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SHARP Appoints Sujai Karampuri as Chairman India to Renew SHARP’s Focus in India

By
Priyanshi Pareek
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SHARP has announced the appointment of Sujai Karampuri as the Chairman for its India Business, effective 1st March, 2024. Sujai Karampuri shall spearhead the Display Business, and elevate SHARP’s brand presence in India, and most importantly bring strategic partnerships in manufacturing and technology transfer of SHARP’s sophisticated engineering products, components, and solutions. 

Bringing with him a distinguished record in strategic business and technology development across various sectors such as Electronics & Semiconductors, Broadband, and Wireless communications, Mr. Karampuri will steer SHARP’s endeavours to expand its footprint in India in Display, promote brand business of its consumer electronics, while also focusing on developing strategic partnerships in manufacturing, technology transfer, and development of smartphone components, camera modules, TV panels, precision engineering solutions, sensors, and semiconductors. 

With extensive leadership experience within the State Government of Telangana, including roles as Director of Electronics and Semiconductor, CEO of T-Works, and Managing Director of Telangana Fiber Grid Corporation, Mr. Karampuri’s appointment heralds a new era of strategic cooperation, innovation and growth for SHARP in India.

Commenting on the occasion, Robert Wu, CEO of SHARP, said, “With appointment of Mr. Karampuri as Chairman for SHARP in India, we believe we have renewed our commitment to India, as a long term strategic market for our extensive line of premier consumer products, as a committed partner in manufacturing and transfer of our core technologies to India, and also to serve our immediate strategic interest in India to help setup world class display fab that comes with immense experience and track record of SHARP’s leadership in core engineering and provenness”. 

Osamu Narita, Managing Director, SHARP Business Systems (India) said, “We are delighted to welcome Mr. Karampuri as the Chairman for SHARP India. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence perfectly complement SHARP’s mission to deliver groundbreaking solutions to customers in the Indian market. SHARP Corporation is confident that under Mr. Karampuri’s guidance, our India Business will thrive, solidifying our position as a key player in India’s evolving business and technology landscape.”

Expressing his gratitude, Mr. Karampuri stated, “I am deeply honoured to assume this key role at such a critical juncture for SHARP. With SHARP’s history of driving cutting edge technological solutions across sectors, I am confident that we are poised for success as we embark on our vision. We shall deliver on SHARP’s core values of Sincerity and Creativity, which I believe are essential to India’s own ambition to grow and scale and become a world leader in the domain of electronics, display, semiconductor, precision engineering. We are very keen to work with likeminded partners in India to build long term relationships.”

Airbnb Launches First-ever Creative Guide to Bangkok Spotlighting Thailand’s New Neighborhoods

By
Dimple Arora
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Airbnb 

Bangkok, Thailand

  • Thailand was Airbnb’s most visited destination in Southeast Asia in 2023, and Bangkok was Thailand’s most popular destination city
  • As the travel resurgence continues, nights booked in Thailand on Airbnb in 2023 grew by approximately 60 percent year-on-year

Airbnb has launched the Airbnb Creative Guide to Bangkok, its first-ever Thailand city guide that shines a light on Bangkok’s creative landscape, vibrant neighbourhoods and local tastemakers.

In line with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s (BMA) goals to support creative tourism and enhance Thailand’s soft power, the Guide is curated with local insights from prominent Thai tastemakers and Airbnb Superhosts. It showcases the four neighborhoods of Talat Noi, Wang Doem, Talat Phlu and Kudi Chin.

From street art and local markets to architecture and food, Airbnb’s Creative Guide to Bangkok features the latest creative hangouts, local eats, authentic stays and must-see places. Published in English, Chinese and Thai, the guide will be distributed across Asia-Pacific, including in Thailand’s key travel corridors of China and India to drum up travel excitement ahead of Songkran.

