Balance Sheet of Life – A Story of a Tale # 3

June 14, 2023

D Subramaniam Iyer, hailing from a middle class conservative family from Karur, a charming little town, rather a glorified village of yore, now famous for textiles and an eponymous bank to boot, is an erudite person, knowledgeable in spirituality and science. He had consciously taken up the profession of a priest to serve temples and homes with the objective of spreading India’s ancient scriptures, scientific thought and wisdom. It was not just about the Hindu scriptures, but also about the texts and teachings of Islam, Christianity, Zoroastrian and Jewish in which he was proficient. Subbu, a fond moniker used by his family and friends, was secular and syncretic at heart in all the talk and the walk and could hold forth unequivocally and unbiased at any debates across religion forums. Not just him, his two siblings, a younger brother and a sister, were equally wise and adept at these, though they went off to corporate careers to earn their fame and fortunes. His great grandfather and family had migrated in circa 1905 to the de rigueur city of commerce and opportunities, then called Bombay. His grandfather had found a job in a well-known cotton mill of those days, run by the British and had settled down in the sylvan and shaded suburb of Chembur, a bastion of the South Indian families in those days. He had ensured that his children got the best of education from well-regarded schools/institutes, believing firmly that there can be no better investment.

Subbu was different from his growing up days, unlike his two siblings. Like his father, Subbu too believed that the real growth of a person lies in the traverse from education to knowledge to wisdom and the extent to which one can share that wisdom for societal transformation. He had been greatly influenced by his virtuous great grandfather, who was a well-regarded ‘vadhiyar’ ( a priest ) in the community and by the simple living of his own father, a practising chartered accountant of high integrity and his mother, a loving homemaker famous for her heart-warming generosity and cuisines.

Subbu was frugality personified and saw nature holistically as a sharable and preservable cosmic gift. He never compared himself with anyone nor did he ever rue his financial condition with the firm belief that the divine will provide him with enough sustenance to manage life. So it was, the temple management and his patrons for whom he performed religious rituals and ceremonies were relatively generous in their ‘dakshina’ to him and he somehow managed providing for his family, nary a wrinkle or a furrow on his forehead. After all he had a roof over his head, courtesy the prescience of his father, and a loving family in his wife, Ranjana and two gifted children, Raghavan and Ragini. Like his father, Subbu too managed to secure and ensure some good foundational education for his two children who were about to finish their college graduation and looking forward to post graduation programmes abroad. Little did the children realise that while Subbu and Ranjana could manage their children’s basic education, they had no resources to fund their expensive overseas studies. Neither did it ever occur to the simple living and high thinking couple that their children would want to take wings and cross the seven seas. Their firm belief was that India had enough to offer to every aspirant. After all, did not Subbu’s two siblings make a mark for themselves in India, having passed the best of the competitive examinations and making a mark in their envious careers?

Subbu and Ranjana were pensive, as they sat in their sunny balcony on a Sunday morning, quaffing the ubiquitous filter coffee and discussing how to cope with their current situation and satisfy their children’s dreams. It was daunting to say the least. They personally were very happy with their lot and have had a wonderful life of limited needs and manageable wants. Their children too had been happy and contented and excelled in their studies, but of late had started thinking differently about the paths they want to tread and experience life beyond the borders of Mumbai and the shores of India. The fact is also that neither Subbu nor Ranjana were comfortable asking anyone for help or financial support knowing fully well that they will never be able to repay it. They believed firmly that no one should pass with unpaid debts.

In this state of helplessness, Subbu could not help recalling and sharing with Ranjana the story of his grandfather that his father had often recounted to him in his childhood. His grandfather was apparently holding an important position in the mill that he was employed in and the chief manager had entrusted him the job of scrutinising all cotton purchases for their quality and quantity and passing the invoices for payment only after ascertainment. As a necessary internal process, the mill had three suppliers for the purchase of the cotton. One of the vendors was a person named Iman who had founded Iman Cotton Enterprises and had been supplying cotton to some of the best known mills of those times including the one where Subbu’s grandfather worked.

Iman was an adventurous trader and was financially highly geared. Because of this, he always chased his clients for early payments so that he could turn around his cash flows faster and trade more. Iman in the course of his dealing with the mill had developed a bond with Subbu’s grandfather. Iman knew that Subbu’s grandfather was a very principled man and would not do anything out of turn or out of process and all his actions were merit based. Many times, due to the cash flow pressures, Iman would often approach Subbu’s grandfather and badger him for early payments. At times, Iman had also gone to the extent of offering him a percentage of the payment, as a quid pro quo. Subbu’s grandfather was much agitated at this, but never accepted the offer, as a firm believer in ethics and integrity. He was very happy with the salary that the mill paid him. But he never wrote off Iman as unscrupulous since the quality of his cotton supply was impeccable and as per the specifications and the quantity supplied was always a bit more, never less than what was invoiced. This quality had gained Iman the immense respect of most of his clients, including Subbu’s grandfather and would perhaps explain his successful business expansion and diversification. With an intent to help Iman, Subbu’s grandfather had in fact approached his superiors to agree to an early payment discount, which benefitted the mill as also met Iman’s cash flow needs of the hour.

Soon, Iman’s respect and regard for Subbu’s grandfather grew and a close bond developed between the two families, continuing down the generations. The fact that Iman’s family had flourished and grown ultra-rich over the decades, did not come in the way of their close relationship with the Iyer family. Iman’s grandson, Imran, was a contemporary of Subbu and his siblings, and was now the head of the Iman Group of Companies, which had presence in India and abroad. He maintained a close friendship with Subbu and his family and the mutual relationship was one of deep respect and love.

Imran too had heard from his father about his grandfather, Iman and Subbu’s grandfather’s deep friendship that developed as a result of the latter’s professionalism and integrity at throwing away an opportunity to grow rich by refusing outright Iman’s offer of commission for every payment cleared and instead helping him with official early payments to fuel his expansion. Iman had been deeply touched and attributed his growing wealth to Subbu’s grandfather’s integrity and honesty of purpose. Iman had kept an account of all the payments that Subbu’s grandfather had cleared in the course of his service tenor at the mill. The amounts cleared ran into several crores of rupees and the commission that Iman had offered Subbu’s grandfather, but was refused, would have run into thousands of rupees, a princely sum in those days. Iman had kept an account of this and every year he would keep aside an equivalent amount, in denominations of Rs. 1,000, many of them of the British India rule, issued during King George V’s rule and King George VI’s rule, and some of the Indian Republic’s early period, in a large sealed envelope with a hand written note. Rich as Iman’s family was, none ever bothered or remembered the envelope and it was lying somewhere in one of their many bank lockers and passed down the generations.

As Subbu and Ranjana were ruminating, they heard a doorbell and in walks Imran and his wife, Aaliya, with their customary box of sweets. Truth be told, Imran and his family loved the tasty idli and sambhar made by Ranjana and welcomed themselves to the Iyer’s spartan home to partake of the sumptuous breakfast, as often as possible. It was their way of going light once a week and what better than idli on an idle Sunday at their close friend’s home, followed by the aromatic filter coffee. Subbu’s and Ranjana’s pensiveness was not lost on Imran or his wife; they knew from their own children about Raghavan and Ragini’s wish for overseas studies and it was not difficult to put two and two together to understand and empathise with the Iyer’s worries.

After a hearty brunch, Imran and Aaliya left the Iyer’s home and on their way back home were discussing how to help their friends, knowing fully well that the Iyers will be loath to seek any help. They went to their bank the very next day and were going through their four safe deposit lockers to select a few and valuable heritage jewellery out of the collection that Iman family had collected over the decades, with a view to raise some monies. As they were rummaging through the lockers and the many jewellery, they came across an old sealed envelope. Imran and Aaliya opened the envelope to find a note in Urdu that his grandfather, Iman, had written decades ago. As they read the note, incredulity and smile spread on their visages and they were visibly moved. They immediately knew what needed to be done. They put the old envelope in a sealed pouch and couriered it to the Iyer’s home.

Subbu and Ranjana received the courier the next day at lunch. With much curiosity they opened the envelope and were shocked to see the wad of crisp old Rs.1, 000 notes from the British India era and the early Republic India times. Since Subbu was well versed in Urdu, he could understand what Iman’s note said. Essentially, it was extolling Subbu’s grandfather’s integrity and simplicity and attributing his own business empire’s success to the good intent and wishes of Subbu’s grandfather. Iman’s intent was to keep these notes aside for the Iyer family, should it ever be required by them for any just cause. As it turns out, the Iyer family found out that the old numismatic notes were worth a huge fortune of over Rs. 60 million, many times over the overseas education expenses of Raghavan and Ragini. Subbu and Ranjana could only wonder and marvel at the divine intervention at the right time via the munificent Iman family. They sauntered out for a visit to the temple and to Imran and Aaliya’s abode of love for a warm tete-a-tete over a phirni. God does pay unexpected visits to the conscientious mortals in immortal ways.

A Story of Tale #1

A Story of Tale #2

Revisiting Heaven on Earth

Malti Gaekwad

June 14, 2023

“Gar firdaus bar-rue zamin ast, hami asto, hamin asto, hamin ast”
Mughal Emperor Jahangir is reported to have spoken about Kashmir, recalling the words of poet Amir Khusro. Jahangir is said to have visited the valley 8 times during his reign.

The Kashmir Valley lies between the Karakoram, Zanskar and the Pir Panjal Ranges. It was said to be a huge lake which got drained due to tectonic shifts, that explains why there are still so many lakes.

Having spent my childhood in Kashmir, I was really looking forward to visiting it one more time, especially after hearing that conditions have improved and lakhs of tourists have been visiting the valley in the last couple of years, be it to see the Tulip Garden, enjoy winter sports, do the Amarnath Yatra or just for a holiday. Tourism had suffered a major setback in Kashmir for over two decades and then the pandemic struck, giving a further blow. Fortunately now things are looking up in a big way.

There was a time when Kashmir was the destination for Bollywood movies in its Golden days with countless movies of Shammi Kapoor, Shashi Kapoor, Rajinder Kumar, Rajesh Khanna, Amitabh Bachchan and Rishi Kapoor to name just a few. Then there was a lull due to unsafe conditions as we all know. Film shootings have once again started with younger actors like Siddharth Malhotra, Kartik Aryan, Tapsee Pannu and Kaira. Most recently the Badshah of Bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan was also shooting there. So once again the valley is literally blooming with a lot of people, colour and activity.

Every effort is being made by the administration to provide a good experience to visitors and tourists. The natural beauty of Kashmir was always unmatched but infrastructure and facilities were lacking. Development has been taken up in a big way. Srinagar is even slated to soon become a Smart City and these days all the main roads are being redone for one of the G20 meetings which is to be held here sometime soon.

Since my last visit a few decades ago a lot has changed for the better. The countryside is changing…… among the fields, fancy big bungalows have been built, where there were smaller houses.

People seem more educated and aware, even the women. Girls are seen riding two wheelers, driving cars and going to the bank independently.

Shopping arcades and malls have come up where small shanties used to be. Yes, there are no cinema halls, but hotels have come up everywhere catering to all categories of tourists. Taxis are available to add to the convenience. In earlier days tourists had to take the government buses to go to Gulmarg or Pahalgam in absence of their own conveyance. Plenty of houseboats are also available to suit different pockets. Spending at least one night on a houseboat is part of almost everyone’s itinerary. Couple of decades ago staying on a houseboat was a luxury few could afford and it was limited to few rich and famous or to foreigners. Today all the houseboats are well furnished with walnut wood furniture, Kashmiri carpets, typical curtains and bed covers made of hand embroidered patterns in crewel work, running hot water, bathtubs and flush toilets. On request, guests can order a delicious Kashmiri meal and enjoy it on the boat itself with soulful but modern Kashmiri music playing in the background.

A shikara ride on the Dal or Nageen Lake is a must. There are enough shikaras to cater to everyone. On the Dal Lake Boulevard alone, there are at least 20 shikhara stands and each one properly numbered and classified. Tourists and their baggage are transported to their houseboats in an organised manner, earlier it used to be quite a chaos. Another observation is that the locals providing most of the services are young and educated and have realised the importance of pampering tourists and visitors professionally and treating them with courtesy. Most young Kashmiris speak in English now; some attempt Gujarati and Marathi too, having picked up a few words from the visitors.

All roads leading to popular tourist destinations are very good and well maintained. In fact the villages along the route too have a modernized look now. A big boon is good toilet facilities everywhere whether the big shop owners have made it for use by their customers or they are the pay-and-use ones.(In earlier times lack of toilets was a major problem tourists faced.) Driving through the countryside while enjoying nature’s bounty is a memorable experience. In this season, white Apple blossoms and rich yellow mustard flowers greet us everywhere. The picturesque scenery forces you to stop time and again to click photographs.

The major places for visiting are Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Gulmarg etc these are destinations everyone goes to but the biggest attraction during April-May is in Srinagar itself. Asia’s largest Tulip garden. The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is attracting hordes of people. This year an estimated four lakh people were expected to visit during one month! The garden was set up in 2007 in roughly eighty acres of a slope at the foothill of the majestic Zabarwan range overlooking the scenic Dal Lake. The garden boasts of over seventy varieties of tulips in various colours brought from Holland and Amsterdam. It’s a magnificent sight to behold. Rows and rows of neatly planted tulips are breathtaking. What we had seen in movies like Silsila, it is a great feeling to see it personally in our own country and we are standing among this riot of colours – it’s almost surreal.

All these flowers do not claim any particular fragrance, however there is an intoxicating floral aroma touching your senses with every whiff of cool mountain breeze. Each colour of the tulips is so attractive that one can easily go crazy going from bed to bed to take a closer look. The colours range from pure white to whites with streaks and stripes of pink and yellow, to every shade possible that you can think of from yellow to orange to pink, red, crimson to purple to what can be called black. The best part is that wheel chairs with attendants are available for a nominal cost and the attendant will oblige by stopping to take photographs of you as and when you want.

Much has been written about the Mughal Gardens of Kashmir and we all have memories from Bollywood movies which were shot here especially in the 1960s. Mughal Emperors Shahjahan and Aurangzeb used Srinagar as their summer capital and built many beautiful terraced gardens accompanied with pavilion-like structures, which added to the beauty and grandeur. With water channels and tanks with fountains, colourful fragrant flowers and the mighty Chinars trees, these Gardens make for a beautiful experience. There is an interesting sound and light program at the Shalimar Bagh recreating a romantic Mughal era. This show is conducted between May and October. Shalimar and Nishat Bagh are the famous ones, while Chashme Shahi and Pari Mahal in Srinagar as well as Achchabal and others have Mughal lineage as well. Elsewhere too nice gardens have been developed. Manasbal, Aaharbal, Pahalgam, Betab Valley are but a few to name. A visit can be planned to all these places depending on the time you have on hand.

Pahalgam meaning pahla gaon (first village) on the way to the holy Cave of Amarnath has its own beauty and charm with the gushing waters of river Lidder which is formed by melting glaciers. It has big round boulders and the water makes a roaring sound as it hits these rocks. Interestingly in Pahalgam, the entire market consists of just one straight road about 1 km long flanked by small eateries and shops where you can buy just about any handicraft item of Kashmir. Bargaining helps as every other shop is selling similar objects and competition is stiff. Suggestion is, if you like a thing, buy it at a price that suits you, after all, the stuff is handmade. So it is unique and you won’t find a duplicate. Tourists love to buy Kashmiri pherans and bags etc. and flout them there….. right away. You also have popular places where tourists can wear a Kashmiri costume and pose for photographs carrying with them a memory for a lifetime.

At the other end of the market is a small temple, a gurdwara and a mosque all one after the other. We went into the gurudwara where the Bhaiji offered to take our picture when we were struggling to take a group selfie. Places to visit beyond Pahalgam are, Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, Sheshnag and Chandanwadi, the last two are campsites enroute to Amarnath.

While driving through this magnificent valley, you will see the towns dotted with big and small mosques, which stand out due to their green painted tops, but many are not aware that prior to the Muslim conquests, Kashmir was a centre of Shaivism philosophy and the seat for Sanskrit learning and literature. So you come across many temples as well. Mostly dedicated to Lord Shiva, but there are others too. The most famous from architectural heritage point of view are the Martand Sun Temple and the Avantiswami Temple both are currently in ruins and have not been reconstructed or renovated although they are protected under ASI.

The Martand Sun Temple is one of the four main Sun Temples in the country. It was built in the 8th Century by Lalitaditya Muktapida of the Karkota Dynasty. The Avantiswami Temple also lies only a few kilometres away. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu it was built between 855-883 AD, during the reign of king Avantiraman of the Utpala Dynasty. Although patronized by different kings, both temple complexes housed many shrines with the main structure in the middle, built on a raised platform and adorned by graceful figural sculptures. These were destroyed by Sikander Shah Miri in the 15th century. The ruins and the remains were further damaged due to several earthquakes.

Another small temple attributed to king Avantiraman was recently found near the Manasabal Lake. This is unique as it is half submerged in water within a small tank, which has a spring within.

