Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Sunday extended greetings and best wishes to the people of the state and the country on the occasion of Bihar Diwas.

In his message, the Chief Minister said Bihar has a glorious past and that, with determination, the government is building a bright future for the state.

He said the people of Bihar would take the state’s pride to new heights while maintaining unity, brotherhood, social harmony and goodwill.

The Chief Minister also appealed to all citizens to work together to fulfil the resolve of a prosperous Bihar.

He wrote on X: “Heartfelt greetings and best wishes on the occasion of Bihar Diwas. Bihar has a glorious history, and we are shaping a bright future through our determination. I call upon all of you to fulfil the resolve of a prosperous Bihar. Together, we will take Bihar’s pride to new heights,” he said.

However, CPI(ML) General Secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya raised concerns over inflation and governance and called for resilience.

In his message, the Left leader said that Bihar Diwas 2026 is being observed at a time when the country and society are facing deep challenges and uncertainty.

Bhattacharya said that the impact of the ongoing US-Israel war against Iran is increasingly being felt in India. He noted that millions of overseas Indians, including a large number from Bihar, are stranded in the war-affected West Asia.

He said rising LPG prices and inflation are placing a heavy burden on common people, while farmers are facing difficulties due to setbacks in trade.

Criticising the ruling alliance, he alleged that the NDA had come to power in the name of Nitish Kumar through elections tainted by SIR, and claimed that the BJP is now attempting to sideline him and assume full control of power.

Bhattacharya alleged that people are facing the harsh reality of “bulldozer rule.” He also expressed concern over what he described as a rise in violent crimes such as rape and murder.

Despite the challenges, he asserted that Bihar would not bow to what he termed as betrayal, and would instead stand up, rise again, and move forward with courage and determination.

The Election Commission of India on Sunday announced a series of sweeping measures aimed at enhancing voter convenience and accessibility across more than 2.18 lakh polling stations for the upcoming 2026 general and bye-elections.

The poll body, which on March 15 declared the election schedule for the Legislative Assemblies in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, along with bye-elections in six other states, has issued detailed instructions to Chief Electoral Officers to ensure “Assured Minimum Facilities” (AMFs) at every polling station.

According to a press note, all 2,18,807 polling stations will be equipped with essential amenities, including drinking water, shaded waiting areas, toilets with water facilities, proper lighting, ramps for persons with disabilities, and standard voting compartments.

“The aim is to provide a seamless and pleasant voting experience for all electors,” the Commission said, adding that benches will be placed at regular intervals to assist voters waiting in queues.

To boost voter awareness, the Commission has mandated the display of four standardized Voter Facilitation Posters at each polling station.

These posters will carry key information such as polling station details, the list of candidates, voting procedures, approved identification documents, and guidelines for voters on poll day.

In an effort to streamline the voting process, Voter Assistance Booths will be established at every polling location. Managed by Booth Level Officers and support staff, these booths will help voters identify their polling booth numbers and locate their names in the electoral rolls.

“These booths will be prominently marked and easily visible as voters approach the premises,” the Commission said.

Additionally, a mobile phone deposit facility will be set up outside polling stations. Voters will be required to switch off and deposit their phones with designated volunteers before entering the polling area and will be able to collect them after casting their votes.

Reaffirming its focus on inclusivity and strict compliance, the Commission emphasized that these measures are mandatory and will be closely monitored.

“All field functionaries have been directed to complete the necessary arrangements well in advance of polling dates,” it said, underlining its commitment to ensuring a smooth and accessible electoral process for all.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has said that the integration of key medical institutions in the city will beneficial for the sector as it would significantly improve medical education and further strengthen healthcare services in the national capital.
The move is also expected to pave the way for a substantial increase in MBBS and postgraduate (PG) seats in the city.

In this direction, the Delhi government is planning to merge Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital (GTB), Delhi State Cancer Institute (DSCI), and Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital (RGSSH) to create an autonomous institution on the lines of the AIIMS model. In addition, efforts are underway to develop the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS) into a second National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS-2).
The CM said a key objective of the project is to significantly increase PG seats so that more doctors could receive specialist training and the quality of healthcare can be enhanced. Similar departments and disciplines currently operating separately across GTB Hospital, DSCI, and RGSSH will be integrated as presently, resources and manpower are fragmented resultomg in underutilization.