New data from Airbnb reveals that Thailand was the most visited destination in Southeast Asia by Airbnb guests worldwide in 2023*. Nights booked grew by approximately 60 percent year-on-year, with the United States ranked as the top origin country for guests worldwide followed by China, Germany, the United Kingdom and South Korea.*

The capital city remains top of mind for travelers as Bangkok remains the most visited destination in Thailand on Airbnb in 2023, amongst both international and domestic guests*. Group travel amongst Airbnb guests in Thailand in 2023 increased almost 80 percent year-on-year, while solo travel increased by 52 percent in the same period*.

Airbnb is also seeing a spike in travelers from China and India – two of Thailand’s largest travel markets. In fact, Thailand ranked #1 in the top outbound search destinations for Airbnb guests from China during the recent winter season**, while searches by India guests on Airbnb for the upcoming Holi and Easter long weekends increased over 200 percent year-on-year.***

Speaking at the launch, Bangkok’s Deputy Governor Sanon Wangsrangboon said, “On behalf of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), we’re excited to see Airbnb shining a light on Bangkok’s lesser-known creative neighbourhoods to travellers around the world, especially ahead of Thailand’s biggest festival Songkran. Bangkok offers a rich tapestry of cultural and historical attractions, many which remain undiscovered. In 2022, we launched the 20 Creative Neighborhoods initiative to drive more awareness of these diverse communities, each with their local hawkers, shops, galleries, khlongs and temples. We hope Airbnb’s Creative Guide to Bangkok will inspire more visitors to these unique neighbourhoods, connect with locals and discover what makes each one so special.”

Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, said, “Airbnb guests differ from the traditional traveller; they want to explore new places and they are keen to immerse themselves in the communities in which they stay and visit. From the historic area of Wang Doem to the vibrant local markets of Talat Phlu and Kudi Chin, and the cultural heritage sites in Talat Noi, Airbnb’s Creative Guide to Bangkok will introduce our guests to the wonders of these unique, lesser-known neighbourhoods. Aligned with the government’s vision, we aim to continue driving a more local, creative and immersive form of travel that will help Thailand become the world’s top homestay destination.”

As part of the launch of Airbnb’s Creative Guide to Bangkok, Airbnb hosted a panel discussion with leading Thai voices from the creative and tourism communities, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and UNESCO, titled ‘A New Era of Bangkok Tourism: Creative, Cultural and Community-led.’

An engaging discussion saw panelists share their insights on Bangkok’s blossoming creative scene and the resurgence of lesser-known neighborhoods through new creative avenues, and explore ideas on how Bangkok can carve its creative niche on the global stage.

Panellist Kamonrat Chayamarit, Programme Officer for Cultural and Creative Industries, UNESCO Regional Office in Bangkok, said, “As a member of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, Bangkok’s cultural and creative professionals are encouraged to use their creativity to come up with solutions for their city, and to shape urban development. This requires an enabling ecosystem, facilitated by government agencies, civil society organizations, academia, individual artists and private sector companies like Airbnb. The starting point is to have a platform for dialogue. Airbnb has great potential to host such a platform and to facilitate this creative and cultural ecosystem.”

Saran Yen Panya, Designer and Founder of creative agency 56thStudio, shared, “Bangkok’s underbeat is one of creativity – where art, culture and tradition collide in a way that both intrigues and inspires. Our city is going through a transformation; and once hidden, lesser known communities that were once the heartbeat of old Bangkok are being rejuvenated. It’s exciting to see Airbnb shine a light on them with this first-ever Creative Guide. I hope this inspires many more travelers to discover and seek out Thailand’s creative side.”

Veerarat Chansuwan, Airbnb Superhost, added, “Having been an Airbnb Host for many years, I’ve introduced many visitors to local neighborhoods around my home in Bangkok Yai. While most visitors to the city rarely go beyond the major tourist sights, those that do make the effort are rewarded by a different Bangkok that thrives with creativity and authenticity. Airbnb’s Creative Guide to Bangkok will help international and Thai visitors explore another side of our wonderful city, engage with locals and learn what really makes Bangkok tick.”