Other famous temples which people visit and pray at are Shankaracharya, Mattan Martand and Mata Kheer Bhawani temple. Shankaracharya temple is said to be the oldest of all. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated on top of a hill in the city of Srinagar and attributed to king Gopaladitya around 371 BCE. It is believed that this temple was visited by Adi Shancracharya in the 8th century, hence its present name.

Mattan Martand Temple is dedicated to Martand Rishi son of Rishi Kashyap (from whom Kashmir derives its name) Martand is another name for Sun God so some people call it the birthplace of the Sun God. The temple complex has two three small temples with different deities, but the main stands inside a tank which has lots of fish in it. These fish are considered sacred. By feeding the fish, they say, one is absolved of all the sins! So it’s a popular destination. Traditionally this temple was home to the Pandits who kept the family records of generations (as per one’s gotra) of people….. Our ancestors who had earlier visited the temple, much like in Varanasi or Kashi.

The Mata Kheer Bhawani temple is one of the most revered places for the Kashmiri Pandits….but not much is known about its history. The present complex was built by the Dogra ruler Maharaja Pratap Singh around 1912. As the name suggests it is dedicated to Goddess Durga (Bhawani) and the water in the small tank surrounding it usually remains a milky white, because Kheer (a preparation of milk and rice is offered to the deity.) It is believed that in times of danger, war, and calamities the colour of the water turns red as a sign of danger.

Among the most popular destinations is Gulmarg which is totally different from Pahalgam except that both are flanked by snow covered mountains. Gulmarg is a small valley of grassy meadows. It is like a bowl, which has one circular road all around and no vehicles are allowed on the green grassland. One side has a street with eateries and shops which also sell/rent woollen clothes, windcheaters, jackets, raincoats and gumboots. The climate in Gulmarg can change at the drop of a hat, after a nice sunny morning it can suddenly rain and get pretty cold. The circular road is dotted with hotels suitable for every pocket.

While Gulmarg is a famous destination for skiing and winter sports when the whole valley is white with snow, summer has its own charm. The meadows will have patches of colourful wild flowers. In the middle, prominently lies a beautiful 18-hole golf course, made popular by the British since 1920 and a small Shiva temple. There is also an old church nearby. Gulmarg boasts of having the Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering.

Gondola ride up to Khilanmarg provides for some fantastic views of the valley Pines and snow covered mountains. Phase 1 of the Gondola takes you to a point which has a wide open area halfway up the mountain and the second phase takes you up to Apharwat which has even more snow everywhere as well as a beautiful high altitude lake. The best time to see this lake is during August and September. Lots of exciting snow activities can be enjoyed, like sledging, skiing and a ride on the snow scooters. Senior citizens can also participate in these sports with the help of local guides, provided you are in good health. Gulmarg is at a height of 2652 m and Apharwat is 3800 m above sea level.

Sonamarg is another popular destination for a day trip. If you like to stay overnight there are a number of hotels. This picturesque place lies on the road to Kargil and Ladakh and also provides an alternate but the more difficult and arduous route to the Amarnath Cave via Baltal. The Kolhai Glacier is situated near Sonamarg. After a small trek one can enjoy the snow of the glacier and the ice cold waters of the steam formed there with.

Yusmarg, known as the little valley of flowers, is a green meadow. After the snow melts in the summer it is full of wildflowers in different hues. It is a place ideally suited for a relaxed holiday away from the din of vehicles and towns.

People driving down from Jammu like to take a detour to Verinag. A small place with big significance as the river Jhelum starts from a spring in the tank here. A small arched construction around the tank resonates with Mughal architecture.

These are the common places most people like to visit. But for the nature lovers, bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts there are places like The National Park at Dachigam where one can easily see the Hangul – the Kashmir stag, and if you are lucky you see the Musk deer, Himalayan Brown bear, Himalayan Black bear, even snow leopards have been spotted. You can also find many other animals and birds in different seasons. Besides Dachigam, there is also the Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary with similar animals. Anchar Lake is a much loved destination for bird watchers and photographers. Hokersar Wetlands are an important staging ground for medium and long distance migratory shorebirds, geese, cranes, ducks and other species that breed in Siberia and Central Asia. Duksum is known for Trout fishing. There is much to see and savour, so let Kashmir be your next holiday destination.

TIPS FOR SENIOR TRAVELLERS:

Carry adequate inners, woollens, caps, mufflers, leg warmers, jackets and socks. Room heaters and bed warmers are provided in most hotels for extreme cold weather.

A windcheater/ rain coat can be useful anytime in the mountains.
Hats, caps and shades/goggles are a must – the glare in the sun can be unbearable at times. The sun feels really hot and can tan you easily. Do carry sunscreen with you.
At least two pairs of comfortable walking shoes. Sandals are not a good idea even in the summers.
Gum boots are available on rent in snowbound tourist spots like Gulmarg, Khilanmarg, Sonamarg
A folding walking stick Is advisable even if you don’t need one regularly, it can be helpful while climbing steps and slopes especially in the Mughal gardens and elsewhere. It provides additional support and a lot of confidence.
ATVs, ponies, wheel chairs, sledges are available at most places on extra payment for tourists/visitors. Sometimes even if you can walk, you’ll want to rent one just for the fun of it and the convenience!
No prepaid mobile connections will work in the valley. Ensure you have at least one post-paid one in your group. Wi-Fi connectivity is available in most hotels and houseboats.
Finally – Remember to carry all your prescribed and general medicines. Your particular ones may not be available easily. Please carry as required.

Love at first sound: One woman’s tribute to the God of Rock ’n’ Roll

Radhika Vaz

June 14, 2023

I was 11 years old when I first met Tina Turner. It was 1984, I was in boarding school in Ooty and her photograph was on the cover of a cassette tape. At the moment of reckoning she was wearing black leather and red lipstick and singing a song called ‘What’s love got to do with it’. This, I learned much later, was a song expressly not about love but about it’s much more fun cousin S.E.X. But at 11 I had no clue nor did I care. I wasn’t obsessed with the song because of the lyrics I was obsessed by the voice that sang them.

If you have never heard a Tina Turner song let me prepare you – her voice is like thunder. It is raw, powerful, dangerous. And just like her voice Tina looked like thunder too. She was the most glamourous thing I had ever seen in my young life, instantly displacing Zeenat Aman from the pedestal upon which I had placed her a few years before. And I knew there and then that when I grew up I wanted to be Tina Turner.

Tina Turner was made for women like myself. She was a huge success in a field where looks matter yet she was not a conventionally pretty woman – in fact she wasn’t pretty at all, in fact I wonder if she would be annoyed by that word itself! Tina was not beautiful, she was beauty. There is a difference. She embodied strength, power and grace – qualities that are timeless and neither feminine or masculine. Tina showed us that conforming to any standard set for us and by someone else would be wasting our time. Tina Turner became my hero.

Then I got older and I forgot my hero. Life happened. I got married, I moved countries, I started and restarted my career, I moved countries yet again, I turned 40. Then this year I turned 50. I don’t know if it’s a mid-life crisis or an existential crisis or just plain old depression but the last twelve months have not been easy. I have struggled personally and professionally, telling myself on more than one occasion to stop writing and performing. That nobody wanted to hear from some middle-aged woman who was out of touch with all things cool.

And then right in the middle of my panic ridden pity party, on May 24th Tina Turner died.

I never thought she would die. I know that sounds so stupid but I really thought I would be reading about her doing amazing things until I died. That maybe one day before I turned 70 I would watch her perform. Ah the fantasies we live to regret!

Once I got my breath back, I went down a rabbit hole of YouTube videos listening to her songs and inadvertently reliving my own life. I spent several days reading or watching as many interviews as I could find on the internet and of the many wonderfully insightful things I read or saw, one in particular stood out. When asked what she thought her legacy was, this humble woman who had won multiple Grammys, been inducted into the Rock-n-Roll Hall Of Fame, and had a film made about her life, said that her legacy was that she never gave up on who she was.

I realized then that I owed Tina. That I would have to keep writing and performing. That I would have to get up, dust off, and keep it moving. Because what we all ultimately leave behind are not our accomplishments but a path.

Suddenly I felt calmer knowing that my job here on earth is to simply keep going. To carve my path to the very end. This path may be narrow, thorny, overrun with weeds, and ridden with potholes. It may not be lined with awards and recognition but if it is a path that lets one other soul think ‘maybe I can’ then it was a path worth having run, walked, and yes, on some days crawled.

Tina Turner did not simply become the Goddess of Rock-n-Roll. She had to overcome poverty, abuse and a host of other setbacks. If she had allowed any of it to stop her I would not have the soundtrack to my life. And unless I willfully walk my path I may never find those little surprises along the way. Those hidden waterfalls or the views from the top of the mountain.

I have decided that every day, especially the hard days, I will wake up and tell myself to just work on my path. Who knows what I will encounter – perhaps a storm, but also perhaps a rainbow. But if I don’t beat that path daily then I was never a true Tina Turner fan, I was just a tourist and I never want to be a tourist, not anywhere in this world and especially not in my own life.

And so, I promise myself and you dear reader, that when things are ugly, painful and hard I will simply summon Tina Turner and remember always that if Tina could then I can.

The engineer and army gunner who gunned for the Pandavas: Gufi Paintal

Dr Srinivasan Ramachandran

June 14, 2023

The Shakuni Mama of BR Chopra’s epic serial Mahabharat Gufi Paintal alias Sarabjit Singh Paintal was three years old and in Lahore when he was suddenly yanked from his roots, put in a military truck from Lahore and taken to India. By the time they had reached the border town of TarnTarn, young Sarabjit had seen too many dead bodies to his comfort but realized how important a role the army had played in his life and wanted to wear the fatigues as he grew up.

The option was to be an actor. But his father – who had grown up as a cameraman for the noted Punjabi filmmaker from Pakistan Dalsukh M Pancholi at the Pancholi Arts Studios – was not keen that his son do any of that. “Back in the day, we all had to do what our fathers wanted us to do. There were very few options then. My father was keen that I take up engineering. I was not someone who opened his mind to my father back and though I was disinterested, went on to do mechanical engineering,” Gufi told this writer once.

Suddenly there was a clarion call for Indians to join the army when the unfriendly neighbours China and Pakistan started skirmishes and then wars with India and Gufi along with 59 others from his college, left their studies to join the army for a few years. “Back then patriotism had a different meaning, we were a young country free from the clutches of the British. A list of patriotic stories were being imbibed into us and hence we had to respond to the call of joining the army and one of my childhood ambitions was fulfilled,” he added.

Having said that, Gufi one met his uncle – who retired later as a Lt General then the latter was on an inspection and he was surprised to see him there. “I was only a gunner in the artillery division of the Territorial Army and even my uncle’s younger brothers later on retired as LT Gens. I told him that I had become an engineer because dad wanted me to do so,” he revealed. In 1967 he left the army and returned to the engineering college, wrapped up his studies and joined Tata Engineering and Locomotive which was the time when he connected with Ratan Tata. “I met him at the hostel. He was and still is a fine young man. There was one more Bakshi in my college who was related to the Kashmir Prime Minister Ghulam Mohammad Bakshi,” Gufi had told back then.

One day Gufi received a call that changed his life and that was when his brother Paintal a.k.a Kanwaljit Paintal popularly known as the king of mime back then called him up after becoming an actor in the Hindi movies. Paintal told his brother to stop his “nuts and bolts” job and enter films.

That is when Gufi decided to become an assistant director because he always wanted to be a director as he along with Paintal indulged in shadow play during childhood. He also did a bit of modelling for money and even doubled up as a casting director at times. Gufi got his first big break as an assistant director when he assisted HS Rawail in his film Laila Majnu starring the heart throb Rishi Kapoor. Later he got to work with his son Rahul Rawail in the classic hit Love Story starring Kumar Gaurav. Then came his big break when he got to assist Raj Kapoor in his films and managed to learn a lot from the showman.

The film, that however changed his life, was the BR Chopra backed and Ravi Chopra directed one – The Burning Train. Gufi had joined BR Films – a company that was to give him his permanent identity. He was assisting in the movies and also involved in the casting, took care of the newly formed Ad department in the company and started acting as well. He also got an opportunity to direct many tv serials under the BR Films banner.Life did change when the time came to cast for the role of Shakuni in Mahabharat. Gufi was already the casting director of the serial and would show the auditions of several people who were to be introduced one after the other in the show to enable the team led by BR Chopra, which included Ravi Chopra, Dr Rahi Masoom Raza, Satish Bhatnagar, Hasan Kamal and Mahavir Adhikari pick out each character.

It was only when the scene to be shot was that of the wedding of Dhritarashtra and Gandhari when Gufi realised that they had not cast an important character of Shakuni. He was already serving as the production designer, casting director and an associate director of the film when he reminded BR Chopra that Shakuni had not been cast and that is when he was told that he was playing the said role and they had kept it a secret because “Choprasaab felt that only Gufi could play the role.”

Gufi had given them a shortlist of three actors, but Chopra was impressed by his role of Thomas Metcalfe in the project – The Last Emperor: Bahadur Shah Zafar. “It was luck that I got the role on a silver platter,” Gufi had mentioned.

Gufi’s slight limp as the scheming Shakuni Mama is forever etched in our minds.

But his acting career was not that easy. My first role was when he had to kidnap Leena Chandavarkar in the Atmaram film Qaid when Vinod Khanna and his friends thrash him and take away the heroine. Gufi went on to direct Vinod Khanna later in the TV serial Maharana Pratap.

Another tale of a desperate attempt to act came in Bhagyashree’s father Vinjay Singhrao Patwardhan directed film Dimple when he had to again kidnap the heroine in the film starring Rita Bhaduri and Satish Kaul. It was in December when Gufi had to enact another kidnap scene with the heroine in a boat in a chilly evening at a lake in Mahabaleshwar. The hero, who was in another boat, rescued the girl and sank his boat, now knowing that Gufi could not swim. After shouting “bachao bachao,” Gufi disappeared into the water. They realized his goofy act was for real when he didn’t come up and then he was saved and the water pumped out from his body. Only then did he reveal that he did not say that he could not swim because he didn’t want to lose the role!

The same Shakuni Mama went to rock the Pandavas’ boat in Mahabharat and etched the character in Indian television history.

Dr S Ramachandran is a veteran film journalist and filmmaker

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Seniors Today Network

June 14, 2023

Addressing Gender-Based Violence in Older Age Policy, Law and Evidence-based Responses

In the context of last year’s commemoration of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), the World Health Organization in partnership with Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), UN WOMEN and with support from the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA), published Tackling abuse of older people: five priorities for the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing 2021–2030. The resource outlined key priorities to prevent and respond to abuse of older persons and, hence, contribute to improving their health, well-being and dignity. This year, the commemoration will provide an update on the implementation of the priorities.

Ahead of the milestone of the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), this year’s commemoration of WEAAD will also connect with the year-long campaign to promote and recognise the 75th anniversary. As the month of June of the campaign will focus on showcasing the UDHR by raising awareness on its legacy, relevance and activism as relates to women’s rights, the theme of the 2023 WEAAD commemoration in the United Nations Headquarters in New York is entitled Closing the Circle: Addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Older Age – Policy, Law and Evidence-based Responses.

Addressing Elder Abuse

Between 2019 and 2030, the number of persons aged 60 years or over is projected to grow by 38%, from 1 billion to 1.4 billion, globally outnumbering youth, and this increase will be the greatest and the most rapid in the developing world, and recognizing that greater attention needs to be paid to the specific challenges affecting older persons, including in the field of human rights.

Elder abuse is a problem that exists in both developing and developed countries yet is typically underreported globally. Prevalence rates or estimates exist only in selected developed countries — ranging from 1% to 10%. Although the extent of elder mistreatment is unknown, its social and moral significance is obvious. As such, it demands a global multifaceted response, one which focuses on protecting the rights of older persons.

Approaches to define, detect and address elder abuse need to be placed within a cultural context and considered alongside culturally specific risk factors. For example, in some traditional societies, older widows are subjected to forced marriages while in others, isolated older women are accused of witchcraft. From a health and social perspectives, unless both primary health care and social service sectors are well equipped to identify and deal with the problem, elder abuse will continue to be underdiagnosed and overlooked.

Thursday, 15 June 2023, 1:15pm – 2:30pm (EDT) New York, UNHQ

An expert panel will present overall trends of violence against older persons, highlight gaps and challenges of implementing the objectives in Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing. Expert panelists will also present five priorities to combat violence against older persons in the Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030).

Click below for more details:

UNITED NATIONS – 2023 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

How to Find Wisdom in Food Cravings

Vinita Alvares Fernandes

June 13, 2023

All my life I have said that dessert is my main course at every meal, I never (well almost!) take a second helping of food, to compensate for the double helping of dessert. Not the best habit to cultivate. But this is a secret I have to share with all of you, that I have had such a sweet tooth all my life, and my body got used to so much sugar, that if it did not get its handsome quota on a daily basis, I was left feeling low, sad and empty in my stomach.

