Shraddha Kapoor, who is all set to play Haseena Parker in her biopic, would be sharing screen space with brother Siddharth for the first time.The shoot is taking place in Trombay and recently had a special visitor on sets.  

Their mother, Shivangi Kolhapure visited their set and was thrilled to witness her daughter and son shooting together. 

“Shraddha's mother was thrilled to watch both her kids share the work space together. She was very happy to see her daughter and son work together in the same film and replicate their real life relationship. It was indeed a very special moment for her”, the sources said.

It would be interesting to watch the real-life brother-sister emulating their relationship on screen. 

Shraddha Kapoor is first among her contemporaries to star in a biopic.The news has generated immense buzz and the audience is looking forward to it. 

It was yet another benchmark for Indian fashion and design industry when India was declared the winner of "Best Country Award" for exhibit curated by IMG Reliance at the International Fashion Showcase (IFS) during London Fashion Week.

The British Council, British Fashion Council (BFC) and Mercedes-Benz announced India as the winner of "International Fashion Showcase Country Award" at a prize-giving ceremony at Somerset House, London, beating 25 other nations judged by a panel of industry experts, said a statement.

The top award was presented by Sarah Mower, BFC Ambassador for Emerging Talent; chief critic Vogue Runway to the IMG Reliance Fashion team of Jaspreet Chandok, Gautam Vazirani, Nikhita Punja and Shruti Singh; designers Alan Alexander Kaleekal, Karishma Shahani Khan, Priyanka Ella Lorena Lama, Ragini Ahuja, Ujjawal Dubey, and exhibition designer Wasim Khan.

To celebrate India-Britain Year of Culture 2017, IMG Reliance in partnership with 6Degree and supported by Etihad Airways and British Council, presented "The Indian Pastoralists" — a special sustainable fashion exhibition at the International Fashion Showcase (IFS) held during the London Fashion Week.

The five designers were selected based on their contemporary Indian aesthetics that offer a global appeal.

Each of the five designers created special looks that represented "The Indian Pastoralists" theme conceived by IMG Reliance and aligned to the global theme of IFS this year, Local/Global.

The five Indian designers' creations drew inspiration from the multi-faceted ethnic lifestyles of India's nomadic pastoral communities. Their collections interpreted the deep heritage of Indian textiles and handlooms for a global audience.

For designer [KA] [SHA] by Karishma Shahani Khan (Womenswear), the inspiration for the exhibit stands as an ode to one of India's most iconic pastoral nomads, the Rabaris who are predominantly based in Kutch. For Kaleekal by Alan Alexander Kaleekal (Menswear), the inspiration is from the Todas in the Nilgiri Hills, South India.

Ikai by Ragini Ahuja (Womenswear) has drawn inspiration from the Drokpa in Ladakh, in northern India, whereas PELLA by Priyanka Ella Lorena Lama (Womenswear) has drawn inspiration from Lachen and Lachung tribes of Sikkim in north-east India.

And last but not the least, Antar-Agni by Ujjawal Dubey (Menswear) has taken inspiration from the Van Gujjars of the Himalayas in northern India. 

The exhibition featured conceptual installation elements designed in collaboration with spatial design expert Wasim Khan and sustainable furniture designer Sandeep Sangaru.

"Through initiatives such as the International Fashion Showcase 2017, we will present India's emerging talent on prestigious international platforms for global exposure. IMG Reliance through its lead platform Lakmé Fashion Week has always delivered compelling stories around sustainable fashion and focused on supporting young and emerging designers and this is an extension of the same," said Jaspreet Chandok, Head of Fashion, IMG Reliance. 

"This victory showcases the true power of the young Indian designer mind that is breaking pre-conceived notions on Indian Fashion in the world. This puts Indian Fashion on the map like never before – I've been told that the entire London Fashion Week is buzzing about our installation and design talent," he added.

Jaspreet said, "We'd like to thank 6Degree and Etihad Airways for their support in taking the lead to promote young Indian design talent across the world."

It was yet another benchmark for Indian fashion and design industry when India was declared the winner of "Best Country Award" for exhibit curated by IMG Reliance at the International Fashion Showcase (IFS) during London Fashion Week.

The British Council, British Fashion Council (BFC) and Mercedes-Benz announced India as the winner of "International Fashion Showcase Country Award" at a prize-giving ceremony at Somerset House, London, beating 25 other nations judged by a panel of industry experts, said a statement.

