Women Empowerment Culturist, Essayist, Thinker, Social and Legal Activist on advisories on Family Law in India, Evolutionary Developmental Feminist, Social Activist and Campaigner for Women's Rights, Multiple State, National Award Winner and Internationally acclaimed Multiple World Record Holder, Renowned name in Contemporary Literature, Suicide Prevention Expert, World Recognised Authoress Mayaa SH speaks on Emotional Distress Induced by Defamatory Content. What is Defamation? Defamation is the act of sharing false information that harms the reputation of a person, business, or organization. It can lead to legal proceedings and can cause distress and income loss. Character assassination involves deliberate or undeliberate attempts to tarnish an individual's reputation and credibility. It's a deeply personal attack, affecting not just one's professional life but also their self-esteem and mental well-being. "Whoever, by words either spoken or intended to be read, or by signs or by visible representations, makes or publishes any imputation concerning any person intending to harm, or knowing or having reason to believe that such imputation will harm, the reputation of such person, is said, except in the cases after this." There are two types of defamation: Libel: A defamatory statement that is written down or recorded, such as in a letter, email, social media post, or text message. Slander : A defamatory spoken statement, such as in a speech or conversation. Defamation can be misused by people and powerful individuals to stifle free speech. However, defamation can also provide recourse to seek justice for the non-consensual sharing of images (NCII) or other personal attacks. Defamation is a false statement presented as a fact that causes injury or damage to the character of the person it is about. An example is “Mr Vikas stole money from his employer.” If this is untrue and if making the statement damages Vikas's reputation or ability to work, it is defamation. Where does defamation happen? Anywhere. There are hot spots, like communities, associations, schools, parks, gatherings, online, and small businesses. Corporate houses/ departments - slanderers usually resort to "damning by faint praise." Forms of Character Assassination can include: Direct Attacks: These include clear-cut false accusations, rumour-spreading, and openly derogatory remarks. Subtle Tactics: More insidious and often harder to detect, these include undermining comments, passive-aggressive behaviour, or exclusion from key communications and gatherings. Defamation occurs when someone “makes or publishes” a statement about another person with the intent, knowledge, or reasonable belief that doing so will damage the other person's reputation.If the defamatory imputation is made available to the public at several places then the offence is committed at each such place. Though the first offence may be committed at the place where it is printed and first published, it gets repeated wherever the newspaper is circulated at other places. What is the emotional distress and trauma related to defamation? Emotional distress or mental anguish is classified as a psychological injury that can be asserted in civil and criminal lawsuits. It can be caused either intentionally or by negligence. Emotional distress can also be caused by a physical injury. If you’ve been defamed, whether verbally or in written form, you can sue for emotional distress damages. However, you need to have viable proof, and acquiring that is not as easy as it seems. Proving emotional distress is more complicated than proving a physical injury. As a plaintiff, you need to prove the defendant intentionally or unintentionally inflicted mental anguish on you. You have to show that their actions were made with the intent to cause you harm or that person or entity failed to act in good judgment and with a certain level of care. It’s difficult to quantify emotional distress. The process involves several factors, and it’s not a perfect science. Claims are typically calculated by considering the value of any mental health treatment, prescriptions, lost work and wages, stress and anxiety, or PTSD suffered from the defamation. There are numerous repercussions of Defamation and the emotional wounds that it causes people: Ripple Effects in the Workplace: Beyond the individual, this toxic behaviour can sour team dynamics, diminish morale, and disrupt productivity. A negative atmosphere can ripple out, leading to higher staff turnover and tarnishing the organization's image. Not to mention the implications of their job security and continuity. The Subtlety and Its Impact: The most damaging aspect of character assassination is its subtlety – a doubtful look, a dismissive gesture, a carefully crafted insinuation. These small acts of aggression can be as harmful as overt attacks, slowly undermining a person's standing in a way that's difficult to confront or prove. Defamation of character is a serious issue and results in emotional distress for many. This can lead to psychiatric problems, pharmaceutical dependence, and high levels of stress and anxiety, as well as cause problems at work, or worse, lead to the loss of one’s job entirely. It should be taken seriously and handled swiftly. Make sure you reach out to a lawyer who has experience in or specializes in defamation cases. Also, keep accurate records of any issues after you experience defamation. Is there any scope for the court to strike