India’s Latest Buzz: From 3D-Printed Temples to Disney Carpets and Festive Must-Haves

SERVE WITH PRIDE Turn your get-togethers into unforgettable experiences with HIIH‘s festive-themed dining products. Think about it, you have a chance to make great impressions with elegant dishes, glasses, and even those eye-catching centrepieces, all from this specially selected range. It’s all about adding that special festive vibe to where you eat. So, when it’s time to celebrate, make sure you’ve got all the trendy dining must-haves on hand to make every single meal feel like a celebration. HAPPY FEET Hey there Disney lovers and everyone who’s into Marvel and Pixar! We’ve got some cool news for you. OBEETEE Carpets is teaming up with Disney to roll out some new carpet designs. The upcoming Disney line is a fresh take on their kids’ range, but with an imaginative Disney spin. Apart from kids, this collection is also designed to appeal to young adults who are fans of Marvel characters, including Iron Man. The new series presents an interesting mix of styles influenced by popular Disney characters. You’ll see familiar faces such as Mickey Mouse and his pals, well-loved Disney Princesses like Cinderella and Belle, admired superheroes from the Marvel Universe such as Iron Man and Captain America, along with Pixar’s lovable Lightning McQueen and the Aliens from Toy Story. The collection is full of bright and cheerful colours that are sure to please Disney fans of all ages. CASTING A CAPTIVATING SPELL Take your holiday celebrations to the next level by introducing the delightful scents from IRIS Home Fragrances into your home. Get into the festive mood by unveiling their newest collections: The IRIS Bliss and IRIS Botanics. If you’re considering the Iris Bliss Fragrance Gift Set, expect more than just a typical experience. It’s designed by Iris to offer a pleasant combination of scent and home decor, and it’s meant to infuse your living space with the soothing and alluring aroma of velvet musk. While IRIS Botanics has put together an interesting collection that draws on nature for inspiration. This collection includes things like fragrant candles and reed diffusers. You’ll find a candle shaped like a wax lantern, a small bag of potpourri weighing 100 grams, a Votive candle, and even reed diffuser oil. They also provide a single reed diffuser bottle, six reed sticks, and one pillar candle. A PROMISING START Saachi Marwah Rana stands out in the field of interior design as a skilled professional known for her talent in turning rooms into visually striking environments. She has an impressive collection of work experiences, having designed the interiors for various famous personalities’ homes. This has helped Saachi secure her position as a prominent name in interior design. Born into a family deeply immersed in the realm of art and design, Saachi inherited her passion for aesthetics from her accomplished architect father and nationally recognized bronze sculptor parents. Surrounded by sculpture foundries, art museums, and exhibitions during her upbringing, she developed a profound understanding of the intricate relationship between art and design, which now defines her distinctive style. Sure, not too long ago Saachi got into furniture designing. They looked up to famous designers like Alexander McQueen and Antoni Gaudí for ideas. They’re known for architecture and fashion, and Saachi combined those fields to make a really unique set of custom furniture. This project is cool because it mixes modern tech in designing with the amazing stuff we see in nature. This particular set of furniture is unique because the materials it’s made from tend to become more valuable as time goes by. Each tiny aspect of these items shows a lot of skill and careful work, turning them into something more like art than just furniture. People who like art or fancy collections would probably like these pieces, seeing them as important parts of their home decor. This set proves that thoughtful design can last a long time, bringing together exact calculations and the attractiveness of nature to take custom-made luxury to a new level.. THE FAN CLUB Unveil the new Anemos Gold, Red, and Green Fans Collection – it’s where sophistication links up with Christmas cheer. These strong colours are all about bringing the warmth and sumptuousness we all love during the holidays, to set the mood just right. So, consider stepping up your holiday decoration game with these bright shades. They don’t just add refined touches; they also fill your place with a festive vibe. And these fans are more than just cool breeze machines; they make a bold holiday statement, turning any room into a festive retreat. From custom designs to tabletop and overhead fans, this line offers both chic looks and top-notch airflow. BACK WITH A BANG! Chumbak, a prominent brand in India for lifestyle and home décor, has recently updated its well-known Haus Khas store in New Delhi and is ready to welcome shoppers again. The location was temporarily shut down for a significant renovation and has reopened to offer a novel shopping experience. This place now offers a unique immersion into what makes Chumbak’s products special, demonstrating to visitors how perfect these items are for beautifying their homes. The store’s reopening includes a sensory excursion feature, displaying a wide assortment of art deco items and carefully designed accessories. Customers at Chumbak’s Haus Khas location will find an extensive array of merchandise including home decor, fashionable dinnerware sets, soft bedding, decorative art deco pieces, elegant women’s handbags, and many other collectibles. LEADING FROM THE FRONT Brandix Apparel India has been recognized as one of the “Top 25 Safest Workplaces in India” during the 2023 KelpHR PoSH Awards. This honour highlights the company’s commitment to safety, which surpasses even the mandates of the 2013 PoSH Act. Dr. T. Vasudha and Ms. Syamala Devi, representative for the organisation’s Wellness team, accepted the award from Dr. Pradnya Saravade of the Maharashtra Railway Police. The accolade was presented in Mumbai on December 7, 2023. Brandix Apparel India is noteworthy for being one of just four manufacturing companies in the top 25 this year

