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8 Low-Maintenance Indoor Plants That Are Perfect For First-Time Plant Parents

Bringing indoor plants into your home is one of the easiest ways to make a space feel fresh, inviting and more connected to nature. However, many beginners worry about choosing plants that require constant care or expert gardening skills. The good news is that several houseplants are both attractive and forgiving, making them ideal for first-time plant parents. Whether you live in a flat with limited sunlight or have a busy schedule, these low-maintenance indoor plants can thrive with minimal effort. Here are eight beginner-friendly options that are easy to grow and can instantly brighten your living space. Best Low-Maintenance Indoor Plants Snake Plant And Pothos The snake plant is one of the easiest indoor plants to grow. It adapts well to low and bright indirect light and only needs watering every two to three weeks. Its upright leaves also make it a stylish addition to bedrooms, living rooms, and offices. Pothos, commonly known as the money plant, is another reliable choice. It grows well in low to medium indirect light and only needs watering once the soil feels dry. Whether displayed in a hanging basket or placed on a shelf, its trailing vines add greenery with very little maintenance. ALSO READ | Monsoon Laundry Tips: 17 Easy Ways To Stop Clothes Smelling Damp During The Rainy Season Peace Lily, ZZ Plant And Spider Plant Peace lilies are known for their elegant white flowers and ability to thrive in low-light conditions. Watering once the soil begins to dry is usually enough to keep them healthy. The ZZ plant is an excellent option for people who often forget to water their plants. It tolerates low light and can go for weeks without watering, making it ideal for busy households. Spider plants are equally beginner-friendly. They adjust well to different lighting conditions, require only occasional watering and produce baby plants that can be propagated easily. ALSO READ | Monsoon Making Your Home Smell Damp? 10 Easy Fixes To Keep Moisture And Mould Away Easy Indoor Plants For Every Home Rubber Plant, Philodendron And Dracaena Rubber plants are admired for their broad, glossy leaves and modern appearance. They prefer bright, indirect sunlight and moderate watering, allowing the top layer of soil to dry before the next watering. Philodendrons are another popular indoor plant thanks to their attractive trailing foliage and low-maintenance nature. They tolerate occasional missed watering and grow well in small indoor spaces. Dracaena varieties are perfect for adding height and texture to a room. They grow best in indirect light and only require watering when the top layer of soil has dried, making them a practical choice for beginners. Starting your plant journey does not have to be complicated. Choosing hardy, low-maintenance indoor plants makes it easier to build confidence while adding natural beauty to your home. With the right care, these beginner-friendly plants can stay healthy for years and help create a greener, more welcoming living space.

New stock market timings from August 3: What has changed?

Starting August 3, Sebi will implement a new Closing Auction Session for F&O stocks. This session will determine the official closing price after regular trading concludes. Trading hours in the equity derivatives segment will also extend by ten minutes. The pre-open session has been revised with new order entry and matching times. These changes aim for a fairer and more transparent closing price discovery.

