Do you know

HOW WERE MUMMIES MADE?

What comes to your mind when you think of mummies? Perhaps you imagine monsters in bandages.

However, for the ancient Egyptians, who believed in life after death, mummification was all about preparation for the afterlife, if you wanted to preserve the bodies of the dead. A mummy is the preserved body of a person or animal, resulting from the drying and embalming of flesh to prevent decay. This process was expensive and typically reserved for pharaohs and wealthy nobles. It took approximately 70 days to complete the mummification process.

First of all, the body was washed, and all its internal organs, except the heart, were removed from the body. These organs were then placed in special containers known as canopic jars.

Next, the body was covered in natural salt for about 50 days to dry it out. After that, the interior of the body was filled with linen, sawdust, and fragrant herbs.

At this point, the body was ready to be carefully wrapped in layers of linen bandages, similar to a giant gift wrap in order to provide protection. Amulets or small charms were placed within the wrapping for good luck and to assist in the journey into the afterlife.

Anubis: the God of funerary rites and guide to the underworld 

Once completed, a mask was placed over the face to adorn it. Then a priest wearing a mask of the God Anubis would recite prayers over the body. After that, the body was placed inside a wooden coffin, which was later placed in a luxurious sarcophagus (a coffin carved from limestone) to provide an additional layer of protection. Finally, the body was buried in a tomb and ready to begin the journey to the afterlife.

Thanks to this mummification process, many mummies remain in excellent condition, providing valuable insights into ancient Egyptian civilisation. 

Now that you understand how mummies are made, there is no reason to fear them! Right?

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HOW FAST DOES THE EARTH MOVE?

At first glance, Earth feels perfectly still. We sit, walk, sleep, and go about our daily lives without sensing any motion at all. Yet, in reality, our planet is in constant, astonishing movement. Earth spins, races around the Sun, and hurtles through the galaxy—all at mind-boggling speeds. Let’s take a closer look at how fast Earth really moves and why we never notice it.

Earth’s Spin: Creating Day and Night

The most familiar motion of Earth is its rotation on its axis, which causes day and night. Earth completes one full rotation approximately every 24 hours.

At the equator, this spin moves the surface at a speed of about 1,670 kilometres per hour. That means someone standing on the equator travels nearly 40,000 kilometres in a single day—roughly the distance around the Earth itself. At higher latitudes, including much of India, this speed is slightly lower, but still tens of thousands of kilometres every day.

Despite this rapid motion, we don’t feel dizzy or thrown off balance because everything around us—the atmosphere, oceans, and land—moves together at the same steady pace.

Earth’s Journey Around the Sun

While spinning, Earth is also orbiting the Sun. This journey defines our year and follows a nearly circular path.

Earth travels around the Sun at an average speed of about 107,000 kilometres per hour. Over the course of just one day, our planet covers approximately 2.6 million kilometres along its orbit. To put that into perspective, this distance is several times greater than the distance between the Earth and the Moon.

This enormous speed keeps Earth safely balanced between falling into the Sun and drifting away into space.

Racing Through the Milky Way

Earth does not travel alone. The Sun, along with all the planets, moves through the Milky Way galaxy. Our solar system orbits the galactic centre at a staggering speed of roughly 828,000 kilometres per hour.

At this rate, Earth travels nearly 20 million kilometres in just one day as part of the Sun’s galactic journey. Completing one full orbit around the Milky Way takes about 225 to 250 million years—a period known as a “galactic year.”

Why Don’t We Feel Any of This Motion?

Motion becomes noticeable only when there is a sudden change in speed or direction—something scientists call acceleration. Earth’s movements are smooth, constant, and predictable. Since we, along with everything around us, are moving at the same speed, our bodies perceive no motion at all.

It’s similar to sitting inside a smoothly flying airplane: unless the plane turns or hits turbulence, it feels as if you’re standing still.

How Far Do We Travel in One Day?

When all of Earth’s movements are combined, the numbers become truly astonishing. In a single day, a person on Earth travels:

● 30,000–40,000 km due to Earth’s rotation

● 2.6 million km due to Earth’s orbit around the Sun

● Nearly 20 million km due to the solar system’s motion through the galaxy

Altogether, this adds up to over 22 million kilometres in one day, even if you never leave your chair.

