Repay or Invest?- A Deep Dive Into the Decision

Whenever you cash in your paycheck, a question comes to mind: “What should I do with this?” You get stuck between two paths – repay a past debt, whether a loan from a friend or a family member or invest it. This question can be compared to picking between vanilla or chocolate – you can’t possibly decide between both, can you? One side says chocolate or repaying your debt as it affects you psychologically. The other side insists you try vanilla instead – invest in stocks and earn more to lose less. One says you’ll lose too much money from interest; the other states if you gain 7% through investment with an interest of 4%, you lose 3% of opportunity cost. Here are a few things to think of to make the decision easier. Is there an option to receive a 401k match? Discuss offer letters and anything with your HR department to check whether or not your employer offers a retirement match. If that’s the case, you get a 50% + return on each buck you contribute. Try to squeeze it for every bit of coin you can; otherwise, you’re missing a chance of half (or more!) of the money you contribute coming back to you. Assess your risk tolerance Let’s state the obvious – take your time in situations that play with your money. Do your homework, determine the risks of your choices, and take a step accordingly. The chances of you ending up worse than before are higher if you don’t take precautions. If you’re risk-averse, pay off your debts instead, as they bring a guaranteed return rather than the stock market. Set up an Emergency fund Before you take a step, ensure you have money for when things go south. Save enough cash for three to six months’ worth of living and be a financial safety net for taking risks. The size of the funds varies depending on your earnings, where you spend your money, etc. Ask yourself: is this debt pulling you down mentally? It’s only sometimes running around and figuring out whether you can. Ask yourself if debt-free would help you be in peace, and consider the psychological value it holds. Be on the lookout for opportunities Check if there are any other choices, and look for another path. This could be a unique and booming investment or a chance to escape the high-interest debt. Considering all this, pick your favorite icecream – Vanilla or Chocolate. It will add to your financial well-being.

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Design Lifestyle

Cool Tips for Building Community & Belonging as a “Remote Worker”!

Initially, swapping the bustling corporate hub for the solitude of your home workspace might seem thrilling. Now, there are no more dress codes to be followed, no more travels to and fro work, and no office politics. But, when novelty starts to fade away, you are likely struck by a familiar feeling – solitude. As your daily interactions with your coworkers are less in a remote setup, it can provoke a feeling of isolation, making you lose away your sense of belonging. What is the solution? How can we build community and belonging in the virtual world? Here, we have compiled a list of smart tips to bridge these physical distances and develop meaningful connections. Connect Proactively, Even Virtually Be Deliberate about Social Interaction Embrace Your Local Community: Join the local community. Enroll in a yoga class, volunteer at a local cause, or start a fun activity. Building local networks can beat the isolation and bring a sense of belonging that screen time can’t match.

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Food

Sweet Revolution Beyond Jalebis & Gulab Jamuns

Indian culture can’t be imagined without sweets – where every bite tells a story, and every flavor is a celebration! Our culinary landscape has an exquisite array of sweets, from the luscious indulgence of jalebis to the delectable elegance of gulab jamuns. However, a trend is storming the dessert scene, pushing it beyond these familiar shores and venturing into the territory. Have you heard of it yet? It’s called Sweet Revolution—a groundbreaking movement reimagining tradition through creativity, offering the spotlight to innovation. From Mithai to Masterpieces These days, we reminisce about running outside to buy gulab jamuns from the white-haired uncle in the mithai shop. It’s astonishing how desserts leaped from Mohan’s uncle’s cute little corner store to having entrepreneurs and pastry chefs turn the art of sweets into something more. Picture enjoying a lovely chocolate truffle infused with a mix of cardamom and rose or savoring a nice and soft mango panna cotta with sweet edible flowers. Pastry chefs also reach the peak, adding jackfruits and black sesame seeds to macarons and mousses. Not to mention chai-flavored gelatos or paan-flavored sorbets! This artsiness makes our taste buds tingle in a way we love and puts us in awe with life-sized orangutan sculptures made with chocolate. Fusion Fantasies If looked closely, we can notice how delightful Indian sweets embrace the art of fusion. For example, saffron-infused crème brûlée or coconut milk panna cottas topped with a caramelized jaggery crust showcase the French culinary techniques that mingle harmoniously with spices. These yummy flavor influences can also be seen in matcha tea cakes and baklava delicately scented with rose. Healthy twists, like chia seed puddings and vegan cheesecakes, also cater to health-conscious dessert lovers. Sustainable Sweetness The quirkiness of Sweet Revolution is more than just fancy ingredients. Lately, there’s also been a growing emphasis on the ‘go green’ vibe. So, to cut down on food waste, many culinarians prioritize using seasonal produce. Not only that, but many food outlets also feature rotating seasonal fruit selection menus to promote farmers’ markets. Furthermore, there has also been a shift in eco-friendly packaging. Long story short, now you can enjoy tasty churros dipped in chocolate sauce without worrying about how it affects the environment.