Facelift Suzuki XL7 Could Mean Maruti XL6 Update Coming Soon

Suzuki has unveiled the updated XL7 in Indonesia, and the model could offer a strong indication of what Indian buyers can expect from the next-generation Maruti Suzuki XL6. While the XL7 name is used in several international markets, the MPV is sold as the XL6 in India and serves as the more premium, crossover-inspired sibling of the Ertiga. The latest update focuses primarily on design and features rather than mechanical changes, giving the MPV a more rugged SUV-inspired identity. Sharper SUV-Inspired Exterior Design The biggest change on the updated XL7 is at the front. Suzuki has redesigned the fascia with a much bolder and more upright appearance, giving the MPV a stronger road presence. The front now gets a larger gloss-black grille with a vertical slat design, replacing the existing unit with a more aggressive look. The revised headlamps complement the new grille, while the extensive use of black elements lends the XL7 a tougher and more premium stance. The redesigned grille significantly transforms the appearance of the vehicle, making it look more SUV-like than before. From the side, the silhouette remains largely unchanged, although the addition of black alloy wheels enhances the sporty contrast and complements the crossover styling. At the rear, the changes are minimal, with only subtle styling revisions to distinguish the facelift from the outgoing model. Cabin Gets Feature Upgrades Inside, the overall cabin layout remains familiar, but Suzuki has introduced a few important updates. The interior receives revised trim finishes along with a newer infotainment system, bringing the cabin more in line with the brand's latest offerings. When the updated XL6 eventually arrives in India, it is expected to feature a larger touchscreen infotainment system along with an improved 360-degree camera display. The all-black interior theme is likely to be retained, preserving the premium appeal that differentiates the XL6 from the Ertiga. As this is expected to be a mid-life facelift rather than an all-new generation model, passenger space and practicality are unlikely to change. No Mechanical Changes Expected Mechanically, the updated model is expected to remain unchanged. The XL6 is likely to continue with the same petrol engine currently on sale, with no major changes expected to the powertrain. However, Maruti Suzuki could introduce the latest updated CNG version of the XL6, which would broaden its appeal among buyers looking for lower running costs and could further boost sales. India Launch Likely Next Year Although Suzuki has introduced the model as the XL7 in Indonesia, the Indian version is expected to continue carrying the XL6 nameplate. With refreshed styling, additional features and potential equipment upgrades, the updated XL6 is also expected to witness a modest price increase. Based on the latest international reveal, the facelifted XL6 is likely to make its India debut sometime next year.

Monsoon Laundry Tips: 17 Easy Ways To Stop Clothes Smelling Damp During The Rainy Season

The arrival of the monsoon offers a welcome break from soaring temperatures, but it also brings a familiar household challenge—clothes that take forever to dry and develop an unpleasant damp smell. High humidity slows the drying process, allowing moisture to remain trapped in fabrics for longer than usual. This creates ideal conditions for bacteria, mould and mildew to grow, leaving freshly washed clothes smelling stale. Fortunately, a few simple changes to your laundry routine can make a noticeable difference. From improving airflow to washing techniques and smarter storage habits, these practical tips can help keep your clothes fresh throughout the rainy season. Why Clothes Smell During Monsoon Humidity is the biggest reason behind musty-smelling laundry. When the air is already full of moisture, water trapped inside fabrics evaporates much more slowly. Clothes that remain damp for several hours become the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mould, which are responsible for the familiar stale odour. Another common mistake is leaving washed clothes inside the washing machine after the cycle ends. In humid weather, even a few extra hours in a closed drum can encourage mildew to develop, making clothes smell unpleasant before they are even hung out to dry. ALSO READ | Monsoon Making Your Home Smell Damp? 10 Easy Fixes To Keep Moisture And Mould Away Simple Laundry Habits That Make A Difference A few everyday habits can help clothes dry more quickly and stay fresh. Shake each garment before hanging it to remove excess water and loosen fabric fibres. This improves airflow and helps clothes dry evenly. Turn jeans, hoodies and shirts with thick collars inside out, as seams, waistbands and pockets tend to trap moisture for longer. Avoid hanging garments too close together. Leaving a gap of a few inches between each item allows air to circulate freely. Even after clothes feel dry, keeping them under a ceiling fan for another 30 to 60 minutes helps remove hidden moisture that can later cause unpleasant cupboard smells. ALSO READ | Budget Traveller | Planning A Kannauj Trip? Explore Attar Distilleries, Rose Fields And Historic Sites Under Rs 5,000 If you use white vinegar, add about half a cup during the final rinse cycle rather than mixing it with detergent. It helps remove detergent residue and neutralise odour-causing bacteria. However, it should never be combined with bleach. For white clothes, towels and bedsheets, oxygen bleach can help reduce microbial growth without the harshness of chlorine bleach. Experts also recommend washing towels separately from clothing, as they retain much more water and slow the drying process for the entire load. Avoid overloading the washing machine, as tightly packed clothes do not wash or rinse properly, leaving detergent and moisture trapped in the fabric. Keep Moisture Out Of Your Home And Wardrobe Drying clothes indoors during the rainy season requires good ventilation. Rather than keeping every window closed, open them whenever possible or use an exhaust fan to move humid air outside. Air movement is often more effective than waiting for direct sunshine. Clean the rubber door seal of front-loading washing machines regularly, as mould often forms in hidden folds where water collects. Wash gym wear and synthetic fabrics as soon as possible after use because they retain sweat oils that encourage bacterial growth. Once clothes are dry, store them only after ensuring no moisture remains. Placing silica gel packs or moisture absorbers inside wardrobes can help reduce humidity. Opening wardrobe doors for around half an hour each week also allows trapped moisture to escape. Ironing heavier garments before storing them can further remove any remaining dampness and reduce the risk of stale odours. Keeping clothes fresh during the monsoon is less about washing more often and more about drying them properly. Small adjustments, such as improving ventilation, avoiding overcrowded drying racks, and storing clothes only when completely dry, can prevent damp smells and help your wardrobe stay clean and fresh throughout the rainy season.

