#Indian Fitness Expert

[dot-media-base]

In this feature, we unveil these five influencers whose impact transcends pixels, revolutionising lifestyles and shaping a healthier tomorrow.

[tiercel]

Giant blue worm (Megascolex coeruleus?)

Photographed by Abhishek Jamalabad

[townpostin]

Jamshedpur's Anshu Sarkar Wins 'Iconic Community Impact' Award

Yoga guru honored at Asia Pacific Yogasana Sports Championship in Colombo Anshu Sarkar, an international yoga guru from Jamshedpur, received the ‘Iconic Community Impact’ Award in Sri Lanka. JAMSHEDPUR – Renowned yoga expert Anshu Sarkar from Jamshedpur has been honored with the ‘Iconic Community Impact’ Award at a prestigious ceremony in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The award was presented during the…

[artifacts-and-arthropods]

Emerald Spectacles from India, c. 1620-1660 CE: the lenses of these spectacles were cut from a single 300-carat emerald, and it was believed that they possessed mystical properties

These eyeglasses are also known by the name "Astaneh-e ferdaws," meaning "Gate of Paradise," based on the symbolic associations between the color green and the concept of spiritual salvation/Paradise. That symbolism (which is rooted in Islamic tradition) was especially popular in Mughal-era India, where the spectacles were made.

The lenses were crafted from two thin slices of the same emerald. Together, the lenses have a combined weight of about 27 carats, but given the precision, size, and shape of each lens, experts believe that the original emerald likely weighed in excess of 300 carats (more than sixty grams) before it was cleaved down in order to produce the lenses. The emerald was sourced from a mine in Muzo, Colombia, and it was then transported across the Atlantic by Spanish or Portuguese merchants.

Each lens is encircled by a series of rose-cut diamonds, which run along an ornate frame made of gold and silver. The diamond-studded frame was added in the 1890s, when the original prince-nez design was fitted with more modern frames.

The emerald eyeglasses have long been paired with a second set of spectacles, and they were almost certainly commissioned by the same patron. This second pair is known as "Halqeh-e nur," or the "Halo of Light."

The Halo of Light features lenses that were made from slices of diamond. The diamond lenses were cleaved from a single stone, just like the emerald lenses, with the diamond itself being sourced from a mine in Southern India. It's estimated that the original, uncut diamond would have weighed about 200-300 carats, which would make it one of the largest uncut diamonds ever found.

The lenses are so clear and so smoothly cut that it sometimes looks like they're not even there.

Both sets of spectacles date back to the mid-1600s, and it's generally believed that they were commissioned by a Mughal emperor or prince. The identity of that person is still a bit of a mystery, but it has been widely speculated that the patron was Shah Jahan -- the Mughal ruler who famously commissioned the Taj Mahal after the death of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Shah Jahan did rule as the Mughal emperor from about 1628 to 1658.

The emerald and diamond lenses may have been chosen for symbolic, sentimental, and/or cultural reasons, or they may have been chosen simply because they're pretty and extravagant; the original meaning and purpose behind the design is still unclear. Experts do believe that the eyeglasses were designed to be worn by someone, though.

At times, it was believed that the spectacles had spiritual properties, like the ability to promote healing, to ward off evil, to impart wisdom, and to bring the wearer closer to enlightenment. Those beliefs are largely based on the spiritual significance that emeralds and diamonds can have within certain Indic and Islamic traditions -- emeralds may be viewed as an emblem of Paradise, salvation, healing, cleansing, and eternal life, while diamonds are similarly associated with enlightenment, wisdom, celestial light, and mysticism.

The Gate of Paradise and the Halo of Light were both kept in the collections of a wealthy Indian family until 1980, when they were sold to private collectors, and they were then put up for auction once again in 2021. They were most recently valued at about $2 million to $3.4 million per pair.

Sources & More Info:

Sotheby's: Mughal Spectacles

Architectural Digest of India: At Sotheby's auction, Mughal-era eyeglasses made of diamond and emerald create a stir

Only Natural Diamonds: Auspicious Sight & the Halqeh-e Nur Spectacles

The Royal Society Publishing: Cleaving the Halqeh-Ye Nur Diamonds

Gemological Institution of America: Two Antique Mughal Spectacles with Gemstone Lenses

Manuscript: From Satan's Crown to the Holy Grail: emeralds in myth, magic, and history

CNN: The $3.5 million Spectacles Said to Ward off Evil

BBC: Rare Mughal Era Spectacles to be Auctioned by Sotheby's

[gguk-n]

can you write lando norris x desi!reader!gf where they go back to celebrate ganesh chaturthi, and yn hosts ganapati bappa in her own house in india and its lando's first time pleaseee

Festive Hearts

Jalebi- dessert made of flour or flour and rice flour fried and dipped in sugar syrup. Kurta Pajama- Indian attire for men made of various material which includes a tunic and a loose fitting pant. Shalwar Kameez- Similar to Kurta Pajama but for women. Pooja- A Hindu ritual of worship.

I'm not an expert when it comes to this so please forgive me if there are any discrepancies

Lando and Y/N had been dating for a while now, long enough that her family knew about Lando, he was very well loved. That's how he ended up in India during Ganesh Chaturthi. Lando wasn't there on the day Ganapati Bappa was being brought into the house due to the race. He got there a few days before the immersion. Lando was like a kid in a candy store. Everything was bright and vibrant. The whole house was decorated in flowers and lights. There was always delicious and new food for him to eat. "Babe, my trainer's gonna hate me" he told his girlfriend while munching on his third jalebi. "These are delicious. Do you eat these every day?" he mumbled with food in his mouth. "No, Lan, no one eats these every day." she laughed. "Your mum keeps handing them to me, I don't know how to say no." he looked at her apologetically. Y/N called her mum out to stop feeding her boyfriend.

