From Orkut’s shy beginnings to Instagram’s gleaming reels, social media didn’t knock—it barged into our lives with filters, hashtags, and a promise of connection. And with it came a new era—an era where the world no longer whispered through letters, but roared through tweets and danced in TikToks.
The Rise of the Virtual Empires
Once upon a time, fame was a distant dream, confined to film sets and political pulpits. Now, a schoolteacher in Vidisha or a poet in Kargil can go viral overnight. Social media democratized the spotlight.
Movements were born with a single hashtag—#MeToo, #BlackLivesMatter, #FarmersProtest.
Voices rose in villages and skyscrapers alike, dissolving borders between the powerful and the unheard.
Art, activism, brands, identities—everything found its stage and its tribe.
And for India, the shift was seismic. Social platforms offered a canvas to showcase its rich culture, dissenting voices, linguistic diversity, and entrepreneurial dreams—bridging the rural-urban gap pixel by pixel.
The Hidden Shadows
But every revolution casts a shadow.
Mental Health Trembles: Behind every like is a loop of dopamine, and behind every scroll, a spiral of anxiety. We measure worth in metrics—followers, hearts, shares.
Misinformation Runs Wild: Fake news gallops faster than truth can trot. One manipulated video can torch a village.
Privacy in Peril: We traded our data for dopamine, not realizing algorithms knew us better than our families did.
Comparison Culture: Filters blurred reality. What we see isn’t real—but we feel less nonetheless.
We built echo chambers, not town squares. In chasing connection, we sometimes forgot conversation.
The Verdict: Blessing or Burden?
Social media is neither a villain nor a saint. It’s a mirror—reflecting both our progress and our pitfalls. The question is not whether it’s good or bad, but how we wield it. So today, on Social Media Day, we don’t just celebrate the apps—we reflect. On how we post, how we pause, how we protect our peace in a world that never stops pinging.
Every year on June 30, the world commemorates International Parliamentary Day, also known as World Parliament Day, marking the founding of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in 1889. Established by a United Nations General Assembly resolution in 2018, this day highlights the critical role of parliaments as the cornerstone of vibrant, transparent, accountable, and representative democracies. International Parliamentary Day 2025 serves as a global platform to promote democracy, peace, human rights, and sustainable governance while raising awareness about the need to strengthen parliamentary institutions worldwide.
The Legacy of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU)
Founded in 1889, the IPU is a pioneering global organization dedicated to fostering peace, cooperation, and dialogue among parliaments. Its remarkable contributions to global harmony earned it the Nobel Peace Prize in 1901. Over the decades, the IPU has remained steadfast in its mission to empower parliaments and parliamentarians to advance peace, democracy, and sustainable development. By facilitating parliamentary diplomacy, the IPU bridges divides, encourages collaborative problem-solving, and amplifies the voices of nations on critical global issues. The IPU collaborates with United Nations agencies, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders to address pressing challenges such as climate change, gender equality, and human rights. Notably, the IPU supports the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325, which focuses on women’s roles in peacebuilding and creating inclusive, safe environments for women globally. Through workshops, resolutions, and advocacy, the IPU equips parliaments to tackle these issues with actionable policies and inclusive practices.
Objectives and Significance of International Parliamentary Day International Parliamentary Day serves as a reminder of the vital role parliaments play in shaping just and equitable societies. Its key objectives include: Strengthening Democratic Institutions: Encouraging parliaments to uphold transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.
Promoting Global Cooperation: Fostering dialogue and collaboration among parliaments to address shared challenges.
Advancing Sustainable Development: Supporting parliamentary efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable practices.
Empowering Marginalized Voices: Advocating for gender equality, human rights, and the inclusion of underrepresented groups in governance.
Inspiring Public Engagement: Raising awareness about the importance of active citizen participation in democratic processes.
By celebrating this day, the global community reaffirms its commitment to building resilient democracies that can navigate complex global challenges while ensuring equitable representation and governance.
