Several Bollywood personalities have spoken about facing the casting couch or having met people who asked for sexual favours in order to get a good project. The latest celebrity to speak about this issue was Ayushmann Khurrana, who was asked by a casting director to show him his 'tool' to get the role in a film. 

Now, Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi actress Chitrangda Singh, in an interview with Spotboye has spoken about sexual favours asked for in Bollywood. She shared, "There are people like this everywhere. Right from my modelling days to Bollywood - I have seen them at all times."

Saying that this happens in the corporate world too, Chitrangda added, "Corporate industry is just as bad. Yes, it has happened to me but, I would like to say that the Bollywood industry is not the place where anybody forces you. There is enough space and respect for everyone and their choices."

Chitrangda further added, "You do feel bad when you lose an opportunity but then those are the choices you make. So, you don't sulk about it. It feels bad and I have lost out on projects too but at the same time if you are comfortable with it, then go ahead and do it. I am not here to judge anyone."

In fact, Chitrangda emphasised that its not just sexual favours that are sought, too. "There is not just sexual favour but other sorts of favours too, which people seek. That's the way world functions, so you make your choices and live the way you like. I am not taking away from anyone who has been in the situation, I am not judging. This is just my point of view."

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Giorgia Andriani is enjoying lockdown with beau but she sure is missing family and the busy shoot life. From viral challenges to baking food and enjoying downtime with her friends – Giorgia is living it up even in lockdown. And once it ends, the actress has some exciting plans up her sleeve.

Giorgia is recently in Mumbai and once the lockdown ends her travel plans are already decided. On her Post Lockdown to-do list, she will be traveling to meet her parents in Italy. ''After the lockdown ends I'll go to Italy to hug my family'', Giorgia said.

On the work front, the Italian beauty Giorgia will soon debut in Bollywood with 'Welcome to Bajrangpur' starring Shreyas Talpade, Sanjay Mishra, and Tigmanshu Dhulia. Apart from that, she is set to raise the temperature with an Item Number in much-awaited 'Sridevi Bungalow' starring Arbaaz Khan and Priya Prakash Varrier.

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On Friday, Varun Dhawan's girlfriend Natasha Dalal turned a year older. He shared a picture from one of their vacations and wished her. The actor referred to her as Nata (that's what he calls her) and wrote a romantic yet quirky message.

"Happy birthday nata. I choose you over the ufc," Varun wrote along with the picture.

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Happy birthday 🥳 nata. I choose you over the ufc 💙

A post shared by Varun Dhawan (@varundvn) onMay 7, 2020 at 11:38pm PDT

The childhood sweethearts, who have been in a relationship for a while now, were planning to get hitched in Thailand. But as soon as the pandemic broke out, they abandoned their plans. Dhawan's Coolie No 1 was to release on May 1. Now, marriage and movie are on hold till better times.

Varun's uncle, actor Anil Dhawan was quoted by a leading daily about his nephew's wedding plans. When prodded if the big day will be this year, the veteran actor said, "It should ideally happen this year. It's high time Varun got married. We all want it (to happen)."

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Allow us to say this but if Hrithik Roshan had a staggering debut with Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai in 2000, Karishma Tanna made her debut with an equally successful piece of work- Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. Ekta Kapoor more or less revolutionised the television industry by introducing a concept that was never heard of until it became a dying genre as times passed by.

Talking about Tanna, she didn't have it easy at all, and which actor has. In a chat with Pinkvilla, she candidly spoke about her audition for this iconic show and how it was bad, very bad. "My audition for Balaji was horrible (laughs). I'm generally a good student when learning lines, but in front of the camera, things go haywire. I have fumbled multiple times and it was a very 'ganda' (bad) audition."

She added, "But still, I got chosen. Ekta (Kapoor) ma'am does not see dialogues, she wants the actor to fit in the role, acting is then taken care of. So, I guess I fit the role and that is how I got it." And today, thanks to her success and even the social media sensation, she's known by one and all. She was also seen in Sanju in a special appearance.

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Veteran Gujarati actor Arvind Trivedi, who became a household name all over India playing Raavan in Ramanand Sagar's Ramayan, got emotional while watching the re-run of the popular mythological serial.

In a video circulating on social media, Trivedi, who is in his eighties now, is seen watching the 'Sita Apaharan' (Kidnapping of Sita) episode with great attention. The video has gone viral on the internet.

In the video, Trivedi folds his hands in the end. The scene got him very emotional, as per a report by timesofindia.indiatimes.com.

Have a look:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

So touching. 84 year old veteran #ArvindTrivedi ji watched his #Ravana role after 30 years & seeks forgiveness from others 🙏🙏

A post shared by @ koro_na_hunter onApr 12, 2020 at 7:54am PDT

Amid the ongoing 21-day nationwide lockdown, the popular mythological series is being re-telecast on Doordarshan.

Ramayan aired in 1987-1988 and is created, written, and directed by Ramanand Sagar. The show was a television adaptation of the Indian Hindu epic of the same name.

The show was a game-changer for Indian television, hooking the nation to the show. Sunday mornings were never the same for families in India after the first episode of "Ramayan" aired on television. The impact was such that the actors associated with the show, continue to live under the shadow of their characters, with people remembering them for the roles they played in the show, which narrated the life story of Lord Ram and Sita.

The role of Ram was played by Arun Govil, Sita played by Deepika Chikhalia, Lakshman was played by Sunil Lahiri, and Hanuman by late Dara Singh. It also featured Sanjay Jog, late Vijay Arora, Sameer Rajda, late Mulraj Rajda and late Lalita Pawar.

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Things have begun to perk up for Sidharth Shukla, it seems! He won Bigg Boss 13 and ever since then, has been the talk of the town. He recently starred in the single Bhula Dunga with Shehnaaz Gill that currently has 52 million views on YouTube. And now, there seems to be another big offer in his kitty.

TellyChakkar reports that Sidharth might be hosting a reality show and that too with his favourite Shehnaaz. The show we are talking about is Dance Deewane that was earlier being hosted by Arjun Bijlani. Even though nothing about it has been confirmed yet, fans would surely go bonkers if the two unite one more time. Expect soaring TRPs.

Shehnaaz and Sidharth have been very close to each other ever since they participated in Bigg Boss 13. Theirs was one of those very few romances that didn't evaporate as soon as they stepped out of the house. Their social media fan-following is enormous and enviable, to say the least. Since both of them are in high demand currently, this is the best time for them to cash in on the same and make some extremely successful shows together. And how about a film too?

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The years 1987 and 1988 were nothing less than revolutionary for television. We saw Ramayan on tv, one of the grandest shows in history, and also one of the most spectacular and memorable, and of course, iconic. And since no shootings are happening due to the Coronavirus pandemic, all the episodes have resurfaced on Doordarshan for the viewers' entertainment.

It was reported that the reruns of Ramayan fetched a staggering 1.4 million views within four days and the data is likely to go higher. But given everything that's classic invites memes on social media, how could Ramayan stay away? In case you have not seen them, watch them right here and have a great laugh.

The first one was all about the patience level once can have in today's times, have a look:

The patience i have vs The patience i need.#Ramayana #Ramayan #Laxman pic.twitter.com/UlsGDHkuaQ

— Sameera Khanam (@SameeraKhanam11) April 8, 2020

If you thought Amitabh Bachchan in the 70s and Shahid Kapoor in recent times are the prime examples of the 'Angry Young Man', think again, or rather watch the original Angry Young Man:

Best angry young man in universe#ramayan #Laxman pic.twitter.com/ng5UlCRxb4

— Ankit Singh (@AnkitSi80834082) April 6, 2020

And another user followed up to the same meme and introduced us to the first Angry Young Man:

First angry young man #laxman #Ramayan #DDNational pic.twitter.com/0xwF4R3HKJ

— Sameer Gargey (@gargeys) April 13, 2020

What will you do if you get the opportunity to eat Gol Gappas, Momos, and every possible junk food once the lockdown is over? This video is the answer:

When I get to eat Golgappas, Momos and junk food that are bad for me after this lockdown is over:#RamayanOnDDNational #Ramayanmemes #Ramayana #Laxman pic.twitter.com/qTy8Z83nWN

— AnonymousGirl (@Anonymo99859659) April 13, 2020

And remember a meme that became very famous on social media a few months back that was all about 'The Art' and 'The Artist'? Now Ramayan has the same one too:

#Ramayan #laxman
The Art... The Artist pic.twitter.com/QRaqahYsWW

— Tony AS (ଘରେ ରୁହନ୍ତୁ ସୁରକ୍ଷିତ ରୁହନ୍ତୁ) (@TonyASOnline) April 7, 2020

Last but not the least, how has Doordarshan benefited from Ramayan as far as their TRPs are concerned? All hail Lord Ram!:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Hum karte hain prabandh, aap chinta mat kijiye

A post shared by Sagar (@sagarcasm) onApr 11, 2020 at 11:54pm PDT

We expect more such memes in the coming days since Ramayan will continue to hook the viewers for a longer period now!

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There are a lot of actors that have gone for adoption to embrace parenthood. Sushmita Sen immediately comes to mind. And another name that comes to mind is Sunny Leone, who adopted a baby girl from Latur, Nisha Kaur Weber. And Leone seems to have inspired Shefali Jariwala, who has spoken to Times of India about how Leone's story moved her.

She said, "I discussed adopting a baby with Hindustani Bhau inside the Bigg Boss 13 house. I was actually moved by Sunny Leone's decision when she adopted a girl child. I always wanted to adopt a baby girl and after I got married to Parag when we were discussing about starting a family." She added, "I shared my views with him and he is a very supportive husband."

Highlighting the importance of adoption, the actress said, "There are a lot of children in the world who need home and I think I am in a position where I can give them a secure, good life then why not. I want to give that child a good home, education and a good life because God has given me everything!"

And if all goes well, there might be a new little member in the house very soon. "I have been blessed with all this so I want to share my blessings with that child. But the adoption process in this country is a little tedious. There's a lot of paperwork involved and there's a lot of waiting also. So we are currently in the middle of the process and if God is kind and your wishes are with us, my dream to bring my child home will come true. I'll become a mother and bring a lovely girl home," said Jariwala.

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"Hum Paanch" is back on the small screen, and actress Shoma Anand is enjoying seeing the younger version of herself in the sitcom.

"It felt really good to know that after nearly 15 years, the 'Hum Paanch' family is back to make people laugh, that too during such a testing phase of life. A lot of people who are at home were starting to feel depressed, but now they can forget everything and can have at least 30 minutes of fun and laughter with the 'Hum Paanch' family," she said.