There were a lot of Formula One fans in Y/N's home town which meant Lando got recognised and asked for pictures and autographs. Y/N's family was the one hosting Ganapati Bappa this year in their community. So, there was always a crowd of people going in and out of the house, and now Lando brought another crowd along too. But he wasn't complaining, he wanted to get to know the people that got to see his love grow up.

On the day of the immersion, Lando was dressed in a white crisp Kurta Pajama and his girlfriend wore shalwar kameez. The family had woken up early and were busy in preparation since the auspicious time was during the mid-day. Lando could see his girlfriend running around trying to get the things ready for the ritual. Y/N's dad handed Lando some flowers and desserts for offering and asked him to put it away. There was this energy that was running through everyone's veins as the time drew closer. A sense of emotions over took them, it was like watching your family leave for some time.

There would a huge procession leaving with Ganapati Bappa after the Pooja. There would be songs and people would dance along the way from the house to the sea, where Ganapati Bappa would be immersed in the water. Y/N's siblings took Lando along with them to dance. Y/N had only seen Lando dance in clubs and now she could see him dance along with her siblings, learning as he went. It was a beautiful sight with Ganapati Bappa over looking everyone as they partook in the celebrations. "He's a keeper" her mother said. Y/N jumped from surprise. "When did you get here?" she asked. "Just now" her mother replied fondly looking at Lando. "He has really been trying since he got here" her mother spoke more to herself. "To get everyone to like him." she hummed. "Do you like him?" Y/N asked expectantly. "We liked him when you said you loved him" her mother replied. Y/N smiled at her mother and decided to join everyone in the celebrations.

After everything was done, and everyone returned; the house in disarray. Her mother started cleaning up while the others joined. Finally, Lando laid on the cot in the courtyard exhausted from the day's events. Y/N sat near his head playing with his hair. "Do you guys do this every year?" he asked looking up; "yup" she replied. "This is so much fun but I've never been more exhausted in my life and I've driven in Singapore." he chuckled. "You'll get used to it" she hummed, checking around before pressing a kiss to Lando's lips. "Spiderman kiss" Lando mumbled as he placed his hand on her neck pulled her closer. Y/N's mum coughed making the pair pull away, a blush visible on their cheeks. "I get you two love each other, but there's still some cleaning left" she said while the two whined and Y/N got up to help her mum. "Rest for some time and then join me" she told Lando before pecking his cheek and walking away.

Sorry this was short, I felt kind of lost.

[littleeyesofpallas]

It's such a nothing detail at this point --after what almost 50 years now?-- but it always bugged me that Lady Shiva is called Lady Shiva... Like... Either do something interesting with her heritage to align her with the Hindi namesake, or call her by some kind of Chinese equivalent of the same Destroyer god. Or like at least tie the Indian epithet to her having learned Kalaripayattu or something. I dunno I just wish her name made a little bit more sense. Although so long as I'm griping about Lady Shiva stuff...

I'd actually really love it if they took her reputation as Master of All Martialarts to heart. It already makes for a great implied dynamic with Batman where he has a reputation that precedes him but by all rights isn't actually a master martial artist so much as just a very competent jack of all trades who supplements what he lacks in martial arts specifically with his deductive reasoning, broader situational awareness, and gadgets. But if her quest to master every martial art took her back to the cradle of civilization it'd make for a cool sort of feather in her cap. She could have more run ins with the likes of Sportsmaster to draw a line around Martialarts as sports vs martialarts as real combat, vs as art, vs as living cultural artifacts. She could have some back and forth with Vandal Savage as a guy who ostensibly knows more about lost histories than any other person on Earth.

Also dumb nothing side bit but how have we not had her do the full blown Bruce Lee, or Bruce Lee inspired blurry anime arms thing to match her Shiva title?

And like, as shitty as his plots have all been, there's just so much more that could be done with David Cain if anyone really gave a shit. I know it's super lame that he's literally named after Cain & Abel, but there's something kind of cool about the idea of a guy better known for training assassins than actually being one having this association with a mythical First Murder. Cain would just make for a much better codename than anything. It'd be really interesting if he was never a martial arts expert or even master assassin at all but just a guy dabbling in experimental operant conditioning and desensitization, trying to master The Art of Killing from the basest level.

Because really learning martialarts and bodily discipline as a first language fits Shiva's shtick better anyway. Cain's deal should be about breaking down the psychological resistance to killing and violence. Among other things there's really no reason for him to even be Cassandra's biological father. It would make way more sense to just make him a weirdo abducting or otherwise buying people's kids to try and get them as tabula rasa as possible. That being said he should also have closer ties to Damian specifically as the recipient of Cain's eventual perfected training methods.

(oh you know I don't know why I never thought of it but is he supposed to also be named after the biblical David? Like as a reference to David and Goliath? So he's named after two biblical guys who killed someone with a rock? Honestly the name David is so plain it never crossed my mind to even look for a connection)

But that all being said there's this implicit untapped synergy between the themes of The First Killer among men, and the Hindu Destroyer God that would be really cool to explore, obviously thru Cass and how she should be the marriage of their two themes, along with any siblings we want to acknowledge in any given timeline. Like, she should really be a perfect embodiment of bothe parents' ideals but also the perfect counter point or refutation of each. Like, I know we all love pure hearted Cass and the whole idea that she could just shake off her lifetime of training and condition to just know that killing is wrong, but I dunno it's a little corny? (I do like the idea that Cain's blindspot was that training her against professional killers meant she never learned the body language of fear in someone who can't fight back, though. That sort of culture shock is a fun part of that moment.) Instead it would be really interesting to acknowledge that, yeah, Cain's training worked and she can pretty easily take a life without much hesitation or guilt, but that doesn't mean she can't make the rational or ethical or moral judgement to not kill, it just means she isn't making it based on reflexive disgust or shame or trauma.