down criminal defamation since it was part of Article 19(2)? Apart from Article 19(2) , the court also relied on the expanded meaning of the right to life under Article 21, which has been interpreted as the right to live with dignity. Defamation affects an individual’s dignity and, therefore, for the protection of his/her dignity, an individual must have effective legal recourse. There is no answer to say that such legal recourse is available under civil law because civil law is expensive to invoke and a defamed person in addition has to bear the burden of paying court fees on a civil suit. So, this is not an equally efficacious remedy. Secondly, monetary recompense is not always a possibility because the defendant would not be in a position to pay heavy damages. The laws of criminal defamation have been codified under Section 499 of the Indian Penal Code 1860 and to fall within the confines of this Section, a person must have made an imputation about another person with either an intention, knowledge, or reason to believe that such an imputation will harm the reputation of the person against whom such an imputation is made. This imputation could be either by words, signs or visible representations and they could either be made or published. "Criminal defamation is necessary to protect women. Women in professions are often the victims of the most vicious defamation about how they have progressed in their careers, etc. Should every woman who is subjected to this kind of defamation at the workplace only have an expensive civil suit as the remedy?" The victims of character assassination often suffer silently, bearing the weight of stress, anxiety, and a shaken sense of self. Research in occupational psychology shows that such experiences can lead to a decline in job performance and mental health issues. About The Author: Mayaa SH is a prominent Indian poetess, memoirist and a known name in Contemporary Literature whose work is known for her open discussion on women’s rights and voices and experience of being an Indian woman. Most of her writings deal with women living in a patriarchal society (male-dominated society). Female sensibilities are deeply spread through her writings along with her extensive work for gender neutrality. Mayaa SH is best known for getting logical congruence for understanding the role of tradition and societal dogma in shaping women's lives and identities speaks on how she underwent character assassination and the resistance she culminated as the urge to not react. In her words, "It's natural to want to defend yourself, but this can often make the situation worse. Reacting can give the person who is attacking you the attention they want, and it can also make you look guilty or defensive." Mayaa SH also known as Mayaa Devi, Mayaa Tai, Mayaa Di, Mayaa Audio SH, Pushpa ‘The Fire’, Padma Of The East, Lady Robin Hood, Female Chulbul Pandey, Lady Karl Marx, MS Dhoni Of Writing,Lady Singham and Lady Gandhi is a known name in Contemporary Literature. She is a Multi-National Award Winner, a thirteen times World Record Holder, An Artist, a Podcaster, a Record Chart Topping International Fastest Anthology Co-Authoress and has been chosen as number 1 of The Modern Literary Stars Of India, in 2022 by Cherry Book Awards for making a valuable contribution to Contemporary Indian Literature. She has Won In Memorable Performance in the category termed ‘Other than English write-ups “ for her appreciation of hard work, creativity and dedication in Grand Christmas Competition 2.0 which has been a world record event of the largest creative event hosted online with more than 1000+ participants. Mayaa SH is a Women Empowerment Culturist and a gender equality exponent to position and contextualize her work within the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. She has depicted gender inclusivity and equality through her certifications from the United Nations and powerful writings on Feminism, Gender Equality, and Transforming Vision Into Actio n: Transmogrification on Transgender Community and Mental Health Awareness Topics. Her work depicts the identity, economic and social freedom of many. She has co-authored more than hundred and fifty plus anthologies with 14 solo books and has been aligned with more than 85 publication houses. She has been featured in several magazines and women-oriented oriented like Tejaswi -The Imperishable on Women Power and Honour including a few international magazines. Her first poem “The Candle In The Wind” made her win an Award at the National Level. She navigates many women through stress by deploying talking as a medium to combat stress and fear. In the words of Mayaa "Someone has said that courage is not the absence of fear, it is a decision made by you that there is something else, which is more important than your fear. Don’t let your doubts, fears and failures overwhelm you. Don’t be afraid to act. make plans. Change is not possible without taking steps. Understand your interests, values, thoughts and dreams. Don’t be afraid of mistakes. Learn to be calm if you don’t understand something, take someone’s advice. Listen to others too. Instead of sadness and anger, choose the path that leads to empathy and compassion. Don’t compare with others. Winston S. Churchill says, “No victory is final and defeat is not the end.” Courage is the continuation of this sequence." Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Opinions expressed are the author's own.

