Sculptural Splendor: Discovering India’s Ancient Rock-Cut Caves and Carvings

Sculptural Splendor, India’s Unsung Marvels Carved in Stone When you think of India’s ancient architectural wonders, famous sites like the Taj Mahal or Ajanta Caves likely first come to mind. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll unearth an entire treasure trove of sculpted marvels still blissfully off the beaten path. Get ready to embark on an enchanting odyssey of some seriously underrated rock-cut gems. The Astounding Arvalem Caves Tucked into the lush Western Ghats of Goa lies a hidden delight – the exquisite Arvalem Caves. Don’t be fooled by their modest entrances, carved into rocky outcrops. Inside awaits an otherworldly subterranean maze adorned with breathtaking Buddhist sculptures and rock-cut temples. Do you know these archaeological wonders date back over 2,000 years to the 6th century BC? Yet even in modern times, many locals were unaware of their existence until Portuguese explorers “rediscovered” them in 1776. A bona fide slice of lost history. The “Miniature Ellora” of Masrur Allured by the tantalizing promise of an “Underground Khajuraho?” Then don’t miss the spectacular rock-cut temples of Masrur in the Himachal Pradesh hills. This hidden gem features over 15 intricately carved rock-hewn shrines dubbed the “Miniature Ellora” for resembling their bigger, more famous counterparts. You’ll be stunned to learn that these medieval marvels remained completely veiled from the outside world until a British forest ranger stumbled upon them in 1819. Some temples are still being excavated to this day. Pandav Lari: Wonders in the Wilderness For true off-the-grid adventure, venture far into the rugged forests of Madhya Pradesh to find the mysterious Pandav Lari caves. This extraordinary series of rock-cut chambers features life-sized Buddhist and Hindu sculptures that appear to be emerging straight from the stone itself. Not only that, new underground complexes and shrines are still being unearthed here. So who knows what ancient secrets still await discovery? One thing’s for sure – Pandav Lari is an archaeologist’s dream come true and a nature lover’s paradise wrapped into one. There you have it – a taste of India’s lesser-known but no less astounding ancient sculptural splendors carved into solid rock. From remote forest caves to subterranean marvels, these sites offer a truly transportive journey into the past. What wonders and stories will you encounter as you explore?

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Technology

A Magical & Affordable Gadget to Save Your Electricity Bill: Complete Review of Nest Thermostat!

Google’s Nest Thermostat is still one of the most popular choices for home automation thermostats despite being on the scene for a long time. You won’t refrain from getting one due to its advanced, opulent look and the chance to gain greater authority over your home’s heating system and the interior temperature of every room. The Nest Learning Thermostat would become the Nest Thermostat if its learning capabilities and part of the styling had been eliminated. Many features from Google’s original flagship smart thermostat were removed in an attempt to create a cheaper substitute. As a consequence, there is a reasonably cost smart thermostat that is nonetheless visually appealing and capable of competing with the many excellent models that have been available since the release of the initial Nest. Let’s explore its features and everything! Nest Thermostat: DesignThe Nest Thermostat’s reflective exterior draws your attention right away; it’s slightly bigger than an ordinary mirror and certainly just as handy if you require a touch-up while you’re travelling. The thermostat glows underneath the surface, displaying the temperature and other information about the system only when you approach it and allow it to detect your existence. The real display is a tiny rectangle inside the circle, as you observe when you examine it closely. Nest Thermostat: Price & Availability2020 witnessed the debut of the Nest Thermostat, which retails for $129, half of what the Nest Learning Thermostat costs. The four colors that the Nest Thermostat comes in are white, sand, fog (a light green), and charcoal. Top features of Nest Thermostat you should be usingThese are the top features of Nest Thermostat that you must be using to reap its benefits: Save Energy (and Cash) With Advanced SettingsA thermometer subjected to intense sunlight during the day is intended for use with Sunblock. The likelihood of the thermostat being just a few degrees hotter than the other parts of the home increases if it is located next to a window that faces the sun. Nest Thermostat voice regulation with Amazon AlexaIf you use Alexa with the Nest, changing your thermostat will no longer require you to purchase fresh digital assistants. Furthermore, compatibility won’t be an issue if you are interested in buying a Nest but currently own several Amazon Echo devices scattered about your house. VerdictThe Nest Thermostat from Google is a great, reasonably priced smart thermostat that costs $130. Its sleek appearance, simplicity of setup, and functionality make it a great choice for anyone looking to make use of a connected speaker or monitor with Google Home, in addition to the recently introduced side buttons located on the thermostat itself.