The loophole to her being a perfect killer and unmatched fighter being that if she's truly unmatched then other fighters don't actually pose a threat to her, and without her life at risk she has no actual motive to kill someone. In a way she should operate on a moral perogative more akin to Superman's than Batman's, just scaled down to a street level, or in the specific realm of martialarts.

Unrelated to really any of this while I do hate Cain's dumb "Orphan" moniker working with Mother, and especially the idea of Cass taking it, I almost would have liked if it had been that version of Cain that had had the weird eugenics program with his other kids. (I mean that it just ditch him and make Shiva the one with a bunch of protege kids, and instead of trying to make a perfect killer, it's just Shiva trying to make her perfect adversary) It would make more sense for him to have an entire line of failed experiments preceding Cass that she'd have to prove herself against.

But also if there was going to be a whole legacy of "Orphan" operatives, it would have been cool to make it a mahjong thing; there's a uniquely difficult hand in mahjong called The Thirteen Orphans, where the 13 tiles in your hand form absolutely no pairs, triplets or straights, despite those being the entire backbone of the game. You only get one pair to make it a winning hand and there could be a neat way to single out Shiva and Cass as a matched pair.

[blues-of-randomness]

The Pasts of the Forgotten Critters/Frowny fox (rewritten)

The forgotten critters were all part of different collections, paired with a smiling critter that was supposed to be part of the same collections.

Dogday, Catnap, Hoppy hopscotch, and Silly Shelly were part of the Pet collection

Jerry Giraffe, Clever Claws and Bubba Bubbaphant were part of Safari collection (In my au Bubba is an Indian Elephant but I could see Playtime co trying to sell my off as an African elephant thinking people wouldn't tell the difference)

Kickinchicken, Picky Piggy, and Molly Mc Moo were part of the farm collection

Craftycorn and Jolly jaws were paired up in a fantasy collection as Jolly wasn't any ordinary shark, he was supposed to be a Megaladon.

and finally Bobby and Frowny were made as a set for a Wild things collection (hence why their pendants are almost identical)

Their purposes and stories within the cartoons:

Jerry was going to be a love interest for Craftycorn. The two of them were paired up with the image of two shy souls who barely fit into the world coming together and changing each other for the better. Jerry was an expert at measuring, he could even guess how tall something was without needing a ruler. This, Without saying, was very useful for Crafty's art projects

Clever claws was smart but he was also dazzling, attractive, and oh so cool, everything that Bubba lacked. While Bubba was shown to get picked on and teased for not fitting in, Clever claws was able to mask himself and fit in with the crowd. He even tried to teach Bubba how to mask and fit in with the crowd but whenever Bubba tried it was met with failure, he did everything Clever claws did but it wasn't enough. Clever claws knew this and it wasn't fair, he became Bubba's best friend and taught him there was nothing to be ashamed of even if no one liked him.

Jolly jaws and Kickinchicken were paired as a playful duo, Jolly jaws was just as adventurous as Kickinchicken but he was more in favor of being save while doing (hence why a lifesafer is his pendant) While Kickin was more or less about being reckless and having fun. He teased Jolly jaws about being safe, calling him a coward, etc. One day the two of them had a surfing contest but during the surfing Kickin was knocked off his surfboard, Jolly jaws was happy until he realized that Kickin never resurfaced. He quickly dove under the surface and rescused Kickin from a watery grave. That's when Kickin really learned about the importance safety.

Molly Mc Moo's purpose in was to teach about how there needs to be a balance within someones life when i came to something they enjoy. In this case it was teaching Picky Piggy there was nothing to be ashamed of when it came to her love of Pb&J sandwhiches even if it wasn't healthy because Picky had control over herself and cared about her healthy. As long as she kept that up there was nothing wrong with a little treat now and then

Shelly and Hoppy were paired together as competitive opposites situation. Their story was supposed to be a parody of the tortoise and the hare. The two would race but Hoppy would hurt herself going so fast and Shelly would help her out teaching her that sometimes slower is better.

And finally Frowny was a fox who was hurt and bullied all his life. Then he met Bobby and she showed him what love is and how to be happy despite all the pain he's been through

Reasons for rejection:

The kids weren't impressed with Clever claws, some of the older girls thought he was a typical "self centered prince charming" and the kids thought that Jerry looked weird and made fun of him.

Similar reasons for Frowny fox, the kids hated how he smelled and saw no point in having a "Sad toy".

The kids were scared of Jolly jaws because he was a shark they tried removing his teeth but he looked too silly without them.

There was nothing wrong with Milly MC moo its just that Kickin and Picky were more popular so Molly was thrown away

Silly Shell was playing on the swings with Hoppy when he fell off, he retreated into his shell but it cracked and shattered upon impact with the ground. Shelly was deemed too hazardous for the children.

Without Molly and Shelly they could still have pet and Farm sets but they saw no point in realising Bobby, Bubba and Crafty on their own so they were all combined into the smiling critters we know today.

As time past the critters had moved on from their lost companions and forgot about them, not because they didn't care about them, it was more of a "I thought you were dead" type of forgetting

[manilaxmiindustrial]

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What are ASTM A234 WPB Pipe Fittings?

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Conclusion

In conclusion, ASTM A234 WPB pipe fittings are the most essential material in the industrial market, possessing qualities of high durability, adaptability, and tolerance toward extreme situations. With relentless development in the manufacturing technologies, further improvements are made in their performances, making them trustworthy for different applications.

[mermaidsirennikita]

ARC Review: Any Duke in a Storm by Amalie Howard

4.25/5. Releases 1/09/2023.

Vibes: romance on the high seas, badass heroines, ridiculously besotted heroes, and sword fight boners

Heat Index: 7/10.

Lady Lisbeth, countess, divorcee, and spy, is on the run. She's taken on the persona of Bonnie Bess, feared by all--except her new sailing master, the infuriating Raphael Saint. Problem one: Raphael may be a part of the smuggling ring Lisbeth is attempting to infiltrate. Problem two: she is, sadly, both extremely annoyed by and extremely attracted to him. Problem three: she may just have to rely on him if they're going to get away from the people pursuing her in one piece.

