Latest news with #Jolie-Pitt
Time of India
4 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
Happy Raksha Bandhan 2025: Best Rakhi Wishes and Messages to share with your brother or sister
Raksha Bandhan 2025 is here! It's that special time of the year when brothers and sisters across India (and around the world) celebrate their bond with love, laughter, and lots of sweets. Whether you're the mischievous younger sibling or the protective elder one, Raksha Bandhan is all about celebrating the strong emotional thread that ties you together. One of the best parts of this festival is sending heartfelt wishes and messages to your sibling, whether you're tying a rakhi in person or sending it from miles away. So here's a collection of the best, sweetest, and most playful Rakhi wishes for 2025! What is Raksha Bandhan? Raksha Bandhan, often called Rakhi, is a traditional Hindu festival that celebrates the love between brothers and sisters. The word 'Raksha' means protection, and 'Bandhan' means bond. So, put together, the name Raksha Bandhan means 'the bond of protection.' On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread (rakhi) on their brothers' wrists and pray for their happiness and safety. In return, brothers promise to protect their sisters and often give gifts as a token of their love. However, in modern times, the festival has evolved, now sisters tie rakhis to sisters, brothers to brothers, cousins, and even close friends. Because love isn't limited by labels! The origin of Raksha Bandhan As far as myths go, the roots of Raksha Bandhan date back to the ancient age of Lord Krishna and the Mahabharata. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Jolie-Pitt Family Shows Support For Shiloh's Change Drivepedia Undo When Lord Krishna cut his finger, Draupadi tore a piece of her saree and tied it around his wound, stopping the bleeding. Touched by this gesture, Krishna vowed to protect her, a vow he later fulfilled during the disrobing incident in the Mahabharata. This is considered a foundational moment in Raksha Bandhan's history, highlighting the theme of protection and care. Historically, during the 1905 Bengal Partition, globally renowned poet Rabindranath Tagore encouraged Hindus and Muslims to tie rakhis to each other as a symbol of unity against the British. When is Raksha Bandhan in 2025? This year, Raksha Bandhan falls on Thursday, August 9. According to Hindu tradition, the most auspicious time to tie the rakhi, called the Shubh Muhurat, is during the Purnima Tithi (full moon day of the month of Shravana). Rakhi Shubh Muhurat 2025: Purnima Tithi begins - 02:12 PM on Aug 08, 2025 Purnima Tithi ends - 01:24 PM on Aug 09, 2025 Shubh Muhurat for Rakhi - 05:47 AM to 01:24 PM Make sure to avoid the Bhadra period, which is considered inauspicious for Rakhi rituals. Why words matter more than gifts Yes, gifts and sweets are great when you receive them from your loved ones. But sometimes, a message that comes from the heart can mean even more. Whether you're near or far, sending a personal Rakhi message can remind your sibling how special they are to you. And let's be honest, no one remembers what gift you gave last year. But a funny, cute, or touching message? That sticks. So if you're stuck wondering, "What should I write in a Rakhi message?" —here's your ultimate guide. Best Raksha Bandhan wishes for 2025 Whether your sibling is near or far, these sweet and simple messages will help you say exactly what's in your heart. Sweet and emotional kickers 'No matter how far we are, you'll always be in my heart. Happy Raksha Bandhan, my dear brother/sister!' 'You've been my biggest support, my partner-in-crime, and my forever friend. Love you always. Happy Rakhi!' 'A bond like ours is built on childhood memories and endless love. Happy Raksha Bandhan 2025!' 'To my sibling: Thank you for always believing in me, even when I didn't. You're my strength. Happy Rakhi!' 'I may not say it often, but I'm grateful every day for having you in my life. Happy Rakhi, bhaiya/didi!' "Dear Bhai, you've always protected me like a hero and supported me like a best friend. On this Raksha Bandhan, I'm just grateful to have you by my side." "You might annoy me all year, but today I'll admit it, I'm lucky to have a brother like you. Happy Raksha Bandhan!" "Rakhi is not just a thread. It's a promise, a prayer, and a symbol of the love we've shared since childhood." "To my sister, who's always been my second mom, my biggest fan, and my first friend, thank you for everything." "Your rakhi reminds me every year that I'm not alone, and someone's always looking out for me." "A sister like you makes life brighter, funnier, and warmer. Happy Raksha Bandhan!" Funny and playful greetings 'Here's your yearly reminder: You're lucky to have a sibling like me! Happy Raksha Bandhan!' 