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The largest ever Thai New Year celebrations
Rtv news
19 May 2024, 17:24
Under the sweltering Bangkok sun, revelers of all ages dressed in vibrant floral shirts and armed with colorful water guns and buckets douse each other in a playful celebration of Songkran, the Thai New Year. Laughter and shrieks fill the air as icy water splashes across smiling faces, while the aroma of Thai street food mingles with the soaked festivities on Khaosan Road, the iconic epicenter for the nationwide water fight as part of the kingdom’s annual Songkran celebrations.
Later in the day, Buddha statues are paraded through the streets over which locals gently pour lustral water to pay respects and pray for prosperity. Amid the splashing water and joyous chaos, the scene beautifully captures the blend of tradition and fun that defines this traditional Thai New Year festival.
Celebrating Culture, Kinship, and Community
Inscribed in 2023 on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Songkran marks the celestial event of the sun’s annual entry into the Aries constellation, thus heralding the start of the new year. The festival, Thailand’s biggest and most significant on the annual calendar, takes place in mid-April, following the rice harvest, when people across Thailand reunite with their families, reinforcing social bonds and reverence for elders in the community.
Water pouring plays a significant role in the festivities as a symbolic act of cleansing the old to welcome the new, particularly during the ceremony where young people prepare scented water to wash their parents’ or elders’ hands and ask for blessings, as well as the ritual where participants bathe important Buddha images. Impromptu water parties spring up on streets across the country—including legendary festivities along Khaosan and Silom roads in Bangkok that offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience—with revelers dancing to exuberant music and splashing water on passersby in a spirit of goodwill.
Traditionally celebrated for three days, from April 13 to 15, Songkran has historically marked a time of renewal and festivity across Thailand. To honor its recent UNESCO designation, the 2024 festival will be extended to three weeks, from April 1 to 21, uniting all 77 provinces in a celebration of unmatched scale.
A World-Class Festival
Over 500,000 international tourists are expected to converge in Bangkok for the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024 from April 11 to 15, joining locals and domestic travelers at the extravaganza at the heart of this year’s celebration. The festivities will take place in the historic area of Thailand’s bustling capital along Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue and at Sanam Luang near the iconic Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
The five-day event kicks off with the Maha Songkran Parade, featuring 20 grand processions and over 1,000 performers. The parade, a hallmark of Songkran celebrations, dazzles spectators with participants in traditional Thai costumes, alongside a range of cultural performances, including traditional Thai dances and music. Highlighting the parade are floats beautifully decorated with flowers, carrying representations of Lady Songkran—goddesses from a myth that tells the story of a deity and his seven daughters, one representing each day of the week.
At the main stage in Sanam Luang, attendees will be treated to a diverse line-up of cultural and musical performances, including the classical Khon masked dance drama and the Southern Thai Nora dance drama, both recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage performing arts. The festival also offers contemporary music and orchestral performances, merit-making ceremonies, and workshops on local arts and crafts, as well as a designated water zone, complete with a musical dancing fountain, a gigantic wading pool, and water stations, promising a delightful and refreshing experience for all.
A Cultural Mosaic
While Songkran traditions from Thailand’s five regions will be showcased in a dedicated zone at the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024 in Bangkok, travelers with more time can also experience firsthand the festivities unique to each region.
For instance, in the northern city of Chiang Mai, once the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, visitors have the opportunity to celebrate with locals by partaking in traditions reflective of the region’s identity. Amidst colorful parades and processions, revelers bring sand to temples—to return the sand they may have inadvertently carried away on the bottoms of their shoes over the year—and build sand pagodas decorated with colorful ceremonial flags, flowers, and sticks of incense.
Source: CNN
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World Pasta Day: The History of Italy's Long Love Affair with Pasta
On October 25th, people celebrate World Pasta Day to recognize the importance of this comfort food across the globe. Today there are numerous options available in every region and pasta has become a go-to meal. However one cannot forget the contribution of Italians in making it a global food. Pasta is synonymous with the cuisine of Italy and its deep-rooted passion for this dish spans centuries, predating even the Middle Ages. But how exactly did this love affair begin, and what is the real story behind the birth of pasta in Italy?
A Controversial Beginning
The history of pasta is riddled with mystery and debate. A popular myth suggests that Marco Polo introduced pasta to Italy in the 13th century after his travels to China. However, historians have long debunked this, as pasta was already present in Italy centuries before Polo’s time. Although the exact origin of pasta remains a topic of contention, there are a few theories.
