The Met Gala fashion exhibition in New York City this year saw the dazzling presence of four Bollywood stars—Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Kiara Advani, and Diljit Dosanjh. With each representing unique styles and expressions, here's a quick look at what they wore, how they were received, and who made the biggest impression. Shah Rukh Khan: The Modern-Day MagicianBollywood's king, Shah Rukh Khan, appeared at the Met Gala in an outfit designed by Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee. Draped in a flowing black overcoat, holding a cane, and adorned with statement jewellery, he resembled a magician from a modern fairytale. According to Sabyasachi, the goal was to capture SRK's charisma through his attire. While many fans appreciated the look, some felt that his usual magical aura was somehow missing, making his appearance feel a bit subdued despite the high-fashion ensemble. Priyanka Chopra: A Perfect Fashion StatementPriyanka Chopra stunned in a custom black and white polka-dotted fitted gown by French designer Olivier Rousteing. The look was crafted to reflect this year's theme: "Black Fashion: Tailored for You," which honoured the revolutionary style of the Black Dandyism movement. Her outfit included three parts: the main body-hugging gown, a fit-and-flare jacket, and a wing-like cape flowing from the waist to the floor. She gradually removed the cape and jacket on the red carpet, finally revealing the hourglass-shaped gown. Completing the look were black gloves, a wide-brimmed black hat, and an enormous emerald necklace. Indian fashion enthusiasts praised her look as flawless—one fan commented, "Jungli Billi ate everyone up at the Met!" Kiara Advani: Glowing in MotherhoodKiara Advani, who is expecting her first child, walked the Met Gala red carpet with radiant charm. Her maternity glow and sweet smile won over fans, even though her outfit didn't generate much fashion discussion. Designed by Indian couturier Gaurav Gupta, the ensemble drew comparisons to Aishwarya Rai's Cannes look from last year, which had received mixed reactions. However, fans refrained from criticising Kiara—perhaps out of respect for her motherhood. Diljit Dosanjh: A Cultural Power MoveAmong the four, Diljit Dosanjh stood out the most with his traditional Indian look. While most attendees showcased urban fashion, Diljit wore an outfit inspired by the flamboyant royal attire of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala. Designed by Prabal Gurung, the ensemble featured a turban and ceremonial sword. As soon as he stepped onto the red carpet, international media cameras turned toward him in awe. His proud, desi look made fans back home beam with pride. Key Highlights Priyanka Chopra nailed the theme and made a bold fashion statement. Diljit Dosanjh was unmatched in cultural representation. Shah Rukh Khan brought elegance but seemed emotionally distant. Kiara Advani offered sweetness and grace, with fashion taking a back seat.

As the first Monday in May approaches, the fashion world is abuzz with anticipation for the MET Gala 2025 — the most glamorous and influential night in style. Held at the iconic Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, the MET Gala is not just a fundraiser for the Costume Institute, but a stage where fashion, celebrity, art, and pop culture collide in the most extravagant way possible. This Year's Theme: "Reverie and Rebellion"For 2025, the MET Gala theme— "Reverie and Rebellion: The Duality of Fashion"— promises a fascinating juxtaposition of dreamlike creativity and defiant statements. The exhibition will explore how fashion can be both ethereal and edgy, romantic yet revolutionary. Expect everything from diaphanous gowns with subversive messages to structured couture pieces that challenge norms. Who's Hosting?The official co-chairs for this year include Zendaya, Timothée Chalamet, Bad Bunny, and fashion powerhouse Donatella Versace, alongside Vogue's editor-in-chief Anna Wintour. This diverse mix of Hollywood, music, and high fashion icons sets the stage for an unforgettable evening. Red Carpet AnticipationEvery year, the MET Gala red carpet becomes a spectacle in its own right. With stars and designers pushing the limits of fashion, fans are eagerly speculating about which celebrities will attend— and what daring, dramatic, or dreamy ensembles they'll don. Rumors swirl about whether Rihanna will return in another jaw-dropping look, or if rising fashion darlings like Ayo Edebiri or Jacob Elordi will make their MET Gala debut. Fashion Meets Social CommentaryThe 2025 theme lends itself to deeper cultural exploration. Expect designers to use their creations to comment on identity, gender norms, sustainability, and the ever-changing role of fashion in society. In a post-digital age where AI and tech also influence design, some attendees are even rumored to be collaborating with digital artists and wearable tech innovators. How to WatchWhile the actual gala remains an exclusive, invite-only affair, fans can watch the red carpet coverage live through Vogue's streaming platforms and social media. Behind-the-scenes content, interviews, and fashion analysis will flood timelines and feeds as the event unfolds in real time. The Legacy ContinuesSince its inception in 1948, the MET Gala has evolved into a barometer for fashion's most important conversations. It's not just about who wore what— it's about the stories told through fabric, form, and flair. In 2025, those stories promise to be bolder, dreamier, and more thought-provoking than ever.

