Vaibhav Suryavanshi is creating ‘Gayle-level fear’, record of 59-sixes close, says Pathan

Vaibhav Suryavanshi is creating 'Gayle-level fear', record of 59-sixes close, says Pathan
Vaibhav Suryavanshi (Photo Credit: IPL)

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan He heaped praise on teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, saying he is instilling the same fear among young bowlers as the great T20 powerhouse. chris gayle Did it once during his prime years. Pathan also believes that Suryavanshi is now actually threatening Gayle’s long-standing IPL record of 59 sixes in a season.Rajasthan Royals The 15-year-old prodigy kept their IPL 2026 playoff hopes alive with a thrilling seven-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium thanks to another breathtaking innings from the 15-year-old prodigy. Chasing a tough target of 221, Suryavanshi scored 93 runs in just 38 balls at an astonishing strike rate of 244.74, which included seven fours and 10 skyscraper sixes.This explosive innings also helped him create history as the first Indian batsman to hit 50 sixes in a single IPL season.Earlier in the evening, LSG had posted a mammoth score of 220/5 after a strong opening partnership between Mitchell Marsh and Josh Inglis. Marsh scored 96 runs in 57 balls, while Inglis scored 60 runs in just 29 balls. Yashraj Punia emerged as the pick of the RR bowlers with figures of 2/35.During the chase, Yashasvi Jaiswal provided the early pace while Suryavanshi started cautiously, scoring only five runs from his first 10 balls. But once he settled in, Kishore completely took over the contest, scoring 24 runs in one over against Akash Singh and scoring a brilliant half-century in 23 balls.Speaking after the match, Pathan highlighted Suryavanshi’s maturity and improved range in his batting as the most impressive aspect of his innings.“It was incredible. The maturity he showed was the highlight for me. Whenever we watch Vaibhav Suryavanshi we always say he is a very good leg-side player, but the way he played on the off-side in this game was brilliant,” Pathan said on Geostar.“He has very good control over his back-lift. He was driving over cover and also playing upper-cuts over third man. It is very difficult to stop him,” he said.“In his first 10 balls, he was batting at a strike rate of less than 100 and by the end of the innings, he had scored 93 runs off just 38 balls,” Pathan said.After this, the former Indian all-rounder compared him with Chris Gayle and said that the bowlers have started feeling the same fear against Suryavanshi that they once felt against the West Indies icon.“With 53 sixes, he is actually going past Chris Gayle’s record of 59 sixes, which has stood since 2012. As bowlers, we were always scared of facing Chris Gayle. Vaibhav Suryavanshi is instilling the same fear, and Gayle’s record is definitely in danger,” Pathan concluded.

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1,700-year-old Roman tombs reveal that coffins sealed for centuries contained dye worth more than gold

1,700-year-old Roman tombs reveal that coffins sealed for centuries contained dye worth more than gold

Archaeologists studying ancient Roman tombs in England have revealed a discovery that is changing what experts know about wealth and burial traditions in Roman Britain. While investigating an infant burial in Roman York, researchers identified traces of Tyrian purple, one of the rarest and most expensive dyes in the ancient world. As reported in Bioscience, the remarkable discovery was hidden inside buried remains approximately 1,700 years old. Researchers also discovered delicate gold thread woven into pieces of cloth, suggesting that the children buried there belonged to families of extremely high social status. Experts say the discovery is especially important because ancient textiles rarely survive long enough to be studied. In this case, it appears that unusual burial conditions have preserved small traces of fabric and dye beneath York’s soil for centuries.

Ancient Roman burials reveal rare dye worth more than gold

The discovery was made during research conducted on two Roman-era burials dated to the late 3rd or early 4th century, one burial contained a child believed to be about two years old, placed inside a stone coffin with two adults. In the second burial an infant, only a few months old, was placed inside a lead coffin.Researchers at the University of York examined preserved material from the tombs and identified traces of luxury textiles that once covered the bodies. According to archaeologists, the clothes were decorated with gold thread and dyed using Tyrian purple, a color strongly associated with wealth, power, and royal authority in the Roman Empire.Project director Maureen Carroll said this is the first confirmed evidence of Tyrian purple discovered in Roman York. Researchers reportedly did not expect such rare material to survive inside the tombs.

