Source: arabiczeal.com

For the millions of bibliophiles in the country who protect their “reading time” as fiercely as a lioness protects her cubs, winter is perhaps the most loved season. The snuggly blankets and hot cups of coffee make for great reading companions during the beautiful months of November- February.

Thanks to the increasing interest in promoting literature among all sections of society, winters are looked forward to even more for they host some of the most prestigious and well-planned Literature Festivals in the country. If you are an unabashed book lover who is ready to pack their current book along with their favourite bookmark and go fest-hopping, here is a list of six book fairs or lit fests that you must visit in the coming few months:

• Tata Literature Live- 17th- 20th November, Mumbai

Source: nmtv.tv

From poets to surgeons, anyone who has got something worthwhile to say finds themselves a stage at the NCPA or Prithvi Theatre in The City of Dreams. Currently, in its seventh edition, the fest has previous been graced by almost 120 speakers during one single edition! This year, get ready to attend some lively yet friendly debates on current issues, discussions on latest writing styles, and not to forget all those book signings!

• Kochi International Book Festival- 2nd-11th December, Kochi

Source: keralaevents.com

With almost 400 publishers and distributors scheduled to be in attendance, the KIBF is undoubtedly going to be one of the biggest cultural events in God’s Own Country. With earnest, the organisers promote the importance of literacy and the joy of reading through the different conferences, book launches, forum discussions, etc. at the ten-day event.

• Goa Arts and Literary Festival- 8th- 11th December, Goa

Source: goaartlitfeast.com

The closest you would think a book would come to in Goa is…umm, well, we never really associate Goa with literature, unless it is a novel set in the gorgeous state. However, the Goa Arts and Literary Festival changed all that in 2010 with its first edition. Visitors not only get access to the best in literature but also music, photography, debates, and multiple discussions. So, what are you waiting for? Book your ticket, grab some books and head to the beach to enjoy the sands of Goa.

• Bangalore Literature Festival- 17th- 18th December, Bengaluru

Source: eventshigh.com

Sadly, this event is just for two days. One of the largest community funded initiatives in India on the literary front, the event sees thousands of youngsters thronging its venue to be a part of the finest local literature available under one roof.

• New Delhi World Book Fair- 7th- 15th January, New Delhi

Source: etourismbook.com

Hosting its 25th edition next year, the NDWBF is the largest of its kind in the Afro-Asian region. With books in regional as well as foreign languages available in all genres, this is a booklover’s paradise!

Source: delhi-fun-dos.com

Publishers meet readers & writers meet their audience at this great Indian event, making it a ‘fair to remember’!

• Jaipur Literature Festival- 19^th-23^rd January, Jaipur

Source: arabiczeal.com

The Holy Grail for all self-confessed book-lovers, the Jaipur Literature Festival first opened its doors to audiences in 2006. Hosted annually since then in the historically rich city of Jaipur, the event has boasted of hosting some notable names in the literary world such as Salman Rushdie & Amish Tripathi.

That’s not all; His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Oprah Winfrey have graced the podium as speakers in the past editions. Pulitzer Prize, Booker Prize winners make a yearly appearance here, so make sure you catch them at the Diggi Palace in the Pink City in the coming year.

Clearly, Mason Clooney didn’t know what he was talking about when he said, “Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are”. After all, you could travel to any of these places using the incredible yatra offers on Couponraja and indulge your love for reading!

Unless you are a black money hoarder, this is pretty much your train of thought as the announcement regarding the demonetisation of Rs.500 & Rs.1000 notes went on:

8.15 p.m.: “Such a bold move by the P.M”

8.30 p.m.: “End to corruption!”

8.45 p.m.: “Umm, do we have enough change to buy veggies tomorrow?”

With our large denomination notes being rendered useless all of a sudden, most of us panicked at the imminent lack of cash and the obvious hurdles that would bring to our daily living. Yes, banks and ATMs will soon reopen, stocked with valid notes, but imagine the serpentine queues outside these financial establishments! Instead, simply use your digital wallets or net banking services.

• Grofers, Bigbasket- Grocery Shopping

Source: womenpla.net

No, you won’t have to miss out on Ghar ka Khana for the next couple of days. Simply shop for veggies, groceries, and other daily household items from these online stores and have them delivered to your doorstep! What’s more, you can even enjoy the amazing BigBasket offers on Couponraja.

• Myntra, Jabong- Clothes

We wouldn’t want your wardrobe to take a hit, would we? Check out sales and discounts available at e-commerce websites like Myntra, Jabong, Amazon, Flipkart, Snapdeal, etc. and once you have found out the pretty dress and shoes that you want, simply pay for it online using net banking, or opt to pay with a credit or debit card when the items are delivered to your home!

• NetMeds – Buy medicines online

Source: nationkart.com

Yes, government hospitals and their chemists are accepting those Rs.500 & Rs.1000 notes right now, but again- who wants to stand in the heat for ages to get the meds? Instead, upload your prescription to on the Netmeds app or website and get your medicines delivered right at your doorstep. What’s more, the incredible Netmeds offers are more lucrative that what your local chemist or the govt. chemist can offer. Pay online, and get medicines at the doorstep, what can get better than this?

