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In today’s fast-paced corporate world, technical skills and business acumen often take the spotlight. But one skill quietly determines influence, credibility, and long-term impact: the ability to manage your emotional state under pressure. A Boardroom Reality Consider this scenario: During a critical review meeting, a leader presented a well-researched plan. The team raised unexpected concerns, and a key stakeholder challenged one of the projections. In that moment, the leader’s tone shifted — a flash of defensiveness, a subtle irritation. The decision moved forward. The data was solid, and the strategy sound. But that brief emotional shift reduced confidence in the room, undermined trust, and signaled vulnerability — all without a single operational failure. At higher levels of responsibility, emotions are amplified, and every response sends a signal to the team and organization. Managing Your Emotional State: The Silent Force Behind Effective Leadership - Tushar Pawar, Founder – Stellar International Training Solutions Why Emotional State Management Matters Your emotional state sets the climate for those around you: 1. Composure dictates whether teams feel confident or anxious 2. Reactions define cultural norms and acceptable behavior 3. Consistency builds credibility faster than any strategic decision High-pressure situations are inevitable — stakeholder disagreements, market volatility, internal conflicts, or operational challenges. The difference between ordinary and effective leaders is not avoiding stress but regulating emotional responses. Actionable Practices for Leaders 1️⃣ Lead the Room Before Leading the Agenda Pause before responding. Your emotional presence enters the room before your strategy. Calm signals authority; agitation signals uncertainty. 2️⃣ Replace Defensiveness with Direction Instead of explaining “why” something happened, focus on “what happens next.” Strategic clarity always trumps emotional justification. 3️⃣ Separate Ego from Enterprise Ego costs more than mistakes. Ask: “Is my response serving the organization or my personal pride?” 4️⃣ Be the Emotional Shock Absorber Absorb pressure internally, so your team doesn’t mirror your stress. Your ability to remain composed becomes a stabilizing force for the entire organization. The Strategic Truth People may comply with your position. They commit to your emotional consistency. Leadership is tested not in times of growth, but in moments of challenge. Your emotional discipline is the silent force behind organizational stability. " I am excited to announce the pre-launch of my upcoming book as author under Stellar Growth Series: Volume 1, “Unstoppable Personality: The Art of Self-Mastery and Development”. This book is designed to help students & professionals at every level: 1. Build calm authority under pressure 2. Lead teams with clarity and influence 3. Strengthen decision-making and personal effectiveness Stay tuned for the official launch date and early access opportunities — a resource packed with actionable insights, real-life stories, and frameworks to master your mindset and elevate your leadership. About the Author TUSHAR PAWAR Corporate Trainer | Leadership Strategist | Founder – Stellar International Training Solutions (SITS- www.stellaredutech.com) Tushar Pawar is a seasoned corporate trainer and leadership development expert with 11+ years of experience training leaders and professionals across industries. He specializes in executive presence, emotional intelligence, performance psychology, and professional growth, helping individuals build credibility, calm, and influence under pressure. Contact – Stellar International Training Solutions (SITS) 🌐 Website: www.stellaredutech.com 📧 Email: tammy12490@gmail.com 📞 Contact: +91 95118 89606 📍 Pune, India Stellar International Training Solutions designs high-impact leadership and professional development programs, focused on emotional intelligence, mindset mastery, and performance excellence.

