A Home in Space

🛰️ THE INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION (ISS)

Imagine a giant science laboratory floating 400 kilometers above Earth, where astronauts from different countries live and work together. That’s the International Space Station, or ISS — the largest man-made object in space and one of humanity’s most incredible scientific achievements.

🌍 What is the ISS?

The International Space Station (ISS) is a space laboratory that orbits Earth. It serves as a home and workplace for astronauts and cosmonauts. They conduct experiments in various fields like physics, biology, astronomy, meteorology, and medicine — all in microgravity.

Launched: The first part of the ISS was launched in 1998.

Orbit Height: About 400 km above Earth.

Speed: It travels at around 28,000 km/h and completes one orbit every 90 minutes.

Size: It’s about the size of a football field!

🌐 Who Built the ISS?

The ISS is a joint project involving five main space agencies:

NASA (United States)

Roscosmos (Russia)

JAXA (Japan)

ESA (Europe)

CSA (Canada)

More than 15 countries have contributed to its construction and operation, making it a symbol of international cooperation in space.

🧑‍🚀 Who Lives on the ISS?

Astronauts from different countries live on the ISS for about 6 months at a time. They work, eat, sleep, and even exercise in space!

To stay healthy in zero gravity, astronauts:

Exercise 2 hours daily

Eat specially packed food

Sleep in sleeping bags attached to walls (so they don’t float away!)

🔬 What Do They Do Up There?

The ISS is like a floating science lab. Astronauts do experiments that cannot be done on Earth, such as:

Studying how plants grow in space

Observing how the human body changes in zero gravity

Testing materials for future space missions

Monitoring Earth’s climate and weather

🚀 How Do Astronauts Get There?

Astronauts travel to the ISS aboard spacecraft like:

SpaceX Crew Dragon

Russia’s Soyuz

Earlier, NASA's Space Shuttle was used

These spacecraft dock with the ISS and bring supplies, equipment, and new crew members.

📡 How Long Will the ISS Last?

The ISS has been in operation for over 25 years. While it was originally planned to last till 2020, it has been extended till at least 2030. After that, new space stations (by NASA, China, or private companies) may take over.

🧠 Fun Facts

The ISS orbits Earth 16 times a day!

You can see it from Earth with the naked eye — it looks like a bright, fast-moving star.

Over 260 astronauts from 20+ countries have visited the ISS.

🌌 Why is the ISS Important?

The ISS teaches us:

How humans can live long-term in space

How to prepare for future missions to the Moon and Mars

How countries can work together peacefully for science

🌟 In Conclusion

The International Space Station is more than just a space lab — it's a shining example of global teamwork, scientific curiosity, and the human desire to explore the unknown. As we look toward the future of space travel, the ISS remains a key stepping stone for new adventures beyond our planet.

🇮🇳 INDIA’S RETURN TO HUMAN SPACEFLIGHT: GROUP CAPTAIN SHUBHANSH SHUKLA SOARS TO THE ISS

After more than four decades, India has once again marked its presence in human spaceflight! On Wednesday, history was made as Group Captain Shubhansh Shukla became the latest Indian to travel into space, aboard SpaceX’s Falcon-9 rocket.

This momentous flight is part of Axiom Space’s Ax-4 mission, a commercial trip to the International Space Station (ISS), and it carries immense pride for India.

🚀 A Historic Launch

The Falcon-9 rocket, developed by SpaceX, lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 12:01 pm IST on Wednesday. After several delays, the mission finally took off successfully, watched live by millions around the world.

Destination: International Space Station (ISS)

Duration of journey: Approx. 28 hours

Expected docking time: 4:30 pm IST on Thursday

👨‍🚀 Who is Group Captain Shubhansh Shukla?

Group Captain Shubhansh Shukla is an experienced pilot from the Indian Air Force (IAF). His journey to space is a major milestone, as he becomes part of the small group of Indians who have flown beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

The last Indian to go to space was Rakesh Sharma in 1984, aboard the Soviet Soyuz spacecraft. Shukla’s mission marks India’s return to space after 41 years — a moment of pride and inspiration for the entire nation.

🌐 The Ax-4 Mission

The mission is being carried out by Axiom Space, a US-based company working on building the world’s first commercial space station. Ax-4 includes astronauts from different countries and backgrounds, and it represents a new era of private space missions.

