How to take care of your French manicure?

Pretty nails never go out of style, especially the famed French manicure that has girls going crazy all over the world. But maintaining it can be a really tough as the French tips chip faster than normal tips. Here’s how you can take care of them. Read on:

No-chip top coat: 
Every 2-3 days, you have to polish your nails with a no-chip top coat that will keep your nails shiny and intact. This way, you’ll save a couple of trips to the salon. Go for a branded top coat so that your nails don’t get discoloured.

No bleach: 
Acrylic nails react instantly with detergent and beach, so always wear gloves while working with bleach. And as far as you can, avoid dipping your nails in foam,

No constant texting: 
Yes, this is an obvious one. You don’t want your manicure to lose its sheen or the nails to appear cracked. So keep a check on your smartphone use, if you want your manicure to last longer.

Filing regularly: 
You have to keep filing your nails regularly, no excuses there. Even if you don’t do it as well as a professional, you must do it as often as you can. Buy a home manicure kit that’s easy to use and understand.

Cleaning brush: 
Acrylic nails are home to fungal growth and infection, so invest in a cleaning brush that will keep your nails dry and clean.

Section 377 – Supreme Court supports outdated, imposing era law

The Supreme Court's knock over of the historic July 2009 decision of the Delhi High Court, which had legalized private sexual relations between consenting adults of the same sex, is, in one word, retrospective. Firmly officially, the SC's argument that the legal authority of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code – which comprises gay sexual relations within the range of 'unnatural sex' and lays down harsh sentences – does not permit it to make legal such sexual relations, may be literally correct. But it appears more a case of shifting the blame to the government and Parliament in times when questions on judicial outwit have been raised. At the very least, this decision, placed next to the Delhi High Court's 2009 one, which stressed equality, and sought to defend the rights and dignity of Lesbian-Gay-Bisexual-Transgender persons, appears a jump backwards.

When, in a country like India, with its countless existing hierarchies and prejudices, marginalised citizens look for redressal against old or unkind laws, the judiciary must, preferably, present hope. Every face of law is not cast in stone, mostly features dating back to reserved, colonial times. Instead, the law develops in its model of delivering justice as human societies grow and change. Basically, this is the question of the fundamental human rights of agreeable adults, on the basis of the standard of equality and non-discrimination in the Constitution itself.

It has long been accepted, by anyone with a crucial sense, among other things, of science, human psychology and history, that homosexuality is neither unnatural nor abnormal. Harsh laws against it are by now mainly upholding of oppressive, theocratic, and under-developed states. With this verdict, the SC has, by default, put India in that category.

Love at first sight: a reality or fantasy

How many times have you dreamt of gazing across a crowded room, locking eyes with an attractive stranger and knowing instantly that you're in love? While it does seem to work out for some, others scoff at the idea of love at first sight. Believe it or not, scientists have studied the subject, and some attribute the need to size people up quickly to learning humans.

Many believe that love at first sight is made for onscreen stories or fairytales. Chances are the feelings of instant attraction you may feel for someone who makes your heart pound at first meeting can be put down to another four-letter-word: lust.

Statistically, you would have to think the odds are against couples who meet and marry within short time frames. After all, it's better to 'check before you buy' and test if you are compatible by living together first. And if you're going to get engaged quickly, please make sure you have a long engagement first.

Although a majority of the population believes in love at first sight, not everyone falls head over heels right away. Surprisingly, women aren’t always the romantics in this love equation: One study found men experience love at first sight more often than women. Researchers think that’s because men respond to physical cues more readily than women and women tend to develop trust more gradually than men. And people might be more inclined to believe in love at first sight when they’re younger or probably in their teens.

It also happens to people who are less inhibited, more open to chance. If we consciously look for love, we’re less likely to find it. Instead we need to cultivate a genuine feeling of being available without necessarily wanting anything to happen.

Though people tend to make their love story as much a part of the movies they watched, it is still unclear how often love at first sight turns into a successful partnership. A suvey found only about 10 percent of people say their long-term relationships began that way. While people can be instantly attracted to each other, some scientists say being in love means really getting to know someone over time.

Destination wedding spots in India

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

The wedding season is in full swing and everybody wants to make their special day memorable. What better than destination wedding? We drum up a list of five such spots that can be perfect for a destination wedding. Read on!

Udaipur (Rajasthan):
The majestic locales of Udaipur offer an opportunity for you to tie the knot like a royal! You can opt from any of the famous mahals to have a shaadi to remember! Remember Kalki Koechlin’s lavish wedding in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani?

Goa:
White sand beach , serene sea in the background and unlimited supply of alcohol! Hmm...reason enough to get married , isn’t it? Goa offers many options, from a beach wedding to a fort wedding to a typical church wedding.

Kerala:
The backwaters of Kerala are mesmerizing and offer a picturesque location for your dream wedding. You can even get elephants, fishermen (for boat races) and traditional Kathakali dancers to make your wedding an unforgettable affair!

Kashmir:
If marriages are made in heaven, the perfect place to get married is Kashmir! Breathtaking valleys, the gorgeous Dal lake and shikara ride are just a few reasons to choose this place.

Andaman Island:
It’s one of the most unexplored and virgin islands of India. If you want to avoid the chaos and commercialization of Goa, head to Andaman. It’s full of tiny islands that are absolutely stunning!

Related Tags: destination wedding palces for destination wedding in india goa destination wedding udaipur destination wedding rajasthan destination wedding kashmir destination wedding Andaman islands destination wedding

Destination wedding spots in India

The wedding season is in full swing and everybody wants to make their special day memorable. What better than destination wedding? We drum up a list of five such spots that can be perfect for a destination wedding. Read on!

