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Jaipur Scientist Dr. Reena Sharma Launches Shandi Global to Revolutionize Plant-Based Alternatives

By
Dimple Arora
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In 2022, Dr. Reena Sharma, a clinical scientist from Jaipur, took a bold step by launching Shandi Global, a brand dedicated to providing plant-based alternatives to meat. The inception of this innovative venture stemmed from a simple yet significant family moment.

The Inspiration

Dr. Reena’s journey began when her son expressed a craving for a burger. As a vegetarian family that had never even consumed eggs, Dr. Reena sought a suitable vegetarian option. Discovering an outlet advertising a plant-based chicken burger, she eagerly bought one for her son. However, the taste was disappointing, leaving much to be desired.

This experience ignited a spark in Dr. Reena. She took the half-eaten burger home, where her husband, Dr. Gaurav Sharma, a food scientist, began investigating its composition. Together, they envisioned creating a plant-based meat product that not only mimicked the taste of real meat but also retained its nutritional value.

The Birth of Shandi Global

Despite lacking a business background, the couple was determined to make their vision a reality. “Finally, we managed to make it. It was an achievement for us,” Dr. Reena shared. Their journey began modestly, but soon they moved to Singapore, securing senior positions and earning half a million dollars annually. Dr. Reena eventually left her job to pursue the startup full-time, with Dr. Gaurav’s unwavering support.

“Gaurav supported me in creating a unique product and building this brand from the beginning. Not just with his exceptional creativity but also in managing our home and our son, allowing me to dedicate 20 hours a day to building this company. Without his support and advice, Shandi Global could not have existed,” Dr. Reena says.

Growth and Success

In just three months, Dr. Reena turned down an $8 million offer and instead raised $750,000. With this capital, she built a factory, launched a website, and started selling plant-based meat at the B2B level. Shandi Global, now based in Singapore, offers 13 products made from proteins like chickpeas, mung beans, soybeans, and yellow peas. They’ve developed methods to replicate meat’s taste and aroma without added flavors, creating versatile whole-cut plant-based meat usable in over 50 recipes.

The brand’s valuation has soared to $30 million, with an annual revenue of $3.5 million. It operates B2B in Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Canada, and Australia, with a presence in the Middle East, including Turkey. In the first quarter of 2025, Shandi Global plans to launch its retail operations in Australia and India, marking a significant expansion into the retail sector. The brand expects to reach a revenue of $10 million in FY-25.

Future Aspirations

“With the planned expansions in Australia, India, and North America, we anticipate crossing $100 million in revenue by FY 2026,” concludes Dr. Reena. Her vision and determination, combined with Dr. Gaurav’s expertise, have positioned Shandi Global as a leader in the plant-based food industry, poised for continued growth and innovation.

Nagaland Wins Best State in Horticulture Award 2024

By
Dimple Arora
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Nagaland has been honored with the prestigious “Best State in Horticulture Award 2024” at the Agriculture Leadership Awards, highlighting the state’s innovative horticulture initiatives. Minister Salhoutuonuo Kruse accepted the award in New Delhi, emphasizing the government’s commitment to promoting rural prosperity and sustainable agriculture.

Horticulture Development Initiatives

Nagaland’s success in horticulture is rooted in key policies aimed at enhancing nutrition and the economy through diverse farming and organic certification. Significant strides have been made, including the registration of Naga Mircha, Naga Tree Tomato, and Naga Sweet Cucumber as Geographical Indications (GI). This not only increased the market value of these products but also protected the region’s native heritage.

Institution of Farmer’s Producer Companies

A pivotal aspect of Nagaland’s horticulture success is the establishment of 13 Farmers’ Producer Companies (FPCs). These FPCs have been instrumental in promoting organic farming across 6,800 hectares, earning international recognition and national awards for crops such as pineapple, kiwi, and large cardamom.

About Farmers’ Producer Companies (FPCs)

Formation and Structure: Enabled by the Companies Act of 2002, FPCs allow farmers to pool resources and negotiate better deals. They require at least ten producer members or two institutions to operate, with no upper limit on membership. Each member has one vote in the democratic management system.

