Dhokra is a traditional Indian metal casting art form that uses the lost-wax technique. The art is named after the nomadic Dhokra Damar tribe and is practiced in the tribal belts of West Bengal, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana.
Dhokra art is known for its folk motifs, simple yet powerful form, and intricate designs. Some common Dhokra art pieces include horses, elephants, peacocks, owls, religious images, lamp caskets, and measuring bowls. The lost-wax technique has been used in India for over 4,000 years. The earliest known artifact made using this techniqu hue is the bronze Dancing Girl sculpture from Mohenjo-daro, which is believed to date back to 2300 BCE.
Popularity The product of dhokra artisans are in great demand in domestic and foreign markets because of primitive simplicity, enchanting folk motifs and forceful form. Dhokra horses, elephants, peacocks, owls, religious images, measuring bowls, and lamp caskets etc., are highly appreciated.
The Process There are two main processes of lost wax casting: solid casting and hollow casting. Solid casting does not use a clay core but instead a solid piece of wax to create the mould; hollow casting is the more traditional method and uses the clay core.
Imagine watching a cooking show and actually tasting the food being prepared on screen. Thanks to groundbreaking research by scientists at the City University of Hong Kong, this futuristic concept may soon become a reality. Researchers have developed a lickable VR device capable of simulating a range of tastes, creating an immersive sensory experience like never before.
The Innovation Behind the VR Lollipop
This “lollipop-shaped taste interfacing system” uses a unique gel-based mechanism to deliver up to nine distinct flavors. The flavors—ranging from sugar and salt to cherry, passion fruit, and green tea—are created using food-grade chemicals stored in agarose gel, a substance commonly derived from red algae.
The magic happens when a small electrical current is applied to the gel. This process, known as iontophoresis, brings the flavor chemicals to the surface, allowing them to mix with saliva on the user’s tongue. By adjusting the voltage, the device can simulate stronger or milder tastes, creating a highly customizable flavor experience.
At just 15 grams—about the weight of an AAA battery—the portable device is designed to be lightweight and user-friendly, making it an innovative tool for integrating taste into virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR).
A New Frontier for VR: Taste
While virtual reality has long captured the senses of sight, sound, and touch, taste has remained elusive. The development of this device bridges a critical gap in the VR experience. By pairing the taste system with a seven-channel smell simulator, which uses paraffin wax strips to generate corresponding scents, researchers are striving to recreate the full sensory experience of eating in a virtual environment.
Potential Applications of the VR Taste Device
The researchers have identified several promising applications for this groundbreaking technology:
Enhanced Entertainment Experiences Cooking shows and food-centric programs could reach new heights of interactivity. Imagine tasting gourmet dishes while watching culinary competitions like The Great British Bake Off.
Remote Shopping The device could revolutionize digital shopping by allowing users to “taste-test” food products from the comfort of their homes before making a purchase.
Medical Applications It could be used for “medical gustation assessments,” essentially taste-equivalent tests for diagnosing taste-related health issues, much like an eye test assesses vision.
Educational Tools For children and culinary enthusiasts, the VR lollipop could serve as an engaging way to explore different flavors, cultures, and cuisines.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Though revolutionary, the device does come with limitations. Each agarose gel pack can last for about an hour before needing replacement, and the current flavor range is relatively narrow. However, the researchers are optimistic about expanding the flavor options and improving the device’s longevity in future iterations.
In their quest to make the technology safe and effective, the team opted for a gel-based approach instead of using electrostimulation directly on the tongue. While the gel method requires regular refills, it minimizes risks and provides a more user-friendly experience.
The Road Ahead for Taste in VR
As VR technology continues to evolve, integrating all five senses will become increasingly possible. With this new lickable device, researchers are pushing the boundaries of what virtual reality can offer, paving the way for immersive experiences that engage taste and smell.
Whether you’re exploring exotic cuisines, enjoying immersive cooking shows, or even taking a virtual food tour, the future of VR is undeniably flavorful. The days of merely watching your favorite chef cook could soon be replaced with actually tasting their creations—all from the comfort of your own home.
In the coming years, this innovative device could redefine how we interact with food, entertainment, and technology, making virtual reality an even more sensory-rich experience.