Based on internal Airbnb data for 2023.

Based on Airbnb mainland China users’ search data from 1 January 2023 to 30 September 2023 for winter outbound stays with check-in dates between 22 December 2023 and 29 February 2024.

Based on India users’ search data for the Holi and Easter long weekend with check in dates between 23 March – 31 March 2024, compared with the same period last year. 

Manthan School Students are Making a Difference through their Lake Cleaning Initiative

By
Dimple Arora
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Club of Manthan School Hyderabad Initiative for Cleanliness

The COAP (Community Outreach and Awareness Program) Club of Manthan School Hyderabad, as part of the ISP Changemakers project, took on the responsibility of cleaning the surroundings of Tellapur Lake in Hyderabad, a local water body facing environmental degradation due to garbage accumulation.

The project aimed to promote environmental stewardship, raise awareness about waste management, and actively engage with the community residing near the lake. The cleaning drive took place from March 11th to March 16th, with student and teacher volunteers working together to restore the cleanliness of the lake and its surroundings.
 

Students conducted an initial survey to understand the waste disposal habits and challenges faced by residents living near the lake. The data collected from the survey helped identify areas for improvement and targeted intervention.

Student volunteers, along with teacher volunteers, conducted a thorough cleaning drive around the peripheral areas of Tellapur Lake. Garbage and litter were removed, including plastic waste, debris, and other pollutants that had accumulated over time.

Residents were educated about the harmful effects of improper waste disposal on the environment and water bodies. Information sessions were conducted to promote responsible waste management practices, including segregation of dry and wet waste. Dustbins were distributed to approximately 28 families residing near Tellapur Lake. Each household received two dustbins – one with blue sticker for dry waste and green sticker for wet waste – along with guidance on their proper use and placement.

The project fostered community participation and raised awareness about the importance of preserving natural resources. Residents near the lake became actively involved in waste management initiatives and expressed commitment to maintaining cleanliness. GHMC also got involved and sent workers to assist the students with the cleaning.

“We are proud of our students and staff for taking up such initiatives. At Manthan, we encourage students to constantly be aware of various challenges being faced by our community and come up with solutions that can help solve them,” said Mr. Surjeet Singh, Principal, Manthan School, Hyderabad.
 

To know more about Manthan School Hyderabad, visit www.manthanschool.org.

Solar Eclipse 2024: List of Do’s and Don’ts During The Celestial Event

By
Dimple Arora
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Solar Eclipse 2024

As the 2024 solar eclipse approaches, excitement builds among skywatchers across North America for the rare celestial event set to unfold on April 8th. Dubbed the Great North American Eclipse, this phenomenon promises a breathtaking display as the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow on a specific path across the continent.

During this total solar eclipse, the Moon’s shadow will sweep across Mexico, the United States, and Canada, plunging regions within its path into a temporary twilight-like darkness. While the event offers a spectacular sight, it’s essential to observe it safely to protect your eyes and fully appreciate the celestial wonder.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on the do’s and don’ts to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience during the Solar Eclipse 2024:

Do’s:

  1. Invest in Safe Solar Filters: Protect your eyes by never looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse. Purchase certified solar filters compliant with international safety standards like ISO 12312-2.
  2. Find a Reputable Vendor: Source your solar filters from reputable astronomy stores, science centers, or trusted online vendors specializing in safe solar viewing equipment.
  3. Try Indirect Viewing: Safely observe the eclipse by projecting the sun’s image onto a white surface using binoculars equipped with a proper solar filter, allowing for shared viewing experiences with friends and family.
  4. Make it a Party: Enhance the experience by gathering loved ones and enjoying the eclipse together, utilizing safe viewing methods to share the awe-inspiring event.