Government Support and Tax Benefits: FPCs benefit from schemes like the Equity Grant and Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme, offering government support. Additionally, up to INR 100 crore in income from FPC operations is tax-exempt, encouraging collective farming and sustainable practices.

Impact on Farmers: FPCs have significantly improved market access for small farms, reduced transaction costs, and facilitated the adoption of new technologies. By pooling resources and collaborating, farmers achieve better prices, more efficient operations, and higher overall productivity.

Market Integration and Expansion

To enhance market access, the Department of Horticulture has initiated air shipping services for Naga Organic Pineapple and Organic Kiwi, improving the distribution of Nagaland’s products across India. Another notable project is the creation of “100 vegetable villages,” aimed at supporting 10,000 families. This initiative not only boosts food production but also fosters self-sufficiency within communities.

Promotion of Exotic and Native Horticulture

Nagaland is advancing sustainable agriculture by cultivating exotic crops like kiwi and dragon fruit and introducing the innovative concept of a “Horticultural Model Village.” In this model, each village specializes in a single crop, optimizing resource use and increasing productivity.

Summing Up

Nagaland’s achievements in horticulture are a testament to the state’s innovative policies and commitment to sustainable development. By focusing on diverse farming, organic certification, and market integration, Nagaland has set a benchmark for other regions to follow. The “Best State in Horticulture Award 2024” is a well-deserved recognition of these efforts, paving the way for continued growth and prosperity in the state’s agricultural sector.

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World Youth Skills Day 2024: Date, History, Theme, and Significance

By
Dimple Arora
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0

World Youth Skills Day is an annual event designated by the United Nations General Assembly in November 2014, with the first observance on July 15, 2015. The day aims to promote awareness and understanding of the importance of youth skills development in response to the challenges of unemployment and underemployment faced by young people globally.

History and Significance

The initiative recognizes that equipping youth with employable skills and competencies is crucial for personal development, economic empowerment, and integration into the workforce. It encourages governments, educational institutions, employers, and organizations to invest in training, education, and initiatives that enhance the skills and capabilities of young people. This investment enables youth to participate more effectively in the labor market and contribute to sustainable development goals.

World Youth Skills Day, observed annually on July 15th, holds significant importance in promoting the development and empowerment of young people worldwide. This observance underscores the need to equip youth with the skills and competencies necessary for employment, entrepreneurship, and sustainable livelihoods. By focusing on vocational training, education, and apprenticeships, World Youth Skills Day aims to bridge the gap between education and employment, addressing high youth unemployment rates and promoting economic growth. It emphasizes the role of skills development in fostering innovation, productivity, and social inclusion, thereby contributing to the achievement of global development goals.

Date and Theme for 2024

The World Youth Skills Day 2024 will be observed on Monday, July 15. This year’s event theme is “Youth Skills for Peace and Development,” which emphasizes the integral role youth play in peacebuilding and conflict resolution. The theme highlights how the development of youth skills is essential not only for personal and economic growth but also for promoting peace and stability in communities around the world.

Celebrations and Activities

World Youth Skills Day promotes vocational training, education, and apprenticeships as pathways to enhance youth employability and entrepreneurship. Organizations, educational institutions, and communities organize skill development workshops, training programs, and career fairs to provide practical learning opportunities and connect youth with employers. Skills competitions showcase talent and foster creativity in various fields, while awareness campaigns raise public understanding of the importance of equipping youth with relevant skills for sustainable development.

This observance serves as a platform for advocacy, policy discussions, and collaborative efforts to create a conducive environment where young people can thrive and contribute positively to society through their acquired skills and knowledge. By focusing on the development of youth skills, the global community aims to build a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future.

National Plastic Surgery Day 2024: Date, History, Significance, Facts and All You Need To Know

By
Ravindar Nagar
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Today, on July 15th, 2024, India observes National Plastic Surgery Day! This day serves to raise awareness about the field of plastic surgery and its impact on people’s lives.

