TopYaps

Top 10 Cool Images Of International Borders
6 Best Foods That Protect Your Skin From Sun
6 Amazing Books By Indian Authors Which Are Relatively Unheard Of
Top 10 People Behind Indian Independence Movement
Top 10 things to wear before the Summer ends

Top 10 Cool Images Of International Borders

Posted: 24 Aug 2013 10:57 AM PDT

Since time immemorial, they have been existing as borders. While some of the boundaries are kissing the sky since the day wheel was invented, others appeared as the time demanded them. The borders appear and re-appear when people take to dividing the land for their laws and culture to thrive. Also, it doesn’t matter how subjective they are till the time they are true to their purpose and people. And, almost all of them are very majestic and panoramic. Here is a carefully chosen top 10 cool images of international borders that may get your heart beating fast.

10. US-Canadian Border:

One of the most gracious and majestic borders on the planet, US-Canadian border is by far the longest in the world. To add cherry on the cake top, it's devoid of any military presence. Asians may find it hard to believe. The border reads for the visitors to gasp in awe "May these gates never be closed." The calm and quiet border gives an impression of two giant landmasses touching along around 9,000 miles without anyone pushing the other. The green landscape is very touching to witness.

US-Canadian Border

9. Dutch-French Border:

The Caribbean island of St. Martin is under the administrative influence of both Netherlands and France. The border is unique from the others in the respect that there is a landmark connecting both the sides of boundaries. This place presents a 360 degree view; a place from where you can see both France and Netherlands in all their majesty.

Dutch-French Border

8. Chilean-Argentinean Border:

Rarely can any other international border appear as rich in 'religious' charm as the Chilean- Argentinean Border. Located in the heights of the Andes Mountain ranges, the border houses a statue of Christ that acts as a redeemer between both the two countries. The symbolism of the statue in Chile or Argentina is no joke.

7. Nepal-China Border:

China, an emerging superpower and a small country nestled in the Himalayas, Nepal are connected by a 'Friendship Bridge' constructed over the Bhote River. Also, the location where Mount Everest demarcates the boundary between the mountain kingdom Nepal and China is worth a visit for the sheer peace and excitement that one can purchase from the place at zero cost.

6. UK-Spanish Border:

This is one of the coolest and at the same time historically imperative borders between any two countries about which most people have developed false notions. The border is famous for the Rock of Gibraltar on the western end of the Mediterranean Sea. It is for this landmark that many tourists travel to both the UK and Spain. The border was formed as a result of the 'Treaty of Utrecht.'

5. Korean Border:

One of the most volatile borders in the world, Korean Demilitarized Zone is a strip of land, 160 miles long and 2.5 miles wide that divides North and South Korea. For the very same reason, it is one of the highly guarded and securitized zones in the world. It's a natural reserve and home to many endangered species. The border area is known for the utmost calm and sound infrastructure on both sides. This is what we actually define as a border.

4. Botswanan-Zambian Border:

A naturally defined and divided border, Botswanan-Zambian border is ably segregated by rivers, lakes and forests. Arguably, one of the most beautiful ones in terms of sheer natural beauty, the border between Zambia and Bostwana is divided by Cuando River. Most interestingly, the border is protected on both sides by a national park which adds to the excitement of tourists going there. Nothing can get cooler than this!

3. Indo-Pakistan Border:

Established in 1947, the Indo-Pakistan border at Wagah is a must visit during the evening hours when a routine ceremony is on. A well built border, it's heavily guarded on both sides and serves as a transit point for citizens in both India and Pakistan.

2. Brazilian-Argentinean Border:

What can be easily termed as the border-on-waters, the Brazilian-Argentinean Border is one of the most panoramic among all the borders. The border consists of Iguazu Falls which are almost equally shared by Iguaza National Park in Argentina and Iguazu National Park in Brazil. There are very few locations as spectacular as Iguazu Falls where one can take a walk in the nature. Being surrounded by 260 degrees of waterfalls is an amazing experience.

1. Baarle-Nassau/Baarle-Hertog:

Baarle-Nasau is a municipality in Holland; it's famous for sharing a bizarre border with municipality of Baarle-Hertog. The border is too complex to understand at times and even some of the local houses on both sides of the boundary are bisected by it at some places. Some portions of Baarle-Hertog also include area of Baarle-Nassau. The image clearly shows the 'fun element' border has created for the local inhabitants.

