Culinary breakHaving resigned as BJD’s parliamentary party leader in Rajya Sabha, Sasmit Patra decided to take a culinary break. The MP headed to Odisha Niwas in New Delhi — not for any strategy meeting, but to indulge in some mouth-watering Pakhala dish. And there was a surprise waiting at the lunch table. Joining him was none other than legendary Odissi exponent Sonal Mansingh. Sharing the moment on social media, Sasmit wrote, “Nothing beats the comfort of an authentic Pakhala lunch at Odisha Niwas, New Delhi. An afternoon of great food and even better conversation, honored by the presence of the legendary Dr. Sonal Mansingh ji and distinguished personalities.”Family traditionAs the sun traces its annual heat map, BJP national vice-president and Kendrapada MP Baijayant Jay Panda has come forward to provide some solace to people on the streets. Keeping a family tradition alive, Baijayant has kept cool jugs of water and dahi outside his family home, allowing passers-by to take a momentary pause and quench their thirst. Sharing this with his followers on X, Baijayant wrote, “We usually begin this on Pana Sankranti, but due to the scorching heatwave, started earlier our family’s annual practice of keeping cool water, plain and with dahi, outside our gate for passersby. A tradition followed in our family for generations. In this heat, even a small gesture can offer some relief. Stay hydrated and take care.” Blast from the pastOld habits die hard. It seems that an IRS officer, who recently accused Lok Bhavan staff of ill-treatment, is no stranger to controversy himself, especially when it comes to the governor’s house. Records show that Capital police station had made several general diary entries against him in the past, alleging attempts at unauthorized entry to Lok Bhavan during the period when his father was serving there.(Contributed by Team TOI)
