7 Travel Tips for Your Journey in 2023

January 25, 2023

2023 is here, and with it comes the opportunity to explore new places and cultures. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or just starting out, there are always tips that can help make your journey even better. With the pandemic still lingering on in some areas, it’s important to stay safe while travelling. Here are seven travel tips for your journey in 2023 that will help you have an enjoyable and safe experience.

Travel Tips for your Journey in 2023

1. Do Proper Research and Plan According to the Weather

It’s important to do your research before travelling to ensure you have a general understanding of prices for things like transportation and accommodations. This will help prevent you from being taken advantage of by sellers or taxi drivers.

A guidebook or a quick online search can provide this information. To save money and have more independence while exploring a new city, consider renting a scooter or bike. Additionally, it’s important to plan your trip according to the weather, so you can pack and prepare appropriately.

2. Store Your Documents Online

It’s a good idea to make a digital copy of important documents like your passport, ID card, and driver’s license and email it to yourself. This way, if you need to have a document with you but don’t want to carry the original, you can easily access the copy. Additionally, if your passport gets lost or stolen, having a copy can be helpful when you need to file a police report. Another option for storing important documents is using digital tools, personal health record apps and digital lockers.

3. Keep Your Friends and Family Updated

It’s a good idea to let someone know your travel plans, whether you’re going on a short trip or a longer international journey. Before you leave, send a copy of your itinerary to a few people you trust, so they know where you’re going and can keep track of your whereabouts. Make sure to check in with them regularly, so they know you’re safe and on schedule.

4. Plan Your Finance Properly and Don’t Go into Debt

Properly planning your finances is essential when travelling to ensure you don’t go into debt. This includes creating a budget, setting a spending limit, and researching the costs of food and activities in the destination you’re visiting.

It’s also important to consider unexpected expenses and to have a plan in place in case of an emergency. Additionally, it’s important to be mindful of your spending while on the trip and to stick to your budget to avoid overspending.

5. Stay in Hostels instead of hotels

Staying in a hostel can be a great way to save money while travelling. Even if you prefer your privacy, many hostels offer private rooms and bathrooms which can be considered. Preparing your own meals instead of eating out every night can also help save money.

Another way to save money when staying in a hostel is by participating in a volunteer program. This allows you to work a few hours each day in exchange for free lodging. This can be a great option for budget travellers who want to reduce their costs while also giving back to the community and learning more about the local culture. Some volunteer programs also offer free housing and meals in exchange for work, which can be a great way to save money while travelling.

6. Make Sure to Check What You Eat as Health is the Real Wealth

When travelling in India, it’s important to take precautions to stay healthy. Indian food can be spicy and may cause stomach upset, so it’s best to stick to freshly cooked meals and drink only from sealed water bottles. To protect yourself from pollution in the cities, it’s a good idea to wear a scarf and mask when outside.

Additionally, it’s wise to bring medication for common ailments such as diarrhoea and headaches. Before your trip, it’s important to consult with a doctor and determine what vaccinations may be necessary for your destination. If you run out of medication, you can easily find pharmacies everywhere in India.

7. Download Offline Maps and be Updated on the Nearest Hospitals, Police Stations, and Transport Services

It’s a good idea to download offline maps of the area you’ll be visiting to ensure you have access to them even without an internet connection. This can help you navigate unfamiliar streets and locate key places like hospitals, police stations, and transportation services. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the locations of these important places before your trip, in case of an emergency. Additionally, it’s important to keep the maps updated to ensure you have the most accurate information.

Final Thoughts

Planning and preparation are key to a successful and enjoyable journey in 2023. Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, be sure to consider all aspects of your trip. Remember to also stay informed about any travel restrictions or health and safety measures that may be in place at your destination. With a little bit of planning and forethought, you can make the most of your journey and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Author Bio: Jigar Patel is the Founder of Health-e, a heath Locker app that simplifies health records management along with providing personalized and preventative healthcare solutions. Although he has 20+ years of operations and management experience in the EPC domain, Jigar’s true passion lies in making healthcare simpler, faster and more accessible for doctors and patients alike. He strongly believes that people need to be empowered to participate in their own healthcare and is constantly thinking of ways to build this into his app. He loves to keep things simple be it in life, product design, his work or the content he develops. Being married for 10 years and having 2 kids have taught him that perspective matters, so you can always count on him to share new perspectives on various topics.

Adventures Road Trip from Cairns to Brisbane

Cscope Staff

January 24, 2023

Road-Trip-from-Cairns-to-Brisbane-00 — Photo by Brisbane Local Marketing on Unsplash

Welcome to your ultimate coastal road trip adventure in Australia!

Starting in the tropical paradise of Cairns and ending in the bustling city of Brisbane, this journey will take you through some truly beautiful and diverse landscapes. Not to mention the wonderful mix of stunning beaches, charming coastal towns, and plenty of outdoor activities… this road trip is the perfect way to explore the best of Australia’s east coast.

The benefits of a road trip are endless, it allows you to have a flexible itinerary, you can stop wherever and whenever you want, you can take detours and explore off the beaten path, and you can take in the beautiful views of the countryside. With so many things to see and do, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.

To get even more out of the road trip, you can’t go past a motorhome holiday. As well as being able to fit the whole family (some motorhomes can seat up to six people), they also provide accommodation, amenities and are a budget friendly alternative to expensive hotel rooms. Cairns motorhome hire is popular and readily available for pre-booking… one way rental is available too, so you can avoid backtracking!

Now that you have the transport worked out, here are some of the best stops to include on your road trip from Cairns to Brisbane.

Cairns

Before you depart from Cairns, take some time to explore this vibrant city. Known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns offers a wide range of activities for nature lovers. Take a boat tour to the reef, go snorkelling or scuba diving, or go on a rainforest walk to see the local wildlife.

Things to do:

Visit the Great Barrier Reef: Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the natural wonders of the world. Take a boat tour to explore the reef and see the colourful coral and marine life.
Explore the Daintree Rainforest: The Daintree Rainforest is the oldest rainforest in the world and is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. Take a guided tour to learn about the rainforest’s ecology and see the local wildlife.
Go snorkelling or diving: Cairns is known for its clear waters and diverse marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkelling and diving.
Visit the Cairns Botanic Gardens: The Cairns Botanic Gardens is a beautiful and peaceful spot where you can see a wide variety of tropical plants and animals.
Take a scenic drive to the Atherton Tablelands: The Atherton Tablelands is a beautiful area with lush rainforests, waterfalls, and scenic drives.
Visit the Cairns Esplanade: The Cairns Esplanade is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Take a trip to the Kuranda Scenic Railway: The Kuranda Scenic Railway is a historic railway that takes you on a scenic journey through the rainforest.
Visit the Cairns Regional Gallery: The Cairns Regional Gallery is home to a wide range of contemporary art and exhibitions.
Take a hot air balloon ride: Take a hot air balloon ride over the Cairns area for a bird’s-eye view of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Visit the Cairns Night Markets: The Cairns Night Markets are a popular spot for shopping and street food, open from 5pm-10pm every evening.

Townsville

Townsville is a charming seaside city, renowned for its beautiful beaches and the famous Magnetic Island, that sits just off its shore.

Things to do:

Visit Magnetic Island, a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife.
Take a stroll along the Strand, a beachfront promenade with a playground, swimming areas, and picnic spots.
Visit the Museum of Tropical Queensland to learn about the history and culture of the area.

Airlie Beach

This well-known coastal town is picturesque, with a lively atmosphere and access to the Whitsunday Islands.

