dry bites

As summer heat intensifies, India faces a surge in deadly snakebite incidents, with states like Karnataka and Kerala reporting significant increases. Experts attribute this rise to snakes seeking cooler temperatures and escaping monsoon floods, leading to more human encounters. Delayed treatment and reliance on myths tragically cost lives, underscoring the urgent need for immediate medical attention and preventative measures.

Copperhead snakes, often feared for their venom, are masters of camouflage and surprisingly social creatures. Their distinctive hourglass markings aid in concealment. While their bite requires medical attention, it's rarely fatal to healthy adults. Understanding their timid nature and habitat preferences can foster coexistence, turning fear into respect for these vital reptiles.

Bhubaneswar's fuel rush is hitting vulnerable workers hard. Cab drivers, delivery agents, and small business owners face lost income and rising costs due to long queues and potential shortages. Experts warn this could inflate prices of essential goods, impacting the local economy. Authorities assure no immediate shortage, but uncertainty persists.

Black mambas and green mambas are often confused but live very different lives. The black mamba is not black but has a dark mouth. It is large and ground-dwelling, preferring open savannas. Green mambas are slender, arboreal, and blend with trees. Black mambas are defensive, while green mambas avoid confrontation.

As we navigate the energies of today, a cautious approach is essential. Expect minor skirmishes at home and within your relationships, reminding us to choose our words wisely. In career and education, communication challenges lie ahead—clarity and adherence to plans will be our best allies. Remember to be savvy with your finances, as those little expenses can quickly add up.

A rare hantavirus outbreak at sea has sparked worldwide concern after multiple deaths and emergency evacuations from a luxury cruise liner. Doctors, however, say the chances of a Covid-like global spread remain extremely low.

Tiny flying gnats plaguing your houseplants? The real culprits are larvae hidden in damp soil, feeding on fungi. A simple seven-day plan focusing on drying out the top soil layer breaks their breeding cycle. Mastering mindful watering and choosing well-draining soil are key to preventing their return and keeping your green friends healthy.

Hantavirus, a rodent-borne illness, poses a significant health risk primarily through inhalation of contaminated dust from rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. While human-to-human spread is rare and mostly linked to the Andes virus, the main transmission route remains environmental exposure. Early symptoms mimic common infections, making rodent exposure history crucial for timely medical attention.

As Indian artisanal cheese steps into the global spotlight—after four types won medals at the Mundial do Queijo do Brasil 2026—we speak to chefs at luxury restaurants and hotels on how they are incorporating desi cheeses into global cuisines, whether they are beginning to replace imported varieties, and how home cooks can use them with ease

A traditional Kerala fermented pineapple and raw mango drink, once a kitchen staple, is making a comeback. This simple, naturally fermented beverage, enhanced with spices, aids digestion and offers a refreshing, tangy flavour. Requiring just a few ingredients and a couple of days, it highlights the wisdom of ancient food preservation methods for gut health and well-being.

Struggling with Mother's Day messages? This article offers 15 author quotes, ranging from fierce and real to witty and poignant, to help you express genuine gratitude. It encourages moving beyond generic greetings to honor the complex reality of motherhood with meaningful words.

As you go through your day, remember to stay alert—whether you’re on the road or using tools, distractions are everywhere. You might encounter some unexpected hurdles or unwelcome news; face them with clarity and reason. In your romantic relationships, aim for open, peaceful discussions, while your job requires you to focus sharply on every task.

The red-bellied black snake, common on Australia's east coast, is venomous but not typically aggressive, preferring to retreat. Identification relies on recognizing its glossy black body with a distinct red or pinkish belly, a slightly bulky build, and its preference for humid, water-adjacent habitats. Juvenile snakes can be harder to identify, so caution is always advised.

Tanya Bami, series head at Netflix India, shares, “What people don’t always realise is that writing comedy is perhaps the hardest thing to do. One might assume a thriller is the toughest to crack, but comedy has to be culturally rooted, deeply relevant, and sharp enough to hold attention in a world where people can easily tune in and tune out."

Park Street restaurants faced a sudden 'Dry Day' ahead of the state assembly polls, leaving patrons and staff bewildered by the early liquor ban. Many visitors expressed confusion over the extended prohibition, questioning its timing and implementation, impacting businesses and daily earnings.

Homeowners often overlook proper firewood seasoning, leading to smoky fires. Ensuring adequate ventilation and air circulation around logs is crucial, even more so than just covering them. Green wood burns inefficiently, wasting energy and increasing smoke. Properly seasoned wood, with moisture below 20 per cent, burns hotter and safer, requiring careful planning for different wood types.

A Pune institution since 1857, offers a taste of tradition with its iconic, fragrant roat. This family-run bakery, now in its fifth and sixth generations, continues to craft the sweet, rich roti using simple ingredients, maintaining a legacy of honest food and cherished memories for its loyal customers.

Akshaya Tritiya, a uniquely auspicious day, requires no astrological consultation for its inherent blessings. This day signifies enduring prosperity and growth, aligning with astronomical strengths and seasonal practicality. It's a powerful time for new beginnings, sustained efforts, and acts of charity, emphasizing inner resilience over material wealth.

Jasprit Bumrah is experiencing a rare wicketless streak in IPL 2026, going five matches without a wicket, his longest dry spell. Despite a respectable economy rate, the Mumbai Indians spearhead has conceded 123 runs in 15 overs. This unusual phase contrasts with his career record of 183 wickets in 149 matches.

Children can face serious health emergencies. Recognising warning signs early is crucial for prompt medical care. Conditions like severe dehydration, asthma attacks, high fever with seizures, severe allergic reactions and head injuries require immediate attention. Parents must be vigilant to prevent life-threatening complications and ensure their child's well-being. Early intervention saves lives.