The top award was presented by Sarah Mower, BFC Ambassador for Emerging Talent; chief critic Vogue Runway to the IMG Reliance Fashion team of Jaspreet Chandok, Gautam Vazirani, Nikhita Punja and Shruti Singh; designers Alan Alexander Kaleekal, Karishma Shahani Khan, Priyanka Ella Lorena Lama, Ragini Ahuja, Ujjawal Dubey, and exhibition designer Wasim Khan.

To celebrate India-Britain Year of Culture 2017, IMG Reliance in partnership with 6Degree and supported by Etihad Airways and British Council, presented "The Indian Pastoralists" — a special sustainable fashion exhibition at the International Fashion Showcase (IFS) held during the London Fashion Week.

The five designers were selected based on their contemporary Indian aesthetics that offer a global appeal.

Each of the five designers created special looks that represented "The Indian Pastoralists" theme conceived by IMG Reliance and aligned to the global theme of IFS this year, Local/Global.

The five Indian designers' creations drew inspiration from the multi-faceted ethnic lifestyles of India's nomadic pastoral communities. Their collections interpreted the deep heritage of Indian textiles and handlooms for a global audience.

For designer [KA] [SHA] by Karishma Shahani Khan (Womenswear), the inspiration for the exhibit stands as an ode to one of India's most iconic pastoral nomads, the Rabaris who are predominantly based in Kutch. For Kaleekal by Alan Alexander Kaleekal (Menswear), the inspiration is from the Todas in the Nilgiri Hills, South India.

Ikai by Ragini Ahuja (Womenswear) has drawn inspiration from the Drokpa in Ladakh, in northern India, whereas PELLA by Priyanka Ella Lorena Lama (Womenswear) has drawn inspiration from Lachen and Lachung tribes of Sikkim in north-east India.

And last but not the least, Antar-Agni by Ujjawal Dubey (Menswear) has taken inspiration from the Van Gujjars of the Himalayas in northern India. 

The exhibition featured conceptual installation elements designed in collaboration with spatial design expert Wasim Khan and sustainable furniture designer Sandeep Sangaru.

"Through initiatives such as the International Fashion Showcase 2017, we will present India's emerging talent on prestigious international platforms for global exposure. IMG Reliance through its lead platform Lakmé Fashion Week has always delivered compelling stories around sustainable fashion and focused on supporting young and emerging designers and this is an extension of the same," said Jaspreet Chandok, Head of Fashion, IMG Reliance. 

"This victory showcases the true power of the young Indian designer mind that is breaking pre-conceived notions on Indian Fashion in the world. This puts Indian Fashion on the map like never before – I've been told that the entire London Fashion Week is buzzing about our installation and design talent," he added.

Jaspreet said, "We'd like to thank 6Degree and Etihad Airways for their support in taking the lead to promote young Indian design talent across the world."

Jewish community centres (JCC) in many cities across the US received bomb threats, a media report said.

The JCC Association of North America reported that 11 centres received the threats on Monday, The Hill magazine reported. 

"Our JCCs are strongly rooted in communities across the country," David Posner, Director of strategic performance at JCC Association of North America, said in a statement.

Posner said the association is in "regular communication with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which is investigating these threats."

The White House responded to the latest wave of bomb threats, saying hatred has "no place in the country".

"Hatred and hate-motivated violence of any kind have no place in a country founded on the promise of individual freedom," the White House said.

"The President (Donald Trump) has made it abundantly clear that these actions are unacceptable."

Donald Trump's daughter, Ivanka responded on Twitter by saying, "America is a nation built on the principle of religious tolerance. We must protect our houses of worship and religious centres."

She and her husband, senior adviser Jared Kushner, are Jewish, the magazine reported. 

The JCC Association of North America reported that since the beginning of the year, there have been 69 incidents at 54 JCCs in 27 states and one Canadian province. However, all threats were determined to be hoaxes.

Jewish community centres (JCC) in many cities across the US received bomb threats, a media report said.

The JCC Association of North America reported that 11 centres received the threats on Monday, The Hill magazine reported. 

"Our JCCs are strongly rooted in communities across the country," David Posner, Director of strategic performance at JCC Association of North America, said in a statement.

Posner said the association is in "regular communication with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which is investigating these threats."

The White House responded to the latest wave of bomb threats, saying hatred has "no place in the country".

"Hatred and hate-motivated violence of any kind have no place in a country founded on the promise of individual freedom," the White House said.

"The President (Donald Trump) has made it abundantly clear that these actions are unacceptable."

Donald Trump's daughter, Ivanka responded on Twitter by saying, "America is a nation built on the principle of religious tolerance. We must protect our houses of worship and religious centres."

She and her husband, senior adviser Jared Kushner, are Jewish, the magazine reported. 