Things to do:

Take a day trip to the Whitsunday Islands, where you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Explore the town of Airlie Beach, with its many restaurants, bars, and shops.
Take a scenic drive along the Shute Harbour Road, which offers spectacular views of the coast and the islands.

Rockhampton

This historic city is known for its rich cultural heritage and outdoor activities.

Things to do:

Visit the Rockhampton Heritage Village, where you can learn about the history of the area and see historic buildings and artifacts.
Take a walk along the Fitzroy River, which offers beautiful views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Visit the Capricorn Caves, a popular tourist destination offering tours of limestone caves and underground tunnels.

Yeppoon

Situated on the Capricorn Coast, about 20 km east of Rockhampton. Yeppoon is a popular tourist destination offering a range of amenities and services, including accommodation, restaurants, and shops.

Things to do:

Visit the Keppel Bay Islands, where you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on some of the most beautiful beaches in the area.
Take a walk along the Yeppoon Main Beach, a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and fishing.
Visit the Cooee Bay, a picturesque bay with a beach, a playground and picnic area.

Hervey Bay

This charming coastal town is known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.

Things to do:

Visit the Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island, where you can go on a 4WD tour, swim in crystal clear lakes and visit the shipwreck of the SS Maheno.
Take a walk along the Hervey Bay Esplanade, a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking.
Visit the Urangan Pier, a historic pier with a playground, fishing platform, and a lookout.

Sunshine Coast

The sunshine coast is known for its beautiful national parks, that hug the coastline with white sand beaches and crystal clear oceans.

Things to do:

Visit Noosa Heads, a popular destination with a beautiful beach and a national park.
Take a stroll along the Mooloolaba Esplanade, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Visit the Eumundi Markets, one of the largest and most popular markets in Australia, offering a wide range of local products and souvenirs.
Visit the Maroochydore Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Take a walk along the Maroochy River, which offers beautiful views of the river and the surrounding landscape.
Visit the Big Pineapple, an iconic attraction in the area and a great spot for taking photos.
Visit the Caloundra Lighthouse, which offers spectacular views of the coast and the surrounding landscape.
Take a walk along the Bulcock Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Visit the Australia Zoo, one of the most famous zoos in Australia and home to a wide range of animals.

Brisbane

Welcome to Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland, and known for its subtropical climate. It is a perfect mixture of urban and natural attractions.

Things to do:

Visit South Bank Parklands: This popular spot offers a beach, swimming pool, and a variety of restaurants and shops.
Explore the City Botanic Gardens: The City Botanic Gardens is a beautiful and peaceful spot where you can see a wide variety of tropical plants and animals.
Take a trip to Mount Coot-tha: Mount Coot-tha is a popular spot for hiking and offers spectacular views of the city.
Visit the Queensland Museum: The Queensland Museum offers interactive exhibits on the history and culture of Queensland.
Go on a day trip to Moreton Island: Moreton Island is a popular destination for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing on beautiful beaches.
Visit the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA): GOMA is a museum that has a wide range of contemporary art and exhibitions.
Take a stroll along the Brisbane River: The Brisbane River is a popular spot for walking and picnicking, with beautiful views of the city.
Visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is home to a wide range of Australian animals, including koalas, kangaroos and other marsupials.
Take a hot air balloon ride: Take a hot air balloon ride over the city for a bird’s-eye view of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Visit the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC): QPAC is a cultural centre that offers a wide range of performances and shows, including theatre, music, and dance.

If you still have time on your East Coast adventure, continue further south to the Gold Coast, and enjoy the national parks, surf beaches, shopping precincts and abundance of theme parks!

Culture of Meghalaya – Into the House of Clouds

Pari Bhatnagar

January 23, 2023

Culture-of-Meghalaya — Image Left, Image Right

The Abode of Clouds, Meghalaya is a Sanskrit word derived from megha meaning (clouds) and alaya meaning (abode). It is located in Northeastern India with Shillong as its state capital. To the south of the state are the Bangladeshi divisions of Mymensingh and Sylhet, to the west is the Bangladeshi division of Rangpur, and to the north and east is the India’s state of Assam. Meghalaya falls in one of the richest biodiversities in the world. Meghalaya has a rich variety of flora and fauna. It has around 3000 varieties of orchids out of the 17,000 orchids found in the world. Meghalaya is one of the most beautiful places in India as you can find abundant greenery, crystal clear rivers, waterfalls, hills and plains and a lot more. Meghalaya is one of the wettest places in India and is known for its monsoon. The place offers adventures for those who want an adrenaline rush and peaceful, tranquil spots for those who just want to enjoy themselves and relax.

History & Background

Meghalaya has had an eventful past. It was formed on 21 January, 1972, when two districts were forged from the state of Assam: 1) the United Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills and 2) the Garo Hills. During the British rule of India, the British authorities nicknamed it as the ‘Scotland of the East’. It also has Asia’s cleanest village – Mawlynnong in the East Khasi Hills district of the Meghalaya state. Meghalaya has seen a lot of migration from many distinct tribes, the most prominent of them being the Khasis, the Garos and the Pnars and some other tribes being the Hajongs, the Koch and the Karbis. The tribe of the Khasis is believed to be the earliest immigrants who made their way to Khasi in Assam. Meghalaya is spread over an area of approximately 22,430 square kilometers in which around 70% of the state is covered in forest area.

Languages of Meghalaya

Culture of Meghalaya, Language — Image Source

The three main tribes of Meghalaya – Garo, Khasi and Jaintia, are also the principal languages of Meghalaya. Although English is the official language of the state, Khasi is considered to be one of the chief languages there as it is spoken by around 900,000 people residing there. Just like Khasi, Garo is another chief language of Meghalaya spoken by people particularly in the Garo Hills of Meghalaya. Aside from these principal and main languages of Meghalaya, there are some other languages which are spoken by the different tribes and people of Meghalaya like Pnar-Synteng, Nepali, Hindi, Haijong, Bengali and Assamese. There is also a language called Biate language which is spoken mostly by the people in the south-eastern part of Meghalaya. All these various languages show the cultural diversity of Meghalaya and tell us how culturally rich Meghalaya is.

Traditional Dresses of Meghalaya

Culture of Meghalaya, Traditional Dresses — Image – Wikimedia

Talking about their attire and traditional dresses of Meghalaya, the women there, especially of the Khasi tribe can still be seen wearing a piece of clothing called ‘Jainsen’ which covers their entire body from the waist down to their ankles. These are worn with a cotton shawl wrapped around their neck and pinned at the shoulders, known as the tap-moh khlieh. These are designed with beautiful and attractive motifs and floral patterns. The elder women of the community wear a garment made of woolen cloth, known as ‘Jainkup’. They accessorize these with beaded jewellery of various colors and designs as well as ornaments made of pure gold and silver. During harvesting, the women cover their heads with a piece of cloth, known as ‘Kyrshah’. The men usually wear a kind of dhoti which is mostly unstitched and they wear it with a jacket and a turban. However, the men have restricted their traditional attire to the festivals and have now evolved according to the western culture.

Traditional food of Mehghalya

Culture of Meghalaya, traditional food — Image – Wikimedia

If someone is ever visiting Meghalaya, it is highly recommended that one should try out the local delicacies. Some of the most famous food items of Meghalaya include:

Jadoh, which is a popular Khasi street food item made of red rice and pork.
Doh-Khlieh, a salad prepared with minced up pork, green chilies and onions.
Nakham Bitchi, a type of dried fish that can either be fried or boiled to make a soup.
Pumaloi consists of powdered rice steamed in a special pot known as Khiew Ranei.
Some other famous delicacies include Minil Songa, Sakin Gata, Kyat, Dohneiiong and Tungrymbai.