Hyderabad is set to be graced with an extraordinary musical experience as the legendary Wadali family returns to the city after two decades. On Sunday, September 21st, Shilpakala Vedika in Madhapur will host Rivaayat: A Musical Journey , featuring the iconic Ustad Puran Chand Wadali and his son, Lakhwinder Wadali. The concert will commence at 6:30 pm, promising an evening steeped in Sufi and classical music. Organized by Vivid Arts and Vivikta Entertainers, this event marks the first appearance of the Wadali family in Hyderabad in over 20 years. Music lovers in the city are in for a rare treat, as the Wadalis bring their profound mastery of Sufi, classical, and Punjabi folk music to the stage. Their performances are renowned for their spiritual depth and cultural resonance, making this concert a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Ustad Puran Chand Wadali, the elder maestro, is celebrated for his soul-stirring voice that has captivated audiences around the globe. His son, Lakhwinder Wadali, merges tradition with modernity, continuing to honor and expand upon the rich musical legacy passed down through generations. Together, the Wadalis are known for iconic tracks such as "Tu Maane Ya Na Maane," leaving a lasting impact on Sufi music and Bollywood. Rivaayat , meaning 'tradition,' beautifully encapsulates the Wadali family's journey and their dedication to preserving the art of Sufi and classical music. This concert is not just a performance but a celebration of a musical heritage that transcends time and borders. Tickets for this monumental event are available on BookMyShow.com , and music enthusiasts are encouraged to secure their seats promptly. Witnessing the Wadalis perform live is a rare and magical experience that should not be missed. About the Wadalis: The Wadali brothers, Ustad Puran Chand Wadali and Lakhwinder Wadali, are esteemed figures in Sufi, Gurbani, and classical music. Their soulful performances transcend the boundaries of music and spirituality, captivating audiences worldwide and solidifying their status as pillars of Punjabi and Sufi musical traditions.

The book "Wonderful Calligraphy" by Poosapati Parameshwar Raju, A 40-Year Journey Through the Art of Calligraphy in a brief function held in Hotel Marigold on Sunday night in the city.   The book is authored by Ms. Koeli Mukherjee Ghose, a powerhouse in the Indian art scene, she is an artist, art historian, and curator PhD Research Scholar, at Apeejay Stya University, New Delhi.   The book was released by several admirers of his works from various walks of life.   The release of "Wonderful Calligraphy" marks a significant moment in the Indian art landscape, offering readers and art enthusiasts a unique opportunity to delve into the mind of a visionary artist.   In his work, we witness the phenomenon of a new genre that could be termed iconic calligraphy. The artist engages with a distinguished form of expression that traverses both traditional and contemporary terrains.   His images are the offspring of an epistemological discernment and the minimalist's aesthetic, ensuing from his personalized research of iconography, signs and symbols inherent in the Indian ceremonial culture.  He has been practising this for the last 40 years.  The works of renowned calligrapher and artist Poosapati Parameshwar Raju, "Wonderful Calligraphy," is a monumental work that encapsulates four decades of artistic exploration. The book is the first volume of its three-part volume series and presents a curated selection of approximately 436 pages and 457 works from a collection of over a thousand, each piece meticulously crafted and thoughtfully arranged to convey the rich repository of Indian mythology, sacred symbolism, and cultural heritage. "Wonderful Calligraphy" is a visual feast; it is a profound narrative that weaves together the threads of tradition and modernity. The book is enriched by the insightful research of Koeli Mukherjee Ghose, the author of the book whose dedication since 2006 has illuminated the evolution of Parameshwar's art, particularly as it traverses contemporary calligraphy and Puranic themes. This publication not only safeguards the copyright of these images but also enshrines the sacred stories and iconography that form the backbone of Indian culture.   