Shalini Passi discloses a habit she lives by: "It is extremely potent and beneficial for healing, metabolism, and general well-being."

Whether you watched Shalini Passi on Netflilx's Fabulous Lives vs. Bollywood Wives or not, the art and design "collector, advisor, patron, artist, and philanthropist" has been the talk of the town ever since the show premiered late last year. She steals the show at every event she attends. Her most recent appearance at the Festival de Cannes 2025 attracted attention as she walked the red carpet wearing a stunning Manish Malhotra creation that was influenced by artist Paresh Maity's visual artistic rendition of India's Longitude 77: from North to South.Shalini Passi talked candidly about her experience at Cannes, her career, how life has changed since Netflix, her diet, her lifestyle, and much more in an exclusive interview with indianexpress.com. See the following altered excerpts:Shalini Passi: My goal was to create an art and travel presentation. I traveled widely around India during the pandemic, visiting places like Leh, Ladakh, Mahabalipuram, and Jodhpur, documenting the local stories, architecture, and culture using photography and film. However, I was informed that there wasn't a large enough audience for that type of programming when I presented the idea to different networks.  

India's top 3 summer honeymoon spots for 2025​

Himachal Pradesh's Shimla For couples seeking cold mountain air to combat the summer heat, Shimla, the queen of hill stations, is a perfect honeymoon location. Shimla, a city tucked away in the Himalayas, boasts historical architecture, verdant pine forests, and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding valleys. Couples can explore the picturesque Ridge, take romantic walks along Mall Road, or go to quaint places like Kufri and Naldehra for adventure sports and horseback riding. It's ideal for nice evenings because of the lovely sunset views and good weather.Himachal Pradesh's Manali Manali is a popular destination for summer honeymoons because of its breathtaking scenery and exciting adventure activities. It offers rafting, trekking, and paragliding activities for adventurous couples and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and thick forests. The cold alpine temperature is perfect for outdoor adventure because it provides respite from the intense summer heat. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming Old Manali hamlet, see the Hidimba Temple, or unwind in the Vashisht hot springs. The lively cafes and local markets in the town contribute to the charming atmosphere.Goa Goa is synonymous with sun, sand, and romance, making it a classic summer honeymoon destination. Famous for its pristine beaches, lively nightlife, and Portuguese heritage, Goa offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Couples can enjoy romantic beach walks at sunrise, indulge in water sports, or explore charming forts and colonial churches. Goa’s vibrant culture is reflected in its music, food, and festivals, creating a festive atmosphere. The beach shacks serve delicious seafood and cocktails, perfect for intimate dinners by the sea.  

Identifying fake hing: Five practical methods to make sure you're purchasing real asafoetida

A prominent ingredient in Indian cookery, asafoetida, often called hing, is prized for its unique scent and digestive advantages. But as the market for this necessary spice has expanded, counterfeit and tainted products have begun to appear, making it difficult for customers to tell which is the real deal.A quick look at the box is not enough to identify phony hing. There are subtle but reliable ways to tell if the asafoetida you're purchasing is genuine, including texture and aroma. However, how can buyers boost their confidence in spotting high-quality goods among fakes? Five practical methods to identify fake hing are provided by Health Pepper's consultant dietitian and certified diabetic educator, Kanikka Malhotra.Consuming phony or contaminated hing (asafoetida) can lead to a number of health problems, such as gastrointestinal problems, allergic reactions, and long-term conditions including cancer and liver damage because of harmful adulterants like lead chromate and artificial dyes, Malhotra adds. Furthermore, hing that has been contaminated may not be nutritious, which could result in deficits in vital nutrients.  

When you eat coconut meat, your blood sugar levels change like this.