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6 Best Foods That Protect Your Skin From Sun

Posted: 24 Aug 2013 10:46 AM PDT

Sun is known to damage the skin causing wrinkles, spots and ageing. It is absolutely necessary for people who either love being in sun or those who have to spend time in sun, to use loads of sunscreen to keep their skin safe. There is no replacement for sunscreen to protect skin from the UV rays of the sun. Unfortunately, the sunscreen can protect the skin from outside, where as the harm done internally through the free radicals continue damaging the skin. Only sufficient amount of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, C and E with antioxidants along with the sun screen can protect the skin inside out from the harmful UV rays. Here is the list of 6 best foods that can protect your skin from Sun.

6. Tomatoes:

Who would have guessed that the simple red fruit, used in most of the homes as a vegetable could be a strong shield defending the skin from sun? It is a known fact that exposure to sunrays will cause free radical damage leading to wrinkles and age spots. Fortunately the humble tomatoes are packed with lycopene which is a natural sunscreen capable of protecting skin from the harmful exposure to UV rays. Tomatoes also boost production of procollagen – which keeps skin young and supple. The increased level of Collagen in the skin is known to reverse the ageing process to a great extent.

Tomatoes

5. Fish:

Though sun exposure accelerates the ageing process of skin, it is not safe to avoid sun totally as it is rich source of vitamin D. The easy way to have sun protection and good health is to replace the hot dogs, chicken wings and pizzas with sea food. Fishes like Salmon, Snapper, mackerel, trout, herring, sardines and other fish which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids protect skin from inflammation caused by exposure to sun. Wild Salmon is excellent source of astaxanthin which is more effective on skin than Vitamin E. in addition they supply selenium to our body which is essential for repairing the damaged skin. It is also rich in Carotenoid. The beneficial fats keep the skin well moistened and glowing with an even tone.

Fish

4. Olives:

Small, strong and powerful is what would rightly describe the olives when it comes to protecting skin against damage from exposure to sun. Besides being packed with antioxidants, olives are rich in vitamins A and E, which are great in screening off the skin against damage caused on their surface due to the free radical damage of UV rays. Olives also provide moisturizing and anti-inflammatory benefits to the skin; healing erythematic, chapped or inflamed skin. Olive oils are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids that can prevent oxidative damage of skin cells. Moreover they decrease skin inflammation and insulin resistance which protects skin from photo-ageing, keeping it supple and healthy.

Olives

3. Green, Leafy Vegetables:

Green and leafy vegetables like kale, broccoli, spinach and other dark green vegetables are rich source of beta-carotene antioxidant carotenoids. Though people often assume that orange and yellow fruits are the only source of carotenoids, research has proven that Green leafy vegetables contain high amount of carotenoids; though, the tell tale yellowish orange color here is masked due to high content of chlorophyll which gives them the dark green color. Once inside the body, beta-carotene is capable of converting into retinol which is another form of Vitamin A, an excellent protector of skin against Ultra Violet rays of sun. They also contain loads of phytosterols which contribute to the cause of protecting skin from harmful effects of sun exposure. Eating broccoli regularly increases the defense against skin cancer, reducing the risk factor.

Green, Leafy Vegetables

2. Dark Chocolate:

There is some good news for the chocolate lovers. Research has proven that dark chocolates are rich source of flavonoids which can protect skin again sun burns, dry skin, and damage caused by harmful Ultra Violet rays. Flavonoids help skin protection by increasing the blood circulation and also improving oxygen saturation. Regular intake of dark chocolate supplies the skin with enough flavonoid giving you radiant, smooth and well hydrated skin. Those who associate weight with chocolates can be reassured that a flavonoid rich dark chocolate contains just 20% of calories, found in normal sweet, candies or chocolates. Don't think twice before going for that chocolate bar or cup of hot chocolate drink anymore. Besides keeping you happy with its exclusive rich taste, the dark chocolate can protect you against skin cancer of various types. What more could anyone ask for?

Dark Chocolate

1. Green Tea:

Besides many other health benefits, regular intake of green tea orally can enter the skin tissues, acting as a great protector against the effects of sun on the skin. Green tea is rich in polyphenols which are good antioxidants capable of fighting the harmful effects of sunrays on skin like inflammation, irritation, erythema and burns. Another great substance found in green tea is catechin another form of antioxidant, which helps skin become more resistant towards harmful UV rays, thus preventing premature ageing. Though white or black teas are not as good as green tea, they also are great in defending the skin against sun.

Green Tea

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6 Amazing Books By Indian Authors Which Are Relatively Unheard Of

Posted: 24 Aug 2013 10:40 AM PDT

Alright! So Chetan Bhagat is stealing the show – online, offline and even on rail lines. Matters not! Here we are to present to you 6 amazing books by Indian authors which are relatively unheard of but surely worth a read. PS – Non-fiction alert!