Former President of Chile, Michelle Bachelet, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust. The award recognizes her lifelong dedication to promoting human rights, equality, and international collaboration.
The selection jury, chaired by former National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon, praised Bachelet for her remarkable contributions to advancing global peace and development.
About the Indira Gandhi Prize
Instituted in 1986, the Indira Gandhi Prize honors individuals or organizations that embody the values of international peace, disarmament, and sustainable development. The prize includes a cash award of ₹25 lakh and a citation, underscoring the recipient’s commitment to transformative global impact.
Bachelet’s Illustrious Political Career
Michelle Bachelet has served two terms as President of Chile (2006–2010, 2014–2018), leaving a lasting legacy through her transformative reforms. Her presidency prioritized key areas such as education and taxation, aiming to bridge inequality gaps in Chilean society.
Notably, Bachelet was instrumental in strengthening India-Chile relations, playing a key role in negotiating a free trade agreement between the two nations.
A Champion for Human Rights
Beyond her presidency, Bachelet has been a formidable advocate for human rights worldwide. She served as the first Director of UN Women (2010–2013), championing women’s rights and gender equality on a global scale.
From 2018 to 2022, she held the position of UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, where her leadership addressed pressing issues such as LGBTQ rights, global inequality, and the defense of marginalized communities. Her unwavering commitment to justice and inclusivity has left an indelible mark on the international stage.
Strengthening India-Chile Ties
Bachelet’s efforts extended beyond Chile, fostering stronger diplomatic ties with India. Her initiatives encouraged bilateral collaboration in diverse areas such as trade, cultural exchange, and sustainable development, enriching the relationship between the two nations.
A Global Recognition of Leadership
The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development celebrates individuals who have made enduring contributions to global peace and progress. Michelle Bachelet’s selection reaffirms the significance of her work in championing human rights, equality, and international cooperation.
Her recognition serves as a testament to the enduring power of visionary leadership in shaping a more just and inclusive world.
Deutsche Bank and The Akshaya Patra Foundation have further strengthened their long-standing partnership to combat classroom hunger by initiating the construction of a state-of-the-art kitchen in Shivajinagar, Pune. The groundbreaking ceremony for this innovative facility marks a major milestone in their joint efforts to enhance the lives of underprivileged children through the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) scheme. The Akshaya Patra Foundation is the implementing partner of the PM POSHAN initiative and world’s largest NGO-Run school meal program.
Expected to be operational by early 2026, the multi-level kitchen will provide over 25,000 daily hot, nutritious meals to students in government and government-aided schools across Pune. This initiative is aimed at improving school attendance, academic performance, and the overall health and well-being of marginalized children. The facility will adhere to the highest standards of hygiene and safety and is designed to serve as Akshaya Patra’s central kitchen in Pune. Beyond addressing nutrition and education, the project is poised to create employment opportunities and support local agriculture, fostering economic development within the community.
The ceremony was attended by Mr. Kaushik Shaparia, CEO of Deutsche Bank Group, India, along with Shri Sampati Dasa, Regional President – Pune, The Akshaya Patra Foundation; Shri Shridhar Venkat, CEO, of The Akshaya Patra Foundation, Ms Ruchi Khemka, Head – CSR, Deutsche Bank Group, India, Praveen NR, IFS, Sri Prithviraj BP, IAS & other senior representatives from the Pune Government department & The Akshaya Patra Foundation and other dignitaries.
Mr. Kaushik Shaparia, CEO of Deutsche Bank Group, India, highlighting the significance of this initiative, said, “At Deutsche Bank, we believe collaboration is vital to creating lasting social impact. This new kitchen in Pune reflects our unwavering commitment to addressing hunger and education, empowering students to realize their full potential. With our strong presence in Pune, we also look forward to engaging our employees in advancing this meaningful cause and fostering sustainable change.”
Mr. Shridhar Venkat, CEO, from The Akshaya Patra Foundation, said, “Today’s groundbreaking ceremony marks a significant milestone in our ongoing journey with Deutsche Bank to eradicate classroom hunger and foster educational opportunities for children across Pune. Through this state-of-the-art kitchen facility, we are set to enhance our operational capabilities significantly, thereby ensuring that over 25,000 students receive nutritious meals every school day. This initiative not only supports academic excellence but also strengthens the fabric of our communities by promoting better health and creating economic opportunities locally. We are immensely grateful to Deutsche Bank’s for their support over the years. We also want to thank the Government of Maharashtra for providing us the opportunity to serve the children in the state. They have been instrumental in helping us make an impact and nurture the potential of every child we serve.”