Calligraphy  is a visual art related to writing. It is the design and execution of lettering with a pen, ink brush, or other writing instrument. Iconic Calligraphy is such a work of imagery, expression created using the strokes in the calligraphy.  In keeping with his artistic philosophy, Raju has adhered to two self-imposed creative challenges throughout his journey: the strict adherence to the thin-thick-thin principle of calligraphy and the exclusive use of the colour red, symbolizing Shakti, the divine feminine energy. The book is a testament to his mastery of the traditional grid, a meditative framework that infuses his work with a profound sense of order and cosmic balance.   Poosapati Parameshwar Raju is in the process of setting up a Foundation for the Arts & Crafts to generate work for artisans using his design forms and traditional art and crafts, for the self-reliance of artisans, specific to Indian regions.   The book is priced at Rs 14, 999/- and is available   The Artiste Poosapati Parameshwar Raju can be reached on his mobile: 9848622820

Starring Vikrant Massey, Deepak Dobriyal, Darshan Jariwala, and Ipshita Chakraborty Directed by: Aditya Nimbalkar Written by: Bodhayan Roy Chaudhary Produced by: Jio Studios and Maddock Films Streaming on: Netflix IMDb Rating: 7.5/10 Sector 36 plunges the audience into the dark, blood-soaked world of a crime thriller that is not for the faint-hearted. Based on real-life incidents, this film delivers intense moments of terror, gore, and psychological intrigue, cementing itself as a gripping entry into the genre. With its "A" rating, it is very clear: this is not a film for children or the easily disturbed. At the core of this brutal narrative is a standout performance by Vikrant Massey, who plays a psychopath killer with chilling conviction. Massey, known for his nuanced acting, dives deep into the psyche of his character, offering a portrayal that is both disturbing and mesmerizing. His ability to capture the twisted, manipulative mind of a cold-blooded murderer is one of the film's key strengths. It’s a career-defining role that will likely be remembered as one of his finest performances to date. Massey’s shift from a seemingly normal individual to a terrifying predator is executed with unsettling precision. Deepak Dobriyal, Darshan Jariwala, and Ipshita Chakraborty offer solid support, but Massey is the one who steals the show. Dobriyal, in particular, adds layers to his role with his unique screen presence, bringing both gravitas and intensity to the film’s detective angle. Jariwala and Chakraborty, though limited in scope compared to Massey, hold their own in this intense storyline, grounding the narrative with their performances. Bodhayan RoyChaudhary’s screenplay is tight, ensuring that the film never loses its gripping pace. The dialogue adds to the rawness of the film, with an authentic portrayal of police procedures and criminal psychology. The story takes viewers through brutal scenes of murder and bloodshed, but it does so with purpose, never glamorizing the violence but instead showing the stark reality of a killer's mind. Director Aditya Nimbalkar does a commendable job of building tension, with sequences that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The cinematography and sound design further enhance the eerie atmosphere, making *Sector 36* not just a visual experience but an immersive one. The film’s dark, gritty tone is consistent throughout, and Nimbalkar ensures that every moment of violence hits hard without feeling gratuitous. However, this is not a film for everyone. The graphic nature of the murders and the psychological intensity make it a tough watch, and it is strictly for adult audiences. If you can handle the brutality, *Sector 36* is a rewarding experience for fans of the crime thriller genre, particularly those who appreciate stellar acting. In conclusion, Sector 36 stands out for its gripping narrative and Vikrant Massey’s haunting portrayal of a psychopath killer. The film's uncompromising approach to depicting violence may alienate some viewers, but it’s an impressive showcase of acting talent and thrilling storytelling. Definitely worth a watch for mature audiences who can handle its dark themes. IMDb Rating: 7.5/10 A gritty, well-crafted crime thriller that shines thanks to Vikrant Massey’ s powerful performance, but its violent content is not for the faint-hearted.

