Couples who have premarital sex to be considered 'married': Madras High Court

Madras High Court has, in a judgement, said if any unmarried couple of the right legal age "indulge in sexual gratification," this will be considered a valid marriage and they could be termed "husband and wife."

By ANI | Yahoo Lifestyle Entertainment 

Chennai, June 18 (ANI): In what can be seen as a new twist to the concept of premarital sex, the Madras High Court has in a judgement said if any unmarried couple of the right legal age "indulge in sexual gratification," this will be considered a valid marriage and they could be termed "husband and wife.

The court said that if a bachelor has completed 21 years of age and an unmarried woman 18 years, they have acquired the freedom of choice guaranteed by the Constitution. "Consequently, if any couple choose to consummate their sexual cravings, then that act becomes a total commitment with adherence to all consequences that may follow, except on certain exceptional considerations."

The court said marriage formalities as per various religious customs such as the tying of a mangalsutra, the exchange of garlands and rings or the registering of a marriage were only to comply with religious customs for the satisfaction of society.

The court further said if necessary either party to a relationship could approach a Family Court for a declaration of marital status by supplying documentary proof for a sexual relationship. Once such a declaration was obtained, a woman could establish herself as the man's wife in government records.

The court also said if after having a sexual relationship, the couple decided to separate due to difference of opinion, the 'husband' could not marry without getting a decree of divorce from the 'wife'.

Justice C.S. Karnan passed the order yesterday while modifying an April 2006 judgment of a Coimbatore family court in a maintenance case involving a couple, The Hindu reports.

The lower court had ordered the man to pay monthly maintenance of Rs. 500 to the couple's two children and Rs. 1000 as litigation expenses. The lower court observed that the woman's wedding with the man had not been proved by documentary evidence. Hence, she was not entitled to maintenance.

In her appeal to the High Court, the woman's counsel contended that she was legally married and had two children in wedlock. (ANI)

7 Signs that Your Long-distance Relationship is in Trouble

A relationship is dependent on trust. Especially, when it comes to a long-distance relationship, it needs more emotional commitment and trust than a regular one. This is one aspect on which many relationships fall flat! The physical distance in many relationships creates an emotional void. Is your relation also heading towards that?

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Here are some signs to help you see some hidden dangers in your love-paradise!

Frequent arguments

Every couple fights once in a while, but you can feel a difference when it is not just a normal fight. Frequent arguments, especially on matters that never created problems between you before, should trigger an alert in your mind.

Dramatic changes in communication

You might suddenly find your partner talking to you in an unusual manner. He or she need not be outright rude, but it is the indifference that is actually worse. If you find your partner making too many excuses about not finding time to talk to you, it is time you get a signal.

One-sided effort

Right from the ‘Good morning’ message to that ‘Good night call’, are you always the first one to text or call? Your partner is online, but never makes a first attempt to ping or respond to your chat. Well, all these are clear signs of differences in priorities! It is best to talk to your partner about it, because there might be some other reason or a problem that could be troubling them. However, if she/he constantly avoids such discussions then it may be a signal that your garden is no longer so rosy!

Stopped sharing

If your partner stops sharing things with you, behaves secretive, or stops calling you with those adorable nicknames then its time to churn those rational wheels of your mind.

The good friend talk!

If you suddenly find your partner talking more like 'just a good friend', expect something wrong. The journey from good friends to lovers is great, but the journey backwards is miserable.

No more future talks

Another thing that should alert you is a sudden stop to those loveable future talks that you used to have with your partner. If your partner has begun to avoid such talks with you, then may be he or she is no more interested to have a future with you.

More an obligation than wish

This is one question you should ask yourself. Is there a ‘have to’ or ‘should’ that comes in your mind every time you make a call to your partner? There are times when you might not realise but your actions can move you away from your partner. Talking to the person, we love, can never be like a chore or a part of your daily ‘to-do-list’. When your wish to hear his/her voice becomes an obligation, you better understand that your paradise is in deep trouble!

