Are you a fan of card games? Do you find solace in the rhythmic shuffling of cards and the strategic planning of your next move? If so, then you're in for a treat. Solitaire, the timeless classic, isn't just one game. It's a broad spectrum of engaging and challenging variations, each with its unique rules and strategies. Let's dive into seven solitaire variations that you absolutely must try.
The first on our list is Klondike Solitaire, arguably the most well-known version of the game. It's the perfect starting point for beginners, with its simple rules and familiar layout. But don't let its simplicity fool you. Winning requires a blend of strategy and luck, making each game a new adventure.
Next up is Spider Solitaire. This game, named for its eight stacks of cards, is a test of patience and strategy. With its multiple levels of difficulty, Spider Solitaire can be as easy or as challenging as you want it to be. It's an excellent choice for players seeking a more complex solitaire experience.
Have you ever tried the hardest solitaire game? If you're up for a real challenge, then FreeCell Solitaire might be your next obsession. Unlike other versions, almost all FreeCell games can be won with the right strategy. It's a game that rewards careful planning and foresight, making it a favorite among strategic thinkers.
Pyramid Solitaire, as you might guess from the name, involves arranging cards in a pyramid. The goal is to pair up cards that add up to 13 and remove them from the pyramid. It's a fun and engaging twist on traditional solitaire that's sure to keep you entertained.
If you're passionate about card games and looking for a new challenge, consider trying out Spades. It's a classic game that requires strategic thinking, teamwork, and a bit of luck. Whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner, you'll find an engaging, user-friendly experience at https://worldofcardgames.com/spades/. This platform caters to all skill levels, providing a fun and interactive way to improve your game while connecting with other enthusiasts from around the globe.
According to a recent BBC report, digital card games like solitaire have seen a surge in popularity during the pandemic. TriPeaks Solitaire, with its three pyramids of cards and unique scoring system, is one such game that's gaining traction. The goal is to clear all the cards from the peaks, making it a thrilling race against time and a test of your strategic skills.
Canfield Solitaire, named after the famed casino owner Richard A. Canfield, is a challenging game that's not for the faint-hearted. With its tight time limits and limited moves, it's a game that will keep you on your toes. It's the perfect choice for players seeking a thrilling and high-stakes solitaire experience.
Last but not least, we have Yukon Solitaire. This game is a close cousin of Klondike but with a twist. In Yukon, you can move any card that's not covered, giving you more freedom and strategic options. It's a refreshing take on traditional solitaire that's definitely worth a try.
So, why limit yourself to just one type of solitaire? With so many variations, there's a whole world of solitaire waiting to be explored. Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite game!
Isn't it fascinating how a simple game of cards can offer so much variety and challenge? We'd love to hear your thoughts. Have you tried any of these solitaire variations? Which one is your favorite? Let's get the conversation started!
As an interesting sidenote, The New York Times highlighted how solitaire games are not just about entertainment but also serve as a mental workout, helping to keep our minds sharp. So, the next time you delve into a solitaire game, remember, it's not just fun, it's brain-boosting too!
Imagine your dream designer bag now costs more than a month’s rent. Welcome to 2025, now luxury isn’t just a splurge but a high-stakes financial tango, right? Inflation, tariffs, and a dash of geopolitical drama have collided, sending price tags into orbit. This time, brands aren’t just nudging numbers, but they’re launching full-blown price tsunamis. Can you still play the luxury game without drowning in debt? Let’s break down who’s hiking, why, and whether that iconic piece is worth the squeeze.
Chanel
In 2025, Chanel has been on a price-raising spree, almost as relentless as their signature tweed. The iconic Classic Flap Bag Large, for instance, now retails at 9,400 GBP (9,52,000 INR), a steep jump from 7,870 GBP (7,97,000 INR) back in January. That’s not just a rise; it’s a whole statement. With demand booming and the brand’s push for exclusivity, Chanel clearly shows no signs of slowing down.