I was, to be honest, a little worried about how Amalie would pull this off. A lot of pirate-adjacent romances can get super fetishistic super fast. Plus, Raphael (who is of mixed-race ancestry) could easily dip into the Exotic Brown Man caricature. However, after I let her do her thing, I was pleasantly surprised with a romance that is both heartfelt and ridiculously sexy, with a solid dose of adventure. It's worth the risk!

Quick Takes:

--If you're a fan of "man falls first and harder" in romance... You'll love this. Lisbeth is a very guarded, icy heroine who's here to do a job and doesn't have time for nonsense. Raphael... is so naturally flirtatious, first off--but he's also much more in touch with his emotions and isn't afraid of letting Lisbeth know that he's interested. The sexual tension is THICK, but their banter and interplay is another huge part of the fun. They play off each other so well, and it all begins with a SWORDFIGHT!

--Raphael does bring a lot of humor to the story. In a lot of ways, he reminds me (and this is a compliment) of Prince Naveen from The Princess and The Frog? Like, he's very consciously leaning into being FRANCH, and he never misses an opportunity to hit on Lisbeth, but he also genuinely appreciates her talents and abilities and has a lot of really sweet moments.

He's also super secure in himself, which brings up another thing I loved about this. Raphael isn't by any means "feminine", and he definitely has several scenes wherein he takes a dominant role in his dynamic with Lisbeth. But he's also very comfortable with being, like... pretty. And delicate. He's a swashbuckler, but he'll also joke about wearing her blouses, and revel in the newfound possibilities of her taking control in the bedroom. There's a very "local man realizes he may have a bit of a submissive side and he's GOOD with it" vibe to it all.

--I don't usually like kids in romance, but here we have a legitimately good one! Lisbeth comes into the story familiar with Narina, a twelve-year-old girl whose mother she was friends with. Narina becomes a part of their adventures, and she's... fucking hilarious? Like, a foul-mouthed, snarky young girl who has a knack for piracy. And it's one of those things where Lisbeth is always like "DECORUM" because she's attempting to save this child's manners, and Raphael (who of course has an immediate affinity with Narina, NATURALLY) can't help but indulge her and encourage her wrongs. It's adorable, it makes him even hotter in a "doting father" kind of way and I loved the conclusion it reached.

--I'm really not an expert on this particular part of history, so correct me if my impression is wrong. But it felt like Howard made an effort to represent the unique interplay of cultures across the islands, as well as how one really isn't that different from the other. Raphael, as I mentioned, is French--but he's also of Indian and Creole descent. The novel doesn't delve too deeply into the complexities there, but you do get the sense from Raphael that he hasn't really fit into any of the boxes offered to him by nineteenth century society, as a French duke who isn't white and is very much his father's legitimate heir.

But I really appreciate seeing a book that really didn't take place in the ballroom, or ballroom adjacent, or really in England at all. You have a great sense of life at sea here, as well as some island-hopping, a detour to America, and so on. It offers a much bigger, grander world than a lot of conventional Victorian romances.

--There's a great emotional beating heart here, and you really feel Lisbeth falling for this man, essentially against her will, while he steadfastly waits for her to recognize her own feelings. It leads to a great culmination, and some truly swoony emotions.

The Sex:

Um, really good. I do want to call out that Lisbeth is pansexual, and the book doesn't shy away from that; one of the supporting characters is her ex-lover, and at one point another friend is outright like "oh wait, you like dudes too?" I loved that, and I loved that it's seriously not a big deal, just this known thing about her and her experiences.

But yeah. This shit is hot. There's not a huge emphasis on penetrative sex. Like it, happens, but there are a lot of other things that happen, and they do not feel any less like sex. (Including one scene that I don't want to spoil, but you don't see a lot of that exact configuration in historical romance, and..... it's so good.)

Raphael has piercing(s!) and tattoos, and Lisbeth's obsession with them is certainly incorporated. And like I mentioned earlier--there's some exploration of both of them discovering New Things about themselves together. Essentially, they both go into this believing they prefer to be dominant, and realize that they're both, perhaps... switch-y. This leads up to a scene towards the very end that delighted me Very Much. Put simply: the sex in this book is REALLY great.

Like I said, I was at first a little worried about how this one would turn out. However, I was ultimately really happy with where it went. Seeking a "woman and her overeager dangerous himbo go do piracy together" book? This is it.

Thanks to Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing me with a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[dot-media-base]

Explore their impact, style, and innovation as they redefine the landscape of influence in their respective domains.

[rainesol]

How I write Naga characters! (LONG post)

I need somewhere to lay out Ksho’s anatomy and fit it into the lore, so here’s how I personally write half-snake characters. This version is to fit into the TWST lore, but it can work anywhere. I’m not at all an expert, but I am an animal sciences/zoology student, so I hope this is at least interesting o7 Feel free to use these headcanons lol

As a disclaimer, I am writing this about a character based on an Indian rock python, but I’ll leave little notes here and there on how this would work in general. Etymology wise, I will be referring to the character as a Naga, as the character I am writing for is South Asian. The name Lamia could be used for Greek or North African characters :D I will be referring to the ‘human half’ as the anterior body, and the ‘snake half’ as the posterior body, as my character is obviously not a human OR a snake.

To start with, I don’t consider Naga characters to be beastmen, and instead belong to their own classification that includes centaurs, cervitaurs and any reptilian or mammalian ‘merfolk’. They are a convergent species to snake beastmen and humans as a whole and have no real relation. I’ll be starting from the head and working down to the tail.