The JCC Association of North America reported that since the beginning of the year, there have been 69 incidents at 54 JCCs in 27 states and one Canadian province. However, all threats were determined to be hoaxes.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) fired Rogerio Micale as the youth coach, six months after he directed the national side to its first-ever Olympic gold.

Micale lost his job on Monday after Brazil's under-20 squad, a five-time world champion, finished fifth in the South American qualifiers, reports Efe,

The Brazilians will also miss the 2017 under-20 World Cup tournament in South Korea where the continent will be represented by Uruguay, Ecuador, Venezuela and Argentina.

Micale, who coached the Brazilian side that finished second in the 2015 under-20 World Cup, was appointed to coach the Olympic squad after the CBF fired Dunga.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) fired Rogerio Micale as the youth coach, six months after he directed the national side to its first-ever Olympic gold.

Micale lost his job on Monday after Brazil's under-20 squad, a five-time world champion, finished fifth in the South American qualifiers, reports Efe,

The Brazilians will also miss the 2017 under-20 World Cup tournament in South Korea where the continent will be represented by Uruguay, Ecuador, Venezuela and Argentina.

Micale, who coached the Brazilian side that finished second in the 2015 under-20 World Cup, was appointed to coach the Olympic squad after the CBF fired Dunga.

Iran, an ancient land with a vibrant culture and absorbing history, is our next-door neighbour, but surprisingly, is not a popular holiday destination for most Pakistani tourists.

The fear that the US may not grant a visa to those who visit Iran keeps many travellers away.

Obtaining the visa was not a problem for us; the Iranian consulate in Karachi issued the papers within 48 hours. There are regular and convenient flights from Dubai to Tehran.

This city, surrounded by the snow-covered Alborz mountains, is picturesque but heavily populated; its most impressive tourist attractions are the Golestan Palace and the collection of Royal Jewels, which are securely housed in the basement of the National Bank of Iran.

On display is an assortment of bejewelled swords, crowns and exquisitely handcrafted jewellery from the Qajar and Pahlavi dynasties. Nadir Shah’s Peacock Throne, which he brought back to Iran from India, the splendid crowns that the Shah and the Shahbano wore at the centenary celebrations of the Pehalvi dynasty at Persepolis in 1971, are a feast for the eyes.

News about Iran would have you believe that the country is on the brink of collapse.

We were therefore pleasantly surprised: Tehran airport is modern, and our domestic flights were always on time.

There was not even an hour of power failure.

We saw an occasional traffic policeman on the streets, but certainly no visible weapons nor any VIP motorcade. You know you are in a civilised and progressive country.

The older, conservative women wear the traditional black chador, but most young women dress in exquisite styles that match the haute couture of Fifth Avenue, New York.

The only binding stipulation is that women must wear headscarves: This is advertised ubiquitously with grim-looking ayatollahs glaring down from large billboards.

The fashion-conscious women grudgingly conform to this rule in letter, although not in spirit.

They would sooner doff their scarves and show off their beautiful coiffure.

Young women confided in us that they hate the dress restrictions imposed by the clerics.

The Iranians have not forgotten their martyrs of the 1980 war with Iraq. The main streets of the towns are lined with photographs of them affixed to lamp posts and on billboards.

Reza, our English-speaking driver-cum-guide, holds a Master’s degree in Persian history, and his vast knowledge about the Achaemenids, the Sassanids, the Safavids, the Shahs and the ayatollahs kept us engaged in lively discussions during long drives through the deserts connecting small and large towns.

Reza told us with a wink that the exquisite mosques we visit are actually meant for tourists; not many Iranians frequent them. English is hardly spoken here except in hotels, so we were relieved that Reza was with us to bargain with shopkeepers and whittle down the prices of souvenirs.

He explained the delicacies on offer in traditional restaurants where we sat on raised takhts.

There is more to the Iranian menu than Chillo Kebab and we were ever ready to try delectable Persian cuisine, washed down with a tumbler of mint lassi.

The most romantic city in Iran is, of course, Isfahan. It is called Nisf-i-Jahan, and indeed it is.

The fragrant gardens and fountains around the Chehel Sotun and Hasht Behesht palaces offer a blissful quiet broken only by birdsong.

A short, pleasant walk from our hotel was the Naqsh-e-Jahan Square. Here, around a large 400-year old maidan are the exquisite Safavid mosques built by Shah Abbas.

I was smitten by the city and am considering applying for permission to move here!

Iran is definitely not isolated from the world; it is, indeed, very popular with international tourists. In our hotel, we met Europeans who were not deterred by economic sanctions.

