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How to Make Organic Colours at Home

How to Make Organic Colours at Home

The materials needed to play Holi are water, gulaal, and easily accessible synthetic colours. However, have you ever considered how detrimental these artificial colouring agents are to your skin?

Such colours have been shown to be harsh on the skin, causing cuts, rashes, allergies, and other issues. We can help you find a solution so you can enjoy Holi worry-free.

The only way to play Holi without getting hurt on your skin is to use “DIY Holi colours,” or organic colours, which are created using natural and household ingredients.

Yellow: 

For a yellow colour, you can combine gramme flour and turmeric in a 1:2 ratio. To ensure an even mixing of the ingredients, make sure to rub the mixture between your palms. To get a fine texture, you can then sieve the mixture through a strainer two or three times.

To create wet yellow colours, you can either add turmeric or boil marigolds in water. To achieve better colouring, make sure the turmeric is organic.

Red: 

Turmeric and lemon juice can be combined. Because lemon juice is acidic, it will cause the turmeric to turn red. After that, you can set the mixture aside in a well-ventilated area to dry. Just make sure there is not any sunlight present or it will bleach.

Red hibiscus flowers can also be dried until crisp, at which point they can be ground into a powder using a mixer. To boost the quantity and quality of the colour, you can then combine equal parts rice flour and red saffron.

To get a red, wet colour, you can also boil pomegranate peels in water.

Magenta: 

Slices of beetroot can be boiled in water. Red onions can also be used. Before using, strain and chill the water.

Pink: 

You can use the same procedures that you used to create the red colour. Simply use a smaller amount of lemon juice.

Brown: 

To achieve a brown hue, boil 200 grammes of coffee with water. To get rid of the smell, mix some rose water. But remember, coffee water will also result in stains.

Purple:

You can combine corn flour and ground black carrots in a mixer. Then you can leave it to dry. For fragrance, you can also add rose water.

Grey: 

To obtain the grey colour, you can use Indian gooseberry or amla seeds. Combine the corn flour and dried powder, then use without concern.

Green: 

For a dry green colour, you can combine henna powder with rice flour or maida. To get wet colours, mix it with water. Recall that henna combined with water can stain your skin and clothing. 

How to Celebrate Holi

Holi is sometimes called the festival of colors and the festival of love. It is called the festival of love, as on this day, people unite forgetting all the differences and bad feelings for each other. 

Holi marks the arrival of the spring season which is the harvest season and the end of winter.

This festival of colors lasts for around a day and a night in the month of Falgun or Phalguna, which starts in the evening of Purnima or Full Moon Day. 

The first evening of this great festival is celebrated with the name Holika Dahan or Choti Holi and the following day is called and celebrated as Holi. 

However, it is known by different names in different parts of the country.

How to celebrate Holi and what its its Significance:

  • As Holi is the festival of colors, it is considered that vibrant colors bring in a lot of positivity to our lives. And it is worth enjoying and celebrating a day to fill our lives with positivity. 
  • The ritual is started by lighting up the bonfire one day before the day of Holi and people often throw things like wood, dried leaves, and twigs into bonfires. This process resembles the victory of good over bad.
  • On the day of Holi people purely enjoy and have fun by splashing colors on each other called Gulal, with their friends and families.
  • Also, there are a few private parties where people can attend and play Holi together. Holi is a fun-filled festival that can be enjoyed with your friends, neighbors, and your colony members too. 
  • Children also enjoy the festival by splashing colored water with water guns and water balloons. People also dance and vibe around by playing songs on this festive day. 
  • In the evening they show love and respect to their close ones with some lip-smacking sweets like Gujiya and a special Holi drink called Thandai.
  • According to Hindu mythology, demon king Hiranyakashyap was given a boon which gave him the superpower of not being killed by either a man or any animal. 
  • Hiranyakashyap had bad intentions and wanted to be worshiped by people. On the other hand, his own son Prahalad was a great devotee of Lord Vishnu. 
  • As his own son doesn’t worship him, Hiranyakashyap was angry at that fact and asked his sister, demon Holika to sit in a pyre(bonfire) while holding his Prahalad. Both Holika and Prahalad sat on fire. 
  • But only Holika died, and Prahlad was saved by Lord Vishnu. After saving Prahalad, Lord Vishnu took the avatar of Narasimha- a half-human and half-lion and killed the demon king Hiranyakashyap. 
  • Hence, many locals celebrate the morning bonfire which is Holika Dahan which represents the burning of the demoness Holika. 
  • The colors with which we play Holi, are also said to have some meaning within them. The color blue symbolizes the color of Lord Krishna, as it was believed that he was born with blue skin. 
  • The color Green – resembles New beginnings and Rebirth. The red color symbolizes good marital life or fertility. However, yellow is a color that is used on every occasion and is considered to be auspicious.
  • Although Holi is celebrated in the same way across the country, there are a few places where the celebration is unique. Celebrations of Holi in Vrindavan and Mathura are very famous for their unique celebrations. 
  • Also, in places like Rajasthan, Barsana, and Uttar Pradesh people celebrate Lathmar Holi. During Lathmar Holi women hit men with sticks(called lath) and the men try to shield themselves. 
  • So, this Holi makes a point to educate your children about the significance of the festival, enjoy playing Holi with your neighbors or friends and seek the blessings of your elders. Have a happy and safe Holi!

