Strings that speak

THE TIMELESS ART OF PUPPETRY 

In a world dominated by screens and digital storytelling, the age-old charm of puppetry still holds its ground. From the vibrant Kathputlis of Rajasthan to the shadow puppets of Indonesia and the marionettes of Europe, puppets have enchanted audiences for centuries, weaving stories with strings, shadows, and spirited movements.

Puppetry is more than entertainment—it is a mirror to culture, tradition, and imagination. Across the globe, puppet shows have long served as a medium for folklore, moral lessons, political satire, and religious epics. Long before cinema and animation, puppeteers brought gods, kings, animals, and even demons to life on makeshift stages, captivating both young and old.

Tholu Bommalata 

There are many types of puppets: string (marionettes), hand, rod, shadow, and glove puppets, each with its own distinct method of operation and appeal. In India alone, different regions boast unique forms—like Tholu Bommalata from Andhra Pradesh (leather shadow puppetry) or Gombeyatta from Karnataka (rod puppets). Each style carries centuries of heritage, performed with live music, narration, and traditional costumes.

Gombeyatta 

Today, puppetry has expanded beyond folk art. It plays a role in education, therapy, and even political commentary. Modern puppeteers are blending technology with tradition, creating interactive performances and digital puppetry that preserve the soul of the art while reaching new audiences.

Yet, for all its evolution, the essence of puppetry remains unchanged: it's about storytelling through movement, voice, and heart. In the skilled hands of a puppeteer, a lifeless figure becomes a breathing character, speaking truths that resonate across time and culture.

As long as there are stories to tell and listeners to wonder, puppets will continue to dance, whisper, and sing—reminding us of the magic that lies in the simplest forms of expression.

World puppetry day is celebrated on March 21st.

Do you know

HOW LIDAR WORKS 

LiDAR, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging, is a kind of combination of light and radar. LiDAR sends pulses of laser beams at objects far away. Tracking the distances these beams of light travel helps create accurate three-dimensional, or 3D, maps and configurations. 

When scientists tried a primitive form of LiDAR in the 1930s, they just used big flashlights. Initially, they were looking for particles in the atmosphere called aerosols. In 1960, the first working laser was devised, which greatly expanded what was possible with LiDAR. 

Laser light is different from the light of a flashlight. It has a narrow beam of light that can travel great distances without getting wider or weaker. Let’s say a LiDAR scanner is aimed at a bicycle a few blocks away. When the light reaches the bike, it bounces back the way it came and hits the receiver. 

The amount of time it took for the light to travel roundtrip is recorded by a computer. By dividing that number by two, you know how far away the bike is—its range. But that’s not all. You can also tell how far away the handlebars, pedals, and wheels are and how they’re positioned. 

Scientists from different disciplines take those many points of light and turn them into accurate 3D images. 

Seismologists, or earthquake scientists, can see previously unknown fault lines. Volcanologists can watch how volcanoes breathe gas. Conservationists can find areas and trees that endangered animals call home.

A moment of pride

ODISHA’S KHAJA EARNS GLOBAL HONOUR 

Odisha's beloved traditional sweet, Khaja, has recently achieved international fame by being recognised among the world's best sweet pastries by TasteAtlas, a global food guide. This prestigious recognition places Khaja alongside legendary international confections like croissants and doughnuts, marking it as the only Indian sweet to feature in the top ten list.

What is Khaja?

Khaja is a centuries-old delicacy, deeply rooted in Odisha’s cultural and culinary heritage, especially associated with the sacred Jagannath Temple in Puri. The sweet is made from a simple yet rich combination of refined wheat flour, ghee, and sugar. The dough is meticulously rolled into thin layers, deep-fried until golden and crispy, and finally soaked in sugar syrup. The result is a flaky, crunchy, yet melt-in-the-mouth pastry that has delighted generations.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance: Beyond its delectable taste, Khaja holds immense spiritual importance. It forms an integral part of the 'Mahaprasad' — the sacred offering made to Lord Jagannath at the Puri temple. Devotees from across the world purchase Khaja as a blessed souvenir, believing it carries divine blessings. Its preparation is not just a culinary process but a tradition passed down through generations, maintaining its purity and sanctity.

Global Recognition: TasteAtlas praised Khaja for its unique preparation and cultural richness, highlighting how it stands out even amidst other Indian sweets. The platform also noted that Khaja is sometimes known as 'Pheni' and shares its revered space with other popular Indian pastries like Gujiya, Chiroti, and Karanji — but it is Khaja that made it to the world’s top rankings.

