December is a month to celebrate the birthdays of stalwarts; the likes of your baby, Salman Khan, Rajnikanth, Walt Disney, Woody Allen, Brad Pitt…let’s just say it is a long list. Want to know which famous, highly talented, millionaire and glittering celebrity shares your baby’s birth date? Well, just read on and tell your young one that greatness awaits!
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Image courtesy: Reuters & BCCL
We are in the last month of the year and it’s time to give you a recap of all that happened on the red carpet in 2013. Since the iDiva team comprises out-and-out fashionistas, we cannot stomach a bad sense of style. So we took a quick look at all the red carpet events this year and complied 10 disastrous outfits which we thought should be burnt and buried. Take a look and try not to cringe.
Image courtesy: BCCl, Reuters
As much as we love the winter, we can’t deny what this weather does to our skin. Dry, scaly and flaky skin is a common problem during winter; and if ignored, besides looking terrible, can also lead to irritation and itchiness. So get ready to treat your skin to some TLC and flaunt a flawless complexion with these winter skincare tips.
How should I take care of my face and body during winter?
Stay hydrated. Water is an amazing beauty product. Eight glasses of water a day will give your skin a noticeable glow and you will feel much better in the process.
Exfoliate your skin regularly. For a home remedy, mix sugar with olive/almond/coconut oil (whichever is available). Rub in circular motion over your body. Rinse thoroughly.
Moisturise your skin while it's wet. After your bath or shower, massage on some body oil, and then gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel. The water helps the natural plant oils sink i n and hydrate your skin.
How can I deal with flaky skin during winter?
If you suffer from winter flaky skin, invest in a cleanser that is made for dry skin. When cleaning your face, do not use anything that could irritate your dry skin, like a washcloth. Instead use your fingers and rub the cleanser into your skin using gentle circular motions. Be sure to wash your face in the morning as well as the night.
Another important step in dealing with dry, flaky skin is to never miss out on moisturising. Apply the moisturiser to slightly damp skin immediately after washing. Apply it all over your face and neck area in upward strokes. Remember, moisturiser is not only for the daytime. You must apply moisturiser to your skin after washing your face before going to bed as well.
Use a facial mask designed for dry skin once a week. This will help remove dry and dead skin cells that have accumulated on your face. If your entire body feels dry (as it might in winter), you can use a salt scrub to help exfoliate your entire body, which will rid your body of the dead cells, causing fresh new cells to surface.
Can I use the same lotion on my face and body?
No, these products are made differently and for a good reason. The skin on your face has different needs than that your body, and therefore needs a different moisturiser. The primary job of body moisturisers are to relieve dry skin. They use heavier moisturising ingredients such as petroleum and mineral oil which provide an excellent barrier and keep skin from losing moisture. However, these types of moisturisers can be too heavy for the face and can clog pores. While facial moisturisers also relieve dry skin, they can offer other benefits such as sun protection, anti-ageing and even anti-acne.
Facial moisturisers should be lightweight and non-comedogenic (ie they don't clog pores). Anti-ageing versions will have film-forming agents that tighten skin to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The bottom line is that while body and face products may share some of the same basic ingredients, the functions they need to perform can be significantly different. Using the right product will give you better results.
What are the basic make up dos and don'ts for winter?
Don’t wear too much foundation, especially where it’s very visible. Choose your foundation to match your skin colour, as well as to suit your skin type.
Do find a bright red lip colour that suits your skin tone and personality. Wear this when you are going to a job interview or running a meeting; or for any occasion where you want to attract attention.
Don’t match your make up with your clothes or accessories. If you are wearing bright clothes, wear neutral make up and vice versa. Remember to keep it simple; less is more .
Do make sure your blusher is always the same tone as your lipstick. If you can’t get a blusher in a certain tone, you can always dab a bit of your lipstick onto your cheeks.
Do use a primer. A primer will benefit everyone no matter what the climate, and will act as a barrier between your skin and make up, keeping your skin healthy and ensuring your make up lasts all day.
What is a simple winter skincare regimen to follow?
Exfoliate: An important step in winter skincare is to give yourself an all-over scrub. From your feet to your lips, an occasional scrub is important to get rid of dead skin cells and reveal fresh, new skin. When you don’t exfoliate your skin, all the moisturisers and lip balms are just sitting on the surface and not getting to where they need to be.
Sunscreen: We’re usually encouraged to use sunscreen on our face but we really need to ap ply it all over. Our neck, décolletage and hands are frequently exposed to the sun but don’t get much love when it comes to sun protection from the harsh winter rays. Plus, our hands and neck are the first places that show signs of ageing. Remember to apply sunscreen on other parts of your body that are exposed to the sun to keep them looking youthful.
Image courtesy: © Thinkstock photos/ Getty Images
More On >> Style & Beauty
iDiva
Connect with your inner self with the magic of tarot reading
Aries
The Empress – upright
The Empress card carries an image of a full-figured woman, wearing a crown and a patterned robe. She is surrounded by a lush green forest with a stream running through it. The appearance of this particular card in your readings indicates a deep connection with femininity. It can mean a lot of things – sensuality, beauty, fertility, creative expression; nurturing and all those elements that help create balance in men and women alike. You need to connect with your feminine energy, explore your surroundings, spend more time appreciating Mother Nature and create a beautiful world around you. Consider this to be a green signal for taking a break from the routine and going on a vacation. But avoid fancy hotels; try something like setting up a tent in jungle or beside a water body and exploring the places around. This card also suggests you to nurture your relations and be closer to your near and dear on a mental level.
Lesson
You may have been very busy with your work, finances, property matters, love life and what not. But now is the time to take a moment to look around and appreciate what you have. Thank those who have been with you through thick and thin, celebrate your good fortune, and most importantly, believe that you are worthy of being loved and cared about.
Taurus
Ten of Swords – upright
The image on the Ten of Swords card is of a man lying face down with ten swords embedded in his back. The appearance of this card in your readings indicates bitter truths about life – failures, loss, setbacks, delays, betrayals and extremely emotional pain. You will have no option but to bear the pain. There is a great possibility that you will end up indulging in self-pity and curse your luck for all the bad things that have happened to you. You will even expect the people aroun d you to acknowledge how troubled you are. While everything seems dark and gloomy, there does exist a silver lining. The Ten of Swords also indicates a beginning, a rejuvenation of the inner self. You may have hit rock bottom and things can't go any worse than this. It is time you let things go and welcomed a new tomorrow.
Lesson
The challenging period will test your strengths and may even make you doubt your calibre. But look at the bright side, it will also give you an opportunity to take a closer look at your decisions and actions, help you differentiate between genuine and fair-weather friends and enable you to face the storm. Don't give up now! Pin your hopes high and be positive to draw wisdom and to gain composure from failures.
