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  Tamal Asado Introduction: Tamal Asado is a traditional dish from Costa Rica, known for its comforting flavor and cultural significance. The word “tamal” refers to the popular Latin American dish made from corn dough ( masa ) filled with various ingredients and wrapped in plantain or banana leaves before being steamed. The term “asado” means “roasted” or “baked,” which reflects the unique twist of this version — instead of being steamed, the tamal is baked, giving it a firmer texture and a slightly roasted flavor. Tamal Asado is often enjoyed during special occasions, family gatherings, and festive celebrations such as Christmas in Costa Rica. Ingredients: (for approximately 6–8 servings) 2 cups of corn flour (masa harina or ground cooked corn) 1 cup of grated cheese (fresh white cheese preferred) 1 cup of sour cream 1 cup of milk or coconut milk ½ cup of sugar (can adjust to taste) ½ cup of butter or margarine (melted) 3 eggs 1 teaspoon of baking powder ½ teaspoo...

  With Women World cup semi final lineups already decided, the last day of the league phase saw two inconsequential matches played out which also looked similarly lacklustre.  England women outplayed New Zealand by 8 wickets while Navi Mumbai match between India & Bangladesh had a no result due to unseasonal Mumbai rains . The Vizag game saw New Zealand batting first an putting on a timid show. After another Bates no show , it was Plimmer who scored an enterprising 43 with Amelia Kerr in company with 35 . Skipper Sophie Devine playing her final ODI scored 23 but wickets kept falling like regular intervals and the lower order  had timid contributions as New Zealand innings folded up for 168 well before 50 overs mark . England was the more motivated team on this day having already reached semis . The openers launched the innings in style with both Tammy Buomont and Any Jones matching each other stroke for stroke . Buomont was dismissed after a sparkling 40 while Jones...

  The Virupaksha Temple in Hampi, Karnataka , is one of the oldest and most revered temples in South India, dedicated to Lord Shiva , worshipped here as Virupaksha , the consort of Goddess Pampa. Situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River , it stands as a living testament to the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire and is the oldest functioning temple in India , where rituals have continued uninterrupted since the 7th century CE. The temple forms the spiritual heart of Hampi—now a UNESCO World Heritage Site —and remains a significant pilgrimage centre for Shaivites. History in Detail The origins of the Virupaksha Temple date back to the 7th century , when it began as a small shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It gained prominence under the Chalukyas of Badami , who expanded it modestly. However, the temple achieved its current magnificence during the Vijayanagara period (14th–16th centuries), when King Deva Raya II (1422–1446 CE) of the Sangama dynasty undertook major expa...

  Liberia is the capital of the Guanacaste Province in northwestern Costa Rica. Known as the “White City” (La Ciudad Blanca) for its colonial-era whitewashed houses and sun-drenched streets, Liberia blends traditional charm with modern convenience. It’s strategically located just 25 minutes from the Pacific coast and surrounded by some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful natural attractions — volcanoes, national parks, and beaches. Thanks to its proximity to Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) , Liberia has become the perfect base for travelers heading to Guanacaste’s beaches, such as Tamarindo, Playa Hermosa, and Papagayo. The city itself offers a mix of culture, history, and relaxed local life, making it worth more than just a stopover. Best Spots to Visit in Detail Museo de Guanacaste (Guanacaste Museum) Housed in a former military barracks, this small museum showcases the region’s cultural and political history, featuring traditional art, indigenous crafts, ...

  The 26th match of the Women’s World Cup 2025 was played at the Holkar Stadium in Indore , where Australia outclassed South Africa by 7 wickets thanks to a sensational spell from Alana King . Australia won the toss and opted to bowl first. Their decision proved perfect as South Africa’s innings collapsed for just 97 runs in 24 overs . Captain Laura Wolvaardt top-scored with 31 runs off 26 balls , followed by Sinalo Jafta (29 off 17) and Nadine de Klerk (14 off 23) . None of the other batters managed to reach double figures as Australia’s bowlers dominated proceedings. Alana King’s Magical Spell Right-arm leg-spinner Alana King delivered one of the most devastating bowling performances of the tournament. She bowled 7 overs , including 2 maidens , conceding only 18 runs and taking 7 wickets . Her sharp turn and flight left the South African batters clueless. Megan Schutt , Kim Garth , and Ashleigh Gardner chipped in with one wicket each. Australia Chase with Ease Chasin...

  Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s unbeaten 168-run partnership powered India to a resounding nine-wicket victory over Australia in the third ODI in Sydney on Saturday. The win helped Gautam Gambhir’s men salvage pride in the series and gave captain Shubman Gill his first victory as ODI skipper. Chasing 236, India cruised to 237/1 in just 38.3 overs. After twin ducks in the first two matches, Kohli looked relieved upon getting off the mark in Sydney. Once the early nerves settled, he batted fluently alongside his long-time partner Rohit. The pair, often referred to as “Ro-Ko,” displayed vintage brilliance — calm, calculated, and commanding. Unlike the previous match, Rohit played with intent, converting good starts into a match-winning century. Despite being in their mid-to-late 30s, both veterans showed they still possess the skill to dominate top-quality attacks like those of Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. Having been away from international cricket for over seven months, an...

  Sopa Negra , meaning “Black Soup” in Spanish, is a traditional Costa Rican dish known for its rich flavor, hearty texture, and nourishing qualities. Made primarily from black beans , this soup is a staple of Costa Rican cuisine, especially enjoyed in the cooler highland regions and during rainy days. It reflects the country’s love for simple yet wholesome meals that combine nutrition with homely comfort. Sopa Negra is often served with hard-boiled eggs , rice , and fresh cilantro , offering a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and warmth. It’s also a dish that symbolizes Costa Rican hospitality—often served to guests as a welcoming meal. Ingredients 2 cups black beans (dried or canned) 6 cups water or vegetable broth 1 medium onion, finely chopped 1 small red or green bell pepper, finely chopped 3–4 cloves garlic, minced 1–2 celery stalks, chopped (optional) 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp oregano Salt and black pepper to taste 1 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oi...

  The Durga Gudi Temple , located in Badami , Karnataka, is a remarkable example of early Chalukyan architecture and an important religious site dedicated to Goddess Durga , the divine mother and warrior goddess of Hinduism. Despite its name, the temple is believed to have been originally dedicated to Vishnu or Surya (the Sun God) before being associated with Goddess Durga in later centuries. Built during the 7th–8th century CE under the rule of the Early Chalukyas of Badami , the temple is one of the finest surviving examples of Indian rock-cut and structural temple design, representing a crucial stage in the evolution of South Indian temple architecture. History (In Detail) The Durga Gudi Temple forms part of the Badami group of temples , which were constructed during the reign of the Chalukyas of Vatapi (6th–8th centuries CE). These rulers, especially Pulakeshin II , Vikramaditya I , and Kirtivarman II , were great patrons of architecture, art, and religion. The templ...

  Gallo Pinto (literally meaning “spotted rooster” ) is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic and beloved dishes. It’s a simple yet flavorful combination of rice and beans , often served at breakfast with eggs, plantains, sour cream ( natilla ), and coffee. Although similar versions exist in neighboring Nicaragua, Costa Ricans have made Gallo Pinto their own — using local ingredients like Salsa Lizano (a tangy brown sauce unique to Costa Rica) and fresh herbs for a distinctive taste. Beyond being a meal, Gallo Pinto represents Costa Rican culture and identity — humble, hearty, and built on community and tradition. It’s served everywhere from small village homes to five-star hotels. Ingredients (Serves 3–4 people) Base: 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably from the previous day) 1½ cups cooked black beans (with a little of the bean broth) Vegetables & Flavorings: 1 small onion , finely chopped 1 small red bell pepper , finely chopped 2 cloves garlic , minced 2 ta...

  San José, the capital and largest city of Costa Rica , sits in the Central Valley , surrounded by lush mountains and volcanoes. It’s the country’s cultural, political, and economic hub — a vibrant mix of colonial architecture, bustling markets, modern cafes, and lively nightlife. While many travelers pass through on their way to Costa Rica’s beaches or rainforests, San José itself offers a fascinating glimpse into Costa Rican life — from historic neighborhoods and world-class museums to traditional food markets and friendly locals known as Ticos . Best Spots to Visit in Detail National Theatre of Costa Rica (Teatro Nacional) Located in downtown San José, this elegant 19th-century neoclassical building is the city’s architectural jewel. The lavish interior, marble statues, and painted ceilings reflect the golden age of Costa Rican coffee wealth. Catch a performance or take a guided tour to appreciate its artistry. Museo del Oro Precolombino (Pre-Columbian Gold Museum) ...

  India became the fourth team to qualify for the ICC Women’s One-Day World Cup semifinals after defeating New Zealand by 53 runs (DLS method) in a rain-interrupted match on Thursday. Harmanpreet Kaur’s side posted a record-breaking total of 340/3 in 49 overs, their highest-ever score in a Women’s ODI World Cup, before restricting the White Ferns to 271/8 in 44 overs. With this victory, India moved to six points from six matches, while New Zealand remained on four. Even if India lose and New Zealand win their final league fixtures, both teams will end with six points—but India, with three wins compared to New Zealand’s possible two, have already confirmed a top-four finish. England, with nine points, have secured third place, meaning India will finish fourth regardless of their last result. The semifinals are scheduled for October 29 and 30, though India’s opponent is yet to be determined. Mandhana and Pratika Shine with Centuries Needing a win to secure qualification, India’s ...

