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Rishab Rikhiram Sharma was in New York, half a planet away, when his beloved Nanu was admitted to hospital in Delhi. It was late 2020, right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, with no way for him to get home. His only connection to his maternal grandfather—isolated in the hospital ward, with only one visitor allowed—was through FaceTime, and the sitar prodigy would play his favourite songs.

“After we lost him, I was broken. It was the lowest point of my life,” remembers 26-year-old Sharma, speaking over Zoom from his living room in Delhi. “I was depressed and dealing with a lot of anxiety. I didn’t leave my room, I wasn’t eating and I completely lost the will to play music.”

Instagram.com/@rishabsmusic

Sharma eventually sought therapy to overcome his depression. In due time, he picked up the sitar again, incorporating music as part of his therapeutic process. He’d go live on Instagram or Clubhouse and play his heart out, imagining that his grandfather was still somewhere out there, listening in. Between songs, he’d talk about his loss and mental health. “It became this virtual room where everyone came together for each other, to share our grief,” says Sharma. “I started calling these sessions Sitar For Mental Health (SFMH) because I was using my voice—the sitar— to talk about mental health.”

I was watching a Netflix series the other week—I won’t name it, but it had ‘Apple’ in the title and was about a con woman—when I realised that I wasn’t enjoying it anymore. The storyline was somehow full of plot holes, even though it was based on real life. The acting was hammy, but not in a fun way. I’d already invested four hours, though, so I was reluctant to admit defeat. But there were two more hours to go. Oh whatever, I thought, slamming the laptop shut and rubbing my eyes. Life is too short to be watching bad TV shows.

I’ve been doing this a lot lately. Noticing when I’m actively not enjoying something and then ducking out, even though I’ve already ‘invested’ time and brain power. I did it two episodes from the end of Dying For Sex—that Michelle Williams drama that started off punchy and then became so miserable I had to watch through my fingers. I also did it with You, the first two seasons of which I thought were fun before it descended into pure Riverdale-style loopiness. I used to power through, at least until all narratives were tied up, but now I just feel like… cba (cost-benefit analysis). What about the narratives of my own life? Shouldn’t I be investing in them instead?

When I laud the idea of quitting bad TV shows, I don’t want this to be confused with immediately giving up before a series has even gotten started. When we’re so used to immediate gratification, I think there can be a tendency to treat TV like junk food—quick dopamine-laden bites, before going onto the next. But some of my favourite culture of all time has been that which I’ve persevered with: Curb Your Enthusiasm, Industry, Succession… even Daisy Jones & The Six, which started off feeling like absolute trash before slowly transforming into the greatest anti-love story of the 20th century (I’m only slightly exaggerating). Still, I think we can use our intuition here. If something feels like a slog—a proper slog—it probably is a slog. There’s no prize to be won in hammering away for no reason.

Cosmic tip: You are not in a race, remember? You are meant to grow in your own lane.

Loosen your grip over your life and the outcomes you expect, Sag. There are important events unfolding around you, and you, my dear, may feel afraid, however, your guides remind you that this fear is simply because of your energetic entanglement with the world at large. When you experience anxiety, it may not really be your personal energy, instead, it may be picked on from someone else, or may be a reflection of something not going as per your plan. However, Sag, allow the Universe’s plan to unfold in your life to come back to yourself.

Cosmic tip: Your ancestors – earthly or with star origins – stand besides you.

Today calls for an added dose of self love and self care, Cap. Instead of wallowing in self pity, or looking back at your life in a wishful way, ask yourself, what chapter is closing for you and embrace it with contentment and a relaxed mindset. Open arms signify a readiness to welcome life and all its changes with an upbeat outlook. Lay foundations for your monetary and security needs, keep your ears open and be discerning and judicious about your investments – be it investing your money, time, energy or effort into something. Make peace with this cycle in your life coming to a close.

Cosmic tip: Go within to recharge.

Love yourself for who you are, Aquarius. It’s time for energetic alignment by decluttering your What if the purpose of life were to build, not achieve? Would you not approach things a lot more differently? Aquarius, you may have arrows shooting towards you and instead of darting around like a headless chicken, if you only stood still and channeled your inner Neo, you would be able to keep those mindless moves away by the mere flick of a hand. It is time for you to regather your focus on what you would like to build. And then only take action towards that. Build networks, relationships, empires, self worth, habits or anything else that truly adds value.

