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40 Amazing Diwali Pictures

2012-11-11T20:43:00.001-08:00

Wishing Joy For All

Diwali is the festival when you wish everyone joy and express your pleasure through lamps.

Wishing Joy For All

Floral Rangoli

A rangoli design created with flower petals forms a superb background for the Diwali diyas.

Floral Rangoli

Happy Couple

This young couple has made great efforts to make their first Diwali together fun with the rangoli and diyas.

Happy Couple

Fireworks Display

Some homes celebrate Diwali by holding a fireworks display for their friends and relatives in the house.

Fireworks Display

Rangoli And Diyas

Oil diyas around the rangoli designed with colored powders is the hallmark of a traditional Diwali.

Rangoli And Diyas

Swinging Sparklers

Swinging sparklers is a joy that most children cannot resist during the Diwali festival.

Swinging Sparklers

Wheels Of Light

Sparklers that move on the ground like wheels of light look fantastic during dark nights of the Diwali season.

Wheels Of Light

Lord Of Prosperity

A Diwali greeting card with Ganpati, the Lord of Prosperity designed on it is a superb message for the season.

Lord Of Prosperity

And Let There Be Light

Lighting the oil lamp is an intrinsic part of the Diwali celebration. It gives a warm and welcoming look to the house.

And Let There Be Light

A Tray Of Diyas

A tray of diyas creates a glow around the house that reflects the joy the owners feel during the Diwali season.

A Tray Of Diyas

Decorated Tree

Decorating one’s house and trees around your residence is great fun during the Diwali season.

Decorated Tree

Dressing Up For Diwali

Wearing new silk saris and jewelry is a very popular custom when celebrating Diwali.

Dressing Up For Diwali

Earthenware Diyas

Earthenware diyas are the perfect oil lamps that create a very aesthetic glow around a house for Diwali.

Earthenware Diyas

Lamps Of Joy

Even simple oil lamps lit around the house are a superb expression of joy during the Diwali festival.

Lamps Of Joy

Universal Joy

The galaxy like design combined with the Diwali diya makes a very artistic greeting card.

Universal Joy

Multiple Lamps

Multiple-layered brass diyas and rangoli with colored powders is a great way to decorate a house for Diwali.

Multiple Lamps

Thematic Wallpaper

This is fantastic wallpaper with the Diwali diya throwing an orange glow around the room.

Thematic Wallpaper

Lord Of Prosperity Abode

A little wooden home altar is the seat of Ganpati, the Lord of Prosperity bringing in blessings.

Lord Of Prosperity Abode

Goddess Of Wealth

Laxmi, the Goddess of Wealth flanked by the traditional diyas is the theme of this lovely Diwali greeting card.

Goddess Of Wealth

Intricate Colors

Vibrant colors and intricate artistic designs are the hallmark of a great Diwali rangoli.

Intricate Colors

Wealth And Prosperity

Ganpati Lord of Prosperity and Laxmi Goddess of Wealth take center stage in this home altar during Diwali.

Wealth And Prosperity

Line Of Candles

A line of candles welcome Ganpati the Lord of Prosperity into this home during Diwali.

Line Of Candles

Theme Of Joy

The main theme of Diwali is joy that is expressed with vivid color and diyas in this greeting card.

Theme Of Joy

Goddess Of Wealth

Laxmi, the Goddess of Wealth standing on a tray with water flowers is a great Diwali décor idea.

Goddess Of Wealth

Glow Of Lamps

The glow that these diyas create together reminds one of joy and sharing during Diwali season.

Glow Of Lamps

Bright Geometry

Geometric shapes designed in vibrant colors have made this a lovely Diwali rangoli worth copying.

Bright Geometry

Deep-awali

Deep or diyas or oil lamps are why Diwali season is also called Deepawali because diyas are a prominent motif.

Deep-awali

Mosaic Diwali

A rangoli and diyas decorate this lovely home flooring of mosaic tiles ushering in joy and prosperity.

Mosaic Diwali

Motif And Colors

Hindu religious motifs, bright-colored rangoli and diyas is a lovely way to display the Diwali season.

Motif And Colors

A Joy For Children

Delicious sweets, new clothes and jewelry, diyas, sparklers and rangoli bring joy for children during Diwali.

A Joy For Children

Neat Decoration

Neatly arranged rangolis and diyas gives this Diwali décor a very modern and urban look.

Neat Decoration

Wealth In Your Home

The Goddess Laxmi sitting with a pot of gold is believed to bring wealth into a household during Diwali.

Wealth In Your Home

External Expression Of Joy

The colorful lanterns that adorn this home belie the simplicity of their daily lives.

External Expression Of Joy

It’s Time For Diyas

Before sunrise and after sunset is the time for light artistic diyas and candles to celebrate Diwali.

It’s Time For Diyas

Inviting The Goddess

A large collection of diyas invite Laxmi, the Goddess of Wealth into every Indian home during Diwali.

Inviting The Goddess

Artistic Diwali

Diwali is the time you can give rein to your artistic expression through beautifully designed rangolis.

Artistic Diwali

Lights All Over

The exterior of this homestead is decorated with tiny lamps to celebrate the Diwali season.

Lights All Over

Earthen Lamps

Earthenware oil or diyas have to be a part of Diwali because it is called the Festival of Lights.

Earthen Lamps

Crackers And Sparks

Crackers of different types are a joy to children as well as adults in the Diwali season.

Crackers And Sparks

Save The Earth

Using limited amount of diyas is a great way to conserve energy this Diwali.

Save The Earth

7 Reasons Why We Celebrate Diwali

2012-11-11T20:34:00.001-08:00

Most of us enjoy the Diwali celebrations without knowing the actual spiritual significance of this festival of lights. If you ask anyone, why we celebrate Diwali, you will get vague answers. They might tell you that we light lamps or diyas on Diwali or burst fire crackers on Diwali.