A Planet Always in Motion

Earth may feel calm and unmoving beneath our feet, but it is anything but still. Every moment of our lives is spent spinning, orbiting, and racing through space at extraordinary speeds. The fact that we experience all this motion as quiet normality is one of the most remarkable things about our planet—and about life on it.

🌍 Did You Know?

● Even while you are asleep, you travel over 22 million kilometres in a single day due to Earth’s rotation, its orbit around the Sun, and the Sun’s journey through the Milky Way.

● Earth spins fastest at the equator and slows toward the poles—at the North and South Poles, the rotational speed is almost zero.

● The speed of Earth’s orbit around the Sun (107,000 km/hour) is so perfectly balanced that it prevents the planet from either falling into the Sun or drifting away into deep space.

● Scientists discovered Earth’s motion not by feeling it, but through astronomy, mathematics, and precise observation of the stars.

● One complete journey of our solar system around the Milky Way takes so long that dinosaurs were alive the last time it happened.

Do you know

WHAT ARE AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS?

Autoimmune disorders are conditions in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues, confusing them for harmful invaders. Normally, the immune system protects the body by targeting bacteria, viruses, or toxins, but in autoimmune diseases, it turns against parts of the body such as joints, skin, muscles, or organs, causing inflammation and tissue damage.

There are more than 80 recognised autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis and inflammatory bowel diseases. Symptoms often vary widely depending on the specific disease and the body part affected, ranging from fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, to neurological issues. These diseases can be chronic and fluctuate in severity.

The exact cause of autoimmune disorders is not fully understood; they likely result from a complex interaction of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers such as infections, toxins, chemicals, or lifestyle factors. Women are more commonly affected than men, and multiple autoimmune diseases can coexist in the same individual.

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WHY DO LULLABIES CALM PEOPLE?

Different kinds of music affect our emotions and alertness in different ways. Some tunes make us want to dance, while others boost our confidence or energy. Lullabies, however, have a special effect. They make babies and young children feel so calm that they often drift quickly into sleep.

Lullabies are found in cultures all over the world. Even though the languages and tunes may differ, these songs share many common features. They usually have simple words, gentle melodies, and a slow, steady tempo. Lullabies are sung softly and rhythmically, creating a soothing atmosphere that helps the listener relax.

Scientists have studied lullabies to understand their calming power. Research shows that lullabies can slow a baby’s heart rate and breathing, both of which are signs of deep relaxation. These songs also reduce alertness to surrounding sounds and movements, making it easier for infants to fall asleep. Studies reveal that babies who are sung to tend to fall asleep faster and enjoy longer, better-quality sleep than those who are not.

One reason lullabies are so effective is that their slow rhythm resembles the comforting sounds a baby hears before birth, such as the mother’s heartbeat and her voice heard through the womb. These familiar patterns create a sense of comfort and safety. In addition, lullabies signal that a caring person is nearby. This presence helps babies—and even adults—feel secure, reducing stress and anxiety.

Interestingly, lullabies are not just helpful for babies. Research suggests that listening to or singing lullabies can calm adults as well. Singing in a gentle, repetitive way lowers stress hormones and encourages emotional bonding between the singer and the listener. Parents who sing lullabies often feel calmer themselves, strengthening the connection between caregiver and child.

Lullabies have existed for thousands of years. In fact, archaeologists have discovered an ancient lullaby carved into a clay tablet that is over 4,000 years old. This shows that humans have long understood the soothing power of music.

In a fast-paced and noisy world, lullabies remind us of the simple power of sound, rhythm, and human connection. Whether sung to a baby or listened to quietly by an adult, lullabies remain one of the most natural and effective ways to create calm and comfort.

A Tool for Financial Planning

BUDGET 

A budget is an important financial plan that helps individuals, families, organizations, and governments manage their income and expenses wisely. It is a systematic estimate of expected earnings and planned spending over a specific period, usually a month or a year. By preparing a budget, one can ensure that money is used efficiently and financial goals are achieved.

The main purpose of a budget is to maintain a balance between income and expenditure. It shows how much money is available and how it should be allocated for various needs such as food, housing, education, transport, and savings. A budget also helps in identifying unnecessary expenses and controlling overspending.

