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China’s traditional Hanfu clothing is no longer limited to people, as designers are now creating outfits for robots, dolls and even pets, reflecting a growing interest in blending culture with modern lifestyles. At a recent fashion show in Caoxian County in eastern Shandong Province, models appeared with dolls dressed in matching Hanfu, while humanoid robots also wore traditional outfits, drawing strong attention from visitors. The event highlighted how Caoxian, one of China’s main Hanfu production centres, is shifting from mass manufacturing to more creative and specialised products. Local companies that once focused on large-scale production are now exploring niche markets and original designs. Their new products include Hanfu for robots, collectible dolls and pets, along with designs suited for everyday use. Hu Chunqing, general manager of Chenfei Clothing in Caoxian, said his company started making Hanfu for robots last winter. With China’s robotics industry growing rapidly, he said combining traditional clothing with machines offers both a way to promote culture and a new area for innovation. Within just over a month, his team developed more than 20 Hanfu designs for different robot models, including styles inspired by martial arts and various historical dynasties. Hu noted that making clothes for robots is more complex than for humans, as designers must consider body structure, joints and materials that allow easy movement and heat control. He believes robot Hanfu could be used beyond performances, with service robots in sectors like healthcare and public safety also wearing them to add a cultural touch. The trend has also expanded into smaller products. Designer Yao Chixing, founder of Luoruyan, has introduced Hanfu for dolls, targeting young consumers who enjoy customising collectible toys. She said making miniature Hanfu is even more challenging than regular designs, as all production steps are still required despite the smaller size. Yao sees doll Hanfu as a growing market, combining modern toy culture with traditional fashion and reflecting cultural identity among young people. Her brand has also introduced creative ideas, including scented Hanfu using floral fragrances and lighter, practical designs suitable for daily wear.   Meanwhile, Hanfu-inspired clothing for pets is gaining popularity in Caoxian. Local company TAORAE now produces pet outfits based on traditional Hanfu styles, accounting for about 20 percent of its product range. Founder Cheng Zhanying said rising pet ownership and demand for emotional connection have driven interest in pet clothing, while Hanfu design has provided a unique niche. He added that pet outfits must prioritise comfort and flexibility, leading the company to introduce adjustable features based on customer feedback. Another entrepreneur, Lan Shouku, has also entered the sector, launching a business focused on pet products, including Hanfu-style clothing. His company’s red festive outfits became popular during the 2026 Spring Festival, when many people dressed in Hanfu and chose similar styles for their pets. Lan said his team has already developed more than 30 new pet Hanfu designs this year. Caoxian’s Hanfu industry began nearly 20 years ago with small-scale costume production. With the rise of e-commerce, local businesses quickly expanded and found strong demand. Today, the county has over 2,800 Hanfu-related businesses employing nearly 100,000 people. In 2025, total sales exceeded 13 billion yuan, with a complete supply chain covering design, production and finishing. The county now produces nearly half of China’s Hanfu garments. However, growing competition has pushed companies to focus more on innovation, branding and specialised products. At the recent event, Luoruyan launched a Hanfu collection linked to a popular historical TV series, marking a new step in brand collaboration. An industrial base for intelligent robot apparel was also launched, aiming to combine traditional Hanfu with modern technology. Xie Fangming of the China Fashion Association said Caoxian has developed into the country’s leading hub for original Hanfu production, with strong industrial capacity. He added that further support will be provided in design talent, copyright protection and branding to help the sector grow into a creative centre. Hanfu, which dates back to the Han Dynasty, is known for its detailed designs and cultural significance. Industry insiders say expanding Hanfu to robots, dolls and pets is a way to promote traditional culture across new areas through innovation.  

