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Casey, from Italy to India
Casey, from Italy to India

West Australian

time4 hours ago

  • West Australian

Casey, from Italy to India

Casey has caught me by surprise in India. Just before this, we spent a few days in Italy, staying in a Venetian villa on the Brenta Canal. It was everything Casey loves. This became the riviera for wealthy Venetians between the 16th and 18th centuries, and our hotel, Villa Margherita, has frescoes, fine furnishings, boldly and traditionally patterned textiles, and period furniture. Casey is in his element and I don't even break it to him that we'll only be home a couple of days before coming to India. There are some aspects of the subcontinent which are simply not Casey's cup of chai. I instantly recall an image of him jammed into a bright yellow, highly chromed auto rickshaw with 'Jesus Loves' hand-painted across the back and Bollywood music blaring out as we (literally) bumped our way round Kochi, in the south-west. I quickly remember the time he was totally lost in Mumbai airport. I searched for nearly two hours and finally spotted 'his royal blueness' in a 5m-tall pyramid of black luggage which someone, for some reason, had pulled off a conveyor belt. ('It might be in the lost pile,' an official had said brusquely, pointing me there.) And not too buried in my memory is the hotel in Agra which was so dirty Casey literally stuck to the floor. There have been highs higher than those lows have been low, so here goes India again… But this time Casey and I (not necessarily in that order, but don't tell him) have been invited by Uniworld, which has a river cruise ship on the Ganges, sailing short return voyages from Kolkata — still one of my favourite cities in India. We are heading to their ship, the Ganges Voyager II, but in a loop through Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, staying at Oberoi hotels along the way. We arrive in Delhi and are escorted into the Oberoi Gurgaon, where a florist is just completing a sphere of red carnations in the lobby. Hundreds and hundreds of perfect flowers in a huge ball of Oasis. Casey visibly quivers with joy as I duck slightly to have a garland of plump marigolds put around my neck. In Indian Hindu life, these bright orange and yellow flowers are said to be the favourite offerings of many Hindu gods and goddesses. They are linked to Surya Dev, the sun god in Hinduism. Laksmi might likes the lotus and Kali might craves a hibiscus, but lords Vishnu and Ganesha admire the marigold. They are a symbol of the divine aura and, when we get to our beautiful and spacious room, I put it around Casey, spreading the blessing. But Casey is otherwise engaged — viewing the amenities, wallpaper with its lotus symbols, the full-sized bath and luscious bed. At the Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra and Oberoi Rajvilas in Jaipur, the marigold greeting is repeated and, as the story of Casey spreads, his arrival and farewell are taken increasingly seriously. Indeed, when we leave Oberoi Rajvilas, the baggage handler is careful to place him on top of all other luggage, and to solemnly salute him farewell. Casey absolutely loves all this. I can see his ego visibly inflating to trunk-like proportions… At the domestic airport in Kolkata, having just flown direct from Jaipur in a couple of hours with the rather good IndiGo (clean, efficient, new plane but you buy your food), I let Casey go past me and round the big, slow, looping luggage delivery belt. I think one more circuit might just rattle him. It might just take the wind out of his sails. Take him down a peg. He might just appreciate me a bit more. And all of that is a good thing as we make this jump from Rajasthan, with its monumental buildings (Taj Mahal, Pink Palace) and pretty things (block-print cotton, whirling dancers, bangles) to Bengal — to this dense heart and soul of India. It has a different political, creative and emotional 'temperature'. India's independence, as it built up to the British leaving in 1947, and the land reform that followed in 1950 are just two examples of movements seeded and grown in the fertility of Bengal. For Bengal also has the Ganges — this holy river, descended from heaven and caught in Lord Shiva's hair. Bengal is a testing hotbed of thought and belief and resistance. But Uniworld's Ganges Voyager II is not. It is calm and very comfortable. Casey is escorted to our suite, with its four-poster bed, big bathroom (with a 2m-deep shower), armchairs and air-conditioning. After placing Casey on the luggage stand, the room attendant takes one step back and puts his palms together, fingers pointing upwards in what we would recognise as a traditional form of prayer. He bows: 'Namaste.' Uniworld's tour manager, Vishal Bhaskar, has explained one meaning — that the two hands represent our two hearts. The left is his, the right is mine, and this is them coming together. The deeper the accompanying little bobbing bow, the more the respect. As the room attendant does this, I am standing next to Casey and, to this day, I'm not sure who he is bowing to. Well, this is different. Casey and I have flown home from India with Singapore Airlines (him in the hold, me in 66K), had one day at home (Casey emptied, all washing and ironing done) and flown direct from Perth to Uluru. And here is Casey, on a luggage trolley, being dragged out into the Red Centre sun. We were on our charter flight, in partnership with our great friends at Holidays of Australia, with around 100 readers. National Jet Express brought baggage handlers with us and, rather than being loaded onto a conveyor belt at Yulara, the airport for Uluru (sparing Casey that mortifying extra lap), the chaps have brought the bags straight out to the coaches. Our guests don't have to handle them at all. In fact, when we get to Sails in the Desert, the five star hotel at the Yulara townsite, the bags will be taken straight to their rooms. When I get to mine, Casey is already there, standing cheerily on the jolly Red Centre toned carpet. I hadn't expected Casey to be so amenable. I hadn't expected him to take our shift to red dust and spinifex so well. Casey isn't a fan of either, frankly, and I rather think he could do with a few days at home, just to let our recent travels settle and resonate, and to enjoy the echo. We all need that, sometimes. I think the gaps between our journeys can be as important as the trips themselves. This is when our experiences and reactions more firmly embed in us; they expand, enrich, inform and enhance us. They percolate through us. But Casey shows no sign of this. The weather at Uluru is perfect on this mid-June day — cool with a blue sky, and gentle sun, which is coming in through the window and falling in a warming shaft across Casey's blueness. I'd swear that Casey is exuding contentment.

