This limited-edition collection, under AJIO’s House of Ethnics, offers over 250 styles of shararas, kurta suit sets, lehengas, sarees and is priced between ₹4,000 and ₹1,50,000. The ethnic outfits are inspired by the upcoming webseries “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar”.
AJIO announced the exclusive launch of a limited edition ethnic collection on Wednesday (April 24), inspired by Netflix and Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s highly anticipated series, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar. This limited-edition collection, under AJIO’s House of Ethnics, offers over 250 styles of ethnic outfits inspired by the series. It will be available for purchase starting April 25.
The collection draws inspiration from the colors, silhouettes, fabrics, and embellishments used in “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar.” It features fabrics like pure silk, tissues, georgettes, and brocades, showcasing traditional dabka hand embroidery, Parsi embroidery, beadwork, and digital prints inspired by the series.
Items include shararas, kurta suit sets, lehengas, and saris, priced between ₹4,000 and ₹1,50,000. Vineeth Nair, CEO of AJIO, expressed the importance of fashion in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s creations, stating, “Fashion plays a very important role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s creations that often explore themes rooted in Indian culture, tradition, and heritage.”
He added that AJIO’s House of Ethnics provided the perfect platform for the collection. “When we thought of this collaboration with Netflix for Heeramandi, it made a lot of sense. AJIO’s House of Ethnics was the perfect launchpad for this limited-edition collection, enabling access to the fashion that customers adore and helping them create that dreamy Bollywood-inspired look,” Nair added.
“Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar,” marks the series debut of filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, set in pre-independent India against a backdrop of a freedom movement.
Shilpa Singh, Senior Director, Marketing Partnerships, APAC at Netflix, highlighted the significance of costumes in Bhansali’s stories, calling the collaboration an opportunity for fans to own the exquisite designs worn by the leading ladies in the show. “Costumes in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s stories are characters in their own right, adding depth to the storyline,” Singh added.
AJIO House of Ethnics offers top ethnic brands like BIBA, Indie Picks, Nyrika, Aarke by Ritu Kumar, Satya Paul, Ri-wah, Global desi, Gulmohar Jaipur, Soch, and Fabindia. With over 3 lakh styles, it has become India’s preferred destination for ethnic fashion.
“Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar” will start streaming on Netflix from May 1.
Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout
3 Mins Read
Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter
65% online shoppers from non-metro cities; Bengaluru emerges as Gen Z capital: Myntra
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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Myntra’s monthly active users touched the 60 million mark, with 6 million customers making 30 visits to the platform each month on average, according to the fashion and beauty e-retailer’s trend report.
E-commerce fashion major Myntra has witnessed nearly 75 million users join the platform in the last 12 months, of whom 65% came from non-metro cities.
According to the fashion and beauty e-retailer’s trend report, monthly active users on the platform touched the 60 million mark, with 6 million customers making 30 visits to the platform each month on average. Additionally, 2 million monthly users engaged with Myntra’s features: MyFashionGPT, MyStylist and Maya.
Shedding light on fashion preferences, the report highlighted that premiumisation is on the rise. Indian wear on Runway Icons (Myntra’s one-stop destination for premium Indian wear) witnessed the doubling of demand, while the premium luggage category grew at 55% year-on-year (YoY). The demand for Luxe selection clocked an impressive 150% YoY increase, according to the report.
In the premium range, brands like Forever New, Calvin Klein Jeans, Trendyol, and Gant emerged as the customer favourites. According to a report by Bain & Company, India’s luxury market could expand to 3.5 times its current size by 2030.
In fact, traditional attire with monochromatic lehengas and metallic sarees gained traction alongside Bollywood-inspired looks, with a whopping 12x surge in demand for ombre sarees during the festive season.
The menswear market also experienced robust growth, driven by factors such as changing societal norms, increased fashion consciousness among men, and a growing emphasis on individual expression. Myntra witnessed that men experimented with crochet shirts and bold graphic tees. The platform witnessed a 3x rise in demand for oversized t-shirts and baggy cargos. As per a Statista report, in 2024, the revenue in the men’s apparel market in India amounts to $31.10 billion and it is projected that the market will experience an annual growth rate of 3.93% (CAGR 2024–2028).