Actually speaking, there are many reasons for which Diwali is one of the few pan-Indian festivals. Almost all of India celebrates Diwali but their myths and rituals for this festival are different. Here are few reason of why we celebrate Diwali:

1. Ram Returns To Ayodhya: In most of Northern India, Diwali celebrations mark the triumphant return of Lord Ram to his homeland Ayodhya. The people of Ayodhya welcomed their just and victorious king by lighting diyas on Diwali.

2. Lakshmi Puja: The most important rite of Diwali is the Lakshmi and Ganesh puja. This puja is done on the darkest night of the year, that is the no moon day of Ashwin maas (a month of the lunar calendar). The house is cleaned thoroughly, rangolis are drawn and diyas lighted. Lakshmi Puja is done at night amidst diyas.

3. The New Year: For Indian businessmen, Diwali is the starting of the new financial year. They close their books for the last year and begin new books on this day. Many people renovate and paint their houses before Diwali because it is marked as the beginning of Hindu new year.

4. Kali Puja: In Bengal, Odisha and some parts of Bihar, Mahakali or Nishi puja is celebrated on the night of Diwali. This is supposed to be the day on which, Parvati took her Kali avatar and started chopping of the heads of asuras. Kali puja starts late at night and is concluded in the wee hours of the morning.

5. Guru Nanak: Not only Hindus but Sikhs too celebrate Diwali. This is because, on this day Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth guru of the Sikhs was released from prison along with 62 Hindu kings. After his release from incarceration, he payed a visit to Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib). All the people of Amritsar welcomed him by lighting candles and lamps.

6. Lord Mahavira: Many people believe that Lord Mahavira attained his moksha or nirvana on the 15th of October which is roughly the time around which Diwali is celebrated.

7. The Light Of Hope: A deeper spiritual meaning of Diwali comes from the fact that it is the darkest night of the year. So, to dispel the darkness of ignorance and hopelessness, people light diyas on Diwali. They also burst fire crackers to ward off evil spirits.

These are some of the deep seated spiritual reasons behind the bright Diwali celebrations. Do you celebrate Diwali for any other reason?

Importance of safety during Diwali

2012-11-11T20:23:00.002-08:00

Diwali! It is a time when families come together, despite distances and differences. It is a time to appreciate and be thankful for all that you have. It is also considered an auspicious time to make new beginnings, whether it’s on the personal or professional front. In short it is a time to rejoice and celebrate! The festival brings with it a whole lot of excitement and grandeur everywhere you look. The festivities are seen through flower decorated homes, brightly lit diyas, new clothes and definitely loads of fireworks and crackers.

Oil diyas, electric lamps, crackling crackers are an inevitable part of this festival of lights. And while I don’t mind the diyas and the lamps, it’s the crackers that get me a little edgy. You see, unfortunately, as a child I learnt the hard way, that it is extremely important to practice a safe Diwali. After all for a child, Diwali can only mean two things, a time to indulge in new clothes and gifts, and a time to burst crackers with your family and friends. And in an attempt to impress my friends about how fearless I was, in my younger days, I ended up burning my fingers, pun intended.

Now as a parent of a child, who is at an age where fire crackers seem like the most exciting thing on this planet, my main concern, is his safety. In fact I have spent the last couple of weeks, trying innovative ways to tell him how to practice a safe yet fun Diwali. So in that sense, this blog post couldn’t have come at a better time. Here are some things that I tried with my son, in order to ensure, he enjoys his time celebrating a risk free (I hope) Diwali!

Striking the Diwali conversation in advance: Handing out safety tips on the day of the festival isn’t going to work. Your child will be easily distracted, with friends and family visiting, and chances are, you will be too. If you want to catch your child’s fleeting attention especially while he is enjoying his Diwali holidays, then you must start a few days in advance.

Rules around the house: As a parent of an excited youngster, you need to spell out the dos and don’ts around the festival, clearly. This could include things such as (a) no bursting fire crackers indoors, (b) no playing with lit diyas, (c) no unsupervised time with the firecrackers (this means he/she gets access to all sorts of explosives, even if they are guns/snakes only when you are around).

Sensible Clothing: This is something that is easy to convince your child about. No finery near the fireworks! You can ensure this at your end by shopping for the festival accordingly. Cotton clothing is the thumb rule while handling fireworks.

Never hold firecrackers when lighting them: Many children tend to light ‘bombs’ or other crackers while holding them, and then throw them up in the air. Children often emulate adults. So don’t do this yourself, and teach your child to never light up when holding the cracker. Not only can the cracker burst in your child’s hand, but when your child throws it he could miscalculate and hurt someone else. I tell you this from personal experience!

Don’t have fun at another’s expense: Lighting a rocket horizontally and watching others shriek and get out of the way may seem like fun for a child, so it’s important you impress upon your child how such pranks can be dangerous. In fact, you can even encourage him to bring such behavior to an adult’s notice, in case he sees some of his friends indulging in such pranks.

Talk about an eco-friendly Diwali: With everyday news about high pollution levels and global warming, it is a good idea to tell your child, how firecrackers add to the existent environmental woes. You can site examples of how children in various parts of the country are pledging to celebrate an eco-friendly Diwali, and you can lead by example to this effect. While it may not be entirely possible to convince your child, at least you can convince him/her to reduce the use of firecrackers. You can also encourage him/her to do indulge in a social cause by setting aside a part of the budget you planned to spend on the firecrackers, and letting him/her decide how he would like to help the needy with that money. For e.g.: let him/her decide if you should buy clothes, food, etc with that money and help him/her distribute it. This will kindle the true festive spirit within your family.

At your end, you can ensure the following to make your child’s Diwali a safe one.

Watch a display: It is safest to watch a fireworks display than it is to actually burn the crackers. Try and mobilize your neighborhood to organize a fireworks display, as is the practice in other parts of the world. In keeping with the spirit of Diwali, you could light diyas in your home and perform a puja.

Discourage burning firecrackers: If all your child’s friends are burning firecrackers, chances are, your child will feel left out if he/she is the only one without them. Try speaking to your child’s teachers to discourage children in her class from burning firecrackers on Diwali. The children could do a project on the disadvantages of burning firecrackers, emphasizing on child labor, the diseases suffered by these children who make the firecrackers, their dismal working conditions, the tremendous air pollution, wastage of money, burns associated with Diwali and so on.