Because of its flavor and health advantages, coconut meat, also known as the flesh or kernel of mature coconuts, is quite popular. However, how does it affect blood sugar levels? Using a dish of fifty grams of coconut meat, businessman Karan Sarin, who analyzes Indian cuisine to determine their effect on blood sugar, illustrated just that.Compared to coconut water, which had a substantial spike, Sarin's CGM, or continuous glucose monitor reading, showed that the surge was minimal after two hours. "There isn't any sugar rush. "A flatline is a fantastic result," Sarin wrote on Instagram. The flesh of the coconut is used to make coconut milk. Two primary types of coconut milk are available: A thicker version that is frequently used in rich sauces or desserts, also referred to as coconut cream A more liquid variant that can be used directly in place of milk and has more water added Coconut milk in its more liquid form usually contains no more calories than semi-skimmed milk. However, the thicker variety of coconut milk has more calories, so it might be necessary to watch portion amounts.  

On World Hypertension Day 2025, a doctor offers seven lifestyle suggestions for controlling hypertension.

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is sometimes referred to as a silent killer since it can subtly lead to major health problems including heart disease and other chronic illnesses. Long-term health and wellbeing depend on blood pressure management. World Hypertension Day is observed annually on May 17 with the goal of increasing public awareness of the dangers of high blood pressure and encouraging practical preventative and treatment methods.Excess body weight increases blood pressure and overworks the heart. A body mass index (BMI) of 18.5 to 24.9 is the ideal range. Blood pressure can be significantly lowered by losing even a small amount of weight.Follow the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) meal plan. Consume lean protein, whole grains, fruits, veggies, and low-fat dairy products. Consume fewer than five grams of salt every day. Limit processed meals and saturated fats.On most days, engage in physical activity for at least half an hour each day. Frequent exercise, such as yoga, swimming, cycling, or brisk walking, keeps blood pressure within a healthy range. Another factor that contributes to hypertension is stress, which is reduced by exercise.Excessive alcohol use can damage the heart and raise blood pressure. Smoking increases cardiac strain and clogs arteries. Cardiovascular health is significantly impacted by quitting smoking.Effectively Managed High blood pressure is a result of ongoing stress. Engage in relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing. Maintain a healthy work-life balance and get adequate sleep.Pay attention to what you read, especially if you have a family history. Use a home monitor or schedule routine check-ups with a healthcare professional. A key component of effective management is early detection.  

And many say Bella Hadid did it perfectly: Janhvi Kapoor attends Cannes wearing a custom Tarun Tahiliani and "kala nazar dhaga"; Arriving with Aaradhya is Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.

We made sure that no one could turn away from the sight of Indians at Cannes yesterday, from Janhvi Kapoor gliding down the red carpet like she was in a dream sequence to Ruchi Gujjar nonchalantly sporting Prime Minister Modi on her necklace. Aside from some humorous blink-and-you'll-miss-it moments (like the mysterious black ring on Janhvi's wrist), there were some jaw-dropping looks. Cannes moments really delivered Friday night, whether you came for the memes or the couture.Janhvi donned custom Anamika Khanna couture for today's official premiere of her movie Homebound. She accessorized her look with a variety of vintage traditional Indian jewelry, including custom jade and jadao pieces.The actor made her big entrance the day before wearing a delicate pink Tarun Tahiliani ensemble that was designed by Rhea Kapoor. The ensemble resembled a hybrid of a gown and a lehenga. The fabric, which was actually Banarasi tissue, had a hand-crushed, crinkled texture that gave it the appearance of wearable silk origami. The skirt had significant volume, the corset was rigid, and a flowing drape that resembled a contemporary ghoonghat swept across her head. A floral garland, rosy cheeks, pearls, and a traditional winged liner completed the ensemble.Of course, nobody is safe on the Internet. A keen-eyed fan snapped, "Bro forgot to take off hair band from hand," as he zoomed in on her wrist. Who's checking? It might have been a Kala Nazir topic.  

Sara Tendulkar reveals her beauty secrets and the desi nuskha that her mother has her follow, saying, "I detest the smell of it."

