Sharad Navratri is one of the most significant Hindu festivals dedicated to Goddess Durga and the divine feminine power, or Shakti. Observed over nine nights and ten days in the month of Ashwin, the festival honours nine manifestations of Goddess Durga, collectively known as Navadurga. Each form carries a distinct name, appearance, symbolism and spiritual significance, reflecting different dimensions of Shakti, from strength and austerity to motherhood, courage, purity and spiritual attainment.
1. Maa Shailaputri
The first form, Shailaputri, means “daughter of the mountain”. She is identified with Parvati, the daughter of Himavan, and is traditionally depicted riding Nandi, the bull, while carrying a trident and lotus. Her association with the mountains represents steadiness, strength and a firm beginning to the spiritual journey.
2. Maa Brahmacharini
On the second day, devotees worship Brahmacharini, the form associated with penance, devotion and spiritual discipline. She is traditionally shown walking barefoot, holding a japa mala in one hand and a kamandalu in the other. The form recalls Parvati’s intense austerities undertaken in her pursuit of Lord Shiva and represents determination, self-control and steadfastness.
3. Maa Chandraghanta
The third form is Chandraghanta, whose name refers to the crescent moon resembling a bell on her forehead. Her iconography presents her as a powerful and alert form of the Goddess, associated with courage and fearlessness. She represents the strength required to confront adversity while maintaining inner balance.
4. Maa Kushmanda
Kushmanda, worshipped on the fourth day, is associated with cosmic energy and creation. Her name is traditionally connected with the cosmic egg, and she is understood as a manifestation of the creative energy of the universe. Her worship signifies vitality, well-being and the life-giving power of Shakti.
5. Maa Skandamata
The fifth form, Skandamata, literally means the mother of Skanda, another name for Lord Kartikeya. She is generally depicted seated on a lotus with her son Skanda in her lap. Her form expresses maternal affection, protection and nurturing, while also being associated with knowledge and wisdom.
6. Maa Katyayani
On the sixth day, devotees worship Maa Katyayani, a powerful form of Shakti traditionally associated with the sage Katyayana. She represents courage, valor and the power to overcome obstacles. In devotional traditions, she is also associated with the destruction of forces that threaten righteousness.
7. Maa Kalaratri
The seventh form is Kalaratri, the fierce and formidable manifestation of the Goddess. Traditionally depicted with a dark complexion and a powerful appearance, she represents the destruction of darkness, fear and ignorance. Though fearsome in appearance, Kalaratri is regarded as a protective form of the Mother who grants fearlessness to devotees.
8. Maa Mahagauri
Mahagauri, worshipped on the eighth day, represents purity, serenity and grace. She is traditionally portrayed in a radiant, fair form and is associated with peace, wisdom and liberation. Her presence marks a movement from the fierce energy of Kalaratri towards a calmer and more tranquil expression of Shakti.
9. Maa Siddhidatri
The ninth and final form is Maa Siddhidatri, whose name refers to the giver of siddhis, or spiritual attainments. She represents fulfilment, perfection and the culmination of the Navratri journey. Her worship signifies the completion of the spiritual progression through the nine manifestations of the Goddess.
The nine forms of Navadurga together present a broad vision of Shakti. From Shailaputri’s strength and Brahmacharini’s discipline to Kalaratri’s fearlessness, Mahagauri’s serenity and Siddhidatri’s fulfilment, Sharad Navratri becomes not merely a period of worship but a symbolic journey through different expressions of divine feminine energy. Across India, these nine days are observed through prayer, fasting, rituals and regional traditions, culminating in the celebration of victory over evil.
Every year, as Navratri approaches, the same question lands in my inbox: “Is vrat food actually healthy, or are we just replacing rice with sabudana and calling it a detox?” It’s a fair question, and a timely one, because Navratri fasting, when done right, is one of the most beautifully designed nutritional traditions we have. Done wrong, it can leave you fatigued, bloated, and reaching for a second plate of fried puris. The difference lies entirely in how we fast, not whether we fast.
The Misconceptions We Need to Retire
The biggest myth about vrat food is that “fasting” means eating less. In practice, most people eat more during Navratri, just differently. Sabudana khichdi, deep-fried kuttu puris, potato chaat, and makhana kheer often add up to more calories than a regular day’s meals, just wrapped in a festive label. Fasting was never meant to be an excuse to indulge in fried, starchy food all day; it was designed as a seasonal reset, with lighter, simpler, more mindful eating.
Another misconception is that fasting foods are automatically “cleansing.” Grains like kuttu (buckwheat) and singhara (water chestnut flour) are genuinely nutritious, but frying them in ghee or oil twice a day cancels out much of that benefit. The wisdom was in the ingredients, not necessarily in how we’ve come to cook them.
What a Balanced Vrat Thali Actually Looks Like
A well-designed fasting meal isn’t about restriction. It’s about balance, just built from a different set of ingredients than usual.
●Base: Kuttu, singhara, samak (barnyard millet) or rajgira (amaranth), all genuinely nutrient-dense, gluten-free grains. ●Protein: Paneer, dahi (curd), makhana or peanuts. ●Vegetables: Lauki, arbi, pumpkin and cucumber, which are cooling, fibre-rich and easy to digest. ●Fats: A small amount of ghee or nuts, rather than deep-fried preparations. ●Fruit: At least one seasonal fruit through the day.
The rule of thumb I give clients is that your vrat plate should still have all the components of a regular balanced meal, just made from fasting-friendly swaps.
Don’t Forget Protein
This is the piece most vrat meals miss entirely. A day built around sabudana, potatoes and fruit is mostly starch and sugar, with very little protein to keep you full or energised. Without protein, you’ll feel hungry faster, and by evening, you’re more likely to overeat fried snacks.