  The Kedareshwara Temple , located in Balligavi (also known as Belagami or Dakshina Kedara) in the Shivamogga district of Karnataka, is one of the most exquisite examples of Hoysala temple architecture . Dedicated to Lord Shiva , the temple reflects the artistic mastery and religious devotion that flourished during the 12th century under the Hoysalas. Balligavi was a significant cultural, educational, and religious center during the Western Chalukya and Hoysala periods , often described in inscriptions as the “ Agrahara of Learning ” and the “ City of Temples .” Among the many temples that once adorned the town, Kedareshwara Temple stands as a jewel of that glorious era. History (In Detail) The Kedareshwara Temple was built around 1060 CE during the reign of the Western Chalukyas , and it was later renovated and expanded by the Hoysalas in the 12th century , likely under the patronage of King Vishnuvardhana . Balligavi itself has a long and illustrious past. It was on...

  With one match still to play, India suffered a series defeat on Australian soil after another batting collapse — this time in Adelaide. Much like in Perth, the Men in Blue struggled to find momentum with the bat, managing 264 runs after being sent in to bat first. Australia, in contrast, chased down the target well to seal the series win. For Indian skipper Shubman Gill, the day began with yet another stroke of bad luck — his 17th consecutive loss at the toss. Put into bat under challenging conditions, India found it tough on a damp surface that had been affected by heavy rain over the past two days, giving Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood plenty of assistance with the new ball. Rohit Sharma tried to steady the innings with a cautious start, but Gill departed early for just 9, attempting to counterattack. Virat Kohli’s lean patch continued, dismissed for a duck for the second consecutive match falling lbw to Xavier Bartlett . Rohit (73 off 97 balls) and Shreyas Iyer (61 off ...

  South Africa crushed Pakistan by eight wickets in the second Test at Rawalpindi on Thursday, leveling the series 1-1 in emphatic fashion. Veteran off-spinner Simon Harmer produced a masterclass, claiming his maiden Test five-wicket haul and reaching a remarkable milestone of 1,000 First-Class wickets . The 36-year-old spinner ripped through Pakistan’s fragile batting lineup on a crumbling surface, finishing with 6 for 50 as the hosts collapsed in the morning session. Resuming on 94 for 4, Pakistan added just 44 runs before being bundled out, leaving South Africa a modest target of 68. Harmer struck early, trapping Babar Azam leg-before for 51 with the fifth ball of the day, ending the Pakistani captain’s hopes of ending his century drought that stretches back to December 2022. Soon after, Harmer removed Mohammad Rizwan for 18 and dismissed Noman Ali for a duck — his 1,000th First-Class scalp in his 235th match. Pakistan’s lower order disintegrated yet again, losing its f...

  Unstoppable Australia — they look every bit the champions they are. With both their all-rounders in destructive form, England learned just how hard it is to stop this Australian side. Even without captain Alyssa Healy, Australia crushed England by six wickets. Ashleigh Gardner scored her second century of the tournament, while Annabel Sutherland fell just short on 98. Their dominant partnership powered Australia to victory with nearly 10 overs to spare, cementing their place at the top of the World Cup points table — and it now seems almost impossible to dislodge them from there. At one point, it looked like England might be the only team capable of troubling Australia in this tournament. They began strongly — openers Amy Jones and Tammy Beaumont scored briskly, putting the Australian bowlers under pressure. But when the frontline bowlers had an off day, the all-rounders stepped up. Sutherland and Gardner turned the game around. Sutherland removed Jones for 18 and later dismisse...

  South African lower order scripted a stellar fightback as the tourists take a sizeable first innings lead & then had the hosts in trouble in the 2nd innings . Babar Azam has taken charge during a difficult phase for Pakistan — the team’s hopes now rest squarely on his shoulders. Pakistan’s top order collapsed in the second innings, with Abdullah Shafique and Shan Masood failing once again. On the third evening in Rawalpindi, Pakistan reached 94 for 4, holding a slender lead of 23 runs over South Africa, with six wickets remaining. At the end of Day 2, Pakistan seemed to be in control. South Africa’s batting was under pressure, and Pakistan appeared poised to take a significant first-innings lead. However, they were unprepared for the counterattack launched by Senuran Muthusamy and Kagiso Rabada. The last two South African wickets added a remarkable 169 runs. First, Muthusamy put on a 71-run partnership with Keshav Maharaj (30), followed by a record 98-run stand for the tenth...

