Author: allycaralgoa

The Blog Allycaral was a dream that turned into a reality. The idea of having this blog was to share my travel experiences along with emphasizing on Self Care and Self Growth. It all began with my love for writing and Today I hope this space encourages you to travel more and this blog inspire you to be a better version of yourself. So while you are here, grab a coffee, sit back and relax! There’s a lot, You can look Forward to!
Human Interest

Budget 2026: A Look at Nirmala Sitharaman’s Iconic Budget Day Sarees Over the Years

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Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has, over the years, turned Budget Day into more than just a fiscal milestone. Her carefully chosen sarees have emerged as meaningful cultural statements, spotlighting India’s diverse handloom traditions and regional craftsmanship.

Budget Day 2026

For the Union Budget 2026, Ms Sitharaman wore a deep plum Kanjeevaram silk saree, paying homage to Tamil Nadu’s centuries-old weaving legacy. Featuring traditional patterns and a rich contrasting border, the saree reflected the grandeur and discipline associated with South India’s iconic silk tradition. She paired the look with her trademark bahi-khata, reinforcing continuity and symbolism.

Budget Day 2025

In 2025, the Finance Minister chose an off-white handloom silk saree adorned with fish-themed embroidery and a golden border, inspired by Madhubani art. Paired with a red blouse and shawl, the ensemble celebrated Mithila’s folk artistry.

A Year-by-Year Look at Her Budget Sarees

  • 2019: Pink Mangalgiri silk saree with gold borders, marking the historic introduction of the traditional bahi-khata.
  • 2020: Yellow silk saree with green-lined borders, symbolising hope and prosperity.
  • 2021: Red and off-white Pochampally ikat silk saree from Telangana, highlighting intricate handwoven patterns.
  • 2022: Brown and maroon Bomkai saree from Odisha, showcasing regional craftsmanship.
  • 2023: Red silk saree with black Kasuti embroidery, a traditional craft from Karnataka.
  • 2024 (Interim Budget): Blue Tussar silk saree with Kantha embroidery from West Bengal.
  • 2024 (Union Budget): White silk saree with a magenta border and golden motifs.
  • 2025: Off-white handloom silk saree inspired by Madhubani art.
  • 2026: Deep plum Kanjeevaram silk saree celebrating Tamil Nadu’s weaving heritage.

Over the years, Ms Sitharaman’s Budget Day attire has evolved into a quiet yet powerful narrative—one that places Indian artisans, weavers, and traditional crafts at the heart of a nationally watched moment. Her sarees serve as reminders that cultural pride and policy leadership can walk hand in hand.

Human Interest

Karnataka Police Personnel to Get Leave on Birthdays & Anniversaries in Morale-Boosting Move

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In a move widely being hailed as empathetic and progressive, the Karnataka Director General of Police (DGP) has issued a circular mandating leave for all police personnel on their birthdays and wedding anniversaries.

The order, dated January 29, underscores the importance of allowing officers and staff to spend quality time with their families, highlighting that emotional well-being plays a crucial role in enhancing morale, reducing stress, and improving overall job satisfaction.

According to the circular, all unit officers across the state have been directed to grant this special leave without exception. Unit heads have been made directly responsible for ensuring strict implementation of the directive, reinforcing accountability within the system.

The DGP’s note also points out that a motivated and mentally balanced police force is essential for maintaining discipline, efficiency, and professionalism in service. By acknowledging the personal sacrifices made by police personnel—who often work long hours under stressful and demanding conditions—the initiative aims to build trust, loyalty, and a stronger sense of belonging within the force.

The decision has been widely viewed as a humanitarian gesture, setting an example for other departments to prioritise employee welfare alongside operational efficiency. Many see this as a reminder that compassionate leadership can go a long way in strengthening institutions.

rip

V Srinivasan, Husband of PT Usha, Passes Away at 67; Athletes Remember His Guiding Role

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Written by Alisha Fernandes || Allycaral

India mourns the loss of V Srinivasan, the husband of legendary sprinter PT Usha, who passed away at the age of 67. Known not only for his support of PT Usha’s illustrious career but also for his nurturing role at the Usha School of Athletics, Srinivasan was remembered as a father figure and mentor by many budding athletes.

Tintu Luka, the Asian Games medallist and one of the school’s most celebrated students, described Srinivasan as “Usha chechi’s backbone” and a guiding light for young women athletes. “If we needed anything he was there for us. I would tell him about anything that was worrying me, and he always listened patiently and guided us,” said Tintu, highlighting his deep commitment to fostering talent and instilling confidence in the athletes.

Beyond his familial support, Srinivasan played an instrumental role behind the scenes, ensuring that the athletes at the Usha School of Athletics had access to resources, encouragement, and moral support. His loss has left a profound void not only in PT Usha’s personal life but also in the larger Indian athletics community, where his quiet, steadfast presence helped shape the careers of countless women athletes.

Tributes have poured in from the athletics fraternity, celebrating his generosity, dedication, and mentorship. His legacy continues in the athletes whose lives he touched and the impact he made on Indian sports.