A Moment of Pride for Odisha: This international recognition not only celebrates the rich legacy of Khaja but also shines a spotlight on Odisha's culinary traditions, bringing them to a global audience. It is a proud moment for every Odia and a testament to the timeless appeal of this divine delicacy.

Pizza for two or more

THE PIZZA THEOREM 

It’s time for a snack, and you and your pal are all set to share a pizza, with each of you getting half. When the pizza arrives, however, you find that the slices are not all the same size.

The pizza slicer had made four cuts with equal angles, all crossing at one point, to end up with eight slices. But the crossing point is not at the pizza’s center, so some slices are larger than others.

Mathematicians have shown there’s an easy solution to sharing the pizza evenly. They call it the Pizza Theorem. If you and your pal take alternate slices, you each automatically end up with an equal amount. It doesn’t matter where the crossing point is or which wedge you start with. 

The strategy of going around the pizza and taking alternate slices also gives each person exactly the same amount of edge crust. Nice, if you love stuffed-crust pizza.

The Pizza Theorem doesn’t work for a pizza cut into just four slices, but it does work for eight, 12, 16, 20, or any larger multiple of four. In all these cases, the sums of the areas of alternate slices are equal.

What if three of you want equal shares of a pizza? This time, you would need a pizza cut into 12 slices, with each person receiving four. For five people, you would need a pizza cut into 20 slices.

And there’s more. Suppose you have a pizza with, say, three toppings spread unevenly across the surface. As long as each topping covers a circular area and the crossing point of the cuts lies inside all three splotches of topping, the Pizza Theorem ensures that everyone sharing the pizza gets the same amount of the three toppings.

There’s nothing like math to help make sharing easier. Good thing too, because your pal gets pretty grouchy when you take more than your portion of the pie.

India’s first frozen zoo

PADMAJA NAIDU HIMALAYAN ZOOLOGICAL PARK 

Darjeeling’s Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park has established India’s first “Frozen Zoo”. This facility is designed to store the genetic material of various Himalayan species at extremely low temperatures. 

The “Frozen Zoo” is like a super-safe vault for preserving animal DNA at very cold temperatures. Scientists collect tiny pieces of tissue from animals (even ones that have passed away), and then they store these samples in a special lab. 

This helps save the genetic blueprints of these endangered animals. Well, lots of amazing animals, like red pandas, gorals, mishmi takins, and snow leopards, are in danger of disappearing forever. 

By freezing their DNA, we can protect their genetic variety and maybe even bring them back from the brink of extinction one day! This Frozen Zoo is a collaboration between the zoo and Hyderabad-based Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology.

What is a Frozen Zoo?

A frozen zoo is a genetic cryobank that stores genetic material (like DNA, sperm, eggs, and embryos) from animals that are typically endangered and are on the verge of extinction. The genetic material is stored in liquid nitrogen tanks at extremely low temperatures (-196°C) for long-term preservation. 

Did you know?

There are very few frozen zoos in the world. The first one was set up in 1975 by Kurt Benirschke at the Institute for Conservation Research in San Diego. Today, it holds over 8,400 samples from 800 species.

The ghost bird

THE GREAT POTOO

The great potoo (Nyctibius grandis) is a fascinating and mysterious bird found in Central and South America, known for its ghostly appearance and haunting calls. 

Appearance: 

Large bird, about 48–60 cm (19–24 inches) in length.

Mottled gray, brown, and white plumage that makes it blend seamlessly with tree branches, looking almost like a broken stump.

Large, round eyes that glow in the dark when light hits them—perfect for its nocturnal lifestyle.

Behaviour:

Master of camouflage: During the day, it perches motionless on tree stumps or branches, mimicking them to avoid predators.

Nocturnal hunter: Comes alive at night to catch insects like moths and beetles mid-flight.

Emits a deep, eerie call, often described as haunting or ghost-like—part of why it's steeped in local myths.

Interesting Facts:

It doesn’t build nests. Instead, it lays a single egg directly on a branch or stump.

Despite its owl-like behavior, it’s not related to owls—it's in its own family: Nyctibiidae.

Locals in some regions associate its call with supernatural legends or omens.

Cape Town's most colourful neighbourhood

BO KAAP

Bo Kaap is a vibrant and historically rich neighbourhood located on the slopes of Signal Hill in Cape Town, South Africa. 

History: Bo-Kaap dates back to the 1760s when many of the houses were leased to freed slaves, known as the Cape Malays. These people were brought to the Cape from Southeast Asia (mostly Indonesia and Malaysia) by the Dutch.