Once integrated, faculty members are expected to include assistant professors, associate professors, and professors to be pooled together.
According to medical norms, an associate professor can support two PG seats, while a professor can support three, which means that simply by combining faculty strength, it will automatically increase the number of PG seats.

Similarly, the officials indicate that departments such as radiology, pathology, and anaesthesia are likely to see a significant rise in seats.
Following the integration, a new faculty will be brought on board, which will pave way for PG seats in some specialised departments, that currently do not offer them like the radiation oncology, nuclear medicine, cancer research, and intensive care.
According to the CM, an increase in bed strength, patient load, and faculty numbers will also create strong prospects for expanding MBBS seats in the future.

The government is also planning to develop hostels, modern laboratories, lecture theatres, and other academic infrastructure to ensure a better learning environment for students.
Gupta further said that the initiative is not limited to improving healthcare delivery, but also move in the direction towards expanding medical education and promoting research.
She said the plan would position Delhi as a leading national centre for medical education, research, and advanced healthcare services.

Akhilesh Yadav on Sunday laid out a women-centric vision for social and economic transformation, asserting that real progress hinges on changing entrenched societal attitudes. In a message shared on his WhatsApp channel, the Samajwadi Party chief said, “If we want to change the crop, we must change the seeds,” emphasizing the need for a fundamental shift in how women are perceived and treated.

‎Yadav said that altering the “basic mindset” toward women is essential for achieving meaningful improvements in their socio-economic conditions. “Only when the fundamental mindset—the seeds—toward women changes will there be real improvement in their socio-economic condition,” he said, positioning the issue at the core of broader development priorities.

Highlighting the “Malti Devi–Murti Devi Women’s Honor Ceremony,” Yadav said the initiative seeks to recognise and encourage women who have shown exceptional talent, courage and determination. He added that such recognition helps project “a strong and empowered image of womanhood” while inspiring wider societal change.

‎The former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh also elaborated on his party’s PDA plank, noting that the ‘A’ stands for “Aadhi Aabadi,” referring to women across all age groups. He stressed the importance of ensuring equal socio-economic respect and opportunities for every girl and woman.

‎“We will introduce the ‘Women’s Respect and Prosperity Scheme’ to ensure equal socio-economic respect, enable women to stand on their own feet, and empower them toward prosperity,” Yadav said, adding that the initiative aligns with his party’s broader commitment to the state’s development.

‎The remarks came at a time when political parties are increasingly focusing on women voters, a crucial and influential segment of the electorate. In recent years, the Samajwadi Party has sought to broaden its support base through the PDA framework, positioning itself around themes of social justice and inclusive growth.

In continuation of the strong criticism of the highly objectionable police action of forcible sealing of the United News of India (UNI) headquarters in New Delhi a couple of days ago, the Congress, Samajwadi Party, and Communist Party (Marxist) in Madhya Pradesh termed the action blatant attack on the press by the Union BJP government under the BJP.

MP Congress media head Mukesh Nayak alleged on Sunday that the action reeked of high-handedness. He said it has become a “trend” with the Modi government to suppress the voice of free media. “The BJP government only wants ‘Darbaari Media’. Any media house that reports independently and in an unbiased manner or exposes the flaws of the union government is not tolerated,” Nayak said in a post on X.

“The police even manhandled women journalists inside the UNI office. Is that what the government means by ‘naari shakti ka samman’,” he questioned.

CPI (M) state secretary Jaswinder Singh alleged that the Modi government wants to weaken the fourth pillar through such actions. “The police action at the UNI office was totally dictatorial and part of the Modi government’s conspiracy to take control of the media”, he averred.

Singh strongly condemned the incident and urged everyone to raise their voices against such atrocities.

Samajwadi Party national spokesperson Yash Bhartiya also castigated the police action on the UNI headquarters. “The UNI office in New Delhi was forcibly vacated without even giving any time to the staff and journalists working there. It was a highly atrocious action,” he pointed out.