Sports

QF, SF Line-ups Take Shape Across Categories at Gadre Gaspar Dias Open 2026

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Written by Alisha Fernandes || Allycaral

Panaji, January 2026: Higher-round action gathered momentum at the Gadre Gaspar Dias Open 2026 on Thursday, with several quarter-final and semi-final line-ups taking shape across multiple categories at the Panjim Gymkhana and Gaspar Dias courts.

In the men’s singles quarter-finals, Ashwin Narsinghani produced a composed performance to defeat Prathamesh Patil 4–0, 4–2, while Parth Deorukhakar overcame Maaz Khan 4–2, 4–2 to book his spot in the semi-finals. Eshaan Khadeer also advanced after getting the better of Nishad Shevde.

Men’s doubles action saw Maaz Khan and Arnav Bansode progress with a win over Praneeth V and Suraj, while Paul Singh and Nilesh defeated Atharv Paranjpe and Sonu Todu to move into the next round. At the Gymkhana courts, the pairing of Ashwin Narsinghani and Prathamesh Patil stormed into the semi-finals with a dominant 6–0 victory over Vihaan and Devaansh.

In the ladies’ singles category, Nidi secured her place in the final after defeating Trisha in the semi-final encounter.

Earlier-round men’s singles matches witnessed Maaz Khan beating Paul Singh 6–2, while Eshaan Khadeer registered a 6–2 win over Harren A.

The under-16 boys’ category produced a flurry of action-packed encounters. Priyank defeated Aymer 6–1, Fatha Ali beat Arsh 6–2 and later overcame Arhan 6–1, Arjun defeated Ivan 6–2, and Ethan edged past Priyank 6–4. Arav registered back-to-back wins against Alec (6–1) and Adianta (6–0), while Adianta earlier defeated Arjun 6–1. At the Gymkhana courts, Ayush beat Satya 6–3, Rihan defeated Vihaan 6–1, Shaurya blanked Aayush 6–0, and Athrva edged past Devaash 7–5.

In the girls’ under-16 category, Mikayla defeated Kiara 6–1, Urvi beat Devyani 6–2, Ammiel overcame Chantelle 6–2, Gargi blanked Mikayla 6–0, Bhavya defeated Urvi 6–1, Anindita beat Eaka 6–0, Kimberly defeated Anindita 6–1, and Tvisha registered a commanding 6–0 win over Ammiel.

Mixed doubles matches saw Nishi and Dhruv beat Archana and Debayan 6–0, Unnathi and Rushikesh defeat Atika and Prajat 6–2, Poojal and Pankaj blank Anita and Shivam 6–0, Deeksha and Paul defeat Aastha and Nitye 6–0, Tomoyo and Arnav edge past Bhargavi and Sonu 6–3, and Raisa and Neale beat Natalia and Suraj 6–0.

In the ladies’ doubles category, Tomoyo and Aastha defeated Renee and Devyani 6–1, Sonicka and Nidi blanked Vlada and Yuliia 6–0, Tatiana and Patricia edged past Tejjus and Sofia 7–5, while Tvisha and Bhavya beat Poojal and Raisa 6–4.

Jointly organised by Clube Tennis de Gaspar Dias and the Gadre Group, in association with the Goa State Tennis Association (GSTA), the tournament has recorded a massive participation of 555 entries across the Masters and Open segments, making it one of the largest tennis events in the state.

Sports

Baale Tigers, Sherwin Shaw Falcons Register Convincing Wins in PGML 5.0

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Written by Alisha Fernandes || Allycaral

Panaji: Baale Tigers and Sherwin Shaw Falcons continued their strong run in the ongoing PGML 5.0 tournament with impressive victories in their respective league encounters at the Panjim Gymkhana ground.

In the morning match, Priority Titans won the toss and opted to bat first but were restricted to 138 for 8 in their 20 overs by a disciplined Baale Tigers bowling unit. Atharva Kumar fought hard with a well-made 53, supported by Yeshwant Barde’s 24. However, the Titans struggled to build momentum as Harshal Shah and Prasad Patil wreaked havoc, claiming three wickets each to keep the scoring in check.

In reply, Baale Tigers displayed calm and confidence during the chase. Openers Sandip Dahad (49) and Dishan Pujari (34) laid a solid foundation. The innings was then expertly steered home by Prasad Patil (21 not out) and Rajaram Kundaikar (28 not out), as Baale Tigers reached the target in 19.2 overs to seal a comfortable six-wicket victory.

The afternoon fixture saw Sun Estate Warriors post a competitive 155 for 8 after electing to bat first. Harsh Jethaji top-scored with 32, while Rohit Rane added 31. Sherwin Shaw Falcons’ bowlers kept the pressure on throughout, with Tunish Sawkar claiming three wickets and Iftikhar Agha picking up two crucial scalps.

Chasing the target, Sherwin Shaw Falcons came out with intent. Prajyot Rivonker anchored the innings with a solid 41, while Gourav Desai chipped in with a brisk 34. The turning point came in the form of Tunish Sawkar’s explosive cameo of 40 off just 16 balls, which powered the Falcons to 156 for 5 in just 16.4 overs. His all-round brilliance earned him the Player of the Match award as Sherwin Shaw Falcons cruised to a five-wicket win.

With these victories, both Baale Tigers and Sherwin Shaw Falcons strengthened their positions on the PGML 5.0 points table, setting up an exciting phase ahead in the tournament.