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Trends

India’s Smartphone Sweethearts: 12 Bestselling Mobiles That Conquered Hearts (2024)

India’s mobile phone market is one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing, with a vast consumer base eager to lay their hands on the latest and best smartphones. Due to a combination of factors such as pricing, features, brand loyalty, and after-sales service, certain mobile phones have risen to become bestsellers in India. From budget-friendly models to high-end flagships, here’s a list of 12 mobile phones that have captured the hearts of Indian consumers. These mobile phones have catered to various segments of the Indian market and thus have seen widespread appeal. It’s important to note the role of aggressive marketing, partnerships with e-commerce platforms, and attractive financing options that have also contributed massively to the sales numbers of these smartphones. Each brand emphasised different aspects to attract customers. Xiaomi and Realme leveraged online flash sales and aggressive pricing, Samsung and Apple focused on brand appeal and customer loyalty, whereas OnePlus and Oppo relied on a mix of online and offline strategies that highlighted their technical prowess and design aesthetics. Customers in India look for value, whether it’s in the entry-level segment or the premium market, which explains the diverse list of phones that became bestsellers. Additionally, the rise of 4G and more recently 5G, along with competitive data plans, has driven the demand for smartphones that can deliver on connectivity speeds and offer a good multimedia experience. In conclusion, the Indian mobile phone market thrives on diversity and value-driven propositions. The phones that become bestsellers here are those that understand and meet the specific needs and preferences of Indian consumers. As the market evolves and new challengers emerge, it will be interesting to see which brands and models adapt to remain on top of the sales charts.

