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In ancient times, the town known as Uttamapur gradually came to be known as Otur, a name now celebrated far and wide. Located at the northern end of Pune district, on the highway between Junnar and Kalyan, this town is rich in traditions of literature, art, sports, spirituality, wrestling, and education. On its northern and eastern sides are the smaller ranges of the Sahyadri hills. Nearby flows the Mandvi River, which originates in the Malshej Ghats and nourishes the land with fertility. Just two kilometres north of the village, on the banks of the river, stands the grand and sacred temple of Lord Kapardikeshwar, renowned across Maharashtra. Pilgrims believe that the Mandvi carries the same sanctity as the Ganga. Close to the temple lies the samadhi of Sant Chaitanya Maharaj, the spiritual guide of Saint Tukaram, who is believed to have given Tukaram the eternal chant of Ram Krishna Hari at this very place. Through the generous contribution of Shri Ramesh Shivajirao Dumbare of Otur, the temple complex was recently renovated with elegant stone architecture, making it both beautiful and spiritually vibrant. The site has since been recognised as a B-grade pilgrimage site. The Kapardikeshwar Devdharm Sanstha Committee, under the leadership of Shri Anilsheth Shrikrishna Tambe, takes care of the planning, decoration, and management of the annual fair or yatra. Otur’s Heritage and Natural Beauty The village is still surrounded by three historic stone gateways, preserved carefully by the locals. Otur includes twelve neighbourhoods, and nearby lie Munjaba Hill and a smaller hillock called Suthumbya. During the rainy season of Shravan, the entire area turns lush and green, with mist hanging beautifully over the hills. It is in this scenic setting that the grand Kapardikeshwar Yatra is held every Monday in Shravan. Depending on the calendar, there are sometimes four Mondays in Shravan, and occasionally five. A special ritual during this festival involves creating rice mounds, called pindis, beside Shiva’s idol in the temple. Families contribute rice for this purpose. On the first Monday, one mound is made, on the second two mounds, on the third three, continuing according to the number of Mondays. Spiritual Devotion and Traditions Shravan is considered a holy month filled with festivals, fasts, and prayers. Every household is deeply rooted in devotion. Mondays are sacred, and many observe fasts. Some choose to go without food altogether, while others eat light dishes like khichdi, bananas, or sweet potato. The weekly fair is not only about devotion but also about community and food. Every Monday, a vegetable market sets up in the morning. In the evening, families break their fasts with traditional meals such as rice and dal, chapatis, fenugreek or bitter gourd curry, and crispy aloo vadas. Jalebi sold by local shopkeepers and entrepreneurs is a special attraction and an important part of the yatra feast. From early dawn, devotees gather at the temple, raising chants of Dnyanoba Tukaram and Vitthala Vitthala. School children join in processions, dressed as saints and deities. Shravan also brings the festival of Nagpanchami, and in earlier days, children would sell pictures of Nag Narsoba in the fair. Even today, young boys apply sandalwood paste on the foreheads of devotees, marking them with devotion to Lord Shiva. Competitions, Wrestling and Celebrations On the second Monday, traditional bhajan singing competitions are held where devotional music groups perform from early morning until late at night. The third and fourth Mondays are the grandest of the festival. People who live away in cities like Pune, Mumbai, Nashik, or even Ahmedabad return home especially for these days. Wrestling, or kushti, is the highlight. This tradition has been preserved for centuries, with wrestlers not only from local villages but also from regions such as Sangli, Kolhapur, and Paithan coming to compete. The wrestling begins only after the main villagers take the instruments, proceed to the temple, and offer prayers to Lord Kapardikeshwar. Young wrestlers get sweets as prizes, while experienced wrestlers are honoured with shields, maces, turbans, or cash rewards. Enthusiastic commentary keeps the crowds energised, and when a young wrestler performs a brilliant move, he is lifted onto the shoulders of the people and celebrated with additional prizes. Earlier, the open-air arena often faced interruptions by rain, with spectators watching under umbrellas. Today, thanks to the construction of the Shri Krishna Ramji Tambe Wrestling Stadium, the arena has a roof and enclosed walls, ensuring uninterrupted contests even during heavy showers. Joy of the Yatra For families, the fair is also a time for hospitality. Relatives and friends are welcomed warmly, and the houses remain busy with cooking and preparations. For women, who often miss the main fair due to household duties, a special arrangement has long been in place. After the last Monday of Shravan, a Shili Yatra is held on Tuesday for them, now located outside the village due to the large crowds it attracts. This day blends tradition with entertainment. There are swings and rides for children, Ferris wheels for the youth, and attractions like magic shows and stunt performances. Numerous stalls sell sweets such as pedhas, sugar candies, jaggery sweets, and crispy gud shev. Street food, such as spicy bhel and pav bhaji, adds to the delight. As the evening progresses and the wrestling events end, crowds head to the jalebi stalls to buy sweets to take home. Long queues at these shops have become one of the lasting images of the Otur Yatra, a festival that beautifully weaves together devotion, tradition, hospitality, and joy.

