Mystras, A Journey Through History's Foothills in Greece

Mystras, A Journey Through History's Foothills in Greece

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on March 17, 2024

Nestled amidst the slopes of Mount Taygetos in southern Greece lies Mystras, a captivating town whispering tales of a glorious past. Once a powerful Byzantine Despotate, Mystras today stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an open-air museum where history and breathtaking beauty intertwine.

Mystras' story begins in the 13th century. William II of Villehardouin, Prince of Achaea, constructed a formidable castle on the mountaintop, laying the foundation for the town that would become a cultural and political hub. Following the Byzantine recapture in 1262, Mystras flourished under the Despots, transforming into a center of art, literature, and scholarship.

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Today, Mystras stands as an open-air museum, captivating visitors with its well-preserved ruins. As you wander through the cobbled pathways, remnants of the past come alive. The imposing fortress, perched atop the mountain, offers breathtaking panoramic views, whispering tales of its defensive might.

Mystras offers more than just historical landmarks.  Wander through the ruins of the Despot's Palace and imagine the whispers of courtly life. Explore the Pantanassa monastery, known for its breathtaking views and the haunting beauty of its bell tower.

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As you traverse Mystras, don't forget to look up. The town boasts panoramic vistas that will leave you spellbound. Gaze upon the majestic Taygetos Mountains, their peaks often capped with snow, and marvel at the endless expanse of olive groves that blanket the valley below.

Mystras isn't just a historical wonder; it's a place where the past infuses the present. Sample local delicacies at charming cafes nestled amidst the ruins. Savor fresh Greek yogurt drizzled with honey, indulge in flaky pastries, or sip on a cup of strong Greek coffee, the aroma transporting you back to a bygone era.

Mystras beckons travelers seeking a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.  Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply someone seeking an escape into the past, Mystras promises an unforgettable experience.  So, pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and embark on a journey through time to discover the magic of this hidden gem in Greece.


Indian Railways Launches First Hydrogen-Powered Train on Jind–Sonipat Route

Indian Railways Launches First Hydrogen-Powered Train on Jind–Sonipat Route

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 20, 2026

 Indian Railways has introduced the country's first indigenously built hydrogen-powered passenger train, marking a significant step in its clean transportation journey. Named NaMo Green Rail, the train will operate on the Jind–Sonipat section of Northern Railway in Haryana.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the hydrogen-powered locomotive ahead of its maiden journey, describing the launch as an important milestone in India's vision of becoming both self-reliant and environmentally sustainable.

With the launch, India joins a select group of countries, including Germany, Japan, China and the United States, that have introduced hydrogen-powered passenger rail services. Germany was the first country to launch a commercial hydrogen-powered train fleet in 2022.

Designed, engineered and built entirely in India, NaMo Green Rail emits only heat and water vapour, making it a zero-emission alternative to diesel-powered trains. The initiative forms part of the government's broader efforts to expand hydrogen-based mobility and reduce carbon emissions across the transport sector.

The 10-coach train has a seating capacity of around 2,600 passengers and can operate at speeds of up to 75 km/h. It will run two return trips daily on the 90-kilometre route connecting Jind and Sonipat.

One of the key highlights of the new service is its affordable pricing. According to railway officials, ticket fares start at ₹5, with the highest fare capped at ₹25, depending on the distance travelled. Passengers on the inaugural service were also able to purchase tickets priced at ₹5.

Although Indian Railways has already electrified nearly all of its 70,000-kilometre rail network, hydrogen-powered trains provide a practical solution for routes where complete electrification may not be feasible.

The introduction of NaMo Green Rail aligns with the government's ambition to make Indian Railways net-zero by 2030, while supporting India's wider clean energy goals through increased adoption of hydrogen, renewable energy and other sustainable technologies.


Yes Madam Launches Instant Salon and Spa Services, Records 30,000 Bookings in First Month

Yes Madam Launches Instant Salon and Spa Services, Records 30,000 Bookings in First Month

By Hariharan U

Published on July 19, 2026

Yes Madam, India's leading at-home salon and wellness platform, has launched instant salon and spa services, bringing trained beauty and wellness professionals to customers' homes within minutes. The technology-driven initiative aims to redefine convenience in the beauty and wellness sector by offering on-demand services similar to the instant access models adopted across food delivery, mobility, grocery, and home services.

The company has recorded more than 30,000 instant service bookings within the first month of launch, highlighting strong consumer demand for faster and more accessible beauty and wellness experiences.

