As the summer sun radiates the summer spirit, there’s no better time to cool off, chill out and dive into days filled with laughter, thrills and non-stop fun.According to latest travel data, there has been a noticeable surge in online searches for water parks, amusement parks, and various types of resorts indicates a strong desire for leisure and recreation as we move further into the year, according to a recent Justdial report. Whether you're looking for a day filled with action-packed rides, water-filled wonder or creative, hands-on fun for the kids, Mumbai’s top spots have it all. These destinations promise a chance to create memories that will last long after the holidays end. ImagicaaDive into a world of excitement and adventure at Imagicaa Water Park, where every splash creates unforgettable memories. Feel the adrenaline rush as you experience unique thrills enjoying rides like Loopy Woopy and Swirl Whirl, India's most exhilarating water slides. Whether you're riding the waves in the Wave Pool or racing down thrilling slides, there's endless fun for everyone. Step into a world where fantasy becomes reality at Imagicaa Theme Park, where every corner offers new experiences andadventure. With 24 indoor and outdoor rides, there's something for everyone, so gather your courage and get ready to experience the magic, where every moment is filled with excitement and wonder. Where: Khopoli, Mumbai Water KingdomGet ready to be drenched in fun at Water Kingdom, Asia’s largest water park. From high-energy slides like Adventure Amazonia, to the enormous Wave Pool, Water Kingdom offers the perfect mix of thrill and relaxation. With attractions for every age and thrill level, it’s the ideal summer escape for the whole family. Where: Borivali, MumbaiTikuji Ni Wadi Water and Amusement ParkEscape the hustle and bustle of the city and step into a world of pure excitement at Tikuji Ni Wadi. A favourite for decades, this park combines nature, adventure and entertainment into one family-friendly destination. Enjoy heart-racing rides, a vibrant water park, delicious local cuisine and scenic green zones perfect for family picnics. Whether you’re sliding down a water chute or chilling under a shady tree, Tikuji Ni Wadi offers a summer day well spent. Where: ThaneSnow Kingdom MumbaiTired of the blazing sun? Cool yourself off at Snow Kingdom, Mumbai’s largest indoor snow theme park! With real snow and icy temperatures, it's the perfect escape from the summer sun. Whether it’s your first time seeing snow or your hundredth, this winter wonderland offers a cool, refreshing twist on your summer outing. Where: GhatkoparMumbai Filmcity Tour with Bollywood ParkEnjoy the dazzling world of cinema with a visit to Mumbai Filmcity Tours with Bollywood Park. This one-of-a-kind theme park brings the magic of Indian movies to life with exciting rides, immersive sets and live entertainment inspired by your favourite blockbusters. Families can explore recreated film sets and enjoy a behind-the-scenes peek into Bollywood’s glittering world. Where: GoregaonMuseum of Solutions (MuSo)Say hello to Mumbai’s most exciting new destination for young minds—MuSo, a state-of-the-art interactive children’s museum designed to educate, entertain and empower. Let your kids engage in hands-on learning experiences around science, creativity, innovation and problem-solving. It’s a place where curiosity runs wild, imagination takes flight and every visit feels like a new adventure in big ideas and discovery. Where: Museum of SolutionsKidZania MumbaiUnleash your child's imagination at KidZania, where they can explore real-world professions through hands-on activities and immersive simulations. This indoor theme park recreates a lively cityscape just for kids, complete with buildings, streets and recognisable establishments. From aspiring doctors to budding chefs, KidZania offers endless possibilities for learning and fun, empowering and inspiring young minds with every experience. Where: KidZaniaFunky Monkeys Play CentreFunky Monkeys is the ultimate indoor playground for toddlers and young kids. Packed with vibrant slides, ball pits, tunnels and climbing frames, it’s designed to keep kids active, social and entertained in a safe, air-conditioned environment. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a summer weekday break, it’s a delightful way to keep the giggles going. Where: Lower ParelPlayseumPlayseum blends the magic of play with the power of learning through 14 unique interactive exhibits and over 50 imaginative activities. Whether kids choose to be shopkeepers, doctors, builders, or adventurers, they all have the chance to take control of their own worlds.. It’s the perfect balance of creativity, exploration and discovery—all under one roof. Where: PlayseumTickets: BookMyShow
12 May,2025 07:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFor centuries, Gautama Buddha’s teachings on compassion, mindfulness, and detachment have inspired countless individuals around the world. Beyond religious observations, and in a society struggling with senseless violence, millions often turn to Buddhist philosophy in pursuit of inner peace and solace. Every year, people celebrate Buddha Purnima, or Gautam Buddha’s birthday, during the month of Vaishaka. This year, it is being observed on May 12 today. While many people may not be aware of the intricacies of Buddhist philosophies, the fundamental questions around identity and purpose are enduring that our contemporary urban societies aren’t designed to resolve. In their quest of navigating the anxieties and stressors of urban livelihood, even Gen Z are adapting practical lessons for modern lives from ancient wisdom. Mindfulness is not restricted to a trend anymore; it is a