Cosmic tip: Your mothership is calling, step into overflow.

Find creative solutions to persisting challenges, Pisces as that is the only way to keep your spirits and momentum on fleek. Your life is currently buzzing with activity – financial prospects, mental stimulation, upgrading your skills and perhaps even a major decluttering are on the horizon. And this part of your life requires you to step up and lead like a visionary. Things are shifting rapidly and your intuition may know more than you give it credit for.

Cosmic tip: Live like your future self, begin thinking like your future self.

The bubble skirt is back. Not quietly either. Inflated and unapologetic, the silhouette reasserts its power on the runway and in the streets. Forget what you knew from the early 2000s. This time it’s less pop princess, more fashion girl on a mission.

Tailored tops and bubble skirts

The trick to wearing one now is all about balance. A bubble skirt holds volume, so you need the rest of your outfit to bring structure. Start with a fitted top. A razor-sharp turtleneck or a white shirt. If you’re feeling bold, try a bandeau and a tailored blazer shrugged over the shoulders to keep the silhouette clean but charged.

Sheer tights, slingbacks and mini bubble skirts

Mini bubble skirts work best when you let the legs do the talking. Add sheer tights and a pointed slingback, and suddenly the playful shape takes on a grown-up bite. Keep the shoes low-key if you’re working with a midi bubble skirt. A classic pump, a fine-strap sandal or a delicate kitten heel will let the skirt own the spotlight without overwhelming the proportions.

Statement accessories and denim bubble skirts

Fabric choice is crucial. Bubble skirts thrive in materials that hold their shape. Let the fabric shine. Accessories should stay minimal but meaningful. A bold earring or a single statement cuff. No need to overcomplicate.

Boxy T-shirts and bubble skirts

Contrast is your friend. Pair a puffed mini with a slouchy knit or a boxy tee to strip it of any leftover prom-night nostalgia. Or clash it with a crisp, masculine button-down with sleeves nonchalantly rolled for that fashion-insider touch.

Layers with bubble skirts

Layering adds another level. Try slipping the skirt over tailored trousers or leggings to play with silhouettes. Or belt a cropped jacket over the waistline to accentuate the shape.

Also read:

White skirts are at the core of summer dressing. Here are 3 ways to style them

14 denim skirt styles to wear with everything in your closet

From denim to chiffon, your summer wardrobe needs a maxi skirt

The saree is a long-lasting garment that has come to represent heritage, femininity, and appeal in Indian design. On the other hand, for many present-day women, the act of draping a conventional saree might also feel like an intimidating chore, particularly when compared to the annoying tempo of regular life. Introducing the readymade saree, a modern take on a time-honored preferred, this is redefining the manner in which women experience traditional fashion.

Readymade sarees offer the correct aggregate of comfort and elegance, irrespective of whether or not you’re a skilled saree wearer or an amateur with the art of carrying sarees. We are going to delve into the motives for the developing recognition of this ready-to-wear variant, in addition to the approaches wherein it’s far changing ethnic dress for the modern era.

Simply put, a readymade saree is one that has been sewn to imitate the traditional drape, despite the fact that it’s also called a pre-stitched or pre-draped saree. Instead of getting to pleat, tuck, and pin more than one meter of fabric, all you want to do is slip into it like a skirt and throw the pallu over your shoulder.

Most readymade sarees come with elastic or zip closures at the waist and are tailored to your measurements, offering a fuss-free fit. Some even include attached petticoats or blouses, making the entire outfit a one-and-done ensemble.

The rise of the readymade saree can be attributed to a few key trends:

1. 
   

   Time-Saving Fashion

In today`s fast-moving world, now no longer every person has the time or ability to drape a saree the traditional way. Readymade sarees eliminate the mastering curve and may be worn in only a couple of minutes — best for busy professionals, last-minute party-goers, or bridesmaids at the flow.

2. 
   

   Modern Comfort Meets Tradition

While the saree is rooted in tradition, readymade patterns cater to the current woman`s want for comfort and mobility. With higher fitting, much less need for pins, and fabric that flows with you, they`re best for dancing at weddings, on foot, long distances, or really spending hours in comfort.

3. 
   