In terms of colours, men opted for shades like white, grey, teal, and olive, while women shoppers gravitated towards pastel hues of beige, peach, and lavender. However, classics, black and blue, continued to maintain their steadfast reign across various cohorts.
According to a report by Bain and Company, India’s online shopper base is estimated to increase to 400–450 million by 2027 and a third of online shoppers are Gen Z. The race to woo the next generation of shoppers is on, with Myntra actively investing in the Gen Z cohort with the launch of FWD.
Interestingly, Bengaluru emerged as Gen Z’s influence on fashion, with varsity jackets, bling dresses, and oversized blazers that captured the imagination of this trendsetting cohort, according to Myntra’s report. In terms of colour choices, Gen Z preferences showcase a penchant for bold and metallic tones, reflecting their influence on contemporary style.
India’s beauty and personal care market is projected to touch $30 billion by 2027, accounting for about 5% of the global market, according to a report launched by Redseer Strategy Consultants along with Peak XV.
Myntra’s Trend Index report also showed that the beauty and grooming landscape witnessed a surge in demand for science-backed skincare and meticulous hair care routines. As per the report, Maybelline Superstay Matte Ink was seen stealing hearts, with 75% of Myntra’s women shoppers diving headfirst into the world of beauty products already. Men’s grooming is also having a moment of its own, with acne and pimple care solutions, ingredient-led serums, and hair removal sprays making their way into carts.
Sharon Pais, Chief Business Officer, Myntra said, “The findings of the report strongly suggest that the country is on the journey of premiumisation and there is a marked rise in adoption of trends across cohorts. When it comes to fashion, the country has become experimental in its choices while also adopting self-care and personal grooming in a big way.”
“These trends mirror India’s lifestyle choices and underscore our role as an enabler to make the latest from the world of fashion and beauty available to millions of our customers, on the back of cutting-edge technology and differentiated service,” said Sharon Pais, Chief Business Officer, Myntra,” he added.
Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout
3 Mins Read
Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter
How Vedanta chairman Anil Agarwal, 70, does an hour’s swim, light weight training and meditation
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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Anil Agarwal said that he has followed a routine that helped his mind and body equally.
As youngsters grow more and more fitness-conscious, Anil Agarwal, the Vedanta Chairman, said that apart from external appearance, it is “equally important to exercise your mind and better yourself from within”.
Agarwal, 70, shared on X his daily routine, which includes an hour-long swimming, besides dedicating half an hour each to lightweight training and meditation. He said these two hours are the ‘most important’ part of his day, allowing him to function “10x better”.
“Youth are much more conscious about fitness and good health today. Lekin, I always tell my children and all youngsters – as much importance you give to your external appearance, it is equally important to exercise your mind and better yourself from within, such as your attitude and behaviour towards life,” Agarwal wrote.
He said that he has followed a routine that helped his mind and body equally.
“Over time, I have formed my routine which has helped my mind and body equally. I have a long way to go, but every day there’s a small improvement. My daily routine involves an hour’s swim, 30 minutes light weight training and 30 minutes of meditation. These two hours are the most important of my day. I feel I can function 10x better with this,” he added.
Youth are much more conscious about fitness and good health today.
Lekin I always tell my children and all youngsters – as much importance you give to your external appearance, it is equally important to exercise your mind and better yourself from within, such as your attitude… pic.twitter.com/HUECqU0ZZn
Agarwal later went on to introduce his followers to his wife Kiran Agarwal’s “secret green juice recipe”.
While sharing a photograph of himself with a glass of it, he wrote, “Today, I will also introduce you all to my wife’s secret green juice recipe. She has made it a part of my diet for years and even though I didn’t enjoy it much before – now I’m sure this has helped me tremendously in life.”
Decoding the ingredients used in this secret recipe, he shared, “Asked her the recipe and sharing with all of you: Lauki, karela, spinach, aloe vera, amla, lemon juice, celery and ginger.”
The billionaire urged his followers and well-wishers to try the recipe for a week and share its results with him. He also asked them about their “daily dose of health”.
“Ek week try karke bataiye! Let me know how you feel. Also, what’s your daily dose of health?” he asked.
In the comments section, X users were quick to share some of their healthy recipes.
