ELEPHANT

Why Is an Owl Considered Lucky on Diwali? The Surprising Connection With Goddess Lakshmi

The owl holds an unusual place in Hindu tradition. Known as the vahana or vehicle of Goddess Lakshmi, it is associated with wealth, prosperity and good fortune. This connection has also given rise to the belief that spotting an owl on Diwali is an auspicious sign. But why was this nocturnal bird linked to the Goddess of Wealth, and what does the tradition actually mean?

Dhanteras expected to generate over Rs 1 lakh crore in business across India: CAIT

Dhanteras is expected to generate over ₹1 lakh crore in business across India, with gold and silver sales estimated to exceed ₹60,000 crore, according to the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT).

A couple helped fund a new hospital for rescued wildlife in Thailand; it opened in December 2025 to provide emergency treatment and ongoing care

A newly established wildlife hospital in Thailand aims to enhance medical care for rescued animals facing injuries and threats from exploitation or illegal wildlife trade. This state-of-the-art facility will cater to various needs, including emergency treatments and rehabilitation. Long-term care is also available for animals that cannot return to their natural habitat, highlighting the importance of ongoing funding to sustain its vital operations.

Vantara hosts EARAZA conference, puts data and technology at the heart of wildlife conservation

The four-day EARAZA Annual Conference 2026 at Anant Ambani’s Vantara in Jamnagar brought together 98 institutions from 30 countries. Vantara announced one year of free access to its ANTZ Software Platform, including its Open Data Exchange, for all EARAZA members.

Betting markets have picked a winner in the US midterms. Here’s how often they get it right

With the midterms already here, predictions show a strong likelihood for Democrats to gain control of both chambers of Congress. We analyse the historical accuracy of betting markets and their forecast ahead of the elections. Since 2016, there has been a remarkable increase in political betting engagement. Nonetheless, studies reveal that popular candidates may falter despite market faith, and ongoing regulatory issues are posing obstacles for betting platforms in the American landscape.

Amitabh Bachchan slams media outlet for twisting his Lord Krishna invocation

Amitabh Bachchan criticized a media outlet for distorting his words in a social media post about Lord Krishna. He asserted that his invocation was misrepresented as a challenge to opponents, which he found disrespectful. Bachchan emphasized that even a small fraction of his followers could mobilize if needed. He reacted strongly to the perceived insult to his faith and the media's behavior.

Once upon a time: How India went from local clocks to one standard time

Who gets to set India’s clock? From railway crashes to Bombay’s rebellion,standardising time meant more than synchronising watches. Vikram Doctor delves into the tock of the town to find what made India tick

Global beverage majors advance India IPO plans, from DRHP filing to board approval

Carlsberg has filed an updated draft red herring prospectus for its potential IPO in India. Pernod Ricard continues to prepare for its proposed listing while awaiting board approval for its Indian business. Coca-Cola is exploring a potential IPO for its Indian bottling operations, emphasizing the value in the domestic market. These developments indicate a growing interest in public listings among multinational beverage companies in India.

Govt extends Amnesty Scheme under ESIC for three month till December 31

The ‘New Amnesty Scheme 2025’, rolled out on October 1, 2025, is a one-time dispute resolution initiative aimed at reducing the backlog of court cases and promoting compliance under the erstwhile Employees’ State Insurance Act. Court cases filed up to March 31, 2025 are eligible under this scheme, the ministry said on Thursday.

India is addressing Wall Street’s favourite ‘elephant’ in the room to its own advantage

The Indian government has identified 762 potential applications of artificial intelligence across 62 ministries and departments, spanning farming, railway safety, tax compliance, public grievances, customs and healthcare. While some tools are already in use, others remain in pilot or development stages.

Savannah Chrisley breaks silence on 27-year age gap with fiance: ‘His body is …’ Who is Jason Galanis? Why was he sentenced to 189 month in prison and told to pay $162 million?

Galanis also had connections to Hunter Biden, as the two collaborated with their partner, Devon Archer. In March 2024, Galanis provided testimony during the congressional impeachment investigation involving then-President Joe Biden, despite being in prison. In March 2025, a year later, US President Donald Trump reduced Galanis’ prison term.

Tuborg maker Carlsberg India moves closer to IPO, files updated DRHP for complete OFS issue

Carlsberg India has filed an updated draft prospectus with Sebi for an IPO comprising 8.64 crore shares, entirely through an offer for sale by existing shareholders. The Tuborg maker could raise up to $700 million, according to earlier reports, as multinational companies increasingly tap India’s equity markets to monetise local businesses.

