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Oscars 2026: Nominees list in full

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EBNW Story
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Hollywood has unveiled the nominations for this year’s Academy Awards, which will honour the film industry’s finest achievements of the past 12 months. Vampire horror Sinners leads the field with a record-breaking 16 nominations, surpassing the previous record of 14 held by All About Eve (1950), Titanic (1997) and La La Land (2016).

One Battle After Another follows with 13 nominations, while Marty Supreme, Frankenstein and Sentimental Value have nine each. Hamnet received eight nominations.

The Oscars ceremony will take place on 15 March, hosted by US comedian Conan O’Brien.

Vampire horror Sinners sets new Oscars record with 16 nominations

Best Picture

  • Bugonia
  • Frankenstein
  • F1
  • Hamnet
  • Marty Supreme
  • One Battle After Another
  • The Secret Agent
  • Sentimental Value
  • Sinners
  • Train Dreams

Best Actor

  • Timothée Chalamet – Marty Supreme
  • Leonardo DiCaprio – One Battle After Another
  • Ethan Hawke – Blue Moon
  • Michael B Jordan – Sinners
  • Wagner Moura – The Secret Agent

Best Actress

  • Jessie Buckley – Hamnet
  • Rose Byrne – If I Had Legs I’d Kick You
  • Kate Hudson – Song Sung Blue
  • Renate Reinsve – Sentimental Value
  • Emma Stone – Bugonia

Best Supporting Actress

  • Elle Fanning – Sentimental Value
  • Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas – Sentimental Value
  • Amy Madigan – Weapons
  • Wunmi Mosaku – Sinners
  • Teyana Taylor – One Battle After Another

Best Supporting Actor

  • Benicio del Toro – One Battle After Another
  • Jacob Elordi – Frankenstein
  • Delroy Lindo – Sinners
  • Sean Penn – One Battle After Another
  • Stellan Skarsgård – Sentimental Value

Best Director

  • Paul Thomas Anderson – One Battle After Another
  • Ryan Coogler – Sinners
  • Josh Safdie – Marty Supreme
  • Joachim Trier – Sentimental Value
  • Chloé Zhao – Hamnet

Best Adapted Screenplay

  • Bugonia
  • Frankenstein
  • Hamnet
  • One Battle After Another
  • Train Dreams

Best Original Screenplay

  • Blue Moon
  • It Was Just an Accident
  • Marty Supreme
  • Sentimental Value
  • Sinners

Best Original Song

  • Dear Me – Diane Warren: Relentless
  • Golden – KPop Demon Hunters
  • I Lied to You – Sinners
  • Sweet Dreams of Joy – Viva Verdi!
  • Train Dreams – Train Dreams

Best Original Score

  • Bugonia
  • Frankenstein
  • Hamnet
  • One Battle After Another
  • Sinners

Best International Feature

  • It Was Just an Accident
  • Sentimental Value
  • Sirât
  • The Secret Agent
  • The Voice of Hind Rajab

Best Animated Feature

  • Arco
  • Elio
  • KPop Demon Hunters
  • Little Amélie or the Character of Rain
  • Zootopia 2

Best Documentary Feature

  • Come See Me in the Good Light
  • Cutting Through the Rocks
  • Mr. Nobody Against Putin
  • The Alabama Solution
  • The Perfect Neighbor

Best Costume Design

  • Avatar: Fire and Ash
  • Frankenstein
  • Hamnet
  • Marty Supreme
  • Sinners

Best Make-up and Hairstyling

  • Frankenstein
  • Kokuho
  • Sinners
  • The Smashing Machine
  • The Ugly Stepsister

Best Production Design

  • Frankenstein
  • Hamnet
  • Marty Supreme
  • One Battle After Another
  • Sinners

Best Sound

  • Frankenstein
  • F1
  • One Battle After Another
  • Sinners
  • Sirât

Best Film Editing

  • F1
  • Marty Supreme
  • One Battle After Another
  • Sentimental Value
  • Sinners

Best Cinematography

  • Frankenstein
  • Marty Supreme
  • One Battle After Another
  • Sinners
  • Train Dreams

Best Visual Effects

  • Avatar: Fire and Ash
  • F1
  • Jurassic World Rebirth
  • Sinners
  • The Lost Bus