Cultural significance: It's one of the oldest residential areas in Cape Town and has strong ties to Islamic heritage—many of the early residents were Muslim and contributed to the establishment of mosques and Islamic schools.

Architecture: The area is renowned for its cobblestone streets and brightly painted houses in a variety of bold colours.

The houses reflect Cape Dutch and Georgian architectural styles with Islamic influences, showcasing unique wooden details, ornate doors, and flat roofs.

Culture and Community: 

Bo-Kaap is a center of Cape Malay culture, known for its:

Cuisine: Dishes like bobotie, samosas, and koeksisters.

Music and dance: Traditional Ghoema music and the annual Cape Minstrel Carnival.

Religious life: Home to the Auwal Mosque, the oldest mosque in South Africa (built in 1794).

Tourism: Bo-Kaap is a popular tourist destination for walking tours, visiting the Bo-Kaap Museum, photography of its colorful homes and street scenes and experiencing Cape Malay cooking through food tours and classes.

April 23

WORLD BOOK DAY 

What is World Book Day?

World Book Day is an annual celebration of books, reading, authors, and literature, observed around the world to promote the joy of reading—especially among young people.

When is it celebrated?

The date April 23 was chosen by UNESCO because it marks the death anniversary of several major authors, including William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes (both in 1616).

Why is it important?

World Book Day promotes literacy and education, access to books for all, especially children and cultural exchange through literature. 

Many schools, libraries, and organisations host events like book readings, dress-up days as favorite book characters, book donations, and writing competitions.

Do you know

HOW DOES WATER IN EARTHEN POTS REMAIN COOL?

Earthen pots or mud containers have natural cooling properties that keep water cool. This cooling effect is primarily due to the process of evaporation and the absorbing feature of the earthen material. 

The secret to water remaining cool in earthen pots include:

1. Permeable Material: Earthen pots are produced using permeable materials, meaning they have minuscule pores. These pores permit water to seep through the walls of the pot. This helps maintain a lower temperature inside the pot.

2. Evaporation: When water seeps through the pores of the earthen pot, it comes into contact with the external surface of the pot, from where it turns into water vapour, thanks to the heat in the environment around the pot.

3. Evaporative cooling: Evaporation is a cooling process. At the point when water particles on the outer layer of the pot absorb heat from the environment and transform from fluid to vapour, it removes heat energy from the water chilling it off all the while.

4. Steady cooling cycle: This pattern of water, seeping through the pores, coming into contact with the external surface and going through evaporation makes a consistent cooling impact. As long as there is a source of water and the surrounding air isn't immersed with humidity, the pot keeps on cooling the water.

5. Natural flexibility: Earthen pots are especially successful in dry environments. The cooling impact is more evident in regions with low humidity, where evaporation happens more promptly. 

While earthen pots give regular cooling, the duration might differ as per the natural conditions around. In humid conditions, where evaporation is slower, the cooling impact might be less visible. Also the thickness and the nature of the earthen pods, as well as their design can impact, their cooling properties.

A real moth

WORLD’S FIRST COMPUTER BUG 

We often hear of bugs that slow or crash our computer and network systems. But learning about the world's first computer bug will bring a smile to your face. No, the first computer bug was not a technical fault but a real insect or bug.

On 9th September 1947, the first computer bug was reported at Harvard University. A team was working on their computer called Mark II. But the computer was throwing errors and was not working properly. When the computer experts investigated, they were shocked to see a real moth trapped inside. They had to remove the insect and quite literally 'de-bug' the system.

This 'bug' or computer error was recorded by Grace Hopper in a logbook. She wrote, “First actual case of bug being found.” 

The actual moth that was trapped inside the computer was also pasted on the logbook and is currently in the Smithsonian Institute of National Museum of American History. Interestingly, Thomas Edison also recorded the presence of 'bugs' in his telephone design. Though Grace Hopper may not have been the first to find a bug, she was the first to record it and also stick it in the logbook. It was probably a hearty joke that she wished to share with her colleagues. But over the years, scientists began using the term to indicate any kind of error or failure in the operation or functioning of a technical system.

Today, bugs are referred to as computing, coding, or any other technological errors. De-bugging, on the other hand, means correcting the error. But it's pleasantly amusing to think that it all started with a real bug!

Do you know

WHY DO FRUITS CHANGE COLOUR WHEN THEY RIPEN?

Fruits change colour when they ripen mainly due to chemical changes involving pigments. 

