The World around U

  England had already lost the series, and the looming threat of a humiliating whitewash hung heavy over Ben Stokes’ side. In Melbourne, however, they finally found redemption. Inside two dramatic days, England stunned Australia to register a memorable Test victory, their first on Australian soil in 15 long years. It took 5,468 days and 18 Tests for England to break the drought Down Under. Their previous Test win in Australia had come during the 2010–11 tour, at Sydney—a historic series in which England not only won matches but conquered the Ashes outright. That campaign had also brought success in Melbourne. Fifteen years later, fittingly, it was the same venue that offered England a chance to shed years of frustration and failure. On their last three tours of Australia, England had lost 13 of 15 Tests. This tour seemed destined for a similar fate after defeats in the first three matches revived fears of another clean sweep. Stokes and his men ensured that ignominy was avoided. A ...

  Roberto Bettega, born on 27 October 1950 in Turin, Italy, is regarded as one of the finest Italian forwards of the 1970s and early 1980s. Closely associated with Juventus, the club of his hometown, Bettega was a symbol of elegance, intelligence, and consistency in attack. Nicknamed “Bobby Gol”, he combined technical finesse with sharp positional sense and an instinctive eye for goal, making him a central figure in one of Juventus’ most successful eras. Style of Play Roberto Bettega was a graceful, intelligent forward rather than an explosive or physically dominant striker. Comfortable playing as a centre-forward or second striker, he relied on anticipation, movement, and composure inside the penalty area. Bettega was excellent in the air despite not being exceptionally tall, timed his runs superbly, and finished calmly with both feet. His link-up play, ability to drift wide, and tactical understanding allowed him to thrive in structured Italian football, particularly in the defen...

  Larisa Semyonovna Latynina was born on 27 December 1934 in Kherson, Ukrainian SSR (then part of the Soviet Union). Widely regarded as one of the greatest gymnasts in history, Latynina dominated women’s artistic gymnastics during the late 1950s and early 1960s, setting records that stood unmatched for decades. Her blend of elegance, technical mastery, and competitive composure made her the benchmark of excellence in Olympic sport. Style of Performance Latynina’s gymnastics style was defined by: Exceptional grace and rhythm, especially on floor exercises Immaculate balance and poise on the beam Strong, controlled vaulting, combining power with artistry Clean execution and musicality, a hallmark of Soviet gymnastics At a time when gymnastics was evolving from purely acrobatic routines into an artistic discipline, Latynina embodied the perfect fusion of athleticism and beauty. Career Highlights (In Detail) Latynina emerged as a global star in the mid-1950s, quickly becoming the cente...

  Even after Australia had already sealed the series, the magic of the Boxing Day Test remained undiminished. A staggering 93,442 spectators thronged the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday, setting a new Ashes record for the highest single-day attendance in Test history. What they witnessed was not a batting spectacle, but a breathtaking exhibition of fast bowling dominance from both sides. In front of the record crowd, Australia were skittled out for a modest 152 in their first innings. However, England failed to capitalise on the advantage, collapsing even more dramatically to just 110. By stumps on Day One, Australia held a slender but significant lead of 46 runs, and discussions had already begun about whether this Test might be wrapped up within two days. Melbourne outdid Perth. In the opening Test of this Ashes series at Perth, a total of 19 wickets had fallen on the first day. At the MCG, all 20 wickets went down, with both teams bowled out. The last time such a feat occurre...

  Russia’s far-eastern region of Yakutia has once again drawn global attention as it endures one of the harshest cold spells on the planet. Temperatures across the region have plunged to life-threatening levels, bringing normal activities to a near halt. Yakutia, already known for its brutally long winters, is currently recording temperatures between minus 40 and minus 50 degrees Celsius, with some locations experiencing an extreme low of minus 60 degrees. Oymyakon, often described as the coldest permanently inhabited place on Earth, is at the centre of this freeze. While residents are accustomed to subzero conditions, the current cold has been unusually intense. Even during summer, temperatures rise to around 20 degrees Celsius only briefly, making winter survival a constant challenge for the local population. Educational Institutions Shut With the cold worsening and snowstorms sweeping through the region, authorities have ordered the temporary closure of schools and kindergartens...