Best Live Action Short

  • A Friend of Dorothy
  • Butcher’s Stain
  • Jane Austen’s Period Drama
  • The Singers
  • Two People Exchanging Saliva

Best Animated Short

  • Butterfly
  • Forevergreen
  • Retirement Plan
  • The Girl Who Cried Pearls
  • The Three Sisters

Best Documentary Short

  • All the Empty Rooms
  • Armed Only with a Camera: The Life and Death of Brent Renaud
  • Children No More: Were and Are Gone
  • The Devil Is Busy
  • Perfectly a Strangeness

Best Casting

  • Hamnet
  • Marty Supreme
  • One Battle After Another
  • Sinners
  • The Secret Agent

Bigo Live to Illuminate Seoul with Seventh Annual Awards Gala in 2026

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Bigo Live, one of the world’s fastest-growing social live streaming platforms with over 600 million registered users across over 150 countries, has announced the seventh edition of its annual flagship event, the BIGO Awards Gala. Themed “SEOUL LIGHTS, BIGO NIGHTS,” the highly anticipated ceremony will take place at KBS Hall in Seoul on Friday, 23 January 2026, celebrating the passion and creativity of its global community of content creators over the past year.

BIGO Awards Gala 2026
 

This year’s theme, “SEOUL LIGHTS, BIGO NIGHTS” captures the spirit of the event, where the energy of Bigo Live’s creators will illuminate Seoul. The Gala will honour the dedication and talent of the platform’s creators and families, turning each moment into a shared celebration that is both unique and unforgettable. Seoul was selected as the host city for this year’s BIGO Awards Gala as it stands at the intersection of creativity, technology and culture, reflecting the vibrant and globally connected community that Bigo Live continues to build.

The star-studded event will welcome over 1,200 global guests, including those from Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North and South America, and Africa. The festivities will begin with a public red-carpet event, offering a first glimpse into the energy and vibrancy of the event.

“Seoul’s dynamic energy is the perfect backdrop for our 2026 Gala,” said a spokesperson from Bigo Live. “SEOUL LIGHTS, BIGO NIGHTS’ is more than a theme, it’s a reflection of how our creators illuminate the platform with their talent and passion. We are thrilled to bring our global community together in this vibrant city to celebrate their achievements and the powerful connections they’ve built.”

The ceremony will honour over 200 content creators and families for their outstanding contributions over the past year, with winners receiving a trophy and in-app rewards, with select honourees also featured on prominent digital billboards in Gangnam’s high-profile media district, extending recognition beyond the platform.

The evening will also feature a diverse lineup of captivating performances, from live music to band shows by international artists, including special appearances by South Korean girl groups FIFTY FIFTY and tripleS, creating an immersive atmosphere where global creativity meets a shared rhythm.

As the night pulses with excitement, Bigo Live will also unveil an exclusive blind-box collection featuring its friendly mascot, mini-Dinos, bringing an extra spark of surprise to the night.

For viewers worldwide, the BIGO Awards Gala 2026 will be broadcast live on Bigo Live’s Music Live House channel (Bigo ID: music) and the official Bigo.tv website. The live broadcast will begin with the Red Carpet at 3:00 pm (GMT+9), followed by the Gala Ceremony at 7:00 pm (GMT+9). Viewers in the live room can vote for their favourite content creators and families during the gala night for three special awards: “MOST POPULAR BROADCASTER,” “MOST POPULAR FAMILY,” and “GALA STAR.”
 

To join Bigo Live’s global community and tune into the BIGO Awards Gala 2026, download the Bigo Live app or visit the official website. Follow Bigo Live on Facebook and Instagram for latest updates.

Bigo Live

Bigo Live is one of the world’s fastest-growing livestreaming social communities where users broadcast in real-time to share life moments, showcase their talents, and interact with people from around the world. Bigo Live has more than 600 million users in over 150 countries. Launched in March 2016, Bigo Live is owned by BIGO Technology, which is based in Singapore.

Microsoft Singapore and Enabling Leadership Bring AI Learning to Primary School Students

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Artificial Intelligence is already transforming the way we learn, work, and live. Yet, for many young people today, AI remains a tool they use without fully understanding how it works, how to use it responsibly, or how to shape its impact on the future. As AI becomes increasingly embedded in everyday life, ensuring that AI literacy is accessible to students across communities is more important than ever.