Raise your hand if you have an addiction or a constant craving for any food!

It’s heart-warming to know that its only human to have these food cravings, it only measures-up differently for each person — sweet, salty, fried, crispy, crunchy, fruity, you name it and we all got one of these food cravings. Blame it on your taste buds, nutritional value or lack of it or emotional roots.

And yes, a food craving can drive you up the wall, find you rummaging through your kitchen pantry and refrigerator looking for something to hit the spot and the oddest of times.

It’s time we start looking at food cravings as insights into our body and emotions rather than something to avoid and resist altogether.

The more you resist something, the more it will haunt you.

In this article we are going to discover how to navigate food cravings and have a healthy relationship with food.

Understanding cravings — Why food cravings aren’t the enemy?

First things first, it’s important to know the difference between hunger and food cravings.

Hunger is a physiological need for food to survive, get nutrients and fuel to perform daily tasks. Your body lets you know it’s hungry by a growling stomach, lightheadedness and discomfort. Cravings, on the other hand, are emotionally and psychologically driven. They are triggers of stimuli and can occur even when you’re not hungry. Food cravings are intense desires to eat certain foods. This can be when we are hungry or not. It’s a common phenomenon that affects almost everyone due to hormonal changes, emotional stress, boredom, the sight or smell of food or even something as simple as hunger.

Oftentimes food cravings mask deep and repressed feelings, for which food is not the answer. The root of food cravings lies in the subconscious mind. It can be the fear of something—not being lovable, fear of not being worthy or good enough, fear of not being in control, fear of not being perfect, to name a few. To understand the cause and root of your desires it’s important to be curious and listen to what your body is trying to tell you.

If diet culture is considered to be the Gospel truth, we should stamp out cravings and resist them as much as possible.

But is this a sustainable approach?

There are three things you can do when you have a craving —

Sit with the craving.
Explore whether the craving can be met.
If the desire or craving is still there, then go for it.
Sit with the craving —

It’s completely normal and natural for cravings to crop up from time to time. Instead of repressing, instantly gratifying or ignoring these cravings, try sitting with the craving for sometime. Listen to the message your body is trying to send you. Is your body hungry? Are you trying to avoid something with the help of food? Use the time you’re sitting with the craving to listen to the cues your body is sending you. The more you practice sitting with cravings, the more you’ll learn about your body and be able to interpret its cues. Food cravings are like tantrums toddlers throw. Your body is basically asking for your attention.

Explore whether the craving can be met —

These are some of the ways you can see if your craving is temporary and can be met with an alternative solution.

Drink a glass of water
Take a nap
Go for a walk or exercise
Call a friend
Hop in the shower or take a relaxing bath

After you try a few ways to satisfy your craving, your craving will either be met or still persist.

If the desire or craving is still there, then go for it —

Once you’ve taken the time to experience and explore the craving, you can decide whether you want to give into it or opt for something else. This method is not about willpower and deprivation but about exploration and understanding. Its about whether you decide to eat the food you’re craving or not.

What is intuitive eating?

Intuitive eating has been connected to several positive outcomes. It’s a non-diet approach to changing your unhealthy eating habits into healthy ones. Intuitive eating is considered an adaptive mental health strategy that basically refers to your body guiding about what to eat.

So much of our eating is based on routine, social pressures, boredom, anxiety and emotions that what your body really needs gets lost in translation.

The beauty of intuitive eating is simply listening to your body. Food deprivation increases cravings so if your body wants something, give it to yourself, but in moderation.

When you practice intuitive eating, you let go of the rigidity that surrounds food and allow yourself to eat in a way that feels good for your body.

Intuitive eating offers us a few wisdoms-

It allows us to celebrate your cravings instead of feeling scared of them. Once the fear is out of the way, food doesn’t control you.
Intuitive eating throws out the taboo surrounding cravings.

You can eat whatever you want (in moderation)and cravings simply disappear.

You eat in tune with your body.

Your body becomes your guide and allows you to use and burn the fuel (food) you give it efficiently and sustainably.

You eat slowly with awareness and gratitude.

Every morsel of food that goes into your body does not go unnoticed. You register what you are eating and your food gives you satisfaction.

You learn to respect, take care of and love your body just the way it is.

Conclusion —

Diet culture is all about aesthetics. Learning about your body cues is very important to know what it needs and wants rather than what the world is telling you to give it.

Eating a little bit of what you desire from time to time, makes cravings vanish and not seem special anymore.

Enjoy your food, eat when you are hungry and eat what your body wants (unless you are not allowed to eat it for health reasons.)

Tip-1— Instead of restricting yourself and letting the craving desire simmer in your body, intuitive eating and eating in moderation might be your better option.

Tip-2 —Instead of forcing superficial change, like swapping a piece of cake for a fruit, its time to look for the reason for the food craving. Is it a source of comfort? Once you realize the root cause, the power food has over you weakens.

It all starts with recognising that — food will fix anything is a lie.

Cancer care for the head and neck

Dr Noor Gill

June 12, 2023

On 10 June, 2023, Seniors Today hosted their weekly Health Live webinar with Dr Anil K D’Cruz who spoke on and answered questions about Head and Neck Cancer.

About Dr Anil K D’Cruz – Dr Anil K D’Cruz, MS, DNB, FRCS (Hon), is Director, Oncology Apollo Cancer Centres. He is well-recognised as a global leader, clinician, researcher and teacher in Head and Neck Oncology. He was Director of Tata Memorial Hospital and Chief of Head Neck Services with over 33 years experience in the field of cancer. Dr D’Cruz is currently President, Union for International Cancer Control (UICC). Headquartered in Geneva, the UICC is the largest cancer organisation globally committed to the cause of cancer control comprising 1121 member organisations across 171 countries. Established in 1933, he is the first Indian to hold this position. In recognition of his professional standing in the field, he was awarded the Honorary FRCS from the Royal College of Surgeons London.

Dr D’Cruz has held leadership positions and is on the board of numerous professional organisations, universities, research organisations and cancer institutions across the country and abroad. He is an avid researcher and his landmark contribution in management of neck nodes in oral cancers awarded the plenary at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) 2015 and subsequently published in the New England journal of Medicine, the first from the Tata Memorial Hospital in this prestigious journal. He worked on research in the use of curcumin and was part of a project to develop and validate molecular cytogenetic studies/Proteomics in oral cancers, results of which were filed for a patent.

Dr D’Cruz has more than 250 peer-reviewed publications and chapters to his name and is a member of the Editorial Board of many reputed national and international journals.

He has delivered more than 500 invited lectures and nearly a 100 named lectures, keynotes and orations both nationally and internationally. He has also been a special invitee to over 100 conferences nationally and internationally to demonstrate head and neck, thyroid surgery. Dr D’Cruz’s special areas of interest are oral/laryngeal cancers, thyroid, parathyroid, salivary glands and neck diseases. He is also specially trained for head and neck surgery at Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre, New York, Laser Surgery at Vanderbilt University, USA and speech rehabilitation at Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. Thyroid cancer is an area of special interest.

Cancer is a disease that is increasing. We had 12 million cases in 2012, 18 million in 2018 and 19.3 million in 2020 globally.

1 in 5 men and 1 in 6 women will develop cancer in their lifetime, globally.

1 in 8 men and 1 in 11 women will die of cancer, globally.

The incidence of cancer is predicted to rise to double the numbers by 2040, in our country. And it is going to be one of the major causes of mortality and morbidity in our country.

Worldwide, lung cancer is the most common cancer contributing 11% of all cancers and 18% of all deaths.

In our country, 25% of all our cancers are head and neck cancers. Contrast this to the west where its incidence is only 4-5%.

This is so, because tobacco is a socially accepted custom in our country.

It is not only tobacco, alcohol in excess, sharp teeth, ill fitting dentures, poor dental hygiene are also responsible for head and neck cancer. Predominantly this will happen in the oral cavity.

In the west, an infection of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is also known to cause cancer in the younger population, non- smokers, it is predominantly a sexually transmitted disease.

Head and neck cancers include cancers involving everything from and between your brain up to your collar bones/ clavicle.

Of all these cancers, oral cavity includes 40% of all these head and neck cancers. These are also occasionally called cancers of the upper aero- digestive tract.

Apart from oral cavity cancers, we also have cancers of the pharynx, larynx, hypopharynx, oropharynx, nasopharynx. In head and neck cancers we also have tumours of thyroid gland, salivary glands, tumours of the neck.

The implications of head and neck cancers are function and cosmetics with poor outcomes. This is because the patients usually present at a later stage of the disease.

Only 10% of the patients present in stage 1 and 2. The delay is often caused by the patients themselves. This is because they either go to non medical personnel for treatment, alternative/ traditional modes of treatments or are just in denial.

The average delay seen is 7-8 months and in this time the disease has progressed to stage 4.

Stage 1 has a 90% cure rate, function morbidity and cosmetic implications are mild. Cost of treatment is also less.

In stage 4, we can help less than 40% of our patients, functional and morbidity treatment implications are severe. Cost of treatment is severe.

This is why we should visit the doctors at the earliest.

Risk factors for head and neck cancers:

The mucosa of the oral cavity is pink in colour, the colour of this lining turns white or red in colour- which in case you’re a tobacco user is called a pure malignant lesion.
White patch is called leukoplakia
Red patch is called erythroplakia
Blockage of 1 side of the nose or bleeding from one side of the nose
Hoarseness of voice
Pain while eating
Foreign body sensation at the back of your throat
Dysphasia- difficulty in swallowing
Lumps in your neck
Referred pain in your neck

If you have any of these symptoms and they persist for 4 or more weeks, you need to go and see a specialist.

The only modality of treatment in these cancers is surgery and radiotherapy. Chemotherapy and immunotherapy cannot treat the disease by themselves.

For locally advanced disease, we need to use multiple modalities for treatment and the whole treatment is prolonged for more than four months.

The health benefits of Brazil nuts

Vinita Alvares Fernandes

June 11, 2023

Have you ever received a gift hamper of assorted nuts and in it seen these long oval shaped nuts and wondered what these unusual looking nuts are?

These oblong nuts are called Brazil nuts.

They hail from the Bertholletia excelsa tree which grows in the Amazon rainforest. Brazil nuts have become increasingly popular in recent times.

When you crack open the tough, triangular shells of the Brazil nut, a smooth texture and a light, buttery, nutty flavour hits you instantly as you begin to crunch on it.

Brazil nuts are typically enjoyed raw or blanched.

Highly nutritious and beneficial it is touted as one of the best sources of selenium.

Here are some proven health and nutrition benefits of Brazil nuts —

Packed with nutrients: Brazil nuts are nutritious dense, loaded with protein, healthy fats, selenium, zinc, vitamin E, magnesium and phosphorus.

Rich in selenium: Brazil nuts are a rich source of selenium containing more selenium than any other nut. Selenium is a trace element that is vital for the proper functioning of your body, thyroid and it even influences your immune system and cell growth. Eating just two Brazil nuts a day is as effective as taking a selenium supplement to raise your selenium levels.
Supports thyroid function: This small butterfly shaped gland at the back of your throat is the powerhouse of most of your hormones that control your growth, metabolism, body temperature etc. The tissue in your thyroid has the highest concentration of selenium in your body. Selenium is required for the production of the thyroid hormone T3 and proteins that protect your thyroid from damage. Enter Brazil nuts, just two a day deliver enough selenium to maintain proper thyroid function and prevent thyroid disorders.
Reduces inflammation in the body: Brazil nuts are rich in antioxidants, which combat free radicals. The anti-inflammatory effects of Brazil nuts can be achieved from eating just a single nut.
Lowering blood sugar: Foods rich in selenium may help improve people’s blood sugar levels making Brazil nuts a great candidate for diabetics. The selenium and antioxidants in Brazil nuts help to lower insulin levels and boost insulin sensitivity thus improving blood sugar levels.
Support mood balance: Low selenium levels have been linked to several mood related disorders like anxiety and depression. Brazil nuts are deemed as mood lifters because of its selenium and serotonin content. The lower the selenium and serotonin levels, the more pangs of anxiety and depression. Brazil nuts not only help regulate your mood, but also have positive effects on sleep and appetite.
Good for your heart health: Brazil nuts fatty acids that are magnificent for your heart-health. They improve blood vessel functioning and even reduce LDL cholesterol levels. Consumption of Brazil nuts is known to decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease and heart attacks among people as well as those living with diabetes. Brazil nuts’ effects on heart health are truly promising.
Boosting immune system: The antioxidants and other healthy, organic compounds found in Brazil nuts help the overall immunity of the body. Brazil nuts contain a plethora of nutrients that boost the immune system, fight off diseases and infections, boost your energy levels and even help you carry out your day-to-day activities with ease.
Brazil nuts are good for your brain: Brazil nuts contain ellagic acid and selenium, both of which are brain boosting compounds. Eating Brazil nuts daily is said to improve your verbal skills, mental function and even prevent or delay the onset of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Antioxidant effects: The selenium in Brazil nuts boost the body’s antioxidant system and prevent oxidative stress. Eating Brazil nuts does great things for your body’s health.
Prevents hair loss and treats acne: Brazil nuts surely make a difference when it comes to skin and hair. Selenium deficiency often leads to heavy hair loss so regularly eating Brazil nuts make sure that your hair not only stops shedding but also grows beautifully and denser than ever before. If you suffer from the occasional breakout, marks and imperfections, Brazil nuts will be a godsend for you. It improves the skin’s elasticity and gets rid of any redness, inflammation, ageing skin, fine lines and wrinkles.
Brazil nuts nourish the hair from root to tip thus leaving you with a healthy and thick mane and give you glazed donut skin.
Brazil nuts aid in digestion and even help you lose weight: Even though Brazil nuts have plenty of calories and fats, they are great for your digestive system. Making you feel fuller, boosting your body’s fat-burning capabilities and aiding digestion is every Brazil nuts forte.
Improves sex life: Another facet where selenium levels play a major role is your libido. Eating Brazil nuts effectively make your sex life better.
Boosts testosterone levels in men: Research has shown that men with lower levels of selenium often suffer from infertility because of the effect it has on their testosterone levels. Regularly eating Brazil nuts surely has a positive effect on testosterone levels and in turn boosting male fertility.

Side effects and risks of Brazil nuts —

Consuming too many Brazil nuts a day can cause selenium toxicity, a consequence of which is brittle nails and hair.
Excess consumption of Brazil nuts also leads to nausea, fatigue, diarrhoea, irritability and garlic-like breath.

How many Brazil nuts can I have in a day?

Brazil nuts offer some impressive health benefits, but eating too many could be harmful. It’s important to limit your intake. Brazil nuts, like any other food, should be eaten in moderation. A healthy and wholesome quantity of Brazil nuts given the number of calories and the nutritional content should not exceed more than three a day.

A Brazil nut a day doesn’t keep the selenium at bay!

Weekly Predictions – 12th to 18th June By Chirag Daruwalla – Son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla

Chirag Daruwalla

June 11, 2023

Aries

Ganesha says this week, you will emerge as a very popular leader in political and social life inside and outside the country. At the same time, there will be opportunities for desired growth in the fields of management, arts, medicine, research, and interesting careers. If you are an employee and officer associated with the government and administration. So will be engaged in the redressal of public grievances. In the context of capital investment and abroad, there will be an increase in the initial days of this week. However, again in the middle of the week, the movement of stars will give auspicious and positive results. That is, you can firmly present the outline of the expansion of work and business. There are chances of promotion in job sectors. That is, this week’s stars will carry a lot of good news in themselves. Love relations will be exciting again. If there is any disease and pain in the past. So you will be able to remove them. This week’s stars are pointing toward child happiness.

Taurus

Ganesha says this week, there will be a need to intensify efforts in the areas of livelihood. Whether it is the talk of competitive fields or the field of production and sales, this week’s stars will be going to give a long run. Whether it is a political platform or aspects related to social life, there will be a need to run continuously for progress. There will be opportunities for profit in capital investment. In the beginning and middle part of this week, you will be expected to make sudden monetary gains. This means the business you are irrigating. Or the company you are setting up. There will be a need to be more active in that direction. In a love relationship, there can be deep tensions between the partners on some issues. Health will be weak this week. In the last days of this week, you can get involved in the works of any religion and charity.

Gemini

Ganesha says this week, the movement of the stars will be largely pleasant and wonderful for you. As a result, there will be opportunities for continuous progress in related fields. If you are a politician and a social worker, then the movement of stars will help you reach a platform. That means your efforts will make you proud. If you are associated with any production and sales areas. So the movement of the stars will continue to give pleasant and wonderful results. This week, however, are engaged in pursuing a career in the fields related to film, art, music, and sports. So this week you will be able to achieve a special status. There will be opportunities for capital investment profit. But there will be a need to avoid carelessness in health. The dedication of the partner in love relations will be somewhat weak towards you. So don’t weaken your understanding. That means the movement of the stars will continue to give you comfort and facilities.