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Culture and Heritage

Republic Day 2024: Five Places to Revive Your Patriotism

On 26th January, India will celebrate its 75th Republic Day. A glorious day to recall the adoption of the Indian Constitution and the sacrifices of our brave freedom fighters. Why not take an interesting trip down the memory lane? Here’s a list of historic sites that will drown you in the well of patriotic fervour. India Gate India gate, originally known as All India War Memorial, commemorates the fortitude of soldiers martyred in World War I and Third Anglo-Afghan War. If you’re an architecture enthusiast, India Gate is a place you shouldn’t miss. It’s breathtaking to see India gate soaked in tricolour, republic parade and air blanketed with layers of patriotism. Delhi Red Fort Red Fort, an iconic fort located in the capital of India, is another historic site that will take you down the memory lane. The Fort, originally called Qila-i-Mubarak, was built during the Mughal reign of emperor Shah Jahan. This year’s ‘Bharat Parv’ conducted as a part of Republic day celebrations was launched by honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Red Fort. National War Memorial National War Memorial, built to honour the soldiers who were martyred in India-china, India-pak, Kargil War and Indian Peace Keeping Force Operations in Sri Lanka. It stands out as a symbol of their bravery and fortitude. The Memorial has four concentric circles and an obelisk in the centre. Among these four circles, Tyag Chakra or Circle of Sacrifice contains around 25700 names of brave soldiers. Qutub Minar This 13th century monument is known for being the world’s tallest brick minaret (239 feet). The design, inscriptions, balconies and red sandstone structure are awe-striking to see. Qutub complex houses many other historic beauties like Iron pillar, tombs of Iltutmish, Alauddin Khalji and Imam Zamin and Alai Darwaza gate. One interesting as well as concerning facts about Qutub Minar is “it’s slowly tilting”. Lodhi Garden Lodhi garden, formally called Lady Wellington Park, situated in the capital city is a place brimming with breathtaking nature and intriguing architecture. The garden will take you back to the past with the marvellous tombs of Lodhi and Mughal rulers. Other artistic marvels are the statue of Lady Willingdon and Athpula Bridge. Lodhi Garden is a perfect place to explore on a special occasion like Republic Day.

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Design Lifestyle

Laptop Lifestyle: Escape the 9-to-5 with Smart Side Hustles

Picture this – Your phone’s alarm chimes in at 5 in the morning. You go through the same routine of freshening up and getting ready at eight sharp to leave for work. The car horns blare into your exhausted ears. All that only to work an exhausting eight-hour office job. Does that sound like your life? Does it feel like your life is more like a hamster running on a wheel rather than a fueling journey? There is hope, fueled by determination, hard work, and a bit of cafe macchiato – the Laptop Lifestyle. Imagine ditching the boring 9-to-5 formula and crafting your work-life harmony with a laptop. Sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? What if it wasn’t? Read on to find out more. How do you start your laptop lifestyle? From idea to income: Okay, sounds great… but why go laptop? So, pack your laptop, for the world and your freedom await. The only limit to your new life is the limits you set. Prepare to trade commutes over a nice cappuccino, meet deadlines, and select and use fluorescent lights for sunrises that inspire you. The laptop lifestyle calls and picks up the phone.