Monsoon Making Your Home Smell Damp? 10 Easy Fixes To Keep Moisture And Mould Away

The monsoon may cool the weather, but it often leaves homes battling excess moisture, unpleasant smells and mould growth. High humidity, reduced ventilation and hidden leaks can quietly damage walls, furniture and fabrics while affecting indoor air quality. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), long-term exposure to damp indoor environments may increase the risk of allergies, asthma and respiratory problems. The good news is that preventing these issues does not always require major repairs. A few practical maintenance habits and timely action can help keep your home dry, comfortable and healthy throughout the rainy season without much effort. Why Dampness Becomes A Monsoon Problem Humidity levels rise sharply during the rainy season, allowing moisture to settle into walls, wooden furniture, upholstery, curtains and cupboards. With windows often kept closed to prevent rainwater from entering, airflow reduces, and trapped moisture creates ideal conditions for mould, mildew and stale odours. ALSO READ | Friendship Day 2026: Funny, Emotional And Short Captions For Instagram, WhatsApp And Facebook Posts The World Health Organization (WHO) says persistent indoor dampness and mould are associated with a higher risk of respiratory symptoms, allergies and asthma. Preventing moisture build-up remains the most effective way to reduce these health concerns. Improve Airflow And Eliminate Moisture Sources Good ventilation is one of the simplest ways to control indoor humidity. Open windows whenever there is a dry spell and encourage cross-ventilation by opening doors or windows on opposite sides of the house. Keeping furniture slightly away from walls also improves air circulation. ALSO READ | Why Devotees Donate Their Hair At Tirupati Balaji Temple And What The Sacred Ritual Means At the same time, inspect your home for roof leaks, cracked walls, leaking pipes and damaged window seals. Small seepage problems can quickly develop into peeling paint, mould and structural damage if ignored. Bathrooms and kitchens also need extra care during the monsoon. Use exhaust fans after cooking or showering, wipe away excess water and avoid allowing moisture to collect around sinks and corners. Protect Furniture, Fabrics And Storage Areas Wardrobes, cupboards and enclosed storage spaces often develop a musty smell first because they receive little ventilation. Leave cupboard doors open occasionally, use silica gel packets, activated charcoal or other moisture absorbers, and never store clothes or linen unless they are completely dry. Household fabrics also absorb moisture easily during the rainy season. Dry towels, curtains, rugs, cushions and bedsheets thoroughly before putting them away. Whenever sunlight appears, air mattresses, pillows and blankets outdoors. If humidity remains consistently high, a dehumidifier can help reduce excess moisture and lower the chances of mould developing indoors.  Spot Warning Signs Before Damage Spreads Some dampness during the monsoon is expected, but recurring issues should never be ignored. Black or green mould patches, bubbling paint, crumbling plaster, repeated damp spots and a lingering musty smell often indicate an underlying moisture problem rather than a surface-level issue. Clean mould as soon as it appears using suitable anti-fungal products, dry the affected area properly and, most importantly, identify the source of moisture instead of repeatedly treating the stains. Interior experts also recommend choosing breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen and khadi during the rainy season, as they dry faster and retain less moisture than heavier materials. Keeping your home dry during the monsoon is about more than maintaining its appearance. Regular ventilation, prompt repairs and simple moisture-control measures can help protect your interiors while creating a healthier indoor environment for everyone at home.