Cancer

Ganesha says this week will be engaged in completing the work related to livelihood. There will be opportunities for significant growth in political and social life. Very possible, this week you can participate in any special and important religious programs. On the other hand, from an economic point of view, the movement of the stars will be pleasant and spectacular. As a result, this week there will be opportunities for success in related fields more than expected. There are signs of child happiness in married life. This week’s stars will be very important and pleasant for the students. However, in the second part of the week, you may have to move in a special relationship. If there are any cases. So your side will be stronger in them. In the courtyard of married life, tension can deepen in some matters. But again in the last days of this week, the movement of stars will give auspicious and positive results in relationships.

Leo

Ganesha says this week, there will be moments of laughter and happiness in the courtyard of married life. If you are a participant in sports, management, medical research, and sports. If and are engaged in achieving a special milestone in your career, then the movement of the stars will give important results this week. This month will be very pleasant and wonderful for the students. There will be moments of love between the partner in love relations. But in the middle of the week, the movement of the stars will send you somewhere to travel and migrate. At the same time, there will be opportunities for significant progress in dealing with the economic context. However, there will be chances of some softening in terms of health. In such a situation, there will be chances of weakening of the immunity capabilities. Therefore, pay full attention to food and drink. If there are any court cases. So suddenly they may have to run around. That is, the movement of the stars will give mixed results in the respective areas this week.

Virgo

Ganesha says this week’s stars will be giving pleasant dialogues in the context of related land and buildings. As a result, significant progress will be expected in the aspects related to livelihood. If you are engaged in upgrading material comforts. So the movement of the stars will continue to give pleasant and wonderful results. At the same time, there will be opportunities for continuous progress in completing the work related to studies and teaching. Therefore, avoid laziness in continuing the efforts at your level. If you are looking to make a capital investment, then the movement of stars will give pleasant results. Therefore, do not be lazy in continuing the efforts at your level. There will be good news from son and daughter in the middle of the week. However, there may be some difficulties in earning and raising money this week. But there will be a beginning of partial success. But will have to travel and stay in far-flung areas in related areas.

Libra

Ganesha says the stars of this week will be the ones who will increase their physical strength and abilities. If there is any disease and pain in the past, then we will be able to remove it. There will be a pleasant feeling of pleasant and luxurious atmosphere in the family. So don’t hesitate to continue the efforts. Although you will be able to give the final touches to any historical and religious work. Very possible, can participate in any political and religious programs. Dividends will remain increased in capital investment. There will be moments of love between siblings. Will be able to buy a building and vehicle in the middle of this week. As a result, try to be positive. However, there may be some opposite environment in the areas of this work and business.

Scorpio

Ganesha says will be able to buy desired and valuable clothes and ornaments this week. This week, you will be ready to travel somewhere with your close and trustworthy person. On the other hand, this week will be very important for business life. If you are looking to make capital investments, then the movement of the stars will be favorable and give great results. There will be opportunities for dividends in capital investment. But this week’s stars will remain somewhat weak in terms of health. Therefore, if you do not deviate from the regular routine, then it will be good. In the middle of this week, there will be moments of love among the relatives. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts. In the last days of this week, there will be an emphasis on upgrading material comforts. But the opposition parties will be involved in creating an atmosphere against you. Overall, this week will mostly give good results.

Sagittarius

Ganesha says this week there will be opportunities to make household life pleasant and luxurious. As a result, there will be moments of love between wife and children. As a result, there will be moments of laughter and happiness in the courtyard of household life. If you are eligible for marriage. So the favorable life partner will be the one to indicate to join you. In the middle of the week, you will be able to purchase immovable property and collect documents related to it. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts. Although there will be a need to be more ready for dividends in capital investment. In terms of health, this week’s stars will be weak in the middle part. But again in the last days of the week, the movement of stars will give pleasant and wonderful results. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts at your level. So it will be good.

Capricorn

Ganesha says this week, in connection with work and business, you will have to travel and migrate to far-flung areas. If you are associated with the areas of production and sales. So the movement of the stars will continue to give important results. There will be chances of profit in capital investment. Therefore, do not weaken your understanding at your level. From the beginning of this week, the opposition parties will try to trouble you. However, this week’s stars will give moderate results in terms of health. However, in the second part of the week, the movement of stars will increase physical strength and help in removing diseases and pains. In the last days of the week, again there will be opportunities for extensive progress in terms of real estate. If you are preparing for any competitive exams then you will get success. But do not weaken the hard efforts.

Aquarius

Ganesha says this week, there will be opportunities for progress in social and political life. As a result, the level of your respect and prestige will remain increased in the related fields. If you are engaged in earning an edge in the fields of music, art, medicine, and film industry, then the movement of stars will give pleasant results. This week there will be moments of love between siblings. In personal relations, there will be sweetness with the life partner. However, in the middle of the week, the movement of stars will give expenditure in terms of money. That is, there will be pleasant opportunities to make capital investment easy and make it worthwhile. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts at your level. So it will be good. In the last days of this week, the movement of stars will increase physical strength. On the other hand, there will be moments of laughter and happiness in household life. But the opposition will keep trying to trouble you.

Pisces

Ganesha says this week, there will be opportunities for desired growth in the related job profession. That is, you can be nominated for promotion by the concerned department. If you are looking for employment. So you will be successful. But review your preparations at your level. If you are an entrepreneur. So the movement of the stars will be very helpful in establishing necessary dialogues with a special and reached person. In the middle of this week, sweetness will start in love relationships. If there are any previous disputes. So you will be able to remove them. This week’s stars will be pleasant and wonderful for students. As a result, you will be able to prepare subjects. There will be chances of significant progress in earning and raising money in the middle part of this week. So avoid laziness in continuing the efforts. So it will be good. However, on the last days of the week, some will be worried due to the increasing expenditure in terms of money. Therefore, do not weaken your understanding at your level.

Birthday Predictions – 12th to 18th June By Chirag Daruwalla – Son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla

Chirag Daruwalla

June 11, 2023

12th June

Ganesha says today is a day to celebrate love and affection with friends and family. It’s possible that you’ll feel more passionate and impetuous than normal, so make sure to give some thought to what you’re going to do before you do it. Spend some quality time demonstrating to your significant other how much you value the connection you share. Be willing to explore new possibilities for a romantic relationship if you are currently unattached.

13th June

Ganesha says today is an excellent day for you, to concentrate on your own requirements and concerns. Spend some time caring for yourself and indulging in the pursuits that bring you the most pleasure. You might also consider devoting some time to contemplating the objectives and concerns you have towards the future.

14th June

Ganesha says in today’s world, communication is essential. You can find yourself in circumstances that require you to articulate your thoughts in a way that is unequivocal and confident. Be sure to listen to what other people have to say, and look for areas of agreement to help you avoid arguments.

15th June

Ganesha says today is a day is a day for getting in touch with your feelings and expressing them. It’s possible that you’ll feel more sensitive and intuitive than usual, in which case, it’s important that you pay heed to the voice of your intuition. You should probably also spend some time with the people you care about and be as honest as possible about your emotions.

16th June

Ganesha says today is a good day to focus on your personal growth, trust your instincts, and make choices that align with your values and long-term goals. Today is a good day to focus on your personal growth and trust your instincts. Your ability to be realistic and your attention to detail will be of great assistance to you as you manage these issues.

17th June

Ganesha says you might experience feelings of restlessness or a need for change. Take advantage of new possibilities, and push yourself to do things that take you out of your comfort zone. You will be able to overcome any challenges that come your way because of your flexibility and resourcefulness.

18th June

Ganesha says today may find you concentrating on the personal relationships you have and the connections you have with other people. Maintain the friendships you already have while still being open to making new ones. It may be simpler for you to connect with others as a result of your charisma and other people abilities, which may be highlighted. Nevertheless, it is imperative that you establish positive limits and make time for your own self-care.

Spot the difference #76

Seniors Today Network

June 10, 2023

Solution for the – Spot the difference #76

Solution for Spot the difference #76

Seniors Today Network

June 10, 2023

Differences are:

1. Flower plants

2. Tree/Plant is missing

3. Sunglasses missing

4. Dustbin

5. Shoe missing

6. Extra cloud

Entertainment Review: Never Have I Ever Season 4

Deepa Gahlot

June 9, 2023

Watch any show from the US or UK now, and there will be at least one Indian character in an important role; it’s not just a result of inclusivity contracts, but because Indians have integrated into Western society, without losing a sense of their own culture. When Never Have I Ever was greenlit by Netflix in 2020, it was among the first American web series that had an Indian teen as the lead, and the Indian way of life – the poojas, rituals, dancing to Bollywood songs, blingy costumes and nasty Aunties, effortlessly built into it.

The show created by Mindy Kaling and Lang Fisher, loosely based on the former’s own growing up years in the US, has the bright, nerdy and rebellious Devi Vishwakumar (played by Maitreyi Ramakrishnan) as the lead, with Poorna Jagganathan playing her strict mother, Nalini, and Sendhil Ramamurthy as her father, who died young, but still plays an important role in her life. For some reason, tennis star John McEnroe is the narrator of Never Have I Ever, a role he performs with dry humour that is built into the script.

Born in the US, Devi is not the typical American-Born Confused Desi, the ABCDs who were one the objects of scorn; she sees herself as American, and hates the occasions when she has to dress in itchy saris and be taken to an Indian function. But she is also Indian enough to have great academic aspirations, and dreams of going to Princeton.

Season 4 of the show has just dropped, in which Devi is a bit more settled, less emotionally or sexually chaotic and on the way to finishing high school, which means leaving the safety of home to go to college. Her two besties, Fabiola Torres (Lee Rodriguez) and Eleanor Wong (Ramona Young) have also grown with her, after much bickering and making up. In the first season they were given the horrid nickname UN, not because of their racial diversity—the UN stood for unf***able nerds. Devi lusted after Paxton Hall-Yoshida (Darren Barnet), the leader of the good looking boys called Hot Pockets, while her nemesis in the classroom was the supersmart Ben Gross (Jaren Lewison).

Over the last three seasons, Devi and her pals had a lot of boyfriend troubles, hooking up and breaking up with a succession of dudes. At home, Devi’s mother is appalled when her niece Kamala (Richa Moorjani) who lives with them while completing her PhD studies, first accepts the Indian tradition of the arranged marriage and then rebels against it. But when Nalini herself meets a suitable mate, and what’s more, her mother-in-law Nirmala (Ranjita Chakravarty) finds herself a partner, Devi’s romantic see-sawing does not look too problematic.

The series has been praised for its non-stereotypical depiction of Indian-Americans, but it is also too treacly and cutesy, while Devi’s is always excessively hyper. But at a time when so many people of Indian origin are in positions of political and economic power in the West, it was about time the community was properly represented in popular culture. Never Have I Ever may not be the ideal medium, but it’s a start.

Never Have I Ever Season 4
Created by Mindy Kaling & Lang Fisher
Cast: Maitreyi Ramakrishnan Poorna Jagannathan, Richa Moorjani, Jaren Lewison and others
On Netflix

Foods for arthritis

Vinita Alvares Fernandes

June 8, 2023

When you think of arthritis, what’s the first thing that comes to your mind?

Is it joint pain?

Well, if it is then you’re not wrong.

Arthritis is a health condition that causes chronic inflammation, pain and damage in your joints, bones and other body parts, depending on the type of arthritis you have.

There are several types of arthritis. All cause pain, swelling, inflammation and stiffness in the joints.

Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Psoriatic Arthritis
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Gout
Lupus
Ankylosing Spondylitis

Did you know that dietary intervention can help relieve the severity of arthritic symptoms and even improve your quality of life?

This article is all about foods to avoid if you suffer from arthritis pain and symptoms.

People with arthritis should avoid inflammatory foods. The best way to identify foods that trigger inflammation is by following an elimination diet. Add foods methodically to your diet so it is easier to identify what is causing you pain.

A few simple modifications to your diet can go a long way. Here are some foods to avoid if you have arthritis or arthritic symptoms-

Sugars

It’s best to limit your sugar intake in general. But if you suffer from arthritis, consider this all the more reason to. Foods with added sugar and high sugar foods like candy, soda, breakfast cereals, ice cream, packaged sauces, fruit juices or baked goods should be avoided at all costs. Always check food labels for added sugars, you’ll be surprised at how much is added. Other ingredients to watch out for include corn syrup, sucrose, fructose or maltose, sugar alternatives like aspartame and sucralose as well.

Nightshades

Nightshades is a group of vegetables that contain the compound solanine and small amounts of alkaloids. While some alkaloids have positive effects on human health. Unfortunately, nightshades tend to aggravate arthritis symptoms. Hence, it is best to exclude them from your diet. Nightshade vegetables include tomatoes, bell peppers, chilli peppers, eggplants and potatoes.

Processed meats and red meats

Research has linked red meat and processed meat to inflammation. This obviously means that if you suffer from arthritis its time to cut down or avoid these foods. Plant-based diets have shown to relieve arthritis symptoms and reduce inflammation in the body.

Foods high in purines

A low-purine diet is often advised if you suffer from arthritis. Purines are substances in foods that get converted to uric acid in the body. If uric acid builds up in the bloodstream it can cause a lot of problems. Organ meat like liver, beer, alcohol, cured meats, mussels, scallops, cauliflower, mushrooms and beans have high amounts of purine. Try to eliminate these foods from your meal plan. .

Gluten

Gluten is a type of protein found in wheat, barley and rye which can increase inflammation in your body. Try going gluten-free if you suffer from arthritis symptoms and see if they improve.

Foods high in salt

Cutting back on salt is a good idea if you suffer from arthritis. Excessive salt and sodium can cause you to develop arthritis symptoms or other conditions. A low in sodium or no salt diet is recommended. You can add flavour to your food using spices like ground pepper, oregano, cumin, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder or chilli flakes

Refined carbohydrates

Refined carbohydrates include added sugars. The grains are thoroughly processed which removes the fibre and nutrients present in them. Diets high in refined carbohydrates are known to increase inflammation in arthritis patients. Examples of refined carbs are white bread, white rice, baked goods, desserts, packaged pasta and noodles. Try to eat more complex carbohydrates, like brown rice, quinoa and whole grains.

Highly processed foods

Fast food, breakfast cereal and baked goods are ultra processed typically high in refined grains, added sugar, preservatives, vegetable oils and additives which are all inflammatory ingredients. Avoid eating processed foods as much as possible.

Fried food

Fried food is a big trigger for arthritis. They contain trans fats which trigger inflammation in your body. Opt for air frying or baking your food instead of pan frying or deep frying.

Dairy products

The protein in milk and dairy products can irritate the tissue around joints and cause inflammation. If you suffer from arthritis, it’s best to avoid dairy products as much as possible. Now with dairy alternative products available in the market, it’s much easier to find a suitable substitute. Mayonnaise, margarine, cream cheese, butter, milk, yogurt and cheese.

Alcohol and tobacco

Alcohol causes inflammation in your body. Arthritis is due to inflammation in the body. Restrict or avoid alcohol as much as possible. Tobacco is another product that can increase your risk of developing arthritis or worsen your symptoms. Stay away from it, in every and all forms.

Eggs

Although eggs are protein rich and very healthy for most people, if you suffer from arthritis, regularly eating eggs can increase swelling and joint pain. The yolks contain arachidonic acid and saturated fats which triggers inflammation in the body.

Omega-6 fatty acids and certain vegetable oils

Healthy fats are necessary for the body but certain vegetable oils and foods have omega-6 fatty acids in it which may worsen arthritis symptoms. Corn, safflower, sunflower, peanut and soy oils have omega-6 fatty acids in it. Avoid these oils whenever possible and cook with olive oil instead. Some other common sources of omega-6 fats include soybeans, corn, certain nuts and meats. Opt for foods with omega3 fats instead.

Foods high in AGEs

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are molecules created when sugar and protein or fat reacts with one another. They exist naturally in uncooked animal products and are also formed through certain cooking methods. High protein, high fat animal foods that are fried, roasted, grilled or seared are the richest sources of AGEs.Some other sources of high AGEs are french fries, processed cheese, margarine and store bought mayonnaise.When high amounts of AGEs accumulate in your body, it leads to oxidative stress and inflammation which can progress arthritis. Replacing high AGE foods with nutritious and whole foods like vegetables, fruits, legumes, lean proteins like fish can reduce the total amount of AGEs in your body.

Additives

Packaged food is convenient especially if you live a hectic life and are always on the go. But after a point, the additives present in packaged foods will take a toll on your body. Things like monosodium glutamate (MSG), aspartame, added sugar and added salt cause increased inflammation in your body. So avoid packaged foods as far as possible if you suffer from arthritis.

Winding up…

If you have arthritis, a healthy diet and lifestyle is one of the main ingredients to help improve your symptoms.

Consult a dietician or health professional to figure out what foods are best for you to eat. Simple diet changes can make a huge difference in managing your symptoms.

Tip- Keep a food diary to track any reactions you have to foods, what foods suit you and what foods should be eliminated from your diet.