Easy fixes include adding curd to every meal, snacking on roasted makhana or peanuts, and including paneer at least once a day. Even a bowl of curd with roasted makhana covers a surprising amount of ground.
Hydration Is Half the Battle
Many people unconsciously cut back on water during a fast, along with food. This is where fatigue, headaches and low energy usually come from, not the fasting itself. Add coconut water, buttermilk (chaas), fresh lime water or herbal teas throughout the day. If you’re fasting from grains but not water, there’s no reason to be under-hydrated.
The Fried Food Trap
Kuttu puri, sabudana vada and aloo tikki are festival favourites, and completely fine occasionally. The problem arises when they become the only options available, three meals a day, for nine days straight. Frying isn’t the enemy; frequency is. Try roasting, steaming or shallow-frying kuttu and sabudana preparations instead of deep-frying, and keep the fried options for one meal rather than every meal.
What Our Ancestors Got Right
Navratri fasting has genuine roots in seasonal eating wisdom. It falls at the change of season, when digestion is traditionally considered more sluggish, so the diet shifts to lighter grains, cooling foods and simpler cooking methods, giving the gut a break from heavier everyday staples. The exclusion of onion and garlic, the emphasis on fresh rather than stored food, and the shift towards fruit and dairy weren’t arbitrary rules. They were an intuitive, pre-scientific way of realigning eating with the season.
The Modern Twist
Today’s fasting trends have taken this further, and mostly for the better. We’re seeing more people treat Navratri as an opportunity for intermittent eating windows, mindful portions, and even using the nine days to reset sugar and processed-food habits. Millets like samak and rajgira, once seen as “just fasting food,” are now recognised as genuinely excellent grains for everyday health, high in fibre, naturally gluten-free and slow-releasing in energy.
The Real Benefit of Navratri Fasting
Done thoughtfully, Navratri fasting can genuinely reset digestion, reduce reliance on processed food, and reintroduce naturally nutrient-dense grains into your diet. It’s less about restriction and more about intentional eating, a rare, built-in nine-day pause to ask, “What am I actually putting on my plate, and why?” That’s a habit worth carrying well beyond the festival.
Recipes to Make This Navratri Healthier
1. Roasted Makhana and Peanut Trail Mix
A protein-rich snack to replace fried chips. Ingredients: 1 cup makhana (fox nuts), roasted dry until crisp 2 tbsp peanuts, roasted 1 tsp ghee Rock salt, roasted cumin powder and a pinch of black pepper Method: Toss the roasted makhana and peanuts in warm ghee, sprinkle with the spices, and store in an airtight jar. A satisfying, protein-and-fibre-rich snack for between meals.
2. Samak Rice and Vegetable Pulao
A wholesome base meal, with no frying required. Ingredients: 1 cup samak (barnyard millet) rice, soaked for 20 minutes 1 tbsp ghee 1 tsp cumin seeds Chopped lauki, carrot and beans Rock salt, ginger and green chilli Fresh coriander to garnish Method: Sauté cumin in ghee, add ginger and vegetables, and cook until softened. Add the soaked samak with water and simmer until done. Garnish with coriander. Light, filling and full of fibre.
3. Curd and Fruit Chaat with Roasted Makhana
Protein, hydration and freshness in one bowl. Ingredients: 1 cup fresh dahi (curd), whisked smooth Diced seasonal fruit, such as banana, pomegranate and apple A handful of roasted makhana, lightly crushed Rock salt and roasted cumin powder A drizzle of honey (optional) Method: Layer the curd, fruit and makhana just before eating so the makhana stays crisp. A cooling, protein-and-probiotic-rich dish perfect for a light evening meal. Festival food doesn’t have to choose between tradition and health. The wisdom was already there. We just need to cook it the way it was meant to be.
(The writer of this article is Dimple Arora, Nutritionist and Founder, The Health Lens)
Walk into any home during Diwali, and where do the guests sit? On the sofa, of course. It’s where people sip chai, eat mithai, and chat for hours. That’s why gifts for the sofa make so much sense. They get used right away. And they make the whole living room look fresh for the festival.
If you’re stuck on what to give this year, here are five Diwali gifts that work for almost any sofa.
1. Cushion Covers
This is the one of the easiest diwali gits. A new set of cushion covers can change the look of a sofa in a minute. No tools, no effort. For Diwali, go for rich colours. Deep red, mustard yellow, bottle green, or royal blue. Covers with a bit of gold thread, mirror work, or block prints feel very festive.
A small tip. Check the cushion size before you buy. Most homes use 16 x 16 inch cushions, but some sofas have bigger ones. A loose cover looks sad, and a tight one won’t close.
2. A Soft Throw
A throw is a light blanket you drape over the back or arm of the sofa. It looks cosy. And when the weather turns a little cool after Diwali, people actually use it. Cotton throws are good for most of India since they don’t feel too warm. Knitted ones look great in cooler cities. Skip furry ones in humid places like Mumbai or Chennai. They trap dust and feel sticky. Pick one colour that matches the cushions, or go with a simple pattern.
Folded neatly on one arm of the sofa, it makes the corner look complete.
3. Sofa Back Cover or Runner
Sofas get dirty fast, especially the top of the back where heads rest. A long cloth runner on top keeps that part clean.
It also adds a nice touch of design. Look for runners with embroidery, tassels, or simple ethnic prints. They’re easy to wash and swap.
This one is a smart pick for families with kids. Everybody knows how often little hands touch the sofa with oily fingers after eating sweets.