Don’ts:

  1. Avoid Naked Eye Viewing: Never look directly at the eclipse with your naked eyes or regular sunglasses, as they do not provide sufficient protection and can cause permanent eye damage.
  2. Steer Clear of Unprotected Telescopes/Binoculars: Using these devices without proper solar filters poses extreme risks to eyesight and should be avoided.
  3. Keep Pets Indoors: Protect your furry friends by keeping them indoors during the eclipse, as their eyes are also susceptible to sun damage.
  4. Photography Caution: Unless equipped with special solar filters, refrain from attempting to photograph the eclipse with standard cameras. Leave professional astrophotography to experts with appropriate equipment.

Additional Tips:

  • Check the Path of Totality: Verify if your location falls within the eclipse’s path to experience the most dramatic phase.
  • Plan Your Spot: Select an open area with an unobstructed view of the sky to optimize your viewing experience.
  • Be Weather-Ready: Dress appropriately for the weather forecast, as eclipses can occur at any time of day.

As the Solar Eclipse 2024 approaches, adhering to these guidelines will ensure a memorable and safe viewing experience for all enthusiasts. Remember to prepare adequately, protect your eyes, and savor the awe-inspiring spectacle of nature’s grandeur.

eVidyaloka Trust Partners with Signify to Illuminate 47 Rural Govt. Schools Across Karnataka

By
Dimple Arora
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eVidyaloka Trust Partners with 47 Rural Govt. Schools Across Karnataka

Signify the world leader in lighting, partnered with eVidyaloka Trust for its flagship CSR initiative Jagmag Pathshala, which has successfully enhanced the overall learning environment in 47 government schools across Karnataka.

eVidyaloka Trust, a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming rural education in India, through its Digital Classes in rural government schools led by volunteers, collaborated with Signify to address critical electrical infrastructure challenges in Karnataka’s government schools. The project focused on improving lighting, ventilation, and power backup systems to foster a more conducive learning environment for students.

“Improving education in rural government schools is crucial for India’s social and economic development,” said Brinda Poornapragna, Chief Executive Officer at eVidyaloka Trust. “We are elated to have partnered with Signify on this project to make a difference in Karnataka government schools. Through this collaboration for the Jagmag Pathshala Project, we have not only enhanced the learning environment but also empowered the children of rural India.“

“Our CSR strategy and initiatives resonate with our brand purpose which is to unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. We are proud to have partnered with eVidyaloka Trust on this project. At Signify, our commitment to ‘lighting up lives‘ extends to illuminating young minds, and together, we have made a significant imprint on the educational landscape in Karnataka,” said Nikhil Gupta, Head of Marketing, Strategy, Govt. Affairs & CSR – Signify, Greater India.

Key project activities included need assessment, school selection, and upgrading the essential electrical equipment. This included the installation of fans, lights, batteries, inverters, and improved classroom wiring. Training programs were conducted to ensure the optimal performance and maintenance of these systems in the long run.

The project’s inauguration ceremony, recently held at GHPS Vimanapura School, was attended by the headmasters from beneficiary schools who participated virtually, demonstrating their support and appreciation for the initiative.

The Jagmag Pathshala Project is a testament to the power of collaboration in creating positive change in education. By providing a conducive learning environment, the project aims to empower rural children and contribute to India’s social and economic development.

About eVidyaloka Trust

eVidyaloka is a not-for-profit organization that focuses on transforming the educational landscape of rural India. Registered under the Trusts Act, the organization creates digital classrooms for children in remote rural government schools, with the support of local communities and Volunteer Teachers from across the globe. With standardized lesson plans and teaching aids for a consistent learning experience, the children from government schools receive quality education for a promising & rewarding future.

About Signify

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals and consumers and lighting for the Internet of Things. Our Philips products, Interact connected lighting systems and data-enabled services, deliver business value and transform life in homes, buildings and public spaces. In 2022, we had sales of EUR 7.5 billion, approximately 35,000 employees and a presence in over 70 countries. We unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. We achieved carbon neutrality in our operations in 2020, have been in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index since our IPO for six consecutive years and were named Industry Leader in 2017, 2018 and 2019. News from Signify is located at the Newsroom, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors can be found on the Investor Relations page. 