Reusing cooking oil may seem like a smart way to save money, but it poses significant risks to both your health and the quality of your food. Many home cooks reuse oil to cut costs and reduce waste, but culinary experts warn that this practice can be dangerous. An experienced chef explains the hidden dangers behind this common habit. When oil is heated, it undergoes a chemical process called oxidation. This breakdown creates harmful compounds, including free radicals, which can damage your cells. "Repeated heating weakens the oil's structure and diminishes its nutritional value," says Chef. "As the oil becomes more unstable, it releases toxins that can be harmful to your health." Research, such as the study titled Impact of Consumption of Repeatedly Heated Cooking Oils on the Incidence of Various Cancers, suggests that repeatedly heated oils can increase cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, and inflammatory markers, contributing to liver and colon damage. Chef recommends using smaller amounts of oil when frying or opting for healthier cooking methods like grilling or baking. These small changes can reduce health risks and encourage better eating habits. Besides the health dangers, reused oil also affects the taste and texture of your food. Used oil absorbs the flavours of whatever it has cooked, which can lead to unpleasant, off-putting tastes in future dishes. This is particularly noticeable with fried foods, as reused oil loses its ability to crisp, leaving food greasy instead of golden and crunchy. Moreover, the breakdown of oil can irritate your stomach and interfere with digestion. While reusing oil might save money, Chef argues that fresh oil offers a much better experience for your taste buds and overall health. Although fresh oil may be a bit more expensive, it's a small price to pay for avoiding the long-term health risks associated with reused oil.

Cooking with kids might sound simple, but it packs a big punch when it comes to benefits. From encouraging healthy eating to building life skills, confidence, and stronger family bonds, getting children involved in the kitchen turns mealtime into something meaningful — and fun. "It helps to think of it less as a chore and more as a way to spend time together," says Jessica Battilana, a staff editor at King Arthur Baking Company, which offers cooking classes for both adults and children. Meals don't need to be gourmet, and not everything has to be homemade. What matters most is participation. "The investment parents make early on to include their kids in the kitchen pays off when they're confident handling tasks on their own," Battilana adds. Whether your child is already curious in the kitchen or just starting out, it's never too late to get them cooking. Here are just a few of the rewards: A Sense of AccomplishmentOne lesson from the pandemic? Cooking is an essential life skill. Becca Cooper Leebove, a mom from Denver, began teaching her young kids to help in the kitchen during the lockdown. At ages 3 and 8, they started with simple tasks — pouring ingredients into a mixer, rolling dough, or icing cakes. Five years later, their skills have flourished. "My goal was quality time — something engaging that pulled them away from screens," Leebove says. "Now they love showing off their creations, and we enjoy the results together." Her 13-year-old son now chops veggies and sautés meat. They've also learned to clean up and set the table — practical skills with lasting value. Confidence and Real-World Learning"It's exciting for kids to be part of what feels like a grown-up activity," says Cristi Donoso, a speech therapist and mom of a 5-year-old. She's been cooking with her daughter since toddlerhood and encourages her clients to do the same. Donoso points out that cooking involves more than just food — it builds math and language skills, concentration, and self-control. Following a recipe requires reading comprehension and sequencing, and kids learn to stay safe in the kitchen too. "There's a sensory experience that helps kids become more adventurous eaters," she says. "It's not just about eating — it's making a list, shopping, touching, and exploring food." An Adventurous PalateEric and Elizabeth Brown, owners of Third Space Kitchen in Massachusetts, offer kids' cooking classes and camps. They've noticed something important: kids become more open to trying new foods when they know what's in them. "They're more willing to experiment," Eric says. "The more involved they are, the less likely they are to say, 'Eww.' Instead, it's, 'What's that? I'll try it.'" At their programs, younger children might make pizza dough or decorate cupcakes, while older kids take on challenges like full cake-decorating competitions. Encouraging Healthy HabitsWith childhood obesity rates on the rise, home cooking offers a healthier — and more affordable — alternative to ultraprocessed foods. Jennifer Schittino, a mom of two in Maryland, says she wants her kids to develop smart habits early on. "It’s healthier and cheaper to cook from scratch," she says. Her children are learning to use knives, roll dough, hand-crank pasta, and prep ingredients like avocados and eggs. "They're gaining the skills to cook nutritious meals on a budget," she says. You Don't Have to Be a Pro to Teach Your KidsEven if you're not a confident cook yourself, don't worry — starting simple is key. Battilana suggests making a list of 10 basic meals that kids can learn and practice regularly. Think scrambled eggs, quesadillas with guacamole, or pasta with veggies. "The more you make them, the easier shopping and cooking become — no recipe needed." Her takeaway: kids are often more capable in the kitchen than we give them credit for. "Sure, they're slower and a little messier, but they're eager, capable, and willing to try new things — especially when they've helped make them."