4. Sofa Arm Tray
Here’s something people don’t think of buying for themselves, but love once they have it.
A sofa arm tray sits flat on the arm of the sofa. It’s a handy spot to keep a cup of tea, a phone, or the TV remote. Wooden ones look smart and feel solid.
During Diwali, with so many guests and so many plates of snacks going around, an extra flat spot helps a lot.
5. A Small Side Table
Not every sofa has a table next to it. A small side table fixes that.
Pick one that’s light and easy to move. Round tables with a wooden top and metal legs fit most homes. Place a diya, a small plant, or a bowl of dry fruits on top, and the corner looks ready for the festival.
This gift costs a bit more than the others. But it’s useful for years.
Quick Comparison
Gift
What it Does
Best For
Cushion covers
Adds colour fast
Any home
Throw
Makes the sofa cosy
Cooler cities, people who nap
Back cover or runner
Keeps the sofa clean
Families with kids
Sofa arm tray
Holds cups and remotes
Tea lovers, TV watchers
Side table
Adds a spot for decor
Homes with bare corners
How to Pick the Right One
A sofa gift only works if it fits the home. Keep these points in mind.
● Notice the sofa colour. A grey sofa goes with almost anything. A brown or maroon one looks best with cream, gold, or green.
● Look at the room size. A side table may not fit in a small flat.
● Think about who lives there. Light colours and delicate fabrics are not great for homes with pets or small kids.
● Ask casually. If you’re close to the person, find out what they need without giving the surprise away.
Wrap it Nicely
Fabric gifts can look plain in a bag. Fold cushion covers or a throw neatly and tie them with a ribbon. Put a small diya or a sweet box on top. It instantly looks more festive.
Wrapping Up
Diwali gifts don’t always have to be sweets or showpieces. Something for the sofa gets used every single day. Cushion covers, a throw, a runner, an arm tray, or a side table can all make the living room feel new.
The best part? Every time the family sits down to relax, they’ll be using your gift.
Every year, October 9 brings back memories of Ratan Naval Tata, one of India’s most respected industrialists, whose life was defined by business excellence, humility and an enduring commitment to society. He passed away on October 9, 2024, at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy that extended far beyond the corporate world. Two years after his passing, his contributions continue to inspire entrepreneurs, professionals and young Indians who look up to him as an example of leadership guided by purpose.
Born on December 28, 1937, in Bombay, now Mumbai, Ratan Tata was the son of Naval Tata and Soonoo Tata. He was raised largely by his grandmother, Lady Navajbai Tata, alongside his younger brother, Jimmy. His early years instilled in him a sense of discipline, independence and responsibility. He went on to study architecture and structural engineering at Cornell University in the United States, graduating in 1962. Rather than immediately stepping into a senior corporate position, he returned to India and began his career on the shop floor of the Tata Group, gaining practical experience at Tata Steel and Tata Engineering and Locomotive Company, now Tata Motors.
Leading the Tata Group into a New Era
Ratan Tata joined the Tata Group in 1962 and gradually rose through its ranks. In 1991, he succeeded J.R.D. Tata as chairman of Tata Sons, taking charge at a time when India’s economic liberalisation was opening new opportunities for businesses. His leadership transformed the group from a largely India-focused conglomerate into a globally recognised business enterprise.
He worked to bring greater cohesion among the group’s companies, strengthen accountability and encourage innovation. Under his leadership, Tata companies expanded into international markets through several landmark acquisitions. Tata Tea acquired British tea company Tetley in 2000, Tata Steel acquired Corus in 2007, and Tata Motors purchased the Jaguar Land Rover businesses from Ford in 2008. These deals strengthened the group’s international presence and demonstrated that Indian companies could compete on a global stage.
During his tenure, the Tata Group also strengthened its presence in information technology, telecommunications, steel, automobiles and other industries. Tata Consultancy Services became a major global IT services company, while the group’s consolidated annual revenues grew to more than $100 billion by 2011–12. Ratan Tata stepped down as chairman in December 2012, leaving behind a significantly expanded business empire.
The Man Behind the Iconic Projects
Ratan Tata’s vision was not limited to acquisitions and international expansion. He also championed products designed around Indian consumers and their needs. One of his most ambitious projects was the Tata Nano, introduced in 2008 and launched commercially in 2009. Conceived as an affordable car for Indian families who relied on two-wheelers for transportation, the Nano reflected his ambition to make personal mobility more accessible. Although the car faced commercial and marketing challenges, the project remains an important example of his willingness to pursue an unconventional idea. Another landmark was the Tata Indica, launched in 1998 and widely regarded as India’s first indigenously designed passenger car. His interest in innovation also extended beyond automobiles. After retiring as chairman, he became an active investor in Indian start-ups, backing businesses in areas such as digital payments, mobility, consumer services and technology.
A Legacy Rooted in Philanthropy
Perhaps the most enduring aspect of Ratan Tata’s legacy was his belief that business success must serve a larger social purpose. The Tata Group’s philanthropic tradition predates his leadership, but he continued to strengthen its emphasis on education, healthcare, rural development, scientific research and social welfare.
Through the Tata Trusts, he supported initiatives aimed at improving access to healthcare, expanding educational opportunities, strengthening livelihoods and addressing community challenges. The trusts also backed cancer care facilities, research institutions and programmes designed to improve living conditions in underserved regions. He believed that technology and innovation could help address social problems when made accessible to the people who needed them most.
His compassion became particularly visible after the 2008 terrorist attacks in Mumbai. The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, part of the Tata Group, was among the sites attacked. In the aftermath, the Tata organisation established support initiatives for victims and affected families. Ratan Tata’s response reflected his concern for employees and ordinary citizens whose lives had been disrupted by the tragedy.