While you may have tried several of these tips, it’s always a good idea to revisit them with your child, before the festivity begins. So, on that note, I would like to wish you and your families, a very happy and safe Diwali. And of course more such tips on making your child’s Diwali a safer one are welcome!

Eyebrow Says a Lot !!!

2012-07-22T22:14:00.000-07:00

Arched Brow
The brow of beauty. You're born to the good things in life. Indicates harmony in relationships.

Upswept Brow

A positive, optimistic brow. The sign of an activist brow.

Downswept Brow
Seductive. But could signal weakness to others.

Short Brow
Gives the appearance of youth..and can be an asset. Shows independence and ambition.

Level Brow

The brow of a career woman who also enjoys sports and the outdoor.

Angular Brow
Indicates a dramatic personality. .. creative, brilliant in financial matters.

Rounded Brow
The brow of a businesswoman or perhaps an entertainer.

Chatpata Rings

2012-07-18T20:55:00.000-07:00

Chatpata rings, an occasional and monsoon snack for the short breaks, these munchies look and taste great. Limit the portion size, since they are deep-fried and habit-forming. The most hassle free dish for the way it tastes !

Preparation Time: 10 mins
Cooking Time : 15 mins
Servings : 4

Ingredients

To Be Mixed Together Into A Masala

1/2 tsp chaat masala
1/4 tsp chilli powder
1 tsp powdered sugar
salt to taste

Other Ingredients1/2 cup maize flour (makai ka atta)
1/4 cup plain flour (maida)
1 tbsp oil
salt to taste
1/4 tsp oil for kneading
oil for deep-frying

Method

Combine the maize flour, plain flour, oil and salt in a bowl and knead into soft dough adding warm water (approx. 4 tbsp). Keep aside for 5 minutes.

Knead again using oil till smooth and elastic.

Divide the dough into 2 equal portions and roll out each portion into a 150 mm (6”) diameter circle.

Divide each circle into 2 equal portions (you will get 4 semi-circles).

Place a semi-circle on a flat, dry surface and cut it into 1 cm. Thick strips.

Repeat with the remaining semi-circles to make more strips. Keep aside.

Roll each strip into a ring and press to seal the edges.

Heat the oil in a kadhai and deep-fry the rings in batches in oil till they turn golden brown in colour. Drain on absorbent paper.

Sprinkle the prepared masala and toss well.

Pack

Cool slightly and pack in a Air Tight box.

Best Food for Eyes

2012-07-17T00:47:00.001-07:00

1. Cherries contain antioxidants that can prevent eye problems that lead to blindness. They are also rich in bioflavonoids that strengthen the blood vessels that carry oxygen to the eyes and brain. Cherries also contain calcium, potassium, fiber and iron, and Vitamins A, B and C.E

2. Almonds are rich in Vitamin E that help prevent cataract and improves vision.

3. Avocadoes are packed with antioxidants that improve eyesight and prevent problems like astigmatism, glaucoma and cataracts.

4. Flaxseeds are one of the richest sources of natural omega-3 fatty acids, that helps build immunity and prevent age-related macular degeneration in the eyes.

5. Sunflower seeds and parsley are rich in Vitamin E and B2 that are extremely beneficial for the eyes.

6. Corn is a great source of lutein and zeaxanthin, and a fair source of beta-carotene and Vitamin C.

7. Strawberries are rich source of Vitamin E. Studies reveal that person whose diet is rich in Vitamin E is three times less likely to develop macular degeneration that is the main cause of poor eyesight in the elderly.

5 Green Foods with healing powers

2012-07-17T00:22:00.002-07:00

Food plays a significant role in our life. Yet, though humans are famous for eating practically anything and everything in the food chain, care should be taken to make the right choices. That means eating food that is rich in vitamins and other nutrients and this shouldnt be guess work. Why not include some of the green foods below, which have extraordinary healing powers?

1. Kale

Kale is a highly nutritious vegetable that has the strength to support our bodys detoxification system. It not only lowers the risk of contracting cancer, but is also very helpful in lowering cholesterol levels. This great vegetable is also a good source of dietary fiber and comes with the benefit of containing vitamins (A, C, K, B6), copper, calcium, manganese and potassium. It is also used to avoid lung congestion in Chinese medicinal practice. Eating kale 2-3 times a week to enjoy the maximum benefits from this miraculous food.

2. Cherries

The cherry is a superfruit that is a great source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Cherries are full of phyto-nutrients and free of sodium and fat. Recently, scientists have discovered that melatonin found in cherries has anti-aging properties and it also helps in preventing memory loss. Rich in antioxidants, cherries also reduce the risk of heart disease and ease the pain of arthritis and gout. A must-eat fruit that has a fantastic flavor too.

3. Broccoli

Broccoli is a powerful weapon that can fight cancer and battle birth defects. This super food not only boosts the immune system but helps the building of bones. A rich source of all sorts of vitamins (E, A, C, K, B6), potassium, manganese, iron and calcium, broccoli is known to fight against tumor development. We should eat a little of it every day, as it is available fresh year round.

4. Guavas

The guava is a sweet, tropical fruit, ideal for aiding with weight loss. Guava helps with constipation, effectively prevents cancer and heart disease, and prevents skin problems. It treats male fertility problems, too, being a rich source of vitamins like vitamin C, as well as dietary fiber and minerals. Guava is also used to treat diarrhea, fever and diabetes in traditional medicinal practices.

5. Kiwi fruits

Being rich in dietary fiber, kiwis are a very healthy choice for diabetes patients, as they help control sugar levels. The kiwi is also helpful in preventing coughing. Best known as a very good supplier of both vitamin C and vitamin K, the kiwi fruit could also prevent asthma and colon cancer. A sweet and small fruit with a unique flavor, it furthermore has the power to protect the eyes.