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have concluded a four-day visit to Australia’s east coast that carried the appearance of a traditional royal tour, but attracted limited public attention and mixed reactions. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who are no longer working royals, undertook the visit in a private capacity, with engagements centred on Indigenous culture, Australian sport, charitable activities and a visit to the national war memorial. During their previous 2018 tour as active royals, tens of thousands of people turned out across a nine-day visit. This time, however, most Australians interviewed by the BBC said they were either unaware of or uninterested in the couple’s presence. Andrew’s royal downfall deepens latest crisis for Britain’s monarchy There has also been some criticism after reports suggested Australian taxpayers could bear part of the security costs for their public appearances. Flinders University academic Giselle Bastin said the visit appeared tightly controlled, limiting public exposure and potential backlash. Despite the low-key reception, the couple engaged warmly with supporters, often high-fiving fans and taking selfies. At the Sydney Opera House, Harry met Michelle Haywood, daughter of war widow Daphne Dunne, whom he had previously met in 2015. Meghan also participated in several interactions, including meeting survivors of the Bondi Beach attack and speaking with children about Australian literature. The visit also highlighted the couple’s increasing focus on media and commercial ventures, with Meghan investing in a tech platform and appearing at a paid retreat, while Harry spoke at a mental health summit. Some events raised questions over costs and payments, though organisers declined to confirm details. While supporters praised their charitable work, critics questioned the commercial aspects of the trip. Invictus Australia CEO Michael Hartung defended the couple, saying their involvement significantly benefits charitable organisations. Fans, however, said the couple are entitled to earn a living and should be free to pursue commercial opportunities alongside their charitable engagements. Source- BBC

Two male runners have been disqualified after they were found to have competed in the women’s category of the Two Oceans Marathon in Cape Town, officials said. The men ran using race bibs registered to two female athletes and finished among the top 10 in the women’s half-marathon, initially taking positions that should have gone to female competitors. The issue was detected by a race official, leading to the disqualification of the men from their 7th and 10th place finishes. The two rightful female runners were later awarded those positions. Race board member Stuart Mann said Larissa Parekh allegedly allowed Luke Jacobs to run using her bib, while Tegan Garvey is accused of giving hers to Nic Bradfield. All four individuals could face disciplinary action, including a possible two-year ban from the event. The Two Oceans Marathon is one of South Africa’s most well-known races, featuring both a 56-kilometre ultramarathon and a 21.1-kilometre half-marathon, and attracts more than 16,000 participants each year. Finishing in the top 10 is considered a major achievement. Mann described the practice of swapping bibs as unethical and potentially dangerous, noting that it could create serious medical risks in emergencies if runners are misidentified. He said runners sometimes give their bibs to others due to last-minute injuries or personal reasons, while others do it to gain unfair advantages, such as achieving faster times to qualify for future races. The incident came to light after photos shared on social media showed Jacobs wearing a bib with Parekh’s name, raising suspicion. Jacobs later issued a written apology, admitting it was a mistake and saying he did not consider the consequences. Garvey also acknowledged giving her bib to Bradfield, saying she was unable to run due to a hip injury. Both women have apologised, according to officials.

South Korean pianist Lee Hun, who suffered a devastating stroke in 2012 that paralyzed the right side of his body, has rebuilt his career as a left-hand-only performer and is now preparing for his first orchestral concert at an international festival next month. Lee, 54, said his initial concern after the stroke was whether he would walk again, not return to music. The stroke damaged about 60 percent of the left hemisphere of his brain, leaving him unable to move his right arm and leg and causing temporary aphasia. He was later brought back to South Korea in a wheelchair and could not even recognize his father upon arrival. Seeds of Sadaqah sponsors mass wedding of 126 underprivileged couples in Sylhet His recovery took a turn in 2013 when former teacher Chun Yung Hae encouraged him to explore piano pieces written for the left hand alone. Inspired, Lee resumed practice and made his formal debut in 2016 at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital. Since then, he has performed widely, appeared on television and authored a memoir. Now able to walk unaided and communicate more smoothly, Lee will perform Ravel’s “Piano Concerto for the Left Hand” on May 2 at the Icheon Young-Artist International Music Festival. Despite slim medical prospects of regaining full use of his right hand, Lee remains hopeful of one day performing with both hands again.

On a festive Thursday in Sylhet city, a convention hall became the setting for 126 new beginnings—where poor, orphaned, and financially struggling young men and women stepped into married life through a fully sponsored mass wedding. The event brought together couples who, despite being adults ready to start families, had long been unable to marry due to financial hardship. For many of them, the day marked the end of years of uncertainty and the beginning of a shared future. The initiative was funded by Seeds of Sadaqah, a humanitarian organisation led by expatriates in the UK, working to support underprivileged youth. The event was designed not just as a ceremony, but as a complete social support package for newly formed families. Each couple received 77 types of household items worth around Tk 200,000, aimed at helping them begin their new lives with stability and comfort. From kitchen essentials to daily-use necessities, the gifts were intended to ease the early financial pressures of marriage. For many attendees, the atmosphere felt like a “dream wedding,” as described by organisers—filled with celebration, laughter, and a sense of shared hope. Families who had long struggled with poverty found themselves part of a moment that felt both personal and collective. Md. Zainul Abedin, head of Seeds of Sadaqah, said the initiative reflects a broader mission. “Our goal is to create a path of happiness and self-reliance for the underprivileged and helpless people of society. Today’s event is a shining example of that,” he said. Another organiser, Orkatul Jannat, said the support would help instil confidence in the couples as they begin their new journey together. “This assistance will bring new hope and encouragement in their lives at the start of their marriage,” Orkatul Jannat said. Organisers added that they plan to continue similar humanitarian initiatives in the future, aiming to support vulnerable communities and help more young people overcome financial barriers to marriage. For the 126 couples, however, the day was not about statistics or organisation names—it was about stepping into a shared future, surrounded by celebration, dignity, and a rare sense of relief.