Now, she sits with her family and watches the show on Zee TV.

"Just a few days back, while watching the show, me and my family were observing how much I have changed since the show went on floors. I really enjoy seeing the younger version of myself and all my other co-actors because when we used to shoot, we couldn't see the episodes. So while watching the show, we are reminded of all the good old memories," said Shoma, who played Veena in the show.

A story of an ordinary yet amusing middle-class family, "Hum Paanch" revolved around Anand Mathur, his second wife - Bina Mathur and his five daughters, who are constantly plotting plans to turn his world upside down. Adding more chaos and confusion to his life is the photo frame of his late wife, who occasionally talks to him and nags him on certain decisions.

Will she do comedy shows again? "Yes, of course! If I find something that I think will be liked by the audience, then I will definitely do it. In fact, we as artistes always keep learning and for us to come back, the writer needs to write a script that is strong and we fit into the script too," she said.

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Almost a month into the lockdown, it has become increasingly difficult to keep the wheels of the economy turning, and several companies are resorting to pay cuts to stay afloat. Closer home in Bollywood, Ekta Kapoor, founder, Balaji Telefilms, had announced on April 3 that she was forgoing her annual salary of Rs 2.5 crore so that "my co-workers don't have to take a hit during this period of crisis."

Despite her best intentions, it has been heard that the studio — which has ALT Balaji and Balaji Motion Pictures as subsidiaries — is having to implement a three-month pay cut for its employees.

A source reveals, "On Monday, the staff was apprised of the decision. Those with annual salaries of up to Rs 12 lakh will have to take a 20 per cent pay cut while those in the Rs 12 lakh to Rs 36 lakh bracket are looking at a 25 per cent pay reduction. A 30 per cent pay cut is being implemented for those with annual pay packages between Rs 36 lakh and Rs 60 lakh, and the senior management will take only half their pay. The variable pay that is disbursed at the year-end is likely to be delayed as well."

mid-day reached out to Kapoor, who did not respond till press time.

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Actors and celebrities have been busy honing new skills during the lockdown, and television actress Karishma Tanna is no different. She has aced the complicated inversion pose of yoga, going by her new social media post. In a photograph shared on Instagram, Karishma can be seen in hot pants and a sports bra pulling off the pose with ease. "Sometimes you have to let life turn you upside down, so u can learn how to live right side up!" she captioned the image.

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Sometimes you have to let life turn you upside down, so u can learn how to live right side up! • . #thoughts #yogi #mood #intezaar #quarantine

A post shared by Karishma Tanna (@karishmaktanna) onApr 20, 2020 at 6:45am PDT

Karishma's efforts left her friends stunned, who rooted for her at the comment section. Actress Lauren Gottlieb wrote: "Get it girl". Actress Amruta Khanvilkar said: "Whoaaaaaaaaa so good". While Aamna Sharif mentioned: "Wowww"

The pose was recently tried by Jawaani Jaaneman actress Alaya F. She got the complicated pose right after a few failed attempts, she informed, adding that she was inspired by Jacqueline Fenrnandez and celebrity fitness trainer Kuldeep Shashi.

On the work front, Karishma is currently the part of the action reality show "Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi 10" (KKK 10).

The new season is shot in Bulgarian landscapes with actors Ada Khan, Amruta Khanvilkar Karan Patel, Shivin Narang, Tejashwi Prakash, Amruta Khanvilkar and Rani Chatterjee, along with comedian Balraj Syal, RJ Malishka and choreographer Dharmesh Yelande.

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Actor Rajeev Khandelwal will make his theatre debut in the play "Court Martial". He says essaying a character on stage is supremely challenging and it provides the ultimate validation for any actor.

"I think essaying a character on stage for theatre is supremely challenging and provides the ultimate validation for any actor. I have always envied actors who can entertain audience on stage. It was as good as one of the things in my 'to do list'," Rajeev said.

Zee Theatre's teleplay "Court Martial" follows the unusual trial of a junior ranked army man convicted of murdering his senior officer. Rajeev plays the role of Bikash Roy, an extremely sharp defence lawyer who goes deep into the shocking truth behind the assault.

Talking about the play, the actor said: "'Court Martial' demanded an intensity that required me to work on myself and prep for the role. It is an intense and gripping play with a fabulously taut storytelling technique. This play is regarded as a classic in the world of theatre."

Written by Swadesh Deepak, the play also stars Govind Pandey, Bhagwan Tiwari, Saksham Dayma and Swapnil Kotiwar.

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This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

On Saturday, actress Hina Khan took to Instagram to share a few pictures from her first Roza (fast) during the ongoing Muslim holy month of Ramzaan.

Praying for all those who have tested COVID-19 positive, Hina wrote: "Ramadan Kareem Let's make Dua Let's pray for Infected, let's pray for Protection and Healing #FirstRoza #Positivity #WeShallGetThruThis."

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Ramadan Kareem Let’s make Dua 🤲 Let’s pray for Infected, let’s pray for Protection and Healing 🙏 #FirstRoza #Positivity #WeShallGetThruThis

A post shared by HK (@realhinakhan) onApr 24, 2020 at 5:13pm PDT

Dressed in yellow suit with duppata tied around her head, Hina strikes a peaceful picture while praying.

A while back, Hina took to sketching to show the present situation of the country. She shared a sketch resembling a map of India, tied with a lock and chain.

On the acting front, the actress was last seen in Vikram Bhatt's "Hacked".

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Kamna Pathak, who plays Rajesh in the sitcom Happu Ki Ultan Paltan—a spin-off of Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain—is brushing up on her singing. She practices every morning with her guru, Pankaj Dixit, who belongs to the Gwalior gharana, through video calling. "While shooting, I wouldn't get time for riyaaz. I  enjoy singing ghazals and reciting poetry. I am utilising the lockdown to pursue my passion," she says.

Ode to dad

Rajeev Khandelwal sought inspiration from father, CL Khandelwal, to play an Army captain in the teleplay, Court Martial. His dad is a retired colonel. "I've seen my father and brother proudly don their uniforms. I also had aspirations to join the Army. My role is an ode to my father," says Khandelwal. We have often seen actors sourcing inspiration for their characters from other actors or other movie characters, this is possibly the first time that he has been inspired by his own father.

For the uninitiated, the Aamir actor recently played an Army Officer in the Zee5 movie, Ateet, which is now streaming online.  

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There cannot be a greater feeling for any actor when he's known by the name of the characters he has essayed on the big screen or even the small screen. If Amjad Khan was Gabbar Singh, Amrish Puri was Mogambo, Shah Rukh Khan was Raj and Rahul, Feroz Khan was Arjun. Yes, the Arjun from Mahabharat.

Such was the popularity of the role and such was the impact on people that he was rechristened as Arjun Feroz Khan. You may know him as the villain from a lot of Bollywood films of the 90s but it was this iconic television show that shaped his career and made him a household name. Speaking to Hindustan Times about being selected for the show and how it made history, he spilled the beans on everything.

He said, "It's a proud moment to watch Mahabharat with the present generation. It's a good opportunity for them to know more about their culture. It was a game-changer for Indian television. It impacted people's lives. Due to the lockdown, everyone is at home and they're glued to their television sets to watch epics like Mahabharat and Ramayan. Even my grandchildren are watching it and they're amused to see me shooting arrows."

History isn't made easily so expectedly, getting such a fascinating role wasn't easy for the actor either. He recalls the day when he went for the audition. "I went in and saw actors like Deepak Parashar, Raj Babbar and Govinda, among others there. The auditions for Mahabharat were going on and Govinda told me to give it a shot. I was given two pages of dialogues in Hindi. I told him to read out the lines in Hindi so that I could rewrite them in English."

He added, "A week after when I didn't get a call back, I went to his office. I was asked to wear my costumes and a moustache. I went up to Chopra Saab's cabin in the first floor and he was sitting their along with our writers, Dr Rahi Masoom Raza and Pandit Narendra Sharma and they told me that I've been locked to play Arjun." And as they say, the rest is history! He was addressed as Arjun by everyone, even his mother. What greater validation can an actor ask for?

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Auditions of MTV Roadies Revolution will be held live on social media for the first time ever, in the wake of the COVID-19 lockdown. This is the 17th season of the popular adventure reality show. "Since its inception, 'Roadies' has had a lot of firsts to its credit. Going virtual is another innovative dimension to its iconic journey and speaks volumes of its repute as a reality show. At a time when social distancing has become the norm of life and we have found respite in our phones, 'Roadies LIVE' auditions is a great effort and a well-timed step to reach the youth. This is also a first for me in 17 seasons and I am looking forward to a power-packed experience. To all the young, high-spirited souls, here's your last chance to make the cut and be a part of this exhilarating journey," show host Rannvijay Singha said.

Starting from Monday (April 27) on the MTV Roadies Facebook page, the first-ever virtual audition will go on up to Friday, and will give one contestant a chance to join the official journey this year.

Neha Dhupia, one of the judges on the show, is excited. "Social media and the euphoria around it is undeniable, more so during this lockdown when we are glued to our phones more than ever. We're excited to bring 'Roadies' to digital platforms that connect the masses. Digital auditions are the best way to tap into the young psyche amidst lockdown and get them prepped up for something challenging. Keeping up with our theme of 'Revolution', I am excited to meet some spirited people during the LIVE auditions who have it in them to take positive action and join us on the journey ahead," she said.

 

 

 

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Dare to watch @princenarula & @nikhilchinapa test the wild skills of the entries? Watch it LIVE today at 5 PM on @mtvroadies Facebook page! Also, keep sending in your entries on @voot telling us why you deserve to be on the #RoadiesRevolution journey. Click the link in bio. @oppomobileindia @castrolbiking @axiom_ayurveda @manforceindia #RoadiesLiveAudition

A post shared by MTV Roadies (@mtvroadies) onApr 27, 2020 at 1:28am PDT

Added her co-judge Nikhil Chinappa: "Every year, Roadies ups the ante with innovative formats that resonate with the sentiments of the youth. Virtual auditions are a leap ahead in that direction to leverage a platform that is extremely relevant in the present scenario and reach out to a wider demography. 'Roadies' auditions have always called for mass attention and It would be interesting to witness the traction online."

Rapper Raftaar, also a judge on the show, feels "digital has emerged as the new normal" amid the ongoing crisis and lockdown.

"For a show which defines youth, their goals, and preferences, this digital effort can engage the youth and amplify 'Roadies Revolution' in a way never seen before. I am glad to be a part of this one-of-a-kind experience," he said.

Prince Narula, who also judges the reality show, feels "The live auditions are yet another feat in creating a revolution and reaching out to our young audience".