What made Tyrian Purple more valuable than gold?

Tyrian purple was one of the most prized colors in the ancient world. This color was primarily prepared using Murex sea snails collected near the ancient Phoenician city of Tyre, located in present-day Lebanon.The process of making the dye was extremely difficult and time consuming. Thousands of sea snails had to be crushed to produce very small quantities of the pigment. Since production required immense effort and resources, the dye became incredibly expensive. Historians say that during certain periods of Roman history, Tyrian purple was worth several times more than gold by weight.As a result, purple robes became a symbol of elite status throughout the Roman Empire. Emperors, nobles, and wealthy officials often wore purple to display their power and importance. Experts believe that the discovery of Tyrian purple in Roman York shows that the families associated with these burials were among the wealthiest people living in Britain at the time.

How gypsum helped preserve rare purple textiles for 1,700 years

Ancient textiles are rarely preserved because the fabrics usually decay quickly underground. However, archaeologists believe that an unusual gypsum burial method in these tombs helped preserve the remains for centuries.Liquid gypsum was poured around bodies during burial ceremonies. Over time, the material hardened into a protective covering that preserved the marks and microscopic marks of the fabric. In some areas, a light purple color can still be seen on the surface of the gypsum during examination. Many traces of the dye were invisible to the naked eye and could only be detected after scientific testing. Research specialist Jennifer Wakefield led the laboratory analysis using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, also known as LC-MS/MS. Testing confirmed that the pigment found inside the tombs was genuine Tyrian purple, and not another red or purple dye sometimes used in Roman textiles. The researchers described the results as surprising and extremely important for the study of Roman Britain.

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PM Modi, Donald Trump may face each other at the G7 summit in France next month

PM Modi, Donald Trump may face each other at the G7 summit in France next month

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President donald trump Expected to face each other in France next month g7 summit.The White House told news agency AFP that Trump would visit France despite tensions between Washington and its allies over issues ranging from Iran to tariffs.The summit, to be held from June 15 to 17 in Evian-les-Bains in southeastern France, is expected to cover issues including artificial intelligence, trade, critical minerals, immigration and global security.Reducing regulatory barriers and increasing energy production, especially fossil fuels, are also likely to be discussed. Iran is expected to feature prominently in comprehensive talks amid ongoing tensions in West Asia.Trump has repeatedly criticized NATO allies, including Britain, France, Germany and Italy, accusing them of failing to provide adequate support to Washington during the ongoing conflict with Iran.Strategic tensions have also prompted a change in rhetoric from major European capitals. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz recently reaffirmed the importance of trans-Atlantic relations, calling the United States “Germany’s most important partner in the North Atlantic alliance,” days after criticizing Trump’s handling of the Middle East conflict.Trump’s attendance at the summit, scheduled for the meeting of the Group of Seven major economies in the French Alpine resort town, was not previously confirmed.Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron had extended the invitation during his visit to India in February PM Modi. Although India is not a permanent member of the G7, it regularly participates in the annual summit as a special invitee.The last meeting of PM Modi and Trump took place in February after returning to the Oval Office in Washington.In the high-profile meeting held against the backdrop of tariff tensions, Trump described Modi as a “great friend” while the two leaders pledged to double India-US trade to $500 billion by 2030.The expected meeting in France will be closely watched for signals on trade talks, energy cooperation and broader strategic alignment between New Delhi and Washington amid rising global geopolitical tensions.

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What to do and what not to do during this month

Adhik Maas 2026: Do's and Don'ts during this month

Adhik Maas is also known as Purushottam Maas. This month is one of the most sacred months according to the Hindu calendar. This month is dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu. This entire month is considered highly auspicious for spiritual growth, charity, devotion and self-discipline. It is considered auspicious for performing various spiritual and religious activities. Purushottam month started from 17th May and it will end on 15th June, 2026 so one should follow some guidelines which we are going to mention below. Let’s see the do’s and don’ts given below:

Here are the following do’s and don’ts to follow during Purushottam month:

follow spiritual activities

This month is extremely holy and sacred. People perform various religious and spiritual activities ranging from lighting lamps, praying, meditating and chanting mantras to reciting holy scriptures.

keep fast

People can observe fast on any special day to please Lord Vishnu. Thursday is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, hence one must worship him on this special day.

chant mantras

During this month, one should chant various mantras of Lord Vishnu, Lord Rama and Lord Krishna to please them as they bless the devotees with the fulfillment of their desired wishes. This is going to be a powerful ritual that everyone should follow during this month.

read any scripture

Devotees are advised to read any holy scriptures like Ramcharitmanas and Bhagavad Geeta as these scriptures will help you to connect with God and you will be able to learn a lot of things through it.