Gemini
Page of pentacles – upright
The tarot card of the Page of Pentacles shows a young man, standing alone in a field full of blossoming beautiful flowers. He has a bright gold coin in his hands. The Page of pentacles indicates new beginnings and the initial stages of a creative project/venture. It also symbolises your gradually growing awareness about the importance of health, money and other material needs. The appearance of this card in your readings suggests that you sincerely want to put your plans in action and realise your dreams. You may now need to grow as a person and as a professional, and expand your horizon to make the most of your abilities. Also, take steps to hone your skills and improve your knowledge base. However, the card doesn't indicate the fulfilment of dreams; you will have to wait and watch to see what happens next.
Lesson
It is time to put your grand plans in action and make necessary alterations in them as and when needed. Work on improving your personality, and if that means going to college, attending special classes or learning something completely new, do it. Don't be afr aid of uncertainties, as they will always be there. You will have to trust your abilities and believe that you will definitely achieve your goals.
Cancer
Four of swords – upright
The Four of Swords shows an image of a knight lying upon a tomb with his hands in the position of prayer. One sword lies beneath him and three swords hang above him, pointing downwards. The appearance of this card in your readings indicates that there is one key issue dominating your life right now. You may have been relentlessly fighting the challenging circumstances but now you may slow down. But don't assume that the challenges are over. This is just a phase during which you should rest and recharge your energies. Give yourself some time to recover from the difficult times, the trauma of career issues, family problems, financial issues or loss of a loved one. Staying silent and inactive may be difficult but ensure to utilise this period to build your m ental strength. Once you have recovered, you will be prepared to face challenges head-on and resume your efforts to bring success, peace and harmony in your life.
Lesson
This card suggests that you take a break, move away from your current circumstances and reflect on what has worked well and what hasn't. You should rework on your strategies now and make necessary changes in your plans. Spend some time in solitude and meditate, if need be. The challenge is not yet over, so recharge your batteries and don't lose your focus.
Leo
Knight of Wands – upright
The Knight of Wants depicts an image of a man riding upon his horse. His face and posture bear the determination of one bound to succeed. You may have an interesting, promising idea in your mind about something specific and you will now take concrete steps and work on that idea. You are likely to be in such high spirits that you will tackle every cha llenge with exuberance, total commitment and determination. The appearance of this card in your readings suggests that you should start your projects with great enthusiasm and put your best foot forward to achieve desired results. But at the same time, you should keep your temper in control and maintain a balanced and realistic view. If you have been nurturing a dream or an idea, now is the time to push yourself a little and march towards your goals. You need to take calculated risks to realise your dreams.
Lesson
If there is an important issue in your life right now, deal with it upfront rather than waiting for it to go away by itself. In case there is no such matter in your life at the moment, be prepared as you may have to handle something that you had never expected. A change is likely and when it happens, don't resist it. Be open to change and go with the flow. Make sure you channel your energies in the right direction.
Virgo
Ten of Cups – upright
The Ten of Cups shows a couple and two children, depicting happiness, emotional fulfilment, joy and harmony. This card points at your relationships and suggests that you may be having a good time as far as your equation with the people around you is concerned. It is possible that you will go on a vacation with your friends and family in the near future. A family reunion and celebrations are also foreseen. All these activities shall stren gthen your bond with your near and dear ones. The time you will spend with them shall help you lay a firm foundation for a wonderful future together. You may even get into a romantic relationship. At this moment, you are very clear about how you want to lead your life. Things are going well for you; take a moment to show how grateful you are for all the good times.
Lesson
Have faith in your principles and work to create a better tomorrow for yourself as well as for your family. When in doubt, follow your heart and trust your instincts. And if you need inspiration, look within to find your driving force. You don't have to follow the popular sentiments, rather do what you think is right for you. Embrace opportunities without thinking about how others may perceive it.
Libra
Nine of Cups – reversed
The Nine of Cups shows a middle-aged man sitting upon a wooden bench with his arms crossed in contentmen t. Behind him is a wall with nine golden cups arranged in a structured, well-organised arch. When this card appears reversed in your tarot readings, it indicates that your desires and ambitions are not materialising as expected. The upright Nine of Cups symbolises a wonderful feeling of satisfaction and joy. But in its reversed position it indicates that deep down inside you feel lack of emotional fulfilment. Mistakes, overindulgence, greed and a superficial, materialistic and self-centred approach may be the major problem areas in your life right now. You may not be very concerned about others at the moment, as you may be driven by some selfish motives. This card also indicates that you may harm your health by over-indulging in food, alcohol, drugs, and sensual pleasures. Beware!
Lesson
The reversed Nine of Cups tells you to be considerate and polite. When you talk to people, ensure that you don't use harsh words otherwise you will end up hu rting their emotions. Overindulgence may affect your life and even tarnish your public image, hence be aware about the possible consequences of your actions. It is not too late to apply brakes and establish order. Well, things will not change overnight but you must understand the seriousness of matters.
Scorpio
Ace of Swords – reversed
The appearance of reversed Ace of Swords in your tarot readings is a clear indication that you are confused about your goals and priorities. Nothing is wrong with your intelligence or calibre, but perhaps you need to put in more efforts to properly plan your strategies. This card often appears when one lacks clarity about the task/ project at hand. It also indicates you should spend more time on research and be realistic. Set achievable goals and also keep them time-bound so that you have a clear idea about what you are supposed to do. The reversed Ace of Swords also indicates that you are unsure abo ut an idea. There is a possibility that you have too many ideas on the go and are confused about the decision which is making things all the more complicated.
Lesson
You are probably missing some important information or details that may help to get a clear picture of the situation. Look for those missing pieces to take a well-informed decision. Things are deteriorating at great speed; hence you will need to take actions as soon as possible. You need to invest your time and energy in seeking the truth; don't take decisions just for the sake of it.
Sagittarius
Two of pentacles – upright
The Two of Pentacles card depicts a young man dancing and juggling two Pentacles. The infinity sign loops around the two Pentacles. The appearance of this card in your readings indicates the you have the ability to handle multiple problems simultaneously. However, it also suggests that you should establish balance in various areas of your life. There is a strong likelihood that you are going through opposing desires and interests right now. It is advisable that you put in enough efforts to bring balance and harmony in your life while you handle other demands. Also, make sure you follow a proper routine and not let your long-term goals negatively affect your current situation. Financial matters may become a cause of concern around this period, hence, be extra careful. The possibility of challenges coming your way cannot be ruled out. Be open to change so that you can handle the tough times in a better manner.
Lesson
You are probably taking too many things for granted. The Two of Pentacles indicates that you should rethink your plans and take immediate steps to organise your life. Focus on monetary matters. If you feel confused, ask someone for their advice or employ a novel approach to tackle the problems. You may come across exciting opportunities, but be fore you take them up make sure you know what exactly you want from them.
