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News18
5 hours ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Sonali Bendre's Fringe Dress And Bronzed Glam Look Is A Major Fashion Serve
Last Updated: For her latest look, Sonali Bendre stunned in an off-the-shoulder brown fringe dress. She complemented the dress with a soft bronzed makeup look. Actor Sonali Bendre is known for leaving her fans stunned with her feminine and graceful style. Recently, the actor took a bold step when she stepped out in a dramatic fringe dress. The brown ensemble was the right blend of drama and style. Moreover, the brown shade was the perfect nod to the colour of the year – Mocha Mousse. Taking to her Instagram, Sonali Bendre shared a series of pictures of herself in a brown dress. She was seen posing on her balcony with Mumbai's stormy skyline in the background. Additionally, the sky also twinned with her and made the perfect setting for some Insta-worthy snaps. Sharing the pictures, Sonali wrote, 'The sky was the main character!" Take a look at Sonali's OOTD here. Sonali opted for a striking fringe dress by designer Mac Duggal. The rich brown ensemble came with an off-shoulder neckline and a form-fitting bodice that was cinched at the waist with a sleek black belt. The belt added structure to the silhouette. But it was the skirt that truly stole the spotlight. Embellished with dramatic fringe details, the skirt swayed with every step. A thigh-high slit added just the right amount of edge to the overall look. Styled by Khushi Nimbalkar, Sonali opted for gold dainty bracelets and statement earrings to balance out the brown hues of her dress. She slipped into a pair of classic black heels. For the glam, she went with a soft bronzed look. She added a warm bronze shade on her eyelids to create a smokey eye. She went with a flawless base. She added a muted brown shade to her lips. She styled her hair in glossy, structured waves that were gelled and parted perfectly to frame her face. Sonali's fashion game continues to evolve, and she's clearly not slowing down. Earlier, she embraced breezy summer elegance in a floor-length beige dress by Twinkle Hanspal. The collared neckline and button-down detailing gave the outfit a tailored feel, while the delicate black floral line art print added an artistic, contemporary edge. The cinched waist and asymmetrical, layered skirt added both definition and drama, while a sheer overlay introduced fluidity and grace. She finished the look with nude heels and sleek metal accessories as she balanced minimalism with sophistication. First Published: June 02, 2025, 09:32 IST News lifestyle Sonali Bendre's Fringe Dress And Bronzed Glam Look Is A Major Fashion Serve
NDTV
4 days ago
- NDTV
Cherrapunji Travel Guide: What To Do, Eat, And See In The Wettest Place On Earth
Tucked away in the northeastern corner of India, Cherrapunji (also known as Sohra) is the kind of destination that quietly sneaks up on you and leaves you wide-eyed. Famous for once holding the record as the wettest place on Earth, this little town in Meghalaya is about more than just monsoon drama. Think living root bridges you can walk on, waterfalls that vanish into deep green gorges, and caves that look like movie sets. The Khasi culture here runs deep — proud, warm, and absolutely fascinating. Whether you're up for rainforest treks or just want to unwind with piping-hot jadoh (a local rice and meat dish), this handy Cherrapunji travel guide will help you plan a trip that hits all the right notes. Afterall, this is where every view deserves its very own postcard. Here Is The Ultimate Cherrapunji Travel Guide For Your Northeast Trip: Where To Go In Cherrapunji: 1. Mawsmai Cave Even if you've never fancied yourself the adventurous sort, Mawsmai Cave might change your mind. It's lit just enough to not need a headlamp, and short enough for beginners to navigate. Formed from limestone, the cave walls are textured with wild, otherworldly shapes-drippy stalactites, shiny mineral deposits, and narrow passageways that make you feel like Indiana Jones. Wear comfy shoes and don't expect to stay dry! 2. Living Root Bridges No list about Cherrapunji is complete without talking about its legendary Living Root Bridges. Built (literally grown) by the Khasi people using the roots of rubber trees, these bridges can take decades to form but last for centuries. The most famous one-the Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Nongriat-requires a steep trek down 3,000-odd steps, but the reward is surreal. It's strong, springy underfoot, and surrounded by waterfalls and dense forest. If there's one experience