“Are all the rules meant just for the common people,” he asked.

More than 300 personnel of the Delhi Police and Paramilitary had stormed into the UNI Headquarters at 9, Rafi Marg in New Delhi on 20 March evening. They forced all the staff and journalists out of the office and sealed the office, which was functioning in the premises for over the past 40 years.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah said that today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the longest-serving head of a government in India.

He said PM Modi has surpassed the 8,930-day record of former Sikkim CM Pawan Kumar Chamling to reach the milestone, rooted in service, hard work and unwavering commitment.

In his posts on X, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah said “A milestone rooted in service, hard work and unwavering commitment. Today, PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji surpasses the 8,930-day record of former Sikkim CM Pawan Kumar Chamling, becoming the longest-serving head of a government in India.”

“PM Modi Ji’s 8,931 days in public life, first as Gujarat CM and now as Prime Minister reflect a deep dedication to nation-first governance, integrity in action, and tireless service to every citizen. A rare legacy built on unprecedented trust and unparalleled Seva,” the Union Home Minister added.

Shah said, “Modi Ji’s decades of Seva have shaped an era of his own. Whether it is giving the poor their rights, setting new landmarks in development or enhancing the nation’s pride on global platforms, the Modi era has transformed India unrecognisably.”

“Fostering this new India required a lifetime’s effort and PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji gave it. Serving the nation and its people without taking a holiday for more than 24 years is the manifestation of his sheer commitment. This explains the unprecedented affection he received from people, three times as Gujarat CM and three times as India’s PM. People’s trust, affection and support for him have only grown with every passing day,” the Union Home Minister said.

Amid a global energy crunch triggered by the ongoing Middle East conflict, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to review the situation.

The meeting was attended by senior cabinet ministers, including Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal among others.

During the meeting, the Cabinet Secretary gave a detailed presentation on the global situation and measures taken so far and being planned by all concerned Ministries and Departments of Government of India.

The CCS assessed the availability for critical needs of the common man, including food, energy and fuel security was made. Short term, Medium term and Long term measures to ensure continued availability of essential needs were also discussed in detail.

PM Modi directed that a group of ministers and secretaries be created to work dedicatedly in a whole of government approach. He instructed for sectoral groups to work in consultation with all stakeholders.

The Prime Minister said that the conflict is an evolving situation and the entire world is affected in some form. In such a situation, all efforts must be made to safeguard the citizens from the impact of this conflict.

He further instructed that all arms of government should work together to ensure least inconvenience to the citizens. PM Modi asked for proper coordination with state governments to ensure no black-marketing and hoarding of important commodities.

India heavily relies on the Gulf region to meet its energy demands. However, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route in the Persian Gulf, has severely affected energy supply.

Over the last two weeks, the Narendra Modi government has taken several steps to safeguard India’s energy security and manage gas and crude supply.

According to a senior government official, the government is continuously monitoring the situation in the Middle East to protect consumer and industry interests.

On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to convey his greetings on the occasion of Eid and Nowruz.

During the telephonic conversation, PM Modi condemned the attacks on critical infrastructure in the region and reiterated the importance of freedom of navigation.

“Spoke with President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian and conveyed Eid and Nowruz greetings. We expressed hope that this festive season brings peace, stability and prosperity to West Asia. Condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region, which threaten regional stability and disrupt global supply chains. Reiterated the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring that shipping lanes remain open and secure,” Modi said on X.

The Prime Minister also appreciated “Iran’s continued support for the safety and security of Indian nationals in Iran.”

If your stomach is giving you trouble after meals, you might want to check your kitchen before running to the pharmacy. Turns out, the humble mint leaf could be your new digestive BFF. Yes, the same fresh green leaves you toss into your chai or garnish your salad with could help soothe your tummy like a pro.

Ayurveda expert Acharya Balkrishna recently shared a super-easy remedy on Facebook that’s creating a buzz online. Here’s the recipe: take 8-10 fresh mint leaves, crush them, and mix in a glass of water. Squeeze in half a lemon and sprinkle a pinch of black salt. Drink it slowly.

