In a world of chaos, you’re my light,

Guiding me through the darkest night.

With your love so strong and true,

Mom, I couldn’t be more grateful to you.

Your hugs, your kisses, warm and sweet,

Make my world feel so complete.

In your arms, I find my peace,

Where troubles and worries cease.

You cheer me up when I feel down,

Turning my frown into a crown.

On this Mother’s Day, I want to say,

Thanks for being my hero in every way!

1. The Fashionista Mom:

• Personalized Jewelry: A custom necklace or bracelet with her initials or birthstone adds a touch of elegance.
• Designer Handbag: Treat her to a luxurious handbag from her favorite designer, something she might not splurge on for herself.
• Fashion Magazine Subscription: Keep her up-to-date with the latest trends with a subscription to her favorite fashion magazine.

1. The Foodie Mom:

• Cooking Class: Gift her a cooking class with a renowned chef to enhance her culinary skills and inspire new recipes.
• Gourmet Gift Basket: Fill a basket with artisanal cheeses, chocolates, and gourmet treats for her to indulge in.
• Restaurant Gift Card: Treat her to a memorable dining experience at a top-rated restaurant in her area.

1. The Nature-Loving Mom:

• Gardening Kit: Help her cultivate her green thumb with a gardening kit complete with seeds, tools, and pots.
• Outdoor Adventure: Plan a hiking trip or nature walk in a scenic location where she can immerse herself in the beauty of the outdoors.
• Botanical Prints: Decorate her home with framed botanical prints or a beautiful plant to bring the outdoors inside.

1. The Wellness-Oriented Mom:

• Spa Day: Treat her to a day of relaxation and rejuvenation with a spa package including massages, facials, and other pampering treatments.
• Yoga Retreat: Gift her a weekend getaway to a yoga retreat where she can unwind, meditate, and focus on self-care.
• Essential Oil Diffuser: Create a serene atmosphere at home with an essential oil diffuser and a selection of calming essential oils.

1. The Tech-Savvy Mom:

• Smart Home Devices: Upgrade her home with smart home devices like a voice-activated assistant, smart thermostat, or smart lighting system.
• E-Reader: For the mom who loves to read, an e-reader allows her to access her favorite books wherever she goes.
• Virtual Reality Headset: Transport her to new worlds with a virtual reality headset for immersive entertainment experiences.

1. The Creative Mom:

• Art Supplies: Fuel her creativity with a set of high-quality art supplies such as paints, brushes, and sketchbooks.
• Craft Workshop: Enroll her in a workshop where she can learn a new craft like pottery, jewelry making, or calligraphy.
• DIY Project Kit: Give her a DIY project kit with everything she needs to create something beautiful, whether it’s a piece of home decor or a handmade gift.

1. The Sentimental Mom:

• Memory Book: Compile photos, letters, and mementos into a personalized memory book celebrating special moments and memories.
• Customized Keepsake: Create a custom piece of artwork or home decor featuring a meaningful quote, song lyrics, or family names.
• Family Portrait Session: Arrange a professional family photo shoot to capture precious moments together that she can cherish forever.

1. The Adventure-Seeking Mom:

• Hot Air Balloon Ride: Give her the gift of adventure with a hot air balloon ride offering breathtaking views from above.
• Outdoor Gear: Equip her for her next adventure with hiking boots, a durable backpack, or a waterproof jacket.
• Travel Experience: Plan a weekend getaway or international trip to a destination on her bucket list where she can explore, discover, and create lasting memories.

Remember, the most important aspect of any gift is the thought and love behind it. Whether you choose a lavish present or a heartfelt gesture, the key is to show appreciation for the remarkable woman who has shaped your life in countless ways. Happy Mother’s Day!

