Fighter pilots wear oxygen masks even at low altitudes to prepare for rapid climbs, fight G-force blackout, and maintain clear communications. The mask also protects against toxic cockpit smoke, canopy depressurisation, and severe windblast during emergency ejections.

Why do fighter jet pilots wear oxygen masks even when flying at lower altitudes?

Looking for a perfect festive look for Diwali 2026? Take inspiration from these Bollywood divas. Read on to know more.

Kareena Kapoor to Kiara Advani: 9 Bollywood-inspired looks to try this Diwali

Ramayana: Rise of a Legend adapts Valmiki's Hindu epic about Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Vishnu. Over the years, several films and shows have been made on the epic, but what this film brings is a never-seen-before scale, cutting-edge visuals, and a fresh retelling for a global audience.

Before you watch Ramayana on Nov 5: Hans Zimmer’s score, runtime, part 2 release date and all you need to know

On Tuesday, Mumbai hosted a special screening of the highly anticipated film Ramayana: Rise of a Legend. The film's cast and crew were present at the event along with other guests. Ramayana Part 1 will be releasing in theatres worldwide on November 5.&nbsp;

Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Sunny Deol and others attend the special screening of Ramayana: Rise of a Legend

Millions of Americans headed to polling stations as the 2026 midterms unfolded, with campaign rallies, voter queues and election-day scenes across the country

US midterms 2026: America votes! Election day pictures from across the country

6 Tips for Calorie Deficit and Weight Loss


Creating a calorie deficit is essential for weight loss, as it means you're burning more calories than you consuming. Here are six tips to help you achieve a calorie deficit and lose weight effectively:


Determine your Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE), which includes your basal metabolic rate (BMR) and activity level. Various online calculators can help you estimate your TDEE. Once you know your TDEE, aim to consume fewer calories than this number to create a calorie deficit.


Aim for a gradual and sustainable weight loss, typically 1-2 pounds per week. Rapid weight loss can lead to muscle loss and other health issues. Setting realistic goals makes it easier to stay motivated and maintain a healthy lifestyle.


Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. These foods provide essential nutrients and keep you feeling fuller for longer, making it easier to stick to your calorie goals.


Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating. Using smaller plates, measuring your food, and paying attention to serving sizes can help you control your calorie intake. It's easy to underestimate portions, so awareness is key.


Sometimes your body can confuse thirst with hunger. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and help control your appetite. Water is also essential for various bodily functions, including metabolism.


Exercise is crucial for both physical and mental well-being. Incorporate a mix of cardiovascular exercises (such as walking, jogging, or cycling) and strength training to burn calories and build muscle. Regular physical activity contributes to your overall calorie expenditure, supporting your weight loss efforts.


6 Tips for Calorie Deficit and Weight Loss

7 Ways To Turn Simple Mashed Potatoes Into A Tasty Meal

Top your mashed potatoes with classic baked potato toppings like crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chives. It transforms a side dish into a hearty meal.

Use mashed potatoes as a topping for a classic shepherd's pie. Layer it over a savoury mix of ground meat, vegetables, and gravy for a complete and comforting meal.


Shape leftover mashed potatoes into pancakes and pan-fry them until golden brown. Serve with sour cream or applesauce for a delicious and quick meal.


Layer mashed potatoes with seasoned shredded chicken, vegetables, and cheese. Bake until bubbly for a satisfying and wholesome casserole.


Mix mashed potatoes with finely chopped vegetables, breadcrumbs, and spices. Shape into patties and pan-fry for flavourful and crispy veggie potato cakes.


Stuff bell peppers with a mixture of mashed potatoes, cooked ground meat, cheese, and herbs. Bake until the peppers are tender for a tasty and visually appealing dish.


Combine mashed potatoes with flour and an egg to make potato gnocchi. Boil or pan-fry the gnocchi and toss with your favourite sauce for a homemade pasta-like meal.