Capricorn
Wheel of fortune – upright
The Wheel of Fortune shows Aquarius in the top left corner, Scorpio in the top right corner, Leo in the bottom right corner and Taurus in the bottom left corner. These four Signs are fixed Signs, but here, their symbols have wings which indicate stability amidst change and movement. The Wheel of Fortune card also indicates that external factors, which may be unknown to you, are affecting your situation. On the whole, this card refers to the fact of life – nothing is permanent, neither the good times nor the bad ones. If you are going through a difficult phase right now, don't worry as things will change. There will be ups and downs, hence you are advised to look at the bright side and don't let the bad times dampen your spirits and when the tide is in your favour, don't become complacent.
Lesson
Life may have been unpredictable of late. You are advised to be flexible in your approach and to go with the flow. You need to accept that no matter how hard you try, you will not be able to control each and everything that is happening around you. If you are pushed in another direction, do your best to find something meaningful and worthy of your time and efforts on the unknown path. Change is certainly on the cards, so be prepared for it.
Aquarius
The Star – Upright
The Star card depicts a naked woman, kneeling at the edge of a small pool. There is one large bright star and seven small stars in the background. These stars represent your chakras. The appearance of this card in your readings suggests that you are entering or have already entered a fabulous phase in your life. The positive energy floating around is giving you mental stability and deeper understanding of the circumstances you may be in right now. Good t imes are in store for you but in order to make things happen you should first realise that you deserve a better future. If you have been facing some sort of opposition or negative feedback, this card indicates a positive period and encourages you to believe in your strengths and skills. You will definitely find what you have been yearning for! Amen!
Lesson
You have been through a tough period but now you are open to healing and transformation. Let the bygones be bygones so that you can move ahead in life. Free yourself from negative emotions like hatred, envy, bitterness and revenge, otherwise they will get in the way of your future happiness. Employ the ‘forgive and forget’ policy and make way for new opportunities to enter your life.
Pisces
Two of Swords – upright
The Two of Swords shows an image of a young, blindfolded woman holding a sword in each hand. She portrays a calm state of mind but a close look at her posture indicates that she may be trying to avoid some important decisions. The appearance of this card in your tarot readings suggests that you are unable to take a firm decision about an important matter. If left to you, you will happily ignore the presence of the problem. But you need to know that the situation will not change on its own. Sooner or later, you will have to remove your blindfold and address the matter. You may need to change your usual way of thinking in order to handle the circumstances in a better manner. Summarily, it can be said that you need to find greater balance in your life.
Lesson
It's time you open your eyes and face the challenges head-on. Focus on developing greater understanding of relationships and human values, as this will help you appreciate others' views. You may have different opinions but it is important that you respect those of others. Accept the reality and make necessary adjustments so that you don't lose your peace of mind.
iDiva
Being skinny in the world of showbiz may mean big-budget contracts, fatter paychecks and of course, fame! But a bunch of women who followed this fad have only invited flak for their super vein-y bodies. All said and done, we think some of these celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood look gorgeous with their shapely curves. Take a look at the actresses we think were never made for skinny.
Image courtesy: BCCL, Reuters, film stills
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Easy-to-make delish dahi chicken
Chicken is a staple in all non-vegetarian households. But, eating the same kind of chicken preparation can be very boring. Since variety is the spice of life, we suggest you experiment with your chicken recipes too and add some spice to your daily meals. Here’s the recipe of our latest non-vegetarian find, Dahi chicken. Try it out.
Ingredients:
600 gm chicken pieces
1 ½ cups of thick yogurt
3 tbsp of ginger garlic paste
2 tbsp of kasoori methi
2 tbsp of coriander leaves finely chopped
2-3 slit green chillies for garnish
4 tbsp of fresh cream
¼ tsp pepper powder
¼ tsp salt
Butter for garnishing
2 tbsp of vegetable oil
Method:
1. Heat oil in a kadai or deep frying pan.
2. Add ginger-garlic paste and let it cook to a golden brown colour. Stir well.
3. Once done, add the chicken pieces and stir well for 3-4 minutes
4. Add 1 ½ cups of thick yogurt into the pan and stir well.
5. Add salt, stir and cover the pan with a lid. Let the chicken cook for 20-25 minutes on slow flame. All the yogurt should get absorbed by the chicken.
6. Now add fresh cream and mix well.
7. Add kasoori methi, coriander leaves, black pepper, the slit green chillies and butter and stir well.
TIP: Add cream or water to make a gravy.
Here's the video
Recipe courtesy:
More On >> Indian Cuisine
iDiva
On our trip with the kids this weekend we landed up at a highway restaurant that was probably stuck in time and made me think of so many things that were so different from the things that we grew up with. Sigh! There was an old cassette player that the owner cleaned meticulously and my daughter asked me “what’s that?” When I told her it was a cassette player she asked me again “what’s that?”
There are so many things from my childhood that my daughters need to know about. They also need to know about a few crazy things I did and how innovation makes life so simple yet so complicated. So I started to think about all the things young kids today will never really experience.
Don't miss: Birthday Party Etiquette for Kid's & Parents
Image courtesy: © Thinkstock photos/ Getty images
iDiva
Isn’t seeing your man naked, the most delish and glorious thing ever? Men love to lounge at home in their underpants, but you'd prefer that him wearing nothing at all, huh? *wink* After you have successfully managed to get your man naked, here's a list of 15 sinful things to do to him, and get him all hot and heavy. Mind-blowing sex is bound to follow.
Don't Miss! 7 Hot Sex Positions for First Time Sex
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A major limitation of traditional jewellery is that its use is very event specific.
These are interesting times to be a bride. Gone are the days when bridal jewellery meant purchasing traditional sets for the bride. No longer is the bride a mute spectator as her wedding jewellery is purchased by the family elders. Personal style preferences are increasingly dominating the purchasing decisions of would-be brides. The individual is slowly overtaking the event. Bridal jewellery is now more about expressing your individual tastes and preferences rather than fulfilling event specific traditions.
But, does that mean that traditional jewellery is now completely out of favour with the new-age bride? Not at all! In fact, one can be sure that traditional jewellery with gold, meenakari or polki work will be part of the bridal jewellery purchases. To what extent, is a question whose answer varies from person to person. In my experience, the days of purely traditional bridal jewellery are well and truly gone. All brides-to-be, that I have interacted w ith, have in some way or the other incorporated contemporary designs and concepts into their bridal jewellery purchasing.
A major limitation of traditional jewellery is that its use is very event specific. It does not lend itself well to use outside the arena of marriage and its associated functions. This is where brides are increasingly opting to split their purchasing between various styles for various functions. The tendency is to go contemporary for cocktails and ring ceremonies, while focusing more on a traditional feel for the main marriage function. Some brides are making the entire traditional versus contemporary argument redundant, with hybrid designs that incorporate elements from both design schools. But, I guess that would still qualify as a break from tradition.