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Entertainment

Binge Worthy! The Most Anticipated Indian Web Series in 2024

The Indian entertainment landscape has been revolutionised in recent years with the rise of web series, offering innovative storytelling and gripping content that has broken away from the traditional formats of television and cinema. As we look forward to 2024, the excitement is palpable for the upcoming digital shows that promise to keep audiences glued to their screens. Here are the ten most anticipated Indian web series set to release in 2024 that you shouldn’t miss. 1. Mirzapur, Season 3 The lawless land of Mirzapur is back with its third chapter, carrying forward the tale of power, rivalry, and vendetta. Teasers suggest that the new season of this crime saga will introduce fresh characters, intensify old feuds, and bring unexpected twists to the renowned series. 2. The Family Man, Season 3 Following the massive success of the first two seasons, “The Family Man” is all set to return. This series has been hailed for its nuanced portrayal of geopolitics and personal drama, promising another season of espionage thrills blended with everyday humour. 3. Made in Heaven, Season 2 The much-acclaimed show that took us behind the glamorous façades of Indian weddings is gearing up to showcase the business and personal lives of its protagonists with even more grandeur and drama in its second season. 4. Patal Lok, Season 2 The neo-noir web series that captured the dark underbelly of crime in India is expected to take a deeper dive into its complex social commentary. The upcoming season is rumoured to be set to present a new anthology of stories, each exploring different facets of society. 5. Asur, Season 2 Merging mythology with crime-solving, “Asur” was a breath of fresh air for viewers. The sequel, “Asur 2, currently streaming promises to raise the stakes with psychological depth and enigmatic storylines rooted in Indian folklore. 6. Delhi Crime, Season 3 The much-lauded series that provided a gripping, realistic portrayal of the workings of the Delhi Police is scheduled for a third season. With hopes to echo the critical acclaim of its predecessors, this instalment continues to explore the nuanced challenges in the capital’s criminal justice system. 7. Criminal Justice, Season 4 The legal drama “Criminal Justice” returns to take viewers on another journey through the Indian judiciary system. The new season is all about unravelling the truth in complex cases that reflect on the darker aspects of human behaviour. 8. Arya, Season 3 Sushmita Sen’s return as Aarya was met with great enthusiasm in the first two seasons. The third season is set to take the stakes even higher as Aarya delves deeper into the murky world of her family’s criminal enterprise while trying to protect her loved ones. 9. Gullak, Season 4 This heartwarming series on the everyday life of a middle-class family has found a special place in viewers’ hearts. Its return is anticipated eagerly by those looking for relatable content. 10. Rocket Boys, Season 3 After the splendid reception of the historical drama based on India’s brightest scientific minds, audiences are waiting to see what the next chapter in their lives holds. While fans await official release dates and teasers these series are hinting at what could be another stellar year for Indian web series. It’s important to note that some of these series may not have been officially confirmed, and the real joy is in the speculation and hope that our favourite stories will continue.

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Fashion

Fashion Trends 2024 : What’s in the wardrobe for 2024!