Best Book-to-Screen Adaptations to Read And Watch This Year


If you are someone who loves watching their favourite books turn into cinematic gems, then this list is for you. This year, there is a jam-packed slate of upcoming movies and TV series based on bestselling books – from Bret Easton Ellis’s The Shards to Paper Girls.

Rick Riordan’s young-adult fantasy book series consists of five novels and follows Percy as he finds out his father is a Greek god, making him a demigod. He and his friends are given the task of finding and returning Zeus’s lightning bolt as monsters from the Underworld attempt to stop them.


David Grann’s Killers of the Flower Moon depicts a series of murders in the Native American Osage Nation in the 1920s and the investigation into the string of brutal crimes by the FBI.


The Hunger Games prequel takes place in the dystopian world of Panem during the tenth annual Hunger Games. It follows the story of Coriolanus Snow who later becomes the tyrannical President Snow depicted in the original series.

Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer traces Oppenheimer’s life starting with his time at Cambridge, where he earned a reputation as an intellectual prodigy, to his role in developing the atomic bomb that was dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

This period drama by Bonnie Garmus follows Elizabeth Zott, an extraordinary chemist in 1960 who’s constantly overlooked because of her sex. But things take a turn when she meets a famous male scientist and he actually takes her research seriously.

The film is a story of “love, discovery and scientific daring” set in the Victorian era, based on an adaptation of Alasdair Grey’s novel of the same name. It follows a Frankenstein-like woman who is brought back to life after her brain is replaced with that of her unborn child. Stone stars opposite Willem Dafoe, who plays the brilliant, yet unorthodox, scientist who resurrects Belle from the dead.

Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla starring Jacob Elordi and Cailee Spaeny is based on Priscilla Presley’s 1985 memoir detailing her tumultuous relationship with the rock-and-roll legend.

Michael Mann’s Ferrari, starring Adam Driver, is based on Brock Yates’ biography on the man behind the motorsports empire.

In Wonka, Timothee Chalamet plays the younger version of the titular chocolatier, tracking how he came to create the fantastical factory at the centre of Roald Dahl’s 1964 book.

Selena Gomez is reported to play Linda Ronstadt in an upcoming biopic on the iconic singer. In this memoir, iconic singer Linda Ronstadt weaves together a captivating story of her origins in Tucson, Arizona, and her rise to stardom in the Southern California music scene of the 1960s.

From the bestselling author of American Pyscho, Bret Easton Ellis’s novel follows a group of affluent Los Angeles teens in the early 1980s as a serial killer strikes across their hometown and becomes eerily close to their tight-knit group. 

This is an adaptation of Casey McQuiston’s 2019 best-seller which centres on a star-crossed power couple — the Latiné character of Alex Claremont-Diaz, the son of the president of the United States, and his relationship with Prince Henry, grandson of the Queen of England. 

This bestseller is being adapted into a movie for Netflix. The book tells the secret story of the reclusive Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo as told to an unknown, young magazine reporter Monique Grant. Hugo’s stories of Tinseltown in the 50s, 60s and 80s change Grant’s perspective.

Rebecca Ferguson and Tim Robbins are set to star in Apple’s series adaptation of Hugh Howey’s beloved sci-fi trilogy. In “Wool,” all of humanity (the remnants that exist of it anyway) lives underground in a single silo. The story follows Juliette, a woman from the underground who struggles with her newfound power after being inexplicably promoted to the head of law enforcement.

Paper Girls centres around four young girls who, while out delivering papers on the morning after Halloween in 1988, become unwittingly caught in a conflict between warring factions of time-travellers, sending them on an adventure through time that will save the world.

Best Book-to-Screen Adaptations to Read And Watch This Year

8 Chinese Feng Shui Practices to Make Your Year Successful


Feng Shui is applied to various aspects of life, including home design, landscaping, and even city planning. It is a holistic approach that seeks to create an environment that supports physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Here are 8 ways you can implement this technique.