Akshaya Patra and The Breakfast Revolution in Collaboration with Share Our Strength Hosted a Landmark Event

By
Dimple Arora
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0
Akshaya Patra Foundation

The ‘Feed the Future’ initiative to impact 4,000 underprivileged students for the next academic year

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

  • Renowned chefs Sanjeev Kapoor, Asma Khan, Manish Mehrotra, Prateek Sandhu & Anil Rohira curated an exquisite culinary experience for donors
  • Maniesh Paul and business leaders like Gauri Devidayal, Avani Davda joined the fundraiser to contribute to the shared mission of nourishing young minds
  • Community champions – Taj, JBL, Bombay Club, The Table, and EazyDiner came together in support of the cause 
     

Share Our Strength, working towards driving positive change in the child nutrition sector and eradicating classroom hunger, hosted an exclusive initiative called “Feed the Future” on March 17th at The Bombay Club, in aid of The Breakfast Revolution and The Akshaya Patra Foundation.

The event attended by 150 people raised funds to provide breakfasts and lunches for underprivileged school children across India. Share Our Strength, an American fundraising organisation matched all donations from the evening, doubling the amount raised. The funds will provide 4,000 students with nutritious school meals daily for the upcoming academic year.
 

The event chaired by Gauri Devidayal, Co-founder and Director, Food Matters Group and business leader Avani Davda, witnessed an extraordinary 10-course dining experience curated by celebrated chefs Sanjeev Kapoor, Asma Khan, Manish Mehrotra, Prateek Sandhu, and Anil Rohira, who came together for this noble mission to ‘Feed the Future’. Pankaj Jethwani, Co-founder – The Breakfast Revolution, Shridhar Venkat, CEO – Akshaya Patra and Debbie Shore, Co-founder – Share Our Strength hosted business leaders and other notable personalities like Maniesh Paul.


During the event Debbie Shore, Co-founder – Share Our Strength spoke about how everyone had a strength to share, be it sharing expertise, providing access to key people, raising funds, volunteering and more. “I am happy to see so many wonderful people here tonight who can work together and build a community to nourish children, and that we can enable them to better serve their communities sustainably.”


Leading the team of celebrated chefs, Sanjeev Kapoor, a goodwill ambassador for Akshaya Patra for over 15 years, impressed the audience with his charm and his unwavering commitment to this cause close to his heart. He shared his insights on the importance of nutritious and tasty meals in keeping children healthy and energized and encouraged people to participate/donate to the cause. He graciously extended his support by collaborating with The Breakfast Revolution for this event.

During the event, a live auction featured products generously donated by JBL, paintings and ceramics by artists, stay offers from Taj, Sitara Himalayas, The Johri and tableware by Indian Heirloom Company, adding to the excitement and success of the fundraiser. Vikram Kher, Vice President of Lifestyle at HARMAN India said, “With over 76 years of legacy, JBL has been amplifying music’s power to make people feel good, connected and alive. JBL has associated with The Breakfast Revolution for this event to effect real authentic change in society. While it’s natural to feel consumed by our daily duties, we understand the importance of contributing towards the community to unite in tackling critical issues like child undernourishment. The auction represents our commitment to making a meaningful impact towards the cause.”

Functioning under the public-private partnership model, The Breakfast Revolution has served over 30 million breakfasts since 2014 with a vision to impact 1 million lives by 2030. Akshaya Patra provides nutritious lunches in government and government-aided schools and has served over 4 billion meals to date and plans to reach the 5 billion milestone by October this year. The funds raised through this event will aid in bolstering their programs

The event was made possible by community champions EazyDiner, The Table, and The Bombay Club, who opened their doors to unite people for this crucial cause.
 