• Ola Money- Travel

Source: ndtv.com

Rickshaws and conventional taxis are out of the question for a few days, until the time people are well-equipped with the new notes. However, with a couple of swipes and clicks, you can very well have a taxi at your service, at whatever time of day (or night) and you don’t even have to worry whether you have enough change or valid notes to pay the cabbie! Simply pay with Ola Money, a digital wallet which can be refilled using net banking.

• BookMyshow- Entertainment

Thought you’d catch Benedict Cumberbatch fighting evil, post work? Realised there were only Rs.500 & RS.1000 notes from pre-9/11 in your wallet? You can still take your date out for that film, or simply unwind with your friends at the nearest movie theatre by booking your tickets using net banking, or a digital wallet such as Paytm. While the government enjoys counting the black money, you could enjoy counting the number of bad guys Doctor Strange beats up!

• Zomato, Foodpanda, Swiggy- Food services

Source: list.ly

Hunger pangs hit you in the middle of the night; your favourite pasta place is open until 3 a.m., but alas, you don’t have any new notes to pay for your food. What do you do? Go hungry? Of course, not! Order your food online, pay online, and get fresh food delivered before you can say, “black money”.

• Zimmber, Housejoy- household services

Source: damselindestress15.files.wordpress.com

Want a break from the Trump v/s Clinton drama? Or just want to relax after a long day at work, but don’t know how to pay for that head massage you need? Check out Zimmber or Housejoy- they offer anything from beauty parlour services to carpenters who don’t mind getting paid through net banking or with a credit/debit card.

The crackdown on black money has come as an opportunity for our economy to go cashless and in turn, substantially reduce the chances of black money increasing in the future. Regardless of the demonetisation situation in the country, how about we change the way we pay and do our part to a healthier economy?

The winter chill is just starting to make its presence felt, and the December calendar is already being marked with parties and events to attend. Christmas & New Year, two of the biggest holidays of the year are just a few weeks away, and the excitement is already brewing. However, what do you do until the big days come? What will be your source of regular entertainment? If you are a movie buff who takes great pride in professing their love for popcorn and coke, here is a list of six upcoming films that you must absolutely catch this month:

• Kahaani 2: Durga Rani Singh – 2^nd December

Source: kittumittu.com

In 2012, we saw Vidya Balan knocking on some doors as a pregnant lady looking for her missing husband. As the story unfolded, we realised she was not just a determined wife but a woman with a secret. Winning national accolades for her gritty portrayal of Vidya Bagchi, it was obvious that Director Sujoy Ghosh would want to take the story further. Thus, in 2016, we have the sequel to the original, this time including Arjun Rampal in the cast. Watch the film to know what truth lies in her story…

• Dangal – 23^rd December

Source: livebharat.com

“Medallists are not grown on trees; you have to make them, with love, hard work, passion” …these lines are distinctly said by Aamir Khan’s character, Mahaveer Singh Phogat. Aamir plays an Indian wrestler who is incredibly determined to see the Indian flag hoisted the highest at the Olympics, as his wrestler daughters stand on the winner’s podium with a gold medal round their neck. A true story which incorporates poignant instances of feminism along with a stellar cast, this Nitish Tiwari film is bound to leave you with misty eyes and a sense of pride as you realise the sacrifices and hard work that goes into the making of a champion.

• Befikre – 9^th December

Source: baltana.com

When it is Aditya Chopra wearing the proverbial creative hat behind the camera, you know that he is directing some magic. Starring the unabashedly flamboyant Ranveer Singh and the yet-to-prove-her- mettle, Vaani Kapoor, in the lead roles, Befikre and its trailers show just what the title promises- fun, frolic, adventure, and craziness! Shot in Paris, the film has it all: a brilliant cast, catchy music, great locales, and hopefully, a great story.

• Collateral Beauty – 16^th December

Source: pbs.twimg.com

When the movie boasts of a cast which includes Will Smith, Helen Mirren, Kate Winslet, Keira Knightley, Edward Norton, Naomi Harris, and Michael Pena, you know there is some remarkable story that is about to be unveiled. Smith plays Howard Inlet, a successful New York-based advertising executive who after a tragic incident, decides to find answers about life from ‘Love’, ‘Time’, and ‘Death’. Intrigued? Catch this film on a day when you feel a little perspective and philosophy is needed.

• Rogue One: A Star Wars Story – 16^th December

Source: ushot.ir

Set in the Star Wars universe, the story unfolds between the events of Star Wars: Episode III & Episode IV. Directed by Gareth Edwards, the film will see Felicity Jones play Jyn Erso, the Rebel Alliance’s latest recruit, who needs to steal the schematics of the Death Star. A standalone film, this movie needs to be on every Star Wars fan’s must-see list this month.

• Assassin’s Creed – TBA – 14^th December

Source: radiocomercial.iol.pt

Any self-respecting geeky gamer knows why the release of this movie is such an important event. Based on the highly successful and critically acclaimed series of the video game of the same name, Assassin’s Creed sees the Assassins battle the Templars in a bid for a peaceful world. The movie will see Michael Fassbender portray Callum Lynch, a criminal rescued by the modern-day Templar to participate in a project that his ancestors would not want him to. Even if you are not a fan of the gaming series, do watch the film for its action, storyline, and of course, Fassbender!

