In a rare and heartfelt personal message, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant penned warm birthday wishes to his wife Sulakshana, offering a glimpse into the emotional support system behind his public life.
Describing her as his “constant strength” and “calm in every storm,” Dr Sawant reflected on the demanding journey of serving the people of Goa and the resilience required to lead. He acknowledged that beyond public responsibilities and official duties, it is her love, grace and unwavering support that give him the courage to serve with dedication and humility.
The Chief Minister’s message went beyond a simple greeting. He spoke about cherishing their shared moments, her quiet sacrifices and the warmth that defines their bond. In doing so, he highlighted a side of leadership often unseen — the personal partnership that strengthens public service.
As he prayed for her good health, happiness and a lifetime of beautiful memories together, the message resonated with many across Goa. It served as a reminder that behind every public role lies a foundation of family, faith and enduring companionship.
In a time when celebrity entrepreneurs often make headlines for luxury cafés and high-end restaurant chains, a quieter and more grounded story is unfolding in Jiaganj, in the Murshidabad district of West Bengal. Here, the family of celebrated playback singer Arijit Singh runs a modest restaurant that serves vegetarian thalis for ₹40 and offers a special student price of ₹30.
₹40 veg thali. ₹30 for students.
In Jiaganj, West Bengal, Arijit Singh’s family restaurant keeps meals affordable for all.
The eatery is not positioned as a celebrity attraction. It is a longstanding family business reportedly managed by his father and has been functioning well before recent social media attention brought it into wider focus. Reports since 2023 and again in May 2025 have highlighted how the restaurant continues to maintain affordable pricing despite inflation and rising food costs.
Open every day from 10:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., the restaurant serves straightforward, home-style meals. The menu includes mix veg, shahi paneer, chicken korma and biryanis, along with the budget-friendly vegetarian thali that has drawn admiration. The emphasis remains on nourishment rather than presentation, practicality rather than prestige.
In an economy where dining out has become increasingly expensive, a ₹40 thali feels almost symbolic. For students in particular, the ₹30 option makes a tangible difference. Affordable eateries like this play an important social role in smaller towns, offering dependable meals to daily wage earners, families and young people managing tight budgets.
The contrast with celebrity-owned premium cafés — where a single beverage can cost several hundred rupees — has not gone unnoticed by fans. Many see the restaurant as reflective of Arijit Singh’s public persona: understated, grounded and connected to his roots. Known for avoiding excessive limelight despite his massive success, the singer has consistently maintained a low-profile lifestyle, and the family’s continued involvement in a simple local business aligns with that image.
For the people of Jiaganj, however, the restaurant is less about celebrity association and more about daily life. It is a place to sit, eat and share a meal without financial strain. It is part of the town’s rhythm, serving food steadily from morning until night.
Sometimes, impact does not come through scale or luxury. Sometimes, it comes through consistency. In a small town in West Bengal, a ₹40 thali continues to be served every day — quietly, reliably and without fanfare — proving that staying rooted can be just as powerful as rising to fame.
From the serene village of Raia in South Goa to the episcopal seat of Sindhudurg in Maharashtra, the journey of Fr. Agnelo Pinheiro has now entered a historic new chapter. Pope Leo XIV has appointed the priest of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman as the Bishop of the Diocese of Sindhudurg, with the announcement made on 14 February 2026. The news has been received with joy and gratitude in Raia and across the Goan Catholic community.
From Raia to Sindhudurg: Fr. Agnelo Pinheiro appointed Bishop by Pope Leo XIV. A proud moment for Goa.
Born on 6 July 1972 in Raia, Fr. Agnelo’s path to priesthood was marked early by academic excellence and a deep sense of vocation. After completing his SSC in 1988, he entered the minor seminary and continued his higher secondary education in Mapusa, securing fourth rank in the Goa State XII Board Examination in 1990. He began his priestly formation at the Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol in 1991 and completed a degree in Psychology with distinction at St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa.
Ordained on 28 October 2000, he first served as Assistant Parish Priest at St. Alex Church, Calangute. He later underwent pastoral training at the Pastoral Institute St. Pius X in Old Goa. His intellectual pursuit led him to obtain a Master’s Degree in Philosophy from Jnana Deepa Vidyapeeth, Pune, in 2004, after which he was appointed Professor of Philosophy at Rachol Seminary. His academic journey extended to Rome, where he pursued doctoral studies at the Pontifical Gregorian University between 2013 and 2016.
Upon returning to Goa, he resumed teaching at Rachol Seminary and also served as Parochial Administrator of St. Joseph’s Church, Dramapur, from June 2022 to May 2023. Since 2018, he has been entrusted with the Apostolate of Inter-Religious Dialogue in the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, playing a key role in promoting harmony and mutual respect among different faith communities.
He now takes charge of the Diocese of Sindhudurg, established in 2005 and comprising 43 parishes with nearly 36,000 Catholics. The diocese spans Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts and parts of Kolhapur district in Maharashtra, with strong historical and cultural ties to Goa. The episcopal seat had been vacant since October 2024, and this appointment brings renewed leadership and direction to the diocese.