When it comes to Bengali cuisine, few dishes are as iconic and beloved as Panta-Ilish. The dish is a celebration of tradition, culture and has a deep-rooted connection to the rivers and waters that flow through Bengal. For centuries, Panta-Ilish has been a cherished culinary legacy, transcending generations with its unique flavors and nostalgic significance. The Origins: A Taste of TraditionPanta-Ilish—a pairing of leftover rice soaked in water (Panta) and served with fried hilsa fish (Ilish)—is not just a meal but a ritual in Bengali households, especially during the summer months. The dish draws inspiration from Bengal's agrarian lifestyle and the abundance of freshwater fish in the region's rivers. Traditionally, the hilsa (Ilish) fish is caught from rivers like the Padma, Meghna, and Jamuna, which are known for their rich and distinct flavor. The combination of cold, refreshing Panta rice and the oily taste of fried hilsa is a classic example of how Bengali food blends simple ingredients with complex flavors. The slight tanginess of the fermented rice perfectly complements the hearty, flavorful fish. Cultural Significance: A Symbol of Bengali IdentityBeyond being a mere food item, Panta-Ilish carries a deep cultural significance. It is often considered a symbol of Bengali heritage, representing the region's agricultural and aquatic abundance. For the people of Bengal, eating Panta-Ilish is not just about satisfying hunger but about connecting to their roots, preserving customs, and celebrating their relationship with nature. In many Bengali households, Panta-Ilish is traditionally consumed during the Bengali New Year (Pahela Baishakh), where it is served as part of a larger feast. It's also common to enjoy this dish during the summer months when the heat calls for something cooling and refreshing. The combination of chilled rice and spicy fish creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors that suit the scorching temperatures. A Culinary Evolution: From Humble Beginnings to Gourmet StatusOver the years, Panta-Ilish has evolved from a simple, rustic meal into a gourmet delicacy enjoyed by food connoisseurs across the world. In its traditional form, Panta is made with leftover rice from the previous day, which is soaked overnight in water. The Ilish fish is typically fried and served with a sprinkle of mustard oil, green chilies, and raw onion to bring out its bold flavors. However, as the dish gained popularity, innovative chefs began reimagining Panta-Ilish. Today, Ilish is sometimes cooked in rich gravies or served as a part of a more elaborate, fusion-style preparation. Despite these variations, the essence of the dish remains intact—a beautiful marriage of fresh ingredients, history, and culture. Health Benefits: A Wholesome MealWhile Panta-Ilish is certainly a treat for the taste buds, it also offers nutritional benefits. The hilsa fish is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health, brain function, and overall well-being. Additionally, the cooling properties of Panta rice make it an ideal dish for the hot summer months, offering hydration and relief from the oppressive heat. The dish is light yet satisfying, making it a perfect choice for a summer meal. The rice, when fermented, helps aid digestion, while the fish provides essential proteins, minerals, and vitamins. The Timelessness of Panta-IlishFrom village homes to five-star restaurants, Panta-Ilish continues to be a celebrated dish that unites the people of Bengal, transcending generations and geographical boundaries. Whether enjoyed on the banks of the Ganges with the sound of flowing water in the background or a bustling urban kitchen, this simple yet sophisticated dish embodies the essence of Bengali cuisine. The beauty of Panta-Ilish lies in its timelessness. It's a dish that holds the memories of generations past and continues to be relished by people today. With each bite, it transports you to the heart of Bengal, where tradition, history, and the love of food all converge in one humble yet exceptional plate. Panta-Ilish: More than Just FoodPanta-Ilish is more than just a meal—it's a celebration of Bengali culture, a reflection of the region’s history, and a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. It's a dish that tells a story of the land, the water, and the people who have passed it down from one generation to the next. Whether you're eating it for the first time or enjoying it as part of an age-old family tradition, Panta-Ilish remains a timeless delicacy of all era.