The Times of India

A papaya tree laden with golden fruit on your balcony sounds like a dream, but it is closer to reality than most people think. Papaya is one of the fastest-growing fruit plants, and a dwarf variety in a large pot can give you homegrown fruit within a year, as long as it gets plenty of sun, warmth and room for its roots. Here is a simple five-step guide to growing papaya on a balcony, from the fir…

Tej patta thrives in bright environments, making balconies or terraces ideal for its growth. Selecting an appropriate pot paired with well-draining soil is essential for the sapling's success. To promote growth and maintain optimal health, regular fertilization and occasional trimming are necessary. When it comes to harvesting, it's vital to do so with care to encourage continued leaf production.

Moving house is exciting, but it is also a long list of small jobs that can pile up fast. A missed electricity transfer, a forgotten address update or a box labelled “misc” can turn the first week in your new home into a scramble. A little planning makes the move far smoother. Here are five essential things to do when shifting, from packing and utilities to cleaning, paperwork and safety.

These little moments can reveal more about compatibility than a perfectly rehearsed introduction. Interestingly, many people do these things without even recognising that they are testing the other person. Here are five common examples.

In Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, a woman was nearly injured during a cylinder delivery when gas leaked and ignited upon contact with a flame from a nearby lamp. This alarming incident has raised concerns about LPG safety measures. Fortunately, the worker escaped unharmed, and no extensive damage occurred. Authorities urge the public to enhance awareness regarding the proper use of gas cylinders and th…

In preparation for the Yi Peng and Loy Krathong festivals, Chiang Mai International Airport has implemented some crucial operational adjustments. A total of 108 flights will face cancellation, while 80 will be rescheduled to enhance safety during the release of over 200,000 sky lanterns. Local authorities are collaborating to ensure secure flight paths, so travelers should confirm their flight st…

Pune's very own Yaqub Bangi, Yassira Memon, and Shubham Pariyar have earned coveted spots in the Sarabhai Younglings Internship program by triumphing in the national SPOT science aptitude test by the Vikram Sarabhai Science Foundation. This enriching program will provide them with invaluable insights through institutions like ISRO, HAL, and IIM Bangalore. Their journey is supported by Panaah Comm…

Come what may, a river is always in motion. It cuts through rocks, nourishes the land and finds a way forward, shaping the communities and civilisations that grow along its banks. From the ancient settlements of the Nile to the cities that flourished along the Ganga, rivers have been lifelines for people for thousands of years. If you want a name that carries a sense of resilience, continuity and…

Oscar Wilde keenly observed the challenge of celebrating a friend's achievements while grappling with our own difficulties. His sentiment resonates today, highlighting the importance of sincere celebration over envious comparison. In a world where competition prevails, the true measure of friendship lies in our capacity to lift one another up, showcasing both our character and the depth of our bo…

Meet Indira Amma, a remarkable 85-year-old teacher hailing from Kerala, who creatively employs sand and a stick to engage her young students. She introduces them to the fundamentals of Malayalam, Hindi, English, and mathematics using this unique approach. Children delight in tracing letters in the sand after watching her demonstrations, promoting a fun and waste-free learning environment.

Nitesh Yadav, who oversees a fitness center in India, opens up about the financial landscape of gym ownership. While his gym generates sales of Rs 20 lakh each month, substantial expenses like staff wages, rent, and loan payments, which range between Rs 6 lakh and Rs 7 lakh, significantly cut into profits. He stresses that maintaining members is more important than constantly finding new ones for…

In a serene village, a software engineer working remotely is finding his once-peaceful existence turning dull despite financial stability. Limited options for leisure turn weekends into a chore, prompting thoughts of relocating to Kota for greater social engagement and enjoyable activities. Although this shift might strain his budget, it promises a more enriching daily experience, prompting a cru…

Living in Bengaluru, a local couple's monthly financial outlay reaches about Rs 1.73 lakh, revealing stark economic differences in the city. Their budget includes Rs 60,000 for rent and Rs 75,000 for travel, showcasing a prioritization of experiences and wellness through high-protein groceries. This financial scenario starkly contrasts with entry-level IT employees' earnings, which often fall con…

Alia Bhatt knows how to make a statement without going overboard. And her latest appearance at the special screening of Ranbir Kapoor's upcoming film, Ramayana, is a good example.