Budgeting is essential at every level of life. For individuals and families, it promotes disciplined spending and encourages saving for future needs like education, emergencies, or retirement. For businesses, a budget helps in planning production, managing costs, and increasing profits. Governments also prepare budgets to plan public spending on healthcare, education, infrastructure, and national development.

One of the greatest advantages of a budget is that it provides financial security. By planning expenses in advance, people can avoid debt and prepare for unexpected situations. A budget also helps in setting priorities and making informed financial decisions.

In conclusion, a budget is not just a record of income and expenses but a powerful tool for financial control and planning. Whether at a personal, organizational, or national level, budgeting plays a crucial role in ensuring financial stability and sustainable growth.

The World’s Largest Spherical Building

SPHERE 

In the modern age of architecture, buildings are no longer just structures of concrete and steel—they are experiences. One remarkable example of this evolution is Sphere, officially known as the MSG Sphere (Madison Square Garden Sphere), the world’s largest spherical building, located in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. With its massive size, futuristic design, and cutting-edge technology, Sphere has redefined what an entertainment venue can be.

Standing approximately 366 feet (112 metres) tall and 516 feet (157 metres) wide, Sphere is the largest full spherical structure ever built. Its sheer scale makes it instantly recognisable on the Las Vegas skyline, a city already famous for bold and imaginative architecture.

Sphere was designed primarily as a next-generation entertainment venue. It can seat around 17,600 people and accommodate up to 20,000 visitors during large events. What truly sets it apart, however, is its immersive technology. The exterior of the building is covered with one of the largest LED displays in the world, capable of showcasing vivid visuals that can transform the entire sphere into a glowing globe, a giant eye, a planet, or artistic patterns visible from miles away.

Inside, Sphere offers a fully immersive experience. Advanced sound systems, high-resolution visuals, and special effects are designed to make audiences feel completely surrounded by the performance. Concerts, live shows, and multimedia events held here are not just watched—they are experienced.

Before the construction of Sphere, the Avicii Arena (Globen) in Stockholm, Sweden, was widely recognised as one of the largest spherical buildings. While still an architectural marvel, it has now been surpassed by Sphere in both size and technological sophistication.

In conclusion, Sphere in Las Vegas is more than just the world’s largest spherical building—it is a symbol of how architecture, technology, and entertainment can come together to create something truly extraordinary. As cities continue to push the boundaries of design, Sphere stands as a shining example of what the future of architectural innovation may look like.

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WHY DO WOLVES HOWL AT THE MOON?

A wolf unleashing a loud aarrrooo at the glowing Moon?

It’s cool. It’s spooky. It’s also, well, a myth. Wolves don’t actually do this.

Instead, they mostly howl to “talk” with one another. Wolves usually live in packs, often made up of a father, a mother, and their young. Packs may also include aunts, uncles, and cousins. Each pack claims a territory—an area where members live and hunt.

Whether lounging around or on the move, the wolves often need to communicate. To connect over short distances, they may yip, growl, and whine. But to “keep in touch” over longer distances, they howl. Different howls send different messages. Some rally the pack before a hunt or meal. Others are used to warn the pack of a threat. A wolf that gets separated from the group may howl to communicate that it’s lost. Once the pack responds, the wolf will howl back to reveal its location.

Sometimes, wolves may even howl just for fun! Scientists believe that group howls—when one wolf starts, and the others join in—help the group bond. Think of it like a sing-along!

But wait—if wolves mostly howl to connect with one another, what made people start thinking that they howl at the Moon?

The idea may have sprung from folktales. Also, wolves often hunt at night and lift their snouts toward the sky when howling. This may have led some people to believe that the creatures were directing their calls to the Moon. In reality, wolves raise their snouts because it helps the sound of their howls travel farther.

The Moon may not cause a wolf to howl. But wolf calls are still jaw-dropping. They allow packs to stick together, help make wolves safer, and may even boost a pack’s quality time together. Now that’s something to howl about! 

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WHY DOES A CLOCK GO ONLY UP TO 12?

Have you ever wondered why most clocks show numbers only from 1 to 12, even though a full day has 24 hours? The answer takes us back thousands of years, to ancient civilisations and their early understanding of time.