Some suggest that the Etruscans, an ancient civilization predating the Romans in central Italy, might have been the first to make pasta. Evidence from an Etruscan tomb suggests they had tools resembling those used for pasta-making. Yet, this theory is tenuous. A more widely accepted explanation points to Arab traders who introduced pasta to Sicily in the 8th and 9th centuries. They brought with them dried noodles made from durum wheat, ideal for long journeys and perfect for Sicily's climate. Today, Italy remains one of the largest producers of durum wheat, a key ingredient in pasta production.
Despite uncertainty about its origins, one thing is clear: pasta was already being enjoyed in Italy during the Medieval period. References to pasta appear in literature and art, such as Giovanni Boccaccio's 14th-century The Decameron, which humorously describes pasta chefs preparing mountains of ravioli and macaroni. From this point onward, pasta became an integral part of Italian cuisine, spreading throughout the country and evolving into the beloved dish it is today.
Pasta’s Evolution Across Italy
As pasta gained popularity, it transcended class divisions. It became a staple for both the rich and the poor, though prepared differently depending on wealth. For the lower classes, pasta was a cheap and filling source of energy, while the wealthy would enhance their pasta dishes with luxurious ingredients like pork belly, cow udders, and spices such as cinnamon and raisins. Even today, some Sicilian pasta dishes incorporate these traditional Middle Eastern flavors, harkening back to the influence of Arab traders.
By the 17th century, pasta had taken on such importance in Naples that Neapolitans were nicknamed "macaroni eaters." At the time, pasta was being paired with a wide range of ingredients, but it was still a labor-intensive process to make. The word “macaroni” itself comes from a Sicilian term referring to the vigorous kneading of pasta dough, a testament to the effort involved.
Tomatoes And Pasta Became Best Friends
A pivotal moment in pasta history came with the introduction of tomatoes to Europe. Although tomatoes were brought to Europe in the 16th century, they were initially thought to be poisonous and avoided in cooking. It wasn't until the 19th century that the tomato's role in Italian cuisine, particularly in pasta, became solidified. The first recorded instance of tomato sauce being used with pasta appeared in a cookbook by Francesco Leonardi in 1790. From this point onward, the marriage of pasta and tomatoes became an inseparable part of Italian culinary tradition.
The Renaissance Of Pasta
The Italian Renaissance in the 14th to 17th centuries was a time not only of artistic and intellectual advancement but also of culinary innovation. During this period, pasta dishes became more elaborate and refined. Italian chefs started experimenting with sauces, shapes, and new cooking techniques. The introduction of the tomato sauce, along with new pasta shapes like conchiglie (shells) and farfalle (bow ties), elevated pasta from a simple, rustic dish to a culinary art form. At the same time, regional variations in pasta also began to emerge. For example, Naples became famous for spaghetti, while Bologna and Emilia-Romagna developed pasta filled with meat and cheese, such as tortellini.
Pasta’s Journey Beyond Italy
As Italian immigrants traveled the world, they carried their culinary traditions with them, spreading their love for pasta across continents. In many countries, Italian pasta was adapted to local flavors and ingredients, leading to the creation of new dishes that incorporated pasta into diverse cuisines. This exchange enriched Italian cuisine while also making pasta a global phenomenon.
Today, pasta is a symbol of Italian heritage and the country boasts over 300 different types of pasta shapes. From dried pasta (pasta secca) to fresh pasta (pasta fresca), they take great pride in their pasta-making techniques, often drying pasta for longer periods and using ridged molds to maximize sauce absorption. Pasta-making has also seen significant innovation, with modern chefs pushing the boundaries by experimenting with new shapes, ingredients, and flavors. Despite these changes, one thing remains constant: pasta’s deep connection to Italy’s culinary history.
Reasons Why Not to Add Bananas to Shakes and Smoothies
When it comes to smoothies and shakes, banana is one of the most popular fruits, as it provides a creamy texture and natural sweetness.
Despite such popularity, here are some strong reasons you may want to reconsider adding them to your shake or smoothie. While bananas are one of those fine sources of nutrients, including potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, they're not always the best option, given your dietary goals, preferences, or digestive health.
Here are some reasons you might want to reconsider adding bananas to your shakes and smoothies.
Banana Nutrition
Bananas are a rich source of essential nutrients, providing a good amount of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. They are high in dietary fiber, which supports digestion, and contains natural sugars that provide a quick energy boost. Bananas are also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy snack option while offering antioxidants that promote overall well-being.
High in sugar and carbohydrates
Bananas are naturally high in sugar and carbohydrates, probably not good enough for a low-sugar or low-carb diet. A medium-sized banana contains around 14 grams of sugar and 27 grams of carbohydrates. Although natural sugars are better than refined ones, they will certainly cause increased blood sugar, especially in people with highly sensitive insulin or in diabetics. If you are on a diet controlling your sugars or following a low-carb diet, you can use low-sugar fruits like berries or more leafy greens in your shakes and smoothies.