June 13, 2025, Birthday Forecast: Discover what the next 12 months hold for you
June 13, 2025, Birthday Forecast: Discover what the next 12 months hold for you

Time of India

time13-06-2025

  • Business
  • Time of India

June 13, 2025, Birthday Forecast: Discover what the next 12 months hold for you

Happy Birthday! Your birth date has brought you here, and it's the perfect time to gain a deeper understanding of what your numbers reveal about the year ahead. Let's dive into your personal year and what it holds for you across various life aspects. Personal Year For the next 12 months, you will be under the influence of Number 1, ruled by Surya Dev (Sun). This marks the beginning of a new cycle, offering you the chance to reinvent yourself, take bold steps, and step into leadership. Career & Finance The year ahead brings steady growth and meaningful progress for those born on June 13. The karmic, grounded energy of the number 4 (1+3) complements your Gemini intellect, setting the stage for a phase focused on long-term planning, structure, and responsibility. Expect significant shifts in your professional life between July and November—this could include a promotion, a leadership role, or a high-focus project demanding discipline and strategic thinking. This is not the year for shortcuts; the universe will push you to master your craft. Fields like technology, law, analytics, digital infrastructure, management, or construction may prove especially rewarding. Financially, consistent effort from the past two years is likely to begin paying off. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 오스템 임플란트 받아가세요 임플란터 더 알아보기 Undo However, increased expenses—related to housing, education, or skill-building—require careful budgeting. September and December are favorable months for securing long-term deals or realigning financial goals. Choose stability over risk and invest in tools that enhance productivity or credentials. Relationships This year nudges you to form bonds grounded in emotional safety, clarity, and mutual respect. If you're single, your priorities may shift from fleeting sparks to seeking meaningful stability. You'll be drawn to dependable partners who are ready for real commitment. Romance may bloom in structured environments—think workspaces, community gatherings, or educational setups. A slow-burning connection mid-year could develop into something lasting. If you're in a relationship, the year favors deepening trust through transparency, shared responsibilities, and future planning. You may deal with significant decisions—like buying property, navigating domestic roles, or setting boundaries. These challenges, if tackled maturely, will strengthen your bond. Friendships may become more intentional, and chaotic or one-sided relationships could naturally phase out. You may also find yourself playing a stronger leadership role within your family or resolving old conflicts. Health This is the year to build sustainable wellness habits. With your driven nature, there's a risk of burnout if you ignore your body's signals. Early in the year is ideal for reassessing health goals and establishing routines that suit your lifestyle. Rather than erratic workouts, opt for grounding practices like strength training, Pilates, or tai chi. Pay attention to posture, joint health, and musculoskeletal alignment, especially if you work long hours at a desk. Between July and October, unmanaged stress might affect your skin, digestion, or sleep. Support your nervous system with calming rituals—herbal teas, digital detoxes, and evening walks. Prioritize hydration and a balanced diet. If energy levels fluctuate, consider consulting a nutritionist. Make preventive care a priority: schedule your health checkups and address minor issues before they escalate. Remember, consistency—not intensity—is key to wellness this year. Travel Travel in the coming year will likely be purpose-driven—linked to work, education, or family—rather than spontaneous vacations. Between May and August, you might travel for site visits, training, or structured retreats, offering opportunities for growth and networking. If you're considering relocation for career or personal reasons, this is a favorable time to begin planning. September and December offer more emotionally fulfilling travel—visits to ancestral places, family reunions, or reconnecting with nature. Be extra mindful during Mercury retrogrades in April, August, and late November, as these periods may bring travel delays or miscommunication. Double-check logistics and documents during these times. This year, it's less about escapism and more about choosing travel that aligns with your purpose and values. You Share Your Birthday With Rajkummar Rao, Disha Patani, G. V. Prakash Kumar, Piyush Goyal, Taran Adarsh Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .

June 04, 2025, Birthday Forecast: Discover what the next 12 months hold for you
June 04, 2025, Birthday Forecast: Discover what the next 12 months hold for you

Time of India

time04-06-2025

  • Health
  • Time of India

June 04, 2025, Birthday Forecast: Discover what the next 12 months hold for you

Know What Numbers Whisper About Your Next 12 Months Happy Birthday! Your birth date has brought you here, so let us dive deep into what your numbers reveal for the upcoming 12 months. Personal Year For the next 12 months, you will be under the influence of Number 1, which is ruled by Surya Dev (the Sun). Let's explore what this powerful number brings into your life in the year ahead. Career & Finance For those born on June 4th, the year ahead brings thrilling momentum, especially in fields where communication, creativity, and adaptability are essential. Mercury's analytical and expressive influence will boost your Gemini energy, particularly starting in July. You'll find yourself drawn to projects involving writing, marketing, public speaking, research, or digital entrepreneurship. The first half of the year is ideal for skill-building, forming alliances, and defining long-term goals. By mid-year, these efforts may evolve into leadership opportunities, a new role, or the launch of a side hustle. However, your financial landscape may experience fluctuations due to variable income or impulsive spending habits. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với mức chênh lệch giá thấp nhất IC Markets Đăng ký Undo Implementing a monthly budgeting system and diversifying your income streams will help maintain stability. Be cautious with major purchases or investments, especially in August and October. A well-organized financial plan can help transform your creativity into consistent income—particularly through digital platforms, content creation, or educational offerings. Relationships The next 12 months emphasize deeper connection, emotional presence, and authenticity in your relationships. If you're single, romance is on the horizon, but you'll need to prioritize quality over novelty. Your natural charm and intellectual curiosity will attract intriguing individuals, especially in social settings, learning environments, or online communities. Between August and November, a particular connection could evolve from casual to serious—or you may choose to walk away from someone who no longer aligns with your emotional needs. If you're already in a committed relationship, this is a powerful year for resolving misunderstandings and realigning with shared values and goals. Emotional honesty will be key—don't shy away from difficult conversations. Family matters, especially those involving a parent or sibling, may also require your attention. Friendships will shift too—you'll deepen ties with those who uplift you and distance yourself from draining or erratic relationships. Health Balance is the cornerstone of your health journey this year—between social engagement and solitude, physical activity and mental stimulation, ambition and rest. As someone who thrives on stimulation, burnout is a real risk unless you consciously slow down. Early in the year is ideal for establishing simple, consistent wellness routines. Prioritize cardiovascular activity—like walking, cycling, or dancing—to release mental tension. Mindfulness practices such as breathwork or guided meditation will help regulate your nervous system. From July to October, heightened activity or emotional stress may lead to tension headaches, sleep disturbances, or digestive issues. Cut back on stimulants like sugar and caffeine. Consider exploring holistic therapies such as energy healing, Ayurveda, or acupuncture. Don't neglect preventive health checkups, especially for your nervous system, lungs, and throat. Listen to the subtle signals your body sends. Travel Travel will play a transformative role in your life this year—both outwardly and inwardly. Your love for learning and exploration will take you on journeys that expand your worldview and challenge your perspective. From May to September, expect increased travel for professional reasons, including speaking engagements, training sessions, or collaborations. These trips could introduce you to new ideas, mentors, or markets, influencing your career direction. On a personal level, the most fulfilling journeys will involve spiritual retreats, nature immersion, or cultural exploration. Consider planning a solo trip or spiritual retreat in September or December to reset and recharge. If you've been contemplating a move or adopting a more flexible lifestyle, this is the year to take those first steps. However, during Mercury retrograde periods—April, August, and November—be extra cautious with logistics, as delays or rescheduling may occur. Ultimately, travel this year won't just change your scenery—it will shift your sense of self and your place in the world. You Share Your Birthday With Anil Ambani Priyamani S. P. Balasubrahmanyam Nutan Prashanth Neel Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .

Top 6 Weekend Escapes From Ahmedabad You Can't Miss
Top 6 Weekend Escapes From Ahmedabad You Can't Miss

India.com

time24-05-2025

  • India.com

Top 6 Weekend Escapes From Ahmedabad You Can't Miss

Ahmedabad: This bustling city of Gujarat, located in the center of India, is not just about rich history, vibrant culture and mouthwatering cuisines but also serves as an entrance to quite a number of captivating weekend getaways. If you are a history enthusiast or just want to escape the noise and chaos that comes with urban life and be one with nature for a while, then there are many options you can choose from to relax your mind and rejuvenate your spirit. Let us now take a trip through some of the finest weekend getaways in and around this beautiful city. 1. Gandhinagar: Gandhinagar-the capital city of Gujarat- is located just at a stone's throwaway from Ahmedabad. Due to its quiet environment, organized infrastructure and architectural marvels like Akshardham Temple, the place has become popular over time. Here visitors can explore Indroda Nature Park- the picturesque place boasting diversified flora & fauna; visit Swaminarayan Akshardham –an abode of spirituality or go shopping at Sector 21 market which is full of colors. 2. Modhera: A short drive from Ahmedabad will lead you to Modhera home for Sun temple – one among the seven wonders in India . Built during 11th century by Solanki dynasty with Surya Dev himself as central deity makes it the most visited place by history lovers as well as photographers' paradise due to the detailed carvings on walls , grand pillars and celestial beauty associated with it. Furthermore , Modheras peaceful environment makes it an ideal destination for contemplation and relaxation. 3. Patan: Just few hours away from Ahmedabad lies ancient town called Patan which revives stories about past ages. Rani ki Vav (stepwell) -UNESCO World Heritage site at Patan that reflects architectural grandeur of a by-gone era. Apart from that, the Patan Patola Heritage Museum is another place to visit to learn about the art of weaving-Patola, which is also known as a traditional weaving art passing through generations. With its great heritage and still air, Patan gives one an insight into Gujarat's rich cultural tapestry. 4. Polo Forest: Polo Forest is an ideal retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers in serene environment amidst lush greenery, situated just few hours away from the city . The Ancient forest located around 150 kilometers away from Ahmedabad has always been famous for its scenic trails , gushing waterfalls and thrilling wildlife. Trekking, bird watching and camping are some of the activities that visitors can enjoy while experiencing the diverse beauty of this region. In short , it's a quiet Polo Forest where you can escape over weekend . National Park: For those who love nature, Gir National Park is a must go to. Gir is a home to various rare species and its location is about 350 kilometers from ahmedabad. It serves as the last refugee for the asian lion and is famous for its rich biosphere. Tourists can engage in exciting game drives that enable them to see lions, leopards, deer, and plenty of bird species among others within their natural habitat settings. The peaceable ambience of the park along with the chance of watching majestic fauna makes Gir National Park an enthralling stop for nature enthusiasts. of Kutch: A slightly longer journey will take you to Rann of Kutch -a mystical land with unimaginable landscapes. It stretches over thousands of square kilometers turning into surreal during Rann Utsav –a cultural event showcasing colorful tradition of this area every year. The white desert under moonlight, visits to traditional villages, cultural performances and shopping for handicrafts are all possible here… This blend between nature at its best and local culture makes it worth visiting for anyone who wants to have some unforgettable moments in life. Final Thoughts Ahmedabad acts as an access point to an array of fascinating weekend getaways that are characterized by diverse cultures, histories, natures and adventures. These include ancient temples in Modhera while Polo forest enables you to enjoy complete tranquility or experience such things as vibrant culture within Rann of Kutch which are some of them as amongst other numerous attractions near this city over weekends that will give lasting memories unto eternity like no any other place on earth else especially when one visits all these areas at once with friends so pack your bags take off a trip down memory lane rock yourself with Gujarat's unexplored jewels.