Malleeswari Sunkara, a homemaker, a talented athlete from Sunkarapalem, East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh, and currently residing in Secunderabad, has made Telangana proud by excelling at the just concluded World Masters Athletics Championships held in Gothenburg, Sweden. A sprinter, she competed in the 45 to 49 years age category. Malleewari and Kruti Kadakia are the only two athletes from Telangana out of 129 represented India and they competed in the 45 to 49 years age category.  The World Masters Athletics Championships are the biennial championships for masters’ athletics events held for athletes 35 years of age or older. Its mission is to promote premier athletic events for athletes thirty-five and over, of all abilities and encourage their passion for active healthy competition, global camaraderie, and celebratory spirit.  The event had 8,000 participants from 118 nations. Among them were 129 athletes from India, ranging in age from 35 to 102. Some of the participants were former Olympians and spoke about the level of the competition.  The competition included various athletic events and the heptathlon, distributed across three stadiums, each suited to its respective events. Notably, one of these venues was the historic New Ullevi Olympic Stadium. However, all the events were ultimately held at the Slottsskogsvallen Stadium. The event also saw several former Olympians participating show the level of competition. Malleeswari, who has won numerous gold medals in national competitions, marked her international debut with an impressive performance. She competed in the 100m, 200m, and 400m events, securing 42nd, 46th, and 30th world ranks, respectively. Additionally, she was part of the 4x100 relay team that secured 7th rank and the 4x400 relay team that finished 6th. Malleeswari credits her success to her coach, Shefil, who has been instrumental in her training and preparation. "Coach Shefil has been a constant source of guidance and support throughout my journey," She also expressed her gratitude to her co-athlete and friend, Kruti, who has been a pillar of support throughout her journey. "Kruti has been with me every step of the way, from travelling to Sweden to competing in the events," and I'm grateful for her presence in my life." "I'm thrilled to have represented India on the global stage and achieved these remarkable rankings," said Malleeswari, beaming with pride. "This was my first international competition, and I'm eager to continue pushing myself to new heights." Malleeswari's achievement is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and the support of her coach and fellow athletes. Kruti Kadakia, a freelance interior designer and resident of Hyderabad says that it was her first World Masters Championship. My first event was the 800 meters at the New Ullevi Olympic Stadium.  To my surprise, I saved 12 seconds off my previous time, finishing in 3:02 minutes for 800 meters and ranking 28th in the world. Next, I had the 1500 meters at Björlanda Stadium. The 1500 meters turned out to be my best race yet—I overcame all the challenges I'd faced during practice, from fatigue at 1000 meters to breathing difficulties, and finished strong in the last 100 meters, shaving 17 seconds off my time and ranking 19th in the world. I also had the honour of competing in the 4x400 meters relay with Team India at Slottsskogsvallen Stadium. Having raced in all three stadiums, this one felt different—the surface required more effort to run and accelerate. Our fabulous Team India finished 6th in the world, completing the race in just under 4 minutes and 47 seconds, she shares.  Kruti says it is an excellent forum to engage elder athletes.  The government must also encourage Indians of all age categories to lead a very active lifestyle.

Hansal Mehta's crime thriller, starring Kareena Kapoor Khan in the central role, is a nail-biting film! The story revolves around a missing case investigation, led by Detective Jasmeet "Jazz" Bhamra (Kareena Kapoor Khan) , whose determination helps drive the plot forward. The film, just under two hours, is a masterclass in pacing by screenwriters Aseem Arrora, Raghav Raj Kakker, and Kashyap Kapoor. It never slows down, providing a tightly woven narrative filled with continuous revelations. Each scene is executed with precision, and the quick transitions leave no room for wasted time. Viewers are pulled into a whirlwind of clues and suspects, making the film an exciting puzzle to solve. Kareena Kapoor Khan is a powerhouse in this role. As Jazz, she portrays a detective grappling with both personal and professional struggles, balancing vulnerability with strength. Supporting actors Keith Allen, Ranveer Brar, and Prabhleen Sandhu also deliver standout performances, with Brar particularly surprising audiences with his versatility. The film's second half is packed with shocking twists and reveals, each feeling both surprising and justified. These revelations build tension, keeping viewers on edge until the very end. Visually, The Buckingham Murders offers a moody, atmospheric look that enhances the suspense. Its mix of sweeping shots and close-ups captures both the intensity of the investigation and the human element at its core. The film’s blend of Hindi and English ("Hinglish") adds authenticity to the setting and dialogue, making the characters' interactions feel genuine. Produced by Kareena Kapoor Khan, along with Shobha and Ekta Kapoor under Balaji Motion Pictures and Mahana Films, the film had a strong production backing. Its premiere at the 2023 BFI London Film Festival generated anticipation for its theatrical release in India. With an IMDb rating of 8.3/10, The Buckingham Murders is a must-see for thriller fans. Its tight script, excellent performances, and clever twists make it a film worth watching in theaters.