1. Pigment Transformation: Unripe fruits are usually green because of chlorophyll (the same pigment found in leaves). As the fruit ripens, chlorophyll breaks down

New pigments develop: Carotenoids – give yellow, orange, or red colours (like in bananas, mangoes, carrots). Anthocyanins – give red, purple, or blue colours (like in grapes, cherries, plums)

2. Purpose: Attracting Animals

The colour change is nature’s way of saying, “Hey, I’m ready!”

Bright, attractive colours signal ripeness to animals. Animals eat the fruit and help disperse the seeds, aiding the plant's reproduction.

3. Ethylene Gas: Fruits like bananas and apples produce ethylene, a natural gas that triggers ripening. Ethylene activates enzymes that break down chlorophyll and build up other pigments.

4. Softening and Sweetening along with the colour change: Starches convert into sugars (making the fruit sweeter). Enzymes break down cell walls (making it softer)

So, the colour change is both a chemical signal and an evolutionary strategy. 

Marvels of ancient engineering

THE GREAT PYRAMIDS OF GIZA 

Standing proudly on the sands of Egypt for over 4,500 years, the Great Pyramids of Giza are one of the most iconic symbols of human history. These incredible structures were built as tombs for the pharaohs and are a testament to the ingenuity, skill and determination of ancient Egyptian civilisation. How were these massive monuments constructed with such precision, and what secrets do they still hold?

The Engineering Wonder: The largest pyramid, the Great Pyramid of Khufu, originally stood at an astonishing height of 146 metres (now slightly shorter due to erosion). It was built using over 2 million limestone blocks, each weighing between 2 and 15 tons. Ancient engineers used ramps, levers and sheer manpower to move and position these massive stones. The pyramids were not just architectural achievements; they were also designed with astronomical precision. The Great Pyramid is aligned almost perfectly with the cardinal points of the compass and was constructed to reflect significant celestial events. This alignment demonstrates the Egyptians' advanced understanding of mathematics and astronomy.

The Purpose and Legacy: The pyramids served as monumental tombs to honour and protect the pharaohs in the afterlife. The chambers inside were filled with treasures, food and artifacts to support their journey beyonddeath. While many of these treasures were lost to grave robbers over the centuries, the pyramid themselves remain as enduring legacies of a civilisation that continues to fascinate and inspire. The Great Pyramids of Giza are more than just ancient tombs – they are monuments to human ambition, skill and the desire to reach for the stars. Despite centuries of study, these architectural wonders continue to hold secrets that spark curiosity and awe. They remind us of the incredible achievements of those who came before us and the mysteries that still lie waiting to be unravelled. The Great Pyramid’s base is so precisely aligned that its error margin is less than 0.05%. Contrary to popular belief, many pyramid builders were not slaves but skilled labourers who were well-fed and respected for their work.

Hidden Chambers: Researchers have recently discovered a mysterious void inside the Great Pyramid using advanced scanning technology, but its purpose remains unknown.

The Wet Sand Theory: This theory builds on ancient depictions and modern experiments showing that wetting the sand in front of sledges reduces friction, making it easier to transport heavy stones. Workers might have used water to harden the sand, allowing them to drag massive stones across desert terrain with less effort.

Internal Spiral Ramps: Proposed by French architect Jean-Pierre Houdin, this theory suggests the pyramids were built using internal spiral ramps rather than external ones. The internal ramps, hidden within the structure, would have been used to move stones up to higher levels.

The Great Pyramids of Giza are more than just ancient tombs – they are monuments to human ambition, skill and the desire to reach for the stars. Despite centuries of study, these architectural wonders continue to hold secrets that spark curiosity and awe. They remind us of the incredible achievements of those who came before us and the mysteries that still lie waiting to be unravelled.

Clues to Earth’s ancient past

FOSSILS 

Imagine you’re exploring a rocky hillside and spot something unusual sticking out of a stone – a spiral shell, a leaf imprint, or even a giant tooth! You may have just discovered a fossil, a piece of history that has been hidden for millions of years. Fossils are nature’s way of preserving clues from the past, showing us what plants and animals looked like long before humans arrived. But how do these ancient remains turn into stone? And what secrets can they reveal?

WHAT ARE FOSSILS? Fossils are the preserved remains, imprints, or traces of plants and animals that lived long ago. Unlike bones or shells we see today, fossils have undergone a process where minerals slowly replaced the original material, turning them into stone. Fossils come in many forms – some are as small as a grain of sand, while others, like dinosaur skeletons, can be bigger than a school bus! Not every ancient creature became a fossil. Fossilisation is a rare and special process that only happens under the right conditions. That’s why every fossil we find is like a precious puzzle piece, helping scientists understand Earth’s history. 