About The Breakfast Revolution
The Breakfast Revolution is the main program under the Decimal Foundation, a registered non-profit Charity Trust (80G) in Mumbai. The basic mission of The Breakfast Revolution, founded in 2014, is to combat malnutrition among children in India. It has been on an aggressive path to reach poor children in anganwadis, low-income schools and low-income communities with high-quality, tasty, nutritious, cost-effective, and safe breakfasts. The meal fulfils the gaps of the midday meal program by providing most of the child’s daily requirement of vitamins, minerals, and protein in one meal itself.

Kuku FM Shines at India Audio Summit

By
Priyanshi Pareek
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Kuku FM, India’s leading audio content platform, triumphantly swept the India Audio Summit and Awards (IASA) with four major wins on 4th April, 2024 in Mumbai. These awards underscore Kuku FM’s commitment to providing exceptional audio experiences that resonate with Indian audiences.

The IASA jury panel comprises a diverse group of esteemed critics & veterans from the audio industry, as well as marketing leaders of brands that rely on the medium heavily. Kuku FM securing multiple awards in front of this panel signifies a major endorsement.

It highlights that the platform’s content meets industry-wide standards of excellence, resonates with audiences and creators across entertainment sectors, and demonstrates Kuku FM’s potential to disrupt the Indian entertainment landscape. Furthermore, this recognition from industry leaders provides Kuku FM with strong validation that will be key in attracting further talent and partnerships.

Celebrating Excellence in Audio

The India Audio Summit and Awards recognizes and celebrates the best in India’s audio landscape, including audiobooks, audio dramas, global bestsellers, and exceptional talents within the industry. Kuku FM’s remarkable success at IASA is a testament to the platform’s dedication to innovation, and culturally relevant audio content.

Kuku FM received 11 nominations across multiple categories, securing 4 prestigious wins at the India Audio Summit and Awards (IASA) for Audiobook of the Year, Audio Drama of the Year, and Voice of the Year – Male & Female. Of these, Kuku FM received an impressive four nominations for Audiobook of the Year, winning in the category with its audiobook titled “12th Fail.” Notably, Kuku FM also received nominations for audiobooks in regional languages, including “Kadamattathu Kathanar” (Malayalam) and “Auto Shankar” (Tamil).

uku FM also secured three nominations for Best Audiobook Drama, bringing home a win for “Sherlock“. Additionally, they were recognized with two nominations each for Voice of the Year – Male and Female, resulting in wins for Vrajesh Hirjee (“Ram Katha: Suljhaye Sabki Vyatha“) and Pallavi Bharti (“Heer“) respectively.

The convergence of audio and visual storytelling is highlighted by “12th Fail” winning both Best Film and Best Audiobook this year. This win continues the resurgence of Randeep Hooda, an actor who has charted an independent path after facing challenges in nepotistic Bollywood circles. He’s showcased his versatility by both directing “Savarkar” and starring as the iconic Sherlock Holmes in Kuku FM’s audio drama.

In keeping with traditional Indian narratives and celebrating the Ayodhya Mandir unveiling, Kuku FM’s “Ram Katha: Suljhaye Sabki Vyatha” provides a modern take on the Ramleela, resonating with contemporary audiences. Additionally, “Heer” demonstrates Kuku FM’s dedication to reviving the romance genre, an area where cinemagoers have been starved for ages. These productions showcase Kuku FM’s unique ability to capture the essence of Indian culture through the power of audio.

Kuku FM’s Winning Productions:

Audiobook of the Year: 12th Fail – This award highlights the captivating power of audiobooks and is further amplified by the title’s parallel success as ‘Best Film’ elsewhere, demonstrating the growing convergence of audio and visual storytelling. The audiobook challenges the limitations of civil services aspirants’ minds. It presents an unconventional narrative that defies the traditional notion of who these candidates are.

Audio Drama of the Year: Sherlock (Voiced by Randeep Hooda as Sherlock, Karan Grover as Watson) – This win underscores Kuku FM’s mastery of the audio drama format and celebrates the iconic pairing of Randeep Hooda and Karan Grover’s performances which breathed new life into these beloved literary characters. The story asks if Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson can solve this mystery happening in Bengal during the Bhaskar era. The case is called “Sherlock: The Curse of Bhaskar Villa.” It shows Sherlock dealing with one of his toughest investigations ever.