philosophy that permeates every aspect of life, and the significance of compassion when people can engage in hateful behaviour anonymously has never been more. This Buddha Purnima, mid-day dives into how Generation-Z or Gen-Z as they are popularly called are finding relevance and resonance with through surprising and meaningful ways in Buddha's teachings as they navigate the pressures of social media, mental health challenges, and the search for purpose. “We forget that everything – our thoughts, moods, even the roles we play – is always changing”"The more I actually pay attention to myself, the less I feel like there's one solid me,” admits social media manager B Pradheeksha. She contrasts the Buddhist understanding of the fluid self with the contemporary mindset of establishing and maintaining a fixed identity. “In this world where everyone’s trying to ‘figure themselves out,’ we forget that everything – our thoughts, moods, even the roles we play – is always changing. There's no real fixed identity. Who I am today is because of what happened yesterday. But how often do we just sit with ourselves and ask: What do I really want? What truly matters to me beyond all the noise? We're always chasing what’s outside, looking outward instead of inward,” she adds. So how does the 27-year-old navigate it all? “Mindfulness, for me, it’s like a pause button. It lets me watch everything happen without needing to cling to it or panic. And when we start to really see our actions, we begin to take responsibility, not because we have to, but from a calm place. And when we act from that space, life just feels more right, not just for us, but for everyone around us,” she shares. Pradheeksha recalls her journey of encountering Buddhist wisdom on Facebook, "Everyone, at some point, goes through that 'Who am I? What am I doing here?' thing, right? For me, that existential crisis hit when I was around 15. I started questioning everything – my feelings, my thoughts, what I was doing, even the people around me. It was a need to understand, 'What is all of this?' I wanted to identify what I was feeling, to put it in categories and make sense of it.” This need spiralled into her trying to figure out where everything inside her came from. Luckily, my parents gave her internet access, and she stumbled into it. She highlights, “When you search for quiet or stillness online, it almost always shows you Buddha. Back then, Facebook was full of Buddha quotes, often the same ones over and over. That's where it started for me. From there, I went deeper – old teachings, blogs, vlogs, books. And slowly, those heavy questions started to get answers. One thing I've realised, whether it's the internet or ancient philosophy: the answer to your question probably existed way before you did. You just have to ask the right one to find the piece that fits." ‘I truly believe everything is connected’Graphic designer Rudesh Dangre proclaims, “For me, following Buddha isn't just about therapy, meditation, or following some trend.” The 27-year-old tells us that he has grown up with Buddhist teachings but isn’t inclined towards traditional practices, “I come from a Buddhist background, and I’ve been connected to these teachings since childhood. Still, I don’t sit in long prayers or read a lot of books—I'm not that kind of follower.” Dangre’s understanding of Buddhist teachings is practical and focused on ethical conduct rather than rigorous religious practices, “What I’ve learned from Buddha is simple: live a simple life, don’t lie, be humble, help others—just trying to be a good human being, you know? I see it a lot through the lens of karma. I truly believe everything is connected—if you do something good, good comes back to you. And when good things happen, it really brings me peace from within. That's how Buddha's way has shaped me and how I see things.” The 27-year-old has had his share of struggles with stress and anxiety. “It's not like I've got it all figured out. I can’t always control my emotions which is where mindfulness can be helpful. It isn’t easy to achieve, and it’s not a shortcut. But I believe the path is there. It just takes practice and a whole lot of patience,” he concludes. ‘Buddhism spread because there was a need for compassion in society’In a world that can sometimes feel competitive or even harsh, creative strategist Harshita Chintapalli believes the role of compassion—a central aspect of Buddhist philosophy is immense. “I really feel like Buddhism spread across the world because there was a need for compassion in society back then, and honestly, that's why coming back to it feels so relaxing and reassuring now. It's so easy to get caught up in anger and hate these days, but when I meditate, it gives me that space to just be with my thoughts and process things.” For Chintapalli, a big part of it is recognising that need for compassion – both for herself when she is struggling and for others, especially in online spaces where things can get really competitive and sometimes even cruel,” she shares. When asked which of Buddha’s core ideas resonate with her, the 23-year-old explains, “While I haven't followed Buddhism religiously, meditation has been a constant for me since my teens, and that's where my perspective comes from. The core of what I've learned is about ‘the purpose’– really understanding yourself, your present, and even your past, almost to the point where you see yourself as a tool that can contribute to humanity. Ideas like interconnectedness definitely resonate with that sense of purpose, making you feel like your actions matter in a bigger picture. And that inner peace you find through meditation? It gives you a clearer lens to see that purpose and navigate the search for meaning.”