Addressing this need, Microsoft collaborated with Enabling Leadership to host an “Hour of AI” learning experience at their Singapore office. The session brought together 20 students from Naval Base Primary School, offering them a unique opportunity to engage directly with AI concepts through hands-on, age-appropriate learning.


The Hour of AI is a bold global initiative by Microsoft that aims to demystify artificial intelligence for 25 million students, educators, and families worldwide, transforming them from passive consumers of AI into confident and responsible creators. Through interactive activities and real-world examples with Microsoft 365 Copilot, students are encouraged to understand not just what AI can do, but how it works and why responsible use matters.


Speaking on the collaboration, Ravi Sonnad, Founder and CEO of Enabling Leadership Global, said, “At Enabling Leadership, we work with children from underserved communities to build confidence, character, and leadership through experiential learning. As the world becomes increasingly driven by technology, it is critical that students develop not just AI skills, but also human intelligence – empathy, ethical thinking, and leadership. Initiatives like the Hour of AI allow us to prepare young people to engage with AI thoughtfully, responsibly, and with the confidence to shape the future rather than be shaped by it. Thank you, Microsoft, for giving our young learners this unique exposure.”


Mike Yeh, Vice President and Director of Corporate, External and Legal Affairs of Microsoft Asia added, “As AI transforms education, careers and daily lives, every young person should have the opportunity to use and understand this technology that has the potential to shape their future. Hour of AI gives young people hands on experiences that demystify AI and show what’s possible when they use it responsibly and creatively. I’m also grateful to corporate volunteers that helps ignite that spark, empowering the next generation to lead in the era of AI.”


The session was supported by Microsoft volunteers, who guided students through interactive learning modules, shared real-world applications of AI, and encouraged curiosity-driven exploration. 


For many students, the experience marked their first exposure to understanding AI beyond everyday tools and applications. 


Mohd Norzaidi Ahmad, a teacher from Naval Base Primary School, who accompanied the students, shared, “This experience made AI feel accessible and exciting for our students. They weren’t just using technology – they were understanding it. The confidence and curiosity they demonstrated throughout the session was truly inspiring.”


About Enabling Leadership
Enabling Leadership is a global non-profit organisation that equips children from under-served backgrounds with the essential Life and Leadership skills necessary for them to work themselves out of the cycle of poverty and become productive and responsible adults. 


The organisation currently reaches around 10,000 children between the ages of 9-15 across 7 cities and 45 villages in India, Cambodia, Singapore and Kenya. Its programs use the mediums of music (Enabling Leadership Create), football (Enabling Leadership Play) and Lego-type building blocks (Enabling Leadership Build) to inculcate 21st century skills, values and attitudes so students grow to be tomorrow’s role models, global citizens, and change makers. 

Aditya Birla World Academy Marks 12th Year of ‘Infinity’, an Engaging and Interactive Ultimate Mathematics Challenge

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Mrs. Neerja Birla, Founder and Chairperson, Aditya Birla World Academy and Aditya Birla Education Trust, at ABWA Maths Infinity 2026

Aditya Birla World Academy marks 12th year of ‘Infinity’, an engaging and interactive mathematics challenge bringing together 120 teams, 360 students across 68 schools, across five countries including pan India participation and students from UAE, Qatar, Dubai, Kuwait. Founded by Mrs. Neerja Birla, ABWA anchors the initiative in its commitment to nurturing minds that think, create, collaborate, and lead with impact. Infinity is a school-led initiative designed to encourage students to engage with mathematics through reasoning, collaboration, and application, rather than speed-based testing alone.

Aditya Birla World Academy Marks 12th Year of 'Infinity', an Engaging and Interactive Ultimate Mathematics Challenge


The three-day programme is designed around a combination of individual and team-based rounds that rigorously assess logical reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and conceptual understanding. By moving beyond an overemphasis on speed and scores, the format makes mathematics engaging and meaningful for students. Participants navigate a diverse set of challenges, culminating in the selection of the Mathematician of the Year. In 2026, Agastya B. Khare from Oakridge International School, Bengaluru (Seniors), and Yerin Choi from Indus International School, Pune (Juniors), were crowned Mathematician of the Year, while Utpal Shanghvi Global School secured the Champion Trophy in the Senior category. The programme places strong emphasis on clarity of thought and methodological approach, alongside accuracy.