A Rich History:

The concept originated in 2011 by Dr. S. Raja Sabapathy, then President of the Association of Plastic Surgeons of India (APSI). The aim was to educate the public about the true meaning of “plastic surgery,” which often gets associated solely with aesthetics. The date, July 15th, was chosen to avoid conflicts with other medical conferences and national holidays.

Significance and Impact:

Plastic surgery encompasses both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures. Reconstructive surgery helps restore form and function after accidents, burns, birth defects, or cancer treatment. Cosmetic surgery, on the other hand, focuses on enhancing appearance.

National Plastic Surgery Day highlights the positive contributions of this field. Reconstructive surgery can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life, restoring not just physical appearance but also confidence and self-esteem.

Facts to Know:

  • India has a long history in plastic surgery, considered a pioneer in the field.
  • The APSI plays a crucial role in promoting ethical practices and ensuring high standards.
  • Today, many plastic surgeons in India offer free or subsidized surgeries on this day to raise awareness and help those in need.

Looking Forward:

National Plastic Surgery Day serves as a springboard for discussions about the advancements and future of the field. It’s a day to appreciate the dedication of plastic surgeons who help people rebuild their lives and achieve a sense of well-being.

The Man Behind the Reliance Chief: Mukesh Ambani and His Right-Hand Man

By
Ravindar Nagar
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India’s business landscape is dominated by titans like Mukesh Ambani, chairman of Reliance Industries. But even titans have their secret weapons. For Ambani, that weapon is often referred to as his “right hand,” Manoj Modi.

Modi is a far cry from the flamboyant image some associate with big business. He prefers to operate away from the public eye, focusing on the intricate workings of Reliance’s vast network. Reports suggest his fingerprints are on many of Reliance’s biggest deals, and his role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the company is considered invaluable.

The specific nature of Modi’s work remains somewhat of a mystery. In a rare interview, he himself deflected attention from strategy, emphasizing his role in internal operations and employee development. However, his loyalty and effectiveness are beyond question. In 2018, news outlets buzzed with reports of a palatial 22-storey building Ambani gifted to Modi, a testament to the high regard in which he’s held.

Manoj Modi’s story exemplifies the opportunities that exist within the Reliance empire. His rise from a regular employee to Ambani’s most trusted advisor highlights the company’s focus on talent and dedication.

While Mukesh Ambani remains the face of Reliance Industries, the quiet influence of Manoj Modi serves as a reminder that even the most powerful figures rely on exceptional teams behind the scenes.

Catching Euro 2024 in India: Free Viewing Options (Almost!)

By
Ravindar Nagar
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0

The Euro 2024 fever is scorching hot, and Indian fans are eager to catch the action. While there aren’t any completely free legal broadcasts, there are a couple of ways to watch some Euro 2024 matches without paying upfront.

Trial Runs:

Fubo (International): Some international streaming services like Fubo might offer free trial periods. Check their websites to see if they’re available in India and if they have Euro 2024 coverage included in the trial.

Remember: Free trials usually require entering your payment details, so be sure to cancel before the trial period ends to avoid any charges.

Alternative Options:

While not entirely free, consider these cost-effective solutions:

  • SonyLIV Subscription: Sony Sports Network has exclusive broadcasting rights for Euro 2024 in India. SonyLIV, their streaming platform, offers various subscription plans at reasonable prices. You can choose a plan that fits your budget and enjoy the entire tournament.
  • Public Screenings: Some sports bars or restaurants might host public screenings of the matches. This can be a great way to experience the thrill of the Euros with fellow fans.

Stay Legal, Stay Safe:

Avoid illegal streaming websites. They often provide poor quality streams, contain malware, and could expose your personal information.

Enjoy the Euros!

With a little planning, you can enjoy the best of Euro 2024 without breaking the bank. So grab your favorite snacks, get your jersey on, and cheer on your favorite team!

India’s first private skydiving facility: Now feel the feeling of falling free in Haryana’s Narnaul’

By
EBNW Story
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0

India’s first private skydiving facility was started in Haryana’s Narnaul on Saturday which marks the World Skydiving Day.

Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat donned adventure gear and took to the skies to experience this thrilling sport himself . He was seen enjoying  in mid-air. Shekhawat further took to X to announce the launch of the new skydiving aircraft at India’s only civilian drop zone at the Narnaul airstrip. 

He wrote, “On the occasion of World Skydiving Day, had the pleasure of flagging off the new skydiving aircraft and taking a tandem skydive this morning at Skyhigh—India’s only civilian skydiving drop zone at Narnaul Airstrip, Haryana. For new and adventurous Bharat, the skies too are no limit.” The minister jumped from a height of 14,000 feet and stayed in the air for 5-6 minutes.

It is important that private skydiving facility is started in India for the first time, said Shekhawat after flagging off the first private skydiving plane in Narnaul.

He said that it is important that private skydiving facility is started in India for the first time. This is a new beginning, he added.

After flagging off a skydiving aircraft in Haryana’s Narnaul on World Skydiving Day on Saturday, Shekhawat said, “As the tourism minister of India, it is my responsibility to ensure availability of facilities for everyone so that more and more people can join this sport and enjoy the thrill of it while following safety standards.” 

About Narnaul: Narnaul is a city, a Municipal Council, in the Mahendragarh district in the Indian state of Haryana. The historic town of Narnaul in Mahendergarh district claims to be one of the important seats of the Dwapar yuga of Mahabharata. Narnaul is famous for its many tombs and historical sites that date back to the Mughal and Rajput era, followed by the rule of Prince of Jaipur and Patiala. It is also famous as Birbal’s birthplace who was one of the Ministers or Navratnas in Akbar’s Court, Narnaul is the birthplace of Sher Shah Suri, the Afghan king who shook the foundations of the Mughal dynasty. The famous Ayurvedic blend, Chyavanprasha was first made in Doshi, a sacred hill just 8 km away from this town.

After rocking European cities, overtourism issue silently sneaks in Jaipur too…

By
Dimple Arora
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0

Close on the heels of the European cities crying out loud againt overtourism hitting their daily normal lives, the raging issue somewhere has found silent discussions in Jaipur too. The Rajasthan’ capital which is also called as the Pink City gets a huge number of tourists during peak winter seasons as well as on weekends.

So travel experts discussed how Spanish city of Barcelona and its inhabitants are taking extreme measures to say “enough is enough”: from angry protesters firing water pistols at unsuspecting tourists and red-taping the entry to hotels and restaurants, to the local government pledging to freeze short-term rentals, the issue is now garnering eyeballs in different places.. This global issue of overtourism is not confined to Europe but it affects many popular destinations worldwide, including the enchanting Pink City of Jaipur, India mostly during peak season and in weekends.

Jaipur attracts a steady stream of visitors eager to experience its splendor. However, this influx at times laed to overtourism, resulting in overcrowding that threatens the city’s historic structures and impacts the quality of life for residents. To address these challenges, strategic measures must be implemented to balance tourism growth and heritage conservation, says veterans from the industry.

The Impact of Overtourism

Overtourism occurs when the number of visitors exceeds the capacity of a destination, causing negative effects on the environment, infrastructure, and local communities. In Jaipur, this phenomenon is most apparent at popular sites like Amer Fort, where daily visitor numbers can exceed 15,000. Similarly, Johari Bazaar often becomes chaotic with traffic jams, making it difficult for both tourists and residents to navigate the area.

Sanjay Kaushik, a veteran in the travel industry, highlighted these issues while talking to our editor. He noted that the city’s traffic and parking systems become overwhelmed during peak tourist seasons, festivals, and holidays.

Proposed Solutions

To mitigate the effects of overtourism, several strategies can be implemented:

  1. Traffic Management: During peak periods such as Diwali and the Teej Festival, the government should issue traffic advisories and implement temporary traffic control measures. For instance, making the Ramgadh Street to Amer Fort route one-way during high-traffic times could alleviate congestion and ensure smoother travel for both tourists and locals.
  2. Improved Transportation Links: While major tourist attractions have good transport links, many lesser-known yet significant spots lack adequate conveyance facilities. Enhancing transportation infrastructure to these areas would distribute tourist traffic more evenly across the city, reducing pressure on the most popular sites.