COLORS TO LOOK OUT FOR IN 2024! Fashion Month for Spring/Summer 2024 showcased the pinnacle of style from renowned labels in New York, London, Milan, and Paris. Building on the themes set by the preceding seasons—Spring/Summer 2023 and Fall/Winter 2023/2024—this latest unveiling reinforced a return to fashion’s core principles. The prevailing message emphasized a sustained focus on the essential elements of style. The designs for Spring/Summer 2024 showcased a departure from complexity, favoring clean and sharp cuts that exuded timeless elegance. The overarching aesthetic was a tribute to craftsmanship, underscoring a collective desire for a more conscientious approach to fashion consumption. This Fashion Month, it’s evident that the upcoming season is set to be a testament to not only style but also a mindful and purposeful engagement with the art of fashion. For those looking to stay ahead of the curve, these trends offer a glimpse into the sartorial landscape awaiting us in 2024. Welcome to the dynamic world of fashion, where trends are ever-changing, and style is a reflection of the times. In the upcoming year, 2024 promises to bring about notable transformations in clothing design and how we wear our garments. Let’s delve into the anticipated fashion silhouette trends for 2024, where the excitement lies in the evolving shapes and styles that will capture our attention. Sheer it out In the realm of fashion for 2024, sheer elements are expected to take center stage, adding a touch of allure and sophistication to clothing designs. Anticipate a trend where translucent fabrics and subtle see-through details become key features in various garments. The play between modesty and sensuality is likely to be artfully balanced, allowing individuals to express themselves with a hint of mystery. Sheer fashion in 2024 is poised to redefine elegance by incorporating delicate, see-through textures into both casual and formal attire, creating a captivating and contemporary aesthetic. Sheer fashion isn’t just about revealing; it’s about strategically concealing and revealing, playing with the idea of veiled elegance. Sheer sleeves, skirts, and even full ensembles will offer a delicate balance between modesty and sensuality, allowing wearers to make a bold statement without sacrificing refinement. Symphony of Structure Expect a resurgence of sculptural fashion pieces that blur the lines between clothing and art. Designers may experiment with three-dimensional textures and innovative construction techniques, sculpting garments that are not just worn but experienced. This trend could result in avant-garde pieces that challenge traditional fashion norms. The structural fashion trend in 2024 may also draw inspiration from futuristic aesthetics, incorporating technological elements seamlessly into clothing design. This could involve the use of innovative materials, smart textiles, or even 3D-printed elements, creating a harmonious blend of fashion and technology for a cutting-edge look. Raw Metallics A surprising fusion of metallic elements brought an unforeseen sense of cohesion to the runway. Loewe and Marni introduced organic motifs, showcasing flowers and leaves, while Rabanne presented a contemporary metallic goddess gracing the catwalk. This enchanting blend of metals infused vitality into the evening ensembles, creating a captivating alchemy that transcended traditional fashion boundaries. Metallics have never looked so luxurious. At Ralph Lauren, models wore loose-fitting gold-dipped dresses and separates that featured lots of molten movement. Elsewhere, designers like Prabal Gurung used clever textures to make metallics come alive. Drop waist dresses The drop waist dress will be a notable fashion trend for 2024, bringing a touch of casual elegance to contemporary wardrobes. This style, reminiscent of the 1920s flapper era, features a lower seam line that gracefully drapes around the hips, creating a relaxed and carefree silhouette. One of its defining attributes is its versatility, as drop waist dresses come in various lengths, from playful minis to sophisticated maxis, making them suitable for a range of occasions. The silhouette’s easygoing charm is complemented by the choice of materials, often favoring lightweight fabrics like chiffon or silk that enhance the fluidity of the design. The drop waist dress captures a timeless appeal, balancing comfort with style and drawing inspiration from fashion history to create a contemporary look that seamlessly blends casual flair with a hint of nostalgic elegance. Gone are the days of accentuating your waist with a belt; the contemporary style shift favors the alluring drop-waist alternative. Move away from the conventional high-waisted silhouette and explore the sexier appeal of the drop-waist trend. This style is especially prominent in longer dresses, making it an ideal choice for sophisticated eveningwear and special occasions. Drawing inspiration from influential designers like Prabal Gurung and Phillip Lim, consider opting for dresses featuring an asymmetrical neckline to infuse a modern and edgy feel into the look. The drop-waist approach offers a departure from the traditional emphasis on the waist, providing a fresh and fashion-forward take on feminine elegance. Preppy polos This trend encapsulates a classic and refined style, drawing inspiration from traditional, collegiate aesthetics. The polo shirt, a key component of preppy fashion, becomes a versatile and essential piece in achieving this timeless look. It often embraces a color palette that includes pastel shades like light blue, pink, mint green, and classic white. Bold and vibrant colors, such as navy, red, and emerald, are also common, allowing for versatile styling options. the “collar pop” – flipping the collar up for a crisp and slightly sporty look. This small detail adds a touch of sophistication and a nod to traditional preppy flair. Polo shirts are frequently used in layering to create polished ensembles. They can be worn under sweaters, crew-neck pullovers, or V-neck vests, allowing for a seamless transition from casual to slightly dressier looks. On the other hand, Indian fashion industry majorly reflects these upcoming trends in beautiful elan designs, fusing it elegantly into Indian silhouettes. Blending the sheerness in trendy saree drapes, capes, jackets and in simpler forms like dupattas, that are also a global hit. Here’s some interesting tips to be fashion forward with your Indian wardrobe: You can pair your high school polos with mid- length flowy skirts to achieve a chic trendy yet comfortable look.