He also had a well-known affection for animals, particularly dogs, and supported animal welfare initiatives. The establishment of a specialised small-animal hospital in Mumbai reflected his belief that compassion should extend to all living beings.
Awards, Humility and Lasting Influence
Ratan Tata received some of India’s highest civilian honours, including the Padma Bhushan in 2000 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2008. He also received international recognition and honorary degrees from several universities for his contributions to industry, education and society.
Yet, despite his achievements, he was widely admired for his reserved personality and relatively simple lifestyle. He rarely sought the public spotlight and was known for his measured manner, personal discipline and willingness to take risks without losing sight of ethical responsibilities. His career was not without corporate controversies or setbacks, but his public image remained closely associated with integrity, compassion and a commitment to long-term institution-building.
Remembering a Life of Purpose
Ratan Tata’s life offers a powerful reminder that leadership is measured not only by the size of a business or the value of its assets, but also by the opportunities it creates and the lives it touches.
From transforming the Tata Group into a global enterprise to supporting healthcare, education, innovation and social welfare, his work influenced millions of people in direct and indirect ways. His legacy lives on through the institutions he strengthened, the businesses he helped build and the philanthropic initiatives he supported.
On his death anniversary, remembering Ratan Tata means reflecting on a life in which ambition was accompanied by responsibility and success by service. He leaves behind a lasting example of how business leadership can contribute to national development while remaining grounded in humanity.
For generations to come, Ratan Tata will be remembered not merely as an industrialist who built a global business empire, but as a leader who believed that true success lies in making a meaningful difference to the world.
In an age of instant messages, emails and video calls, sending a letter may seem like a practice from another era. Yet behind every postcard, parcel and document delivered across a distance lies a communication network that has connected people, communities and countries for centuries. World Post Day, observed every year on October 9, celebrates this enduring system and its continuing relevance in a rapidly changing world.
World Post Day commemorates the establishment of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) on October 9, 1874, in Bern, Switzerland. The UPU brought postal systems from different countries together under a common framework, making it easier for mail to move across international borders. In 1969, October 9 was officially designated as World Post Day.
The postal system has played a significant role in the development of communication. Long before the internet, letters provided people with a way to maintain personal relationships, conduct business, share news and exchange ideas across considerable distances.
For soldiers stationed away from home, letters became an important emotional connection with their families. For writers and intellectuals, correspondence became a way to exchange ideas and preserve personal histories.
India has its own long and fascinating postal history. Organised postal services developed during the colonial period, while the modern India Post traces its institutional roots to the establishment of a unified postal system in the 1850s. Over time, the network expanded across cities, towns and remote villages, becoming one of the world’s largest postal systems.
For generations, the postman was a familiar presence in Indian communities. A letter, money order or telegram could carry news that families had been eagerly waiting for. The arrival of a postcard could bring happiness, while an official envelope could sometimes change the course of someone’s life.
Although digital communication has transformed the way people interact, postal services have not disappeared. Instead, their role has evolved.
Today, postal networks are important for delivering parcels, official documents, medicines, e-commerce purchases and financial services. In many parts of India, especially rural and remote regions, post offices continue to serve as important access points for banking and government-related services.
India Post has also expanded beyond traditional mail. India Post Payments Bank, digital postal services and technology-enabled tracking have helped the postal system adapt to changing consumer expectations. The network’s reach gives it an advantage in connecting services with communities that may not always have easy access to conventional banking or commercial infrastructure.
The global postal sector is similarly adapting. The growth of e-commerce has transformed parcel delivery into one of the most important areas of postal activity. At the same time, postal organisations are exploring digital services, automated sorting, improved tracking and more sustainable delivery systems.
The environmental impact of logistics has also become an important consideration. Postal and delivery networks are increasingly looking at electric vehicles, efficient transportation and other measures to reduce emissions and improve sustainability.
Yet perhaps the most enduring quality of the postal system is its ability to connect people.
A handwritten letter carries something that an instant message often cannot: the physical evidence of time, thought and effort. The handwriting, the paper, the stamp and even the postmark can become part of a personal memory.
World Post Day is therefore not simply a celebration of envelopes and stamps. It is a reminder of how communication has evolved and how systems created more than a century ago continue to adapt to modern needs.
From a handwritten letter travelling across a village to a parcel crossing international borders, the postal system remains an important link between people, businesses and communities.
In a world where communication has become almost instantaneous, World Post Day reminds us that connection is not only about how quickly a message arrives, but also about the networks and people that make reaching one another possible.
Indian cinema has lost one of its most distinctive performers. Veteran actor Nana Patekar died on October 8, 2026, at the age of 75, after suffering a cardiac arrest in Goa. He was taken to Manipal Hospital, where doctors attempted to revive him, but he could not be saved.
Born Vishwanath Patekar on January 1, 1951, in Murud-Janjira, Maharashtra, Nana Patekar built a career that spanned nearly five decades across Hindi and Marathi cinema. He was not an actor who depended on conventional Bollywood stardom. His powerful voice, expressive face, distinctive dialogue delivery and ability to inhabit complicated characters made him one of the most recognisable performers in Indian cinema.
From Theatre to the Big Screen
Patekar’s journey began with theatre before he moved into films. He made his Hindi film debut with Gaman in 1978, gradually gaining recognition through a series of intense supporting performances. Films such as Aaj Ki Awaz, Ankush, Pratighaat, Andha Yudh and Mohre established him as an actor capable of bringing considerable depth to difficult and unconventional roles.