A new social media trend dubbed “becoming Chinese” is gaining global attention, with young people increasingly embracing elements of Chinese lifestyle and culture. In recent months, many users in their 20s have been posting videos showing how they are adopting habits seen as typically Chinese. These include drinking hot water with goji berries, eating dumplings, wearing slippers indoors, or visiting China and praising its modern cities. The trend, often referred to as “Chinamaxxing,” has attracted millions of views online. China has long tried to boost its global influence through cultural diplomacy, but this viral trend appears to be achieving what official efforts could not. Even Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng recently mentioned the phenomenon while promoting a visa-free transit policy and encouraging Americans to visit China. The trend reflects a broader rise in the global popularity of Chinese culture, products and everyday practices. Experts say this growing appeal shows how China is gaining “soft power” — influence through culture and lifestyle rather than politics or military strength. Shaoyu Yuan, a professor at New York University, said Chinese culture is becoming more familiar and widely accepted worldwide through entertainment, consumer products and daily habits. China’s influence is supported by its strong position in industries such as manufacturing, social media and consumer goods. Its tech platforms, including the algorithms behind TikTok, and competitive local brands are helping spread Chinese culture globally. However, the trend has also sparked debate, particularly among Chinese communities in the West. Some say the sudden popularity of Chinese culture does not erase past discrimination. Elise Zeng, a Chinese American from New York, said many people still remember facing racism, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when Asians were targeted over the virus. She said such experiences cannot be overlooked simply because Chinese culture is now considered trendy. Others see the trend more positively. Sherry Zhu, a social media user whose videos helped popularize the meme, said cultural exchange can help reduce misunderstandings and build greater appreciation over time. The growing interest in Chinese culture is also linked to the success of its entertainment and consumer industries. Products like Labubu dolls, music by Chinese artists and major releases such as the animated film “Ne Zha 2” and the video game “Black Myth: Wukong” have gained international popularity. Digital tools like Chinese map apps are also attracting attention for their advanced features, further boosting the country’s cultural reach. While China’s government has long promoted its global image through initiatives like the Belt and Road project and Confucius Institutes, these efforts have faced criticism in some countries. Experts say cultural influence is more effective when it spreads naturally rather than through official promotion. “Cultural influence travels further when people choose it themselves,” Yuan said.

With rising temperatures, high humidity and strong sun exposure, skincare needs extra care during summer to prevent excess oil, breakouts, dehydration and sun damage. Dermatologist Surbhi Balani has shared eight easy and effective tips to help maintain healthy and glowing skin throughout the season. Use a salicylic acid cleanser in the shower: It helps deeply clean pores and prevent body acne. Add niacinamide to your morning routine: This ingredient controls excess oil, reduces redness and keeps the skin balanced in hot weather. Use anti-dandruff shampoo as a body wash: Its active ingredients can help treat body acne caused by heat and sweat. Choose blotting paper instead of overwashing: It helps manage oil without damaging the skin’s natural barrier. Apply ceramide lotion after swimming: Chlorine can dry out the skin, and ceramide-based lotions help restore moisture and repair damage. Use sunscreen spray for easy reapplication: Regular reapplication is essential, and sprays or mists make it more convenient, even over makeup. Try benzoyl peroxide wash: It helps reduce bacteria and prevents body acne, especially in sweat-prone areas. Wear UPF clothing: Lightweight protective clothing can provide additional defence against harmful sun rays. These simple, expert-backed tips can help keep skin fresh, clear and protected during the summer months.  #By NDTV

