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Behind the Viral Delhi Professor Video: What’s the Science of Cow Dung & Cooling?

By
Rudra Pratap Singh
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0

At Delhi University’s Laxmibai College, students expected a fresh coat of paint. What they didn’t expect was their principal, Dr. Pratyush Vatsala, climbing onto a chair and smoothing cow dung onto the classroom wall.

In a world obsessed with shiny surfaces and sleek finishes, it was a moment of dissonance — and, for some, disbelief. A viral video captured the scene. The internet was quick to react with a mix of shock, satire, and… curiosity.

But what looked like a quirky throwback was, in fact, a quiet revolution — one that’s digging deep into India’s traditional knowledge and offering real, earthy solutions to the climate crisis.

The Dirt on Dung: A Legacy Reborn

For generations in rural India, cow dung wasn’t waste — it was a way of life. Floors were smeared with it. Walls were plastered with it. Entire homes were built with it. It kept insects away, purified spaces, and perhaps most importantly, kept homes naturally cool in the sweltering Indian summer.

Then came cement. Concrete. Air conditioners. And with them, the slow erosion of ancient wisdom.

But now, as our cities heat up and our electricity bills skyrocket, an unlikely hero is making a comeback — with a surprising scientific edge.

A Climate-Savvy Comeback

The principal’s cow-dung-coated classroom might have raised eyebrows, but environmental pioneers across India are proving there’s method in this madness.

Behind the Viral Delhi Professor Video: What’s the Science of Cow Dung & Cooling?

Enter Dr. Shivdarshan Malik, a civil engineer turned eco-innovator. Haunted by the loss of green farmland to grey concrete, Dr. Malik turned to his roots — and found answers in cow dung.

“People once dismissed it as backward,” he says. “But cow dung has properties that modern construction materials just can’t match.”

With years of research, he developed two game-changing products:

  • Vedic Plaster: A breathable blend of cow dung, clay, neem leaves, gypsum, and more.
  • Gocrete Bricks: Heat-reducing, eco-friendly bricks made from cow dung and local soil.

Together, they offer homes that are cooler by up to 7°C — without touching the AC remote.

The Science Behind the Slather

Cow dung is packed with perks. It:

  • Acts as a natural insulator, regulating indoor temperatures.
  • Has antimicrobial properties, making it a hygienic coating for homes.
  • Is breathable, preventing dampness and trapped heat.
  • And it’s biodegradable, renewable, and very low-cost.

In fact, homes built or renovated with Vedic Plaster have reported zero need for air conditioning. One family saved ₹8,000 a month on electricity. That’s not just eco-friendly — that’s wallet-friendly.

Building Dreams with Dirt

Across the country, eco-conscious citizens are embracing tradition with pride.

Behind the Viral Delhi Professor Video: What’s the Science of Cow Dung & Cooling?

In Tamil Nadu, Sudhakar and Noushadya built a sustainable farm home using mud, lime, second-hand wood, and of course, cow dung. “We wanted to reduce our carbon footprint,” says Noushadya. “So we skipped concrete almost entirely.”

Behind the Viral Delhi Professor Video: What’s the Science of Cow Dung & Cooling?

In Mumbai, Kiran Amati created a circular studio-home out of wood, straw, cow dung, and mud. It’s rustic, yes — but also cool, clean, and sustainable. His innovative waste system even uses dry leaves and sawdust instead of septic tanks.

These homes may look old-school, but their architecture is future-proof.

What Can We Learn from a Wall?

That wall at Laxmibai College? It’s more than a viral video. It’s a statement.

It reminds us that solutions to climate change don’t always come from air-conditioned labs or high-rise towers. Sometimes, they come from cow sheds, from village huts, from the hands of our grandparents.

India’s construction industry is one of the largest in the world — and one of the most energy-hungry. But with innovations like Vedic Plaster and Gocrete Bricks, we have a rare chance to blend the wisdom of the past with the needs of the present.

And maybe — just maybe — a little cow dung could help cool not just our homes, but our planet too.

Dung and Done? Not Quite.

This is just the beginning. As architects, urban planners, and homeowners look for low-cost, high-impact alternatives, cow dung could be the star of a sustainable housing movement.

What we once wiped away, we now need to embrace.

After all, in the race to survive climate change, every degree cooler — and every idea rooted in the earth — counts.

More Than Metal: The Soulful Shine of Ratlam’s Golden Heritage

By
EBNW Story
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By Anjali Solanki

Nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Ratlam—once known as Ratnapuri, or “the city of gems”—owes its name and fame to Raja Ratan Singh, a legendary warrior whose valor and vision helped shape the city’s destiny. Long before Ratlam became known for its bustling railway junction or spicy Ratlami sev, it sparkled with a quieter, more radiant allure: gold. This is the story of Ratlam’s golden legacy—steeped in history, crafted by artisans, and treasured by generations.