Best Narrator – Male: Vrajesh Hirjee for Ram Katha: Suljhaye Sabki Vyatha – Vrajesh Hirjees’ masterful narration is recognized for bringing a modern perspective to a timeless epic. This spiritual content coincided with the historic unveiling of the Ayodhya mandir, presenting a fresh version of the beloved Ramayana for today’s young audience.

Best Narrator – Female: Pallavi Bharti for Heer – Pallavi Bharti’s evocative performance earns recognition for its role in reviving the romance genre and demonstrating the emotional power of well-crafted audio content. Her emotional storytelling brought back the era of romance which took the listeners into a world of classic love. The story revolves around Heer and Anhad, who realize their love for each other when it seems too late.

Maa Shailputri: 1st Day of Chaitra Navratri 2024

By
Dimple Arora
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Maa Shailputri

In the vast pantheon of Hindu mythology, Maa Shailputri stands tall as one of the most revered forms of Goddess Durga. As the auspicious occasion of Navratri dawns, devotees across the globe prepare to pay homage to this divine manifestation on the first day of the festival. The name ‘Shailputri’ itself carries profound significance, derived from the Sanskrit words ‘Shail’ meaning mountains and ‘Putri’ meaning daughter, symbolizing her as the daughter of the mountains.

The Origin Story

Legend has it that Maa Shailputri was born as the daughter of the King of Mountains, Parvat Raj Himalaya. She is also known by various other names such as Sati Bhavani, Parvati, or Hemavati, emphasizing her divine lineage and connection to the Himalayas. In her previous birth, she was named Sati and was the daughter of King Daksha. Despite opposition from her father, she chose to marry Lord Shiva. This act of defiance led to her father’s resentment, eventually culminating in a tragic turn of events where Sati sacrificed herself in the fire of a yagna organized by her father.

Iconography and Symbolism

Depicted with a serene countenance, Maa Shailputri is often portrayed seated on a Nandi, the sacred bull. Adorned with a crescent moon on her forehead, she holds a trident (trishul) in her right hand and a lotus flower in her left. Each element of her iconography carries symbolic significance, representing attributes of strength, purity, and grace.

Rituals and Worship

The first day of Navratri marks the initiation of the worship of Maa Shailputri, with the ritual of ‘Ghatasthapana’ being central to the proceedings. This ritual involves the installation of an earthen pot filled with soil and grains, symbolizing the manifestation of Mother Nature. Devotees invoke Goddess Durga in the form of Shailputri, reciting sacred mantras and performing elaborate puja ceremonies to seek her blessings.

Significance and Benefits

The worship of Maa Shailputri is believed to bestow numerous blessings upon devotees. From warding off malefic influences to fostering peace, harmony, and overall happiness, her divine grace is said to encompass all aspects of life. Additionally, the puja is believed to strengthen marital bonds, offer stability in career and business endeavors, and keep diseases and negative energies at bay.

Mantras and Devotional Hymns

Devotees chant sacred mantras and hymns dedicated to Maa Shailputri, seeking her divine blessings and guidance. These invocations not only express reverence but also serve as a means of connecting with the divine presence of the Goddess.

As Navratri approaches, let us immerse ourselves in the devotion and reverence for Maa Shailputri, embracing her divine essence and seeking her blessings for a life filled with strength, prosperity, and spiritual fulfillment.

Superstar-Supermom Nayanthara & Renowned Tamil Director Vignesh launch Navalac Cereal for Toddlers

By
Dimple Arora
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0
Navalac product

“The Divine Foods,” fast growing D2C food startup, founded by Kiru Maikapillai in 2019 has now entered the baby food segment with Navalac product. Made with 9 millets, Navalac cereal is an ideal health food for toddlers. The product is priced around Rs.300 making it both affordable and easy to use for new moms.