Beyond the cricketing heritage and notoriety of her father, Sachin Tendulkar, Sara Tendulkar has forged her own identity. She is a biological scientist and licensed dietitian who just shared her well-kept secrets regarding wellness and beauty. Sara responded, "I wouldn't say I swear by it, but my mother forces me to put onion juice in my hair and also coconut oil mixed with rosemary oil," when asked about a Desi nuskha that was passed down to her. I detest how it smells. Dermatologist and aesthetician Dr. Pallavi Sule told IndianExpress.com that because onion juice has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial qualities, it can assist increase circulation. By increasing the blood flow to hair follicles, applying onion juice to the scalp and hair may promote hair growth. Premature greying of hair can also be postponed using onion juice. According to her, this is because the hair follicles produce the catalase enzyme.Consultant dermatologist Dr. Manasi Shirolikar claims that sulfur is present in the protein keratin, which makes up hair. Sulfur is also abundant in onion juice. Onion juice may offer more sulfur to the hair and scalp to maintain thick, strong hair, which could stop hair loss and encourage hair development.  

Which magnesium supplement is more cost-effective, body butters or oral pills?

Currently available in powder or capsule form, magnesium is no longer limited to oral supplements. Body care items including lotions, roll-ons, mists, and deodorants include this vital mineral, which is necessary for nerve function, muscular relaxation, and improved sleep. This is transforming how we think about bedtime wellness.However, is topical magnesium as effective as oral supplements? In order to investigate the science, the change in consumer behavior, and the true benefits of each form of magnesium, we consulted with industry professionals.According to Atul Rajani, the founder of Be, supplements containing magnesium mix the mineral with strong, scientifically supported components that are specifically designed to control the nervous system, reduce restlessness at night, and encourage deeper, more restful sleep. "Supplements work holistically, addressing the root of imbalances rather than just the symptoms," Rajani told indianexpress.com, whereas topical bodycare may provide momentary relief. According to Rajani, "magnesium is fundamentally responsible for more than 600 biochemical processes in the body, supporting everything from improved mood and mental clarity to blood sugar regulation, bone strength, heart health, energy production, and muscle recovery."The founder of Eden Skin Clinic and cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Ameesha Mahajan claims that the reason for the switch from oral to topical magnesium is the rise in gastrointestinal problems and the unpredictability of pill absorption. She clarified that transdermal magnesium, which is absorbed through the skin, is kinder and more focused. The inventor of Kasaya, Palak Sehgal, concurred that the goal is to diversify the ways in which individuals obtain their magnesium rather than completely do away with capsules. She cites three primary causes for the change:  

We investigate whether the claim that a woman loses her hearing after receiving an intense kiss on the ear is true.

Can a kiss on the ear inflict long-term harm even though it seems like a pleasant, innocent gesture? A New York mother reportedly lost hearing in one of her ears when her child kissed her too forcefully on the ear, according to this Instagram footage posted by general practitioner Dr. Samuel. We asked the professionals to explain how that could occur.The main worry isn't the kiss itself, but rather what can happen after it, according to Dr. Ashesh Bhushan, Head of the ENT Department at Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital in Greater Noida. There is a little chance of harming the auditory system if the kiss involves a loud, abrupt noise or whisper close to the ear. Loud sounds, particularly those near the ear, can harm hearing temporarily or permanently. Hearing problems can be caused by "directly blowing air or applying excessive pressure to the ear, but this is rare," according to Dr. Bhushan.The ear is susceptible to pressure shifts and loud noise exposure. Activities that increase ear pressure, such as diving or flying, are more likely to produce conditions like barotrauma—pressure-related ear injuries—even if the gentle act of kissing is generally safe. In contrast to these more extreme situations, Dr. Bhushan continues, the chance of acquiring hearing problems from such benign acts is very low.However, blowing directly into the ear or making an atypically loud sound while kissing could cause sudden air pressure to enter the ear, which could cause short-term hearing problems. Rarely, the hearing loss could go away on its own without the help of a doctor. On the other hand, damage to the ear that results from physical trauma may be irreparable.  

