tortoise

Jonathan, the world's oldest land animal, resides on Saint Helena, captivating many with his estimated 194 years. While his exact number of offspring remains a mystery due to poor historical records, he continues to show sexual interest in other giant tortoises. Jonathan's remarkable longevity highlights the importance of protecting these ancient creatures.

Indian Star tortoise is protected under Wildlife Protection Act

World Turtle Day

We live in the era of viral animals, from Larry the Cat, the permanent fixture at 10 Downing Street, to Moo Deng, the cute pygmy hippo in Thailand, and Punch, the lonely monkey whose inability to make friends made the world go aww. Donald Trump the buffalo might be the latest addition to this pantheon. But long before the algorithm turned animals into celebrities, humans were already turning them into gods, omens, sacrifices, scapegoats and pardoned prisoners.

Jonathan, the world's oldest living land animal at 194, is alive and well, dispelling recent death rumors. This ancient giant tortoise, born in 1882, enjoys a pampered life on St. Helena, receiving hand-fed meals of fruits and vegetables, and even maintains a romantic life. His remarkable longevity continues to inspire.

Homeowners are increasingly embracing Vastu Shastra decor, with crystal animal figurines like elephants, turtles, and owls believed to usher in positivity, stability, and wisdom. These statues, placed strategically, are thought to balance energies, attract good fortune, and enhance relationships, offering a blend of spiritual significance and aesthetic appeal to modern living spaces.

A woman's arranged marriage, entered with hope during the pandemic, quickly devolved into abuse after her husband's true nature emerged. Despite pregnancy, the cruelty persisted, leading to a premature birth and the family's disappointment over having a daughter. She ultimately left, finding strength in her family and later moving to Canada to build a safer future for her child.

May 1, 2026, is a Purnima Friday, marked by the full moon's influence, enhancing emotions and intuition. The day's Panchang details, including Swati and Vishakha Nakshatras, Libra Moon, Siddhi Yoga, and Visti Karan, guide towards mindful actions and completion. Auspicious timings like Brahma Muhurta and Abhijit Muhurta offer windows for focused activities, while Rahu Kaal advises caution.

Jonathan, a Seychelles giant tortoise, is the world's oldest living land animal, estimated to be around 194 years old as of 2026. Born in 1832, he has witnessed immense historical changes and resides on Saint Helena. Despite blindness and loss of smell, he maintains a healthy diet and enjoys basking, embodying remarkable longevity and endurance.

Unlock the secrets to a harmonious home with Vastu Shastra's tortoise placement guide. Discover how strategically positioning tortoise figurines can attract wealth, boost positive energy, and safeguard well-being.

In Vastu Shastra, placing specific types of tortoises in various locations at home was said to balance energies and improve well-being. Metal tortoises were advised for the North or North-East for career growth, while stone tortoises were best in the South-West for stability. Crystal, wooden, and ceramic tortoises had specific placements for harmony, health, and prosperity.

A tortoise breeding project was also started with its breeding centre in Sarnath, where tortoise (both herbivores and carnivores) were hatched and reared for one to one and a half years and then dropped into the Ganga to remove bio-pollutants, like partly cremated dead bodies directly thrown in the river.

Turtles and tortoises, recognized for their hard shells and ancient lineage, thrive in various environments. Turtles are typically aquatic while tortoises inhabit land. These reptiles show unique adaptations in breathing, diet, and reproduction. Despite their slow pace, they have endured for millions of years, revealing intriguing survival traits tailored to their respective habitats.