As Raia celebrates one of its sons being called to shepherd a diocese, the faithful of Sindhudurg prepare to welcome a bishop shaped by scholarship, pastoral dedication and a commitment to dialogue. From Raia to Sindhudurg, the journey continues — guided by faith, service and a call to lead.
The capital city of Panaji transformed into a dazzling spectacle of colour, music and celebration as Goa Carnaval 2026 was officially flagged off on February 14. The grand ceremony was led by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, alongside Member of Parliament Sadanand Shet Tanavade, Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte, Chairman GTDC Kedar J Naik, CCP Mayor Shri Rohit Monserrate, Director of Tourism Kedar Naik and Managing Director GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar, among other dignitaries.
Carnaval fever begins! 🎭✨
Goa Carnaval 2026 flagged off in Panaji by CM Pramod Sawant. Music, floats & King Momo lead the celebrations!
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasised that the festival reflects Goa’s inclusive and welcoming spirit, uniting people across cultures through celebration. He highlighted that such events not only strengthen the State’s cultural identity but also enhance its global visibility as a vibrant tourism destination. The strong turnout of international visitors, many attending for the first time, reaffirmed Goa’s growing appeal in experiential and cultural tourism.
Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte described Carnaval as a living expression of Goa’s heritage and community spirit. He noted that the festival plays a vital role in promoting Goa beyond its beaches, spotlighting its traditions, artistic talent and immersive cultural experiences while supporting local performers and communities.
The ceremonial flag-off witnessed an overwhelming public response, with streets lined by residents and tourists from across India and abroad. The atmosphere shifted instantly as King Momo made his grand entrance, declaring the start of days filled with revelry and joy. His traditional entourage set the tone for the procession that followed.
Elaborately designed floats rolled through the heart of Panaji, each narrating stories of Goa’s rich past and contemporary aspirations. Themes ranged from cultural heritage to social awareness and festive traditions. Traditional folk performances blended seamlessly with high-energy musical acts, transforming the city into a moving theatre of rhythm and colour.
Behind the scenes, the Department of Tourism ensured enhanced infrastructure, crowd management systems and visitor facilitation measures to provide a safe and seamless experience for all attendees. The coordinated efforts of local artists, cultural groups and multiple stakeholders were evident in the precision and vibrancy of the parade.
As the celebrations continue across Margao, Vasco, Mapusa and Morjim in the coming days, Carnaval 2026 promises to carry its festive momentum across the State. More than just a parade, it stands as a cultural statement — reinforcing Goa’s position as a welcoming, diverse and globally admired destination where tradition and modernity dance together on the streets.
Did you know that in South Korea, the 14th of every month isn’t random — it’s romantic?
While much of the world circles February 14 as the only date that matters, South Korea has quietly stretched the idea of love across the entire calendar. Instead of one annual crescendo, romance unfolds in chapters.
January 14 begins softly with Diary Day. Couples exchange planners — not flashy gifts, but something symbolic. It’s about shared schedules, shared goals, shared futures. Imagine starting the year by saying, “Let’s write this together.”
February 14 follows a custom that surprises many outsiders. Women give chocolates to men. Not just to partners, but sometimes to friends or colleagues. Then comes March 14 — White Day — when men reciprocate with sweets or gifts. The back-and-forth creates anticipation. It builds momentum.
And then April 14 flips the script entirely.
Black Day belongs to singles. Instead of awkward silence about relationship status, people gather to eat jajangmyeon — black bean noodles — turning independence into a communal event. It’s ironic, playful and empowering all at once. Imagine a culture where being single gets its own social holiday.
By May 14, roses and yellow-themed dates dominate. June 14 is Kissing Day, openly celebrating affection. July 14, known as Silver Day, often marks the exchange of silver rings — subtle symbols of commitment without the weight of engagement.
August 14 encourages green outfits and nature dates. September 14 becomes Photo or Music Day — capturing memories or sharing meaningful playlists. October 14 leans into wine and red symbolism. November 14 sends couples to the cinema for Movie Day. December 14 closes the year warmly with Hug Day — and sometimes even Sock Day — practical gifts wrapped in emotional meaning.
What makes this fascinating isn’t whether every couple participates religiously. It’s that the rhythm exists at all. Twelve built-in reminders to pause. To acknowledge. To celebrate. Or simply to reflect.
It also reveals something deeper about modern Korean dating culture — how symbolism, commerce, social media and genuine emotion intersect. Cafés create themed menus. Gift shops stock color-coded items. Photo booths fill up. Instagram feeds align with the mood of the month.
Now imagine this: what if your calendar nudged you toward connection 12 times a year? Would relationships feel more intentional? Would single life feel less isolated? Would gratitude become routine instead of occasional?
In South Korea, the 14th quietly suggests that love — in all its forms — deserves more than one day of attention.
And here’s the final question: if you had to pick just one of the 14ths to celebrate, which would it be?
