The World around U

  The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) satellite was successfully launched on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The satellite was carried by the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV)-F16, which lifted off from the space centre’s second launch pad at 5:40 p.m. Within 18 minutes of liftoff, the rocket precisely deployed the satellite into a sun-synchronous orbit. “GSLV-F16 has successfully injected the 2,392 kg NISAR satellite into its designated orbit,” confirmed V. Narayanan, a senior ISRO official, following the launch. A Landmark Collaboration NISAR marks the first satellite mission jointly developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The satellite has an expected mission life of five years. Speaking on the occasion, Casey Swails, NASA’s Deputy Associate Administrator, said that NISAR will equip decision-makers with...

  Following the massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula on Wednesday (IST), tsunami waves have now reached parts of the United States. After impacting Japan and Russia, the waves have begun hitting American coastlines, including Hawaii and the western coastal states of Washington, Oregon, and California. In Hawaii, tsunami sirens have been activated, prompting evacuations from low-lying coastal areas to higher ground. The sea remains unusually turbulent, with authorities urging residents and tourists to stay alert. According to U.S. media reports, the highest tsunami wave recorded so far was 1.6 feet at Arena Cove, California. Crescent City (1.5 feet) and Monterey (1.4 feet) also experienced notable wave surges. So far, the tsunami's impact appears to be mostly concentrated along Northern California's coastline. Despite this, precautionary alerts have been extended to other regions, including San Francisco Bay, the Oregon coast, and coastal...

  Several regions in Japan have been severely affected by a tsunami, with the country's Pacific coastal areas bearing the brunt of the impact, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. Although the waves did not reach catastrophic heights, the situation remains serious. The tsunami followed a powerful earthquake that struck Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula on Wednesday (Indian time), registering a magnitude of 8.8 on the Richter scale. Shortly after the quake, a tsunami hit parts of Russia, and its effects were also felt in Japan. Additionally, tsunami warnings have been issued for countries including China, Peru, and Ecuador. According to Japanese authorities, the port of Ishinomaki experienced the strongest impact of the tsunami. As the waves moved southward along the Pacific coast, 16 other locations also reported being hit by the surging waters. From Wednesday morning (local time), tsunami waves began striking several coastal areas of Japan. Authorities have started evacuati...

  Divya Deshmukh, the 19-year-old International Master from Nagpur, Maharashtra, scripted history by defeating Grandmaster Humpy Koneru 1.5–0.5 in the tiebreaks to claim the 2025 FIDE Women’s World Cup. With this victory, she becomes only the third-ever champion of this prestigious event, following in the footsteps of GM Alexandra Kosteniuk (2021) and GM Aleksandra Goryachkina (2023). The final was decided in two rapid tiebreak games (15+10 time control). In the first, Divya missed a promising chance, and the game ended in a draw. However, she bounced back brilliantly in the second game, displaying exceptional precision and nerves of steel. Playing Black, she equalised effortlessly before capitalising on Humpy’s time trouble to secure a memorable victory. This remarkable triumph not only crowns Divya as the 2025 Women’s World Cup Champion but also marks her as one of the brightest emerging stars in global chess. After her final win, an emotional Divya embraced her mother and, in...

  Australia wrapped up a flawless tour of the Caribbean with a gritty three-wicket win over the West Indies in the fifth and final T20I at Basseterre, St Kitts and Nevis, completing a 5-0 series whitewash. Chasing 171 for victory, the Aussies found themselves in early trouble at 25-3 and later 60-4. But a composed 32 from Cameron Green anchored the middle-order recovery, while Mitchell Owen chipped in with 37. The game tilted back in West Indies’ favour when Green fell at 141-6, with 30 runs still needed. However, Aaron Hardie kept his nerve under pressure and guided Australia home with an unbeaten 28, sealing the win with three overs to spare. Tim David provided the late innings firepower, blasting 30 off just 12 balls, including four sixes and a four. Earlier, the West Indies struggled after being sent in to bat by skipper Mitchell Marsh. Ben Dwarshuis was the standout with the ball, removing both openers — Brandon King (11) and Shai Hope (9) — inside the powerplay to reduce t...