Revolving around the politically charged backdrop of 1993, Berlin navigates through a slew of espionage, suspicion, and intrigue, with sterling performances from Aparshakti Khurana, Ishwak Singh, Rahul Bose, and Anupriya Goenka. The movie focuses on the investigation of a deaf-mute man suspected of being a foreign infiltrator, unravelling layer by layer. The film begins with a great sense of nostalgia, capturing the 90s through its costumes, sets, and backdrops. The tone echoes a time when the nation, still reeling from Cold War aftereffects, viewed every foreign mission with suspicion. The set design, featuring old phones, typewriters, and grainy cinematography, feels authentic to the era. Aparshakti Khurana , portraying a sign language teacher called in to interrogate the prisoner (Ishwak Singh's character), delivers what may be his most accomplished performance yet. His portrayal, filled with emotion, frustration, and empathy, becomes entangled in the mystery behind Singh’s silent pleas. As Khurana uncovers the truth, the film withholds the reason behind its title, *Berlin*, adding an enigmatic layer to the narrative. Ishwak Singh’s portrayal of the deaf-mute prisoner is striking, with his silence speaking louder than words. Through gestures and expressions alone, he conveys incredible depth. Rahul Bose and Anupriya Goenka support the leads well, though their characters could have been developed further for a more layered plot. The film excels in its investigation and interrogation scenes, with each question adding suspense. However, after a gripping first half, the movie slows down post-interval. The pacing becomes sluggish and repetitive, making it challenging to stay fully engaged. Despite these slow moments, *Berlin* offers enough intrigue for a worthwhile watch. With a 7/10 IMDb rating, Berlin stands out for its powerful performances, especially by Aparshakti Khurana, and its well-crafted 90s setting. The film’s strength lies in its authenticity, while its pacing is its weakest point. The title *Berlin* remains enigmatic until the end, keeping viewers guessing. In short, Berlin is a film worth watching for its performances and portrayal of a bygone era. If you enjoy spy dramas or slow-burn narratives, it’s a must-watch.

Guwahati, 9th September 2024 – CWMA's Institute of Skill Development, a registered Mumbai-based literary forum led by its visionary Founder, Mrs. Rachana Ranjan Chakraborty, celebrated the inauguration of its North-East wing, "The Literary Mavericks," at the Guwahati Press Club. The event saw the presence of several eminent guests who came to mark this significant milestone. The ceremony began with a traditional Bharatnattyam Ganesh Vandana dance performance, setting a culturally rich tone for the occasion. Following the performance, all the esteemed guests were honored with the traditional Assamese Gamucha as a token of appreciation and respect. Prof. Rachana Chakraborty, the founder, then delivered a dynamic introductory speech, highlighting the organization's vision for the North-East region. During the event, Barnana Acharjee, a teacher at Srimanta Sankar Academy, was officially appointed as the Treasurer of the North-East wing by Mrs. Chakraborty. An inspiring address from Ms. Rachaita Chakraborty, Youth President of the Mumbai region followed this announcement. She shared her insights on her association with the organization and extended her heartfelt congratulations to the newly formed youth team of Assam. The highlight of the event was the Prize Distribution Ceremony of the Creative Summer '24, which was held online in July. The students, who had eagerly awaited this moment, finally received their well-deserved trophies, adding a joyous conclusion to the day. The event concluded on a high note with media coverage and a series of memorable photographs capturing the essence of this new chapter for CWMA's Institute of Skill Development.