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Tom Cruise's Mission: Impossible: Final Reckoning Receives a 5-Minute Standing Ovation at Cannes 2025. View Nighttime Photos

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Hollywood actor Tom Cruise arrived at the Cannes Film Festival in style on Wednesday night, thrilling fans as he made his way to the premiere of his new movie, "Mission: Impossible -- The Final Reckoning."Christopher McQuarrie, his longtime partner and director, accompanied the 61-year-old actor on the red carpet. The star was spotted signing autographs and taking photographs with admirers. When fans saw the actor, they were also seen waving posters and other items from Cruise's previous movies, such as Mission: Impossible II and The Last Samurai. According to The Hollywood Reporter, some even made a little homage to Cruise's Top Gun co-star Val Kilmer. This time, after its Wednesday debut at the Grand Theatre Lumiere, Tom Cruise's film earned a thunderous 5-minute standing ovation.It was seen that the Hollywood celebrity thanked the festival attendees. He reflected on his thirty years as the face of Mission: Impossible and remarked, "I'm very grateful to be a part of this franchise."The actor also gave the director, who has directed four of the franchise's movies, respect. Tom Cruise referred to the filmmaker as "absolutely brilliant," saying, "Every step of the way, what you've done, how you've expanded it, how you just went beyond our expectations." "I couldn't have imagined anything like this as a child, to be here in Cannes and have these moments," he remarked. "I'm really appreciative that I've been able to amuse you with this franchise for thirty years."  

"When Aishwarya Rai claimed she didn't have the best beach body at Miss World—and still won;" I can attest to it, I can stamp it; How pageants affect how people see their bodies

The ideal of physical perfection frequently takes precedence over all other considerations in beauty pageants. However, one of the most well-known Miss World winners, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, has never shied away from questioning antiquated beliefs. In a media interview, she reflected on her experience competing in the 1994 Miss World pageant, saying, "I was definitely not the best beach body of all the 87 contestants when I became Miss World." I'm able to attest to it and stamp it. Nevertheless, I took home the crown.The 2014 decision by the Miss World organization to discontinue the swimsuit round was embraced by the past Miss World. She believes that concentrating only on physical beauty ignores the real goal of these contests."People think this (swimwear round) is an imperative round, and this becomes the deciding factor," she explained. That is untrue. I was informed that winning the title of "Miss Perfect 10" wasn't solely based on your physical attributes, but rather on your confidence, self-presentation, and a host of other factors.  

Sameera Reddy, 46, resorted to fitness coach Ashwyn Michael Barreto after she made the decision to stop living her

Sameera Reddy, 46, resorted to fitness coach Ashwyn Michael Barreto after she made the decision to stop living her "unfit" lifestyle. When Sameera realized that her prior methods, such as Pilates, yoga, and running, weren't yielding the desired results, she and I started working together. She was discouraged and failed to lose weight despite her constant, intense workout. Barreto, CEO and co-founder of ThatLifestyleCoach (TLC) in Goa, told indianexpress.com that she decided to seek professional assistance at that point rather than pursuing it alone. In light of her age, lifestyle, and previous struggles, a mutual link recommended that she collaborate with someone who could adopt a scientific approach. We evaluated her training background, dietary practices, way of life, and hormone fluctuations when we first met. After that, we created a planned program that complemented her body rather than worked against it, Barreto, 28, said.  