  Maa Chandrahasini Temple | Chandrapur, Chhattisgarh Introduction: The Maa Chandrahasini Temple , located in Chandrapur town of Janjgir-Champa district , Chhattisgarh, is a major Shakti Peetha and one of the most revered temples in the region. Situated along the scenic banks of the Mahanadi River , the temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandrahasini , a benevolent and powerful form of Durga or Shakti . It is a sacred pilgrimage spot known for its spiritual ambience and ancient legends. History in Detail: The temple’s origin is steeped in mythology and folk tradition. According to local beliefs, Maa Chandrahasini appeared to protect the region from demonic forces and has been worshipped here for several centuries. Her name “Chandrahasini” comes from the crescent-shaped sword (Chandrahasa) she wields, symbolizing the divine power that destroys evil and upholds righteousness. The site is believed to have been a center of tribal and tantric worship since ancient times. Over ti...

  Sri Rajiv Lochan Temple | Rajim, Chhattisgarh Introduction: Sri Rajiv Lochan Temple , located in Rajim , Chhattisgarh, is one of the oldest and most revered Vaishnava temples in central India. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Rajiv Lochan (lotus-eyed) form, this ancient temple is a magnificent example of early Indian temple architecture and a spiritual anchor for Vaishnavites. Set on the sacred confluence of rivers Mahanadi, Pairi, and Sondur , Rajim is often referred to as the " Prayag of Chhattisgarh ." History in Detail: The temple dates back to the 8th century , during the reign of the Nala dynasty . Inscriptions suggest it was built by King Vilasatunga , a ruler of the Nala dynasty, whose patronage to Vishnu worship is evident in the temple's rich iconography and architectural grandeur. The temple is believed to be over 1,200 years old , and is mentioned in ancient texts and inscriptions. Its enduring spiritual significance is reflected in the continued w...

  Introduction: Mixed Vegetable Paneer Curry , or Niramish Sabji Paneer , is a wholesome, Bengali-style vegetarian dish that brings together seasonal vegetables and soft paneer in a lightly spiced, no-onion-no-garlic gravy. It's flavored with whole spices and cooked gently to preserve the natural taste and texture of the ingredients. Perfect for puja days, family dinners, or as a comforting weekend meal. Ingredients: Paneer – 200 grams Broccoli – 1 head, cut into florets Cauliflower – ½ head, cut into florets Capsicum – 1, chopped Carrots – 4, sliced Potatoes – 2, chopped Tomato – 1, chopped Ginger paste – 5 tablespoons Green chillies – as per taste Cumin paste – 2 teaspoons Turmeric powder – 2 teaspoons Bay leaves – 2 Kashmiri red chilli powder – ½ teaspoon White oil – ½ cup Garam masala powder – 1 teaspoon Salt and sugar – to taste Method: Heat oil in a large pan and add bay leaves for tempering. Add all the chopped vegetables with a pinch of salt and t...

  Introduction: Paneer Dilkhush is a creamy, luxurious North Indian dish that lives up to its name— “Dilkhush” , meaning "heart-pleasing" or "delightful." It combines soft cubes of paneer with a rich tomato-cashew gravy, flavored with aromatic kasuri methi and a touch of Indian spices. Finished with a swirl of fresh cream and a garnish of coriander, this dish is a festive favorite and pairs beautifully with Indian breads or rice. Ingredients: Paneer (cottage cheese) – 250 grams Tomato purée – 200 grams Fresh cream – 200 grams Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) – 2 teaspoons Ghee – as needed Red chilli powder – ½ teaspoon Turmeric powder – ½ teaspoon Garam masala powder – ½ teaspoon Green chillies – 2 to 3, slit Cashew paste – 2 tablespoons Salt – to taste Fresh coriander leaves – for garnish Method: Cut the paneer into bite-sized cubes. Heat some ghee in a pan and lightly fry the paneer pieces until golden. Remove and set aside. In the sa...