Does turmeric really work?

Duane Mellor

June 7, 2023

Turmeric has been used by humans for more than 4,000 years. As well as cooking and cosmetics, it’s been a staple of the traditional medicine practice of Ayurveda, used to treat a variety of conditions from arthritis to wind.

Even today turmeric remains a popular health supplement. There are plenty of articles and social media posts claiming the benefits of this spice for everything from brain function to reducing pain and inflammation.

But while some of these claims are linked to evidence, most of this research is in cells and animals, making the actual effects on humans less clear.

While turmeric is reported to contain over 100 different compounds, most of its reported health benefits are linked to specific compounds called curcuminoids (the most abundant being curcumin).

Curcuminoids are phenolic compounds, which are molecules that plants often make as pigments or to discourage animals eating them. This is what gives turmeric its distinctive colour, but it can also change how cells function.

Many of the potential health effects of turmeric have been linked to these phenolic compounds which, in the lab, have been shown to have an antioxidant effect.

Antioxidants are substances which prevent or slow damage caused by free radicals – a harmful type of molecule that can cause inflammation, and has also been linked to heart disease and cancer.

But while turmeric does indeed act as an anti-inflammatory, many of the health benefits caused by this effect have only been proven in the lab (using cells) or in animals.

For example, one study fed obese mice one gram of curcumin per kilogram of body weight. After 12 weeks, they found that the mice given curcumin had similar improvements in brain function and lower levels of inflammation in their liver as the mice who had been on a weight loss diet.

So while this may have translated to healthier mice, it’s unclear whether the same would be true in humans. Not to mention that had this study been conducted in humans, an average 70kg person would have needed to consume over 2kg of turmeric daily during the trial – which would be impossible.

Since no similar studies have yet been conducted on humans, we still don’t understand whether turmeric reduces inflammation in a similar way.

Effect on pain

Yet despite the lack of research showing benefits in humans, turmeric (and curcumin) are widely marketed as anti-inflammatory supplements for a range of conditions – including joint pain and arthritis.

According to the results of one review, it does seem that in human trials turmeric supplements may have a modest benefit on pain compared to a placebo – and in some cases as as beneficial as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

turmeric1 — Some participants taking supplements reported less pain. Pixel-Shot/ Shutterstock

But the studies included in this review appear to be of variable quality. Many were conducted using a very small population (ten people or fewer) and had a wide variation in the amount of turmeric participants were given. This means it’s hard to make a clear recommendation that turmeric is effective for pain.

Turmeric has also been suggested to have anti-cancer properties due to its anti-oxidant effect. In the lab, curcumin has been shown to reverse DNA changes in cells which cause breast cancer. But it’s less clear whether turmeric reduces the risk of cancer or supports treatment in humans.

Some research has shown that using a turmeric gargle could reduce the side effects of radiotherapy in people with head and neck cancers, however.

It may also help people with a rare genetic condition called familiar adenomatous polyposis, with one clinical trial finding that consuming 120mg curcumin (about the same as a teaspoon of turmeric) was linked with fewer cancer-causing polyps for people with this condition – which can be a sign of the early stages of cancer.

With inflammation being linked to many cognitive health conditions such as dementia, some research has sought to understand whether turmeric can benefit brain function. So far, it’s unclear whether turmeric has any effect.

The trials that have been conducted in humans have generally been very small, with a lack of consistency in study design, dosage and how they measured cognitive effects. Again, this makes it difficult to see whether turmeric really does have an effect, or whether any cognitive improvements are due to other factors.

Does turmeric really work?

A major challenge in getting turmeric to work in our bodies is getting it from our gut into our bloodstream. Curcumin is quite a large compound – and as such can be hard for the body to absorb into the bloodstream because it isn’t very soluble in water.

But other research suggests that turmeric works by acting on the bacteria in our guts. Although more data is needed on whether this is true in humans, it could suggest that turmeric doesn’t need to be absorbed into the bloodstream in order to provide health benefits because it’s already absorbed through our gut.

Another challenge is the amount of turmeric needed to see benefits. In many studies only the curcumin extract is used – which makes up only about 3% of turmeric powder itself. With many studies giving greater than 1g of curcumin per kilogram for a mouse or rat, the equivalent amount for these effects to be seen in a human would be difficult to achieve – even in supplement form.

Turmeric is a great spice, giving a pleasant earthy flavour and vibrant natural yellow colour to food. But it’s far from clear how its reported benefits translate to human health. So, enjoy turmeric as a spice and a colour in food, but don’t rely on it to deliver major health benefits or to treat or cure disease.

Alert mind, youthful body

Vinita Alvares Fernandes

June 6, 2023

Ever wonder why some people live to 90 or 100 with utmost grace and happiness?

Getting older is inevitable. It’s a process that brings with it a lot of emotions- for individuals themselves, for caregivers and for loved ones. While you can’t control Mother Nature, you can do things to slow down the physical and mental ageing process. From the foods you eat, to the people you interact with- everything about your life has an effect on how your body ages. After all, these years are called the “golden years” for a reason.

Of course, good genes and health are vital but your outlook to life matters the most. Do not take life too seriously, taking everything with a pinch of salt (except your food) might just be the answer to blowing out those 95 candles on your birthday cake.

Ageism “the silent epidemic” – Ageism comes with prejudice, discrimination and stereotyping based on age. It happens at work, to celebrities (especially women), in the healthcare industry and even in movies.

What does it mean to age gracefully?

While ageing gracefully is very relative and can mean something different to everyone, whether it’s letting the greys kick in or finally being able to say “I am a senior citizen”, it all boils down to one thing —

Do what makes you feel good.

Like a bottle of wine, you can get better with age with the right care.

Tips for ageing gracefully —

Exercise and stay as physically active as you can- Noone is asking you to run marathons or swim across the ocean but staying physically active or engaging in some form of exercise on a regular basis can slow down ageing. A simple walk around your neighbourhood, a swim or even group exercise classes. Whatever suits you as long as you’re moving your body. Regular exercise significantly lowers your risk of diseases, helps you retain your mobility, lowers stress and even improves sleep.
Mind your diet- Healthy foods are the way to go when it comes to ageing. Load up on fruits, vegetables, lean protein, whole grains and low-fat like yogurt or cheese. Avoid using solid fats for cooking and use oils instead. Most importantly try to stay away from processed foods, refined sugar, alcohol and unhealthy fats. Last but not least, you should keep your salt intake to the bare minimum to keep your blood pressure down.
Drink plenty of water- Stay hydrated. It’s as simple as that. Your brain, skin, vital organs and energy levels will thank you. Fill a large water bottle in the morning and take it with you wherever you go. This way you remember to drink water and can monitor your liquid intake.
Be kind to your skin- If you treat your skin with care (inside and out), protect it from the elements and be gentle on it- it will reflect on your skin.
Mental health matters- the health of your mind matters a lot more than you think. Keeping your stress levels low and staying mentally healthy will help you age well. Do things that will elevate your mood like spending time with friends and loved ones, going for an outing, exercising, meditating, doing yoga, joining a class, reading a book. Do things that make you happy that ignites joy deep within your core. Mental health is linked to your physical health. If your mind is happy it will reflect on your body and vice versa.
Live in the moment and practise mindfulness- Mindfulness is all about acceptance and living in the moment. Focus on the present and let everything just wash past you. Practising mindfulness can help you age better,mentally and physically. You can predict life, so try to make the most of every moment. Enjoy how you turned out after all, you’re currently the person you couldn’t wait to grow up to be.
Get enough sleep- Good sleep is important for your physical and mental health. Sleep helps your body reset, heal and rejuvenate. As we get older our body needs longer to reset, so make sure you give yourself enough time to rest and sleep.
Take care of your mouth- this might sound odd but take care of your teeth. Bad oral hygiene ages your teeth, smile and overall self. Brush your teeth twice a day, flossing is a must and don’t forget the mouth wash.
See a doctor regularly- Seeing a doctor regularly can help make sure everything is running smoothly and on track. See a doctor anytime you feel like something isn’t right. Do regular tests, screenings and do not forget to take your medicines.
Be grateful- Learn to appreciate the life you have lived and the life you are living. Find easy ways to cultivate gratitude, have a gratitude journal or recount everything you’re grateful for before you sleep. Try to stay positive and look at this chapter of your life through a hopeful and grateful lens.
Accept your age- Ageing gracefully isn’t about trying to look like a 20 year old when you are well above 60, it’s about living your life while having the physical and mental health to enjoy it and the secret ingredient is acceptance. Acceptance of your age, embracing it and knowing its your strength and not your weakness.

Takeaway —

Ageing gracefully does not require ‘going under the knife’ or to get boat loads of plastic surgery. Ageing gracefully is more about being healthy and happy than hiding your wrinkles and lines. Maintain a healthy lifestyle at a pace that suits you. It’s natural to have challenges at every stage of life. Don’t be afraid to speak to someone about your concerns.

“Your face is marked with lines, put there by love and laughter, suffering and tears. It’s beautiful.” – Lindsay Sands

Piles and Colon Care for Seniors

Dr Noor Gill

June 5, 2023

On 03 June, 2023 Seniors Today hosted their weekly Health Live Webinar with Dr Pravin Gore, a Senior Proctologist, specialist in colorectal surgery who spoke on and answered questions about Piles and Colon Care for Seniors.

About Dr Pravin Gore

Dr Pravin Gore has done his MBBS and DNB in General Surgery. He did his Fellowship in Colorectal Surgery from Madhurai and an Advanced Colorectal Surgery Fellowship from Birmingham and a Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery Training in Rome University. He has been pursuing his practice for over two decades in Mumbai. He is attached to elite hospitals such as the Wockhardt Hospitals and other hospitals. He is also an honorary member of the Department of Proctology at the GT Hospitals. He has received the prestigious Dr Abdul Kalam Azaad award for his excellence in Colorectal Surgery from the former Chief Minister of Telangana state.

Dr Gore is arguably the only surgeon in India to offer botulinum toxin as a treatment for anal fissure surgery. He has pioneered the technique of BUSH. He has been a faculty at the national and international levels and has delivered several lectures, has many publications and text book chapters in his name. He is one of the only 3 proctology specialists in Mumbai. And one among the 46 surgeons who focus on colorectal surgery.

Anorectal problems/ issues are the kinds of problems where the patients suffer behind the closed doors of their bathroom and they do not want anybody else to know about it. These patients keep silently suffering due to embarrassment and lack of knowledge of what to do and whom to consult.

Just like all fevers are not malaria and all coughs are not tuberculosis, just like that, all bottom- problems are not piles.

Piles, also known as haemorrhoids are often confused with 27 other bottom problems which can present with similar symptoms.

There are normal blood vessels that supply blood to and around the anus and are attached to the wall of the anus. Because of hard stools, constipation and forced passage of stools, there can be a tear in the walls of the anus leading to bleeding and this can also lead to loosening of the elasticity of the vessels, walls and their support.

If a patient visits his physician at an early stage, the 1st and 2nd stage of haemorrhoids, diet and lifestyle changes are enough to take care of the hemorrhoidal issues in addition to oral medication and local applicant ointments that can help with the concern.

However, if the precipitating factors such as constipation, hard stools, forceful passage of stools persists, the haemorrhoids can either return and also progress in grade and severity.

Grade 3 and grade 4 piles- which is when the haemorrhoids come out of the anus and can be reduced with a finger and sometimes they become non- reducible, is when the patient requires surgery. This is where colorectal surgery comes into play. There are bloodless ultrascopic scalpel, lasers and staplers available.

Thus, not all bottom problems are piles and not all piles require surgery. And even if you require surgery, multiple modalities are available which are tailor made for the patient and his requirements.

A balanced diet is advised as a preventable measure for haemorrhoids. Along with diet, a healthy lifestyle with a calm and stress free life, healthy sleeping habits, eating habits also play an important role.

Avoid junk food and a sedentary lifestyle.

All of this can also precipitate constipation which can further lead to haemorrhoids.

No urge to pass motions is constipation.

Incomplete passing of stools is constipation.

Hard, rocky stools are also constipation.

As age advances, the moment of our intestines also slows down. Thus, for a senior it is okay if you pass stools every 30- 32 hours instead of every 24 hours, as long as the stools are not rocky hard, or you have not passed stools in over 2 days.

Be aware of the movements of your intestines. Your stools are formed and pushed from the rectum and are passed through the anus which in coordination with the rectum opens simultaneously.

Forcing or straining is detrimental in case of a patient of constipation.

Contributory factors for constipation include:

Age
Diet
Sedentary lifestyle
Less intake of water
Different postures

The cause of constipation needs to be located. Is it in the intestine, rectum or at the anus. Depending on this, we treat the patient.

High Carb Foods That Are Incredibly Healthy

Vinita Alvares Fernandes

June 4, 2023

The endless options of low-calorie, low-carb, high fibre, gluten free, low-fat foods with a multitude of opinions put out by F&B companies, is actually causing a frenzy in everyone’s mind on what we should eat and what we should not.

So let’s break it down in a simple way to understand what we should be eating.

We need three macronutrients to maintain a healthy and balanced diet —

protein, fats and carbohydrates.

Unfortunately, carbohydrates (carbs) are the most misunderstood macronutrient of the three.

Carbs have the worst reputation when it comes to foods to eat. It’s a common misconception that carbs cause weight gain, type 2 diabetes and are overall bad for your health. However truth be told, Carbohydrates give our bodies fuel and energy to function efficiently. While low carb diets can be beneficial for some people, there’s absolutely no reason to eliminate this food group from your diet. Many nutrient-dense, fibre-rich carbohydrates are actually very good for you.

Most foods contain carbs in some form, carbs in the form of sugar or in the form of fibre, of which fibre is obviously better for your health.

There are three types of carbs —

Starch like potatoes, grains and bread. They are usually plant based.
Sugar can be found in natural sources like fruits or refined foods like soda, candy or baked goods.
Fibre isn’t actually absorbed by the body. It is a tool to keep your digestive system on track and running smoothly.

Here are some high carb foods that are incredibly healthy and you should include in your diet —

Cereals and Grains —

Quinoa- Quinoa has gained popularity in the last decade. It is a nutritious seed that is often classified as a pseudocereal, prepared and eaten like a grain. Cooked quinoa is 70% carbs, making it a high carb food but a healthy one. It’s also a good source of protein and fibre making it a healthy favourite. Quinoa is gluten free, versatile and very easy to prepare.
Brown rice- All white rice was once brown rice. The grain is still in its fibrous state when it is brown. Brown rice is chewier and nuttier than white rice but it is definitely much healthier. Opt for brown over white rice, if you’re a rice lover like me.
Oats- This marvellously healthy and gluten free whole grain is a good source of vitamins, minerals, fibre, protein and antioxidants. Eating oats can keep you satiated for a long period of time. Oats are known to help lower cholesterol and blood sugar. This breakfast staple is better if it is rolled or old fashioned instead of in the form of steel cut or minute oats.
Buckwheat- buckwheat is also considered a pseudocereal. Despite its name, buckwheat is not related to wheat and is even gluten free. Raw buckwheat is more carb heavy than cooked buckwheat groats. Very nutritious, full of fibre, protein, vitamins and minerals, eating buckwheat is beneficial for heart health and blood sugar regulation. Buckwheat is a large seed that looks like a grain. It can be cooked into noodles, made into a flour for rotis, cakes, pancakes, boiled to eat as a rice substitute or even eaten raw.
Barley- Don’t be fooled by the sugary concentrate of lemon barley water or beer, they don’t contain the nutritional benefits of eating barley as a whole grain. Barley comes in two forms- hulled and pearled. This heart-healthy grain can be a great addition to salads, as a rice substitute or eaten on its own.

Legumes —

Lentils- Dal or lentils is cooked every single day in most Indian households. It is full of protein, fibre, iron and folate. It’s available in different varieties like brown lentils (kala dal), split green lentils (hara moong), yellow split lentils (yellow moong), red lentils and orange lentils (masoor and toor dal). This versatile food can be made into sauces, curries, soups, as a stir fry or a salad ingredient .
Beans- There are many types of beans like kidney beans (rajma), chickpeas (kabuli channa), black-eyed peas (chawli), soy beans, edamame, black beans, lima beans and flat beans. Each one is full of fibre, folate, protein and potassium and they’re fat free! You can buy them canned or dry and add them to curries, dips, spreads, soups, stews, salads and pastas. Go easy if you’re adding beans to your diet for the first time as too much of it can cause bloating and gas. Try soaking your beans overnight to remove some of the heat.