Remove unnecessary items from your living and working areas to allow positive energy (chi) to flow freely.


Arrange and decorate your space with a balance of the five elements - wood, fire, earth, metal, and water - to create harmony and equilibrium.


Place your furniture in a way that promotes a smooth and unobstructed flow of energy, known as the "command position," ensuring a sense of control and stability.


Choose colours that resonate with your goals for the year. For example, use red for energy, green for growth, and blue for calmness.


Maximise natural light and use soft, warm lighting to create a positive and inviting atmosphere. Avoid harsh or dim lighting.


Integrate symbols of good fortune and positivity, such as coins, dragons, and lucky bamboo, into your decor to attract positive energy.


Ensure good air circulation in your living and working spaces. Use air-purifying plants to enhance the quality of the air.


Position your bed in the command position in your bedroom, allowing a clear view of the door without being directly in line with it for better sleep and energy flow.


8 Chinese Feng Shui Practices to Make Your Year Successful

Start with a high-quality cut of steak derived from fresh and well-handled meat. 

Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before cooking. This ensures more even cooking throughout the steak.

Season the steak generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or a steak seasoning blend.

Preheat your cooking surface, whether it's a grill, cast-iron skillet, or oven, to a high temperature. A hot surface helps to sear the steak quickly, locking in juices and creating a flavourful crust.



Cook the steak to your desired level of doneness. Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.


5 Tips to Cook a Perfect Steak

Lucuma is a good source of essential nutrients, including vitamins such as beta-carotene, niacin, and vitamin C, minerals like iron and zinc, and fibre.

Lucuma has a low glycemic index and it has a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. This makes it a suitable option for individuals with diabetes.

Lucuma contains antioxidants, such as carotenoids and polyphenols, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. It also reduces inflammation and protects cells from damage.

The beta-carotene in lucuma is known for its skin-supportive properties. Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body and promotes healthy skin.

Lucuma is a good source of dietary fibre, which can support digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation.

5 Health Benefits of Lucuma

Beetroot, often referred to simply as beets, is a nutrient-dense root vegetable that offers several surprising health benefits. Here are six advantages of consuming beetroot.


Beetroot is a good source of essential nutrients such as vitamins (including vitamin C and B vitamins), minerals (like potassium and manganese), and dietary fibre. These contribute to overall health and well-being.


The nitrates present in beetroot have been shown to help lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow. This can contribute to cardiovascular health and may reduce the risk of heart-related issues.



Beetroot contains nitrate compounds that can enhance exercise performance. Nitrates may improve oxygen utilisation, leading to increased stamina and potentially allowing for better physical endurance during activities like running or cycling.


Beets contain betalains, which are pigments with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These compounds may help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially offering benefits in conditions related to chronic inflammation.


Nitric oxide, produced from dietary nitrates in beets, may have positive effects on cognitive function and blood flow to the brain. Some studies suggest that regular consumption of beetroot may support brain health and help prevent age-related cognitive decline.


Betalains in beetroot support the body's detoxification process by helping the liver neutralise and excrete toxins. Beetroot's fibre content also aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut, indirectly benefiting liver function.


6 Health Benefits of Beetroot


Happy Lohri 2024: Date, Significance and Traditions

Lohri is a popular winter festival celebrated primarily in the North Indian states of Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi, as well as among the Punjabi diaspora around the world. It usually falls on the 13th or 14th of January every year and marks the culmination of the winter season.


With a notable potassium content, red kuri squash may help regulate blood pressure and support cardiovascular health.

The festival has both religious and cultural significance. Religiously, Lohri is linked to the harvest season and the winter solstice. Culturally, it is a time for communities to come together, celebrate, and express gratitude for a good harvest.



The central element of Lohri celebrations is the bonfire. People gather around a bonfire, throw offerings like sesame seeds, jaggery, and popcorn into it, sing traditional folk songs and dance around it.