In fact, the devalued Iranian rial makes travel in Iran quite affordable.

Persia is the home of legendary poets and philosophers. The works of Hafiz Shirazi, Saadi, Rumi, Firdausi, Omar Khayyam and even Allama Iqbal (known here as Iqbal Lahori) are abundantly displayed in bookshops and hotel lobbies.

To offer our tribute to the poets, we travelled to Shiraz and visited the mausoleums of Hafiz and Saadi. For most Iranians, Hafiz is not merely a poet; they believe his poetry transcends the mundane, and they often use it for faal, to guide them in making important decisions.

Just a few miles from Shiraz is Persepolis, the once-glamorous city built by King Darius of the Achaemenid period, and destroyed by Alexander the Great.

Nearby are the Royal Tombs, at Naqsh-i-Rustom although the burial site of Cyrus, the most celebrated king of ancient Persia, is in Pasargade.

Iran, a vast country, is veritably a museum of Zoroastrian and Islamic dynasties, of marauding nomads, and Sufis and saints.

They have left behind indelible imprints of their cultures and languages, which still resonate across Iran.

Two thousand years of history flash by us in a blink.

(The writer is the author of Jerusalem-A Journey Back in Time)

Iran, an ancient land with a vibrant culture and absorbing history, is our next-door neighbour, but surprisingly, is not a popular holiday destination for most Pakistani tourists.

The fear that the US may not grant a visa to those who visit Iran keeps many travellers away.

Obtaining the visa was not a problem for us; the Iranian consulate in Karachi issued the papers within 48 hours. There are regular and convenient flights from Dubai to Tehran.

This city, surrounded by the snow-covered Alborz mountains, is picturesque but heavily populated; its most impressive tourist attractions are the Golestan Palace and the collection of Royal Jewels, which are securely housed in the basement of the National Bank of Iran.

On display is an assortment of bejewelled swords, crowns and exquisitely handcrafted jewellery from the Qajar and Pahlavi dynasties. Nadir Shah’s Peacock Throne, which he brought back to Iran from India, the splendid crowns that the Shah and the Shahbano wore at the centenary celebrations of the Pehalvi dynasty at Persepolis in 1971, are a feast for the eyes.

News about Iran would have you believe that the country is on the brink of collapse.

We were therefore pleasantly surprised: Tehran airport is modern, and our domestic flights were always on time.

There was not even an hour of power failure.

We saw an occasional traffic policeman on the streets, but certainly no visible weapons nor any VIP motorcade. You know you are in a civilised and progressive country.

The older, conservative women wear the traditional black chador, but most young women dress in exquisite styles that match the haute couture of Fifth Avenue, New York.

The only binding stipulation is that women must wear headscarves: This is advertised ubiquitously with grim-looking ayatollahs glaring down from large billboards.

The fashion-conscious women grudgingly conform to this rule in letter, although not in spirit.

They would sooner doff their scarves and show off their beautiful coiffure.

Young women confided in us that they hate the dress restrictions imposed by the clerics.

The Iranians have not forgotten their martyrs of the 1980 war with Iraq. The main streets of the towns are lined with photographs of them affixed to lamp posts and on billboards.

Reza, our English-speaking driver-cum-guide, holds a Master’s degree in Persian history, and his vast knowledge about the Achaemenids, the Sassanids, the Safavids, the Shahs and the ayatollahs kept us engaged in lively discussions during long drives through the deserts connecting small and large towns.

Reza told us with a wink that the exquisite mosques we visit are actually meant for tourists; not many Iranians frequent them. English is hardly spoken here except in hotels, so we were relieved that Reza was with us to bargain with shopkeepers and whittle down the prices of souvenirs.

He explained the delicacies on offer in traditional restaurants where we sat on raised takhts.

There is more to the Iranian menu than Chillo Kebab and we were ever ready to try delectable Persian cuisine, washed down with a tumbler of mint lassi.

The most romantic city in Iran is, of course, Isfahan. It is called Nisf-i-Jahan, and indeed it is.

The fragrant gardens and fountains around the Chehel Sotun and Hasht Behesht palaces offer a blissful quiet broken only by birdsong.

A short, pleasant walk from our hotel was the Naqsh-e-Jahan Square. Here, around a large 400-year old maidan are the exquisite Safavid mosques built by Shah Abbas.

I was smitten by the city and am considering applying for permission to move here!

Iran is definitely not isolated from the world; it is, indeed, very popular with international tourists. In our hotel, we met Europeans who were not deterred by economic sanctions.

In fact, the devalued Iranian rial makes travel in Iran quite affordable.