A Lifestyle Coach Offers Simple Ways To Find Dangerous Substances in Mangoes

What time of year is it? Yes, summer is here, but it's also mango season, the king of fruits. However, the concern over carbides never goes away. Despite being prohibited in India, their use is still rather widespread. Don't worry, though; you no longer have to be afraid to savor your mangoes. Luke Coutinho, a lifestyle expert, posted a video to Instagram. In the video, he walks us through a quick test to determine whether your mangoes have been ripened with dangerous carbides.Look closely at the mango's skin first. If it is uniformly colored, it is a good sign; but, if there are small black patches, you may want to exercise caution. Next, perform a quick pressure check. A mango that has been chemically ripened may typically feel spongy or strangely soft, whereas a naturally ripened mango will feel firm with the proper amount of pulp. The water test, which involves just dropping the mango into a jar of water, is the most fascinating aspect. It is probably fine and full of pulp if it sinks. However, if it floats, it may have been treated with carbide, which accelerates ripening but leaves the fruit lighter due to more air and less pulp. You may enjoy your mangoes worry-free by using this easy approach."This is a straightforward test that you can all complete at home," explains Luke Coutinho. Do you want to take the test? Indeed, indeed. "That's a test that everyone can do," he continues, "your parents, your kids, senior citizens." "Do not be afraid of the humble mango," the lifestyle coach says as she wraps up the video. Be wary of living in poverty."Please note that you can do this test, it can give you a clue close to accurate, but maybe not always," Luke Coutinho cautions in his caption. You must test in a lab for accuracy. It's simply something we can begin. Disclaimer: The advice in this content is merely general information. It is by no means a replacement for an expert medical opinion. For additional information, always speak with your physician or a specialist. This information is not NDTV's responsibility.  

Lifestyle Coach Shares Easy Tips To Detect Harmful Chemicals In Mangoes

What time of year is it? Yes, summer is here, but it's also mango season, the king of fruits. However, the concern over carbides never goes away. Despite being prohibited in India, their use is still rather widespread. Don't worry, though; you no longer have to be afraid to savor your mangoes. Luke Coutinho, a lifestyle expert, posted a video to Instagram. In the video, he walks us through a quick test to determine whether your mangoes have been ripened with dangerous carbides.Examine the mango's skin carefully first. If it is uniformly colored, that is excellent; but, if there are small black spots, you may want to exercise caution. Next, perform a quick pressure check. A mango that has been chemically ripened may typically feel spongy or strangely soft, whereas a naturally ripened mango will feel firm with the proper amount of pulp.The water test, which involves just dropping the mango into a jar of water, is the most fascinating aspect. It is probably fine and full of pulp if it sinks. However, if it floats, it may have been treated with carbide, which accelerates ripening but leaves the fruit lighter due to more air and less pulp. You may enjoy your mangoes worry-free by using this easy approach.  

Vaccines or lifestyle—who knows? The CEO of Bombay Shaving Company explains the "scary" rationale behind IIM Calcutta's decision to host a 15-year alumni reunion.

Shantanu Deshpande, CEO of Bombay Shaving Company, explains why IIM Calcutta shifted its alumni reunion from 25 to 15 years. He expresses worries about an increase in midlife crises and alumni fatalities, with experts pointing to stress, COVID, and changes in lifestyle as major contributing factors.Shantanu Deshpande, the CEO of Bombay Shaving Company, revealed in a LinkedIn post the "scary" rationale behind IIM Calcutta's decision to postpone its alumni reunion from the initial 25-year milestone to 15 years. Deshpande related a chat he had with a buddy who attended the institution's most recent 15-year reunion.Deshpande claims that the buddy who went to the reunion questioned the instructors about the reason behind the reunion's postponement. The timing of his midlife crisis was one factor, but the other factor was what ultimately caused him to regress. One explanation was that people were going through midlife crises at the age of 15, thus it was always beneficial to get together. However, I was quite frightened by the other reason. By the time 25 years had gone by, a greater proportion of batches were expiring (death). They simply had vanished. Thus, they made a ten-year advancement," the CEO wrote.Deshpande recognized that it was unclear what was causing this, citing a number of possible causes. "Covid, vaccinations, lifestyle, or another thing." Only God is aware. He wrote, "Never know when it's your time," emphasizing a universal reality regardless of the cause. People should "eat well, exercise consistently, sleep well, and be happy while you're on this planet," according to Despande.The New Indian Express said that Dr. Ravi Prakash, a senior expert in cardiology at Delhi's PSRI Hospital, pointed out a troubling pattern in the data gathered from Indian hospitals between 2020 and 2023. Nearly half of heart attack victims are now younger than 40, according to the research. Doctors and academics around the country are extremely concerned about the startling increase in cardiac arrests among younger people.  

