Category: Human Interest

Human Interest

Happy Teddy Day 2026

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Panaji | 10 February 2026: Valentine’s Week 2026 continues with a flurry of romance, and today is all about cuddles, comfort, and cute gestures as we celebrate Teddy Day. Falling on February 10, Teddy Day is the perfect opportunity to gift your loved ones a teddy bear—a symbol of warmth, care, and emotional connection.

Just like Rose Day, Propose Day, and Chocolate Day, Teddy Day celebrates affectionate love. Whether it’s a giant huggable bear, a classic brown teddy, or a mid-sized cute one, the gesture conveys heartfelt emotions that are cosy, comforting, and lasting.

To make your Teddy Day gift even more special, pairing it with the right message or greeting adds a personal touch. From romantic notes to funny captions, we have curated over 200 wishes, greetings, images, and GIFs perfect for WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter). These messages let you tell your special someone exactly how much they mean to you.

Here are a few examples:

  • “You are my cuddle buddy forever! Happy Teddy Day ❤️🐻”
  • “A hug from me, a teddy from you, love from both—Happy Teddy Day!”
  • “This little teddy may be soft, but my love for you is endless. Happy Teddy Day!”

With our curated collection, you can make the day memorable, spreading joy, warmth, and love to your partner, friends, or family. Explore our adorable gallery of teddy-themed images and animated GIFs to share on social media and messaging platforms.

Teddy Day is more than a gift—it’s a reminder of emotional closeness, comfort, and the simple joys of expressing love in a heartfelt way.

Human Interest

Tom and Jerry Celebrate 86 Years of Slapstick Mayhem

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February 10, 2026 | Hollywood: Today marks the 86th anniversary of the debut of one of the most iconic duos in animation history—Tom and Jerry. On February 10, 1940, MGM released Puss Gets the Boot, introducing audiences to the mischievous cat Jasper (later Tom) and the clever mouse Jinx (later Jerry), created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera.

The short became an instant success, setting the stage for 162 theatrical shorts produced over the next decade, many of which won critical acclaim. Across their illustrious career, Tom and Jerry won seven Academy Awards, cementing their place as the pinnacle of slapstick animation in the 1940s and 1950s.

Their timeless antics—chases, clever pranks, and over-the-top humor—continue to captivate audiences today, proving that their appeal spans generations. Fans around the world have celebrated the anniversary in creative ways, from sharing clips of classic episodes like Cat Concerto to creating Japanese-inspired birthday crafts. Warner Bros. also marked the occasion with promotions highlighting the enduring legacy of the duo.

Tom and Jerry’s cultural impact extends beyond the screen, influencing animation techniques, storytelling, and humor in cartoons worldwide. Even after 86 years, their timeless escapades continue to make audiences laugh, proving that some legends never age.

Human Interest

Tobacco Products to Get Costlier from Today as New Excise Duty Takes Effect

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Cigarettes, biris, pan masala, and other tobacco-related products are set to become costlier from tomorrow as the revised excise duty structure comes into force.

The price hike follows the government’s decision to increase excise duties on tobacco products, a measure that is expected to generate additional revenue while also acting as a deterrent to tobacco consumption. Industry sources indicate that manufacturers are likely to pass on the increased tax burden to consumers, leading to higher retail prices across categories.

Public health experts have long advocated higher taxation on tobacco, citing its effectiveness in reducing consumption and discouraging first-time users, particularly among youth. The move aligns with broader public health objectives aimed at curbing tobacco-related diseases and lowering healthcare costs.

Retailers have been advised to update prices in line with the new duty rates, while consumers may begin to feel the impact immediately at points of sale nationwide.

The excise duty revision is expected to affect both premium and mass-market tobacco products, including cigarettes, biris, chewing tobacco, and pan masala, making tobacco consumption a more expensive habit going forward.

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.