India’s Role: A Beacon of Democratic Excellence
India, home to the world’s largest democratically elected parliament, stands as a proud member of the IPU and an active participant in international parliamentary forums. The Indian Parliament exemplifies how diversity, secularism, and democracy can coexist harmoniously, serving as a model for nations worldwide. Indian parliamentarians regularly engage in IPU conferences, contributing to discussions on critical issues such as women’s empowerment, sustainable development, and democratic governance. India’s support for IPU resolutions reflects its commitment to global priorities. The country has championed initiatives to promote gender equality, address climate change, and strengthen democratic institutions. By showcasing its ability to balance cultural diversity with democratic principles, India continues to inspire other nations to embrace inclusive governance.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Global Unity
As the world marks International Parliamentary Day 2025, the focus remains on reinforcing the foundations of democracy in an era of unprecedented challenges. From climate crises to social inequalities, parliaments are uniquely positioned to drive transformative change through legislation, oversight, and public engagement. The IPU’s ongoing efforts to foster parliamentary diplomacy and collaboration underscore the importance of collective action in building a peaceful, sustainable, and inclusive future. This day also serves as an opportunity to engage citizens, particularly youth, in democratic processes. By encouraging public participation and fostering trust in parliamentary institutions, International Parliamentary Day strengthens the bond between people and their elected representatives.
A Shared Vision for a Better World
International Parliamentary Day 2025 is a celebration of the enduring power of democracy and the pivotal role of parliaments in shaping a just and sustainable world. As we honor the IPU’s legacy and India’s contributions to global parliamentary dialogue, let us recommit to strengthening democratic institutions, promoting peace, and fostering global cooperation. By working together, parliaments and citizens alike can build a future where democracy thrives, human rights are upheld, and sustainable development becomes a reality for all.
Actress Mallika Sherawat, known for her timeless charm and natural beauty, recently took to social media to make a bold statement against the use of Botox and artificial cosmetic fillers. Her video comes just two days after the sudden demise of reality TV star and actress Shefali Jariwala, who passed away at the age of 42.
What Happened
On Sunday, June 29, Mallika posted a candid no-makeup selfie video. Standing in front of a mirror, she addressed her followers with a heartfelt message:
“Good morning. I just woke up and thought I would make this selfie video and share it with you all. There’s no filter, no makeup, I haven’t even brushed my hair yet. This is the first thing I’m doing today—sharing this video so we can all say together: No to Botox, no to artificial cosmetic fillers, and yes to life, yes to a healthy way of living. Love you all.”
She captioned the video: “Saying NO to Botox & Fillers. Instead of chasing youth with these artificial procedures, I’m nurturing it from within—eating clean, staying hydrated, sleeping early, and exercising regularly. Let’s embrace our natural glow.”
The video quickly gained attention and praise from fans. One user commented, “You’re proof that true beauty doesn’t need filters or makeup. Your natural look is so refreshing and authentic—you radiate confidence and beauty without needing anything extra.” Another added, “Thanks for promoting this, especially when so many are chasing cosmetic surgeries and fillers. Your message is truly inspiring.”
Mallika’s video has sparked conversations around natural beauty, self-acceptance, and healthy living in an industry often dominated by unrealistic beauty standards.
In a bold move that fuses cinema, culture, and adrenaline, Sting® Energy, PepsiCo India’s high-voltage energy drink, has dialled up its ‘#F1SoundsLikeSting’ challenge – offering fans a golden opportunity to win an unforgettable Formula 1® experience at one of the most iconic races of the season.
The contest kicked off with a post on the @sting_india Instagram handle, inviting fans to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime experience. The challenge? Spot the iconic “Stinggg” sound wherever it’s heard—whether in across digital platforms, or in ads and share it for a chance to win F1 Grand Prix tickets. This unexpected sonic moment is set to spark a nationwide hunt, transforming Sting® from just an energy drink into a cultural signal, a fandom trigger, and a sound that refuses to go unheard.
