grooming. With eco-friendly skincare treatments and makeup applications, these services enhance beauty while minimising environmental impact. Sustainable spas and beauty salons often follow recycling, composting, and energy-saving practices. You can get proper guidance and suggestions that align with your values, and skincare needs from an experienced beauty therapist.

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Destination Travel

Discover These IRCTC Tour Packages & Visit The Best Of India!

India is the land of the majestic Himalayas, with beautiful temples, breathtaking architecture, lively cityscapes, and tranquil beaches. For a travel enthusiast, there is much more to explore in this wonderland of cultural diversity. Most of the visitors are drawn to mountain and beach destinations in India. If you are looking for a cost-effective or luxurious way to explore more places this summer vacation, IRCTC will be a great choice. Generally, IRCTC tour packages include everything from travel fare and accommodation to food and sightseeing. If you visit IRCTC websites, travellers can explore different itineraries and choose as per their interests and budget. All around India, they provide exciting vacation packages. The Bharat Gaurav Train Services ‘Bharat Gaurav Trains’ are theme-based train services offered by the Indian Railways. This service lets you book tour packages that cover your expenditures, including hotel, meals, sightseeing guides, and more. These trains provide a/c and non-a/c compartments, pantry cars and CCTV cameras. Deluxe A/C Tourist Train This is a luxury train with fully air-conditioned coaches. The train has a modern kitchen, two rail-restaurants, washrooms and cubicles, foot massagers, electronic safes, and CCTV camera facilities. Karnataka Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train In association with the IRCTC, the government of Karnataka has introduced a tourist train exclusively for visiting spiritual destinations such as Ayodhya, Kashi, Prayag, and Gaya. This train is equipped with a/c compartments, a modern pantry, and other facilities. Jain Yatra By Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train The nine-day Jain pilgrimage service is a new offering from the IRCTC for anybody curious about Jain philosophy and associated traditions. The package includes lodging, traditional Jain cuisine, and bus tickets. Buddhist Train Circuits Are you curious to explore the legendary life of Lord Buddha and the origin of Buddhism? Then, plan your vacation with IRCTC’s Buddha Express. This tour package takes you through all the places related to Lord Buddha, Delhi, Bodh Gaya, Khushi Nagar, Lumbini, Agra, Varanasi, Sravasti, Rajgir, and Nalanda. Amenities exclusive to the premium train include a mini-library, restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, and more. Maharaja Express Prepare to be pampered like a king or queen by reserving a cabin on the Maharaja Express, India’s most opulent train. This train offers four different itineraries that cover ten fascinating destinations. Luxury coaches with suits and private kitchens with celebrity chefs elevate the pride of your journey. The Maharaja Express, widely recognised as one of the world’s most luxurious trains, has received several honours and commendations. Golden Chariot Are you dreaming of your holidays in the heart and soul of South India? Then, you can consider booking a package with Golden Chariot to experience the luxurious South Indian culture. Golden Chariot offers three travel circuits, including destinations like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Kerala. Image Source: https://blog.goldenchariot.org/

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Food

Elayada – A South Indian Traditional Sweet Delight Wrapped In Banana Leaves!