Louis Vuitton’s strategy? Keep things steady but consistently pricier. In 2025, the Alma PM handbag crept up to 1,590 GBP (1,61,000 INR), marking a 6.4% increase. Meanwhile, the Clooney BB inched to 1,925 GBP (1,95,000 INR), a 4.9% hike, while the Capucines MM surged by 7.2%, now priced at 6,310 GBP (6,39,000 INR). Inflation’s impact? Definitely. The only thing rising faster than these prices? Their legendary prestige.
The iconic Hermès is giving luxury lovers something to chew on, especially if their taste leans toward legendary bags like the Birkin or Kelly. In the U.S., prices for the Birkin 25 in Togo leather rose from 8,400 GBP (8,52,000 INR) to 8,900 GBP (9,03,000 INR): a 6.1% increase. The Kelly 25 in Togo Retourne jumped from 8,350 GBP (8,47,000 INR) to 8,900 GBP (9,03,000 INR), marking a 6.2% hike. Some exotic models, like the Kelly 25 in Matte Alligator, saw a staggering 23.8% increase, now priced at 38,800 GBP (39,37,000 INR). Because nothing says 'forever status' like a price tag that stings.
Rolex has increased prices on its gold models by up to 14%, reflecting a 27% rise in the cost of gold itself. For instance, the white gold Daytona with the OysterFlex bracelet now retails at 24,300 GBP (24,70,000 INR), up from 22,350 GBP (22,70,000 INR) last year. Stainless steel models have seen more modest increases of about 1-3%. Gold just got a little more golden right?
Known for its cashmere and quiet luxury, Loro Piana isn’t shying away from price hikes either. Some items, like the Loom handbag, rose by 8%, while select pieces saw a staggering 23% increase. Soft just got pricier.
Tag Heuer quietly nudged up the price of select U.S. models by around 10% this summer, a direct response to looming U.S. tariffs on Swiss imports. It’s a cautious buffer rather than a drastic shock, as the brand hedges against potential margin hits. Rather than surprising buyers later, Tag Heuer is choosing to gently pad prices now, just in case.
Even beauty brands aren’t safe from the pricing squeeze. Sisley bumped up the price of its Korean products by 5%, while L’Oréal increased prices of Yves Saint Laurent and Lancôme items at duty-free outlets by about 10%. It’s partly due to higher ingredient costs and partly because “flex splurging” in Korea shows buyers aren’t put off by a little extra cost.
In a more gradual move, Coach has been incrementally hiking prices over 19 of the last 20 quarters, while Ralph Lauren pushed its average retail price up by about 12%. Instead of shocking customers, they’re taking a slow and steady approach, which has surprisingly fuelled demand rather than dampened it.
Cartier’s parent company, Richemont, is taking a softer approach, avoiding major price hikes despite the pressure of U.S. tariffs. Instead of gambling on big increases, Richemont is holding prices steady, particularly for its luxury jewellery, which continues to perform well without any drastic changes.
With higher-end items becoming even more unreachable, brands are shifting focus to “affordable luxury.” Think sub-400 GBP (40,000 INR) accessories like designer scarves and wallets, small indulgences that keep aspirational customers engaged. It’s a strategic play to maintain interest without alienating the middle-class luxury lover.
Luxury prices in 2025 are skyrocketing as iconic brands make big movesiStock
The luxury gamble?
The overall picture is clear. Some players have quietly bet on patient, incremental hikes and are already reaping rewards, while others have pushed hard and risk alienating shoppers. Observers note that Coach and Ralph Lauren’s measured markups drove a surprising sales boom (+42% Coach growth in Europe in Q4), whereas ultra-luxe giants saw only minimal gains. In short, moving slowly seems to have paid off, at least so far while exorbitant jumps have mostly just made headlines.
The gamble now is on for every brand. Every new price tag is a wager: will wealthy buyers shrug and splurge, or push back and hunt for deals?