Ankit Agarwal, Director, Energy at PepsiCo India said, “With this extension, we’ve doubled down on the ‘Sound of Sting’ campaign by turning a cultural moment into a platform for deeper brand engagement. Our association with Formula 1 allows us to amplify Sting’s high-energy persona through sound – a powerful, ownable brand asset. This campaign reflects our strategic shift toward immersive, experience-led marketing that resonates with India’s youth and keeps Sting at the heart of culture, conversation, and disruption.”
The contest marks the next chapter in Sting’s high-decibel, youth-first Sound of Sting® campaign, which went viral earlier and revealed the brand as the official energy drink partner of Formula 1. By placing sound at the centre of its storytelling, Sting® isn’t just riding cultural moments, it’s amplifying them.
From June 27 to July 13, fans across India can participate by identifying where they hear the “Stinggg” sound. A few lucky winners will be selected for an adrenaline-fueled F1 Grand Prix experience. Prizes* will be awarded by the end of August 2025. *T&Cs apply.
For more details on how to participate, fans can visit the official @sting_india Instagram page.
So, turn up the volume, follow the buzz, and let the “Stinggg” lead you to the ultimate F1® experience. Because this season, if fans can hear it – they just might live it.
About PepsiCo
PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated nearly $92 billion in net revenue in 2024, driven by a complementary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay’s®, Doritos®, Cheetos®, Gatorade®, Pepsi-Cola®, Mountain Dew®, Quaker®, and SodaStream®. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.
The Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, located in Kannur, Kerala, has recently gained recognition as India’s first protected area dedicated solely to butterflies. Renamed on June 18, this sanctuary spans 55 square kilometres of lush tropical and semi-evergreen forests. It is home to over 266 butterfly species, which represent more than 80 percent of Kerala’s butterfly population. This initiative marks the importance of preserving biodiversity and the unique ecosystems of the Western Ghats.
Historical Context
The sanctuary was established in 1984. For 25 years, local wildlife enthusiasts, forest officials, and experts advocated for the recognition and protection of butterflies. Their efforts culminated in the sanctuary’s renaming, reflecting a growing appreciation for the role of butterflies in the ecosystem.
Biodiversity
Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot. It hosts a variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, leopards, giant squirrels, and numerous bird species. The sanctuary’s unique environment supports many endemic butterfly species, making it a critical area for conservation.
Butterfly Migration
The sanctuary experiences a remarkable butterfly migration between October and February. During this period, butterflies, including the Common Albatross, flock to the area, creating a stunning visual display. This phenomenon attracts researchers and nature lovers alike, offering vital information about butterfly behaviour and migration patterns.
Conservation Efforts
The Kerala State Forest Department conducts annual butterfly surveys in collaboration with the Malabar Natural History Society. These surveys enhance understanding of butterfly populations and their habitats. The sanctuary also promotes conservation education through guided hikes on the Butterfly Safari Trail.
Ecotourism Opportunities
Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary is a prime destination for ecotourism. Visitors can explore the sanctuary’s rich biodiversity while engaging in educational activities. The serene environment provides an ideal escape for nature enthusiasts seeking tranquillity and adventure.
Importance of Butterflies
Butterflies play a vital role in ecosystems as pollinators. Their presence indicates a healthy environment. The sanctuary’s focus on butterfly conservation puts stress on the need to protect these important species and their habitats.
Anant Ambani has been appointed as the Executive Director of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), with a five-year term beginning May 1. According to a PTI report, his annual remuneration will range between ₹10 crore and ₹20 crore. In addition to the salary, he will be entitled to profit-based commission and various other perks.
Prior to this, Anant served as a non-executive director on the RIL board since 2023.