His international visibility grew with Mira Nair’s Salaam Bombay! (1988), which received an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. The following year, Patekar delivered one of the defining performances of his career in Parinda, earning the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor and a Filmfare Award.
The 1990s Made Him a Major Star
The 1990s proved to be a particularly important period in Patekar’s career. He appeared in films including Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman, Angaar, Tirangaa, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi and Khamoshi: The Musical.
In Angaar, he won the Filmfare Award for Best Villain, demonstrating his ability to make even morally dark characters compelling. In Krantiveer (1994), he played Pratap Narayan Tilak, a disillusioned man who transforms into a revolutionary figure. The performance earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor as well as the Filmfare Award for Best Actor. His performance in Agni Sakshi brought another National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor, further establishing his reputation as one of India’s most powerful dramatic actors.
A Career Beyond One Genre
Patekar never allowed himself to be confined to serious or intense cinema. His filmography moved across crime dramas, political films, action films, social dramas and comedy.
He received widespread acclaim for films such as Ab Tak Chhappan, where he portrayed a police officer, and Apaharan, for which he won another Filmfare Award for Best Villain. His performance in Raajneeti further demonstrated his ability to command complex political and dramatic roles.
But for an entirely different generation of viewers, Patekar became unforgettable as Uday Shetty in Welcome (2007). His comic timing, deadpan delivery and chemistry with the ensemble transformed the gangster character into one of Hindi cinema’s most memorable comic roles. He reprised the character in Welcome Back in 2015.
His Marathi Cinema Legacy
While Bollywood brought him nationwide recognition, Marathi cinema remained an important part of Patekar’s artistic identity.
His performance in Natsamrat (2016), in which he portrayed a retired stage actor confronting loneliness and the loss of his place in the world, received widespread acclaim. The film showcased the theatrical intensity that had been central to Patekar’s artistic journey.
He also worked as a filmmaker, writer and director. His directorial debut, Prahaar: The Final Attack (1991), reflected his long-standing interest in the armed forces. He subsequently developed a connection with the Territorial Army and was associated with the Maratha Light Infantry.
Awards and Recognition
Over a career spanning decades, Patekar received three National Film Awards and four Filmfare Awards, along with Maharashtra State and other regional honours. In 2013, he was awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India for his contribution to cinema and the arts.
Yet his legacy was never defined solely by awards. Patekar’s appeal came from an unmistakable authenticity. Whether playing a revolutionary, police officer, villain, politician, retired theatre actor or comic gangster, he brought an individuality that made his characters difficult to forget.
An Unmistakable Legacy
Nana Patekar belonged to a generation of performers who demonstrated that an actor did not need the conventional image of a Bollywood hero to become a star. His performances were often driven by voice, silence, expression and sheer emotional force.
From Parinda and Krantiveer to Ab Tak Chhappan, Raajneeti, Natsamrat and Welcome, his career crossed genres, languages and generations.
With his passing, Indian cinema loses an actor whose presence could transform a scene simply through the way he looked, spoke or paused.
Nana Patekar leaves behind more than a filmography. He leaves behind a collection of characters that audiences will continue to remember, quote and revisit, a legacy built not on glamour, but on craft, intensity and an unmistakable screen presence.
Every year on October 8, India observes Indian Air Force Day, commemorating the establishment of the Indian Air Force and honouring the personnel who serve in one of the world’s most powerful air forces.
The day is an opportunity to look back at the journey of the IAF, from a small auxiliary force during the colonial era to a modern aerospace power capable of operating across a wide range of missions.
The Indian Air Force was established on October 8, 1932, as the Royal Indian Air Force under British rule. Its first operational squadron, No. 1 Squadron, was formed in 1933. Indian personnel and aircraft subsequently played an important role during the Second World War.
After Independence, the force was renamed the Indian Air Force. Its early years were marked by operations in Jammu and Kashmir during the 1947–48 conflict. Over the decades that followed, the IAF expanded its operational capabilities and played significant roles during the wars of 1965 and 1971.
The 1971 war remains particularly significant in the history of Indian air power. The IAF conducted operations on both the eastern and western fronts, providing air support to ground forces and carrying out strikes against military targets. Its operations contributed to India’s overall military campaign that culminated in the creation of Bangladesh.
The IAF’s role has not been restricted to conventional warfare. During the Kargil conflict in 1999, the force conducted Operation Safed Sagar, using fighter aircraft and helicopters in challenging mountainous terrain. The operation demonstrated the importance of air power in supporting troops deployed at high altitude.
In subsequent years, the IAF has continued to undertake a range of operations, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. Its transport aircraft and helicopters have been used to evacuate civilians, deliver essential supplies and provide assistance during natural disasters across India and abroad.
Building a Modern Air Force
Today, the Indian Air Force operates a diverse fleet that includes fighter aircraft, transport planes, helicopters, air-to-air refuelling aircraft, airborne early warning systems and unmanned platforms.
The Su-30MKI remains one of the IAF’s principal fighter aircraft, while the indigenously developed Light Combat Aircraft Tejas represents India’s growing capabilities in designing and manufacturing modern fighter aircraft.
The IAF is also moving towards greater integration of drones, artificial intelligence, advanced sensors, network-centric warfare and space-based capabilities. Modern conflicts have demonstrated that air superiority increasingly depends not only on aircraft but also on information, surveillance, communication and rapid decision-making.
Indigenisation has consequently become an important part of India’s defence strategy. The development and induction of platforms such as Tejas, along with indigenous missiles, radars and electronic warfare systems, are intended to strengthen India’s domestic defence ecosystem and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.
More Than Combat
Indian Air Force Day is also about remembering the people behind the machines.