A Historical Glint

Centuries ago, when Malwa was a vibrant crossroads of trade and conquest, Ratlam rose as a haven for artisans and traders. Fertile lands and a strategic location attracted merchants from far and wide, but it was the exceptional purity of its gold that truly captivated them.

Under the patronage of the Rathore rulers, especially during the 17th century reign of Raja Ratan Singh—who founded Ratlam State with Mughal approval—goldsmiths flourished. Their work became so renowned that whispers of Ratlam’s gold markets traveled through bazaars across India.

During the British Raj, Ratlam’s gold trade reached new heights. The Sarafa Bazaar, with its maze of narrow lanes, became the epicenter of this flourishing commerce. Here, gold wasn’t just molded—it was imbued with meaning. Necklaces bore Mughal motifs, bangles shimmered with Rajput elegance, and earrings danced with Malwa’s folk artistry. Known for its remarkable 92% purity, Ratlam’s gold drew traders from Rajasthan, Gujarat, and beyond.

“Ratlam’s gold isn’t just wealth,” an old jeweler once said, eyes gleaming like the metal he shaped. “It’s trust. A bride’s dowry, a family’s savings, a king’s tribute—all rested on our gold’s purity.”

Craftsmanship Through the Ages

Ratlam’s distinction lies not only in the purity of its gold but in the hands that shape it. Signature patterns like Jodha-Akbar, Kundan, and Polki became synonymous with Ratlam craftsmanship. Even today, the Sarafa Bazaar glows with 22-karat and 24-karat jewellery, each piece echoing centuries of skill and tradition.

More than a commodity, gold in Ratlam has long been a cultural cornerstone. During Diwali, the Sarafa transforms into a golden carnival, and devotees offer jewelry at the Kalika Mata Temple to seek blessings of prosperity. For weddings, families still travel from miles away, trusting Ratlam’s gold to start new beginnings. In times of uncertainty—be it poor harvests or looming wars—gold served as a family’s safety net.

Holding onto Traditions in a Changing World

The 20th century brought economic shifts and India’s independence. While cities like Mumbai and Delhi chased modern trends, Ratlam’s goldsmiths stayed rooted in tradition, upholding quality with BIS hallmarking standards. Today, even as digital gold and ETFs lure younger investors, the Sarafa Bazaar’s old-world charm continues to thrive.

“Gold is eternal,” goes a local proverb. In Ratlam, it’s not just a saying—it’s a truth etched into every shop’s ledger.

Voices from the Bazaar

Vishal Dangi, third-generation jeweler at Dangi Jewellers:
“Our gold’s purity is our identity. Customers come from all over India because they know we don’t compromise. Prices are high now—₹91,816 for 10 grams of 24-karat—but weddings and festivals keep us busy. Gold isn’t just money here; it’s emotion.”

More Than Metal: The Soulful Shine of Ratlam’s Golden Heritage

Sanjay Chhajed, jeweller and designer:
“Ratlam’s strength is in its craftsmanship. Our Kundan work is unmatched, though online platforms have made things more competitive. I tell customers: touch the gold, feel its weight—that’s how you know it’s real. The market’s volatile, but the trust in Ratlam gold remains solid.”

More Than Metal: The Soulful Shine of Ratlam’s Golden Heritage

A City that Glitters Still

Today, Ratlam’s gold market is a blend of heritage and modern commerce. The Sarafa Bazaar still draws crowds—tourists marvel at the intricate designs, while locals haggle with seasoned ease. Shops like D.P. Jewellers, Kataria, Chhajed, and DC boast crore-plus turnovers, continuing a legacy that began centuries ago.

In Ratlam, gold is more than a metal. It’s memory, tradition, craftsmanship—and most of all, trust. That’s why it will always be known as The Golden City.

Marsh Watch: Mapping the Mugger Crocodiles of Tamil Nadu

By
Rudra Pratap Singh
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At the crack of dawn in the Cauvery delta, the river stirs. Mist rises in wisps from the water’s surface. Fishermen cast their nets with practiced ease. And somewhere, half-submerged in the quiet, unblinking eyes rise above the current — the mugger crocodiles are watching.

These ancient reptiles, survivors from a world before humans, are now at the centre of a modern dilemma: how do we share space with them without conflict?

Thanks to recent efforts by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, we might finally be inching toward that answer.

The Return of a River Ghost

The mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris), India’s most widespread crocodilian, has long inhabited the country’s rivers, reservoirs, and wetlands. But despite their ubiquity, surprisingly little was known about their population status in Tamil Nadu’s Cauvery delta — until now.

A preliminary study conducted by the Wildlife Portal of India, in collaboration with the Forest Department, has mapped over 50 individuals in Anaikarai alone, along the Kollidam River. The total count across surveyed regions is already at 85 live sightings, and researchers believe that number is likely an underestimation.

This isn’t just a census. It’s the first step in understanding how to coexist safely with one of India’s most misunderstood predators.