Udaipur (Rajasthan):
The majestic locales of Udaipur offer an opportunity for you to tie the knot like a royal! You can opt from any of the famous mahals to have a shaadi to remember! Remember Kalki Koechlin’s lavish wedding in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani?

Goa:
White sand beach , serene sea in the background and unlimited supply of alcohol! Hmm...reason enough to get married , isn’t it? Goa offers many options, from a beach wedding to a fort wedding to a typical church wedding.

Kerala:
The backwaters of Kerala are mesmerizing and offer a picturesque location for your dream wedding. You can even get elephants, fishermen (for boat races) and traditional Kathakali dancers to make your wedding an unforgettable affair!

Kashmir:
If marriages are made in heaven, the perfect place to get married is Kashmir! Breathtaking valleys, the gorgeous Dal lake and shikara ride are just a few reasons to choose this place.

Andaman Island:
It’s one of the most unexplored and virgin islands of India. If you want to avoid the chaos and commercialization of Goa, head to Andaman. It’s full of tiny islands that are absolutely stunning!

Related Tags: destination wedding palces for destination wedding in india goa destination wedding udaipur destination wedding rajasthan destination wedding kashmir destination wedding Andaman islands destination wedding

The many firsts of college life!

Think back to your college days, didn’t you pick up many ‘firsts’ here? It’s one of the most exciting and fulfilling phases of our lives that makes us who we are. College is not only a gateway to land a cushy job, but also a place that moulds our personalities. Read on to find out the many firsts of college life! How many can you relate to?
Ciggie:
We are pretty sure your first fag was in college when a friend asked you to give it a try! From smoking during breaks to being a regular at tapris, college was one big adventure! You probably quit smoking to impress a girl/boy too, didn’t you?



Love:
Oh, college romances are the best. With your hormones on an overdrive, college is the place where your first love happens. Whether it lasts for a lifetime or withers away in the first couple of years, it’s one of the most beautiful things to have happened to you.

for read more click here

Yummy foods that you MUST have in winter!

Think cold winter mornings and all you can remember is the first meal prepared by your mother. The piping hot plate of food against the blasting cold is something that you can never forget. Whether it’s a simple paratha or an intricate dum biryani, winter is all about gorging on great food! We list out the five MUST eat foods this season. Read on:

Gobi paratha:
Winter veggies are to die for! And what better than gobi paratha with a generous amount of butter on it? Binge on it with a spicy pickle on the side and you’ll be smiling through the day! Cauliflower is supposed to generate heat, which will keep you warm and full.

Gajar ka halwa:
Deliciously juicy carrots are in abundance during this season and when they are made into a halwa, it’s like a party in your mouth! Eat a warm bowl of gajar ka hawla either after your meal or between meals to keep the winter blues at bay.



Rajma Chawal:
Kidney beans cooked in spices and served with steamed rice is a staple food of North India. Rajma is full of proteins and is the perfect meal for a laid back and chilly Sunday. Enjoy it with pickled onions and jeera rice for a sumptuous lunch.


Momos:
This humble snack from the North East will keep you going in windy afternoons when the gloom outside is about to get you. Indulge in momos with a fiery red chutney and forget about the world for a while.


Butter chicken: And finally, no winter meal is ever complete without a piping hot serving of butter chicken and naan. The joy of dipping your naan into the gravy and slowly soaking in all the rich flavours while it’s snowing outside is the Best. Feeling. Ever.

Related Tags: winter foods comfort food during winters rajma chawal in winter butter chicken indian dish gobi paratha winter food winter comfort food must eat during winter

Handy tips for destination weddings

Artificial jewellery, multipurpose shoes and light lugggage are some of the things one should keep in mind while packing for a destination wedding.

Hotels.com shares travel tips for guests attending such weddings:

- Pack smart: Carry mostly artificial jewellery, so that you don’t feel nervous about travelling with expensive pieces. Before leaving, discuss with your relatives or friends about items like straightening or curling irons and perfumes that can be shared. This will help to cut down on your luggage weight. Carry shoes which can be paired with multiple outfits.

- Gift: It is better to hand over the gift to the couple before departing for the destination. This way you can be tension free as you will not have to take care of something precious and there will be more space for other items in your bags.

- Relax at the hotel: In between functions, it is best to spend time within the hotel itself. It is less tiring. You can visit the spa, pool and gymnasium to unwind and recharge for the next party.

- Post-wedding mini-vacation: After the wedding celebrations, you can spend a few more days sightseeing or simply relaxing. Approach the hotel's travel desk for recommendations on tours. 

-IANS

Related Tags: destination weddings cost all inclusive destination weddings destination weddings handy tips for destination weddings destination wedding locations destination wedding dresses cruise weddings destination wedding packages destination maternity the knot

Tips to handle profession changeover

It’s certainly not painless to come out of the comfort zone of an active profession and jump into something entirely new. The elder you get and the upper you scale on the career stepladder, the more worrying it may get to make that change.
Nonetheless, a profession switch, if managed the correct way, can be just the right ticket to a new lease of professional life.
1) Take stock of preferences
Do introspection before making the jump. Pen down all your skills and capabilities plus the challenges you expect in the new career. Classify how your prior understanding can balance your new job.
2) Be confident to take a risk
Your preferences keep varying, so you may have to do a route alteration. Don’t be afraid to experiment. A lot of people are hesitant of taking risks but nothing in life is zero risk. If you are at a phase in your life when you are not in a situation to take that risk, put off your decision. But never let it tighten you.
3) Keep a back-up plan ready
What is your back-up preparation? How will you deal with things if your new profession doesn’t turn out well for you? Your courage and determination levels will be a lot higher if you have a back-up plan ready.
4) Plan your funds well
In some instances, a career changeover might engage a decrease in earnings and a resultant strike on funds. That’s why you need to think of future about how to manage your family responsibilities, EMIs and other costs.
It could mean trimming down on your extravagances; plummeting into your savings or some other avenue.
5) Develop your abilities
Grow new skills and abilities that are necessary for the career switch over. Take an online course or read up as much as you can about your new profession selection.
Obtain all the skills, facts and information probable about the new field before jumping into it. Do your groundwork well.