  Introduction: "Swarnali Paneer" or Golden Cottage Cheese is a rich, aromatic North Indian-inspired dish where soft cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) are gently fried and simmered in a luxurious, mildly spiced gravy. The curry gets its signature golden hue and subtle nuttiness from a blend of roasted spices, coconut milk, and nuts. It's perfect for festive occasions or a special vegetarian main course. Ingredients: Paneer (cottage cheese) Roasted spice blend (ground roasted peanuts, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, poppy seeds, white sesame seeds) Tomato purée Grated or paste of fresh ginger Kashmiri red chilli powder Coconut milk Thick sour curd (yogurt) Garam masala Almonds Salt and sugar (to taste) Green chillies White oil (refined oil) Cherry tomatoes Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish) Dry red chillies (for tempering) Method: Heat oil in a pan and lightly fry the paneer cubes until they turn golden brown. Remove and set aside. In the s...

  India’s second innings was into its 138th over. The score read 386 for 4. At the crease stood Washington Sundar on 80 and Ravindra Jadeja on 89. With about 90 minutes left in the match, Ben Stokes suddenly walked up to Jadeja and offered a handshake — a proposal for a draw. India’s two batters politely declined. They made it clear they wanted to continue batting. Since both sides did not agree, the umpires had no choice but to let the game continue. The entire episode took just about three minutes, but it summed up the Manchester Test perfectly. From the brink of defeat, India had clawed their way back to secure a draw. On the morning of Day 4, few would have placed hope in this Indian team. Yet on Day 5, they walked off the field with heads held high — proving once again that the game isn’t lost until the last ball is bowled. As Ravi Shastri said in the commentary box, this was a “moral victory” for India. The trio of Shubman Gill, Washington Sundar, and Ravindra Jadeja turne...

  Maa Bamleshwari Temple | Dongargarh Introduction: Located atop a 1,600-foot hill in Dongargarh , in the Rajnandgaon district of Chhattisgarh , Maa Bamleshwari Temple is one of the most sacred Shakti Peethas in central India. Dedicated to Goddess Bamleshwari , a form of Durga , the temple is a major pilgrimage site, attracting lakhs of devotees during Navratri and other Hindu festivals. History in Detail: The temple’s origin is intertwined with local legend and royal patronage . It is believed that King Veersen of the Rajnandgaon princely state , a devout follower of Maa Durga, built the temple nearly 2200 years ago after the Goddess appeared in his dream and guided him to the hilltop site. Another folklore links the temple to the Mythological story of Sati , suggesting that a part of her body fell here, giving it the reverence of a Shakti Peeth . Over the centuries, the temple grew in fame and importance, especially under the Kalachuri and Maratha rulers , and later dur...

New Zealand beat South Africa in a thriller in the final of a Tri Nation event in Zimbabwe    South Africa needed just 7 runs off the final over — and only 4 off the last two deliveries — but couldn’t get across the finish line in the tri-nation T20 series final against New Zealand. Despite having four wickets in hand, they lost two wickets and played two dot balls in the final six deliveries, falling agonisingly short by 3 runs. After the heartbreaking loss at the Harare Sports Club, South Africa captain Rassie van der Dussen remarked, “We were just a centimetre away from victory.” South Africa were in command for most of the match. New Zealand, batting first, posted a competitive 180 for 5, with Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra both scoring 47 and Tim Seifert adding 30. In response, South Africa made a strong start as openers Luan-Dre Pretorius and Reeza Hendricks put up 92 runs in just 9.4 overs. After the opening stand was broken, van der Dussen steadied the chase. How...

  Australia edged past West Indies in a gripping fourth T20I at Warner Park, surviving late-order jitters to secure a nervy three-wicket victory and take a commanding 4-0 lead in the five-match series. After the visitors elected to bowl first, the Windies posted 205 for nine—built on sporadic resistance but undone by consistent Aussie pressure in the second half of their innings. Australia’s bowlers shared the spoils with sharp fielding and timely breakthroughs keeping the Caribbean side from fully capitalising on their start. Despite the modest target, Australia’s chase was anything but smooth. Cameron Green was the standout with a composed half-century off 35 balls, featuring three sixes and three fours, while Josh Inglis lit up the powerplay with a blistering 51 off just 30 deliveries, including 10 boundaries and a six. Glenn Maxwell added fireworks of his own, smashing 47 from only 18 balls with six towering sixes and a four. However, the chase turned chaotic after Maxwell...