6. EM and the Big HOOM (Jerry Pinto):

Pinto's narrative moves from extremely funny bits to profoundly moving parts as it depicts the life of a Goan family in a one-bedroom-hall-kitchen setting, with the mother's mental illness as the fulcrum to the family's everyday lives, as well as the spine of the story. As the son looks back and tries to understand his mother, a multitude of emotions – raw anger, heart-breaking sadness, reckless laughter – fight to take their place page-after-page, leaving you deeply touched and moved by the power of the narrative. Read it to see love and family relationships in a new light.

EM and the Big HOOM

5. The Indians; Portrait of a People (Sudhir Kakar, Katharina Kakar):

In this readable study, after three decades of original research, Sudhir and Katharina investigate the idea of 'Indian-ness". What makes an Indian recognizably so to the rest of the world? What does being Indian mean? The book draws from various sources like the Mahabharata, Kamasutra, the writings of Gandhi and even Bollywood movies to paint this portrait. The discovery? That despite ethnic differences there exists an underlying unity in the great diversity of India that needs to be recognized. A wonderful study by India's foremost psychoanalyst and his anthropologist wife, and a must read.

The Indians; Portrait of a People

4. Once Upon a Time in Doon (Ed. Ruskin Bond):

The book is an anthology of writings, by eminent authors and those writing out of love, about the Doon Valley – where the old world charm meets the newer characteristics acquired in the last decade. The contributors are connected with this beautiful place in some way or the other as their stories and vignettes take us on a journey that unravels the many facets that make up this 'retirement destination'. See how a place can shape a person and then how the place takes shape in the person's writings. A lovely anthology!

Once Upon a Time in Doon

3. Would You Like Some Bread With That Book? (Veena Venugopal):

This 100-page book contains 14 evocative and laugh-out-loud funny essays about books and reading. As you flip through the pages of the author's life, get charmed by the easy flow of narrative and what it contains – from falling in love with men in bookshops to the love of books itself. Peppered with excellent anecdotes, the journey through this writer's life is complete with engaging and amusing moments that speak to anyone who sees a book as more than just pages.

Would You Like Some Bread With That Book

2. Raga 'n Josh (Sheila Dhar):

Sheila Dhar's autobiographical book is a delightful read, especially if Indian classical music interests you. As she weaves chapter after chapter from her musical life, the world she inhabited as a little girl and then an accomplished singer unfolds before your eyes in all its glory. At times funny, other times deeply perceptive, Dhar's account of her life comes beautifully dotted resplendent with observations about music celebrities, visits to old Delhi's bungalows and sprinkled with a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era of music and maestros. This book is sure to hit the right note with you.

Raga 'n Josh

1. Eunuch Park (Palash Krishna Mehrotra):

This is a collection of 15 short stories by a 'most exciting' debutant author, Palash Mehrotra. The stories are set in the dark underbellies of cities and towns, rented rooms and college hostels – where prostitutes, drug addicts, stalkers and murderers roam easy. While perversions are portrayed, vulnerabilities of the characters are beautifully portrayed too. Read these stories for a candid view of depravity which is a part of India that most are aware of, but few want to acknowledge.

Eunuch Park

The post 6 Amazing Books By Indian Authors Which Are Relatively Unheard Of appeared first on TopYaps.

Top 10 People Behind Indian Independence Movement

Posted: 24 Aug 2013 06:30 AM PDT

Had our valiant freedom fighters not sacrificed their lives, the great Indian Independence Movement would have never come about the way it did. This is just because of those intelligent and gutsy people that we enjoy living in an independent country today. All our freedom fighters, unlike most of us in modern India, were different from the population; they were too plucky to panic while affording to give away everything they had for their nation. Freedom for them was a way greater cause to live and die for as compared to anything and everything else in life, including family, relations and emotions. Not everyone can decide to embrace death for their country, for the sake of its honor and dignity! Let's remember and pay tribute to 10 strongest freedom fighters of India:

10. Gopal Krishna Gokhale (1886-1915):

Gopal Krishna Gokhale was one of the first people to revolt against earliest freedom fighters the British Rule. He was a senior leader of the Indian National Congress and founded the Servants of India Society. The major issues he picked up to fight against were untouchability and discrimination. He always believed in non-violence and practiced it till the end. Gokhale promoted independence from the British Rule and besides, advocated social reform.