 Folk dances like Bhangra (performed by men) and Gidda (performed by women) are an integral part of Lohri celebrations. These dances are characterised by energetic and rhythmic movements.


﻿Special foods are prepared for Lohri using sesame seeds (til), jaggery (gur), peanuts, and popcorn. Sarson da Saag (mustard greens) and Makki di Roti (cornflour flatbread) are also popular dishes during this festival.

Bollywood Songs That You Can Add To Your Lohri Playlist

Crooned by legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar, along with Udit Narayan and Gurdas Mann, this track is from the film Veer – Zara. The song features Preity Zinta along with Shah Rukh Khan.


Sung by Satinder Sartaaj, this song from Mission Raniganj features Akshay Kumar and is a perfect track for you to groove on Lohri.


This peppy track from the film Good Newwz features Kareena Kapoor and Akshay Kumar.

Charha De Rang from Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol's film 'Yamla Pagla Deewana' is another Lohri-themed song that will make you groove with your loved ones.

Chappa Chappa Charka Chale from the film Maachis is another track that can be added to your festive playlist.


Sundar Mundariye is another popular Lohri song from Punjabi film Asa Nu Maan Watna Da sung by Harbhajan Mann.


India's Cleanest Cities: Did Your City Make To The List?

A city from central India bagged the cleanest city of India title for the 7th year in a row. But it's not on top alone. A western Indian state too has made the cut along with Indore. Here are the results of Swachh Sarveskshan 2023.


These are India's cleanest cities, according to Swachh Sarveskshan 2023

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Facts about strange exoplanets discovered in the universe

HD 189773b: An Exoplanet that Rains Glass

To the human eye, HD 189773b looks bright blue, quite similar to Earth. However, this exoplanet has deadly weather. According to NASA, winds on HD 189773b blow up to 2 kilometres (km) per second. Rain on this exoplanet will cause death by a thousand cuts. HD 189773b rains glass—sideways—in its howling winds. The exoplanet is located 64 light years away from Earth.

55 Cancri e: An Exoplanet Made with Diamonds

55 Cancri e is one of the weirdest exoplanets ever discovered by scientists. It is made up of diamonds and is located 41 lightyears away from Earth. 55 Cancri e orbits a G-type star similar to our Sun.

KELT-9b, a gas giant 2.8 times more massive than Jupiter, is hotter than many stars. It has a dayside temperature of more than 4,315 degrees Celsius. A year on this exoplanet lasts less than a day and a half.

THESE Are The World's Most Powerful Passports in 2024

Rankings for the world's most powerful passports in 2024 are in, and these are the top placeholders.

In 2024, the Crème de la crème or the accolade of having the world's most powerful passport is split among not one or two but six countries: France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and Spain. The citizens of these countries are allowed visa-free entry to a whopping 194 destinations.

In second place, with 193 visa-free destinations are Finland, South Korea, and Sweden.

Rounding off the top three with 192 global destinations are Austria, Denmark, Ireland, and the Netherlands.

In 2023, India stood in the 83rd position with 58 visa-free destinations. This year, the nation moved up three ranks to 80th and boasts 62 visa-free destinations around the world. This includes popular tourist spots like Barbados, Fiji, and Thailand.

India's neighbouring nation Pakistan also improved its rank, moving from 102nd to 101st, with 34 visa-free destinations.

These rankings are as per the latest Henley Passport Index report which ranks the world's passports "according to the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa". Its rankings are based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) – the world's largest travel information database.

The world's leading authority on passport rankings, the Henley Passport Index included 199 passports from around the world and 227 different travel destinations.

Aamir Khan's daughter, Ira Khan tied the knot with her beau Nupur Shikhare in a dreamy wedding on January 10 in Udaipur, India.


The first photos from their Christian wedding are out, and look all happy and emotional.

After days of wedding festivities, Ira and Nupur exchanged vows among family and close friends.


Ira's parents, Aamir and Reena Dutta walked their lovely daughter down the aisle.