"I'm really excited to meet some brilliant people and look forward to their perspective. This is going to be a great precursor to our adventurous journey later in the year," Prince added.

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A lot of Bollywood filmmakers and actors have said that the legacy of Hindi Cinema will now be split into pre-Corona and post-Corona. And during this lockdown, nobody will forget the fact that it was all also the time when we got the opportunity to see some unseen and amazing throwback pictures of Television and Bollywood celebrities. Joining the bandwagon is Ramayan's Sita aka Dipika Chikhlia.

For all those who grew up in the 90s, this picture will surely put a smile on your face. But here's a genuine question- How many of you knew that Superstar Rajesh Khanna also graced her wedding reception? In case you feel it's not true, here's some proof.

Have a look at the picture right here:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Rare Rajesh khana attending Dipika Chikhliya Marriage photo #90s #Ramayan #ramayan #dipikachikhlia #sita #bollywoodmovies #rajeshkhanna

A post shared by The90sIndia (@the90sindia) onApr 20, 2020 at 6:02am PDT

Such was the legacy of the TV show that they all got a call from the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and he personally wanted to meet the team and facilitate them. And the actress even took to her Instagram account to share a picture with him, have a look:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

This is the 1st time we were felicitated ....we realized we were a part of a legacy Ramayan ..we created history ...remember the day vividly when we got a call from delhi to meet the PM ...#rajivgandhi#feliciate#delhji#ramayan#ramayanworld#sagarworld#shivsagar#lockdowndisriessa

A post shared by Dipika (@dipikachikhliatopiwala) onApr 25, 2020 at 8:39pm PDT

Ramayan and Mahabharat were truly historic in their own ways, and the reruns have been phenomenal with never-seen-before TRPs. Well, as they say- Old Is Gold!

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Today, the world woke up to the sad news of superstar Irrfan Khan passing away. The actor, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2018, was admitted to the hospital recently as he had a colon infection. His passing away has left the industry in shock.

Arjun Bijlani: Last night, I saw Angrezi Medium I Tweeted also because Radhika Madan is also there and she is a good friend of mine. Suddenly this news came today and I am not able to understand what happened. My mind is disturbed and I am broken, it is too shocking. I was a huge fan and he was an actor who was everybody’s inspiration for the roles that he played. It is disturbing to hear that he is gone away especially in this lockdown because in this situation fans can’t even go to pay their last respects. So it’s a sad day and I am sure many actors are going to grieve this for a very long time.

Aniruddh Dave: It was shocking to wake up to this news today morning. He was an artist par excellence. I still can't get over it. He is from my hometown Jaipur. It is a sad day for me. From Piku to Hindi Medium to Angrezi Medium and TV show Banegi Apni Baat will never fade in my memories.

Shashank Vyas: I feel like I have lost someone in my family. it is a very bad day and I became very emotional when I got to know. I understand the acting. I have posted a scene on Instagram which was given by my acting guru and the scene was of Irrfan Khan only from the film Rog. In the scene, you will feel that the lines he said he didn’t say from mouth, he said from his eyes. My favorite films of his are Paan Singh Tomar, Angrezi medium, Hindi Medium. He was so natural on screen. I learnt so much just looking at him.

Jasmin Bhasin: It is sad to know of the sudden death news of Irrfan khan. I have watched all his films including Angrezi medium. He is a fine actor. He is irreplaceable in Bollywood.

Amal Sehrawat: Sir, thanks a lot for teaching us that the biggest achievement in life is to accept ourselves, you never portrayed any image, you never flaunted anything, you inspired all actors to be honest in front of the camera, your life journey is inspiring and gives immense power to everyone to fight bravely and live optimistically. Hasil, Maqbool, Yeh Saali Zindagi, Paan Singh Tomar, Hindi Medium are some of my favourite films.

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Amitabh Bachchan has shot for the upcoming season 12 of "Kaun Banega Crorepati" from the confines of home, in the wake of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The new season of the popular quiz show is also set to go digital with the entire selection process.

Filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari remotely directed the registration promo featuring Big, where the actor invites KBC aspirants. "Har cheez ko break lag sakta hai, sapno ko nahi (everything can take a break, but not dreams)," he announces.

"Each year, when we start deliberating about KBC, we go through various insights that may trigger an impactful narrative. This time, however, the very environment that we are in, sets the context of the film," said Tiwari.

"KBC is not just a game/quiz show for people. It's more than that. It's an opportunity to realise one's dreams. One doesn't stop dreaming given the adversity. In fact, the dreams only become more significant, and that was the trigger for this film. Shooting this film was a challenge, though. First, I shot a scratch film with myself and shared it with Mr. Bachchan, for him to get an idea about my vision. After which, Mr. Bachchan shot the entire film at his own home, all by himself. I hope this campaign strikes a chord with the audience and they participate wholeheartedly," he added.

Registrations for the new season will start from May 9.

"We are certainly excited to announce the 12th season of our iconic show 'Kaun Banega Crorepati'. And for the first time in the history of KBC, the entire screening and selection will be managed digitally," said Amit Raisinghani, Head, business planning and communication, Sony Entertainment Television.

The show will be produced by StudioNEXT and the selection process will be conducted digitally, through SonyLIV.

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StarPlus is all set to enthral audiences with the legendary show – Ramayan. Written, produced and directed by Ramanand Sagar, Ramayan, first aired in 1987 and acquired a cult status over the years. The show boasts of a talented ensemble comprising of Arun Govil as Lord Rama, Dipika Chikhlia Topiwala as Goddess Sita and Sunil Lahri as Lakshman.

It also starred veteran actors Lalita Pawar as Manthara, Arvind Trivedi as Ravana and Dara Singh as Hanuman. The popular mythological show has successfully garnered record-breaking viewership even today due to its engaging and simple narrative which has earned a memorable place in the audience's minds.

Dipika Chikhlia who essayed the role of Sita in Ramayan said, "The role of Sita has been one of the most memorable moments in my life. I have received much love and affection over the years from audiences not only in India but also overseas. With the show now being telecast on StarPlus, viewers will once again to get relive the epic mythological tale."

Sunil Lahri who is known for his portrayal of Laxman said, "Ramayan has received adulation from audiences across age groups. This narrative has engaged people all over with its entertaining narrative and life lessons making it one of the best offerings on Indian television. It's a happy moment for all of us as the show will now be telecast on StarPlus for entertaining viewers once again."

Tune in to the epic mythological tale of Ramayan at 7.30 pm everyday only on StarPlus!

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We've all heard of Bollywood celebrities using the unlimited free time during the coronavirus lockdown to work out and stay fit. But it's not just celebrities who have been keeping fit! In a post shared by Karan Wahi on Instagram, he shared how proud he is of his mum, Veena, who, at the age of 62, lost 18 kg in four months. Amazing, isn't it?

Wahi shared a before and after picture of his mother and wrote, "So proud of my MOM @wahi.veena
Thank you for listening to me and taking care of yourself before u took care of the world. My Mom is 62 and a hypothyroid. But I am glad I inspired her to do this for her. 18 kgs in 4 months..."

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

So proud of my MOM @wahi.veena Thank you for listening to me and taking care of yourself before u took care of the world. My Mom is 62 and a hypothyroid But Iam glad I inspired her to do this for her 18 kgs in 4 months Lockdown ke bawajoood my MUMMA is the strongest... Thank you @tahirakochar for making this happen .. Age is just a number ,hence proved... INSPIRE People NOt Influence... #iloveyou Mom

A post shared by Karan Wahi ðŸÂÂ’ÂÂœ (@karanwahi) onMay 5, 2020 at 6:31am PDT

Along with the photos, Karan Wahi also shared a video of himself talking about his mother's fitness journey. The actor also gave a shout-out to his mum's lifestyle coach who helped her achieve her goal.

Well, we sure are inspired by Karan's mother's weight loss and fitness journey!

On the work front, Karan Wahi can be seen in the role of a DJ, who also doubles up as a police informer, in the web series, Hundred.

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Once the lockdown that was imposed worldwide owning to the Coronavirus pandemic ends, a lot of people would change the way they look at life and themselves. People who are stuck alone and have no company would become a lot more responsible and those who were always dependent on others may stop taking things for granted. The one actress who has been taking care of herself all through this lockdown is Ratan Raajputh.

The Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo actress is stuck in a village in Bihar due to the lockdown and has been sharing her lockdown story on Instagram almost every day. You should watch all the videos to know how she has been surviving. From cooking food to dealing with electricity problems to even cleansing the cows, she has been doing it all.

In her latest Instagram video, she showed us how she was cooking watered rice. It's a long video but we recommend you watch it from start to finish. What if you also end up learning how to cook them!

Have a look right here:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

God morning!😀 . पंता भात (Leftover watered Rice) . . P.S.- Aur haan! ..🍋 nimboo(lemon) Mil gaya 😀 . . #pantabhaat #newdish #foodlovers #lockdown3 #lockdown2020 #stayhome #jaibharat #रामभरोसे✨😇

A post shared by Ratan Raajputh (@ratanraajputh) onMay 6, 2020 at 6:43pm PDT

In another video, she could be seen cooking Chana Masala but asked us to google for the recipe. Well, don't miss this video either:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

नाकों चने चबाने के बाद अब बारी है खाने की..😜😋 . आज का मेन्यू- ‘चना मसाला (घुगनी) और चावल’ . . P.S.- Recipe के लिए गूगल करें😬 . . #chanamasla #ghugni #foodlovers #eathealthy #desikhana #stayhome #jaibharat #जयभारत #रामभरोसे✨😇

A post shared by Ratan Raajputh (@ratanraajputh) onMay 5, 2020 at 5:46pm PDT

There's a whole collection of such videos, as we stated above, which she has described as her lockdown stories. This is truly respectful that a star like her is living all by herself and making no bones about it.

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Actor Gurmeet Choudhary became a household name after playing Lord Ram in the 2008 TV show "Ramayan". If given a chance, he would like to revisit the character, but for a film. It's been a while since the audience saw him in a mythology show. Asked if the genre still interests him, Gurmeet told IANS: "I'd definitely like to do (a mythology project) if I like it. The audience saw me as TV's Ram, but I'd really like to do a film called 'Ramayan', and I'd like this film to reach all over the world." Looking back at the show, he shared that he didn't want to copy actor Arun Govil, who originally played the role in Ramanand Sagar's blockbuster mythological series "Ramayan" way back in the eighties.