Shukla and the rest of the crew will:

Conduct scientific experiments in microgravity

Interact with astronauts aboard the ISS

Represent India on a global stage of space exploration

🛰️ India in Space: A Proud Legacy

India’s space journey has come a long way:

Rakesh Sharma – the first Indian in space (1984)

ISRO’s Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) – success in 1st attempt

Chandrayaan-3 – successful landing on the Moon’s south pole in 2023

And now, Shubhansh Shukla’s spaceflight – the next giant leap!

This achievement also boosts India’s confidence as it prepares for Gaganyaan, its own manned space mission planned by ISRO.

🌟 A Moment of National Pride

This mission is not just a scientific achievement — it's a symbol of India's growing strength in global space exploration. From launching satellites to putting humans in space, India is moving forward with determination, skill, and dreams that reach beyond the stars.

As Shubhansh Shukla embarks on his journey, he carries with him the hopes and pride of over 1.4 billion Indians.

📢 In Conclusion

India has once again reached for the stars — and touched them. Group Captain Shubhansh Shukla's mission is a reminder that no dream is too big and no sky is the limit. The countdown to India’s bright space future has truly begun!

A tribute to the little bird that once lived on our windowsills

WHERE HAVE ALL THE SPARROWS GONE? 🐦💔

Once upon a time, the cheerful chirping of sparrows was a part of our everyday life. They fluttered around rooftops, built nests in crevices, and pecked at leftover grains in courtyards. But today, these small, humble birds have quietly disappeared from our cities—and few of us noticed.

🌾 Why Sparrows Mattered

Sparrows have long been our companions—gentle, non-threatening birds that lived close to humans.

They helped control insects and pests.

Their presence was a sign of a healthy environment.

They taught children the joy of observing nature up close.

In Indian culture, sparrows symbolise simplicity, family, and harmony.

⚠️ What Happened to Them?

Several human-made changes have pushed sparrows into decline:

🏠 Modern buildings with no open eaves or crevices to nest.

📡 Electromagnetic radiation from mobile towers that may affect their navigation.

🌾 Use of chemical pesticides that kill the insects sparrows feed on.

🛣️ Loss of greenery, gardens, and traditional grain stores.

🚫 Lack of awareness—we forgot they were even missing.

💡 Why Should We Care?

The disappearance of sparrows is a warning sign—an indicator that our environment is becoming unfriendly to small life forms. And when the small creatures vanish, bigger imbalances follow. Sparrows are not just "nice birds"—they're part of the ecosystem that keeps nature in balance.

🌱 How Can We Help the Sparrows?

It’s not too late. We can still bring them back with simple steps:

🏡 Install nesting boxes on balconies or trees.

🌿 Plant native shrubs, trees, and flowering plants.

🚱 Avoid using chemical pesticides in home gardens.

🍚 Leave some grains or water outside daily.

📣 Most importantly, raise awareness—tell others what we’re losing.

🌍 A Message for the Future

The sparrow’s soft chirp may be fading, but it is not lost forever.

By making space in our hearts and homes again, we can give these small birds a second chance.

Let’s act before the next generation grows up thinking sparrows are creatures only found in textbooks.

Goa’s Unique Monsoon Festival of Joy and Faith

🌧️ SÃO JOÃO 

As monsoon showers drench the lush landscapes of Goa every June, the state erupts into one of its most vibrant and joyous celebrations — São João, also known locally as Sant Janā, held annually on June 24, this festival is dedicated to St. John the Baptist, blending religious symbolism, seasonal joy, and community bonding in a way that’s uniquely Goan.

When is it Celebrated?

São João is celebrated every year on June 24th, marking the birth of St. John the Baptist.

✝️ History and Significance

✨ Religious Roots

The festival honours St. John the Baptist, who, according to the Bible, leapt with joy in his mother Elizabeth’s womb when Mary, pregnant with Jesus, visited her.

This joyful "leap" is symbolically re-enacted through the famous tradition of jumping into wells and water bodies.

St. John also baptized Jesus in the River Jordan, and the act of jumping into water during the festival is linked to the purifying power of baptism.

🌦️ Monsoon Connection

The timing of the festival coincides with the arrival of the monsoon in Goa, a season of renewal and abundance.

Overflowing wells, blooming flowers, and green surroundings form a beautiful natural backdrop for the celebrations.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Community and Family Ties

Known as "Zanvoiamchem Fest" (Feast of the Sons-in-Law), it is customary for newly married sons-in-law to be invited by their mothers-in-law for a festive meal.

The celebration is also a way of giving thanks for marriages and childbirths in the previous year, thus strengthening family and community ties.