“Sir, I take a blend of meethi, kala jeera, ajwain (carom seeds) and haldi powder every morning with a glass of warm water. Pranam,” one user wrote.
Another one added, “Sir Thanks, This Green Juice is also part of my daily Lunch Menu.”
A few days ago, Agarwal shared a photograph of himself carrying a cricket bat in hand and said that he is “thoroughly enjoying” the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
“Main meeting ke beech mein bhi thoda time chura ke score check karta rehta hoon. Mujhe hassi aati hain kyonki saamne baithe log bhi toh aankhein chura kar har 2 min mein score check karte rehte hain,” he wrote.
He further stated that IPL, which he feels is at the standard of the UK’s Premier leagues or US NBA, has transformed India and is a “shining example of Indian entrepreneurship.”
Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout
3 Mins Read
Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter
How big is Taylor Swift in India — ask the small businesses
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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From scented candles to journals, these businesses bridge the gap for fans unable to access official merchandise, fostering a vibrant community united by their love for Taylor Swift.
Taylor Swift is more than just a singer-songwriter. She is a global phenomenon, a living legend, especially since she set her record-breaking The Eras Tour in motion. She is the true story of a writer’s billion-dollar success — a success that came from being relatable and aspirational, at the same time.
Her latest album The Tortured Poets Department (TTPD) scored 313 million streams on Spotify, while simultaneously selling over a million copies — all in a single day. This is something that no other artist in history has been able to achieve and everyone is vying for a piece of this pie, regardless of whether they’re a fan or not.
But things haven’t always been the way they are now. As little girls growing up in a small town in Uttar Pradesh, Swift was our best-kept secret back in 2008. Passing hand-written lyrics of Love Story in between classes to painting our nails sky blue just like her in the Our Song music video or writing 13 on the back of our hands because that’s what she does — our friends and we would hop on to every chance to feel close to her.
Cut to 2023 and almost everyone is a Swiftie — what the fanbase likes to call itself. This woman who started her music career 17 years ago isn’t just relevant today but is also constantly making headlines and how! There has never been a better time to be a Swiftie, especially in a country like India.
When Swift announced the international leg of The Eras Tour — a three-and-a-half-hour concert where she performs various numbers from her career — in June 2023, Indian Swifties were seemingly upset finding no mention of the country in the list. The closest was Singapore and fans left no stone unturned to find a seat in the National Stadium, Singapore where Swift performed six shows in March 2024.
We got to play 6 shows in Singapore for the most wonderful crowds – just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who traveled and put so much effort into being at our shows. What an unforgettable way to end this leg of the tour!! See you in May when we get… pic.twitter.com/CpFhBhHg1F
It was her only stop in Southeast Asia and getting the tickets was not a walk in the park. Fans had to wait hours in a virtual queue just to be able to grab a spot to book the tickets — ranging from 88 SGD (₹5,456) to 1,228 SGD (₹76,136).
According to a March 2024 report by The Hindu, Sanjana Shankar, a Chennai-based law student, spent ₹15,000 on tickets and ₹50,000 for a five-day stay in the country with her friends.
Agasthya Shah, a 21-year-old content creator, also attended the concert with his girlfriend with 13 painted on the back of their hands and friendship bracelets to exchange. He said that they met about 25 other Indians at the stadium on the night.
(Image: Twitter)
“Being a Taylor Swift fan is an experience. The first song I ever heard of hers was Blank Space (Swift’s single from her album 1989) and became a fan when Midnights came out. She brings out the emotions in her songs, and that’s what makes her relatable. Nobody does it like she does,” Shah told CNBC-TV18.
The fans who could not attend the concert were delighted when Swift announced that Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour concert film would be coming to Indian theatres and like Swift said in Long Live “the crowds went wild.”
“The musical, a passionate tapestry of her journey and experimentation with music complete with Swift’s connection with her audience and her saga resonated with audiences all over the country. We spanned an impressive 75 cities, selling a total of 3 lakh tickets. While Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, and Kolkata locked the top spots, who could have guessed that fans from emerging markets like Nashik, Kota, Siliguri, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Salem, Guntur, Rourkela, Ranchi, and Srinagar would drive the sales to astounding new heights,” Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, Executive Director, PVR INOX told CNBC-TV18.