Traditional Music & Dance Forms of Meghalaya

Culture of Meghalaya, Folk-Dances — Image – Wikimedia

Talking about the traditional dance and music, Meghalaya has a rich folk culture which includes various different dance forms. Some of the traditional dance forms of Meghalaya include Nongkrem dance in which the heavenly deities are thanked good harvest, it is celebrated in the winters every year. The next dance form is Shad Suk Mynsiem, which is held during the spring season; Bahdienkhlam is celebrated during the advent of monsoons: Lahoo dance is another entertainment dance and last but not the least is Dorsegata dance which is very interesting as the women try to knock off the male’s turbans. The traditional, folk songs and music of Meghalaya are mostly based on festivals, Mother Nature, love, marriages, etc. These are accompanies with drums, bamboo flute, hand-held cymbals.

Traditional Art & Craft of Meghalaya

Culture-of-Meghalaya-art-and-craft — Image Source

Moving on to the art and crafts of the people of Meghalaya, they are known for their weaving skills through which they create cane mats, stools and baskets. The Garo people weave a special type of fabric known as ‘Dakmanda’, which is a material used for their dresses, bed covers, bed sheets and tablecloths. They use bamboo to make fish traps and weave baskets and chairs out of cane. They are also popular for silk weaving and carpet weaving.

Cultural Festivals of Meghalaya

Culture-of-Meghalaya-Festivals — Image – Euwan Marbaniang

The people of Meghalaya celebrate life through festivals. Some of the major and famous festivals of Meghalaya include Shad Suk Mynsiem, Bahdienkhlam, Shad Sukra, Wangala and Christmas. Among them is also a five day long religious festival of the Khasis, Ka Pemblang Nongkrem dance, which is popularly known as Nongkrem dance.

Occupation of Meghalaya

Culture-of-Meghalaya-Occupation — Image – Nadir Hashmi/Flickr

As far as occupation is concerned, the dominant and main source of income in Meghalaya is Agriculture. About 80% of its population’s livelihood depends entirely on agriculture. The main and common crops grown here includes rice, maize, cotton, potatoes, turmeric, jute, pepper, ginger, betel nuts, millet, corn, etc. and some horticultural crops like oranges, pineapple, banana, jack fruit, lemon, guava, plum, pear, etc. Among all of these, rice is most dominant food grain crop in Meghalaya. Around 10% of the geographical area of the state is under cultivation, in which a portion is under Jhum cultivation, which is a traditional form of shifting agriculture.

Best Places to Visit in Meghalaya

Culture of Meghalaya, Best places to visit — Image – Wikimedia

The Abode of clouds, Meghalaya is famous for its dense forests, heavy rainfall and its biodiversity. It was compared to and nicknamed Scotland because of its beautiful scenery and highlands. The state contains a vast variety of flora and fauna. It consists of 2 National parks and 3 wildlife sanctuaries. For all of those who love adventure and adrenaline rush, the place also offers several adventure activities like mountaineering, rock climbing, and trekking, hiking and water sports. For those who love water sports, they can visit Umiam Lake which offers rowboats, paddle boats, cruise boats, sailing boats, speedboats and water scooters. Waterfalls are a common sight in Meghalaya and the most popular ones include the Elephant falls, Nohkalikai falls, Weinia falls, Bishop Falls, etc. The major attractions in Cherrapunji include Living-Root bridges, Mawsmai cave and seven sisters falls. The Balpakram National Park, Shillong, Don Bosco Museum, Kyllang Rock, Mawlynnong Village, Baghmara and Laitlum Canyon are some other popular tourist attractions for all kinds of people and experiences.

Culture-of-Meghalaya,-places — Phe Phe Falls, Meghalaya

Meghalaya, one of the seven sister states of the North-East has many ethnic communities and tribes. The people there are known to be of very cheerful, adaptable, hospitable and friendly nature. As Meghalaya has a very rich and varied cultural diversity with each community and tribe having its own customs and traditions, the common trait among all the three communities is the matrilineal system, in which the youngest daughter of the family inherits all the wealth. The entire inheritance and lineage, origin and history of the family are traced through women. One should definitely visit Meghalaya once in their life to experience its rich biodiversity, its natural beauty, the peaceful and serene landscape, their rich culture, traditions, cuisine and their customs.

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose – A Legacy that was Relatable, Yet Often Unreachable.

Rupsha Sen

January 23, 2023

The Indian Independence struggle has been witnessed by several stalwarts and legends. These individuals have stood tall in the face of adversity and been the pillars on which the freedom struggle was built, executed and Independence finally achieved. Mahatma Gandhi, Nehru, Sardar Patel, Bhagat Singh the list is truly very long. But whenever the 23rd of January makes its way, I am reminded of the heroics and vision of one freedom fighter in particular. The day marks the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Growing up in Kolkata, West Bengal it was hard to not learn about Netaji, his ideologies, and his brave call for complete freedom.

As a child growing up in a state that was governed by communist ideals, Netaji’s callings were widely relatable. Add to that the aggressive fervor of youth and the desire to bring about ‘actual’ change made me and many like me, his admirers. His influence on the state is unquestionable and one of the reasons why the 23rd of January is a public holiday in West Bengal and many other adjoining states.

The Philosophy of Differences

Netaji-Subhas-Chandra-Bose-photo-1 — Image Source

There was something always rebellious and stirring while reading about Netaji’s life journey. He parted ways with the most iconic of the Independence movement leaders, the Mahatma himself. But the difference in ideology never meant disrespect to the person. It was Netaji, who called Mahatma Gandhi the ‘Father of the Nation’ for the very first time in a radio broadcast from Rangoon. Mahatma himself called Bose, the ‘Patriot of Patriots‘.

Thus, the mutual respect that they held for each other was never relegated to a petty personal defaming discourse. A reality that we often see mouthed out from prime-time news channels these days. Politics prevailed and history bears the brunt of differing ideologies. It also finds the true essence of human intellect and democracy.

For here, it is a nation of more than a hundred crores of people. A nation that must be open to disagreements and differences. A country that must strive for all views to be heard, all ideas to find a way of execution, and all ideologies a place for documentation. Yes, there were differences in the past too, but the Gandhi-Netaji divide was one of the most landmark movements. Because it recognized that it wasn’t necessary to fall in line with principles and practices that one couldn’t agree with. Netaji was a leader who chose to create his path, breaking away from the shadows of the Indian National Congress.

The Philosophy of Non-violence

Any discussion on Netaji is quite incomplete without citing his famous quote, ‘Give me blood and I will give you freedom‘. This was in complete contrast to the non-violence approach. With the years of subjugation by the British, who themselves were not averse to using violence as a means of rule, the call for an aggressive outlook seems fair enough.

He formed the INA or Indian National Army, a force to reckon with. The British PM during the Indian Independence Clement Attlee also acknowledged the loyalty of the Indian Navy and Army to the British. It had declined due to the increase in the INA’s or Azad Hind Fauj’s activities.

The Philosophy of Success and Failures

Netaji-Subhas-Chandra-Bose-Philosophy — Image Source

Netaji’s life can be viewed as a classic inspiration of success over failures. Although he cleared the Indian Civil Service examination he didn’t wish to work for an ‘alien government’. He joined the Congress and rose to the rank of the President of the party. He went ahead and founded the All India Forward Bloc within the Congress as a separate faction to strengthen the leftist ideologies. Bose with his charisma and call for total ‘swaraj’.

He believed that for independence India needed a socialist authoritarian view. It was his arrest in 1941 that led to his escape to Germany through Afghanistan. In Germany, he created the Indian Legion of about 4000 soldiers, the Indian prisoners of war who had fought for the British. However, when Germany decided to lay control over the Soviets, Bose felt disappointed because of his leftist views. He also realized that with the German army retreating it had no chance of helping him in getting the British out of India. And so in 1943, he left for Japan.