Related Tags: Career transition career change career switch over profession switch

Rahul and his jibberings: Now accountability is on plate

A party whose government is neck deep into scams is talking regarding responsibility currently. Party vice chairman Rahul Gandhi had told state party leaders throughout his conferences with them that they're going to be control completely in charge of the candidates planned by them.

Congress chieftans within the 5 states about to the polls in November-December might not be ready to flee with candidates of their selection now around.

The party has set that the state chiefs are going to be created "accountable" for his or her candidate - as well as their own relatives - if the person fares disastrously within the polls.

Screening committees, that area unit vetting the lists of party candidates sent by state units, has been asked to require written data from state chiefs pitching for tickets regarding their relationship with the candidate planned by them.

It is expected to be implemented strictly during this spherical of assembly polls, will facilitate the party take care of the matter of rebel candidates.

State chieftains, at times, offer the go-ahead to their loyalists to contest severally if they fail to urge them tickets. The chieftain then tells the party leadership that the rebel candidate isn't taking note of him and he cannot force him to withdraw. Now, once a frontrunner has counseled names of people, he will be expected to check that they are doing not contest as independents on being denied the party price tag.

There were regarding sixty Congressmen World Health Organization had contested  as independents within the last assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh and had undermined the probabilities of the official nominees.

The party has reformed the method of price tag distribution now around. 3 surveys are wiped out every state to examine and re-check the winnability of candidates.

Rahul Gandhi has been attempting arduous to stay his party on the right track. simply a couple of days back he had devised associate form to understand regarding the possible candidates.

He additionally started a monthly assessment programme that expected the AICC secretaries to grant purpose wise details of the results and outcomes deliver the goodsd in their role and also the processes wont to achieve constant. they're going to even have to say the states and also the areas as well as the amount of District Congress Committees (DCCs) and Block Congress Committees (BCCs) appointed to them.


For more articles click here

Is Congress petrified of Modi?

Congress leaders tell anybody United Nations agency bothers to listen that there's no Modi wave within the country, at the best there's a pro-Modi response within the media and social media. however wherever it affects, among the voters there is not any concrete backing in support of the BJP's prime ministerial candidate. Congress leaders tell North American country this in innumerable ways in which and do therefore perpetually. therefore if the Gujarat chief minister has no real management over cosmic sections of the ballot public then why is that the Congress splurging such a lot time cacophonous  him down?

The Congress is anxious as a result of the Gujarat chief minister has been notched up finish in very important areas of authority. just like the Congress headship, Modi too highlights on the importance of economic growth. throughout the eleventh set up amount, the state recorded a nine.8 % growth in state GDP; really the all Asian country rate was eight %. Agriculture, the defense of an outsized section within the country, grew at 4.1 % in Gujarat; the all Asian country rate was three.7 percent.

In this amount, signs like deathrate, maternal mortality too recorded improvement, outdoing all Asian country standards. The Congress visited city regarding the Gujarat government's assertion that the deficiency disease levels within the state were lesser than those shown within the accountant and Auditor General's report. although the Gujarat government's numbers ar overlooked, the CAG report demonstrates a downward trend in deficiency disease rate from seventy one % in 2006-07 to thirty-nine % in 2010-11, a noteworthy accomplishment. Modi's capability to overtly settle for areas that require larger notice like deficiency disease, education and therefore the readiness to experiment shows a reason behind anxiety for the ruling Congress led-UPA government.

But what frighten the Congress over numbers summarizing Gujarat's accomplishments underneath Modi's leadership ar the stories or stories and therefore the assurance these prompt. The stories regarding roads, electricity, safety and therefore the experiments with renewable energy noticeable to the informal traveller to Gujarat define the guts of those stories. These stories once continual accompany a constituent of distinction, with potential electors taking into consideration their realism thereupon of the stories from Gujarat and manufacturing a way of trust and optimism; the chance of a future that's improved than the current.

The stories became a part of the Modi arsenal--entrepreneurs and businessmen narrate the manner within which new comes and concepts ar managed by the authorities, observers mouth the sleek conduct within which the govt. tends to complaints or grievances. All this facilitate to spice up the arrogance of individuals United Nations agency ar uninterested of scams, corruption associated setbacks by an insensitive and cold administration. The Congress fears regarding Modi's talent to precise to his listeners that a BJP-led government would be compatible with their desires and ambitions.

Will Narendra Modi prove to be next prime minister? can he be an improved and economical prime minister? These ar queries for an additional day. solely time can tell. except for currently, Modi has the people's notice and therefore the Congress is consecutively petrified.

Canteen diaries: The day we mass bunked!

What fun is a college if you don't mass-bunk! As a self-proclaimed 'cool' collegian, I had also indulged in this craziness. But the repercussions were so mean that I won't suggest anybody to do this. It all started off on a lazy Monday when everybody was fighting the famous blues.

It was also a week before our mid-terms so nobody really wanted to sit for lectures. But due to a strict attendance code, everybody had to show up for classes at 8 in the morning. Some of us did manage to go, cursing our bad luck and with a sick feeling in our stomachs. As we reached the classroom, we realised most of the kids had not come, despite a strict circular from the principal. We were about 20-odd people in a classroom meant for 150 students. We were dejected further! As the peon made the announcement about our lecture being postponed to 9 am, we all made a quick decision. Those who had diligently come to college decided to bunk too. Instead of our everyday gossip and canteen sessions, we decided to head for photocopying notes and to exchange other important questions and the like. The exam fever was truly raging in us as we were determined more than ever to ace the mid-terms.