Now that you know which movies you are watching this month, how about you start planning your company, too?

How many of us have rolled our eyes when asked to apply Mehendi for a wedding? Or perhaps, changed the direction in which we sleep just to honour our paranoid parents who think it will lessen our intelligence if our head doesn’t face a particular direction? What if we told you that Science, our go-to guy whenever we need a reasonable explanation of things, says so too?

Here is a list of some of the most common traditions and beliefs held by society that surprisingly, have a basis in Science. Want to know how? Read on.

• The Post-Funeral Bath

Source: blogspot.com

Nope, no ghosts or spirits have accompanied you home that soap and water will rid you off. Science says that a dead body decomposes which leaves various bacteria and viruses in the air. The very same science (and common sense) says that having these harmful entities stuck on you can lead to health concerns. Hence, a bath is the most simple and the easiest way to prevent you from getting sick.

• The Peepal Tree Worship

Source: quoracdn.net

You might’ve seen family, friends, or colleagues deifying worshipping the huge Peepal tree. The Myth says that it’s where the souls of our forefathers reside; Science says that the Peepal tree is one of the very few trees that generate oxygen even at night, something that other CO2 converting trees cannot do in the absence of sunlight. This makes the Peepal tree highly advantageous and hence, an object of reverence. This doesn’t mean you should tie a sacred thread around its trunk, but that’s a topic for another day!

• Tossing a Coin into the Water

Source: tumblr.com

Millions believe that tossing a coin into the river, especially a holy one like the Ganges will bring the person good luck. The science behind this tradition is interesting. In the olden times, coins were made of copper, an element crucial for our body, and the rivers were the only source of water. The wise old men of those times perhaps thought that throwing these coins into the water will ensure a steady intake of the metal in our body. Although not very pertinent in our times of stainless steel coins, this tradition continues to live.

• Sindoor & Toe Ring for Married Women

This one might elicit a few laughs and sniggers! The second finger of your toe hosts a certain nerve that passes through the uterus and heart. Apparently, wearing a metal ring on this finger helps strengthen the uterus and helps regulate the menstrual cycle. Ladies, beware of your mother-in-law gifting you toe rings! As for the Sindoor, since it is a mix of lime, turmeric, and mercury– a metal that is supposed to activate your sexual drive– it is ‘recommended’ to be applied in married women’s hair partition!

• Joining the Palms as a Greeting

Source: s.isha.ws

A prominent way of showing respect to the opposite person, joining the palms has a much more scientific backing. When all the tips of the fingers join, it activates some pressure points which are good for memory. The long and short of it, the chances of you remembering the person increase with a simple ‘Namaskar’. Perhaps, try to study in this position?

• Henna at the Wedding

Source: blogspot.com

Henna is known to lower the temperature of the body, helping you literally ‘keep calm’ as your wedding prep goes on. Applying Mehendi on the hands and feet ensures that your nerves don’t become tense as you stress about the D-Day. A good reason to apply Mehendi on other days too, right?

• Pheras around the Holy Fire

Source: xogrp.com

Anyone who has ever sat in the mandap knows the sweltering heat and smoke produced by the holy fire. This mild annoyance at the tradition will fade away as you understand the reasoning behind it. Fire is known to cleanse the air around by killing the harmful bacteria in it. It symbolises pure air, as much as it symbolises the pure bond between the couple getting married.

There, now that you know the science behind some of our traditions and beliefs, maybe your raised eyebrows can come down a little?

Megastar Rajinikanth is not an ordinary human being. He is the ‘Thalaivar’; the undisputed leader and idol of millions. It’s his charisma that makes him such a larger-than-life figure for all of us. Considered a demi-God by his fans, no other actor inspires such mass hysteria and fan frenzy as Rajinikanth does. Despite his superstar status, Rajinikanth is a simple and down to earth man. He always stands up to greet everyone who enters the sets of his movies for the day’s shoot.

As the Thalaivar turns 66 on the 12th December 2016, here are eleven facts that prove his superstar status beyond any doubt:

• Maharashtrian Roots:

Rajinikanth is a Maharashtrian by birth. He was born in Bengaluru in a Marathi family to Ramabai and Ramoji Rao Gaekwad. His mother was a housewife, and his father was a police constable.

• Himalayan Retreat:

After every movie, Rajnikanth takes a break and usually, goes to the Himalayas with his old buddies to unwind.

• Epic Earnings:

The superstar is reportedly the highest paid actor in India and the second highest in the entire Asia.

• Experience with Different Forms of Cinema:

Rajinikanth is the first Indian actor to have worked with the various kinds of technology that cinema offers: black-and-white, colour, 3D and even the recently launched motion capture.

• IMDb’s Top 50 list:

Rajinikanth’s film Enthiran was the first Tamil film to be featured on IMDb’s Top 50 list in the year 2010. The film even got included as a case study in the IIM-Ahmedabad postgraduate elective course, Contemporary Film Industry: A Business Perspective. You can enjoy this amazing movie without spending much by simply checking out the latest BookMyShow offers.