In the end, it’s important that your jewellery fits the occasion but isn’t limited to a one-time, event-specific use. Whether you choose to go heavy with traditional or contemporary designs, versatility in your design choices will serve you well during and after the marriage functions. Research well, make your opinion and choices known, and experiment freely with motifs, gemstones, fancy shapes and cuts, textures and colours. After all, marriage is a very special occasion for any bride and it pays to put in extra effort into your jewellery choices.
Image courtesy: © Thinkstock photos/ Getty images
Weddings 101! If you haven't already noticed, the wedding season is upon us; and we at iDiva.com are super excited to see all you brides-to-be walk down the aisle or round the fire. So stay with us for the latest in bridal make up and fashion, wedding planning, honeymoon destinations and more. And if you aren't the bride, feast your eyes on our wedding gift guide and find out what to wear for different functions too!
More On >> Bridal Jewellery
While babies may be the gift of God, it is the maids who are finally made in heaven
Here’s a bit of advice. If you are planning to get pregnant, visit your family tree to find out if there is an old aunt, grandmother, cousin of a grandmother or grandmother of a cousin who might have the potential or be kind enough to bequeath a domestic help to you, before you even start plotting your ovulation calendar. Having found this person, use all your charm to ensure you have her on your side, give her regular updates about your pregnancy, buy her little gifts from time to time, pose for pictures with her and send her laminated copies, so that you always sit on her bedside table, reminding her of the fact that you exist.
You will realise that investing in some good family PR before the baby comes, can go a long way in finding that elusive, precious, worth-her-weight-in-gold entity. The baby-maid. Because she will be the one person who can make life easier for you when the baby pops out. In your scheme of things, she will be far more valuable than the husband, mother and mother-in-law put together (there’s a lot of rocking, walking, changing, burping, feeding, wheeling, running after to do). If you don’t do this, or are less fortunate, it might take you months, years to find a baby-maid who’d work for you.
The perfect maid is like the perfect man. She doesn’t exist. Think about it this way and you won’t feel as miserable. What you should do is work around the one you have, however imperfect, and bring her up to a level that suits you. At least for the time being. Year zero to two is the toughest, and maids are at a premium here. So while babies may be the gift of God, it is the maids who are finally made in heaven. If you find someone borderline good, do anything to keep her. If you haven’t, well, God bless you!
As if it’s not enough that you feel like a complete imbecile struggling to get your life together post baby, there will be opinions from all quarters on the baby-maid and how to find this person. Advice will come pouring from one and all:
‘Tell your watchman, milkman, istriwala. You never know.’
‘Why don’t you go to the nearest church? I believe all churches offer a maid-service.’
‘What about an NGO?’
‘Why don’t you ask your mother?’
‘Ask your mother-in-law.’
‘What about your driver? Maybe he has a wife. Or a daughter. Or sister.’
‘Just get a girl from the village and train her.’
‘Spread the word. Tell everyone you know.’
‘Why don’t you ask your cook or cleaning lady if she wants a promotion? It will be extra income for her.’
Probably the only real piece of wisdom I ever got about maids was from my friend Anjali. She believed in ‘hire and fire’. ‘There is no time to interview, scrutinise and test-run them. So just hire anyone who comes your way and fire them if they don’t work out. This way your life will not come to a stand-still.’ She must have hired and fired at least ten maids by the time her daughter was two. Her logic? ‘Never look for a perfect maid, she doesn’t exist. Look for someone who needs the job. She will always do for now.’ It’s a bit warped, but it works.
The only qualification for a good maid is that she should be able to join you the very next day. Because, if you have a baby and no help, sometimes, the only reason to hire a maid is that she is available.
Which means you are spared the agony of ‘Will she or won’t she show up?’ If she does show up, you will figure out in the first two days whether she is worth training or investing in, or whether you should continue the hunt for another one and then sack the first when the second one shows up. Which is what Anjali did, with no qualms.
My two-bit addendum to the Anjali philosophy is also to set very low benchmarks. Like factoring in her availability for just a month. If she is the ‘not dependable’ type, she will disappear a few days after she is paid her first month’s salary. No maid ever ‘quits’ or gives you the real reason for quitting and that is something you should know. She just goes away and never comes back. So stop dialling that number.
Some extremely finicky parents claim they interviewed ten maids before settling on the eleventh, as none were good enough for their child. Well, I think they are lying. Try asking them to pass you the numbers of the earlier ten and notice how they will dither and eventually disappear.
Then there is the whole strategy of recruiting live-ins, as opposed to day maids, although beggars can’t be choosers and I clearly was a beggar. It is true that a live-in gives you more recovery time and perhaps enough notice to hire a replacement, as there are logistics involved. She lives with you, is perhaps from another city/village, so has to find a job, move her stuff, things like that. You could perhaps use this time to egg her on to stay on or offer her a raise, additional perks, your makeup or keys to your car. If you consider the time and effort you will spend training another one, it’s worth it. Or you could meet other maids on the sly while she is still around. Even though most flats, at least in Mumbai, barely have enough space for you and the baby, it seems to be smarter to hire a live-in than a day-maid.
For a few months, when finding someone half-decent was looking impossible to me, I tried to be one of those martyr moms who ‘did everything herself’. I realised quite soon how difficult it was to do basic things like have a bath, eat, pee, answer the doorbell with my boob in my infant’s mouth. Forget doing complicated things like having a phone conversation, checking email and other stuff. It’s all very overwhelming and depleting of your already low energy. And how many nappies can you change really?
In case you are still wondering why are there such few takers for baby-maid jobs, the reasons are many and each one is as bizarre as the other. Primarily it is because no one wants to do the dirty work. Maids find it easier to freelance, that is do a series of odd jobs that add up to a tidy sum, rather than be ‘stuck’ in one job that pays them relatively less and robs them of their freedom. It’s like committing to one guy (that too, a clingy one) when you can date several.
And even if you are willing to pay them the upper end of the salary bracket, it would still be easier for them to make as much money by splitting it up across various cooking and cleaning jobs than being a baby-maid. So the only reason someone would want to be a baby maid is because she really likes you or the baby or needs a place to stay.
Think about this. A baby-maid has to change nappies, sometimes as many as twenty times a day. That makes it at least twice in every wakeful hour. Then she has to talk to a baby that does not talk back to her. And that too in a language she has to make up as she goes. Then she has to bathe, feed, walk, rock, burp the baby, walk it around in its pram or stroller, pretending to be deeply interested in the baby’s cooings. Then she has to pick up everything the baby drops, be drooled, peed on, sometimes have her hair pulled, face rearranged, food messed with. After all that, the baby will jump at its mother the minute he spots her and pretend that the baby-maid never really existed.
It’s hard.