Recite Stotra/Kavacham

You can recite Shri Hari Stotra, Narayan Kavach and Vishnu Sahasranama as reciting them during this Purushottam month can be beneficial. With this, all your desired wishes will be fulfilled.

don’t drink alcohol

As we know that Purushottam month is dedicated to Lord Vishnu so the entire month is considered extremely sacred and you need to stay away from alcohol.

Avoid non-vegetarian food

Devotees should avoid eating non-vegetarian food as it will create hindrance if you are looking for spiritual growth. Pure vegetarian and satvik food is preferred as it will make you feel calm and comfortable while following spiritual activities.

Avoid anger and negative speech

In this month you should avoid using negative words, jealousy, hatred and greed. There are five bad elements in all of us that we should try to improve and Purushottam month is the most important month to follow this.

Avoid auspicious events

Since this month is also known as Adhik Maas, organizing auspicious events like marriage, engagement, roka, housewarming ceremony, naming ceremony, buying property and starting new business ventures should be avoided.

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Riyan Parag urges IPL commentators to ‘talk about cricket’

'We're human too, we make mistakes': Riyan Parag urges IPL commentators to 'talk about cricket'

New Delhi: Riyan Parag launched a concerted defense of the players after Rajasthan Royals‘The seven-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants in Jaipur urges commentators and experts to stop personal criticism and focus on the game.The RR captain, who missed the match due to a hamstring problem and remained among the impact substitutes, said players often face unfair judgment from outside despite preparing for several days for every game. “We perform as per the expectations of the audience. So I think we all should love cricket and look at it the same way. The players are working very hard,” Parag said after the win. “It is very easy to say, if a team is all out for 75 or 80 runs, they do not know how to play or do not have the mentality to play. But there is 3-4 days of preparation before that match to ensure how we can score 200-250. But sometimes this does not happen.‘Commentators should talk about cricket’Parag, who has often been in the headlines this season for reasons beyond his performances, including an off-field controversy, said criticism crosses the line when it becomes personal.He said in the post-match press conference, “We are also human beings and we also make mistakes. So, I think the more that is coming out, especially the commentators, their voices are reaching the people. I would request them to love cricket. Talk about cricket.”The 24-year-old player, who was recently named vice-captain of the India A team for the Sri Lanka tri-series, said the game deserves more respect from those who shape public opinion.“The game, which is the most important game in the country, and the one in which we are the best, should be treated with some respect. We should only talk about cricket.” We shouldn’t be talking about anything else,” he said.Parag said that he has learned to control external noise.Parag said, “In the last four years, I have understood one thing – no matter what I do, there will be conversations. I have also understood that whatever conversations are happening, it should not affect my game, my form or my mentality because keyboard warriors are outsiders.”

Riyan Parag Jai Ho Vaibhav Suryavanshi

Parag also gave special praise to 15-year-old opening batsman Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who scored 93 runs in 38 balls to chase down the target of 221 runs.“I think that was his best innings,” Parag said. “When he was on 5 at 10 or 11, there were always two ways to go. But he took his time. That first big shot from Mayank Yadav over cover gave me the satisfaction that he may be short, but he has a great understanding of the game.”

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Can people be allergic to water? Scientists say this rare condition makes it possible

Can people be allergic to water? Scientists say this rare condition makes it possible

For most people, water is harmless, even comfortable. It cools the body on hot days, washes away dirt and makes up about 60 percent of the human body itself. But for a small number of people around the world, contact with water can cause painful, itchy hives within minutes. The condition known as aquagenic urticaria is so rare that only a limited number of cases have been formally documented in the medical literature. Researchers say patients may react to rain, showers, swimming pools and, in some cases, even their own sweat. Although scientists still do not fully understand this disorder, decades of medical studies confirm that this rare condition is real.