"When I was very small, I had watched Ramanand Sagar's 'Ramayan'. But I remembered very less about it. As I grew up, my dad would narrate stories of 'Ramayan'. So story-wise I knew it. When finally 'Ramayan' was given to me, I had a thought that before doing another 'Ramayan' if I watch the 80s 'Ramayan' then as an actor...Arunji had acted really well. Had I seen his version of Ram again then there might have been chances of me copying him. Every actor can understand that he needs to do his own style, so I tried to act in my own style," he recalled.

And he gave a lot to playing Ram in his show, which has been brought back on the small screen by Dangal TV. "I had given many auditions and then mock shoot happened. During that duration, I got many ideas on how to play my version of Ram. While shooting for 12 hours, I used to be in that character only," he said. He focussed on his character's walking style and smile.

"Everyone used to tell me to switch on and off (the character) otherwise I'd become a brahmachari (celibate) or quit acting but I have always believed that as an actor, it was one character that very few people got the opportunity to play. I gave my 200 percent," said Gurmeet. "Ramayan" brought him fame but there was also a fear of getting typecast.

"It generally happens that when actors do mythology shows, they get typecast. But I got saved. I didn't get typecast. It didn't happen suddenly though. I had prepared myself," he said. Talking about moving on from the character, he said: "Once 'Ramayan' got over, I did some reality shows. So people saw me and said 'he is young, wears jeans, T-shirt, dances and does action. Then I won 'Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa' and participated in 'Nach Baliye', did 'Punar Vivaah' and then due to God's blessings, I got films. 'Khamoshiyan' was my first film. Mahesh Bhatt had launched me. My film journey started there," said the "Paltan" actor.

In fact, prior to the announcement of the lockdown in March, he was shooting for a film, which he would like to wrap up once work starts again.

"I really like black coffee. So I'll have that in a coffee shop. The shooting of my film 'The Wife' was happening in Jaipur. We had shot 50 per cent of the film. I really liked the film's script. So after coffee, I'd catch a flight and complete its shooting," he said.

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This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

It's the time to rejoice for Kaun Banega Crorepati fans. The makers of the decade-old quiz show have finally revealed the registration date for the new season. The fresh season is expected to air in a shortly from now.

Kaun Banega Crorepati, is a show that most of us have grown up with and have participated in, sitting comfortably at our homes, yet feeling the same complex set of emotions as the participants on the coveted Hot Seat. We have all felt the adrenaline rush in this quest of knowledge, to deduce the answers to questions that can take one from being a nobody to a somebody.

KBC has been synonymous with knowledge and has constantly provided a platform to millions in realizing their dreams. From the civil services aspirant Harshvardhan Navathe, the very first Crorepati, to a mid-day meal cook Babita Tade, KBC has set an example for people to believe in themselves and achieve big in life.

9th May will see Mr. Bachchan asking the very first KBC Registration question at 9:00PM on Sony Entertainment Television. This will continue until 22nd May. There will be a new question presented by Mr. Bachchan every night. All one has to do is nswer these questions correctly via SMS or through SonyLIV.

Given the current times, while one ponders how to get through the day, KBC has come as an answer to use all your time productively, while at home. While we may be under a lockdown, knowledge knows no bounds, and it’s always good to value the power of knowledge and put it to good use.

Get ready to let knowledge fulfil your dreams with Kaun Banega Crorepati, starting 9th May at 9:00 PM only on Sony Entertainment Television

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President of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte revealed during his recent State of the Nation address that tobacco firm Mighty Corporation had agreed to settle three cases of tax evasion with the Filipino government.

The governments of India and the Philippines on November 22 announced that they would be cooperating more closely on customs matters.

On February 19 the Philippines Senate adopted three resolutions ratifying agreements for the avoidance of double taxation with Mexico, Thailand, and Sri Lanka.

Women prefer casual sex as well
If you thought men are more likely to accept a sexual invitation from a stranger than women are, you are probably wrong. A team of German researchers has revealed that the rates of interest in casual sex are exactly the same for men and women. A recent study conducted at a university in Mainz, Germany, revealed that when societal judgement and safety risks are removed, women are more likely to accept sex propositions from strangers.

Women crave more sex as they get older
A recent survey conducted by an American marketing firm, which included more than 1000 women aged 18 and above has debunked the theory that women are not interested in sex as they get older. The survey found that 89 percent of women in the age group 45 to 55 are the most experimental. Twenty-eight percent women said they had sex between two and seven times a week.

Menopause is not the end
Researchers at a London college have found that menopause doesn't kill-off a woman's sex drive as it is usually believed. They studied four years' worth of answers that women provided about their sexual health both before and after menopause. The rate of sexual dysfunction over the four-year study period was about the same -- 22 percent to 23 percent -- for both pre and post-menopausal women, which suggested that menopause isn't as important a contributor to sexual issues as once thought.

Straight women have same-sex fantasies too
A recent study on the sexual behaviour and preferences of women conducted at an American university found 60 percent of heterosexual women admitted to being attracted to other women, while 45 percent had kissed another woman. Fifty percent of those participants also reported same-sex sexual fantasies. The findings showed that straight women, not just lesbians, ogle at beautiful women.

Women don't 'strike first' when it comes to online dating
In the online dating world, women do not like to send personal messages to initiate contact and later mating and would rather send "weak signals" than making the first move. While studying dating behaviour of women on the internet, researchers found that users with anonymous browsing viewed more profiles. They were also more likely to check out potential same-sex and interracial matches. Surprisingly, however, users who browsed anonymously also wound up with fewer matches than their non-anonymous counterparts. This was especially true for female users: those with anonymous browsing wound up with an average of 14 percent fewer matches.

Pics for representational purposes

A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology revealed that problems in the bedroom might or might not spell doom in a long-term relationship, as it entirely depends on what a couple believes.

The researcher analysed sexual belief systems of 1,900 individuals and discovered that people fall into two sections when it comes to their sexual beliefs. There is one group that believes strongly in ‘sexual destiny’ and feels that sex should be all about sparks and twisted bedsheets devoid of nurture. There is another group that nurtures the relationship and believes more strongly in sexual growth. They also develop different ‘sexpectations’ at the same time. The later group treats sex as a tree that requires appropriate care and a patch of bad sex between a lovey-dovey couple can be fixed with little patience.

Sexual destiny is a word which implies that sex will happen with time. On the other hand, growth belief is something that considers the relationship as a plant that requires water, nurture and care. Those who believe in growth belief are seen to put in time and effort to make their sexual lives work. Sexual growth believers move with the flow of passion in their relationship and do not think that their relationship is doomed. They rather try to make things work out and do such acts that can boost their sexual relationship.

 
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The research also found out that if one partner is high on sex growth beliefs, both the partners benefit from this. Whether one can have a great relationship if things are falling apart in their bedroom, also vary from group to group. Those in the destiny belief gang, are in the worst condition in this case. However, when sexual destiny believers see that their sex life is not going well, they consider their relationship to be not ‘okay’.

The researcher concluded saying that there is a honeymoon phase of around 2-3 years where sexual satisfaction is high amongst both the groups. The benefit of believing in sexual growth becomes clear after this initial phase.

All images for Representational purposes

The thought of regular sex varies from person to person. While for some regular sex is a fun and 'must-have' act, for others it is like a deal beyond imagination. Finally, there is another set of people, who do not consider regular sex as a mandate to a happy relationship. The cosy moments, the mild touches, the gentle bites, the smooch, the eye contact, the silence, the cuddles, and finally the sexual climax make a relationship healthy and strong. Some may be content with their sex life, while others may experience dissatisfaction. Those who are still looking for the ideal ways to reach sexual nirvana and have a successful climax, these six steps may be of great help to them. Take a look:

1. Take a shower together: Sex can happen anywhere in the house and a bed need not be the supporting agent every time. If possible, lock yourselves up in the bathroom and stand below the shower. Come out of the comfort zone and the cliched dark bedroom scenario. For a change, let the shower cubicle do the wonders. Try to grab each other tightly while you get drenched. Go ahead with those touches and kisses that you would have otherwise done in the bedroom. In case you get a chance to bath together in a bathtub, grab it right away.

 

2. Engage in dirty talks: Initially you might hesitate to open up to your partners, but with time opening up to the opposite sex can bring a u-turn to your sexual life. It’s not only those silent acts and foreplay that can help attain sexual nirvana, but also dirty talks and naughty touches can lead to sexual proximity. Be it the man or woman; none should hesitate to utter some flirty speeches to attain sexual satisfaction.

3. Keep the sensual touches alive: No one can deny the fact that sensual touches can gradually lead to a heavenly climax. Arouse your partner with a body massage. Women respond well to sensual touches and therefore attain greater orgasm. They can even touch their man from top to bottom to arouse him and gradually move towards a successful end together.

4. Try different sex positions: If you get bored of one particular position, try different positions like crisscross, 69 and BDSM. Trying a new position for the first time may be a bit difficult, but gradually the experiments can definitely work out. Pay heed to your intuitions and crave for something new every day.

5. Wear appealing nightwear: Men love to see their women in revealing and appealing clothes. Thin-strapped night wears, lacy lingerie, satin gowns or short hot pants can raise the room temperature and arouse the man at the same time. Women can even go for the man’s favourite colour lingerie.

6. Smell good and let the room smell good too: Use floral. fruity or chocolate scented body mists to raise the mood of the man and vice-versa. Try to apply body lotions and face creams that have pleasant fruity aromas. Along with that, the room should also smell good and fresh. Use lavender or rose scented room fresheners to create a romantic environment and set the mood for sex. Women can also opt for a good vaginal wash to maintain hygiene and freshness.



Fasten your seat belts and be ready to turn lust into reality. Sexual nirvana not only brings happiness or fulfils one's physical lust, but also is the core ingredient to a happy and successful relationship. After all, a small act can bring a big blow!

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Weekly sexual activity - Key to healthy relationship: A recent study conducted in Canada has found that couples are at their happiest when they hop into bed just once a week.

It is based on surveys of more than 30,000 people collected over four decades, is the first to find that association is not there after couples report having sex more than once a week on average.

These findings were specific to people in romantic relationships and in fact, there was no association between sexual frequency and wellbeing for single people and do not necessarily mean that couples should engage in more or less sex to reach the weekly average, but partners should discuss whether their sexual needs are being met.

Frequent action between the sheets leads to positivity: The more often couples have sex, the more strongly they associate their partners with positive attributes, a study conducted by an American university has found.

In the study, 216 newlyweds completed survey-style measures of relationship satisfaction. Estimates of sexual frequency were correlated with participants' automatic attitudes about their partners. That is, the more often couples had sex, the more strongly they associated their partners with positive attributes.