The Ancient Love for the Number 12

Long before modern clocks existed, ancient cultures—especially in Mesopotamia and Egypt—considered the number 12 very special. Historians believe this may have been because:

● There are 12 lunar cycles (months) in a year

● There are 12 prominent constellations in the night sky

● The number 12 is easy to divide (by 2, 3, 4, and 6)

Because of this, 12 became a convenient and meaningful number for measuring time.

Sundials: The First Clocks

One of the earliest timekeeping devices was the sundial. It worked using the Sun’s movement across the sky.

A sundial had:

● A flat surface marked with divisions

● A vertical stick or pillar called a gnomon

● As the Earth rotated, the Sun’s position changed, causing the shadow of the gnomon to move. Ancient sundials often divided the daylight—from sunrise to sunset—into 12 parts. The middle point marked midday, when the Sun was highest in the sky.

Dividing the Night

When people later learned to measure time at night using water clocks (clepsydra) and oil lamps, they divided the night into 12 parts as well. This led to the idea of a 24-hour day:

● 12 hours of day

● 12 hours of night

However, these early hours were not equal in length, because days are longer in summer and shorter in winter.

The Birth of Accurate Timekeeping

With the invention of mechanical clocks in medieval Europe, timekeeping became more accurate. By then, the 24-hour framework was deeply rooted, so people kept it—even though they now had better technology.

To make clockfaces easier to read, clockmakers continued using 12 numbers, allowing the hour hand to go around the dial twice a day.

AM and PM Explained

In countries like India, time is commonly shown using the 12-hour system, divided into:

AM (Ante Meridiem) – Before midday

PM (Post Meridiem) – After midday

So, 7:00 AM means morning, while 7:00 PM means evening.

What About the 24-Hour Clock?

Many countries use the 24-hour time system, especially in:

● Military

● Railways

● Aviation

● Hospitals

In this system:

● 1:00 PM becomes 13:00

● 8:00 PM becomes 20:00

In India, the 24-hour system is mainly used in transport schedules and defense services.

Why Not 24 Numbers on a Clock?

Although 24-hour clockfaces do exist, they are less popular. Why?

● The numbers are crowded and harder to read

● The 12-hour clock is simpler and more familiar

● People are used to dividing the day mentally into morning and evening

After all, no one wants a clock that causes a real time crunch!

Did You Know?

● Ancient Egyptians also divided the year into 360 days, another number linked to 12

● Some modern watches combine both 12-hour and 24-hour markings

● Digital clocks still follow ancient ideas, even with modern technology

Conclusion

A clock goes only up to 12 because of ancient beliefs, early tools like sundials, and human preference for simplicity. Even with advanced technology, we continue to use this age-old system—a perfect example of how history shapes everyday life.

Time may move forward, but its design still ticks to an ancient rhythm!

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WHAT HAPPENS TO THE BODY WHEN A PERSON GETS ELECTROCUTED?

Electrocution occurs when electric current passes through the human body. Since the body itself functions through delicate electrical signals—especially in the nerves, muscles, and heart—an external electric shock can severely disrupt normal bodily functions. The effects of electrocution can range from mild injuries to fatal consequences, depending on factors such as the strength of the current, duration of exposure, and the path the electricity takes through the body.

Disruption of the Nervous System: The nervous system is highly sensitive to electricity. When an electric current enters the body, it interferes with normal nerve signals. This can result in sudden muscle spasms, loss of control over body movements, confusion, or even unconsciousness. In many cases, the muscles contract so tightly that the person is unable to let go of the electrical source, prolonging exposure and increasing injury.

Severe Muscle Contractions: Electric current causes involuntary and powerful muscle contractions. These contractions may lead to temporary paralysis, locking of the jaw or hands, and in extreme cases, fractures or dislocations caused by the sheer force of the muscle movement.

Effects on the Heart: One of the most dangerous consequences of electrocution is its impact on the heart. Electricity can disrupt the heart’s normal rhythm, causing conditions such as ventricular fibrillation, where the heart beats erratically, or cardiac arrest, where the heart stops altogether. Even relatively small amounts of current passing through the chest can be life-threatening.

Breathing Difficulties: Electrocution can paralyse the muscles responsible for breathing or interfere with the brain centres that control respiration. This may result in respiratory arrest, leading to a lack of oxygen supply to vital organs, particularly the brain.