'No return gift? No Rakhi next year. Simple math, bro.' 'You stole my chocolates, teased me nonstop, and tattled on me, but I still love you! Happy Rakhi!' 'Being your sibling is like having a built-in best friend… who sometimes drives me crazy. Happy Raksha Bandhan!' 'I tied the rakhi, now where's my pizza? Fair trade, right?' "Here's your annual reminder that you owe me gifts, sweets, and lifelong protection. Don't mess it up!" "I tied this rakhi with love. And maybe a little pressure for that Amazon gift card. Happy Raksha Bandhan!" "To the brother who always eats my share of dessert… This Rakhi, I'm watching you!" "Rakhi tied. Now where's the return gift, didi? Don't act like you forgot!" "Thanks for being my unpaid therapist and personal stylist all these years. You deserve a raise this Rakhi!" "You always knew how to blackmail me emotionally. I guess that's sisterhood. Happy Raksha Bandhan!" Overdosing on sentiment for long-distance siblings "Wish I could be there to tie the rakhi on your wrist, but I'm sending love, hugs, and a digital rakhi instead!" "Even if miles separate us, you'll always be close to my heart. Happy Rakhi, sis!" "The thread may be missing this year, but the bond is stronger than ever." 'Even if you're far away this Rakhi, our bond is unbreakable. Sending love and a virtual hug!' 'No distance can dull the shine of our childhood memories. Happy Rakhi from across the miles!' 'Sending this Rakhi through the airwaves, but my heart is right there with you. Love you always!' 'I miss our little fights and big laughs. Can't wait to celebrate together next year. Happy Rakhi!' 'The thread is small, but the bond is huge, even if we're in different time zones!' "No matter how far we are, the bond we share is stronger than any distance. Sending love and rakhi hugs!" "Even though I can't tie the rakhi in person, my heart ties it with all the love in the world." "Raksha Bandhan is about the thread, but it's also about memories, and I've got a lifetime of those with you." For the modern bonds "To my cousin who's more like a brother/sister… Thank you for always being there for me. Happy Rakhi!" "Friendship, laughter, and a lifetime of memories… Thank you for being the sibling I got to choose." "No matter what roles we play: brother, sister, friend… Rakhi is a reminder of the love that ties us together." Something to put up on social media (captions for Instagram or WhatsApp) 'Knots of love, memories of childhood, and a lifetime of fights. #HappyRakhi' 'Thread by thread, we grew up together. And I wouldn't change a thing. #SiblingGoals' 'From pulling each other's hair to pulling each other up—Happy Raksha Bandhan!' 'This Rakhi, I'm not crying… You are. #SiblingLove' 'Who needs superheroes when you have siblings?' Need last-minute gift ideas? We've got you covered. Pair your Rakhi message with a sweet little something! Here are fun and thoughtful gifts: For brothers: Watches, grooming kits, fitness gear, customized mugs For sisters: Jewelry, skincare sets, books, personalized cushions For kids: Toys, games, chocolate hampers, coloring kits DIY ideas: Handmade cards, scrapbook of memories, or even a heartfelt video montage! Even a handwritten letter or a digital Rakhi card can mean the world! In a world that changes so fast, sibling (or cousins) bonds remain one of the few constants. Whether it's your brother who always has your back or your sister who always knows when you're feeling low, even without saying a word, Raksha Bandhan is a reminder to pause, connect, and celebrate each other. Cherish your loved ones, celebrate them with love and laughter! Himansh Kohli: My sister is my best friend
Time of India
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'Love Tangled' faces criticism before release: Called backward by netizens – Find out what happened
