marinagilla2022/Instagram

Air travel has become increasingly unpredictable as airlines adjust routes and schedules amid the ongoing tensions in the Middle East. But for one traveller, the unusual situation led to an experience that most passengers can only dream of, which is having an entire commercial flight to herself. A Latvia-based English teacher recently went viral online after revealing that she was the sole passenger on a flight from Riga to Dubai.

A flight with just one passenger

The traveller, identified as Marina Gilla, recorded her journey on March 8 while travelling to Dubai. In a video she shared on Instagram, the aircraft appears almost surreal, row after row of completely empty seats, with only one traveller on board. Laughing about the unusual situation, she described the journey as her unexpected “VIP flight.” The video shows vacant rows, with her settling into a window seat. At one point, she jokes that the commercial flight felt more like a private jet.Read more: Etihad Airways: Check updated flight schedule until March 15; advises passengers to check bookings before travel

Turning a commercial flight into a “VIP experience”

Dressed casually in a green hoodie and sunglasses, Marina appeared to be enjoying every moment of the rare travel experience. With no other passengers competing for space, she had her pick of seats and plenty of room to relax. The video also showed her sipping a cold drink while filming the quiet cabin around her. Flight attendants reportedly gave her extra attention during the journey, offering additional snacks and checking in frequently, something that naturally happens when there is only one guest to look after.In the caption that she wrote in association with the video, she said, “When you are the only passenger on the plane to Dubai on the 8th of March, 2026!” She jokingly referred to it as a ‘VIP flight from Riga to Dubai.’ She added some hashtags like ‘private jet,’ ‘travelling,’ ‘VIP passenger,’ and so on. The unusual situation soon caught the attention of social media users, and they were amused, and even a little jealous, at her situation. One user commented that she should rename the video as,“Got a private jet to Dubai!” Another joked about the perks of having an entire plane to herself, writing that at least she had the bathroom all to herself and could enjoy as much food as she wanted.Others were curious about the logistics of such a flight, wondering why the airline didn’t simply upgrade her to business class when she was the only traveller. Some people even speculated that the return leg of the flight could have been a lot busier, which suggests that the airline could have expected passengers to be on that flight back.Read more: UAE flight update: Emirates, Etihad, Flydubai, Air Arabia resume limited operations with rebooking options

A rare moment

Though extremely rare, moments like this can happen when an airline operates a repositioning flight or continues a scheduled flight despite low passenger demand. In Marina’s case, the unusual experience turned what might have been an ordinary journey into a memorable story, and a viral moment online. It’s a usual routine that travellers squeeze into crowded cabins, and at times, compete for overhead luggage space. But for this lucky passenger flying from Riga to Dubai, the journey turned into something far more exclusive: a commercial flight that felt like her own private jet.

Photo: Sorab Bedi, Malaika Arora/Instagram

Bollywood’s rumour mill never sleeps. And the latest buzz doing the rounds is about actor Sorab Bedi and timeless diva Malaika Arora “dating” each other. A party video of the duo—wherein they are seen dancing and hugging— has lead to the rumours. Fans were quick to notice and say: “Power couple alert!” But Sorab slammed the speculations in a candid Zoom chat. Here’s what he said:

Who is Sorab Bedi, rumoured to be dating Malaika Arora?

A few weeks ago, a casual party clip of Sorab and Malaika grooving and embracing each other quickly went viral on the internet. This led to many speculations about Sorab and Malaika dating each other. But now, weeks later, Sorab has now shared his truth.In the Zoom interview, Sorab shut rumours cold— by calling his bond with Malika as “friendship.” He further shared that it was his mentors Delnaz Daruwala and Vahbiz Mehta who introduced him to Malaika during his early modeling days. And since their party circuit overlaped, they ended up being friends. “Delnaz Daruwala and Vahbiz Mehta gave me a chance to walk the ramp during my modelling days. I became friends with them and started going out for parties. At one of the parties, I met Malaika (Arora) through my mentors. She is also a close friend of Delnaz and Vahbiz. Hence, Malaika and I became friends. There is nothing between us,” Sorab clarified.