From Shadows to Statistics: Why This Study Matters

Before this initiative, there was no baseline data on mugger populations in the delta. No population trends. No understanding of critical habitats. In conservation terms, they were shadows slipping through the shallows.

The ongoing survey spans over 1,000 km of river systems, including the Thenpannaiyar and Veeranam water bodies. It’s helping chart not just where crocodiles live, but where they intersect with humans — especially in conflict-prone areas.

Perhaps the most sobering insight? Many of the most vital habitats don’t fall under protected Reserve Forests, but lie in areas administered by the Public Works Department — regions with frequent human activity, from fishing to open defecation. These areas often double as basking or nesting zones for crocs, leading to dangerous overlaps in daily routines.

The Cost of Coexistence

When humans and crocodiles cross paths, tragedy can strike — for both species. The study’s focus isn’t just on counting crocodiles, but on preventing conflict.

To this end, the Forest Department recommends establishing Emergency Response Teams in high-risk districts such as Cuddalore. These specialized units would be trained to handle crocodile-related emergencies — from rescuing animals in distress to managing panic in local communities.

Other suggestions include:

  • Restricting public access to known basking and nesting sites.
  • Building infrastructure to minimize accidental encounters — such as raised pathways or designated fishing zones.
  • Community outreach and education, promoting behavioral change through culturally sensitive campaigns.

Because real conservation isn’t just about animals. It’s about people, too.

Breeding Grounds and the Bigger Picture

Tamil Nadu already hosts breeding centers in Sathanur (299 individuals), Hogenakkal (93), and Amaravathi (82). These centres provide both protection and research opportunities, acting as genetic banks for the species.

But it’s the wild populations — like those in the Kollidam stretch — that truly represent the health of the ecosystem.

Wild crocodiles don’t just survive; they stabilize ecosystems. As apex predators, they regulate fish populations, maintain wetland health, and even help clean water bodies by consuming carrion.

Protecting them is not just about species survival. It’s about ecological balance.

Investing in a Future With Crocodiles

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Tamil Nadu government has greenlit ₹2.5 crore for a Crocodile Conservation Centre at Anaikarai. While bureaucratic hurdles initially delayed the project — including land acquisition issues — an alternate site has now been selected.

So far:

  • ₹1 lakh has gone into awareness programs.
  • ₹5 lakh into equipment and tools.
  • ₹6.5 lakh into research — including mapping breeding sites and designing conflict mitigation frameworks.

This is a major milestone. Not just for crocodiles, but for science-driven policy, and for the possibility of harmonious human-wildlife coexistence.

The Ancient Reptile and the Modern Choice

There’s something humbling about staring into the eyes of a mugger crocodile — an animal that has survived ice ages, tectonic shifts, and the rise and fall of empires. And yet, its greatest challenge might be us.

This study marks a turning point. With data, planning, and cooperation, Tamil Nadu is choosing a path that honors both its people and its wild heritage.

Because the rivers belong to everyone. And the more we understand the creatures who call them home, the more wisely we can share the flow.

Can Ancient Indian Stepwells Teach Us How to Solve Today’s Water Crisis?

By
Rudra Pratap Singh
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0

Long before pipelines, water meters, and concrete dams, the people of ancient India were building water systems that were as beautiful as they were brilliant. Across the subcontinent, civilizations carved aquifers into stone, channeled rain from temple rooftops, and turned public squares into reservoirs. These weren’t just feats of engineering — they were communal, cultural, and ecological masterpieces.

From the gridded perfection of Mohenjo-daro to the mesmerizing geometry of Rajasthan’s stepwells, India’s ancient water systems reveal a truth that feels more relevant than ever today: sustainability doesn’t have to be modern. It just has to be wise.

Mohenjo-daro: The Blueprint City

Travel back to around 2500 BCE, and you’ll find yourself walking through the eerily advanced streets of Mohenjo-daro, one of the crown jewels of the Indus Valley Civilization. What strikes you isn’t just the grid layout or the uniform brick houses — it’s the plumbing.

Can Ancient Indian Stepwells Teach Us How to Solve Today’s Water Crisis?

Every house had access to a private well. Bathing areas were neatly designed, and wastewater was directed through a network of covered drains that led out to the city’s larger drainage system. Hygiene, urban planning, and civic sense — all in a city over 4,000 years old.

Mohenjo-daro wasn’t just ahead of its time — it might still be ahead of ours.

Chand Baori: The Desert’s Geometric Heart

In the sun-scorched plains of Rajasthan, where every drop of water is worth its weight in gold, ancient builders carved a solution deep into the earth.

Can Ancient Indian Stepwells Teach Us How to Solve Today’s Water Crisis?