Foods served in banana leaves are often regarded as most nutritious. When considering the benefits of using banana leaves instead of plates, we can surely say that they are naturally available and the most eco-friendly choice. Studies indicate that banana leaves have certain antimicrobial properties, which aid in preserving food items without contamination, in contrast to synthetic packaging materials. Moreover, food items wrapped in banana leaves are more flavorful since the leaves can elevate the overall taste. Exploring the culinary traditions using banana leaves reveals their importance, which spans various cultures, especially in tropical regions such as South India and Southern Asia. The most common cooking method involves wrapping the food item in banana leaves and either steaming or grilling it, which enhances the taste of the food item with a distinct aroma and flavour. Here is a delectable recipe prepared using banana leaves. Elayada or Elayappam Elayada, also known as Elayappam, is a traditional South Indian sweet recipe. In many South Indian temples, this food item is offered to the god and served as ”prasad”. Additionally, this dish is prepared as a customary practice during traditional festivals in South India. Let us explore the basic recipe of Elayada. Ingredients Rice flour – 1 cup Jaggery powder – ½ cup Grated coconut – 1 cup Cardamom powder- 1 tsp Dry ginger powder – ½ tsp Salt – a pinch Banana leaves Water Wash the banana leaves, remove the middle stem, and cut them into square pieces. Mix the rice flour with water and make a batter without any lumps. Heat the pieces of banana leaves over the flame to make them soft and pliable. Heat a bowl with a thick bottom and add very little water (about ¼ cup). Mix the powdered jaggery and allow it to melt. Let it boil until you get thick jaggery syrup. Mix grated coconut, cardamom, and dry ginger powder. Combine all the ingredients thoroughly until a thick mixture with no water content forms. Place two tablespoons of the prepared rice batter onto the leaf. Spread it evenly to create a thin layer. Place the coconut jaggery filling in the centre of the rice batter. Wrap the banana leaf carefully to prevent any spillage of the ingredients. Bring the water to a boil in the steamer, then steam the wrapped elayada for 30 minutes. Carefully remove the cooked elayada from the steamer and unwrap it. Experience the delightful fragrance of cooked rice, jaggery, cardamom, and the aroma of steamed banana leaf that enhances the dish’s flavour. Use poha (flattened rice) and jaggery mix, banana, jackfruit, and jaggery mix as alternative fillings instead of coconut jaggery mix.

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Destination Travel

Go On A Shopping Spree To Explore Agra’s Vibrant Markets (Beyond The Taj Mahal)!

The Taj Mahal’s reputation as a symbol of love may be what draws visitors, but there’s so much more to experience in and around this world-famous attraction. There are vibrant street shopping avenues for indulging in the city’s shopping culture. Located amidst the Taj Mahal’s astonishing beauty and Agra’s bustling streets, numerous shopping avenues attract visitors by selling everything from antiques to contemporary trinkets. Below are some of the best shopping avenues in and around Taj Mahal. Taj Ganj Market Located outside of the Taj Mahal complex, the Taj Ganj Market is a busy place in the city which is always alive with vendors and visitors. This market offers a wide range of products, like handicrafts, jewellery, miniature marble replicas of the Taj Mahal, and a range of souvenirs. You can experience a colourful shopping experience at this place. Kinari Market Kinari Market is one of the top markets that sells products related to fashion and handicrafts. You will be amazed to see the wide variety of products, such as fabrics, marble embellishments, fabric designing, rugs, and leather items. Shoe Market This busiest area in the city is located at Hing Ki Mandi. The footwear business is quite well-known in Agra. This shoe market is the favourite place of wholesalers and retailers, as they can get a good deal here. You can explore a vast collection of shoe designs available for purchase at this place. Subhash Emporium You get top-notch quality marble items, handicrafts, and souvenirs from Subhash Emporium near the Taj Mahal complex. This government-aided emporium promotes ‘Prachinkari in marble’ (inlay art). Here, you can purchase high-quality textiles and jewellery, too. Raj Ki Mandi This busiest market is situated in the Lohamandi region. Raj Ki Mandi Market provides an excellent shopping experience within your budget. You can buy many items, like fabrics, household items, cooking aids, books, jewellery, home decor, etc, at an affordable cost. The market is always crowded, but the best time to visit here is in the evenings. Shah Market For those who love smartphones, this place is a perfect choice. Located near Agra Fort, Shah Market offers an excellent shopping experience. You can get leather items, jewellery and smartphones from almost all famous brands. You can find shops selling used phones, too. Agra Marble Emporium Visit the Agra Marble Emporium if you love marble stuff. This place has a beautiful collection of marble items, including statues, decorative items, and tabletops showcasing elaborate inlay works. U.P Handicrafts Development Center The U.P Handicraft Development Center is located near the Taj Mahal. This government-supported handicraft shop sells authentic handicraft items from Uttar Pradesh. Handloom textiles, pottery, and other traditional items are available here directly from artisans.