Calorie dense
Although bananas are nutritious, they contain relatively high-calorie density compared to most other fruits. A medium banana contains about 105 calories; thus, it could add up depending on how big your shake or smoothie is. If you're looking to cut down on calorie intake or work on your weight management, bananas probably aren't the go-to fruit for smoothies. Instead, using a lower-calorie fruit or vegetable, such as a cucumber, spinach, or strawberry, can help make a drink less calorie-rich without sacrificing its nutritional or flavor integrity.
May cause digestion issues
Bananas, especially the unripened bananas, have resistant starch. Thus, it will cause some difficulty in digestion in the human body. For those who have a weakened digestive system or in the presence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), bananas may cause them to bloat, pump gas, or feel unrest in their digestive tract. Bananas also contain a natural sugar called fructose that may cause problems in people who have intolerance. If you have a sensitive stomach or experience frequent digestive problems, try not to use bananas in your shakes and smoothies and opt for other, easier-to-digest fruits like papaya, watermelon, or cantaloupe.
Overpowers other flavors
Bananas have a very distinctive and strong taste that would easily overpower the flavor of many other ingredients within shakes and smoothies. If you're trying to balance flavors and want to let other fruits or vegetables shine, bananas can overpower the flavor, overriding the nuances of spinach, ginger, or citrus fruits. Some of the other alternatives are avocado or unsweetened almond milk for making a creamy shake.
Limited nutrient diversity
Bananas are relatively nutrient-dense in some areas, like potassium, but they do not provide the kind of broad nutrient diversity that many other fruits and vegetables do. You might still miss out on a significant amount of the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can be found in a wide variety of produce if you add a banana to your smoothie. For example, trading a banana for a handful of spinach or kale provides an enormous dose of vitamins A, C, and K, in addition to fiber and calcium. In a pinch, someone may have to rely on bananas to add flavor and texture to their shakes and smoothies, which may be fine if they are still concerned with getting the most out of nutrition from those. Otherwise, focusing on a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables may work better for them.
Source: TOI
By Rotation Opening Biggest-Ever Fashion Rental Pop-Up in London
By Rotation is celebrating its fifth anniversary by launching "The House of ByRo," the "largest" fashion rental pop-up in the world, in Mayfair, London.
The brand's most well-liked clothing and accessories will be on display at the five-story building at 31 Brook Street, "creating an immersive and interactive retail experience".
In addition to the highly sought-after A-lister outfits from Sophie Hermann, Chrissy Rutherford, Matilde Mourinho, Abisola Omole, and Dame Helen Mirren's red carpet ensembles, visitors will be able to rent a carefully chosen assortment of brands, including Self-Portrait, 16Arlington, Terry De Havilland, and Khanums.
In honor of the renowned Savile Row tailors' 175th anniversary, the pop-up will also exclusively showcase renowned luxury male items from the Huntsman library.
The pop-up is a component of the 'Meanwhile On' initiative of Westminster City Council, which was established to provide creative brands access to prominent retail locations. Brands benefit greatly from the project’s business rates, store design budget, and full-cycle assistance from Someday Studios, the project delivery partner.
Out of more than 800 applicants, By Rotation was chosen for the store, and with the help of landlord Royal London Asset Management, it has been granted rent-free.
By Rotation, which was founded in 2019 by Kabra-Davies, has been transforming the way people consume fashion ("by empowering users to rent, lend, and rotate their wardrobes"). The company has expanded to become a pioneer in the sustainable fashion sector, with over a million downloads and 150,000 listings in the US and the UK. To honor the By Rotation community and unite its members, the pop-up will hold several seminars and activities in addition to renting out special items.
Source: WWB
Photo: By Rotation
Dhanteras 2024: Date, Puja Timings, Significance, and Historical Origins
Dhanteras, The day is especially linked to the story of Lord Dhanvantri, who emerged from the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan) carrying the pot of Amrit, the elixir of life, symbolizing health and vitality.
Dhanteras 2024 date
Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, is the auspicious first day of Diwali, celebrated with vibrant rituals and devotion to Lord Kuber, the god of wealth, and Lord Dhanvantri, the god of health and Ayurveda. This year, Dhanteras falls on October 29, marking a day dedicated to welcoming prosperity and well-being.
Dhanteras 2024: Prime puja timings and dates
Trayodashi Tithi Begins on October 29, 2024, at 12.01 am.
Trayodashi Tithi Ends on October 30, 2024, at 2.45 am.