According to Acharya Balkrishna, this simple drink can improve poor digestion, calm an upset stomach, and even reduce bloating and gas.

The combination of mint, lemon, and black salt is thought to stimulate your digestive system and balance your gut naturally.

Also Read: Itchy skin driving you crazy? Acharya Balkrishna’s ghee remedy is suddenly the talk of the town

Peppermint for IBS? Science gives a nod

If you’ve ever struggled with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which often brings stomach pain, gas, bloating, and irregular bowel habits, mint might help here too. Research shows that peppermint oil, a concentrated form of the herb, contains menthol, which relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract. This can ease IBS symptoms.

A 2014 review of nine studies including over 700 IBS patients found that peppermint oil capsules significantly improved symptoms compared to a placebo. However, a 2021 study suggested that while peppermint oil might help, more rigorous research is needed to confirm its effects.

Most studies used peppermint oil capsules, not fresh leaves, so the effectiveness of mint water may vary. But it doesn’t hurt to try!

Mint for everyday indigestion

Even if IBS isn’t your issue, mint could still help with common indigestion, you know, when food sits too long in your stomach and makes you feel heavy, bloated, or gassy.

Studies suggest peppermint oil can help food move faster through the stomach, reducing discomfort.

Again, most research focuses on peppermint oil rather than raw leaves, but a fresh mint drink is a gentle, natural approach that many people swear by.

How to make the most of your mint

– Use fresh leaves: Crushing them releases natural oils.

– Add lemon and black salt: Helps stimulate digestion and balance acidity.

– Drink it slowly: Let your tummy absorb the benefits.

– Try consistently: Regular use may help prevent bloating and digestive discomfort over time.

The Pakistan Super League will go ahead as scheduled from March 26, but matches will be played behind closed doors at just two venues due to the ongoing West Asia conflict, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed on Sunday.

Following consultations with franchises and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the PCB decided to limit matches to Lahore and Karachi, dropping Peshawar, Multan, Rawalpindi, and Faisalabad from the schedule in a bid to conserve fuel and other critical resources.

“Pakistan Super League will start as per schedule on March 26 as we have to safeguard its credibility and there was no window to stage it later,” Naqvi said during a press conference in Lahore.

MOHSIN NAQVI BIG DECISIONS FOR PSL 2026

– PSL 2026 starts on March 26, only in Lahore & Karachi.
– No crowd matches until the fuel crisis ends.
– Opening ceremony cancelled.

PSL 2026 = Low budget, no crowd, crisis mode cricket.pic.twitter.com/qZtmVeYHly

— Sam (@Cricsam01) March 22, 2026

With fuel supplies tightly regulated, the league will also be held without spectators, leading Naqvi to apologise to fans, especially in Peshawar, which was set to host PSL matches for the first time.

“I apologise to the fans of Peshawar who were due to watch the PSL matches for the first time and hope they get more matches next time,” he said.

The opening ceremony has also been scrapped to further reduce resource consumption.

Naqvi added that most overseas players are expected to arrive by Monday, despite earlier concerns over travel disruptions through the Gulf region. He also issued a stern warning, stating that legal action could be taken against foreign players who skip their PSL commitments in favour of the Indian Premier League.

Notably, Blessing Muzarabani and Dasun Shanaka recently opted to join IPL teams after signing PSL contracts.

To offset financial losses from empty stands, the PCB confirmed that franchises will be compensated for the lack of gate revenue.

What was meant to be a smooth movie night turned into a full-blown shouting match when fans gathered to watch ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’. Instead of claps and whistles, the hall echoed with arguments, confusion, and even threats to “take over the stairs” just to watch the film.

At a PVR multiplex in Hyderabad’s Next Galleria Mall, things went off track before the film could even properly begin. The issue? A messy mix-up between the Hindi and Telugu versions of ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’.

Audience members had booked tickets expecting different language versions. But shockingly, both were allegedly assigned to the same screen.

As the film paused during an on-screen promo, tempers flared. Viewers began arguing loudly, demanding clarity on which version would actually play.

“We booked Telugu first!”

 

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A viral video from inside the theatre captured the chaos in real time. One woman could be heard firmly insisting that the Telugu version had been booked first. Others joined in, raising their voices and demanding answers.