  This rich and creamy no-bake coffee cheesecake is an easy yet elegant dessert, perfect for special occasions or as a make-ahead treat. With a buttery biscuit base and a smooth coffee-flavoured cream cheese filling, it sets beautifully in the refrigerator without the need for baking. Ingredients Philadelphia cream cheese – 1½ cups Fresh cream – ½ cup Condensed milk – 1 cup Coffee powder – 6 tablespoons Gelatin – 4 tablespoons Butter biscuits – 150 grams Butter (melted) – ¼ cup Caster sugar – 4 tablespoons Method Crush the butter biscuits finely. Add the melted butter and caster sugar and mix well. Press this mixture evenly into the base of a cake mould. Refrigerate to set. In a bowl, whisk the condensed milk until smooth. Add the cream cheese and mix well. Pour in the fresh cream and gently combine all three ingredients until smooth and creamy. Dissolve the gelatin in a little water and keep it in the refrigerator. After about 20 minutes, remove and gently heat it until fully melt...

  Top 20 Churches in India India’s Christian heritage spans nearly two millennia, reflecting apostolic traditions, colonial influences, and indigenous expressions of faith. These churches stand out for their historical importance, architectural grandeur, spiritual significance, and cultural legacy. 1. Basilica of Bom Jesus – Goa Founded: 1605 Significance: Houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier Style: Baroque Legacy: UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Christian pilgrimage centres in Asia 2. Se Cathedral – Old Goa Founded: 1562 Significance: One of the largest churches in Asia Style: Portuguese-Gothic Legacy: Symbol of Portuguese ecclesiastical power in India 3. Santhome Basilica – Chennai Founded: 16th century Significance: Built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle Style: Neo-Gothic Legacy: One of only three churches in the world built over an apostle’s tomb 4. Velankanni Basilica – Tamil Nadu Founded: 16th century Significance: Known as the “Lour...

  The Simhachalam Temple, officially known as Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, is one of the most revered Hindu shrines in Andhra Pradesh. Located atop the Simhachalam Hill, about 20 km from Visakhapatnam (Vizag), the temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, the man-lion incarnation of Lord Vishnu, worshipped here in a unique combined form of Varaha (boar) and Narasimha. The temple is renowned for its spiritual power, rich history, distinctive rituals, and splendid blend of architectural styles. History in Detail Mythological Origins According to legend, Lord Narasimha manifested here to bless his devotee Prahlada after destroying the demon king Hiranyakashipu. The deity later assumed the form of Varaha Narasimha to remove excessive divine energy and protect the universe. Sage Prahlada is believed to have consecrated the deity and established worship at Simhachalam. Historical Development The temple’s earliest references appear in Puranic texts and inscriptions dating back ...

  This rich and indulgent Chocolate Coffee Walnut Brownie is perfect for coffee and chocolate lovers alike. With a soft, fudgy texture, the crunch of walnuts, and a smooth coffee-infused chocolate ganache on top, this dessert makes an excellent choice for celebrations or as a special homemade treat. Ingredients For the Brownie Chocolate – 1½ cups Eggs – 2½ All-purpose flour – 4 tablespoons Baking powder – 1 teaspoon Walnuts – ½ cup (chopped) Sugar – 1 cup Butter – ⅓ cup Coffee powder – 4 tablespoons Fresh cream – ½ cup For the Chocolate Coffee Ganache Fresh cream – 1 cup Chocolate – 2 cups Coffee powder – ¼ cup Method In a heatproof bowl, combine chocolate, fresh cream, and coffee powder. Melt the mixture using the double boiler method for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until smooth. This forms the ganache. Keep aside. Using the double boiler again, melt the chocolate and butter together until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk the sugar and eggs until blended. Add ...

  A rich, moist and indulgent dessert, Coffee Walnut Cake is perfect for coffee lovers. The deep aroma of coffee blends beautifully with crunchy walnuts and smooth milk chocolate, making this cake an ideal choice for evening tea, special occasions, or festive gatherings. Simple to prepare and full of flavour, this homemade cake is sure to impress. Ingredients : 1½ cups milk 50 g butter 6 tablespoons instant coffee powder ½ cup sugar 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon cocoa powder 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda ½ cup milk chocolate ½ cup chopped walnuts Method : First, mix 2 tablespoons of coffee powder with ½ cup milk and keep it aside. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and creamy. Add the coffee-mixed milk to this mixture and whisk well until combined. In another bowl, mix all the dry ingredients—flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and the remaining coffee powder. Sieve the dry ingredients and gradually fold them into th...