Holi

Holi,  one of the most revered and celebrated festivals of India, is celebrated in almost every part of the country. The great Indian festival lasts for a day and a night, which starts in the evening of Purnima or the Full Moon Day in the month of Falgun.  It is celebrated with the name Holika Dahan or Choti Holi on the first evening of the festival and the following day is called Holi.

Mythological significance of Holi:
Despite being such a colourful and gay festival, there are various aspects of Holi which make it so significant for Indians. Holi gets us close to our religion and our mythology as it is essentially the celebration of various legends associated with the festival.
  • Foremost is the legend of Prahlad and Hiranyakshyap. The Legend has it that Prahlad was saved for his extreme devotion to the lord while Holika paid a price for her sinister desire. The tradition of burning Holika or the ‘Holika Dahan comes mainly from this legend.
  • Holi also celebrates the legend of Radha and Krishna which describes the extreme delight Krishna took in applying colour on Radha and other gopis.  This prank of Krishna later became a trend and a part of the Holi festivities.
  • Mythology also states that Holi is the celebration of the death of Ogress Pootana who tried to kill an infant, Krishna by feeding poisonous milk to it.

Rituals of Holi:

Rituals of the ancient festival of Holi are religiously followed every year with care and enthusiasm.  Days before Holi, people start gathering wood for the lighting of the bonfire called Holika at the major crossroads of the city. This ritual ensures that at the time of the actual celebration a huge pile of wood is collected.

Holi pooja:

It is believed that all sorts of fear can be conquered by doing Holika Puja on Holi. Holika Puja bestows power, prosperity, and wealth. It is believed that Holika was created to ward off all sorts of fear. Hence Holika, although a Demoness, is worshipped along with Prahlada before Holika Dahan.

The tradition of Thandai:

Thandai is embedded with the tradition of Holi.  A refreshing and healthful drink thandai is savored amid the play of colors when people become a little exhausted by throwing each other in the pool of colored waters. 

The tradition of Bhang:

Culled from the leaves and buds of cannabis – the very intoxicating bhang helps to escalate the spirit of Holi. The tradition of consuming bhang on Holi is particularly rampant in North India where Holi itself is celebrated with a gusto unseen anywhere else.

The colorful festival:

All in all the air is abuzz with fun and excitement. Each Holi color signifies a special emotion that transcends the brightly colored faces of people to a sentiment of community, equality and oneness.

  • Red: Purity
  • Orange: Endurance
  • Purple: Magic
  • Blue: Calmness
  • Green: Vitality
  • Yellow: Happiness
  • Pink: Love

Significance of colours in Holi

India celebrates Holi in all its glory with loud and elaborate revelry.

India’s First Telugu LLM by August: Transforming Digital Access in Local Dialects

The Telugu language is set to take a major leap in digital accessibility with the launch of the first-ever Telugu Large Language Model (LLM). This ambitious initiative, led by the International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad (IIITH) in collaboration with Swecha, aims to make information readily available in Telugu and its regional dialects. The project is expected to release a basic version by April 2025 during the ‘AI Days’ conference, with a full-scale deployment planned by August 2025.