TYPES OF FOSSILS: Fossils come in all shapes and sizes, but they generally fall into a few main categories:• 

BODY FOSSILS – These include bones, teeth, shells and even entire skeletons that have turned into stone. They help scientists understand what extinct creatures looked like.• 

TRACE FOSSILS – These aren’t actual body parts but rather evidence of how an ancient animal lived. Fossilised footprints, nests, burrows or even preserved poop (called coprolites) tell us about an animal’s behaviour!

Not all fossils are made of rock – some are trapped in other materials like amber or ice, preserving even the tiniest details of prehistoric life.

AMBER FOSSILS – Sometimes, small insects, leaves or even lizards get trapped in sticky tree sap, which hardens into golden amber over millions of years. These fossils give us a crystal-clear look at creatures from the past!• 

PETRIFIED WOOD – When trees fall and get buried under layers of sediment, minerals slowly replace their wood fibres, turning them into colourful rock. Petrified forests exist around the world, showing us trees that grew millions of years ago.

WHAT CAN FOSSILS TELL US? Fossils are like nature’s history books, telling the story of how life on Earth has changed over time. By studying fossils, scientists (called palaeontologists) can:

RECREATE EXTINCT ANIMALS – Fossils help scientists figure out what dinosaurs, woolly mammoths, and other long-gone creatures looked like.

UNDERSTAND EVOLUTION – Fossils provide evidence of how plants and animals have changed and adapted over millions of years. For example, fossilised feathered dinosaurs helped prove that birds evolved from dinosaurs! 

TRACK EARTH'S CLIMATE – By studying fossils, scientists can tell what Earth’s environment was like in the past. Fossils of tropical plants in Antarctica show that it was once much warmer!

DISCOVER NEW SPECIES – Every year, new fossils are found, revealing animals and plants that no one knew existed. Some are small, like ancient insects, while others are giant, like the Spinosaurus, the largest carnivorous dinosaur ever found!

FOSSILS DON’T JUST APPEAR OVERNIGHT – it takes millions of years for them to form! Here’s how it happens:

BURIAL IN SEDIMENT – When a plant or animal dies, it needs to be quickly buried in mud, sand or volcanic ash. If it’s left exposed, it will decay, and no fossil will form.

MINERAL REPLACEMENT – Over time, groundwater seeps into the buried remains. The water carries minerals that slowly replace the organic material, hardening it into stone.

PRESSURE AND TIME – Layers of rock build up over millions of years, preserving the fossil deep underground.

DISCOVERY – Erosion, earthquakes or digging by scientists eventually brings the fossil back to the surface, ready to reveal its secrets!

Chinese folktale

SHISYOKIN'S DREAM 

In China, a young man named Shisyokin had a dream in which a goddess appeared and told him that he would find a large amount of gold on the banks of the "Hwang Ho" river. 

The next day, despite waiting all day, Shisyokin found nothing. When the goddess appeared again in his dream, he went and waited again, but still found nothing. When he was about to leave, a vegetable seller there asked him why he had come. 

When Shisyokin narrated his dream, the seller laughed and said, "Do not believe in such things. In my dream, too, the goddess came and said that there is a large amount of gold under the tree in front of a house belonging to a man named Shisyokin." 

Shisyokin hurried back home and dug under the tree in front of his own house—the one mentioned in the vegetable seller's dream. And there, he found the gold!

The story comes full circle and teaches a beautiful lesson: sometimes, what you're searching for far and wide is actually right where you started—at home.

Do you know

WHY DO SNAKES HISS?

Snakes hiss primarily as a defense mechanism. Here's why they do it:

1. Warning signal: The hiss is meant to intimidate or scare off potential threats without resorting to a physical confrontation. 

2. Territorial behavior: Some snakes may hiss to assert dominance over a space, especially if they feel cornered.

3. No vocal cords needed: Snakes don’t have vocal cords. Instead, they produce the hissing sound by forcibly exhaling air through their glottis, which vibrates a small piece of cartilage to create that distinctive sound.

4. Camouflage enhancer: In some cases, hissing can mimic other sounds in nature (like a predator's growl or a larger animal's presence), adding a psychological layer to their defense.

Pine snake 

The pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus) is known to have one of the loudest and most intense hisses among snakes. It's so powerful that it can sound like a high-pressure release of steam or even mimic the growl of a larger animal.