Pilots, engineers, technicians, air traffic controllers, medical personnel, ground crews and countless other members of the IAF work together to keep operations running. The ability of an aircraft to take off safely and complete its mission depends on an extensive network of personnel working behind the scenes.
The IAF also plays a significant role during peacetime. Its aircraft are frequently involved in rescue missions, medical evacuations, disaster relief and humanitarian assistance. These operations demonstrate that air power is not limited to combat but can also become an important instrument of national assistance during emergencies.
Looking Towards the Future
As warfare becomes increasingly technology-driven, the Indian Air Force is preparing for a future shaped by unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, electronic warfare, cyber capabilities and increasingly sophisticated air-defence networks.
India’s AMCA, or Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, is another major step towards developing a future indigenous fifth-generation fighter capability. Alongside the continued expansion of Tejas and other indigenous systems, such programmes reflect the country’s longer-term ambition to build a stronger domestic aerospace industry.
Indian Air Force Day, therefore, is not simply an anniversary. It is a moment to recognise nearly a century of evolution, remember the sacrifices of those who served and look towards the capabilities required for the future.
From its modest beginnings in 1932 to its role today as a major component of India’s national security architecture, the Indian Air Force has undergone a remarkable transformation.
On October 8, the nation salutes not only the aircraft that command the skies, but the people whose skill, discipline and courage keep them there.
Exclusive Air Force Day Interview with Gurmeet Singh Sethi, Ex-Serviceman, Indian Air Force
For some, military service is a profession. For others, it becomes a way of life. For Gurmeet Singh Sethi, who joined the Indian Air Force in 1965 and served for 26 years, the uniform became a journey shaped by discipline, athletics, war, family, international service and an enduring commitment to the nation.
Joining the IAF as an Airman in the Administrative Branch after completing his matriculation, Sethi went on to serve at several Air Force stations, support operations during the 1971 Indo-Pak war, spend four years on deputation at the Embassy of India in Moscow and eventually make Jodhpur his home. A distinguished athlete, he won five consecutive Air Force Championships in the 26-mile 385-yard marathon.
On Air Force Day, Sethi looks back at his years in uniform, the values that shaped him and the remarkable transformation of the Indian Air Force over the decades.
Q. You joined the Indian Air Force in 1965. What inspired you to choose the Air Force, and what do you remember about the beginning of your journey?
My journey into the Indian Air Force was driven by a love for sports and a deep ambition to serve the nation. On January 25, 1965, after completing my matriculation and clearing the selection board in Patna, Bihar, I was recruited as an Airman in the Administrative Branch.
My training began at the Air Force Ground Training School in Belgaum, Mysore. For the first three months, we lived in basic tents before moving into billets for the remaining nine months. Our daily schedule was demanding, beginning at 0500 hours and continuing until 2000 hours. It included an early morning health run, drill parades, educational classes, evening physical training and self-study.
After a rigorous year of training, I passed out and received my first posting at Air Force Station Vayu Bhawan in New Delhi.
Q. Athletics became an important part of your life in the Air Force. Tell us about that journey.
Athletics remained a defining part of my identity throughout my service. I won five consecutive Air Force Championships in the 26-mile 385-yard marathon. I also represented the service at inter-state meets, national competitions and various institute games, winning numerous awards.
Sports taught me endurance, discipline and the importance of continuous self-improvement. These were qualities that complemented my life in the Air Force and remained with me throughout my career.
Q. You served during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. What was that experience like?
Following the Indo-China war, the Indian Defence Forces underwent rapid modernisation, including improvements in radar systems, communications, fighter aircraft and weaponry.
When the 1971 Indo-Pak conflict began, I was posted to an Air Force unit attached to the Army Corps in the Firozpur sector of Punjab. Our responsibility was to provide vital support to the troops fighting at the border. We remained involved from the beginning of the war on December 3 until the ceasefire on December 16, 1971.
It was an experience that reinforced the importance of discipline and teamwork. In such circumstances, maintaining morale, remaining calm and performing one’s responsibility becomes extremely important.
Q. Is there a particular incident or period from your service that remains especially vivid in your memory?
The entire period of the 1971 war remains deeply etched in my memory. Being part of a unit supporting troops at the border gave me a firsthand understanding of how discipline and teamwork become the backbone of military service during difficult circumstances.
Another particularly memorable chapter was my posting to Air Force Station Utarlai in the Barmer sector. What was initially supposed to be a two-year tenure became five fulfilling years with my family. Despite being classified as a hard living area, Utarlai became one of my best postings.
I actively encouraged sports, picnics, melas and entertainment among the personnel. I received the best assessment ratings continuously during all five years, from 1979 to 1983.
Q. Beyond your official duties, what values did the Air Force teach you that continue to guide your life?
The Air Force taught me discipline, time management, job performance, composure under pressure and the importance of working for self-improvement.
Three principles have remained particularly meaningful to me: to focus on improving oneself rather than interfering in others’ affairs, to think about what one can contribute to the nation, and to remember that action is one’s duty while reward is not.
Service life also taught me the importance of camaraderie and maintaining morale. I participated in and organised dances, singing programmes, variety programmes, Air Force Melas, games and picnics. These activities helped us remain connected and kept the stress and tiredness of service life at bay.
Q. Your career also took you beyond India. How did your deputation to Moscow come about, and what did that experience mean to you?
After my posting at Air Force Station Agra, I received an opportunity from Air Headquarters for a foreign deputation. I was shortlisted for an interview and subsequently selected by the Ministry of External Affairs for specific duties at the Embassy of India in Moscow.