The latest OTT release , ' Love Untangled ', has managed to create a lot of buzz before it's official release online. While the trailer for the film created a lot of excitement amongst netizens, many others used online social media platforms to call out the project. 'Love Untangled' plot 'Love Untangled' is an upcoming Korean film on a popular OTT channel that has recently shared its trailer. The film follows Park Se Ri, a 19-year-old girl who seems to be struggling with life, all because of her hair. The film is set in 1998, and the central theme follows how the girl's 'unruly and dirty' curly hair is the root cause of all her problems in life, which she has to solve by straightening it. While the premise of the project intrigued many, there was a lot of mixed debate about it as well. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Jolie-Pitt Family Shows Support For Shiloh's Change Drivepedia Undo Netizens react While some appreciated the film's premise and themes and even expressed their wish to quickly watch the movie, there were others who expressed their disdain over it as well. Many people called the project out for being 'outdated' and for portraying curly hair as something bad. One comment from a netizen read, "The narrative of wavy/curly hair being messy, dirty, difficult to handle and an unloveable feature in the year of 2025... I thought we had moved past this," while another shared that "it takes a brave dude who is sooo different from everyone else to like her the way she is in order for her to accept herself." One more comment from a netizen read, "South Korea is the most technologically advanced society but pretends to be uneducated about literally everything." 'Love Untangled' cast members The film boasts a major cast line-up. It includes actress Shin Eun Soo , who is known for her role in 'Twinkling Watermelon', as well as Gong Myung from 'Way Back Love' as the lead characters of the film. It also includes names like Cha Woo Min, Yoon Sang Hyeon, Kang Mi Na , Park Mi Sae, and many others. The film has been directed by Namkoong Sun, who is known for her work in 'Time to Be Strong' and 'Men'.
Time of India
27-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Bigg Boss Malayalam 7 to launch with ‘Heaven and Hell' theme? Here's what we know about the concept
Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 7 is gearing up for its premiere on August 3 with the tagline '7nte Pani,' potentially introducing a 'Heaven and Hell' concept. This format, previously seen in other language editions, divides the house into luxurious and challenging sections. Viewers may decide who enters each zone during the live premiere. The wait is nearly over for Bigg Boss Malayalam fans as Season 7 is all set to premiere on August 3 with the intriguing tagline '7nte Pani' (The Wrath of 7). Speculation is rife that this season will introduce a dramatic new twist, the 'Heaven and Hell' concept, a format previously seen in other language editions of the show. Though the makers remain tight-lipped, social media is buzzing with reports that the house will be divided into two starkly contrasting sections: Heaven, filled with luxury and comfort, and Hell, where basic survival will be a daily challenge. If confirmed, this will be the first time the Malayalam edition adopts such a concept, promising to add intense drama and emotional upheaval to the already explosive format. The 'Heaven and Hell' theme was first introduced in Bigg Boss Hindi Season 7 and later adapted as 'Swarga Naraga' in Bigg Boss Kannada Season 11. In those versions, contestants were split into two groups, one enjoying privileges like a swimming pool, gym, kitchen, and comfy beds, while the others endured harsh conditions such as a single water tap, rough flooring, no kitchen, and minimal privacy. While the concept adds high stakes and heightened drama, it's not without controversy. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Jolie-Pitt Family Shows Support For Shiloh's Change Drivepedia Undo During Bigg Boss Kannada Season 11, the theme faced backlash over privacy concerns, especially involving female contestants housed in the Hell section. The Karnataka State Women's Commission filed a formal complaint citing violations of dignity and human rights. Following police intervention and public outcry, the theme was scrapped midway through the season. If the rumours are to be believed, in a fresh twist for Malayalam audiences, viewers will get to decide who enters Heaven and who is banished to Hell during the live premiere on August 3. Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 7 is all set for its grand premiere next Sunday, and social media is abuzz with speculation about the celebrity contestants. Among the most talked-about names rumored to be entering the show are Renu Sudhi, Jishin Mohan, Anumol, Shanavas Shanu, Adhila, and Nora.