He revived the INA with strong support from Rash Behari Bose. The INA had its own set of trials and tribulations. However, a momentous moment occurred in Manipur in the town of Moirang when the Indian tricolor (designed after the Indian National Congress) was raised for the first time. The INA fought against the British in many battles, including in Burma. But with the fall of Rangoon and the Japanese surrender, the INA largely surrendered and many INA prisoners were repatriated to India.

The Philosophy of Politics

Neataji-Subhas-Chandra-Bose-With-Gandhiji — Image Source

Bose describes himself as a leftist and a socialist. In his speech, he called for a ‘synthesis between National Socialism and communism. He strongly believed that democracy was the best option for India. Many believe that his alliance with the Axis powers during the World War. It was a practical approach to reaching complete independence for India. Unlike fascist or Nazi he believed that the socialist state would be important for the re-building of the nation. Democracy and fundamental rights on equality, secularism, etc. must prevail.

The Philosophy of Equality

Photos-Netaji-Subhas-Chandra-Bose-01 — Image Source

One of the most visionary leaders, Netaji was far above petty classifications of gender, religion, caste, and class. He was deeply influenced by Swami Vivekananda and he gave utmost importance to social service above all.

The INA broke all stereotypes when it formed a separate women’s unit called the Rani of Jhansi Regiment. The regiment was headed by Captain Lakshmi Swaminathan. Bose also felt strongly for the cause of the peasants and laborers. He became a hero for not only India but an inspiration for many Third World countries too. He did put India and its zeal and want for independence on the global map.

In 1945 Netaji is said to have suffered fatal burns that led to his death from a plane crash. Many believe that these were conspiracy theories and that Netaji survived. His death continues to be shrouded in mystery, however, his legacy remains etched in history and memory.

Netaji in many ways symbolizes the warrior hero whose patriotism saw no bound. His strategic and pragmatic planning to overthrow the colonial regime was fraught with a relentless passion for the homeland. At the same time, his liberal ideas and unflinching ardor for acquiring complete independence through secular and unbiased approaches made him a true leader.

Yet, despite his acumen, philosophies, and liberal thinking, Netaji connected with all of us because he was humane. He was not the Mahatma, but an extraordinary human being who captured the imagination of the youth. He stood by his beliefs but did not undermine or insult the different approaches towards the same goal of independence. He instead walked his path and created a legacy that inspired many along the way. And for that Netaji will always live on.

Inspirational quotes by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose

Freedom is Not Given, It is Taken.

It is Blood Alone that can Pay the Price of Freedom. Give Me Blood & I will Give You Freedom.

Life Loses Half its Interest if there is No Struggle – If here are No Risks to be Taken.

No Real Change in History has Ever been Achieved by Discussions.

It is Our Duty to Pay for Our Liberty with Our Own Blood.

India is Calling. Blood is Calling to Blood. Get up, We Have No Time to Lose.

One Individual May Die for an Idea, but that Idea will, After his Death, Incarnate Itself in a Thousand Lives.

The Secret of Political bargaining is to Look More Strong than What You Really Are.

Materials That Can Make Interiors Look Lavish and Luxurious

Cscope Staff

January 23, 2023

In any room or interior space, the focal point is often the walls and the floor. The walls of a house reflect the personality of the people who live in it. As each room has a different and distinct personality, no two rooms are alike and their walls should not be similar either. There are numerous materials and methods that can be used to decorate walls. Room interior wall design materials include PVC panelling, wood, brick, PoP, and lots more.

Your walls should create companionship with your other interior and furnishings. Your walls need to be functional, cost-efficient, and durable. They should complement the interiors and increase the beauty of your furniture and accessories. Gone are the days of the same old, lifeless, boring, white plasterboards. You can use various other materials as cladding to decorate your house.

Thanks to the plethora of options available, it can be quite difficult to choose the right material for your walls. If you are overwhelmed with the choices, this article will help you and guide you through a variety of materials and different wall designs that you can implement in your house.

Types of Accent Walls and Materials

Tile Wall Designs

Wall tiles are an easy way to change the interior wall design of your room. There is a variety of wall tiles design available in the market that you can use to beautify your room. Wall tiles are available in a variety of forms, shapes, sizes, colours, and patterns, making them versatile and efficient.

You can combine different styles and shapes of wall tiles for a unique and personalised look.

Tile walls are not just pretty, but they are also easy to maintain and clean. You can wipe off the dust and grime from walls with any simple rag. They come with a polished finish so they look clean and shiny all the time. They are highly durable and do not wear out or break easily. They can be applied anywhere in the house but they are particularly recommended for areas with heavy traffic.

Paint – Plain and Texture

Plain

Out of the many different interior wall ideas, paint is the simplest and highly efficient way of decorating walls. You don’t need to buy any expensive equipment or materials to create an accent wall, just simple and plain paint would do. Plain paint can look like a statement piece if you use it correctly. You can get creative with paint and either paint one wall in a different colour or mix them to create unique shades.

Texture

Use paint to create unique textures to make your house’s interior wall design stand out. You can use stencils or just feel free to splash paint around. Allow yourself to spice your house up with an eclectic mix of colours.

Mouldings

Decorative trims made using PoP, PVC, wood, or gypsum are known as mouldings. They are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, patterns, and colours, and can be used to decorate your room in an ornate and rich style. To add extra contrast and depth to your walls, paint the mouldings in a colour that contrasts the colour of your wall.

POP Wall Designs

Plaster of Paris also known as PoP is a mixture of gypsum, cement plaster, and lime. These materials dry quickly and can be used not just to decorate ceilings and walls but also to provide them with an added layer of protection. Plaster of Paris is available as a dry powder that can be combined with water. This combination dries and cures quite quickly. Traditionally, Plaster of Paris has been used to decorate ceilings, however, you can also use it to decorate walls. Just allow your creativity to flow freely. These designs are not only functional but they can also make your house look unique and pretty without compromising on looks and space.

Wallpaper

When it comes to the subject of house interior wall design nothing can beat the simplicity and elegance of wallpapers. Wallpapers are easy to use, flexible, come in a variety of designs and colours, and are cost-effective too. Wallpapers are especially recommended if you live in a rented house where you don’t want to paint over any wall. Just use wallpaper and unleash your creativity.

Lacquered layers

Out of the many interior wall design ideas, surprisingly lacquer still remains highly underused. Modern lacquer is a mixture of acrylic water-based varnish with high-gloss paint. This not only gives it a shiny and beautiful look but also makes it non-toxic, unlike the lacquer that was available years ago. Glossy paints are warm, smooth to the touch, velvety, and tactile. You can use this effect as a part of your interior wall decoration project by spraying the paint on a smooth and well-prepared wall. Ideally, you should apply at least three layers of paint. This may seem like a lot of work, but the outcome will surely dazzle you. The hard work is worth it. Lacquered walls can turn any wall into a polished, chic, and elegant wall. High-gloss paint is especially recommended for smaller rooms as it can reflect light and thus create an illusion of a larger room.

Stone Wall Designs

You can use stones to take your walls to a whole new level. Stone has been a traditional material of choice for many years, but it does not mean that it is outdated. You can combine stone with modern architecture to create a unique and stylish look. Stones are versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. You can use stones for the backsplash in the kitchen, or you can also use them to cover a wall completely for a more dramatic effect. Stones not only add elegance and depth to a room, but they can also give the wall a protective layer.