   Celebrity and Influencer Endorsement

Fashion Influencers and Bollywood stars have embraced the readymade saree trend, showcasing them in the whole thing from red carpet appearances to reels on social media. These endorsements have performed a big function in bringing this fashion into the spotlight.

A common false impression regarding readymade sarees is that they lack authenticity or beauty. However, this couldn`t be in addition to the reality. Beautiful designs, expensive materials, and difficult embroidery abound in modern readymade sarees. 

From chiffon and georgette for a flowing appearance to silk and velvet for festive or bridal wear, you could discover readymade sarees ideal for each event. Some designs even mirror the appearance of traditional drapes, just like the Bengali or Gujarati style, imparting local aptitude without the complexity.

Readymade sarees are not simply a “backup option” — they`re the center of attraction at all types of events:

• Weddings: Bridesmaids, mom of the bride, or even modern brides are turning to elegant pre-draped sarees for ease and comfort.

• Festivals: Whether it`s Diwali, Navratri, Eid, or any other celebration, these sarees let you get dressed up superbly in minutes.

• Corporate Events: With ultra-fine prints and tailor-made cuts, readymade sarees are a complicated preference for formal settings.

• Travel & Destination Weddings: Lightweight and compact, they`re clean to perfection or even less difficult to wear.

Styling a readymade saree is as fun as wearing one. You can experiment with:

• Belts to accentuate your waist and add a modern edge

• Statement jewelry to elevate the look for festive events

• High heels or juttis, depending on the occasion

• Jackets or capes for a contemporary, layered look

Because the draping is already done, your styling time is cut in half — giving you more time to enjoy the moment.

Read more – Light, Lovely & Luxe: Wedding Sarees Made For Summer Bliss

The readymade saree represents the precise fusion of history and innovation. It respects the splendor of Indian culture even as it embraces the needs of a fast-moving, modern lifestyle. Whether you`re a busy professional, a fashion-forward millennial, or absolutely a person who loves searching for stylish options without the hassle, the readymade saree is a closet essential.

Drape in minutes, shine all day. The readymade saree is more than just a trend — it’s a movement toward effortless elegance.

To be fair, “it can be really uncomfortable to admit when you’ve done something wrong or that you’re to blame,” says Amelia Kelley, PhD, LCMHC, owner of Kelley Counseling and Wellness in Cary, North Carolina, and author of Gaslighting Recovery for Women: The Complete Guide to Recognising Manipulation and Achieving Freedom from Emotional Abuse. For some people, that discomfort is enough to trigger a self-protective instinct to deflect, blame or jump to rationalisations, Dr. Kelley explains. In more extreme cases, though, this response is more than just a little defensiveness or shame—it becomes a reflexive pattern of avoiding accountability all the time.

2. You tend to see your own hurtful actions as justified

Past trauma and mental health struggles help explain the context behind harmful actions or comments. That said, constantly pointing to them as the reason you mistreat others—and expecting others to just deal—could be a subtle sign of a victim mentality, according to Moore.

Maybe you’re annoyed that your partner’s upset you snapped at them—it’s not like they don’t know you had a rough childhood with overbearing parents. Or you’re confused why your friend is pissed about you flaking again (you’ve already explained why you’re so bad with time management). Obviously, the context behind your behaviours is an important part of your experience too, but make sure you’re not using your personal struggles as a free pass to continue behaviour that others have let you know is hurtful or confusing.

3. You struggle to see the grey areas

You likely know that, in theory, people are rarely all good or all bad. But when you’re stuck in the victim mindset, it can be hard to recognise nuance. Rather than entertaining grey areas of a situation, you might fall into black-and-white thinking where you can cast the roles of the good guy and bad guy, says Natalia Amari, LCSW, an Austin-based psychotherapist and creator of Rebel In Bloom, an online platform providing emotional wellness resources.

For example, if your best friend is slow to respond to your texts, you might skip past more balanced explanations—maybe they’re busy or overwhelmed!—and land on They don’t care about me or I’m the only one who puts effort into this friendship instead. Or if your boss gives you constructive feedback, it might feel less like support and more like they’re a total micromanager or that your work is so unappreciated. When your brain jumps to extremes like that, it’s a good sign you’re caught up in your own experience, Amari says—and may not be considering someone else’s POV.