Hyderabad, August 13, 2025  — The 8th edition of Sports Expo India 2025  will be held at Hitex Exhibition Centre  on August 22–23, 2025 , bringing together India’s leading brands and communities from the sports, fitness, wellness, and nutrition sectors. Announcing the event at a press conference on Wednesday, Mr. T.G. Srikanth , Business Head, Hitex, unveiled the launch of eSportEx  — a first-of-its-kind pavilion dedicated to e-sports, gaming, and tech-driven sports experiences. The expo will feature 60 exhibitors  and is expected to draw 35,000–40,000 visitors  over two days. Timings are 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.  on Day 1 and 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.  on Day 2, with free entry  for all visitors. Six engaging activities designed for all age groups will be among the key attractions. The Curtain Raiser Press Meet featured prominent industry voices, including: Mr. T.G. Srikanth , Business Head, Hitex Business Centre Mr. N. Narasimha Reddy , Regional Business Head, Bigbasket Mr. Rajesh Vetcha , Race Director, NMDC Hyderabad Marathon Mr. Aaryan Reddy , Co-Founder, Neo Athlos Ms. Swathi Vasireddy , Director & Founder, Giggle Mug Dr. Saurabh Sureka , Founder & CEO, Celebration Makers Mr. Vamsi Krishna V , Mentor, Telugu ESports Community Mr. Devaki Naga Vikram , Community Representative Event Highlights: NMDC Hyderabad Marathon : 5K Run on Aug 23 (start/finish at Hitex) & 10K Run on Aug 24 (Hitex to Gachibowli Stadium). Pedal Pulse Family Cycling  (Giggle Mug): Aug 23, 4:00 p.m. — 1.5 km, 3 km & 6 km categories. Pickleball Tournament  (Neo Athlos): 70+ participants in a sport growing globally at 500%, with Hyderabad now home to 300+ courts. Grand Queen Women’s Cricket League  (Celebration Makers): Aug 22 skill challenges & Aug 23 T5 tennis ball knockout format. eSportEx Pavilion : India’s first hybrid platform merging traditional sports with competitive gaming, with 2,500 players and YouTube creators expected. Additional attractions: Calisthenics demonstrations, MMA & Boxing displays, and the Hydrox Fitness Challenge. Speaking at the launch, Mr. Narasimha Reddy of Bigbasket reaffirmed the brand’s mission to make healthy living more accessible, while other partners highlighted the growing culture of inclusive, innovative sporting experiences in India.

New Delhi: The grand ballroom of The Umrao was filled with applause, pride, and inspiration as the Ear To Hear Inspiring Women Awards 2025 honored the Top 30 Women Achievers of India. Held on 26th July 2025 as part of the Ear To Hear Annual Event – Edition IV, the ceremony celebrated extraordinary women whose journeys are shaping a stronger, more empowered India. Founded by Richa Mehta, Ear To Hear has become a national movement advocating for women’s empowerment and mental health awareness. In her address, Richa said: “These women are not just achievers—they are changemakers. Collectively, they show us that determination and courage can move mountains.” The Top 30 – A Collective Force of Inspiration The 2025 Top 30 Women Achievers represented the diverse heartbeat of India—visionaries, entrepreneurs, artists, educators, leaders, and community champions from every corner of the country. Their accomplishments span industries, geographies, and causes, yet they are united by resilience, leadership, and a deep commitment to creating positive change. Honorees included Naiinshaa, Jyoti Goswamii, Sromona Roy, Sanskriti Singh, Medha, Tulika Prakash, Gitika Sharma, Amita Mohan, Jyoti, Shruthi Santosh Nagothi, Mukta Jain, Sujatha Sangeeth, Sushmita Khosla, Anju Bharati, Shalini Sharma Roy, Dr. Snehlata Umrao, Shivani Juneja, Dr. Poonam Yadav, Manmeet Kaur, Noy Lis Taniya, Shubhanshi Shukla, Sarita Singh, Meghna Prem, Shivani Khajuria, amongst others who continue to inspire communities nationwide. Each award was personally presented by Chief Guest Dr. Aditi Govitrikar, alongside Founder Richa Mehta. The moment of receiving the trophy became a symbol of recognition and encouragement, applauded by an audience filled with family, peers, and supporters. As guests entered the venue, they were welcomed by the striking “Top 30 Wall of Achievement”—a memorable way of capturing each achiever in her element. An Event of Celebration and Purpose The ceremony saw each awardee step onto the stage to receive her honor under a spotlight of