LAKSHMI MITTAL, executive chairman of ArcelorMittal SA and one of Britain’s richest residents, has purchased a mansion in Dubai’s Emirates Hills, known as the “Beverly Hills of Dubai”, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter.
The Baroque-style home was listed for around £150 million in 2023 and sold for roughly half that amount earlier this year, according to people with knowledge of the deal.
The residence is lavishly decorated with gold leaf, the selling agent had said. Bloomberg reported the deal is among the most expensive residential sales in Dubai.
Mittal, 74, has a net worth of more than £17.3 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. The purchase comes as he considers leaving the UK following recent tax changes. A person familiar with the matter told Bloomberg that no final decision has been made yet.
The UK recently scrapped its preferential tax regime for non-domiciled residents, prompting several wealthy individuals, including Nassef Sawiris and Bart Becht, to relocate.
Mittal has been a prominent figure in UK business and politics for over two decades.
A representative for the Mittals told Bloomberg there are no plans to move their investment firm, LK Advisers, from London. The family continues to reside at their Kensington home.
On Sunday, 18 May, classical dance enthusiasts in London are in for a cultural treat as Anantakam, a captivating Bharatanatyam recital by the accomplished dancer Sankari, takes centre stage at The Bhavan. Rooted in the rich traditions of South Indian classical dance, this performance offers a profound exploration of ananda—the concept of eternal bliss—through a seamless blend of movement, music, and emotion. The event, accompanied by live Carnatic music, promises an immersive experience for audiences of all backgrounds.
Bharatanatyam, one of the oldest and most revered classical dance forms of India, originated in Tamil Nadu and is known for its intricate footwork, graceful expressions, and deeply spiritual narrative style. In Anantakam, Sankari draws from this centuries-old tradition to deliver a performance that is not only artistically refined but spiritually elevating. The title itself, Anantakam, evokes the boundless nature of divine bliss, which Sankari brings to life through her expressive storytelling and meticulous choreography.
Each segment of the recital will take the audience through a journey of devotion, joy, and surrender, where dance becomes more than just performance—it transforms into a form of prayer. The live music ensemble accompanying the recital adds another layer of authenticity and emotional depth, with melodic ragas, rhythmic percussion, and evocative vocals creating a powerful atmosphere of sacred celebration.
The Bhavan, London’s premier centre for Indian arts and culture, offers the perfect backdrop for this unique event. Known for nurturing both emerging and established artists, The Bhavan provides a welcoming platform for audiences to engage with classical Indian traditions in an intimate and inspiring setting.
Whether you're a long-time admirer of Indian classical dance or a newcomer curious to explore its beauty, Anantakam is an event not to be missed. It invites viewers to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with a sense of inner joy that transcends language and culture.
Join Sankari for an evening where devotion finds movement, and movement finds meaning.
With Kingdom set to release on 4 July, anticipation is soaring as fans gear up to witness Vijay Deverakonda in a never-seen-before action avatar. Gone are the days of brooding romance, this time the young heartthrob steps into the shoes of a fierce warrior navigating a war-torn world, blending raw emotion with brute strength. The audience is bracing for high-intensity combat, epic battle sequences, and a performance that redefines Vijay as a full-blown action star. Kingdom isn’t just a film, it’s a bold new chapter in his cinematic journey. Ahead of the release of the much-anticipated film, here are five reasons why Vijay Deverakonda is the ultimate action hero we’ve been waiting for.
Vijay Deverakonda steps away from romance and into full throttle action
1. From romantic rebel to battle-hardened hero
Fan-favourite performances in Arjun Reddy (2017) and Dear Comrade (2019) showcased Vijay’s raw vulnerability and brooding intensity. However, over the past few years, he’s been quietly honing stunt skills and fight choreography, preparing for a seismic shift into high-octane storytelling.
2. Sculpted physique & rigorous training
Under the guidance of top trainers, Vijay has added lean muscle and explosive agility, perfect for hand-to-hand combat sequences. Reports confirm he’s performed many of his own stunts, training in mixed martial arts, parkour, and weapon handling to bring authenticity to every punch and leap.