Sex gets passionate after childbirth: Resuming sex with your partner after childbirth may be a matter of two months on an average but when passion does return to the bedroom again, it comes with a new vigour, enabling couples to enjoy the act of lovemaking more, new research suggests.

A study of 1,118 couples with children showed that 94 percent said they were satisfied with their sex lives and nearly 60 percent said that it actually got better after childbirth. The research, however, showed that men are more keen to have sex after the wait than women. While fathers want sex twice a week on average, mothers remain content with sex just once a week.

Sex twice an hour can skyrocket male fertility! Having sex twice in an hour can make men three times more fertile, a new study done at a London hospital suggests.

The researchers found that when a man provided a second sperm sample within an hour, the success rate for an infertility treatment called intrauterine insemination (IUI) shot up to an incredible 20 percent. The typical success rate for IUI is six percent. Scientists believe the finding could also help couples trying to conceive naturally.

In the study, when doctors used the second sperm sample provided by men within an hour, 15 of the women involved in the IUI study became pregnant immediately. Ten of the other women became pregnant the second time they tried insemination using the second sperm sample provided by the male within an hour.

Sex really can make you happy: According to fascinating research by Canadian researchers, the action between the sheets once a week is enough to reignite and keep the passion and love alive between the two souls.

Although more frequent sex is associated with greater happiness, this link was no longer significant at a frequency of more than once a week, the team revealed. Sex may be more strongly associated with happiness than is money. The team came to this conclusion after an online survey with 335 people (138 men, 197 women) who were in long-term relationships.

Frequent sex can flush out kidney stones: Suffering from kidney stones? Well, stop gulping down beer after beer or other drinks to pass it out and prepare yourself for better action between the sheets tonight. According to a significant research from a reputed hospital and medical centre in Ankara, Turkey, having sex at least three to four times a week can help ease the spontaneous passage of kidney stones.

To reach this conclusion, the team split 75 participants into three groups. The first group was asked to have sex at least three to four times per week. The second group was administered tamsulosin (a drug commonly used to improve urination in men with enlarged prostate) and a third group received the standard medical treatment for kidney stones. Two weeks later, the researchers found that 26 of the 31 participants from the sex group were able to pass their kidney stones. Meanwhile, only 10 of the 21 participants from the tamsulosin group and eight of the 23 participants from the standard medical treatment group successfully passed their stones.

Indian urologists have however expressed their doubts at the findings. While they agree that probably the release of a key compound that is an integral part of sex and heart health can help pass small stones, they cannot yet tell their patients to go have sex to get rid of kidney stones.

Sleep in the buff: Sex experts say the sleeping nude can be tremendously beneficial for the female libido. So ladies, strip-off before you sleep next time.

Use sex toys: The key to healthy sexual appetite is foreplay. So, women can prolong sexual pleasure by using sex toys such as dildos or vibrators or furry handcuffs. The kinkiness factor is a must.

Sexting: Sending your partner sexually-explicit and outrageously dirty texts can steam-up things in the bedroom. So girls take note! Sext your guy to rock his world.

Watch erotic films: Movie night at home with your hubby or boyfriend? Then watch erotic-themed or sexually suggestive films like The Last Seduction, Betty Blue, Secretary, Sex and Lucia and others. Guaranteed to get things cracking under the sheets.

Tuck in early; no gadgets in bed: Turning off your laptops, television or simply avoiding smartphone-use in bed is a great way to boost intimacy between the sheets.

Social networking is a major cause
Sites like Facebook are cited as a reason for a third of broken marriages last year and is increasingly being used as a source of evidence in divorce cases.

A law firm said that 33% of the 5,000 behaviour based divorce petitions filed with the firm in the past year mentioned the site.

“People contact ex-partners and the messages start as innocent, but lead to trouble

“If someone wants to have an affair or flirt with the opposite sex then it’s the easiest place to do it,” said the law firm's managing director.

The most common reasons for Facebook causing problems in relationships were a spouse finding flirty messages, photos of their partner at a party they did not know about or with someone they should not have been with.

More seniors are boarding the train to 'Splitsville'
Now, the current society witnessing a surge in divorce rates of among those beyond the age of 60, as, on reaching retirement many realise that they can no longer stand their husband or wife.

One reason behind the boom in “silver separation” is that some pensioners discover they have nothing in common with each other once their children fly the nest.

“They are not “old”! They can do many or most of the things that they could do in their earlier years, going on great holidays in the Himalayas, trekking through Borneo, visiting far-flung wild destinations or suddenly taking up sports that they never had a chance to try when they were younger.

“The baby boomers are redefining life at older ages. That includes re-evaluating their relationships and deciding to start again,” says the director general of a senior citizen's group.

Most couples split over frivolous reasons. Here's an example
Recently a Taiwanese couple were married only for one hour, until the husband dithered over his wife’s request for a new car.

The woman had brought him to a car dealer soon after registering their marriage, as she wanted her husband to buy an imported car for her.

But when he said he would consider it, she immediately snapped.

“Divorce me if you do not want to buy!” she was quoted as saying.

They then went back to the registration department to file for a divorce.

Divorce even if amicable ‘can affect kids’
A divorce can never be good for children no matter how amicable it is, a study has revealed.

Researchers from an American university analysed almost 1,000 families and found that children suffer when their parents’ marriage ends – no matter how amicable the split is.

The research team began by comparing the welfare of children whose parents had divorced with those whose marriages were strong. Those from broken homes scored more poorly.

They then compared children from 944 families from around the US, which had been through a divorce or, the end of a long-term relationship. The families were divided into three groups.

Co-operative parents shared childcare, still got on well with each other and rarely fought – fitting the criteria of a ‘good divorce’.

Parallel parents shared childcare but rarely spoke to each other. The third group was described as single parent families because the absent parent had little or no contact with their child.

The parents were interviewed while the children were teenagers and the children interviewed when they became adults.

All three groups gave similar answers, debunking the idea of it being possible to have a good divorce.

How was your day at work, honey?
Couples who compete with each other over who has had the worse day or bombard the family with their workplace problems may be on the road to divorce, experts have warned.

According to researchers, with both husbands and wives working outside the home, coping with daily office stress can take its toll on the marriage unless the couple is willing to support each other.

“When stress enters any relationship, it has the potential to either bind people together or break them apart.

“Findings strongly confirm this with respect to job tension. What also became obvious was the critical role of communication and trust among spouses; without them, you have a foundation best described as crumbling, even in the best of circumstances,” says a researcher.

Courting lovers by sending flowers is a thing of the past, for teens and adults nowadays. They have found a rather 'sexy' way to lure the object of their affection -- 'sexting' i.e. sending nude or semi-nude selfies of oneself to a boyfriend, girlfriend, crush or casual acquaintance from smartphones. This is also termed by some researchers as a 'sexual selfie'.

We look at factors that have led to this fast-emerging trend...

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'Sext messages' and 'sexual selfies' popular with most adults
A recent survey revealed that, almost half of all adults - or 47 per cent - send sexy text messages or selfies to their partners. And one in nine people ‘sexts’ their partner every day, a new survey has found.

But the poll of 2,000 adults conducted by mobile phone experts found that one in 10 have mistakenly texted an inappropriate message to a friend or family member.

The poll also found almost one in five phone users are risking their relationship by secretly sexting people other than their partner.

Girls as young as 14 send sexy texts and selfies!
A new study has shed light on how an increasing number of girls in their early teens are resorting to sexting and sending explicit selfies to their boyfriends.

The study of 14 to 15-year-old girls revealed that four out of 10 did not find anything wrong in taking a topless selfie.

And one in six underage girls did not see anything inappropriate about posing fully nude for others.

Celeb nude photo scandals a major reason
Embarrassing and cautionary tales of celebrities caught in sexting and nude photo scandals are not dissuading the general public from such irrational behaviour, a new report has revealed.

According to the report, 43 percent of respondents to an Internet survey of 1,500 women between the ages of 18-40 admitted to sexting, which is the sending of sexually explicit text or email messages.

Given that so many stars like Scarlett Johansson, Jennifer Lawrence, Blake Lively, Vanessa Hudgens, Miley Cyrus, Lily Allen, Khloe Kardashian and many others have been involved in sexting scandals in recent times, have those stars made it seem okay to be sending nude photos and sexually explicit messages?

'Sexting' termed worst technology jargon!
The term ‘sexting’ has been chosen as the most irritating phrase to enter lexicons in recent years. However, selfie as a term has been appreciated and even included in day-to-day conversation.

A UK tech magazine, which conducted the poll, a few years ago, awarded ‘sexting’ its ‘Unspeakable Award’ for the worst new piece of technology jargon.

Sexting teens are not offenders
According to experts, to consider labeling a teen a sex offender because of a sexting incident -- a label that will stick for life -- defies common sense.

A Canadian researcher presented a paper on children's sexuality, defending the practice as a modern variation on "playing doctor or spin-the-bottle."

The expert argued that such online activities are safer than traditional sexual games because there is no immediate physical contact and thus are less likely to lead to pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases.

It's not the same as face-to-face sexual relationships
The way people get involved in and develop sexual relationships with others has changed dramatically over the last 20 years due to the increased availability of devices such as computers, video cams and cell phones.

But at the end of the day there is no substitute for physical, face-to-face contact in our sexual relationships, according to a new study.

Am I good in bed?
Anxiety related to sexual performance and a lack of concern about the consequences such as pregnancy and sexually-transmitted diseases make both men and women more likely to cheat on their partners, a new study has found.

Women who worry about their ability to stay aroused and orgasm are 8 percent more likely to stray for each sexual concern.

Men, on the other hand, are 6 percent more likely to cheat for each worry, such as impotence and premature ejaculation, that they have.

Researchers found that men who admitted to becoming easily sexually excited were at least 4 per cent more likely to cheat. Sexual excitement has no bearing on women's likelihood to stray.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, being unhappy in a relationship was found to increase the chances of a woman straying by between 2.6 and 2.9 per cent.

Women ‘more likely to cheat than men’
Think that women are more loyal to their partners than men? Think again.

A poll for dating website has revealed that women are now as keen to cheat on their partners as men and admit to more affairs, reports a major newspaper.

A whopping 26.4 pc of Brit female said they have cheated, compared with 25.7 pc of men.

And 43 pc of women even think they can have a one-night stand without being truly unfaithful, compared to 33 pc of men.

Gadgets make cheating easier
Couples with the propensity to cheat are finding it easier to do so with the help of Internet, social networking and smartphones, experts have claimed.

Clinical psychologist Karen Nimmo said new technologies made the potential for cheating a growing issue for her clients.