CHINESE SAMOSA RECIPE

2012-07-13T04:00:00.000-07:00

Chinese Samosa is a very popular recipe. Jain Chinese samosa is yummy and tempting to have, non jains can try it and jains can have it. Learn How To Make Chinese Samosa by following this easy recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Noodles (boiled)
• 1/2 cup french beans (semi-boiled)
• 2 cup cabbage (shredded)
• 1 tsp Soy Sauce
• ½ tsp Ajinomoto
• 2 tbsp Oil
• Salt to taste
• Oil for deep frying

For Dough
• 1 cup Maida
• ½ tsp Salt
• 2 tbsp Oil
• Water to knead

Method :

•	To make filling, heat some oil in a pan, and add cabbage, french beans and ajinomoto to it. Cook till the vegetables become tender.
•	Now add noodles, soy sauce and salt to the above. Stir it.
•	After 2-3 minutes, put off the flame and allow it to cool.
•	To make dough, mix maida, warm oil and salt in a thick bottomed vessel. Add water occasionally to the above till the dough becomes a slightly stiff.
•	Cover the dough with a moist cloth and keep it aside for 15-20 minutes.
•	After the due time, take the dough and roll out small circles of 5’’ diameters from it.
•	Cut each circle into two halves and run a moist finger along the diameter. Join the edges of each semi-circle to make a cone.
•	Place a tbsp of filling in the cone and seal third side as above.
•	Repeat the same procedure for the remaining circles.
•	Now deep fry these stuffed cones in oil on low to medium flame till light brown.
•	Chinese Samosa is ready to eat. Serve hot with tomato ketchup.

Chocolate Cake

2012-07-13T03:34:00.000-07:00

A rich, dense, moist chocolate cake. Eggless Chocolate Cake is a mouth-watering and a delightful British dessert.

Learn how to make/prepare Eggless Chocolate Cake by following this easy recipe.

Preparation Time: 10mins

Cooking Time : 60mins

Ingredients:

• 4½ cups All-purpose Flour
• 3 cups White Sugar
• 1 cup unsweetened Cocoa Powder
• 1 cup Vegetable Oil
• 3 cups Water
• 3 tsp Baking Soda
• ½ tsp Salt
• 3 tsp Vanilla Extract

Method :

•	Preheat oven to 175 degrees Celsius
•	Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking pan with vegetable oil and flour.
•	Take a large bowl and combine together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt and white sugar.
•	Add vegetable oil, water and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly.
•	Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
•	Bake the batter for 1 hour.
•	Remove, cool down on a wire rack and serve.

Moles and its behaviour !!!

2012-07-11T21:38:00.000-07:00

                                                                     
                                                                     
                                                                     
                                             
The Chinese Almanac, also known as the Tung Shu, is commonly known as a book of auspicious and inauspicious dates, but there is so much more to the Tung Shu than that. It is a vast mine of information relating to astrology, codes and symbols, derived by the wise sages and philosophers of ancient China. In this issue, we bring to you the secrets from the almanac regarding moles on your face and what they mean depending on which part of your face they appear.

First, check your face for any moles, and then look at the diagram above to identify the number(s) that are a closest match to the moles on your face. Usually, the moles only hold meaning for you if they are prominent and they are the only one. If your face if full of spots, acne or "little" moles, they do not count. When you've ascertained which position corresponds to the mole on your face, look up the meanings listed by numbers below.

Position 1 to 3
As a child, you are somewhat rebellious and a free spirit. You have an innate creativity and work best when you are given a free hand. Generally, your superiors like your avante garde approach to life. If you have a mole here, you are far better off in business and being your own boss rather than working for somebody. What is promising is that you have the luck to be your own boss.

Position 4
You are an impulsive person, often acting with a flamboyance that gives you charisma and a sparkling personality, but you can be difficult when there are too many opinions. You tend to be rather argumentative, but never to the point of holding grudges. This mole tends to give you an explosive temper and should you decide to remove it, you will find yourself becoming calmer and more at peace with the world.

Position 5
A mole above the eyebrow indicates that there is wealth luck in your life, but you will need to earn it and work harder than most people. All the income you make must be carefully kept as there are people who are jealous of you who might attempt to sweet talk you into parting with your wealth. Be wary of those who try to interest you in get-rich-quick schemes. If you have a mole here, it is advisable not to be too trusting of others. Follow your instincts and be cautious. And never allow other people to control your finances.

Position 6
A mole here indicates intelligence, creativity and skill as an artist. Your artistic talent can bring you wealth, fame and success. It also indicates wealth luck, but this can only be fully realized if you follow your heart rather than stick to conventional means of making a living. Success will come if you are brave.

Position 7
Moles under the eyebrows indicate arguments within the extended family that cause you grief and unhappiness. This will affect your work and livelihood. It is advisable to settle any differences you have with your relatives if you want peace of mind to move ahead.

Position 8
This is not a very good position for a mole. Your financial position will constantly be under strain because of a tendency to overspend. You also have a penchant for gambling. The only thing is you must know when to stop. Meanwhile, someone with a mole here has a tendency to flirt with members of the opposite sex as well as with the same sex. Better be a little discerning where you exert your charms, or you might get into trouble.

Position 9
This mole position suggests sexual and other problems. It is an unfortunate mole and you are well advised to get rid of it. It brings a litany of woes and a parade of problems.

Position 10
A mole here just under the nose indicates excellent descendants luck. You are surrounded by family at all times and will have many children and grandchildren. You have the support of those close to you and will be both materially and emotionally fulfilled.

Position 11
Moles here suggest a tendency to succumb to illness. It is a good idea to have this mole removed especially if it is a large, dark-coloured mole. Otherwise use lots of foundation to cover it.

Position 12
A mole here foretells a successful but also a very balanced life. You are likely to be not just rich, but famous as well. But although you have every opportunity to live the high life, you will have a satisfying home and family life as well. Women with moles here are particularly lucky and tend to be beautiful and glamourous as well.

Position 13
Your children will be a big worry in your life. Your relationship with them is not good. There is nothing much you can do about this except to learn some tolerance.