Chand Baori, in the village of Abhaneri, is a marvel — 3,500 perfectly symmetrical steps descend over 13 stories, creating a labyrinthine pattern that could hypnotize a drone. But this wasn’t just an aesthetic flex. The stepwell harvested rainwater and kept it cool — offering a temperature drop of several degrees, even in peak summer.

It was also a community hub, where people gathered not just to draw water, but to find shade, share stories, and celebrate rituals. Water, here, was not just a resource — it was a reason to come together.

Rani ki Vav: A Temple to Water

Move west to Gujarat, and water becomes sacred sculpture.

Rani ki Vav — the Queen’s Stepwell in Patan — is a subterranean wonder built in the 11th century by Queen Udayamati in memory of her husband, King Bhima I. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But long before the plaques and cameras, it stood as a fusion of devotion, art, and ecological foresight.

Can Ancient Indian Stepwells Teach Us How to Solve Today’s Water Crisis?

Over 500 intricately carved deities line its sandstone walls. Yet beneath the beauty lay function: the well not only stored water but helped recharge groundwater — a clever adaptation to Gujarat’s dry climate.

Here, engineering met mythology. Science met soul.

Temple Tanks: Where the Sacred Meets the Sustainable

In the temple towns of South India — Madurai, Kanchipuram, Thanjavur — water found yet another form: the temple tank.

Known as pushkarinis or kunds, these tanks were ritualistic spaces where pilgrims bathed before entering temples. But they were also practical — designed to capture monsoon rains and recharge aquifers. The golden lotus tank of Meenakshi Temple in Madurai is not just a serene sight — it’s a living water system, quietly serving the city through centuries.

Here, spiritual purity and environmental purity were one and the same.

Toorji Ka Jhalra and the Culture of Conservation

Built in the 1740s in Jodhpur, Toorji Ka Jhalra is a stepwell that exemplifies another key aspect of ancient water systems — community investment.

Can Ancient Indian Stepwells Teach Us How to Solve Today’s Water Crisis?

Funded by royal women and wealthy patrons, many of these water structures weren’t just charity projects. They were legacies. Statements of civic duty. Gifts to the future. And they weren’t hidden behind gates — they were shared spaces. Women washed clothes, children played, elders gathered under shade.

Water wasn’t just managed. It was celebrated.

From Decline to Revival

Then came colonial systems, pipelines, and the convenience of taps — and with them, a slow decline. Many traditional water structures were neglected, covered up, or allowed to fall into disrepair. Cities grew. Attention shifted. The ancient wisdom was buried.

But now, in the face of climate change, droughts, and urban water shortages, these old systems are being looked at with fresh eyes. Conservationists are restoring stepwells. Planners are studying traditional rainwater harvesting. Citizens are rallying to bring the old ways back — not out of nostalgia, but out of necessity.

Lessons for Today’s Thirsty Cities

What made ancient India’s water management so powerful wasn’t just clever engineering. It was integration.

Water was a community experience, a cultural priority, and a climate-adaptive practice. It was decentralized and democratic. The systems weren’t imposed from above — they were built into the rhythms of everyday life.

As modern cities battle water crises and ecological imbalance, perhaps the future lies in the past. These ancient technologies weren’t primitive. They were precise. Thoughtful. And sustainable.

By reviving and adapting them, we’re not just conserving heritage — we’re designing a future that listens to the land, respects the seasons, and values water not just as a utility, but as life itself.

Because in India, water was never just about survival. It was always about connection.

Out of This World: The Humble Lichens That Could One Day Call Mars Home

By
Rudra Pratap Singh
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0

They cling to rocks, bask in sunlight, and brave the bitter cold. You’ve stepped over them on mountain trails and ignored them on desert stones. But now, lichens—those quiet, crusty survivalists—are stepping into the spotlight of space science.

In a breakthrough that’s rewriting the rules of life as we know it, scientists have found that certain lichens can survive, and even stay active, under conditions that mimic the surface of Mars.

Yes, Mars. The dry, dusty planet where your morning coffee would instantly boil away, and a sunburn could be lethal. That Mars.

Earth’s Little Survivors

Lichens are nature’s odd couple: a fungus and either algae or cyanobacteria living in perfect, mutualistic harmony. One offers structure and protection, the other, photosynthesis—kind of like roommates who actually like each other.

And here’s the kicker: they’ve evolved to thrive in places most life avoids. From scorching desert cliffs to frozen Antarctic rocks, lichens laugh in the face of extremes. That makes them the perfect test subjects for a simple but bold question:

Can Earth life survive on Mars?

Welcome to the Mars Simulation Chamber

In a lab where science fiction brushes elbows with reality, researchers placed two lichen species—Diploschistes muscorum and Cetraria aculeata—inside a chamber designed to mimic Mars. Think of it as a five-hour crash course in Martian survival.

The chamber dialed down the pressure, amped up the radiation, froze the temperatures, and shut off the lights. It was cold, dark, and hostile—exactly how Mars likes it.