“Many people go through others' phones and check what they have been up to. And there are also all the emotional affairs people conduct. They might not be having sex but they are only a step or two from it,” a popular website quoted her as saying.

It would be unfair to blame technology for infidelity, but it was definitely a facilitator for those so inclined, according to private investigator Kerrie Pihema.

“Now there's more opportunity, more online dating sites. It is so much easier to have two phones ... to rekindle old flames ... to be anonymous. Technology creates a new platform, for those who want to cheat, to cheat.”

The Internet was also making it easier for people to meet and progress sexual relationships faster than they would otherwise, experts say.

It's a norm for most men
Even if they love their partners, most men will always end up cheating just to have more sex on their side, an American sociologist has claimed.

According to the study, men who do not cheat are setting themselves up for ‘socially-compelled sexual incarceration’ however, men who cheat, enjoy best of both worlds.

The study, which surveyed 120 undergraduate men – both gay and straight, revealed that 78 per cent of those with partners cheated, ‘even though they said that they loved and intended to stay with their partner.’

Blame it on daddy!
A study has revealed that cheating really does run in the family, at least as far as men are concerned.

A team of Czech scientists carried out the study that confirmed the old adage ''like father like son’.

They concluded that while men and women both had affairs, men were more likely to stray if their fathers had been unfaithful as they were growing up, reports a major newspaper.

The scientists, based at Charles University in Prague recruited 86 couples for the research.

They found that whether or not a man was satisfied and happy in his main relationship had no effect on the likelihood that he would stray.

Men usually have affairs because they want sex and a greater number of sexual partners, not because they are fed up with their wives, he said.

It's a matter of power!
Scientists believe that it is a person''s power, rather than gender, that plays the greatest role in infidelity.

A team of researchers conducted an anonymous Internet survey of 1,561 adults and found that there is a higher risk of unfaithfulness in people of positions of power, no matter the sex.

The study revealed two key discoveries to why powerful people cheat.

First, there is a strong association between power and confidence, and the amount of confidence a person has is the strongest link between power and unfaithfulness.

Second, the researchers found that among powerful people, gender made no difference in past digressions or the participants’ desires to cheat.

Too much creativity
Probability of cheating is more in creative people than in the non-creative lot, a new study has suggested.

According to the research conducted by Harvard University, this is possibly because of the talent possessed by the original thinkers, which increases their ability to rationalize their actions.

The researchers used a series of recognized psychological tests and measures to gauge research subjects’ creativity.

They also tested participants’ intelligence. In each of the five experiments, participants received a small sum for showing up. Then, they were presented with tasks or tests where they could be paid more if they cheated.

The experimenters also told participants they would be paid more for more correct answers and led them to believe that they could cheat without detection when transferring their answers. However, all the papers had unique identifiers.

The results showed the more creative participants were significantly more likely to cheat, and that there was no link between intelligence and dishonesty – i.e., more intelligent but less creative people were not more inclined toward dishonesty.

Fancy wheels
If you own a luxury car, you are more likely to have an extra-marital affair, according to a new survey.

The survey from UK-based dating website claims to have polled its 640,000 members and found that 19.21 per cent of male members who admitted to being unfaithful were luxury sedan owners.

A spokesperson from the website said, “there’s an intrinsic link between success and cheating”.

“Successful people are often risk-takers, and have got to where they are by setting their standards high,” the Herald Sun quoted her as saying.

“However, these people are also less likely to settle for unsatisfying relationships or monotony,” she added.

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Sugar Daddy Syndrome, commonly termed as 'attraction to older men', something young women go through has been studied extensively by relationship experts...

Father figure
Older men have a mentor-like feel about them, something that women fall for instantly. Freud says it comes out of the fact that subconsciously, they find them fatherly, and for a young woman, her father is the ultimate epitome of manlihood.

Smooth operators
Older men may not be as wild as young ones, but they surely know the tricks of the trade. They know how to flatter with poetry and pun, make every stroke a master's, and charm like a gentleman things where little lads often fail.

Ready and able
Older men have had decades to work on their act, and are ready to take the plunge.

Full of surprises
Elderly men were more likely to surprise women with flowers and chocolates, as compared to men half their age.

Mr. Moneybags
Older men are financially stable, so, they can afford to shower their partners with gifts.

The romance factor
Consultant psychiatrist YA Matcheswalla says that while there is no age limit for romance, agrees that for men in their fifties, romance depends on the overall quality of the relationship. "Younger men tend to be more self-absorbed and egotistical. They can also be more insecure. But after a certain age, they tend to make more of an effort," says Matcheswalla.

Sharing a bed key to a healthy, happy relationship
Researchers from a reputed American university believe sleeping next to someone helps lower the stress hormone cortisol, perhaps because it encourages feelings of safety and security. They say this is why people in close relationships tend to be in better health and live longer.

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Prolonged periods of elevated cortisol have been linked with an increase in cytokines — proteins involved in inflammation that can trigger heart disease, depression and autoimmune disorders. Sleeping together has a protective effect by lowering the levels of these proteins.

Sharing a bed is also thought to boost levels of the 'love hormone' oxytocin, known to induce bonding feelings. This is traditionally thought to be released during sex, but scientists, who have examined the role of oxytocin in health have found it’s also associated with cuddling in bed and 'pillow talk'.

Oxytocin plays a vital role in aiding digestion, reveal studies by scientists from Sweden. Those with lower levels had poorer gastric motility — the process by which food is moved from the stomach to the intestines, therefore slowing down digestion.

A recent research conducted in the US recently supports this theory. 59 women, who were married or had partners to keep a diary of the number of hugs they received over a set time. The scientists then analysed levels of oxytocin in the blood. The women who’d received the most hugs had the highest levels of oxytocin — and the lowest blood pressure and heart rates. They findings showed that sharing a bed may definately improve sleep.

In another study, women in long-term stable relationships fell asleep more quickly and woke up less frequently during the night than single women or women who lost or gained a partner during the six to eight years of the study.

But, sleeping apart can be healthy too!
It has emerged that 39 percent of couples believe their relationship is healthier because they have independence in their home life, while five per cent think having separate beds or even bedrooms is one of the main reasons they are so happy together, revealed a survey conducted by a leading home insurance firm. According to the findings, one in 25 couples have even taking a lengthy “sabbatical” from each other. On an average, couples spend 22 hours together during the working week, with nearly half of all couples blaming hectic work schedules for a lack of “quality time” together.

The survey, which questioned more than 1,000 people aged 18 or over, also discovered that 10 percent of men have a “games room,” four percent of women have their own “powder room,” and five percent of people would rather spend a night in with their cat or dog than their partner. Furthermore, one in five couples (19 per cent) regularly eat their evening meal at different times, with one in 10 cooking completely different dishes from each other.

And proving that opposites attract, 15 percent of people describe themselves as the “polar opposite” of their partner, while 44 percent believe having different interests or hobbies makes for a stronger relationship. Those under 25 are the most likely age group to spend time apart, with 21 percent admitting they regularly sleep in a separate bed - followed by the over 55s, at 16 percent.

A quarter of 18 to 24-year-olds regularly go on holiday without their other halves, followed by 15 percent of 25 to 34-year-olds. But only six per cent of over 55s admit to going away without their partner.

Did you know? Sleep can enhance sexual arousal
A good night's sleep not only refreshes you for the day but also gives you an extra edge between the sheets. Each additional hour of sleep increased the likelihood of sexual activity with a partner by 14 percent.

In a study of 171 women conducted by a US medical school, those who obtained more sleep on a given night, experienced greater sexual desire the next day. Sleep was also important for genital arousal, such that women who slept longer on average experienced fewer problems with vaginal arousal than women who obtained less sleep.

On any given night, however, women who were tired ended up being more aroused the next day. But eventually, it catches up to them and their desire drops.

Those in a relationship always look for the right spark and those who are willing to be in a relationship, look for the right goal. It may take years for a relationship to turn into a 'lived happily ever after' story, but it takes only few minutes to break the walls and part ways off. So for those who are looking for tips to a healthy relationship, here are seven such things you can do to make your bond stronger.

1. Put mobiles away when you are together: Now day’s social networking happens mostly through mobile phones. Keep your mobiles and social networking tools like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp etc aside when you two are lazing around and spending quality time together. Mobile phones can bring a lot of distraction in communication. Forget the gadget world and indulge in some special talks. You will surely have a lot to share and lot to express to each other.

2. Spend less time in front of the television: It is good for couples to watch TV together, but spending too much time in front of the idiot box can shift your mind from other important things or the person next to you. When both of you are together at home, try to spend time together by sitting over a cup of tea/coffee, listening to music, engaging in romantic acts like cuddling and caressing each other, and making vacation plans.

3. Explore your culinary skills together: Love can happen in kitchen! Try to cook a dish together as it will keep both of you engaged in the same act and in the same place for a long time. In the middle of cooking, share a warm hug and a gentle kiss to make the environment more romantic and not boring. Know each other’s food choices before heading for a cooking and dining date.

4. Sit together over a cuppa in the morning: Sipping morning tea/coffee together can do wonders to a relationship. Before you head for a busy day and hectic work schedule, spend some time together in the morning and keep yourself engaged in small talks. If time permits, have breakfast together and proceed for work like usual. Keep stress and worries away, and start your day on a good and romantic note.

5. Go for a vacation: Take short vacations to bring spark to your relation. Every time you may not get a long leave from work, so head for weekend getaways or short trips. Being together on a holiday away from daily chores rejuvenates you and takes togetherness a step higher. Enjoy adventure activates, plan romantic dinners, explore local life and have a pleasant vacation together.

6. Learn to forget and forgive: Do not nag or sit over a small fight for long as it can make things bitter. If you have done something wrong, seek apology, bring some small gifts for your better half and resolve the matter at the earliest. Even if you cannot forgive at times, just let it go. Start a new day on a new and good note, because that’s the way you can heal an ailing relation.

7. Share a warm hug at least once a day: You may not head for an intercourse every night, because you may be either tired or not in mood. However, share a gentle hug at least once in a day or a small kiss to make each other feel better. Try to get close to each other whenever possible. The warmth of your gentle hug can be quite powerful to mend your relationship. Even if everything is lovey-dovey, try to retain the physical intimacy between each other.

Relationship is not always a bed of roses and only a couple can make things work for them. Avoid distraction of phones, talking about third parties, and dedicate more time to your you-and-me world.

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Women rule the dating game in India: A nationwide research undertaken by a dating app recently has revealed that a whopping 46 percent of women respondents said they are happy to take the lead in planning a date, while the corresponding number for men stood at 62 percent.