1. Straight Lashes: If you have straight lashes that point downwards, look for a mascara that provides curl and lift. Opt for a mascara with a curved wand or a formula that promises to hold a curl. Waterproof mascaras can also help maintain the curl throughout the day.
2. Short Lashes: For short lashes, you’ll want a mascara that adds both length and volume. Look for mascaras with lengthening fibers or a thin wand that can reach every lash, including the tiny ones in the inner corners of your eyes. Avoid mascaras with large brushes, as they can overwhelm short lashes.
3. Sparse Lashes: If your lashes are sparse or thin, choose a volumizing mascara to add fullness and density. Look for formulas with thickening agents like waxes or fibers that can build up your lashes for a more dramatic look. Mascaras with silicone brushes can help separate and coat each lash for maximum impact.
4. Curly Lashes: If you’re blessed with naturally curly lashes, you’ll want a mascara that enhances their shape without weighing them down. Avoid mascaras that are too heavy or wet, as they can cause your curls to droop. Instead, opt for lightweight formulas that provide definition and hold without clumping.
5. Sensitive Eyes: If you have sensitive eyes or wear contact lenses, choose a mascara that is gentle and non-irritating. Look for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formulas that won’t cause discomfort or redness. Water-based mascaras are often a good option for sensitive eyes, as they are less likely to cause irritation.
6. Bottom Lashes: When it comes to your bottom lashes, precision is key. Look for mascaras with small, skinny wands that can coat each lash without smudging or clumping. Waterproof formulas can also help prevent smudging throughout the day, especially if you tend to touch your eyes frequently.
7. Long Lashes: If you’re blessed with naturally long lashes, you’ll want a mascara that enhances their length without making them look spidery. Look for lengthening mascaras with thin, comb-like wands that can evenly coat each lash from root to tip. Avoid overly thick or volumizing formulas, as they can weigh down long lashes.
8. All-In-One: If you’re looking for a mascara that does it all—lengthening, volumizing, curling, and defining—consider an all-in-one formula. These mascaras typically have a combination of benefits and are designed to give you a full lash look with just one product.

Remember to consider your personal preferences and desired lash look when choosing a mascara. Experiment with different formulas and wand shapes to find the perfect mascara for your lash type and achieve the lashes of your dreams.

A matte skin makeup look is timeless and sophisticated, offering a smooth, velvety finish that lasts all day. Whether you’re aiming for a natural everyday appearance or a glamorous evening ensemble, mastering the art of matte makeup can elevate your beauty game to the next level. Here are some essential tips to help you create a flawless matte skin makeup look:

1. Start with Skincare:
Great makeup starts with great skincare. Prep your skin by cleansing, toning, and moisturizing to create a smooth canvas for makeup application. Opt for oil-free moisturizers and primers to prevent excess shine throughout the day.

2. Use a Mattifying Primer:
A mattifying primer is your secret weapon for achieving long-lasting matte skin. Apply a pea-sized amount evenly over your face to control oil production and minimize the appearance of pores. This step creates a smooth base for your foundation and helps it adhere better to the skin.

3. Choose the Right Foundation:
Select a matte foundation formula that matches your skin tone perfectly. Look for oil-free, long-wearing formulas with a matte finish to achieve a flawless complexion. Apply foundation sparingly, focusing on areas that need coverage, and blend well for a natural look.

4. Set with Powder:
To lock in your matte foundation and control shine, set your makeup with a translucent powder. Use a fluffy powder brush to dust powder lightly over your face, focusing on the T-zone and any areas prone to oiliness. This step helps to mattify the skin and extend the wear of your makeup.

5. Blot Throughout the Day:
Keep oil at bay by carrying blotting papers or a compact powder with you for touch-ups throughout the day. Blotting papers quickly absorb excess oil without disturbing your makeup, while a light dusting of powder helps to refresh your matte finish.

6. Avoid Over-Powdering:
While powder is essential for achieving a matte look, be cautious not to over-powder, which can result in a cakey appearance. Start with a light dusting of powder and build up as needed, focusing on areas that tend to get oily.

7. Set with Setting Spray:
Finish your matte makeup look with a spritz of setting spray to lock in your makeup and extend its longevity. Look for a mattifying setting spray that helps control shine while keeping your makeup in place for hours.