Not Just Surviving—Living

The result? The lichens didn’t just hunker down and play dead. Their fungal halves stayed metabolically active, even in total darkness, even while soaking up Martian-level radiation. That’s like running a marathon while being blasted with X-rays and chilling in a freezer.

This metabolic activity means more than just resilience—it means lichens might be able to function on Mars. That’s an entirely new level of “extreme.”

Why This Changes Everything

For decades, many scientists believed that intense radiation on Mars would make life there nearly impossible. But lichens just proved that theory needs a serious update.

This discovery isn’t just cool—it’s cosmic. It opens the door to the possibility that microbial or symbiotic life could already exist on Mars (or once did). And it gives researchers a biological toolkit for future missions—maybe even terraforming experiments down the line.

So… Are We Sending Lichens to Mars Next?

Not quite, but don’t be surprised if they get a boarding pass soon.

The next step? Longer studies to understand how lichens hold up under long-term Martian stress. And eventually, scientists hope to test them on Mars itself. Because if lichens can adapt to an alien world, they might be the first Earth organisms to colonize another planet.

The Bigger Picture

This study is a quiet, beautiful reminder that life is more adaptable than we give it credit for. Not just big, complex life—but the small, slow, quiet kind. The kind that doesn’t need much to survive. Just a rock, a little light, and an unbreakable partnership.

So next time you’re hiking and spot a patch of pale green or dusty orange lichen, don’t just walk past. Pause. Take a closer look.

You might just be staring at Earth’s first Martian.

April 16, 1912: Harriet Quimby Made History By Becoming The First Woman To Fly Across the English Channel And She Died During a Flight Too

By
EBNW Story
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Harriet Quimby, an American aviator, made history on April 16, 1912, by becoming the first woman to fly across the English Channel, a significant milestone in early aviation. Born on May 11, 1875, in Michigan, Quimby transitioned from a career in journalism to aviation after being inspired by a plane race in 1910.

Harriet Quimby (born May 1, 1875?—possibly in Coldwater, Michigan; died July 1, 1912, during a flight over Dorchester Bay, part of Boston Bay, Massachusetts) was a pioneering American aviator and the first woman to fly solo across the English Channel.

Details about Quimby’s birth date and birthplace remain uncertain—she occasionally claimed she was born in 1884 in Arroyo Grande, California. However, by 1902, she and her family were living in California, where she began her writing career with the Dramatic Review in San Francisco. She went on to write for the San Francisco Call, the Chronicle, and various magazines. In 1903, she moved to New York City to work as a drama critic for Leslie’s Weekly.

Quimby’s interest in aviation was sparked around 1910, particularly after attending an air show at Belmont Park that October. Inspired, she decided to learn to fly and enrolled in the Moisant School of Aviation at Hempstead, Long Island, in the spring of 1911. On August 1 of that year, she made history as the first American woman to earn a pilot’s license (license number 37) from the Aero Club of America, affiliated with the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale. She became only the second licensed female pilot in the world, following France’s Baroness de la Roche.

For a time, Quimby flew with the Moisant International Aviators, a demonstration team from the school. Despite her busy aviation schedule, she continued writing and contributing to various periodicals.

Real Growth Lies in Continuously Discovering Oneself, says Twinkle Khanna at FICCI FLO event at Rambagh Palace

By
EBNW Story
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On April 15, 2025, FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) launched its first event of the 2025–26 tenure under the dynamic leadership of Chairperson Dr. Rimmi Shekhawat. The much-anticipated event featured a distinguished guest speaker – Mrs. Twinkle Khanna – and was held at the majestic Rambagh Palace, the former royal residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur.

FLO members were thrilled to welcome the multi-faceted Twinkle Khanna – author, producer, columnist, former actress, and founder of Tweak India. Her presence marked a memorable beginning to the new tenure.

Chairperson Dr. Rimmi Shekhawat shared her vision for the year, encapsulated in the motto: “For the Members, Of the Members, and By the Members.” She emphasized, “Women by nature are multitaskers and hence multi-talented. I always envisioned Twinkle Khanna as my first speaker – she truly personifies wisdom with wit, power, intelligence, and success.”

The event opened with a powerful speech by FLO’s Founder Chairperson and the only National President from Rajasthan, Mrs. Neeta Ji Boochra. She extended her heartfelt wishes for the new tenure and stated, “The empowerment of women is the key to unlocking the nation’s potential – and today, we witness a woman who has made a global impact.”

Real Growth Lies in Continuously Discovering Oneself, says Twinkle Khanna at FICCI FLO event at Rambagh Palace

The highlight of the event was an engaging conversation between Twinkle Khanna and Dr. Rimmi Shekhawat. Twinkle candidly shared her life journey, offering deep insights into womanhood, empowerment, and self-discovery. She remarked that while women have traditionally shouldered responsibilities at home, these roles contribute to their exceptional management and leadership skills. “Rather than viewing it as a burden, it’s a strength – a feather in our cap,” she noted.