After a rather fruitful day (which is pretty rare if you're in college), we headed home to prepare for our papers. The day productive and we were all bursting with energy. But the night is what changed everything for us. All of us got a mail from the college authorities asking us to stay at home for the rest of the term as we had been rusticated! With a stunned silence started the round of calls to each other, the chain-mails, the 'we're sorry' letters, the petitions and discussions on forums.

I have always been one of those students who would never miss an exam, a text or an assignment deadline. So when this whole situation blew up in my face, I couldn't stop crying. I didn't know back then that your college life doesn't define what or who you become. I had thought it was the end for me. So on the following day, the students who had so religiously bunked classes made their way to the principal's office. She was quite amused to see us and even smirked a little after counting us out. 'Good to the full strength, guys!' She said. 'Ms Kalra. Here's your entire class. Please finish their lecture.' Yes, that's all she said and walked away with the cell phone tucked to her ears. Ms Kalra, whose lecture we had bunked, didn't wait for any preamble and started with her lessons right there.

None of us knew how to react. We were damn glad about not being expelled, but were little disappinted that the principal had played a cool prank on us! I didn't know what to take away from that day. Whether bunking is right or wrong, nobody knows. It's a good thing the teachers didn't scold us as that would have wrecked us. We all put in our best in the paper and everybody managed to score stunning marks. A kind of a thank you gift to our principal!

Did you do anything in college that you're (or not) proud of? Do write to us and we might just publish your copies!

Related Tags: mass bunking college days college time friends cool collegians assignment submissions college college crushes

How I met my bestie over coffee

I am not a sucker for coffee, despite being a Tamilian. I think it kind of sucks, leaving a bitter taste in your mouth. But the one day I got around to ordering coffee is also the day I met my bestie. She was flustered for some reason and looked like hell had fallen on her. It was pouring like crazy and everybody was rushing to get some cover inside the canteen. As this girl came in, she was dripping wet and looked like she could use some, well, coffee. So I offered her mine, as I had yet touched it and I was quite dry.

That’s all it took for us to become the best of buddies and here we are, six years later...doing the same kind of masti and being as eccentric as ever! From throwing up like fools after a night of debauchery to having each other’s backs when shit was hitting the roof, we have been there and seen everything. Life is truly one big party when she is around as we know exactly what to do, when to do and how to do. Not that I have ever gone back to drinking coffee after that canteen incident, it still remains one of my favourite beverages in terms of nostalgia. She isn’t much of a coffee enthusiast either, but occasionally sips it to relive the best moment of our life.

This buddy of mine, who has helped me with notes and lecture timings, is all set to marry the love of her life. It would be one jolly week when we get together at her Goa pad sometime later this year. Even though we didn’t meet much after we went our separate ways post college, we remained friends, thanks to technology. And we never missed out on each other’s birthdays and special days. As is customary, I will be with her on one of the most important days of her life, her wedding day. I never thought that the girl who was drenched and in misery would turn out to be such an important part of my life. I never imagined that I would be dancing at her wedding! A lot can happen over coffee. And a lost has. Thank you, college canteen for this wonderful friend!

Monetary planning advice for people in their 30s

As people enter in 30s, tasks and responsibilities change excessively. You are not a bachelor anymore and you have to think about those whose opulence and safety depends upon you. These new accountabilities call for a careful monetary preparation plan and a solid roadmap intended to make you win the race of life.
1) Planning for family is as significant as discovering a perfect life partner
Discovering a perfect life partner or getting married to your sweetheart is one of the significant aspects in your personal life. But once we decide of getting married, it is even more significant that we start planning on how to achieve monetary success not just for ourselves but for the complete family in near future.
During our single days, we either live with friends sharing a studio apartment or family, but, once you think to get married, it is the right time to plan for a home of yourself. Start monetary planning about how much money you require to spend on renting a house contrary to buying a house.
You must plan for imperative committed expenditures such as domestic items and utilities and trim down on the non-committed expenditures. Once you make a habit of following these basics, start planning for child care, whether you have a child or you have not yet thought of bringing your child to this world, does not matter. It is wise that you start assessing about costs to give your child a better and healthy future. Nappies, toys, milk, powders, clothes, school fees, donations, vacations, medical care, etc are expensive and require monetary planning in advance.
2) Get ready for the unanticipated events
Warren Buffet has rightly said that someone is sitting in the shade today because somebody planted a sapling long time ago, which grew into a tree.
An individual must start thinking about protecting his family by getting medical insurance cover, critical illness insurance cover and accidental insurance cover.
Not just these, make sure you cover all your active loans and any other major liabilities too. Covering your loans make your family monetarily safe and secure in case of any unexpected troubles.
An individual must always collect all his monetary information at one place and share it with his family members. Are you aware that many credit cards offer accident insurance cover? Did you know of the amount and have you shared this information with your partner?
3) Dream big but take baby steps towards its fulfillment
Every individual have the right to dream big but you must also start taking those needed steps to turn your dream into a reality, then no matter, how small or big the dream is. Today and now is the best time to manage your money and channelise them towards accomplishing your targets.
People usually pursue personalised diet routines or exercise routines to get in shape and stay healthy. Likewise, your existing monetary health will assist you in achieving your targets only through a habituated, tailored and strong personal monetary plan.
4) Invest money wisely
In the present unstable economy, people who have invested in gold have been saved. Now is the time to start branching out your investments. Don’t just stick to a single benefit class.
Having only RD accounts or investment in equity is not going to produce you the necessary profits to attain all your monetary targets. So start by listing your targets with deadlines and fix financial worth.
You need to recognize the monthly monetary obligation in order to attain them. Then assess your risk tolerance and choose the suitable asset classes along with best in class monetary products. It is prudent that you take expert advice of unprejudiced monetary advisor here.
5) Begin with college account
While your children are getting qualified by the school to make into a good college, you must begin preparing on how to finance their college fee. Make sure you prepare a suitable plan when it comes to saving and investing money for your child’s learning.
This is crucial for the reason that you can’t afford to make an error when it comes to investing for child’s learning. If you dream of owning a car or a house and the investments made towards reaching those dreams go wrong, you can delay purchasing them. But your child’s education is something you can’t put off. So you have to be prepared by the time your child is prepared for the next stage.