Sorab’s call-out: Think before you speculate

Sorab further said in the interview, “People are talking several things about us. They should think twice before speaking about a girl. It could affect her mental state. Aisa karna nahin chahiye.”“I didn’t party with them for the first time. I have been partying with Vahbiz, Delnaz and Malaika for many years. I earlier used to share pictures with Malaika, but at that time, I was not a known face. Now, I am a known face; hence, it is now being noticed by people.” Fame flips filters—old snaps ignored, new ones news. “Two people can be simply friends… people look at it differently.” Friendship facts over fantasy.

Sorab Bedi: From ramps to reality TV hustle

31-year-old fitness fiend, Sorab’s no newbie to the glamourous world. He was a Splitsvilla 16 contestant. His past gigs include: Dilwali Dulha Le Jayegi, Chaand Jalne Laga.What do you think about Sorab shutting dating rumours with Malaika, claiming they’re “just friends”? Tell us in the comments below

Sanju Samson has an elder brother Saly Samson, who is also a cricketer. Saly started his cricket journey as a Kerala junior star turned KCA Royals/List-A player (38 runs in 6 matches for Accountant General’s Office club). Injuries sidelined him brutally—four years of surgeries, heartbreak. In 2021, when Saly made a comeback, Sanju posted a heartwarming post on social media which read: “A great salute to your passion, dedication and love for this game BHAIJAAAN. You fought very hard for 4 long years with your injuries and surgeries to get back on the ground and do what you love the most in this world. Wishing you the best going forward and I hope you keep playing this beautiful game for as long as you wish for !!!”

Today, Saly’s Accountant General’s office job, marriage, and daughter Hazel Saly Samson keep him grounded. Meanwhile, Saly and Sanju’s brotherly bond seems unbreakable—Saly’s struggles taught Sanju resilience.

Photo: Sanju Samson/ Instagram

Photo: nurseunscripted2 / Instagram

If you are active on social media, you would have often come across weird images that not only trick the eyes but also claim to reveal your true personality. Such images are aptly called optical illusion personality tests, and they are based on psychological principles. And so, depending on what you spot first in such pictures, a lot can be decoded about your true traits.For example, this test was recently shared by nurseunscripted2 on Instagram. The image has different animals hidden in it. Based on which animal a person notices first, she says this image can reveal how your nervous system learned to survive.So, ready to take this test? Simply close your eyes and look at the above image with fresh eyes. Notice what you saw first. “Don’t overthink it. The first thing you noticed matters. This image holds more than one truth — just like you’ve been holding more than one role,” she said in the post. Now, read what it decodes about you below:1. If you saw the elephant first, it means…“You learned to survive by being strong and carrying everything. Your nervous system learned: ‘I can’t fall apart.’ Healing begins when you allow yourself to put the weight down.,” she shared in the post.2. If you saw the lion first, it means…“You learned to survive by being bold, tough, and in control. Your nervous system learned: ‘Power equals safety.’ Healing is realizing you don’t have to fight anymore,” she wrote.3. If you saw the ostrich first, it means…“You learned to survive by not looking at what felt overwhelming. Your nervous system learned: ‘If I don’t face it, I can breathe.’ Healing starts gently — not by forcing yourself,” she shared.4. If you saw the flying birds first, it means…“You learned to survive by staying busy, distracted, or in motion. Your nervous system learned: ‘Don’t stay too long.’ Healing is learning how to land safely in your body again,” the post read.5. If you saw the tree first, it means…“You became the steady one everyone relies on. Your nervous system learned: ‘Everyone needs me.’ Healing begins when you nourish yourself too,” she added.6. If you saw the face first, it means…“If you saw a face first, pause. You’ve been surviving so long you lost connection with yourself. Healing starts with coming back to your body,” the post read.How true was this test result for you? Tell us in the comments section below. ” If this post stirred something in you, it’s not random. Your nervous system learned what it needed to survive — and it can learn safety again,” she added.And if you liked this test, then do check out similar ones on our website to know yourself better. You can also share these with your loved ones to know them better.

