driving holiday

Maharashtra Day on May 1st commemorates the state's formation in 1960. In 2026, it falls on a Friday, creating a long weekend. While government offices, banks, and liquor shops will be closed, tourist spots and public transport will operate. Visitors should anticipate crowds and potential traffic diversions in Mumbai due to parades and celebrations.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the Mumbai-Pune Expressway's 'missing link,' a significant infrastructure upgrade costing Rs 7,000 crore. He drove a G-Wagen during the event, which he hailed as an 'economic multiplier.' While the project promises enhanced connectivity, the inauguration on Maharashtra Day led to considerable traffic congestion, for which Fadnavis later apologized.

Enjoy a laid-back day filled with family love and the joy of little things, thanks to Venus bringing in a wave of coziness. Tune into your body's gentle health signals as Saturn nudges you. Singles may find a romantic proposal on the horizon, while partners can strengthen their connection with meaningful acts.

Australia enjoys a pleasant autumnal break in May, with Queensland and the Northern Territory celebrating public holidays on Monday, May 4th, 2026. Queensland observes Labour Day, while the NT marks May Day, both honouring workers' rights. Other states await their next holidays in June or October. These days offer a perfect opportunity for road trips, beach visits, or simply relaxing.

Today's horoscope suggests a focus on health and financial prudence across the zodiac. While some may find success in planning and investments, others are advised to manage family matters with care. Expect potential social engagements and travel opportunities, with intuition playing a key role in decision-making for many.

Federico Valverde has been ruled out of El Clásico after suffering a head injury during a reported training-ground altercation with teammate Aurélien Tchouaméni, deepening the crisis inside Real Madrid CF. With dressing-room tensions escalating, scrutiny surrounding Kylian Mbappé intensifying, and pressure mounting on manager Álvaro Arbeloa, Madrid head into their decisive clash against FC Barcelona amid growing instability.

Amazon is reportedly shifting its hiring strategy towards AI, with its largest recruitment drive in 2026 expected to heavily utilize AI-led interviews via its new Connect Talent platform. This system aims to automate screening, interviews, and note generation for large-scale hiring, including seasonal roles, with minimal human involvement.

Indian summers reveal ordering habits: dahi, mangoes, and ice cream dominate as temperatures rise. Cooling appliances and accessories see massive growth, with specific city trends emerging.

Heavy rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds are forecast across eastern and northeastern India from April 29 to May 5, potentially disrupting travel to West Bengal, Sikkim, and the Northeast. Other regions will experience varied weather, including rain in the Himalayas, thunderstorms in central India, and heat waves in Rajasthan and Vidarbha.

Global tensions in West Asia, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, are driving market volatility and influencing crude oil prices. Investors are also closely watching corporate earnings, with key results due this week, alongside crucial US economic data and the Federal Reserve's policy decision.

Indian shopping malls are transforming as fitness clubs emerge as the new crowd-pullers, replacing traditional anchors like department stores and cinemas. These wellness centers, now occupying prime spaces, attract members multiple times weekly, boosting nearby retail. Developers are adapting by designing specialized spaces, recognizing fitness as a lifestyle essential driving consistent footfall and diversified income.

‘No Disconnection For 1kW Users Over Dues’

Katraj Snake Park in Pune offers far more than a typical reptile visit, combining conservation, education and a vast zoo experience. With diverse snake species, affordable entry and a large surrounding ecosystem, it rewards visitors who plan ahead, explore fully and understand its focus on wildlife awareness and learning rather than entertainment.

A nine-inch Mexican axolotl, an endangered amphibian not native to the UK, was discovered by 10-year-old Evie Hill in the River Ogmore, Wales. The injured creature, likely an abandoned pet, was rescued and is now being cared for by Evie's family, highlighting the dangers of impulse pet ownership and the importance of responsible rehoming.

San Antonio Spurs' star Victor Wembanyama is sidelined after a concussion sustained during Game 2 against the Portland Trail Blazers. The Defensive Player of the Year fell awkwardly and entered the NBA's concussion protocol, requiring at least 48 hours before resuming activity. This absence puts the Spurs in a precarious position, now tied 1-1 in the series.