Dhanteras Puja Muhurat: October 29, 2024, from 7.27 pm. to 9.16 pm.
Pradosh Kaal: October 29, 2024, from 6.37 pm to 9.16 pm.
Vrishabha Kaal: October 29, 2024, from 7.27 pm to 9.19 pm.
Significance and history of Dhanteras
The roots of Dhanteras trace back to ancient Hindu mythology. The day is especially linked to the story of Lord Dhanvantri, who emerged from the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan) carrying the pot of Amrit, the elixir of life, symbolizing health and vitality. Thus, Dhanteras is celebrated as a day to honor health and wellness, while invoking Lord Kuber for wealth and prosperity.
Over generations, Dhanteras have grown in importance as the primary occasion for buying gold, silver, and household items, which are believed to bring good luck and financial stability. The lighting of lamps and the arrangement of rangoli designs add to the festive spirit, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.
Celebrations and observances
Families across India mark Dhanteras with prayers and offerings, and homes are decorated with diyas and fresh flowers. This day also marks the beginning of five days of Diwali festivities, which conclude with Bhai Dooj. Dhanteras serves as a reminder of the values of prosperity, health, and family unity, setting the tone for the joyful days that follow.
Source: FE
5 Nutritious Breakfast Dishes Made with Bread
There's a reason for the adage that breakfast is the most important meal of the day to fuel your body. Starting the day with a nourishing breakfast keeps you full and energized until lunchtime. With breakfast being the first energy source to get the required nutrients, focusing on fiber-rich foods is vital to ensure a healthy, wholesome, and satisfying morning meal. Fiber is a key nutrient that fills you up and keeps blood sugar stable, feeds healthy microbiota in your gut, reduces cholesterol levels, regulates hormone levels, and much more. Here we share a guide to adding more fiber to your mornings by putting a healthy spin on your next breakfast sandwich.
Avocado and Egg toast
Start your morning with a creamy, protein-packed combination of avocado and egg. Spread mashed avocado on your whole wheat slices, then top with a perfectly cooked sunny-side-up egg. Add a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and chili flakes for a flavourful kick to energize you all morning.
Peanut Butter and Banana toast
This classic duo always satisfies. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter on your favorite bread slices, topping it up with sliced bananas. Drizzle a bit of honey for some sweetness and sprinkle chia seeds for an extra boost of fiber and omega-3s.
Greek Yogurt and Berries toast
Transform your breakfast with the wholesome goodness of Greek yogurt and fresh berries nestled between slices of Harvest Gold 100% Atta Bread. The rich, creamy yogurt pairs perfectly with the tartness of mixed berries, creating a balanced, nutrient-dense meal that’s both delicious and nourishing.
Hummus and Veggie Crunch
For a savory start to your day, spread a thick layer of hummus on your Harvest Gold Multigrain bread with thinly sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers for a perfect crunch and added nutrients. You can sprinkle sesame seeds or drizzle some olive oil for a Mediterranean-inspired breakfast that’s full of flavor and healthy fats.
Cottage Cheese and Apple Slices
Add a fruity twist to your morning meal by spreading some cottage cheese on your breakfast bread with thinly sliced apples for a protein-rich, low-fat option. Top up the nutrient-rich option with a sprinkle of cinnamon to complete the delightful balance of the creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory meal.
Breakfast, the day's most important meal, offers a golden opportunity to pack in your fiber consumption. By doing so, you can nurture a happy, healthy gut while also enjoying a prolonged feeling of satisfaction. Kickstart your day with these high-fiber breakfast options between the 100% whole wheat bread slices for energy, satisfaction, and essential daily nutrition.
Source: TOI
Diwali 2024 / Tips And Decor Ideas For The Festival Of Lights
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a time for joy, celebration and renewal. As families gather to honour traditions and share happiness, home decoration becomes a key aspect of the festivities. This year, Diwali will be celebrated on Thursday, October 31, with the puja muhurat scheduled from 5:36 pm to 6:16 pm, according to Drik Panchang.
Epic Ramayana established Diwali as the homecoming of Lord Rama along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman to Ayodhya after 14 years of Vanvaas and the defeat of Ravana. Lighting Diyas and candles are a sign of the internal light that safeguards against evil or spiritual darkness.
Decorating your home for Diwali can elevate the festive atmosphere, creating a vibrant, welcoming space that embodies the spirit of the occasion. Whether you prefer traditional motifs or modern touches, there are endless options to transform your home into a glowing celebration of light and happiness.
Aside from the symbolical connotations, lights bring out the perfect holiday mood and people feel happier and more energetic for the celebrations.