Swifties were absolutely ecstatic as they got to experience the magic of Taylor Swift’s live performance on the big screen at PVR! 🎬🎵
Swifties went all out for the film, donning merch, era-inspired outfits, and chanting lyrics — it was an experience of its own, even on weekday afternoons.
However, getting their hands on official Taylor Swift merchandise remains a pricey affair. As a result, many turn to small businesses selling ‘unofficial’ but more affordable and diverse options. Despite not being official, these products still offer good quality, allowing fans to express their love for Swift without emptying their wallets.
“Every time I browse the store on Taylor Swift’s website, I quickly close it because of how expensive the merchandise is. But thanks to small businesses on Instagram, it’s not inaccessible. My best friend and I love to collect customised stickers for our laptops and phone cases, and accessories like the snake ring from Reputation because it helps us feel closer to Taylor,” Sathvika T, a 26-year-old graphic designer from Hyderabad told CNBC-TV18.
One such business is The Umbrella Store, run by Delhi-based Davneet Kaur since 2019. Kaur’s journey with Taylor Swift-related merchandise when she and her team noticed the enthusiasm of Swifties all across India during The Eras Tour.
“Their unwavering love for Taylor Swift and her music inspired us to create a platform where they could celebrate their fandom through high-quality merchandise. I remember when 1989 (Taylor’s Version) was announced during The Eras Tour and the hype it caused over the internet. Being a Swiftie, I could not resist myself from creating something out of it,” she said.
On The Umbrella Store’s website, under Taylor Swift merch, you will mostly find scented candles and journals, ranging from ₹399 to ₹999. For context, currently, users can only find The Tortured Poets Department merchandise on Swift’s official website — ranging from $25 (₹2,083) to $95 (₹7,917) and primarily consisting of clothing and jewellery. This would most likely be the case till the Europe leg of her tour begins in early May.
(Image: The Umbrella Store)
“All our Taylor Swift-themed candles and journals are a big hit amongst Swifties. This year we launched a limited-edition desk calendar that was Taylor Swift-themed and it received so much love from the fandom. We are hoping to come up with another one next year,” Kaur added saying that she has seen “exponential growth, both in terms of sales and engagement” since launching the merch.
“We have been inundated with messages of appreciation, expressions of joy, and heartfelt testimonials from fans across the country. [Swifties’] passion for Taylor Swift’s music and the sense of community they find in our merchandise has been truly inspiring and humbling.”
Tanisha Agarwal, a 22-year-old software engineering intern shared with us how she stumbled upon the cardigan from Swift’s single Cardigan and bought it, something that she had been obsessing over. The cardigan was listed on Swift’s official website when her album folklore was released in July 2020. She wore a similar one in the music video for the single and it sold like hotcakes at around $65, with additional shipping costs for international orders. If Agarwal and I got it from the same place, she paid only half of that.
“Being an Indian Swiftie isn’t easy since we don’t get to watch her live and the stuff that we might order takes days to reach us. A simple solution to this is buying merchandise from local businesses,” she added. “Even though it’s not the official merch, it still reminds me of Taylor every time I see it in my closet.”
Shah also shared that he had bought Taylor Swift-themed clothing from local businesses before and their quality is quite good. “They are decent in quality with unique designs and affordable. It’s great what they are doing and it is making a lot of people very happy,” he said.
Above Minimum is another such store that has a variety of things to choose from — totes, notebooks, t-shirts, hoodies and more. Yash Dixit, an engineer by education, was trying to get into the D2C business in late 2023 when Swifties found him.
“We were figuring out how to enter the market. We tried multiple things — selling plain t-shirts and hoodies and cricket merch as the World Cup was around. We also started doing custom designs and the most asked customisations came to us from Swifties. We gradually started getting traction from the fans and then we rolled out our website with some designs on hoodies and tote bags,” he said adding that the most demand for clothing was during those times.
(Image: Above Minimum)
According to Dixit, the fans love Above Minimum because of its quality and affordability (ranging from ₹349 to ₹1,099). “We’ve been loved by them because we helped them get an outfit they could wear to The Eras Tour — movie premier and the actual event in Singapore” he added.