Finally, believe your instincts. There are times in a long-distance relationship when nothing in particular is wrong yet you feel that something is not right. Do not avoid such instances. At the same time you would want to make sure that you are not over reacting. It can be just a bad day, so make sure you read the signs right. And go for a final conclusion only after a detailed analysis of the situation and after talking and consulting people close to you and your partner. This will help you to understand your partner’s situation really well and get a clear picture.

8 Surprising Things That Turn Men On

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There are some obvious things that turn on a man, such as the ability to strike an intelligent conversation and confident body language. But, it is also surprising that how quickly men can get turned on by pretty ordinary things that women do. Men are not entirely complex and you will nod in agreement once we reveal their secret turn-ons. So, brace yourself!

Dress in his clothes

Walking around the house wearing your man’s t-shirt is a definite tickle to his senses. So, slide into his wardrobe and slip into his favourite tee. The idea definitely has a subtle sensational appeal to it. 

Straight out of the shower

Seeing a woman coming out of shower tends to excite a man really quickly. Wet and tangled hair and little droplets of water on your skin will drive any man mad. Now you know, why rain dance sequences are so famous in Bollywood movies!

The adventurous you

Your guy has already seen your feminine side but he would also love to see the wild and adventurous you! Men do like to see women go biking, trekking, hiking and doing some mud-sweating work, occassionally. Plan an outing together and see how it strokes his senses. Play rough for he might like to reward you later!

Sexting

Dirty talks are not just limited to the bedroom! You can titillate your man's senses with meaningful texts too (if you get what we mean!). Surprise him with your unexpected 'sexts' and you will have him gasping for sure. Tell your guy a dirty joke, especially when he is away on a trip! He will be yearning to get back home.

Yoga aasans

Even if he does not practice yoga, seeing you in all those aasans and postures will definitely get his mind racing. He will start thinking about different other purposes where your flexibility and agility can be put to. Fantasising is always fun, right?

Smooth tresses

Does your man like to play with your tresses? Surely your smooth hair draws him closer to you and makes him crave for more. Your sweet fragrance and your soft hair are your weapon to turn him on. They would definitely make him want more.

Play with your lips

A man finds it hard to resist when a girl plays with her lips. Any gesture with lips just knocks his socks off! When a woman slowly bites her lip or bites on something seductively, the guy cannot help but get drawn towards her. Just one look seals the deal for them! Remember, just a slight sensual suggestive play is enough.

Good sense of humour

You don’t have to be a stand-up comedian to impress your man. Everyone has their bag of jokes, but it is up to you when you play your witty cards and blow him away. Let some giggle sneak in your interaction and smile away the night.

As you must have noticed, it does not take much to excite a man. Therefore, you need not fret nor work too hard, just use these tips and watch him swoon for you.

What`s Your Love Quotient?

Love is a strange feeling. It makes you do crazy things, but a person can never really be sure if their partner feels the same. But now you can. Read on to know which signs get cold feet and which are the ones who`d love to surrender themselves completely to their partner.

Astroyogi 

Aries-Commitment phobic

Passion and excitement are what make an Arian stay loyal to his or her partner and once you take that away there is every chance that he or she will philander. They are quick to commit but are even quicker to break up. So beware.

Taurus-Extremely loyal

The bulls hate changes and that translates to their personal lives as well. If a person born under the Taurus sun sign is in love with you, chances are that he will stay that way forever, of course till you manage to keep up with their insatiable sex drive. But even if you don`t, they will not leave you in the lurch, for they value the importance of a long lasting relationship.

Gemini-Philanderers

Bet the person who faced the rod by the teacher for talking too much in your school was a Gemini. They do tend to get distracted easily and have a roving eye but ironically are quite loyal to their partners. If you are in love with a Gemini and don`t have a problem with their curious minds then go ahead with the relationship.