External and Internal Burns: Electrical injuries often cause burns at the points where the current enters and exits the body. However, the most serious damage may occur internally. As electricity passes through tissues, it generates heat that can burn muscles, nerves, and organs beneath the skin. These internal burns are not always immediately visible but can be extremely dangerous.

Damage to Organs and Tissues: Electric current can destroy muscle tissue, leading to a condition known as rhabdomyolysis. The breakdown products of damaged muscles can enter the bloodstream and potentially cause kidney failure. Blood vessels and nerves may also be permanently damaged.

Effects on the Brain: Depending on the severity of the shock, electrocution can cause seizures, memory loss, long-term neurological problems, coma, or death. Brain injury may result either from the direct effect of electricity or from oxygen deprivation due to breathing or heart failure.

Factors That Determine Severity

The seriousness of electrocution depends on several factors, including:

● The voltage and strength of the current

● The duration of contact

● Whether the skin is wet or dry (wet skin conducts electricity more easily)

● The path taken by the current through the body

Conclusion : Electrocution is unpredictable and can cause serious internal injuries even when external signs appear minor. Immediate medical attention is essential in all cases of electrical shock. Understanding how electricity affects the body highlights the importance of electrical safety in everyday life.

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WHAT ARE BIOMETRICS?

In an increasingly digital world, verifying identity accurately and securely has become essential. From unlocking smartphones to accessing bank accounts, biometrics play a vital role in modern authentication systems. But what exactly are biometrics, and why are they considered so reliable?

Meaning of Biometrics: The term biometrics comes from two Greek words: bios (life) and metron (measure).

Biometrics refers to the measurement and statistical analysis of unique physical and behavioural characteristics of individuals used to identify or verify a person’s identity.

Unlike passwords or ID cards, biometric traits are intrinsic to a person, making them difficult to steal, forget, or forge.

Biometrics was first used in ancient civilisations, long before modern technology existed.

Early Use of Biometrics:

● Ancient Babylon (around 500 BCE)

The earliest known use of biometrics is traced to ancient Babylon, where fingerprints were used on clay tablets for business transactions. People pressed their fingerprints into wet clay to seal contracts and confirm identity.

● Ancient China (around 300 BCE)

In China, fingerprints and handprints were used as marks of identification, especially in legal documents and criminal investigations.

● Modern Scientific Use

19th Century – British India

Modern biometric science began in British India.

Sir William Herschel, a British officer in Bengal (1850s), used fingerprints to prevent fraud in contracts and pension payments.

Later, Sir Francis Galton scientifically studied fingerprints and proved their uniqueness, laying the foundation of modern fingerprint identification.

Law Enforcement Adoption:

● Early 20th Century

Fingerprint identification was formally adopted by police forces in Europe and the United States, replacing earlier methods like anthropometry (Anthropometry is about measuring the human body, while biometrics focuses on identifying individuals using unique biological features.)

In Short

First known use: Ancient Babylon

Scientific development: 19th-century British India

Widespread adoption: 20th-century law enforcement

Biometrics, therefore, is both ancient in origin and modern in application, evolving from clay tablets to digital scanners.

Types of Biometric Identifiers: Biometrics are broadly classified into two categories.

1. Physical (Physiological) Biometrics

These are based on the physical features of the human body:

● Fingerprint recognition

● Iris and retina scans

● Facial recognition

● Hand geometry

● DNA analysis

Each of these traits is unique to an individual and remains largely stable over time.

2. Behavioural Biometrics

These are based on patterns of behaviour rather than physical appearance:

● Voice recognition

● Signature dynamics

● Typing rhythm (keystroke dynamics)

● Gait (walking style)

Behavioural biometrics may change slightly over time but still offer reliable identification when combined with other methods.

How Biometric Systems Work: A typical biometric system functions in three main steps.

● Enrollment – The individual’s biometric data is captured and stored in digital form.

● Storage – The data is converted into a biometric template and securely saved.

● Matching – During authentication, the live biometric sample is compared with the stored template to confirm identity.

Uses of Biometrics: Biometric technology is widely used across various sectors.

● Smartphones and personal devices (fingerprint and face unlock)

● Banking and financial services (secure transactions)

● Government identification systems (such as Aadhaar in India)

● Border control and immigration

● Attendance systems in schools and offices

● Healthcare and law enforcement

Advantages of Biometrics:

● High security – Unique to each individual

● Convenience – No need to remember passwords or carry cards

● Accuracy – Reduces identity fraud and duplication

● Efficiency – Quick and seamless authentication

Concerns and Limitations: Despite their benefits, biometrics also raise certain concerns.