9. Bal Gangadhar Tilak (1856-1920):

Bal Gangadhar Tilak was a very popular independence activist and Indian nationalist. He was a teacher, social reformer, lawyer, journalist and ultimately, a great freedom fighter of India. The British authorities called him the 'Father of the Unrest.' He was given the title 'Lokmanya,' literary meaning 'revered by people.' He lived and died for self-rule and always believed it to be his birthright.

8. Lal Bahadur Shastri (1904-1966):

Lal Bahadur Shastri is remembered as the most sober personality that joined Indian Independence Movement. He supported Gandhiji and fought for the rights of farmers. He kept sticking to his fight was an active figure in the Independence movement for India. He entered the fight for Independence with the support of Gandhiji and then fought for the rights of peasants and farmers. He went to jail twice while fighting for independence but kept sticking to the mission. He was popular as a man of truth and integrity. Later, he became the second prime minister of Independent India.

7. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (1875-1950):

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was a barrister, a statesman and one of the founding members of the Republic of India. He joined people like Gandhiji and Pt. Nehru in the country's fight for freedom. Sardar Patel is also known as the Iron Man of India. He wanted India to be unified and fought against the British Rule with all his strength. He was the founding member of Indian National Congress and played a pivotal role in Quit India Moment. He became the first Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of independent India.

6. Dr. Rajendra Prasad (1884-1963):

Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the first President of the Republic of India for successive 12 years. A lawyer by profession, Dr. Prasad joined the Indian National Congress and played an exemplary role in India's struggle for freedom. He always wished India to be socially reformed and kept working incessantly in this direction. Dr. Prasad was a big-time supporter of Mahatma Gandhi and got arrested during the Salt Satyagraha of 1931 and the Quit India Movement in 1942. After independence, Dr. Rajendra Prasad got elected the president of the Constituent Assembly of India to prepare the Constitution of India. India became a republic in 1950 and Dr. Prasad became the first President of India.

5. Subhas Chandra Bose (1897-1945):

Subhas Chandra Bose, popularly known as Netaji, was an Indian Nationalist who fought against the British during World War II. He was the man behind Azad Hind Fauj. He escaped from India in 1941 while kept under house arrest by the British rule. Later, he turned to Axis Powers for help and wanted to get independence by force. He also became the General Secretary of the Congress Party while working with Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru.

4. Chandrashekhar Azad (1906-1931):

Chandrashekhar Azad was another energetic and highly courageous freedom fighter of India. He took along a few revolutionaries having zest like him and founded the very famous Hindustan Republican Association. Azad is known as the mentor of Bhagat Singh. He became more aggressive when Gandhiji was suspended from the Non-Cooperation Movement. He decided to get independence by any means and was involved in the Kakori Train Robbery in 1925. While fighting the British when he was left with the last bullet, he kept his word of never getting caught alive by shooting himself.

3. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru (1889-1964):

Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru fought for independence with all his influence and strength. Basically a barrister, Nehru was a central figure in Indian politics and became the president of Indian National Congress. Nehru was closely associated with Mahatma Gandhi and was a part of the non-cooperation movement, which was in the form of a powerful rebellion against the policy of the British to suppress the poor Indian society. Later he joined Gandhiji in the disobedience movement with the same conviction and determination. Pt. Nehru was the first Prime Minister of India from 15 August, 1947 to 27 May, 1964.

2. Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948):

Mahatma Gandhi is regarded as the greatest freedom fighter of India as well as one among some individuals who changed the world. He all along his life preached values like simple living and high thinking. Everyone from common man to all other freedom fighters respected him for the principles he abided by such as truth, non-violence and nationalism. Gandhi led Satyagraha – the movement against violence, which eventually laid the foundation of independence of India. His life-long activities included protests opposing the land tax and discrimination against peasants, laborers. He fought against untouchability till the end of his life and this increased the respect people had for him. He was assassinated by Nathuram Godse on 30 July, 1948 in New Delhi.

1. Shaheed Bhagat Singh (1907-1931):

Shaheed Bhagat Singh, a vigorous young man from Punjab, was the youngest freedom fighter of India. He was just 23 (and hardly scared!) when he chose to die for his country. When a teenager, anarchist and Marxist ideologies had had considerable influence on Bhagat Singh. Initially, what provoked him to fight against the British was the death of Lala Lajpat Rai and he took the revenge by killing John Saunders, a British officer. He didn’t believe in nonviolence, especially if it was to be projected against violence and injustice. Bhagat Singh kept reiterating slogans of revolution while he threw two bombs inside the Central Legislative Assembly. He was sentenced to death in the Lahore conspiracy case and hanged on 24 March, 1931. This did nothing but rekindled the sparks of hatred every single Indian had inside them against the British, which proved to be the flames of independence later.