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Technology

Mugic Melodies: Shower Serenades for Bathroom Singers

Ever dreamed of belting out tunes like Celine Dion or jamming to Rihanna in the shower? Say goodbye to hushed whispers and silent humming as we transform your mundane shower into a private karaoke haven. Don a stylish shower cap (because style is essential everywhere), grab a towel, and let your inner pop star out, regardless of your vocal skills. Wondering how to do it? Well, swap those boring shower sessions for waterproof wonders with some fantastic gadgets. You heard it here first, guys. We’re not discussing gizmos that just drone in sync with your off-key crooning. These hotshots are loaded up and ready for action, packing tech innovations designed to boost the quality of every shower concert you hold! Bid farewell to regular showers; it’s time for a memorable curtain call in your very own water-filled stage! Here is the musical list: So there you go, shower singers! With the tools in your hands (or on your heads), it’s time to electrify those tiles with gloriously tone-deaf performances. But hey, let’s be considerate and keep our windows shut until we’re ready for a grand encore performance!

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Culture and Heritage

Taj Mahal Beyond Romance: A History of Mughal Grandeur and Architectural Genius

Perhaps the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the world’s seven wonders (2007), is synonymous with Shah Jahan’s epic love verse for Mumtaz Mahal. This white marble masterpiece, nevertheless, is much more than just a romantic backdrop for numerous Bollywood movies. So, put aside the rose petals, love, and clichés for some time. Let’s get ready to be mesmerized by the rich history and breathtaking architectural brilliance that make the Taj truly awe-inspiring. More Than A Love Story Etched in Stone Undoubtedly, the Taj was built to express Emperor Shah Jahan’s mourning for his beloved empress, Mumtaz Mahal. However, it’s not just love that inspired this; it’s also a tribute to Mumtaz’s loyalty to her husband as a confidante and an advisor. It was a symbol of respect and appreciation for their enduring companionship. A Symphony of Architectural Styles The Taj can’t be described entirely as “Mughal Marvel,” as it showcases a spectacular blend of Persian, Islamic, and European influences. The symmetrical structure, elaborate inlaid designs, and soaring minarets of the Taj exhibit the best of these diverse styles. You will be mesmerized to see waterbodies mirroring the bliss of Persian gardens, detailed calligraphy carved on the stones whispering prayers, and sunlight endlessly playing an endless game of hide-and-seek through latticed windows. A Feat of Engineering and Craftsmanship Building the Taj was far from a cinematic splendor. It took 22 years, an army of 20,000 workers, and heap loads of prized materials. To turn such a lavish dream into reality, elephants transported marble over vast distances from various quarries, skilled craftsmen chiseled supreme details with impressive preciseness, and engineers defied gravity with fascinatingly suspended arches. The Taj is as much a testament to artistic brilliance as it is to love and romance. A Whisper of the Past The Taj’s age-old charm is more than just a museum-worthy collection. It stands as a living homage to an era long past. When the marble changes colors with the sun rising and setting, it feels like time is turning the pages of history to show how wonders can be true. And that’s not all! You can hear the soft sound of prayers from the mosque and smell the jasmine flowers from the surrounding gardens. It takes you on a ride back centuries. When you start putting your soul into this magical passage, you can almost hear soft whispers and the clatter of sparkling jewelry. You can even feel the soft murmurs of romantic poetry being recited under the moonlight. So, when you next visit the Taj Mahal, don’t just rush to capture a quick selfie. Take a moment and listen to the exciting stories it whispers, and behold the beauty it possesses steeped in history and architectural richness. The Taj Mahal is more than an emblem of love; it symbolizes human aspiration and artistic brilliance with an evergreen love story that continues to echo through time.