Persia is the home of legendary poets and philosophers. The works of Hafiz Shirazi, Saadi, Rumi, Firdausi, Omar Khayyam and even Allama Iqbal (known here as Iqbal Lahori) are abundantly displayed in bookshops and hotel lobbies.

To offer our tribute to the poets, we travelled to Shiraz and visited the mausoleums of Hafiz and Saadi. For most Iranians, Hafiz is not merely a poet; they believe his poetry transcends the mundane, and they often use it for faal, to guide them in making important decisions.

Just a few miles from Shiraz is Persepolis, the once-glamorous city built by King Darius of the Achaemenid period, and destroyed by Alexander the Great.

Nearby are the Royal Tombs, at Naqsh-i-Rustom although the burial site of Cyrus, the most celebrated king of ancient Persia, is in Pasargade.

Iran, a vast country, is veritably a museum of Zoroastrian and Islamic dynasties, of marauding nomads, and Sufis and saints.

They have left behind indelible imprints of their cultures and languages, which still resonate across Iran.

Two thousand years of history flash by us in a blink.

(The writer is the author of Jerusalem-A Journey Back in Time)

Kim Min-hee becomes the first South Korean actress to win the Silver Bear in a movie supposedly mirroring her rumoured extramarital relationship with director Hong Sang-soo.

Kim Min-hee has become the first South Korea actress to win the Silver Bear for Best Actress at the Berlin International Film Festival.

Kim won the award for her role in the upcoming movie On the Beach at Night Alone which is directed by Hong Sang-soo.

“Today, I was presented with a joy that shines like the bright stars…For some, I believe that this movie can bring emotions deep within their hearts,” she said.

In the movie, Kim plays Yeong-hee, an actress who is having an affair with a married movie director. 

The news of her win shed light upon her controversial relationship with Hong, in that the movie appears to mirror the rumoured extramarital relationship between the 57-year-old director and 34-year-old actress.

In addition, the character of the director in the movie bears a striking resemblance to Hong in terms of his improvised directing style and appearance.

The two have neither denied nor confirmed the rumours, although Hong said that the movie was not a personal tale of the two. 

“All directors reflect their stories in their work, but (On the Beach at Night Alone) is not an autobiography,” he told reporters.

But the sight of two holding hands at the ceremony and Kim saying she “respects and loves” Hong in her acceptance speech further fuelled suspicions about their affair.

He filed for divorce from his wife in November last year. 

Kim’s win Saturday is a testament to her successful transition from a model and actor to one of most talented and acclaimed actresses in the country. 

Kim’s 2012 appearance in the psychological thriller film Helpless by Byun Young-joo drastically changed the public’s perception of her acting skills. Her performance in last year’s Handmaiden also boosted her profile in a positive way. 

Her win in such a prestigious European film festival is likely to cement her reputation as a top actress. After Jeon Do-yeon won the best actress award at the Cannes Film Festival in 2007, she earned the nickname The Queen of Cannes.

It remains to be seen whether Kim will enjoy the downpour of offers Jeon did, as the public sentiment toward the couple remains icy. 

For Hong, the flick earned him a third trip to the Berlinale after Night and Day in 2008 and Nobody’s Daughter Haewon in 2013.

On the Beach at Night Alone is slated to hit theatres in South Korea next month. 

The Golden Bear at the Berlin Film Festival went to On Body and Soul By Hungarian writer-director Ildiko Enyedi, a film exploring an offbeat love story about two slaughterhouse workers. 

Comedy The Other Side of Hope by filmmaker Aki Kaurismaki, considered a strong contender for the Golden Bear, won a Silver Bear for best director.

The best actor award went to Georg Friedrich in Bright Nights, while the jury award went to Alain Gomis’ Felicite. 

The Silver Bear for best screenplay went to Sebastian Lelio and Gonzalo Maza for A Fantastic Woman.

Calin Peter Netzer’s Ana, mon amour took the award for outstanding artistic contribution, and Spoor won the Alfred Bauer Prize for work of particular innovation.

(The Korea Herald/ANN)

Kim Min-hee becomes the first South Korean actress to win the Silver Bear in a movie supposedly mirroring her rumoured extramarital relationship with director Hong Sang-soo.

Kim Min-hee has become the first South Korea actress to win the Silver Bear for Best Actress at the Berlin International Film Festival.

Kim won the award for her role in the upcoming movie On the Beach at Night Alone which is directed by Hong Sang-soo.

“Today, I was presented with a joy that shines like the bright stars…For some, I believe that this movie can bring emotions deep within their hearts,” she said.