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News - Indian Railways Rail News

Southern Railway Shines: 9 Heroes Earn Top Awards, Station Efficiency Soars (2024)

Nine Southern Railway personnel, comprising two officers and seven staff members, have been selected for the esteemed Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar for the year 2023. This award represents the most distinguished accolade for individuals working in the railway sector. The recipients of the Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar are set to receive their honours in a ceremony presided over by the Railway Minister on December 15, 2023, in New Delhi. The event coincides with the celebration of the 68th Railway Week Central Function. Additionally, Southern Railway has been recognized for exceptional Commercial efficiency, earning the overall Commercial efficiency shield. It has also achieved distinction in Safety, sharing the overall Safety shield with East Coast Railway and North East Frontier Railway. The esteemed Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, serving as the Minister of Railways, Communications, Electronics, and Information Technology, is scheduled to confer the awards upon the recipients. This prestigious ceremony will also witness the presence of Shri Raosaheb Patil Danve and Smt Darshana Jardosh, the Honourable Ministers of State for Railways, who will be joining in to present the awards. The list of Southern Railway officials selected for 68th Railway Week Ati vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar 2023 are: Sr. No Name Designation 1. Shri. K. Veera Perumal Track Maintainer GR II 2. Shri. M.K. Sudheesh Kumar Loco Pilot 3. Shri. T. Selva Kumar Dy. Chief Ticket Inspector 4. Shri. Deshidi Madhusudhan Reddy RPF Inspector 5. Shri. A Selvaraja Sr. Section Engineer 6. Smt. Durgadevi Vijayakumar Chief Nursing Superintendent 7. Shri. E. Hari Krishnan Sr. Divisional Commercial Manager 8. Shri. S. Mayileri Sr. Divisional Engineer 9. Shri. S. Mariappan Asst. Signal & Telecommunication Engineer KNOW THE TEAM ACHIEVING THIS REMARKABLE FEAT: COMETH THE HOUR, COMETH THE MAN: Shri. E. Hari Krishnan: Mr. E. Hari Krishnan was instrumental in the inception of the first Bharat Gaurav Train, launched on June 14, 2022. He proactively interacted with key participants and conducted effective promotional activities. As a result of these actions, the Salem Division and the Southern Railway emerged as frontrunners in the Railway Board’s campaign to integrate private sector investment into the rail industry. The initial Bharat Gaurav Train culminated in a revenue of INR 4.30 crore from six journeys over a period from June to December 2023. Due to Mr. Krishnan’s dedicated efforts, three additional firms have enrolled in the Bharat Gaurav Train scheme via the Southern Railway’s designated portal. The awards and accolades of course would not be possible without the vital contribution of the following employees: Shri. K. Veera Perumal, Track Maintainer GR II, Manamadurai: While conducting his patrol duties in Manamadurai, he identified a track weld defect and promptly took action to halt the incoming Train No. 16851, known as the Boat Mail Express, by signaling the locomotive engineers with a red hand sign. His commitment to his responsibilities, awareness of safety measures, and quick thinking were crucial in protecting the lives of numerous passengers and preventing a potentially significant accident. Shri. M.K. Sudheesh Kumar, Loco Pilot, Erode: On October 26, 2022, during the operation of Train No.22837, Hatia – Ernakulam Jn AC Express, an incident occurred wherein an elephant was detected stationary on the railway tracks within the Walayar-Kanjikode sector. The train operator executed an immediate application of the emergency braking system. This timely intervention not only conserved the life of the endangered elephant but also prevented a potential derailment situation. Shri. T. Selva Kumar, Dy. Chief Ticket Inspector, Southern Railway: His diligent and outstanding efforts have successfully uncovered instances of counterfeit Aadhar card usage to facilitate ‘Ticket Transfers’ and exploit the Senior Citizen quota for securing lower berth allocations on trains. In the fiscal year 2022-23, he imposed penalties on 13,281 cases, resulting in the accumulation of fines totalling INR 91.92 lakh from those who violated the regulations. Shri. Deshidi Madhusudhan Reddy, Dy. Chief Ticket Inspector, SRHQ: He demonstrated his capability by solving significant offences stipulated under the Railways Act and the Indian Penal Code (IPC). His accomplishments include the resolution of 57 cases related to the Railways Act and the apprehension of 117 individuals. Additionally, he succeeded in reclaiming Railway assets valued at INR 8.7 lakhs, which encompassed 162 metres of copper wire estimated at INR 2.08 crores. Moreover, he intercepted 10.7 kilograms of illicitly trafficked gold, valued at INR 5.02 crores, leading to the arrest of 7 suspects. He also confiscated 46,390 packets of foreign cigarettes, worth INR 92.78 lakhs, and 189 kilograms of cannabis, valued at INR 38.74 lakhs, culminating in the detention of 15 individuals. Beyond these, he seized unreported cash amounting to INR 1.10 crores and detained 6 persons, in addition to impounding 112 kilograms of tobacco products. Shri. A. Selvaraja, Sr. Section Engineer, Avadi EMU Car Shed: He provided an exemplary service by proficiently finalising the transformation of the Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) 3-phase motor coaches, numbered 188438 and 188439, into steam heritage locomotives, while incorporating modern, advanced features. Smt. Durgadevi Vijayakumar, Chief Nursing Superintendent, Perambur Railway Hospital: For over two decades, specifically 26 years, she has rendered unwavering service in the Intensive Care Unit, providing substantial aid to both Cardiac Surgeons and Cardiologists. Additionally, her readiness to offer support during emergencies around the clock is noteworthy. Her dedication to treating heart patients has enabled countless individuals to return home in good spirits. Her performance during the COVID-19 pandemic was notably commendable. Shri S. Mayileri, Sr. Divisional Engineer: He played a significant role in overseeing the timely execution of the Through Turnout renewal, which facilitated the enhancement of the Arakkonam-Renigunta Section’s sectional speed from 110 km/h to 130 km/h. Numerous track upgrades have been implemented in the Arakkonam-Jolarpettai Section to raise the sectional speed from 110 km/h to 130 km/h. Under his guidance, urgent repair operations on Bridge No. 299, an arch bridge, were expedited. Shri. S. Mariappan, Asst. Signal & Telecommunication Engineer: His contributions were outstanding in ensuring the work was completed on schedule, with an emphasis on enhancing reliability and operational efficiency. Notable accomplishments include the installation,