The research also suggests that even as gender roles are interchanging; more than 53 percent of the female respondents were willing to choose a fulfilling relationship over a career. Also, 48 percent women said they prefer brains over brawn, while 52 percent men prefer success over good looks. About 47 percent men and 48 percent women respondents said they are open to sharing their Facebook password with their partners.

India's youths seeking love online: Thanks to an increasing range of dating apps, majority of Indian youths are looking for love online, revealed a recent study conducted in Delhi. Experts say that the mammoth surge in the user base of these apps is being fuelled by youth's "changing narrative, thinking and preferences".

Did you watch the match yesterday? When it comes to first dates, individuals who meet each other through a match-making process in India discuss a lot of sports after the conversations on family, a survey has revealed.

The survey found that 21 percent Indian men talk about sports during their first date with a prospective match after family, which still dominates the conversation. As per the study, 14 percent of women love to talk about sports during their first meeting. The surveyors also found that for women, family still comes the first with 70 percent of them talking about it on their first meeting, only 44 percent men discuss the topic.

Indian men want women to pop the question: Traditionally, it's the guys who pop the question to take a relationship forward but an increasing number of Indian men now prefer if women make the first move, according to a recent survey conducted by a popular matrimonial website. 6,500 single Indian men in the age group of 25 to 36 across the country were studied as part of the survey.

As many as 71.7 percent respondents shared that they would like it if a woman proposed to them instead. As many as 63.8 percent of the men surveyed were of the opinion that the country's modern day women are confident enough to make the first move towards a relationship, while 36.2 percent of them said that it's hard for them to believe that a woman can make the first move because tradition has always seen men do so.

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New York: Far from giving your sex life a leg-up, watching porn may lead to reduced happiness in relationships -- both sexually and generally, suggests new research.

For the study, Paul Wright from Indiana University in Bloomington and colleagues analysed the findings of 50 studies collectively including more than 50,000 participants from 10 countries.

"Pornography consumption was associated with lower interpersonal satisfaction outcomes," the researchers found.

The study, published in the journal Human Communication Research, however, found that porn viewing hardly affects relationship satisfaction in women.

"Associations between pornography consumption and reduced interpersonal satisfaction outcomes were not moderated by their year of release or their publication status. But analyses by sex indicted significant results for men only," the study said.

Male participants' porn-watching was associated with lesser happiness in their relationships -- both sexually and generally, Vocativ.com reported.

The researchers also reviewed studies looking at porn viewing and sexual self-esteem and body confidence, but they found no link.

The finding could come as a surprise for those who argue that pornography leads to unrealistic and unhealthy beauty standards.

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London: Does a one-night stand or romping without any commitment or emotional involvement sound interesting to you? If yes, please beware. Researchers have found that a liking for casual sex may land you in trouble.

The researchers found that a person's preference for casual sex may actually increase their risk of being harassed.

Also, adolescents who have been sexually harassed are more strongly inclined to have casual sex than others, the findings showed.

The results might give the impression that it is the victim's fault for being harassed, but the researchers said their findings were not intended to "blame the victim".

"Absolutely not! We're trying to understand the psychological mechanisms that underlie harassment," said Mons Bendixen, Associate Professor at Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim, Norway.

It might be that a preference for casual sex results in more sexual solicitations in general, including undesirable ones.

The study, published in the journal Evolution and Human Behavior, also showed that adolescents who sexually harass others have had casual sex more often than those who do not harass others.

They also fantasise more about casual sex and find it more acceptable to have sex without any commitment or emotional closeness.

The study included 1,326 heterosexual girls and boys with an average age of nearly 18 years. The psychologists only looked at non-physical forms of sexual harassment.

Fully 60 per cent of the girls and boys in the survey reported that they had been sexually harassed in the last year.

Around 30 per cent of the girls and 45 per cent of the boys admitted that they had sexually harassed someone one or more times.

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When it comes to making a romantic night out, a glass of red wine or a bottle of champagne fits best in this category. If you believe in the old school of thought, that drinking alcohol before can worsen things on bed, then it is time for you to think otherwise. The smooth sips of alcoholic drinks can spice up things underneath the sheets. Here are 5 such alcoholic drinks that are believed to be strong enough to improve your sexual performance.

1. Red Wine: The drink makes both men and women horny by increasing their sexual arousal. While drinking two glasses of red wine can boost sex drive in women, drinking one glass is sufficient to increase testosterone in men. However, do not consume the drink in excess. Limit yourself to two glasses and experience the spice on bed, which you may not have felt otherwise. The passion drink does wonders to your cosy cuddly moments under the sheet.

2. Beer: Taking sips from chilled bottles will enhance your performance on bed. Studies have found that few pints of beer overloads a man’s body with phytoestrogens, which are proven to delay orgasm and make men last longer in the act. Dark beers are found to create intense and frequent erection and increase blood circulation in the penis. So, men can definitely go for few pints to satisfy his ladylove for a longer time on bed.

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3. Champagne: The froth and fizz of this ‘elite drink’ is blessed with an amazing property, and i.e. it enhances sex drive. Having a glass of champagne before sex is said to turn the night more romantic and exciting. It increase duration of foreplay, the number of positions and total duration of intercourse. Drink your favourite champagne and make it to the bedroom like never before. Even if the drink makes you high, you will be loaded with energy to make the night more romantic and the act more intense. That is the wonder of champagne.

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4. Brandy Alexander: This is more of a milk chocolate drink right from the other and not the actual brandy, and chocolate does spice up your sex life. Have a glass of this smooth creamy drink and get set for an out-of-the-world sexual intercourse. Rather than spending time on researching, simply take the drink and experience the difference. The clock might move slowly and steadily!

5. Tequila: Tequila shots will definitely make your sleeves fall of quickly, especially for women. Tequila shots will gear up your sex drive and bring kind of a euphoric effect, when you are all set to go wild on bed, floor, or bathroom. While tequila shots do wonders to a men’s sex drive, it is more beneficial for women. Few shots and they will be ready to slip through the body of their man, gently, warmly and passionately.

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Which of these drinks are you going to sip together for a great session under the moonlit sky?

Life has turned mechanical for many of us. Long working hours, frequent official tours, bringing work home from office, and less scope for togetherness- are some factors that let our personal lives take a back seat. Also, falling prey to such a busy and tiring lifestyle, we tend to ignore our health and other priorities of life. Sex or sexual desire is something that takes a back seat when we get too much engrossed in other acts and tend to ignore personal relationships. The urge for physical satisfaction, the deep feeling of sex, the nude looks, and the naughty moments on bed drain down the mental system. Before you blame your counterpart or freak out at each other for lack of sex, click the pause button and think of reasons that can be the biggest enemies to your sex drive. Some of those are mentioned below:

1. Binge drinking: One pint of beer or a glass of red wine is fine to with a dinner platter. But, consuming several glasses of wine, whisky, or beer affect the libido and gradually kills sex drive. Couple of drinks dehydrates the body, slows down orgasm, and offers less scope for lubrication. Alcohol is also considered to be a depressant that slows down responses and brain functioning during sex.

2. Inadequate exercise: Regular exercise is the mantra to good health, which also includes great sex. Sitting steadily at work throughout the day often makes you lazy on bed too. Sitting hinders blood flow to the private parts like it does to other parts of the body. So, exercise regularly and go for a walk to boost your libido and enhance your sex drive.

3. Lack of sleep: Hectic routines often make it difficult to fall asleep. Inadequate sleep or insomnia increases the production of stress hormone called cortisol, which in turn lowers testosterone level in the male body. Women with inadequate sleep often find it difficult to engage in sexual acts and attaining orgasm. So, if you and your partner are not indulging in sex like the earlier times, then consider inappropriate sleep to be one of the reasons.

4. Watching news before going off to bed: News programs are definitely not a light show to watch before going off to bed. Debates of politicians, crime news, news on natural calamities, fluatuating economies flood the channels most of the time. Watching such shows do not relieve your day-long stress, but rather increase it. And, stress and sex simply do not mix up. So, put aside those disturbing programs, relieve your mind from stress, and head to bed with a cheerful mood. If required take a shower for refreshment. Your sex drive will automatically hit up and your bed-scene can end in a great climax.

5. Smartphone addiction: Browsing smartphones in bed is one of the biggest reasons to kill sex drive. Browsing news sites, social media pages, or online shows before sleep create a distance between you and your partner, something that you realize when the relation already turns bitter. It does not ease off your tension, but rather make you more tired and less interested in sex. Keep the smartphone away and head to bed hands-free. Only then can you use your hands for tickling and cuddling each other. Slowly and gently, your bodies will generate heat up for a superb sex.

6. Late night dinner: What you eat and when you eat affects your libido. Late might dinner delays digestion and makes you feel heavy for a longer time. Try to have dinner by 8pm or 9pm if you want to have some great bedroom moments with your partner.

7. Overeating: Keep a check on portion sizes if you do not wish to kill your sex drive and worsen relationship. While heavy snacks in the afternoon can drain energy and make you feel lethargic for rest of the day, heavy dinner can also make you go lazy and drowsy. Some food items are definitely good for sex, but ensure that it does not make you super saturated and take a toll on your physical bonding.

Maintain a healthy life and keep things like TV programs, office works and smartphones at bay to concentrate on the sensual acts to spice up your life. Get wet and keep the fun on bed going as long as you can. 

The spectrum of dating, relationships and marriage in India today is as diverse as it can possibly be. While being in a relationship of one's choice is still beyond imagination in some communities and regions, an increasing number of working professionals are now turning to technology to find fulfilling companionship. But when accepting or rejecting love seems as simple as swiping right or left, what happens to the idea of finding someone the organic way? A panel discussion on the topic, Does Technology Hurt or Help Romance? will explore the myriad facets of using technology for relationships, through four experts in the field.

Roland Mascarenhas

"With so many people migrating to cities like Mumbai for career prospects, they are seeking the help of technology to beat their loneliness," says Roland Mascarenhas of Global Shapers Community (GSC), an initiative of the World Economic Forum, which has organised the discussion. "The hook-up culture in Indian metros is unique. Given the long working hours and traffic conditions, a social life on weekdays is ruled out for many. And on weekends, people prefer to live in their own bubble of close friends. But what transpires in the world of app-based dating has an underlying human dynamic that no one usually talks about," he adds.