Empowering Telugu Speakers Through AI

Language models have revolutionized digital communication, but most AI-driven platforms are predominantly optimized for global languages like English. The development of a Telugu LLM will bridge this gap, ensuring native speakers can interact with digital platforms more naturally. This initiative aims to enhance access to knowledge in Telugu, making information retrieval, translations, and interactive digital experiences more seamless.

A Data-Driven Approach to Language Modeling

Building an effective AI model requires vast datasets, and the team behind the Telugu LLM has undertaken an extensive effort to compile one. They have digitized approximately 8 crore pages of Telugu literature and collected 4,000 hours of spoken data. This vast repository covers various dialects and linguistic nuances, ensuring the AI model can understand and generate text in multiple regional variations of Telugu.

From Folk Tales to Advanced AI

This isn’t the first attempt at creating Telugu-language AI models. Swecha and Ozonetel Communications previously collaborated to develop ‘AI Chandamama Kathalu,’ a Telugu Small Language Model (SLM) trained on folk tales. This earlier success provided a strong foundation for the upcoming Telugu LLM, demonstrating the potential of community-driven, open-source projects in advancing regional AI capabilities.

Impact on Culture, Education, and Business

The introduction of a Telugu LLM is expected to have a transformative impact across multiple domains:

Education: Students will have access to AI-powered learning tools in their native language, improving comprehension and accessibility.

Government and Public Services: Citizens can interact with online portals, legal documents, and official information in Telugu, reducing the language barrier in essential services.

Business and Customer Service: Companies can develop AI chatbots and voice assistants tailored to Telugu-speaking customers, enhancing customer engagement.

Preservation of Local Dialects: By incorporating various regional accents and linguistic styles, the model helps preserve and promote Telugu’s rich linguistic heritage.

Looking Ahead

With an expected full-scale release by August 2025, the Telugu LLM will mark a significant milestone in AI-driven language accessibility. As more regional language models emerge, India moves closer to a truly inclusive digital future, where technology caters to linguistic diversity rather than restricting it.

The success of this project could serve as a blueprint for other Indian languages, ensuring that AI technology benefits all linguistic communities. For Telugu speakers, this initiative is not just about AI—it’s about preserving culture, improving accessibility, and paving the way for future innovation in regional language computing.

Honoring a Legacy: Telangana IT Minister Pays Tribute to His Father’s Selfless Service

On March 2, 2025, Telangana’s Information Technology Minister, D. Sridhar Babu, commemorated the 88th birth anniversary of his father, the late Duddilla Sripada Rao, former Speaker of the undivided Andhra Pradesh Assembly. The event in Manthani town was marked by heartfelt tributes and community-centric initiatives.

Honoring a Legacy of Service

Minister Sridhar Babu paid floral tributes to his father’s statue, reflecting on Sripada Rao’s selfless contributions to society. He emphasized the enduring impact of good deeds, stating, “If we do good for 10 people, it should be remembered for 10 generations.” This sentiment underscores the lasting influence of Sripada Rao’s work in the community.

Community Engagement and Welfare Activities

Demonstrating a commitment to public welfare, Sridhar Babu visited the Government Hospital in Manthani. There, he distributed fruits and bread to patients and provided new uniforms to the sanitation staff, highlighting the importance of healthcare and hygiene. Additionally, he inaugurated a buttermilk distribution center at the Manthani bus station, an initiative by the Youth Congress, to offer free refreshments to the public.

A Pledge to Constituents

In his address, Sridhar Babu expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from party workers and leaders. He reaffirmed his dedication to his constituency, stating that despite his ministerial role, he remains a committed worker for the people of his region. He noted that while Sripada Rao is no longer present, his spirit continues to inspire and guide their collective efforts.

The commemoration not only honored Sripada Rao’s legacy but also reinforced the ongoing commitment to community service and the well-being of the people in Manthani and beyond.

Former RS member Dr. Narendra Jadhav Delivers Justice Konda Madhava Reddy Memorial Lecture

Renowned Economist and Former Rajya Sabha Member Speaks on Socio-Economic Challenges

Dr. Narendra Jadhav, an eminent economist, educationist, and former Rajya Sabha member, delivered the prestigious Justice Konda Madhava Reddy Memorial Lecture. The event, held in honor of the esteemed jurist, highlighted pressing socio-economic challenges and their impact on India’s progress.