12 May,2025 02:54 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalOn the auspicious occasion of Lord Buddha's 2569th birth anniversary, thousands of devotees have been arriving at Bodh Gaya since the early hours of Monday morning to offer prayers and pay homage at the sacred Mahabodhi Temple. The temple complex, regarded as the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree, witnessed long queues of pilgrims carrying flowers and chanting prayers in reverence. This year, the Buddha Jayanti celebrations are being held from May 11 to May 13, jointly organised by the Gaya district administration and the Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee (BTMC). To ensure the smooth conduct of the three-day event and the safety of the visitors, heavy security has been deployed across Bodh Gaya. CCTV surveillance and a strong police presence have been set up to monitor every corner of the temple town. "Buddha Purnima holds deep spiritual significance for all Buddhists. Today marks the 2569th anniversary of Lord Buddha, and it is believed that he attained enlightenment on this very day under the Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya," said Buddhist monk Pragya Priya. "Devotees from across India and many foreign countries have gathered here to seek blessings and participate in the rituals," she added. The Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was adorned with lights and flowers for the occasion. Devotees from countries such as Thailand, Sri Lanka, Japan, Myanmar, and Bhutan, along with Indian pilgrims, could be seen performing traditional offerings and meditating in silence. Meanwhile, in Uttar Pradesh’s Ram Nagari Ayodhya, similar spiritual fervour was witnessed as large crowds gathered on the banks of the Saryu River for a holy dip and meditation. “Today is the full moon of Vaishakh, celebrated as Buddha Purnima. Since 2 a.m., people have been taking holy dips in the Saryu River and offering prayers,” said priest Om Prakash Pandey. One devotee added, “We have come all the way from Bihar with our entire family to bathe in the sacred river. It feels truly peaceful and spiritually uplifting to be here on such a divine day.” Across India and Buddhist communities worldwide, Buddha Purnima is observed with devotion, reflection, and acts of compassion, remembering the teachings of Gautama Buddha, peace, mindfulness, and the path to enlightenment. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
12 May,2025 10:57 AM IST | Bihar | IANSThe relationship between a mother and her child is not a mere bond; it is an emotion of love, care, support, and understanding. In Indian families specifically, this emotion also includes extra protection, a bit of drama and lots of hilarious catchphrases. While every mother is different and every mother-child bond is unique, there are some things that are common between Indian moms, or at least some of them. This Mother’s Day, we uncover five things that Indian moms usually do, that are relatable, funny, and also sometimes annoying. Human alarm clock You will never be late for school, college, office and other work, as long as your mother is waking you up. She has many tricks up her sleeve, from switching off the fan to telling you it’s already 9 o’clock when it’s just 7. If at all you are late, she’ll wake you up like it’s an emergency situation and you need to get out of your bed RIGHT NOW. Human lie detector Is it really possible to hide anything from your mom? Not only is she adept at spotting your lies and manipulation tactics but also good at discovering the truth even if you refuse to tell it to her. She has her own ways. This trait also makes her a saviour as she always knows when you are not your usual self and something is going wrong in your life, without you having to say it. Kitchen can never truly be yours Cooking is a life skill that everyone should know and apply, irrespective of gender. While your mother will keep pestering you to do just that, she will also not let you be alone in the kitchen. From telling you all the things you are doing wrong, to cleaning the mess you have made in the kitchen, they want to be a part of your cooking adventures, or misadventures. Someone’s calling, it’s mom She cares, and because she cares, she will follow up 100 times to ensure that you are safe. Not picking up her call when you’re not at home? Not returning home on time? Not giving her regular updates if you’re staying away from home? Well, be ready for calls and messages. While this might be annoying for some, moms usually have your best interests in mind and call you out of concern and care. Not well? Who cares? While your mom takes extremely good care of you when you are sick, it is often difficult for her to do the same for herself, or let others do the same for her. Whether it is a common cold or high fever, whether it is back pain or headache, she’ll continue doing her work as usual even when she is sick. This is an annoying habit that many Indian mothers have and should change.