What do scientists know about water allergies?

This condition was first described in 1964 by researcher F. Shelley and W. Rawnsley, who documented patients developing hives after exposure to water. Since then, dermatologists and immunologists have been trying to understand why this happens. Scientists believe that people are not actually allergic to water itself. Instead, water can interact with substances in the outer layer of the skin, causing immune cells called mast cells to release histamine, the chemical responsible for itching and inflammation.A 1981 study by researcher RG Sibbald and colleagues found evidence of histamine release during exposure to water, lending support to the theory that the condition is associated with an abnormal immune response rather than simple skin irritation.

Symptoms may appear within minutes

People suffering from aquagenic hives usually develop small raised lesions and intense itching soon after water touches the skin. The reaction usually appears within 20 to 30 minutes and may last for an hour or more. The longer the exposure, the more severe the symptoms may become.Doctors say that even routine activities can become difficult. If sweating causes a flare-up, patients may need to take shorter baths, avoid swimming, or limit exercise. Interestingly, most people with this condition can still drink water normally because the reaction occurs through skin contact rather than through the digestive tract.Because the disorder is so rare, diagnosis can take time. Doctors often rule out more common causes of hives before considering aquagenic hives. The standard diagnostic method is called a water provocation test, where a cloth soaked in room temperature water is placed on the skin for about 20 minutes to see if hives develop.Researchers Robert Rothbaum and Gene S. Medical reviews, including McGee’s 2016 analysis, have highlighted how difficult the condition can be to recognize as many physicians may never encounter a case during their careers.

Is there any treatment?

There is currently no cure for aquagenic hives, but treatment can help control symptoms. Doctors usually prescribe antihistamines, which block the release of histamine in the body. Some patients with severe symptoms have also responded to therapies such as omalizumab, a drug commonly used for asthma and chronic allergic conditions.A 2022 systematic review by researcher Chuda Rujitharanawong and colleagues found that antihistamines remain the primary treatment option, although researchers are still searching for more effective treatments.

A mystery scientists still can’t fully explain

Despite decades of study, scientists still don’t know exactly why some people develop aquagenic hives. Researchers are investigating whether a substance hidden in the skin activates the immune system by reacting with water. For now, the condition remains one of medicine’s strangest documented disorders, a rare example of how the body can sometimes react to even the most essential substance for life.

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TVK advocates unity amid tension in alliance over AIADMK rebels

'Wants to work like a family': TVK pitches for unity amid tensions in alliance over AIADMK rebels

New Delhi: Tamil Nadu minister Adhav Arjun on Wednesday said Chief Minister Vijay wants his cabinet to “work like a family” as cracks appear in the alliance over the possibility of including rebel AIADMK MLAs in the government.Speaking to reporters, Arjun said that Vijay wanted the parties supporting the government to get representation in the cabinet.“The CM wants the cabinet to work like a family. He wants the supporting parties to get representation in the cabinet. The DMK and AIADMK attempted to form an alliance which went against the people’s decision,” the minister said.Read this also ‘I think they will not go to that extent’: Shanmugam warns CPM to reconsider support if TVC inducts AIADMK rebels into cabinet.“During the elections, DMK said that AIADMK is under the control of BJP, but later it forgot its ideology and negotiated an alliance with AIADMK. Congress and Left parties united on one front to protect the constitutional system. We will travel together with AIADMK in the spirit of friendship.The comments come a day after CPM said it would reconsider its support to the Vijay-led government if it accommodates the rebel AIADMK faction in the cabinet.Read this also 2 Congress MLAs will join Vijay government, currently no AIADMK rebelAddressing a press conference, CPM leader Shanmugam said the basis for supporting the TVK was to stop the imposition of President’s rule and prevent “backdoor entry into BJP rule”.Shanmugam said the purpose of this arrangement is to ensure governance by a party elected by the people. However, he said the inclusion of rebel AIADMK members in the Council of Ministers would be against the party’s stand on mandate and clean governance.He said, “No party got the majority and TVK emerged as the largest party, and hence only they had the scope to form the government. With the idea of ​​facilitating governance by a party elected by the people, the Left parties and the VCK extended outside support to the TVK, enabling it to form the government.”“I think the TVK will not go to that extent (of including the AIADMK rebel group in the cabinet). In case the TVK takes such a stand, the CPI(M) will reconsider its support to the TVK,” he said.TVK had passed the floor test in the Assembly on May 13 with the support of AIADMK rebels, expelled AMMK MLA Kamaraj, Left parties, VCK and IUML.