● Privacy issues – Misuse or leakage of biometric data can have serious consequences

● Data security – Unlike passwords, biometric traits cannot be changed if compromised

● Cost and infrastructure – Advanced systems may be expensive to implement

● Errors – False acceptance or rejection can occur in some cases

Conclusion: Biometrics represent a significant advancement in the field of identification and security. By relying on unique human traits, biometric systems offer a blend of convenience, accuracy, and enhanced protection. However, their use must be balanced with strong data protection measures and ethical considerations to ensure trust and safety in the digital age.

As technology evolves, biometrics are set to become even more integrated into everyday life, shaping how we identify ourselves in a connected world.

Do You Know?

● Fingerprints begin forming before birth—around the 10th week of pregnancy—and remain unchanged throughout a person’s life.

● No two irises are alike, not even those of identical twins, making iris recognition one of the most accurate biometric methods.

● India operates the world’s largest biometric identification system, Aadhaar, which uses fingerprints and iris scans of over a billion people.

● Biometric data is stored as encrypted templates, not as actual images, to enhance security and privacy.

● Behavioural biometrics can identify a person even without touch, such as by analysing how they type or walk.

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WHAT IS THE MYSTERIOUS ‘ZONE OF SILENCE?

Deep in the Chihuahuan Desert of northern Mexico lies a place wrapped in mystery and rumours—the Mapimí Zone of Silence. Often compared to the Bermuda Triangle, this remote desert region has earned its eerie name from stories claiming that radio signals fail, compasses behave strangely, and communication devices simply stop working, as though the air itself falls silent.

How the Mystery Began: The legend of the Zone of Silence began in the 1970s, when a United States Air Force rocket went off course during a test and crashed in this desert region. The unexpected accident sparked curiosity and fear. Soon, rumours spread that unusual magnetic forces or mysterious elements in the soil had caused the crash and were interfering with radio signals.

As the story grew, so did the myths. People spoke of glowing lights in the night sky, oddly shaped plants, unusual animals, and even alien encounters. The Zone of Silence quickly became a hotspot for thrill-seekers, conspiracy theorists, and curious travellers from around the world.

Science Behind the Silence: Despite its spooky reputation, scientists say the truth is far less mysterious. Researchers explain that radio disruptions can occur naturally in remote desert areas due to terrain, atmospheric conditions, and lack of transmission towers. Similar signal issues happen in many isolated parts of the world.

There is no scientific evidence of abnormal magnetic fields, alien activity, or supernatural forces in the region. In fact, scientists who work there regularly report that their radios and instruments function normally.

A Treasure of Biodiversity: Far from being a lifeless wasteland, the Zone of Silence is part of the Mapimí Biosphere Reserve, a protected area and research station established to study desert ecosystems. It is one of Mexico’s most important ecological zones.

The region is home to:

● Over 200 species of birds

● More than 400 varieties of plants

● Around 36 species of reptiles, including rare desert lizards and snakes

Many of the plants and animals appear unusual simply because they have adapted to extreme desert conditions, not because they are mutants.

Tourism and Tall Tales: Historians believe that many of the myths were deliberately exaggerated by locals to attract tourists after the rocket crash drew attention to the area. The mysterious reputation helped transform a remote desert into a place of global fascination.

Today, visitors still come hoping to experience something unexplained, but most leave with a deeper appreciation for desert ecology rather than paranormal phenomena.

Mystery vs Reality: The Mapimí Zone of Silence reminds us how easily stories can grow larger than facts, especially when isolation and imagination mix. While it may not silence radios or host aliens, it remains mysterious in another way—through its rich biodiversity, harsh beauty, and scientific importance.

Sometimes, the real wonder of a place lies not in myths, but in nature itself.

Heterochromia.

CAN A PERSON HAVE TWO DIFFERENT-COLOURED EYES?

Yes, a person can have eyes of two different colours. This rare and fascinating condition is known as heterochromia.