8. Pay Attention to Lip and Eye Makeup:
Complement your matte skin with matte lip and eye makeup to create a cohesive look. Opt for matte lipsticks and eyeshadows in neutral or bold shades to enhance your overall appearance without adding extra shine.

9. Practice Proper Makeup Removal:
At the end of the day, ensure thorough makeup removal to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. Use a gentle cleanser and makeup remover to dissolve makeup, followed by toner to purify the skin and moisturizer to replenish hydration.

By incorporating these essential tips into your makeup routine, you can achieve a flawless matte skin makeup look that lasts from morning until night. Experiment with different products and techniques to find the perfect combination for your unique skin type and personal style. With practice and patience, you’ll master the art of matte makeup and exude confidence with your flawless complexion.

Meaning of Akshaya Tritiya:

The term “Akshaya Tritiya” is derived from two Sanskrit words: “Akshaya” meaning “eternal” or “never diminishing” and “Tritiya” meaning “third lunar day.” Together, it signifies a day that brings eternal prosperity and success. It is believed that any activity started on this day will bring unending benefits and prosperity.

Significance of Akshaya Tritiya:

1. Religious Significance: Akshaya Tritiya holds great religious significance for Hindus. It is believed that Lord Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu, was born on this day. Additionally, it marks the beginning of the Treta Yuga, one of the four ages in Hindu cosmology.

2. Astrological Significance: According to Hindu astrology, Akshaya Tritiya is considered one of the most auspicious days for beginning new ventures, investments, weddings, or any significant undertakings. It is believed that the planetary positions on this day are favorable for success and prosperity.

3. Cultural Significance: Akshaya Tritiya is also associated with various cultural practices across different regions of India. People buy gold, silver, jewelry, or new utensils on this day as it is believed that acquiring such items on Akshaya Tritiya ensures prosperity and wealth throughout the year.

4. Spiritual Significance: Many devotees observe fasts, perform pujas, and visit temples on Akshaya Tritiya to seek the blessings of the divine for a prosperous and fulfilling life. It is considered an auspicious day for spiritual practices and acts of charity.

Story Associated with Akshaya Tritiya:

There are several mythological stories associated with Akshaya Tritiya, each emphasizing the significance of this auspicious day. One of the prominent stories is the story of Lord Krishna and Sudama.

The Story of Lord Krishna and Sudama:

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna and Sudama were childhood friends. Sudama, a poor Brahmin, once visited Lord Krishna’s palace to seek his help during a time of severe drought and famine. Despite their difference in social status, Lord Krishna welcomed Sudama with open arms and treated him with great affection.

Overwhelmed by Lord Krishna’s hospitality, Sudama was hesitant to ask for any favors. Instead, he offered his humble gift of beaten rice (poha) to Lord Krishna, which he had brought from his home. Lord Krishna, recognizing the pure intentions and love behind Sudama’s gift, accepted it with joy and gratitude.

Upon returning to his humble abode, Sudama was astonished to find his modest dwelling transformed into a grand palace filled with wealth and prosperity. Lord Krishna had blessed Sudama abundantly for his sincerity and devotion. This incident highlights the significance of selflessness, friendship, and the boundless blessings that one can receive on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya.

In conclusion, Akshaya Tritiya is a sacred day celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor by Hindus across the world. Its significance lies in its association with prosperity, success, and the eternal blessings of the divine. Through various rituals, traditions, and stories like that of Lord Krishna and Sudama, Akshaya Tritiya continues to inspire faith, generosity, and spiritual growth among devotees.

India was the top country receiving remittances in 2010, 2015, and 2020, with the remittances crossing the USD 100 billion mark in 2022.

India received over USD 111 billion in remittances in 2022, the largest in the world, becoming the first country to reach and even surpass the USD 100 billion mark, the United Nations migration agency has said.

India, Mexico, China, the Philippines and France were the top five remittance recipient countries.

“India was well above the rest, receiving more than USD 111 billion, the first country to reach and even surpass the USD 100 billion mark.

Mexico was the second-largest remittance recipient in 2022, a position it also held in 2021 after overtaking China, which historically had been the second-biggest recipient after India,” the report said.