Addressing Key Socio-Economic Issues

During his address, Dr. Jadhav emphasized the need for inclusive development, economic reforms, and social equity to ensure sustainable growth. He shed light on the significance of education, employment, and economic policies in shaping India’s future.

Tribute to Justice Konda Madhava Reddy

Dr. Jadhav paid homage to Justice Konda Madhava Reddy, recognizing his contributions to the Indian judiciary and legal system. He highlighted the late judge’s commitment to justice and his role in upholding constitutional values.

The Role of Economic and Social Policies

In his speech, Dr. Jadhav underscored the importance of policy-driven economic growth, advocating for reforms that empower marginalized communities. He stressed the necessity of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship to create a robust economy.

A Call for Action

Dr. Jadhav concluded his lecture by urging policymakers, scholars, and the youth to actively contribute to nation-building. He encouraged a collective effort to address economic disparities and ensure a prosperous future for India.

The lecture, attended by legal experts, academicians, and policymakers, provided valuable insights into the intersection of law, justice, and socio-economic development.

ED Attaches Assets Worth Rs 8 Crore in Hyderabad Illegal Drug Export Case

In a significant crackdown on illegal drug exports, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has provisionally attached assets worth Rs 8 crore linked to an illicit internet pharmacy operation in Hyderabad. The case, which has been under investigation since May 2022, has exposed a web of financial irregularities and illegal drug trade disguised as a legitimate business.

The Investigation Unfolds

The probe began after the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) registered an FIR against Aashish Jain, the alleged mastermind behind the operation. Jain operated JR Infinity Private Limited, which was purportedly engaged in telemarketing and search engine optimization services. However, authorities discovered that the firm was covertly exporting psychotropic substances, including Alprazolam, Zolpidem, Lorazepam, Clonazepam, Hydrocodone, and Oxycodone.

NCB’s searches led to the seizure of Rs 3.7 crore in cash, along with crucial evidence pointing to large-scale drug trafficking. As the case progressed, the ED stepped in to investigate the financial trail linked to the illegal business.

Attached Assets and Money Trail

The Enforcement Directorate’s probe revealed that before establishing JR Infinity Private Limited, Jain and his family members received over Rs 4.5 crore in foreign remittances through their personal bank accounts without any legitimate business transactions. These funds, along with proceeds from drug sales, were allegedly laundered into real estate investments and fixed deposits.

In its latest action, the ED has attached 22 immovable properties, including land parcels in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, valued at Rs 6.5 crore. Additionally, 8 movable assets, including bank balances and fixed deposits amounting to Rs 1.46 crore, have been seized. The total proceeds of crime in the case are estimated at Rs 12.7 crore.

Crackdown on Illegal Internet Pharmacies

The case sheds light on the growing threat posed by illegal internet pharmacies, which exploit digital platforms to distribute controlled substances across borders. By masquerading as legitimate businesses, these networks not only fuel drug abuse but also engage in money laundering and financial fraud.

The ED’s swift action underscores the agency’s commitment to dismantling such illicit operations and bringing offenders to justice. With increasing scrutiny on online pharmaceutical businesses, authorities are expected to tighten regulations and enhance monitoring mechanisms to prevent the misuse of e-commerce platforms for drug trafficking.

Final Analysis

The Hyderabad illegal drug export case is a stark reminder of the complexities involved in tackling modern-day financial crimes and drug trafficking. The attachment of assets worth Rs 8 crore is a crucial step in holding perpetrators accountable and recovering illicit proceeds. As investigations continue, authorities remain vigilant in curbing illegal activities that threaten public health and national security.

Amgen Opens $200 Million Tech & Innovation Centre in Hyderabad

Global biotech leader Amgen has inaugurated its $200 million technology and innovation centre in Hyderabad, reinforcing the city’s position as a growing hub for Global Capability Centres (GCCs). The state-of-the-art facility aims to enhance the company’s digital capabilities, create new opportunities for local talent, and contribute to the region’s thriving biotech ecosystem.

Expanding Workforce: 300 Hired, More to Come

The Amgen India facility, spanning 5,24,000 square feet, has already onboarded 300 employees, with plans to hire an additional 300 soon. The company is targeting a total workforce of 2,000 by the end of the year.

Telangana CM Highlights Hyderabad’s Global Appeal

Inaugurating the facility, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy emphasized the significance of Amgen’s investment, calling it a collaboration of two global leaders—Amgen and Hyderabad. He underscored Hyderabad’s leadership in the pharma and life sciences sectors, which makes it an attractive destination for innovation hubs like Amgen’s.