Over the past 12 years, more than 6,000 students from schools in India and overseas have participated in Infinity, reflecting the initiative’s steady growth and relevance in the school-education landscape.

https://www.newsvoir.com/images/article/image2/34425_ABWA_Maths_Infinity_2.JPG

ABWA Maths Infinity hosts 360 students from 68 schools across five countries


Unlike conventional mathematics competitions, Infinity encourages students to explore multiple solution pathways and collaborate with peers from different schools and regions. This approach allows participants to engage more deeply with mathematical concepts while building teamwork and communication skills.


Commenting on the initiative, Ms. Shalini John, Principal, Aditya Birla World Academy, said, “Infinity was started to give students a different experience of learning mathematics — one that values thinking and discussion as much as arriving at the right answer. Its continuity over 12 years reflects the sustained interest among schools and students.”


Mr. Prodipta Hore, Convener and Conceptualiser of Infinity, said, “Platforms like Infinity allow students to apply classroom learning in a collaborative setting. Such experiences are increasingly important as education systems place greater emphasis on analytical and problem-solving skills.”


The 2026 edition of Infinity was supported by academic partners including BITS Pilani and Plaksha University, with faculty members and education leaders from these institutions engaging with students through keynote addresses and interactive sessions. Students also had the opportunity to interact with Dr. Mark Saul, a globally recognised American mathematician and educationist known for his work in mathematics education and gifted-student programmes, and for his leadership roles with the Mathematical Association of America (MAA). In addition, the initiative received support from organisations including the Lodha Foundation and Britannia Industries.


At Aditya Birla World Academy, learning is designed to extend beyond the classroom through platforms that encourage curiosity, collaboration, and real-world application. This year, the Infinity Trophy was sponsored by ABWA alumni who went on to build sortmyprep, an AI-powered exam-preparation platform supporting IB, IGCSE, and A-Level students through step-by-step solutions to past papers, real-time doubt solving, personalised performance analytics, and exam builders for unlimited practice. Founded by Aryaman Adhikary (CPO), Naman Kothari (COO), and Ananya Pritam (CEO)—all ABWA Batch of 2021 pass-outs—the venture stands as a reflection of how early exposure and opportunity at ABWA can translate into scalable, real-world impact.


Reflecting on their journey, Aryaman Adhikary, Co-founder, sortmyprep, said, “At ABWA, we learn to think beyond boundaries, take initiative, and believe in our ideas. The values and exposure we received here laid the foundation for our entrepreneurial journey.”

Fierce AI Competition in 2026: How the Global Tech Race Is Shaping the Future

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Udit Sharma
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Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant promise – it is the engine driving today’s biggest technological shifts. In present times, AI competition has become fierce, fast-paced, and global, with companies racing not just to build smarter systems, but to shape how economies, workplaces, and everyday life will function in the years ahead. What we are witnessing is not a single contest, but a multi-front race involving innovation, speed, trust, scale, and real-world impact.

Why the AI Race Has Intensified

The rapid progress of large language models, generative AI, autonomous systems, and AI-powered tools has dramatically lowered the barrier between experimentation and mass adoption. Startups can now challenge tech giants, while established companies are under constant pressure to reinvent themselves.

Cloud computing, open-source models, and massive investments have accelerated development cycles. As a result, product launches that once took years now happen in months. In this environment, standing still is not an option – companies must either innovate continuously or risk being left behind.

Beyond Technology: A Battle of Ecosystems

Today’s AI competition goes far beyond algorithms. It is about who builds the strongest ecosystem – integrating AI into operating systems, enterprise software, education, healthcare, finance, and consumer products. Companies are competing to become the default AI platform that people and businesses rely on daily.

At the same time, nations are investing heavily in AI as a strategic asset. Governments view leadership in artificial intelligence as essential to economic growth, national security, and global influence. This has turned AI into both a commercial and geopolitical contest.

Speed vs Responsibility

One of the defining tensions in the current AI race is the balance between speed and responsibility. While competition pushes companies to release faster and more powerful tools, public scrutiny is increasing around issues like data privacy, bias, misinformation, job displacement, and energy use.