Twinkle’s relentless pursuit of growth, even after becoming one of India’s top-selling authors, left the audience inspired. Her parting message, “Real growth lies in continuously discovering oneself,” resonated deeply with all attendees.

The event concluded with the unveiling of FLO’s flagship initiative – ‘The Jeevan Rakhsha Vaahan’ (Mammo Vans) – in collaboration with the Health Ministry of Rajasthan. These mobile mammography units will travel across the state, conducting year-round screenings for breast and cervical cancer, especially in remote regions.

The evening was a resounding success and marked a promising start to Dr. Rimmi Shekhawat’s tenure, promising an elevated impact on women’s empowerment, growth, and the celebration of heritage.

Road to Game Jam: India’s Top Young Game Developers Set to Shine at WAVES Summit 2025

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EBNW Story
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India’s most promising young game developers are stepping into the limelight with the announcement of the Top 10 games from the inaugural Road to Game Jam—a major highlight of the Create in India Challenge: Season 1 under the Government of India’s World Audio-Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES). These standout titles will be showcased at the WAVES Summit in Mumbai from May 1–4, 2025, celebrating the imagination and innovation shaping the future of Indian gaming.

Organized by the Game Developer Association of India (GDAI) in collaboration with Kratos Gamer Network (KGeN), Road to Game Jam falls under Pillar 2 of WAVES, focused on AVGC-XR (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, Augmented/Virtual Reality, and the Metaverse). The initiative aims to spotlight emerging talent, promote collaboration, and strengthen India’s fast-growing game development ecosystem.

Response & Participation

The event received an overwhelming response, with over 5,500 registrations from more than 1,650 colleges across 453 cities and towns in India. Through a series of AMA sessions and hands-on workshops led by industry veterans, participants gained valuable insights into game design, storytelling, and the business of gaming.

After multiple rounds of eliminations, 175+ teams submitted original game prototypes, which were rigorously evaluated by an expert jury comprising experienced professionals from across the gaming industry.

Top 10 Finalists

The Top 10 games selected from Road to Game Jam will be presented live at the WAVES Summit in Mumbai. These innovative titles—developed by student teams, solo creators, and early-stage startups—highlight the rich diversity and creative potential of India’s next-gen developers.

Rewards and Recognition

The Top 10 teams will receive an all-expense-paid trip to the WAVES Summit, where they will showcase their work to an international jury of gaming professionals. The top three winners will also share a prize pool of ₹7 lakh:

  • 🥇 First Prize: ₹3.5 lakh
  • 🥈 Second Prize: ₹2 lakh
  • 🥉 Third Prize: ₹1.5 lakh

Game Jam Themes

Participants created their games based on a set of unique themes designed to challenge conventional thinking and inspire a blend of creativity and technical skill.

India’s Growing Strength in Game Development

India is rapidly emerging as a global force in the game development space. A recent report by Lumikai, the country’s pioneering interactive media and gaming venture capital firm, revealed that India now boasts over 550 million gamers, with 175 million making in-game purchases.

Key enablers of this growth include:

  • Affordable data access
  • A mobile-first gaming culture
  • A digitally savvy youth population (65% under the age of 35)

Beyond sheer numbers, India’s creative strength lies in its engineering and design talent, a thriving indie game community, and increasing support from government and industry. Initiatives in skilling, infrastructure, and funding are gaining momentum, while global studios and publishers are increasingly investing in co-development and partnerships with Indian creators.

Conclusion

The Road to Game Jam has not only spotlighted the creativity and talent of India’s future game developers but also reinforced the country’s potential to lead in global game creation. By bringing together young innovators, industry mentors, and global platforms, this initiative is paving the way for a stronger, more inclusive, and internationally competitive game development ecosystem.

As the Top 10 teams gear up to present their creations at WAVES Summit 2025, their journey represents a broader national aspiration—to position India not just as a booming gaming market, but as a global powerhouse of original, world-class game development

How to Plan a Low-Waste Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide from a Karnataka Couple

By
Rudra Pratap Singh
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0

Weddings are often described as once-in-a-lifetime celebrations—a magical blend of joy, ritual, and revelry. But what if the magic could also extend to the Earth? What if a wedding could be not just a celebration of love between two people, but also a love letter to the planet?

That’s exactly what Dr. Poorvi Bhat and Shamanth set out to do. And they did it beautifully.

In the heart of Shivamogga, Karnataka—amid fields of areca palms, the rustle of coconut trees, and birdsong that needed no amplification—this couple rewrote the script on how to throw a wedding that’s big on heart but light on waste.

Rooted in the Past, Grown with Purpose

How to Plan a Low-Waste Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide from a Karnataka Couple

“We just need to look back a few years ago and draw inspiration from our ancestors,” Poorvi shares, radiating the calm conviction of someone who knows that the old ways still hold magic. “We didn’t innovate, we just followed what our parents have been doing.”