🎊 Traditions and Customs

💦 Jumping into Wells

The most iconic São João tradition!

Young men — and sometimes women and children — jump into wells, ponds, or streams, shouting “Viva São João!”

In some places, villagers throw in fruits or bottles of feni (cashew liquor) for jumpers to retrieve.

🌸 Kopels (Floral Crowns)

People wear kopels, beautiful crowns made of seasonal flowers, fruits, and leaves.

These symbolise nature’s bounty, joy, and St. John’s ascetic lifestyle.

🎶 Singing and Music

Groups visit homes singing traditional Goan songs (especially mandos) using local instruments like the ghumot, mhadalem, and kansallem.

They announce their arrival by beating coconut palm stumps on the ground.

🍛 Feasting and Sharing

Traditional Goan delicacies are prepared and shared:

Sanna (steamed rice cakes)

Vindalho de Porco (spicy pork curry)

Verdur (vegetable stew)

Patolleo (sweet dumplings steamed in turmeric leaves with coconut and jaggery)

Seasonal fruits like jackfruit, pineapple, and mango are widely enjoyed.

"Vojem": Newlywed brides often bring a platter of food and fruit to their in-laws' home.

⛵ Boat Parades (Sangodd)

Particularly in Siolim, locals organize a beautiful boat parade on the river.

Boats made of banana trunks and decorated with flowers and figures compete for the best-decorated float.

🔥 Judeu or Māru Effigies

In some villages, young men carry and later burn effigies made of hay and dry leaves, symbolically marking the end of negativity or evil.

📍 Where to Experience It Best

While São João is celebrated across Goa, the most spirited celebrations take place in:

Siolim (famous for the boat festival)

Anjuna

Candolim

Calangute

Assagao

Saligao

These villages come alive with music, processions, water games, and feasting during the festival.

🌈 Conclusion

The São João festival of Goa is more than just a celebration — it’s a beautiful blend of faith, folklore, nature, and neighbourhood spirit. Whether it’s the cheerful leap into a well, the laughter-filled boat parade, or the mouth-watering feasts with loved ones, São João truly captures the monsoon magic of Goa.

A Journey of Faith and Devotion

PANDHARICHI WAARI (वारी)

Every year, as the month of Ashadha (June–July) approaches, thousands of devotees from across Maharashtra and beyond begin a journey like no other — the Pandharichi Waari, a grand pilgrimage by foot to the sacred town of Pandharpur, the abode of Lord Vitthal.

The Waari is not just a physical journey. It is a journey of the soul, of surrender, and of love for the divine.

What is the Waari? 

“Waari” means a regular, repeated visit. Devotees, lovingly called Warkaris, travel on foot, often walking over 250 kilometers, to reach Pandharpur by Ashadhi Ekadashi, the most auspicious day to see Lord Vitthal.

The two most famous Waari groups carry the paduka (sacred footprints) of two great saints — Sant Dnyaneshwar from Alandi and Sant Tukaram from Dehu. These are carried in palanquins (palkhis) as symbols of their spiritual presence, and are followed by thousands singing bhajans, chanting “Vitthal Vitthal,” and playing traditional instruments like tals, mridangs, and veenas.

What Makes the Waari Special?

Sounds of Devotion: The air is filled with “Vitthal Vitthal,” abhangas, drums, cymbals, and flute.

Colours of Faith: Devotees wear white or saffron, carry flags and tulsi plants, and walk in groups called Dindis.

Feelings of Unity: Rich or poor, all are equal in this journey. People help one another, and villagers serve the Warkaris with food and shelter.

Rituals on the Path

Ringan – a joyful run in circles around the palanquin.

Dhava – a final sprint before entering Pandharpur.

Holy Dip – in the Chandrabhaga River, followed by darshan of Lord Vitthal, standing on a brick, waiting for his devotee.

A People’s Movement

What makes the Waari unique is how it brings together people from all walks of life — rich and poor, young and old, farmers, students, teachers, and professionals. All differences disappear in the shared spirit of bhakti (devotion).

Warkaris walk under the blazing sun, in rains, through mud and fields — yet they never complain. Their hearts are full of joy, singing and dancing with each step, because they believe that every pain is a blessing when taken in Vitthal’s name.

They follow a simple code: live a pure life, speak the truth, be humble and help others and see God in all beings

🕊️ A Message for Today

In today’s fast-paced, technology-filled world, the Waari stands as a timeless reminder of values we often forget — patience, simplicity, gratitude, and community.