Cancer-Lovers forever

The Crabs love to love. Once they think they have found their soul mate they`ll never ever leave your side until some asteroid crashes on earth and wipes out the entire life (Agreed, that`s pretty exaggerated but that`s really how much these fellows value love).When in love they are truly the ones who believe in "till death do us apart".

Leo-Casanova

Knock knock! A Leo is on the door. You probably would have heard the drum rolls from a distance. Come on! You really didn`t expect someone so charismatic to be a loyal person. Leo men are the Casanovas of the zodiac and the chicks are no less. So if you really think your Leo guy or girl is into you, well think again.

Virgo-My way or the highway

If you have ever dated a Virgo, you`d know what we mean when we use that term for them. Virgos contrary to what most people think are quite sexual but that is that. All the other popular traits about them are fortunately (or unfortunately, depends on how you view it) true. They value cleanliness and if you ever show up with a speck of dust on your date you will be dumped.

Libra-Charmers

One often wonders, what`s with the Librans that gets men and women flocking to them in droves. Perhaps, it is their charm or irresistible smile or their cute faces or their engaging talks or may be everything, (you really can`t put a finger on one particular thing, can you?) but whatever it is, there is no way anyone can look away when a Libran is smiling at him or her, which is why we tag them as the charmers of the zodiac. And as far as them being loyal is concerned, we need to think.

Scorpio-Extremely loyal or may be not

Scorpions are fiercely possessive and if you`ve ever had the "opportunity" to date one, you`ll know what we are referring to. When a Scorpio is in love (and by love we mean the kind of love that makes the world go round) he or she will be the most loyal person on earth but if they aren`t, chances are that you probably are going to be taken for a ride.

Sagittarius-Love? What`s that?

Adventure enthusiasts, Sagittarian men and women like the rush that comes with a new love, obviously because it gets their adrenaline pumping, but a little less adrenaline and they are out. The only way to make a Sagittarian hooked on to you is by making him feel like you are the most adventurous thing on the face of the planet.

Capricorn-The gentleman (but the ladies aren`t so gentle)

If you want a lover who dresses up all prim and proper for a date, never farts or burps in front you, will always open the door of the car for you to sit first, the Capricorn guy is just for you. But don`t expect a Capricorn dudette to go out of her way to please you, she never will and if you dare ask her she might even slap you.

Aquarius-Love me not!

You fall in love with an Aquarian, he/she will run away from you, you ignore him and he will run after you. Such is their personalities that one never really knows what to expect from them. But one thing is guaranteed, a love affair with an Aquarian is seldom boring.

Pisces-Love me yes!

Love is the best thing that can happen to a Pisces. After all, who doesn`t want his dreams to come true and a Piscean has so many dreams (unrealistic ones included!) that even if one comes true he is super delighted. All things aside, Pisceans are one of the most loyal and faithful signs of the Zodiac.

10 things you have to know about arranged marriages

People in the western countries are at their wit’s end when it comes to comprehending the rationale behind arranged marriage system, more so the success rate that it enjoys. But there is a lot more to this traditional system of making matches than what meets the eyes.

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1) Right age: Love knows no age, but in order to make a good match through arranged marriage, it is imperative to keep age consideration in mind. The preferable age for girls is around 25 or 26 and for guys no later than 30.

2) Self assessment: Take a pen and paper and list down what all things you expect in your spouse to be and what level of compatibility do you desire, that will be in tune with the compromises that will need to be made.

3) Decent Expectations: Expectations in an arranged marriage tend to run high and higher the expectations, greater are the disappointments because at the end of the day, it is not necessary that all the virtues that you desire can be found in one person.

4) Economic compatibility: Arranged marriages take everything in account and strive for utmost compatibility even in terms of economic standing of the families. In fact, in olden days it was a way of ensuring financial security for the bride.

5) Beauty: Arranged marriage is about suitability and compatibility. Beauty can easily take a back seat. Your intended need not be as dashing as Tom Cruise or as charming as Kate Winslet. Looks are important but not the most important thing.

