INDIAN CULTURE AND ANIMALS
Diljit Dosanjh's 'Morni' and the gender bias of cultural memory
Indian singer Diljit Dosanjh's music highlights the peahen, challenging traditional animal symbolism. Historically, animals embodying strength and dominance, like peacocks and lions, represent power. Birds like parrots, associated with women and domesticity, are often forgotten. This overlooks their intelligence and adaptability. The article questions why these quieter associations fade from cultural memory.
India leads consensus on future of agriculture as BRICS adopts historic Indore declaration
The declaration outlines several landmark decisions aimed at strengthening food security, farmer welfare, climate-resilient agriculture, agricultural trade and digital agriculture.
BRICS+ agriculture beyond borders: Trade and resilience for a food-secure world
With India’s leadership and BRICS+ cooperation, agriculture can become not only a source of food, but a foundation for resilience, prosperity and global trust.
Science at scale: India’s journey from food security to global leadership
Today, India is the world’s largest producer of milk, pulses, and spices; the largest exporter of rice; and among the leading producers of wheat, cotton, sugarcane, fruits, vegetables, eggs, and fish.
From tarmac Garba to towel theft: As Indian tourists go viral for all wrong reasons, here are 9 travel rules to avoid becoming the next internet horror story
Indian travelers are facing major criticism for disruptive behaviour abroad, from public dancing to hotel theft and disrespect. This guide offers practical advice on respecting local customs, etiquette and personal space to avoid becoming a viral sensation for the wrong reasons.
Expired dates? Young Indians face dating burnout despite spending more on finding love
Amid the bustling life of young urban Indians, an ironic trend emerges: individuals thriving in their careers are still finding themselves romantically adrift. While dating apps promise a myriad of prospects, they frequently lead to more heartache than happiness. With an emphasis on looks and an all-consuming quest for perfection, the chance for real intimacy dwindles.
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India’s rising export champion faces a critical credibility test
India's seafood exports are soaring, reaching record highs and aiming for $30 billion within five years. Despite overcoming US tariffs and diversifying markets, a new threat looms: banned antibiotic residues in shrimp are causing high rejection rates. This quality issue risks undermining the hard-won international trust crucial for sustained growth and premium market access.
India's new drama is about the fight for your 1-minute attention
India streaming platforms microdramas: Platforms are rapidly adopting microdramas, short, vertically shot melodramas. These bite-sized shows are no longer just filler but a key strategy for discovering new content and building future franchises. Major players like JioStar and Amazon are investing heavily.
Japan’s premium fruit industry where melons become luxury commodities
Japanese fruits have carved out a niche in the world market, fetching high prices due to their extraordinary taste, texture, and stunning presentation. Cultivators emphasize quality over quantity, showcasing their produce as if they were valuable artifacts. Offering these fruits as gifts conveys deep respect and affection.
Instagram emerges as platform for anti-caste Indian art
Dalit and Bahujan artists are reshaping the landscape of digital expression, turning social media into dynamic exhibitions of resistance. Through evocative anti-caste art, they confront India's visual traditions head-on. Trailblazers such as Siddhesh Gautam and Priyanka Paul utilize these digital arenas to present their impactful creations.
Lord Shiva's ‘oldest prayer’ uncovered: Shiv Trilogy author Amish Tripathi shares how a techie decoded a 4,500-year-old Pashupati seal
A computer scientist's cryptographic analysis of the Pashupati Seal suggests its inscription is an ancient invocation to Lord Shiva, aligning with Mahabharata descriptions. This discovery, amplified by author Amish Tripathi, potentially rewrites the understanding of the Indus Valley Civilisation's spiritual depth and continuity with later Indian traditions.
Hollywood, Bollywood and AI: Who controls storytelling now?
The landscape of entertainment is undergoing a dramatic transformation, thanks to artificial intelligence. Enhanced AI technologies are now integral in various stages of production, from script analysis to budget management and post-production editing. Leading the charge is India, utilising AI to streamline content creation and significantly reduce both costs and timelines.
From $22 billion to zero: Success, not failure, brought Byju down
Byju's, once a $22 billion edtech giant, has collapsed. Founder Byju Raveendran faces jail for contempt. The company's downfall stems from unchecked ambition and excessive spending during a period of abundant capital. Aggressive expansion and a reliance on pandemic-era growth proved unsustainable. Investors now fight over assets and loans as the once-celebrated startup lies in ruins.
Taali joins hands with Pokémon to enter India’s evolving snack market
Indian snack brand Taali has teamed up with The Pokémon Company. This collaboration introduces a new offering in India's growing snack market. The partnership aims to blend taste and healthier ingredients with engaging brand experiences. Taali, known for its non-fried snacks, seeks to connect with consumers through a beloved entertainment franchise.
India’s desi gaming startups tap culture and storytelling to break China’s grip on toy and board game market
In the vibrant world of play, Indian board games and toys are experiencing a renaissance. Consumers are leaning towards locally inspired options, moving away from homogenized global toys. A new wave of entrepreneurs is tapping into India's rich tapestry of history and mythology to create engaging, culturally resonant products.
A tale of two minorities: Why India never saw anti-Jainism like Europe's anti-semitism
A comparison of Jains in India and Jews in Europe explores why one civilisation enabled coexistence while the other descended into exclusion, persecution and eventually, genocide.