Financial planning, investments,monetary planning advice

Ordinance withdrawn; the great Congress game's over

The union cabinet Wednesday decided to withdraw the controversial ordinance and the bill to protect convicted lawmakers.
The cabinet, headed by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, took the decision to withdraw the ordinance in a 20 minute sitting.
"The union cabinet met today and it was unanimously decided that both the ordinance, with regard to certain sections of the Representation of Peoples Act, as well as the bill would be withdrawn," Union Minister Manish Tewari told reporters after the meeting.
Meanwhile, the BJP sought to take credit for the government’s decision to withdraw the ordinance on convicted netas.“We are happy and proud that the opposition (BJP) has ensured that the flag of the democracy flies high,” Ravi Shankar Prasad of the BJP said.
Prasad also hit out at the Congress saying in the union government, only the dynasty is important and not the cabinet or the PM. “This was the theater of the absurd. Suddenly we’ve seen a change… it has nothing to do with morality, legality, validity or constitutionality…. it’s a sheer power of dynasty before which the PM and the cabinet have meekly submitted.”
The high drama that was spread in two weeks came to an end with this.
On September 27, Rahul Gandhi In his rugged avatar as an angry young man, had showed his wish in front of the media regarding the ordinance negating Supreme Court’s judgement on immediate disqualification of lawmakers, in case of conviction, from contesting elections. "In my personal opinion, the ordinance should be torn and thrown away. It is an utter nonsense," he had said.

Distancing himself from the government he said that he was not a part of the government and that the government was surely wrong in clearing the ordinance. He marked his differences with the government by saying that the explanation given by the government is weak. "They say that we have to do it because of political considerations. Everybody does this. We need to stop making these small compromises," he said.

What looked like an innocent act by Rahul Gandhi showing his fallout from his own party's government was considered to be a bigger ploy by UPA. The position of the Prime Minister was seen diminished big time.

The opposition BJP had defended prime minister at the time calling Rahul’s act dastardly. It had also demanded resignation of the PM saying he should immediately resign if he has any dignity left.

However, it was also speculated that President Pranab Mukherjee actually saved Congress from what could have been a biggest blunder committed by it. Mukherjee leaves for his visit to Turkey on Wednesday. It was expected that PM will meet him before his departure.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh returned from his foreign trip last night and today he went to pay homage to father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, at Rajghat. Although, party president Sonia Gandhi was present there, party vice-president and possible prime ministerial candidate from the party, Rahul Gandhi, was missing from the scene.
He met Mukherjee in the noon and it was clear that the bill will be withdrawn.
Although Singh made his point clear when he breifed the media on board Air India One yesterday, it is Rahul Gandhi who had the last laugh. The damage control that Congress was forced to do, or had in mind to do under a bigger plan, surely exposed both the leaders.
The great act that Congress put together with Rahul as hero, PM as villain and a bunch of extras is finally over. Now is the time to see how allies react to it.