Market recap: Top-10 firms add Rs 2.51 lakh crore; Bajaj Finance biggest winner

India's largest listed firms saw market value increase by Rs 2.51 lakh crore last week. Nine of the top ten most-valued companies experienced valuation gains on Dalal Street. Bajaj Finance led the surge after reporting strong June-quarter earnings, while Hindustan Unilever declined. The BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty indices climbed significantly, reflecting positive market sentiment. Easing crude oil prices and renewed foreign investor buying boosted risk appetite.

'That’s not something': Bhuvneshwar Kumar on India return

​Bhuvneshwar Kumar says he is at peace with life outside the Indian team and now plays cricket mainly because of his passion for the game. The veteran pacer credits his family for helping him accept the transition. He also praises the IPL, Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri for strengthening India’s fast-bowling culture and recalls Praveen Kumar’s influence.

Friendship Day 2026: Funny, Emotional And Short Captions For Instagram, WhatsApp And Facebook Posts

Friendship Day is more than just another date on the calendar, it is a celebration of the people who stand by us through every stage of life. Whether it is a childhood friend, a college roommate, a work colleague or a lifelong companion, true friendships deserve to be celebrated. As Friendship Day 2026 is marked across India, social media is once again filled with heartfelt tributes, funny throwbacks and memorable pictures. If you are searching for the perfect caption, here are 100 options for every mood. 100 Friendship Day Captions Friends who became family. Forever grateful for my people. Better together, always. My favourite humans. Friendship never goes out of style. Cheers to us. Partners in crime forever. Real friends, real memories. Blessed with the best. Every moment is better with you. Friends make life brighter. No friendship filter needed. Side by side through everything. My safe place. Forever my support system. The best stories start with friends. Memories worth keeping forever. Life is better with true friends. Here's to endless laughter. Friends first, always. Some bonds never fade. Chosen family for life. Happiness looks like this. Friends over everything. Together through every season. Friendship is priceless. My daily dose of happiness. Lucky to know you. Different journeys, same friendship. We grew up together. Forever grateful for this bond. Smiles made better together. My forever favourite. Friends make every day special. Through thick and thin. Thanks for putting up with me. You deserve an award for tolerating me. Friends don't let friends embarrass themselves alone. We should charge people to watch our adventures. Chaos follows us everywhere. Powered by snacks and sarcasm. We survived school together. Still laughing at the same old jokes. Professional troublemakers. Friendship fuelled by memes. We make bad ideas look fun. My unpaid therapist. Friendship level: Unfiltered. We never act our age. The funniest memories are with you. We laugh at things no one understands. Too weird to be apart. Besties with zero self-control. Same madness, different day. Thanks for keeping my secrets. Partners in poor decisions. Friends who roast together stay together. No one gets our jokes. Friendship built on coffee and gossip. You're my favourite distraction. Through every high and low, you've stayed. Thank you for always believing in me. Some friendships feel like home. Distance changes nothing. Forever thankful for you. Every memory means the world. You make difficult days easier. Friendship is life's greatest blessing. Always my biggest cheerleader. Thank you for every smile. Some people change your life forever. We may grow older, never apart. Friends make ordinary days unforgettable. A bond that time cannot break. Every chapter is better with you. True friendship needs no explanation. My constant through every season. Thank you for being you. Every laugh is worth remembering. Together, no matter what. One picture, countless memories. Collecting moments with my favourite people. This friendship deserves a lifetime. The best adventures begin together. Friendship goals achieved. We came, we laughed, we conquered. My forever crew. Better memories, better friends. Every selfie tells our story. Friends make every journey worthwhile. More laughs, fewer worries. Friends forever, no matter the distance. Every reunion feels like yesterday. My people, my peace. Grateful beyond words. Here's to many more adventures. Friends make life complete. Love, laughter and lifelong friendship. Forever starts with friends. Happy Friendship Day to my favourite people!                        