Position 14
A mole here suggests a vulnerability to food which can be a big problem in your life. You may have allergies against certain foods or you may simply be eating too much.

Position 15
You are a person always on the move and constantly renovating and redesigning your house. You like to be introduced to new things and see new places. You are not happy if you remain in one place for long. You enjoy travel and adventure, and have a very observant eye.

Position 16
You need to be careful when it comes to eating, and also when it comes to your sex life. These are your two biggest problems. You tend to have weight issues which can make you depressed. You enjoy romance, sometimes with more than one person, but because you are a person with some morality, you will feel guilty about it and this will cause you much stress.

Position 17
You will be someone of great social prominence. You are active on the social scene and an excellent conversationalist. There is a tendency to become bigheaded about your success, which could lose you your good name. This will affect you deeply because you draw your confidence and self worth from what others think of you.

Position 18
You are a person always on the move. There is a great deal of overseas travel in your life, but you should take extra care each time you cross the great waters, as your mole prefers you to stay at home.

Position 19
You have money luck and many good friends, so this is a good mole to have. Your weakness is that you tend to succumb to the charms of the opposite sex. In your life, it is this that could get you into hot water, so do cool your ardour!

Position 20
A mole here can be very lucky or very unlucky. If you have a mole here, you are destined either for extreme fame or infamy. You have great flair for creativity and are also highly intelligent, but your talents can be used for both good and bad. You are not a person to be trifled with for you are no pushover and do not forgive and forget easily. This mole is a mark of someone who will go down in history either as a great or as a tyrant.

Position 21
This is a good mole, as it suggests plenty to eat and drink throughout your life. This mole also brings fame and recognition.

Position 22
Your life is always happy and things go smoothly for you. You could well become a sports superstar if you have the passion for it. Moles at the end of eyebrows also suggest a person of authority and power, so if you are the CEO of a company, you will do very well.

Position 23
You have a high IQ, and you are both brain smart and street smart. You have a highly-developed survival instinct and will lead a meaningful and long life. You will be active until a very old age and will have friends and family around you till the very end.

Position 24
You will achieve fame and fortune in your young age and you are advised to use this period to safeguard your old age, as people with moles here tend to have a harderlife as they get older.

Position 25
You will enjoy good prosperity and recognition luck, but do be careful of excesses. Stay traditional in your attitudes and you will have a long and fruitful life.

What does dieting mean?

2012-07-11T21:00:00.000-07:00

What is dieting? What does it mean?

Dieting, mainly it means trying to reduce excess of body weight. The only way to loose fat is by consuming fewer calories per day than your body needs. Insulin resistance is a major cause of excess weight / obesity, so make sure you consult your physician before opting for any dieting plan.

Tips for successful dieting which are based on information only.

1. Drink at least 2-5 liters of water everyday, depending upon the type of weather conditions. Tea, Coffee and alcohols are not to be taken as the substitutes for pure water as these products contains dehydrating agents; they rather get rid of water from the body reserves. Soda and juices also reduce the urge to drink water.

2. Avoid junk food. Junk food means: food which has low nutritional value and high fat, sugar and calories content e.g. salted snack foods, candy, gum, most of the sweet desserts, fried chips, chocolate, cakes, soft drinks, hamburgers etc. These contain very little protein, vitamins and very high calories.

3. Eat small meals at frequent intervals instead of one large meal and avoid late night meals/snacks. Eating smaller meals during the day means control on obesity. The truth is that when you eat more often, your metabolism speeds up as the body understands there is more food on the way and better metabolism means your body burns off calories instead of storing them.

4, Avoid ready, processed food in which preservatives are used.

5. Avoid fatty food and alcohols: Alcohols have to be metabolized by the liver, so the liver can't perform the same job of, metabolizing fat at the same time. Fats: Include minimum possible oils to get fewer calories, in to your diet. Make sure to burn fat, you consume to reduce your excess weight.

6. Get your diet plan worked out by the dietician who will prepare the exact number of calories in-take for your dieting plan. Eat right kind of diet, introducing fruits and vegetables of all colours in your menu.

7. Choose the right kind of exercises according to your routine and activities. Make sure your exercise routine more interesting by using exercise audios/videos.

8. Food selection should be based on the lowest amount of sugar, sodium and carbohydrates.

9. Never keep on eating from a jar, as like this you will not be able to have a check on yourself on the quantity intake.

10. Soups are the best way of filling yourself but make sure you take freshly prepared soups to avoid intake of preservatives.

11. When coming to eating desserts, take a small amount.

12. Don't skip a meal as by doing so you tend to overeat during the next meal.

13. Keep daily record of intake and how many calories you are using.

14, Eat fruits and vegetables salad for snacks instead of salties and fried chips.

15. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables (unless these are baked or tossed with butter) as most of these contain low fat and calories. Many of these contain important vitamins and fiber. Avoid avocados, coconut and olives as all of these contain fat naturally.

Puzzles Spot

2012-07-03T23:49:00.002-07:00

Look at this picture of coffee beans three divine cow, and three children's faces.

NEXT,

You will have to wait for help, but still, try to find them yourself ;

PARANTHE WALI GALI

2012-07-02T22:50:00.001-07:00

PARANTHE WALI GALI:-

Paranthe Wali Gali ("lane of parantha-makers") in Old Delhi is a famous gourmet locality in the world. The famous Mela restaurant in the UK has imitated this famous gali and in Bombay the "Only Parathas" restaurant group is trying to copy the ambience of the Delhi lane.
In the years just after the independence, Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit came to take their parantha meals in this gali.The "Pandit Dayanand Shivcharan" shop proudly displays the photograph of the Nehru family eating in their shop. The late Jayaprakash Narayan was a regular visitor.

Foods:-

The food is old fashioned, strictly vegetarian, and cooked dishes do not include onion or garlic, since the owners are Brahmins, and traditionally their clientele has included Jains in the neighborhood. Varieties include exotic fillings like kaju, badam, matar, Mix Paranthas, rabri, khoya parantha, gobhi parantha, Parat parantha, etc.The parantha is usually served with sweet tamarind chutney, mint chutney, mixed vegetable pickle, paneer and potato curry, potato and fenugreek curry, and a sauteed mash of sweet pumpkin.