For Read More Article Click Here

Stopping the tremors of terror: India-Pak dialogue must

When the pro-peace government of Nawaz Sharif was once again formed in Pakistan, there was a sense of relief all over the country. A possibility of normalcy in the valley was predicted. But the provocative killing of five Indian soldiers on Line of Control (LoC) smeared the hopes black.
There have been repeated instance of killing across the LoC where India too retaliated. The mini-wars had nonetheless put a question mark on the prospects of talk between the two governments.
If we look backwards, both the countries have had their shares of foiling the dialogues leading to a peaceful life in the area. If it was Pakistan who had always been stubborn in demanding Kashmir and aligning itself strategically with the countries which may harm Indian interests, India too has lost many golden opportunities to move forward the peace accords which were need of the hour.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh may be held responsible for the failure of the peace accord with General Musharraf which could have otherwise changed the paradigm of terror too. He also failed to seize a historic opportunity with Pak president Zardari. But the cause in the later case puts onus on the Pak government. Had it done some more to satisfy India's legitimate demand for some visible movement in the trial of Mumbai terror attack accused, things would have been better in the books of both the countries.
The two counterparts are set to meet in New York this time on the sidelines of UN General Assembly meeting. And just two days before the talks, terrorists stormed into Jammu & Kashmir launching twin attacks which left 13 dead.
The attack sparked a row between the government and the opposition, which included media, which demanded stopping Singh from talking to Sharif. "All these years, since 2004, Pakistan has been indulging in cross-border terrorism, including the famous ones like the 26/11 attack on Mumbai. Then, recently, we have seen their behaviour on the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, which is totally objectionable. So, is this the right atmosphere and the right time to talk to Pakistan at the summit level?" Senior BJP leader Yashwant Sinha had questioned on Wednesday. The BJP leaders said the attacks only reflected that Pakistan was continuing with its strategy to strike at will through proxy war of terror and suggested there was no point in talking to the Pakistani side after its repeated mockery of India’s resolution-through-dialogue stand.
As much as the Indian media and opposition wanted Singh to stop the dialogue process, he moved with a stronger resolve to do so, which is a good step.
It should be understood that the dialogue process between the two countries can only ensure better prospects between the two countries. The talks have always been fated to move in a viscious circle due to external factors all the time which had not only marred the economic possibility between the two countries, it has also punched a hole in the counter-terror strategies both sides.
The militants will not listen to the Pakistani PM. The attacks which had been carried out in Pakistan itself by the terror outfits is an ample evidence of that. Though it may be called a failure of the Pak government who repeatedly fails to eliminate terrorism from its own land, it should also be seen as a problem infesting the country resulting into no growth.
As Sharif holds the hope of "prosperity" for his country with "benefit" for India, we should not look at scuttling the bright picture. What PM Manmohan Singh is doing now, moving ahead with the peace talks, would have been done by the former PM Atal Behari Vajpayee too in the circumstances.
Sharif had said in an interview to the Wall street journal, "I feel very proud that I'm the one who brought the two countries closer together. The Indian Prime Minister (A B Vajpayee) embarked on a visit to Pakistan (in 1999), on his first-ever state visit. We are now picking up the threads from where we left off in 1999."
His points are simple. He says that India and Pakistan have a solid basis to prosper together. And he has worked his part to provide the solution. He wants to work on the same Lahore accord signed by Vajpayee government.
As senior Pakistan journalist Imtiaz Alam wrote in his article in an Indian english daily, "for progress to take place, Pakistan and its powerful establishment must realise the folly of creating a highly intractable, violent and divisive mass of terrorist and extremist outfits as an instrument of its foreign and security policies. These are not “strategic assets” but freelancers in the market of global terrorism. These outfits fight among themselves over sectarian and factional dividends of warfare and expand their fiefdoms at each other’s cost across the Afghanistan-Pakistan border regions and beyond."
It would be better if, for once, we Indians too shed our inhibitions and old fixations about Pakistan. The neigbour of ours is neck deep in its own creations and it is trying to find a way to sustain.
As Indian PM Manmohan Singh informed US President Barack Obama just few hours ago, Pakistan remains an epicentre of terroism. But to stop feeling the tremors in India, we will have to help it stabilise the Afghanistan border.

Stopping the tremors of terror: India-Pak dialogue must

Three types of taxes that may inflate your restaurant bill

On a Friday evening you plan to visit a restaurant with friends to have a nice, full course dinner. Before ordering you check the prices on the menu, but you are a little taken aback when you get the bill. The figures printed in the bill did not match with those in your head and then suddenly you come across terms called service tax and service charge, which overblown the bill by about 15 to 20 percent. What really happened?

As it was a Friday evening and you had been for this evening to come for many days, you are in no mood to question but just pay off the bill. It’s not just the case with you, many of us frequently think that the amount added to the prices is high but don't question it.

Easy thing made complex
We all have a weird quality to interpret easy things into complicated ones. Taxes and charges on apparently simple things like food and drinks are quarters where consumers are taken for granted. So, being aware of these terms is very important.

1) Service charge
This is debited by the restaurant for providing its services to you and therefore it goes into the pocket of the restaurant owner. The establishments have the liberty to charge any amount as service charges because there is no course of action given by the tax authority on it. The charge differs from 5 to 10 percent and only some restaurants don't charge it. This is equal to the tips usually paid to the waiters by the people visiting the restaurant. If you are charged service charge in the bill, don't pay tips as this charge is believed to be divided among the workers.

Most of us don't raise a question even after realising that the charges collected are higher. First and the foremost common reason is people usually don’t have knowledge about it and they think nothing can be done about it. Secondly, nobody wants to ruin their evening quarrelling with the manager.

Although, the basic rule is, if the restaurant’s menu specifies the service charges, then you have to pay but if it doesn't, you can question it.

2) Service tax
Usually people confuse service tax with service charges. Service tax is the fee collected by the government on the services provided by restaurants. Also, same amount of service tax is charged in all states - 12.36 percent on 40 percent of the bill, which includes your food, drink and the service charge. However, the eating place must be air-conditioned for charging the service tax.

But, the trouble here is that most of the consumers are taxed at the total bill and not on 40 percent of the bill as per the guidelines. To make things uncomplicated, service tax must be 4.94 percent (12.36 percent of 40 percent) on your entire bill. Thus, at any time you feel that the service tax on the total bill is undoubtedly exceeding 5 percent, you must question it.

3) VAT (Value Added Tax)
Then there is another tax called value added tax - universally termed as VAT - that varies from state to state. It can be as low as 5 percent and can go as high as 20 percent depending upon the state you are dining in. Besides, VAT on food items and drinks are different. Many restaurants frequently club food items with drinks, and charge a flat amount on the entire bill. In such case, it is good to ask for separate bills for food and drinks. This must evidently show the different VAT for both the items.