Significant Roles Across Reliance Verticals
Anant Ambani has been actively involved in multiple business verticals of the conglomerate. In August 2022, he was entrusted with the leadership of the company’s energy vertical. He has also been a board member of:
Jio Platforms Limited (since March 2020)
Reliance Retail Ventures Limited (since May 2022)
Reliance New Energy Limited and Reliance New Solar Energy Limited (since June 2021)
Reliance Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the company (since September 2022)
Transition of Leadership in the Ambani Family
With advancing age, RIL Chairman Mukesh Ambani has been strategically working to transition leadership to the next generation. On the birth anniversary of his father and Reliance founder Dhirubhai Ambani on December 28, 2023, Mukesh Ambani had said:
“The future of Reliance belongs to Akash, Isha, Anant, and their generation. I have no doubt that they will achieve more in life and bring greater success to Reliance than my generation.”
Roles of Akash and Isha Ambani
Akash Ambani: Graduated with a degree in economics from Brown University in 2014 and joined the family business the same year. He became a board member of Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd. (RJIL) in October 2014 and has been serving as its Chairman since June 2022. He is also on the boards of Jio Platforms Ltd. and Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd. Akash is married to Shloka Mehta and they have two children—son Prithvi and daughter Veda.
Isha Ambani: Educated at Yale and Stanford, she joined Reliance in 2015. Isha plays a key role in Reliance Retail and sits on the boards of Reliance Retail Ventures, Jio Infocomm, and Jio Financial Services. She is credited with launching platforms like Ajio (e-commerce) and Tira (online beauty) under Reliance Retail. She married Anand Piramal, son of industrialist Ajay Piramal, in December 2018.
With Anant’s elevation, all three Ambani siblings now hold critical leadership positions in Reliance, signaling a clear generational shift at one of India’s largest corporate empires.
In June 2025, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) unveiled extraordinary discoveries at Bahaj village, Deeg district, Rajasthan – about 40 km from Bharatpur near the sacred Braj region. Excavations began in January and have since revealed artefacts that span multiple historic periods, from the Mahabharata era through the Maurya, Shunga, Kushan, and Gupta dynasties, with evidence dating back to 2500 BCE.
Key Discoveries
Ancient river channel: A 23‑metre-deep palaeo-channel possibly linked to the legendary Saraswati River, indicating the site’s habitation from 3500 BC to 1000 BC.
Archaeological strata: Five distinct occupation layers featuring residential structures, furnaces, trenches, and metal tools.
Sacred remains: Yajna kundas (sacrificial pits), Shakti‑worship tanks, terracotta idols of Shiva–Parvati, and conch‑shell bangles dating to at least 1000 BCE.
Unique tools: Bone‑made needles, combs, and moulds – unprecedented finds in India.
Metalwork & coinage: Iron/copper implements, silver and copper coins from Kushan to Shunga eras.
Statues & ritual relics: Heads of Mother Goddess idols from 400 BC, Ashvini Kumar statues linked to Mahabharata.
Human remains: At least one skeleton, now being sent to Israel for carbon and cultural analysis.
What It Reveals About Ancient Life
These findings paint a vivid picture of a continuously inhabited, culturally rich region, where spiritual life, metallurgy, trade, and artistry flourished over millennia. The Saraswati-linked channel suggests advanced water‑management systems, while coinage and seals signal economic networks. Ritual artefacts and idols reflect deep religious traditions dating back to the Vedic and early historic periods.
Why It Matters
Reshapes history: The depth and continuity of settlement push back timelines for civilisation in North India.
Links myth with reality: The Saraswati connection gives weight to ancient Vedic texts.
Region’s importance: Positions the Braj‑Deeg area as central to early Indian civilisation alongside Mathura & Bharatpur.
Future of archaeology: This marks Rajasthan’s most significant excavation, and ASI plans to continue deep digs for more discoveries.
What’s Next?
The ASI report has been submitted to the Ministry of Culture. Excavation continues, and public exhibitions are planned – local museums like Deeg’s Jal Mahal and Jaipur’s department galleries are expected to display key artefacts.