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Food

#3 Old Delhi’s Glorious Food Heritage (Old Delhi Series)

Old Delhi, the walled city of Delhi, is a treasure trove of enduring food traditions and iconic eateries in the 21st century that have been serving legacy Mughlai cuisine and street food recipes for generations. Cultural tourists exploring Old Delhi can discover the area’s rich history and culture through its glorious food heritage. Iconic Eateries of Old Delhi Kareem’s is one of the most iconic eateries located near the Jama Masjid, founded in 1913. It serves royal Mughlai dishes like nihari gosht, kebabs, and biryani. Karim’s has retained its recipe and flavors over the years to offer an authentic Mughlai experience. Another legendary eatery is the Old Famous Jalebi Wala, which started in 1884 inside Dariba Kalan Market. It serves the softest and juiciest jalebis in Old Delhi, perfect with rabdi. Ghantewala Halwai in Chandni Chowk market has been selling traditional Indian mithai since 1790. Their specialties include sohan halwa, gulab jamun, and ghevar. Street Food of Old Delhi Do you know Old Delhi is famous for its flavorful and aromatic street food? Chandni Chowk is dotted with iconic street food vendors and stalls. Parathawali Gali is famous for layered flatbreads like aloo paratha and stuffed kulcha. Ashok Chaat Bhandar, near Chandni Chowk, is renowned for chaats like dahi bhalle papdi chaat and aloo tikki. Jalebi Wala Corner sells crispy hot jalebis dunked in sugar syrup. You’ll find vendors selling kebabs, haleem, biryani, and nihari near the Jama Masjid on carts. Be sure to try the unique, paper-thin roomali roti. It is a must-try. From Jama Masjid Gate No. 3, try Shahi-Tukde, a sweet dessert made out of pure ghee and bread. Buy delicacies like sheermal and baked papay. Food Tours of Old Delhi The best way to explore Old Delhi’s food heritage is by joining a food tour. Many operators, like Delhi Food Walks, Delicious Delhi Food Tours, and Old Delhi Food Tour, offer guided walking tours. The famous tour guides are Abbu Sufiyan (known as Purani Delhi wala) and Iqbal Ali (known as House of Dehalvi). An experienced guide takes you to hidden gems, explains the history and culinary secrets of dishes, and lets you taste a variety of iconic Old Delhi cuisine. You get insights into culture and food traditions. Food tours are ideal for families, solo travelers, and anyone new to Old Delhi. Old Delhi’s glorious food heritage offers a delicious entry point to experience the area’s enduring culture and history. It’s iconic eateries and flavorful street food provide a window into tradition. So set out on a food tour or just follow your nose to discover Old Delhi’s rich culinary legacy.

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Culture and Heritage

#2 Tracing the History of Delhi’s Iconic Monuments (Old Delhi Series)

Delhi has been the capital of several empires throughout history. As a result, the city is dotted with majestic monuments that reflect its rich cultural past. Exploring the tales behind Delhi’s historical monuments provides an insight into the city’s architectural evolution. Delhi has been a tourist space for more than 30 years and it’s still developing. The thing that makes it unique is that in the ever-crowded and bustling markets, there is a unique sense of satisfaction and peace hidden within. Here are some of the key monuments that reveal the untold stories of Delhi’s history. The Red Fort: The Ultimate Symbol of the Mughals Built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, the grand Red Fort is made of red sandstone. It got its name from its imposing red walls. The Red Fort was the residence of the Mughal dynasty for nearly 200 years. Beyond its regal appearance, the fort has many hidden features. There is an elaborate network of water channels and fountains inside. Not only that but, the Royal Baths use elaborate hydraulic technology for hot and cold water. The Diwan-i-Khas once housed the legendary Peacock Throne studded with precious stones. The Red Fort is a magnificent symbol of Mughal grandeur. Qutub Minar: Delhi’s Earliest Monument Rising 73 meters, the Qutub Minar is Delhi’s tallest minaret built in the 13th century. It is made of red sandstone and marble with intricate carvings. An ambitious construction project by Qutub-ud-din Aibak, signified the might of the Delhi Sultanate. An interesting fact about Qutub Minar is that it was struck by lightning twice in its history. The first time, it was repaired by Firoz Shah Tughlaq. The second time, it sustained more damage, giving it the slight tilt it has today. Nonetheless, the Qutub Minar remains an architectural marvel. Humayun’s Tomb: Grandeur of the Mughals Built in the 16th century by Humayun’s widow, Bega Begum, this was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. It paved the way for later monuments like the Taj Mahal. The structure combines Persian architecture with Indian traditions. Red sandstone and white marble contrast elegantly against the symmetrical gardens. Intricate lattice work and ceilings adorn the interiors. Humayun’s tomb has an ethereal beauty that reflects the emperor’s heavenly paradise. Exploring the history behind Delhi’s iconic monuments provides insight into the city’s rich cultural past. The tales of architectural ambition, political might, and the rise and fall of dynasties come alive. So head out and unravel the unknown stories behind each monument.