How Eye Colour Develops: The colour of our eyes is determined by the iris, the coloured part of the eye. Eye colour develops during the first few weeks after birth. It depends on the amount of a pigment called melanin present in the iris.

More melanin → darker eye colour (brown or black)

Less melanin → lighter eye colour (blue, green, or grey)

What Is Heterochromia?

Sometimes, the concentration or distribution of melanin is not the same in both eyes. When this happens, each eye may develop a different colour. This condition is called heterochromia.

Heterochromia is rare, usually harmless and often inherited from one of the parents. In most cases, it does not affect vision and requires no treatment.

Types of Heterochromia:

● Heterochromia can appear in different forms:

●Complete heterochromia – each eye is a completely different colour

●Partial (sectoral) heterochromia – one iris has two colours

●Central heterochromia – a ring of a different colour surrounds the pupil

Famous People with Heterochromia

Several well-known personalities have heterochromia, which adds to their unique appearance:

Kate Bosworth, American actress

Demi Moore, American actress (subtle form)

Shane Warne, legendary Australian cricketer

Their condition has helped bring public attention to this rare trait.

A Unique Feature, Not a Flaw: Heterochromia reminds us that human diversity is full of wonder. What may seem unusual is often just another example of nature’s creativity. Eyes of two different colours are not a defect—they are simply beautifully unique.

Did You Know?

● The word heterochromia comes from Greek—heteros meaning different and chroma meaning colour.

●Babies are often born with blue or grey eyes because melanin develops gradually after birth.

●Heterochromia can also be seen in animals, especially cats, dogs, and horses.

●People with heterochromia usually have perfectly normal eyesight.

●The condition makes eye colour one of the most unique identifiers of a person.

Celebrating Peace, Unity, and Togetherness

GLOBAL FAMILY DAY

Every year, 1st January is celebrated as Global Family Day across the world. While the New Year marks new beginnings, Global Family Day reminds us that the entire human race is one global family. It encourages people to begin the year with thoughts of peace, love, care, and unity.

Origin of Global Family Day: Global Family Day began in 2001 as an initiative to promote peace and harmony after years of conflict and violence across the world. The idea is inspired by the vision of a world where people live together like members of one family, respecting differences and supporting one another. It also aligns with the United Nations’ message of global peace and non-violence.

Meaning and Significance: The word family usually refers to people related by blood or living under one roof. However, Global Family Day widens this idea and reminds us that all human beings belong to one large family. Our actions affect not just our homes or communities, but the entire world.

This day highlights important values such as:

● Peace and non-violence

● Mutual respect and understanding

● Love, compassion, and cooperation

● Responsibility towards society and the planet

How Global Family Day Is Observed: Global Family Day is not celebrated with grand events. Instead, it focuses on simple and meaningful actions, such as:

Spending quality time with family members

● Sharing meals and conversations

● Helping those in need

● Practising kindness and forgiveness

● Resolving conflicts peacefully

Many people also use this day to reflect on how they can contribute to world peace, even through small acts of goodness.

Message for the New Year: 

Starting the year with Global Family Day sends a powerful message: peace begins at home. When families are filled with love and understanding, societies become stronger, and the world becomes a better place.

Conclusion: Global Family Day on 1st January reminds us that beyond borders, languages, and cultures, humanity is united. As we welcome the New Year, let us promise to treat every individual as a member of our global family and work together for a peaceful and harmonious world.

Do you know

HOW DO CHAMELEONS CHANGE COLOUR?

Chameleons are among the most fascinating creatures in the animal kingdom, best known for their incredible ability to change colour. Contrary to popular belief, chameleons do not change colour just to blend into their surroundings. Their colour change is a complex scientific process linked to communication, temperature regulation, and emotions.

The Secret Lies in Their Skin:

A chameleon’s skin is made up of several layers of special cells that work together to produce colour changes.

1. Chromatophores – Pigment Cells

These are colour-containing cells found just beneath the outer skin. They include:

Xanthophores (yellow pigments)

Erythrophores (red pigments)

2. Iridophores – The Real Colour Magicians

Iridophores contain tiny nanocrystals made of guanine arranged in a lattice-like structure. These crystals reflect light rather than producing colour through pigment.

When a chameleon is calm, the crystals are packed closely together and reflect blue and green light.

When it is excited, angry, frightened, or courting, muscles stretch the skin, increasing the distance between the crystals.

