Lifestyle:  Keeping a child’s tiffin box clean is important for maintaining good hygiene and preventing the growth of germs. The box should be cleaned every day after use.

Parents should first remove leftover food and wrappers as soon as the child returns home. The tiffin box can then be washed with warm water and mild dishwashing liquid. A soft sponge is best for cleaning the main parts of the box.

Special attention should be given to corners, grooves and other small areas where food particles may remain. A small cleaning brush or an old toothbrush can help reach these difficult spots.

The rubber gasket in the lid should also be removed and washed regularly. Moisture trapped under the seal can lead to mould and unpleasant smells.

After washing, the box should be left open and turned upside down to dry completely. It is better to make sure there is no moisture left before closing and storing it.

For stubborn stains, parents can use a paste made from baking soda and warm water. Baking soda can also help reduce unpleasant odours when left inside a dry tiffin box overnight.

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Another option is to soak the box in a diluted vinegar solution to tackle lingering smells. Keeping the clean, open box in direct sunlight for a few hours can also help remove odours naturally.

Regular cleaning and proper drying can help keep a child’s tiffin box fresh, hygienic and ready for daily use.

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala is celebrating Thiruvonam today, August 26, marking the most important day of the 10-day Onam festival.

Onam is celebrated during the Malayalam month of Chingam. The festival is linked to the harvest season and the legendary return of King Mahabali.

According to legend, Mahabali was a kind and powerful ruler. His kingdom was known for prosperity and happiness.

Lord Vishnu appeared as Vamana and asked Mahabali for three paces of land. Vamana then covered the Earth and sky in two steps. Mahabali offered his head for the third step.

Pleased with his devotion, Lord Vishnu allowed Mahabali to visit his people once every year. Onam is celebrated to welcome his annual return.

The festival is marked by colourful pookalams, traditional prayers, cultural programmes and grand feasts. Families also prepare traditional dishes and enjoy Onam Sadya together.

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Onam is a celebration of unity, gratitude and togetherness. People pray for happiness, good health and prosperity for their families.

On the occasion of Thiruvonam, people are sharing greetings and wishes with their loved ones. Happy Onam 2026!

Lifestyle: Plant-based foods are becoming popular as alternatives to fish. Several natural ingredients can provide a similar texture and taste.

Banana blossom is one of the popular choices. Its flaky texture makes it suitable for dishes such as plant-based fish and chips.

Jackfruit is another useful option. Its soft and stringy texture works well in shredded fish and mock tuna dishes.

Tofu can also be used as a fish substitute. It can be cut into fillets or sticks and then seasoned and battered.

Heart of palm offers a firm texture with a slightly salty and briny taste. It can be used to prepare plant-based seafood dishes, including mock calamari.

Seasonings also play an important role in creating a seafood-like taste. Seaweed such as nori and dulse can add an ocean-like flavour and umami taste.

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Algae oil is another useful ingredient for plant-based diets. It provides omega-3 fatty acids without using fish.

These ingredients offer simple options for people who want to reduce their seafood intake. They can also help add variety to vegetarian and vegan meals.