Indeed, there was no need for extravagance or imported opulence when the couple already had something far more precious—a family farm that had nurtured soil and souls for over 40 years.

This wasn’t just a venue. It was a legacy. A lush, living backdrop that needed no artificial dressing.

The Venue: Nature’s Own Mandapam

Poorvi’s family farm, with its canopy of coconut trees and serene patches of green, was a picture-perfect setting. The air itself seemed fresher, perhaps because the farm had always followed organic and sustainable practices.

How to Plan a Low-Waste Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide from a Karnataka Couple

The wedding pavilion—or mantapa—stood tall, not in glitzy grandeur but in rustic elegance, made entirely of sugarcane. “Reusable steel mantapas are available, but we chose sugarcane because it’s traditionally used in Shivamogga,” Poorvi says. “Plus, our cows love it!”

This wasn’t just thoughtful—it was circular living in its purest form. Decorated with mango and coconut leaves harvested right from the farm, every element could return to the Earth without a trace of guilt.

Zero-Waste, Full-Flavor Feasting

No Indian wedding is complete without a feast, and this one was no exception—except that it fed both bellies and conscience.

There were no disposable plates, cups, or cutlery in sight. Guests were served on banana leaves, a timeless tradition that’s compostable and elegant. Steel tumblers replaced plastic bottles. Water came from large, reusable cans, not a single-use bottle in sight.

Food was served thoughtfully—smaller portions encouraged guests to return for seconds rather than waste. What little remained was packed and shared with neighbors and farm workers in their own steel dabbas, creating a ripple of goodwill far beyond the wedding guest list.

Managing Waste Like a Pro

Waste wasn’t just minimized—it was meticulously managed. All organic waste, from leftover food to banana leaves and floral decorations, was composted in the farm’s vermicompost pits.

Even water was treated with care. The water used for hand washing? Redirected to nourish the farm’s mango trees. Now that’s what we call washing your hands of waste—in the best way possible.

The Outfit: Dressed in Memory

Poorvi walked down the aisle wearing not a brand-new designer saree, but a piece of family history—a stunning silk drape gifted to her grandmother’s best friend five decades ago, now gifted back to her.

How to Plan a Low-Waste Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide from a Karnataka Couple

“It felt so special,” she smiles. “I wasn’t just wearing a saree—I was wearing stories.”

Even the return gifts echoed this mindful spirit, wrapped in reusable jute bags and housed in boxes that were later recycled.

The Afterglow: A Wedding Without a Trace

When the last song was sung, and the final grains of rice scattered, the farm stood as it had before—clean, quiet, and untouched by the kind of waste weddings typically generate. No crumpled plastic, no wilting thermocol flowers, no landfill-bound leftovers.

Just footprints in the soil and hearts full of memories.

A Template for Tomorrow’s Weddings

Poorvi and Shamanth’s wedding wasn’t about sacrifice—it was about conscious choices. It was about proving that elegance and ethics can go hand-in-hand, that beauty doesn’t need to be synthetic, and that love—when rooted in respect for the planet—can blossom in the most unexpected ways.

In a time when weddings are often about “more,” this one quietly whispered the power of “less, but better.”

So if you’re dreaming of your big day, maybe take a leaf out of Poorvi and Shamanth’s book—preferably a biodegradable one.

India’s Summer Drinks Map: From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Beat the Heat with Tradition

By
Rudra Pratap Singh
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0

Sip of Summer: The Forgotten Sherbets and Coolers of India

As the mercury rises and the country braces for the sweltering months ahead, there’s a quiet ritual that unfolds across India. From bustling cities to sleepy hamlets, metal tumblers are filled with chilled, jewel-toned liquids. They clink with ice, shimmer with flecks of spice or herbs, and transport you—instantly—to cooler, calmer places. This is not just refreshment. This is sherbat—a centuries-old celebration of summer in a glass.

Long before fizzy colas and energy drinks flooded the market, sherbets ruled Indian summers. Their origins lie in the Persian sharbat, a floral-fruit infusion that made its way into India with the Mughals. Legend has it that Emperor Babur would send riders to the Himalayas to bring down fresh ice just to chill his glass of sharbat. In another corner of history, ancient texts attribute the idea of these thirst-quenchers to none other than Pythagoras, the philosopher-mathematician who apparently also dabbled in refreshment.

Whether mixed with fragrant herbs, tangy fruits, or soothing milk, sherbets are more than drinks—they’re cultural heirlooms, lovingly passed from kitchen to kitchen. And while rose sherbet or aam panna may already be on your radar, here are a few hidden gems that deserve a prime spot in your summer ritual:

1. Babri Beol — Jewels in a Glass

India’s Summer Drinks Map: From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Beat the Heat with Tradition

In the cool valleys of Jammu and Kashmir, Babri Beol is more than a drink—it’s a nostalgic sigh in a glass. Made with basil seeds (introduced, they say, by Babur himself), this beverage is a dreamy blend of soaked sabja, creamy milk, slivers of almond and pistachio, and sometimes, a snowy whisper of coconut.