Reaching out to an ex can be a psychological trap fueled by nostalgia and a need for comfort. Experts advise caution, highlighting that genuine closure requires emotional maturity and zero expectations. Consider if the original issues are truly resolved and if you can handle any outcome, including them being happily with someone new, before sending that text.

We’ve all been there. You are swiping mindlessly on dating apps after a long day in the city, or maybe another friend just posted their grand winter wedding photos on Instagram. Suddenly, a wave of loneliness hits, and texting your old flame to say, “Hey, how have you been?” feels like a shockingly good idea. But is it ever actually a smart move?Relationship experts warn that while reaching out can occasionally bring genuine peace – or even a fresh start – it is very often a psychological trap built on a messy mix of nostalgia and a craving for a quick dopamine hit. Before you type out that risky text, here is a breakdown of when reconnecting is actually healthy closure, and when it is nothing but a recipe for disaster.

The Green Lights: When it actually makes sense

Reconnecting isn’t inherently toxic, provided it comes from a place of emotional maturity rather than a desperate need for comfort.● The string-free apology: If you realize you handled the split poorly and want to own your part of the mess, a sincere apology can clear the air. The catch? You have to do it with zero expectations. You are doing it for your own peace of mind, not to bait them into a late-night conversation.● You are totally unbothered by the outcome: If getting left on “read,” receiving a polite “thanks,” or finding out they have a new partner wouldn’t send you into a downward spiral, you are in a safe headspace to reach out.● The dealbreakers are actually gone: If you are secretly hoping to rekindle the romance, it only works if the original issues, like long distance, differing career goals, or family clashes – have tangibly changed. Empty promises don’t count; you need actual proof.● It’s strictly business: Sometimes closure is just practical. Tying up loose ends over shared finances, an apartment lease, or a pet is necessary, as long as you keep it strictly transactional.

The Red Lights: When you need to put the phone down

Research consistently points out that “on-again, off-again” couples suffer from lower trust, less satisfaction, and poorer communication. Here is when you need to step away from the keyboard:● You’re just lonely or bored: Reaching out just because modern dating is exhausting or you had a bad day at work is a surefire way to reopen old wounds. Do not use your ex as an emotional band-aid.● Nothing fundamental has changed: Going back to the same unresolved communication issues or toxic patterns is like re-reading the exact same book and expecting a surprise ending.● You just want an ego boost: Breakups severely bruise the ego. If you are reaching out simply to see if they still find you attractive or if they are hurting as much as you are, you are handing them the power to break your heart all over again.

Blame it on your brain

Understanding why you want to reach out can actually help you fight the urge. When a breakup happens, your brain panics over the sudden loss of your go-to person. To convince you to get them back, it floods you with memories of the good times, conveniently slapping on rose-colored glasses to hide the bad stuff.

Plus, if you are someone who naturally worries about abandonment, the urge to check in is often just a compulsive need to soothe your own internal anxiety, something that is incredibly easy to mistake for true love.

The ultimate Litmus Test

Still want to hit send? Ask yourself three brutally honest questions first:1. Are you missing them specifically, or just missing the comfort of being in a relationship?2. Have the exact issues that caused your breakup been completely resolved?3. How will you feel if they casually mention they are happily dating someone new?If that last thought makes your stomach drop, it might be time to put the phone away and call your best friend instead.

The history of architecture in India is a history of cultural pluralism, aestheticism and technical ingenuity. Since ancient temple constructors up to contemporary urban designers, there are numerous architects that contributed to the formation of the built environment of the country. Not only did their work shape the skyline of cities, it also shaped architectural thought in the generations to come.

A number of Indian architects blended the old design concepts with the new construction methods to come up with architectural designs that are still powerful. They have contributed to iconic state buildings, institutions of learning, cultural sites and city planning projects around the nation. Below are seven such architects whose contributions permanently shaped Indian architecture.