While he is not a Swiftie himself, his friend, Saumya, who came up with a lot of the designs has been one since 2013. “I’m eager to purchase Taylor Swift merch, provided there are options that match my vibe and preferences. I’m quite selective, so I don’t like everything, but for the things I do like, I’m ready to buy them without hesitation,” she said. She also used to design items herself and get custom-printed because of a lack of options and thus became a part of Above Minimum when Dixit asked her.
The Swiftie community is essentially about turning passion into art and that, into a business. It might not be worth a billion dollars but it is a gesture of how Taylor Swift has managed to sweep us off our feet over time. We loved her in 2008 when we could only see her on our computer and TV screens, and we love her now when she’s everywhere and everything — all at once.
Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout
3 Mins Read
Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter
Taylor Swift’s ‘The Tortured Poets Department’ album breaks multiple Spotify records; 9 tracks rank in top 200 in India
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift now boasts the top three spots for the most-streamed albums in a single day on Spotify.
In a phenomenal feat, Taylor Swift’s latest album ‘The Tortured Poets Department’ which dropped on Spotify on April 19, claimed the title of the most-streamed album in a single day in the audio streaming platforms history.
The milestone adds another feather to the ‘Florida!!!’ singer’s career. The American singer-songwriter now boasts the top three spots for the most-streamed albums in a single day on Spotify. Leading the charge is “The Tortured Poets Department”, followed by “Midnights” and “1989 (Taylor’s Version).”
The 34-year-old has now solidified her status as the most-streamed artist in a single day on Spotify with the release of her latest musical offering.
History made! On April 19, 2024, Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department was the first album in Spotify history to have over 300M streams in a single day.
After almost a decade of making their friendship public, Swift and British indie powerhouse Florence Welch joined forces. The two singers who made heartbreaks and heartaches, relatable and borderline desirable, came together for a song that will be remembered for ages to come.
Following the announcement of her upcoming album at the Grammys in February this year, fans’ anticipation reached a fever pitch. To amplify the excitement around the album’s release, Spotify held an art installation at The Grove in Los Angeles, transforming the shopping mall into a poetry to captivate music enthusiasts. Swift’s 11th studio album features 16 tracks.
Taylor Swift’s is synonymous for breaking records on Spotify. With each release, whether it be re-recordings or new music, Swift has consistently set new benchmarks on the audio streaming platform. In October 2022, her 10th studio album “Midnights” released on Spotify and went on to become the most-streamed album in a single day at the time.
Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout
3 Mins Read
Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter
Mahavir Jayanti 2024: Wishes, messages and quotes to share with friends and families
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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Mahavir Jayanti, marking the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, is celebrated by the Jain community.
Mahavir Jayanti is one of the auspicious festivals celebrated by the Jain community. It marks the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir and is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm across the world. According to the Jain faith, Mahavir Janma Kalyanak was the 24th and the last Tirthankara and the founder of Jainism.
Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated on the 13th day of Chaitra month as per the Hindu calendar and in March and April in the English calendar. This year, it will be observed on April 21.
This day commemorates the life and teachings of the great spiritual teacher. He spread the concepts of dharma, non-violence, truth, non-stealing, chastity and non-attachment.
Here are some messages, wishes and quotes if you and your special ones are marking this day.
Wishes for Mahavir Jayanti:
– With the blessings of Lord Mahavir, may you achieve success in your life. Happy Mahavir Jayanti!
– May Lord Mahavir fill your life with the virtues of truth, non-violence, and external compassion. Happy Mahavir Jayanti!
– Mahavir Jayanti is a reminder to practice non-violence and live a good life. Happy Mahavir Jayanti.
– Happy Mahavir Jayanti to you and your family.
– Sending heartfelt wishes on the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti.
– Sending warmest blessings on the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti. Happy Mahavir Jayanti!
Messages for Mahavir Jayanti:
– On this Mahavir Jayanti, may Lord Mahavira teach you the path of light amid the darkness and brighten your life. Happy Mahavir Jayanti, 2024!
– May Lord Mahavira’s morals and teachings help you walk on the path of truth and honesty. Happy Mahavir Jayanti, 2024.