Let’s begin with me. I never thought I had any trouble in the retaining power department of domestics. I had never sacked anyone. No one had sacked me. Until the baby happened.
iDiva
We’ve already told you what to keep in mind before buying the perfect anarkali suit, what neck patterns are trending and how to flaunt backless sari blouses. In short, we’re loving Indian outfits this season and can’t get over it. From weddings to religious functions and family occasions, your salwar kameez always comes handy. We spotted beautiful embroidered necklines on celebrities recently and had to compile it for you. In case you want to make these neckline designs your own. :)
Image courtesy: BCCL, Viral Bhayani
Not using a sterilised instrument can lead to bacterial infections.
If there's one reality show that has managed to keep the audiences hooked, it is Bigg Boss. In fact, Season 7 with its twists and turns and constant fights, has proved to be even better than the daily soaps, which have scripted romances and make-believe vamps. With less than a month left for the show to end, we can’t help but wonder who will take home the grand prize and win Bigg Boss 7. Tell us who you think will be the winner.
Don't Miss! Celebrities Without Make Up in the Bigg Boss 7 House
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When hurdles come your way, there is always, always the will to not give away. If any difficulties in conceiving have delayed your dreams of starting a family, there is a shining ray of hope. A new test has been developed to help men with zero sperm counts to father children through IVF.
How will it help men?
Men who don’t produce sperms could become biological fathers through fertility treatments that involved extracting healthy sperms through surgery. With current technology, the only way to find out if a man has viable sperm is to carry out surgery to look for sperm in the testes.
This test, that predicts whether men can become Dads, is a non-invasive method. Subsequently, you can prepare to welcome a baby through IVF.
How does it work?
The new test, developed by scientists in Canada, has identified two biomarkers in sperms, which can be used to predict whether sperm retrieval, or acquiring sperms through surgery, will be successful.
Dr Keith Jarvi of the Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto, Canada, has elaborated that the holy grail of his research was to find a way to help men avoid unnecessary testicular biopsies.
Expert Speak
A UK fertility expert said the test, which will take at least a year to bring to the clinic, was "encouraging".
Indira Hinduja, a Mumbai-based infertility expert, shares, “Male infertility ac counts for almost 50% of all infertility. There is a need to have the ideal biomarker that should identify the discrepancy at an early stage. It should be easy, cost-effective and accurate with minimum side effects. The discovery of such non-invasive, highly sensitive biomarker would be helpful in eliminating the need for invasive testing. Some of the good work on the same subject has been already published in Journal of Fertility Sterility in March 2013 which is definitely helpful.”
With inputs from ANI
Image courtesy: ©Thinkstock photos/ Getty images
More On >> Pregnancy
iDiva
Nutrient-rich lightly fried fish with cheese
Fish is one form of meat that is packed with health benefits and scores high on the nutrition quotient. A good source of protein and Omega 3 fatty acids, fish is also low in fat content, and is thus a preferred option for dieters. So, here’s a recipe of lightly fried fish with cheese that you can enjoy with bread and mashed potatoes or rice and stir fry veggies.
Ingredients:
1 full fish (preferably pomfret)
Salt and pepper as per taste
For Stuffing:
1 small cube grated cheese
2 green chilies, chopped
1-2 tbspn finely chopped coriander
1 tbspn oil
Salt and pepper
Finely chopped spring onions for garnishing
Method:
1. Clean the fish and make a horizontal slit in the middle of the belly. Make light vertical slits on its skin as well.
2. Marinate the fish in salt and pepper for 1 ½ hour.
3. Meanwhile grate the cheese and mix it along with chopped green chilies, coriander, salt and pepper. Mix all the ingredients well.
4. Stuff this mixture into the slits made in the fish.
5. In a non-stick pan add oil . Now put the fish in the pan.
6. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook on medium flame.
7. After one side is done, turn the fish and cook the other side in the same way.
8. After the fish is well cooked from both sides, garnish with finely chopped spring onions and serve.
Recipe Courtesy: Mrs. Zahabia Motorwala, Home maker, Mumbai
Image courtesy: ©Thinkstock photos/ Getty images
More On >> World Cuisine
iDiva
You have a great job in hand. You can afford a pair of Zara stilettos for every new dress. You have a full-time nanny to pick the kids up from the school. Friday is wine and cheese night. Great life, anyone would say. But there are times you have probably asked yourself, "Is this all I'm capable of? Surely, there must be more to life than the daily 9 to 5 grind; a better way to announce my skills to the world!"
For each of one us that wallows in self-doubt, there are others such as Sandhya Sadananda and Sanjana Vinod, who like most of us, had demanding jobs, five-figure salaries and kids and families to support. Yet by giving up their jobs and choosing their dream vocation, they achieved that heady cocktail of doing what they love, while loving what they do!
Sanjana Vinod put behind a 13-year career in client servicing to pursue her childhood hobby of travelling and making people travel. As the owner of Break Away: The Destination Awa its, she helps people plan holidays and customises tours for them.
Sandhya Sadananda, a communications specialist for eight years shifted to the other side of the table—from being a client to a social media service provider. As co-founder and director of Windchimes Communications, she along with her partner Nimesh Shah, help people advertise and market their brand on social media platforms.
Sandhya and Sanjana, share their top tips for success:
Rule 1: Have clarity of thoughts: “I spent my school summer vacations on Indian roads, covering long distances along with family,” says Sanjana, while adding, “For a living, I worked in a corporate setup for more than a decade, but I was clear that I would love to get back to my childhood passion of travelling. I was just waiting for my kids to grow up and be more independent, so that I could take that risk. When I quit, I didn’t have any laid out business plan, but I was clear that I would do something in the travel industry”.
Sanjana’s success tip: Be clear about what you want to do. Ask yourself, if it’s not my current job then what is the second thing I enjoy doing the most?
Social Media Mavens: Sandhya Sadananda and Nimesh Shah
Rule 2 : Secure your partner's or family's support: “When I decided I wanted to quit my job with Marico Industries, the first thing I did was consult my husband. Being in joint family household, decisions that affect regular income have to be discussed openly,” says Sandhya. She was lucky that her husband, who is an entrepreneur himself, was aware of the challenges of starting up a business and welcomed her decision to move out of a corporate setup.
Sandhya’s success tip: Before you prepare for an exit interview, tell your partner or family members about the outcome--loss of monetary income for a certain period, late working hours or more help needed in managing kids and so on.
Rule 3. Ensure financial stability: When Sanjana quit her job, she had a decent bank balance to cover her expenses until her business started making money. And there was no outstanding housing or credi t card loan, the burden of which could have put the household budget out of order. “Assume a worst case scenario and make an estimate of the number of months your savings will last; make your decision accordingly,” says Sandhya.
Sandhya and Sanjana’s success tip: Keep family finances and your personal expenses under control so that the loss of one member’s fixed income doesn’t put pressure on the family budget.