6) Understanding: Now, this is the million dollar question: how can you understand a person in just one or two meets? At times a lifetime seems less to truly understand someone. It is here that you should share your feelings about the person with your very close friends or may be siblings.

7) Observe Etiquettes: Yes, there are some set codes of conduct that society at large expects you to follow. For example, do sufficient background research about the person before consenting to meet. Answering in negation after having met twice or thrice may be detrimental to the person’s self confidence.

8) Take Advice: Feel free to take advice from those you feel will be able to guide you in the best possible way. Do not make a show of your feelings but then do not go about it unsolicited.

9) Final Decision: Do not just marry a girl or a guy just because your parents or friends asked you to. It has to be your own decision and you will be responsible for whatever happens later in the life.

10) Commitment: Arranged marriages are based on commitment and it is the most necessary element that keeps a relationship going. 

Sacred Rituals of a Maharashtrian Wedding

Out of all the different regional weddings in India, Maharashtrian weddings are filled with rituals that are quite simple yet vibrant. Most of the wedding ceremonies are conducted during the day. The process begins by matching the bride and the groom’s horoscopes. If their horoscopes match perfectly, then an auspicious date is fixed for the wedding and other ceremonies. Though the specific rituals may vary according to the customs and beliefs of the people, here are some of the important rituals of a traditional Maharashtrian wedding.

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Pre-Wedding Traditions and Rituals

The Sakhar Puda ritual: This is the first ritual of the wedding, also known as the engagement ceremony. The bride-to-be is gifted a sari and a packet of sugar or sweets, by the groom’s family. After this the couple exchange rings.

The Kelvan ritual: A prayer is performed at both, the bride and the groom’s, houses. In this, both the families offer their prayers to their kuldevta (family deity). The prayer ceremony is followed by a family lunch.

The Halad Chadavane: This ceremony is conducted in most of the regional weddings in India. Turmeric paste is applied on to the face, hands and feet of both the bride and the groom. This ceremony takes place a day before the wedding.

The Seemaan Puja: Seemaan puja is conducted when the groom reaches the wedding venue with a wedding procession. The bride’s parents wash his feet and shower him with gifts and blessings.

Wedding Traditions and Rituals

The wedding day ceremonies begin with Ganapati puja, to seek blessings of Lord Ganesha before any other rituals take place. The bride’s maternal uncles escort her to the lagna mandap, where themangalashtakas (Sanskrit and Marathi holy verses) are being recited. The bride and the groom have to wear the mundavalya on their heads, which is basically a string of flowers or pearls.

The Antarpat ritual: As the marriage rituals begin, the bride and the groom are not supposed to see each other. So, a silk shawl separation is placed between the two.

The Sankalp ritual: After the holy verses are recited, the couple sees each other for the first time. Guests shower akshata (unbroken rice grains) on the couple. Then the couple exchange garlands.

The Kanyadan ritual: In kanyadan ceremony bride’s father gives his daughter’s hand in the hands of the groom. After this, the groom ties a mangalsutra around the girl’s neck and applies sindoor(vermillion) in the centre of her hair parting. The bride then applies a sandalwood tikka on the groom’s forehead.

The Satapadhi ritual: Here, the couple takes seven rounds around the sacred fire, reiterating seven holy vows of matrimony. The girl also has to touch seven small heaps of rice with her right foot.

The Karmasampati ritual: The bride’s father, along with the newly married couple, prays to the lord for his blessings. To add a dash of humour to the ceremony, sometimes bride’s father or brother playfully twist groom’s ear, reminding him of his responsibility towards the bride. All this is followed by a grand lunch to mark the completion of wedding ceremonies.

Post-Wedding Traditions and Rituals

The Varat ritual: After the wedding ceremonies are complete, the bride bids a tearful farewell to her family members.

The Grihapravesh: As bride enters the groom’s house for the first time, her mother-in-law welcomes her by doing an aarti. She also washes the couple’s feet with water and milk. The bride gently kicks a kalash of rice placed at the door of the house and the couple enters the house by placing their right foot first.