applause. Every name announced added another chapter to a shared narrative of strength, innovation, and impact. As part of the wider Ear To Hear event, the evening also featured cultural performances, mental health advocacy segments, Ear to Hear Annual Awards, and the symbolic “Walk for a Cause” , uniting women from across the country in a shared pledge for empowerment. Beyond Recognition The Ear To Hear Inspiring Women Awards have become a growing network where honorees collaborate, mentor, and drive initiatives that create lasting change. This recognition is not just a celebration of what they’ve achieved—it’s a call to continue inspiring, leading, and uplifting others. Closing the evening, Richa Mehta reaffirmed: “ Our goal is to ensure that no woman feels invisible. Every achievement matters, every voice matters, and together, we can shape a future filled with equality and opportunity.” The 2025 edition stood as a powerful reminder that when women rise, communities rise with them—and the journey continues with each new story of courage and success. As tradition, Ear To Hear celebrates these awards every year on the same date—26th July. See you next year.

Rising star Mukul Phate is making headlines once again, this time for his upcoming collaboration with Hombale Films. The young talent, who made a striking debut in the Marathi music industry, has been receiving offers from multiple production houses following his powerful screen presence in the hit Marathi song "Apsara." The song, sung by Mahesh Matkar under the banner of Matkar Music, was directed by S-Master Suniel Waghmare and featured Sakshi Kamble as Mukul’s co-star. From the very first frame, Mukul’s energetic dance moves, charismatic expressions, and magnetic screen appeal captivated audiences, making him an instant favourite. Industry insiders have noted how Apsara showcased a different side of Mukul, blending youthful charm with commanding performance skills. His ability to connect with viewers, combined with his versatility, has now caught the attention of filmmakers across regional and national industries. Speaking about his journey so far, Mukul expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response: “It’s been an incredible experience. The love from the audience and the faith from directors have been my biggest motivation. I’m excited about the projects ahead. With his growing popularity, undeniable talent, and upcoming big-banner collaboration, Mukul Phate is undoubtedly a name to watch in Indian cinema.

In a country of 1.4 billion, where countless stories remain unheard, one woman’s relentless fight against domestic abuse has echoed far beyond her city. Ekta Viiveck Verma , Founder of the Invisible Scars Foundation, has been recognised with the prestigious Amazing Indian Award 2025  — joining 11 other unsung heroes from across India whose work has quietly transformed lives. Presented in New Delhi by Mansukh Laxmanbhai Mandaviya, Minister of Labour & Employment and Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, the award — instituted by Times Now — celebrates individuals whose courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment have brought hope where it was fading. For Ekta, a Domestic Violence & Abuse Specialist, Certified PoSH Trainer, and Chevening Gurukul Fellow, the fight is deeply personal. “This recognition is not just for me, but for every survivor who has faced the world with courage,” she shared, her voice steady but filled with emotion. Having witnessed the silent harm of emotional abuse within family systems, Ekta transformed her pain into purpose — building pathways of safety, legal recourse, livelihood support, and emotional healing for survivors through her foundation. Her recent collaboration with the International Arbitration and Mediation Centre (IAMC), Gachibowli, to launch India’s first Family Mediation Training Program  for non-legal professionals has already been hailed as a landmark step in addressing domestic disputes with dignity and resolution. The jury — comprising Neerja Birla, Padmaja Ruparel, Sanjeev Bikhchandani, Prasoon Joshi, and Ashishkumar Chauhan — called her work “a blueprint for change rooted in empathy and action.” Ekta’s journey is proof that even invisible scars can be healed — and that one person’s determination can make the world safer, kinder, and fairer for countless others.