The much-in-love couple looked splendid as they walked down the aisle.


For the big day, Ira wore a white gown with crystal and lace detailing. She accessorised her look with a diamond bracelet and earrings.

The groom, Nupur chose a beige-coloured suit with a white shirt and a bow tie.

After taking the vows, the couple sealed the moment with a sweet kiss.



In this photo, Aamir Khan looks completely engrossed in fixing his daughter Ira's veil.

The father-daughter duo had an emotional moment as they danced together at the wedding reception.

Inside the Dreamy Wedding of Ira Khan and Nupur Shikhare

1st T20I: India's Predicted Playing XI vs Afghanistan

National Youth Day: 6 Ways Swami Vivekananda's Teachings Inspire Us


Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary celebrated as National Youth Day in India on January 12th, is a time to reflect on his teachings and draw inspiration for personal and societal growth. Here are six inspiring aspects associated with Swami Vivekananda and National Youth Day.


Swami Vivekananda believed in the potential of the youth to bring about a positive change in society. National Youth Day serves as a reminder to empower the younger generation, encouraging them to contribute to the nation's development through their skills, ideas, and enthusiasm.


Swami Vivekananda emphasised the importance of selfless service to humanity. On this day, individuals are inspired to engage in acts of kindness, community service, and social work, fostering a spirit of compassion and empathy among the youth.


National Youth Day encourages a commitment to education and continuous learning. Swami Vivekananda highlighted the transformative power of knowledge and the role of education in shaping an individual and a nation. The day encourages young people to pursue knowledge and wisdom for personal and societal growth.


Swami Vivekananda was an advocate of unity in diversity. On National Youth Day, people are encouraged to embrace diversity, appreciate different cultures and religions, and work towards building a harmonious society that celebrates the richness of its pluralistic heritage.


Swami Vivekananda's teachings instil a sense of courage and self-confidence in the youth. The day encourages young individuals to overcome challenges, believe in themselves, and pursue their goals with determination and resilience.


National Youth Day is an opportunity to reflect on one's spiritual well-being. Swami Vivekananda's teachings on spirituality and the importance of inner strength inspire individuals to explore their spiritual dimensions, promoting a holistic approach to personal development.

National Youth Day: 6 Ways Swami Vivekananda's Teachings Inspire Us

Tamil Hanuman Jayanti 2024: Date And Importance of The Festival


Tamil Hanuman Jayanti is a religious and cultural celebration observed in the state of Tamil Nadu, dedicated to honouring Lord Hanuman. Devotees engage in various religious rituals, prayers, and cultural events to mark this auspicious day, expressing their reverence for Lord Hanuman.


In the Tamil Nadu region, the celebration of Hanuman Jayanti spans a duration of forty-one days, commencing from Chaitra Purnima and concluding on the tenth day during Krishna Paksha in the Vaishakha month. According to the Drik Panchang, the current observance of Hanuman Jayanti falls on 11 January. The Amavasai Tithi commenced at 20:10 pm on 10 January and is set to conclude at 17:26 pm on 11 January.


Devotees believe that observing Hanuman Jayanti brings spiritual blessings and divine intervention. The day is often marked by prayers, chanting of Hanuman Chalisa, and other religious activities that strengthen one's connection with the spiritual realm.


 Lord Hanuman was born at the break of dawn and consequently, temples commence spiritual discourses at sunrise concluding after the sun has fully risen. Observers of this day rise early, participating in morning ablutions before engaging in the day's spiritual activities.

Tamil Hanuman Jayanti 2024: Date And Importance of The Festival

5 Magical Superfoods For Healthy Eyesight


Maintaining good eyesight involves a combination of factors, including a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet. While no single food can guarantee sharp eyesight, certain nutrients are beneficial for eye health. Here are five superfoods that are known for promoting good eyesight:


Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy eyes. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in protecting the surface of the eye and contributing to clear vision.


Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, Collard Greens)


Leafy greens contain lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that are associated with a lower risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. These nutrients help protect the eyes from harmful high-energy light waves like ultraviolet rays.


Fatty fish are high in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which is a major structural component of the retina. Consuming omega-3s may help prevent dry eyes and support overall eye health.



Eggs contain lutein and zeaxanthin, similar to leafy greens, which can help protect the eyes from harmful high-energy light waves. Eggs also provide zinc, an essential mineral for maintaining the health of the retina.


Berries are rich in antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which may help protect the eyes from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is linked to age-related eye conditions.

5 Magical Superfoods For Healthy Eyesight

National Human Trafficking Awareness Day 2024: History, Date and Significance


National Human Trafficking Awareness Day is observed on January 11 each year in the United States. The day provides an opportunity to educate the public and encourage action to combat this heinous crime.


In the year 2007, the United States Senate formally announced 11 January as National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. Barack Obama allocated the entire month of January in the year 2010 to increasing awareness about human trafficking.


Human trafficking involves the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring, or receipt of persons through force, fraud, or coercion for exploitation. This can include forced labour, sex trafficking, and other forms of modern-day slavery.


Human trafficking is a global problem that affects millions of people, with estimates suggesting that tens of millions are trapped in various forms of exploitation. The awareness day serves as a reminder that this issue transcends borders and requires international cooperation to address it effectively.


National Human Trafficking Awareness Day 2024: History, Date and Significance

While Kozhikode is known for its historical significance, the Elathur Canal and Kallai River offer delightful backwater experiences. Visitors can explore the tranquil beauty and witness traditional village life. 

Consuming food close to bedtime can disrupt your sleep cycle. Digestion requires energy, which can interfere with your body’s ability to prepare for restful sleep. 


Calories consumed at night are often not utilised efficiently. They can be stored as fat because the body’s metabolic rate tends to slow down during sleep, potentially leading to weight gain. 


Late-night snacks can cause digestive discomfort, leading to issues like acid reflux, indigestion, or heartburn due to lying down after eating. 


Eating late can disrupt the body’s natural hormonal balance, affecting insulin levels and potentially leading to insulin resistance, a risk factor for diabetes. 


Night-time cravings often lean towards unhealthy, processed, or high-sugar foods. These choices can impact blood sugar levels and contribute to a higher risk of chronic diseases. 


Consuming heavy or sugary foods at night can leave you feeling lethargic the next day. Your body might struggle to digest these foods efficiently, leading to decreased energy levels. 


People are more prone to mindless eating at night. This lack of mindfulness about portions can lead to consuming more calories than needed. 


Night-time snacking can be tempting, but it might not be the healthiest choice. Here’s why:

7 Reasons Why You Should Avoid Late-Night Snacking

Green chickpeas contain essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K and minerals such as iron, calcium, and potassium. They also contain protein, fibre, and antioxidants. 


The high fibre content in green chickpeas supports a healthy digestive system. Fibre aids in regular bowel movements, prevents constipation, and promotes a diverse gut microbiome. 


These legumes are renowned for their heart-friendly properties. They contain antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids, which help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. 


Incorporating green chickpeas into your diet can aid in weight management. Their high fibre and protein content contribute to a feeling of fullness. 


The fibre and protein in green chickpeas help regulate blood sugar levels. They can be particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes. 


These legumes have a rich calcium content, supporting bone health and preventing osteoporosis. Additionally, vitamin K in green chickpeas aids in calcium absorption, further fortifying bone density. 


The vitamins and antioxidants in green chickpeas bolster the immune system, helping the body fight infections and illnesses. 


Here are some health benefits of green chickpeas:

7 Health Benefits Of Green Chickpeas 

Makar Sankranti 2024: 7 Traditional Delicacies To Celebrate The Festival

Til laddoos are a sumptuous Sankranti staple, made with sesame seeds and jaggery, and are the perfect way to celebrate the festival.


