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Social

₹40 Meals in Arijit Singh’s Hometown: A Family Restaurant That Stays Rooted

Tanisha Cardozo

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.

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.

Events in Goa

Goa Welcomes the World as Carnaval 2026 is Flagged Off in Panaji

Tanisha Cardozo

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.

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.

Special Occasion

Pulwama: Remembering the Day That Shook a Nation

Tanisha Cardozo

On February 14, 2019, what began as a routine convoy movement along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway turned into one of the deadliest terror attacks in recent Indian history. A suicide bomber rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a convoy of the Central Reserve Police Force in Pulwama, killing 40 personnel.

The attack sent shockwaves across India. Images of smoke rising from the highway flooded television screens. Families waited anxiously for confirmation. The country watched in grief as coffins draped in the tricolour arrived in hometowns across states.

Responsibility for the bombing was claimed by Jaish-e-Mohammed, escalating already fragile tensions between India and Pakistan. In the days that followed, India carried out airstrikes in Balakot, marking a significant shift in its response to cross-border terrorism. The episode triggered diplomatic offensives, international scrutiny and a renewed debate over national security strategy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowed that the sacrifice of the soldiers would not go unanswered. Across the country, candlelight vigils were held. Schools observed moments of silence. Social media turned into a space of collective mourning and solidarity.

For many Indians, Pulwama became more than a headline. It became a reminder of the human cost of conflict. Behind every uniform was a son, a husband, a father, a friend. The stories of the fallen — their dreams, their families, their everyday lives — resonated deeply with citizens who had never met them but felt the loss personally.

Years later, the attack continues to influence security policies in Jammu and Kashmir and shape India’s counterterrorism posture. It also remains a solemn marker in the national calendar — a day of remembrance.

As each anniversary passes, the questions remain complex, the geopolitics layered and the emotions raw. But one sentiment endures: the resolve to honour those who lost their lives in service of the nation.

Pulwama is not just a place on the map. For millions, it is a memory of grief, unity and unwavering tribute.

Travel

Booking.com Traveller Review Awards 2026: Goa Among India’s Most Welcoming Regions

Tanisha Cardozo

Booking.com has recognised Goa among the 10 Most Welcoming Regions in India as part of its 14th annual Traveller Review Awards 2026, reaffirming the State’s enduring appeal as a warm and hospitable destination. The global travel platform, known for connecting travellers with accommodation and transport services worldwide, bases the awards on the share of accommodation partners earning a Traveller Review Award for delivering authentic and caring guest experiences.

This year, Goa has retained its position among India’s most welcoming regions, while Mandrem has emerged as one of the top 10 Most Welcoming Destinations in the country. Other welcoming destinations within Goa highlighted for their hospitality include Agonda, Palolem, Arambol, and Morjim, reflecting the State’s diverse coastal charm and community-driven tourism ethos.

The awards are powered by more than 370 million verified traveller reviews worldwide. In 2026, a total of 17,575 travel partners in India received the Traveller Review Awards, marking an increase from 15,674 recipients in 2025. Globally, a record-breaking 1.81 million partners were recognised, including over 1.8 million accommodation providers, 1,977 rental car companies, and 137 airport transfer suppliers.

This year’s awards also reflect evolving traveller preferences across India. Hotels continue to be the most popular accommodation choice, with 6,650 award recipients, followed by homestays (2,652), apartments (1,984), resorts (1,338), and guest houses (1,218). The numbers highlight a growing demand for personalised and unique travel experiences.

The 2026 list of Most Welcoming Regions in India includes Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Goa, Rajasthan, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Puducherry, Assam, Karnataka, and Haryana. Among the Most Welcoming Destinations are Bir, Mararikulam, Jaisalmer, McLeod Ganj, Mukteswar, Khajuraho, Bhim Tal, Manali, Hampi, and Mandrem.