Fruits & Veggies —

Potatoes- This delicious tuber is rich in vitamin A, starch, sugar, fat and vitamin C. They’re also full of antioxidants, which are compounds that help neutralise free radicals in your body and protect it. Let’s cut to the chase- If you are wondering whether you should eat white or sweet potatoes, the answer is do whatever you please. Just keep in mind that the way you prepare this root veggie is what determines its nutritional value.
Beets- This non starchy vegetable is packed with nutritional goodness. Typically not considered a carb, it is a must to add to your diet for all its health benefits.
Bananas- One of the most popular fruits, bananas are high in carbs. Its nutritional value is great for health. Bananas can be incorporated in different recipes or eaten plain as a quick snack. This high-carb fruit has a bad reputation but it can do wonders for your health by lowering your blood pressure and improving your heart health.
Grapefruit- This citrus fruit contains 8% carbs and is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Grapefruit enhances your heart health and helps you manage your blood sugar levels. Try to add this fruit to your diet either in a salad or eating it raw.
Apples- Tart and crisp, apples are available in many colours, sizes and flavours with each one full of vitamins and minerals. Apples do contain carbs but let me assure you, it’s healthy carbs. Eating apples is one of the best things you can do for your body.
Oranges- The most popular citrus fruit, oranges do contain carbohydrates. Lucky for you, these carbs are considered to be healthy and a must if you can get your hands on them.
Berries- All types of berries are good sources of complex carbs and are packed with nutrients. Whether you opt for fresh, frozen or dried, berries can elevate any dish or even be eaten simply as a snack. Don’t shy away from berries when it comes to healthy eating!

High carb foods to limit or avoid —

Avoiding refined carbohydrates with little or no nutritional content is essential. Here are some carbs to run away from-

Candy or processed sugar
Sugary breakfast cereals
White pasta, white bread and refined white rice
Cookies, muffins, and other baked products
Artificially flavoured and sweetened yogurt
Potato chips
Sugary juices and sodas with high fructose corn syrup and sugar content
Processed foods

Things to keep in mind —

It’s a myth that all carbs are unhealthy.

A balanced diet should always include carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

Opt for whole grain carbs instead of refined carbs. Keep this in mind when you go grocery shopping.

Do not introduce new foods into your diet all at once. Do it gradually so as to avoid any unforeseen reaction.

Lastly, focus on eating the more nutritious carbs you enjoy instead of forcing yourself to eat foods that don’t appeal to you just because they are considered “healthy”.

Having a healthy relationship to food is so important to build a sustainable and healthy lifelong diet for yourself.

Weekly Predictions – 5th to 11th June By Chirag Daruwalla – Son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla

Chirag Daruwalla

June 4, 2023

Aries

Ganesha says in this week, there will be chances of completing many tasks on the basis of work skills. If you want to inspect the schemes in far-flung areas. So you will be successful. There will be possibilities of considering important points in personnel life this week. Very possible. Will have to go somewhere for travel and migration. This week will be very special for the students. Whether it is about preparing subjects. Or should it be about going for an interview? There will be opportunities for continuous progress. In the middle part of this week, significant progress will be expected in settling the money transactions. As a result, do not hesitate to continue the efforts at your level. In love relations, there will be moments of love between the partner. There will be moments of laughter and happiness in the courtyard of married life. So don’t weaken your understanding. So it will be good. Some will be worried about legal references.

Taurus

Ganesha says this week there will be chances of significant progress in dealing with references related to building and land. If you are engaged in doing traditional business. So the movement of the stars will continue to give pleasant results. Although health will remain troubled due to some diseases and pain. Deep tensions can arise between relatives in some matters. In such a situation, one should avoid getting angry suddenly, otherwise, there can be a situation of quarrel in the relationship. There will be some good news from the children’s side in the middle of this week. There will be moments of love between them in love affairs. If there are any money transactions, you will be able to settle them. There will be opportunities for continuous progress in the aspects related to livelihood. In the last days of this week, there will be moments of movement in a special relationship. If you are looking to invest capital. So, the movement of the stars will continue to give the gift of success.

Gemini

Ganesha says this week, the movement of the stars will be helpful in increasing the physical strength and taking it forward. Therefore, do not weaken your understanding at your level. If there are any previous diseases and pains. So be able to remove them. There will be moments of love between siblings. Due to this, the mind will be happy. If you are engaged in finalizing the works of any religion and charity. So the movement of the stars will continue to give the desired results. So don’t weaken the level of understanding. On the strength of your efforts, your recognition in related work and business will increase. Due to this, the mind will be happy. If you are engaged in purchasing any land and building. So the movement of the stars will continue to give the desired results. In the last days of this week, significant progress will be expected in the education and advancement of the son and daughter. Therefore, do not weaken your understanding at your level.

Cancer

Ganesha says this week will be important in handling the references of land and building. If you are a top official of the concerned department, then you have to respond to any legal notice in the respective fields. If you are looking to invest capital. So the movement of the stars will continue to give the desired opportunities for growth. But due to some diseases and pains in your health, you will be troubled. Therefore, there will be a need to be careful about food and drink. There can be deep tension in some things between relatives. But again in the second part of the week, the movement of the stars will give auspicious and positive results. Due to this the body and mind will be happy. In the third part of this week, there will be chances of desired growth in the respective competitive fields. If you are engaged in the construction of a building. So the movement of the stars will continue to give pleasant results. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts at your level.

Leo

Ganesha says tn this week, there will be chances of significant progress in increasing physical capabilities and removing diseases and pains. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts at your level. If engaged in the investment of physical capital. So the movement of the stars will continue to give gifts of important results. If you are a politician, actor, or actress. So, while addressing the public in the respective areas, we can express our gratitude towards them. And through related schemes, the development of the area can be heard. There will be moments of love between wife and children. If there is any dispute first. So there will be the desired kind of edge in removing them. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts. So it will be good. However, due to deep tension in some matters among relatives, you may get upset in the middle of the week. There will be chances of significant progress in earning and raising money in the third part of this week.

Virgo

Ganesha says the stars of this week will be the ones to raise the material comforts and run in the fields related to livelihood. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts at your level. However, due to the increasing expenditure on money matters, you will be troubled. Therefore, do not weaken your understanding at your level. So it will be good. This week’s stars will be somewhat weak in terms of health. Therefore, if you do not weaken your understanding, it will be good. Although aspects related to livelihood may have to run continuously. In the middle part of this week, however, again the movement of stars will be auspicious and positive. In such a situation, you will be the master of good health. And there will be moments of love between wife and children. In the last days of this week, you will be engaged in buying expensive clothes and jewelry. This week will be more exciting and special for the students.

Libra

Ganesha says this week’s stars will give status in social and political life. As a result, there will be opportunities for continuous progress in related fields. However, there will be significant progress in dealing with the aspects related to livelihood. At the same time, there will be opportunities for continuous growth in the areas of work and business. Although you will be continuously successful in handling the aspects related to livelihood. That is, this week’s stars will be giving opportunities for significant progress in the fields of film, acting, medicine, management, and technology. That is, this week you will be able to achieve a special milestone in your career. So don’t hesitate to continue the efforts. So it will be good. In the middle of the week, you will be troubled due to increasing expenditure in money relations. There can be an expenditure in money matters. If you are looking to invest capital. So the movement of the stars will continue to give pleasant and wonderful results.

Scorpio

Ganesha says there will be opportunities for desired progress in work and business this week. It is quite possible that you may be nominated for some special responsibility by the concerned department. If you are a young man or woman looking for employment in private and government sectors. So the movement of the stars will continue to give the desired results. That is, the efforts for employment in related fields will be successful. However, there will be a need to move forward to make the process of teaching and taking forward the son and daughter more vigorous. There will be chances of desired progress in earning and raising money in the middle of this week. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts. So it will be good. In love affairs, there will be moments of respect and love for each other in the middle of this week. Although in the middle of the week, there may be an expenditure in terms of money. Opponents can trouble you.

Sagittarius

Ganesha says this week, to deal with the aspects related to livelihood, you will have to travel and migrate to far-flung areas. If you are engaged in doing any religious and charitable works. So the movement of the stars will continue to give important results. On the other hand, there will be opportunities for important progress in political and social life this week. However, in the middle of the week, there will be more success than expected in the respective fields. If you are employed, can be nominated for promotion in the respective fields. However, this week’s stars will be somewhat mild in terms of health. So don’t weaken your understanding. So it will be good. Although there can be tension in some things between the relatives. But again in the last days of the week, the movement of the stars will give success to the efforts to earn and raise money. So don’t hesitate to continue the efforts. So it will be good.

Capricorn

Ganesha says in this week, there will be opportunities for desired progress in dealing with legal aspects. If you want to travel and travel somewhere. So, the movement of the stars will continue to give the gift of happy results. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts made. If you are into mining, medical, commissioning, manufacturing, and other sectors. So the movement of the stars will increase the number of raisins. That means a long workout may have to be done to penetrate the desired targets. So don’t weaken the level of understanding. So it will be good. Although there will be chances of sudden monetary gain this week. But due to some stress in health, you will remain worried. In love relationships, this week there can be some differences between the partners. But again from the middle of the week, there will be a positive atmosphere in the family. Very possible, you may be nominated for promotion this week.

Aquarius

Ganesha says in this week, there will be moments of laughter and happiness in the courtyard of married life. If you are eligible for marriage. So a suitable life partner will be there to indicate the coming. However, more efforts will be needed to address the aspects related to livelihood. If you want to travel and stay in the country and abroad. So the movement of the stars will continue to give pleasant results. Although there will be moments of love among the relatives. But again in the middle of the week, the movement of stars will lead to expenditure on money matters. However, there will be dividends in capital investment. However, the enemy side may conspire to disturb during this time. Therefore, there will be a need to be careful in related areas. If you are engaged in completing work related to any social and political life. So the movement of the stars will continue to give pleasant results.

Pisces

Ganesha says in this week, you will be able to complete the work related to livelihood. Whether it is about private and government sectors or business-related aspects, the movement of the stars will give pleasant results. The movement of the stars will be pleasant and wonderful for the students. If you are going to appear in any competitive exam. So the movement of the stars will continue to give the gift of pleasant and wonderful results. Although there will be a need to continue continuous efforts in capital investment and completion of work related to foreign countries. However, this week’s stars will be somewhat weak in terms of health. Therefore, pay full attention to food and drink. In love relations, there will be moments of love between the partner. But avoid getting angry about small things. However, the movement of the stars will be pleasant and spectacular in terms of attaining physical comfort. That is, this week’s stars will be giving desired results in the respective fields.

Birthday Predictions – 5th to 11th June By Chirag Daruwalla – Son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla

Chirag Daruwalla

June 4, 2023

5th June

Ganesha says you will attempt to go to whatever length to carry out and achieve your predetermined plans. Even though your family discussions wind up being bitter, only sweetness will fill the void in the end. Before starting any project, you are a dependable source who carefully investigated all the information. Your health conditions could not satisfy you. Through financial assistance that you might receive due to luck, your assistance to the poor and needy will help to dry their sorrows. Your profession may have many twists and turns, so you must exercise great caution.

6th June

Ganesha says you enjoy leading a self-determined lifestyle. You need to be careful to seize the opportunities that knock on your door. You will become a wonderful person because of your insatiable passion for accomplishing your objectives. Avoiding excessive displays of winning emotions is an urgent need right now. With no expectations or complaints, you will accept life as it is. What you experience in life is a series of ups and downs. In order to prevent resentment from dividing you from your admirers, try to avoid disagreements with them.

7th June

Ganesha says you adore leading an independent life. Opportunities will knock on your door, so be careful to seize them. You will become a wonderful person because of your unquenchable desire to achieve your objectives. Avoiding excessive displays of winning emotions is a crucial current need. With no expectations or complaints, you will accept life as it is. Your life will be full of ups and downs. Avoid disputes with your admirers to prevent resentments from dividing you.

8th June

Ganesha says your original concepts would provide you with the most sought-after abilities. A large crew is relatively simple to manage. You would perform exceedingly well in the upcoming time and get amazing honours and awards. But occasionally, because of your snarky and peculiar behaviour, you start to seem mysterious to your friends. At a professional front, you must restrain or conceal your erratic behaviour. You will undoubtedly increase your savings but you will also likely indulge in extravagant spending. It would be planned to be brief but exciting for a change.

9th June

Ganesha says joining the crowd, you keep yourself informed at all times. Your sense of unbelievableness could propel you to fame in the near future. Similar to how honey attracts more flies than vinegar, you are surrounded by kind people. You have good leadership qualities, which will help you succeed as you move up the organisational ladder.To avoid creating fractions, you should be devoted to your coworkers. Even if your family comes first in your life, you find yourself having less time to spend with them.

10th June

Ganesha says about your life experiences and its substance, people will be incredibly curious. This romantic relationship is a win-win for you. Your level of intimacy will probably rise, and you might be preoccupied with creating your wedding invitation. You will fulfil all of your requirements through your spouse and receive your desired outcome. It will take time for you to travel through a long passage as the number of people who admire you will continue to grow. Love, sacrifices, provocations, disengagement, and peace are all available to you at this moment. You’ll always achieve the outcomes you want by learning from experience.

11th June

Ganesha says you’re more likely to actively explore the notion of your business deal. You always look into anything that comes your way because you really think that “No pain, no gain.” Your prowess could occasionally bring you into disrepute. Check your toad-like characteristics, which include conservatism and introversion and a preference for staying in one place. You can be concerned if the number of people who support you declines since it could make you feel as though you have no one to encourage you.

Solution for Spot the difference #75

Seniors Today Network

June 3, 2023

Differences are:

1. Sun

2. Houses

3. Fence

4. Hairstyle of man

5. Boy

6. Cow

Spot the difference #75

Seniors Today Network

June 3, 2023

Spot the difference#75

Solution for the – Spot the difference #75

Entertainment Review: Taj: Reign Of Revenge

Deepa Gahlot

June 2, 2023

The second season of the Taj series drops on Zee5 not too long after the first. Taj: Reign Of Revenge, starts 15 years after Divided By Blood. Nobody seems to have aged in the interim, they just acquired longer hair. Emperor Akbar is still wondering who would make a suitable successor; the rebellious Prince Salim, living it up in designer tents with an inexhaustible supply of booze, is still digging up the forest looking for Anarkali’s corpse.

Nothing much has changed in the tenor of the show, directed by Vibhu Puri, taking over from Ron Scalpello, except that the sons (Mitansj Lulla, Jiansh Aggarwal) of Salim (Ashum Gulati) and the unfortunate Maan Bai (Anushka Luhar) have grown up and are coveting the throne too, along with dissolute Uncle Daniyal (Shubham Kumar Mehra). Akbar (Naseeruddin Shah) wants the exiled Salim to come back and prove himself worthy of the throne, but the dude with tousled hair and man bun, is still too absorbed in wine and belly dancers. He does keep up his practice with the sword though, and beats a well-built rival in the wrestling arena.

Nobody bothers about poor Maan Bai languishing in the palace, doped on opium, but Akbar’s three queens (Zarina Wahab, Padma Damodaran, Sandhya Mridul) are still eyeing the position of the power behind the throne. As Jodha tells an upstart Mehrunnisa (Sauraseni Maitra), the men may rule, but they are ruled by the women who conquer their hearts. Mehrunnisa wants to marry Salim and become the Mallika of Hindustan, but she is forcibly married to the pervert Ali Quli (Rouhallah Quazim) to get her out of the way. Akbar also shows her the wall where Anarkali was buried alive, but the woman who hangs around taverns, without purdah, to meet Salim is not so easily intimidated. The show does not bother much about history and has mixed and matched its own ‘facts’ (writers William Borthwick and Simon Fantauzzo), but it has been recorded that Ali was eliminated by Salim, and Mehrunnisa, renamed Noorjehan did become Empress and ruled the country, as her husband lay around intoxicated.

Mughal history is replete with men killing their brothers and nephews to snatch the crown; still, in spite of all the debauchery and violence, the show can hardly be taken seriously as history, because it all looks superficial, and the actors are middling to deplorable. The characters are barely human, and almost never seen in situations where they are not acting, so even if they are capable of human emotions, that does not show—they all look like robots in period outfits. Emperor Akbar was supposed to be a great ruler, but this show gives little indication of why he was so popular. The series is grand looking though, with no expense spared on sets, costumes and battle scenes.

Four episodes have dropped, four more to go but a sneak peak, hints at the origin story of a romantic future Emperor and the love of his life.

With the Mughals being redacted from history textbooks, films and TV will probably be the only record –fictional though it may be—of their lives and legacy for consumption by the general public. So more research, less garnish, please.

Taj: Reign Of Revenge

Directed by: Vibhu Puri

Cast: Naseeruddin Shah, Dharmendra, Aashim Gulati, Shubham Kumar Mehra and others

On Zee5

7 tips for a healthier relationship with your phone

Paul Levy

June 1, 2023

How long do you spend staring at a screen every day? According to one report, the average person spends about seven hours a day on screens connected to the internet. And that figure is going to be even higher if your job is mainly done in front of a computer.

Most of us over-use digital devices, spending too long either working or enjoying being distracted on phones, tablets, laptops or even VR headsets. We are accused of being addicted to tech and warned of the dangers to our physical and mental health.

One significant paradox here is that we often retreat into the digital world to escape the stresses of the physical world, but can end up simply collecting other kinds of digital and physical stress along the way.