These are some of the easiest and most versatile ways in which you can redecorate your house. These designs can bring a sense of charm and personality to your rooms without burning a hole in your pocket. Use this article as a guide to check out various options for your interiors and unleash your creativity.

Author Bio

Isha Tandon has worked within the architecture and interior design industry as a flooring consultant expert specializing in tiles, stones, and terrazzo. She has worked with Orientbell Limited, a leading tile manufacturer in India, as a product development manager in the design team and has recently joined the marketing team as their digital content expert. Her experience comes in handy in understanding the audience as she creates value-driven functional and informational content for the readers. She creates lifestyle pieces that focus on interior design products, trends, and processes. She loves to travel to historic places with rich architecture.

Folk Dances of Meghalaya, Expressions of Free-spirited Souls

Pari Bhatnagar

January 18, 2023

Folk-Dances-of-Meghalaya — Image – Wikimedia

Meghalaya is one of the most beautiful places in India and is known for its rich biodiversity, culture, heritage, customs and traditions. The place is filled with natural beauty, hills and mountains, gorgeous landscapes and has peacefulness and tranquility. Meghalaya is home to various tribes and communities some of which are the Garo, Khasi and Jaintia tribes. All these tribes and communities have their own culture, traditions, and distinct features like their outfits, food or even their folk dance forms. All these tribes have their own dance forms and way of celebrating. Dance is a very important part of the culture of Meghalaya as no celebration, festival or event is complete without it.

The people of Meghalaya express their feelings whether it is of joy, excitement, thanksgiving or sorrow through dance. There are ceremonial dances, agricultural dances, religious dances which they dedicate to the heavenly deities and even dances performed for the sole purpose of having fun and being free-spirited. The people of Meghalaya associate and perform their dances on all the events and occasions whether it is birth, marriage, festivals or even death. Some of the famous folk dances of Meghalaya have been listed below. To learn more about them, let’s take a look:

1. Behdienkhlam

Folk Dances of Meghalaya-Behdienkhlam-1 — Image Source

This is one of the most popular and main tribal dance festivals of the Jaintia tribe in Meghalaya. Bahdienkhlam is celebrated annually in the month of July at the onset of the monsoon season after the sowing period. The people of the Jaintia tribe pray to God and invoke blessings for a healthy harvest and they do this by celebrating this dance festival. As agriculture is their main occupation and primary source of income, it is important for them to pray for a healthy harvest and to avert and keep off any disease and plague or infection. This is why this folk dance has an important place in the hearts of the people of Jaintia tribe.

2. Nongkrem Dance

Folk Dances of Meghalaya Nongkrem Dance — Image Source

Ka Pom-Blang Nongkrem or Shad Nongkrem, also otherwise known commonly as Nongkrem dance, is one of the main tribal folk dances of the Khasi tribe in Meghalaya. The Nongkrem dance is basically a religious dance and is one of the most important to the Khasis as through this dance festival, the people of the tribe thank their god and deities for a good and healthy harvest and prosperity. They dedicate this dance to Goddess Ka Blei Synshar to appease and propitiate her for their harvest. They celebrate it in the autumn season during October-November every year at Smit, the capital of the Khyrim Syiemship near Shillong. The ceremony is performed by the Syiem of Khyrim and the high priest. During the ceremony, goats and cocks are sacrificed as offerings. After the ceremony is over, the Nongkrem dance begins which is performed by the unmarried girls who don beautiful and gorgeous attire, gold and silver ornaments and jewellery and yellow flowers. They dance forward and backward within a circle with their male partners also dancing in a wide circle, holding an open sword in one hand and a white yak-hair whisk in the other.

3. Shad Suk Mynsiem

Folk Dances of Meghalaya-Shad Suk Mynsiem — Image – Wikimedia

Shad Suk Mynsiem, also known as Shad Weiking, is also a thanksgiving dance of the Khasi tribe. It is an annual spring dance organized during the month of April and celebrated for a period of three days. The literal translation of Shad Suk Mynsiem is ‘Dance of the Blissful Heart’. The dance takes place in the Khasi hills and the people of the Khasi tribe dance to celebrate the harvest and planting season. The dance is performed by unmarried women and men. The dancers wear colorful and vibrant outfits and jewellery. The men wear colorful silk dhotis, plumed turbans and coats while the women dancers wear gorgeous silk robes and act or look like angels. The men dance with sword or spear in one hand and plume in the other hand. In the dance, the women form groups of two or three and form the inner circle and dance with very little steps at a time. The men, who are carrying swords and spears in their hands, form the outer circle which is like a protective layer. Shad Suk Mynsiem is basically done to express blissfulness and thanksgiving. The dancers are accompanied by Tangmuri, the queen of musical instruments, which are basically drums and flutes.

4. Wangala Dance

Folk Dances of Meghalaya-Wangala Dance — Image – Wikimedia

The Wangala is a dance festival celebrated mainly by the people of the Garo tribe. It is one of their major dance festivals. It is celebrated in the autumn after the harvest season. The Wangala festival is celebrated to propitiate and appease the deity “Patigipa Rarongipa” for which the festival includes several ceremonies. These are held in all villages. The festival is four days and nights long, at the end of which the Wangala dance is performed. The festival is completed with all the people of the tribe dancing with joy and excitement. On the last day, “Dance of a Hundred Drums”, which is the dance of the warriors, is performed, which is the highlight of the entire festival. The “Dance of a Hundred Drums” is a majestic and an impressive sight.

5. Doregata Dance

Folk Dances of Meghalaya-Doregata Dance — Image Source

The Doregata dance is another very interesting and popular dance ceremony in Meghalaya. It is performed mainly by the people of the Khasi tribe. This is a very fun and laughter filled celebration. There is a competition between the men and the women where the women, during the dance try to knock off the turbans of their male partners and they can do so by only using their head and no other body part. If the women succeed in this task, they win and everyone enjoys this festival. This dance is done to commemorate the war of Meghalaya wherein many Khasis have sacrificed their lives. Here, women are given priority over men and they try to take the turban off their male partners head while the men escape at any cost. After a tough and long fight, women succeed in doing the task and at last, the men surrender and everyone laughs and enjoys.

6. Laho Dance

Folk Dances of Meghalaya-Laho Dance — Image – Wikimedia

Laho dance, also known as Chipiah dance, is a part of the Behdienkhlam festival and is performed in it. This dance form is very popular among the people of the Pnar tribe. Both men and women are allowed to take part and perform the Laho dance. The dance is performed only for the purpose of entertainment and enjoyment of the people and it celebrates the free spirits of the people. This festival helps people in forgetting their problems and hardships in daily life and gives them a chance to just enjoy and have fun and laugh with each other. In this dance, the female dancers dance with two young men on each side. The girl performs by linking arms with both the boys on both her sides. They then sway their bodies back and forth. Both men and women are dressed in beautiful, vibrant and colorful attires. Another highlight of this dance form is that it is not supported by any musical instruments. Instead, a man with a sweet and strong voice and talent recites ribald couplets while performing the dance. The man, also known as ‘cheerleader’ does impromptu humorous recitations which supports the dance performance.

7. Ka Shad Shyngwiang-Thangiap

Folk Dances of Meghalaya-Ka Shad Shyngwiang-Thangiap — Image – Wikimedia

This dance is performed mainly by the people of the Khasi tribe. Instead of spending days in sorrow after someone dies, the Khasi people like to commemorate death by celebrating till the last rites of the deceased person are over. This is a ceremonial dance to express sorrow. It starts on the day of the death, outside the kitchen floor and ends when the last rites of the person are done. The dancers are supported by men who play music on flute, drums and bamboo poles.