On September 12th, 2024, the Nisarg Srishti Welfare Foundation (NSW) took a commendable step towards environmental consciousness by hosting a 'Noise Pollution' awareness campaign at Vardhaman English Medium School and Junior College in Pune. Spearheaded by event manager, Shri Rajendra Kulkarni, this initiative aimed to educate young students about the detrimental effects of noise pollution and the importance of fostering a quieter, healthier environment. The event was marked by an insightful talk from Mrs. Neena Singh, Project Head of NSW Foundation, who captivated the students with an engaging presentation. She explained the causes, effects, and preventive measures of noise pollution, emphasizing how even small efforts can contribute to a larger positive impact on the environment. Principal Mrs. Sonali Malani warmly supported the initiative, fostering a collaborative spirit that encouraged enthusiastic participation from 80 students. Their eagerness to learn about the environmental issue demonstrated the growing awareness and concern among the younger generation for sustainable living. One of the highlights of the event was the presence of Mr. Somesh Prem, Founder of the Green Life Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports education for tribal students from low-income families in Satara, Bhor, Pune, Ahilya Nagar, and Kolhapur by providing them with educational kits. His participation in the campaign exemplified the power of community involvement in addressing environmental challenges. The collaboration between Nisarg Srishti Welfare Foundation and Green Life Foundation reinforced the idea that lasting change can only be achieved when individuals and organizations come together for a common cause. The success of this event underscores the significant role that educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders play in raising environmental awareness. By empowering students with knowledge about noise pollution, this campaign laid the groundwork for a more conscious and proactive approach to tackling environmental issues. Dr. Garima Kavathekar, a respected advocate for environmental causes, has consistently supported such initiatives. Known for her unwavering commitment to sustainability, Dr. Garima frequently encourages educational and community-driven campaigns that inspire actionable change. Her Contribution through Nisarg Srishti Welfare Foundation has been instrumental in guiding youuth of the society towards meaningful and impactful projects. As the campaign concluded, it left a lasting impression on all participants, reminding everyone that safeguarding the environment requires collective action. Events like these are a testament to how small efforts at the community level can contribute to building a sustainable future.

The FICCI Ladies Organization (FLO), Hyderabad Chapter, hosted an enlightening session with film actress and wellness entrepreneur Pooja Bedi on the topic "Limitation to Liberation: Unlock Your Inner Strength" . Held at Sattva Knowledge City, Gachibowli, the event explored how to channel inner strength to break free from limitations. In her opening remarks, Priya Gazdar, Chairperson of FLO, set the tone by emphasizing the importance of discovering and harnessing inner strength for personal liberation. “Today, we will unravel how to go from limitations to liberation by tapping into our inner strengths,” Priya stated. During the session, Pooja Bedi shared powerful insights and personal anecdotes that underscored the strength that lies within each of us. “I give one hundred percent to whatever I do,” she said, sharing her approach to life’s challenges, including her divorce. "I didn’t want to be miserable for 50 years because of 12 years of a happy married life. So, I chose liberation." Pooja addressed gender stereotypes in the film industry, asking, “If a sculptor’s child can become a sculptor, why can’t an actor’s daughter become an actress?” She highlighted the unfair scrutiny often faced by those in the film industry, especially women. Touching on relationships, Pooja stressed the importance of equality and mutual respect. “You can't become a better woman by putting your man down. Each person must find their own space," she said. For Pooja, life is about more than just existing—it's about truly living. "Life is too short and very beautiful. You come into this world to experience its beauty. Don’t just exist; live life to the fullest," she urged the audience. Reflecting on her personal journey, Pooja revealed that nothing in her life happened by chance. “Everything I am today is part of a plan. One thing led to another, and that brought me here,” she shared. Pooja emphasized the importance of resilience, stating, "Your story is everyone's story. Everyone has problems, but what you do with what happens to you is what defines you." She recounted her own life’s challenges, including the loss of loved ones, family issues, and her divorce, but noted that every tragedy made her stronger. “I never cried. I carried on and rebuilt my life from scratch. Every challenge made me a better person. It’s not about what happens to you, but how you respond to it,” she explained to the captivated audience of over 150 people. Pooja concluded her talk by encouraging the audience to see the good in others. “If you see the goodness in a person, you will see goodness in everyone.” The session concluded with a lively Q&A, where Pooja addressed questions from the audience, leaving them with lasting impressions of strength, resilience, and empowerment.Pooja Bedi Inspires FLO Hyderabad with Lessons on Strength and Liberation