in Cherrapunji that's worth the leg workout, this is it. 3. Wei Sawdong Falls If you're after an Insta-worthy shot that feels less touristy, make time for Wei Sawdong Falls. The three-tiered cascade is nothing short of magical, and the turquoise-blue water framed by dense greenery is the stuff of storybooks. Be prepared for a slippery, slightly intense hike down through the forest-it's a bit of a workout, but oh so worth it. 4. Nohkalikai Falls Let's be honest: You haven't really been to Cherrapunji if you didn't stand slack-jawed in front of Nohkalikai Falls. It's the tallest plunge waterfall in India, dropping from a dramatic cliff into a turquoise pool below. The view point gives you a panoramic sweep of the landscape, and the mist in the air feels like nature's air conditioning. There's a sad local legend behind the name, but don't let it dampen the beauty. 5. Krem Phyllut This one's a hidden gem. Krem Phyllut is a lesser-known cave system, and it's ideal if you want to escape the crowds. The journey in involves squeezing through tight openings, walking across small underground streams, and taking in limestone formations that look like frozen waterfalls. It's safe with a local guide, and definitely an off-the-beaten-path thrill. 6. Dawki OK, Dawki isn't technically in Cherrapunji — it's about a three-hour drive away — but locals often include it in the itinerary, and for good reason. The Umngot River here is so clear, boats look like they're floating on glass. Hop on a traditional wooden boat and let the surreal views sink in. If the weather's right, you'll get a stunning gradient of greens and blues in the water. 7. Mawlynnong Village This village has a reputation that travels far-often dubbed the "cleanest village in Asia," Mawlynnong is spotless, scenic, and super friendly. Bamboo dustbins line the cobbled paths, flower gardens bloom in front of every home, and the Sky View platform offers sweeping views all the way to Bangladesh. You'll find little cafes and homestays that make you feel instantly at home. Where To Stay In Cherrapunji: 1. Luxury Resorts Polo Orchid Resort is hands-down one of the fanciest stays in Cherrapunji. Overlooking the misty valley and just a stone's throw from Nohsngithiang Falls, it nails the balance between comfort and wild natural beauty. Think private sit-outs, bathtubs with a view, and warm wooden interiors. Their spa isn't too shabby either. 2. Boutique Stays Cherrapunji is home to a growing number of charming Airbnbs — think wooden cottages tucked into hillsides, cosy treehouses with views, or heritage-style homes run by Khasi families. Jiva Resort invites you in with cascading waterfalls, little bridges, canopies, suites with jacuzzis, and organic local meals. 3. Budget Hotels Travelling light? There are solid budget options, from friendly guesthouses to low-key hostels. Most of them offer basic amenities, warm meals, and helpful locals who'll point you to the best trails. Don't expect luxury, but you'll get clean beds, hot showers, and possibly a new travel buddy or two. Where To Eat In Cherrapunji: 1. Regional Cuisine Local Khasi food is hearty and flavourful, made for chilly days and big appetites. Try jadoh — rice cooked with pork and spices, often served with pickles and chutney. Dohneiiong is a slow-cooked pork dish with black sesame paste that's rich and smoky. For the bold, tungrymbai, a fermented soybean delicacy that locals swear by, is perfect. 2. Cosy Cafes Small, artsy cafes are popping up across Cherrapunji. Look for local favourites like Orange Roots that serve Indian breakfast options, cinnamon-sprinkled coffee, fluffy pancakes, and homemade banana bread. Most cafes are run by young locals with a passion for great brews and indie playlists. Grab a window seat and people-watch (or cloud-watch). 3. Fine-Dining Restaurants While it's not a fine-dining hotspot in the traditional sense, some resort restaurants really bring their A-game. Think rooftop terraces serving Khasi-fusion meals, candlelit setups with valley views, and menus that mix local ingredients with global styles. Don't skip the pork ribs and sizzling platters at Jiva Grill — they're legendary in these parts. 