11 May,2025 02:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe world is set to celebrate Mother's Day on May 11 and there are so many different ways to tell your mother how much you love her. While one of the easiest ways is food, which still requires some effort, entertainment is far easier and that can be in the form of podcasts, audiobooks and even films. Mother’s Day is always a reminder of the quiet strength, unconditional love, and everyday magic that mothers bring into our lives. Whether you're spending the day with your children or other mom friends, a heartfelt audiobook, podcast, film or show can become a beautiful, shared moment. From feel-good listens to soul-stirring cinema, we’ve handpicked a thoughtful mix of titles perfect for reliving memories with your mother, bonding with fellow moms, or simply unwinding with your child on a summer afternoon. Listen The Life ListIt is an uplifting, no-nonsense guide written and narrated by Kate Christie—perfect for mums looking to rediscover themselves this Mother’s Day. After losing her partner and watching her kids fly the nest, Kate decided it was time to stop waiting and start living, creating a bold “life list” filled with everything she still wanted to do. With humour and hard-earned wisdom, she invites every woman to dream bigger, live louder, and embrace the endless possibilities still ahead. If your mum’s ready for her next chapter, this audiobook might just be the nudge she needs. Room This is a deeply moving story that captures the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child. Narrated by a full cast and brought to life on screen by Oscar-winner Brie Larson in a critically acclaimed film, this tale is equal parts heartbreaking and hopeful. Told through the eyes of five-year-old Jack, who has only ever known the small space he calls Room, the story unravels as he and his mother dare to imagine life beyond its walls. It’s a beautifully told celebration of resilience, love, and a mother’s courage in the face of unimaginable odds. The Mom Hour If you're looking for something warm, wise, and wonderfully real this Mother’s Day, The Mom Hour is the one. Co-hosts Meagan Francis and Sarah Powers (moms of eight kids between them) bring deeply relatable conversations to the mic every week. The two dive into how parenting evolves as kids grow, and how letting go can be just as powerful as holding on. It’s the kind of inspiring, feel-good listen that’ll leave you smiling, nodding, and maybe even texting your mom! Service: Audible Watch Parallel MothersIt is a stirring watch for Mother's Day, especially if you're looking for something layered with emotional depth. Starring the brilliant Penélope Cruz, this drama tells the story of two single women (one a confident photographer in her 40s, the other a scared teenage girl) who bond after giving birth on the same day. What begins as a chance meeting in a maternity ward evolves into an unexpectedly powerful connection with the unspoken ties of motherhood. This film is a beautiful ode to how women lift each other through life’s most profound moments. Service: Amazon Prime Video Ginny & GeorgiaGinny & Georgia is the kind of show that makes you tear up, and call your mom right after. It follows 15-year-old Ginny (Antonia Gentry), who often feels like she’s parenting her free-spirited, glamorous 30-year-old mother, Georgia (Brianne Howey). On the surface, it’s a story about starting fresh in a quaint New England town, but underneath, it’s packed with secrets, drama, and love. With its mix of sass and suspense, this series is a top-tier pick for Mother’s Day, celebrating the beautifully complicated bond between mothers and daughters. Service: Netflix Mrs Chatterjee vs NorwayIt is a powerful and heart-wrenching drama starring Rani Mukerji in one of her most stirring performances yet. Inspired by real events, the film follows an Indian mother’s fierce, emotional battle against the Norwegian child welfare system after her children are taken away over cultural misunderstandings. What unfolds is a harrowing legal and personal struggle, with Debika's strength and resilience at the core. A top-notch pick for Mother’s Day, it is a reminder of just how far a mother will go when her children are on the line. Service: Netflix