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Design Lifestyle

Conquer Your Home Office: 9 Mistakes to Avoid for Peak Productivity

As more people embrace the concept of remote work and create their own home offices, it becomes essential to design a productive and inspiring workspace. However, designing a home office requires careful planning to avoid common pitfalls that can hinder productivity and comfort. In this guide, Ar. Suren D’souza shares valuable insights and tips on mistakes to avoid when designing your home office space. Designing a home office that promotes productivity, comfort, and well-being requires careful consideration and attention to detail. By avoiding common mistakes such as neglecting ergonomics, inadequate lighting, and insufficient storage, you can create a functional and inspiring workspace. Remember to personalise your home office, prioritise connectivity and technology, and ensure proper ventilation for an optimal work environment. By implementing these tips suggested by Suren Dsouza, you can design a home office that enhances your productivity and enhances your remote work experience.

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News - Indian Railways

Kashi Tamil Sangamam Express: Bridging South & North India, Culture & Pilgrimage (2024 Travel Guide)

The honourable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, ceremonially initiated the Kanyakumari – Banaras ‘Kashi Tamil Sangamam Express’ service on the 17th of December, 2023. The commencement of the inaugural journey, denoted by Train No. 06367 from Kanyakumari, was conducted virtually by the Prime Minister from Varanasi. In Varanasi, the honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, inaugurated the commencement of the second phase of the ‘Kashi Tamil Sangamam’ event, which took place from the 17th of December to the 31st of December, 2023. Subsequently, the Prime Minister officially commenced the first journey of the Kanyakumari – Banaras ‘Kashi Tamil Sangamam Express,’ a new weekly train service established to celebrate the illustrious cultural gathering in Varanasi. Dignitaries present at the function included the respected Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Yogi Adityanath, the Honourable Union Minister for Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, and Dr L. Murugan, the Honourable Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying & Information Technology. An elaborate ceremony took place in Kanyakumari, which included provisions for live broadcasting of the esteemed Prime Minister’s event occurring in Varanasi. The dignified Member of the Legislative Assembly, Shri N. Thalavai Sundaram, was present to honour the occasion. Ceremonies to commemorate the inaugural journey of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam Express are taking place at each of the 17 intermediate stops within Tamil Nadu. These welcoming festivities are seeing active involvement from various groups including politicians, government officials, rail commuters, students, and local residents. The stations in Tamil Nadu where these events are being held are as follows: Nagercoil, Tirunelveli, Virudhunagar, Madurai, Dindigul, Tiruchchirappalli, Thanjavur, Kumbakonam, Mayiladuthurai, Sirkazhi, Chidambaram, Cuddalore Port, Villupuram, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Arakkonam, and Perambur. The inaugural special Train No.06367, Kashi Tamil Sangamam Express, recorded bookings for 1094 passengers. Benefits of Kashi Tamil Sangamam Express service: Historic Connection: The Kashi Tamil Sangamam Express inaugurates a significant railway connection as it initiates the inaugural dedicated passenger train service from Kanyakumari, situated at the extreme south of the Indian subcontinent, to the holy city of Kashi. This rail service marks an important link between two regions that are steeped in cultural heritage. Pilgrim Convenience: The recently introduced