working class roots

In Chennai, the fitness landscape is evolving as traditional Tamil folk dances like oyilattam and karakattam fuse with high-energy cardio workouts. These vibrant classes not only provide a unique full-body exercise by imitating movements inspired by farm life and animal antics, but they also honor and showcase the cultural richness of the region.

Francis Munda, a 50-year-old former daily wage worker, walks daily through Saranda forest, a former Maoist zone, to educate children in remote tribal villages. Since 2019, he has inspired over 100 children to read and write, overcoming poverty and resistance to promote schooling. His dedication earned him an award, highlighting his impact on transforming lives through education.

In an inspiring address, Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal celebrated the rise of Bihar's cricket talents, particularly highlighting Ishan Kishan's impressive journey in the IPL. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary announced a government initiative focused on developing cricket infrastructure and nurturing local talent.

Six young women in Bokaro's Dantoo village, known as the 'Kumari girls,' have established a successful rural enterprise focused on renewable energy. Leveraging vocational training in solar installation, they began by creating solar power banks and lights to address erratic electricity issues during the pandemic.

Shree Jagannath Society Japan launched an online spoken Sanskrit learning centre, offering a six-month course for beginners. This initiative, in collaboration with Hindu Swayam Sevak Sangha Japan and WSSRC, aims to help NRIs connect with their culture and traditions. Designed by Prof Dambarudhar Pati, the classes will enrich spiritual and cultural understanding for both children and adults.

Amid the push to cut non-essential foreign travel, domestic destinations offering similar scenic escapes and leisurely stays, are seeing renewed interest

Jolie-Pitt children are shedding the 'Pitt' surname. Zahara, Shiloh, Vivienne, and Maddox have removed Brad Pitt's name from their public identities. Shiloh legally changed her name upon turning 18. Vivienne was credited as Vivienne Jolie in a Broadway play. Maddox's name appeared as Maddox Jolie in film credits. Pax Thien Jolie-Pitt has also made critical comments about his father.

How the Japanese community in Bengaluru balances adaptation with preservation

CM, Forest Minister Laud His Extraordinary Feat

Bachata socials are gaining popularity in Hyderabad, offering a unique way for young professionals and hobbyists to connect. Social media has amplified its reach, but instructors emphasize the importance of proper technique and consent. This partner dance fosters real human interaction and mutual respect, providing a refreshing alternative to digital engagement.

Delhi's push for public transport faces a major hurdle: unsafe and unusable footpaths. Commuters struggle with encroached sidewalks, broken pavements, and dangerous traffic, making the 'last mile' a perilous journey. Experts emphasize that prioritizing pedestrian infrastructure is crucial for encouraging a shift away from private vehicles, yet it remains largely ignored in urban planning.

India's three-language policy is back at the centre of national debate, and the argument is the same one it has always been. The CBSE's 2026 mandate to make three languages compulsory up to Class 10 is framed as a step towards multilingualism and national integration. In Tamil Nadu and much of the South, it is being read as something else entirely. The question is not really about languages. It never was.

This week begins with fertile energy, supporting planning and warm interactions. However, Tuesday brings financial strain and family friction, requiring careful handling. Mid-week may see a dip in mood, but by Thursday, respect and recognition return. The weekend focuses on mending relationships and achieving quiet victories, offering a sense of lasting peace and harmony.

After spending nearly 15 years immersed in theatre, Ranjana Aanjjan has finally stepped into the world of screen acting with Chand Tara — a project that has already earned the distinction of having its trailer screened at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. In this candid conversation with ETimes, Ranjana opens up about the overwhelming transition from stage to screen, her father’s unwavering support, the financial struggles that shaped her middle-class upbringing, and the life lessons she learned from icons.

Kesav Suneesh, a 21-year-old from Kerala, achieved his dream of reaching Everest Base Camp with just ₹16,000, funded by savings from humble jobs. His journey highlights resilience, discipline, and the power of breaking down big ambitions into achievable steps. Despite setbacks, Kesav's persistence proves that scarcity need not limit extraordinary dreams.

Dubai-based influencer Srilata Addepalli posted a video celebrating Telugu women like Bhavitha Mandava, Sobhita Dhulipala and Raja Kumari amid the controversy over Chanel dressing Bhavitha in jeans at the Met Gala. Sobhita, Raja Kumari, Lakshmi Manchu and Deepica all responded warmly, inspiring countless women from Telugu families worldwide.

Decades of groundwork by the RSS and its expanding social and organizational networks in West Bengal have reshaped the state's political landscape, culminating in the BJP's electoral breakthrough. This patient, years-long outreach, rooted in identity and community, gradually converted scattered support into a cohesive political force, leading to a decisive electoral victory.

Whether you call it karma or symmetry or simply the long arc of football's most generous rivalry, the ledger between these two clubs has a strange and beautiful balance to it. Bernabeu spent years rebuilding United out of nothing but goodwill, and the game eventually sent his club the greatest player of his generation in return.

On the economic front,Bengal is now likely to get a lot of help from Centre. But carrying out some parts of BJP’s ideological work, may face stiff resistance

A popular YouTuber's lavish lifestyle, including a Dubai cruise wedding, has drawn the Enforcement Directorate's attention. Investigators allege his empire was built on illegal betting promotions and money laundering. The case highlights the blurred lines between fantasy sports and betting, and the regulatory gaps exploited by online platforms.