RBI updates deposit rules: From differential rates to daily disclosures, here's what's changing

The Reserve Bank of India has revised rules for bulk deposits, effective October 2026. Banks can now offer differential interest rates based on liquidity risk under the LCR framework. This move aligns deposit pricing with revised LCR guidelines for better asset-liability management. Mandatory daily public disclosure of bulk deposit rates will enhance transparency for customers. However, uniform rates will continue for similarly placed depositors across all branches.

FPIs return to India: Rs 20,200 cr injected into equities after months of selling

Foreign portfolio investors returned to Indian equities in July after four months of outflows. They invested twenty thousand two hundred crore rupees in stocks during July. This renewed interest stems from attractive valuations and improving corporate earnings. Foreign investors also showed strong interest in the Indian debt market during July. Overseas developments and domestic events will guide future investment directions.

Why Did Hardik Pandya Offer His Hair At Tirupati? Sacred Meaning Behind Ancient Ritual

After Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya recently offered his hair at the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala, the centuries-old ritual has once again drawn widespread attention. For millions of devotees, a visit to Lord Venkateswara's shrine is considered incomplete without offering their hair to the deity. Known as tonsure, the practice is regarded as a symbol of humility, gratitude, and complete surrender before the Lord. Many devotees also perform the ritual after a wish is fulfilled or as part of a sacred vow. Rooted in ancient legend and sustained through centuries of faith, the tradition continues to hold deep religious and cultural significance for pilgrims across India. Hair Donation At Tirupati: The Historical Legend One of the most widely narrated traditions links the ritual to Princess Padmavathi. According to temple lore, the princess once travelled to Tirupati with a group of devotees to seek the blessings of Lord Venkateswara. During the journey, they were attacked by bandits. In her moment of distress, she prayed to the deity and vowed to offer her hair if they were protected. The legend says Lord Venkateswara answered her prayers and rescued the group. True to her promise, Princess Padmavathi cut off her hair and offered it to the Lord as a mark of gratitude. Inspired by her devotion, other devotees followed the practice, which gradually became an enduring temple tradition observed by millions. ALSO READ | Was Kaikeyi Really The Villain? Ramayana Reveals A Lesser-Known Truth Spiritual Significance Of Offering Hair In Hindu belief, hair is often associated with one's appearance, pride, and personal identity. Offering it before the deity symbolises letting go of ego and placing complete faith in God. Devotees believe the act reflects humility rather than sacrifice. Many pilgrims choose to donate their hair after prayers are answered, whether it is recovery from illness, the birth of a child, success in personal endeavours or overcoming difficult circumstances. Others undertake the ritual while seeking blessings for the future. For many families, the practice has been passed down through generations as an important act of devotion. ALSO READ | South Kali Peeth: Devotees Share Divine Experience, Claim 18 Serpent Deities Appeared During Sawan Puja How The Offering Benefits The Temple And Society After the tonsure, the collected hair is carefully sorted and auctioned by the temple authorities. According to official temple practices, the proceeds help support various welfare initiatives, including free meals for devotees, educational institutions, healthcare services and other charitable activities. The temple's hair auctions have also become internationally recognised, with the donated hair being used to manufacture wigs and hair extensions. As a result, a deeply personal religious offering continues to support social and community welfare long after the pilgrimage has ended. For devotees, offering hair at Tirupati is far more than a temple ritual. It represents gratitude, faith and the fulfilment of a sacred promise. Whether performed after a wish is fulfilled or simply as an act of devotion, the centuries-old tradition continues to strengthen the spiritual bond between Lord Venkateswara and the millions who visit His shrine every year.

Dalal Street outlook: RBI policy, earnings and other cues to drive market this week

The stock market faces a crucial week with key domestic and global events. The Reserve Bank of India's interest rate decision is a major focus for investors. Geopolitical developments in West Asia and crude oil prices will also influence sentiment. Several large companies are set to announce their quarterly earnings results. Foreign investors turned net buyers in July, supporting market confidence.