In the movie, Kim plays Yeong-hee, an actress who is having an affair with a married movie director. 

The news of her win shed light upon her controversial relationship with Hong, in that the movie appears to mirror the rumoured extramarital relationship between the 57-year-old director and 34-year-old actress.

In addition, the character of the director in the movie bears a striking resemblance to Hong in terms of his improvised directing style and appearance.

The two have neither denied nor confirmed the rumours, although Hong said that the movie was not a personal tale of the two. 

“All directors reflect their stories in their work, but (On the Beach at Night Alone) is not an autobiography,” he told reporters.

But the sight of two holding hands at the ceremony and Kim saying she “respects and loves” Hong in her acceptance speech further fuelled suspicions about their affair.

He filed for divorce from his wife in November last year. 

Kim’s win Saturday is a testament to her successful transition from a model and actor to one of most talented and acclaimed actresses in the country. 

Kim’s 2012 appearance in the psychological thriller film Helpless by Byun Young-joo drastically changed the public’s perception of her acting skills. Her performance in last year’s Handmaiden also boosted her profile in a positive way. 

Her win in such a prestigious European film festival is likely to cement her reputation as a top actress. After Jeon Do-yeon won the best actress award at the Cannes Film Festival in 2007, she earned the nickname The Queen of Cannes.

It remains to be seen whether Kim will enjoy the downpour of offers Jeon did, as the public sentiment toward the couple remains icy. 

For Hong, the flick earned him a third trip to the Berlinale after Night and Day in 2008 and Nobody’s Daughter Haewon in 2013.

On the Beach at Night Alone is slated to hit theatres in South Korea next month. 

The Golden Bear at the Berlin Film Festival went to On Body and Soul By Hungarian writer-director Ildiko Enyedi, a film exploring an offbeat love story about two slaughterhouse workers. 

Comedy The Other Side of Hope by filmmaker Aki Kaurismaki, considered a strong contender for the Golden Bear, won a Silver Bear for best director.

The best actor award went to Georg Friedrich in Bright Nights, while the jury award went to Alain Gomis’ Felicite. 

The Silver Bear for best screenplay went to Sebastian Lelio and Gonzalo Maza for A Fantastic Woman.

Calin Peter Netzer’s Ana, mon amour took the award for outstanding artistic contribution, and Spoor won the Alfred Bauer Prize for work of particular innovation.

(The Korea Herald/ANN)

Mocking Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav’s slogan 'kaam bolta hain' (work speaks), BJP chief Amit Shah on Tuesday said the Samajwadi Party (SP) government has only nurtured ‘gundaraj’ in the state and failed to provide jobs to youth, electricity to farmers and safety to women.

“Neither the youth has jobs, nor the farmers have water or electricity, which work is Akhilesh talking about?” said the president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) while addressing a massive road show in Allahabad ahead of the fourth phase of assembly polls on Feb 23.

“It’s high time that UP is pulled out of the cesspool of gundaraj, corruption and casteism endorsed by the SP. The BJP will form a majority government in the state,” he added.

Shah further said that the new BJP government in the state will bring an end to widespread lawlessness that plagues the politically crucial state.

A survey finds that about 63 per cent of 4,200 mothers surveyed were happier after the birth of their second child, and 67 per cent do not regret having another baby.

Most mothers in China feel they are happier after having a second child, according to a survey report released a year after the country relaxed its family planning policy.

The report, released on Sunday, was based on an online survey of about 4,200 mothers with two children. The survey found that about 63 per cent of the respondents said they were happier after the birth of their second child, and 67 per cent said they do not regret having another baby.

The survey of parents conducted this month was led by mama.cn, a website for Chinese mothers, and Muruai, a voluntary group based in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, that promotes breast-feeding. Of the 4,182 respondents, 4,151 were mothers.

The major reasons given for the increase in happiness after a second child included seeing their children play together and the fact that some couples now had both a boy and a girl, according to the report.

Nearly half of the mothers also said their husbands were more willing to help take care of the children after the second child, according to the report.

The survey also found some factors that caused unhappiness after a second child, such as the economic burden and the extra pressure resulting from the need to devote more time and energy.

About 72 per cent of those surveyed said they may face heavier burdens to take care of their parents while having to raise two children, while less than 7 per cent of mothers with a second child felt they had better career opportunities after having a second child.

More than 70 per cent said they would not consider having a third child, even if they are allowed to do so in the future.

As Chinese society is becoming more materialistic, it was generally believed that many people would not choose to have another baby due to the increased expenditure, said Zhu Yuzi, who worked on the survey for Muruai.