It is more than a pilgrimage. The Waari is not just a religious event. It is a message of simple living, humble devotion and equality and service. 

It teaches us that faith is not in reaching fast, but in walking together. That God is not only in temples, but also in the hearts of those who serve selflessly.

🙏 Conclusion

Pandharichi Waari is more than just a tradition — it is a moving temple, a walking university of devotion, and a living connection between the past and the present.

As the dindi (procession) moves closer to Pandharpur, echoing with the chants of “Gyanba Tukaram!” and “Vitthal Vitthal!”, one cannot help but feel that this is not just a pilgrimage, but a divine experience!

Did You Know?

* The Waari has been declared part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (as of 2021).

* More than a million people participate each year.

* Warkaris often walk barefoot out of devotion.

🙏Mauli Mauli🙏  

A Russian Fairytale

THE TWELVE MONTHS 

🌨️ Once Upon a Time…

There was once a kind and beautiful girl named Marouckla. She lived with her cruel stepmother and her lazy stepsister, Holena. Marouckla did all the housework, fetched water, chopped wood, and cleaned the house while her stepmother and Holena relaxed, ordered her around, and treated her badly.

But no matter how unfairly she was treated, Marouckla stayed gentle, patient, and cheerful.

🌸 The Wish for Violets

One cold winter morning, Holena suddenly wanted something strange.

“I want violets! Pretty purple ones to put on my dress,” she said.

“But it’s the middle of January!” said Marouckla. “Violets only bloom in spring.”

But her stepmother shouted,

“Go to the forest and don’t come back without them!”

So, Marouckla, wrapped in a thin coat, walked through the snowy forest, cold and frightened.

🔥 A Circle of Warmth

After a long time, she saw a glow of fire on a mountaintop. Around the fire sat twelve tall men, each wearing a cloak of a different colour. These were not ordinary men—they were the Twelve Months, magical spirits who rule the seasons.

Great January, the oldest of them all, asked kindly,

“What are you doing out here, child?”

Marouckla bowed and said,

“My stepsister wants violets. I was told to bring them.”

Hearing her story and seeing her kind heart, Great January nodded.

“Brother March, lend us your time.”

March rose and waved his magic wand. The snow melted, grass appeared, and violets bloomed all around! Marouckla picked a bunch, thanked the Months warmly, and returned home.

🍓 Strawberries in the Snow

When Holena saw the violets, she was amazed—but not grateful. A few days later, she yelled:

“Now I want strawberries! Go and get them!”

Once again, Marouckla walked into the snowy forest and found the Twelve Months.

This time, Great January handed the magic wand to June. Instantly, the ground turned green, flowers bloomed, and sweet red strawberries grew everywhere. Marouckla picked them joyfully and hurried home.

🍎 Apples in the Blizzard

The next day, greedy Holena demanded:

“Now I want red apples!”

Though it was snowing heavily, the stepmother forced Marouckla out again.

Marouckla found the Twelve Months once more. Great January passed the magic wand to September, and soon a big apple tree appeared with shiny red apples.

Marouckla shook the tree. Two apples fell. She picked them, thanked the Months, and returned.

❄️ A Greedy Mistake

When Holena saw the apples, she was furious that there were only two. She and her mother rushed into the forest to find the apples themselves.

They found the fire and the Twelve Months, but instead of being polite, they were rude and demanding.

“Give us apples! And strawberries too!” they shouted.

The Months were angry. Great January raised his magic wand, and a wild snowstorm began. The wind howled and the snow fell thick. Holena and her mother were lost in the storm and never seen again.

🏡 A Happy Ending

Marouckla was now free from cruelty. She lived in peace and happiness, with the house and everything in it now hers.

In time, she met a kind young man who loved her for her gentle nature, and they lived happily ever after.

🌟 Moral of the Story

Kindness is always rewarded.

Greed and rudeness lead to trouble.

Respect nature’s time and seasons.

Be patient, humble, and thankful—just like Marouckla!

The Cool Cousin of Ice Cream

GELATO 🍨

When summer hits hard, we all crave something cold, creamy, and delicious. While ice cream has always been a favourite, gelato is quickly making its way into the hearts (and freezers!) of dessert lovers across India.

🍧 What is Gelato?

Gelato (which means “frozen” in Italian) is a type of frozen dessert made with milk, sugar, and natural flavours, just like ice cream. But here’s the twist—though they look similar, gelato and ice cream are not the same.

❄️ How Is Gelato Different from Ice Cream?

