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Which is the Oldest Hotel in the World? Know About It

Across the world, many hotels are known for their beauty, luxury, or history, but only a few have stories that go back more than a thousand years. One such hotel has survived wars, weather, and changing times, yet continues to welcome guests even today. Its long journey reflects tradition, culture, and exceptional hospitality. Learning about this historic place gives us a glimpse into how ancient businesses can remain alive for centuries.

Oldest Hotel in the World

The Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan in Japan holds the title of the oldest hotel in the world. It is located in Hayakawa, Yamanashi Prefecture, near the beautiful Akaishi Mountains. This traditional inn, called a ryokan, has been recognized by the Guinness World Records for being the longest-operating hotel.

A Hotel With a Rich History

The hotel was built in 705 AD by a Japanese nobleman, Fujiwara Mahito, during the reign of Emperor Monmu. It has been running continuously ever since, serving travelers, monks, and samurai over the centuries. The hotel has seen Japan change through eras, yet it continues to offer a peaceful and welcoming experience.

Unique Features of the Hotel

Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan is famous for its hot springs, which have been attracting guests for centuries. The hotel has 37 rooms, some with open-air baths and others with moon-viewing platforms. Despite renovations for modern comfort, it still keeps traditional Japanese features like tatami floors, sliding doors, and wooden interiors.

A Family Tradition

What makes this hotel even more remarkable is that it has been run by the same family for over 52 generations. This long family tradition has helped preserve the culture, customs, and hospitality of the inn while maintaining its historic charm.

Cost to Stay at the Hotel

Visiting the oldest hotel in the world is a unique experience, but it comes with a cost. Room rates usually start at $400 (around ₹33,000) per night for two people and can go up to $800 (around ₹66,000) depending on the room type, season, and meals. Cherry blossom and autumn seasons tend to be more expensive.

Why it is Special?

Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan is more than just a hotel. It represents Japanese culture, hospitality, and history. Its continuous operation for over 1,300 years makes it a living monument of tradition and comfort, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan’s past while enjoying modern amenities.

Which Country is Known as the Land of Sandalwood?

Sandalwood is one of the world’s most precious and sweet-smelling woods, used for perfumes, medicines, rituals, and beautiful carvings. Its rich fragrance and cultural value have made it highly respected for thousands of years. Among all nations, one country is especially famous for producing the finest sandalwood, earning a special name because of its long connection with this valuable tree.

Land of Sandalwood

India is widely known as the Land of Sandalwood. For thousands of years, people in India have grown, used, and traded sandalwood. The wood from Indian sandalwood trees has a strong, natural scent and produces high-quality oil, making it valuable across the world.

Why is India known as the Land of Sandalwood?

India received this name because sandalwood has been a part of its life, culture, and history for generations. The warm climate and fertile soil in southern states help sandalwood trees grow naturally. Sandalwood oil from India is considered among the purest, and the trees are protected because they take many years to grow. This long tradition and natural richness made India famous for sandalwood.

India’s Largest Sandalwood Producing State

Karnataka is the biggest producer of sandalwood in India. The state is famous for Mysore Sandalwood, known worldwide for its rich fragrance. The government carefully protects and manages sandalwood forests so the trees can grow safely. This makes Karnataka the leader in both sandalwood wood and oil production.

Largest Sandalwood Producer in the World Today

While India is known historically for sandalwood, Australia is now the world’s largest producer. Western Australia has huge plantations where sandalwood trees are grown using modern techniques. Because of large-scale farming and quicker harvesting, Australia supplies a big share of the world’s sandalwood today.

How Sandalwood is Connected to India’s Culture?

Sandalwood plays an important role in Indian traditions.

  • Its paste is used in temples, religious events, and festivals.
  • The wood is carved into idols, decorations, and artistic pieces.
  • Sandalwood oil and powder are used in Ayurveda, perfumes, and skincare.

Cities like Mysore became famous for producing soaps and other sandalwood items that people still love today.