After the bride enters her new house, a wedding reception is often held by the groom’s side, as a mark of welcoming the new family member.

Images: Anshum M Photography and Robin Saini Photography

Five relationship myths busted

Five relationship myths busted (Thinkstock photos/Getty Images)

Here's a practical guide to help you in your quest to find and keep your soulmate

Waiting for love to happen will get you nowhere
You have to kiss a thousand toads before you find your prince is the fairytale advice with a practical spin. Partly true because waiting around in the four walls of your home for Mr of Miss Right to walk up to your door or into your life is expecting a miracle. It may or may not happen, the chances of the latter are high. Take charge of your life, go out and meet new people, date some but don't expect too much. Just focus on spending time and meeting new people. Let the relationship take its course. Don't force anything, somewhere along the line, you will find your match.

Both of us should share the same interests
Having the same interests does not guarantee instant happiness. In fact, it could just lead to boredom. A couple can have different interests, hobbies, passions and still be totally in love with each other. So, when you're out there looking, don't just say no to someone because you don't have common interests. You might still be perfect for each other.

You can't survive on love and fresh air
You need lots of love in your life, but that's just one aspect. As you move on with everyday life, you will have to deal with all kinds of problems and issues. Work, money and kids will affect your relationship in different ways, and you will have to be prepared to work through it all.

Don't try to change someone
Don't let your happiness depend on someone, and don't make the mistake of thinking that things will be perfect once your partner has changed his/her personality drastically to fit your idea of what he or she should be. Your partner is not someone who can be tailored and customised to be a perfect fit. Neither is he or she a project that is a work in progress. If you are not happy with what you see, move on.

You will not always be right, there will be fights
Where life ends at the movies with a happily ever after, it begins in real life. And while all those romantic clips of the happy couple living in wedded bliss paint a rosy picture of what's to come, it's best you throw away those rose-tinted glasses and look at life practically. There will be fightsand arguments and you both will disagree at some point. However, that's not the end of the road, you will have to sort things out, and work as a team, learning from your mistakes together.

melissa.dcosta@timesgroup.com

Top 10 Safe Sex Tips

If you plan to take your relationship to the next level, here are some things you must keep in mind.

Relationships may begin, relationships may end, but one relationship that has endured over the years has been the one between love and sex. Attraction and affection usually lead to more, and while how far you want to take your relationship is completely your business, we would like to share some important tips in case you are planning to go all the way. Because when it comes to sex, safer is not just smarter, it’s also better.

Top 10 safe sex tips

1. Talking sex – No, we don’t mean dirty talk as a type of foreplay. If you’re planning to have intercourse with your partner for the first time, it’s important you discuss a few things with your partner first. Topics like – How many sexual partners have you had before? Have you been tested for STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections)? If yes, how long back was it? Is this a committed, exclusive relationship? Before you take the step of having sex, it’s essential that you’re both on the same page.

2. The mighty condom – Whether you’re doing it for the first time, or are experienced, acondom is the best protection you can provide yourself. It not only protects you from unwanted pregnancies, but also from STIs, some of which like HIV/AIDS can be deadly. Also, use only one condom at a time. Wearing two condoms together is actually quite harmful.

3. Lubricated condoms rule - For intercourse, always pick a lubricated condom. Not only does the lubrication prevent breakage, it’s also easier and more comfortable to put on. Besides, more lubrication only enhances the experience for the receiving party.

4. Monogamy is cool – A single partner drastically decreases your risk of getting an STI. Remember, when you sleep with a person, you’re indirectly sleeping with everyone they’ve slept with. Stay monogamous, stay safe.

5. The condom is still necessary – Even if you’re sleeping with just your partner, the use of a condom is still non-negotiable.

6. Alcohol impairs judgement – Many bad decisions have been made under the influence of alcohol or drugs. So don’t abuse alcohol before or during sexual activity.