• Philanthropist:

Rajinikanth has built a marriage hall in Chennai called Raghavendra Kalyana Mandapam where twenty-five free marriages are performed in the hall every year.

• Compensates distributor losses:

Rajinikanth is one of the few actors who covers the losses of his distributors when his films fail.

• From Bus Conductor to Superstar:

The superstar is the only actor to be featured in the CBSE Syllabus in a lesson titled ‘From Bus Conductor to Superstar’. That’s really something, right!

• Twitter craziness:

When Rajnikanth debuted on Twitter, he amassed over 210,000 followers within 24 hours which makes for the fastest rate of followers among Indian celebrities – and ranks among the top 10 in the world!

• Signature Rajini Tune:

Every film of the superstar has one thing in common — an exclusive signature tune that begins when the opening credits roll in. The music sets the mood, and the prefix starts to roll in block letters – S-U-P-E-R-S-T-A-R and transitions into R-A-J-I-N-I.

• Prolific Career:

Since his first movie ‘Apoorva Raagangal’ in 1975 to ‘Kabali’ that released in July this year – the actor has acted in not less than 169 movies. That makes it more than four movies every year since the last 41 years. That’s a lot of work, isn’t it?

Here’s wishing our ‘Thalaivar’ a very Happy Birthday, may he continues entertaining us with his one-of-a-kind acting!

While some wait for Diwali or the mangoes to hit the markets, there are a few who patiently wait for the perfectionist to unveil his masterpiece. Yes, you’ve guessed it right. We’re talking about Aamir Khan and all the Dangal he’s been making along with the two young, unbeatable guns playing the Phogat sisters. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the story is based on the life of a former wrestler, Mahavir Singh Phogat, who trains his daughters to take over the Akhadas.

Source: ibnlive.com

Nitesh Tiwari gave the world ‘Nil Battey Sannata’ in 2015 and this year’s Dangal has raised the bar. After a lot of mainstream commercial rom-com cinema, Dangal brings you the rustic ‘Mitti Ki Khushboo’ from the Akhada in Haryana. The movie begins with Mahavir who dreamt of winning gold in wrestling but fails to do so. He decides to pass on the dream to his son but is disappointed when his wife gives birth to four daughters. To book your tickets without standing in long queues at the booking counter, do not forget to check out the latest Bookmyshow offers.

Source: vjfilmdom.com

From his belief about how women can’t wrestle to having two daughters who won Gold and Silver each, the movie is a beautiful commemoration; celebrating strength and breaking stereotypes too. Geeta won her Gold at the 2010 Commonwealth Games; the movie reminds the world of her glorious victory this December.

Coming from a state like Haryana where women are treated secondary to men and have no power over their bodies or themselves, Geeta Phogat’s story is undoubtedly the one that the world needs to hear. Belonging to a family where Mahavir, her father believes that his wrestling dream failed since he didn’t have a son; one small incident changes their life for the better.

Source: desimartini.com

Geeta portrayed by Fatima Sana Shaikh, and Babita Kumari portrayed by Sanya Malhotra do justice to the characters as well as the sport. These fresh faces made sincere efforts on screen, and Aamir Khan compensates for everything else. He has received appreciation for his transformation from the grizzly bear like body to a fit wrestler. Aamir Khan is the classic character in the movie, reinforcing his perfectionist label yet again.

Source: Allwallpapersimages.com

The actors were trained in wrestling to make the scenes look realistic, and they surely do. From nuanced wrestling techniques to the tiny details of the game, Dangal gives you another sport to fall in love with. The accuracy and charm that it brings will unquestionably help with making it more attractive.

A perfect blend of drama and action, a story that begins with an underdog and makes you want to walk out with your head held high as you watch Geeta on the big screen wrestle her way to the much-deserved Gold. The movie is an autobiography of the Phogat family, a story about breaking the age-old male dominance over sports, a story about strength and determination.

Source: aolcdn.com

While keeping its integrity as a sports film, the movie also becomes empowering for a lot of young girls aspiring to be wrestlers. The film also strikes a chord with fathers who will now probably dream for their daughters along with their sons.

An actor who made us all laugh and cry with his varied roles in various movies, Om Puri, has passed away due to a massive heart attack today in the morning. Indian Cinema will take a lot of time to get over the loss of this veteran actor.

While he has acted in countless movies, he is best known for his performance in Ardha Satya and Arohan for which he won National Awards. He also appeared in several Hollywood films like Gandhi, City of Joy and East is East to name a few. Here are a few lesser known facts about his personal and professional life:

• Early Life

Om Rajesh Puri hailed from Ambala, Haryana and belonged to an underprivileged family. As a kid, he was forced to bring coal from rail tracks and work in a Dhaba to support his family. His father worked in the Indian Army and hence Om Puri also wanted to become a soldier but eventually ended up in Film and Television Institute of India as he found himself interested in the field of arts.