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Culture and Heritage

Beyond the Gold: A Journey Through Amritsar’s Most Sacred Site – ‘Harmandir Sahib’

Amritsar, a city in the Indian state of Punjab, is home to the magnificent Golden Temple, a gurudwara highly admired nationwide. This most sacred place of Sikh worship is also known as ‘Harmandir Sahib’, which means the Abode of God. Here, we reveal some fascinating facts about this temple which will amuse you. The Temple Of Gold The temple was renovated and bestowed with a golden sheen by Maharaja Ranjith Singh, the ‘Lion of Punjab’. The temple’s exterior is adorned with about 750 grams of pure gold, lending it an awe-inspiring appearance, particularly when illuminated at night. The Fusion Of Breathtaking Architectural Marvels The Golden Temple is the best example that highlights the inclusive nature of Sikhism. By closely examining the temple architecture, you can see glimpses of Indian and Islamic architectural styles. The intricate marble works, inlaid carvings, arches, and frescoes are real examples of the artistic marvels of Indian craftsmanship. The Pool Of Nectar The Golden Temple is located in the middle of a man-made lake called the ‘Amrit Sarovar’ or the ‘Pool Of Nectar’. The idea of building this water tank was first proposed in the 16th century by Guru Ram Das. It is a rectangular water tank with an area of 150 meters by 150 meters. Equality, unity and purity – the Amrit Sarovar symbolizes these three qualities as per Sikhism. The water in this sarovar is believed to have healing properties, and devotees bathe in this holy water to rejuvenate their souls. Guru Ka Langar Guru Ka Langar, the community kitchen in Golden Temple, is the temple’s most distinctive feature. There is no charge for the meals prepared in this kitchen. There is no big or small; regardless of caste, religion, nationality, or societal status, everyone can come and alleviate their hunger pangs. It is heard that even the Mughal king Akhbar once came and enjoyed a meal with ordinary people in this Langar. There are no workers or special cooks for the preparation of food items. Men, women, and children volunteer to cook, serve, and clean as a service to mankind. Daily, this most extensive community kitchen in the world supposedly feeds over 100,000 people! The Door Of All To highlight the inclusive nature and universal existence of the Sikh philosophy, the temple is built with four open doors on the four sides, known as the Door of All, which welcome people from all parts and stages of life. Akhand Path The temple premises is always filled with positive vibrations. The sacred verses from the holy scripture of Sikhism,- Guru Granth Sahib, are continuously chanted at the temple premises by the devotees. It is also known as ‘Akhand Path’ (uninterrupted reading). This exquisite spiritual site of Sikhism attracts millions of visitors worldwide with its stupefying architectural marvels, heartwarming hospitality, and abundance of positivity. People come to pay their respect, seek spiritual solace, and experience the serenity and sanctity of this revered place.

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Automobile

Extend Your Car’s Life: A Guide to Keeping Your Vehicle in Top Shape

How can you take the best care of your vehicle? We all care for our bodies, homes, and workplaces. In the same way, taking care of your vehicle is essential for a pleasant driving experience, long-term efficiency, and resale value. By adhering to these crucial guidelines, you can guarantee your four-wheeler’s optimal performance and extended lifespan. Regular Washes It is important not to skip regular car washes, as they are crucial for maintaining the cleanliness and condition of your vehicle. Give your car an auto spa treatment regularly to keep away dust and grime accumulated on the body of the car. Though it may sound trivial, this is the primary and essential step that must be done consistently. You can use a mini vacuum cleaner to clean the vehicle’s interior parts. When you wash your vehicle, use Power Of Protective Wax To avoid the adverse effects of harmful UV rays, bird drops, firm dirt, etc, you can apply a coat of protective wax to the exterior parts of your vehicle. The wax layer seals the stains and gives them an exterior glow and finish. This is a practical method for preventing rust on the vehicle’s exterior. Inspect Tyres Regularly Keep an eye on the tyres for any worn-outs or cuts; if you see anything, immediately replace them with a new one. Incorrect air pressure can cause low efficiency and tyre blowouts. Fluid And Engine Oil The fluids in your vehicle, such as the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, etc., must be checked regularly. To keep the vehicle working properly, replace or refill the fluids whenever you see signs of leakage or low levels. According to the experts, changing the oil in your engine every three months is recommended. Maintenance Of The Parts The vehicle’s internal and external components must be examined and, if required, replaced. Brake pads, belts and hoses, air filters, and windshield wipers must be in good condition. The Car Lights And Mirrors Carefully check the car lights and rearview mirrors for any damage or cracks. A broken mirror or light can reduce visibility. Good visibility is essential to stay safe while driving at night. Park your vehicle in a shaded space to avoid harsh sunlight, or protect your car with a good quality car cover if you park outdoors. Apart from all these, any warning signs displayed on the dashboard must be addressed immediately. You can consult the mechanics or repair it yourself according to their instructions. To keep your automobile running smoothly for as long as possible, keep the inside tidy, and don’t forget to give it lots of tender love and care.