As a parent, I became concerned a few years ago about the effect my digital life was having on my work and family. I did some research of my own, changed the way I used my devices and even wrote a book about the dangers of what I call the “digital inferno”.

Phone-play — Break free from screen time addiction: seven tips for a healthier lifestyle. pexels/anna shvets

It’s only in recent years that longer-term studies have been published on the issue. And taken together, these studies comprise a growing and significant body of knowledge, that is hard to dismiss or ignore: too much tech can cause issues for us humans.

To be clear, digital devices offer significant benefits – think connection, education, entertainment. The danger is when our overuse of them becomes toxic to our health.

From a personal perspective, eye strain, neck ache, poor sleep, stress, repetitive strain injuries of all kinds and impaired hand function are just a few of symptoms I’ve had over the years thanks to my overuse of screens and devices – and research shows I’m far from alone.

If any of these symptoms describe you (or anyone you know), or you just feel too much of your life is taken up with staring at a screen, then you might find my advice on how to regain control of your tech helpful.

How to regain control

Practice putting down your digital devices consciously

Keep them out of sight and put them away when you aren’t using them, especially at night. Banish them from the bedroom, get an alarm clock (so you aren’t using your phone alarm) and you’ll sleep better without the late-night scrolling. And get out of the habit of watching TV with your phone next to you. Just focus on one task at a time without the distraction of another screen.

Set yourself screen time limits

Too much screen time can give you headaches. Be mindful of the way your use your tech and make use of features like voice notes, which allow you to stay up-to-date with communication without staring at a screen for a long time.

Stop allowing digital distractions

Constant interruption can induce physical and mental stress. Turn off notifications and alerts when you want to fully focus on a task. And keep your phone off your desk. Research shows that having your phone nearby, even if it’s not buzzing or ringing and even if the power is off, can hurt your performance.

Schedule proper digital-free time

Depression and anxiety is one result of digital overload. So getting away from your digital world for a while is important. Take a walk in nature, read a book, go for a bike ride – anything that takes you away from the screens for a while.

Read-book — Maybe just read the book? pexels/tranmautritam

Make screens easier on the eyes

Screen overuse can strain our eyes and affect our eyesight. Don’t squint at tiny screens to do work that would be better done on a larger-screen laptop. Reduce the blue light on devices and make use of all the other helpful accessibility features. Start with that screen glare. And also make sure the volume doesn’t burst your ear drums.

Take control of the chaos of information overload

Organise your phone, computer and tablet so you can use them more efficiently. Some apps really do help you take charge of your life and work more calmly and effectively. Time-tracking apps measure how much time you’re spending (wasting) on your screen – prepare to be horrified! We regain mastery over our digital devices when we become more proactive in their use.

Sit well when you are digitally engaged

Slouching over a phone or hunching over your laptop will harm your neck and your back. Sit upright, stretch regularly and exercise often – without your phone.

Be a digital decider

These seven tips should help you regain a sense of control over your digital life. For me, it’s all about sleeping and waking better after leaving my phone downstairs. It’s about having dedicated, planned digital time and specific times when the phone has no place in what I’m doing.

Yet it’s also about enjoying these tech miracles in a more satisfying way and using them more consciously. I like to think of myself now as a digital decider and not just another digital casualty.

Courtesy – THE CONVERSATION

How Long Will It Take Me to Lose Excess Belly Fat?

Vinita Alvares Fernandes

May 31, 2023

Did you know? Fat has a bad reputation but it isn’t all bad. Good fats are essential for our bodies to thrive.

Did you know? Too much belly fat is called visceral fat (bad fat) which can cause health problems if not managed.

Did you know? The timeline for losing belly fat is directly proportionate to your overall weight loss.

Did you know? People who want to lose weight often want to do so around their abdominal area first but it’s not easy to target fat loss.

Slimming down and being done with that jiggly belly, every last bit of it, is something most of us want to master. If you’re wondering how to win this battle of getting rid of unwanted fat and how long it will take, there are answers.

Unfortunately, the answer is not as simple and clear-cut.

Nutrition and exercise go hand in hand when it comes to burning off your fat. Pairing a calorie deficit diet along with regular physical activity will reduce your overall body fat percentage including your belly region.

How long does it take for people to lose belly fat?

That answer is different for everybody.

Truth be told — There’s no shortcut to lose belly fat. Crash diets and weight loss supplements and teas, detoxes and programmes won’t do the trick. It is almost impossible to target belly fat alone. Reducing your total body fat percentage will shrink your waistline as well and even improve your health.

How long it takes to achieve fat loss varies from person to person.

A reduced-calorie diet will help you lose around 1 kilogram of fat a week. Incorporating exercise into your routine will help speed up your metabolism and tone your belly area.

Your best bet is losing overall body fat and once you start losing weight, your belly will get slimmer. In my case belly fat is always the last to leave my body.

Losing belly fat is dependant on 2 things-

A caloric deficit diet full of protein
Exercise that includes weight training

How long does it take to burn fat? Let’s do the math —

You have to burn approximately 3,500 calories to lose one pound of fat.

So to lose one pound a week, you have to eliminate 500 calories from your diet every day.

That’s the caloric deficit required per day.

If you manage to achieve this feat you could lose four pounds in a month and it could take one to two months before you notice your waistline slimming.

Increasing your physical activity and exercise will also help you burn more calories and build muscle mass. But keep in mind that muscle is heavier than fat. So while you may be looking and feeling leaner and toned it may not show on the weighing scale.

Everyone is different. There are many variables that affect what it takes to burn a calorie. The larger you are, the more calories you can burn, males have more muscle than females which helps them burn more calories and the amount of physical exercise you do determines the number of calories you burn.

Cutting inches off your waistline requires a lot of hard work, following the right balance of diet and exercise and most importantly patience.

How to create a caloric deficiency?

Calories are units of energy from food. It’s quite simple, the more energy you use, the more calories you burn. Unused calories get stored as fat. You can burn stored or extra fat by consuming fewer calories and burning more energy.

Here are some ways to cut calories —

Switch drinks- drink water instead of sweetened sodas and juices
Reduce your alcohol intake. Alcohol= calories
Opt for black coffee instead of flavoured coffee with added cream and sugar
Avoid high-calorie foods like refined carbs, sugar and fried food
Avoid fast food and ultra-processed food
Eat fresh food instead of prepackaged food
Check the number of calories in foods. You can use a calorie counting app or food journal for this.
Reduce your portions sizes- Try using a smaller plate or bow to trick your brain
Avoid using refined oil while cooking
Use tiny amounts of oil while cooking
Eat slowly and wait for 20 minutes after eating to make sure you’re full before taking another helping.
Don’t eat in front of the TV. It’s easy to get distracted and eat more than you need to.
Include a lot of protein in your meal.

Foods to eat to help lose belly fat —

Coming to the food options, there is no magical food or elixir out there that will bust your belly fat. But there are smarter food choices you can make.

Eat fresh food instead of prepackaged food
Drink wter instead of sugary drinks
Black coffee or green tea instead of milky, sugary counterparts
Nuts and dryfruit instead of junk food snacks options
Reduce your alcohol intake and make wise choices of low sugar alcohol
Replace simple carbohydrates with complex carbohydrates

Exercises to help you burn belly fat and burn calories —

Exercises that target the abdomen may not affect your visceral fat, but they can help strengthen and tone your muscles. The most important thing is to keep moving.

30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise
Aerobic exercises
Strength and weight training to build your muscle mass
Stretching to keep your body supple
Yoga or pilates
Walking or jogging
You can use free weights, weight machines, or resistance bands to make your workout slightly difficult

A few additional tips to keep you active-

Park farther away from your destination and walk to rack up those extra steps
Use the stairs instead of elevators and escalators
Walk for 10 to 15 minutes after your meal
The more you move, the more calories you burn

Takeaway —

Weigh yourself once a week at the same time of day to track overall weight loss. There’s never a one-size-fits-all approach that works. Focus on making healthy and smart choices that keep your body fit and automatically your body goals will be achieved. Be patient and consistent, stay the course and make sure you choose the sustainable route so you can keep up and maintain your progress.

Should you shower in the morning or at night?

Vinita Alvares Fernandes

May 30, 2023

Everyone has their own shower habits and routines.

Some shower on waking before breakfast,

some after,

Some shower as soon as they reach home,

Some just before turning in for the night.

Whatever your preference, the AM shower versus the PM shower is a long standing debate.

Let’s find out if there are any scientific benefits to showering at night versus in the morning?

Morning showers pros & cons:

People who swear by morning showers will tell you that there is no better start to the day than a cool rinse under the shower.

Pros:

A morning shower is a refreshing wake-up call. It will wash away the grogginess, sleep and leave you feeling refreshed to face the day. Research has even shown that cool morning showers boost productivity through the day.
Morning showers wash off sweat and bacteria. Humans tend to sweat at night. When you wake up in the morning, it might be a nice idea to wash off all the sitting sweat, bacteria and sebum off your skin.
There are many benefits of washing your hair in the AM. You can wash away excess oils and dirt from the previous night and feel clean. Your hair will be cleansed and ready to style, not to mention the feel good factor that comes as an added bonus.
Showering in the morning increases your metabolic rate by shocking your body into action. It makes you more alert.
From a purely mental point of view, for those who have a hard time waking up in the morning, a shower as soon as you wake up can prolong your dreaming abit and make a big difference to a slow wake-up.

Cons:

You might go to bed on the dirtier side if you prefer morning showers. The dirt, grime, grease and debris from the day accumulate on your skin along with your skin products and bodily oils. If you go to bed without even a rinse off, you’re taking many a bacteria to bed with you.

Evening showers pros & cons

Pros:

You are going to sleep with clean skin. An evening shower helps you wash off all the dirt and grime from the day, literally and figuratively.
An evening shower is a soothing way to wind down. It relaxes you and prepares your body for sleep. Many people find an evening shower very soothing, for the skin and senses.
For hygiene purposes, showering at night removes dirt, oil and germs from your skin and hair. It keeps you clean and can prevent infections and keep your skin immunity high.
For those who struggle with insomnia, a warm shower at night is highly recommended. The body naturally cools down around bedtime. A shower before bed, artificially raises your body’s temperature which allows it to cool down faster and hasten sleep.

Cons:

Don’t get carried away in the shower. Long, steamy showers might seem like a good idea, until it’s not. The hot water can damage your hair and skin if exposed to it for too long.

Why not the best of both worlds?

One possible compromise is showering twice a day. Doing so twice a day doesn’t damage your skin and scalp, as long as both showers are quick and at the right temperature one a rinse, one a long soapy bath.

If you go to the gym after work, sweat during the day, use public transportation or work outdoors, showering before bed is a good idea. The build up of sweat, oils and bacteria from the day will do you no good, not to mention the body odour. Tucking into bed squeaky clean with comfortable breathing clothes, preps you up for a good nights rest.

A shower in the morning washed off all the bacteria and sebum from the night before. Your skin will feel cleansed, your body will be refreshed and your mind awake. A cool shower in the morning is never a bad idea.

But remember- showering too often can dry out your skin and hair, especially if you use water or suffer from dry skin or skin conditions.

What’s the verdict?

Ultimately, it’s up to you.

At the end of the day, by nature, humans are creatures of habit. It’s about knowing the pros and cons, weighing your options and doing what is best and most suited for you. Just make sure your shower leaves you refreshed.

Breathlessness – Asthma or Something Else?

Dr Noor Gill

May 29, 2023

On 27 May, 2023, Seniors Today hosted their weekly Health Live Webinar with Dr Aditya Agrawal, a Seniors Pulmonologist who spoke on and answered questions about “Breathlessness- Asthma or Something Else?”

About Dr Aditya Agrawal

Dr Aditya Agrawal is a leading Consultant Pulmonologist attached to several large hospitals in Mumbai. He is extensively trained in respiratory diseases both in India and the US. His special interests are in difficult-to-treat cough, asthma, bronchitis and lung fibrosis, and runs a specialised clinic for patients with chronic cough. He is a dedicated researcher and a peer influencer in the management of respiratory diseases.

Breathlessness is a subjective experience of breathing discomfort that qualitatively distinct and varies in intensity.
This means that every person will have a different experience of breathlessness which is basically breathing discomfort which will be different in intensity with each person and it will be different in the way a person experiences and feels it.
Breathlessness and its intensity is multifactorial. There are multiple physiological, psychological, social and environmental factors that will determine how breathless you are.

Perception is the way we interpret any sensation and so is the case with breathlessness. So, depending on how we perceive breathlessness, will we be able to interpret how breathless we are. There is a complex neuro-cognitive process involved which involves how you are receiving the signal, and this will tell you how breathless you are and then, this is processed in the brain to help you externally exhibit how breathless you will be. This takes into account several parameters such as- our past experiences, our mood and the environmental cues.
How we perceive breathlessness relates to a range of multifactorial complex influences.

It depends on what is happening in your lungs, respiratory muscles, the tubes that take the air from the outside to your lungs. It is also determined by the central and peripheral chemoreceptors- the receptors which help you understand the subtle changes in the body. They all take signals to the brain which processes the information and sends out these signals to the body which in turn translate into breathlessness.

Descriptors of breathlessness:
Rapid breathing
Difficulty in breathing out completely
Shallow breathing
More effort required in breathing
Not getting enough air
Suffocating symptoms
Chest tightness/ constriction
Sudden stoppage of breathing
Heaviness
Gasping for air/ choking
Tightness in throat

Any time you have any of these symptoms, it means that you are breathless and you need medical aid/ help.

Anytime that you have breathlessness, you should see a doctor and have it treated.

A medical emergency would be:
When you are very breathless even at rest
Severe breathlessness with chest pain- may indicate that you are having a cardiac disorder such as a myocardial infarction also known as heart attack
Pneumothorax- air filled in the lungs
Severe breathlessness with an allergic reaction, where you feel checked with or without swelling over your face, lips, etc. this is called an anaphylactic reaction
Assessment of a patient with breathlessness involves looking for the following:
Onset- sudden or chronic
Duration
Progression of breathlessness
Grade of breathlessness
Associated symptoms such as cough, wheeze, palpitations, sweating, chest pain and several more

You can say that you are NOT breathless when:
Somebody is not troubled by breathlessness unless he is doing strenuous exercise which he is not accustomed to.

Grade I Breathlessness: breathlessness on walking fast or walking on an inclined road, climbing flights of stairs

Grade II Breathlessness: walking on level ground, where you are walking slower than usual/ slower than your peers/ have to stop for breath after 15 mins

Grade III Breathlessness: you have to stop after walking 100m or a few minutes

Grade IV Breathlessness: difficult to leave home or breathlessness while performing day-to-day activities such as combing your hair or any activity involving your hands above your shoulder.

Causes of breathlessness:
Anxiety
Depression
Lung diseases
Chemical factors, like your blood having more acid or alkali which can cause breathlessness
Adaptation to new exercise regime
Lack of physical activity- physiological breathlessness
Problems in your vocal cords and larynx
Nasal obstruction
Heart associated diseases- vascular disorders, pericarditis, myocardial infarction, cardiomyopathies, vernacular hypertrophy
neuromuscular disorders
Anemia
Obesity
Metabolic acidosis
End stage diseases such as cancers

We will focus on the lung causes. This can be due to
Bronchitis
Pulmonary embolism
Emphysema
COPD- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Bronchiectasis
Disorders of pleura
Cystic fibrosis- complex genetic disease, more common in white population
Lung cancer
Pulmonary oedema
Pneumothorax Sarcoidosis and lung fibrosis
Pneumonia, tuberculosis
Asthma
Pulmonary hypertension

Asthma can cause constriction of the muscles surrounding the lungs which constrict thereby reducing the air passing through these tubes due to the constriction. Large amount of mucus is also formed. All of this leads to difficulty in breathing.

Majority of individuals have asthma due to allergies, complicated or associated with asthma. Asthma is a very common condition and very commonly misdiagnosed.

Asthma can present as the following, apart from breathlessness:
Cough
Triggered by an external stimulus
Chest tightness

Difficulty in breathing in a lying position is a very common symptom often seen associated with heart diseases. This can be due to lack of blood supply to the heart or due to valvular heart disease. It is also commonly seen in patients with high blood pressure, damaged heart muscles, aerial fibrillation, mitral valve disorders.
This occurs because the pressure on the heart increases suddenly and there is a severe fall in the oxygen levels during sleep.
These patients present with the complaint of difficulty in sleeping on their back and say that they prefer sleeping on several pillows under them/on their sides.
These patients also complain of breathlessness that improves on sitting or standing.
Wheezing is also a common complaint. Cough and chest pain can also be present.

Weekly Predictions – 29th May to 4th June 2023 By Chirag Daruwalla – Son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla

Chirag Daruwalla

May 28, 2023

Aries

Ganesha says in this week, significant progress will be expected in handling capital investment and references related to abroad. Due to this your status will remain in the related fields. There will be golden opportunities this week to upgrade the aspects related to livelihood. If you are looking to make capital investments, then the movement of the stars will continue to give positive results. But there will be chances of sudden expenditure in money matters. In the first part of this week, although there may be some diseases and pain in the health, in the second part again the movement of the stars will be pleasant and spectacular. In the last days of this week, there will be opportunities for steady progress in terms of real estate. However, the opposing side can plot something to disturb. There will be normal-level results in love affairs. But avoid tension in small things.