train service aims to facilitate improved travel and accessibility for the considerable contingent of devotees from Tamil Nadu making their pilgrimage to Kashi. Cultural Bonding: The objective of the service is to enhance the collective cultural legacy and intensify the interpersonal connections linking the southern and northern regions of India through the establishment of connections between these far-flung areas. Holistic Pilgrimage Route: The railway service facilitates the travel of devotees to key urban centres and sacred locations, including Varanasi, Allahabad (also known as Prayagraj), Banaras (another name for Varanasi), Madurai, Thanjavur, Kumbakonam, Chidambaram, and Kanchipuram, thereby establishing an extensive network for religious journeys. Regular services of Kashi Tamil Sangamam Express: Commencement of No. 16367/16368 Kanyakumari – Banaras – Kanyakumari Kashi Weekly Express will be as follows: from Kanyakumari starting December 28, 2023, on Thursday, and from Banaras starting December 24, 2023, on Sunday.

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Citizen Corner Editions

Your Platform Magazine – January 2024 Edition

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Culture and Heritage

Cradle of Subterranean Splendor – Revealing the Royalty of ‘Rani Ki Vav’

The ancient Indian buildings are so magnificent. Have you ever stopped to admire them? Countless locations in India captivate visitors with their breathtaking architecture. ‘Rani Ki Vav’, a.k.a. the ‘Queen’s Step Well’, is such a fantastic treat for everyone’s eyes. It is located in the Patan district of Gujarat. Imagine that you are descending deeper and deeper into history, where each step reveals a different tale carved in stone. Stunning sculptures and elaborate carvings surround Rani Ki Vav, transforming it from a mere stepwell into an underground masterpiece. The Splendid Architecture Queen Udayamati constructed this stepwell on the banks of the River Saraswati as a memorial to her beloved husband, Bhima I. He was a king of the Chalukya dynasty in the 11th century. Those who got an opportunity to witness this unique architecture might be astounded by the peculiar upside-down structure, which serves as a temple that highlights the holiness of water. The well is designed into seven separate layers of stairs with carved panels containing almost 1500 sculptures representing religious, social, and spiritual imagery. Image Source:Wikipedia The walls are adorned with many female deities and sculptures. Mythical figures such as nagakanyakas, yoginis, celestial women, and others are displayed in the form of sculptures. The stories from Ramayana and Mahabharata are depicted on the walls. In Admiration Of The Realm Of Nature This architectural masterpiece is the best example of the storage-well system followed in the Indian subcontinent. This stepwell offers substantial evidence of the ancients’ veneration and preservation of natural materials since groundwater was the primary source during that period. Unique Style And Structure Rani Ki Vav stands tall and proud among the perfect and most immaculate stepwells in the world. This stepwell is built in Mar Gulijara architectural style, which beautifully exemplifies the most intricate and detailed way of sculpting. The seven levels of the stairs in this structure lead to a deep, circular well. Designations Rani Ki Vav is designated as a national monument, and the Archeological Survey of India has protected it. Rani ki Vav was honoured as the “Most Cleanest and Iconic Place” at the 2016 Indian Hygiene Conference following its addition to the UNESCO World Heritage Site List on June 22, 2014. The pillared pavilions and the ornate panels of these majestic steps evoke admiration for the sculptures and visionaries who toiled tirelessly to finish this work of art. As we return from the site, each visitor becomes part of our country’s spiritual voyage and cultural legacy.