• Friends for Life

Om Puri and Naseeruddin Shah entered the industry in the same year. Both of them have shared the screen in plenty of movies such as Aakrosh, Mandi, Sparsh, Jaane Bhi Do yaaro, Mirch Masala, China Gate, Hey Ram, Maqbool, etc. to name some. Before entering in NSD (National School of Drama), Om Puri was a strict vegetarian. But as time passed and their friendship grew stronger, Naseeruddin and Om shared everything including their food cultures, and Om Puri started eating non-veg too.

Career

He debuted in the film industry with a Marathi movie named ‘Ghashiram Kotwal’ in the year 1976. The movie was based on a legendary Marathi play of the same name.

Source: berlinale.de

He got his first Bollywood break in 1989 film Aakrosh which was directed by Govind Nihalani. He played a Tribal victim who has killed his wife. He bagged many Filmfare Awards and National Award for Best Actor. He also got National Award for his role as a police inspector in Ardha Satya. He has worked in several Punjabi, Malayalam, Telugu and Kannada movies too.

• English Vinglish

Om Rajesh Puri, commonly known as Om Puri was one of the very first Indian actors who started acting in American and British films. His first English movie was Oscar-winning ‘Gandhi’. Though he had barely one and a half minute’s cameo, it changed his life. Later he acted in the ‘City of Joy’ against Patrick Swayze. He appeared as General Zia-Ul-Haq in ‘Charlie Wilson’s War’ starring Julia Roberts and Tom Hanks. He was also seen in 2014 American Comedy-Drama, The Hundred-Foot Journey which was his last feature film with Hollywood.

• ‘Sir’ Om Puri

He is known in the United Kingdom for his appearance in British movies like East is East and My Son the Fanatic. For his valuable contribution to British Cinema, he also received an honorary Order of British Empire (OBE).

• TV Career and Voiceover

Apart from movies, Om Puri has also worked in several TV serials such as The Jewel in the Crown, Kakaji Kahin and Second Generation. He has also lent voice to several ads and animated series like Krishna and Kans and Mowgli.

• Personal Life

Om Puri got married to Seema Kapoor, actor Anu Kapoor’s sister in 1990, who was 10 years younger to him. But they stayed together just for less than a year. Then he married Nandita Puri, a journalist in the year 1993. They have a Son named Ishan. However, they separated in 2013 after she filed a case of domestic violence against him.

Om Puri was known as a versatile actor who could easily mould himself in every role that he did. Rather he would make it look like the role was made for him. May it be an art film like Maachis and Sadgati or a commercial comedy one like Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, he acted in all of them with the same integrity. An inspiration for many, his death has created a void that can never be filled in ever again.

Source: thehindu.com

We all have a few friends who probably go on a foreign tour and upload a lot of pictures and selfies on their social media. If you’re one of those who looks at them and wonders when you will be able to experience it all, then the answer is soon. One of the most iconic museums across the world will soon be opening in Delhi, and we’ll all have our own wax statues to stand by! Yes, you’ve guessed it right! By June this year India will have its own Madame Tussauds in the capital city of New Delhi.

Madame Tussauds is a famous interactive wax museum that houses wax statues of celebrities that are made to scale to match every tiny detail from their famous character. One of London’s biggest tourist attractions, the Madame Tussauds has over 22 branches all over the world and is all set to open another one in Delhi. This will be the first of its kind to open across India.

Source: ibnlive.com

The museum is expected to showcase more than 50 was figures some of which include Sachin Tendulkar, Mahatma Gandhi, Amitabh Bachchan and the likes. The museum will also house various global celebrities like Lady Gaga and Jackie Chan. Very soon all of us will be able to visit our own Madame Tussauds without having to pay for an expensive flight ticket or spare half a month to go on a vacation.

Source: mtmediauslive.azureedge.net

Each of the statues made cost over 1.5 crores. A team of 20 artists will take about four months to create these mesmerising statues. The process begins with a sitting with the celebrity where all the measurements, details and skin tone samples are collected. They also click pictures of the eyes to get the perfect colours. The information is then sent to the UK where their team of experts works to bring the wax figure to life.

The announcement of the Delhi branch was made at the Shangri-La Hotel followed by an unveiling of the wax statue of Mr Amitabh Bachchan. In a blue bandh gala statue does justice to this Shehenshah of the Hindi Film Industry.

Most of us probably expected it to open in Mumbai first; however, the UK-based Entertainment Company wanted to debut in Delhi and a place in the heritage Regal Cinemas building only made this better. The museum will occupy the first and the second floor of the Regal Cinemas building at Connaught Place.

The museum plans to finalise on an entry fee once they receive a GST clearance from the government. The museum in Delhi, just like the other 22 across the world will be interactive, allowing people to touch and click pictures with the Statues. Although it is located in Delhi, the lifelike wax figures that are made to look absolutely perfect will be made in London. A specialised team in Delhi will be trained to maintain these once they are in the museum.

You should probably book your tickets so you can fly to Delhi and get a picture with the Shehenshah before all your friends do!