Conclusion

Now that we have learned about some of the famous folk dance forms of Meghalaya, we have an idea as to how rich their culture and traditions are. The people like to include dance and music in everything they do, whether it is their harvest season or post-harvest season, giving thanks, enjoying and having fun, celebrating festivals and even expressing sorrow when a person dies and celebrating their journey and the life that they lived. This shows how actively the people of Meghalaya participate in things to keep their culture and heritage alive and rich.

Luxurious Trains of India, Experiencing Rich Indian Culture on Wheels

Cscope Staff

January 16, 2023

Luxurious-Trains-of-India — Image – Luxury Train Club/Flickr

India’s railways are the veins and arteries that keep the country’s heart beating, stretching to nooks and crannies that no jet could ever reach and connecting 1.38 billion people with friends and family. There’s a train journey to fit every travel need and budget, from 10-minute commuting rides to spectacular four-day treks across the subcontinent. Local trains move millions of people around major cities including Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai, while sumptuous luxury locos allow passengers to travel the nation in style.

Luxurious-Trains-of-India-02 — Image – Luxury Train Club/Flickr

Certain childhood experiences stick with us for the rest of our lives. Many of us remember those thrilling train rides we used to take with our loved ones before flying became the norm. Traveling by train back then meant buying our favourite comics and snacks, sipping tea, playing card games, and seeing the changing vistas outside. These excursions have gone a long way from the days when we brought our own boriya-bistar, heard the tea vendor’s typical “chai garam, garam chai,” and sipped water from a surahi. If the thought of travelling back in time to experience the splendours of royalty appeals to you, luxury trains in India may well exceed your expectations. These luxury trains in India cater to those who wish to see the country’s rich cultural history in elegance. Their richness can be observed in their breathtaking décor, fantastic ambiance, delicious gastronomic cuisine, strict security measures, and almost everything else you can think of.

1. Palace on Wheels

Luxurious Trains of India, Palace on Wheels — Image – Wikimedia

Palace on Wheels is India’s first luxury train, which began operations on January 26, 1982. It is, undoubtedly, one of India’s best luxury trains for royalty. It is an incredibly regal occasion, originally meant to cater for the kings of Gujarat, Rajputana, the British Viceroy, and the Nizam of Hyderabad, complete with luxurious amenities and two separate dining options. With 14 coaches named after pre-independence Rajput kingdoms, the saloons include specially carved inlaid themes, wall to wall carpeting, all furniture done in the richest materials, and only the most friendly and traditionally costumed crew. Television sets, separate pantry and toilet facilities with each coach, and a personal attendant are just a few of the amenities provided abroad. Palace on Wheels, launched by the Indian Railways to promote Rajasthan tourism, is a pioneer in the world of ultra chic travel, and is positioned at the helm of luxury trains in India.

2. Deccan Odyssey

Luxurious Trains of India, Deccan Odyssey — Image – Luxury Train Club/Flickr

The Deccan Odyssey boasts one of the most eye-catching regal coaches, dipped in indigo and embellished with golden embellishments, in the most royal of royal blue. It is operated by the Maharashtra MTDC and the Indian Railways and was established to promote Maharashtra tourism. Apart from a critically regarded restaurant on board, ten of the Deccan Odyssey’s twenty-one coaches are allocated for the most opulent uses, such as a bar, conference cart, and even a health spa.

With ten itineraries designed for every potential travel subject, from tourism to spirituality, booking a luxury train ride has never been easier. The coaches, which are named after different areas in Maharashtra, are encased in luxury and elegance, with state-of-the-art blue and gold themed décor and Marathi themes. If touring central and southern India is on your bucket list, this is the place to go.

3. Maharajas’ Express

Luxurious Trains of India,Maharajas’ Express — Image – Luxury Train Club/Flickr

Consider a top-tier tour of culturally rich Rajasthan and other areas indicative of Indian history, combined with top-tier five-star amenities suitable for a monarch, and the Maharajas’ Express will not only meet but exceed your expectations. The Maharajas’ Express, as its name suggests, provides luxurious amenities for the classiest and wealthiest passengers. The Maharajas’ Express is easily among the most opulent forms of transportation, having won the title of “The World’s Leading Luxury Train” twice in a row in 2012 and 2013, as well as being Asia’s most costly train.

Five well-planned journeys that take into account the diverse needs of the guests. Passengers can choose between two routes encompassing the ‘Golden Triangle’ of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, as well as three pan-Indian journeys. The Maharaja’s Express, India’s most opulent and luxury train in its class, demands respect and at least one trip in a lifetime.

4. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

Luxurious Trains of India, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels — Image – Luxury Train Club/Flickr

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, modelled after the Palace on Wheels, is one of India’s luxury trains particularly constructed for a full tour of the culturally rich Rajasthan. It was inspired by the Palace of Wheels and started for the same reason. The interiors of this luxury train in India have been tastefully decorated in the style of Rajasthani royal palaces, and each non-residential coach, such as the two restaurant coaches, the spa coach, and the souvenir coach, sport extremely individualistic designs and are thematically designed with nothing less than royalty in mind.

The Swarn Mahal coach, fashioned in gold and brass combinations, and the Sheesh Mahal coach, embellished with crystal pelmets and towering floor lights, are particularly remarkable. Royal Rajasthan is your best choice for a well-rounded tour of the state steeped in a royal past and a rich legacy.

5. Golden Chariot

Luxurious Trains of India, Golden Chariot — Image – Luxury Train Club/Flickr

The beautiful and gentle yet commanding violet and gold exterior of the luxury train coaches is sufficient to capture your attention, and as if that isn’t enough, the Golden Chariot, which takes its name from the chariot sculpture in the Hampi ruins, has a tasteful interior decoration along the lines of South Indian architecture that is mesmerising. It is one of the more recent additions to India’s luxury train fleet.

The Golden Chariot is an overwhelming experience for the senses, making it to the list of most luxurious trains in India, from the lounge bar, ‘Madira,’ which draws its decor from Mysore palaces, to the coaches, which draw strongly from Mysore and Hoysala architectural movements with state of the art carvings adorning the walls and ceilings. The gastronomic selections are excellent, with a full vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisine, and the residential coaches are outfitted with state-of-the-art uninterrupted luxury amenities and elegantly carved furnishings.

The Golden Chariot, which draws passengers from all over the world, is indeed a golden chance for those who wish to discover the finest of South Indian history.

6. Royal Orient

Luxurious Trains of India, Royal Orient — Image – Luxury Train Club/Flickr

This train rolls in royalty. This majestic train goes from Gujarat to Rajasthan, stopping at popular tourist attractions including Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Junagarh, Veraval, and Somnath. There are 13 magnificent blue coaches, and each saloon has an attached toilet, as well as two attendants who will serve you around the clock.

The Royal Orient delivers meals suited for Rajput monarchs, featuring Indian, Chinese, Continental, Gujarati, and Rajasthani options. The Watering Hole is a well-stocked bar that offers both Indian and international liquor around the clock. The train also offers a library with a vast selection of books and publications, as well as a charming lounge with a television and a CD player.

Travel from Junagarh’s fort to Jaipur’s palaces, stopping for desert safaris and other scenic trips along the way. It is an excellent opportunity for people interested in exploring Northern India’s forts, palaces, and monuments.

7. Fairy Queen

Luxurious Trains of India, Fairy Queen — Image Source

Fairy Queen is well-known as the world’s oldest rolling locomotive and is appropriately classified as a historic train. The railway began its voyage in 1855 and ran until 1908, when its regular operations were terminated owing to various factors. In July 1997, the Indian Railways resumed the trip of this historic train, which began in Delhi and continues to Alwar. A visit to the famed Sariksa Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-do here.