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Entertainment

Trip To The Moon To City Lights: Silent Movies You Can Watch On YouTube!

If you’re a fan of Charlie Chaplin, why not dive deep into some of the best, arresting films of his era? Silent era, the period before the mushrooming of Talkies with synchronised sound, is characterised by intertitles, visually appealing storytelling with expressive acting and live orchestra accompanying the movie while screening them. Though many silent movies have sunk without any trace, some of them are treasured like gold. Here’s the list of silent movies that you can freely watch on YouTube. Trip to the Moon (1902) Are you an astrophile? If yes, you should definitely watch this first ever science fiction movie. Trip to the Moon (Le voyage dans la lune) by Georges Melies is a moonly bizzaro, showing a group of astronomers being sent to the moon in a capsule propelled by the cannon, and their encounter with Selenites. From the capsule hitting the moon’s eye to the phantasmagorical appearance of Phoebe (moon goddess sitting in a crescent moon), the movie has many iconic scenes that drenched the audience in wonderment. City Lights (1931) Here comes Charlie Chaplin with the blend of romance and comedy. City Lights was released when Talkies were riding the road, yet managed to garner the world’s attention with Charlie Chaplin’s gripping performance. City Lights is an emotional roller coaster that portrays the story of the tramp who falls in love with a blind girl, and his achingly hilarious journey to impress and save the girl from illness as well as eviction. Raja Harishchandra (1913) Raja Harishchandra by Dadasaheb Phalke is believed to be the first feature movie in India. Despite the financial strain and the deficiency of technical resources, Dadaseheb Phalke made films fuelled by passion and set the foundation stone to sprout Indian cinema. Raja Harishchandra revolves around Harishchandra, the king, and the challenges hurled at him while he stood committed to justice and truth. If you’re someone who’s into mythology, this movie is definitely your type. A Throw Of Dice (1929) A Throw of Dice is collaboratively crafted by Indian producer Himansu Rai and German director Franz Osten. The movie was released when Talkies were flourishing and taking the cinema world by storm. It shows the gripping tale of love and the play of ruthless fate, but despite the lashing of troubles, the film calms down to a silent dusk uniting the lovers. This captivating silent movie was inspired by Mahabharata.

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Automobile

Extraordinary Vintage Car Of The 70s: Complete Review Of Fiat Premier Padmini!