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Food

What is ‘One Pot, One Shot’ Cooking Method? – Yummy & Healthy Magic Revealed

The ‘One Pot, One Shot’ (OPOS) cooking method was created by B. Ramakrishnan, a culinary enthusiast from Chennai. This cooking style helps you save a lot of time without compromising the dish’s flavour and quality. According to Ramki (that is what everyone calls him fondly), “Learning to make tasty food with quick recipes and minimum effort is an essential skill.” However, he promises to teach everyone the magic of simple cooking methods through his OPOS cookbook. Working moms and youngsters who are interested in trying new dishes but not yet feeling comfortable with the intricacies of traditional cooking procedures will find this method incredibly useful. Ramki started to experiment with different recipes when he was working in Bahrain. He was missing his favourite Indian food items and wanted to try them without any hassle. After much trial and error, the ‘OPOS’ method was born; needless to say, it was a big success. In Ramki’s view, if you prepare a dish using OPOS techniques, you are not compromising its nutritional levels. In addition to this, all the cooked vegetables preserve their colour and crunchiness. That is why OPOS cuisine can entice even the most picky eater. Using the OPOS cooking method, you can cook butter chicken in 6 minutes ‘aviyal’ (a south Indian vegetarian dish) in just 5 minutes, including the chopping time of the ingredients. Amazing, isn’t it? To start, you need a 2L pressure cooker, measuring spoon, cups, weighing scale, timer and a stove. In the pressure cooker, the ingredients are diced and layered one by one with a minimum quantity of water. And, you need to cook on high heat for very little time. For every recipe, there are particular procedures to adhere to. Cookbooks with a wide variety of delicious OPOS recipes are available on top-rated online shopping sites, and many of them boast the ‘best seller’ status. Let us try one of the recipes. OPOS No Water Mushroom Biriyani Ingredients needed 1. 400 grams of mushrooms chopped into 4 cups 2. 1 cup Basmati rice 3. 2 tablespoons of ghee 4. 1 cup of chopped tomatoes. Method of preparation Mix the chopped mushroom with the ingredients below and keep it aside. 5. ½ cup of caramelised onion 6. ¼ cup yogurt 7. 2 green chillies slitted 8. 1 tablespoon mint leaves 9. 1 tablespoon of garam masala 10. Salt Soak the rice for 30 minutes and drain it. Now layer the ingredients in a 2L pressure cooker as below. Layer 1: 2 tbsp ghee Layer 2: 1 cup of chopped tomatoes Layer 3: 2 cups of mushroom Layer 4: soaked rice Layer 5: 2 cups of mushroom Fix the weight and cook on high for four whistles or 10 minutes. Switch off and keep it aside to settle the pressure. After some time, open the lid and mix well. The hot and spicy OPOS mushroom biriyani is ready to serve. Reference for the article: OPOS Cookbook – 5 min Magic by Ramakrishnan and UBF, OPOS school students.

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