What makes it interesting is that the pine snake has a special flap of tissue in its glottis that enhances the sound, almost like a reed in a wind instrument. This allows it to amplify and control the pitch of its hiss—pretty sophisticated for a creature without vocal cords!

Other loud hissers include:

Bullsnakes (closely related to pine snakes)

Cobras (they also spread their hoods for extra drama)

Rattlesnakes (hiss along with their rattle for double threat effect)

How do snakes hiss?

Snakes hiss by forcibly exhaling air through their glottis, a small opening in the throat located just behind the tongue. Here's a step-by-step of how it works:

1. Air expelled from lungs: The snake forcefully pushes air out of its single functional lung (most snakes have just one main lung).

2. Glottis involvement: The air passes through the glottis, a slit-like structure in the windpipe.

3. Cartilage vibration: Inside the glottis, there's a small piece of cartilage that can vibrate as air rushes through, much like a reed in a wind instrument. This produces the hissing sound.

4. Mouth often closed: Unlike other animals that might open their mouths wide to vocalise, snakes usually hiss with their mouth closed or just slightly open.

5. Modulation: Some snakes, like the pine snake, can even modulate the sound to make it louder or change pitch, depending on the situation.

It’s all breath and no vocal cords—just clever use of air and anatomy.

The Spearhead of Indian Pace Attack

JASPRIT BUMRAH 

Jasprit Bumrah is a name that has redefined fast bowling in Indian cricket. Known for his unique action, lethal yorkers, and calm demeanor, Bumrah has emerged as one of the most dependable and feared bowlers in international cricket.

Born on December 6, 1993, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Bumrah’s journey to the top has been nothing short of inspiring. He made his debut for India in January 2016 during an ODI series against Australia. From there, he quickly rose through the ranks, making his Test debut in 2018 against South Africa.

Humble Beginnings: Bumrah’s Family Background

Jasprit Bumrah’s success story is rooted in a tale of resilience and determination. He was born into a middle-class Sikh family. His father, Jasbir Singh Bumrah, passed away when Jasprit was just seven years old, leaving his mother, Daljit Bumrah, to raise him and his sister alone. Daljit, a school principal, supported the family single-handedly and played a crucial role in Bumrah’s disciplined upbringing.

Despite financial constraints, his mother never let anything come between Jasprit and his dream of playing cricket. Her sacrifices and strength have been a major source of inspiration for him. Even today, Bumrah remains grounded and credits his mother for shaping his journey.

Rise to Stardom: What sets Bumrah apart is his ability to bowl consistently at high speeds with pinpoint accuracy. His unorthodox action initially raised eyebrows, but it has since become his biggest strength. Bumrah’s trademark toe-crushing yorkers, especially in the death overs, have won India many close matches. His variations and deceptive slower balls make him a complete package, especially in limited-overs cricket.

In Test cricket, Bumrah has proven that he is much more than a white-ball specialist. He has delivered match-winning performances in challenging overseas conditions, including memorable spells in England, Australia, and South Africa. His contribution was instrumental in India’s historic Test series wins in Australia in 2018–19 and 2020–21.

Record-Breaking Achievements

Bumrah's career has been full of remarkable milestones:

First Asian bowler to take five-wicket hauls in South Africa, England, and Australia in the same year (2018)

Fastest Indian pacer to reach 100 Test wickets

Best bowling figures by an Indian pacer in a World Cup match

Most wickets for India in a debut calendar year in ODIs (2016)

Only bowler to bowl 10 maiden overs in a World Cup match (2023)

Fastest Indian to 50 T20I wickets

Top performer in the ICC World Test Championship (2021–2023)

These achievements reflect not just his skill but his consistency and dedication to the game.

Calm Under Pressure: 

Bumrah’s temperament is another standout feature. He rarely shows emotion on the field, instead focusing on outsmarting the batter with skill and strategy. Even under pressure, he remains composed, making him a leader in the bowling unit.

Despite battling injuries at times, Bumrah has always made strong comebacks. His recent performances after returning from a long injury layoff have shown that he continues to be a force to reckon with. 

Jasprit Bumrah is married to Sanjana Ganesan. They tied the knot on March 15, 2021, in a private ceremony held in Goa. Sanjana Ganesan is a well-known sports presenter and a formal model from Pune, Maharashtra. She has hosted various sports events, including the Indian Premier League, IPL and Cricket World Cups.

They have a son named Angad.

In a country traditionally known for its spinners, Jasprit Bumrah has brought about a fast-bowling revolution. With many more years of cricket ahead of him, he is poised to leave an enduring legacy. His story—rising from humble beginnings to becoming a world-class bowler—is an inspiration to young athletes everywhere.