Since 2014, Deutsche Bank has supported Akshaya Patra’s efforts to provide mid-day meals to students in Jaipur, Bengaluru, and Pune. Over the past decade, this partnership has facilitated the provision of over 8 crore meals to children, significantly enhancing educational opportunities for marginalized communities. In addition to the Pune kitchen, Deutsche Bank is extending its support to Akshaya Patra by funding meals for an additional 2,000 children in Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad.
The Pune kitchen is set to play a critical role in scaling Akshaya Patra’s Mid-Day Meal Programme in Maharashtra, furthering its mission of eliminating hunger and ensuring access to education for all.
Picture a future where aspirations meet the tools needed to bring them to life. The Art of Living Social Projects, inspired by the humanitarian vision of world-renowned spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, is making this vision come alive. Guided by Gurudev’s profound belief that, “Youth are the backbone of our country, and they determine the country’s development. They have to be competent enough to face challenges in life,” The Art of Living’s Skill Training Centres are more than learning hubs – they are catalysts of transformation. These centers equip individuals with the tools to achieve sustainable livelihoods, economic independence, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Empowered by Skill and Resilience
This mission came to life in the story of Kamesh Maurya, a 19 year old determined dreamer from Baknauri village, Rampur, Uttar Pradesh. Despite being the youngest of six siblings, Kamesh carried his family’s hopes on his shoulders and embraced the challenge of offering a brighter future to them.
Kamesh’s journey took a transformative turn when he enrolled in The Art of Livings’ Mobile Repair Training Program, conducted in collaboration with Radico Khaitan. The three-month programme didn’t just teach technical skills; it provided the confidence and resilience needed to drive ambitions into action. Guided by dedicated trainers like Gaurav Kumar, Kamesh mastered key skills, including software installation and IC repairs. He was thrilled to have met Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in Moradabad and credits Sudarshan Kriya for helping him stay calm and focused, enabling him to overcome challenges while pursuing his dreams.
Kamesh Turns His Vision into Reality
Immediately upon graduating, Kamesh proudly opened his own mobile repair shop in Baknauri on the 4th of December 2024 in his village of 18,000 households, where he sees vast potential. His optimism stretches beyond local earnings to the surrounding villages as well. For Kamesh, this isn’t just a business. It’s proof of what determination and the right guidance can achieve.
“I want to expand my shop and make my career in mobile repairing,” Kamesh shares with determination. “I am deeply grateful to The Art of Living Social Projects and Radico Khaitan, whose support has made this possible.”
Building Futures with Skill Development
The Art of Living Social Projects tackles unemployment and underemployment through skill development and entrepreneurship programmes. By collaborating with governments, corporates, and community organisations, these initiatives empower youth to break socio-economic barriers and contribute to national progress.
Their approach goes beyond technical training. With a focus on industry-ready skills, leadership development, and soft skills like teamwork and problem-solving, participants are equipped for success. These programmes also provide a second chance for those excluded from traditional education, enabling them to start small businesses and contribute to local economies.
Transforming 4,20,000+ Lives
With 103 centres across India, The Art of Living Social Projects has impacted over 4,20,000 young people, including 3,10,000+ rural beneficiaries; offering training in 48 unique job roles. These initiatives provide more than just certificates; they build confidence and resilience, creating a ripple effect that strengthens families, communities, and nations. Additionally, 7,500+ villages have been positively influenced by over 300 dedicated trainers.
Kamesh’s story is a powerful reminder of how skill building programmes can change lives. With the right support and opportunities, young people like him can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals, proving that potential is everywhere – sometimes, all it takes is a little guidance.
About The Art of Living Social Projects The Art of Living Social Projects has resolved to create positive societal impact through transformative initiatives. With a focus on holistic development, the organisation strives to contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities alike.