  The Veerabhadra Temple, located in the historic village of Lepakshi in the Sri Sathya Sai district of Andhra Pradesh, is one of the finest surviving examples of Vijayanagara architecture. Dedicated to Lord Veerabhadra, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, the temple is world-famous for its exquisite sculptures, intricate murals, and the mysterious hanging pillar. Set atop a granite hill, the temple is both a major pilgrimage site and a celebrated monument of Indian art and heritage. History in Detail Mythological Background According to Hindu mythology, Veerabhadra was created by Lord Shiva in a fit of rage after the self-immolation of Goddess Sati during the Daksha Yagna. Veerabhadra was tasked with destroying Daksha’s sacrificial ceremony, symbolising divine justice and cosmic balance. The site of Lepakshi is closely associated with the Ramayana, where Jatayu, the injured vulture king, is believed to have fallen after battling Ravana while trying to rescue Sita. It is said Lor...

  Santiago de Cuba is Cuba’s second-largest city and one of its most historically and culturally significant destinations. Located on the southeastern coast of the island, between the Caribbean Sea and the Sierra Maestra mountains, the city is considered the cradle of the Cuban Revolution and the heart of Afro-Cuban culture. Known for its music, carnival traditions, revolutionary heritage, and colonial architecture, Santiago de Cuba offers a more raw, authentic, and vibrant experience compared to Havana. Best Spots to Visit in Detail 1. Castillo del Morro (San Pedro de la Roca Castle) A UNESCO World Heritage Site guarding the entrance to Santiago Bay. Built in the 17th century, this fortress offers panoramic sea views, preserved ramparts, cannons, and an excellent museum explaining colonial defense systems. 2. Parque Céspedes The central square of the city and its social heart. Surrounded by key landmarks such as the cathedral, Casa de Diego Velázquez, and Hotel Casa Granda. A perf...

  The Sri Yagantiswamy Temple, popularly known as the Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple, is a renowned Shaivite shrine located in the serene village of Yaganti in Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh. Nestled amidst the scenic Nallamala Hills, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva worshipped here as Uma Maheswara (Yagantiswamy). The temple is celebrated for its unique natural surroundings, architectural elegance, and deep mythological significance, making it one of the most revered pilgrimage centres in South India. History in Detail Mythological Origins According to legend, sage Agastya wished to build a Shiva temple in Yaganti. However, the land was initially unsuitable for worship. Sage Agastya is believed to have performed intense penance, after which Lord Shiva manifested and sanctified the site. It is believed that Lord Shiva granted a boon declaring that Yaganti would never be submerged by floods, despite its proximity to hills and water bodies. Historical Development The te...

  As expected, Australia have once again claimed the Ashes—this time with two Tests still remaining. In one of the world’s most high-profile Test rivalries, the hosts cruised to victories in all three of the opening matches, underlining their complete dominance. England, it must be said, failed to produce the kind of sustained contest traditionally associated with an Ashes series, with the lone exception being a spirited final-innings fightback in the third Test—though even that proved insufficient to avert defeat. In the third Test at Adelaide, Australia laid the foundation with a commanding first-innings total of 371, powered by a magnificent century from Alex Carey. England responded with 286, with captain Ben Stokes leading from the front with a gritty 83 in an attempt to keep his side in touch. Australia began their second innings with an 85-run lead and then tightened their grip decisively. Travis Head produced a record-breaking century as the hosts piled on 349 runs, extendi...

  The Ahobilam Temple is one of the most sacred Vaishnavite pilgrimage centres in India, located in the rugged Nallamala Hills of present-day Anantapur–Nandyal region of Andhra Pradesh. Dedicated to Lord Narasimha, the fierce incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Ahobilam is uniquely revered as the place where the Lord manifested to protect his devotee Prahlada and destroy the demon king Hiranyakashipu. The shrine is especially significant because it houses nine distinct forms of Lord Narasimha, collectively known as the Navanarasimha Kshetra. History in Detail Mythological Background According to the Bhagavata Purana, Ahobilam is the sacred site where Lord Vishnu emerged from a pillar as Ugra Narasimha to uphold dharma. The name Ahobilam is believed to be derived from “Aho Bala”, meaning “Oh! What great strength,” uttered by the gods upon witnessing Narasimha’s ferocious form. Scriptural References Ahobilam is mentioned in the Vishnu Purana, Naradiya Purana, and several Vaishnavite hymns. I...

  Havana (La Habana) is the capital and largest city of Cuba, located on the island’s northwestern coast along the Atlantic Ocean. Founded in 1519, Havana is one of the most historically rich cities in the Caribbean, known for its colorful colonial architecture, vintage American cars, vibrant music scene, revolutionary history, and strong Afro-Cuban cultural roots. The city blends old-world charm with lively street life. Spanish colonial plazas, crumbling yet beautiful mansions, seaside promenades, and modern cultural spaces coexist, making Havana a living museum as well as a dynamic capital. It is the political, cultural, and economic heart of Cuba. Best Spots to Visit in Detail 1. Old Havana (Habana Vieja) – UNESCO World Heritage Site The historic core of the city with cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and lively plazas. Key highlights include: Plaza de la Catedral – Home to the Havana Cathedral. Plaza Vieja – Surrounded by restored buildings, cafés, and museums. Plaza de ...