Paud, Pune – Heritage International School marked Raksha Bandhan 2025 by honoring the real protectors of society – the officers of the Paud Police Station. Continuing an annual tradition, Principal Dr. Renu Patil, staff members, and high school girls organized a heartfelt visit to express gratitude to the police for their unwavering service. Students tied Rakhis to officers, symbolizing respect, care, and solidarity. The visit doubled as an educational experience, offering insights into law enforcement, FIR filing, departmental functions, crime prevention measures, and hands-on demonstrations of police equipment. Participants met Senior Police Inspector Mr. Santosh Girigosavi, Assistant Police Officer Ms. Anita Ravlekar, and several dedicated constables, as well as Mulshi Tahsildar Mr. Vijaykumar Chobey, whose motivational address inspired students to serve society with commitment and integrity. Founder President Mr. Krishna Bhilare, Secretary Mrs. Sangeeta Bhilare, and Directors Mr. Kunal Bhilare and Mrs. Yashaswini Bhilare extended heartfelt thanks to the Paud Police Department for their protection and community service. This celebration not only upheld a beautiful tradition but also deepened students’ understanding of civic responsibility.

26th July 2025 | The Umrao, New Delhi The grandeur of compassion and strength illuminated New Delhi as the Ear to Hear Annual Event – Edition IV unfolded on 26th July 2025 at The Umrao, New Delhi. This much-anticipated celebration brought together thought leaders, achievers, and advocates of mental health awareness from across India. Richa Mehta (Founder, Ear To Hear) and Aditi Govitrikar (Chief Guest) holding the Ear To Hear Trophy The event commenced with an emotionally charged address by Richa Mehta, the visionary Founder of Ear to Hear. Her speech resonated deeply with the audience as she reflected on the journey of empowering over 7,000 women across 21 states, and called upon everyone to be “carriers of compassion and change.” Following her was Chief Guest Dr. Aditi Govitrikar, who shared her reflections as a mental wellness advocate, inspiring the audience with stories of resilience, self-discovery, and the importance of safe emotional spaces for women. Lamp Lighting for the event (L-R) Suman Mehta, Richa Mehta, Aditi Govitrikar, Charu Parashar The event formally opened with the ceremonial lamp lighting, a symbolic moment of igniting purpose and positivity. Leading this sacred ritual were Richa Mehta, Dr. Aditi Govitrikar, Charu Parashar, honoured with the Legendary Award, and Mrs. Suman Mehta. They were also joined by Ashish Mehta, Shikha Mehta and Debashish Kalita. Their presence marked a powerful moment of intergenerational support and leadership. This was followed by a soulful Ganesh Vandana performed by Ear to Hear member Simmi Kapoor, invoking divine blessings. The spiritual tone was deepened by devotees from Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir, who led a transcendental chanting session that filled the room with serenity and devotion. Leaders Presenting Ear To Hear presentation (L-R) - Geeta Ahuja, Dr Pooja Dikshit, Arpita Mitra, Dr Madhvi Borse and Dr Prachi Beriwala This year’s edition also featured a deeply patriotic and emotional video tribute—a special rendition of “Sare Jahan Se Achha”, specially prepared and performed by Ear to Hear members. It left the audience moved and uplifted. Another powerful moment was the unveiling of the “I Am A Woman” campaign, marking the first-ever campaign shoot in Delhi with a celebrity—Aditi Govitrikar—and featuring women from diverse backgrounds, symbolising unity and strength through a striking photoshoot. Adding to the emotional arc of the evening, a special video by Ear to Hear members was played, where they shared heartfelt testimonials about what this initiative truly means to them, making it one of the most touching moments of the event. The ceremony continued with a heartfelt narration by Master of Ceremonies, Arpita Mitra, who is also the Regional Leader of Uttar Pradesh. A comprehensive presentation was delivered by the leadership team, highlighting the organisation’s mission, mental health campaigns, and national expansion. Speakers included Geeta Ahuja (Delhi State Ambassador), Dr. Pooja Dikshit Joshi (Regional Leader, Gujarat), Dr. Prachi