4. Lounges & Bars Alcohol isn't mainstream in many parts of Meghalaya due to cultural norms, but you'll still find a few discreet spots in resorts or private lounges that serve drinks. It's more about sipping a glass of wine while watching the mist roll in than any kind of nightlife scene — and honestly, that's part of the charm. Where To Shop In Cherrapunji: 1. Local Markets You'll find weekly haats (markets) that are loud, colourful, and brimming with life. From bamboo baskets to fresh turmeric, wild honey to black sesame seeds, it's an experience in itself. Be prepared to haggle a bit, and take cash — card machines aren't a thing here. 2. Souvenirs & Handicrafts Look out for cane and bamboo crafts, handmade jewellery, and Khasi-style shawls. Many of these items are made by women's cooperatives, and each piece has a story. Skip the generic trinkets and go for something unique — maybe a handwoven bag or a carved wooden bowl. 3. Personalised Picks How about dried local herbs or a bottle of home-brewed rice beer? Or a sketch from a local artist you met at the cafe? These little personalised finds not only support the local economy but also make way better souvenirs than fridge magnets. Weather In Cherrapunji (The Best Time To Visit Cherrapunji): If you're into wild greenery and thunderous waterfalls, visit from June to September — it's monsoon season, and everything's impossibly lush. But be warned: roads can get tricky. October to February is cooler, drier, and perfect for sightseeing and trekking. March to May? Ideal if you want to dodge crowds while still soaking in that forest vibe. How To Reach Cherrapunji: By Air The closest airport is in Shillong (about 90 km away), but you'll get better connectivity via Guwahati Airport (around 170 km). From either, you can book a cab or shared sumo straight to Cherrapunji. Scenic drive included. By Rail There's no direct railway station in Cherrapunji. The nearest major station is Guwahati, which connects well with major cities. From there, it's a road trip through hills and clouds to reach your destination. By Road Buses, shared cabs, and private taxis run from Shillong regularly. The road is winding and dramatic, with plenty of viewpoints for those impromptu photo stops. Just keep some ginger candies handy if you're prone to motion sickness. Getting Around In Cherrapunji: Local transport is limited, so hiring a private cab is your best bet. Some spots are walkable, while others might need a short drive. For the adventurous, renting a bike is a fun way to feel the wind and chase the clouds (just drive safely-roads can get slippery). Google Maps works, but asking locals often leads to better routes and unexpected detours.
India Today
5 days ago
- Health
- India Today
Salt therapy is a growing wellness trend, but take it with a pinch of salt
Let's talk wellness. What is wellness? An endeavour to achieve a state of being healthy - in mind, body and soul. A pursuit of happiness, in a nutshell. Wellness in India has come a long way. It's no longer just about haldi doodh, nani ke nuskhe or the early morning weekend yoga stretch, it's a full-blown lifestyle. It's not just eating clean or early to bed, early to rise kind of a habit, it's a in 2025, it comes in the form of spa retreats, scented candle-lit rooms, or salty crystal rooms that probably look straight out of a Pinterest-y subcontinent has witnessed a cultural shift when it comes to wellness in the contemporary age. Retreats and wellness centres are cropping up across cities and have even gained global recognition. In a country where Ayurveda has long prevailed, the 21st-century wellness wave is louder, trendier, and far more Insta-worthy. ( your chakras is the new lifestyle flex, or is it?) Now sample this: It's a balmy afternoon. You are sitting in a plush chair. Away from the chaos. Away from the mundane hustle. The environment is soothing, bathed in a soft pink glow. It smells faintly like the beach. The walls? Salty. The floor? Salty. The air? Salty. What is it?advertisementWell, it is a salt cave - a growing wellness trend that works on the concept of what is called salt therapy or halotherapy. It's said to enhance breathwork, relieve congestion, and reduce spaces often offer services rooted in Ayurveda or naturopathy and aim at rejuvenation. And like you may have already understood, such therapy centres are already available in places like Gurugram, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, and the question remains, is salt therapy just another aesthetic vibe check for your Instagram, or is there actual science behind the salt?Hype, healing or bothThe concept of salt therapy traces its roots to Europe. It was observed that salt miners had better respiratory health and reported fewer breathing issues compared to other mine workers. This led to further exploration of the phenomenon - could salt really aid in overall well-being? Thus, halotherapy was born, and with it, salt caves as lifestyle experiences for the masses. Salt caves have salt-laden walls and floors as well (Photo credits: Getty Image) The science of