Mr. Reddy reiterated the state government’s commitment to industrial growth as part of its ambitious $1 trillion economy goal by 2030. Recalling his discussions with Amgen leadership during his U.S. visit, he urged the company to expand its investment in Hyderabad, broaden its research initiatives, and contribute to the state’s skill development programs.

Amgen’s Long-Term Commitment to India

Amgen Chairman Robert A. Bradway expressed the company’s long-standing interest in expanding to India. He praised Hyderabad’s innovation ecosystem and confirmed Amgen’s plan to invest $200 million by the end of the year, with additional investments in the pipeline. Founded in 1980, Amgen operates in over 100 countries and employs 28,000 people worldwide.

A Boost for Hyderabad’s Life Sciences Sector

Industries and IT Minister D. Sridhar Babu highlighted the rapid setup of Amgen’s facility, following discussions between the Telangana government and Amgen’s leadership last year. He described the center as the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Hyderabad’s life sciences journey, further cementing its status as a key player in the global healthcare and GCC space.

Photo Credit: By Arrangement

Polls to a Graduates’ and two Teachers’ seats of Telangana Legislative Council, MLC, on February 27, counting on March 3

Polls to a Graduates’ and two Teachers’ seats of Telangana Legislative Council, MLC, on February 27, counting on March 3

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday (January 29, 2025) has announced the schedule for conduct of elections to two Teachers’ and one Graduates’ constituencies of the Telangana Legislative Council (MLC).

  1. Medak-Nizamabad-Adilabad-Karimnagar Graduates’ constituency, 

BJP : ANJI REDDY CHINNAMILE

Congress : VOOTUKURI NARENDER REDDY

  1. Medak-Nizamabad-Adilabad-Karimnagar Teachers’ constituency

BJP : MALKA KOMARAIAH

Congress : https://ceotelangana.nic.in/Mlc2025.HTML 

  1. Warangal-Khammam-Nalgonda Teachers’ constituency 

BJP : PULI SAROTHAM REDDY

Congress : https://ceotelangana.nic.in/Mlc2025.HTML

The election would be held on February 27 from 8 am to 4 pm and counting of votes would take place on March 3. 

After the last day of withdrawal of nominations, a total of 90 candidates remain in the fray for three MLC seats.

Among the total candidates, 56 are contesting from the Medak-Nizamabad-Adilabad-Karimnagar graduates’ constituency, 15 the Medak-Nizamabad-Adilabad-Karimnagar teachers’ segment and 19 in the Warangal-Khammam-Nalgonda teachers’ constituency.

The term of the three sitting MLCs — T Jeevan Reddy (graduates’ constituency), Kura Raghotham Reddy (teachers’ constituency) and A Narsi Reddy (teachers’ constituency)—will end on March 29.

Candidates details & affidavits –

https://ceotelangana.nic.in/Mlc2025.HTML

India vs Pakistan, Champions Trophy 2025: Kohli’s Century Guides India to a Six-Wicket Win

In a thrilling encounter at the Dubai International Stadium, Virat Kohli led India to a resounding six-wicket victory over Pakistan in the Group Stage of the Champions Trophy 2025. Kohli’s scintillating knock, which included his 51st ODI century, helped India successfully chase down Pakistan’s total of 241.

Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first. Despite a solid start from openers Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq, the dismissal of both openers in quick succession put Pakistan on the backfoot. However, captain Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel combined for a brilliant century partnership, steadying the ship. The middle order, including Khushdil Shah’s late cameo, helped Pakistan reach 241 all out in 49.5 overs.

India’s chase began confidently with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill looking fluent at the crease. However, the early dismissal of Rohit (31) by Shaheen Shah Afridi brought Kohli to the middle. Kohli and Gill put on 69 runs for the second wicket before Gill was dismissed for 46.

Kohli then partnered with Shreyas Iyer, who played a vital knock of 56, as the duo took control of the chase, rotating strike and finding boundaries with ease. It was left to Kohli to finish the job, and he did so in style, bringing up his 51st century in the process, sealing India’s victory with 6 wickets to spare.

This match also marked Kohli’s first-ever century in an ICC Champions Trophy, making it a milestone performance in his illustrious career.