Interesting Facts About Indian Sandalwood

  • Takes many years to grow: Sandalwood trees need 15–20 years to fully mature, which makes the wood rare and precious.
  • Valuable essential oil: Pure sandalwood oil is one of the most expensive oils because of its strong scent and healing qualities.
  • Important in Ayurveda: It is known for cooling, calming, and anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Used in worship: Sandalwood paste is used in pujas, ceremonies, and festivals to represent peace and purity.

Top Indian Lender Backs Next Phase of Banking Sector Mergers

India’s banking sector is gearing up for another transformative phase as the State Bank of India (SBI) advocates for fresh consolidation among public sector banks (PSBs). With India aiming to become a $30 trillion economy by 2047, large and resilient banking institutions are seen as essential for funding the nation’s ambitious infrastructure and industrial development goals.

SBI’s Call for Consolidation

SBI Chairman Challa Sreenivasulu Setty recently voiced support for merging smaller, under-scaled state-backed banks into larger entities. He stated that “some further rationalisation might make sense,” acknowledging that several public sector banks remain sub-scale despite earlier rounds of consolidation.

This perspective reflects a broader strategic intent: to create banks with the financial muscle and operational scale needed to support India’s economic transformation.

The Need for Bigger Banks

India currently requires a banking system capable of financing large-scale national projects. Key reasons for fresh PSB mergers include,

  • Increased Credit Demand: India’s bank credit must rise from around 56% to 130% of GDP to meet future economic targets.
  • Infrastructure Financing: Building roads, ports, smart cities, and clean energy hubs needs strong institutional lenders.
  • Global Competitiveness: Larger banks are better positioned to handle foreign capital flows, global partnerships, and large corporate loans.
  • Operational Efficiency: Consolidation leads to cost optimization, unified technology platforms, and better governance.

Current Banking Landscape

SBI controls about 25% of India’s ₹194 trillion loan market, with total assets nearing ₹69 trillion.

  • Over the past decade, PSBs were reduced from 27 to 12 through merger waves, improving balance sheets and scale.
  • Only SBI and HDFC Bank currently rank among the top 100 global banks by total assets.
  • India still lags behind countries like China and the US, which have multiple globally dominant banking institutions.

Key Growth Areas for SBI

SBI is aggressively pursuing expansion in areas such as,

  • Wealth Management: Over 1,000 new wealth managers hired and more than 110 micro-markets identified for high-net-worth services.
  • Loan Growth: SBI revised its FY26 credit growth forecast upward to 12%–14%, driven by corporate spending and infrastructure lending.
  • Market Share: The bank is actively targeting acquisition of new business rather than just defending its dominant position.

Static Facts

  • Chairman of SBI: Challa Sreenivasulu Setty
  • Loan Market Share of SBI: ~25%
  • Target GDP by 2047: $30 trillion
  • Current PSBs Count: 12 (down from 27)
  • Required Bank Credit Growth: From 56% to 130% of GDP
  • SBI Assets: Nearly ₹69 trillion

GI Tag Awarded to Traditional Lepcha Musical Instruments

In a landmark move aimed at preserving India’s rich cultural heritage, the Government of India has granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags to two traditional Lepcha musical instruments — Tungbuk and Pumtong Pulit. This official recognition places these folk instruments among the distinguished products that enjoy legal protection and cultural prestige under India’s GI registry. The GI tags were formally awarded on 5th November 2025, marking a proud moment for the Lepcha community of Sikkim, which has long been known for its deep-rooted traditions and musical heritage.

Understanding the Instruments: Tungbuk and Pumtong Pulit

Tungbuk: The String of Tradition

The Tungbuk is a three-stringed instrument that plays a central role in Lepcha folk music, storytelling, and spiritual practices. Its soft, resonant sound is often heard during traditional festivals, rituals, and village gatherings. The Tungbuk isn’t just an instrument — it’s a symbol of cultural continuity and ancestral wisdom.