salt suggests that the grains have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation, alleviate congestion, and clear mucus, leading to better airway clearance. But not everyone is sold just yet. Experts tend to take the concept with a pinch of lot has been said about salt therapy or halotherapy in respiratory diseases, particularly in COPD, asthma and breathing difficulties,' Dr. A. Jayachandra, clinical director and senior interventional pulmonologist at CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, tells India said that, he also mentions, the effect isn't substantial.'This is not mainstream therapy and does not really have any significant benefits. At best, it can only be a supportive therapy. It may help to a certain extent in loosening mucus and aiding its expectoration.'He further adds, 'This might be useful for people with milder to moderate forms of disease, those who are otherwise comfortable or whose main problem is cough and difficulty expectorating, they can try it, and it may offer some benefit. But it should always be an adjunct to mainstream therapy.'Explaining the frequency of undergoing this therapy for effectiveness, Dr. Jayachandra said, 'Maybe twice or thrice a day could help some people. We use hypotonic saline nebulisation to achieve the same purpose, which is more mainstream. Probably the same logic applies to salt therapy or halotherapy, but it becomes an expensive proposition. I wouldn't recommend it very often for these patients.'Breathe in salt, breathe out stressadvertisementCare for a little salt for the soul? Wellness centres that offer salt therapy advocate its effect on mental health too. And this part seems to hold more ground, even with experts.'Salt therapy is believed to boost mood, making it a helpful addition for those with mood disorders. Salt caves may help improve serotonin levels, which can lift your mood and enhance overall well-being. The calming and stress-relieving nature of salt therapy may also play a role in supporting mental health,' explained Dr. Sumalatha Vasudeva, psychologist, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, to the expert, people with anxiety or depression often try these salt rooms. 'As a psychologist, I remain open to complementary approaches that may support well-being, given that it does not replace actual treatment. While salt therapy is not a substitute for psychological or medical interventions, people do claim to be more at ease and have an improved mood after the session."TakeawaySalt therapy definitely brings the vibe and the aesthetic, but science hasn't fully backed it just yet. Experts only acknowledge its benefits to a certain extent. Enough clinical trials and placebo effect checks remain grainy. advertisement
Time of India
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Plan an ice-cream social with scoops, sprinkles & swirls
Pic: Anindya Saha When the mercury climbs and the sun beats down, there's no sweeter escape than the cool, creamy comfort of an ice- cream social. It's a throwback to simpler times — joyful, hands-on, and perfect for all ages. Kids revel in the chance to build their dream sundaes, while adults indulge their inner child, debating over toppings like rainbow sprinkles or caramel drizzle. The setup is easy, the vibes are high, and the mess is half the fun. Forget sweltering in the heat and plan this fun summer activity for your buddies. From colourful décor and retro music, to the best frozen treats to cool off. Lahoma Bhattacharya played the perfect host, throwing the ultimate ice-cream social for friends Raipurna Halder, Sanjukta Dutta and Imon Sengupta. CT joined in the fun too, capturing every sweet, sticky moment. A sweet sprinkle of toppings An ice-cream social is meant to bring out your inner child so don't hold back on the toppings. Chef Vidisha Batwal suggests getting playful with your ice-cream presentation — think mini tubs like the ones you'd find at a kid's birthday party, perfect for serving up cheerful little waffle sundaes; or go a little extra with bubble waffles rolled into cones and generously filled with your favourite scoops. For something a bit more unexpected, she advises trying crispy crepe rolls that act as both wrap and dessert — a deliciously edible upgrade that adds a gourmet touch. Craft the perfect aesthetic Table runners in pastel stripes or polka dots Small signage like 'Build Your Own Sundae', 'Toppings Bar', or 'Scoop Me Up!' Backdrops with ice-cream illustrations, balloon arches, or ice-cream parlour themes Themed props like waffle cone cutouts and carts Serving displays with labelled jars, cake stands, and tiered trays for toppings Consider adding a DIY sundae or float station, live ice-cream churning demo or hiring a gelato cart Polaroid photo corner with themed props for guests to take the perfect Insta-worthy shot Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