This change reflects longer wavelengths of light, causing colours like yellow, orange, and red to appear.

3. Melanophores – Controlling Brightness

These cells contain dark pigments and lie beneath the other layers. They help make the skin appear darker or lighter, adjusting the intensity of the colour.

Why Do Chameleons Change Colour?

Chameleons change colour for several important reasons:

● Communication: Bright colours may signal aggression, dominance, or readiness to mate.

● Temperature Regulation: Dark colours absorb more heat, while lighter colours reflect sunlight.

● Emotional Expression: Stress, fear, excitement, or relaxation can trigger colour change.

● Camouflage: Though not the main purpose, colour change can sometimes help them blend into their environment.

How Fast Does It Happen?

Colour change can occur within seconds. The process is controlled by the nervous system and hormones, making it automatic rather than a conscious decision by the chameleon.

Do You Know?

● Chameleons are born with the ability to change colour.

● Not all chameleon species change colour in the same way.

● Their colour patterns are often brighter during social interactions than when hiding.

Conclusion:

The colour-changing ability of chameleons is a brilliant example of nature’s engineering. It is not simply camouflage but a sophisticated system of light reflection, cellular structure, and biological control. This unique adaptation helps chameleons survive, communicate, and thrive in their environment.

Do you know

What is a GI Tag?

India is a land of rich traditions, unique cultures, and region-specific products. From the aroma of Darjeeling Tea to the elegance of Kanchipuram Silk Sarees, many Indian products owe their special identity to the place where they are produced. To protect such uniqueness, the concept of the GI tag was introduced.

What is a GI Tag?

A GI tag, or Geographical Indication tag, is a sign used on products that originate from a specific geographical area and possess distinct qualities, reputation, or characteristics that are essentially linked to that place.

In simple words, a GI tag tells us that:

● The product comes from a particular region

● Its quality or fame is due to that geographical location

● It cannot be authentically produced elsewhere in the same manner

Meaning of Geographical Indication

The term Geographical Indication refers to a name or sign used on goods that corresponds to a specific location. The uniqueness may arise due to:

● Climate

● Soil

● Traditional methods of production

● Skills passed down through generations

Both natural factors and human skills play an important role in defining a GI product.

Examples of GI-Tagged Products in India

India has hundreds of GI-tagged products. Some well-known examples include:

● Darjeeling Tea – West Bengal

● Basmati Rice – Indo-Gangetic Plains

● Alphonso Mango – Maharashtra

● Kanchipuram Silk Sarees – Tamil Nadu

● Kolhapuri Chappals – Maharashtra and Karnataka

● Mysore Sandalwood – Karnataka

Each of these products carries the legacy and culture of its region.

Types of Products Eligible for a GI Tag

GI tags can be given to various categories of goods, such as:

1. Agricultural products – rice, tea, coffee, fruits, spices

2. Handicrafts – textiles, metal crafts, pottery, jewellery

3. Food items – sweets, snacks, traditional dishes

4. Manufactured goods – region-specific tools or products

GI Tag in India: Legal Framework

In India, GI tags are granted under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.

The official GI Registry is located in Chennai.

Once registered, the product receives legal protection against misuse and imitation.

Why is a GI Tag Important?

The GI tag serves multiple purposes:

✔ Protects traditional knowledge and heritage

✔ Prevents misuse and duplication of famous regional names

✔ Ensures quality and authenticity for consumers

✔ Provides economic benefits to local farmers and artisans

✔ Promotes rural development and exports

✔ Enhances India’s cultural identity at the global level

Duration and Renewal of GI Tag

A GI tag is valid for 10 years.

It can be renewed indefinitely as long as the product continues to maintain its unique characteristics.

Do You Know?

🌱 Darjeeling Tea was the first product in India to receive a GI tag in 2004.

🧵 GI tags are not owned by individuals but by communities or associations of producers.

🌍 GI tags are recognised internationally under the TRIPS Agreement of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

Conclusion: The GI tag is much more than a legal label—it is a tool to protect India’s cultural heritage, empower local communities, and preserve traditional skills. By recognising and supporting GI-tagged products, we contribute to the protection of regional identities and sustainable development.

As consumers, being aware of GI tags helps us choose authentic products and appreciate the rich diversity that India offers.