India’s history and legacy are significantly shaped by its vintage and classic automobiles. It describes individual tastes and modes of transportation. Today, we will discuss the most wanted and affordable vintage car, Fiat Premier Padmini! About Fiat Premier Padmini When this historic vehicle was last spotted, it was a taxi in Mumbai. Between 1970 and 1978, Premier Automobiles Ltd. constructed it in India. This vehicle dominated the sales record in the 1970s and 1980s and was mainly sold under the Fiat 1100 Delight name. Its maximum speed was 131 km/h.Driving this tiny automobile was simpler than driving the Ambassador, and it was an enormous hit. It was equipped with options including leather seating, tinted glass, and welcoming lights. Nevertheless, the car was unable to keep pace with the newly released vehicles due to the deregulation of the economy legislation of 1991. After the government outlawed cars older than twenty years, Mumbai’s taxis dissipated as well. Fiat Premier Padmini SpecificationsThe stunning vehicle has an engine that sounds wonderful and has a number of features:● Power: 40 BHP @ 4800 RPM.● Compression Ratio: 7.8:1● Transmission: 4-speed Manual with column-mounted shifter, rear wheel drive.● Engine: Fiat 1089cc, Four Cylinders, 2 valves/cylinder, Carbureted, Petrol.● Torque: 71 Nm @ 3000 RPM. The automobile has a straightforward, streamlined exterior. With three-box styling, it featured rounded headlamps with chrome trim at all four ends, a larger grill in the middle holding the PAL emblem, and blinkers below it. The front end bore a striking resemblance to the Morris Mini. It was distinguished from the crowd by its arched chrome front and back bumpers. The hub wheel headgear, door handles, and side profile were all composed of chrome, with a single chrome line spanning across the entire length of the profile. Some people installed side walls painted white on the tires, which finished the car’s basic side profile. Verdict Padmini conquered not just the Mumbai taxi industry but also the emotions of many people. As a result, it is occasionally still visible in numerous avatars. Countless enthusiastic Padmini proprietors have worked very hard to maintain the vehicle’s operational state and stunning vintage appearance. Padmini fan groups exist, and they pool their technical skills to keep Padmini’s pulse beating. In India, only a few automobiles can produce this type of clamor.

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Fashion

Roaring Glamour: The Bold & Beautiful Flapper Makeup Of 1920’s (Beauty & Self-Care -No.3)

Image source: www.vintagefashions.co Entering the roaring era of the 1920s, we see the bold and beautiful women of the period who wore the most sophisticated makeup and couture of that time. Wearing knee-length dresses and trimming her hair to short lengths was never something she was self-conscious about. She accentuated her eyes with deep black kohl. Her lips were covered with dark hues, and a hint of scarlet blush adorned her prominent cheekbones. It was an era of variants, where light coupled with dark and tradition clashed with liberation, creating an iconic style that continues to enchant and inspire. The youth of that era were bold enough to go beyond boundaries, creating self-impressions through their fashion and makeup styles. Flapper makeup trends were revolutionary in many ways, reflecting the spirit of liberation and rebellion against traditional norms. Here are some key makeup trends from the Flapper era: The Aesthetics Of Pale Skin The flapper women found their signature pale skin makeup look by applying powdered foundation in large quantities. The colour tone was noticeably paler than the actual skin tone. They applied loose face powder to elevate the pale pink undertones and achieve a flawless matte finish. The light base colour achieved with the foundation always looked striking against the deep-toned lipsticks and kajal. The Attractive Eye Makeup Subtly defined eyes with deep-toned kohl or eyeliners enhanced the total look. The heavy lines extended beyond the natural lash lines, creating a dramatic appearance. A popular style at that time was smeared or smokey eyes. The Striking, Deep- Red Lips Dark-toned lip liners helped them create precise contours for the lips. They also used pigmented lip paints with matte textures to glam up the lips. Dark crimson or plum tones were most common among them. Defined Cheekbones Bright pinks or vivid reds were the most popular cheek colours. Rouge or blush defined the cheeks, elevating the shape of the face and giving it a bold and radiant look. The flapper makeup look challenged all the conventional norms that existed in the society. The wearers gleefully wore short-length sleeveless dresses and high-heeled shoes. Their makeup and attire choices showcased their sense of liberation, self-confidence, and self-assurance. Overall, the Flapper makeup trends paved a new way in the fashion world, embodying the spirit of the Jazz Age and the newfound freedoms gained by women in the 1920s. These makeup and beauty fads continue to inspire contemporary beauty standards and remain iconic in the history of fashion and the beauty realm.

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Automobile

Automobile Tech Innovation: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems in Ordinary & High-End Luxury Cars!