Naina Hiranandani

While Gourav Rakshit, CEO, Shaadi.com, will share his perspective on the relevance of matrimonial websites in the age of Tinder and Hinge, Chhavi Sachdev, creator of LSDCast, a podcast that explores love, sex and dating, will bring a media-focussed understanding of the topic. Naina Hiranandani, executive vice president of Sirf Coffee, a bespoke dating service for professionals, will discuss why finding meaningful relationships cannot be about algorithms. "Technology works best with a lot of human effort involved. We — and many modern, truly global, working Indians — believe that deep conversations cannot be had with a stranger on an app," says Hiranandani. She goes on to talk about the phenomenon of ghosting, where if someone doesn't like a person they have gone on a date with after interacting online, they simply block the person instead of ending things on a dignified note. "Thanks to ghosting, the element of closure is gone," she adds.

Simran Mangharam

Simran Mangharam, co-founder of Floh, a service that organises engaging events for like-minded singles, too, believes that the job of technology must be that of an enabler. "Finding fulfilling relationships has to be a hybrid of online and offline, where technology should facilitate the post-meeting communication instead of the other way round, where there is often a lot of disappointment in store," she shares.

Apart from the new-age matchmaking, the panel discussion will also touch upon how men and women face unique problems with technology, and if there is a need for a clear manual for the language used in such communication.

Rushabh Shah and Srishti Doshy

Meet Srishti Doshy and Rushabh Shah. The Mumbai-based couple, in their early 20s, has been dating for six years. She is bold, and more expressive, while Rushabh believes in creating the right first impression. Srishti may not be able to face reality sometimes, whereas Rushabh is practical. What makes them click: similar traits, especially the way both want to preserve memories and find solace in being together.

Rushabh Shah and Srishti Doshy; their handwriting samples

It didn't take a heart-to-heart chat with the duo for Chetna Teckchandani to learn that they are, indeed, compatible. All she did was analyse scans of their handwriting scribbled on an unruled sheet of paper. "Your handwriting is like your DNA sample. It reveals your personality, behaviour and approach to the future. Graphology is an in-depth science, which can be used to discover yourself, as a hiring tool for corporates, and, gauge a couple's compatibility. Unfortunately, it isn't given its due in India," shares the 29-year-old handwriting analyst and graphotherapist. She learnt the science from expert graphologists Milind Rajore and Naviin Thantrii, and has been practising it professionally for the past one year.

If you're eager to discover your compatibility quotient with your partner, or learn ways to improve your marriage and relationship, get your handwriting analysed at a coffee meet that she will host tomorrow. The session, titled, One Write Stand With Your Date, presented by dating app ASAP (Astro Science Align People) and Soul Flower, is open to married and unmarried couples, and even singles who might be looking for a partner.

Teckchandani uses a combination of Gestalt and Trait methods to conduct the analysis. This includes the size of letters, pressure put into writing and each letter's knots and curves. "In graphology, each letter is assigned a meaning. Y is the letter for sex. A 'y' written without looping the end or squeezing the loop may indicate intimacy issues. On the other hand, a 'y' with a bigger-than-usual loop may mean a voracious sexual appetite," she states matter-of-factly.

Chetna Teckchandani

How your handwriting tilts also helps Teckchandani peep into your soul. For instance, she realised a client had undergone abuse when she saw that her words had a backward slant (tilted towards left). "Backward slant isn't natural, and usually, develops when you have seen something terrible, specifically from a male figure, and you take a step back. However, you cannot jump to conclusions only by assessing one element of handwriting. You need to use various permutations and combinations," shares the expert, who prepares meticulous compatibility reports jointly with Dr Anandd Manocha. She also offers grapho-therapy sessions, suggesting certain handwriting exercises or patterns to heal a person, which can be combined with counselling and positive reaffirmations.

Former cricketer Andrew Flintoff gives a thumbs up to monitoring calories in bed, but his wife, Rachael, isn’t pleased with this. Pic/AFP

If you thought mobile phones are a rude intrusion in your bedroom, the fitness band might be the latest addition to the list. Former English cricketer Andrew Flintoff recently revealed (or 'overshared', according to British tabloids) that he wears a digital fitness tracker band in the sack. He added that it helped him meet his calorie burn target for the day and also egged him to go harder in bed to satisfy his wife. His revelations raked in much ridicule and shock from female social media users. Adding to the buzz on social media, his wife Rachael admitted that she wasn't a fan of the idea.

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Ameeta Sanghavi Shah

How much is good?
Mind, life and relationship therapist Ameeta Sanghavi Shah feels that balance is the key to a relationship's success. When the goal (here, fitness) becomes bigger than everything else, it signifies that something larger is at play. Shah credits this obsession to the individualistic lives couples live today, away from their relatives and family. "We seek growth and better results. While that is good, we lose the security of the known while coping with a world of crazy change. We become anxious even as we strive to be positive. When we can't control the demands of ensuring certainty and meeting our own need for being perfect, we begin to control the things we think we can. This is where compulsive behaviour steps in. It gives us the illusion of control over the bigger picture," explains Shah.

Deanne Panday, celebrity fitness expert

Celebrity fitness expert, Deanne Panday seconds Shah's opinion. "Fitness is a journey, not a destination. If anything is used temporarily for motivation, or to help you get on track and not as an obsession, it can be positive. In this technology-driven world, the chances of dependency on gadgets are strong. But self-motivation is what works in the long run. Your body is a bio computer and if you listen, it will give you signs on what to do. You don't need a gadget for it," says Panday.

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A healthy inside
Panday adds that athletes need motivation as their career depends on fitness, but for a layman with a sound medical history, a holistic fitness pattern designed for their body will work. "I have seen a lot of people in Mumbai obsess about aesthetics and being skinny. But internal health is the key to a healthy life. Learn where to draw the line and keep your partner happy and healthy too," she adds.

The larger picture is what matters in the long run. Shah suggests that one should not convert everything in life into a training ground to measure, prove and build your strength. A relationship is not a game of numbers but a continuous experience that contributes to wellness. It comes from connecting to the self; machines and gadgets need to be put aside. "The language of compulsion of 'I have to' and 'should' must change to one of choice: of being aware and present - 'I wish to' or 'prefer to'. So, while you opt for monitoring gadgets, also spend time being mindful, meditating and connecting with your loved ones," Shah reminds.

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It's doesn't get bigger than this! Youtube has a huge lineup of celebrities from various fields for their upcoming YouTube Virtual Graduation Ceremony 2020. The ceremony would be headlined like former President Of The United States, Barack Obama, and First Lady Michelle Obama. Amongst the notable names includes singer Lady Gaga, world-famous band BTS.

The Dear Class of 2020 will be mixed with commencement speeches and musical performances. "I’ve always loved joining commencements––the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice. Even if we can’t get together in person this year, Michelle and I are excited to celebrate the nationwide Class of 2020 and recognize this milestone with you and your loved ones," Barack Obama wrote in his tweet on May 5.

BTS has had a global impact with their music. The group, composed of members RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook, recipients of the Order of Cultural Merit in South Korea, and were keynote speakers at United Nations in 2018. Singing in their native language Korean, the septet has become the world's biggest boyband. Their latest album 'Map Of The Soul: 7' has become No. 1 in 21 countries.

Being in the pop scene for more than a decade, Lady Gaga changed the face of pop music and re-introduced artistic ways to evolve music. In today's times, she is considered one of the most impactful musicians of all time.

Here's a list of participants:

Featuring

President Barack Obama

Michelle Obama

BTS

Lady Gaga

Sec. Robert M. Gates

Sundar Pichai

Sec. Condoleezza Rice

Malala Yousafzai

Special Appearances by

asapSCIENCE

Alicia Keys

Chloe x Halle

Kelly Rowland

Kerry Washington

The Try Guys

Zendaya

Mr Kate

Dude Perfect

Jackie Aina

Zane Hijazi

Dear Class of 2020 premieres on June 6.

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Celebrities supporting social causes is indeed commendable because amidst the current scenario, the world needs empathy, love, and financial support at the right time. Salman Khan has been financially supporting daily wage workers and providing ration to those impacted during the Coronavirus outbreak.

Commencing the financial aid, he was one of the first people who made sure that money was directly transferred into the bank account of 25,000 daily wagers who were in dire need. It did not stop there, he further transferred money into the account of additional 7000 daily wage workers of the film fraternity.

The actor also helped 90 vertically challenged wage workers associated with All India Special Artistes Association (AISAA), a wing of FWICE.

The superstar also arranged for food supplies for thousands of people from varied corners of the state. A video of the same surfaced on the internet recently where truckloads of essentials were sent to the villagers around the farm.

Salman Khan has been carefully watching the situation and extending help in installments to ensure steady flow of income and essentials for the needy in different parts of the country.

Keeping in mind the current situation, he has released several videos where he has voiced his opinions and made a personal appeal to his massive fandom and people of the nation to stay indoors and maintain social distancing.

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With everything going digital amid lockdown due to Coronavirus outbreak, reality shows have found a new way to conduct auditions. Madhuri Dixit, Shashank Khaitan, and Tushar Kalia will return as judges for Dance Deewane 3.

For the show, the makers have begun virtual auditions. Madhuri Dixit kicked off her work by recording the promo for the show and asking the audience to participate by uploading their videos oh Viacom18's digital platform.

The final aspirants will be selected for the show once the film and TV bodies resume shoots. Arjun Bijlani will be returning as the show host. They'll kick off the new season after everything goes back to normal.

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On Monday, the Bombay High Court directed Eros International Media Ltd to pay Rs 19.39 lakh to filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Bhansali Production within three weeks. This move comes after Bhansali had approached the court to restrain Eros International from exploiting rights over actors Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh starrer Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram Leela.

Bhansali had sought urgent reliefs to restrain Eros International from selling, exploiting, distributing , licensing and renewing rights over the film. Bhansali Productions had challenged an intimation filed by Eros International with Bombay Stock Exchange of an all-share merger with its parent company Eros International Plc and Hollywood's STX Filmworks.

Bhansali's Production house claimed that the merger was based on incorrect and misleading disclosure and that STX Filmworks or other companies cannot claim any rights in the film.

Meanwhile, the advocates representing Eros International said that the film Ram Leela was specifically mentioned in annual returns published for the fiscal ending March 31, 2019 and therefore there was no urgency to grant interim reliefs to the Bhansali Productions.

While the court has directed Eros International to pay Bhansali production the dues, it also said that the Production will have the liberty to approach it for relief against the merger after regular court resumes post lockdown.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson from Eros India said “The Bombay High Court has adjourned the case in our favour. Eros always sticks to best corporate governance and business practices and had already given the cheque in advance as per our agreement. We will take appropriate legal action against Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s production for this mala fide and unfounded action, which has also been duly noted by the court”.