Time of India
29-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Weekly Horoscope (June 30 – July 06): Predictions for Rooster Chinese Zodiac
Rooster-born people often look for clear signs and quick answers, but this week, understanding will come softly. A quiet moment, a silent message, or a gentle thought may show the way. Do not wait for drama. Insight will appear in stillness. Be calm, listen more, and talk less. Truth does not always shout—it whispers. What you seek is already around you, just waiting to be noticed. Weekly Career Horoscope for Rooster Chinese Zodiac At workplace, do not expect a big announcement or sudden promotion. The respect and progress you desire is happening silently. Someone may observe your dedication quietly and speak in your favour later. Keep doing your duty with grace. Avoid arguments or loud self-praise. Your silent consistency will bring results. Listen carefully during meetings, as one soft suggestion may become a key to success. Weekly Love Horoscope for Rooster Chinese Zodiac In love, a small gesture will mean more than big promises this week. Your partner may not express everything openly, but look at their actions. Quiet support is also love. If single, you may get attention from someone who admires you silently. Pay attention to the people who show care without saying much. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Jolie-Pitt Family Proudly Stands By Shiloh's Change Drivepedia Undo A silent connection may grow into deep companionship. Weekly Money Horoscope for Rooster Chinese Zodiac Roosters often like to control their accounts strictly, but this week, you should relax a bit and observe quietly. Money flow is stable, and a small insight—like an overlooked expense or hidden saving—will come without effort. Don't rush to act on every financial thought. Sit calmly with your budget. A solution may appear suddenly during still moments. Peaceful planning is more powerful than fast moves. Weekly Education Horoscope for Rooster Chinese Zodiac For students, understanding will come better through self-reflection this week. Try studying alone in a quiet space. The answer to your doubts may appear without books, through a peaceful mind. Do not rush to change subjects or complain about difficulty. Stick to the path, and trust your inner clarity. One calm evening with notes may teach you more than a noisy classroom. Weekly Health Horoscope for Rooster Chinese Zodiac Roosters should care for throat, ears, and neck areas now. Speaking too much or ignoring inner rest may bring strain. Take warm fluids and avoid shouting or harsh tones. Meditate or sit in silence for a while each day. It will heal not only body but also mind. A soft routine, with good sleep, will bring more energy than any strong medicine. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
Time of India
27-06-2025
- Time of India
Visa denied or admission rejected? Here's your country-wise comeback plan
Visa denied or admission rejected? Here's your country-wise comeback plan Studying abroad is often seen as a leap into a brighter future — new countries, new classrooms, and new opportunities. But for many students in 2025, that leap is being halted by a rising tide of rejections. From declined university offers to last-minute visa refusals, a growing number of students are finding their global ambitions paused just before takeoff. With countries tightening immigration rules and universities becoming more selective, the pressure has never been higher. But rejection doesn't mean your dream is over. Around the world, students are adapting, reapplying, and finding new pathways to international education. If your plans have hit a wall, this guide breaks down what's changing in top study abroad destinations — and what you can do next. United States The US remains a top choice for international students in 2025, offering world-class universities and strong post-study work options. But growing demand and tighter immigration policies have made entry more competitive. Stricter visa checks, longer processing times, and embassy backlogs are causing delays, especially during peak seasons. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Jolie-Pitt Family Supports For Shiloh's Change Drivepedia Undo In response, some universities are offering hybrid starts, offshore programs, and joint degrees. Still, students are urged to keep backup plans ready in case of rejection or visa issues. If your US application or visa was rejected: Explore less selective universities offering rolling admissions or Spring intakes. Consider starting at a community college. Many have strong transfer pathways to top universities. For visa denials, revise your personal interview approach, clean up your online presence, and ensure your financial documents are solid. US universities value persistence. With a stronger statement of purpose and a well-timed reapplication, you can often turn a 'no' into a 'yes.' But given the unpredictability, keep a Plan B ready — ideally in another country. Canada Canada has introduced tighter controls on international student numbers in 2025, including a national study permit cap, more demanding financial requirements, and revised post-graduation work permit (PGWP) rules — particularly for college programs. Visa approval rates have dropped to around 52%. If you were rejected: Apply to Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) with higher