Indian D2C market is growing exponentially and as per industry estimates, it is expected to reach a market size of $100 Bn by 2025, and baby food & infant formula market is expected to reach $ 6.2 billion in the same year. Paruthi Paal from ‘The Divine Foods’ is already a super hit in Indian markets with more than 1.5 lakh regular consumers.


Navalac Post goes Viral on Instagram
Recently an Instagram post on Navalac had gone viral. The product is getting great response from new moms and the post fetched 2.5 million views in first three days itself. Navalac’s key features include – no additives, roasted & ready to eat in 3 minutes, tasty and easy to digest. We often say “Children are a form of god” and Navalac celebrates this divine and sacred energy of children with its pure goodness.


Adding New Magic for New Toddlers & New Moms
Nava means new and Navalac gives new energy to toddlers. In fact, Nava word is popular across India and from Spain to Arab world, and has different meanings ranging from beauty to pious, and attractive to melodious. 


Nava also means Nine (Nayan), and Navalac is inspired by Nayanthara, who is a supermom herself with an active career and two kids. She welcomed her twin baby boys in 2022 and now besides a superstar, she is also a supermom and a successful entrepreneur. Her journey from “a girl next door” to a superstar and now a “supermom” is an inspiration in itself.


Driven by their desire to make a social impact, and make traditional Indian superfoods more affordable for the middle class, Superstar Nayanthara & her husband, renowned Tamil Director Vignesh had invested in “The Divine Foods” last year. 

Taking Traditional Foods from Salem city to the Globe
The Divine Foods, based in Salem city of Tamil Nadu specialises in making traditional products from superfoods such as turmeric, moringa, millet, and others. According to “Your Story,” “The Divine Foods” is among “first 100 D2C Challenger” brands that have the potential to revolutionise India’s D2C space. The brand ships its bestselling, superfood products across Turmeric (Curcuma longa), Moringa (Moringa oleifera), Millets, Honey and also Skin Care categories.


The Divine Foods is marketing local products rooted in India to global markets. Through Amazon, its products have already made inroads in developed markets including USA, UK, Australia, Singapore, UAE/Dubai and beyond. It is India’s fastest growing D2C food tech brand with 1,50,000 + customers. Earlier The Divine Foods had made Tamil Nadu and the country proud by getting US FDA approval within a short span.


For more details, visit www.thedivinefoods.com or email to admin@thedivinefoods.com.

Raghushree Poddar is new chairperson for FICCI FLO Jaipur Chapter 2024-25

By
EBNW Story
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0

Raghushree Poddar is the new chairperson for FICCI FLO Jaipur Chapter 2024-25. She is director of Cheer Sagar Exports and brand owner of Reme Lifestyle. Under the visionary leadership of Chairperson Raghushree Poddar, FICCI FLO Jaipur Chapter 2024-25 has embarked on a transformative journey, with an aim to empower women and drive socio-economic development.

The chapter pledges to foster inclusivity and confidence across all sectors with a vision to cultivate successful brands and promote women’s financial independence.

Raghushree Poddar is new chairperson for FICCI FLO Jaipur Chapter 2024-25

Key initiatives include the establishment of a MSME skilling centre focusing on merchandizing, pattern making and event workshops. Aside, Digital Labs will be set up across 2-3 different sectors to empower women with digital literacy skills. 

A startup cell will be set up to support women entrepreneurs, and the promotion of Rajasthan’s rich textile, handicrafts, and jewellery sectors. Additionally, rural livelihoods will be enhanced through the incorporation of solar panels, empowering communities and fostering economic growth. The chapter also plans to create a centralized marketplace for the fashion, textile, and handicrafts industry through organizing Artisans Art Fair while fostering partnerships and collaborations to amplify brand building synergies and empower women-led enterprises through legal advocacy and initiatives to promote cybercrime awareness.

With these ambitious initiatives, FICCI FLO Jaipur Chapter sets forth on a path towards creating a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous society for all.

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