Most of the times, we have no authority to do anything about the overcharging by the restaurants. It is not just because of our reluctance but also unawareness of restaurant managers. Therefore, you can question the bill and get it rectified.

dining in a restaurant,taxes in restaurant bill

It was a dream come true to work with Anurag Kashyap: Kenny D Basumatary

It may look like a small film, but Local Kung Fu seems like a giant effort. And it has been creating ripples on social media. Set to get the biggest release for an Assamese film as it releases simultaneously in seven cities outside Assam, Local Kung Fu would be creating history as the most inexpensive action movie ever made. Not to mention, India’s first martial arts comedy! Made for a humble Rs 95,000 Local Kung Fu, releasing on September 27, has wowed the likes of Anurag Kashyap and Dibakar Banerjee. Here’s an excerpt from the chat with the man behind the film – Kenny D Basumatary – who has written, directed and acted in the film.
The highlight of Local Kung Fu has been that it was made in a budget of less than a lakh rupee. How did you manage that?
We shot in Guwahati in places where we wouldn't need permission, used our relatives’ homes as locations, got friends and family to act (only after auditioning - I was very particular about this), used old software to edit, etc. We got music for free because my brother is an arranger-composer. Out of our budget, around Rs. 58,000 was for the camera and accessories, Rs. 5,000 for the mic, Rs. 13,000-15,000 token payments for the actors, and the rest for rice cakes and about 200 plates of momos and noodles.
How much work went into all the action scenes?
Lots! We wanted to make the fights the best yet in an Indian film. We would choreograph and rehearse extensively so that (a) there were lesser chances of injury and (b) we could shoot coherent fights with longer takes instead of the usual ‘high-shutter-speed-dancing-camera-50-cuts-per-second style’ that most movies use nowadays to disguise the fact that the actors can't really fight. Every fight had its own internal story - not just a random collection of strikes. We made shot lists of every move and explored the best angles to shoot them from. And we would do as many takes as necessary to get it right. The big flying kick at the end of the trailer that we did in 26 takes! 26 kicks to the chest that laid me low for a couple of weeks. But it was worth it. The climactic fight was shot over a period of 21 evenings.
It is being promoted as India's first martial arts comedy.
It is, isn't it?
You have not only directed and acted but also composed the music for film?
Not all, some of the music. It's mostly been done by my brother Tony, who's worked on the background music of Pune 52 and several TV shows like channel V's Gumraah. 
They say making a film is easier than releasing it. Would you admit?
Hell yes! If you think making a film is hard, just try releasing it! When I was done with the film I found that in order to get it released I had to go through seven stages of paperwork hell. Service tax registration, current account, producers' association, censor board et al. Luckily, Durlov Baruah came on board as co-producer and his company Kuhipaat Communications has been handling the distribution and marketing minefield.
What are your best and worst experiences while making this film? And what were the lessons learnt?
The best thing is always the end result when you sit in a theatre and hear people roaring with laughter at your jokes.  There haven't really been any bad experiences apart from the paperwork. 
As far as the learning goes,
Lesson #1: The film will be longer than the script, so make it very tight at the writing stage itself.
Lesson #2:  Learn, learn, and learn. Prepare, prepare, prepare.
Lesson #3:  Different actors peak at different takes. 
There are apparently many people from Bollywood who have seen and liked the film. Could you tell us more about that?
Navdeep Singh loved the energy in the film and was generous enough to give us a quote. Dibakar Banerjee also messaged that he loved it. Adil Hussain, Dipannita Sharma and Meiyang Chang have been kind enough to say so on camera. And Anurag Kashyap got us to choreograph the fight in his short film ‘That Day, After Everyday.’ 
Tell us about the opportunity to work with Anurag Kashyap.
Yes, it was quite a dream come true to work with one of my favourite directors. We choreographed and rehearsed the fight for four days, making an effort to use realistic techniques that a woman could actually use to defend herself against a man. For this I always first tested the techniques on my brother's music partner who weighs 110 kg.
In terms of economics, Assamese cinema has had a tough time in recent times. Would you suppose Local Kung Fu could change a thing or two about the industry?
It would be too arrogant of me to make a statement on those lines. I just hope lots of people come to see it and be entertained. 
What is the way forward for Local Kung Fu and you?
We're looking at the possibility of a theatrical release for the Hindi dubbed version as well. As for my next project, it depends on which gets funded first. It could be my novel ‘Chocolate_Guitar_Momos’, it could be another rom-com, another martial arts film or a woman-centered rural dramedy biopic called ‘My Three Sisters’
kenny d basamatury, local kung fu, dibakar banerjee, anurag kashyap, martial arts comedy, local kung fu martial arts comedy, kenny director local kung fu, local kung fu assamese movie, anurag kashyap short film that day

Will you watch Ash in a bikini?

There are rumours about the former beauty queen and Bollywood diva Aishwarya Rai-Bachchan going sizer zero for 'Happy Anniversary'. Looks like the light-eyed beauty, who is starring opposite hubby Abhishek Bachchan in the movie, will repeat her 'Dhoom 2' svelte avatar. The big question is, will you watch her in a bikini?

Now that Ash has become a mommy and a devoted Bachchan bahu, would the audiences accept her in a sexy role? And with the number of kilos she has piled on, it would be really difficult for her to get into the size zero skimpy clothes-worthy figure. The last time she performed live at the IIFA awards, her love handles and post pregnancy weight were all too evident. It's said that she has hit the gym with a vengeance as she wants to get back into the game. But will we accept her a sexy heroine anymore?


We are a very touchy country, in the sense that we can't image a mother/wife as somebody we fantasize about. Sad, but true. This is the only reason most heroines don't get married till their early 30s. All the current actresses will defintely deny this, but it's the truth. Now that Kareena Kapoor has started wearing her 'Khan' title proudly, her clout in Bollywood is diminishing. She has given way to the Deepikas and Katrinas. And with marriage comes many clauses like 'no kissing, 'no sex scenes', 'no vulgar moves' and so on. We are not sure how much the audiences would accept Ash in her brazen role. Or is this just a big rumour spread by an overactive PR machinery?

While most actors find great fame post marriage, actresses have not been that lucky yet. After watching Ash's bronze-touched sizzling hot look in 'Dhoom 2', our expectations would be really high and it's just not possible for the gorgeous lady who is in her late 30s now. At the cost of sounding sexist, it's not going to work out for Mrs Bachchan as there are younger and sexier actresses around, ready to shed everything they have. With such touch competition around, can she rule B-Town again?