  England’s hopes of saving the Ashes are fading fast. On the final day at Adelaide, Australia need just four more wickets to seal victory, while England face the daunting task of scoring another 228 runs to keep the contest alive. Australia, having already won the first Test in Perth and the second in Brisbane, hold a commanding 2–0 lead in the five-match series. Both victories came by emphatic eight-wicket margins. A win in the third Test at Adelaide would allow the hosts to retain the Ashes with two matches still to play, underlining their complete dominance of the series so far. Resuming their second innings at 271 for 4, Australia tightened their grip thanks largely to Travis Head. The left-hander, unbeaten on 142 overnight, went on to produce a magnificent 170, combining aggression with control. Alex Carey provided valuable support with a composed 72. Australia were eventually bowled out for 349, setting England an imposing target of 435. England’s bowlers had moments of resi...

  The Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, located at Srisailam in the Nallamala Hills of Andhra Pradesh, is one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Mallikarjuna and Goddess Parvati as Bhramaramba, the temple holds exceptional importance as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and one of the eighteen Shakti Peethas. Nestled on the banks of the holy Krishna River, the temple is a powerful confluence of Shaiva and Shakta traditions. History in Detail Mythological Origins According to legend, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati came to Srisailam to pacify their son Kartikeya (Murugan), who was upset after losing a divine contest to Lord Ganesha. Pleased by Kartikeya’s devotion, Shiva manifested here as Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga, while Parvati appeared as Bhramaramba Devi. Scriptural References The temple is mentioned in ancient texts such as the Skanda Purana, Shiva Purana, and Padma Purana, emphasizing Srisailam as a sacred Shaiva kshetra. It is also praised...

  Breathtaking batting by Hardik Pandya & Tilak Verma & masterful bowling by Jasprit Bumrah & Varun Chakaravarthy in tough bowling conditions helped India to beat a spirited South Africa by 30 runs in a high scoring 5th & final T20I of the 5 match series . India’s victory in the final match at Ahmedabad, sealing a 3–1 series win against South Africa, certainly added another feather to the trophy cabinet. More importantly, it also helped shape what now looks like a near-complete blueprint for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Performers like Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson made strong statements, while Varun Chakravarthy’s spin proved lethal as the Proteas were bundled out for a 30-run defeat. India won the five-match T20I series 3–1, though concerns surrounding Suryakumar Yadav still persist. Before this match, India were already leading the series 2–1, ensuring there was no risk of losing it. After losing the toss in the final T20I against South Africa, India were asked...

  Australia tightened their grip on the third Ashes Test with another dominant display at Adelaide, ending Day Three at a commanding 271 for 4 in their second innings and stretching their overall lead to a daunting 356 runs over England. The day belonged unequivocally to Travis Head, whose sublime batting etched his name deeper into the record books. After dismissing England for 286 in their first innings and securing an 85-run lead, Australia began their second innings on an uncertain note. Openers failed to provide stability as Jake Weatherald departed for 1, followed soon by Marnus Labuschagne for 13, briefly offering England a window back into the contest. However, Ben Stokes’ men were unable to capitalise on the early breakthroughs. Head seized control with a magnificent counterattacking innings, displaying authority, timing and composure. By stumps, he remained unbeaten on a superb 142, well supported by Alex Carey, who played a calm and assured knock of 52 not out. Togeth...

  The Kanaka Durga Temple , located atop the scenic Indrakeeladri Hill on the banks of the sacred Krishna River in Vijayawada , Andhra Pradesh, is one of the most revered Shakti Peethas in South India. Dedicated to Goddess Kanaka Durga , a powerful form of Adi Shakti , the temple is a prominent spiritual, cultural, and historical landmark of the region. Renowned for its spiritual energy and grand celebrations during Navaratri , the temple attracts millions of devotees every year and is considered the presiding deity shrine of Vijayawada. History in Detail Mythological Origins According to Hindu mythology, Indrakeeladri Hill is where Goddess Durga manifested to slay the demon Mahishasura , restoring dharma. The hill is named after Arjuna (Indrakeela) from the Mahabharata, who is believed to have performed penance here and received divine blessings. Ancient References The temple finds mention in ancient scriptures such as the Skanda Purana and Kalika Purana , highl...