Rule 4. Two heads (or even three) are indeed better than one!: Sandhya’s partner, Nimesh Shah and Sanjana’s partner, Vaishakhi Udeshi were former office colleagues. Both agree that it helps to have a partner with complementary skills so that you can brainstorm for ideas and take quick decisions. “The business risk also gets divided among the partners,” adds Sandhya. Nimesh brought selling skills to the table while she had client servicing ski lls. Vaishakhi had a tourism industry background so she brought relevant experience which Sanjana was looking for.
Sandhya and Sanjana’s success tip: Find a like-minded person as a partner who brings complementary skills to the table.
Rule 5. Keep overhead costs low: Sandhya rented out a friend’s flat and started her business from day one, while Sanjana got her ex-colleagues and brother-in-law to do the necessary accounting/registration and logo designing work for a nominal price. “It’s only my driver who has made money from the first day,” says Sandhya, indicating that you must only incur overheads that are absolutely necessary. “You will be stuck, if you are glaring at too many overhead costs of running your show,” warns Sanjana.
Sandhya and Sanjana’s success tip: Keep overhead costs low. Find friends or family members who can offer a he lping hand with their skills or expertise.
Holiday planners on a holiday: Sanjana (in the centre), with Vaishakhi (on her right)
Rule 6. Don’t aim for the sky, just yet!: “I can wish to become the next Cox and Kings in my industry, but that’s not a realistic aim. To make more and more people experience India as a holiday destination, that’s my target,” says Sanjana.
Sanjana’s success tip: Set realistic goals and expectations from your business.
Rule 7. Patience, patience and more patience: Sanjana got her first two travellers within four months, and Sandhya got her first client in the first month itself. But both of them had to spend months spreading the word about their business. Sandhya spent the first year convincing and educating people and companies about why social media is needed to build and market their brands. There were days when Sanjana felt hapless as no business came in. But the rest, as they say, is history.
Today Break Away makes as much in a month as it earned in the first four months of starting up, and Windchimes Communications is getting awards for its social media campaigns.
Sandhya and Sanjana’s success tip: Hang in there as it’s one big test of your patience and grit.
Image courtesy: © Thinkstock photos/ Getty images
More On >> Work & Life
After a hiatus of two years, filmmaker Karan Johar is all set to spill the beans (or rather get his guests to) on his popular chat show, Koffee with Karan. Season 4 promises to be as sizzling as ever with an interesting line-up of Bollywood celebrities. The first episode which goes on air this Sunday has already created a buzz as Karan's first guest is none other than Salman "Dabangg" Khan. And it does not end there. We can hardly wait for the rest of the hotties of showbiz to take the couch. Take a look at who they are.
Don't Miss: Karan Johar's Broadway Act in Koffee with Karan Promo [Video]
Image courtesy: Twitter, Indiatimes
Mahesh Bhatt’s nephew and director of Murder 3, Vishesh Bhatt tied the knot recently. His wedding reception was quite an affair as we saw A-listers from Bollywood attending the occasion. From Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan to Rani Mukerji, check out who all were present at Vishesh's wedding reception here.
Image courtesy: Viral Bhayani
Mandeep Kaur tells you all about finding Mr. Perfect online.
They say marriages are made in heaven! But we also know of marriages that were made by that distant aunt who showed up with photos of potential brides and grooms. Then there are those rare couples who were college sweethearts or childhood friends. This was much before we began living our lives in the virtual world. Today, we have social networking and dating sites and also matrimonial websites where we could find Mr. Perfect at the click of a mouse.
But how much of this is really true? Can someone really find love online? Can marriages happen in the virtual world? In an interview with iDiva.com, Mandeep Kaur, the founder of matchmecupid.com tells us about matchmaking, tips to create the perfect matrimonial profile and more.
You launched matchmecupid only last year. How is it different from other matrimonial websites?
There have been a lot of demographic changes in India. The younger generation has moved out of their homes and lives across metros be it for education or work. And they are prioritising their career over marriage. We understand this audience, and therefore matchmecupid caters to GenNext who are extremely career-oriented.
Our members are neither community specific nor caste specific. It's not your parent/sister/friend who is going to create your profile. Each member knows that marriage is important for them and feel they are ready to take the plunge. We just help them find the right person. We also arrange offline meetings like set them up for dates.
How can users ensure their safety on matrimonial websites where so much of their personal information is on display? How do you go about doing the same?
First of all, matchmecupid has a very different model. We don’t display a person’s information on th e website so other members cannot see it. Also, when we send profiles we take extreme care about their profession and contact details. These are shared only when both the members agree on taking the interaction offline.
Another major concern with matrimonial websites is that most profiles are usually fake. How can people find something genuine?
We tackle this problem at the first go itself: This is how it is done:
• Each profile is verified. So all the information that is filled by you such as your education, profession and city is verified in the first go.
• We interact and talk with every member at length before accepting him or her on our portal.
• There are times people fill up misleading information. We get to know about such profiles during our initial discussions. These profiles are then red flagged and not taken up until the member is able to provide us with all the details.
• We have built our network solely on the basis of word of mouth marketing, so we usually end up finding a common person who is able to verify the potential member.
• This entire process sometimes takes two weeks.
Mandeep Kaur is the founder of matrimonial website matchmecupid.com.
Let us in on Cupid's (user manager) job.
The Cupid’s job is extremely interesting. He tries to understand the member, what excites or puts him/ her off, if he/she is is an extrovert or introvert. He then tries to understand the member’s personality, how they make decisions using logical, objective analysis and so forth. Basis this understanding, he starts looking for potential matches. Eventually Cupid becomes their friend and mentor in the entire process.
Paid members get special benefits from their personal Cupids. But what about free users? How do you ensure they have a satisfying experience on your website?
When we started off, the ratio of paid members vis-a-vis free members was very low. Over the years, this ratio has reversed. It’s our service that has brought about this change.
Do people really find love online? Tell us about some true love stories tha t were initiated by matchmecupid.com.
Oh yes they do! One couple was introduced last year by the website and they hit it off really well. However, the guy got a better job opportunity and moved to New York after he started dating this another member. So things went a bit off track, but both of them worked it out and got married last month.
Another member was an investment banker from Mumbai. He was referred by a friend to join us. It took us two months to just convince him to join us. He met only one member and they are madly in love. When it clicks, it just clicks!
Give our single readers a few reasons why they should consider matrimonial websites to find love or at least an interesting partner.
There are two reasons:
1. It’s a platform to meet new people as your network has limited reach.
2. No “happily ever after” happened without “once upon a time”.
Give us 5 tips to make a desirable matrimonial profile.
1. Give your matrimonial profile equal importance as you would give your professional CV.
2. Put your best face forward 'coz first impressions matter. Upload pictures that represent your lifestyle. For example, don’t use sunglasses that cover your face. It shows lack of confidence.
3. The first line of your bio is extremely important as it will determine whether your match will read it till the end. Be more specific about your interests and activities; it helps your matches see a common thread. Focus on present and not what you did in the past. Nothing attracts a person than a focused individual.