Pumtong Pulit: The Voice of the Forest

Made from bamboo, the Pumtong Pulit is a traditional wind instrument — essentially a bamboo flute. Its melodies are often inspired by the sounds of nature, making it a spiritually significant part of Lepcha identity. Its tunes are believed to connect listeners to the rhythms of the natural world, reflecting the community’s harmony with their environment.

Formal Recognition at the 1st Tribal Business Conclave

The official GI registration certificates were handed over during the 1st Tribal Business Conclave held in New Delhi, a joint initiative by the Ministries of Culture, Tribal Affairs, and Commerce & Industry. This platform served as the ideal setting to honour the Lepcha community’s cultural contributions.

The applications for the GI tag were submitted by Ugen Palzor Lepcha for the Tungbuk and Namgyal Lepcha for the Pumtong Pulit. Both individuals were instrumental in documenting and presenting these instruments for official recognition.

NABARD’s Critical Role in Securing the GI Tag

The GI registration was the result of nearly two years of dedicated effort, backed strongly by NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development), Gangtok. NABARD provided technical assistance, documentation support, and awareness initiatives that enabled the successful completion of the GI application process.

The Lepcha community expressed deep appreciation for NABARD’s unwavering commitment, recognising that institutional partnerships like these are crucial for cultural conservation projects.

Key Static Facts

  • Instruments Granted GI Tag: Tungbuk and Pumtong Pulit
  • Type of Instruments: Tungbuk – string instrument; Pumtong Pulit – bamboo flute
  • Community: Lepcha tribe
  • State: Sikkim
  • GI Registration Category: Musical Instruments

Who is Known as the Andhra Kesari? Know the Name

The title “Andhra Kesari” is given to a great leader from Andhra Pradesh who played a major role in India’s freedoms struggle. He was known for his courage, patriotism, and dedication to the welfare of the people. His fearless attitude and strong leadership made him a respected figure in history. He also worked towards the development of Andhra Pradesh after India gained independence.

Who is Known as the Andhra Kesari?

“Andhra Kesari” means “Lion of Andhra Pradesh,” and this title was given to Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu for his courage and strong leadership. He was an important freedom fighter who actively participated in India’s struggle for independence. Later, he became the first Chief Minister of Andhra State and worked hard for the progress and welfare of the region. His bold nature, honesty, and commitment to the people made him one of the most admired leaders in Andhra Pradesh’s history.

Why is Tanguturi Prakasam Known as Andhra Kesari?

Tanguturi Prakasam is called “Andhra Kesari” because of his great courage during India’s freedom struggle. During the Simon Commission protests, he bravely bared his chest in front of British police and dared them to shoot him. This fearless act showed his strong opposition to British rule. His bravery and dedication to the nation earned him this honorable title among the Telugu people.

Who was Tanguturi Prakasam?

Tanguturi Prakasam, also known as Prakasam Pantulu, was an Indian freedom fighter, jurist and political leader. He served as the Premier of the Madras Presidency and later became the first Chief Minister of Andhra State, which was formed after the division of Madras State based on language. He was honored with the title “Andhra Kesari”.

Key Facts About Tanguturi Prakasam

Here are some key facts about Tanguturi Prakasam, who is often referred to as “Andhra Kesari”:

  • Birth and Early Life: Born in 1872 in Vinodarayunipalem, near Ongole, Andhra Pradesh. Lost his father at age of 11, and his mother ran a boarding house.
  • Education and Career: Failed matriculation but became a second-grade pleader (lawyer) in Madras. Later, he became a successful lawyer in Rajamahendravaram.
  • Studied Law in England: Went to England in 1904 to become a barrister. Promised his mother to avoid non-vegetarian food, smoking and drinking.
  • Successful Barrister: Returned to Madras High Court and handled important cases, including the Ashe murder case.
  • Freedom Fighter: Gave up his legal career and joined the freedom struggle. Edited a newspaper called Swarajya to support India’s independence.
  • Title Andhra Kesari: Earned this title in 1928 when he bravely faced British soldiers during the Simon Commission protests.
  • Political Leadership: Elected as a legislator and played a key role in India’s independence movement, including the Quit India Movement (1942).
  • Prime Minister of Madras Presidency: Led the government for 11 months but had to step down due to political disagreements.
  • First Chief Minister of Andhra State: Led the newly formed Andhra State but resigned after one year due to opposition.
  • Death: Passed away on May 20, 1957, in Hyderabad, Telangana.

