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Namita S Kalla

Freelancer, Moneycontrol

Namita S Kalla is a senior journalist who writes about different aspects of modern life that include lifestyle, health, fashion, beauty, and entertainment

Real Vs fake paneer or mawa test at home: Here's how to check purity

HEALTH-AND-FITNESS

Real Vs fake paneer or mawa test at home: Here's how to check purity

How to identify fake paneer or mawa: Experts warn that fake versions of paneer or mawa often contain starch, synthetic milk, or chemical additives that are harmful for health. Here are a few simple checks at home, from texture tests to basic iodine reactions, which can help you detect authenticity.

10 plants that help keep snakes away from your garden

LIFESTYLE

10 plants that help keep snakes away from your garden

Dense, low-growing plants and untrimmed shrubs can provide shelter for snakes, making gardens risky near play areas. To keep your garden safe, choose upright, spiky, or strongly scented plants like marigolds, lemongrass, and mother-in-law’s tongue. Regular pruning, clear pathways, and pest control further reduce snake visits

Health benefits of lauki juice, plus why you shouldn't eat bitter bottle gourd

HEALTH-AND-FITNESS

Health benefits of lauki juice, plus why you shouldn't eat bitter bottle gourd

Health benefits of lauki: Bottle gourd, or lauki, is a popular vegetable in Indian kitchens. While it is celebrated for its health benefits, recent reports of toxicity from extremely bitter bottle gourd juice, call for caution.

Blocked nose to loud snoring: AIIMS ENT surgeon on everything you need to know about nasal polyps, suggests easy tips to sleep better

HEALTH-AND-FITNESS

Blocked nose to loud snoring: AIIMS ENT surgeon on everything you need to know about nasal polyps, suggests easy tips to sleep better

A blocked nose is often brushed aside as a minor discomfort. However, it can trigger snoring and restless nights. Here's everything you need to know about the causes of snoring and nasal polyps.

From chemical imbalance to blackouts, neurosurgeon explains alcohol's influence on brain health

HEALTH-AND-FITNESS

From chemical imbalance to blackouts, neurosurgeon explains alcohol's influence on brain health

Alcohol may appear to soothe nerves and smooth social edges, but beneath that relaxed buzz the brain is adjusting its wiring. Slowly, alcohol interferes with the chemical signals that allow nerve cells to communicate, slowing responses, altering judgement and, in persistent drinkers, even reshaping parts of the brain responsible for memory, emotion and decision-making.

Holi aftercare for kids: How to protect skin, eyes and lungs; what parents must know

HEALTH-AND-FITNESS

Holi aftercare for kids: How to protect skin, eyes and lungs; what parents must know

The time after playing Holi can bring unexpected skin rashes, eye irritation, and breathing troubles in children. Doctors advise gentle cleansing, moisturising, and close observation to prevent complications. A little care can ensure the festival memories remain joyful, not painful

Quote of the day by Vikram Sarabhai: “He who can listen to the music…”

LIFESTYLE

Quote of the day by Vikram Sarabhai: “He who can listen to the music…”

Vikram Sarabhai’s quote is a reminder about focus and inner clarity. Uncover what his words truly mean, why the ability to find rhythm within chaos matters more than you think, and how mastering your attention can help shape extraordinary success

World Obesity Day 2026: Cardiologist explains how weight gain increases the heart’s workload

HEALTH-AND-FITNESS

World Obesity Day 2026: Cardiologist explains how weight gain increases the heart’s workload

Obesity is often dismissed as a weig concern or blamed solely on lifestyle choices. However, cardiologists warn that excess weight is deeply linked to silent metabolic changes that increase cardiovascular risk. Early intervention, not judgement, is key to long-term heart protection.

Post-Holi skincare: Ayurveda tips to calm overheated and irritated skin naturally

HEALTH-AND-FITNESS

Post-Holi skincare: Ayurveda tips to calm overheated and irritated skin naturally

After a day of colour, sun, and rather enthusiastic scrubbing, skin often feels overheated, tight, irritated, and occasionally stained. While the instinct may be to exfoliate harder or reach for actives, Ayurveda, however,suggests the opposite, it says stay calm, cool, and restore.

World Obesity Day 2026: Unhealthy diet and excess weight increase ovarian cancer risk, nutritionist explains how

HEALTH-AND-FITNESS

World Obesity Day 2026: Unhealthy diet and excess weight increase ovarian cancer risk, nutritionist explains how

Obesity has emerged as one of the most significant yet preventable risk factors for ovarian cancer, often called the silent killer due to its tendency to go unnoticed until advanced stages. 

Holi skin and hair care tips for children: Do's and don'ts every parent must follow

LIFESTYLE

Holi skin and hair care tips for children: Do's and don'ts every parent must follow

Holi is all fun and frolic until the colours start leaving their mark on your child’s skin and hair. From rashes to dryness, it is a nightmare if you are not careful. Follow these easy steps to let your children play Holi freely without damaging their hair and skin health.

Holi 2026: House party snacks and achaar pairings that will make your guests go wow

LIFESTYLE

Holi 2026: House party snacks and achaar pairings that will make your guests go wow

Celebrate Holi without the stress of a full-blown meal. These 5 quick, flavour-packed pairings combine traditional snacks with tangy, ready-made pickles, keeping your guests happy and your kitchen calm.