“But the result of the survey shows that the spiritual joy brought by having a second child can greatly offset the increased economic burdens for many Chinese,” she said. “That is why so many people feel happier after having a second child, even with more economic burdens.”

Cai Lina, content supervisor at mama.cn, said that while bringing joy, having a second child can also bring many problems for couples.

“We expect more supportive measures, such as reducing taxes for families with a second child, so the second-child policy can be better carried out.”

Yang Jun, a 36-year-old media employee in Beijing who already has a child, said he will not consider having a second child even if it might brin him more joy.

“Both my wife and I are very busy, so who will take care of the second child if I have one? Besides, having a second child means we have to buy a bigger apartment, which is so expensive in Beijing,” he said.

China adopted the second-child policy at the beginning of last year, encouraging all couples to have two children. The number of newborns in China reached 18.7 million last year, an increase of 11 per cent over 2015, and about 45 per cent of them were a second child, according to the National Health and Family Planning Commission.

(China Daily/ANN)

India-Bangla ties have seen a steady upswing over the last several years with the two nations moving forward to strengthen connectivity and energy cooperation

Bilateral relations between Bangladesh and India are graduating to a new level, as the two countries have come closer through enhanced mutual cooperation in a wide range of areas.

Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Indian high commissioner in Dhaka, said this on Monday in an interaction with journalists of The Daily Star during a courtesy visit to the newspaper office in the capital.

Indo-Bangla ties have seen a steady upswing over the last several years with the two nations moving forward to strengthen connectivity and energy cooperation. India has given Bangladesh duty-free benefits on almost all goods. And the two neighbours have also implemented the Land Boundary Agreement, he said.

On energy sector cooperation, he said India is currently exporting 600 megawatt of electricity to Bangladesh, and is ready to export more as per Bangladesh's requirement.

India is also helping Bangladesh produce power.

“There is no limit to what you can get from India because we have a lot of surplus energy. We can sell you electricity any time… you can take 1,000 megawatt, 2,000 megawatt and even 10,000 megawatt,” Shringla said.

Replying to a query on the 1,320MW coal-fired Rampal power plant, he said India is providing 80 percent of the financing with one percent interest on the loan payable over a period of 30 years. Bangladesh offered the land and it happened to be at Rampal.

The envoy said India has no issues regarding the location of the India-Bangladesh joint venture project.

“As far as India is concerned, we are happy to work with you [Bangladesh] in setting up power plant wherever you like, including in Rampal.”

About Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's upcoming India visit, Shringla said it would be the first state visit in her current tenure. Her previous state visit to India took place seven years ago.

“From our side, this is a very important visit…”

Shringla mentioned that Indian Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar would visit Dhaka on February 23-24, and assess areas of bilateral cooperation and groundwork for the Bangladesh PM's upcoming visit.

“Preparatory aspects of the visit are important and we need to prepare. We need to make sure that both logistically and substantially we have the right input in place before the visit. So, all this work is in progress,” said the Indian envoy.

He noted that the new level of cooperation helped the two next-door neighbours harness the benefits of bilateral and sub-regional trade and investment.

“India now allows duty-free benefits to all Bangladeshi goods, except for cigarette and alcohol items.” Over the past years, the two countries have been moving forward to achieve socio-economic progress.

“For us (India) to prosper economically, socially and everywhere, Bangladesh needs to be a partner in this. For you (Bangladesh) to be a mid-income country by 2021 and developed country by 2041, you need to be a partner.”

In order to achieve this, “we decided that we must remove some major impediments, some perceptions that existed in Bangladesh,” he said.

“One of the aspects that we tried to resolve is the issue of market access…

“The second thing that we resolved was land boundary. We were able to sign the land boundary agreement and implement it. The two countries also sorted out maritime boundary.”

Referring to Indo-Bangla defence cooperation, Shringla said there has been cooperation between the armed forces of the two countries. Extensive training and exercises are held at military and navy levels, he said.

On the Indian defence minister's recent Bangladesh visit, he said it was Manohar Parrikar's first visit to Dhaka. The visit was very significant as he had wide-ranging discussions with political and military leadership of Bangladesh.

“We certainly look forward to continuing our current level of cooperation, which is quite significant because we have talked army to army, navy to navy, air force to air force… we have regular exchange at all levels.”

He said military-to-military exchanges are very extensive, and hoped that those would go on in the future.

On the Teesta water sharing issue, Shringla said India's commitment to conclude an agreement has been there on record and continues to be there. “It is something that is under constant consideration on our side,” he said.

He pointed out that as per the Indian federal system, the centre needs to involve the state government before signing any such agreement.