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Check steps to download hall ticket here

IGNOU June TEE Admit Card 2026 Expected to Release Soon at ignou.ac.in: Check Steps to Download Hall Ticket Here
IGNOU June 2026 June Admit Card 2026

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) will start the June 2026 Term End Examination (TEE) from June 1, 2026. Lakhs of students across the country are preparing to appear for the examination. It is expected that the university will release the admit card soon on the official website ignou.ac.in. The university will conduct the examinations for students enrolled in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Online Programs (IoP) by July 21, 2026. Students appearing for the examination will soon be able to download their hall tickets through the official IGNOU Samarth portal.

IGNOU Admit Card 2026: Details Mentioned on Hall Ticket

IGNOU June 2026 TEE Hall Ticket will contain many important details related to the exam, and students are advised to verify all the information carefully after downloading the admit card. The hall ticket will contain the candidate’s name, enrollment number, program name, exam date, exam timings, exam center details and important exam-day instructions. Students are instructed to immediately report any discrepancy or error in the details of the admit card to the university authorities before the commencement of the examination.

IGNOU Admit Card 2026: Steps to download hall ticket

Students appearing for June 2026 Term End Examination can follow these steps to download their IGNOU Hall Ticket:

  • Visit the official IGNOU Samarth portal, ignou.samarth.edu.in.
  • Click on the link “IGNOU June 2026 TEE Hall Ticket” available on the homepage.
  • Enter your Username and Password to Login.
  • Select your enrollment number and program details.
  • Hall ticket will appear on the screen.
  • Download the admit card and take a printout of it for future use.

Candidates will be able to check IGNOU Admit Card 2026 from the official website by clicking on the link given here.Candidates are advised to stay tuned to the official website to get complete information on IGNOU Admit Card 2026.

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“It is not death that man should fear, but it is he who must fear…”

Quote of the day from Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius:
Marcus Aurelius (Image: Wikipedia)

People often expect powerful quotes to sound dramatic. They envision big words, complex ideas, and messages that immediately announce themselves as life lessons. Yet some of the most memorable quotes do something more sobering. They begin as simple observations and then gradually become ingrained in the mind after hours. This quote by Marcus Aurelius sounds something like this.On the surface it seems to be talking about death. Anyone reading this might assume the message is about fear or mortality. Then the second half completely changes direction. Suddenly, the quote stops focusing on dying and starts focusing on something bigger. living.This change is interesting because most people spend more time than they realize thinking about the future. Someone says that they will start the journey later. After life becomes less busy, one plans to learn something new. One keeps waiting for the right moment before taking a risk, changing direction or doing something that one really wants.Life starts becoming a collection of plans.Days pass. Months pass. Sometimes even years pass.Marcus Aurelius seems to ask an uncomfortable question through this quote. What if the biggest problem isn’t that life eventually ends? What if the bigger problem is getting to the end and realizing it never really started in the first place?This idea seems a little disturbing.Maybe because so many people recognize parts of themselves in it.

Quote of the Day by Marcus Aurelius

“It is not death that man should fear, but the fact that he should never begin to live.”

Understand the meaning of Marcus Aurelius’ quote

This quote seems to suggest that people should worry less about death and think more carefully about whether they are really alive while they still have time. Death is inevitable. Marcus Aurelius understood that reality very well. As a Stoic philosopher, many of his ideas focused on accepting the things people cannot control rather than constantly fearing them.The quote seems to say that fear often keeps people stuck. People put off decisions because they worry about failure. They avoid opportunities because uncertainty makes them feel uncomfortable. They stay in a routine that feels safe because change creates anxiety.Gradually, life can become something that people observe rather than experience.Marcus Aurelius seems to be questioning that habit. To exist and to survive are not necessarily the same thing. A person can move through each day’s routine without feeling connected to something meaningful. A person may be so focused on avoiding mistakes that he or she also avoids experiences.It seems to have a deep thought hidden beneath the words.The quote is not encouraging reckless behavior. It appears to be encouraging awareness. there is a difference.