In Which Hemisphere is India Located?

India’s position on the globe plays an important role in shaping its climate, seasons, daylight hours, and time zone. Understanding where the country lies on Earth helps explain why different regions experience varied temperatures and weather patterns. It also helps us learn how India is placed in relation to other countries and continents. Knowing its hemispheres makes this geographical concept simple and clear.

India’s Hemispheric Location

India is located in both the Northern Hemisphere and the Eastern Hemisphere. The whole country lies above the Equator and to the east of the Prime Meridian. Because of this position, India experiences distinct seasons, varied climates, and an early time zone. Its location also influences sunlight patterns, weather changes, and the movement of monsoon winds across different parts of the country.

Why India Falls in Two Hemispheres?

India’s placement can be understood through its latitudes and longitudes. It stretches across several degrees northward and across many degrees eastward. Because of these coordinates, India falls fully inside the Northern part of the Earth and completely inside the Eastern section. This position influences how India receives sunlight, when its seasons begin, and how its time zone is fixed.

How India’s Location Affects its Geography?

India’s hemispheric position helps create wide differences in weather from one region to another. Areas in the north become cooler during winter, while southern regions stay warm for most of the year. India’s time zone is also based on its eastern location, placing it ahead of many countries in time. This placement allows India to have mountains in the north, plains in the middle, and long coastlines in the south.

Important Facts About India’s Hemisphere Position

  • Entire Country Lies Above the Equator: India is totally north of the Equator, which is why the country experiences clear summer and winter seasons.
  • Fully East of the Prime Meridian: India is located completely in the Eastern Hemisphere, giving it an early sunrise and a time zone of UTC +5:30.
  • Tropic of Cancer Passes Through India: A major line of latitude cuts across the middle of India, dividing it into tropical and subtropical climate zones.
  • Location Helps Create Monsoon Winds: India’s place on the Earth, along with surrounding seas, helps form the famous monsoon winds that bring seasonal rainfall.

Wallmart’s Doug McMillon to Retire, John Furner to Take Over

In a significant corporate leadership transition, Walmart Inc. has announced that CEO Doug McMillon will retire on January 31, 2026, after leading the global retail giant for over a decade. He will be succeeded by John Furner, the current CEO of Walmart U.S., who will officially step into the role of President and CEO of Walmart Inc. on February 1, 2026. This leadership change marks a crucial moment for the company as it navigates a rapidly changing retail environment shaped by digital transformation, inflationary pressures, and evolving consumer preferences.

Doug McMillon: A Decade of Transformation

Doug McMillon has served as Walmart’s CEO since February 2014, overseeing a period of rapid evolution. Under his leadership, Walmart made significant strides in,

  • Expanding its e-commerce footprint globally
  • Modernising its supply chains through technology
  • Acquiring digital-first companies like Flipkart and Jet.com
  • Strengthening sustainability and ESG commitments

His strategic decisions positioned Walmart as a formidable player in both online and offline retail markets. McMillon will continue to serve in an advisory role until 2027 and remain on the board until the next shareholders’ meeting.

John Furner: A Veteran Insider to Lead Walmart

The appointment of John Furner signals Walmart’s confidence in internal talent and leadership continuity. Furner began his career with Walmart in 1993 as an hourly store associate and steadily rose through the ranks. He has held leadership positions in,

  • Merchandising and Operations
  • Sam’s Club (as CEO)
  • Walmart U.S. (as CEO since 2019)

Known for his deep operational expertise and customer-focused leadership, Furner is expected to continue Walmart’s strategic focus on omnichannel retail, technology integration, and supply chain resilience.