4. You constantly replay past hurts (and let them hold you back)

With a victim mentality, it’s easy to feel like your entire life is defined by the painful things you’ve been through, Dr. Kelley says—so much so that it becomes tough to not fixate on them. This might look like constantly bringing up a years-old incident (like the time they forgot your birthday) even though they’ve been reliable ever since, or still feeling hurt about not being included in a group trip, regardless of whether they apologised or acknowledged your feelings.

Summer doesn’t announce itself on the calendar. It arrives in the air, through the delicate shift of your mood. The pull towards lighter layers, slower mornings, and fragrances that feel like sunshine kissing your skin. The deep, moody winter scents—rich in leather, spice, and mystery—soon feel like wearing a velvet coat in the middle of a heatwave. So, you reach for something that breathes easier: summer perfumes that sparkle like citrus in a tall glass, bloom like jasmine at dusk, and linger with a whisper of musk or mint.

Lemon, bergamot, rose, sandalwood, rosemary—summer perfumes invite you to soften, exhale, and embrace the season. Even vanilla, that sweet and familiar note, takes on a carefree glow in the summer heat.

And during summer, perfume doesn’t just stay close to the skin. The warmth amplifies it, catching the breeze and becoming part of your presence as you move through the day.

But here’s something to remember: summer heat changes how fragrance behaves. What starts subtly can quickly intensify, and humidity often makes scents feel heavier than they are. That’s why lighter, fresher summer perfumes are ideal. As heat speeds up evaporation, you’ll want fragrances that last longer and stay bright throughout the day. Layering these summer perfumes with a matching body lotion can help them linger. The trick is to find fragrances that stay light, refreshing, and never overpowering.

With that in mind, here’s a curated list of the best summer perfumes to try:

Marc Jacobs Daisy

Fresh, floral, and effortlessly charming, Marc Jacobs Daisy opens with the sweetness of cloudberry, leading to a floral heart of daisy tree notes. Anchored by driftwood and cosy cashmere musk, the base adds warmth, making it a natural choice for those seeking a signature scent that’s understated yet distinctive. The bottle itself is a playful, modern design, perfectly reflecting the light, whimsical nature of the fragrance.

Jo Malone Nectarine Blossom and Honey

Capturing the essence of a sunlit stroll through a peach orchard, Jo Malone’s Nectarine Blossom & Honey opens with juicy cassis and soft acacia honey, settling into a smooth peach base. Feminine, clean, and light, it’s the perfect scent for summer. The freshness is balanced with a hint of warmth—never overpowering, just right for those sun-drenched days.

CHANEL CHANCE EAU SPLENDID

A radiant, magnetic scent from the Chanel Chance collection, this one bursts with tangy red fruits, raspberry softened by delicate rose and violet. Rose geranium and iris add elegance at its heart, while a dry-down of white musk and cedar leaves a lingering sensual trail. Feminine and captivating, it’s a fragrance that makes a statement with every spray.

Versace Pour Femme Dylan Blue Eau de Parfum

Bold yet effortlessly sophisticated, Versace Dylan Blue Eau de Parfum opens with a crisp blend of blackcurrant, Granny Smith apple, and soft floral accords. The heart evolves into a fresh, floral blend of rose, jasmine, and peach, while a base of sensual patchouli, musk, and styrax adds depth. This scent radiates self-assurance, housed in a bottle as striking as the woman who wears it.

Burberry Goddess Eau de Parfum

A plush, empowering fragrance that wraps you in warmth and confidence. The opening burst of lavender and vanilla gives way to a creamy vanilla heart, with hints of floral whispers and cacao warmth. Smooth, addictive, and lasting up to six hours, this fragrance is a natural extension of you as it settles into your skin.

Estée Lauder Pleasures Eau de Parfum

Delicate and airy, Estée Lauder’s Pleasures captures the essence of fresh blooms after a spring rain. With green accents, white lily, and violet leaves at the start, it transforms into a bouquet of peony, jasmine, rose, and black lilac, grounded by sandalwood and patchouli. Soft, graceful, and lingering, this fragrance is a breath of fresh air that lasts all day.

Bvlgari Le Gemme Amunae

A captivating blend of contrasts, Bvlgari’s Le Gemme Amunae begins with aldehydes and olibanum, followed by creamy jasmine and ambrette musk. The base of black musk and oak adds mystery and strength, creating a polished, harmonious scent. Inspired by moonstone, this unisex fragrance feels both celestial and refined, balancing lightness with depth.