A Parisian art enthusiast could hardly believe his luck after winning a Pablo Picasso painting worth about $1 million with a $117 raffle ticket. “How do I check that it’s not a hoax?” said Ari Hodara, 58, after organizers called him following the draw at Christie’s auction house in the French capital. Hodara, a sales engineer who describes himself as an art amateur fond of Picasso, said he bought the ticket over the weekend after learning about the charity raffle by chance during a restaurant meal. “First, I will tell the news to my wife, who has yet to return from work,” he said. “And at first, I think I’ll take advantage of it and keep it.” The prize was Picasso’s Head of a Woman, a 1941 gouache-on-paper portrait of his longtime muse and partner Dora Maar, featured in the third edition of the “1 Picasso for 100 euros” lottery. Organizers said all 120,000 tickets were sold worldwide, raising 12 million euros ($14 million). Of that, 1 million euros will go to the Opera Gallery, which owned the painting. Gallery founder Gilles Dyan said the work was offered at a preferential price, below its public valuation of 1.45 million euros. The charity raffle, run by the Alzheimer Research Foundation, supports Alzheimer’s research and is based in a major Paris hospital. It has become France’s leading private funder of Alzheimer-related medical research since its founding in 2004. Previous editions of the raffle have raised millions for cultural and humanitarian causes, including programs in Lebanon and Africa.

Fatou the gorilla, the world’s oldest gorilla living in captivity, marked her 69th birthday on Monday with a special feast at Berlin Zoo, enjoying cherry tomatoes, beets, leeks and lettuce. Zoo officials said no birthday cake was served as sugar is not considered healthy for the ageing primate. Fatou, a western lowland gorilla, was brought to then West Berlin in 1959 when she was believed to be around two years old, although her exact birth date remains unknown. April 13 has been designated as her official birthday. In the wild, gorillas typically live 35–40 years, while those in captivity can live significantly longer. She became the zoo’s oldest resident in 2024 following the death of Ingo the flamingo, who was believed to be at least 75 years old and had lived at the zoo since 1955. According to Guinness World Records, Fatou is believed to have been born in the wild in western Africa before being taken by a French sailor, who reportedly traded her in Marseille to settle a bar bill. She was later sold to the Berlin Zoo by a French animal trader. Now living in a separate enclosure, Fatou prefers to stay apart from the zoo’s other gorillas in her old age. She has lost her teeth and suffers from arthritis and hearing loss. However, Berlin Zoo primate supervisor Christian Aust said she remains friendly with keepers, though still somewhat stubborn. At 69, she continues to be well cared for as staff wished her a warm “Alles Gute zum Geburtstag, Fatou.”

Ancient grains like quinoa and spelt are often promoted as healthier alternatives to modern grains, but scientists say the benefits may not be as clear as widely believed. Ancient grains refer to crops that have changed very little over hundreds or even thousands of years. Unlike modern grains such as wheat, which have been developed through selective breeding, these older varieties have largely kept their original genetic traits. Recently, they have gained popularity, with many claims suggesting they are richer in nutrients. However, experts say there is limited evidence to prove that ancient grains are significantly better for health than modern ones. Grains such as rice, wheat, oats and corn form a major part of diets worldwide, providing carbohydrates, fibre and some protein. Nutritionists recommend that at least half of the grains people consume should be wholegrains. These include all parts of the grain – bran, germ and endosperm – and are rich in fibre, vitamins and minerals. Wholegrains have been linked to a lower risk of diseases like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and certain cancers. But researchers caution that these benefits may also be influenced by overall healthier lifestyles among people who eat more wholegrains. Ancient grains differ from modern ones mainly in how they have been cultivated. Modern crops have been bred over time for higher yields and better taste, while ancient grains remain closer to their original forms. Examples include spelt and emmer, which date back thousands of years. Despite their historical value, ancient grains are not widely grown today, as modern varieties are more productive and easier to farm. They are also more suitable for making foods like bread. One clear advantage of some ancient grains is that they are naturally gluten-free. For example, quinoa and millet can be suitable options for people with gluten intolerance. Some studies also suggest quinoa may help improve early signs of type 2 diabetes, such as lowering blood sugar levels. Even so, researchers say there is little proof that modern farming has reduced the overall nutritional quality of grains in a major way. Experts believe the growing popularity of ancient grains is partly driven by hype. While they can be beneficial in certain cases, especially for those avoiding gluten, their overall health advantages may not be significantly different from modern grains. Instead, nutritionists suggest that the key to a healthy diet is eating a variety of grains, particularly wholegrains, rather than focusing only on whether they are ancient or modern. “Variety is the best strategy,” experts say, noting that consuming different types of grains helps ensure a wide range of nutrients. With inputs from BBC