The Bachchan parivar is rumoured to be rather conservative (the daughter, Shweta Bachchan-Nanda wasn't allowed to enter movies), so it would be interesting to see how the senior Bachchans react to this piece of information. Will they let their bahu pursue her dreams or put a hold on it? With hubby Abhi also joining wifey dear on the sets, would it turn out to be a comfortable situation! We will keep you posted on this topic...do keep an eye on our page!

If you have anything say about this article, do shout out to us in the comments section below!
aishwarya rai bachchan bikini, aishwarya rai bacchan size zero 2013, aishwarya rai bachchan happy anniversary, aishwarya rai bachan comeback film

5 Unique Ways to Avoid a Date

These ideas will ensure that the person you have been trying to avoid going on a date with, never calls up again...

1. “Oh... I would have loved to come but I have to meet this really interesting guy/girl who I met at the same party I met you. Remember? He/she was standing right next to you at the bar. I hope you can understand that I would not like to miss any chance of getting hooked up with him/her. I have been waiting for this moment since that day.” 

2. “I wish you had called me earlier but I have just made some plans with my ex. You know we have been really trying to overcome our egos and trauma after the breakup we had, and are now trying to get to know each other all over again, like perfect strangers. Sounds fun, right? So we have decided to go for a movie and then on a romantic dinner. I quite excited.” 

3. “You know what? I just had a word with Joey’s girlfriend yaar and I have to catch up with her. You know Joey? Oh... I think I haven’t told you. He is my makeout partner and I really can’t say no to his gf. He is going to throw fits at me. She’s been really wanting to see me. So you know I cannot cancel my date with her, else I would have come with you for sure. 

4. “You know, the other day I met my palmist and he told me some really scary things that are about to happen in my life. He has asked me to stay away from getting into any kind of relationship because it will be bad for my partner. Plus, I will be going for an arranged marriage, as he has already told me.” 

5. “Ya, why not, I can come with you for sure. But, before that we have to do something else more important together. I am a big devotee of Baba Ramdev and there’s a special one-hour telecast of his show which I can’t miss. So before going out, we will watch the show and seek his blessings so that everything turns out to be positive on the date. 

unique ways to avoid a date, ways to avoid a date, 5 ways to avoid a date, how to avoid a date, how to avoid going on a date, how to avoid someone, how to avoid a person, ways to avoid a person, ways to avoid someone

Inculcate money saving habits in your kids

Many fresh surveys have revealed that Indians living in major cities are not too good when it comes to monetary planning. We can somewhat blame this to our social framework, which does not allow us sufficient opportunity to sharpen our money management skills during childhood. Though, as adults, we would do a great disfavour to our kids, if we fail to infuse good financial habits in them.

With increasing healthcare expenses and nuclear families becoming a fashion, children can no longer stay unaware in monetary matters when they grow up. Below are five proven steps to train kids about good cash management.

First and foremost- Be an excellent role model



Studies have shown that kids frequently pursue grown-ups in the family - mostly parents - as their first role models. You may be amazed to know that simulation plays a significant part for kids to be taught. Engaging children in domestic monetary decisions is a good way of doing this.

You can talk about, describe and take kids viewpoint on daily issues. Here are some examples to engage your kids on such issues-

-Shopping: Why according to them purchasing garments on sale is a better choice?
-Dining: Enjoy the same delicious food in a less expensive restaurant or at home, a better option?
-Utilities: Will trimming down AC usage help in curtailing electricity bills?
-Grocery: Why purchasing country made products instead of imported one be cost efficient?
-Prudence: How, by spending intelligently, one can bank for birthday gifts for friends and family.

Motivating, admiring and rewarding children when they display good money management performance is the best way to go about it.

Utilise video games


In the age of Xbox and Playstation, there is no better entertaining way to teach kids about monetary skills. Introduce your children to play trending online cash management games like Road Trip to Savings, Financial Football, Peter Pig's Money counter, Money Metropolis, Financial Soccer, Record shop tycoon, Burger Restaurant, and many more.

The good old family game like Business and Monopoly are still believed to be one of the best ways to teach precious financial lessons. This way, kids not just learn to count but also help them in leaning out basic calculations. These games help them learn how to deal best with limited cash and think the way a banker does.

Persuade saving towards targets


Converse with kids about the things they want to purchase in near future - toys, games, bicycle and so on. This will assist them to manage how much they require saving each day to achieve their goal. Gift them a piggy bank to keep safe their savings. Children can also be mentored about the significance of prioritising and trading off, as not all targets are reachable with the same capital. When repeated over a period of time, children start thinking of long-term savings and build up financial control, which is lacking among adults now-a-days.

Give them pocket money


Children need to know that money does not grow on trees but is made through hard work. Kids should be motivated to earn pocket money by getting engaged in various types of tasks. Like a kid of 7-12 age group can without doubt manage household chores while youngsters can earn a good and decent pocket money by doing a part-time job. By earning their own pocket money, children tend to become more responsible and start realising the worth of hard earned money.

Assign budget plans and allow making mistakes


Pass an overall budget idea to children and give them money to come up with a plan to accomplish the same. Like, ask them to plan a picnic within a strict budget. Let them come up with all fun activities, food, fuel and other expenses and let them make payments for those costs. Failure or faults are also the best teachers. Let your kids make out that they have overspent on one activity at the cost of another or they plainly undervalued the expenses. They must to learn to make preferences within the given budget. Engage adolescents in managing and evaluating household budgets.


how to bring saving habit to children, saving habits to children, saving habit to kid, saving habit to kid in nuclear families