Rewriting the Roots of Indian History
The excavation at Bahaj village is not just another archaeological dig – it’s a landmark discovery that promises to reshape our understanding of early Indian civilisation. Unearthing a 23‑metre-deep palaeo-channel – likely part of the legendary Saraswati River – alongside artefacts spanning from 3500 BC to 1000 BC, reveals a vibrant, continuous culture rooted in advanced metallurgy, trade, spirituality, and craftsmanship.
From microlithic tools to Yajna Kundas, Brahmi-script sealings, and evidence of ritual worship, every find paints a picture of a deeply sophisticated society—long before previously assumed timelines. As ASI Superintendent Vinay Gupta aptly noted, this could “rewrite key chapters of India’s early history”.
The significance is clear: this isn’t merely about pottery or statues – it’s about connecting myth with archaeology, affirming the deep civilisational roots of North India, and elevating the historical importance of the Braj region alongside Mathura and Bharatpur.
As excavation continues and artefacts move toward public display, this Rajasthan dig stands to become one of the most celebrated heritage stories of our time – cementing a narrative of continuity, ingenuity, and cultural pride that resonates across millennia.
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the second Indian – and the first from India – to travel aboard the International Space Station (ISS), surprised the world with a heartfelt touch of home in orbit: gajar ka halwa, moong dal halwa, and aamras made from Malihabadi mangoes. On June 28, 2025, during an 18‑minute video chat with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shukla revealed that he had packed these traditional delicacies not just for himself, but to share with his fellow astronauts.
“Yes, I brought gajar ka halwa, moong dal halwa and aamras… I wanted everyone who has joined me from other countries to enjoy the richness of Indian flavours. All of us had it together and everyone liked it,” Shukla said aboard the ISS, orbiting approximately 400 km above Earth.
A Taste of India in Microgravity
While the ISS has strict nutritional and safety standards, sweet, non‑spicy dishes like these are perfectly suited to space travel – moong dal halwa, for example, is a slow‑cooked dessert made with ghee, milk, and dry fruits, traditionally served during festivals and special occasions . The inclusion of these dishes not only met taste requirements but provided an emotional connection to home.
Cuisine as Cultural Bridge
Shukla’s gesture was deeply symbolic. Sharing Indian sweets with crew members from the U.S., Poland, and Hungary transformed a meal into a cultural celebration. It served as a reminder that even in the extreme environment of space, food can build bridges and foster camaraderie.
Moments That Captivated a Nation
Prime Minister Modi hailed the moment as a “shubh‑aarambh” (auspicious beginning), tying into both Shukla’s name and India’s space ambitions. During the same conversation, Modi mirrored the entire nation’s pride: “Today, while we are speaking, the feelings of 140 crore Indians are connected with you”. Watching an astronaut enjoy home-made halwa 16 times a day (that’s how many sunrises and sunsets orbit give you!) added a human touch to a milestone mission.
A Sweet Legacy Beyond Gravity
Shubhanshu Shukla’s decision to carry gajar ka halwa, moong dal halwa, and aamras into space was far more than a culinary novelty – it was a powerful cultural statement. While his Indian desserts floated in microgravity, they anchored a piece of home and identity deep within the hearts of every astronaut aboard the ISS – and millions watching on Earth.
This gesture underscored a universal truth: no matter how advanced our technology, it’s the simple comforts – flavors, memories, shared smiles – that connect us most profoundly. As Shukla himself remarked, witnessing 16 sunrises and sunsets daily from orbit deepened his sense of unity with humanity and pride in his homeland.
More than a historic milestone, his culinary choice on the ISS has sparked inspiration across India – from young students to veteran scientists – reminding us that innovation and tradition can coexist beautifully. It signals a hopeful message for future missions like Gaganyaan: that India’s journey into space will be guided not only by science, but by warmth, cultural richness, and a spirit of togetherness. As we propel forward, Shukla’s voyage – and his halwa – will surely be remembered as small but profound testaments to India’s place among the stars.
New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani proposes a controversial tax policy aimed at shifting the tax burden from homeowners in outer boroughs to those in wealthier, predominantly white neighborhoods. This proposal has sparked debate over racial discrimination and tax equity, leading to discussions about its legality and economic implications.