Let’s scoop out the key differences:

Less Air, More Creaminess: Gelato is churned slowly, allowing less air into the mixture. This gives it a denser and silkier texture than ice cream.

Warmer Serving Temperature: It’s served slightly warmer than ice cream (10–15°C warmer), so your tongue isn’t numb when you eat it. Result? More flavour!

Lower Butterfat and Sugar: Gelato has less fat and sugar, making it a healthier alternative to ice cream.

🕰️ A Tasty History

The story of gelato dates back to 1565, when an Italian named Bernardo Buontalenti first created it. His version was more like sorbet, with more water than milk. Later, in 1686, Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli, a Sicilian fisherman, opened a gelato café in Paris and helped popularise the dessert. Guess what? That café still exists today!

Fast forward to 1945, gelato began to be mass-produced, and today it’s a global sensation with hundreds of flavours—from classic vanilla to exotic rose basil!

🛍️ Gelato in India

Although not as common as ice cream yet, gelato is gaining popularity in India, especially in urban areas and malls. Many gelato parlours and artisanal dessert shops are opening up, serving this creamy delight to curious tastebuds.

🌱 A Treat for All

Modern gelato isn’t just dairy-based. There are now plant-based and vegan options, perfect for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.

🌞 Summer Special Fast Facts

🍨 Gelaterias are special shops where gelato is sold. The person serving gelato is called a gelataio.

🥄 While ice cream is scooped with a round scoop, gelato is served with a spade or paddle.

🍦Gelato con panna means your gelato comes with a dollop of whipped cream.

☕ An affogato is a delicious dessert where gelato is topped with hot coffee—yum!

🌍 Italy hosts the Gelato World Cup every two years. Teams from all over the world compete in making the best gelato, pastries, chocolates, and even ice sculptures!

🎉 Fun Gelato Sayings

“A gelato a day keeps the heat away!”

“When in Rome, do as the gelato does!”

“A gelato in the hand is worth two in the freezer!”

So the next time you're feeling the heat, treat yourself to a scoop (or spade!) of gelato. Whether it’s chocolate, mango, or mint-choco-chip, this Italian dessert is sure to make your summer sweeter and cooler.

Stay chill and gelato on! 🍧🇮🇹

A Hidden Gem in Central Asia

KYRGYZSTAN 🇰🇬 

Tucked away in the heart of Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan is a country not many people know about — but those who do, often call it a hidden gem. With its snow-capped mountains, green valleys, crystal-clear lakes, and ancient culture, Kyrgyzstan is a dream for nature lovers, adventurers, and curious minds.

🏔️ Land of Mountains

Kyrgyzstan is known as the "Switzerland of Central Asia" because about 90% of its land is covered by mountains. The Tian Shan range runs through the country, creating a stunning landscape of towering peaks and peaceful meadows. These mountains are not only beautiful but also provide great opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and skiing.

🐎 Nomadic Culture and Yurts

One of the most fascinating things about Kyrgyzstan is its nomadic heritage. Even today, many Kyrgyz people live in yurts — traditional round tents made of felt. They move with their herds through the mountains in summer, keeping alive a way of life that goes back thousands of years.

Kyrgyz people are known for their hospitality, colorful clothing, traditional music, and unique sports like kok-boru, a horseback game similar to polo.

💦 Lakes and Nature’s Beauty

The country is home to Issyk-Kul Lake, the second-largest alpine lake in the world. Surrounded by mountains, it never freezes, even in winter! You’ll also find beautiful gorges, rivers, and forests throughout the land, making it perfect for eco-tourism.

🕌 History and the Silk Road

Kyrgyzstan was once part of the Silk Road, the ancient trade route that connected the East and West. You can still see ruins of caravanserais (inns for traders), old cities, and watchtowers that remind us of the country’s historic role in global trade and cultural exchange.

🗺️ Why Visit Kyrgyzstan?

To experience raw, untouched natural beauty

To learn about a rich nomadic culture

To enjoy adventure sports like trekking and horseback riding

To escape into peaceful surroundings, far from crowded cities

🧠 Did You Know?

Capital: Bishkek

Currency: Kyrgyzstani Som (KGS)

Language: Kyrgyz and Russian

Famous for: Yurts, mountains, lakes, and ancient Silk Road history

🌟 Conclusion

Kyrgyzstan may not be on every tourist’s list, but it truly is a hidden gem. Its natural wonders, friendly people, and deep-rooted traditions make it a unique place to discover — especially for students and explorers who want to learn about different cultures and parts of the world.