Author: The Blur Magazine

Nestled between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is a haven of natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse experiences. From serene backwaters to lush tea plantations and pristine beaches, Kerala offers a plethora of attractions for every kind of traveler. Here’s a guide to the top 5 places you must visit in this enchanting southern state of India.

Alappuzha-The Venice of the East
Known for its picturesque backwaters, Alleppey is a perfect destination for a houseboat cruise. As you drift through the tranquil canals, surrounded by swaying palms and lush green paddy fields, you’ll experience a slice of rural Kerala life. Don’t miss the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race held on the Punnamada Lake.

Munnar-A Tea Lover’s Paradise
Munnar’s rolling hills are blanketed in verdant tea gardens, offering breathtaking views and a cool, refreshing climate. Visit the Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, explore the Tea Museum to learn about the region’s history, and trek to Anamudi Peak, the highest point in South India.

Thekkady-Wildlife Wonder
Home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Take a boat cruise on Periyar Lake to spot elephants, bison, and various bird species. The spice plantations and cultural performances add to the charm of this place.

Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)-The Cultural Capital
Kerala’s capital city, Thiruvananthapuram, is rich in cultural heritage. Visit the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, renowned for its intricate architecture and immense wealth. The city also offers beautiful beaches like Kovalam, and the Napier Museum and Kuthiramalika Palace showcase Kerala’s royal history.

Kollam-The Gateway to the Backwaters
Kollam is another enchanting backwater destination, less crowded than Alleppey. Cruise through Ashtamudi Lake, visit the historic Thangassery Lighthouse, and unwind at the serene Thirumullavaram Beach. The city’s cashew processing industry is also worth exploring.

The 77th Cannes Film Festival in 2024 has been a dazzling event, with Indian influencers making a notable impression on the international stage. This year’s festival saw a diverse group of Indian personalities, from social media stars to celebrated singers and visionary businesspeople, showcasing their creativity, influence, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Fashion and lifestyle influencer Masoom Minawala made a memorable appearance on the Cannes red carpet, displaying her impeccable style and setting new fashion trends that captivated enthusiasts globally.

Wellness and fitness influencer Karishma Gangwal also made a striking impact at Cannes. She promoted her message of holistic wellness and self-care while turning heads in a high-slit, bedazzled gown with multi-toned swirl details.

Ankush Bahuguna, India’s pioneering male beauty influencer, also attended Cannes 2024. His distinctive style and charm highlighted the growing presence and influence of male beauty influencers in the industry.

Travel and adventure influencer Niharika NM brought her spirit of exploration to the festival. Known for her captivating travel content, she inspired audiences with her adventurous stories and passion for discovering new places.

Achieving a flawless makeup look starts with a well-prepared canvas. To ensure your makeup goes on smoothly and lasts throughout the day, it’s essential to follow a skin prep routine that includes cleansing, moisturizing, and toning.

Step 1: Cleansing
Begin by thoroughly cleansing your face to remove dirt, oil, and any residual makeup. A gentle cleanser suited to your skin type will help prevent breakouts and create a clean base for your makeup. Cleansing not only refreshes your skin but also enhances its ability to absorb the products that follow.

Step 2: Toning
Finally, use a toner to balance your skin’s pH levels and tighten pores. Toning can also remove any leftover impurities and prep your skin to better absorb serums and moisturizers. Opt for an alcohol-free toner to avoid irritation and maintain your skin’s natural moisture barrier.

Step 3: Moisturizing
Next, apply a good moisturizer to hydrate your skin. Well-moisturized skin is crucial for a smooth makeup application as it prevents dryness and flakiness. Choose a moisturizer that complements your skin type—whether it’s oily, dry, or combination. This step ensures your skin remains supple and your makeup stays in place without caking or settling into fine lines.

By following these three essential steps—cleansing, moisturizing, and toning—you’ll create the perfect foundation for your makeup, ensuring a flawless and long-lasting finish

Sneaker culture in 2024 is more vibrant than ever, with major brands pushing the boundaries of design, technology, and exclusivity. This year, several releases have already set the community abuzz, blending innovation with nostalgia.

The Nike Pegasus 41, releasing June 5, 2024, features new ReactX foam for 13% more energy return and reduced carbon footprint. It includes Air Zoom units, a Dynamic Midfoot Fit system, and a breathable engineered mesh upper​ (Nike.com)​​.

Adidas isn’t far behind, making waves with their Ultraboost 24, a shoe that seamlessly integrates sustainable materials without compromising performance. The “EcoBoost” edition, crafted from recycled ocean plastics, is particularly sought after, reflecting the growing trend of eco-consciousness in sneaker production.

Meanwhile, collaborations remain a cornerstone of sneaker culture. The partnership between Jordan Brand and renowned artist KAWS has produced a line of limited-edition Air Jordan 4s that blend street art with high fashion. These sneakers are not just footwear but collectible art pieces, driving their desirability and value sky-high.
Additionally, smaller, independent brands like New Balance and ASICS are gaining traction with unique releases that emphasize craftsmanship and individuality, such as the New Balance 990v6 and the ASICS Gel-Lyte III “Heritage Pack.”