On Bangladesh's growing relations with China, Shringla said, “Your relationship with other countries, as it develops and progresses, is absolutely, from our point of view, is good development.”

“We want good cooperation, we want amity, we want economic development in the region. Economic development is also good for us. Our economies are so interlinked that if you develop, we also develop.”

On the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, he said India remains steadfast in its commitment to regional cooperation, connectivity and contacts.

But increasing cross-border terrorist attacks in the region and growing interference in the internal affairs by one country have created an environment that is not conducive to Saarc's success.

He, however, sees huge potential and prospects of The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), and regional sub-grouping BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal), which, according to him, can play an effective role in achieving socio-economic development.

Has your mind been preoccupied with negative thoughts lately? Do you feel irritated time and again? A new study suggests that you might be suffering from stress.

Conducted by YourDost, an online counselling and emotional wellness portal, the study notes "negative thinking is one of the major symptoms of stress".

While highlighting that psychological issues like stress are often neglected and ignored, it reveals that in 50 per cent cases "irritability" and "pessimistic thoughts" are indicative of the onset of stress, along with other manifestations in mannerisms like irregular eating and sleeping habits.

"41 per cent of the participants felt their sleeping and eating habits changed when they were stressed. 39 per cent of people showed temperament changes.

"Reduction of productivity was observed in 36 per cent, while overwhelming feelings and self-criticism increased in about 35 per cent of the participants," says the study.

Attributing the rising levels of stress to changing lifestyles, psychologist Shruti Singhal says an incompatibility between personalities and environments also contributes towards increased stress levels.

"Stress levels are rising in every walk of life. We encounter daily cases of people breaking down under the pressures of highly competitive and demanding academic, professional and lifestyle stressors.

"In addition to that, the emotional and social fabric of the society has become very fragile. Issues like break ups, family/marital discord, loneliness have only added to the emotional breakdowns. Introversion and shyness in a social set up where extroverted characteristics are sought after," she says.

The study also points out that "14 per cent of India's total population are in high-stress zone and needed expert intervention" and 58 per cent of these people are inclined to consult a counsellor.

"While only 6 per cent of these stress-affected individuals actually talked to a psychologist, the rest 52 per cent resorted to listening to music and sleeping to de-stress themselves," it says.

In another interesting finding, the study says that more number of women were stressed in the country compared to men, adding that "singles and unmarried people" find it easier to cope with stress than married couples.

Trouble spots such as pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, etc, particularly on the face, can affect the way you look and dent your confidence. It is a common problem in the age group between 13 and 30 years, and the problem can have a damaging effect on the person physically, emotionally and mentally. However, preventive steps and proper treatment can help to a great extent.

Acne may affect the face, neck, chest and back. No need to get disappointed. They are usually treatable. If not treated well, they may last for years. Bit it is always better to treat the causes rather than treating the problem. So, no the causes and prevent the problem.

Major causes of acne:

Puberty: Hormonal changes in teenage stimulate sebaceous glands, leading to more greasy skin. It causes acne.

Plugs: The plugs that block the top layer of the pores causes blackheads and whiteheads.

Bacterium: The development of a large number of germ (bacterium) in the trapped sebum.

Polycystic ovary syndrome: It triggers the formation of oil triggering male hormone that causes acne.

Now that you know and understand the causes, you can easily prevent the problem.

You can’t avoid air pollution living in a city. Take good care of your skin hygiene. Wash your face once you are back home. If you are out, use a face wipe to wipe off the dust and pollutants. Avoid washing your face frequently. It can contribute in acne development. Twice a day with lukewarm water and a mild soap or face wash is enough.

Don’t use thick and greasy makeup, cream and ointments. Stick to oil-free, non-comedogenic or water-based moisturiser or lotions.

When you are stressed, the stress hormone cortisol is produced by adrenal gland. It results in producing more oil that causes acne. So, avoid stress as much as possible.

Know your skin type. Avoid eating food that do not suit your skin type. There has been no proven studies that chocolates, junk food, fried food, milk and other dairy products, nuts and caffeine are acne causing foods. But we can’t ignore the exceptions. If you are find some food product is causing acne, avoid it.

Stick to low glycaemic foods. Sugary foods raise insulin level that in turn boosts oil triggering male hormones causing acne.

There are few myths associated with the problem. Some people say that it is a contagious disease, however it is not. It is not passed through touching. Some say sunbathing helps to clear acne, but it may not.

Acne can be well treated with the help of correct medical treatment. Nevertheless, you can prevent discomforts and the costs of the treatment by preventing the causes.