While evolution may itself remain a mystery and a question for some, the fact that our body has evolved to cope with the changing times is not often countered. How often have we been on the verge of sleeping after an exhausting day and woken up with a jerk? Or perhaps, cursed our hiccups for not stopping when you’re trying to focus on solving a problem? Sometimes, our body seems to be acting on its own accord. However, there is usually a reason for most of our body’s actions. Here are a few of the body’s common actions and the science of reason behind it:

1. Yawning

Source: dailymail.co.uk

Recent research has proven that yawning is not an idiopathic as we previously believed. Yawning helps to thermoregulate our brain. Essentially, it helps to keep our brain ‘cool’. This is also why we yawn when we are sleepy or bored; they are associated with our brain’s temperature fluctuations.

Source: kidspot.com.au

This is also the reason for what we know as ‘contagious yawning’. People in the same room yawn because they are experiencing the same temperature. When your professor or boss reprimands you for yawning in the middle of a class or meeting, just let them know its happening as they are boring!

2. Hiccups

When the diaphragm is irritated, it spasms which causes those annoying hiccups. The irritation is the result of a disturbance in the nerve pathways between the brain & the diaphragm which explains why we hiccup when we are stressed or experiencing some emotionally charged situation. Too much excitement, anxiety, eating too much, swallowing a lot of air are some of the reasons for the cause of the irritation. So, the next time someone says that you’re hiccupping because your loved one is missing you, just spread some knowledge, will you?

3. Pruned fingers & toes

Source: kinja-img.com

This is why you need to love evolution (again, if you believe in it!). You may have noticed your fingers & toes wrinkling, or more specifically- pruning- when they’ve been wet for more than 5-10 minutes. This pruning, according to neurobiologists is to enable man to have a better grip on surfaces in wet conditions. Perhaps, the man of millenniums gone by needed better grip to climb trees and mountains as it rained!

4. Sneezing

Source: top10homeremediesnatural.com

This is why most characters hiding from a goon in some movie are caught: they sneeze at the wrong time. Although this involuntary action may be ill-timed, it is quite a handy defence mechanism of our body. When an irritant such as pet dander, pollen, smoke, dust, or other allergen enters our nose, we sneeze so that these potential health hazards don’t reach our lungs and other internal organs to contaminate them. At around 93mph, the rate at which our nose expulses air is no joke. Take a bow, nose!

5. Stretching

Source: squarespace.com

If checking your Facebook notifications is not the first thing you do on waking up, the only other thing you must be doing is stretching. But why do we almost instinctively stretch on waking up? Science says this is because when we sleep, some fluid tends to accumulate along our back. Stretching is our body’s way of carefully directing this fluid back to its original place. Furthermore, stretching helps to realign your muscles after it has spent a considerable amount of time being inactive and to get the blood flow going.

6. Hypnic jerks

Source: pixel.nymag.com

You may have cursed these as you try to sleep after a long day at work. Just as you are on the verge of falling asleep, your body suddenly decides to wake you up like a jerk, with a jerk. No, you shouldn’t be cursing your body for it simply because it thinks it is trying to save you.

Source: glossglam.com

Just as we are falling asleep, our body relaxes, and our breathing slows down. To our body, this sudden change in pulse and body relaxation is a sign of dying, and that’s why our brain decides to wake us up with an electric shock-like jolt.

See? Our body is way more protective of us than we give it credit for.

Sumita Chakraborty talks to the fabulous Sunny Leone exclusively for Couponraja (TheRoyale) about marriage, Bollywood, Shah Rukh and more …

She’s every man’s fantasy come true. She is the very HOT Sunny Leone! Her oomph quotient is the talk of the town especially seen in her new item song ‘Laila Main Laila’ in Shah Rukh Khan’s ‘Raees’. In fact, the video has already crossed over 75 million hits on YouTube and …still counting.

Meeting Sunny

Sunny calls us to a suburban 5-star hotel for an interview or a “cosy chat” as she calls it. But when we land there, she is still busy shooting for the cover of a magazine.  “20 minutes. Please!” She tells us apologetically. Not a problem, we say as we spend time talking to her amazing husband, Daniel Weber. Daniel, by the way, is every journo’s fave as he manages Sunny’s work and hectic day-to-day schedule. He is the one who schedules interviews and shoots for her.

Daniel, Sunny’s husband

Source: dnaindia.com

Born in the USA, Daniel is originally from Israel and has even served in the army there at the age of 17. A musician, he has a rock band where he is the singer and the lead guitarist. He is also a hard-nosed businessman. Cool and composed, he is a treasure trove of information about everything – from the USA, Donald Trump, travelling to secluded places in the world, making your business a success… Very interesting!

My Husband Is My Rock

Source: masala.com

“Sunny Leone wouldn’t be here today if Daniel wasn’t there. He made Sunny Leone who she is! He is my best friend, my support, my rock… everything” quips Sunny as she joins us at the table. Dressed in an emerald velvet jacket, black vest and black pants, she looks absolutely gorgeous. We ask her, “So it’s been six years of marriage for you?” Sunny grins and looks lovingly at Daniel, and says, “Yes, six years of marriage and three years of dating – nine years – and it’s been absolutely wonderful!” And Sunny goes on to give her take on marriage and Bollywood…

Secret To A Happy Marriage

“I think its mutual respect. Daniel and I have always respected each other as individuals. Yes, love makes the world go ‘round. But it’s respect that is the backbone of any relationship. Of course, Daniel and I do argue – we are husband and wife, after all! But we argue, fight, laugh and makeup almost immediately. Also, even in our worst arguments, we have never crossed the line. One should remember that harsh words are like bullets, once you utter them, it causes devastation! And you can’t take the words back, so the wound never gets healed. So, I think it’s essential for every couple to remember never to cross the line.”