Beriwala (Regional Leader, Karnataka), Dr. Madhvi Borse (National Advisor), and Arpita Mitra (Regional Leader, Uttar Pradesh). Walk for a Cause One of the key moments of the evening was the inspiring ‘Walk for a Cause’, choreographed by The Crew 7 Dance Centre. It wasn't just a fashion walk, but a symbolic march of solidarity, featuring women from across the country walking for mental health awareness, resilience, and empowerment. Dressed in elegant ensembles, the participants wore exquisite jewellery by Djewels and had their looks styled with perfection by Classique Looks by Soumya, further enhancing the grace and symbolism of the moment. The audience responded with standing ovations and heartfelt emotion. Ear To Hear Team As the event unfolded, a special segment was dedicated to honouring Ear to Hear’s designation holders—ambassadors, advisors, and leaders who especially travelled from various cities. Each of them was felicitated on stage for their unwavering contributions to the cause and for championing mental health advocacy in their respective regions. Their commitment and leadership are the building blocks of the movement's national presence. This was followed by the prestigious Women Achievers Awards 2025, where 30 phenomenal women from diverse fields and cities were celebrated for their remarkable achievements and societal impact. Their journeys symbolised courage, creativity, and a change-making spirit. Distinguished guests were present from across India, and their encouragement added to the evening’s purpose. Before the curtain came down, celebration took over. Music played, laughter echoed, and all attendees—from partners to performers, leaders to achievers—joined together in joyous dancing and celebration, marking a memorable close to a purpose-driven evening. Partners The success of the event was made possible by the generosity and support of our esteemed partners: The Umrao – Venue Partner Benson Trophies – Trophy Partner Haritimas Travel – Travel Partner Varnya and Classique Looks by Soumya – Makeup Partners Zal by Banaras – Outfit Partner CITA – Education Partner Pink Polka – Gifting Partner Djewels – Jewellery Partner Nanuchii – Community Partner WeTogether – Supporting Partner FPii – Photography Partner The Crew 7 Dance Centre – Walk Choreography Stay Featured, NDTV, and ABP News – Media Partners With hearts full and purpose reaffirmed, Edition IV of Ear to Hear concluded on a powerful note, laying the foundation for an even more impactful Edition V.

Heritage International School, Kasaramboli, celebrated Raksha Bandhan on 8th August 2025 with a noble social cause, aiming to foster values of respect, gratitude, and community service among its students. This year’s event was dedicated to honoring the Mulshi Appativyavasthapan Sanstha for their outstanding contributions to society. Continuing the school’s tradition of recognizing social contributors, the celebration highlighted the importance of social awareness and community engagement. The event was held in the school auditorium, where students warmly welcomed the guests and tied rakhis as a symbol of respect and brotherhood. The program included inspirational speeches by the guests and students, emphasizing the significance of Raksha Bandhan and the pivotal role of social organizations in community development. The guests also shared real-life experiences that deeply inspired the students. The chief guest of the event was Mr. Pramod Pandit Balkawade, Chairman of the Mulshi Disaster Management Committee, accompanied by three esteemed team members. Their presence and valuable contributions were deeply appreciated by the school. The celebration was graced by the presence of: Mr. Krishna Bhilare ( Founder , President), Mrs. Sangeeta Bhilare( Secretary) ,Directors Mr. Kunal Bhilare & Mrs. Yashaswini Bhilare, Ms. Samidha Bhilare & all Teaching Staff Principal Dr. Renu Patil expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the honored guests and encouraged students to embrace the values of kindness, unity, and service in their lives. The event concluded with a vote of thanks followed by the distribution of sweets, leaving everyone with a sense of pride and purpose. It was truly a memorable celebration that beautifully combined tradition with social responsibility.