RCB Title-Winning Star Rajat Patidar Named Captain Of New Team

Rajat Patidar's impressive run in domestic and franchise cricket has earned him another major leadership role. Despite being out of the national setup, the right-hander has continued to deliver consistent performances and enjoyed tremendous success as captain, leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru to back-to-back IPL titles in 2025 and 2026. He has now been appointed captain of Central Zone for the upcoming Duleep Trophy. Central Zone announced its squad for the prestigious domestic tournament, with Rajat Patidar named captain and Rinku Singh appointed vice-captain. The squad also features several notable names, including Harsh Dubey, Yash Thakur, Aryan Juyal and Arshad Khan. Also Read | Huge Blow To India! Jasprit Bumrah Ruled Out Of Sri Lanka Tests: Report Also included is Saransh Jain, Patidar's Madhya Pradesh teammate, who recently earned his maiden India call-up for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka. Vidarbha opener Aman Mokhade has also been rewarded for an outstanding 2025-26 Ranji Trophy campaign, during which he amassed 760 runs in 11 innings at an average of 76. Another promising batter, Ayush Pandey of Chhattisgarh, has been selected after recently representing India A on the tour of Sri Lanka. Central Zone squad for Duleep Trophy 2026 Rajat Patidar (captain), Rinku Singh (vice-captain), Aryan Juyal (wk), Kunal Singh (wk), Saransh Jain, Kunal Chandela, Aman Mokhade, Zeeshan Ansari, Arshad Khan, Aryan Pandey, Ayush Pandey, Yash Rathod, Harsh Dubey, Nachiket Bhute and Yash Thakur. The 63rd edition of the Duleep Trophy will be held from August 23 to September 10. Six teams - Central Zone, East Zone, North Zone, North East, South West and West Zone - will compete for the title in the premier domestic first-class tournament. Rajat Patidar’s Stellar Form in IPL 2026 Leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Rajat Patidar enjoyed a spectacular IPL 2026 campaign. Functioning as a high-impact middle-order batter, he accumulated 501 runs. Patidar excelled in middle and death overs, highlighted by a game-changing, unbeaten 93 off 33 balls in Qualifier 1 to guide RCB to back-to-back finals.

New Toyota Hilux Review: Raw But Still Civilized

The Hilux isn't your usual car. It's meant for off-roading and a lifestyle accessory for your weekend but it is also a tough vehicle loved globally. The Hilux is a bigger brand and one of the most well-known Toyota models around the world. India finally got the new version and it's still a tough off-roader at heart. It retains its ladder-frame platform, of course, but there are improvements. Better Looks, Better Cabin The new Hilux is quieter, better in ride quality and easier to live with, along with a better interior. It looks fabulous too and has a sharper design now with sleeker headlamps and a tall stance. It is a massive vehicle though, but looks sleeker while having more road presence. You have to climb inside and it's not easy to get into, but the interior is a huge improvement with better quality materials and big, chunky switchgear. The larger 12.3-inch touchscreen looks better and gets all of the required features, but the 360-degree camera display could have been better. Elsewhere, the new Hilux gains more features and technology, along with seven airbags. That said, ventilated seats, ADAS and even climate control are missing. Space at the rear is decent and it works well as a four-seater. ALSO READ: Mahindra Scorpio N Facelift Vs XUV 7XO: Gap Is Less Now?  More Refined On The Road Start the car and there is a familiar diesel rumble from the 2.8-litre engine producing 204bhp and 500Nm. There is no manual option as the Hilux comes only with a six-speed automatic transmission. Despite not getting an electric power steering, the low-speed heaviness is less and the new Hilux is easier to drive now. It feels less cumbersome and the engine noise at low speeds is reduced too. It is still loud when pushed hard, but the new Hilux is an improvement with feeling less heavy. It rolls less and feels more controlled. The ride too is less bouncy, though bad roads will still have occupants being tossed around a bit. Verdict The new Hilux isn't expensive and the price hasn't risen over the earlier version, while it now looks much better and has a better interior. However, the cabin is still missing some expected features at this price point. Even so, it's a tough, reliable, go-anywhere workhorse that stands apart from conventional SUVs. What we like – Looks, off-road ability, improved interior What we don't like – Missing several features, not easy to drive in the city

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