Do you know

HOW DO INSECTS LIKE MOSQUITOES WALK ON WATER?

Insects like mosquitoes can walk (or more commonly, stand) on water due to the following reasons:

1. Surface Tension: Water molecules are strongly attracted to each other, especially at the surface. This creates a sort of "film" at the surface that resists external force—called surface tension. Small, lightweight insects don't exert enough force to break through this tension.

2. Hydrophobic Legs: Mosquitoes and other water-walking insects have hydrophobic (water-repellent) legs. Their legs are covered with microscopic hairs and waxy substances that repel water, helping them stay on top without sinking.

3. Weight Distribution: They have long, spread-out legs that distribute their tiny body weight over a wider area. This reduces pressure on any single point on the water surface.

So, they're not really walking in the usual sense—they're kind of “floating” on water. 

The soul of patriotic cinema

MANOJ "BHARAT" KUMAR 

On April 4, the Indian film industry lost a legend, and the nation lost one of its proudest storytellers. Manoj Kumar was not just an actor, director, or writer — he was Bharat Kumar, a man who turned cinema into a canvas of patriotism, social change, and cultural pride.

Manoj Kumar was more than an actor; he was the embodiment of patriotism, culture, and social awakening in Indian cinema. His legacy transcends his films, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences. When he passed away on April 4, the world lost not just an artist, but a beacon of national pride.

Born Harikrishna Giri Goswami on July 24, 1937, Manoj Kumar’s journey was one of perseverance and extraordinary talent. Inspired by Dilip Kumar, he chose the name ‘Manoj’ from a character in the film Shabnam. Despite early hardships, he rose to stardom, carving out a unique space in an era dominated by glamour and entertainment.

What set Manoj Kumar apart was his focus on patriotism and social consciousness. In Shaheed, his portrayal of Bhagat Singh’s sacrifice left audiences awestruck, reigniting the spirit of independence. During the 1965 Indo-Pak war, he created Upkar, a film that beautifully depicted the importance of both soldiers and farmers to the nation’s survival. His role earned him the title ‘Bharat Kumar,’ a fitting tribute to his dedication to India and cinema.

Films like Purab Aur Paschim and Kranti showcased his commitment to preserving Indian values amidst global influences. His characters weren’t just heroes; they were symbols of cultural pride, and the powerful dialogues from his films continue to resonate today. His work wasn’t merely for entertainment—it was a call to action, urging society to reflect on its identity and progress.

Manoj Kumar was also a thoughtful director and writer, blending entertainment with education. He wasn’t swayed by the changing tides of cinema; his films retained a simple, value-driven narrative. Movies like Roti, Kapda Aur Makaan highlighted the struggles of common people, making his films not just art, but instruments of social change. His commitment to Indian values extended beyond his screen persona. Simplicity was his hallmark, and it reflected in his work. Despite accolades like the Padma Shri and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, his true honour lay in the love and respect he earned from audiences.

Manoj Kumar’s passing is not the end of an era but the continuation of his inspiring legacy. His films remain a guiding light for future generations, proving that cinema is more than just entertainment—it is a powerful force for social transformation. His patriotism, respect for culture, and unwavering dedication to his craft will continue to inspire for years to come.

Today, as Indian cinema evolves with technology and global influence, the values championed by Manoj Kumar serve as an important compass. His storytelling reminds filmmakers and audiences alike that cinema has the power to unite, to heal, and to ignite a sense of purpose. In a world that often forgets its roots, Manoj Kumar’s work calls us back—reminding us of who we are, and what we stand for. His vision lives on, not just in celluloid, but in the soul of a nation that continues to dream.

Smallest country in the world

VATICAN CITY 

The smallest country in the world by both area and population is Vatican City.

Area: About 0.49 square kilometers (0.19 square miles).

Population: Around 800 people.

It's an independent city-state entirely surrounded by Rome, Italy, and serves as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.

Political Status: Vatican City is an independent sovereign state, established in 1929 through the Lateran Treaty between the Holy See and Italy.

It is the spiritual headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church and the residence of the Pope, the spiritual leader of Catholics worldwide.

Government: It’s an absolute monarchy — the Pope holds full executive, legislative, and judicial powers. The Pope is also the head of state.

Language and Currency:

Official Language: Latin (used in official documents), but Italian is commonly spoken.

Currency: Euro (€), even though Vatican City is not a member of the EU.

Major Landmarks:

St. Peter's Basilica – One of the largest churches in the world, built over the tomb of Saint Peter.