The First Meeting

Source: bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com

“Daniel and I met at his music concert. And he wooed me with flowers, CDs, chocolates. We were dating for three years when he popped the question. And I, of course, said ‘yes’. And from then on, marriage has been a wonderful partnership. I’m actually living with my best friend who is also my husband. It’s a great space.”

Marriage Mantras

“I lost both my parents but Daniel has filled the void. He is always there for me. We discuss everything under the sky. In fact, everything I do, Daniel takes the call. He looks after all the nitty-gritties while I am just happy to concentrate on my acting.”

Bollywood Moments

Source: ibtimes.com

“When I entered Bollywood, I actually didn’t have a clue about anything. Who the actors, producers, directors were… I was born and bred in Canada to Sikh parents. There, as kids, we watched Bollywood films, but we didn’t have a clue who the actors were, etc. But when Daniel and I came here, we treated everybody with respect – from the biggest to the not-so-big person. People here are wonderful. And thanks to Daniel, I haven’t been exposed to anything nasty. Of course, I do have to work harder than most actors because when I first arrived, I didn’t know Hindi. We spoke Punjabi at home. So I got myself a Hindi tutor, brushed up on my acting skills and dialogue delivery. I am not a very good dancer, but I learnt dancing. Yes, a lot of hard work has gone into becoming an actor here.”

Working With Shah Rukh Khan

Source: urbanasian.files.wordpress.com

“Shah Rukh is honestly one of the nicest persons here. He is courteous – wherever he meets Daniel and me – he goes out of his way to come and talk to us. When I was offered ‘Laila Main Laila’, I was absolutely over the moon. And the song is really nice too. I believe it’s already doing very well, so I’m really glad!”

With those words, the interview comes to an end. Sunny says bye with a hug. With her positive attitude and sunny demeanour, Sunny Leone will definitely rule… if not the Bollywood dicey number ranking, but definitely the hearts of the people!

With the month of February drawing upon us and when the weather is still cold and pleasant, India hosts many enchanting festivals to lure both the domestic as well as international travellers. Here’s a brief peek into India’s most exciting and memorable festivals that can imbibe you with the mystical Indian culture and fervour –

1. Khajuraho Dance Festival

Dates: 20th – 26th February 2017

Source: cntraveller.in

The Khajuraho Dance Festival is a cultural extravaganza epitomising the rich heritage of Indian classical dance against the magnificent temples of Khajuraho in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh as the centre stage. Don’t miss out this opportunity to witness live the best of the Kuchipudi, Kathak, Odis, Manipuri and classical dance performances by world acclaimed dancers based on Indian mythology and culture of the ancient bygone eras.

2. Goa Carnival

Date: 25th – 28th Feb 2017

Source: travelguru.com

Whoa! Goa, it is during the last three days of February with Goa Carnival celebrations happening all over the major cities of Goa. Dancing, merrymaking, vibrantly decorated floats embellished with colourful flowers and feathers with the King Momo along with his court of jesters, fire eaters and other live performers, mark the charisma of this festival. Don’t miss out the grand finale at the Clube National in Panaji with the Red and Black Ball and make sure “Kha, piye aani majja kar” as Goans always do.

3. Taj Mahotsav

Dates: 18th – 27th February 2017

Source: rajashthanpatrika.com

Synonymous with Incredible India, the Taj Mahotsav is a ten-day long festival held in Agra, the historic city of India, the home of the Taj Mahal. Visit this open air festival to encourage the local Indian craftsmen by shopping for choicest of woodwork, antiques, local textiles, exquisite hand embroidered textiles – zardozi, chikan karri, Kashmiri, Banarasi silk, Kantha & much more. Stay entertained with live cultural performances and partake regional fare dished out by the people of the region themselves.

4. Jaisalmer Desert Festival

Dates: 8th to 10th February 2017

Source: globetottertours.in

Set in the sand dunes of Sam, near Jaisalmer, this short two-day festival showcases the vibrant Rajasthani culture and flavour. Participate in the Jaisalmer Desert Festival and enjoy hordes of activities – camel racing, turban tying, live jugglery, ballad shows and puppet shows, polo matches, dance and music shows on warm moonlit evenings.

5. Kala Ghoda Arts Festival

Dates: 4th – 12th February 2017

Source: fourseasons.com

Participate in the annual nine-day Kala Ghoda Arts Festival held in the Kala Ghoda precinct of Mumbai. This vibrant festival encompasses workshops, heritage walks, celebrity appearances, live dance and music shows and much more. Visitors can also shop for arts, crafts and other eco- friendly items. This festival is held on first Saturday and ends on the second Sunday of February and is visited not only by Mumbaikars but by foreign tourists in large numbers.