My family and I moved to Russia on May 25, 1984. We spent four memorable years there before returning to India and being posted to Air Force Station Jodhpur. Eventually, Jodhpur became our home.
The Moscow posting was an important chapter of my life. It gave me the opportunity to experience another country and culture while continuing to serve in a different capacity.
Q. You left the Air Force after 26 years and then built a second career in the corporate sector. How did your military experience help you in civilian life?
After 26 successful years in uniform, and with good health and energy, I took premature retirement at the age of 45 to begin a second career.
I entered the corporate sector in sales, working with two-wheeler and four-wheeler businesses. I carried the same discipline, determination and target-oriented approach from my military career into the corporate world. I consistently achieved my targets, won corporate championships and eventually rose to the position of Chief Learning Officer.
I finally retired from the corporate sector at the age of 74 during the COVID period. Looking back, I feel fortunate to have had such a diverse and fulfilling journey.
Q. You have remained active even after retirement. What does life look like for you today?
I still try to live like an athlete. I maintain a health-conscious lifestyle through daily walks, exercise and yoga. I enjoy spending time with my family and maintaining strong relationships with relatives, friends and neighbours.
For me, staying active and continuing to learn and grow has always been important. The discipline I developed during my years in the Air Force continues to influence my daily life.
Q. The Indian Air Force has transformed significantly since you joined in 1965. How do you view the Air Force of today?
The progress of the Indian Air Force fills me with immense pride. During my service, we witnessed significant developments in radar systems, communications, aircraft and weaponry. Today, the scale of technological advancement is remarkable.
I am particularly encouraged by India’s growing independence in new technologies and innovations, along with advancements in medical facilities and veteran welfare schemes such as the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS).
Despite all these changes, I believe the morale and spirit of the Indian Air Force remain as strong as ever.
Q. What does Air Force Day mean to you personally?
Every Air Force Day brings a deeply glorious feeling. When we look at the medals mounted on our uniforms, we are reminded of the awards, commendations, promotions and years of dedication behind them.
For a veteran, these memories are not simply about medals or achievements. They represent years of discipline, integrity, responsibility and service to the nation.
I feel immense pride in having been a part of the Indian Air Force. It remains, for me, one of the finest and most righteous paths through which a person can serve the nation with passion. Jai Hind!
Gautam Adani and his family have reclaimed the position of India’s richest, overtaking Mukesh Ambani and family, according to the M3M Hurun India Rich List 2026. The latest edition not only highlights the changing fortunes of India’s biggest business families but also points to a broader shift in the sources of wealth, with sectors such as artificial intelligence, defence, manufacturing and green energy gaining prominence.
Adani and his family topped the list with a wealth of ₹9.23 lakh crore, marking a 13 per cent increase from the previous year. Mukesh Ambani and his family, who held the top position in the previous edition, ranked second with wealth of ₹8.63 lakh crore, a decline of 10 per cent over the year. The difference between the two stood at around ₹59,400 crore.
The latest ranking comes at a time when India’s wealth landscape is expanding rapidly. The 2026 list includes 1,810 individuals with wealth of at least ₹1,000 crore, an increase of 128 from the previous year. Their combined wealth rose 12.8 per cent to ₹187.5 lakh crore, equivalent to around $1.96 trillion.
Adani Returns to Number One
Gautam Adani’s return to the top of the Hurun ranking marks a reversal from the previous edition, when Mukesh Ambani and his family were ranked first. The Adani Group has interests across infrastructure, ports, airports, energy, logistics, mining and other sectors. The group’s broad business presence has helped make Adani one of India’s most prominent industrialists.
The 2026 Hurun list also reflects a wider change in the fortunes of major Indian businesses. Lakshmi Niwas Mittal and family moved sharply up the ranking to third place, with wealth of ₹3.39 lakh crore. Their wealth increased by 93 per cent, making them the biggest absolute gainer on the list.
Cyrus S. Poonawalla and family ranked fourth with ₹3.03 lakh crore, while Roshni Nadar Malhotra and family stood fifth with ₹2.79 lakh crore, making her India’s wealthiest woman on the list. Kumar Mangalam Birla and family, Dilip Shanghvi, Azim Premji and family, Anil Agarwal and family, and Samir Mehta and family completed the top ten.
India’s Billionaire Club Expands
One of the most significant findings of the 2026 list is the continued growth in the number of billionaires associated with India.
The country now has 391 dollar billionaires, including 76 new entrants, according to Hurun. The number has increased considerably over the past five years, when India had 237 dollar billionaires.
At the same time, wealth creation is becoming more geographically widespread. Mumbai remains India’s biggest centre of wealth, with 465 list members, followed by New Delhi with 236 and Bengaluru with 129. Overall, the individuals on the list are spread across 163 cities worldwide, including 106 locations in India.
AI Emerges as a New Source of Wealth
Perhaps the most striking change in this year’s list is the emergence of artificial intelligence as a standalone wealth-creation sector.
The 2026 Hurun list features 19 individuals associated with AI, together representing wealth of ₹3.07 lakh crore. Fifteen of them are new entrants. The group includes entrepreneurs working across areas such as AI models, applications, data centres and semiconductors.
The development reflects the growing influence of technology on India’s entrepreneurial landscape. AI, aerospace and defence, and semiconductors together account for 48 individuals on the list, with 30 being new entrants. The list also includes India’s first rich lister associated with quantum computing, signalling the emergence of newer technology-driven sectors alongside India’s traditional industrial businesses.
Manufacturing, Defence and Green Energy Gain Ground
The changing composition of the rich list also indicates that India’s wealth creation is no longer concentrated solely in traditional sectors.