Manufacturers have created advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to aid drivers in operating their vehicles. By combining imaging devices, sensors, and advanced algorithmic processes, these technologies give drivers the ability to see their surroundings in real-time and be conscious of any hazards. By giving them prior notification and support in an emergency, ADAS is intended to aid drivers in avoiding crashes. Whereabouts, speed, and other important aspects of the vehicle can also be communicated to drivers via these technologies. We will examine the essential elements, features, and revolutionary consequences of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) on the automotive industry in this blog post. Components of ADAS 1. Radar Technology ● To measure the distance and acceleration of objects surrounding a car, radar sensors employ radio waves. For crash prevention, blind-spot surveillance, and autonomous driving, this kind of technology is especially beneficial.● Radar sensors considerably improve the efficacy and security of ADAS by offering precise range estimations. 2. Ultrasonic Sensors They are frequently employed in low-speed impediment identification and parking assisting applications. These types of sensors help with actions like parking simultaneously by detecting anything adjacent to the car through the use of electromagnetic waves. Essential Things to Know About ADAS ● With fresh innovations and technologies being introduced regularly, these systems are always expanding. A few of the newest ADAS features are emergency braking assist, which is capable of stopping the car if the driver is disabled, and congestion help, which assists drivers in maneuvering through jammed traffic.● As ADAS becomes more widely used, we anticipate a decline in traffic collisions and fatal crashes, which will make driving easier for all.● To improve vehicle safety and efficiency, ADAS technologies incorporate automated cruise control and lane departure indicators.● ADAS is no longer exclusive to expensive fancy cars—many common automobiles are now fitted with some ADAS as standard functionality. This indicates that a greater variety of individuals are gaining exposure to this cutting-edge technology. The Prospects of ADAS The development of ADAS and autonomous vehicles are closely connected. As innovation emerges, we can expect ADAS to include ever-more sophisticated security precautions and a gradual shift toward fully autonomous vehicles. Expanding ADAS skills will also be greatly aided by the incorporation of vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, which enables cars to connect with everything around them and with their fellow vehicles.

Fathima Sanna

Entertainment

My Way To Gloomy Sunday: 5 Songs that killed People In Real Life

Songs are widely embraced by the world for the echoes of emotions they flourish in the hearts of listeners. But what if it goes beyond the limit, to the extent of inciting brutal attacks and bitter deaths? From My Way by Frank Sinatra to Gloomy Sunday by Rezso Seress, there are some deadly songs that snatched the lives of listeners. So here’s the list of songs you should never get addicted to. My Way, Frank Sinatra Have you heard of My Way Killings? “My Way Killings” is a bizarrely shocking phenomenon that swept the karaoke bars in the Philippines with blood of brutal deaths. Around 12 murders were reported, all killings happened while playing the karaoke of Frank Sinatra’s My Way. The world is still clueless about the incidents, some critics take it as a mere coincidence while others point out “the aggressive pride” in the lyrics. Suicide Solution, Ozzy Osbourne Suicide Solution by Ozzy Osbourne has encouraged a teen to shot himself to death. The lines, “Suicide is the only way out” has lashed down at him with an urge to end everything. The same year, another death linked to this deadly song was reported. Osbourne was taken to court, but he claimed that “the song’s about the dangers of alcoholism”. Isn’t it terrifying to see that a mere misinterpretation of a song could lead one to death? Better By You, Better Than Me, Judas Priest Better By You, Better Than Me is another bizarre song that almost led to the deaths of two boys named James Vance and Raymond Belknap. These two little men were seen drowning in drugs. Though both of them decided to kill themselves, Vance had only injured himself. The lines in the song, “let’s be dead” and “do it” were later accused of propelling such suicidal thoughts and actions. The band was also taken and judged by the court. Gloomy Sunday, Rezso Seress Gloomy Sunday is another deadly song that has swept the world in gloom. Rezso Seress crafted this deadly melody when he was sinking in deep despair, the rejection by the music industry, the unbearable loss of love, the dooming career and the broken chunks of hope. Luckily, Gloomy Sunday would reap the world’s attention, and would continually be played but only to propel one suicide after another. Many corpses were discovered with the lyrics in their suicide notes. Gloomy Sunday is now referred to as “The Hungarian Suicide Song”.

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Trends

Want to Heat Up Your Career? Add Some Sizzle with a New Foreign Language!