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Culture and Heritage

#1 Exploring the Seven Cities of Delhi (Delhi Series)

As we all know, Delhi has been the capital of several empires throughout its long history. You will be shocked to know that the city was built and rebuilt seven times during the ancient and medieval periods, which shaped the Delhi we know today. Tracing the rise and fall of these seven cities in this blog provides a fascinating glimpse into Delhi’s cultural evolution. The Tomars’ First Fortress The oldest reference, according to historical background, we have to Delhi is to the fortified city of Lal Kot, founded in 1060 by the Tomar ruler Anangpal. The first of the seven cities, it was located in the south of current Delhi. Today, the ruins of Lal Kot can also be seen near the Qutub Minar complex. The Chauhans’ Expansion In the 12th century, according to historians, Chauhan king Prithviraj Chauhan expanded Lal Kot into a bigger fort called Qila Rai Pithora, known as present day Mehrauli. This second city is also very famous for its massive stone fortifications and gates. Gradually, the kingdom shifted from Lal Kot to Rai Pithora. Alauddin Khilji’s Luxurious Addon Do you know that when the Khiljis captured Delhi in 1303, Alauddin Khilji founded the third city of Siri, adjacent to Qila Rai Pithora? With lavish palaces and architecture, Siri was an opulent addition, showing Khilji’s power. The defining monument was the extravagant mosque, commonly referred to as the Alai Minar. Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq’s Mighty Stronghold The founder of the mighty Tughlaq dynasty, Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, built the fourth city of Tughlaqabad in the 14th century. The imposing stone fortress, with its vivid details and architecture, shows his vision’s ambition. Even in ruins, Tughlaqabad represents the might of his reign. Muhammad Bin Tughlaq’s Double-walled City Within a few decades, Muhammad Bin Tughlaq built another new capital called Jahanpanah in the 14th century. The fifth city had outer and inner walls, with 13 gates for double protection. The Jahaz Mahal and the Begumpuri Masjid inside stand testament to its grand empire. Capital planned by Firoz Shah According to historical records, the sixth city of Firozabad was built by Sultan Firoz Shah between 1354-88 with imperial buildings and public works. The circular city had a geometric street grid and facilities like baths, mosques, tanks, and palaces. Firoz Shah’s reforms and constructions shaped Firozabad into a planned, well-run capital. The Magnificent Mughal Capital The seventh city of Shahjahanabad, constructed in the mid 17th-century, is the old Delhi we know today. Shah Jahan shifted his capital from Agra to build this new magnificent capital with the Red Fort and Jama Masjid as focal points. Chandni Chowk market and elegant havelis were added by nobles. Sections of Shahjahanabad’s walls, gates, and streets remain, changed yet recognizable. Exploring the various ancient cities that rose and fell on Delhi’s landscape gives us a glimpse into its storied past and the kings who shaped each capital for their needs and eventually transformed it into the historical metropolis of today.

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