Lifestyle News

This Diwali try distinct savoury alternatives like Karnataka's crunchy kodubale, Gujarat's puffed chorafali, Tamil Nadu's spiced thattai, Andhra's ring-shaped chegodilu and Maharashtra's layered bhakarwadi to bring diverse textures and flavours to the table. A few of these treats alongside traditional favourites creates a more varied festive platter and serves as a conversation starter for guests.

The NSE and BSE will hold a special Muhurat trading session on Sunday, November 8, 2026, to mark Diwali Laxmi Pujan. The special trading window will remain open from 2:20 pm to 3:30 pm, with the pre-opening session scheduled from 2:05 pm to 2:20 pm. The annual tradition is considered auspicious for beginning investments and marks the new Hindu financial year.

Pre-Diwali cleaning can expose people to dust, mould, allergens and potentially harmful chemicals. These may cause eye irritation, redness, itching, dryness and, in some cases, injuries. Dr Mandeep Singh Basu, Director of Jagat Pharma, highlights the risks and shares precautions, including wearing protective eyewear, ensuring proper ventilation and avoiding mixing cleaning products.

Need a last-minute Bhai Dooj gift? Consider fragrances, skincare hampers, makeup essentials, grooming kits, personalised keepsakes and festive chocolate boxes. These thoughtful options suit different tastes and budgets, helping you surprise your brother or sister even when time is short. Add a handwritten note to make your thoughtful Bhai Dooj present more personal and show how you care.

Delhi is battling severe air pollution, with AQI levels reaching the hazardous category in several areas. As thick smog engulfs the capital, residents are advised to avoid outdoor workouts, morning walks, running and cycling during peak pollution. They should also stay away from busy roads, construction sites and industrial areas, avoid smoking and limit exposure to polluted air.

Courts have been reluctant to treat prenups as binding contracts, says family law academic Harikartik Ramesh, citing public policy and personal laws. Lawyer Tanmay Patnaik says written arrangements may still serve as evidence in disputes. The debate extends beyond property and maintenance to unpaid care, career sacrifices and whether unequal bargaining power undermines consent.

Bigg Boss reaches an estimated 50-60 crore viewers cumulatively across seven Indian languages, says Banijay Asia's Deepak Dhar. He explains how reality TV and scripted streaming shows differ in production costs, timelines and returns. With content budgets under pressure, the discussion examines adapting global formats, owning intellectual property and taking Indian stories abroad.

Pune has launched India's first Metro line operated entirely by women train pilots. The 23-km Pink Line connects Maan in Hinjawadi with Shivajinagar, providing connectivity to the city's IT hub. Around 90 women train pilots are operating the service, which began passenger operations on November 4. The ₹8,313-crore project is expected to ease traffic congestion and improve daily commuting.

Indian Railways coaches and engines have a fixed service life, after which they are retired, replaced or repurposed. Conventional ICF passenger coaches generally have a prescribed lifespan of 20 years under the revised policy, while modern LHB coaches can serve for around 35 years. Retirement depends on condition, maintenance requirements and safety standards, not just age.

Excessive sweets, fried snacks and heavy meals during Diwali can leave you feeling bloated, sluggish or uncomfortable. To get digestion back on track, experts recommend drinking enough water, eating fibre-rich foods, choosing light home-cooked meals and avoiding oily snacks for a few days. Regular meal timings, curd, adequate sleep and gentle walks after meals can also help.

Varanasi’s nearly 80-year-old Devi Chaat Bhandar is attracting attention online after food vlogger Shubham Kumar shared a video of the shop. Run by the same family for generations, the establishment is known for its golgappas and traditional chaat. The owner also recommended trying its meetha papdi.