– May you be blessed with peace, happiness and good health on this auspicious occasion. Wishing you a very Happy Mahavir Jayanti!
– Let us celebrate this occasion by spreading love, kindness and compassion. Happy Mahavir Jayanti!
– On this auspicious day, let us pray for peace and harmony in all aspects of human life. Happy Mahavir Jayanti.
Quotes for Mahavir Jayanti:
– Always adhere to Lord Mahavira’s principles. Mahavir Jayanti greetings to you and your loved ones.
– The best way to celebrate this festival is to strive for peace and spread the message of brotherhood. Happy Mahavir Jayanti.
– Fight with your internal enemies they are anger, pride, curvedness, greed, attachments, and hate. Wishing you a very Happy Mahavir Jayanti.
– Let the spirit of Lord Mahavir remain in your hearts and light up your souls. Wishing you and your family a Happy Mahavir Jayanti.
– May Lord Mahavir bless you with happiness, and success, and may you get everything you wish. Happy Mahavir Jayanti.
Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout
3 Mins Read
Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter
Right to sleep is basic requirement, person summoned under PMLA cannot be deprived of this: Bombay HC
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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The Bombay High Court on Tuesday criticised the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for recording a petitioner’s statement late into the night, violating their right to sleep. The court directed the ED to establish “earthly timings” for such procedures, emphasizing the right to sleep as a fundamental human right.
The Bombay High Court expressed strong disapproval of the late-night interrogation tactics employed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), emphasizing the fundamental importance of the right to sleep and its connection to human rights. The court, comprising Justices Revati Mohite-Dere and Manjusha Deshpande, made these observations while addressing a petition brought forth by a 64-year-old individual accused under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
The petitioner, a resident of Gandhidham, Gujarat named Issrani, was arrested in August 2023 on charges related to money laundering. Through his legal representatives Vijay Aggarwal, Ayush Jindal, and Yash Wardhan Tiwari, Issrani sought to challenge the legality of his arrest before the Bombay HC. The advocates argued that Issrani’s rights were violated during his interrogation, highlighting instances where his personal liberty was restricted, his mobile phone confiscated, and he was continuously monitored even during restroom breaks.
According to Aggarwal’s submissions, Issrani was subjected to interrogation throughout the night despite being medically unfit and having cooperated in previous investigations. This extended questioning period, which lasted until the early hours of the morning, infringed upon Issrani’s fundamental right to sleep, a component of the right to life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.
The court took note of the timeline, noting that Issrani’s statement was recorded from 10:30 p.m. until around 3:30 a.m., after which he was arrested at 5:30 a.m. The bench criticised the practice of conducting interrogations during late hours, emphasizing that individuals summoned under the PMLA should have their statements recorded during reasonable, “earthly” hours. The court underscored the adverse effects of sleep deprivation on physical and mental well-being, highlighting its impact on cognitive function.
In response to these concerns, the court directed the ED to establish guidelines for conducting interrogations within reasonable hours and issued a stern reminder that consent does not justify the deprivation of an individual’s right to sleep. The bench scheduled a follow-up hearing for compliance on September 9th.
Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout
3 Mins Read
Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter
Ram Navami 2024: Date, shubh muhurat, puja rituals to follow
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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Celebrated on the ninth day of Shukla Paksha in the Chaitra month, Ram Navami marks the birth anniversary of Lord Ram, the seventh avatar of God Vishnu.
The worship of Lord Ram holds profound significance in the Hindu religion, especially on the auspicious day of Ram Navami. This day is one of the most significant Indian festivals, celebrating the birth anniversary of Lord Ram, the seventh avatar of God Vishnu. Celebrated on the ninth day of Shukla Paksha in the Chaitra month, Ram Navami also marks the conclusion of the Chaitra Navratri.
Devotees engage in rituals, prayers, and spiritual gatherings to celebrate the divine incarnation and virtues of Lord Rama.
Ram Navami 2024: Date
According to the Drik Panchang, Ram Navami will fall on Wednesday, April 17 this year.
Ram Navami 2024: Timings
Ram Navami Madhyanha Time: 9:57 am to 12:31 pm (2 hours, 33 minutes)
Ram Navami Madhyanha Moment: 11:14 pm
Ram Navami Tithi Begins: at 1:23 pm on April 16
Ram Navami Tithi Ends: at 3:14 pm on April 17
Ram Navami 2024: Puja Rituals
Begin your day by waking up early and taking a holy bath.