In present times, success in AI is no longer measured only by technical superiority. Trust, transparency, and usefulness are becoming just as important. Companies that fail to align innovation with social value risk backlash from users, regulators, and governments.

Opportunities Created by Fierce Competition

Despite the intensity, fierce AI competition has clear benefits:

  • Faster innovation: Competition accelerates breakthroughs and lowers costs.
  • Wider access: More players mean AI tools are becoming accessible to small businesses, creators, and individuals.
  • Diverse solutions: Different approaches lead to specialization across industries and use cases.
  • Economic transformation: AI is creating new roles, skills, and productivity gains across sectors.

For users, this means better tools, smarter services, and more choices than ever before.

What the Future Looks Like

As AI competition continues to intensify, the focus is likely to shift from who builds the most powerful model to who delivers the most meaningful impact. The next phase of the AI race will reward companies that solve real problems, integrate seamlessly into human workflows, and earn long-term trust.

Rather than a winner-takes-all outcome, the future of AI may belong to those who collaborate, adapt quickly, and use competition as a catalyst for progress rather than conflict.

Conclusion

Fierce AI competition in present times reflects a pivotal moment in technological history. The race is reshaping industries, redefining leadership, and influencing how society interacts with machines. While the pace is intense and the stakes are high, this competition is also driving innovation that has the potential to improve lives on a global scale.

In the end, the true winners of the AI race will not just be companies or countries – but the people who benefit from technology that is powerful, responsible, and genuinely useful.

Netaji’s Valour and Vision: A Legacy That Inspires India

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Udit Sharma
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The Day of Valour is a national event celebrated in India to commemorate the birth anniversary of the prominent Indian freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. It is observed every year on 23 January to honour his extraordinary courage, leadership, and unwavering commitment to India’s independence. This day reminds the nation of the bold initiatives and sacrifices that shaped the freedom struggle.

One of the most significant examples of Netaji’s valour was his role in initiating and leading the Azad Hind Fauj, also known as the Indian National Army (INA). At a time when India was under British colonial rule, Netaji believed that freedom could not be achieved without strong, organized action. With this vision, he reorganized the Azad Hind Fauj by uniting Indian soldiers and civilians living abroad, especially in Southeast Asia. His leadership transformed the army into a disciplined force driven by patriotism and the dream of a free India.

Netaji’s initiative in forming the Provisional Government of Azad Hind further demonstrated his fearless approach. By establishing a government-in-exile, he asserted India’s right to self-rule on the global stage. His ability to inspire soldiers, including the formation of the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, one of the first all-women military units in Asia, reflected his progressive thinking and belief in equality and collective strength.

Subhas Chandra Bose’s courage was matched by his powerful words, which continue to inspire generations. His famous quote, “Give me blood, and I shall give you freedom,” reflects his call for total dedication and sacrifice. Another well-known quote, “Freedom is not given, it is taken,” highlights his belief in action and determination. Through these words, Netaji encouraged Indians to rise above fear and take responsibility for their nation’s destiny.

In conclusion, the Day of Valour is not only a celebration of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s birth but also a tribute to his bold initiatives, especially the formation of the Azad Hind Fauj. His life, leadership, and inspiring quotes remind us that courage, unity, and action are essential for national progress. Remembering Netaji on this day strengthens the spirit of patriotism and keeps alive the values for which he dedicated his life.

Basant Panchami 2026: Wishes, Messages And Greetings To Share On Saraswati Puja

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Basant Panchami 2026: Basant Panchami, also known as Vasant Panchami or Shri Panchami, is one of the most vibrant festivals in India. The auspicious day is celebrated on the first day of spring, which is the fifth day of the Hindu month of Magha. This year, Basant Panchami will be celebrated on January 23, marking the arrival of spring. Central to the observance of Basant Panchami is the worship of Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music, arts, and wisdom.

It’s a day to seek blessings for knowledge, wisdom, and creative expression. Students, artists, and musicians worship Goddess Saraswati to excel in their fields. Schools, colleges, and temples organise special prayers and cultural programs, while students seek divine blessings for academic success.

Basant Panchami 2026: Wishes, Messages And Greetings To Share On Saraswati Puja

Wearing yellow attire and preparing traditional sweets like Kesari Halwa and Boondi Ladoo are integral parts of the celebrations. In North India, kite flying is a popular tradition, while in Bengal, Odisha, and Assam, Saraswati Puja is observed with great devotion.

