India is a land of a million gods, and a million temples to house them. While the grand, iconic shrines like the Meenakshi Temple or the Sun Konark Sun temple draw millions of pilgrims and tourists, a spiritual journey through India is incomplete without venturing off the beaten path. Hidden in remote villages, nestled on hillsides, or even submerged in the sea, are temples with stories so intriguing they seem like they have leaped from the pages of mythology. DHANUSH KUMAR writes about these lesser-known temples in India with fascinating stories. The Temple That Disappears: Stambheshwar Mahadev, Gujarat Imagine a temple that plays a cosmic game of hide-and-seek with the sea. Twice a day, at the whim of the tides, the Stambheshwar Mahadev Temple near Vadodara, Gujarat, is submerged entirely by the Arabian Sea. Locals and pilgrims flock to this site, waiting patiently for low tide when the temple re-emerges, allowing them to offer their prayers to Lord Shiva. The sight of the temple being bathed by the ocean is a truly humbling and unforgettable experience, a powerful reminder of nature’s rhythm and the enduring faith of devotees. Where a Motorcycle is Worshipped: Om Banna Temple, Rajasthan In the heart of Rajasthan, in the village of Pali, stands a shrine unlike any other. The Om Banna Temple, also known as the Bullet Baba Temple, is dedicated to a 350cc Royal Enfield Bullet motorcycle. The story goes that in 1988, a local man named Om Banna died in a motorcycle accident at this very spot. His bike was taken to the police station, only to mysteriously reappear at the accident site the next day. This happened repeatedly, and the motorcycle was eventually enshrined. Today, travellers stop here to pray to the Bullet Baba for a safe journey, a unique and modern

India’s vast coastline, stretching over 7,500 kilometres, is a tapestry of crashing waves, golden sands, and vibrant spiritual energy. Along this dramatic edge of the land lie some of the country’s most revered temples, where the roar of the ocean provides a constant, natural chorus to the hymns of devotion. These aren’t just architectural marvels; they are sacred sites where the elements of nature and faith converge, telling epic tales that have withstood the test of time and tide. DHANUSH KUMAR writes about the most popular temples in India that stand proudly by the sea, each with a unique story to tell. Somnath Temple, Gujarat Perched on the shores of the Arabian Sea in Gujarat, the Somnath Temple is a powerful symbol of resilience and faith. As the first of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, its spiritual significance is immense. However, its history is equally compelling. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times over the centuries, a testament to the unwavering devotion of its followers. The current structure, a breathtaking blend of Chalukya architecture and modern design, stands as a beacon of hope and an eternal reminder of the cyclical nature of destruction and rebirth. The evening aarti here, with the sound of the ocean waves in the background, is a truly mesmerizing experience. Ramanathaswamy Temple, Tamil Nadu Located on the island of Rameswaram, the Ramanathaswamy Temple is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites, making it a cornerstone of the Hindu faith. Legend has it that Lord Rama built the Ram Setu, a bridge connecting India to Sri Lanka, from this very place to rescue his wife, Sita. The temple is famed for its stunning architecture, particularly its corridors, the longest of any Hindu temple in India. With a total length of 3,850 feet

Dubai has begun construction on the world’s largest airport terminal at Al Maktoum International, with a $35 billion investment. Featuring 400 gates and five runways, the mega-hub will handle 260 million passengers annually. Set for completion within a decade, it aims to make Dubai the global epicenter of aviation. Dubai Begins Construction on the World’s Largest Airport Terminal at Al Maktoum International Dubai has officially begun construction on what is set to become the world’s largest airport terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, with a staggering investment of $35 billion (AED 128 billion). This ambitious expansion plan was announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, who shared the news via social media platform X. The expansion will include 400 gates, five parallel runways, and an annual passenger capacity of 260 million, making Al Maktoum International the most capacious airport on the planet. Once completed, it will be five times the size of the existing Dubai International Airport (DXB), currently one of the world’s busiest. A Future-Forward Aviation Hub “Today, we approved the designs for the new passenger terminals at Al Maktoum International Airport, and commencing construction of the building at a cost of AED 128 billion as part of Dubai Aviation Corporation’s strategy,” said Sheikh Mohammed in his announcement. The megaproject will not only redefine global aviation infrastructure but also transform the entire Dubai South region. Sheikh Mohammed added, “As we build an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, demand for housing for a million people will follow. It will host the world’s leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors.” A 10-Year Timeline Construction is expected to take approximately 10 years, with the goal of fully transitioning operations from the current Dubai International

Intro: Kolkata is not just a city, it’s a feeling. A confluence of history, art food, literature, and legacy. Kolkata breathes in poetry and exhales politics. It’s where colonial architecture meets tram-lined streets, where Rabindranath Tagore’s spirit floats in the air, and where every corner has a story to tell. If you are visiting the City of Joy, DHANUSH KUMAR writes about these timeless landmarks and buzzing locales are a must on your itinerary. 1.Victoria Memorial The crown jewel of Kolkata, the Victoria Memorial is a majestic white-marble monument built in honor of Queen Victoria. Surrounded by sprawling gardens, this Indo-Saracenic structure now houses a museum featuring colonial era-paintings, sculptures, and manuscripts. Why Visit: For a walk through British India’s legacy, surrounded by romantic architecture and lotus ponds. 2.Howrah Bridge More than just a bridge, this steel cantilever icon is the heartbeat of Kolkata. Stretching across the Hooghly River, it connects the twin city of Howrah and Kolkata and carries nearly 100,000 vehicles a day, yet feels timeless in its grace. Why Visit: To watch the sunrise over the river, see hand-pulled rickshaws in action, and feel Kolkata’s pulse. 3.Dakshineswar Kali Temple Located on the banks of the Hooghly, this 19th-Century temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and was once frequented by the saint Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. It’s architecture- nine spires, red-and-white hues, and wide courtyards is captivating. Why Visit: To soak in spiritual serenity and watch riverfront rituals stepped in ancient traditions. 4.Indian Museum Established in 1814, the Indian Museum is the oldest and one of the largest in Asia. With exhibits ranging from Egyptian mummies to Buddhist relics and Mughal armor, it’s a treasure trove for the culturally curious. Why Visit: To explore the layers of Indian and global history in a grand colonial-era building. 5.Kalighat Temple An important