Cleanse the home temple and decorate it with flowers. Arrange the puja material for the Ram Navami puja.
Place the idol or image of Lord Ram and start the puja by meditating in front of the statue.
After meditation, one should stay in Aavahan Mudra and chant a mantra in front of the murti.
Next, offer five flowers and a seat to Lord Ram while chanting the mantra.
After offering a seat, Lord Rama’s feet are washed with water (Padya offering); continue chanting the mantra.
Post this, offer water to Lord Rama for Abhishekam.
Devotees will then have to offer water to Lord Ram for Achamana (drinking).
Then comes Madhuparka, offering honey and milk next while chanting the mantra.
Next, offer water to Lord Ram for a bath, which is called snanam.
After snanam, give a bath of panchamrita (a mix of milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar), saffron, milk, and Ganga water to Lord Ram.
Now, offer Moli as new clothes to the Lord.
After the vastra offering, offer a sacred thread (Yajnopavita) to Lord Ram.
Next, offer a scent while chanting the mantra.
Now, offer flowers while praying to the Lord.
Next, take Gandha, Akshata, and Pushpa in their left hand and worship those gods, who are body parts of Shri Ram (Anga Puja) and leave them near the Murti with the right hand while chanting the Lord’s name.
After that, offer Dhupa (incense sticks), Deep (lamp), Naivedya, Phalam (fruits), Tambulam (paan with betel nuts), and Dakshina (a gift) to all deities.
Last, conclude the puja by performing an aarti, offering pushpanjali,pradakshina, and seeking kshamapana (apology).
Distribute Prasad among all the devotees and seek blessings.
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Fasting for Navratri? Avoid these six food groups while you abstain from eating
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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Summary
Being mindful of food choices during fasting is crucial for maintaining nutritional balance, stable energy levels, and digestive health.
Chaitra Navratri is celebrated with much fervour and devotion, marked by fasting and abstinence from certain foods for the devotees. While fasting during Navratri can be a spiritually enriching experience, it’s essential to prioritise your health by making informed dietary choices.
Being mindful of food choices during fasting is crucial for maintaining nutritional balance, stable energy levels, and digestive health. It helps prevent abrupt changes in diet that can lead to digestive discomfort and supports weight management goals by avoiding overeating.
Additionally, mindful eating promotes overall health, supporting immune function, gut health, and vitality. For many, fasting is accompanied by spiritual or mental practices, and mindful food choices can enhance these benefits, promoting a sense of mindfulness and awareness.
By avoiding certain food groups and opting for healthier alternatives, you can ensure that your Navratri fasting is spiritually uplifting and beneficial for your overall well-being.
1. Highly processed foods
(Reuters)
Foods like instant juices, packaged snacks, and sugary beverages should be avoided during Navratri fasting. These foods are high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and additives, which can harm health. Instead, focus on whole, unprocessed foods to support your overall well-being.
2. Deep-fried foods
(Image: Shutterstock)
Lots of deep-fried foods like chips, puris, and more should be avoided during Navratri fasts due to their high-fat content. Consuming too many fried foods can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of heart disease. Choose baked or roasted alternatives to reduce the amount of fat in your diet.
3. Food with excessive Himalayan pink salt
Himalayan pink salt./Wiki Commons
While a moderate amount of salt is essential for health and Himalayan pink salt or Sendha namak comes to the rescue in this situation, an excessive amount of it should be avoided. Large amounts of any kind of salt, including the Himalayan pink salt, should be avoided, especially during fasting. High salt intake can lead to bloating, blood pressure fluctuation, and other health issues. Use rock salt in moderation to flavour your food during Navratri.
4. Artificial Sweetener
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While it’s important to limit refined sugar intake during Navratri, it’s also wise to avoid artificial sweeteners. These sweeteners can disrupt the gut microbiota and may have negative long-term health effects. Instead, opt for natural sweeteners like honey, or jaggery in the sweets you’re planning to consume.