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Design Lifestyle

Light A Fire in Your Heart, Not Your Wallet: Affordable Luxury with Tea Lights

Cast aside the harsh glare of overhead lights. Tonight, we invite the whispering flames of tea lights to dance. These tiny powerhouses are the hottest trend in home décor, and for good reason. They’re like interior design chameleons, transforming your space into a haven of romance and intimacy. Ready for the breathtaking spell? Why Tea Lights Rule: Don’t Stop the Spark: Spice Up Your Space with Tea Light Magic: Here are some inspiring ideas: So ditch the steely lights and embrace the warm glow of tea lights. They’ll not only create a calming atmosphere but also add a touch of chic to your space. It’s time to spice up your decor and let your creativity shine with the magic of tea lights!

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Automobile

Chetak “Hamara Bajaj”: A Timeless Ride, A Trending Legacy for Buland Bharat

Ahh, those were the days! Riding through bustling, narrow streets on a Bajaj Chetak, its gentle rumble, the wind caressing your hair, and joy echoing within. More than just transport, this legendary steed, named after Maharana Pratap’s horse, carried a nation’s hopes, dreams, and spirit. It was the ride of choice for the middle class, be it the daily commute, family outings, grocery runs, or even the occasional “jugaad” (makeshift solution) haul. But owning your Chetak wasn’t easy. It’s said that people waited for ten years or more, and some even timed their weddings to coincide with scooter deliveries. Yet, the long wait made having this two-wheeler even more special. What made this iconic machine so impactful? Let’s explore the secrets, unearthing the anecdotes of its cult following. More Than Just a Machine: A Beloved Member of the Family Advertisements portrayed the Chetak owner as the epitome of the upright, honest Indian, a man embodying the nation’s aspirations. But for many families, the Chetak was more than just a scooter. It was “Hamara Bajaj” (Our Bajaj), a cherished family member. Keralites even gave it a unique name, “Punnara Bajaj” (Beloved Bajaj), highlighting its deep-rooted place in their hearts. A Farewell and a Triumphant Return: The Chetak Lives On This part left many teary-eyed, for the Chetak’s production finally gave out in 2005. It couldn’t keep up with the surge of new, more advanced motorcycles in the Indian market. As all hope for the Chetak was gone, it rose from the ashes in 2019 with an electric heart and a modern look, forever immortalising its predecessor in a new shell. Bridging the Gap: A Legacy for the Future 2019 was a year that rekindled the spark of joy – Chetak made a robust comeback! The new model successfully offered renewed value. It was equipped with cutting-edge technology, fantastic performance and durability while retaining its iconic one-headlight look in a new shell, indeed a *chef’s kiss* moment. While being the latest craze for the Gen-Z, it became a nostalgic relic for the 80s kids who remembered driving around the bustling markets with their fathers. In a constantly transforming world, the Chetak transcends the concept of time while simultaneously persisting as an eternal heartthrob. Whether you ride an ancient beast or the pinnacle of tech, the Chetak continues to remain the symbol of the Indian scooter, a reminder of our past and the future that lies ahead.

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