In local parlance, it’s known as Kan Sherbat—kan meaning precious jewels—a poetic nod to the swollen, translucent basil seeds floating like pearls. Served chilled and saffron-laced, Babri Beol isn’t just refreshing; it’s regal.

2. Sol Kadi — Coastal Calm in Every Sip

India’s Summer Drinks Map: From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Beat the Heat with Tradition

A curious paradox in a glass, Sol Kadi from Maharashtra’s Konkan coast is warm yet cooling, subtle yet spicy. It wears a gentle pink hue thanks to kokum—an astringent coastal fruit—while coconut milk soothes and spices like cumin and green chilies add a peppery intrigue.

More than a digestive, Sol Kadi is an end-of-meal hug. On sweltering days, it’s a portal to coastal breezes, shaded verandahs, and the lull of sea waves.

3. Gondhoraj Ghol — The Royal Lemon Lure

India’s Summer Drinks Map: From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Beat the Heat with Tradition

Think buttermilk, but crowned with fragrance. From the heart of Bengal comes Gondhoraj Ghol, a sophisticated twist on the humble chaas. Infused with the juice of Gondhoraj—a long, oblong lemon known for its intense aroma—this beverage elevates simplicity to an art form.

Combined with black salt, sugar, and iced water, Gondhoraj Ghol is both a palate cleanser and a fragrant breeze on a muggy day. It’s no wonder it’s consumed year-round, whenever the prized lemon makes its appearance.

4. Chuak — The Celebratory Brew of Tripura

India’s Summer Drinks Map: From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Beat the Heat with Tradition

From the lush, green lands of Tripura comes a drink that’s not just consumed—it’s revered. Chuak is a traditional rice beer, brewed during community gatherings, weddings, and festivals. Fermented from rice and local beer, it’s earthy, slightly sour, and not for the faint of heart.

Usually brewed by the elders of the tribe, Chuak is a sacred ritual as much as a drink. To share it is to share stories, honor traditions, and toast to togetherness.

5. Tikhur Sherbat — Nature’s Patience Rewarded

India’s Summer Drinks Map: From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Beat the Heat with Tradition

In Chhattisgarh, where summers are fierce and forests dense, people turn to a drink made from tikhur—a rhizome known scientifically as Curcuma Angustifolia and locally as palo. The preparation is meditative: the root is foraged, pounded into paste, soaked, sun-dried, and finally turned into pearly white globules of starch.

These dissolve into a sweet sherbet said to cool the body and strengthen the bones. It’s a tonic, an elixir, and a testament to the power of slow, intentional nourishment.

6. Nongu Sherbat — The Transparent Treasure

India’s Summer Drinks Map: From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Beat the Heat with Tradition

Ever held an ice apple? Called Nongu in Tamil Nadu, Taal in Bengal, and Targola in Maharashtra, this pale, translucent fruit of the palmyra tree is as delicate as it is hydrating. When transformed into sherbet, it becomes a silken, lightly sweet drink that instantly soothes.

Often combined with lime, rose syrup, or mango, Nongu Sherbat is a flavor chameleon. No matter how it’s served, it promises a fleeting moment of bliss—like the monsoon’s first breeze.

Make It at Home: A Taste of Tradition

Craving a glass of heritage? Try these easy recipes:

Babri Beol Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 500 ml boiled and cooled milk
  • A pinch of saffron strands
  • 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
  • 25 g basil seeds (Babri Beol)
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tbsp grated dry coconut (or 200 ml coconut milk)
  • Chopped almonds and pistachios
  • Sugar to taste

Method:

  1. Soak basil seeds in water for 3-4 hours until gelatinous.
  2. Boil milk and mix in cardamom powder. Cool.
  3. Stir in the soaked seeds, sugar, coconut, saffron, and nuts.
  4. Refrigerate for 5-6 hours and serve chilled.

Tikhur Sherbat Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp tikhur globules
  • 2 blocks of rock sugar (or normal sugar)
  • 2 cups water

Method:

  1. Dissolve tikhur in water with gentle stirring.
  2. Add washed rock sugar and let it sit until dissolved.
  3. Strain and serve over ice.

Savoring Slow: Why These Drinks Matter

In a world that drinks on the go, these sherbets ask us to pause. They are made with care, meant to be sipped slowly, and best enjoyed in the shade—perhaps on a charpoy, under a neem tree, as the sun climbs high above.

They remind us that refreshment doesn’t have to be instant to be perfect. Sometimes, it’s about the wait, the ritual, and the first cool sip of a drink that tastes like home.

So this summer, swap your soda for a sherbat. Let the old-world flavours show you a new way to chill.

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