Standing out from the crowd is essential in today’s competitive job market. One powerful way to do so is by including a new foreign language in your resume. Like making a dish tastier with a delicious seasoning, an extra lingo can lend a dynamic edge to your career potential, unlocking doors to thrilling chances and propelling you ahead of the competition. But where do you even get started with so many languages to choose from? Do not worry! This article will be your North Star, helping you navigate the compelling domain of foreign languages and find the best-suited one to spice up your resume and sizzle your career! Beyond the Basics: Exploring Popular Languages In India, French, German, and Spanish are the most sought-after foreign languages, each offering career and academic benefits. French is highly valued due to its prevalence in businesses and countries worldwide. The second most popular German unlocks great scopes in Europe’s economic powerhouses and academia. Spanish follows, appealing because of its global reach, diverse career opportunities, and cultural influence. Eastern Delights: Unveiling the Potential of Asian Languages Finetune your learning compass if the West doesn’t appeal to you much. The East is rising! Japan and China, economic powerhouses with booming job markets, are searching for people fluent in their respective languages. And if K-pop and Korean dramas are your impasse, learning Korean will benefit you. It will put you right at the forefront of the Korean wave, allowing you to connect faster with its global influence. Hidden Gems: Exploring Less-Taught Languages As they say, ‘Who dares win,’ explore the “off-the-menu” options!Languages, even the “lesser-taught” ones like Portuguese, open doors to vibrant cultures and growing global job markets. On the other hand, Italian, with its artistic soul or Russian, with its echoes of history, offer exciting possibilities. Imagine cracking a business deal in Dubai, Arabic rolling off your tongue. Spoken by millions across the globe, this specific language unlocks career opportunities in the Middle East and beyond. The Secret Ingredient: Choosing the Right Language for You Consider your goals and interests when choosing a language. Do you want to work in an industry wherere a specific language is used or immigrate somewhere it’s spoken? Remember, although the difficulty level for learning every language differs, gauging someone’s pace to hone it is challenging despite the best intentions. For example, Spanish and Italian are viewed as easier for many than Mandarin, Chinese or Japanese. Set out on this stimulating adventure that complements your distinct path to success. Embrace the exploration!

Nikhat Parveen

Food

Spice Trails: Culinary Adventures in India

Spice Trails, A Flavorful Journey Across Incredible India Kick-Starting the Spicy Adventure Guys, have you ever dreamed of going on an epic food adventure? Well, buckle up because we’re about to embark on a crazy spice trail across the vibrant land of India. This isn’t your typical “visit the Taj Mahal and leave” kinda trip. Oh no, we’re talking about a full-on culinary exploration that’ll blow your mind (and maybe your taste buds too). The Diverse Dynamos of Indian Cuisine You know how they say India is a land of diversity? Well, that’s not just about the people, languages, and cultures – it’s also about the incredible variety of flavors and spices that make Indian food so darn delicious! From the tandoor-kissed kebabs of the north to the coconut-laced curries of the south, this country’s got more flavors than you can shake a stick at. Key Point: Did you know that Indian cuisine actually has countless regional variations? It’s like every state (and sometimes even every city) has its own unique twist on spices, cooking techniques, and signature dishes. The Spice Route Secrets Speaking of spices, let’s talk about the real stars of the show – the magical blends that make Indian food so mind-blowingly tasty. You’ve probably heard of the big guns like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, but wait till you taste the lesser-known gems like asafoetida (don’t let the name fool you, it’s amazing!), fenugreek, and dried pomegranate seeds. Key Point: You’ll be shocked to know that many traditional Indian spice blends, like garam masala, contain over a dozen different spices! Each family often has their own secret recipe passed down through generations. Not Just Curries and Kebabs Now, when most people think of Indian food, they probably picture rich curries and succulent kebabs. And let’s be real, those are epic. But there’s so much more to explore on the spice trails of India! From crispy dosas (think: savory crepes) in the south to flaky samosas (veggie-stuffed pastries) in the north, the street food game in India is unbeatable. Key Point: Not only that, but Indian cuisine also has a fantastic array of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Think: lentil curries, stuffed breads, and vibrant chutneys that’ll make your tastebuds dance. The Human Connection Of course, no culinary adventure is complete without connecting with the people behind the flavors. On our spice trail, you’ll have the chance to visit local markets, interact with friendly vendors, and maybe even take a cooking class from a hospitable Indian grandma (because who knows spices better than grandmas, am I right?). Key Point: One of the best parts of exploring Indian cuisine is the warmth and hospitality of the people. Be prepared to make some new friends and maybe even get invited for a homecooked meal or two! So, are you ready to pack your bags and join me on this epic spice trail across India? Trust me, it’ll be a flavor adventure you’ll never forget! Just don’t forget to bring your appetite (and maybe some antacids, just in case those spices get a little too fiery).