The actor showcases raw intensity in a war torn cinematic world
3. Kingdom: the 4 July game-changer
Set in a fictional kingdom besieged by rival factions, the film follows Vijay’s character, a battle-scarred warrior fighting for survival and justice. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Gowtam Tinnanuri, Kingdom promises jaw-dropping set pieces, large-scale warscapes, and a hero who bleeds for his cause. This isn’t just another star vehicle, it’s Vijay’s statement that he’s ready to headline blockbuster action franchises.
4. A line-up of high-voltage projects
Deverakonda’s tentatively titled SVC59 is rumoured to blend espionage thrills with high-speed chases, with Vijay playing an undercover agent tasked with stopping a global cyber-threat. On the other hand, his VD14 is tipped as a gritty, street-level thriller; this film explores the underbelly of organised crime in South India, Vijay as a lone wolf vigilante.
Fans await Vijay Deverakonda’s next chapter as an action hero
Industry insiders say Vijay is mapping out a five-film arc that transitions him fully into action-hero territory, complete with recurring characters and interconnected storylines.
5. Beyond the screen: the man behind the muscles
Born 9 May 1989, in Hyderabad, Vijay made his feature debut in the rom-com Nuvvila (2011) before rising to pan-Indian fame. Apart from being a successful actor, he is also a philanthropist who launched The Deverakonda Foundation, a non-profit organisation, in April 2019.
Vijay Deverakonda is ready to take 2025 by storm with bold new roles
He has multiple Filmfare South Awards, including Best Actor for Arjun Reddy, plus Forbes India’s Celebrity 100 list inclusion in 2023, where he was estimated to have earned around £740,000 (₹7.75 crore).
Whether you first fell for him as the tortured lover or admired his off-screen generosity, 2025 is the year Vijay Deverakonda cements himself as the action superstar we’ve all been waiting for. Buckle up because the ride’s about to get explosive!
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Nirav Modi, 55, has been in custody in the UK since March 2019.
A UK court on Thursday denied bail to fugitive Indian diamond businessman Nirav Modi, who sought release while awaiting extradition to India. Modi cited potential threats to his life and said he would not attempt to flee Britain.
Modi, 55, has been in custody in the UK since March 2019. He left India in 2018 before details emerged of his alleged involvement in a large-scale fraud at Punjab National Bank.
He denies any wrongdoing, according to his lawyer. His extradition to India was approved by UK courts, and his appeals, including a request to approach the UK Supreme Court, were rejected in 2022.
On Thursday, Modi’s lawyer Edward Fitzgerald told the High Court that the extradition could not take place for confidential legal reasons. "There are confidential legal reasons why (Modi) cannot be extradited," he said, without providing further details.
Representing Indian authorities, lawyer Nicholas Hearn opposed the bail application, arguing that Modi might try to escape or interfere with witnesses. Hearn referred to Modi’s past attempt to seek citizenship in Vanuatu as an indication he might flee.
Fitzgerald responded that Modi would not leave the UK due to fear of the Indian government. He mentioned alleged recent plots to target Sikh activists in the United States and Canada, which India has denied. He also cited India's alleged involvement in returning Sheikha Latifa, daughter of Dubai’s ruler, to Dubai in 2018.
"The reach of the Indian government for extrajudicial reprisals is practically limitless," Fitzgerald said. "The idea that he could go to Vanuatu ... and there be safe from the Indian government is utterly ridiculous. They would either send a hit squad to get him or they would kidnap him or they would lean on the government to deport him."
The Indian High Commission in London did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Judge Michael Fordham denied the bail plea, saying, "there are substantial grounds for believing that if released by me on bail ... (Modi) would fail to surrender".
Modi is wanted in India in connection with two linked cases — a major fraud at Punjab National Bank and alleged laundering of the proceeds.
His uncle Mehul Choksi, also linked to the case, was arrested in Belgium last month. Choksi has denied any wrongdoing.