Tripti Pandey, a cultural tourism consultant, meanwhile equally raised her concern on the issue and said-

  1. Visitor Slotting System: Tripti Pandey, a cultural tourism consultant, suggested a policy where tourists are sent in groups and allowed to visit major attractions like Hawa Mahal and Amer Fort in slots. Each group would be given a specific time to visit, and subsequent groups would only enter once the previous group exits. This system would help manage crowds more effectively and reduce the strain on these heritage sites.
  2. Public Awareness and Education: Educating tourists about the importance of respecting heritage sites and following local guidelines can help reduce the impact of overtourism. Campaigns to raise awareness about sustainable tourism practices can encourage visitors to be more mindful of their actions.
  3. Infrastructure Development: Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as better roads, parking facilities, and public transport options, can enhance the overall tourist experience and ease the burden on the city’s existing systems.

Summing Up

Overtourism is a significant challenge for Jaipur during peak winter times, but with thoughtful planning and effective policies, its negative effects can be mitigated. By implementing traffic management measures, a visitor slotting system, improved transportation links, public awareness campaigns, and infrastructure development, Jaipur can continue to welcome tourists while preserving its cultural heritage and ensuring a high quality of life for its residents. These solutions will not only protect the city’s historic sites but also maintain Jaipur’s reputation as a beloved destination for travelers from around the world.

Camels and luxury cars’ procession make this wedding opulent in Rajasthan

By
Dimple Arora
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0

In a splendid display of tradition and opulence, a businessman orchestrated an extraordinary wedding procession for his son, featuring camels and luxury cars. This unique event took place in Karnataka and spanned a 15-kilometer journey, capturing the attention of onlookers and garnering widespread admiration.

A Grand Procession

The wedding procession, or baraat, was a blend of tradition and modernity, with 15 camel carts and 40 luxury cars making their way through the streets. The sight of camels adorned in vibrant attire, alongside sleek cars, created a spectacular visual contrast, celebrating both heritage and contemporary style.

Business Ventures in Africa and Karnataka

The businessman, known for his successful plastic manufacturing units in Africa and Karnataka, ensured that his son’s wedding would be a memorable event. The decision to incorporate camels into the procession was a nod to traditional Indian wedding customs, while the inclusion of luxury cars showcased modern affluence.

The 15-Kilometer Journey

The 15-kilometer journey was meticulously planned, with each element of the procession reflecting careful attention to detail. The camels, adorned with colorful fabrics and ornaments, led the way, followed by a convoy of luxury cars. The procession made its way through various parts of the city, drawing crowds of spectators who were eager to witness the grand spectacle.

Social Media Buzz

A video of the unique procession quickly went viral on social media, capturing the imagination of viewers worldwide. The video showcased the grandeur of the event, highlighting the striking combination of traditional camel carts and modern luxury vehicles. Social media platforms were abuzz with comments and shares, as people marveled at the creativity and extravagance of the wedding celebration.

Preserving Tradition Amidst Modernity

The businessman’s decision to include camels in the wedding procession was a tribute to Indian cultural heritage. Camels have long been associated with royal and traditional Indian weddings, symbolizing nobility and grandeur. By incorporating them into the baraat, the family paid homage to these age-old customs while embracing the conveniences and luxuries of the present day.

Summing Up

The camel procession for the son’s wedding of a prominent plastic businessman was a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. This 15-kilometer journey, featuring 15 camel carts and 40 luxury cars, captivated the hearts of many and became a talking point on social media. The event not only highlighted the businessman’s success and wealth but also his deep respect for cultural heritage, creating a memorable and visually stunning celebration.

Timeless Elegance of Emeralds make a mark in Ambani Wedding too..! Know how Jaipur and Emeralds are connected…

By
Dimple Arora
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0

Emeralds have captivated the human imagination for centuries with their lush green shade symbolizing love, wisdom, and prosperity. In ancient Rome, emeralds were considered the stones of love, optimism, and wisdom, sacred to the goddess Venus. In Hindu tradition, Emeralds represent maternal love, harmony, sensitivity, and patience. These timeless jewels have once again found the spotlight, gracing the Ambani wedding with their unparalleled elegance.