Key Static Facts

  • Current CEO of Walmart (retiring): Doug McMillon
  • Date of McMillon’s retirement: 31st January 2026
  • New CEO from February 2026: John Furner
  • Current position of John Furner: CEO of Walmart U.S.
  • Effective date of leadership change: 1st February 2026
  • McMillon’s advisory role continues until: 2027
  • Walmart U.S. footprint: Over 4,600 stores, 1.5 million+ employees
  • McMillon became CEO in: February 2014

RBI Announces Relief Measures for Exporters: Moratorium & Credit Extensions

Amid global trade challenges and financial pressure on exporters, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced a set of relief measures aimed at easing repayment stress and providing credit flexibility. These measures will benefit exporters across key sectors and are intended to ensure continued trade competitiveness without compromising financial sector health. The relief steps allow moratoriums on loan repayments, extended export credit tenors, and more time for realisation of export proceeds, which will be implemented through banks, NBFCs, and other regulated entities.

Key Relief Measures Announced by RBI

Loan Moratorium for Exporters

Exporters with standard accounts as of 31 August 2025 are eligible for a moratorium on term loan repayments falling due between 1 September 2025 and 31 December 2025.

  • This includes principal and interest deferment on term loans.
  • For working capital (cash credit/overdraft), interest will accrue on a simple interest basis without compounding.
  • The interest accrued during the moratorium can be converted into a Funded Interest Term Loan (FITL) repayable by 30 September 2026.

Extended Export Credit Timelines

To reduce pressure on exporters and provide financial breathing room,

  • Pre-shipment and post-shipment export credit (for loans sanctioned till 31 March 2026) will now have a maximum tenor of 450 days, up from 270 days.
  • Export proceeds must now be realised and repatriated within 15 months, compared to the previous 9-month timeline.
  • For advance payments, the shipment deadline has been extended to 3 years, up from 1 year, allowing greater flexibility in contract execution.

Eligibility and Applicability

These measures are available to exporters across identified sectors such as,

  • Textiles and garments
  • Leather and footwear
  • Chemicals and plastics
  • Electrical machinery
  • Iron and steel

To qualify, accounts must be classified as standard assets as of 31 August 2025. The scheme is applicable across all regulated entities, including commercial banks, NBFCs, cooperative banks, and all-India financial institutions.

Key Static Facts

  • Policy Announced By: Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
  • Scheme Name: Trade Relief Measures, 2025
  • Eligible Borrowers: Exporters with standard accounts as on 31 August 2025
  • Moratorium Period: 1 September 2025 to 31 December 2025
  • Export Credit Tenor Extension: From 270 days to 450 days (loans sanctioned till 31 March 2026)
  • Export Proceeds Realisation Time: Extended from 9 months to 15 months

Bank Credit Growth Slows to 11.3% While Deposits Rise to 9.7% in October

India’s banking sector witnessed a noticeable shift in financial flows during October 2025. According to the latest data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), credit growth slowed to 11.3% year-on-year, while deposit growth picked up pace to reach 9.7% for the same period. This changing dynamic is significant as it hints at possible shifts in loan demand, banking strategies, and liquidity management.

Credit Growth Trends: A Gradual Slowdown

The total bank credit outstanding stood at approximately ₹193.9 lakh crore as of October 31, 2025. This marks a slight moderation from previous months, reflecting a slower pace of credit expansion across sectors. A reduced appetite for loans, cautious lending by banks, and global economic headwinds may all be contributing factors.

This deceleration has implications for key sectors such as industry, MSMEs, NBFCs, and retail loans. A cautious lending environment can slow investment cycles and impact economic momentum.

Deposit Growth on the Rise

At the same time, bank deposits grew by 9.7%, reaching a base of ₹241.7 lakh crore. This indicates a strong inflow of savings and capital into the banking system. While this provides banks with ample liquidity, the challenge lies in how effectively these funds are deployed.

Higher deposits paired with slower credit growth can affect a bank’s credit-deposit ratio, reducing net interest margins and pushing banks to re-evaluate investment and lending strategies.