According to the report’s data, India was the top country receiving remittances in 2010 (USD 53.48 billion), 2015 (USS 68.91 billion), and 2020 (USD 83.15 billion), with the remittances crossing the USD 100 billion mark to reach USD 111.22 billion in 2022.

Three countries in Southern Asia – India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, rank among the top ten recipients of international remittances in the world, underscoring the significance of labour migration from the subregion.

“With India estimated to have received more than USD 111 billion in 2022, it is by far the largest recipient of international remittances in the world and the first country to ever reach that figure,” the report said.

Pakistan and Bangladesh were the sixth and eighth largest international remittance recipients in 2022, receiving nearly USD 30 billion and USD 21.5 billion respectively.

The Gulf States remain significant destinations for migrant workers from around the world, and the 2022 football World Cup further underscored the importance of migrant labour to the subregion as well as rights violations.

Migrants continue to comprise high proportions of the total populations in many Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) States.

In the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Qatar, migrants made up 88 per cent, nearly 73 and 77 per cent of the national populations, respectively.

Most migrants – many of whom come from countries such as India, Egypt, Bangladesh, Ethiopia and Kenya – work in sectors such as construction, hospitality, security, domestic work and retail.

The report added that nearly 18 million or 1.3 per cent of the total population, India is also the origin of the largest number of international migrants in the world, with large diasporas living in countries such as the United Arab Emirates, the United States and Saudi Arabia.

India came in 13th as the destination country for immigrants, with 4.48 million.

India – United Arab Emirates, India – US, India – Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh – India were among the top 10 international country-to-country migration corridors, the report said.

Mexico is now the second largest recipient of international remittances in the world after India. China had long held the second spot but it was surpassed by Mexico in 2021, with the Central American country estimated to have received more than USD 61 billion in 2022, while China received about USD 51 billion.

1. Prep Your Eyelids: Start by prepping your eyelids with an eyeshadow primer to ensure that your makeup stays in place all day. This step will also help to even out the skin tone on your eyelids and create a smooth base for your eyeshadow and eyeliner.
2. Choose Your Tools: Select the right tools for the job. You’ll need an eyeliner pencil, gel eyeliner, or liquid eyeliner depending on your preference. Additionally, have an angled eyeliner brush or a small, precise makeup brush on hand for blending and perfecting the wing.
3. Select Your Eyeshadow: Choose eyeshadow shades that complement your eye color and the overall look you’re going for. For a classic smoky eye, opt for neutral shades like taupe, brown, or charcoal. You can also add a pop of color with shades like plum, navy, or emerald green for a more dramatic effect.
4. Create a Base: Apply a neutral eyeshadow shade all over your eyelids to create a base for your smoky eye look. This will help to even out the skin tone and provide a smooth canvas for blending.
5. Outline Your Wing: Using your chosen eyeliner pencil, gel eyeliner, or liquid eyeliner, start by outlining the shape of your winged eyeliner. Begin at the outer corner of your eye and draw a line angled upwards towards the end of your eyebrow. This will serve as the guide for your wing.
6. Fill in the Wing: Once you’ve outlined the shape of your wing, fill it in with your eyeliner product of choice. Use short, precise strokes to gradually build up the intensity and thickness of the wing. Take your time with this step to ensure that the line is smooth and even.
7. Blend Your Eyeliner: To create a smoky effect, use an angled eyeliner brush or a small makeup brush to blend out the edges of your eyeliner. Start at the outer corner of your eye and gently smudge the eyeliner upwards and outwards towards the crease of your eyelid. This will soften the harsh lines and create a seamless transition between the eyeliner and eyeshadow.
8. Apply Eyeshadow: Once you’ve blended out the edges of your eyeliner, apply eyeshadow to your eyelids to further enhance the smoky effect. Start with a lighter shade and gradually build up the intensity by layering darker shades in the crease and outer corner of your eye. Use a blending brush to seamlessly blend the eyeshadow shades together for a seamless finish.
9. Highlight the Inner Corner: To brighten up your eyes and add dimension to your smoky eye look, apply a shimmery eyeshadow or highlighter to the inner corner of your eyes. This will help to open up the eyes and make them appear larger and more awake.
10. Finish with Mascara: Complete your smoky winged eyeliner look by applying several coats of mascara to your top and bottom lashes. This will help to define your lashes and add volume and length for a dramatic finish.
11. Clean Up Any Mistakes: Finally, use a makeup remover or a cotton swab dipped in micellar water to clean up any mistakes or smudges around the eyes. This will help to perfect your smoky winged eyeliner look and ensure that it looks flawless from every angle.