Nikhat Parveen

Culture and Heritage Wellness

Retreats: Spiritual Escapes in the Land of Origin

Yoga Retreats: Finding Your Zen in the Birthplace of Yoga Are Seeking some serious rejuvenation for your mind, body, and spirit? Look no further than the ultimate spiritual escape – a yoga retreat in India. As the land where this ancient practice originated, India offers the perfect setting to reconnect with yourself and experience yoga like never before. The Allure of Authentic Yoga in India Let’s be real, doing yoga in your local studio just doesn’t quite compare to the magic of practicing in India. Do you know that yoga has been an integral part of Indian spirituality for over 5,000 years? Immersing yourself in the birthplace of yoga allows you to tap into its pure, ancient roots and energy in a way that simply can’t be replicated elsewhere. Not only that, but India’s serene landscapes provide the ideal backdrop for finding your inner peace. Imagine striking your asanas amid the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, on pristine sandy beaches, or surrounded by lush green forests and flowing rivers. An environment of such natural beauty and tranquility is guaranteed to take your practice to new heights. The Ultimate Mind-Body-Spirit Recharge At a yoga retreat in India, be prepared for way more than just the physical postures (although you’ll flow through those too, of course). You’re in for a full-on mind-body-spirit rejuvenation! Many retreats combine invigorating yoga sessions with introspective meditation, uplifting spiritual discourse, relaxing journaling, and even indulgent spa treatments. You’ll likely start your day with an energizing yoga flow as the sun rises, followed by vegetarian feasts, workshops on subjects like ayurveda and pranayama, and free time for exploration or pampering. By nightfall, you’ll be serenely stretched out under the stars, feeling lighter and more at peace than you have in years. An Eye-Opening Cultural Immersion Attending a yoga retreat in India isn’t just about yoga, it’s a full immersion into the country’s rich, vibrant culture too. You’ll be shocked to know how many lesser-known authentic experiences are included! Many programs let you wander vibrant markets, visit sacred temples, observe ancient rituals and ceremonies, and interact with friendly locals. You may find yourself receiving a meaningful blessing from a Hindu monk, taking part in a lively festival of colors, learning to drape a sari, or picking up some Hindi phrases. These unforgettable cultural encounters will leave you with a deeper appreciation for India’s heritage and spirituality. The Road Less Traveled Retreat Spots While India’s popular yoga capitals like Rishikesh and Goa have plenty of fantastic retreats, the more adventurous yogis will want to check out some of the country’s lesser-known hidden gems too. You definitely won’t find any locations quite as special and off-the-beaten-path as these: • Arambol (Goa) – A remote beach village with a wonderfully laidback vibe, far from Goa’s party scenes • Varkala (Kerala) – A serene cliffside town in southern India, home to countless rejuvenating retreats • Dharamshala – A breathtakingly scenic Himalayan town and hub for Tibetan Buddhism • Khajuraho – Where ancient Hindu & Buddhist temples sit amid lush national parks No matter which yoga retreat destination in India you choose, one thing’s for sure, you’re in for the rejuvenating journey of a lifetime. Prepare to leave feeling infinitely more grounded, balanced, and blissed out.

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