How One Mumbai Family Made Sustainability Easy After Five Years Without a Dustbin

Motherhood and a desire for a low-waste lifestyle led one Mumbai family to successfully go five years without a garbage can by putting in place a straightforward but efficient waste management system. They prioritized recycling, composting, and cutting back on consumption by making thoughtful decisions about everyday goods, cleaning supplies, and apparel. Here's a closer look at their methodology: 1. Recycling and Waste Separation: Waste was separated into two categories: wet waste (food scraps, etc.) and dry waste (plastic, paper, cardboard, glass, etc.). Dry garbage was gathered in a special bag and collected for recycling every two weeks by a local agency. In order to create rich compost for their home garden, they used an earthen pot to compost all organic waste, including fruit peels.2. Cutting Down on Consumption: Rather than purchasing new clothing, they adopted secondhand shops and used clothing. They reduced the need for chemical cleaners by creating their own bioenzymes from fruit peels, jaggery, and water. Additionally, they made use of eco-friendly substitutes like bamboo toothbrushes. 3. The Ripple Effect: This mindful way of living has motivated friends, relatives, coworkers, and even complete strangers to alter their own consumption patterns in minor ways. Composting and simplicity are among the techniques that many have embraced. 4. A Basic Approach to Sustainability: The family's path demonstrates how simple actions and daily decisions can lead to sustainability. Their initiatives show that everyone can adopt a low-waste lifestyle by making thoughtful choices.  

A sedentary lifestyle, excessive use of painkillers, and other behaviors that compromise liver health

Your body's liver is an essential organ that aids in digestion, controls metabolism, and filters pollutants. Numerous daily lifestyle decisions have the potential to either improve or worsen liver health. Furthermore, unless they worsen, the majority of liver diseases go undiagnosed. Being conscious of the habits that may be causing more harm than you realize is therefore essential.Chronic drinking and liver damage are frequently confused, according to Dr. Swapnil Sharma, a consultant liver transplant, HPB, and GI surgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai. Even social drinking might cause inflammation or fatty liver if it is done often over time. Repeated exposure to alcohol, even in modest doses, puts the liver into overdrive since it is metabolized there. Liver cirrhosis may result from this over time due to irreversible damage and scarring, he says.Although alcohol is a well-known cause, unhealthy eating practices can now pose an even greater risk to liver function. Dr. Sharma warns that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is rapidly becoming a serious liver issue, particularly in diabetics and overweight individuals. Without a trace of alcohol, diets high in sugar, processed carbs, and trans fats can lead to hepatic cell fat accumulation. The liver is further strained by a lack of physical exercise, which also leads to obesity and insulin resistance. Poor eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle are what subtly create the foundation for liver disorders, he claims.  

How One Mumbai Family Made Sustainability Easy After Five Years Without a Dustbin

At Sonika Bhasin's house in Mumbai, each day follows a rhythmic pattern. A sizable bucket is set up on the kitchen countertop, ready to gather vegetable peels and ends, which are leftovers from uncooked meals. By nightfall, these organic waste materials end up in an earthen composter that is tucked away in a cozy spot on her balcony. As Sonika explains the enchanted metamorphosis that takes place within its layers, her eyes sparkle with a mixture of pride and awe. "The process is natural alchemy: rich, earthy compost — nature's black gold — is created by microorganisms, time, and a balance of greens and browns," she explains.By converting kitchen waste into colorful basil, mint, tomatoes, lemons, and curry leaves, this compost feeds her garden and completes the lovely cycle of nature. The leaves then return to her kitchen. Wide-eyed with wonder, her son Abir discovers the priceless lesson that waste need not be wasteful as he marvels at this everyday miracle.Making thoughtful decisions outside of the compost Sonika is dedicated to more than just composting. Her house is an example of thoughtful decision-making and conscientious consumerism. To gather all dry garbage, including plastics, paper, cardboard, glass, aluminum, and e-waste, she has a special bag. A recycling company named 5R Cycle comes to our house every two weeks to pick up the dry waste that has collected. For the past five years, we have been doing this," she explains. In addition to dry and wet trash, there is a third type called reject refuse, which includes things like old diapers and sanitary pads that cannot be recycled or composted.