  Chandi Mata Temple | Bagbahara Introduction: Chandi Mata Temple, located in Bagbahara town of Mahasamund district , Chhattisgarh, is a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Chandi , a fierce manifestation of Shakti. Perched on the hilltop of Barahi Dungri , this ancient shrine draws thousands of devotees, especially during Navratri , when the temple becomes a vibrant hub of religious activity. History in Detail: The Chandi Mata Temple is believed to date back several centuries and holds significant mythological and spiritual value. Though there is no definitive historical record, local legends speak of the deity manifesting herself on the hill to protect the people of the region. Over time, a temple was constructed at the site, and it became a sacred space for worshippers of the Goddess. The temple's history is closely associated with tribal traditions and folk worship , and it has evolved into a major center of faith for devotees from Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and M...

  Peggy Fleming was an iconic American figure skating superstar  Peggy Fleming was born on July 27, 1948, in San Jose, California, USA. Known for her elegant artistry, fluid grace, and classical style, Fleming revolutionized women’s figure skating with a blend of balletic precision and technical skill. She remains one of the most iconic figures in American skating history. Style of Play : Peggy Fleming was celebrated for her artistic expression, balletic posture, and seamless transitions on ice. Her skating exuded grace, poise, and musicality, emphasizing the artistic side of the sport as much as the technical elements. Career Highlights: Olympic Gold Medalist : 1968 Winter Olympics in Grenoble, France World Champion : 1966, 1967, 1968 (three consecutive titles) U.S. National Champion : Five consecutive titles (1964–1968) Skating Hall of Fame : Inducted into the World Figure Skating Hall of Fame After her competitive career, she became a pioneering television figure skating co...

  Avoiding defeat in the Manchester Test looks immensely difficult. Extremely difficult. Yet the Indian team is fighting with nerves of steel — even after losing two wickets in the very first over without a run on the board! From that dreadful position, India ended Day 4 at 174 for 2. KL Rahul (87*) and Shubman Gill (78*) remain unbeaten, having batted through 62.1 overs in a resolute third-wicket stand. Their partnership has managed to hold off England’s hopes of clinching the series. Even the chants echoing through Old Trafford’s stands from the English fans failed to break their concentration. India still needs 137 runs to make England bat again. Earlier on Saturday, England wrapped up their first innings at a colossal 669 — 311 runs ahead of India. It was skipper Ben Stokes who led the charge. After taking 5 wickets with the ball, he followed it up with a magnificent 141 with the bat. In England’s 148-year Test history, no other captain has achieved this unique double — a ce...

  Tim David smashed Australia’s fastest-ever T20 international century at St Kitts — a breathtaking 100* off just 37 balls — to lead the visitors to a commanding six-wicket win over West Indies and seal the five-match series 3-0. Chasing a daunting 215, David launched an astonishing assault, hammering 11 sixes and notching his half-century off just 16 balls , also the fastest T20I fifty for Australia. His onslaught included four consecutive sixes off Gudakesh Motie and a flurry of boundaries that left the home crowd stunned at Warner Park. Coming in at No.5 with Australia reeling at 3 down in the Powerplay, David found a perfect partner in Mitch Owen (36* off 16). The duo stitched a 128-run stand in rapid time , with David dominating as they raced to the target in just 17 overs — with 23 balls to spare . His fireworks completely overshadowed Shai Hope’s maiden T20I century — an explosive unbeaten 102 off 57 balls — as he became only the second West Indian (after Chris Gay...