In a rare confluence of literature, music, and visual art, artist–composer–poet Soumita Saha steps into the literary world with her debut poetry collection, Bleeding Vermillion Hues, published by The BookSpot Publishers. More than a book, Bleeding Vermillion Hues emerges as an immersive artistic statement—one that breathes, listens, and sees. When Poetry Finds Its Voice: Soumita Saha’s Bleeding Vermillion Hues Unveils a Multisensory Literary Debut The book takes its evocative title from Soumita’s own poem, Bleeding Vermillion Hues, a piece so central to her creative vision that it now transcends the written word. In a unique artistic move, Soumita has composed the poem into a song—crafted especially as the title track for the book’s trailer, which is set to be unveiled on 12 January 2026. The song, accompanied by a thoughtfully curated music video, becomes an extension of the book itself—allowing poetry to find melody, rhythm, and visual resonance. Known widely for her work in music and art, Soumita’s first book carries the unmistakable imprint of both worlds. Bleeding Vermillion Hues is not merely a collection of poems; it is a canvas where sound, colour, and emotion converse. Each verse reflects her instinctive understanding of mood—something honed through years of composing, singing, and painting. A profound admirer of legendary painter Amrita Sher-Gil, Soumita dedicates several poems to Sher-Gil’s iconic artworks. Rather than interpreting them academically, she reimagines these paintings through her own emotional lens—translating brushstrokes into language, silence into sentiment, and colour into longing. These poems stand as intimate dialogues between two women artists across time. Equally compelling is her exploration of Indian classical ragas. Drawing from her deep musical sensibility, Soumita weaves poetry inspired by select ragas, capturing the emotional landscapes they embody—melancholy, devotion, yearning, celebration—and connecting them seamlessly to the lived experiences of life. Here, music does not remain in sound alone; it transforms into metaphor, memory, and meaning. What sets Bleeding Vermillion Hues apart is Soumita’s holistic approach to storytelling. By composing the title track of her own book and releasing it as part of the launch narrative, she blurs the boundaries between creator and creation. Her way of reaching her audience—through words they can read, music they can feel, and visuals they can absorb—sets a striking example of contemporary artistic expression. With the trailer release slated for 12 January 2026, Bleeding Vermillion Hues begins its journey not quietly, but with intention and soul—inviting readers and listeners alike to step into a world where poetry sings, paintings speak, and emotions bleed beautifully in vermillion.

Pravara Girls’ English Medium School and Junior College, Loni, celebrated the birth anniversaries of Rajmata Jijau Bhosale and Swami Vivekanand with great enthusiasm on 12 January 2026 PGEMS celebrated Birth Anniversary of Rajmata Jijau Bhosale and Swami Vivekanand and National Youth day The programme began with a warm welcome of the Chief guest Dr.Jayashree Singar (VP)presenting her with a plant sapling, symbolizing respect and environmental awareness. Mrs. Sayrabanu (Jijau House Master) efficiently planned the programme and also gave a brief and informative introduction of the Chief guest. PGEMS celebrated Birth Anniversary of Rajmata Jijau Bhosale and Swami Vivekanand and National Youth day The students were actively involved by delivering speeches highlighting the inspiring lives, ideals, and contributions of Rajmata Jijau Bhosale and Swami Vivekanand. Some students beautifully dressed up as Rajmata Jijau and Swami Vivekanand, which added grace and attraction to the programme. Dr. Jayashree Singar delivered a beautiful and motivational speech, encouraging students to follow the values of discipline, courage, self-confidence and values shown by both great leaders. Principal Dr. Renu Patil guided and motivated the students with her valuable words, inspiring them to build a strong character and imbibe values of our great role models like Swami Vivekanand and Jijamata. She focused on Vivekanand quote Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached The programme concluded with vote of thanks presented by Mrs. Khalkar expressing gratitude to the Chief guest. Principal, teachers, students and all those who contributed to the successful organization of the event. This programme was conducted under the able guidance of school management members,CEO Susmita Vikhe-Patil and Secretary Mrs. Leela Sarode. It was inspiring, meaningful, and memorable.