The confusion reportedly started on BookMyShow, where listings showed both Hindi and Telugu screenings for the same time slot, leading to a double-booking disaster.

 

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Some frustrated viewers even threatened to sit on the stairs and watch the film there if the theatre failed to fix the situation. Yes, it got that intense.

Police called, but not everyone happy

With tensions rising fast, theatre staff struggled to control the crowd. Eventually, police had to step in to calm things down and restore order.

But the solution didn’t please everyone.

In a follow-up clip, it was revealed that the Hindi version of the film was ultimately screened even though several viewers had reportedly bought tickets for the Telugu version.

That didn’t sit well with many in the audience, who felt short-changed.

Box office roars despite chaos

Ironically, while the theatre was dealing with chaos, ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ is absolutely smashing records worldwide.

Directed by Aditya Dhar and led by Ranveer Singh, the film has already crossed a massive Rs 500 crore globally. Its overseas earnings stand close to Rs 96.50 crore, pushing its worldwide total to around Rs 501.04 crore.

And the momentum isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

Also Read: Ban? What ban! Pakistani journalist publicly watches ‘Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge’ in Lahore, internet reacts

A booth committee leader and a supporter of the Trinamul Congress were detained in Durgapur town by the police following a complaint of assault by Election Commission officials today.

The ECI officials, Bittu Gupta and Suryakanta Pal, went to inquire into the charges of poll walling on the concrete fencing of a sub-post office on the outskirts of Karangapara village near the railway station.

The BJP had initially painted a lotus on the wall, which allegedly was wiped out by the TMC. After the BJP lodged a complaint with the ECI, Gupta and Pal, the two officials, went to the spot.

Both were allegedly dragged out of their vehicle and thrashed by a local TMC leader, Somnath Das. BJP’s Bardhaman-Durgapur organizing district secretary Abhijit Dutta alleged: “The moment the officials arrived, the arrogant TMC leader and his aides thrashed them.” Two BJP cadres were also allegedly roughed up. Das, the accused TMC leader, said: “The ECI officials were acting under the dictat of BJP, which we were protesting. I didn’t assault anyone there.”

The police detained Das and one of his aides after the ECI officials lodged a complaint. In Mankar in the Budbud PS area, the BJP lodged a complaint against the TMC for allegedly disfiguring a photograph of Prime Minister Narendra Modi today. The poster was stuck on a private wall where the TMC further painted poll walling.

If you’ve ever had that unstoppable itchy skin that just won’t let you sit still, you know how frustrating eczema can be. Scratching, redness, irritation; it’s like your skin is constantly in a bad mood. But now, a surprisingly simple remedy is creating buzz online, and it comes straight from the kitchen.

Yes, you read that right. Desi ghee.

A recent tip shared by Acharya Balkrishna has people talking again about old-school remedies. And this one is as simple as it gets.

The viral tip: Just apply ghee?

According to the advice doing the rounds, if you suddenly feel intense itching on your body, especially linked to eczema, applying pure desi ghee on the affected area may give quick relief.

No complicated steps. No fancy ingredients.

Just take a small amount of pure ghee and gently apply it to the itchy skin. Many people say it helps soothe irritation almost instantly.

Why ghee might actually work

This isn’t just random internet hype. In Ayurveda, ghee is known for its soothing and nourishing properties.

Here’s why it may help:

• Deeply moisturises dry and irritated skin
• Has cooling effects that calm itching
• Supports skin healing
• Helps reduce inflammation

What is eczema really?

Eczema is a skin condition where the skin becomes:

• Very itchy
• Red and inflamed
• Dry and flaky

Sometimes, the itching becomes so intense that it affects sleep and daily life. Stress, weather changes, and allergies can trigger flare-ups.

Ayurveda’s bigger plan for eczema

While ghee offers quick relief, Ayurveda looks at eczema as a deeper imbalance in the body.

One major therapy often recommended is Panchakarma, a detox process that includes:

• Oil massages
• Medicated ghee intake
• Sweating therapies

Herbs that support skin healing

Ayurveda also uses several herbs to manage eczema from within.