  Champaran Devi Temple, Chhattisgarh Introduction Located in the quiet village of Champaran (formerly Champajhar ) in the Raipur district of Chhattisgarh , the Champaran Devi Temple is a revered religious site dedicated to Maa Durga and forms part of a spiritual complex that also includes temples related to Saint Vallabhacharya , the founder of the Pushtimarg sect of Vaishnavism. This sacred spot is deeply rooted in spiritual devotion, Shakti worship, and Vaishnav traditions , making it unique in its dual religious appeal. History in Detail The site holds historical and spiritual significance dating back several centuries. The Champaran region is believed to be the birthplace of Shri Vallabhacharya (1479–1531), a highly revered philosopher and theologian who propagated the Pushtimarg sect , emphasizing grace-based devotion to Lord Krishna. Alongside this Vaishnav legacy, the Champaran Devi Mandir evolved as a Shakti Peetha-style shrine , believed to have been buil...

  If India loses the ongoing Manchester Test, they will lose the series. And at the end of Day 3, the match situation offers little hope for a win or even a draw. Despite cricket being a game of glorious uncertainties, England now holds a dominant position in the fourth Test from where a defeat appears highly unlikely. Without an extraordinary second-innings batting performance, it will be nearly impossible for India to save this Test. England ended Day 3 at 544/7, leading by 186 runs with two full days still to go. Unless weather intervenes, a result is inevitable. India’s plan on the third morning was clear: dismiss Joe Root and Ollie Pope as early as possible. But things didn’t go according to script. The Indian bowling lacked the sharpness required to trouble England’s in-form batters. Root and Pope gave no chances. With clear skies and a flat pitch, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj had little assistance. The English duo made full use of the conditions, scoring freely. Perh...

  Bhoramdeo Temple | Kabirdham, Chhattisgarh Introduction Known as the " Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh ", Bhoramdeo Temple is a magnificent 11th-century Hindu temple located in the Kabirdham district of Chhattisgarh. Nestled amidst the Maikal mountain ranges and surrounded by dense forests, this stone temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its erotic carvings, exquisite stone architecture, and Tantric symbolism . It stands as a testament to the region’s rich cultural, spiritual, and architectural legacy. History in Detail The Bhoramdeo Temple complex was built between the 7th and 11th centuries AD , during the reign of the Naga dynasty and later under the Kalachuri kings . The main temple, known as Bhoramdeo Mahadev Temple , is believed to have been constructed around 1089 AD by King Gopal Dev of the Fani Nagvanshi dynasty . The temple derives its name from King Bhoram , a devout follower of Lord Shiva. It is also said to be named after a local trib...

  Maa Bamleshwari Devi Temple, Dongargarh Introduction The Maa Bamleshwari Devi Temple is a renowned Hindu pilgrimage site located atop a hill at Dongargarh in the Rajnandgaon district of Chhattisgarh . It is perched at an altitude of about 1,600 feet above sea level and is dedicated to Maa Bamleshwari , a manifestation of Goddess Durga . Thousands of devotees throng this hill temple especially during Navratri , believing the goddess fulfills wishes and protects her devotees from harm. The temple is not only a religious center but also a major spiritual and cultural landmark of Chhattisgarh. History in Detail The temple's origin is closely linked to local mythology and the region’s royal lineage: According to legend, King Veersen , a ruler of the area centuries ago, was blessed with a child after years of prayer to Maa Durga. In gratitude, he constructed the Bamleshwari Temple atop the hill to honor the goddess who granted his wish. Historical references suggest the te...

  India had hoped that Rishabh Pant’s brave innings on a fractured foot would inspire a similarly aggressive response from their bowlers. But that hope quickly faded on Day 2 of the Manchester Test. It took India 32 overs to claim England’s first wicket, by which time Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley had already dismantled Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj with ease, making the Indian pace attack look pedestrian. In stark contrast to India’s struggle on the same surface, England’s batters played with remarkable fluency. At stumps on Day 2, England were 225 for 2, trailing by just 133 runs in reply to India’s 358. Both Duckett and Crawley narrowly missed out on centuries, but their dominant opening stand has placed Ben Stokes' men in a commanding position. If England continue at this pace, they could easily overtake India's score early on Day 3. The biggest highlight for India on Day 2 was Rishabh Pant. After suffering a serious injury on the opening day, many believed he would be...