Parle Melody: The ₹1 soft power twist Modi served to Meloni and the world
Prime Minister Modi's gift of a Parle Melody toffee to Italy's Giorgia Meloni symbolised India's evolving soft power. Beyond traditional exports, this gesture highlights India's growing confidence in its mass-market culture and everyday consumer identity, signaling a shift towards showcasing its vibrant domestic economy on the global stage.
Qurbani is 1400-year-old tradition and will continue, asserts AJUP chief Humayun Kabir on West Bengal animal slaughter rules
A political party chief in West Bengal challenged a government notice on animal slaughter, vowing to continue ritual sacrifices. Meanwhile, a religious leader questioned beef export policies, advocating for uniform national laws. Conversely, a former Babri Masjid case plaintiff urged Muslims to respect cows, calling for a ban on slaughter and national animal status for bovines.
Kerala Cabinet full list: CM Satheesan to handle Finance, Ramesh Chennithala gets Home portfolio
Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar has approved the portfolio allocation for the new UDF government, led by Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan. Satheesan will handle 35 departments, including finance and law, while Ramesh Chennithala secures the key home portfolio. The UDF secured a decisive victory in the recent Assembly elections.
Trending ChatGPT Images 2.0 Prompts: India crosses 1 billion AI-generated photos in under a month
Viral AI photo trend: India is the top market for ChatGPT Images 2.0. Users have created over one billion images, making it a global trend. Popular uses include anime selfies, animated avatars, and cinematic edits. These AI-generated visuals are appearing on social media and dating apps. The tool's accessibility and multilingual capabilities are key to its widespread adoption by everyday users.
Tencent bets on India’s creator economy with Rs 10 crore gaming and animation push
Tencent is investing significantly in India's creative industries. The company will fund skill development and training programs for animation, visual effects, gaming, and comics. This initiative aims to boost India's 'Orange Economy' and create jobs. Partnerships will focus on talent development and global collaboration. India plans to train millions in this sector by 2030.
Quote of the Day by philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer: 'The safest way of not being very miserable is…'—Inspiring quotes by the 'philosopher of pessimism'
German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer's profound quote offers a timeless perspective on happiness and misery. He believed that excessive expectations lead to disappointment. By moderating our hopes, we can safeguard ourselves from deep emotional pain. Schopenhauer's ideas, though often seen as pessimistic, continue to resonate, guiding us toward emotional realism and a more balanced approach to life's inevitable challenges.
ET at Apple’s Bengaluru developer showcase: The apps headed to WWDC 2026
Indian developers are showcasing innovative apps for the Apple ecosystem. These apps focus on personal experiences, design, and AI. Developers are building solutions for lifestyle, digital wellness, children's stories, and music discovery.
India eyes $25 bn trade with Vietnam by 2030 with focus on minerals
India and Vietnam have significantly boosted their strategic ties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced new cooperation in critical minerals, rare earths, and energy security. Thirteen MoUs were signed, covering digital technologies, pharmaceuticals, tourism, and more. Agreements include linking India's UPI with Vietnam's payment network. This partnership strengthens economic and defense cooperation, enhancing regional peace and stability.
Actor R Madhavan is a vegetarian. His source of protein is a simple dish that's perfect to beat the summer heat
Actor R. Madhavan, at 55, showcases a powerful fitness approach. His routine emphasizes discipline, traditional vegetarian food from his garden, and mindful living. He follows intermittent fasting, eats early, and prioritizes hydration and sleep. Madhavan's philosophy is to eat clean and live simply, allowing the body to function naturally. This relatable method proves effective for a healthy lifestyle.
India proverb of the day by Vishnu Sharma: ‘A wise enemy is better than a foolish friend’; Panchatantra’s lessons on choosing wisdom over blind loyalty
An ancient Indian proverb of the day from the Panchatantra, 'A wise enemy is better than a foolish friend,' highlights the value of intelligent opposition over misguided support. This timeless wisdom, illustrated by a king and his foolish monkey guard, teaches that discerning counsel, even from rivals, fosters growth and prevents harm, emphasizing wisdom over blind loyalty.
Fish, meat & West Bengal elections: It’s about money and not politics
West Bengal Elections BJP vs TMC: Political campaigns in West Bengal are creatively using fish and meat, staples of Bengali culture, to connect with voters. This strategy highlights the significant economic importance of the state's non-vegetarian food industry, which supports numerous livelihoods and contributes substantially to exports, revealing a deeper economic narrative beyond political symbolism.
Asha Bhosle's final collaborations finds echo through Gorillaz's Indian-inspired 'Parvat'
Asha Bhosle's final musical contribution is featured on Gorillaz's album 'The Mountain'. This collaboration, released in March 2026, is seen as a poignant end to her career. The album blends Indian classical music with British alt-pop. Bhosle's voice remains relevant, bridging cultures and sounds. Her legacy continues to inspire.
10-hour drive from Bengaluru, national park is reopening this week where you can spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr
Eravikulam National Park reopens on April 1 after a two-month closure for Nilgiri tahr breeding. Visitors can explore the park's landscapes and biodiversity, home to the endangered Nilgiri tahr, a unique mountain ungulate. The park is a significant refuge for this species, with entry available from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.
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