10 May,2025 10:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe growing number of Indian singer-songwriters has led to the music lover getting to explore music that is not only in English but also in Hindi and Punjabi. As the rain pours down in Mumbai and the season changes, monsoon and music have a long history in the country. With romantic songs being a favourite among many to listen to during this time. Incidentally the songs that are already out this month have a common theme that explores love and the thrill of being in a relationship. Here are four Indian songs to check out this May: Dil Deewana to EcstasyAs ‘The Royals’ releases this week, Indian musical duo RUUH and JOH have sung four songs for the film starring Ishaan Khatter, Bhumi Pednekar, and Nora Fatehi. After the likes of ‘Yaar Tere Bin’, ‘Baatein’ and ‘Gumshudah’ recently, the brother duo have released 'Dil Deewana', a unabashed expression of love with its raw and vulnerable lyrics; ‘Aadayein Teri’ is a magnetic, groovy number, a hypnotic blend of desire and mystery with poetic lyricism, and 'Ecstasy', which weaves devotion, desire, and loss in a melancholic sound. They have even recreated RD Burman's 'Tu, Tu Hai'. Sidekick Punjabi pop artist Jai Dhir has released his new single 'Sidekick' with his soulful vocals, at a time when he is known for hits like ‘Leja’ and ‘Mirza’. The new track is a flirty, melodic Punjabi track in collaboration with producer NEVERSOBER, marking their second project together and captures the thrill of falling in love.Senti Singer-songwriter Natania has also released her latest single ‘Senti’, which is a vibrant exploration of the dizzying, dream-like state of early romance. The song is from DESI TRILL's ‘Brown Is Everywhere Vol. 2’ EP and is an irresistible anthem for hopeless romantics, that celebrates love.Tujhi Mein Singer-songwriter Saahel, who recently made his debut on the iconic Times Square billboard, has released his new single 'Tujhi Mein'. Being his third single of the year, the song explores the quiet transformation of a person in love that unfolds when someone becomes a part of you.
09 May,2025 04:36 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFor all of us who spend our time on social media, there are enough memes about moms, but there are definitely even more memes about Indian moms because they are of a different kind. They may be strict, but they are equally funny, and we love them for that. As we get ready to celebrate Mother's Day on May 11, here are some funny one-liners that are outright memes in themselves You have become so thin! Every single Indian has heard this dialogue. It is mostly said when the child is living away from home or has been working too hard. Whether it is true or false, we'll never know but it's definitely one that gives mothers an excuse to feed you more You will only know the value of your mother when she is dead While this may sound like a dark statement, it is a common dialogue that most Indian mothers say to their children, especially when they don't listen to them or do what they are told Don't listen to me, let's see how much your wife pampers you It is one of the funniest dialogues that every Indian son has to listen to every now and then till he is married. The dialogue mostly comes around the time they are of marriageable age, and don't listen to their mothers or don't eat everything they feed them.