Common ones include:

• Turmeric (anti-inflammatory)
• Neem (antibacterial)
• Triphala (detox support)
• Manjistha (blood purifier and skin healer)

Special oils that calm the skin

Apart from ghee, certain Ayurvedic oils are also popular for eczema care.

For example, Winsoria oil is known to:

• Reduce itching
• Calm redness and scaling
• Improve skin texture

Don’t ignore the triggers

Here’s the catch; eczema is not just about what you apply outside.

Triggers can include:

• Stress
• Poor diet
• Weather changes
• Allergies

When you should see a doctor

While ghee can help with mild itching, don’t ignore serious symptoms.

See a doctor if:

• The itching is severe and constant
• Skin starts bleeding or oozing
• There is no improvement over time

Medical advice is important, especially for long-term conditions like eczema.

Also Read: Not just vrat food! Singhara’s shocking health benefits are turning heads everywhere

It starts with a tiny twinge in your tooth… and suddenly your whole mood is ruined. Sound familiar? Well, a fresh wave of “desi health hacks” is buzzing online, and this time, the spotlight is on something super simple: guava leaves.

Yes, the same leaves you probably ignored growing up are now trending after yoga guru Acharya Balkrishna shared a quick home remedy for tooth and gum problems. And honestly, people can’t stop talking about it.

Also Read: Not just vrat food! Singhara’s shocking health benefits are turning heads everywhere

The viral guava leaf hack everyone is trying

According to the tip shared online, if you’re dealing with tooth pain, swollen gums, or irritation, this easy remedy might help.

Here’s what people are doing:

• Take 3-4 guava leaves
• Boil them in one glass of water
• Let it cool until lukewarm
• Strain the liquid and add a pinch of salt
• Use it as a mouth rinse

Why guava leaves are suddenly so popular

This isn’t just random internet hype. Guava leaves have been used for years in traditional practices for oral care.

Experts say these leaves have:

• Antibacterial properties
• Antimicrobial effects
• Natural compounds that help reduce plaque

Because of this, they may:

• Reduce gum swelling
• Ease tooth pain
• Freshen breath
• Help manage early gum issues like gingivitis

Salt water rinse

Let’s be honest. Salt water is the OG remedy. And it’s trending again for all the right reasons.

A simple warm salt rinse can:

• Kill germs in the mouth
• Reduce inflammation
• Soothe irritated gums

How to use it:

• Mix 1 teaspoon salt in warm water
• Rinse for 30 seconds
• Repeat 2-3 times daily

Clove & turmeric: The other kitchen heroes

Guava leaves aren’t alone in this natural care squad.

Clove (Laung):

• Known for pain-relieving properties
• May help reduce toothache
• Can control bacteria and plaque

People often crush cloves and apply them gently to the affected area for quick relief.

Turmeric (Haldi):

• Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial
• Helps with bleeding gums and redness

Using turmeric or curcumin gel on gums for a few minutes daily can support healing.

When home remedies are NOT enough

Here’s the reality check. These remedies can help, but they are not magic cures.

You should see a dentist if you have:

• Severe or constant tooth pain
• Bleeding gums that don’t stop
• Bad breath that won’t go away
• Loose teeth or extreme swelling

Daily habits that actually protect your teeth

While these remedies are helpful, your daily routine matters more.

Simple habits to follow:

• Brush twice a day for at least 2 minutes
• Floss daily
• Use mouthwash after meals
• Visit a dentist at least once a year

Good oral hygiene is still your best defence.

If your kitchen suddenly smells like vrat food and your family is quietly munching something “healthy,” chances are, singhara or singhada has entered the chat. Yes, the water chestnut, often seen only during fasting days, is now becoming the star of wellness gossip. From dadi’s nuskhas to Ayurveda experts, everyone seems to be whispering the same thing: “Don’t underestimate this fruit.”

So what’s the real story behind singhara? Let’s break it down.

Also Read: Navratri health hack! Acharya Balkrishna’s buckwheat (kuttu) tips could change your fasting forever

Why singhara is a fasting favourite

Acharya Balkrishna says, during vrat (fasting), people switch to light, sattvik food, and that’s where singhara flour comes in. It is considered phalahaari, meaning it fits perfectly into fasting diets.