Why people often keep waiting for the right time

Many people live with a strange belief that eventually life will become so organized that happiness will come naturally. People imagine a point in the future where responsibilities will become smaller and everything will suddenly become clear.Someone says that they will enjoy life after getting promotion. Someone says that they will travel after saving enough money. Someone promises himself that he will start pursuing a dream once circumstances improve.The problem is that life is rarely completely organized.New responsibilities replace old responsibilities. New concerns emerge. Different problems replace earlier problems. Waiting gradually becomes a habit without people noticing.Perhaps that is why the words of Marcus Aurelius seem relevant even after centuries. Humans continue to behave remarkably similar despite living in completely different worlds.People still put off things that matter. People still believe there will always be more time. sometimes happens. Sometimes this does not happen.

Why can comfort quietly become a trap?

Relaxation is generally not seen as something dangerous. Most people naturally gravitate toward situations that seem stable and predictable. Security creates reassurance, and there is nothing unusual in wanting that.Still, comfort sometimes creates unexpected problems.People sometimes become attached to routines that no longer excite them because familiarity feels easier than uncertainty. A task may seem incomplete, yet changing direction feels scary. Someone may have interests they want to explore, but keep putting them off because trying something unfamiliar poses a risk.Over time, the routine can gradually become automated. The days begin to seem similar. The weeks start getting mixed up.People continue to function normally, but enthusiasm and curiosity begin to disappear, sometimes in small ways.Marcus Aurelius seems to be warning against that peaceful form of existence. The quote almost asks readers whether they are living intentionally or simply moving through familiar patterns because they feel safe.This question probably depends on where a person is in life.

Looking at Marcus Aurelius beyond philosophy books

Marcus Aurelius was not just a philosopher sitting apart from ordinary life. He was also a Roman emperor who was responsible for political decisions, military campaigns, and leadership during difficult times.That detail makes his words more interesting.People sometimes imagine philosophers as individuals cut off from practical realities. Marcus Aurelius lived with heavy responsibilities and constant pressure. His views on life developed while dealing with real problems rather than abstract situations.Many of his ideas later appeared in his work Meditations. The writing was not originally intended for a public audience. They were like personal thoughts and reminders written to oneself.Perhaps this explains why many of his ideas seem surprisingly obvious. They don’t sound like speeches. They often seem like someone trying to understand life in private.Readers sometimes connect strongly with that honesty.

Why fear often masks practicality

One interesting thing about fear is that it doesn’t always look like fear.Sometimes it feels like waiting. Sometimes it feels like you are thinking too much. Sometimes this also seems responsible.People often tell themselves that they are just being practical and avoid things that really matter to them. Someone delays taking a decision because he wants more certainty. Someone hesitates to do something because the time does not seem ideal.The explanations often seem reasonable.The hard part is to recognize when caution quietly becomes avoidance.Marcus Aurelius seems to be pointing towards the same possibility. Fear doesn’t always manifest dramatically. Sometimes it becomes routine and convinces people to stay where they already are.Years later, people sometimes realize that they have spent an enormous amount of time preparing to live rather than living.

Why does this quote still seem relevant today?

Modern life creates endless distractions and constant motion. People are almost constantly busy. The schedule gets crowded. Notifications keep coming every few minutes. Responsibilities compete for attention throughout the day.Because of this, many people begin to believe that an activity automatically means fulfillment.It is not necessary that both things be the same.A person may remain busy while feeling cut off from the things that really matter. A person may achieve goals and still wonder if something feels missing beneath the accomplishments.Marcus Aurelius’s words seem to ask readers to stop and think about that difference. Life cannot be just about surviving responsibilities or reaching future goals. It may also involve paying attention to experiences, relationships, and moments that create meaning while they exist in time.

Other famous quotes from Marcus Aurelius

  • “You have power over your mind, not over external events.”
  • “The happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts.”
  • “Don’t waste much time debating what a good man should be. Be one.”
  • “Very few things are needed to live a happy life.”
  • “Focus on the beauty of life. Look at the stars, and see yourself running with them.”

Why do these words stick with readers?