Time Out Dubai
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
7 Dubai Marina beach clubs to try on your next day off
No matter what kind of beach club day you're looking for, you'll be able to find something to suit in Dubai Marina. Whether you want a day out at one of the city's OG beach bars, or an afternoon dancing on a floating pool lounger, this is the neighbourhood for you. So grab your sunnies and get down to one of these plush Dubai Marina beach clubs before the heat hits. Dubai Marina beach clubs to book next Barasti Best pool day deals in Dubai Credit: Barasti Dubai's iconic OG beach bar, Barasti Dubai, recently underwent a transformation, revealing a fresh new look. The revamped space is modern, cool and extremely Insta-worthy. What used to be a free-to-enter beach day experience will now cost you Dhs150 on weekdays and Dhs200 on weekends (both fully redeemable on food and drink). Dhs150 (fully redeemable weekdays), Dhs200 (fully redeemable, weekends). Open daily from 9am-3am. Barasti Beach, Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark, (04 511 7373). Be Beach (Credit: Be Beach) This Dubai Harbour pool club has some real *wow factor* views, and you can bronze all day by the pool or one of the lounge areas on the sand. Some of the options are even fully redeemable (and gals, there's a ladies' day on Wednesday that you need to check out). Dhs200 (fully redeemable, Mon-Fri), Dhs300 (fully redeemable, Sat-Sun). Pool open daily 10am-6pm. Dubai Marina, (054 751 1119). DRIFT Beach Dubai Best pool day deals in Dubai. Credit: DRIFT Beach Dubai If you're looking to take advantage of the pre-summer weather and enjoy a luxurious pool and beach day, this is the place to do it. The stunning beach club is as swish as they come and also offers plenty of Instagram opportunities. If you're truly after one of the best Dubai Marina beach clubs, look no further. Dhs150 (non-redeemable) Mon-Thurs, Dhs200 (non-redeemable) Fri-Sun. Open daily from 10am-7pm. One&Only Royal Mirage, Al Sufouh, (04 315 2200). InterContinental Dubai Marina Fully redeemable pool and beach days in Dubai. Pool days don't have to be expensive, if you're looking for a fully redeemable pool day on the (relatively) cheap side, you should check out the Intercontinental Dubai Marina. Although partially shaded throughout the day, this is exactly what we need for the hot and hazy Dubai days. Take a dip in the pool and chill on the sun loungers, as you enjoy a fab pool day for just Dhs99 on weekdays. Dhs99 (fully redeemable, Mon-Fri) Dhs149 (fully redeemable, Sat-Sun). Open daily 7am-10pm. Dubai Marina, (04 446 6669). Mare by Bussola Mare by Bussola offers an upmarket vibe along with an Italian charm. Based at The Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Mare by Bussola never disappoints when you are seeking somewhere to relax and unwind. With a stunning restaurant serving first-class food, plus a pool and a swim-up bar it's the perfect location for soaking up the sun, enjoying a long and lazy lunch or a dinner with a special someone or group of pals. Dhs 300 (fully redeemable) Mon-Fri, Dhs500 (fully redeemable) Sat-Sun. Open daily 9am-8pm. The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, Dubai Marina. (04 511 7319). O Beach The iconic Ibiza beach club now has a permanent home in Dubai, and you can experience the same incredible music, entertainment and all-day party. There's no time for sun lounger naps here, you'll be having way too much fun for that. From Dhs200 (fully redeemable). Open Tue-Sun 11am-10pm. Habtoor Grand Hotel Beach Front, Dubai Marina, (052 858 0464). Zero Gravity The sprawling beach club looks straight across to Ain Dubai, boasting its own long stretch of sand and an impressive swimming pool. There are different events every day of the week, from chilled melodic Monday to a tropical barbecue style brunch on Saturdays, and an unlimited breakfast deal every Sunday for Dhs75. Prices vary. Open Sub-Mon 10am-9pm; Tue 9am-9pm; Thu 9am-9pm. Skydive Dubai, Dubai Marina, (04 399 0009). Looking for things to do in Dubai? The best budget-friendly beach clubs for an affordable day in the sun Don't spend a dirham more than you need to The best places to go night swimming in Dubai this evening Including free entry to a top hotel pool Every beach club you can find at The Club at West Beach Your ultimate pocket guide