With these steps and a bit of practice, you’ll be able to achieve the perfect smoky winged eyeliner look every time. Experiment with different eyeliner techniques, eyeshadow shades, and finishes to create a look that’s uniquely yours and suits your personal style.

Early Innings Advantage: Start young! Like early runs, early investments grow faster through compounding. The longer your money plays, the bigger your score!

Know Your Pitch: Research before investing! Understand market trends and company financials, just like a batsman studies the pitch before playing.

Diversify Your Bowling Attack: Spread your risk! A balanced portfolio, like a strong team with both batting and bowling power, reduces risk and boosts returns.

Consistent Batting: Invest regularly! Regular investments, like consistent runs, add up over time. Use SIPs to average cost and avoid market swings.

Have a Safety Net: Build an emergency fund! It’s your financial safety net, like a fielder catching a crucial ball. It protects your long-term goals and reduces stress.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected that India’s economy will grow by 6.8% in the current fiscal year, driven primarily by public investment.

The IMF has revised its growth forecast for India upward from its January projection of 6.5% to 6.8%. Additionally, the IMF has raised its outlook for India’s FY24 growth to 7.8%, surpassing the government’s estimate of 7.6%.

The IMF report highlighted that “India and the Philippines have been the source of repeated positive growth surprises, supported by resilient domestic demand.”

It stated, “In China and India, we expect investment to contribute disproportionately to growth—much of it public, especially in India.

Regarding inflation, the IMF anticipates a more favorable situation for emerging markets, where inflation is already at or near the target. The report stated, “Core inflation is largely expected to remain contained. As for headline inflation, several economies may experience further reductions due to lower energy prices while in others (for example, India), food price pressures—especially for rice—may slow headline disinflation.”

India’s inflation rate fell to a 10-month low of 4.9% in March, although food inflation remained persistent above 8%.

The word “Batata” means potato in Marathi, the language spoken in Maharashtra, while “Vada” refers to a fried snack or fritter. Therefore, Batata Vada translates to potato fritters.

Batata Vada is believed to have originated in Mumbai, where it quickly became a staple street food item. It is often served with various chutneys such as green chutney (made with coriander and mint) or tamarind chutney for dipping, adding extra flavor to the already delicious snack.

Over time, Batata Vada has gained popularity throughout India and even internationally, becoming a beloved snack among people of all ages. It’s enjoyed both as a standalone snack and as a filling in various dishes like Vada Pav, another iconic Mumbai street food.

Ingredients:

– 4 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed

– 1 tablespoon oil

– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

– 1 tablespoon finely chopped ginger

– 1 tablespoon finely chopped green chilies

– 8-10 curry leaves

– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

– 1 teaspoon red chili powder

– Salt to taste

– 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves

– Besan (gram flour) batter (made by mixing besan with water to a thick consistency)

– Oil for deep frying

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them crackle.

2. Add cumin seeds, chopped ginger, chopped green chilies, and curry leaves. Saute for a minute.

3. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.

4. Add the mashed potatoes and chopped coriander leaves. Mix everything together and cook for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.

5. Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, shape it into small balls or patties.

6. Heat oil in a deep frying pan.

7. Dip each ball or patty into the besan batter, ensuring it’s coated evenly.

8. Carefully drop the coated balls or patties into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy.

9. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

10. Serve hot with green chutney or tamarind chutney.

Enjoy your delicious Batata Vada!