On Saraswati Puja, share wishes, messages on Facebook, and mantras, stotras, and vandana with your friends and family members.

Basant Panchami 2026 Wishes and Messages

Basant Panchami 2026: Wishes, Messages And Greetings To Share On Saraswati Puja

-May Goddess Saraswati’s divine blessings give you success in life. Happy Basant Panchami!

-Warm wishes to you and your family on Saraswati Puja. Let there be light, love and peace. Happy Basant Panchami!

-May the festival of Basant Panchami bring prosperity, joy, and a fresh start to your life. Wishing you a blessed Saraswati Puja!

-Let the yellow hues of Basant Panchami brighten your life with knowledge and wisdom. Happy Saraswati Puja!

-At the end of the dark road of evil, may there be the soothing amber glow of knowledge and Maa Saraswati’s blessings. Happy Basant Panchami.

-Pray that Goddess Saraswati showers you with wealth of knowledge. Happy Basant Panchami!

Basant Panchami 2026: Wishes, Messages And Greetings To Share On Saraswati Puja

-With the blessings of Maa Saraswati, may you succeed in eliminating darkness from your life. Happy Basant Panchami!

-Spring is in air and fresh blossoms everywhere. Sending you my warm wishes on Basant Panchami!

-Wishing you clarity of mind, purity of soul, and success in every endeavour this Basant Panchami.

-Let learning become your lifelong strength. Happy Basant Panchami!

-May Maa Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, language, music and arts bless you and your family. Happy Basant Panchami!

-On this Basant Panchami, may Maa saraswati banish the evils of ignorance. Happy Basant Panchami!

Happy Basant Panchami: Saraswati mantra

Basant Panchami 2026: Wishes, Messages And Greetings To Share On Saraswati Puja

Shuklam Brahmavichara Sara, Parmamadyam Jagadvyapineem
Veena Pustaka Dharineema Bhayadam Jadyandhakarapaham
Haste Sphatikamalikam Vidadhateem Padmasane Samsthitam
Vande Tam Parmeshvareem Bhagwateem Buddhipradam Sharadam

Saraswati Puja 2026 Date: History, Importance, and Significance of Basant Panchami

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Saraswati Puja 2026 Date: With the festival almost here, here’s all you need to know about Basant Panchami 2026

Basant Panchami (Saraswati Puja) 2026 Date in India: Saraswati Puja, also known as “Vasant Panchami”, is celebrated in honour of the Hindu goddess Saraswati, as her birth anniversary. The festival also marks the arrival of spring and is commemorated differently across the country. It is marked by kite flying in North India, while in states like Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam, Saraswati Puja is observed.

Basant means ‘spring’, and Panchami is the fifth day of the Hindu month of Magha (corresponding to January-February in the Gregorian calendar), on which the festival is held.

Saraswati Puja 2026: Date and Timings

In 2026, Vasant Panchami will be observed on January 23 and the Panchami Tithi begins at 2:28 AM on the same day and continues until 1:46 AM on 24 January.

The ideal time for performing Saraswati Puja, also known as the Vasant Panchami Muhurat, is from 7:13 AM to 12:33 PM, spanning a duration of 5 hours and 20 minutes, as per Drik Panchang.

Additionally, the midday moment, or Vasant Panchami Madhyahna Moment, is set for 12:33 PM.

Saraswati Puja 2026: History, Significance, and Celebrations

Among the many stories linked to Saraswati Puja, the most well known is that of poet Kalidasa.

According to the tale, Kalidasa was initially considered simple-minded and was deceived into marrying a princess who showed him no respect. Distressed by this, he contemplated ending his life.

However, before he could do so, Goddess Saraswati appeared to him and instructed him to bathe in a river.

Upon emerging from the water, he was transformed into a wise and learnt individual.

This story highlights why Goddess Saraswati is honoured as the deity of knowledge, wisdom, arts, music, and learning.

Budget 2026 Puts Spotlight On Tax Relief For Married Couples Through Joint Taxation

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As the Union Budget 2026 draws closer, discussions around personal income tax reforms have intensified, with tax relief for married couples emerging as a key topic. One proposal under discussion is the introduction of joint taxation, a system that would allow spouses to file a combined income tax return instead of being taxed entirely as individuals. While India currently follows individual taxation, the idea is being examined as a way to recognise household-based financial planning.