7. Put a condom where your mouth is – Oral sex can lead to HIV infections – especially for the person giving oral sex. The best way to protect yourself is by using a condom. If the idea of all that lubrication on the condom turns you off, a good option for oral sex is a non-lubricated, flavoured one. For intercourse however, stick to a lubricated condom.

8. Carry extra condoms – In case one breaks or tears while it’s being put on, it’s best to have an extra one around.

9. Check the condom after sex – If you have any inkling that the condom may have broken or torn during sex, it’s a good practice to check it after. Filling it with water to check for leaks is a good way of making sure it didn’t tear.

10. Don’t do anything you don’t want to do – Finally, the choice of having or not having sex is yours. Do it only if it feels right to you and not due to any kind of pressure. Be safe and you’ll have a long and enjoyable sex life.

Top 10 Signs You’ve Found The One!

Wonder if he or she is the one in your life? While there isn’t a fool-proof test to ascertain that, there are a few signs you can watch out for…

By Mdhil | Mdhil

Looking into the future.

If you’re trying to figure out if you have found ‘the one’, take a look at this list. If you can tick against all the items below, then give that relationship a chance to become all that it possibly can.

10 signs you have found ‘the one’:

1. When the time is right!

For many, relationships are fraught with obstacles. There is always something that keeps them from enjoying it the way it is. It might be a stressful job or lack of money. And both people in the relationship feel when the problem is resolved, they’ll be truly happy together. Unfortunately, life doesn’t work that way.

When you’ve met the one, you’ll embrace each other no matter what the situation. A happy well-adjusted couple doesn’t have to chase what should or could be. The two will share a comfort level that enables them to support each other through a crisis rather than wait upon it to resolve to be content together.

2. You are comfortable being you.

You know you have met the one when your partner loves you for exactly what and who you are. When there is complete acceptance of each other, the relationship is more fulfilling. This doesn’t mean one condones bad behaviour or such.

So if the person isn’t critical of your every move, and if you are comfortable just being you when you’re around the person – it’s a sign that he/she is worth spending your life together.

3. Open communication.

Let’s look at a hypothetical situation to illustrate this: There are two couples, couple X and couple Y. Both these couples have been together for the same amount of time. Couple X has frequent conflict, couple Y has never had one. Who among the two has a healthy relationship?

If you’re answer was couple Y, you’re wrong. It’s impossible for two people who’re together to have no conflict at all. In the case of couple Y, it’s most likely that one or both partners is not forthcoming about problems. The needs of one or both partners isn’t being voiced and hence not addressed.

So how you communicate your needs and manage conflict is a significant pointer.

4. There’s no relationship anxiety.

If you find yourself constantly worrying about insignificant things in the relationship, then stop and introspect. When you’ve met the one, there is less anxiety about the relationship.

5. Trust your gut.

Examine your true feeling. How do you feel when you are around him or her? If you’re at ease and truly feel he’s the one, then go for it. Listen to your gut, and you’ll know whether this one is for keeps.

6. There is no drama.

If he/she is the one, it doesn’t mean you have to be perfect together. Rather look at conflict when it arises and try to make the relationship work.

When in conflict, how do you two deal with it? Is there a lot of yelling and shouting or do you hear each other out and acknowledge one another’s feelings?

If there is drama, there is manipulation, abuse and the kind. It’s best to re-examine your relationship before you fully commit, if this is the case.

7. Your closed ones see what you see!

If the people who love you are asking you to get away from him/her, then you might want to take a second look. Sometimes, however, your friends/family might push for a relationship that you have no interest in. In such cases, it’s not wise to follow their lead.

8. You remain a priority in your life.

If you find yourself changing your priorities in life to accommodate that person, it shows that you’re undermining your own importance and needs. This could well amount to you getting carried away in the relationship you are in. In the long term, this just won’t work.

You know the person is for keeps, when you remain a priority in your life while you’re in the relationship. And how does he/she feel about it? This one is also about whether you – personally — are ready for a long-term relationship.