The stage is set for the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit 2024, a landmark event poised to shape Rajasthan’s economic future. Taking place in Jaipur from December 9 to 11, the summit has already attracted investment proposals worth an impressive ₹25 lakh crore.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the event today, with prominent industrialists and central ministers in attendance. The opening session will feature discussions with business magnates such as Gautam Adani and Anand Mahindra, who are set to deliberate investment opportunities with Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma.
High-Profile Participation and Robust Security
Over 30 leading industrialists, along with central ministers and foreign dignitaries, will participate in the summit. International presence is notable, with countries such as Switzerland, Malaysia, Spain, Brazil, and Venezuela confirming their attendance. Thirteen ambassadors posted in India will also be among the 185 state guests, each assigned a protocol officer to ensure seamless coordination.
To maintain security and law and order, more than 4,000 police personnel, including 11 IPS officers, have been deployed across Jaipur.
Focus on Investment Across Key Sectors
The summit will feature 12 thematic sessions spotlighting Rajasthan’s investment potential across diverse sectors. A standout session on the tourism sector, titled “Embracing Diversity: Promoting Inclusive Tourism,” aims to showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage and opportunities for growth.
Other sessions will explore investments in MSMEs, exports, energy, minerals, and renewable energy, reflecting Rajasthan’s strategic focus on sustainability and industrial development.
Policy Push to Propel Growth
In a bid to attract investors, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma has introduced nine new policies, targeting key growth areas such as MSMEs, exports, tourism, energy, and minerals. These initiatives aim to double the state’s economy, signaling the government’s proactive approach to economic development within the first year of Sharma’s tenure.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While the summit exudes promise, the Sharma government faces the critical challenge of ensuring the execution of investment proposals. Similar events in the past, such as Investment Rajasthan under the Ashok Gehlot government and Resurgent Rajasthan during Vasundhara Raje’s tenure, witnessed limited success in implementing signed MOUs.
For Rajasthan, the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit 2024 represents a pivotal opportunity to rewrite this narrative by converting commitments into tangible outcomes, bolstering the state’s economic growth and global standing.
Jaipur Foundation Day was celebrated with a special talk show titled Jaipur Ri Baat, held according to the traditional Hindu calendar. The event shed light on the rich history of the Pink City, including a notable historical highlight: the last Ashvamedha Yagya on Earth was performed by Jaipur’s king during the city’s establishment.
The event, organised by the Think Group You Think, took place at the Heritage Museum in Kishanpole Bazaar. The chief guests included renowned blue pottery craftsman Gopal Saini and historian Siya Sharan Lashkari. The programme began with a welcome address by You Think member Sharad Agarwal, followed by a ceremonial lamp lighting. The talk show was moderated by Vinish Agarwal.
Highlights of the Event
Blue Pottery and Jaipur’s Artistry
Gopal Saini discussed the evolution of pottery, tracing its roots back to the dawn of civilization. He highlighted Jaipur’s famed blue pottery, made from silica and influenced by Persian designs, which gained prominence under the patronage of Sawai Ram Singh II. The Maharaja systematically organised artisans into areas like Thatharon Ka Rasta, Meenakar Ka Rasta, and Maniyar Ka Rasta. This fostered a thriving culture of craftsmanship in Jaipur.
Historical Insights by Siya Sharan Lashkari
The historian shared fascinating stories about Jaipur’s past, revealing that the city’s planning was envisioned 450 years ago. The Maharaja of Jaipur not only performed the last Ashvamedha Yagya but also built iconic observatories like Jantar Mantar in Ujjain, Delhi, Mathura, and BEnaras.
Jaipur was also a center of devotion, with Maharajas rescuing sacred idols from Mathura and Vrindavan during Mughal invasions and establishing temples in Jaipur. Lashkari noted Jaipur’s early leadership in education and civic planning, including the creation of ponds every few streets and strict laws to conserve water.
Talking about civic and administrative duties, he said that Dravyavati and the canal originating from it were the main sources of drinking water in Jaipur. Due to negligence, it turned into Amani Shah’s drain. In the old city, ponds were made for every two roads. There was a provision of strict punishment for wasting water in any way.