Drinks:-

Sweet lassi, often served in Kulhars is also a specialty of this place.

8 Super Nutrients for Weight Loss

2012-06-25T22:41:00.000-07:00

1. Monounsaturated fats

Replacing carbohydrates in your diet with monounsaturated fats will help you slim down by shuttling fat away from your midsection.

Where to get it: Avocados, Macadamia nuts, and olive oil are great sources of monounsaturated fats. They also come packaged with great nutrients such as antioxidants (in olive oil), fiber (in avocado), and B-vitamins (in macadamia nuts).

2. EGCG

EGCG or Epigallocatechin gallate is an antioxidant found in green tea. EGCG can increase thermogenesis or heat production through extra calorie burning and the use of stored fat as energy. Some research also shows that EGCG can stop the growth of new fat cells.

Where to get it: The greatest weight loss effects of EGCG are seen when combined with caffeine, as it naturally occurs in green tea.

3. Raspberry ketones

Raspberry ketones are an antioxidant found in raspberries that preliminary research shows have some interesting fat loss effects. Raspberry ketones can increase the production of the muscle-energizing, fat-burning hormone adiponectin as well as directly increasing the burning of stored fat.

Where to get it: You can't come close to getting enough raspberry ketones via eating raspberries so to reap these benefits you'll need to take a concentrated raspberry ketone supplement (they are inexpensive and available at more health food stores). Keep an eye out for more about raspberry ketones and weight loss as new research gets published.

4. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)

Docosahexaenoic acid or DHA is one of the two omega-3 fats. DHA can stop growth of young fat cells and actually causes them to die, says research published in the Journal of Nutrition.

Where to get it: To get more DHA in your diet, pick up an algae-based DHA supplement to reap the benefits.

5. Acetic acid

Vinegar, a dilute form of acetic acid, has potent glucose-lowering effects. One study in Italy found that when participants added just more than1 tablespoon of vinegar to their meal (as salad dressing) they experienced a 30 percent decrease in their post-meal blood sugar levels. Controlling blood sugar remains an essential component to weight loss and maintaining a lean body.

Where to get it: Adding vinegar to salads should be standard protocol, but if you can manage to find chocolate balsamic vinegar, it makes an excellent addition to a protein-packed chocolate smoothie.

6. Protein

Protein from lean sources like dairy, or soy are weight loss rock stars. The amino acids that make up protein cause your body to release the fat-burning and energy-stabilizing hormone glucagon. The process of digesting protein also stimulates your body to release the satiety hormone CCK. This one-two punch combined with the fact that it takes your body more energy to digest and breakdown protein compared to carbohydrates or fat makes it a must-have at every meal throughout your day.

Where to get it: The possibilities are endless, but lean proteins like Greek yogurt , cottage cheese, are especially convenient.

7. Caffeine

Caffeine is one of the most potent weight loss compounds available to you each and every day. Caffeine blocks the breakdown of a compound call camp, which is responsible for mobilizing stored fats so they can be burned as energy.

Where to get it: If you are looking for a bigger fat-burning boost, then make sure to choose black tea over green tea or light roast coffee over dark roast for a larger dose of caffeine.

8. Fiber

Fiber is often touted to be a great nutrient for weight loss because it slows down digestion, allowing for sustained energy and stable blood sugar. However fiber can also optimize hormones released during digestion that are responsible for feelings of hunger and satiety.

Where to get it: Try to get your fiber in its raw form instead of from foods that have been overly processed. The processing of fiber can change its chemical make-up, which can decrease its effectiveness at promoting satiety or lowering cholesterol. Next time you have the choice between oatmeal and cereal made from baked oat crisps, opt for regular oatmeal.

5 Easy Ways To Reduce Calorie Intake

2012-06-25T02:19:00.003-07:00

Successful weight loss is not about starving, its about fuelling your body with the healthy, low calorie food it needs to help u lose weight.

Going to the gym every morning might not be possible for all of us. And those guilt provoked three days/weekend works out is what you try to fit into your busy schedules.

In a sense, our ravenous indulgences are ALL IN OUR HEADS.. Some of us know that our desire

to eat is not always based on our bodies..it may also be based on fluctuating levels of a brain

chemical known as Serotonin. When its level dip..hunger sets in, cravings intensify and we succumb to those cravings...

But how helpful are the exercise and more over how loyal are you to them? So if your lifestyle
forces you to cheat on your exercise routine, here’s what you can do to keep your weight under
control. We tell you Five simple ways to reduce your calorie intake to keep yourself healthy.

Drink water before your meal

Half a glass of water before your meal will fill you up. This way the chances of overeating reduce drastically. This way, you will also reduce the chances of feeling stuffed post the meal.

Switch to skimmed milk

Replace your regular packet milk to a low calorie skimmed milk. Add the healthier milk to your morning cup of java. Another option for you is goat milk as it is tastier and healthier than the regular high-on-cream milk.

Eat slowly

The elders tell you to chew your food for a specific number of times before you swallow it. The trick is that, when you chew your food well, it aids the body in the digestion process. Your body understands the food well and you land up eating almost half of what you would normally eat. Ideally, one should spend a minimum of 20 minutes over each meal.

Select smaller portions

When eating out eat only half the portion of what has been served to you. Share the meal with your partner. Outside foods normally come in large portions and added ingredients like soda and Ajinomoto make the food difficult to digest. So, the next time you go to a deli split your serving with your partner.

Resist the calorific food

When you next visit a Subway avoid adding mayonnaise, cheese to the sub. Initially, the flavour might be difficult to adjust but eventually you would get used to it. Replace the mayo with mustard. Bread is an integral part of our diet these days, switch to a lighter bread that will cut down upto 100 calories at least.