Hyderabad, August 5, 2025 — FICCI FLO Hyderabad hosted an engaging and deeply moving interactive session with acclaimed actor, author, cancer survivor, and global voice for resilience, Lisa Ray, titled “The Many Lives of Lisa Ray” at Hotel Radisson Blu, Banjara Hills on Tuesday evening. The session drew a full house of over 150 women for a heartfelt evening of introspection, empowerment, and radical honesty. In her welcome address, Ms. Prathibha Kunda, Chairperson of FLO Hyderabad, remarked: “What Lisa gave us today wasn’t just a speech—it was a mirror. She reminded us that life doesn’t wait for perfection. It asks only that we show up as we are and believe that our stories matter. That kind of honesty is rare—and it’s what made today so special.” Lisa Ray opened up about the multiple lives she has led—as a model, actress, writer, patient, and mother—and how each of these chapters has taught her to return home to herself. Speaking without notes or pretence, she reflected on the joys, grief, and emotional labour that have shaped her identity. “My moment of peak success was also my darkest hour,” she revealed. “I was the most diligent model, but I paid a high price. I was diagnosed with one of the most incurable blood cancers at age 37. The doctor believed I wouldn’t survive beyond five years—but I didn’t collapse. Something inside me knew I’d be alright. Today, at 53, I am the most content woman now.” Ray also emphasised the importance of taking charge of one's well-being: “Each one of us is the CEO of our health. Take responsibility. Prioritise your wellness.” She spoke candidly about the emotional baggage that often accompanies external success: “Success doesn’t solve your problems, especially your emotional trauma. I had to challenge society’s definition of success because the external version didn’t reflect how I felt inside. That forced me to search deeper.” Lisa Ray was also the first Indian celebrity to publicly share her cancer diagnosis, challenging the taboo surrounding illness.   “Why should we be ashamed of disease? It’s nothing to hide. My life, my body, my illness—accepting all of it has been my greatest liberation.” On her inner strength, she said, “Meditation gave me resilience. We clean our cars, service our vehicles, and clean the environment—but what about the toxic thoughts in our minds? We must cleanse them, too.” Having lived in 43 cities across the world, Lisa Ray said with conviction: India may not be perfect, but it’s the best place to live Hyderabad is close to my heart. I love its people, affection, and the cuisine. I keep coming back.” This event was part of FLO Hyderabad’s continued commitment to creating powerful platforms where women can grow, reflect, and rise—whether through storytelling, entrepreneurship, wellness, or leadership. FLO believes in nurturing the whole woman: her ambition, her voice, her spirit, and her journey. Media Contact: Solus Media, D. Ramchandram – Mobile: 9848042020

Pune, India —  On August 3, 2025, the stage at Ishanya Auditorium, Symbiosis , lit up with hope, courage, and creativity as TED-Ed Student Talks 2025  brought together a global community of young changemakers . Hosted and mentored by Virendra Nirmalkar  and Puja Talesara Bhandari , this full-day event celebrated “Ideas Worth Spreading”  by offering students an international platform  to share their thoughts on the issues that matter most to them. With over 80 participants  — from speakers to performers, guests, and volunteers — the event stood as a powerful example of what happens when youth voices are heard and celebrated . 32 Talks. 32 Students. Endless Possibilities. The event featured 32 young speakers  delivering TED-style talks  (3–7 minutes each) on topics that ranged from mental health and resilience  to AI, sustainability, friendship, and music therapy . 17 students from Victorious Kidss Educare, Kharadi , joined by peers from Singapore, Dubai, and the USA , made this a truly global edition . A few of the many standout talks included: Speaker Highlights Include: Aarav Baloda                    Behind Every Word is a World Aarzu Ramawat                               Offscript Abhijit Tawri                       Is Your Screen Stealing Your Life? Agastya Dubey                 Are We Hypocrites? Amaya Gavalee                                Books: The Brain’s Best Friend! Apurvika Kumar                               The Invisible Price Tag of AI Arkaya Jaiswal                  React Mindfully, Respond Powerfully Ayan Bairagi                      Everyone Deserves a Digital Chance Ayansh Nikole                    When the Sky Started Helping Us Ayush Nayak                     You Are the Actor, Not the Character Darsh Meher                      Embracing Change: From Jet Lag to Joy Gargi Golande                   The Trap That Looks Like Fun Garv Bhandari                   Discover the Power of Friendship Kartiki Agarwal                 Dance & The Dinosaurs Keiyona Kulshrestha       Melodies