Architectural and Cultural Marvels The gates of Jaipur’s ramparts hold many untold stories. For instance, Sanganeri Gate was originally named Shivpol. The Maharajas also diplomatically engaged with the Mughals to protect their culture and religion. Lashkari emphasized Jaipur’s transition into modern times, highlighting Johri Bazaar as the largest gemstone market, MI Road as a hub of commerce, and the city’s leadership in IT, handicrafts, and tourism. Jaipur is unique for hosting Lion, Tiger, and Leopard Safaris, along with India’s largest birding festival at Mansagar Lake.
Exhibition and Audience Interaction
The programme concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where the experts answered audience questions. An exhibition showcased rare artifacts preserved by Siya Sharan Lashkari, including vintage bags, textbooks, handmade memorabilia, and Jaipur royal family items.
Jaipur Ri Baat celebrated the city’s heritage, blending historical and modern narratives that continue to shape the vibrant legacy of the Pink City.
Sapta Shakti Command organised the ‘Honour Run’ on 08 Dec 2024 in Jaipur, paying a heartfelt tribute to the Veterans of the Armed Forces. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from diverse groups who gathered to salute the spirit of selfless service and patriotism.
Against the backdrop of a crisp winter morning, the run commenced at the iconic Albert Hall with participants racing under the rising sun. The event brought together Veterans, Soldiers, NCC Cadets, Professional Runners, Para Athletes, Citizens, Specially Abled Children and Organ Transplant Survivors, inspiring all with their resolve and determination.
The various categories of runs were flagged off by Colonel Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Minister of Information Technology & Communication, Industries & Commerce, Government of Rajasthan, Lt Gen Manjinder Singh, Army Commander, BarinderJit Kaur, Regional President AWWA, Lieutenant General Harbinder Singh Vandra, Chief of Staff, Sapta Shakti Command & Sandeep Bhatnagar, Chief General Manager, State Bank of India.
Addressing the gathering, Colonel Rathore lauded the participants for their dedication and underscored the significance of honouring the nation’s Veterans. The presence of brand ambassadors like Asian Marathon Champion Sunita Godara, Sangeet Bishnoi, and para-athlete Colonel Anuj Bindra further energised the participants.
The mega event included runs of 21 Km, 10 Km, 05 Km Timed Runs and 03 Km Non-Timed Run. Prizes up to Rs 30 lakh were distributed to the winners of various categories, promoting fitness encouraging participation and recognising exceptional performances.
The event concluded with jubilant celebrations, echoing the spirit of unity and respect for the Veterans. The Honour Run not only celebrated the sacrifices of the Armed Forces but also inspired citizens to embody the values of courage and resilience.
In a landmark initiative underscoring its commitment to healthcare and social responsibility, Supriya Lifescience Ltd. organised a mega blood donation drive in partnership with seven leading blood banks in Mumbai. The drive witnessed an impressive turnout, with
A total of 1,790 donors took a step forward to support the cause of saving lives by supporting Supriya Lifescience’s Blood Donation Drive which resulting in the collection of 525 blood units in just one day.
The initiative was conducted in collaboration with Prabodhan Bloodbank, Nair Hospital, Sion Hospital, KEM Hospital, Wadia Hospital, Breach Candy Hospital Trust, and Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre. The camp, which commenced at 7 a.m. at Prabodhan Bloodbank, saw participation from volunteers and donors from diverse backgrounds, united by their desire to make a meaningful contribution.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Satish Wagh, Executive Chairman and Whole-time Director of Supriya Lifescience Ltd., said, “This blood donation drive is a testament to the power of community and shared purpose. At Supriya Lifescience, we are driven by the belief that every effort, no matter how small, can save lives and strengthen our healthcare ecosystem. I am deeply moved by the generosity of all those who came forward today. Their contributions will undoubtedly make a difference where it is needed most.”
The success of this initiative reflects Supriya Lifescience Ltd.’s unwavering dedication to addressing critical healthcare needs and fostering a culture of giving back to society.
Supriya Lifescience Ltd expresses heartfelt gratitude to all donors, volunteers, and partner blood banks, whose collective efforts ensured the smooth execution of the drive. The blood collected will serve as a vital resource for patients in need, highlighting the importance of such initiatives play in bridging healthcare gaps.
Find out what ways there are to register at Glory Casino. Read step-by-step instructions on how to create an account through the official website and mobile app.
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