Holi 2026 skin and hair care guide: What to do the night before Holi, in the morning, and how to remove colours

LIFESTYLE

Holi 2026 skin and hair care guide: What to do the night before Holi, in the morning, and how to remove colours

Holi is a riot of colour, laughter, and pure chaos. Nevertheless, eavy metals, industrial dyes, and harsh alkalines in synthetic powders can wreak havoc, especially on melanin-rich Indian skin. Expert  shares a foolproof, three-step routine to keep your skin glowing, protected, and happy before, during, and after the festival.

Holi 2026 desserts: Chef-curated traditional and modern dessert recipes by Indian chefs

LIFESTYLE

Holi 2026 desserts: Chef-curated traditional and modern dessert recipes by Indian chefs

Holi festivity is synonymous with gujiyas, khoya, nuts and fragrant thandai. This year, Indian chefs reinterpret these nostalgic flavours with finesse by blending tradition with premium ingredients and contemporary techniques to create desserts that feel both rooted and refreshingly modern

World Obesity Day 2026: Do GLP-1 analogues help with weight loss? Know the risks

HEALTH-AND-FITNESS

World Obesity Day 2026: Do GLP-1 analogues help with weight loss? Know the risks

This World Obesity Day, the conversation around weight is shifting. No longer just about willpower, obesity is recognised as a chronic disease. Breakthrough medications like GLP-1 analogues are revolutionising how we manage diabetes and achieve sustainable weight loss, offering hope and health, not shortcuts.

5 benefits of salmon DNA skincare, the newest rage in anti-ageing and skin regeneration solutions

LIFESTYLE

5 benefits of salmon DNA skincare, the newest rage in anti-ageing and skin regeneration solutions

Salmon DNA skincare is making waves for its anti-aging and skin-rejuvenating powers. Derived from salmon sperm, it contains polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), which helps repair DNA, reduce inflammation, and improve skin texture. Studies show it works best with vitamin C and niacinamide, offering natural, effective results with minimal side effects.

Holi 2026 cocktail recipes: Festive cocktails by India’s top mixologists

LIFESTYLE

Holi 2026 cocktail recipes: Festive cocktails by India’s top mixologists

India’s leading mixologists craft vibrant Holi cocktails blending traditional flavours like rose, saffron, thandai, coconut and jaggery with premium spirits and global techniques. From dessert-inspired drinks to floral highballs, these festive creations bring colour, creativity and celebration straight into your glass

Quote of the day by Ramana Maharshi: "No one succeeds without effort. Those who…"

LIFESTYLE

Quote of the day by Ramana Maharshi: "No one succeeds without effort. Those who…"

Ramana Maharshi said perseverance is the strength that turns ordinary effort into extraordinary achievement. It is the decision to continue despite delays, doubts, and difficulties. Discover what his words truly reveal about effort, why perseverance is more powerful than talent, and how steady determination shapes every meaningful success

Health benefits of guavas: The superfood to help weight loss, control diabetes, manage blood pressure

HEALTH-AND-FITNESS

Health benefits of guavas: The superfood to help weight loss, control diabetes, manage blood pressure

Health benefits of guavas: The guava fruit s packed with nutrients that could boost your health in ways most of us never imagined. From heart protection to diabetes support, this underrated fruit is a powerhouse.

Holi décor ideas: 5 innovative way to brighten your home with flowers and colour

LIFESTYLE

Holi décor ideas: 5 innovative way to brighten your home with flowers and colour

As Holi arrives with a burst of colour, homes follow suit. The woollens and weighty carpets, back into the trunk they go, and in comes a breezier, cotton-soft charm. Throws, rugs, cushions and fresh flowers bring in a lighter, brighter mood; a domestic celebration to match the festival’s spirit

Pilates, surfing and mindfulness: Mewar's Princess Padmaja Kumari on her journey with Type 1 diabetes since she was 5

HEALTH-AND-FITNESS

Pilates, surfing and mindfulness: Mewar's Princess Padmaja Kumari on her journey with Type 1 diabetes since she was 5

Princess Padmaja Kumari of Mewar, diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at five, lives actively through Pilates, surfing and mindfulness. Rejecting stigma, she promotes awareness, mental health and insulin access. Discover how she blends heritage with purpose and advocates resilience, self-care and empowerment, inspiring women and others to prioritise health without limitations

Holi 2026: Protect your hair and skin with the health benefits of coconut vs almond vs mustard oils

LIFESTYLE

Holi 2026: Protect your hair and skin with the health benefits of coconut vs almond vs mustard oils

Holi may last a day, but its effects on skin and hair can linger far longer. With chemical colours growing harsher each year, dermatologists recommend a simple pre-Holi ritual: oiling. Coconut, almond and mustard oils each offer different benefits, supported by medical research. The right choice depends on your skin type and tolerance.

Brazilian researchers create a nutrient-packed treat with cocoa and honey

HEALTH-AND-FITNESS

Brazilian researchers create a nutrient-packed treat with cocoa and honey

Brazilian researchers have ingeniously transformed cocoa waste and native bee honey into a chocolate-infused honey brimming with antioxidants, caffeine, and theobromine. The sustainable method, using ultrasound-assisted extraction, promises both gourmet delights and cosmetic applications while reducing food waste

Is bubble tea bad for you? New research flags warning signs

HEALTH-AND-FITNESS

Is bubble tea bad for you? New research flags warning signs

Bubble tea is facing huge scrutiny. From heavy metals in tapioca pearls to sky-high sugar levels and possible links to kidney stones and mental health concerns, new research suggests this fancy drink may cause some harm.

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