6. Sufi Sutra International – Sur Jahan Kolkata 2017

Dates: 3rd– 5th February 2017

Source: swamiupendra.files.wordpress.com

One of its kind, the Sur Jahan Kolkata 2017 is scheduled to take place at Mohar Kunj, Kolkata. This festival is committed to world peace and music for all. With acclaimed musicians performing in the non-commercial and non-ticketed event, you can enjoy listening to Bauls of Bengal, Virelai from Denmark, Qawwali from Punjab, BraAgas from the Czech Republic and Ale Moller Quartet from Sweden. The festival has workshops scheduled during daytime while concerts are conducted during evenings.

7. SulaFest

Dates: 3rd – 5th February 2017

Source: partyowl.in

Once again, it’s time to head for the Tenth Edition of Sula Fest held at Sula Vineyards, Nasik. Set in the vineyards, this unique music festival offers a great range of wines accompanied by the choicest of music played live all throughout the three days. Along with our Indian artists Ska Vengers, Priyanjana, Ayesha Pramanik and Shaun Moses you can listen to Afro Celt Sound System, Dubioza Kolektiv, from Bosnia, Italian electro-swing band, Swingrowers, and more performing their eclectic music live exclusively for you.

8. Surajkund Crafts Mela

Dates: 1st to 15th February 2017

Source: wp.com

The 31st Edition of the Surajkund Crafts Mela will be based on the state of Jharkhand. Considered to be India’s largest crafts fair, this mela includes participants from nearly 20 countries along with regional artisans from every Indian state. A must-visit event for those who love India for its handlooms, handicrafts and multi-ethnicity. Apart from this, you can enjoy live dance, and music shows at Chaupals, open-air theatres, live demonstration stalls along with multi-regional cuisine along with ample amusement options too.

Source: arabiczeal.com

For the millions of bibliophiles in the country who protect their “reading time” as fiercely as a lioness protects her cubs, winter is perhaps the most loved season. The snuggly blankets and hot cups of coffee make for great reading companions during the beautiful months of November- February.

Thanks to the increasing interest in promoting literature among all sections of society, winters are looked forward to even more for they host some of the most prestigious and well-planned Literature Festivals in the country. If you are an unabashed book lover who is ready to pack their current book along with their favourite bookmark and go fest-hopping, here is a list of six book fairs or lit fests that you must visit in the coming few months:

• Tata Literature Live- 17th- 20th November, Mumbai

Source: nmtv.tv

From poets to surgeons, anyone who has got something worthwhile to say finds themselves a stage at the NCPA or Prithvi Theatre in The City of Dreams. Currently, in its seventh edition, the fest has previous been graced by almost 120 speakers during one single edition! This year, get ready to attend some lively yet friendly debates on current issues, discussions on latest writing styles, and not to forget all those book signings!

• Kochi International Book Festival- 2nd-11th December, Kochi

Source: keralaevents.com

With almost 400 publishers and distributors scheduled to be in attendance, the KIBF is undoubtedly going to be one of the biggest cultural events in God’s Own Country. With earnest, the organisers promote the importance of literacy and the joy of reading through the different conferences, book launches, forum discussions, etc. at the ten-day event.

• Goa Arts and Literary Festival- 8th- 11th December, Goa

Source: goaartlitfeast.com

The closest you would think a book would come to in Goa is…umm, well, we never really associate Goa with literature, unless it is a novel set in the gorgeous state. However, the Goa Arts and Literary Festival changed all that in 2010 with its first edition. Visitors not only get access to the best in literature but also music, photography, debates, and multiple discussions. So, what are you waiting for? Book your ticket, grab some books and head to the beach to enjoy the sands of Goa.

• Bangalore Literature Festival- 17th- 18th December, Bengaluru

Source: eventshigh.com

Sadly, this event is just for two days. One of the largest community funded initiatives in India on the literary front, the event sees thousands of youngsters thronging its venue to be a part of the finest local literature available under one roof.

• New Delhi World Book Fair- 7th- 15th January, New Delhi

Source: etourismbook.com

Hosting its 25th edition next year, the NDWBF is the largest of its kind in the Afro-Asian region. With books in regional as well as foreign languages available in all genres, this is a booklover’s paradise!

Source: delhi-fun-dos.com

Publishers meet readers & writers meet their audience at this great Indian event, making it a ‘fair to remember’!

• Jaipur Literature Festival- 19^th-23^rd January, Jaipur

Source: arabiczeal.com

The Holy Grail for all self-confessed book-lovers, the Jaipur Literature Festival first opened its doors to audiences in 2006. Hosted annually since then in the historically rich city of Jaipur, the event has boasted of hosting some notable names in the literary world such as Salman Rushdie & Amish Tripathi.

That’s not all; His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Oprah Winfrey have graced the podium as speakers in the past editions. Pulitzer Prize, Booker Prize winners make a yearly appearance here, so make sure you catch them at the Diggi Palace in the Pink City in the coming year.

Clearly, Mason Clooney didn’t know what he was talking about when he said, “Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are”. After all, you could travel to any of these places using the incredible yatra offers on Couponraja and indulge your love for reading!