It is always best to carry your own lunch and eat wholesome home cooked food. Eat as many vegetables as you can and also make sure that you add a lot of colour to your platter. When craving for sweets, avoid chocolates or other desserts, binge on fruits or yogurts to satisfy the craving. If you follow these few tips while eating, your calorie count will steadily come under control and you will never have to feel guilty about missing your workout!

Peach Smoothie

2012-06-21T01:25:00.001-07:00

It’s peach season. Peaches, like most foods, can be an important part of our medicine chest. These fruits have energetic properties that can be used therapeutically. Traditional practices of herbal medicine always used energetics to better understand how to use herbs as well as food.

In herbalism, almost the entire peach tree can be used in a variety of ways.

Peach is a traditional remedy that has been gaining well-deserved attention from the herbal community in the last several years. This aromatic herb is both tasty and effective, and its calming and cooling properties give it a wide range of applicability. It has the ability to calm anxiety, heal wounds, soothe nausea and even moderate histamine reactions. The leaves, bark, flowers and even the fruit pits of this well known tree provide us an with an amazing array of healing actions that culminate in Peach.

If you had more peaches than you knew what to do with, you could use them externally as a facial. Simply mash up the peach fruit, spread on the face, let dry, and then rinse.

So back to peaches and the peach smoothie recipe.

Ingredients

4 large peaches halves.

100gm raspberries , plus a few for garnish.

100ml orange juice.

150ml fresh custard , plus a spoonful for garnish.

Method

Drain and rinse peaches and place in a blender with raspberries. Add orange juice and fresh custard and whizz together.
Pour over ice, garnish with another spoonful of custard and a few raspberries. Best served chilled.

A Healthier Heart

2012-06-18T04:20:00.000-07:00

Want better skin, a stronger skeleton, or a slimmer waistline? There's a food pairing out there that can help you get it

Green Tea + Lemon -

Green tea has been linked to a reduced risk of heart attacks, thanks to catechins, the brew’s powerful antioxidants. But studies show only about 20 percent of these healthful compounds are available for our bodies to absorb.

The good news: Recently, when scientists added lemon juice to green tea, the availability of health enhancing catechins skyrocketed to a whopping 80 percent.

Stay-Well Strategy: After brewing yourself a cup of green tea, squeeze in the juice of one whole lemon (you can also use an orange, lime or grapefruit, all runners-up in the study). Don’t want to DIY? Look for bottled green teas that list “ascorbic acid” (also known as vitamin C) among their ingredients. Scientists say the vitamin C in citrus fruits can also improve catechin absorption.

Oatmeal + Strawberries -

Oats contain two important phytochemicals called avenanthramides and phenolic acids. These compounds have been shown in research to work synergistically with vitamin C to reduce the harmful effects of “bad” LDL cholesterol (determines your risk for heart diseases) and help prevent the plaque build-up that can lead to heart attacks.

Stay-Well Strategy: Enjoy a half cup of sliced strawberries with your morning bowl of oatmeal.

KADAI PANEER

2012-06-14T05:15:00.000-07:00

Kadai Paneer is a very tasty recipe. Learn how to make Kadai Paneer by following this easy recipe.

Ingredients:

• 500 grams Paneer (cut into 1 inch triangle)
• 2 tsp Red Chili Powder
• 5 Medium Tomatoes (Chopped)
• ½ bunch Fresh Coriander Leaves
• 2 Bay Leaves
• 2 inch Cinnamon Stick
• 2 Red Chilies
• 2 tbsp Coriander Seeds (crushed)
• 2 Cloves
• Oil
• Salt (to taste)

Method

•Heat up the oil in a pan

•Add red chilies, coriander seeds, cloves and fry for 2 min.

•Add cinnamon, bay leaves, red chili powder, mix it well and cook.

•Continue cooking for 2 more min.

•Add tomatoes, salt and cook until tomatoes become soft.

•Add paneer and stir gently.

•Cook on low heat till paneer is done.

•Garnish with coriander leaves.

APPLE MANGO SALAD

2012-06-14T03:00:00.000-07:00

Apple Mango Salad is a very tasty recipe. Learn how to make/prepare Apple Mango Salad by following this easy recipe.

Ingredients:

1. 1 Mango (peeled & cubed)
2. 1 Apple (peeled, cored and diced)
3. 3/4 cup Cashews (toasted)
4. 1 tbsp Vinegar
5. 1/2 tsp Ground Cinnamon
6. 1/4 tsp Balck Pepper
7. 1 pinch Salt

Method

1. Take a medium bowl, add all the ingredients.

2. Refrigerate it for 2 hours.

3. Enjoy it chilled.

Idli - Batter Fritters

2012-06-13T21:37:00.000-07:00

Idli-Batter Fritters are a crunchy and delightful appetizer you can literally make in minutes if you have the Idli batter ready. If you're wondering what to do with leftover batter, try this easy vegan snack recipe.

Ingredients

4 cups idli batter

1 tbsp flour (maida)

1-2 tbsp cilantro (coriander leaves), finely chopped

1/2 tsp red chilli powder or 1 green chilli, finely chopped (adjust to taste)

Salt to taste

1 tsp Astofodia

Vegetable oil for deep-frying

Preparation

Heat the the oil for deep-frying, preferably in a medium or large pan, so you can fry larger batches of the fritters to save time.

In a bowl, mix the idli batter with the flour, chillies or chilli powder, salt, and cilantro.

Take a tablespoon, and drop spoonfuls of the batter into the oil and fry until golden. Drain excess oil on a paper towel and serve the idli-batter fritters plain or with a chutney of your choice and a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Corn Banana Pakoras

2012-06-13T04:37:00.000-07:00

Awaken your senses with this great combination of Crispy corn and Raw Bananas. Pakoras is the ongoing season and yummy to eat and tempting for special monsoon.

Ingredients

1. 250 g Corn Kernels
2. 4 raw Banans
3. 2 tsp Green Chilli Paste
4. 2tsp peanut powder
5. 2 tbsp Fresh Coriander Leaves (chopped)
6. 1 tsp Chaat Masala
7. 2 tsp lemon juice
8. 1 tsp sugar
9. Salt to taste
10. Oil to deep fry

Method

1. Boil corn kernels with a pinch of salt, strain and transfer it to a big bowl.

2. Boil raw bananas, peel off the skin and smash it. Now add, green chilli paste, peanut powder, chaat masala, lemon juice, sugar, salt and coriander leaves to the corn kernels and mix well.