9. The compatibility factor.

It’s true that opposites attract, however, such relationships don’t stand the test of time. What matters most in a long-term — committed relationship — is compatibility. This doesn’t mean the two are completely alike, rather the stress is on a strong common ground. Your life values, career goals, and priorities ought to be compatible for a fulfilling, lasting relationship.

10. Mutual respect.

Respect for each other is the foundation of all relationships, and certainly is in a couple’s relationship. There is no way you can build a lasting, secure relationship without this.

8 Things Men Secretly Desire in Their Partner

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Men and women see things differently. While women are attracted to romance and companionship, men are more attracted towards personality and open behaviour. However, men do look for certain qualities in their soul mates, and it is not always easy for them to express their opinions openly, as it might jeopardise their relationship. So, get ready to take some tips, ladies, as here are few things that men secretly desire in their life partner.

1. Independence and confidence

Men are naturally attracted towards confident women. Remember that there is a keen difference between confidence and arrogance. Confidence attracts while arrogance repels. Men like women who can take care of themselves and can make up their mind without any help. Confident outlook, positive body language, and independent decision making are qualities that would definitely attract men.

2. Flirting back

This is an important tool for the later years of the relationship. Flirting is essential to keep the romance alive. Men love women who will flirt with them. This makes a man feel wanted and makes him feel that his woman is still attracted to him.

3. Occasional show of feminine side

Men prefer women who keep in touch with their feminine side. So, sometimes it is good to go for a bikini wax, or invest in new lingerie’s. Men like to be motivated by their women, so they enjoy the idea of women initiating the romance. Women should also make their men feel needed like the strong alpha member of the house.

4. Just as they are

A man loves a woman who can adjust to the situation, and more so to his surroundings.Nagging is a big mood turner for men so try and avoid it. Men hate it when women want to change them or their surroundings, this can be a totally spoiler for the romance. So, accept them for what they are, and they would love you forever.

5. Honesty

Honesty is a good habit to bag, whether to attract a man or not. Men search for honesty in their partner and honest answers turn them on. When a woman is honest with her man it makes him feel the special bond between them. Dishonesty is not good for any relationship, whatsoever, leave alone a romantic one.

6. Love for sports

What kind of man does not enjoy his girl drinking beer and foul-mouthing the opponent's team with him? This is a quality which drives most men mad and makes them fall in love with their girl.

7. Need for personal space

While a woman will enjoy a lifetime of cuddling, a man will always need his own space. It is just how they were designed. A man needs his ‘me’ time or his ‘buddy’ time to re-energise. So, instead of making him feel suffocated with a constant hovering around, give him some space and spare him the smothering.

8. A smart woman

A woman with brains is highly in-demand in the man’s world. Though men are visual creatures and get attracted to the ocassional 'damsel-in-distress'; yet it is always a woman with brighter brains that will take the better man home. Sense of humour in a girl is appreciated by her man. So remember, smart is the new sexy.

Now, you know some of the things that men secretly desire in their partner. So, ladies, take a few pointers and gear-up to be the ‘girl of his dreams’.

Akshaya Tritiya, the Best Day to Get Married

According to the Hindu calendar, today is Akshaya Tritiya, a day as auspicious as any Hindu festival. It is considered to be an auspicious day for starting any new ventures or activities, such as tying the holy knot of matrimony.

Bollywoodshaadis.com
In urban cities, most of us usually associate this day to be auspicious for buying gold jewellery, with individual jewellers and major brands offering amazing discounts and deals. But, Akshay Tritiya holds a more important cultural and religious significance than that. 

Importance of this day

Akshaya Tritiya, also known as Akha Teej, has great religious significance, not only for Hindus but also for the followers of Jainism and other religious sects in the country. Basically ‘Akshaya’ means ‘never ending’ and ‘Tritiya’ stands for the ‘third day'. It falls on the third day of bright lunar fortnight of the Hindu month of Vaishakh. It is said that holy rites, rituals and acts of charity performed on this day bring never-ending bliss, grace, and prosperity.