I recommend leaving any city that can have this conversation out loud. https://t.co/3xYoBlzMm1
— Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) June 28, 2025
Zohran Mamdani’s plan to tax people based on skin color isn’t just wrong, it’s racism pure and simple. We’ve got a mayor who calls white people “crackers” and now a socialist pushing race based property taxes.
I’ll fix the system the right way: fair, transparent and smart.
Imagine moving to a country for a better life, getting power thanks to its incredibly open and just system, then turning around and trying to pull this kinda bullshit. I agree with Andy Ogles. Strip his citizenship and deport him. https://t.co/Ph5C9kuoYp
The history of cameras and photography spans nearly two centuries, evolving from early experimental techniques to today’s digital imaging technology. From the pioneering work of Joseph Nicéphore Niépce to the smartphones of the 21st century, photography has transformed how we capture and preserve memories.
The Origins: Niépce and Daguerre
The journey began with Joseph Nicéphore Niépce, a French inventor who is credited as one of the fathers of photography. In 1825, he developed the heliograph, a process that produced what is considered the world’s first known photograph—View from the Window at Le Gras, taken at his family estate.
In 1839, Louis Jacques Daguerre introduced the first photographic process that created a fixed image that didn’t fade. Known as the daguerreotype, his invention significantly advanced photographic science. The process required 30 minutes of exposure and was hailed as a groundbreaking development. Daguerre is remembered as one of the founding figures of photography.
Advancements in Film and Format
In 1856, Hamilton Smith developed tintypes, an inexpensive photographic medium. Decades later, George Eastman revolutionized photography with the invention of flexible, rollable film, paving the way for the first Kodak camera, introduced in 1888. Kodak made photography accessible to the general public with the slogan, “You press the button, we do the rest.”
In 1925, the Leica I went on sale, quickly gaining popularity and sparking competition, including Kodak’s Retina I, launched in 1934. However, 35mm cameras remained relatively expensive until the release of the Argus A in 1936, an affordable option that opened up 35mm photography to a wider audience.
The same year marked the birth of the Japanese camera industry with Canon’s first 35mm rangefinder. After the Korean War, Japanese cameras gained popularity in the West, brought home by American soldiers stationed in Japan.
The Instant Revolution: Polaroid
In 1948, a completely new kind of camera hit the market—the Polaroid, or Land Camera, invented by Edwin Land. It was the first instant camera, capable of producing a developed photograph in under a minute without the need for a darkroom. This innovation revolutionized photography by making image capturing quick and immediate.
The Digital Era Begins
The first commercially sold digital camera was the Fuji DS-X, released in Japan in December 1989. Shortly after, in 1990, the Dycam Model 1 was released in the United States. Despite being a commercial failure initially—due to its black-and-white images, low resolution, and $1,000 price tag—it was a pivotal moment in digital photography.
In 1991, Kodak launched the DCS-100, the first in a professional line of digital SLR cameras, built partly from film camera bodies. It featured a 1.3-megapixel sensor and cost $13,000, mainly targeting professionals.
The development of file compression formats such as JPEG and MPEG in 1988 made it easier to store photos and videos on memory cards like SD and CompactFlash (CF).ion’
Digital SLRs and the Consumer Market
In 1999, Nikon introduced the D1, a professional-grade digital SLR with a 2.47-megapixel sensor, priced just under $6,000. It was notable not only for its performance but also because it was entirely manufactured by a major brand and compatible with existing Nikon F-mount lenses—a major draw for professional photographers.
The Mobile Camera Revolution
By 2010, most mobile phones were equipped with built-in cameras with 1–2 megapixel resolution and video recording capabilities. Many devices also came with features like GPS integration, changing the way people take and share photos on a daily basis.
From bulky daguerreotypes to sleek smartphones, the evolution of cameras reflects humanity’s constant pursuit of innovation and expression. Photography today is not just a tool—it’s a global language.