08 May,2025 10:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDid your mother help you find your sock this morning? You are not alone. There are countless others who have taken their mom’s help this morning and continue to survive their day because it. That’s the thing about mothers; they have this superpower that not even fathers can compete with. As the world gets ready to observe Mother's Day on May 111, here are some of the many superpowers they have that help you survive the day: 1. Find your sock While you’re busy rushing to go to work or even a party but can’t seem to find the one odd of the socks you plan to wear. While you have looked everywhere in your cupboard, and even turned it topsy turvy, you still haven’t found it. Who do you call? Your mother because only she can find it for you. Remember that corner that you looked for the sock earlier? Your mom has found it in the same corner. How? Tell us because we are still trying to figure this magic trick ourselves even today2. Guilt trip you into doing anythingEvery time you think you have the upper-hand in an argument with your mother; she will conjure her secret weapon – guilt tripping you into doing anything. Remember when you tried to get away with escaping some chores and she says, “I carried you in my womb for nine months, don’t forget that’. Is there any reply you have to that? Never! 3. Giving life advice While your friends give you life advice, there is nobody who tells it to you like your mother. But, before that she will not leave out on the opportunity to say, “I told you so, but you didn’t listen’. While that may often be tough to listen to, one can agree that when she gives you life advice, everything becomes better, and you are just able to look at the brighter side of life. 4. Take your full name when she is angry with youYour mom doesn’t get angry too often but when she does, you definitely know it because she calls you not by your pet name (name she calls you at home), or your name, but your full name, with a lot of emphasis. 5. Starts cleaning when you are sleepingYour sleep and rest is sacred for you but not for your mother because it is during that time, she thinks it is important to clean your room. The funniest part is that it is not even quietly done because it is done with the most amount of noise to make sure you know it is being done. If you get up during that time, it is even better for her because she can then tell you about how she is cleaning your room because you never seem to have the time to do it
08 May,2025 08:07 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWhen Mumbai-based Jiya Rai, a girl with Autism Spectrum Disorder, became the youngest and fastest para-swimmer in the world to successfully swim across the English Channel in 2024 at the mere age of 16, the world hailed her achievement. Interestingly, a lesser-known aspect of her success is that of her mother’s efforts. While both parents took the initiative, the teen’s mother went beyond the ordinary to learn swimming, only so that she could teach her daughter the skill. While she couldn’t predict the future, Rachana Rai made sure she left no stone unturned to help her daughter. After all, they have come a long way since her birth. Embracing her daughter’s autism diagnosis When 44-year-old Rai, who was an organic chemistry teacher, gave birth to Jiya in 2008, little did she know that her life would change after her daughter’s autism diagnosis. "At the time, I was balancing my work, which included a teaching job at a school and tuitions for students of eighth and ninth grade, along with my responsibilities as a mother. However, on Jiya’s second birthday, we observed that her behaviour was different than other kids. She used to play with toys differently. She wasn’t able to speak by then. After several tests, doctors told us that she had autism,” the Colaba resident shares. “My husband (Madan Rai, an Indian Navy officer) and I are both educated, but we knew nothing about the condition. We were informed that we’ll have to take support of therapies, and Jiya will always have to be dependent on others,” she adds. While it took some time and research for the parents to understand the condition, Rachana refused to abide by comments that wanted to make her believe that Jiya would never have a career. She explains, “My life changed as a mother at that point. But I believed that if God has given this life, there might be a reason. I decided that I will listen to advice and take help from others, but I won’t accept that my child won’t have a career.” After her daughter’s autism diagnosis, Rachana left her job at the school in 2011 but continued to give tuitions, but even that was about to change. Changing people’s perception The Mumbaikar gave birth to her second child – a son – in 2012, while also taking care of her daughter and managing work. It didn’t get easier as gradually, people started noticing Jiya’s mannerisms and passing negative comments. She expresses, “People would take their kids away from her, and say things like ‘Hume aapka bacha paagal lagta hai (We think your child is mad)’. Her admission in school was also challenging as we were told to enroll her in a special school. There’s no problem with that, but I felt that communicating and mingling with kids who are not like her would bring a difference. So, we kept trying, and she was admitted on the condition that her progress would be reviewed in a year,” the mother of two children reveals. However, everyone there viewed her from a lens of sympathy only, until a swimming event at school changed things. The Mumbai mother shares, “When Jiya participated in the competition, she won two gold medals. People looked at her differently after that. Everyone clapped. I saw an opportunity and thought that she might finally get the respect she deserved through