that Mend Kesho Singh Ahluwalia  Escape Traffic Jams, Without Toast Khushi Bapna                    Jeans: The Real Drama Queen! Khyati Kapoor                    Music is My Best Friend Mir Salgar                           The Trap of Screen Addiction Myra Alvares                     Our World - Let’s Keep It Clean Nizaal Abdullah                                The Truth About Self-Care Pooja Wayal                      From Agarbatti To Aerospace Reet Shejul                          Is Your Brain Tricking You Everyday? Ritisha Mahamuni           The Trap of “Tomorrow” Rohan Edlabadkar           Mechanical Mangrove Shatakshee Barbade      The Power of Movement Shreya Mondal                 The Mirror and the Silence Shreya Shejul                     Move to Feel, Not to Fit Swaraj Dharmadhikari  Progress Over Perfection Tanvi Mishra                      Resilience Isn’t Magic — It’s Mindset Yashna Bhandari              Is Loneliness Secretly Killing You? Yohan Rakibe                     AI For A Greener Tomorrow A Celebration Beyond Talks The event also showcased 10 soul-stirring performances , blending music, dance, and creative expression. Performers like: ·         Avika Somanna ·   Dhriti Pawar ·   Nikhith Nallamalli ·  Prashant Harnaval ·  Purva Mal Shruti Sakore ·  Siddharth Shukla Guests Who Made It Special Adding weight to the occasion, the event hosted: Chief Guests:  Puja Talesara Bhandari & Saarada Ghosh Keynote Guests:  Ira Ghosh & Vishal Shevle Guests of Honour:  Reneesh Matthew, Amit Godse, Bijoy Pallissery, Dr. Anindita Chaudhuri, Navya Somanna Their insights and encouragement amplified the event’s mission of nurturing confident, thoughtful leaders for tomorrow . A Unique Milestone: Personalised TED-Ed Books In a heartwarming moment, 32 customised TED-Ed books  were unveiled — one for each student speaker and guest — to commemorate their journey of self-discovery and storytelling  through this program. Behind the Scenes: The Team That Built It This experience was made possible by an energetic hosting team : Shwetha Munegowda, Vasundhara Singh, Aarin Junagade, Aditi Nawale, Janhavi Bardale,  and Nehansh Kakonia , supported by passionate volunteers  including Aisha Lobo, Akriti Nirmalkar, Deepa Yadav, and many others. Partners who supported the vision:  Victorious Kidss Educares, Leadership Demystified, VSPEAK Institute, Anan Cohorts, Stay Featured, Ridaan Array, Rhythm Music Academy, Design Mediaa, and Alari Nrityalaya. Mentors Speak “Let’s raise a generation that doesn’t just seek applause, but dares to stand for something.” — Puja Talesara Bhandari “TED-Ed isn’t just about talks. It’s about giving students the courage to explore who they are and share their truth with the world.” — Virendra Nirmalkar, Organiser & TED-Ed Facilitator About TED-Ed Student Talks The TED-Ed Student Talks Program  is a global initiative  by TED-Ed that enables students (ages 8–18) to identify, develop, and present their own “Idea Worth Spreading.”  Through structured mentorship, the program helps young participants build communication, creativity, and critical thinking skills  — preparing them for the challenges of tomorrow. For photos, video clips, or interview requests: 📧 info.vspeak@gmail.com  | 📱 +91 63 5995 5995 Issued by: V-Speak Institute, Pune In collaboration with TED-Ed Student Talks Program

Pune, July 27, 2025  — The Sustainable Growth Summit 2025 , hosted at Four Points by Sheraton, Viman Nagar, emerged as a dynamic platform celebrating women's empowerment, sustainable development, social impact, and mindful parenting . Organised by Scholarstree Educare Pvt. Ltd.  in collaboration with Sarav Events, Aparajita Foundation, Vedgunn Foundation, Amazing Scholar Kids Preschool & Daycare, and Eduthon , this fifth edition  reaffirmed the summit’s role as a trusted forum for fostering leadership, encouraging generational awareness, and sparking meaningful discussions. "True sustainability begins with empowered individuals and compassionate communities,"  shared Mrs. Shweta Pankaj  and Dr. Hc Saravjeet Kirad , lead organisers. Event Highlights: Aparajita Women of the Year Award 2025  – Recognising outstanding women who are driving social change. Mom & Me Show  – A heartfelt tribute to maternal love and intergenerational respect. The event welcomed distinguished guests, including Adv. Prafula S. Potdar , Smita Patil (MD, SSPL Group & India President, NAREDCO MAHI) , Bobby Karnani , Deepa Kalia , Dr. Padmashree Ballal , and Dr. Namrata Anand Kamble . Young changemakers Rishita Pankaj  and Vedika Kirad  played a vital role in bringing the event to life, embodying the spirit of next-gen leadership. Key partners, including  Giriraj Jewellers, Motherhood Hospital (Kharadi), Amar Bakers, Design Media, Stay Featured , and  Neel Writes,  added value to the summit through purposeful collaborations. The event concluded with renewed commitment towards inclusive growth, community-driven change, and a more compassionate future .