In 2024, sneaker culture thrives on a blend of innovation, sustainability, and artistic expression, making it an exciting time for enthusiasts and collectors alike.

When it comes to shedding those extra pounds, both swimming and cycling offer fantastic ways to burn calories, improve cardiovascular health and tone muscles. However, deciding which is better for weight loss can depend on several factors.

Swimming is a full-body workout. Each stroke engages multiple muscle groups, from the legs and core to the arms and shoulders, ensuring a comprehensive exercise session. The resistance of water adds an extra challenge, increasing calorie burn. An hour of vigorous swimming can burn approximately 500-700 calories, depending on intensity and individual weight.

Cycling, on the other hand, primarily targets the lower body – the quads, hamstrings, calves and glutes. It’s an excellent option for those who prefer an outdoor activity or need a low-impact exercise due to joint issues. Depending on speed and resistance, cycling can burn between 400-600 calories per hour. Additionally, cycling can be easily incorporated into daily routines, like commuting, which adds consistency to your workout regimen.

The best choice for weight loss ultimately depends on personal preference and lifestyle. If you enjoy water and want a full-body workout, swimming might be your best bet. If you prefer the open road and convenience, cycling could be more effective. Whichever you choose, consistency is key. Regular workouts, combined with a healthy diet, will lead you towards your weight loss goals.

The Cannes Film Festival 2024’s red carpet showcased spectacular celebrity style moments, featuring Anya Taylor-Joy promoting “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,” Selena Gomez supporting “Emilia Perez,” and more. Here are the top 5 best-dressed stars from the festival’s run from May 14 to May 25. Stay tuned for live updates.

1. Hunter Schafer
   Hunter Schafer stunned at the “Kinds Of Kindness” red carpet on May 17, 2024, at Palais des Festivals, exuding elegance and modernity.

2. Eva Longoria
   Eva Longoria graced the “Kinds Of Kindness” red carpet on May 17, 2024, with a look that epitomized timeless glamour.

3. Naomi Campbell
   Naomi Campbell turned heads at the “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” red carpet on May 15, 2024, radiating fierce sophistication.

4. Demi Moore
   Demi Moore impressed on the “Kinds Of Kindness” red carpet on May 17, 2024, showcasing her enduring style and grace.

5. Selena Gomez
   Selena Gomez captivated on the “Emilia Perez” red carpet on May 18, 2024, with a stunning ensemble that highlighted her unique flair.

The Cannes Film Festival continues to be a beacon of fashion and film, bringing together the best in the industry.

As summer approaches, protecting our skin from the sun’s harsh rays becomes a priority. While store-bought sunscreens are convenient, homemade alternatives offer a natural and personalized touch. Here are seven easy-to-make sunscreen pastes that blend care and protection, bringing a human touch to your skincare routine.

Aloe Vera Delight: Combine aloe vera gel with a few drops of vitamin E oil. Gradually add non-nano zinc oxide powder while stirring until you reach your desired SPF level. This soothing mixture not only protects but also nourishes your skin.

Beeswax Bliss: Melt beeswax and coconut oil together, then mix in carrot seed oil. Gradually stir in zinc oxide powder until you reach your desired SPF level. Transfer to a container and allow it to cool and harden. This blend offers a rich, moisturizing shield against the sun.

Green Tea Serenity: Combine cooled green tea with raspberry seed oil. Slowly incorporate non-nano zinc oxide powder, mixing until you reach your desired SPF level. Stir well and transfer to a container. This antioxidant-rich paste is perfect for rejuvenating your skin.

Coconut Oil Comfort: Melt equal parts of coconut oil and shea butter together. After melting, gradually add zinc oxide powder until you reach the desired SPF level. Stir well and store in a jar. This tropical-scented sunscreen feels luxurious on the skin.

Shea Butter Shield: Melt shea butter and mix it with red raspberry seed oil. Gradually add non-nano zinc oxide powder, stirring continuously, until you achieve your desired SPF level. Allow it to cool before use. This paste provides deep hydration and protection.

Cocoa Butter Charm: Melt cocoa butter and mix it with almond oil. Slowly add non-nano zinc oxide powder, stirring thoroughly, until you achieve your desired SPF level. Transfer to a container and let it set. This rich blend offers a delightful aroma and effective sun defense.

Jojoba Oil Harmony: Mix jojoba oil with titanium dioxide powder.Adjust the quantity of titanium dioxide to reach your desired SPF. For a thicker texture, you can incorporate melted beeswax. Stir well and store in a container. This versatile paste is great for sensitive skin.

Creating your own sunscreen not only ensures you know exactly what’s in it but also allows you to tailor it to your skin’s needs. Enjoy the sun safely with these homemade sunscreen pastes, made with love and care.