Ksho only has hair on his head, eyebrows and eyelashes, as is typical for his species. This is implied to have evolved from something similar to feathers, as he uses the serpentine idiom ‘Do feathers still grow from your skull?’ However, it is fine to not explain this. After all, if a platypus can lay eggs, a fictional reptile can grow hair. He can’t grow any other kind of body hair. His pupils are vertically slit. This DOES NOT mean he is venomous!!!! This means he is better suited for dark environments. He doesn’t have visible heat pits, but is written to ‘see’ heat in a way similar to a human seeing heatwaves off of a hot car, by his own description. This is left mostly unexplained 🥲 He has pointed ears with scales on the back, and he has a forked tongue and a vomeronasal organ.

Dentition wise, he has long thin teeth. These teeth curve back into the mouth, and get longer the further in they are. He cannot chew. The back teeth move forward and back as he opens his mouth to make room. His ‘dimples’ are actually the points where the skin on his cheeks can stretch back to. Like snakes, he can’t actually unhinge his jaw. The two halves are not fused, and merely stretch out. His anterior rib cage, collarbone and pelvis also all stretch very far, which he demonstrates in book 3 by pulling his ribs out, much to everyone’s disgust.

Snake teeth are shaped like this to guide food back and to hold prey still, but the addition of opposable thumbs is vastly more helpful. I imagine that the other ‘sharp’ teeth, such as the leech twins can chew to a certain extent, but will typically just swallow manageable bites, like an eel would.

The anterior body is mostly oesophagus, but it also contains the anterior heart and the first lung, similar in size to one that a human would have, the heart slightly larger. They provide oxygen and blood flow to the brain, arms and extremities. They have no nipples or breast tissue! They are reptiles, eat solid food from birth, and hatch with all their teeth. There is never a reason for them to drink milk. There’s also no visible navel, the area covered by belly scales in a pattern similar to stomach hair to make the transition easier. (The area where the yolk connects is further down) The scales wrap around the hips, and can range from only going slightly up the anterior body, to all the way over the shoulders.

Snakes shed all at once. Naga bodies will shed the posterior scales all at once, and the scaleless skin will shed similar to peeling off dried glue 😬

Moving on to the posterior body, the majority ‘leg’ portion of the body and some of the body on the ground is stomach. He also has a posterior lung and heart, which is much larger. He can hold his breath for around thirty minutes without issue. The liver is a little further down, leading up to the gallbladder and small intestine. Then it’ll lead up to the kidneys, reproductive system and the rest of the digestive system. (I’m sure nobody wants me to go on and on about snake anatomy lol)

Like snakes, they are cold blooded, and are susceptible to different illnesses due to this. Their movement is quite reliant on the CNS, meaning sudden movements can lead to injuries, as they could lunge on instinct. They’re very androgynous as a whole, though the females are typically bigger. Constrictors don’t focus on removing the ability to breathe and actually are strong enough to constrict blood flow to the heart. However, with an intelligent species capable of hunting with tools, this isn’t necessary. That sensitivity to vibrations is still very handy though.

Pythons move by pulling themselves straight forwards by ‘walking’ with their ribs. I divert from this, as I imagine Kshoshurankha moving in the swaying side-to-side way. It just better matches his personality, and works better with the humanoid part imo. He moves forward straight when ‘dragging his feet’ or tired

The posterior body ends with the vent. After that, the ACTUAL tail begins. Most pythons tails are able to hang on and hold its whole body weight. The fact that the organs go through the whole body gives me the belief that they would not be able to take human potions like the merfolk would, as it would be too big a change and send them into shock. (I imagine the leech twins are around 10-15ish feet, the majority of which being tail, and the most vital organ systems ending at the mid ‘thigh’ area)

This isn’t at all gospel for Kshoshurankha’s lore and was mostly written due to my special interest in anatomy and zoology. I’m 100% open to any questions! (or suggestions) I’ll probably make a second post adding on to the life stages and other random trivia anyways \o/

Kshoshurankha (the character I reference multiple times) is 17 and in high school. Any asks about him that are genuinely disturbing, gory or in anyway unsavoury are not welcome.

[tubetrading]

The Heart of Boiler Systems:  Exploring the Role of IBR Fitting and Flanges

Boiler systems serve as the backbone of numerous industrial processes, powering everything from heating and hot water supply to steam generation in various manufacturing operations.  Within these systems, ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability is paramount, and this is where IBR (Indian Boiler Regulations) fitting and flanges play a pivotal role.  As a trusted distributor in Vadodara and a leading dealer in Gujarat, Tubetrading is dedicated to providing top-quality IBR fitting and flanges to industries across the region.  In this blog post, we'll delve into the significance of IBR fitting and flanges in boiler systems, explore their crucial functions, and highlight the expertise of Tubetrading in supplying these essential components.

Understanding IBR Fitting and Flanges

IBR fitting and flanges are integral components of boiler systems that ensure seamless operation and compliance with safety standards mandated by the Indian Boiler Regulations.  These regulations are designed to safeguard the integrity of boiler components, prevent accidents, and promote efficient energy utilization.  IBR fitting and flanges are manufactured according to stringent specifications outlined by the IBR to guarantee durability, reliability, and performance in demanding industrial environments.

The Role of IBR Fitting and Flanges in Boiler Systems

1.   Pressure Regulation:  IBR fitting and flanges are designed to withstand high-pressure environments commonly found in boiler systems.  They play a crucial role in regulating and controlling the flow of fluids, gases, and steam within the system, ensuring optimal pressure levels for efficient operation.

2.   Sealing and Joint Integrity:  Proper sealing and joint integrity are essential to prevent leaks and maintain the integrity of boiler systems.  IBR fitting and flanges are equipped with robust sealing mechanisms, such as gaskets and O-rings, to create a tight seal between interconnected components, minimizing the risk of leaks and ensuring system integrity.