Taurus

Ganesha says this week there will be pleasant opportunities to increase desired work and business. As a result, there will be opportunities for continuous progress in the respective fields. This week, the awareness of karma and awareness towards it will take everyone closer to those goals. From where there will be opportunities to move forward continuously. That means your reputation will continue to increase. There will be a dividend in capital investment. In love relations, there will be moments of love between the partner. This week, money will remain profitable from somewhere. As a result, there will be opportunities for continuous progress in related fields. In the middle of the week, there will be a possibility of more expenditure on money matters. As a result, the level of problems will increase. This week’s stars will be giving some weaknesses in terms of health. So don’t weaken your understanding. So it will be good. There will be moments of laughter and happiness in the courtyard of married life. So keep up the efforts.

Gemini

Ganesha says this week there will be respect and prestige in the related political and social life. If engaged in upgrading work and business. So the movement of the stars will continue to point toward pleasant results. There will be profit in capital investment. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts. If you are looking for employment in private and government undertakings, then the movement of stars will give important results. Very possible, can be nominated for promotion. In the middle part of this week, however, there will be chances of significant progress in earning and raising money. There will be moments of love in love relationships. But in the last days of this week, you will have to travel and travel somewhere. However, during this time softness in health can emerge. Therefore, pay full attention to food and drink. Otherwise, you will be worried.

Cancer

Ganesha says this week, according to work and business, will be engaged in making contact with the concerned people and taking them forward. If you are looking to invest capital. So, the movement of the stars will continue to give the gift of happy results. Dividends will remain increased in capital investment. That means you will be able to weave the dreams of the future. If you are looking to invest capital. So the movement of the stars will continue to give important results. In the middle part of this week, there will be chances of promotion in the private and government sectors. That is, this week you will be included in the category of a special person. Today will be a pleasant and wonderful day in terms of health. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts. So it will be good. This week, being inspired by some person, you will be able to complete the work in the related areas. Overall, this week’s stars will be pleasant.

Leo

Ganesha says in view of the challenges coming in the related political and social life in this week, some special decisions can be taken this week. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts. So it will be good. There will be profit in capital investment. But the opposition parties may try to create some trouble. Therefore, it will be good if you proceed with caution in the respective areas at your level. Capital investments and dividends abroad will continue to increase. Although there will be a possibility of a sudden increase in money matters. There will be mixed results this week in love affairs. From the beginning of this week, there will be a tough race to complete the work related to livelihood. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts. So it will be good. In the middle part of this week, the work of any religion and public interest can be finalized. There will be chances of promotion in the last days of this week. Therefore, do not weaken your understanding at your level.

Virgo

Ganesha says this week’s stars will be the ones to give moments of laughter and happiness in the courtyard of married life. As a result, you will be able to move forward like a responsible householder. There will be a dividend in capital investment. But in the context of immovable property, you may have to run continuously. So don’t weaken your understanding. So it will be good. There will be opportunities for continuous progress in the work related to livelihood. Although there will be pleasant aspects of raising work and business. Due to this the body and mind will be happy. There will be opportunities to imbibe the mantra of self-confidence in the middle part of this week. As a result, there will be opportunities for continuous progress in related fields. This week, like other businessmen, you will be ready to do something special. Today will be somewhat weak in terms of health. So pay attention to food and drink. So it will be good.

Libra

Ganesha says this week’s stars will be helpful in fulfilling the responsibilities related to the family. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts at your level. So it will be good. Although this week, continuous efforts will be needed to deal with the aspects related to livelihood. So don’t weaken your understanding. So it will be good. That is, this week you will be able to achieve any big achievement through your hard work. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts. So it will be good. In love relations, there will be moments of love between the partner. In the middle of the week, there will be moments of laughter and happiness in married life. If you are eligible for marriage, a suitable life partner will make efforts to get close to you. In the last days of the week, the movement of the stars will suddenly increase the money expenditure. During this time an opposing party can get dragged into court cases.

Scorpio

Ganesha says this week, we will continue to move towards important achievements in the areas of work and business. This week there will be chances of monetary gain from somewhere. Therefore, pay full attention to your food and drink. So it will be good. If you are engaged in any competitive exam and increasing your linguistic knowledge. So there will be opportunities for desired progress. There will be chances of desired progress in dealing with aspects related to livelihood. That is, this week will be reputed as the biggest businessman and businessman of the region. There will be moments of laughter and happiness in the courtyard of household life. There will be opportunities for desired monetary gains this week. Will be full of important achievements in social, political, and economic fields. Efforts to earn and raise money will be expected to make significant progress. That means this week will be full of achievements. But due to the emergence of some weakness in health, you will remain worried.

Sagittarius

Ganesha says this week, the movement of the stars will be about giving away material comforts. At the same time, the social and political situation will remain strong. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts. So it will be good. This week there will be moments of love between parents and siblings. But due to the emergence of some weakness in health, you will be worried. Therefore, pay full attention to food and drink. So it will be good. In the middle of this week, there will be moments of love between the partner in love affairs. There will be chances of continuous progress regarding the child’s side. Due to this the process of making them intelligent and fearless will be fruitful. In the last days of this week, again the movement of stars will give pleasant and wonderful results. However, there will be constant running around in court cases. During this time the opposing side can dominate. So don’t weaken your understanding. So it will be good.

Capricorn

Ganesha says in this week there will be chances of significant progress in personnel and business life. As a result, some big plans can be started under your leadership. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts. So it will be good. This week you can start some important plans and works for the goals of a prosperous life. So keep up the efforts. Today’s stars will be pleasant and wonderful in terms of raising your physical abilities. However, again in the middle of the week, the movement of the stars will make your exercise to complete the upcoming tasks. But due to deep tension in some things among the relatives, you will be troubled. In the last days of this week, there will be the desired kind of progress in earning and raising money. There will be progress in completing the work related to studies and teaching.

Aquarius

Ganesha says in this week, significant progress will be expected in earning and raising money according to the needs of production and sales. It is quite possible that significant progress will be expected in the export of related products and in promoting business in far-flung areas. Therefore, do not hesitate to continue the efforts. So it will be good. In the middle of this week, there will be constantly running around regarding real estate. If you are engaged in buying expensive clothes, then you will be successful. So don’t weaken the efforts. Although this week’s stars will be somewhat weak in terms of health. But pay full attention to food and drink. So it will be good. This means attention has to be paid to increasing the inner power. In the last days of the week, again the movement of stars will be pleasant in terms of collecting material comforts. So don’t hesitate to continue the efforts.

Pisces

Ganesha says this week, there will be pleasant opportunities to increase material comforts. If you are engaged in elevating the aspects related to household life. So, the movement of the stars will continue to give you the desired destination. As a result, there will be opportunities for continuous progress in the fields of related sports, films, arts, medicine, and research. If you want to travel and travel somewhere. So the movement of the stars will continue to give pleasant results. There will be moments of laughter and happiness in the courtyard of married life. If you are eligible for marriage, then the movement of stars will give pleasant and wonderful results. However, due to inefficiencies in the mid part of the week, some will remain troubled. Therefore, do useful yoga asanas along with food and drink. There can be disputes in terms of transactions. But again in the last days of the week, the movement of stars will give pleasant results. So keep up the efforts.

Stretches to Start Your Day

Vinita Alvares Fernandes

May 28, 2023

Even after eight hours of a good night’s sleep, do you find yourself feeling lethargic and stiff? If so, it might be time to be done with the snooze button and refresh your morning with some stretches.

You don’t have to run a marathon the minute you open your eyes but a few stretches to get your blood flowing and kickstart your day is never a bad idea.

Morning stretches are also a great way to maintain your flexibility, improve your posture and warm up your muscles for the day.

You can actually begin stretching in bed, once your sleep is broken, lie in bed flat on your back, eyes shut, legs stretched out, and focus on your breathe, with each breathe, give gratitude for the new day, then focus on your stretched legs. Stretch them out, point your toes, flex your feet 2-3 times, circle your ankles clock wise and counter clock wise 2-3 times, finally bend your knees, twist to one side, then the other, again 2-3 times, then sit up, dangle your legs, prees your feet to the ground and stand slowly. This routine prepares your body for the day after a restful night.

Once you have done your personal hygeine bit, spend ten to fifteen minutes doing these stretches followed by a twenty minute walk if possible. These stretches can really make a difference to your body and mind and even set the tone for the rest of your day.

You will feel rejeuvenated and energetic.

Below are a few easy stretches that involve holding a position for about 15 to 30 seconds to help set off a relaxation response in your muscles.

Child’s Pose —

This pose stretches out many muscles in your body. It stretches out your spine, opens up your hips, pelvis and thighs, also calms the brain and relieves stress and fatigue.

Begin on all fours on your yoga mat.
Make sure your knees are directly under your hips and your big toes are kissing each other. If having your toes touch puts too much pressure on your knees, keep them slightly apart.
Inhale and feel your spine grow longer, inch by inch.
As you exhale, take your buttocks back to your heels and tuck your chin towards your chest.
Stay in this position with your forehead touching the ground and your arms stretched out.
Hold this position for 15 to 30 seconds and focus on your breath. Repeat 2-3 times

Neck Stretch —

A simple neck stretch can release pent up tension. Be gentle while doing this stretch as most peoples necks tend to be quite stiff in the morning.

Start by slowly bringing your left ear down toward your left shoulder.
Lightly use your left hand and pull the right side of your head toward your left shoulder. This should bring your left ear and shoulder closer together.
Hold this position for 15 seconds and focus on your breathing.
Repeat on the other side.

Cat-Cow Pose —

These two poses are done together. This flow increases the circulation of spinal fluid, lubricates your back, stretches and elongates your back and torso while gently massaging the organs in your abdominal area and relieving any built up stiffness and tension in your spine, abs and back.

Start on all fours in a tabletop position. Your spine should be straight and your shoulders should be over your wrists. Relax your shoulders and look straight.
As you inhale, curl your toes, drop your belly, arch your back and move into the cow section of this flow. Make sure your shoulders are rolled back and down.
Look slightly upward toward the ceiling.
As you exhale, press your hands into the ground, tuck your tailbone and round your upper back. Round your back like a lynx and flow into cat pose.
Repeat this flow for 5 to 10 breaths.

Glute Bridges —

This exercise is best done on the floor but a semi hard bed is also fine. You should also avoid this stretch if you have any problems with your back, abdomen, knee or ankles. The glute bridge opens up your hips, stretches it out and even strengthens your glutes and hamstrings.

Lie on your back with your arms by your side and your palms facing down.
Bend your knees and keep them hip-width apart while your feet are firmly flat on the floor.
Lift your hips, keeping your arms flat by your side.
Your weight should be on your feet and you should feel the stretch in your glutes instantly.
Hold this position for 3 to 5 breaths.
Slowly lower your hips back down until you are back to your starting position.
Repeat this for 3 to 5 cycles.

Side Stretch —

Here’s a simple way to open up your chest and shoulders. This stretch can be done seated or standing.

Stand or sit tall with your feet hip width apart and your hands by your sides.
Keep your core engaged and reach for the sky with your right arm and bend sideways to your left side.
Allow your left hand to slide down your leg until you feel a deep stretch in the right side of your flank and torso.
Hold this position for 15 to 30 seconds and repeat it on the other side.

Knees To Chest Stretch —

I like to call this stretch the hugging yourself stretch. Holding your knees towards your chest boosts blood flow to all your vital organs, reduces bloating and improves digestion.

Start by laying on your back with your knees bent and arms by your side.
Slowly bring your knees as close to your chest as possible.
Hug your knees with both hands.
Focus on your breath and hold the stretch for at least 8 to 10 counts.

Downward Facing Dog —

This pose resets your nervous system, calms the brain down and energizes the body. This mild inversion stretch is extremely therapeutic for sciatica pain and fatigue. A lot of your body is working and stretching in this pose.

Go on all fours, inhale, straighten your arms, raise your hips and straighten your legs.
As you exhale, press into your hands and roll your shoulders down and back.
Your spine should be neutral in this position.
Your heels don’t have to be touching the ground here (it doesn’t reach the ground for most people) but work on trying to touch your feet to the ground.

Cobra Pose —

This yoga pose will stretch you right out and you can slither into the rest of your day, stiffness free.

Lie on your stomach with your hands pressed near your shoulders.
Tuck your elbows in by either side.
Gently raise your head and chest while your hips and pelvic area remain glued to the floor. This is the baby cobra pose
If this feels good you can take it a step further by lifting your stomach while your hips and pelvis continue to be stuck to the floor. Now you are a full fledged cobra.
Hold this pose for 5 breaths and repeat a few more times to reap all the benefits.

Happy Baby Pose —

Just because you’re an adult doesn’t mean you can’t be a baby for a few minutes every morning to release and pent up tension in your thighs, hips, groin and back.

Lie on your back and bring both your knees to your chest.
Grab both feet from the outside or grab your big toes.
With your knees bent, pull your feet toward your armpits so your knees are spread wide.
Press your shoulders and back upwards and flatten your spine.
Rock from side to side for 8 to 10 counts.

Tips for stretching safely —

Stretching is supposed to help prevent problems and not cause them. Make sure you take every precaution while doing your morning stretches, you can do three to four different poses on alternate days instead of all nine.

Listen to your body- Do what makes your body happy. While it is good to motivate and push yourself, do not overdo it.
Watch your posture- proper form and posture is key when it comes to stretching. This helps prevent accidental injuries.
Breathe- Your breath is so much more powerful than you think. Breathing helps your blood circulate and relaxes your body. Rely on your breath!
Don’t rush through the pose- Hold the pose and give your body enough time to respond to each stretch. No jerky movements.

The takeaway —

Everyone has their own morning routine. Incorporating light stretching into your morning madness can do a whole lot of good. You’ll stimulate your organs, your brain, your muscles and set the tone for the rest of your day.

Stretching every morning doesn’t take much out of you and it pays off!

Birthday Predictions – 29th May to 4th June 2023 By Chirag Daruwalla – Son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla

Chirag Daruwalla

May 28, 2023

29th May

Ganesha says you should embrace any change that occurs in your life to demonstrate your adaptability. Simply follow your doctor’s advice, and you’ll soon be able to recover from all of your ongoing illnesses. If you have obesity, which is the absolute last thing anyone wants in their life, you must take extra care of yourself. Love will lead you where it needs to go. Conflicts involving ego, love, and deception could all be present in your family, so take caution.

30th May

Ganesha says everyone is riveted by your impromptu talks, and they leave the audience wanting more. You will always be in the news because of your connections to powerful players in your industry. Your statesmanship and diligence earn you respect in addition to power. More than ever, those close to you show interest in you. You provide them with the support they need to solve their challenges. In your family, you are a skilled mediator.

31st May

Ganesha says you have an artistic intellect, and one of its beauties is to appreciate and laud the lovely things. You put your all into your work, allowing you to savor each and every moment. For any of your investments, focused governance will yield significant returns. Your life will be luxurious, and you will soon achieve great achievement. You resemble a spider that enjoys making difficult efforts to achieve its goals. Your love may seem to be far away, but if it is yours, it will find you on its own.

1st June

Ganesha says your enthusiasm and outlook on life are admirable. A concerted effort is required to pursue a passion for learning and exploration. All of your coworkers fall under your wing due to your unpopular and logical demeanor. You’ve learned from a young age that patience is the key to success. Keeping a constant eye on your kids’ education will help them succeed in life. Your films in a variety of genres will now be enjoyed by the audience. With your family and friends, you are extremely close.

2nd June

Ganesha says your unique characteristics will make you well-known in your field. Because of your always expanding ideas, people will like your business. Never forget that those who dare to dream and think unconventionally are the ones who succeed. Therefore, if you are self-assured, believe in your abilities, and pursue your goals in life, success will undoubtedly be yours. Business travel will be goal-oriented, although it may cause some health issues.

3rd June

Ganesha says no matter how the odds are stacked against you, you always attempt to fight back in life. You have an abundance of stimulating and difficult feelings inside of you, which drives you to take actions that most people wouldn’t even consider. Your continued relationship can end up turning into a lifetime kinship. You try to get in touch with folks in your contacts, but you can come up empty-handed. You can avoid further hassle from your bad habits, such as drinking alcohol and other vices, by combining meditation with medical treatments.

4th June

Ganesha says you have a very positive outlook on your academic career. You must control your impulsive tendency to seek retribution over insignificant issues. To taste success, you must be on the same wavelength as it. You always follow the rules and regulations of the system you choose to realize your deepest desires. To get your creative work started, you must attend intensive workshops. To quell your enemies’ bad spirits, you must open your hawk-eye. Avoid interacting with other group members who might represent your anxiety to you.

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