swimming.” This journey wasn’t without challenges. While some swimming schools in Mumbai refused to enroll her, other trainers were unable to teach her in a way suitable to her learning process. Rachana found only one way out – to personally get involved in her daughter’s swimming journey. “I told the trainer, ‘You teach me, and I’ll teach my child’. I was a complete non-swimmer. So, I learnt it step-by-step and started teaching her. I observed that visual cues are her strength, and she used to listen to me more than others. I taught her different strokes. I would show her swimming videos, and the visual aspect helped her,” she says. Rachana stopped taking tuitions and dedicated her time to mentoring her daughter, and helping her son with studies. In the process, she has given up so much, but did she ever regret giving up her job? “I did leave my job for her, but it’s not a sad sacrifice. My husband and I both help train her, but I decided to give more time because she understands me better. Jiya won her first national swimming championship in 2019. Her awards include the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puruskar in 2022 and the National Award for Disability in 2023, among many others. She has 39 gold medals in swimming. When I look at her achievements, I feel extremely proud. Yehi meri achievement hai, yehi mera profession hai, yehi meri salary hai (this is my achievement, this is my profession, this is my salary),” she expresses excitedly. With a Master’s degree in Organic Chemistry, Rachana did want to advance her career and become a scientist, but life had other plans. The best part is that she’s not complaining. In fact, the Mumbai mother counts her blessings. “I remember one incident where we had gone to a temple. There, after praying to God, Jiya ne mere saamne haath joda (Jiya folded her hands in front of me). One lady told me that at a place of worship, she is keeping you at an equal pedestal as God, so never give up on her. That has stayed with me. I believe that we should instill so much ability in those with special needs that the disability takes a backseat,” she concludes. Also Read: A mom’s mantra: Don’t take your home to work, and don’t bring your work home
08 May,2025 04:10 PM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainMusic composer AR Rahman set the stage on fire as he kicked off 'The Wonderment Tour' in Mumbai with a live concert featuring performances by his son AR Ameen, Jonita Gandhi, and South cinema star Dhanush.Rahman regaled the audience gathered at the DY Patil Stadium on Saturday night with songs from his latest film release "Chhaava" as well as popular tracks such as "Maa Tujhe Salaam", "Agar Tum Saath Ho", "Inna Sona", and "Sadda Haq".The celebrated composer shared a selfie with the audience at the concert on his Instagram page."Post concert selfie with my clan," he wrote in the caption.Rahman was joined on the stage by actor-singer Dhanush. The duo performed their song "Adangaatha Asuran" from the 2024 film "Raayan"."An absolute honour @arrahman sir," wrote Dhanush on his Instagram page.'The Wonderment Tour' is conceptualised by the composer himself in collaboration with Percept Live and co-produced by Percept Live, Fair Game and Jo Entertainment. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
07 May,2025 12:38 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIThe steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art were transformed into a breathtaking blend of bold heritage and blooming elegance as the Met Gala 2025 unveiled a setting like no other. Themed 'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,' this year's fashion spectacle not only celebrated sartorial genius but also made a powerful cultural statement, all against a backdrop of deep blue and golden daffodils. From the moment guests arrived, the venue exuded symbolic artistry. The reportedly 63,000-square-foot blue carpet was accented by strewn daffodils, cascading floral barricades, and installations that shimmered with water and mirrored the hanging blooms above. The Met itself was turned into a blue-and-gold wonderland, a living, breathing canvas of style and homage. This year's carpet was more than just visually arresting, it told a story of sustainability and craftsmanship. The Kerala-based design house Neytt by Extraweave returned to fashion's biggest stage, supplying the eco-conscious, biodegradable carpet for the third consecutive year. The carpet was woven from sisal fibers sourced from Madagascar. Neytt by Extraweave has been curating the carpet for the Met Gala since 2022. The evening began on a high note, with dancers performing to the timeless anthem 'Ain't No Mountain High Enough.' Co-chairs Lewis Hamilton and Colman Domingo were the first to walk the blue carpet, leading a host of fashion-forward attendees who embraced the theme with inventive flair. The 2025 exhibit, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style", curated by Andrew Bolton and inspired by Monica L. Miller's seminal work Slaves to Fashion, dives deep into the concept of the Black dandy: an identity that challenges societal norms through elegance, style, and resistance. The show pays tribute to centuries of Black sartorial excellence and ingenuity, from the 18th century to the present. For Indian fashion enthusiasts, this year was particularly momentous. Designers and celebrities from India were more present than ever, with Manish Malhotra, Shah Rukh Khan, Kiara Advani, and Diljit Dosanjh making their long-awaited Met debuts. They joined returning icons like Priyanka Chopra, Isha Ambani, and Natasha Poonawala. Fashion designer Sabyasachi also walked the blue carpet after representing Shah Rukh Khan in his attire. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
06 May,2025 03:00 PM IST | Mumbai | ANIADVERTISEMENT