Currently, instant spa services are available across all cities where Yes Madam operates, while instant salon services have been introduced in select metro cities, with plans for a phased expansion across additional markets. The average fulfilment time for instant services is currently under 30 minutes, with the company continuing to enhance its operational capabilities to further reduce waiting times.

The launch builds on the growing demand for flexible and convenient personal care solutions. Yes Madam identified an opportunity to bring professional salon and wellness services to customers whenever they need them, whether for last-minute events, professional commitments, festive occasions, or personal relaxation.

The instant services model also creates new opportunities for service professionals by enabling them to fulfil more bookings efficiently. The initiative is designed to deliver value for both customers seeking convenience and service partners looking to increase their earning potential.

Yes Madam currently fulfils more than 3.5 lakh monthly bookings across its platform. Popular services including waxing, facials, massages, and grooming treatments continue to see strong demand, with instant fulfilment making these offerings more accessible for customers with busy lifestyles.

To support the new service model, Yes Madam has strengthened its technology platform to match customer requests with nearby professionals based on location, availability, and expertise. The technology-led approach enables faster service delivery while maintaining quality standards and ensuring a smooth experience for both customers and service partners.

Commenting on the launch, Aditya Arya, Co-Founder and CEO, Yes Madam, said, "Yes Madam has consistently been a disruptor in the at-home beauty and wellness industry. We introduced mono-dose kits to improve hygiene and brought greater pricing transparency by separating product and service costs at a time when no one else in the industry was doing so. We are once again redefining the industry by becoming the only at-home beauty and wellness platform offering instant salon and spa services at this scale. We believe convenience is becoming a vital expectation across different services, and beauty and wellness should be no different."

With instant services gaining early traction, Yes Madam continues to strengthen its position in India's evolving at-home beauty and wellness market. The launch reflects the company's focus on technology, operational innovation, and creating seamless customer experiences.


Starbucks Reserve Opens at World St. Worldmark Aerocity, New Delhi

Starbucks Reserve Opens at World St. Worldmark Aerocity, New Delhi

By Hariharan U

Published on July 17, 2026

World St. at Worldmark Aerocity, New Delhi has welcomed Starbucks Reserve, bringing the premium coffee brand’s elevated café experience to one of the capital’s most vibrant lifestyle and dining destinations.

The opening strengthens World St.’s vision of creating a globally inspired urban destination featuring celebrated brands, immersive experiences, and curated food and beverage offerings. Positioned as “The Social Spine of Worldmark,” World St. is designed as a walkable F&B and lifestyle hub within Delhi’s prominent business district, offering guests a blend of dining, leisure, and social experiences.

The launch marks the fourth Starbucks Reserve store in India and the third Starbucks Reserve destination in Delhi NCR, further expanding Starbucks’ premium coffee footprint in the country. Built around Starbucks’ philosophy of creating a welcoming “third place” between home and work, Starbucks Reserve offers guests an enhanced coffeehouse experience focused on connection, discovery, and community.

The café showcases the craftsmanship behind specialty coffee through a selection of rare and premium coffees, signature espresso creations, handcrafted beverages, and curated food offerings. Guests can also enjoy the brand’s bake-in menu, designed to complement the premium beverage experience.

A key highlight of the store is the Black Eagle espresso machine, an advanced brewing system that enables Coffee Masters to achieve greater precision in extraction and preparation. The technology further enhances the artistry and expertise behind every cup served at Starbucks Reserve.

The arrival of Starbucks Reserve adds to World St.’s expanding portfolio of globally recognised dining and lifestyle brands. Spread across approximately half a kilometre through Worldmark 4, 5, and 6, World St. covers nearly 2,60,000 sq. ft. of gross leasable area and has been developed as a pedestrian-friendly destination featuring global cuisine, alfresco dining spaces, green courtyards, art installations, and contemporary street furniture.

Connecting three iconic Worldmark developments, World St. brings together work, leisure, and culture through a diverse mix of cafés, patisseries, restaurants, and bars. The destination has established itself as one of Delhi-NCR’s prominent food and lifestyle destinations, featuring brands such as India’s first Olive Garden, P.F. Chang’s, and Magnolia Bakery.

With the addition of Starbucks Reserve, World St. continues to strengthen its positioning as a destination for premium experiences, attracting visitors seeking international brands, culinary discovery, and vibrant social spaces.

Starbucks Reserve at World St., Worldmark, Delhi will be open to customers from 15 July 2026, operating from 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM.

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