May 23, 2025, Birthday Forecast: Discover what the next 12 months hold for you
May 23, 2025, Birthday Forecast: Discover what the next 12 months hold for you

Time of India

time23-05-2025

  • Business
  • Time of India

May 23, 2025, Birthday Forecast: Discover what the next 12 months hold for you

Happy Birthday! Your birth date has brought you here, and it's time to dive deep into what the numbers reveal about the upcoming 12 months. Personal Year For the next 12 months, you will be under the influence of Number 1 , ruled by Surya Dev . Let's explore what this powerful energy brings your way. Career & Finance The year ahead will be filled with exciting opportunities for creative reinvention and public exposure . Mercury, the ruler of communication, governs those born on May 23. This grants you talents in multitasking , creativity , persuasion , and rapid learning . Your skills will be in high demand, especially in industries like media, marketing, writing, technology, design, education , and entrepreneurship . From June to November , expect breakthroughs in your communication skills—be it through enrolling in a course, launching content, or leading a campaign. However, focus will be key . Though tempting, juggling too many projects may backfire. Prioritize high-potential ventures for long-term success. Financially, this year presents both gains and lessons in discipline. New income avenues—freelancing, side gigs, or monetizing intellectual property—may emerge early in the year. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Device Made My Power Bill Drop Overnight elecTrick - Save upto 80% on Power Bill Pre-Order Undo However, income might fluctuate. Avoid overspending from August to October , especially on tech and travel. Building a financial buffer and consulting an expert for long-term planning will boost your confidence and clarity. Relationships This year emphasizes personal growth , mature communication , and clarity in relationships . If you're single, your charm and intellect will draw attention. However, you'll seek deeper, value-based connections . Potential partners may appear through intellectual circles, travel , or social media . That said, fleeting flings may not satisfy your evolving emotional needs. For those in committed relationships, this year is a time to rebuild trust and realign priorities . Between July and September , emotional distance may surface—especially if one partner is overworked or distracted. Open, compassionate dialogue will be essential to nurturing intimacy. You may also find yourself attending to family matters , such as resolving a sibling conflict or supporting an aging relative. As you grow, your connections will shift—you'll be drawn to those who challenge your thinking and support your emotional authenticity. Expect one-sided bonds to naturally fade. Health Your health forecast highlights the need for routine and nervous system regulation . Your mental agility and constant juggling can make it hard to pause, increasing the risk of burnout or stress-related issues . Early in the year is ideal for establishing wellness habits. Support your body with Pilates, swimming, or brisk walking , and calm your mind with journaling, meditation , and screen-free evenings . From June to September , be alert to signs of overstimulation—headaches, irritability, insomnia, or digestive issues. These are cues to slow down and restore balance. Limiting caffeine , maintaining regular meals , and mindful eating can further improve your health. If your work involves heavy screen time, pay extra attention to your posture and eye care . Regular digital detoxes and preventive checkups will help maintain equilibrium. Travel This year, travel will inspire not just outer exploration, but inner transformation . You'll crave exposure to diverse cultures , thought-provoking experiences , or simply a new perspective on life . Whether short or long-term, travel will carry deep meaning—especially if tied to learning, writing, teaching, research , or spiritual growth . From May to August , expect travel related to work—presentations, collaborations, or international networking may arise. Personal travel might center around family bonding, ancestral roots , or peaceful solitude. Ideal times for retreats or leisure trips are September and December , offering rejuvenation. This year also presents a chance to test the waters for a nomadic lifestyle or temporary relocation . However, during Mercury retrograde , travel disruptions and miscommunications are more likely. Plan meticulously, keep backups ready, and embrace flexibility without sacrificing structure. You Share Your Birthday With Rahman (Actor) Gayatri Devi K. Raghavendra Rao Sugandha Mishra Chandra Mohan (Telugu Actor) Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .

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