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In this By Invitation column, author, art historian and curator Dr Alka Pande shares how the Indian art is experiencing a boom, with auction records being shattered for modern masters like Husain and Raza, fetching hundreds of crores. Despite global market caution, wealthy Indian collectors are driving demand, viewing art as a symbol of heritage and identity.

Victoria, with its vibrant capital Melbourne, offers an unforgettable escape. From the pulse of its live music and culinary scene to the tranquility of Alba Thermal Springs and the natural wonders of the Great Ocean Road, the state captivates with its diverse attractions.

Mouni Roy captivated at Cannes with a stunning Gujarati Patola-inspired gown, a testament to Indian craftsmanship. This intricate, 300-hour embroidered creation, featuring a body-hugging silhouette and dramatic train, blended tradition with red-carpet glamour. Her elegant styling, with minimal accessories and soft makeup, allowed the vibrant textile art to shine, making it a standout moment on the French Riviera.

Jennifer Lopez is selling the Beverly Hills mansion she shared with Ben Affleck for USD 50 million, marking a significant loss. The sprawling estate, once a symbol of their reunited romance, is now on the market again after Affleck transferred his share to Lopez. This move signifies the final chapter of their highly publicized story.

Angelina Jolie is listing her iconic Los Feliz residence for a staggering $29.85 million, revealing her ambition for a more nomadic lifestyle. With plans to relocate abroad once her youngest, twins Knox and Vivienne, reach adulthood in 2026, this elegant estate—formerly the home of legendary filmmaker Cecil B. DeMille—features an impressive mansion and vast grounds that offer breathtaking panoramic views.

Conor McGregor has once again stirred controversy with a cryptic social media post. His tweet has left fans and experts confused. The former two-division UFC champion hinted at something unexpected by referring to a “185lb title,” despite never competing in the middleweight division. The statement came shortly after Khamzat Chimaev openly expressed interest in facing McGregor in a boxing match. This timing has only added fuel to the growing speculation.

A free demo for Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is now available on Nintendo Switch 2 and Xbox, letting players experience the opening chapters and carry progress forward. Pre-orders are live with exclusive digital and physical bonuses. The game, previously on PS5 and PC, is expanding to more platforms, with the trilogy's final part still in development.

After skyrocketing to fame with 'Euphoria', Sydney Sweeney is not just making waves in Hollywood but is also stacking up properties like a pro. She recently snapped up a charming Tudor-style abode in Westwood for $3 million, epitomizing her newfound luxury lifestyle. But it’s not just about extravagance; she also made her heart sing by repurchasing her great-grandmother's cherished home.

Living in a compact London flat demands smart design. Experts advise embracing multifunctional furniture, maximizing natural light with mirrors, and utilizing vertical space. Decluttering is key, as is choosing calm, light colours. Creating distinct 'zones' and hunting for second-hand treasures can transform a small space into a stylish, intentional home without breaking the bank.

Indian shopping malls are transforming as fitness clubs emerge as the new crowd-pullers, replacing traditional anchors like department stores and cinemas. These wellness centers, now occupying prime spaces, attract members multiple times weekly, boosting nearby retail. Developers are adapting by designing specialized spaces, recognizing fitness as a lifestyle essential driving consistent footfall and diversified income.

Your shoes might be the culprit behind unexpected slips, not just worn soles. Dirt and wear fill tread grooves, drastically reducing grip. Research shows even minor sole wear significantly impacts traction, making floors hazardous. Cleaning your soles can restore grip, but worn-out treads necessitate replacement. Innovations are emerging to enhance shoe safety.

Small bedrooms can feel larger with smart design. Experts suggest using exhibition techniques for better flow and zoning. Layered lighting and multi-functional furniture are key. Curating items and using vertical space also helps. Engaging senses and refreshing the space regularly creates a comfortable retreat. These methods offer a new perspective on maximising limited space.

In a significant move to enhance educational experiences, Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has instructed authorities to develop an educational tour circuit for schoolchildren. This circuit will connect important sites in Patna, including the iconic Bapu Tower, the informative Bihar Museum, and the interactive Science City.

Vipul Shah breathes new life into vintage textiles within a 17th-century Udaipur haveli, transforming his family's Ahmedabad-based Ganesh Emporium. He masterfully reinterprets heirloom fabrics into contemporary designs, most notably the iconic Banjara Clutch, preserving craft and supporting a vast network of artisans.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences recognized 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge' in a special shoutout for romance films involving travel. Kajol responded by voting for the iconic 1995 Bollywood classic, which recently celebrated its 30th anniversary and continues to hold a special place in audiences' hearts.

Hollywood heartthrob Brad Pitt has recently invested in a luxurious gem—an exquisite USD 12 million mansion located in the prestigious Hollywood Hills. This expansive Spanish-style residence encompasses 8,000 square feet of elegance, featuring panoramic city views and a perfect harmony of classic and modern design.

Hopes of making downtown Seoul dazzle more than Times Square have hit a setback with new guidelines to dim the digital billboards that light up the South Korean capital after a barrage of complaints. The surge in digital billboards follows the designation of several areas as free advertising zones and a project to transform Seoul's central Gwanghwamun Square by 2033 into a "media gallery" to surpass Times Square in New York.

Delhi's cultural hub buzzes with anticipation as theatre-goers gather for live performances, an ancient art form that continues to reflect society. From classical Sanskrit drama to modern plays and vibrant folk traditions, theatre offers a raw, unfiltered experience, demanding full presence from artists and audiences alike.

San Francisco presents a vibrant travel guide for 2026. Visitors can explore the Golden Gate Bridge and ride historic cable cars. Discover Alcatraz Island and the lively Fisherman's Wharf. Enjoy parks, outdoor festivals, and live music. Experience the city's unique neighborhoods like Haight-Ashbury and the Mission District. San Francisco also boasts world-class dining and museums.

BTS, the world's biggest boy band, reunites on stage on Saturday in a K-pop extravaganza watched by hundreds of thousands of fans in downtown Seoul and by millions around the planet online. Hotels are booked out in Seoul with thousands of fans flying in from abroad for the concert.

South Indian superstar Mohanlal, a veteran actor since 1978, owns impressive residences in Ooty, Kochi, and Dubai. His Kochi home boasts a traditional waterfront bungalow and a modern duplex, while his Ooty property serves as a peaceful holiday villa. The actor also possesses a luxurious Dubai apartment, reflecting his global investments and successful career.

A bronze statue stands tall in Times Square. Thomas J. Price created 'Grounded in the Stars'. The statue shows an ordinary woman. It encourages empathy. Some compare it to Letitia James. Others mock the statue's appearance. Some appreciate its message of inclusivity. The statue will remain until June 17. It sparks conversation and reflection. The statue celebrates plus-size Black women.