What joint taxation means in simple terms

Joint taxation allows married couples to pool their incomes and calculate tax liability on the combined amount. Instead of filing two separate returns, spouses can opt for a single filing. This system already exists in several countries and is often structured to support families with unequal income distribution between partners.

Why joint taxation is being discussed ahead of Budget 2026

Rising living expenses, EMIs, healthcare costs and education fees have increased the financial burden on families. Supporters of joint taxation believe the system could provide meaningful relief to single-income households or families where one spouse earns significantly less. Policymakers are also exploring measures that could encourage savings and boost household consumption, making this proposal timely.

How joint taxation could affect your taxes

If implemented, joint taxation could reduce tax liability for couples with a large income gap. The higher-earning spouse may benefit from income averaging, potentially bringing the household into a lower tax slab. However, couples where both spouses earn similar salaries may see limited or no tax advantage, depending on slab rates and exemptions.

Concerns and challenges linked to the proposal

Despite its benefits, joint taxation raises concerns. Experts warn it could discourage workforce participation among secondary earners, particularly women, if tax incentives reduce the benefit of individual earnings. There are also practical challenges related to changes in marital status, divorce or separation. Maintaining fairness for single taxpayers is another key issue.

What experts recommend

Tax experts suggest that joint taxation, if introduced, should be optional rather than mandatory. Giving couples the choice between individual and joint filing would ensure flexibility and avoid unintended consequences. Clear rules on deductions and exemptions would also be essential.

At present, joint taxation remains a proposal, but its inclusion in Budget 2026 discussions indicates a possible shift toward family-focused tax reforms.

Moon Hotel Reservations Open As Space Tourism Takes A Giant Leap Forward

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Moon Hotel Reservations Open As Space Tourism Takes A Giant Leap Forward

What once belonged to science fiction is now inching closer to reality. Reservations have officially opened for the world’s first luxury hotel on the Moon, with the price for a single stay reportedly set at around Rs 9 crore. A complete lunar travel experience, including transport and training, is expected to cost travellers over Rs 90 crore, marking a bold new chapter in the rapidly evolving space tourism industry.

A luxury stay beyond Earth

The proposed Moon hotel is designed to offer an ultra-premium experience for a select group of travellers willing to venture far beyond Earth. Guests are expected to stay in specially designed modules equipped with panoramic views of the lunar surface, low-gravity recreational zones and advanced life-support systems. The experience is being positioned as exclusive and once in a lifetime, targeting high-net-worth individuals seeking the ultimate frontier adventure.

What the lunar journey includes

While the hotel stay alone is priced at Rs 9 crore, the total cost of the trip is significantly higher due to the complexity of space travel. The full package includes astronaut-style training, medical screening, spaceflight preparation, Earth-to-orbit travel and lunar transfer. The entire journey is expected to span several weeks, including time spent adjusting to microgravity and lunar conditions.

Moon Hotel Reservations Open As Space Tourism Takes A Giant Leap Forward

Who is behind the project

The initiative is being driven by private space companies working alongside aerospace engineers and space agencies to commercialise deep-space travel. The Moon hotel concept builds on recent advancements in reusable rockets, orbital tourism and long-duration space habitats. Organisers believe that early bookings will help fund further research and infrastructure needed to make lunar stays safer and more accessible in the future.

Why this matters for space tourism

Opening reservations for a Moon hotel signals how quickly space tourism is moving from Earth’s orbit to deeper space destinations. Until recently, commercial space travel was limited to short orbital flights. This project suggests that extended off-world stays could become part of the tourism landscape within the next decade, redefining travel as humanity knows it.

Moon Hotel Reservations Open As Space Tourism Takes A Giant Leap Forward
A dream reserved for a few for now

Despite the excitement, the experience remains far beyond the reach of most people due to its staggering cost and physical demands. However, industry experts believe prices may gradually decline as technology matures, much like commercial air travel once did. As reservations begin, the Moon hotel stands as a powerful symbol of human ambition, blurring the line between imagination and reality, and reminding the world that the next luxury destination may not be on Earth at all.

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