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Religious and mythological significance

People start new ventures on Akshaya Tritiya because God of wealth Kubera was granted gift of perpetual wealth and prosperity on this day. That is why this day is so auspicious for getting married, or opening new businesses, or investing in property or buying gold, etc. It was also on this day that:

• Holy river of Ganges descended on Earth from heavens.
• Sage Parshuram, the sixth incarnation of Vishnu, was born.
• The ‘Treta Yug’, the period of holy Ramayana, commenced.
• Ved Vyasa initiated the recital of the great Indian epic Mahabharata before Lord Ganesha.
• Sudama visited Dwarka to meet Lord Krishna and offered him rice as a gift. Therefore, vaishnavas(worshippers of Lord Vishnu) fast throughout the day and open their fasts with rice.

Significance for couples

According to a South Indian legend, Goddess Madhura got married to God Sundaresa (an incarnation of Shiva) on this day. Therefore, the couples who get married on this day are blessed with eternal prosperity and bliss, by the gods themselves. Akshaya Tritiya always sees an unprecedented rush in the number of marriages taking place in the country. There is an unmatched demand for bookings in the top tier cities of the country, and the wedding resource vendors have a field day with business pouring in from all the sides.

The auspiciousness of Akha Teej arises from the belief that on this day, sun and moon are in their most radiant phase and, astrologically at an exalted position. It is believed that even the couples with mis-matched horoscopes can get rid of all the negativity by getting married on Akshaya Tritiya. There are endless tales and legends that depict the divine virtues that are inherent in the day. In many states, mass community marriages are held under a single mandap, on the day of Akshaya Tritiya, to help the brides and grooms with limited financial means to have a decent wedding, with all the religious splendour.

So, now you know that there is a lot more significance behind this auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya, than just gold deals and discounts being offered by the jewellers. This day is auspicious for any new beginnings and activities and what can be more sacred than the bond of holy matrimony.

Health Benefits Of Honey

Honey is considered to be an elixir of life. This lustrous brown liquid works wonders for your health in more than one ways.

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  Yahoo Lifestyle Entertainment/Thinkstock - Honey in a jar

Honey is considered to be an elixir of life. This lustrous brown liquid works wonders for your health in more than one ways.

1. Immunity booster

The antioxidants and anti bacterial properties that honey contains, aids the improvement of the digestive system. Consuming this liquid can help boost your immune system and keep you healthy and fit in life.

2. Skin Care

Variety of beauty products available in the market contains honey as their prime ingredient. Honey not only helps to smoothen your skin but also keeps acne at bay. The anti-bacterial properties of this liquid can give your skin a nourishing look and feel.

3. Aids Weight Loss

Experts recommend eating honey mixed with warm water every morning. This unique combination helps you digest the fat in your body and aid the weight loss process.

4. Cancer preventive properties

Honey contains a number of antioxidants and flavanoids that help diminish the risk of a few types ofcancer. These antioxidants kill the collagen in the body.

5. Vitamins and Minerals

Honey is rich in a number of vitamins and minerals too. Vitamin C, Calcium and Iron are primarily derived from this golden ingredient.

6. Relaxes the throat

A commonly known benefit of eating honey is the soothing effect it provides to the throat. You must consume it or gargle with a honey and water mixture when you have a sore throat. It is known to kill the infection causing bacteria, reliving you of the irritation.

7. Healing Properties

Honey is considered to be a natural healer when applied to wounds. It cures the wound by killing the bacteria and cleans the infection too. The antibacterial property it contains does this magic to any kind of injury.

8. Induces Sleep

Enjoying a sound sleep is a problem for many especially amongst the older people. Drinking a glass of warm milk mixed with honey can solve your problem. This mixture is known to soothe you and induces sleep too.

Consuming a spoonful of honey on a daily basis can help you extract a number of golden benefits from this thick liquid. Making this tad bit effort can shower your body with miraculous benefits and promise a healthy life too.