But this isn’t just about tradition. According to Ayurveda, singhara is packed with minerals and alkaline elements that make it deeply nourishing. It gives energy slowly, keeps you full for longer, and doesn’t feel heavy on the stomach.

Basically, it’s the quiet overachiever of fasting foods.

Natural shield against common diseases

Here’s where things get interesting. Ayurveda doesn’t just treat singhara as food—it sees it as medicine.

Regular consumption is believed to help manage:

• Blood sugar levels (helpful for diabetes)
• Heart health
• Ulcers
• Joint pain like arthritis

From Tooth Pain to TB: Traditional remedies that surprise

Old-school remedies involving singhara are honestly wild, and fascinating.

For dental issues like loose teeth, a mix including singhara has been traditionally used for relief. Even more surprising, Ayurveda texts mention its use in managing symptoms related to tuberculosis when combined with herbs like triphala and pippali.

Sounds intense, right? That’s because singhara has long been treated as a powerful healing ingredient, not just a snack.

Stomach problems? Singhara might help

Had too much spicy food and now regretting life? Singhara has your back.

It is known to:

• Help control diarrhoea
• Improve digestion
• Boost appetite
• Balance pitta (which often causes stomach issues)

Energy booster without the crash

Unlike sugary snacks that give quick energy and then drop you hard, singhara releases energy slowly.

Its natural “guru” (heavy) and “madhur” (sweet) properties mean:

• You feel full for longer
• Your body stays energised
• You avoid sudden fatigue

Skin, hair & sleep: The hidden glow-up benefits

This is where singhara quietly turns into a beauty secret.

It helps:

• Improve skin health and reduce acne or pigmentation
• Strengthen hair roots and reduce hair fall
• Calm the mind and improve sleep

Why? Because it balances pitta and vata doshas, which are often behind stress, skin issues, and insomnia.

Relief for piles, urinary issues & more

Ayurvedic use of singhara goes even deeper.

It may:

• Reduce bleeding and pain in piles
• Help with urinary discomfort
• Control excessive thirst caused by illness

Even the paste of its leaves is used traditionally to soothe burn wounds. Yes, this fruit really does a lot.

Special benefits for women’s health

Singhara is often recommended in traditional care for women.

It is believed to:

• Help control post-pregnancy bleeding
• Support during pregnancy in certain conditions
• Improve overall strength and recovery

Its nourishing nature makes it especially useful during physically demanding phases.

Reacting strongly to US President Donald Trump’s threat of strikes on Iran’s power plants if the Strait of Hormuz shipping route is not opened, Tehran on Sunday hit back, saying it will target regional energy and water desalination infrastructure if its fuel and energy sites are attacked.

“Following previous warnings, if Iran’s fuel and energy infrastructure is violated by the enemy, all energy, information technology and desalination infrastructure belonging to the U.S. and the regime in the region will be targeted,” the Iranian military’s operational command, Khatam Al-Anbiya, said, according to the state-run Fars news agency.

The Iranian response came hours after US President Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum demanding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which Tehran had blocked following US and Israeli strikes.

Trump Hormuz Ultimatum

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said Iran must ensure the Strait of Hormuz is “fully open, without threat” within 48 hours. Failing that, he warned, the US would begin targeting Iranian power plants.

He added that any such strikes would begin with “the biggest one first,” a remark that has drawn attention to the country’s largest electricity facilities.

“If Iran doesn’t FULLY OPEN, WITHOUT THREAT, the Strait of Hormuz, within 48 HOURS from this exact point in time, the United States of America will hit and obliterate their various POWER PLANTS, STARTING WITH THE BIGGEST ONE FIRST!” he wrote.

Earlier this week, Trump said that the US may soon wind down its military operations against Iran, claiming that key objectives of the campaign are close to being achieved.