She emerged as state winner competing with above 200 plus contestants and the pageant's rigorous nationwide selection process, which spanned five months   Thirty contestants, each representing one of the 29 states will compete in the final event. Apeksha Ashok Shetty is currently preparing for this ultimate event scheduled for later in the year.   Apeksha Shetty embodies the elegance and cultural richness of Karnataka and is set to dazzle on the national stage. Apeksha’s connection to her heritage runs deep. “Mangalore will always be special to me. My parents were born here, and every single visit in the past four years has brought me closer to my father, who was my greatest inspiration. Winning Karnataka means so much more because this is where my best friend and role model was born,” says Apeksha.   Growing up, Apeksha faced her share of struggles. She was often bullied and found it hard to connect with others. “I had a tough time fitting in and making friends in school. It was challenging, but my mother was always there for me, reminding me that being different was something to be proud of. Her support taught me the power of resilience and empathy, and these experiences have profoundly shaped who I am today,” Apeksha reflects.   The most profound challenge Apeksha faced was the loss of her father. But through this pain, I found new strength and resolve to honour his memory and pursue my dreams,” Apeksha shares.   Balancing a thriving corporate career with her passions, she works as a freelance model and indulges in her love for dancing, singing, and acting. A Bharatnatyam dancer since the age of 8, Apeksha had the honour of representing India internationally at just 12 years old through a dance group.   Winning the title of Femina Miss India Karnataka 2024 is not just a milestone for her—it’s the culmination of a lifelong dream. “Securing this state title has been a transformative journey for me. It’s not just about the crown; it’s a reconnection with my true self and my dreams. Balancing rigorous training with a demanding career was challenging, but every obstacle turned into an opportunity for growth. This title is a celebration of that resilience,” Apeksha shares.   This year’s pageant holds special significance as it coincides with the 60th anniversary of Femina Miss India. “Being part of this milestone edition of India’s most esteemed pageant makes this title even more precious. It’s not just about wearing a crown; I’m here to share my story and make a difference,” she adds.   Apeksha emphasizes that beauty pageants transcend mere physical appearance. “Beauty pageants are about being true to oneself, taking pride in who you are. It’s about beauty with brains, encompassing personality, intelligence, and communication skills,” she explains.   Mental health is a cause close to Apeksha’s heart, deeply influenced by her own experience with depression following her father's passing. “My battle with depression after losing my father made me acutely aware of the importance of mental health. It impacts how we act, feel, and think, and addressing it or taking therapy is the only way out,” she asserts.   As Apeksha prepares to step into the national spotlight, her focus remains on using her platform to inspire and make a difference. “I am excited to use this opportunity to share my story and encourage others to keep pushing forward, no matter the challenges they face. One of the recent quotes I read that inspired me is, ‘Maybe you have been assigned this mountain to show others it can be moved,’” she concludes.

Shree Vakratunda Mahakaya Suryakoti Samaprabha। Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva-Kaaryeshu Sarvada॥ To enhance students' creativity, teach traditional values, and sensitize them towards the environment, Heritage International School, KasarAmboli conducted an “Eco-Friendly Ganesha” activity on 6 September 2024. A creative workshop for making Eco-Friendly Ganesha from Shadu Mati was conducted for students of Std 1-8 under the guidance of artists Mr Avinash Ranmale and Mr Ganesh Jagtap Preprimary students made Ganesha idols using colourful playdough. Primary students put their innovation and creativity to best use by using clay/dough to create a replica of the divine lord. This also inculcated in them the habit of being resourceful. The positivity of seeking blessings by prayer was felt across all the grades. It was a blissful and fun-filled activity. It also reflected the devotional feelings of students and their parents. They all were excited to keep their handmade idols for puja on the auspicious day of Ganesh Chaturthi. The festival in India plays a key role in strengthening human relationships and enhances to bring about unity among people. HIS always takes an opportunity to encourage different age groups by organizing various activities. This was a small step to protect the environment. The Principal, Mrs. Renu Patil, appreciated one and all. She explained to the students the importance of natural resources and how to use eco-friendly idols to celebrate the festival. The important message given by the Principal was that henceforth, let us all bring eco-friendly Ganesh idols and conserve nature by going green every Ganesh Chaturthi. The school management members Mr Krishna Bhilare (Founder President), Mrs Sangeeta Bhilare (Secretary), Mr Kunal Bhilare (Director), and Mrs Yashaswini Bhilare (Admin manager) conveyed their best wishes and appreciated the student's skills.