4. Do a spell check. Trust me, if people see spelling errors they won’t even give you a second chance.
5. Don’t write in capitals, avoid too many exclamation marks and smileys.
Image Courtesy:©Thinkstock/Getty Images
More On >> Wedding Tip
iDiva
Eggs have been a staple food since prehistoric times when nests were raided to steal them. It didn’t take long for Man to unravel the various wonders and secrets of the versatile ingredient. In a variety of cultures, the egg has played a vital role in both diet and ceremony. To the Chinese, it has symbolised the universe. Hieroglyphics of the ancient Egyptians portray the peacock and the egg with reverence.
On the mysterious and superstitious front, the egg plays a significant part. In the West it was considered ill luck to bring wild eggs into the house. The white egg was considered to portray purity and the brown a level of rusticity. In the Middle East it is considered taboo to eat eggs after dark for fear of taking a life. The Mayans of Mexico use the egg in a ritual to ward off the evil eye.
The simple, unassuming egg is not all that simple, though. There are different types of eggs and each has its own special characteristic. Bird eggs come in different shapes and sizes, the most favoured being the hen’s. Even the hen’s egg varies in size and colour which actually helps to determine the breed of the hen. Free range eggs lend better flavour and colour. The eggs of the duck and goose have a stronger flavour.
So, what does that little white shell hold inside it?
Composition of an Egg:
Eggs comprise three main elements – white (2/3 of the egg which is a combination of 10% protein and 80% water), yolk (which is 50% water, 35% fats and 15% proteins) and air. The air pocket helps determine the freshness of an egg.
Though it seems like a humble and simple ingredient, it enriches a dish in various ways through aeration (cakes & mousses), emulsification (mayonnaise), glazing (baked products), adding vital nutritional content (owing to protein, phosphorous, iron and vitamin content), stabilising (batters) and adding flavour.
There are several ways to cook this basic pantry must-have too. If one doesn’t like them boiled, scrambled or as omelettes, one can bake them, steam them, fry them, poach them, soft-boil them, make them as scotch eggs, make a sauce and use as part of a casserole bake, use in a frittata, make a quick soufflé, as a sandwich filling, as drops in a soup, pickled, brined… the choices are many!
So whether you like them simply with salt and pepper or, in fancier versions in your breakfast, snacks or mains, eggs will never go out of fashion. The sole reason being, they will always make a meal complete.
More On >> Cooking Tips
iDiva
The female orgasm has forever been both a complex and an elusive phenomenon. Two recent studies in the US on orgasm rates for men and women in casual hook-ups revisit its mysterious ways. They confer that women aren’t climaxing in casual flings nearly as often as they do in serious relationships. In one study, for instance, of 24,000 students across 21 colleges, 40 per cent of women were found to have had an orgasm during their last hook-up involving sex, against 80 per cent of men.
Be it the fact that men’s privates are easier to arouse than a woman’s, or a woman having to make do with a sexually inept partner, there’s no denying that women — despite being blessed with the ability to have multiple orgasms — have a harder, longer road to the big O than a man. We get three experts to explain why there’s an orgasm gap between men and women.
Dr Debby Herbenick, PhD, Research Scientist at Indiana Uni versity & author of Sex Made Easy
Vaginal intercourse is the most common sexual behaviour that men and women engage in together, and it's easier for men to have orgasms from intercourse than it is for women to do so. Some women find it easier to orgasm, or they orgasm more quickly, when they receive oral sex or when they or their partner stimulates them with fingers or a vibrator.
Some women feel pressured by their partner to have an orgasm. “Faking” an orgasm can feel easier than explaining to a partner in the heat of the moment that it just isn’t going to happen. Some women who fake orgasms, say they do so because they don’t want to hurt their partner’s feelings or that they want sex to end. As for how an orgasm is worked up and triggered, both women and men have multiple pathways to orgasm, much of which is still poorly understood.
Communication can help both parties learn how to pleas e their partners. It’s not that either sex is “inept” but it helps to talk more openly about desire, likes, dislikes, and how we want to be pleasured. Orgasms are important to both women and men, but not necessarily every time they have sex. Intimacy and feeling connected are some of the most important parts of sex for both men and women.
Dr Mahinder Watsa, Sex Expert
Often, a woman doesn’t reach an orgasm because the man may be suffering from premature ejaculation or he may be in a tearing hurry to get things done. I feel lack of foreplay plays a big factor in not arousing the woman enough to get her to go all the way. That and a man’s indifference towards her need to have an orgasm as well. When it comes to how we are wired, man essentially works on a one-track mind which is focussed on ejaculation. Women however crave for a more wholesome experience, and often, also, a more emotionally involved one. Unlike men , women can have multiple orgasms but there are shortcomings on both sides that lead to the woman not climaxing. In any case, orgasms have only recently been hyped by the media as the be-all and end-all of a sexual encounter. It doesn’t have to be that way. In fact, the truly happy couples are those that enjoy their sex lives without bothering about orgasms.
Dr Rupin Shah, Consultant Andrologist, Lilavati & Bhatia Hospital
For women, it’s often harder to reach an orgasm because of various psycho-social issues apart from their partners’ sexual ineptness. Anatomically, male and female bodies co-relate to each other and ideally both should be able to have orgasms as easily. With men, sex is more active and obvious. If he is aroused, he gets an erection and if he has an orgasm, he ejaculates. Women though don’t have a definite marker for orgasm. That’s why women can easily fake it just to go with the flow.
& nbsp; Women need more stimulation and for a longer duration, so it all comes down to technique. While women are capable of having as many orgasms, it’s more vulnerable to external factors. Also, our society is male-biased to an extent where a woman’s sexuality is considered less important. Somewhere, women too may feel unimportant about having an orgasm, or guilty about bringing up the issue of not having one. Sex and orgasm is still largely suppressed for women, but this is changing now. Though orgasms don’t have to be such a big deal, it’s hard for couples today to escape the big hype that’s spun around the big O.
More On >> Sex
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Bullett Raja is Tigmanshu Dhulia’s Dabangg.
Director: Tigmanshu Dhulia
Cast: Saif Ali Khan, Jimmy Sheirgill, Raj Babbar, Ravi Kishan, Vidyut Jamwal
The compromise is mutual. A filmmaker, who has often broken laws of conventionalism, gets a star (the biggest in his films so far) at the price of playing by the book this time. And the classy star gets a director who promises to give him a mass-entertaining makeover (which has almost become a precondition for any star today). It might seem like a win-win situation for both but its the audience who is at the losing end. Formula is as free-flowing as bullets in this flick.
So Tigmanshu Dhulia, who redefined character development in Paan Singh Tomar, comes up with a sketchy character as his protagonist in Bullett Raja. You never really know how the jobless graduate Raja Mishra (Saif Ali Khan), with no criminal background, is such a pro at shooting that he never ever mis ses a mark. Along with another law-abiding citizen, Rudra (Jimmy Sheirgill), he gets embroiled in a gangwar conspiracy and their only way to get out is to take law in their hands. However there is no remorse, so you don’t sympathize with them as victim of circumstances. Rather they are glorified heroes. Eventually when Rudra is knocked off by opponents, Raja swears revenge.