Fairy Queen features two coaches, one of which is an air-conditioned vehicle with a seating capacity of 50 passengers. This coach has been particularly created, and the seats can also recline, making the travel more comfortable. In addition, there is a well-kept pantry vehicle for catering purposes. The train also features a lounge in front of the passenger carriage with a huge window providing a wonderful outside view.

The Fairy Queen historic train tour is a one-night/2-day journey with no overnight stay aboard the train. During the stay, guests can participate in a variety of cultural activities that are held in the evening. During the voyage, passengers get the opportunity to see several historical landmarks in Delhi, Alwar, and the world-famous Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary, where they may enjoy the facility of a Jeep Safari to explore the beautiful wildlife.

8. The Mahaparinirvan Express

Luxurious Trains of India, The Mahaparinirvan Express — Image – Wikimedia

The Mahaparinirvan Express is a Buddhist Pilgrim Train that travels through all of India and Nepal’s important Buddhist locations. The newest effort of the IRCTC (Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation), it is an 8-day trek throughout India to all of the holy Buddhist monuments. Its amenities and wonderfully designed itinerary have earned the hearts of both Buddhist pilgrims and visitors since its inception in 2007.

The Mahaparinirvan Express Tour is an intricately organised 8-day journey that begins and concludes in Delhi. It brings you to India’s most prominent Buddhist pilgrimage sites, such as Bodhgaya, Varanasi, Sarnath, Lumbini, and Sravasti. This well-planned schedule not only brings you to the most important Buddhist sites, but also allows you to enjoy sightseeing in Buddhist-related locations.

Traveling aboard the Mahaparinirvan Express is a wonderful experience, especially in terms of lodgings. The train has three types of accommodations: first class, first class coupe, and second class.

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourist Corporation (IRCTC) in partnership with state tourism agencies operates luxury trains that redefine happiness and deliver luxury worth every penny . So, the next time you plan a vacation to India, take a ride on one of the country’s luxury trains to discover what all the hype is about. After all, the best replies are based on personal experience. So, read over this list of luxury trains in India and plan a trip to India to enjoy an amazing sumptuous experience on these trains and have the time of your life!

How to Make Cocoa Butter Face Cream at Home

Cscope Staff

January 16, 2023

Theobroma Oil, often known as cocoa butter, is a pale yellow fat derived from the cocoa bean. Ointments, cosmetics, and medications are all made with it. Cocoa butter smells like cocoa. Because its melting temperature is just below that of human skin, it is easily absorbed. This butter is packed with antioxidants, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, giving it a wide range of skincare benefits.

Although there is a broad variety of products on the market, their adverse effects on the skin make them unsuitable. Companies are more concerned with making a profit than with making people happy, so make your own Cocoa Butter face cream at home. This article will present you with easy-to-follow, low-cost recipes to attempt at home.

Benefits of Homemade Cocoa Butter Face Cream

Moisturize Skin: Cocoa butter is abundant in fatty acids, making it ideal for use as a key ingredient in skin creams. The fatty acids aid in skin hydration. Cocoa butter’s fat forms a protective barrier that keeps moisture in and keeps your skin from drying out.

Anti-aging: Cocoa Butter has a high concentration of vitamin E and fatty acids, which helps to balance the skin’s sebum while also reducing pore size for a smoother appearance. Its anti-hyperpigmentation and skin-tone-improving properties reduce melanin production.

Protect Against Sun Damage: UV radiation can affect the texture of your skin, damage your cells, and possibly increase your risk of skin cancer. VedaOils’s Cocoa butter polyphenols may protect your skin from damaging UV radiation and reduce your chance of skin damage.

DIY Recipes of Homemade Cocoa Butter Face Cream

Cocoa butter is high in amino acids and fatty acids, and producing cocoa butter face cream is straightforward and inexpensive, requiring fewer ingredients and effort. We’ve offered easy-to-follow recipes for you to try.

Cocoa Butter Creamy Lotion For Face And Body

Ingredients
Virgin Olive Oil – 1 cup
Cocoa Butter – 1/4th cup
Beeswax – 3 tablespoon
Pomegranate Seed Oil – 2 tablespoon
Vitamin E oil – 2 teaspoons
Rose Water – ½ cup
Lavender Essential oils – 12-15 drops

Recipe and How to use

In a mixing basin, combine cocoa butter, beeswax, and olive oil. Place it over a low-heat double boiler. While heating, constantly whisks until the ingredients are completely melted and have a smooth texture.
Remove the pot from the heat and set it aside to cool for 15 minutes.
Fill a blender halfway with the contents and blend at medium speed.
Toss in the concentrated oil and Vitamin E oil. After 1-2 minutes, slowly add the hydrosol to the mixture.
Blend for a few minutes more until you get the desired consistency.
Blend with the essential oils of your choice for another 30 seconds.
Remove the lid from the blender and pour the contents into a glass jar. Before closing the lids, let it cool.
Keep the cream refrigerated to extend its shelf life.

Cocoa Butter for Daily Face Moisturizer

Ingredients
Virgin Coconut oil – ½ cup
Cocoa butter – ½ cup
Vitamin E Oil – 1 teaspoon
Frankincense Essential Oil – 20 drops
Lavender essential oil – 15 drops

Recipe and How to use

In a double boiler, melt the coconut oil and cocoa butter together.
Allow it to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes after it has melted.
Toss in some essential oils to the mix.
Wait for it to partially firm before whipping it with a hand blender until it has a buttery consistency.
To keep the coconut oil from melting, store it in a glass container and keep it refrigerated.

Homemade Cocoa Butter Regular Use Face Cream

Ingredients
Virgin Coconut oil – 1 tablespoon
Cocoa butter – 2 ½ tablespoon
virgin olive oil – ½ tablespoon

Recipe and How to use

Keep the container of coconut oil in a bowl of hot water to melt it.
In a small saucepan, combine all of the ingredients and melt over low heat.
Allow cooling somewhat before pouring into a glass jar.
Shake the jar briskly at least three times every several minutes.
After the liquid has solidified, it will be used as a face cream.

Homemade Cocoa Butter Moisturizer for Dry Skin

Ingredients
virgin coconut oil – ¼ cup
Cocoa butter – ¾ cup
virgin olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Peppermint Essential Oil – 15 drops

Recipe and How to use

In a microwave-safe bowl or pan, combine all ingredients and heat until the coconut oil and cocoa butter is completely melted.
Fill a container with a tight-fitting lid.
As the mixture cools, vigorously shake it a few times.
It won’t be long before the mixture has the consistency of cream and is ready to use.

Conclusion

We’re sure you’re excited now that you’ve seen the benefits and applications of cocoa butter, and you’ve learned about the recipes and ingredients needed to make them. Homemade cocoa butter skin moisturizer is vitamin-rich and rarely causes allergic reactions in its users, but a patch test is recommended.

It is always preferable to use homemade goods because they give you healthy and organic alternatives to potentially harmful chemicals. These recipes’ contents can also be used in other DIYs, and they have a long shelf life, so if you haven’t tried them yet, do so soon

What is the Binance Token (BNB)?

Cscope Staff

January 16, 2023

There are thousands of cryptocurrencies on the stock market. However, only a few really stand out among them. Today, BNB is among the most influential cryptocurrencies on the market. It is actually a coin created by Binance to serve as the “engine” for its Binance Smart Chain (BSC) network.

Although it is not one of the coins with the highest value or market capitalization, BNB presents a really solid project. Find out more about the BNB, what it’s for, and its key features below.

What is the BNB?