Implications of the Credit-Deposit Gap

The narrowing gap between credit and deposit growth signals a potential shift in India’s banking environment,

  • Liquidity surplus may increase, forcing banks to park excess funds in low-yield assets like government securities.
  • Net interest margins (NIMs) could come under pressure due to reduced lending opportunities.
  • Retail and MSME lending may receive more focus as banks seek stable, low-risk credit segments.
  • Policy signals may emerge if the trend continues, prompting measures to boost credit flow or manage surplus liquidity.

Factors Behind the Trend

Several macroeconomic and sectoral factors could be influencing the current credit and deposit trends,

  • Reduced credit demand due to inflationary pressures and cautious consumer spending.
  • Slower credit offtake in sectors like industry and infrastructure.
  • Flight to safety with depositors preferring stable returns amid global financial uncertainty.
  • Banking system reforms and tighter credit norms curbing aggressive loan disbursement.

Key Static Facts

  • Credit Growth (YoY, October 2025): 11.3%
  • Deposit Growth (YoY, October 2025): 9.7%
  • Total Bank Credit Outstanding: ₹193.9 lakh crore
  • Total Bank Deposits: ₹241.7 lakh crore
  • Trend Highlight: Credit growth slowing while deposit growth accelerating
  • Concern: Narrowing credit-deposit ratio
  • Implication: Liquidity surplus, strategic shifts in lending

Which District of Uttar Pradesh is Known as the City of Hills?

Uttar Pradesh is a state known for its rich history, culture and diverse landscapes. While most of the state is covered with plains, there is one district that stands out for its beautiful hills and scenic views. This district is famous for its natural beauty, and unique geography. It attracts many tourists who love exploring hills, waterfalls and historical sites. Let’s find out which district it is.

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a state in northern India and the most populated in the country, with over 241 million people. It covers 243,286 square kilometers, making it the fourth-largest state. It shares borders with several Indian states and Nepal. Lucknow is the capital and Prayagraj is the judicial capital. Uttar Pradesh has 18 divisions and 75 districts, playing a key role in India’s history, culture and economy.

Which District of Uttar Pradesh is Known as the City of Hills?

Chitrakoot district in Uttar Pradesh is called the “City of Hills” because it lies in the northern part of the Vindhya mountain range. The name Chitrakoot translates to “Hill of Many Wonders,” showing its natural charm. The place is well-known for its scenic hills, ancient temples and holy spots like Kamadgiri, Hanuman Dhara, Janki Kund, Lakshman Pahari and Devangana. Chitrakoot is also deeply connected to Hindu mythology and is believed to be where Lord Rama spent time during his exile.

Why is Chitrakoot Known as the City of Hills?

Chitrakoot is known as the “City of Hills” because it is located in the northern Vindhya mountain range, making it a hilly region with scenic landscapes. The name Chitrakoot means “Hill of Many Wonders” in Sanskrit. It is famous for its sacred hills, including Kamadgiri, Hanumaan Dhara, Janki Kund, Lakshman Pahari and Devangana, which have deep religious and historical significance.

Famous Hills of Chitrakoot

Chitrakoot has many famous hills that hold religious and cultural importance. Some of the well-known hills are:

  • Kamadgiri: This is the most important holy place in Chitrakoot. It is believed that Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshman lived here during their exile. The name Kamadgiri means “the mountain that fulfils all wishes.”
  • Hanumaan Dhara: This is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located on top of a hill. Devotees climb up to offer prayers and enjoy the beautiful view of Chitrakoot.
  • Janki Kund: This is an ancient religious site located 2 km from Ram Ghat. It is believed to be a place where Goddess Sita used to bathe. The serene atmosphere makes it a popular tourist spot.
  • Lakshman Pahari: This is a famous religious mountain in Chitrakoot. It is believed that Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Ram, stayed here during their time in the forest.
  • Devangana: Another sacred mountain in Chitrakoot, known for its spiritual significance and peaceful surroundings.

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