So Bullett Raja essentially is a revenge drama on the backdrop of politics and gangwar. The treatment is not as formulaic as most present potboilers but isn’t as rooted and real as Dhulia’ recent works. Every Tigmanshu Dhulia trademark from an original story, commanding dialogues to powerful performances are diluted with commercial considerations. Not that they are bad but the director has raised the bar so remarkably in his past works that this effort just doesn’t match up.
The romance track is too conveniently and cursorily achieved but then you ar en’t looking for any elaboration on that front. It does provide some light moments but more that Saif’s chemistry with Sonakshi, it’s his banter and bonding with Jimmy Sheirgill that clicks. However their camaraderie is short-lived since the latter is eliminated midways. Thereby friendship and love work only peripherally and you don’t feel much for the protagonist. But when you seek popcorn entertainment, the gratification is not supposed to be emotionally draining either.
So songs, stunts and style substitute for storytelling. Though most twists and turns are foreseeable, the rapid pacing keeps you glued. Occasionally, Dhulia gets in his elements when it comes to his hold on the dialogues and political plotting. And that doesn’t make Bullett Raja painful despite its predictability. Saif Ali Khan does fine in an author-backed role but just caters to the script and never rises above it. Jimmy Sheirgill has strong screen prese nce and is never overshadowed by Saif as long as he lasts. Ravi Kishan is in his elements. Gulshan Grover and Raj Babbar are decent in their respective roles. Sonakshi Sinha is her regular charming self. Vidyut Jamwal makes a late entry but does well in his short role.
To sum up, Bullett Raja is Tigmanshu Dhulia’s Dabangg.
Author: Gaurav Malani
iDiva
Birthday parties in recent times are big affairs. Gone are the days when you would call in a few neighborhood kids, get some chips and snacks from the neighborhood supermarket, cut the cake (most likely from the above mentioned super market) and call it a day. Birthday parties today have metamorphosed into huge affairs with themes, complicated games and gourmet snacks. Chances are that your child would get invited to at least one party a month.
These parties provide a good opportunity to teach your child some lessons in etiquettes and how to conduct herself in a public place. The earlier this is done, the better it is for you, as it will save you the embarrassment of having to drag your bawling child from the party. This also allows your child to enjoy herself and focus on the party, rather than be pulled up for bad behavior every five minutes. Having said this it is upto you as a parent to follow some basic rules of courtesy when your child is invited to a party. Here are some thoughts:
Don't Miss: 8 Foolproof Tips to Plan the Perfect First Birthday
Image courtesy: © Thinkstock photos/ Getty images
In a traditional ‘first night’ set-up, a glass of milk with saffron and almonds awaits the bride and bridegroom. We consider it a ritual, but did you know all three are excellent aphrodisiacs too? Now, weren’t our ancestors way too smart! Well, we identified more foods that will help ignite the passion on your wedding night.
Don't Miss: Sexy Bridal Lingerie for a Sizzling First Night
Image courtesy: ©Thinkstock photos/ Getty images
There's something about your first paycheck that gives you that feeling of achievement and exhilaration. Hard to forget that moment, isn’t it? Well, the same goes for our Bollywood superstars. No, we're not referring to the whopping eight-figure salaries they take home today, but rather their small beginnings. From Shah Rukh Khan to Amitabh Bachchan, the first salaries of your favourite Bollywood stars are sure to leave you gobsmacked.
Dont Miss! Top 10 Celebrity Salaries Revealed
Image courtesy: BCCL
We have artists like Gulzar and Javed Akhtar who have given us unforgettable songs with the most mesmerising and heart-stirring lyrics. And then, we have Bollywood songs which make no sense at all. In fact, there’s a long list of these crazy songs that we are all familiar with and have probably even liked at some point (guilty as charged), but they made us go like – 'What the hell?' - nonetheless.
Image source: YouTube stills
While you go about looking for the right wedding planner to fix all those itsy-bitsy details of your big day, don’t neglect the most important trip of your life. Yes, we are talking about your honeymoon. A honeymoon is the most special trip for any couple, simply because it’s about just the two of you. But, how do you decide where to go on your honeymoon? Choosing your honeymoon destination is not an overnight decision for sure. But if the task is sucking up all your energy, take a look at these useful tips that will help you zero in on the perfect honeymoon destination for you and hubby-to-be.
Adventure vs romance: Most of us dream of a honeymoon that is packed with ample romance and relaxation. But the fact is that a lot of honeymooners these days are also looking for some action in the form of adventure getaways. However, a backpacking holiday may not be everyone’s idea of a perfect honeymoon. So pick a desti nation that strikes the right balance between romance and adventure, keeping both your tastes in mind.
Offbeat drama: Just because your aunt or cousin went to Darjeeling for their honeymoon, does not mean you pick the same! Or say Shimla, just because you have fond memories of the hill station as a teenager. Avoid the tried and tested honeymoon destinations ‘coz life’s short, isn’t it?
Budget-wise: If money is not a deciding factor, then you are one lucky bum. However, given the current economic situation you may want to consider your budget while picking your honeymoon destination. If you have been eyeing Europe or say the Far East, plan your funds accordingly. It’s not just the travel and accommodation; remember you will need money to go sightseeing, eat and also shop! Tip: Consider places that are off-season at the time of your travel. For eg: Sikkim in winter.
Weather alert : Considering the wedding season is upon us, most newly-weds end up travelling during the winter months. Ask yourself if you are up for freezing temperatures or would you rather choose sunny weather. This will automatically narrow down your search for the perfect honeymoon destination.
Review check: In this electronic age, looking for any kind of information is darn easy. Browse the Internet for reviews of different destinations, hotels and more. There are several travel forums as well which will give you finer details about the honeymoon destination such as sightseeing options, food, nightlife, adventure activities et al.
Word of mouth: It’s always a wise decision to speak to couple friends or colleagues at work for useful inputs. Chat up with people who recently went on a honeymoon to know about their experiences and any other information that may be useful for you.
Agent call: If you are living a busy life and want to take the stress-free approach, then we suggest you hire a travel agent to create the best honeymoon package for you. Sometimes they have great travel deals and come with years of experience. You may also end up saving up some moolah as they already have tie ups in place and have better knowledge about ongoing sales too.
All said and done, we think it’s perfectly fine to splurge a little on your honeymoon ‘coz it is an experience of a lifetime. Take a holiday that you always wanted to with the man of your dreams. All you need to do is turn off your work e-mail and go offline. It’s worth it :-)
Image courtesy:©Thinkstock photos/ Getty images
More On >> Honeymoon Destinations
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