approval rates and stable reputations. Strengthen your visa Statement of Purpose (SOP) and ensure your proof of funds meets the updated benchmarks. If your admission was denied, consider college-to-university pathways, which are often still eligible for PGWP. Alternate route: If your province has reached its study permit cap (e.g. Quebec), look at less saturated regions like the Atlantic provinces. United Kingdom Despite introducing stricter visa rules — including a shorter graduate route, higher English test requirements, and restrictions on dependents — student demand in the UK has surged in 2025. That said, universities and immigration officers are applying a closer lens to every application. If your UK plan fell through: Use UCAS Extra or Clearing to find open programs — many top universities still accept late applicants. If your visa was denied, focus on acing the credibility interview. UKVI wants a clear explanation of your course, institution, and future plans. Aim for the January intake, which has grown significantly in recent years. UK admissions are holistic. A stronger SOP, better references, or a minor course adjustment can improve your chances. Australia In 2025, Australia introduced a national cap on international student intake (via Ministerial Direction 111), doubled visa fees (now AUD 1,600), and raised both English language and financial requirements. From July, students applying from outside the country can no longer switch into student visas from visitor status. If you didn't make it: Apply to universities that still have approved enrolment allocations — not all institutions are equally restricted. Rework your Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement. It's one of the most critical visa documents. Consider Technical and Further Education (TAFE) or diploma programs with university pathways if a direct degree route feels out of reach. Retake IELTS or PTE, take a bridging course, or gain work/internship experience to strengthen your next application. Germany Germany has fully digitized its national visa application system, making the process faster and less bureaucratic. However, rejection rates remain high, especially for students missing APS certification or proper financial documentation. If your German plans fell through: Look at Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen) or private institutions — more flexible, career-focused, and often easier to access. Ensure your blocked account, insurance, and translated documents are embassy-compliant. Apply for the April (Summer) intake, which tends to be less competitive than October. Extra tip: Even English-medium programs appreciate basic German proficiency. It can give your application an edge. France While France hasn't introduced major policy changes, the Campus France process remains rigorous — especially during interviews. Interest in English-taught programs is rising, which means more competition overall. If you're rejected: Reapply with a clearer and more compelling motivation letter. Align your goals closely with the chosen program. Consider private institutions and business schools, which often bypass the Campus France system. Don't assume English-only programs mean zero French expectations — many still prefer students with B1/B2 language skills. Practice for your Campus France interview — they often prioritize your intent and maturity over grades. Netherlands There haven't been major visa or policy changes in the Netherlands, but increased global interest means programs are filling up faster. Dutch universities remain transparent and structured — which works in your favor if you need to reapply. If rejected: Reach out for feedback. Most Dutch institutions are happy to explain why an application was denied. Consider the February intake — fewer applicants, more flexibility. Polish your academic motivation letter, especially if your GPA is just below the cutoff. Plan B: Explore similar programs in Belgium, Denmark, or Finland — all with strong English-taught offerings and easier visa pathways. If the Western plan fails, look East With Western countries tightening their systems, Asian destinations are stepping up. Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, and China are expanding their international student programs — especially for STEM and business degrees — with simplified admissions and more scholarships. What you can do: Apply to language schools in Japan as a gateway to undergraduate or graduate programs. Consider universities in Singapore or Malaysia, where English is widely used and visa processes are more predictable. Explore government-funded scholarships like MEXT (Japan), CSC (China), or the Malaysia International Scholarship. These destinations offer high-quality education, faster turnarounds, and growing international networks — all without the current turbulence in Western systems. Rejections are hard — especially when you've spent months preparing. But in today's complex global education landscape, a rejection is often a redirection. What's changing in 2025 isn't just the rules — it's the mindset of students who are more informed, flexible, and resilient than ever before. Whether you reapply, change destinations, or reroute your academic path altogether, remember this: there's almost always a way forward. Is your child ready for the careers of tomorrow? Enroll now and take advantage of our early bird offer! Spaces are limited.