  After Bangladesh, Pakistan became the second team to be knocked out of the ICC Women’s One-Day World Cup. On Tuesday in Colombo, Fatima Sana’s side suffered a crushing 150-run defeat (via the Duckworth–Lewis–Stern method) to South Africa in a rain-hit encounter. Persistent rain interrupted play several times, forcing the umpires to repeatedly reduce the number of overs. Batting first, South Africa posted 312 for 9 in 40 overs. With multiple DLS revisions, Pakistan’s final target was set at 234 runs from 20 overs — an uphill battle that ended with them managing only 83 for 7. Choosing to attack from the outset due to the shortened game, South Africa’s captain Laura Wolvaardt led from the front with a blistering 90 off 82 balls, hitting 10 fours and 2 sixes. Sune Luus followed up with 61 off 59 balls (8 fours, 2 sixes), while Marizanne Kapp powered an unbeaten 68 off 43 balls (6 fours, 3 sixes). Nadine de Klerk’s explosive 41 off just 16 deliveries, featuring 3 fours and 4 sixes...

  Pakistan’s first innings ended at 333 runs against South Africa in the second Test, and surprisingly, it was the hosts who struggled on the spin-friendly Rawalpindi pitch. Shan Masood’s side lost their last five wickets for just 17 runs. In reply, Aiden Markram’s South Africa reached 185 for 4 at stumps on Tuesday, still trailing by 148 runs. Pakistan resumed the second day on 259 for 5, with Saud Shakeel and Salman Agha continuing from overnight. The pair managed to survive the first hour before Salman fell for 45. Shakeel top-scored with 66, but the rest of the batting faltered against Keshav Maharaj’s spin. Maharaj was exceptional, taking 7 wickets for 102 runs — including five on the second day. Simon Harmer chipped in with 2 for 75, while Kagiso Rabada claimed 1 for 60.  On day one , Abdullah Shafique (57) & skipper Shaan Masood (87) were the main contributors for Pakistan  South Africa’s reply began shakily as opener Ryan Rickelton was dismissed for 14. Mar...

  Bangladesh needed just 12 runs from 12 balls with six wickets in hand. Captain Nigar Sultana was well set, batting past her half-century. Yet, from that position of complete control, Bangladesh suffered an unbelievable collapse — losing five wickets in just seven balls. Four wickets fell in the first four deliveries of the final over, and Bangladesh fell short by seven runs. With this defeat, they became the first team to be eliminated from the World Cup, while Sri Lanka narrowly kept their hopes alive. The match, played at Navi Mumbai, was the first of this World Cup at the venue. Sri Lankan skipper Chamari Athapaththu was the star of the game, contributing with both bat and ball. She scored 46 runs before returning with figures of 4 for 42 in her 10 overs. Defending nine runs in the final over, Chamari bowled a sensational spell — claiming three wickets and effecting a run-out in four balls — to seal a dramatic win for Sri Lanka. Batting first, Sri Lanka were bowled out for ...

    In cricket, if you can’t finish a match, even centuries, half-centuries, or five-wicket hauls lose their value. That’s exactly what happened to Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur, and Deepti Sharma on Sunday. The first two fought hard under pressure to score half-centuries, while Deepti contributed with both bat and ball — scoring a fifty and taking four wickets. Yet, none of it was enough, as India suffered a heartbreaking 4-run defeat to England in the Women’s World Cup clash at Indore. This loss marked India’s third consecutive defeat, severely denting their chances of reaching the semifinals. Now, India must win both of their remaining matches to stay in contention, while England have sealed their semifinal spot. That leaves just one berth open — to be contested between India and New Zealand. Chasing England’s 288, India had another poor start. Opener Pratika Rawal was dropped early by Charlie Dean but couldn’t capitalize, falling in the third over to Lauren Bell. Ha...

  Shubman Gill’s first match as India’s one-day captain turned out to be a tough initiation. India’s batting collapsed in the opening ODI against Australia in Perth, with the hosts cruising to a seven-wicket win under the Duckworth-Lewis method. Returning to international cricket after 224 days, neither Virat Kohli nor Rohit Sharma managed to make an impact — both dismissed cheaply. Gill himself also failed to score. The rain-hit encounter saw play interrupted four times, reducing the match to 26 overs per side. India, batting first, were bundled out for 136 in 26 overs. The DLS-adjusted target for Australia was set at 131, which they chased down comfortably in 21.1 overs to take a 1–0 lead in the series. The morning began under overcast skies in Perth, making the toss crucial — one that Gill lost again. India were forced to bat first in testing conditions. Rohit struggled for timing and confidence, nicking Josh Hazlewood to slip for 8. Kohli followed soon after, falling for a d...