Some quotes become memorable because they inspire. Others stop because they ask uncomfortable questions that people can’t easily dismiss.This probably falls into the second category.Most people are not afraid of death every day. They are afraid of small things. Failure, rejection, change, uncertainty, looking foolish and making mistakes. Those fears often seem normal and harmless when they are happening.Yet perhaps Marcus Aurelius was seeing something that many people miss.Sometimes the danger does not reach the end. Sometimes the danger is to spend years waiting for it to start.

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Left vs BJP in Kerala over full ‘Vande Mataram’ singing at Satheesan’s swearing-in ceremony

Left vs BJP in Kerala over full 'Vande Mataram' singing at Satheesan's swearing-in ceremony
VD Satheesan’s oath (Image/PTI)

New Delhi: Following the controversy over the order of songs played during the swearing-in ceremony of Tamil Nadu CM Vijay, a fresh political controversy has erupted in Kerala after the singing of the full version of ‘Vande Mataram’ during the swearing-in ceremony of the new UDF cabinet led by VD Satheesan. CPM has strongly criticized this move and termed it inappropriate in a pluralistic society.The CPM state secretariat on Tuesday said the decision to present the full version of the national anthem goes against the earlier stand taken by the Congress Working Committee, which had recommended deletion of certain parts in 1937.The party also cited the discussions of the Constituent Assembly in 1950, which it said showed the acceptance of only the first eight lines of ‘Vande Mataram’ as the official national song.In its statement, the CPM argued that parts of the song reflected specific religious beliefs and said their inclusion in official ceremonies was not in line with India’s pluralistic traditions. It alleged that the function included sections that had previously been excluded from official use.The party also pointed out that even in BJP-ruled West Bengal, full presentations were not given during the swearing-in ceremony and said governments should avoid actions that could “weaken the pluralistic character of the society” or weaken secularism.The CPM further said that the time was sensitive, as efforts to polarize the society on communal lines were becoming more active, and urged all governments to maintain the secular structure of India.However, the BJP strongly criticized the CPM and accused it of ‘insulting’ the national anthem and attempting to appease ‘vote-bank forces’ like Jamaat-e-Islami and SDPI. State BJP president Rajeev Chandrashekhar said the Left was distancing itself from Indian traditions and termed their stance as ‘dangerous appeasement politics’.“In an attempt to hide the embarrassment of being completely rejected by the people, the CPI(M) has now come forward to question Vande Mataram,” he said.The Kerala BJP chief said, “Insulting the nation for mere political survival can never be called secularism. A developed Kerala requires unity, harmony and a secure society.” Amid the political war of words, sources in the newly formed Kerala government clarified that they had no role in the selection of the programme, PTI reported, adding that the program was entirely organized by Lok Bhavan.CPIM leader PA Mohammad Riyas expressed concern on social media, saying that traditionally only selected parts of ‘Vande Mataram’ are performed, to which BJP leaders reacted sharply and questioned the party’s objections.

Tamil Nadu protocol controversy adds to parallel controversy

The debate in Kerala has also been compared to a similar political and protocol controversy in Tamil Nadu, where questions were raised over the order of songs at the swearing-in ceremony of Chief Minister Vijay.CPI state secretary M Veerapandian had objected to the order of presenting the songs, saying it was against long-standing state tradition. In a letter released after the ceremony, he said that instead of having ‘Vande Mataram’ at the beginning of the program as per the traditional protocol in Tamil Nadu, the Tamil invocation song should be played first, followed by the national anthem.Read this also ‘Play Tamil song before Vande Mataram’: Controversy over national anthem erupts at TVK chief Vijay’s swearing-in ceremony“As per the instructions issued by the Raj Bhavan, giving priority to the song ‘Vande Mataram’ and keeping Tamil at the third position in the program program of the swearing-in ceremony organized by the Tamil Nadu government is in violation of the established tradition,” he said.He further argued that the issue has historical and ideological significance, pointing out that during the freedom struggle itself, it was decided that ‘Vande Mataram’ could not serve as the national anthem in its full form due to objections over certain religious references.“The Tamil Nadu government should issue a public clarification identifying those responsible for this error,” he said.The CPI leader also urged that the Tamil invocation song should be restored to its traditional position at the beginning of official functions, while the national anthem should conclude the ceremonies as per established practice.

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