Launched in 2017, BNB is an ERC-20 token that runs on the Ethereum network. When it launched, Binance sold about 200 million BNB coins. After that, the platform decided that it was necessary to launch its own network and so the Binance Smart Chain blockchain was born.

Unlike other cryptos, it is therefore not possible to mine BNB. In fact, this is because there is a fixed number of BNB tokens and all of these tokens have already been issued on the market.

Furthermore, Binance has implemented a quarterly “burn” procedure in order to balance the price of the cryptocurrency on the market. In this sense, the company expects to burn a total of 100 million BNB will be burned, which is half of the issued tokens.

As a result, the number of BNB coins in circulation is reduced to 100 million. This allows the price to remain stable over the long term. Just like Bitcoin and Ethereum, BNB is one of the strongest projects in the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

What can you do with the BNB?

One of the main criteria that has promoted the success of a crypto project is the usefulness that the project presents. When it comes to BNB, this virtual currency is useful on both the Binance Chain and the Binance Smart Chain.

In reality, this cryptocurrency has several uses. First, when you buy with BNB within the Binance Chain, you get a discount on the transaction fees.

Also, BNB can be exchanged for other cryptocurrencies such as ETH, BTC, USDT, BUSD and many others. It is also possible to use BNB to pay for goods and services. These can be both physical and digital.

Furthermore, the BNB is the main token of the Binance Smart Chain. As such, all fees (gas) within this network are paid in this currency. Similarly, BNB is used to pay commissions on the Binance DEX. You can also use your BNB tokens to participate in the various lotteries organized and offered regularly by the platform.

Should I invest in BNB?

Many people are probably wondering if it is worth investing in BNB. However, it is very important to know that just like other currencies, BNB is a utility token. This means that a significant amount of money circulates in this currency.

Currently, the BNB is the fourth-largest coin in terms of market capitalization, at $35 billion. This makes it one of the most popular currencies. Therefore, it is quite interesting to invest some of your assets in BNB. The easiest way to do so is to trade the BNB/USDT pair on any major crypto exchanges, but always remember to store your tokens on a cold-wallet for more safety.

Where to buy BNB safely?

If you are interested in BNB and want to invest in it, you can do so from the KuCoin platform. Indeed, thanks to the user-friendly interface that this platform presents, you can buy your cryptocurrencies there very easily. It also offers a multitude of features that make this site one of the best platforms for buying cryptos.

You can buy and store a very large amount of cryptocurrencies, and the KuCoin exchange also guarantees the security of your funds.

Moreover, the platform also gives you the opportunity to buy cryptocurrencies with fiat currencies. Moreover, through the peer-to-peer marketplace available on the platform, you can easily buy your cryptocurrencies with local currencies.

Let’s also note that the very intuitive nature of the platform offers a better grip to both beginners and experts.

Conclusion

BNB is a very interesting and promising currency. Moreover, its price is very affordable on the market today. So you can invest in it without spending a fortune. You should also know that BNB is backed by one of the most important companies operating in the cryptocurrency sector in the world: Binance. Therefore, it is a very solid project that you can bet on if you want to expand your portfolio.

The Manja Makers Behind Uttarayan

Sushmita Iyer

January 15, 2023

In Ahmedabad, the time around November-December is when you get a whiff of Uttarayan in the air. You know kites will be the next thing you see in the sky after the fireworks bid us goodbye; thanks to the numerous manja makers, who move into the city three months before the celebration and engage themselves in the arduous process of producing strong, abrasive strings to let the kites soar high.

In the summer of 2003, when I moved to Ahmedabad with my parents and as a ‘newbie’, I found the number of manja makers doubling by the day in November quite interesting. I figured out two things:
1. Most of them were not Gujaratis and spoke different languages, and
2. They migrated to the city in packs and coming to this part of the country before Sankranti was an annual affair.

But I wondered, why? Why would anyone throw their lives away and come down all the way to a place that gets horribly cold and dry in November? After interacting with a manjha maker from Assam, I realised that there is a possibility of earning good returns because patang baazi (kite flying) is a big deal in Gujarat!

It was a delightful sight to witness ladies making chapattis every morning on kerosene stoves on the street, while their men rubbed a thick colourful paste on strings in one quick motion. Young boys did the same thing at the other end of the strings. They dripped in sweat by the end of afternoon, took small breaks in between for tea, chatted with fellow manja makers and discussed about the market and how much they were hoping to make this year.

During the Uttarayan season, a manja maker prepares around 100 to 250 ‘charkhis’ of string every day and the dealer, who provides them the raw material, pays them one rupee for every reel they prepare. Charkhis are then sold by these dealers for anywhere around Rs.50-250. The kites are also supplied to other states such as Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Delhi and many other places in India. Over the last 10 years, the kite-making business in Gujarat has grown from Rs.100 crore to Rs.700 crore.

Uttarayan is a two-day affair in Gujarat; first, there is ‘Uttarayan’ and the day following is the ‘Vasi Uttarayan’. Every year, Ahmedabad witnesses a huge number of kite enthusiasts participating in the International Kite Festival organized on a large scale, where the who’s who in the city take part along with the locals. It is also the time when the state witnesses a surge in foreign tourists. Grown up men, young boys and girls gather on every rooftop; singing and dancing besides flying kites and scream their lungs out when their kites clash with others’.
Gujarati women, meanwhile, prepare Jalebis, Fafda, Dhokla and traditional specialty Undhiyu, a spicy vegetable dish. They then distribute these goodies to other households and get something in return, which is eventually shared with someone else. The aroma of these delicacies pervades the air. Also, not to forget the DJ parties (read booze parties in a dry state!) after a long hard day of kite flying.

Last but not the least, the Chinese lanterns or Tukkal light up the sky, that most certainly will make you wonder if they are celebrating Diwali again! In short, it is what Dussehra is to Mysoreans (minus the drinks, I suppose!). This is all made possible to a large extent because of the manja makers who toil every day until January 13 to produce a strong string that would have an edge over the others.

However, there is a lot more here than what meets the eye. Besides noticing a new manja stand every day, I also noticed the diversity that existed, for these manja makers all spoke in different languages and if not the language, the dialect seemed to differ. One could say that a mini India existed in every corner, in the background of a colourful charkhi.

Sometimes, the newspapers talked about rising cases of bird injuries due to manjha kites. A bird rescuer in Ahmedabad estimated that 2,000 birds including pigeons, eagles and vultures are injured every year during the Uttarayan season and around 500 of them die from their injuries. Shockingly, the Bird Conservation Society of Gujarat state that at least 100 species of bird, including many endangered species, were injured last year. However, that did not deter people from buying manjas.

We were now just a week away from Uttarayan and half the sky was already covered with colourful kites of different sizes. The streets had an opposite tale, though. Loose strings of manjas thrown everywhere on the road and commuters manoeuvring their two-wheelers to keep the abrasive strings away from their vehicles.

At this point, I got to speak with one of the young boys who told me it was his first time outside of his home town. While working, he always keeps a heap full of flour-like substance and some fine glass powder which are mixed with the colour. “The mixture will be kneaded to get a paste. And then we apply first layer of colour on the strings. The second coating begins after the first coating dries off.” He explained the whole process eloquently.

But it was my naïve question, perhaps, that crushed his enthusiasm at once.

“So, will you be flying a kite and eating the sweets this time?” An odd silence ran between us for a minute, which then got stretched into two.

He finally shook his head, wiped the sweat off his forehead, and resumed work. While I stood there wishing I had kept the question to myself!

Factfile –
http://www.dnaindia.com
http://www.theguardian.com
http://www.tripigator.com
http://sandeepachetan.com
http://www.thehindu.com

Fly Kite in Gujarat on Makar Sankranti

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