Puran poli is a Maharashtrian delicacy. It is a sweet flatbread with sweet and crumbly moong-based fillings.


Makara Chaula contains rice, jaggery, milk, banana, and sugarcane. Almost every Odia household in India celebrates Sankranti by making this delectable dish.


Khichdi is more than a comfort food for Indians. People in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar prepare urad dal (black gram) khichdi on Makar Sankranti and enjoy it with a generous dollop of ghee. The festival is even known as Khichdi in this part of the country.


Payesh, a Bengali-flavoured rice and milk pudding, is an extra special delicacy as it contains the special khejur gur, available only in winter.


Pinni is an indulgent winter treat from Punjab, made with ghee, wheat flour, jaggery and almonds


Urad dal kachori is one of North India's favourite Makar Sankranti recipes. The goodness of lentils and the aroma of different species make it perfect for the occasion.


Here are seven dishes from across India that you must try this Makar Sankranti.

7 Warm Desserts That Are Perfect For Winters

Gajar ka halwa is a traditional Indian dessert, made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and nuts. Its rich, creamy texture and aromatic flavours make it the ultimate comfort dessert.


A chocolate lover's dream, the hot choco lava cake is a decadent dessert that oozes warm, gooey chocolate from its centre. Its combination of a fluffy exterior and a molten chocolate core is sure to please your sweet tooth.


Soft, doughy rolls with a buttery cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with cream cheese frosting. These aromatic delights are perfect for a chilly evening paired with a hot beverage.


Apple Crisp is made with sliced apples baked with a crispy, crumbly topping of oats, flour, butter, and cinnamon. This dessert offers a comforting blend of warm, tender apples and a crunchy, sweet topping.


A twist on the classic bread pudding, this version features cubes of bread soaked in a rich hot chocolate mixture and baked until golden and gooey.

The pumpkin spice latte cupcakes, infused with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, capture the essence of a cosy winter night and are topped with creamy, spiced frosting.

Sliced pears arranged on an almond-flavoured tart base, baked until golden and served warm. The combination of buttery crust, sweet pears, and nutty almonds is irresistible.

Here's a list of some warm desserts that'll keep you cosy on cold winter nights.

5 Must-do Activities On Your Trip To Lakshadweep

Indulging in fishing on Minicoy Island – which is Lakshadweep's hidden gem – is a must. The place's captivating features include a fishing haven, Juma Masjid, pristine white sand beaches and a majestic 300-foot-tall lighthouse.

When visiting Lakshadweep, one must indulge in thrilling water sports on Kalpeni Island, which is a fusion of three distinct islands - Pitti, Tillakkam and Cheriyam. Kalpeni Island is not just a place for scuba diving but also a haven for various water activities like snorkelling, reef walking, canoeing, and sailing yachts.

3. Exploring Kavaratti Island's Marine Wonders

The beautiful marine world of Kavaratti Island Lagoon is breathtakingly beautiful and should be explored by travellers. Its incredible marine life includes sea turtles, exotic fish and colourful coral formations. Apart from colourful fish, and sea turtles, visitors can also observe sharks in this magical place.

The visitors can take a one-day trip to Kadmat Island, which can be reached by a short boat ride from Kavaratti Island. The place entices tourists with its crystal-clear waters and picturesque beaches. It is a perfect place for swimming, snorkelling and activities like kayaking and windsurfing.

5. Witness Exotic Marine Life At Agatti Island


Agatti Island is filled with exotic marine life and beautiful geographical formations. The place, which is revered as the 'Fishing Capital of Lakshadweep', has undeniable allure for tourists as well as beach enthusiasts.

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Why do fighter jet pilots wear oxygen masks even when flying at lower altitudes?

Kareena Kapoor to Kiara Advani: 9 Bollywood-inspired looks to try this Diwali

Before you watch Ramayana on Nov 5: Hans Zimmer’s score, runtime, part 2 release date and all you need to know

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