3.   Connection and Interoperability:  IBR fitting and flanges serve as connection points between various components of boiler systems, including pipes, valves, and vessels.  Their standardized dimensions and configurations enable seamless interoperability, facilitating efficient assembly, maintenance, and repair of boiler systems.

4.   Compliance and Certification:  Compliance with IBR regulations is mandatory for all boiler components used in India.  IBR fitting and flanges undergo rigorous testing and certification processes to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements, providing peace of mind to industries reliant on boiler systems.

Tubetrading: Your Trusted Supplier of IBR Fitting and Flanges in Gujarat

As a reputable distributor and dealer of IBR fitting and flanges in Vadodara and Gujarat, Tubetrading prides itself on delivering superior-quality products and exceptional service to its customers.  Here's why industries trust Tubetrading for their IBR fitting and flanges needs:

1.   Extensive Product Range:  Tubetrading offers an extensive range of IBR fitting and flanges, including elbows, tees, reducers, bends, and flanges in various sizes, materials, and specifications.  Whether you need standard or customized components, we have the expertise and resources to meet your requirements.

2.   Quality Assurance:  At Tubetrading, quality is our top priority.  We partner with reputable manufacturers who adhere to strict quality control measures and comply with IBR regulations.  Our products undergo thorough inspection and testing to ensure they meet the highest standards of performance, reliability, and safety.

3.   Expert Guidance:  With years of experience in the industry, the team at Tubetrading possesses in-depth knowledge of IBR fitting and flanges and their applications in boiler systems.  We provide expert guidance and technical support to help our customers select the right components for their specific needs, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.

4.   Timely Delivery:  We understand the importance of timely delivery to our customers' operations.  With our efficient logistics network and inventory management systems, we strive to fulfill orders promptly and ensure on-time delivery of IBR fitting and flanges to our customers across Gujarat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, IBR fitting and flanges are the heart of boiler systems, playing a critical role in ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulatory standards.  As a trusted distributor and dealer in Vadodara and Gujarat, Tubetrading is committed to supplying top-quality IBR fitting and flanges to industries across the region.  With our extensive product range, quality assurance, expert guidance, and timely delivery, we are your reliable partner for all your IBR fitting and flanges needs.  Contact Tubetrading today to learn more about our products and services and discover how we can support your boiler system requirements.

[targetdefenceacademy]

Target Defence Academy: The Best NDA Coaching in Lucknow with Hostel Facilities

When it comes to preparing for the National Defence Academy (NDA) exam, choosing the right coaching institute can significantly impact an aspirant's success. In Lucknow, Target Defence Academy has established itself as one of the premier coaching centers for NDA preparation. Offering a holistic approach that combines academic excellence, military-oriented training, and comprehensive hostel facilities, Target Defence Academy stands out among its competitors.

Why Choose Target Defence Academy for NDA Coaching?

1. Experienced Faculty and Personalized Coaching

Target Defence Academy boasts an experienced team of educators, many of whom have backgrounds in the Indian Armed Forces. This ensures that students receive guidance from professionals who understand both the exam structure and the demands of a military career. The personalized attention given to each student helps them to focus on their weak areas, improving their overall performance.

2. Comprehensive Study Material

The academy provides well-researched and updated study material, tailored specifically to the NDA exam's syllabus. This material covers all sections of the exam, including Mathematics, General Ability Test (GAT), and English. The institute ensures that students stay up-to-date with the latest exam patterns and trends, providing them with ample practice through mock tests and previous year papers.

3. Hostel Facilities

For outstation students, Target Defence Academy offers well-maintained hostel facilities. These hostels are designed to create a comfortable and safe environment that allows students to focus entirely on their studies. The hostel rooms are equipped with all the necessary amenities, including:

Clean and hygienic living spaces

24/7 security and supervision

Nutritious and healthy meals

Study areas for individual or group learning

By providing an all-inclusive environment, the academy ensures that students can balance their academic preparation with rest and recreation, promoting a holistic lifestyle.

4. Physical Training and Personality Development

The NDA exam is not just about academic knowledge; physical fitness and personality play a crucial role, especially for the SSB interview phase. Target Defence Academy places special emphasis on physical training, helping students to meet the physical standards required by the NDA. The academy also conducts leadership development and communication skills sessions to help students excel in the SSB interview.

5. Regular Mock Tests and Performance Analysis

Regular mock tests and performance evaluations are part of the academy’s curriculum. These assessments help students to understand their strengths and areas for improvement. They are also provided with detailed performance analysis and feedback to track their progress over time. The faculty ensures that every student is well-prepared for the actual exam, reducing anxiety and building confidence.

6. Student Success and Track Record

Target Defence Academy has consistently produced top NDA candidates, with many students securing high ranks in the exam. Their excellent track record showcases the quality of training and preparation that the institute provides. Many alumni have gone on to join the Indian Armed Forces in various capacities, attributing their success to the academy's guidance.

Key Features of Target Defence Academy

Dedicated Faculty: With a team of qualified instructors who specialize in NDA coaching, students receive expert guidance.

Hostel Facilities: Safe, secure, and well-facilitated hostel accommodation is provided for students.

Comprehensive NDA Coaching: A well-rounded program that covers every aspect of the NDA written exam and the SSB interview.

Regular Assessments: Weekly and monthly tests to track student progress.

Physical and Leadership Training: Structured programs to ensure students are physically fit and mentally prepared for a career in the military.

Conclusion

Target Defence Academy in Lucknow provides one of the most comprehensive environments for NDA aspirants. By offering top-notch academic coaching, physical fitness training, and hostel facilities under one roof, it ensures that students are fully equipped to tackle the NDA exam and the challenges of military life. Whether you're an outstation student looking for accommodation or a local student seeking quality coaching, Target Defence Academy is your one-stop destination for NDA preparation.This comprehensive approach gives students the best possible chance to excel, helping them step into the future as confident and capable defence personnel.