Showcase of Emerald Elegance in the Ambani Wedding

The Ambani wedding is a testament to opulence and grandeur, with emeralds playing a starring role. Nita Ambani, Radhika Merchant, and Isha Ambani all adorned themselves with stunning emerald jewellery, enhancing their looks with the vibrant green stone. The choice of emeralds not only added a touch of sophistication but also underscored the family’s refined taste and appreciation for timeless beauty.

For the grand sangeet and wedding ceremonies, Radhika Merchant adorned herself with exquisite emerald jewelry sourced from Jaipur. Her jewellery set included an emerald-encrusted necklace, matching earrings, and a maang tika, all of which perfectly complemented her traditional attire. The rich green of the emeralds added a striking contrast to her bridal ensemble, enhancing her radiant beauty.

Emerald and Jaipur connect …

Now, let’s come to the point on how Jaipur, known as the Pink City and the Emerald are connected. The Pink City is a global hub for colored gemstones, particularly emeralds. The city seamlessly blends traditional gemstone cutting and jewelry manufacturing with modern production techniques. While Surat, India, is renowned for diamond cutting, Jaipur is famous for its expertise in colored gemstones. The city’s artisans are skilled in cutting and trading emeralds, making Jaipur one of the leading centers for emerald craftsmanship in the world.

It needs to be mentioned here that the 21st edition of Jaipur Jewellery Show lured many visitors  with its theme’Emerald… Your Stone, Your Story.’
Many international exhibitors from Hong Kong, Bangkok and Sri Lanka are participating in exhibition.

“Jaipur has been rightly recognised as the world capital of Emerald for two decades,” Ajay Kala, spokesperson of the show, said.The organising committee chairman, Vimal Chand Surana, said that “In view of the increasing popularity of Jaipur’s Panna Ratna (Emerald), this year too a special focus on Emerald Gemstone and Gemstone jewellery has been made in JJS.”
 It is noteworthy that last year the theme of the show was ‘Emerald – Timeless Elegance’.
Kala further said, “JJS decides its annual or biannual theme on the basis of market trends, scope and role of Jaipur in that particular Gem and Jewellery.” “As such Jaipur, which has been rightly named as world capital of Emerald since two decades, justifies this recognition. Jaipur is making waves not only due to its skill and deft art of artisans but constant supply of raw material by gemfields and other giants. Interestingly, Jaipur is spreading its wings with promising future in gems and jewellery, he says.

The Journey of Emeralds to Jaipur

Emeralds from Jaipur predominantly come from Zambia, with significant contributions from Brazilian mines, especially in the state of Bahia. in fact, Colombia is known for its high-quality Emeralds. Jaipur’s Emerald cutting industry over the years perfected the art of transforming rough stones into exquisite jewels, maintaining a tradition that dates back centuries.

The Significance of Emeralds

Emeralds are linked to Mercury, the planet of intelligence, speech, memory, and intuition. Their rich green color is associated with new beginnings, prosperity, and good fortune. In the context of a wedding, Emeralds symbolize love and harmony, making them a perfect choice for bridal jewelry. Their timeless appeal and symbolic significance have made emeralds a cherished gemstone across cultures and eras.

Emeralds in the Modern World

Today, Emeralds continue to be a symbol of luxury and elegance. Their popularity remains undiminished, as evidenced by their prominent role in the Ambani wedding. The exquisite designs worn by the Ambani family members showcased not only the beauty of emeralds but also their versatility and enduring charm.

Summing Up

The timeless elegance of emeralds, from their ancient symbolic meanings to their modern-day allure, has been magnificently displayed at the Ambani wedding. Jaipur’s rich heritage in gemstone cutting and jewelry manufacturing played a crucial role in bringing these stunning emeralds to life. As emeralds continue to captivate with their vibrant green hue and profound symbolism, they remain a testament to the enduring appeal of this magnificent gemstone.

Timeless Elegance of Emeralds make a mark in Ambani Wedding too..! Know how Jaipur and Emeralds are connected...
Nita Ambani

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