. As a Bach Flower Practitioner , An emotional wellness coach and a busy mum of 2 boys , I know firsthand how easy it is to be totally imbalanced , nervous while you happily think you are worried and anxious about your child’s future and admissions and how average marks will not tick the boxes of many top colleges and courses . Also the stress and shock of your beloved child missing on achieving admission in his dream college or course puts you further more in a dejected state as if it was your admission . Furthermore , the tormenting thoughts of paying high fees for the average college also makes you feel sad and helpless . While caring and loving for your children can be incredibly rewarding , it can also be exhausting and daunting at such times . Without proper support, the emotional weight of caregiving can take a toll leading to stress, burnout, fatigue and a sense of overwhelm. Whatever you are feeling at this crucial time , you need a reset and not sympathy. Bach flower remedies offer gentle support to bring back a sense of balance. Because in this state of energetic balance you will be able to see the good , accept the reality and forge ahead with positivity . And since energy is transferable , it can be both beautiful and challenging. Your energy is what your child willl feed on at this time . As parents, we witness our children experiencing a range of feelings like joy, fear, uncertainty, and everything in between. By keeping yourself calm and balanced , you can indirectly help their emotional awareness and independence giving them the confidence to articulate their feelings and manage their emotions. Each parent’s experience is different, which is why Bach Remedies work best when chosen to match your unique emotional state. How can Bach remedies support at this crucial time ? Imagine each flower is like a tiny genie ready to transform you when you're feeling sad, nervous , angry , dejected , victimised , scared, insecure and unsure. These special remedies have unique powers to make you feel awesome , positive , balanced , calm and more confident of course . Let’s explore how Bach Remedies can help: Agrimony You are trying to be happy and make others happy but are extremely worried that you are cleverly hiding behind your smile. But remember this cleverness can cost you dearly with health repercussions. Aspen You are feeling extremely fearful or uneasy without any apparent or specific reason . Beech You find it hard to swallow the indifference of others and behave extremely intolerant. Cerato You start doubting your decisions and rely on others to do the right thing. You have lost trust in your own decision making power and feel more helpless and under confident . Cherry Plum You get teary often , angry and irritated often and really fear losing control and do something you will later regret. You don’t understand why you are behaving so irrational instead of being calm . Chestnut Bud You keep making the same mistakes and struggle to learn from them everyday . This is now a pattern and you are stuck in the loop . Chicory You suddenly need more lot attention and validation and feel hurt if you do not get it . Clematis You are lost in worries all the time even when you are amidst people and don't pay much attention to what's happening presently in front of you. Hemce you miss out on joy of the present moment . Crab Apple You don't know what to say about how you are feeling , but you feel horrible maybe unclean and dislike your own self . Elm You feel that there’s so much you have to do but can’t handle the tasks and feel very upset and sad . Holly You feel angry and jealous towards others . Honeysuckle You keep comparing this situation to the past times and feel bad . Hornbeam You feel lethargic , disinterested in tasks and keep procrastinating your tasks unless it becomes urgent . You lack the motivation and energy to do tasks at hand . Impatiens You feel very impatient and always rush to finish everything. Larch You feel under confident and think others are better than you. Mimulus You are afraid of the anticipation of the average marks or score . Mustard You feel sad for no real reason and find it difficult to break through this sadness and gloom . Oak You keep on going and pushing yourself through without pausing when you're tired . Pine You feel regret and guilt and blame yourself for everything wrong . Red Chestnut You worry too much about your child’s safety . Rock Water You start being too hard on yourself and it’s difficult to go with the flow . Scleranthus You are always oscillating to make decisions and keep changing your mind all the time . Star of Bethlehem You are very sad as well as shocked after the result of average scores . Sweet Chestnut You feel like you've reached your end and can't take this turmoil any more and lose all hope . Vine You start being very bossy and controlling everything around . with others. Walnut You cannot cope with this change and adapt to it . Water Violet You prefer to be alone and start coming across as distant to others. White Chestnut You can't stop the overthinking and mind running about the same things over and over. Wild Rose You don't feel excited about anything in life and find it hard to get motivated or take interest in things. Willow You feel victimised and like life is unfair . Why Personalised Remedies Work Best? Every parent’s experience is unique, which is why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t give accurate results . Prioritising your emotional wellbeing isn’t selfish, it’s essential and a part of self love . When you feel stronger and calmer that’s exactly what you give at such times to your kids . Take Care of Yourself While Worrying for your children . If results are taking an emotional toll, Bach flower remedies can offer gentle but powerful support. About the author Since 2002 , Rakshaa Chhabriaa has been using Bach Remedies and is the driving force behind the amazing recoveries and results of people globally . Crafting thousands of personalised remedies, Rakshaa has supported individuals' and helped people balance their nervous systems with Bach Remedies as well as Emotional Counseling. Rakshaa is readily available for consultations , offering personalised advice to guide you on the path to holistic wellness. It's important to note that she's qualified with 2 decades of experience and expertise ensuring that every consultation and remedy adheres for expert care and precision . 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