Good Girl Blush by Carolina Herrera

A playful, romantic twist on the iconic Good Girl fragrance, Good Girl Blush opens with vibrant notes that evolve into a chic, lasting trail. Its powder-pink stiletto bottle mirrors the bold elegance of the scent, which begins light and floral before finishing with a warm vanilla embrace. Layered with the original Good Girl, it creates a fresh, summery effect.

Davidoff Cool Water Reborn Eau de Parfum Intense for Women

A crisp, invigorating scent that evokes the calm of the ocean. Opening with juicy cherry, it transitions into a radiant rose heart, grounded by earthy vetiver. Light yet sophisticated, this fragrance awakens your senses, like a cool wave on your skin. The sleek bottle mirrors the ocean’s movement, making it an ideal choice for sunny days or seaside escapes.

Rose Magnolia Eau de Parfum

A unisex fragrance that celebrates magnolia, Rose Magnolia opens with green rhubarb, softens into magnolia petals, and settles into warm white woods. With floral freshness and subtle warmth, this vegan scent is crafted from 91% natural-origin ingredients and housed in a recycled glass bottle with a sustainable wood and cork cap—a sensory experience with a mindful twist.

Lancôme La Vie Est Belle Eau de Parfum

A warm, inviting fragrance that begins with the juicy allure of black currant and pear, blending into a heart of iris, jasmine, and orange blossom. The base, rich with praline, vanilla, patchouli, and tonka bean, brings a sweet yet sophisticated depth. Since its 2012 release, it’s been a cult favourite, versatile enough for any occasion. A crowd-pleaser that balances boldness with comfort.

When you trust in the Universe, you gain strength to reveal who you truly are beneath those layers because facades feel suffocating and don’t make sense anymore. Virgo, cut through the BS. Let go of the past that haunts you. It may not be easy, but try. It will be worth it. To welcome more support in your life, you must be willing to create space for it – even energetically. And when you hold on to past wounds and hurtful memories, it is akin to filling up an entire room with junk and then complaining that there is no space for you to rest. Your worries may feel valid, but they are also the very things blocking the bright sunshine from your future to enter through now. Open up to life.

Cosmic tip: Focus your energy on what is in your hands and not what isn’t.

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Some of us saw our mothers work, yes, but more often, we saw them managing the grocery budget with surgical precision, saving up for gold or school fees, stretching every single rupee a little further. When women got together, discussions around money were relegated to tomato prices and the going rate for domestic workers.

So much of women’s relationship with money is shaped by cultural conditioning—subtle, enduring messages that order them to stay out of financial conversations, that make it clear that talking about money is to talk out of place, that it is the man’s job to take care of the ‘big life decisions’ while women look after the home. When you grow up with groceries and gossip being your context for money, how are you suddenly supposed to take control of your finances when you’re thrust into the real world?

Different standards for failure

Gender has nothing to do with investment decision-making, but women have been taught to fear getting it wrong. And in financial matters, getting it wrong feels fatal.

That doesn’t mean men don’t make financial mistakes all the time. But when they fail, society tells them that it’s okay, that these things happen, that they can turn it around. When women fail? They’re told to stay in their lane, take care of their home, that they shouldn’t have tried in the first place.

Somewhere along the way, this constant culture of financial gaslighting has been rebranded as ‘relatable content.’ We giggle at ‘girl math’, a TikTok trend from 2023 used to describe the way girls justify their spending habits, not realising it masks a much deeper discomfort—one we inherited from centuries of women being left out of money decisions, not one we developed.

Women owe it to themselves

If all of this sounds familiar, let me tell you what I (nervously) told those incredible women in 2016: looking away does not do us any favours.

Knowing how money works is empowering irrespective of your gender, but it is crucial for women to have this knowledge. We earn less than our male counterparts. We live longer but have more, often permanent breaks in our careers. We run out of money much quicker than we expect to. And we fool ourselves into thinking that we won’t understand money.

Replace shame with curiosity

The next time you come across a financial term you don’t understand, write it down. Google it. Ask a friend. Ask AI to explain it to you like a 5-year-old. But don’t leave it hanging. Think of it like building your money vocabulary—word by word. You don’t need to know everything. But each concept you understand chips away at the fear.