In the late 1920s, Ohio barber Elijah Pierce carved a small wooden elephant for his wife; decades later, the Columbus Museum held more than 100 of his carvings

Elijah Pierce, a barber from Ohio, began crafting wooden sculptures as heartfelt gifts for his wife. What started as a personal endeavor blossomed into a remarkable collection that intertwined his religious values and commentary on social issues. Though recognition came late in his career, his legacy now thrives in the Columbus Museum of Art—the largest repository of his works.

Hegseth likely to face questions on US role in Indo-Pacific at ASEAN summit

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is scheduled to meet with Southeast Asian counterparts in the Philippines soon. Discussions will focus on US commitments in the Indo-Pacific region amid ongoing tensions from the Iran war. Southeast Asian leaders seek clarity regarding the impact of the Iran conflict on US military readiness and alliances. Issues like energy security and cooperation with China are also on the agenda.

Hunter Biden laptop issue resurfaces as judge scolds prosecutors over case against ex-FBI officials

A US magistrate judge has rejected a new obstruction charge against two former FBI officials accused of making false statements to Congress about Hunter Biden's laptop, criticising prosecutors for improperly filing the amended complaint without judicial approval. The hearing also raised questions about the investigation's political motivations, with an FBI agent testifying that Director Kash Patel ordered the probe following a speech by President Donald Trump.

Teddy tigers and preserved embryos: Museum in Corbett tries to keep them 'alive'

Nestled close to Jim Corbett Park, a fascinating museum features detailed taxidermy models of tigers alongside other wildlife. These striking replicas narrate the complex stories of human-animal interactions throughout history, showcasing both peaceful cohabitation and fierce conflicts. Highlights include creatures who died naturally and those labeled as dangerous. The exhibits serve to educate visitors, especially children, on the vital need for wildlife conservation in Uttarakhand.

Kaziranga National Park reopens for 2026-27 season: Elephant safaris to begin November 1; check best time to visit, how to reach by air and rail, stay options and ways to spot rhinos and other wildlife

Nick Engelbert was a Wisconsin dairy farmer when a sprained ankle led him to make one concrete sculpture; 15 years later, his yard held more than 40 statues

In Wisconsin, Nick Engelbert, a dedicated dairy farmer, turned his farm into a unique art landscape featuring over 40 concrete sculptures inspired by his life's journey, historical narratives, and fairy tales. His wife, Katherine, enhanced the site with vibrant flower gardens. Following Engelbert's passing, the property fell into disrepair until the Kohler Foundation acquired and revitalized it in 1991.

Karnataka: Elephant carrying Howdah gets frightened, damages vehicles in Shivamogga

Virender Sehwag’s money lesson to sons: How a Rs 7,000 petrol bill taught Nawab of Najafgarh’s kids the value of money

Virender Sehwag has shared a money lesson that every parent should teach kids. The Nawab of Najafgarh shares how a Rs 7,000 petrol bill taught his sons Aryavir and Vedant the value of money, sharing his advice on luxury, materialism and handling criticism.

Two friends launched an online White Elephant Gift Exchange in 2020; 5 years later, their holiday side hustle had surpassed $1.5 million in revenue

David Mancarella and Leliah Kishbaugh launched White Elephant Online in November 2020 after realizing people needed a way to play their favorite holiday gift exchange remotely. With engineer Andrzej Brynczka, they built the service in time for Thanksgiving. Five years later, the seasonal side hustle had surpassed $1.5 million in revenue. Now, the couple is exploring how ChatGPT could help grow the business further.

Angelina Jolie’s foundation spent 20 years protecting 150,720-acre Cambodian forests; rangers saved nearly 142 species from wire snares

Over twenty years ago, Angelina Jolie launched the Maddox Foundation to promote conservation in Cambodia. Focusing on the vital Samlout forest, the foundation protects endangered species such as Asian elephants and Sunda pangolins. Dedicated rangers strive to remove dangerous snares and fight against illegal activities. Despite being officially protected, this region faces daunting deforestation issues. Local engagement and stringent law enforcement remain key to preserving this crucial habitat.

Train stopped in nick of time: Forest staffer's quick thinking averted possible tragedy when elephant herd approached railway tracks; video wins hearts online

A forest staffer, Akash Kerketta, helped save a herd of elephants in West Bengal by waving a red flag to alert an approaching Sikkim Mahananda train on the Bagdogra–Naxalbari route. The train pilots responded in time, preventing a possible accident. An IFS officer's post on X praising Kerketta's quick action has won appreciation online, with users calling him an unsung hero.