“We are getting very close to meeting our objectives as we consider winding down our great military efforts in the Middle East with respect to the terrorist regime of Iran: (1) Completely degrading Iranian missile capability, launchers, and everything else pertaining to them. (2) Destroying Iran’s defense industrial base. (3) Eliminating their navy and air force, including anti-aircraft weaponry. (4) Never allowing Iran to get even close to nuclear capability, and always being in a position where the U.S.A. can quickly and powerfully react to such a situation, should it take place. (5) Protecting, at the highest level, our Middle Eastern allies, including Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, and others,” Trump said.

He further said that the Strait of Hormuz will have to be guarded by countries using the shipping route.

“The Hormuz Strait will have to be guarded and policed, as necessary, by other nations that use it — the United States does not! If asked, we will help these countries in their Hormuz efforts, but it shouldn’t be necessary once Iran’s threat is eradicated. Importantly, it will be an easy military operation for them,” he added.

At just 11, Atiqa Mir is already making waves on the highly competitive European karting circuit, taking on older and more experienced rivals with remarkable confidence and composure.

Fast-tracked from the Mini (8–12) category to the OKN-J (Junior) class, Atiqa has quickly established herself as one of the most promising young talents on the global stage. Backed by the F1 Academy, she has consistently impressed in packed grids featuring up to 40 drivers, often outperforming much of the field.

Her performances this season underline her rapid rise. She began with a stunning P2 in qualifying at the WSK Super Masters and followed it up with a podium finish in the European leg of the Champions of the Future Academy series in Valencia.

Competing in a male-dominated sport, Atiqa has also had to navigate aggressive on-track battles. But the young racer has shown maturity beyond her years in dealing with such challenges.

“Well, sometimes they (boys) turn on me. Sometimes they brake check me, which is normal for everyone, I guess nowadays, because there’s no penalty in karting for a brake check. But sometimes they also hit me, but I think I learned how to deal with it over time.”

Despite these challenges, her focus remains firmly on improvement and long-term goals. Atiqa has her sights set on Formula One, the pinnacle of motorsport, where no woman has raced since 1992.

“Motorsport being a mixed-gender sport and being male-dominated, that’s why many females are not in Formula 1, but belief and confidence will take me there one day.”

Interestingly, her journey into motorsport was not driven by family pressure, even though her father, Asir Mir, is a former national champion. Instead, her inspiration came from watching Max Verstappen during the dramatic Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2021.

“I did not start because of my dad. And like, there was no such thing as like, having a dream to race in Formula One. I did not really know about Formula One and stuff until like 2021. And I think the first race I actually watched on TV was the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2021. And I remember seeing that overtake. And it was so good. And it’s still in my mind. So I really get motivated by that.”

With belief, resilience, and undeniable talent, Atiqa Mir is steadily carving her path in international motorsport—one race at a time, and one step closer to her Formula 1 dream.

Iran’s military on Sunday said its air defence units fired at an ‘enemy F-15 fighter jet’ detected over the country’s southern coastal airspace near Hormuz Island, amid heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz region.

According to Iran’s state-run Mehr News Agency, the aircraft was intercepted after entering sensitive airspace along the southern coast. Air defence systems then launched a surface-to-air missile targeting the jet near the strategically located island.

In a statement carried by Tasnim News Agency, Iran’s Joint Air Defense Command confirmed that the aircraft was engaged after being identified as hostile. The military said the jet was tracked and targeted using ground-based missile systems shortly after interception.

Officials called the response a part of routine defensive operations to secure Iran’s airspace, particularly around key maritime corridors near the Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian authorities said an investigation is underway to determine the outcome of the engagement. There was no immediate confirmation on what damage, if any, was caused to the fighter jet. No country has so far claimed ownership of the F-15 jet mentioned in the reports, and there has been no independent verification of Iran’s claims.

The development comes at a time of rising military activity in and around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route that has seen increased surveillance and deployments in recent weeks.

Earlier today, Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) claimed that its latest phase of “Operation True Promise 4” inflicted heavy casualties, with over 200 people reportedly killed or injured, and struck multiple Israeli military and security sites as well as US bases in the region. According to Iranian state media, the 73rd wave of missile and drone attacks targeted key locations across Israel, while also extending to American assets in Kuwait and the UAE.

Iran asserted that the strikes have shifted the balance in its favour, alleging a weakening of Israeli air defences.