St. Peter's Square – Famous for its grand open space and events led by the Pope.

The Vatican Museums – Home to vast collections of art and historical artifacts, including the Sistine Chapel, which has Michelangelo’s famous ceiling.

Population: Around 800 residents, but only about half are Vatican citizens. Citizens include the Pope, cardinals, Swiss Guards (who protect the Pope), and other officials.

Interesting Facts:

Vatican City has its own radio station, post office, newspaper, and even an astronomical observatory.

It has no airport or railway system, but there’s a heliport and a small railway track used occasionally.

The Vatican issues its own passports, license plates, and stamps.

Where culture drapes itself in beauty

THE TIMELESS ELEGANCE OF THE SARI 

The sari, a traditional garment worn by women in India and many other South Asian countries, is more than just a piece of clothing; it is a symbol of culture, heritage, and timeless elegance. Draped gracefully around the body, the sari has been an integral part of the subcontinent's history for thousands of years, evolving through time while retaining its inherent charm and significance.

A Historical Perspective: The origins of the sari can be traced back to the Indus Valley Civilization (circa 2800–1800 BCE), where ancient depictions of women in draped garments suggest early forms of this attire. Over the centuries, different regions of India have developed unique styles of draping the sari, influenced by local traditions, climate, and social customs. The art of weaving and dyeing saris has been passed down through generations, contributing to the vast diversity in patterns, colors, and fabrics.

Variety in Weaves and Styles: India is home to an astonishing array of saris, each reflecting the craftsmanship of its region. Some of the most well-known types include:

North India

Banarasi Sari (Uttar Pradesh): Rich silk fabric with intricate gold and silver brocade work.

Chikankari Sari (Lucknow, UP): Delicate hand embroidery on lightweight fabric.

Tussar Silk Sari (Bihar/Jharkhand): Natural texture silk with earthy tones.

West India

Bandhani Sari (Gujarat/Rajasthan): Vibrant tie-dye patterns, often worn in festive occasions.

Paithani Sari (Maharashtra): Heavy gold borders with peacock and floral motifs.

Patola Sari (Gujarat): Intricate double-ikat weaving, requiring expert craftsmanship.

South India

Kanjeevaram Sari (Tamil Nadu): Luxurious silk with bold colors and elaborate zari work.

Mysore Silk Sari (Karnataka): Lightweight silk known for its smooth finish.

Kasavu Sari (Kerala): White cotton sari with gold border, often worn during festivals.

East India

Baluchari Sari (West Bengal): Silk sari featuring mythological motifs in contrasting colors.

Tant Sari (West Bengal): Lightweight cotton sari, ideal for daily wear.

Sambalpuri Sari (Odisha): Handwoven ikat sari with intricate geometric patterns.

Each sari tells a story, woven with threads of tradition, artistry, and local identity.

Cultural and Traditional Significance: The sari is deeply woven into the cultural and traditional fabric of India. It is a garment that symbolises grace, modesty, and cultural pride, with its significance varying across different communities and occasions. Women wear saris in religious ceremonies, festivals, and rites of passage such as weddings and coming-of-age celebrations. The way a sari is draped can also signify a woman's regional background, marital status, or even social standing.

In many parts of India, certain colours and patterns hold symbolic meanings. Red is commonly worn by brides as a sign of prosperity and marital bliss, while white is traditionally associated with mourning and spirituality. The nine-yard sari (Nauvari inMaharashtra), or Madisaar, is an essential attire for Tamil Brahmin women during religious rituals, while the Assamese Mekhela Chador represents the rich textile heritage of Assam.

The sari is also seen as a bridge between the past and present, carrying forward centuries-old traditions while adapting to modern sensibilities. It continues to be an emblem of Indian femininity and elegance, embraced by women of all ages.

Modern Adaptations and Global Appeal: Despite the rapid modernisation of fashion, the sari continues to be a beloved garment, adapting to contemporary styles while maintaining its essence. Designers have experimented with innovative draping styles, fusion fabrics, and embellishments, making the sari a global fashion statement. Bollywood celebrities, international fashion designers, and influencers have played a significant role in keeping the sari relevant in today’s world.

Conclusion: The sari is not just a piece of clothing; it is a representation of India’s rich heritage, artistry, and evolving fashion sensibilities. Whether draped traditionally or styled in a modern way, it remains a garment of beauty and grace, celebrated across generations. Its timeless appeal ensures that the sari will continue to be an enduring symbol of elegance and cultural pride for years to come.