4. Heavy dairy products
While dairy products like milk, yoghurt, and paneer are allowed during Navratri fasts, it is advisable to consume them in moderation. Heavy dairy products can be difficult to digest, especially during fasting when the digestive system may be more sensitive. Always opt for lighter dairy foods or dairy alternatives if you experience digestive discomfort.
6. Excessive tea or coffee
When you are changing your eating pattern, you’re likely to consume more tea or coffee to retain your energy and fill the gaps between two meals. However, too much tea, coffee, or any caffeinated beverages can have dehydrating effects on the body. During fasting, it’s essential to stay hydrated and avoid beverages that can further deplete water levels. So, choose herbal teas or infused water to stay hydrated and support detoxification.
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Tamil New Year Puthandu 2023: Date, history, and wishes to share
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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Summary
Puthandu, the Tamil New Year, heralds spring and harvest festivities on April 14. Originating during the Chola dynasty, it symbolizes fresh beginnings. Celebrated in Tamil Nadu, Sri Lanka, and globally, it includes kolam decorations, ceremonial platters, vegetarian feasts, traditional cleansing rituals, and devotional songs, fostering community unity and spiritual renewal.
Puthandu, also known as Puthuvarudam, signifies the commencement of the Tamil New Year, marking the advent of spring and honoured as a harvest festival.
Celebrated predominantly by the Tamil populace in Tamil Nadu, Sri Lanka, and globally dispersed Tamil communities, Puthandu aligns with the inaugural day of the Chithirai month as per the Tamil calendar. This year, the festivity falls on April 14, as it customarily does every year.
Historical Origins:
Tracing its roots to the era of the Chola dynasty, which governed Tamil Nadu and adjoining regions of South India from the 9th to the 13th centuries, Puthandu’s inception coincides with the emergence of the Tamil calendar, attributed to the Chola reign.
Significance:
Puthandu garners recognition as a public holiday in Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka, with certain other states also commemorating the new year on this date.
Though not strictly a religious observance, folklore intertwines Puthandu with the notion of Lord Brahma’s creation of the universe and Lord Indra’s descent to Earth to usher in peace and tranquillity.
Symbolising a new dawn, Puthandu symbolizes hope and rejuvenation, inspiring people to embrace fresh beginnings and embark on auspicious ventures.
Traditions and Festivities:
Preceding Puthandu, households bedeck their surroundings with kolam, intricate patterns crafted from dyed rice flour, symbolizing the invitation of joy and prosperity. On the auspicious day itself, families prepare a ceremonial platter adorned with flowers, mirrors, jewellery, currency, betel leaves, mangoes, and other auspicious items.
A vegetarian feast is meticulously prepared, with younger members seeking the blessings of their elders, fostering familial harmony and reverence. Before or on Puthandu, homes undergo a thorough cleaning, often accompanied by a traditional herbal or turmeric bath for ritualistic purification.
Dressed in new attire, individuals exchange greetings with “Puthandu Vazthukal,” wishing each other a prosperous new year. Devotional hymns resonate throughout the day, accentuating the spiritual fervour of the occasion, as communities come together to celebrate the advent of another year with renewed zeal and optimism.
Here are some wishes to share with family and friends on Puthandu:
May this Puthandu bring you abundant joy, prosperity, and success in all your endeavours throughout the year ahead!
Wishing you and your loved ones a Tamil New Year filled with laughter, love, and cherished moments that create unforgettable memories. Puthandu Vazthukal!
May the divine blessings of Lord Brahma and the celestial guidance of Lord Indra illuminate your path with peace, harmony, and serenity this Puthandu.
As we embark on this new journey, may your life be adorned with the colours of happiness, the fragrance of prosperity, and the melody of success.
Let the spirit of Puthandu inspire you to embrace new beginnings, overcome challenges, and pursue your dreams with unwavering determination and optimism.
May the traditions of Puthandu strengthen the bonds of family, deepen the ties of friendship, and foster a sense of unity and togetherness among us all.
Wishing you a Puthandu filled with bountiful blessings, abundant harvests, and the fulfilment of all your heartfelt aspirations.
May the dawn of this Tamil New Year bring renewed hope, rejuvenated spirits, and boundless opportunities for growth and prosperity in your life. Puthandu Vazthukal!
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