Image Credit: Wikipedia

Beyond aesthetics, the home accommodates daily rituals that ground family life. A favourite corner is the balcony, where Gautam and Natasha begin their mornings with tea, watching the sunrise and sharing quiet moments. These small, intentional spaces reinforce the idea that home isn’t just about décor, it’s about peace, habit and comfort.

Gautam Gambhir’s Delhi residence is more than a luxurious celebrity bungalow, it’s a personal sanctuary that harmonises calm design with meaningful living. Through a thoughtful palette of layered whites, rich wood tones, light-filled spaces and tender family corners, the home embodies both comfort and sophistication. Each detail reflects not just aesthetic elegance, but a philosophy of living that embraces peace, memory and thoughtful design, true to the spirit of the man who calls it home.

Image Credit: YouTube/ Asian Paints

Amidst the chaos of entrepreneurship, founders overwhelmed by constant demands can find clarity through mindfulness. By prioritizing structured routines, simplifying decisions, scheduling purposeful breaks, engaging in deep work, managing energy levels, and incorporating reflection, they can sharpen their focus, boost their vitality, and enhance their strategic thinking.

Cognitive overload is a constant reality for founders due to all the decisions, meetings, crisis and ambitions they face competing for their attention. Although hustle culture values exhaustion as an indicator of work ethic, successful leadership requires something more powerful and quieter than this. Mindfulness should not be viewed simply as a trend, but rather as a tool that provides founders a competitive advantage. Mindful practices are a way for founders to preserve their focus, manage energy and make better long-term decisions. The following six practices will not involve slowing down the work the founder performs but rather doing it with a greater degree of clarity and intention.

Begin Your Day With Structure Instead of Reactively

A founder’s first minutes of the day can determine how the entire day unfolds. A reactive start—i.e., jumping right into emails or messages at the start of the day, gives control of your day to what others need from you first. A structured morning, however, helps to create a foundation for the day and anchor a founder’s focus. Setting aside time to engage in quiet planning, writing in a journal or reviewing priorities will help founders operate from a state of purpose instead of urgency.

Eliminate Decision Fatigue By Standardizing Low-impact Choices

Every time a founder makes a decision, his/her mental energy is depleted. Mindful founders develop “decision hygiene”, by standardising the number of low-impact choices and being very selective with their finite resources, thus leaving enough energy to make those decisions which have the greatest impact. Decision hygiene can be created by developing clear principles, creating predetermined frameworks and delegating as much authority as possible.

Reset Your Nervous System During Breaks Instead of Distracting Your Mind

Not all breaks will help a person become re-energized. When breaks are used to scroll social media or attempt to multi-task through your breaks, these activities will create more disorder in your mind than if you had done nothing during the break. Intentional breaks—i.e., taking short walks, doing breathing exercises, like meditation, or taking time away from a screen during a break will allow the individual to reset their nervous system. These resets will allow a founder to perform with increased focus, focus, creativity and emotional control when returning to their work.

Deep Work in a Noisy World

Deep work has become a competitive edge as notifications have taken over our world. Mindful founders create disrupted focus windows to excel at strategic thinking and problem solving. Protecting that time sends a message that meaningful progress is created through depth versus constant availability.

Energy vs Time

Energy (potential) is not fixed, whereas time (a resource) is fixed. Mindful founders sync high-intensity work with their peak energy/busyness and respect their natural rhythms in order to avoid burnout and maintain their ability to perform over a long entrepreneurial journey.

Reflection as a Leader

Through reflection, experience becomes insight and regular reflection upon their decisions, responses & reactions will help the founder to see patterns as well as stimulate their ability to adjust their actions. Building this type of habit can increase a founder’s self-awareness, improve leadership judgment and continue to promote growth.Mindful leadership is not about doing less but instead is about leading better. By setting up structured mornings, reducing the amount of cognitive noise, creating a protected focus time and managing their energy; a founder can stay grounded during the chaos. Ultimately, mindful leadership will support not only a founder’s health and well-being, but also positively influence the health of their teams, culture and business resilience.(Vinayak Burman, Founder and Managing Partner, VERTICES PARTNERS, Creator and Host, The Lifeboat)