Here are some Diwali Decoration Ideas for 2024 to celebrate the most memorable Diwali.
Traditional Diya Displays
The Diwali festival is known for the illumination brought by ‘Diyas, or oil lamps. Place diyas on the floor, on the windows, in every corner of the house, or in front of each door – bring some order and form patterns of various shapes. For a more contemporary look choose brass or terracotta Diyas with exquisite patterns on them.
Ethnic Cushions and Throws
Add the ethnic flavour back on the inside with ethnic cushions and throws. Select supple textures and colours of solids and prints that cover more space-age vellum, silk, velour, and satin. Place these across the sofas, chairs, and beds, to give that dreamy look and feel.
You can add Macrame Throw Pillows from Folkulture for a calm and aesthetic look.
Rangoli Art
When you are greeted with a colourful rangoli at the entrance of your home, it puts you in a festive mood. Try decorating with beautiful coloured powders, and flower petals, or use rice and grain. One can add some diyas or candle holders to make them look brighter. You can use different methods to decorate your small spaces.
Golden Accents
The Diwali decorations should also be rich and luxurious, so try using gold in accents throughout your house. Place gold candle holders, vases, or gold framed pictures on areas of the home. You can also include golden cutleries and crockeries on the dining table to emphasize the concept of luxury even further.
Fairy Lights
Fairy lights are commonly used during Diwali, to make the home sparkle. Hang them in different ways with ropes or strings on walls, windows, and around plants and trees. Preferably, you can go for the traditional warm yellow light strings, or you can opt for multi-coloured strings for a colourful feel to your decorations.
Scented Decor
Sensitize your sight by having some component of your decorations with the aroma. Go for African herbal scented items such as candles, incense, or potpourri in the likes of sandalwood, jasmine, and rose. These scents will complement the mood and turn the atmosphere of the rooms into a spiritual one.
Floral Arrangements
One cannot think of Diwali without flowers, and it must be noted that the flowers must be fresh. Arrange marigolds, roses, and jasmine in pleasing ways for good and beautiful floral arrangements. Use flowers by placing hangers at the doors of the premises, bowls with flowers on tables, or as decorations on the table.
Statement Candle Holders
Candles are among the main Diwali accessories that are used to decorate homes and temples, as well as to light the night during the ceremony. Select statement candle holders with metallic hues such as gold, silver, and copper. Place them on mantels, coffee tables, or dining tables to create classy lighting in your home.
Super-Thin Skyscraper, Just One Apartment Wide, Planned for Dubai
A super-narrow skyscraper, measuring no more than a single apartment across, is being planned for Dubai. CNN News.
The Muraba Veil will reach 1,247 feet into the sky but will be just about 74 feet across, according to details revealed by the architects and developer behind the project.
The 73-story tower will feature 131 apartments with between two and five bedrooms each, according to a statement sent to CNN by the project's United Arab Emirates-based developer, Muraba. The high-end apartment block will feature "a range of curated leisure amenities," including a spa, restaurant, gallery, padel court, and private movie theater, it said.
The striking tower will be built next to a canal by Dubai’s main transport artery, Sheikh Zayed Road. It was designed by Spanish architecture firm RCR Arquitectes, winner of the prestigious Pritzker Prize — an award often dubbed the "Nobel of architecture" — in 2017.
It is the fifth collaboration between Muraba and RCR Arquitectes, which expects the Muraba Veil to be complete by December 2028.
Needless to say, an apartment in the city’s latest luxury address does not come cheap — prices start at 18 million dirhams ($4.9 million).
Each apartment will occupy the full width of the building and will be modeled on traditional Arabian houses, around an inner courtyard and "softened by shade and greenery," the developer said.
The building's design is meanwhile "revealed behind a series of layers," with the first being the "veil," which the creative team describes as "a bespoke stainless steel mesh, porous and responsive, reflecting the different shades of the sky."
In a press statement, Rafael Aranda, founder of RCR Arquitectes, said: "We are passionate about ensuring our buildings are responsive to the place, that they belong to the site and the native landscape where they are situated. They must communicate with nature and be infused with the atmosphere of the local culture."
Dubai's super-sized skyline is already home to the world’s tallest skyscraper — the Burj Khalifa, which stands at 2,717 feet tall — and it will soon be home to the second-tallest, too. Last month, the property developer behind the Burj Azizi, also due to be finished in 2028, announced that the skyscraper will stretch to 2,379 feet.
Dubai currently has more towers measuring over 300 meters (984 feet) than any other city in the world, according to the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat.
The city is no stranger to superlative structures. It boasts the world’s highest infinity pool, the world’s largest natural flower garden, and the world’s largest picture frame, to name a few.