3. If the mixture gets watery, add poha as required to bind it hard.

4. Make oval shape balls.

5. In a wok (kadhai), heat oil and drop spoonful of corn mixture and fry till golden brown.

6. Remove from oil, drain the excess oil and serve.

Viennese Coffee

2012-06-11T23:53:00.001-07:00

Viennese Coffee is hot spiced coffee, serves as a perfect treat when entraining. A morning without coffee is like sleep.

Preparation Time: 5 mins.

Serves - 2

Ingredients

1 tsp instant coffee powder

1 1/2 tsp sugar

2 cloves (laung / lavang)

2 pinches cinnamon (dalchini) powder

1 cup water

Method
1. Combine all the ingredients for the coffee together and bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to stand covered for about 5 minutes, in order to   infuse the flavours.
3. Strain and pour into 2 cups and serve immediately top with whipped cream. Garnish with     cinnamon powder.

ColourFul Cooler

2012-06-10T23:56:00.000-07:00

The symbolism of color stands out and controls every aspect of life in India, be it religion, politics, festivals, or celebrations. In India, be it the north, south, west, or east, color and culture go hand in hand. The blue- yellow –white colours are very tempting in the summer heat. Mango - the KING FRUIT of Summers combined with chilled curds helps to beat the Summer heat.

Preparation Time: 10 mins
Servings - 4

Ingredients

300 ml chilled mango juice
300 ml chilled fresh curds (dahi)
6 tbsp sugar
6 tbsp fruit syrup
crushed ice

Method

Combine the the chilled curds and sugar and blend in a mixer till sugar dissolves.
Add the crushed ice in each glass.
Pour the fruit syrup over the ice and very carefully pour chilled mango juice in each glass equally.
Take care not to mix the 2 colours.
Carefully pour curd mixture over the mango juice equally.
Insert the decorative umbrellas, straws and stirrers in each glass.
Serve immediately.

Mast Masala Chai

2012-06-07T22:32:00.000-07:00

Enjoy hot cup of Masala Tea. There can be nothing more pleasing during a rain than a hot cup of masala tea.

Ingredients

2 to 3 lemongrass stalks (hare chai ki patti)
4 to 6 mint leaves (phudina)
1 cup Milk
1 teaspoon Chai masala
2 tbsp sugar For Tea Masala
1 inch stick Cinnamon
4 Green cardamoms
16 Black peppercorns
1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg,grated
1 teaspoon Dry Ginger (Soonth)

Method

Masala - Dry grind peppercorns, cinnamon, cloves and green cardamoms to a fine powder. Let it cool completely then sieve. Mix in soonth. Store in an airtight container. Use the masala as and when required to make tea.

1. Combine the lemon grass, mint leaves and sugar with 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.

2. Simmer for 5 to 10 minutes till the aroma is released and the water is reduced to half.

3. Add the tea masala and bring it to a boil.

4. Add the milk and simmer for 4 to 5 minutes.

5. Strain and Pour fresh and comforting chai into handmade clay cup.

Chocolate cookie cream

2012-06-06T22:45:00.001-07:00

Chocolate cookie cream have been thrown into rich creamy vanilla ice-cream to make delightful creamy & crunchy ice-cream. With No long Cooking time. Easy to make and Yummy to Eat.

Ingredients

1 Vanilla Ice-Cream

1 cup crushed chocolate chip cookies

1/4 cup grated dark chocolate

Method

Make the vanilla ice-cream and semi set it once
After churning it once, add the chocolate chip cookie and the grated chocolate and mix well.
Transfer into a shallow container. Cover and freeze till set. Scoop and serve.

Get Foodiee

40 Amazing Diwali Pictures

Wishing Joy For All

Floral Rangoli

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Wheels Of Light

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Decorated Tree

Dressing Up For Diwali

Earthenware Diyas

Lamps Of Joy

Universal Joy

Multiple Lamps

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Goddess Of Wealth

Intricate Colors

Wealth And Prosperity

Line Of Candles

Theme Of Joy

Goddess Of Wealth

Glow Of Lamps

Bright Geometry

Deep-awali

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Motif And Colors

A Joy For Children

Neat Decoration

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External Expression Of Joy

It’s Time For Diyas

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Eyebrow Says a Lot !!!

Chatpata Rings

To Be Mixed Together Into A Masala

1/2 tsp chaat masala1/4 tsp chilli powder1 tsp powdered sugarsalt to taste

Other Ingredients1/2 cup maize flour (makai ka atta)1/4 cup plain flour (maida)1 tbsp oilsalt to taste1/4 tsp oil for kneadingoil for deep-frying

Best Food for Eyes

5 Green Foods with healing powers

CHINESE SAMOSA RECIPE

Chocolate Cake

Moles and its behaviour !!!

What does dieting mean?

Puzzles Spot

PARANTHE WALI GALI

8 Super Nutrients for Weight Loss

5 Easy Ways To Reduce Calorie Intake

Drink water before your meal

Switch to skimmed milk

Eat slowly

Peach Smoothie

Ingredients

4 large peaches halves.

100gm raspberries , plus a few for garnish.

100ml orange juice.

150ml fresh custard , plus a spoonful for garnish.

Method

A Healthier Heart

KADAI PANEER

APPLE MANGO SALAD

Idli - Batter Fritters

Corn Banana Pakoras

Viennese Coffee

ColourFul Cooler

Mast Masala Chai

Chocolate cookie cream

1/2 tsp chaat masala
1/4 tsp chilli powder
1 tsp powdered sugar
salt to taste

Other Ingredients1/2 cup maize flour (makai ka atta)
1/4 cup plain flour (maida)
1 tbsp oil
salt to taste
1/4 tsp oil for kneading
oil for deep-frying