Santosh Kumar, Regional Manager, South Asia at Booking.com, stated that the Traveller Review Awards celebrate partners who consistently deliver exceptional hospitality across India. He noted that Goa’s continued recognition reflects its vibrant culture and coastal charm, with local partners playing a crucial role in making India a memorable destination for travellers from around the world.

Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com aims to make it easier for everyone to experience the world by leveraging technology to simplify travel. Goa’s continued presence on the Most Welcoming list underscores not only its scenic appeal but also the warmth and dedication of its hospitality community, which continues to leave a lasting impression on visitors year after year.

Events in Goa

Goa Gears Up for Grand Statewide Carnaval 2026 Celebrations

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa is all set to welcome the much-anticipated Carnaval 2026, one of the State’s most iconic cultural celebrations that brings together colour, music, dance, and a spirit of joyful togetherness. Organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, the festival continues to reflect the State’s rich heritage and festive traditions, drawing participation from residents and visitors alike.

The official announcement of Goa Carnaval 2026 was made in the presence of Managing Director of GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar, Deputy Director of Tourism Dhiraj Wagle, Assistant Director of Tourism Jayesh Kankonkar, General Manager GTDC Gavin Dias, Deputy General Manager (Hotels & Marketing) Deepak Narvekar, and King Momo Cedric Da Costa, who symbolically ushered in the festive spirit of the season.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Rohan A. Khaunte stated that Goa Carnaval is a celebration of joy, inclusivity, and cultural pride. By taking the festivities across multiple locations, the aim is to ensure wider community participation while offering visitors an authentic Goan experience. He added that Carnaval 2026 reflects the vision of responsible and regenerative tourism, celebrating traditions while caring for people and the environment.

Director of Tourism Kedar Naik noted that Carnaval is one of Goa’s most vibrant cultural expressions. He said that the 2026 edition has been planned to ensure wider reach, safety, cleanliness, and a high-quality festive experience, with coordinated celebrations across the State to create a joyful and culturally rich atmosphere for residents and tourists alike.

Managing Director of GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar highlighted the scale of preparations, stating that Goa Carnaval 2026 is being organised with a total outlay of approximately ₹1.53 crore. This includes ₹48 lakh towards prize money to encourage greater participation and creativity, and ₹1.04 crore for infrastructure and logistics across all centres. Centre-wise allocations include ₹19 lakh for Porvorim and ₹16 lakh for Morjim, while Panaji, Margao, Vasco, and Mapusa have been allocated ₹29.35 lakh towards prize money and infrastructure, ensuring uniform standards of quality, safety, and visitor experience across locations.

The festivities will begin with the traditional curtain raiser on 13th February 2026 at Porvorim. The celebrations will then move to Panaji on 14th February with the ceremonial flag-off of the main Carnaval parade. Margao will host the festivities on 15th February, followed by Vasco on 16th February. The celebrations will conclude on 17th February with grand parades and events in Mapusa and Morjim, spreading the spirit of Carnaval across North Goa.

Adding to the excitement, the official Carnaval Jingle 2026, performed by RhythMix, was unveiled, setting the musical tone for the festivities. This year’s celebrations will echo the vibrant slogan announced by King Momo: “Amche Goem, Amche Lok, Amcho Carnaval – Viva Goa, Viva Carnaval,” capturing the essence of community pride and collective celebration.

Each venue will come alive with colourful float parades, lively performances, music, and dance, creating the joyful atmosphere that defines Goa’s Carnaval. The festival brings together communities, artists, performers, and visitors, offering a cultural experience that showcases the State beyond its beaches.

Aligned with the Department of Tourism’s vision, Goa Carnaval 2026 will emphasise responsible celebration, cleanliness, safety, and community participation. The festivities aim to create joyful experiences while preserving Goa’s cultural identity and environmental harmony. Goa Tourism has invited residents, domestic travellers, and international visitors to be part of this spectacular celebration and experience the vibrant soul of Goa through one of its most cherished festivals. Additional details regarding parade routes, timings, and associated events are expected to be announced soon.