[fanfic-lover-girl]

Why I dislike Black!Hermione

So I haven't seen any updates on the casting yet for the HBO series but there is discourse about Black!Hermione due to her casting in CC. Adding to the POC race swapping, Harry is commonly depicted as Indian in fanart. Both depictions are not compelling to me. In this post, I want to explain my thoughts on why I do not like the idea of Black!Hermione.

Starting with a shallow reason:

I don't like Hermione. So I am not happy with her character being race-swapped to pander to my race demographic.

Deeper reasons:

Does not improve/enrich the story

I hate when film makers say a character can not be a certain identity because it doesn't serve the story. Which is why so many American Black centric media is based on racial discrimination, police brutality etc. A main character should be Black just because. They don't need to have a tragic backstory about racism. Thank you.

You may be saying I am a hypocrite now and that's understandable. But the difference here is that Hermione is originally white. Changing her to be black serves no purpose other than representation which I will talk about next.

Black characters only matter if they are based on a white character??

I emphasize with the need for more representation. Personally, I don't need a character to be black to love them but it does help for society to be exposed to multi-cultural fiction. My favourite literature book in highschool was "Things Fall Apart" - way more entertaining than mind-numbing Shakespeare! Shows like Fresh Prince, Bill Cosby and Family Matters, based on my understanding, helped show America that black families could be prosperous and "normal". Most family sitcoms I have watched have been black family sitcoms.

Which is why I believe black people deserve better than white people leftovers. We deserve black characters that won't be compared to their white counterparts. By race-swapping, you are indirectly saying that black characters can't stand on their own. Which is why instead of bringing an African or Caribbean folktale to life, Disney made Ariel black to give us cheap representation. I guess African myths and folklore are not as consumable as German and other European stories.

Hermione being black will muddle the mudblood issue

What a coincidence that people want the character who already faces bigotry to be black! I wonder why?!

Black!Hermione will introduce racism sentiments into the story which is not needed. I believe that people will subconsciously tie racism to pureblood discrimination if Hermione is black. Don't pretend it won't happen. Draco is already accused of being racist in the books when his bullying actions have no relevance to racism. Pansy was the one who made the comment about Angelina's hair, not Draco. If you have a rich white blond boy hurling slurs at a black girl and wishing for her death, you bet the fandom will treat the mudblood issue as racism if Hermione is black.

I am open to seeing how a character experiences racism and pureblood discrimination in the wizarding world but Hermione is not the character for that. I think the mudblood bigotry is a rich enough concept to further explore and JKR dropped the ball with it.

These are my three main reasons.

I did not mention the slavery storyline here because I don't think it would be as bad as I previously thought. I have posted that Black!Hermione would make the SPEW story worse...but that is not necessarily the case. Just because someone is black that does not mean they are experts in oppression. My dad has said some racist things about Chinese people. Coming from Jamaica, I don't understand the mindset of Black Americans sometimes and I feel alienated from them. Blacks and Asians are racist to each other. A Black!Hermione thinking she knows best about slavery because she learnt about it in history class and she's black would still fit the storyline well. Black or white, the SPEW storyline is cringe either way.

Feel free to disagree.

[commandantacademy]

Commandant Academy: The Best NDA Training Academy for Defense Aspirants

The journey to join the Indian Armed Forces requires dedication, discipline, and expert guidance. Commandant Academy, a premier NDA training academy, is committed to shaping the futures of defense aspirants by offering specialized coaching for various defense-based services. From preparing for the prestigious NDA - SSB interview to guiding students through various defense entrance exams, Commandant Academy stands as a beacon of hope for those seeking to serve the nation.

This blog explores the courses offered, the unique coaching methodology, and why Commandant Academy is considered the best academy for NDA preparation.

Courses Offered at Commandant Academy

Commandant Academy offers a wide range of courses to cater to the needs of defense aspirants at different stages of their preparation. These courses are meticulously designed to cover every aspect of defense entrance exams and interviews.

1. SSB Interviews

The NDA - SSB interview is one of the most challenging phases of the defense selection process. It evaluates candidates on various parameters, including leadership skills, communication abilities, and mental agility. Commandant Academy specializes in preparation for SSB interviews, offering personalized coaching that focuses on the Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR), Picture Perception and Description Test (PPDT), and Group Testing Officer (GTO) tasks.

Our comprehensive SSB interview program provides students with in-depth knowledge of the five-day selection process, including psychological tests, personal interviews, and group tasks. With Commandant Academy, students develop the confidence and skills needed to succeed in the SSB interview.

2. NDA (National Defence Academy)

The NDA exam is one of the most sought-after defense entrance exams in India. It opens the door to joining the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force. Commandant Academy offers an extensive coaching program that covers the NDA syllabus, including Mathematics, the General Ability Test (GAT), and preparation for the SSB interview.

Our NDA training academy ensures that aspirants not only excel in written exams but also ace the rigorous NDA - SSB interview. The SSB interview is a crucial part of the selection process, and at Commandant Academy, we focus on grooming students for this all-important interview through mock interviews, group discussions, and personality development sessions.

3. NDA Foundation Course (11th & 12th)

Commandant Academy’s NDA foundation (11th and 12th) program is designed for students who aim to join the NDA immediately after completing their schooling. This course covers the CBSE curriculum and simultaneously prepares students for the NDA entrance exam.

The NDA Foundation (11th and 12th) program focuses on building a strong academic base while also preparing students for physical fitness tests and personality development. This foundation course ensures that students are NDA-ready by the time they complete their school education.

4. CDS (Combined Defence Services)

The CDS exam is conducted twice a year for recruitment into the Indian Military Academy, Officers Training Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Indian Air Force Academy. Commandant Academy offers comprehensive coaching for the CDS exam, ensuring students are fully prepared for every subject, including English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics.

Our best academy for CDS interview preparation program helps students excel in both the written exam and the subsequent SSB interview. We offer personalized coaching for each stage of the CDS selection process, helping students achieve their dream of joining the Indian Armed Forces.

5. CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces)

Commandant Academy provides an extensive CAPF exam preparation strategy that covers every section of the exam, including General Ability and Intelligence, General Studies, and Essay Writing. The academy also focuses on preparing students for the Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Medical Standard Test, which are critical components of the CAPF selection process.

Our CAPF exam preparation strategy ensures that students are well-equipped to face the challenges of the CAPF selection process and emerge successful.

 

6. AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test)

The AFCAT exam is the gateway to joining the Indian Air Force as an officer in the flying, ground duty (technical), or ground duty (non-technical) branches. Commandant Academy’s AFCAT exam guide covers every aspect of the exam, from Verbal Ability to Numerical Ability, Reasoning, and General Knowledge.

Our AFCAT exam guide also includes comprehensive coaching for the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview, ensuring students are well-prepared for the final stage of the selection process.

7. Air Force (Agniveer)

The Agniveer recruitment process is a special initiative by the Indian Air Force to recruit airmen for various technical and non-technical branches. Commandant Academy provides expert coaching for the Agniveer exam, covering all subjects, including Physics, Mathematics, and English. We also focus on physical fitness training, ensuring students are prepared for both the written exam and the physical fitness test.

Why Choose Commandant Academy?

1. Expert Faculty

At Commandant Academy, we take pride in our highly experienced and qualified faculty members who specialize in defense coaching. Each faculty member brings years of experience in coaching students for defense entrance exams and interviews, ensuring that students receive the best possible guidance.

2. Comprehensive Study Material

Our study material is carefully curated by defense experts and covers every aspect of the syllabus for exams like NDA, CDS, AFCAT, and CAPF. The material is regularly updated to reflect the latest exam patterns and trends, ensuring students are always well-prepared.

3. Personalized Attention

At Commandant Academy, we believe in providing personalized attention to every student. Our small batch sizes allow for one-on-one interaction with faculty members, enabling students to clear their doubts and receive individual guidance.

4. Mock Tests and Practice Sessions

We conduct regular mock tests and practice sessions to help students assess their progress and identify areas for improvement. Our mock tests are designed to simulate the actual exam environment, helping students build confidence and reduce exam-related stress.

5. Physical Fitness Training

Physical fitness is a crucial aspect of defense exams. Commandant Academy offers specialized physical fitness training to prepare students for the physical tests that are part of exams like NDA, CDS, and CAPF. Our fitness trainers provide personalized training programs to help students achieve the required fitness levels.

6. Personality Development

Personality development is an integral part of the preparation for the SSB interview. At Commandant Academy, we offer personality development sessions that focus on improving communication skills, leadership qualities, and overall confidence. These sessions are designed to help students excel in group discussions and personal interviews.

Conclusion

Commandant Academy is more than just an NDA training academy—it is a place where dreams of serving the nation come true. With our expert faculty, comprehensive coaching programs, and personalized attention, we have established ourselves as the top NDA coaching in Patna.

Whether you're preparing for the NDA - SSB interview, aiming to clear the CDS exam, or looking for the best academy for NDA preparation, Commandant Academy is your one-stop destination for all defense-related coaching. Our commitment to excellence and our proven track record make us the best choice for defense aspirants in Patna and beyond.

Choose Commandant Academy for your defense career, and take the first step toward serving your nation with pride.

For More Info: https://commandantacademy.com/

[foxnangelseo]

Apple To Invest More In India

As per undisclosed sources familiar with the matter, Apple Inc. is reportedly revamping the management of its international businesses to place a larger emphasis on India, reflecting the country's growing importance in the company's overall strategy. This move marks a significant milestone as India is set to become its own sales region at Apple for the first time, signaling the surging demand for Apple's products in the region. As a result, India is expected to gain greater prominence and visibility within the company.

The decision to focus on India could be a strategic move by Apple, given that India is one of the fastest-growing smartphone markets in the world. By prioritizing India, Apple may be seeking to gain a larger market share in the region, which could help the company offset slowing growth in other markets. The company's recent launch of an online store in India is further evidence of its commitment to expanding its presence in the country. Last quarter, despite a 5% dip in total sales, Apple achieved record revenue in India. The tech giant has set up an online store to cater to the region and plans to open its first retail stores there later this year. During the last earnings call, Apple CEO Tim Cook highlighted the company's significant emphasis on the Indian market and compared its current state to its early years in China. He mentioned how Apple is leveraging its learnings from China to scale in India. China is Apple's largest sales region after the Americas and Europe, generating around $75 billion in revenue per year. Apart from boosting Apple's sales, India is also becoming increasingly critical to the company's product development. Key suppliers are shifting to the region, and Apple is partnering with manufacturing giant Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. (also known as Foxconn) to establish new iPhone production facilities in India, according to Bloomberg News. Apple has been expanding its focus on the Indian market in recent years, and the company has been making efforts to improve its sales operations in the country. In 2020, Apple launched an online store in India, which allowed the company to sell its products directly to consumers in the country for the first time. This move was seen as a significant step for Apple, as India is one of the world's fastest-growing smartphone markets. If Apple is restructuring its international sales operations to put a more significant focus on India, it suggests that the company sees significant growth potential in the Indian market. Apple may be looking to increase its market share in India by focusing on pricing, localizing products and services, and building relationships with key partners in the country. It remains to be seen how Apple's restructuring will affect the company's operations in other regions. However, this move is undoubtedly a positive sign for India's tech industry, as it shows that major global players are taking note of the country's potential as a growth market.

Fox&Angel is an open strategy consulting ecosystem, put together by a top-line core team of industry experts, studded with illustrious success stories, learnings, and growth. Committed to curate bespoke business & strategy solutions for each of your challenges, we literally handpick consultants from across the globe and industries who fit the role best and help you on your path to success. 

This post was originally published on: Foxnangel