Hurun reported strong growth in wealth across aerospace and defence, green energy, industrial products, metals and mining, pharmaceuticals and financial services. Industrial products had the largest number of entrants, while defence, manufacturing and green energy emerged as important drivers of new wealth.
This shift reflects the growing role of infrastructure investment, domestic manufacturing, technological development and the country’s transition towards new energy systems.
Another notable feature is the increasing presence of self-made entrepreneurs. Around 70 per cent of the people on the list, or 1,266 individuals, are classified as self-made, suggesting that India’s wealth-creation ecosystem is expanding beyond established business families. The number of women on the list also increased to 131, compared with 100 in the previous edition.
A Different Picture of India’s Economy
The Hurun India Rich List is more than a ranking of wealthy individuals. It also offers a snapshot of where business value is being created in the country.
The combined wealth of the 1,810 individuals rose even as India’s benchmark stock-market indices declined during the period considered for the ranking. Hurun’s figures therefore underline the fact that personal wealth is influenced not only by listed-market performance but also by private-company valuations, business ownership and changes in the value of individual enterprises.
The list was compiled using a valuation cut-off of August 24, 2026, with unlisted businesses valued using recent funding rounds or comparisons with listed companies in similar industries.
Gautam Adani’s return to the top may be the headline of the 2026 edition, but the larger story is the changing character of Indian wealth. Traditional industrial groups continue to dominate the upper end of the ranking, while technology, AI, defence, manufacturing and green energy are creating new fortunes and new entrants.
The Hurun list ultimately reflects an Indian economy in transition, where established business empires and emerging technology-driven enterprises are increasingly shaping the country’s wealth landscape.
The Indian Air Force is set to get a new chief later this month, with the government appointing Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit as the next Chief of the Air Staff. Currently serving as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Dixit will take charge as the 29th Chief of the Indian Air Force in the rank of Air Chief Marshal on October 31, 2026, succeeding Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, who retires on the same day.
The appointment comes as the Indian Air Force continues to navigate a rapidly changing security environment while working towards modernising its combat capabilities, strengthening air defence and expanding the use of emerging technologies and indigenous defence systems.
From Fighter Pilot to Air Chief
Born on December 9, 1966, Ashutosh Dixit was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on December 6, 1986. His career has now spanned nearly four decades, taking him from the cockpit of fighter aircraft to some of the IAF’s most senior operational and strategic positions.
Dixit is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, the Defence Services Staff College in Bangladesh and the National Defence College. He is also an Experimental Test Pilot and a Qualified Flying Instructor, with more than 3,500 hours of flying experience.
His flying experience covers a wide range of aircraft, including the Mirage-2000, various MiG aircraft, Kiran, Jaguar, IL-78, Hawk and India’s indigenous Tejas fighter. His association with different generations of aircraft has given him experience spanning both traditional fighter operations and newer platforms being inducted into the Indian defence ecosystem.
Experience Across Major Operations
Over his long career, Dixit has been associated with several important operations and military exercises. His operational experience includes Operation Safed Sagar, the Indian Air Force’s aerial campaign during the Kargil conflict, as well as Operation Rakshak and Operation Sindoor. He has also participated in exercises such as Cope India.
His command experience has been equally extensive. As a commanding officer, he was involved in re-equipping a squadron with Mirage-2000 aircraft. He later commanded a frontline fighter air base in the Western Sector and a major fighter training base in the Southern Sector.
His career also included roles at the Air Force Test Pilots School, where he served as directing staff, as well as senior positions dealing with air staff requirements, planning and projects. These assignments gave him exposure not only to flying operations but also to the planning and technological requirements of a modern air force.
From Operational Command to Strategic Leadership
Dixit’s career gradually expanded from operational command into higher defence management. He served as Air Defence Commander of Southern Air Command, Assistant Chief of the Air Staff for Projects and Plans, Senior Air Staff Officer at South Western Air Command and Deputy Chief of the Air Staff at Air Headquarters.
Before becoming Vice Chief, he served as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Central Air Command and subsequently as Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee. His experience in a tri-services role gave him exposure to joint planning and coordination between the Army, Navy and Air Force.
On July 1, 2026, Dixit took over as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, succeeding Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor. His appointment as Vice Chief came just months before he was selected to lead the entire service.
Focus on Indigenous Technology and Modernisation
One of the defining aspects of Dixit’s recent career has been his involvement with modernisation and indigenous defence technology. He has been closely associated with India’s Light Combat Aircraft Tejas programme and other indigenous aircraft projects, and has pushed for greater adoption of emerging technologies within the IAF.
In September 2026, as Vice Chief, he inaugurated the first IAF Dronathon-2026 at the Pokhran Field Firing Range. The initiative brought together defence companies, start-ups, MSMEs, public-sector defence organisations and innovators working on unmanned systems, reflecting the increasing importance of drones and autonomous technologies in modern warfare.
His record therefore combines extensive operational flying experience with exposure to technology, planning, jointness and higher defence management.
A Career Recognised With Military Honours
Dixit’s service has been recognised with several major military decorations. He received the Vayu Sena Medal in 2006, the Vishisht Seva Medal in 2011, the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2023 and the Param Vishisht Seva Medal in 2026.
With his appointment taking effect on October 31, Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit will assume responsibility for leading the Indian Air Force at a time when air power is undergoing significant technological and operational transformation. His experience as a fighter pilot, test pilot, instructor, operational commander and senior tri-services officer brings together several dimensions of modern military leadership.
As he takes over as the 29th Chief of the Air Staff, the focus will be on maintaining operational readiness while continuing the IAF’s efforts towards modernisation, indigenous capability, jointness and the integration of new technologies into India’s air power.
