cultural staple

Australia bursts with activity in June, showcasing vibrant festivals and celebrations. From Vivid Sydney's dazzling light displays and music to Dark Mofo's eccentric winter solstice art, the country offers diverse cultural experiences. Pride Fest expands across Sydney, while truffle festivals and the opening of the snow season provide culinary and outdoor adventures.

Diaspora adapts to daily life through language, cuisine and cultural changes

Renowned Urdu poet Bashir Badr, whose simple yet profound verses resonated widely, passed away in Bhopal. Lucknow's All-India Radio provided his crucial launchpad, propelling him to national fame. His contemporaries and admirers remember him for his humility, emotional depth, and significant contribution to modern Urdu poetry, making it accessible to all.

The iconic European "aigrette" diamond headpiece, a symbol of "old money" aesthetics, actually originated from the Mughal sarpech, a symbol of Indian masculine power. Looted during colonial rule, these pieces were reinterpreted by European jewelers, transforming a symbol of male authority into a feminine accessory.

How the Japanese community in Bengaluru balances adaptation with preservation

A comparative test of leading AI models on actual UPSC Prelims papers reveal how closely modern systems can mirror human-level preparation, handling history and polity well but struggling with precise current affairs and technical distinctions that often decide exam outcomes.

Halifax, a British high street staple for over 170 years, is reportedly set to be retired by parent company Lloyds Banking Group this summer. New account openings will cease by October, with existing customers eventually transitioned to Lloyds Bank, marking a significant shift in the UK banking landscape.

Hindu families abroad can perform pujas even with missing items. Distinguishing between essential ritual requirements, family customs, and practical adaptations is key. Local, fresh alternatives for flowers, leaves, and fruits are acceptable. While some items like sandalwood paste are harder to replace, honesty and reverence remain paramount for a meaningful ritual.

Discover villages worldwide where people live longer, healthier lives. These 'Blue Zones' like Sardinia and Okinawa reveal secrets: simple, plant-based diets, natural movement, strong community bonds, and a sense of purpose. Unlike rushed modern life, these places embrace slow rhythms, valuing elders and shared meals, offering a gentle, joyful approach to aging.

GitLab is undergoing a significant restructuring, including layoffs, to adapt to the 'agentic era' of software engineering. CEO Bill Staples announced plans to flatten the organization, empower smaller R&D teams, and embed AI agents into workflows. The company is also re-evaluating its global footprint and making architectural bets to prepare for machine-scale workloads.

Savvy travellers are embracing the travel capsule wardrobe, focusing on fewer, versatile pieces that can be restyled effortlessly. Fashion experts highlight that re-wearing is fashionable, with accessories playing a key role in transforming outfits. This approach prioritises smart packing, saving time, energy, and money while ensuring style across diverse travel experiences.