Apexx Media, a leading brand strategy and communications firm, has officially relaunched its brand with a refreshed identity ‘AMBC’(Apexx Media Brand Creators) and a new logo symbolising an upward arrow—representing its mission to elevate client reputations to a level where competition becomes irrelevant. Founded on 1 January 2017 , Apexx Media completes nine years of operations , marking a significant milestone in its journey of adding a distinctive “X-factor” to brand value through strategic communication and reputation-led growth. Over the years, the firm has successfully served 500+ clients across diverse industries , helping them define, strengthen, and sustain their brand positioning in competitive markets. Apexx Media Relaunches Brand as AMBC, Strengthening Focus on Global Markets With a growing international footprint, AMBC works with clients and associate partners across Singapore, Hong Kong, the UK, the US, and Brazil, reinforcing its long-term vision of global expansion. The relaunch reflects the evolution of AMBC  from a traditional PR firm into a reputation and communication advisory with a global outlook. As brands today operate in increasingly complex and competitive environments, our focus is on building long-term credibility, strategic visibility, and influence across markets. The new identity strengthens our commitment to delivering responsible, insight-driven communication solutions for leaders and organisations aiming to grow beyond borders,” Poonam Mahajan, Founder & Director, AMBC The agency is widely recognised for its expertise in Brand Strategy and Crisis Communication , offering organisations a structured and credibility-first approach to reputation management and public relations. Commenting on the relaunch, Poonam Mahajan, Founder & Director of AMBC , said: “In the era of digital PR, while embracing new-age communication strategies, we remain deeply rooted in traditional brand growth principles. We don’t chase media coverage; we build credibility. Reputation isn’t created overnight—it is earned through consistent and strategic communication. As part of its expansion strategy, AMBC has also entered the domains of media buying and outdoor branding , broadening its service portfolio to provide end-to-end communication and visibility solutions for brands seeking both credibility and scale. With nearly two decades of industry experience , Mahajan has led the agency in delivering integrated communication strategies that align business objectives with compliant and sustainable brand narratives. AMBC’s offerings include marketing-compliant brand strategy, public relations, media relations, and crisis preparedness frameworks , designed to protect and enhance brand reputation across stages of growth. The relaunch signals AMBC ’s renewed commitment to helping brands navigate complex reputation landscapes while building long-term trust with stakeholders-locally and globally. About AMBC (Apexx Media Brand Creators) AMBC (Apexx Media Brand Creators) is a strategic brand communications and reputation management firm specialising in brand strategy, public relations, and crisis communication. Founded in 2017, the firm works with organisations across industries to build, protect, and strengthen brand credibility through structured, long-term communication strategies. With a strong focus on reputation-led growth, AMBC delivers integrated communication solutions that include marketing-compliant brand strategy, media relations, crisis preparedness, and public relations advisory. The firm is known for its credibility-first approach, helping brands establish authority rather than short-term visibility. Headquartered in India, AMBC works with clients and associate partners across Singapore, Hong Kong, the UK, the US, and Brazil, supporting organisations in navigating complex communication environments and building trust with key stakeholders at both national and global levels.

When asked which class they read in, almost nine out of ten children will tell you that they would very soon go to a class higher than the one they are currently studying in. It goes to show that children always want to grow up very quickly and look forward to the prospect of becoming young adults with great excitement. In this excitement, their imaginations run free and they often have grand visions of their future, picturing themselves in their dream jobs or at towering heights in their lives. But as the distinguished speakers at a panel discussion organized by the Big I Art Foundation at the 43rd North Bengal Book Fair 2025 in the Kanchenjungha stadium at Siliguri in West Bengal on December 12, 2025, observed, most children nowadays are losing the power of imagination due to various external pressures on them. 43rd North Bengal Book Fair 2025 in the Kanchenjungha stadium at Siliguri in West Bengal on December 12, 2025 Kicking off the discussion on the topic, “Children Are Losing Their Childhood Dreams,” eminent educationist, journalist, filmmaker and social activist, Parag Biswas, dwelt at length on the various reasons why the dreams of children are dying an early death and why the new generation has become so crestfallen, nonchalant and despondent. “Improvement in per capita income, an increasing lust for consumerism, strained parental relationships, the burgeoning predominance of nuclear families, lack of role models and a desire to fulfill one’s unrealized childhood dreams through their own kids are ruining the future of our coming generations. Most parents and guardians pamper their children so much these days that they become spoon-fed puppets, who pass out from top alma maters in the country, with several degrees and vast knowledge, but scanty skills. They have to consequently face immense difficulties in dealing with life. They fail and falter, cannot bear the responsibilities of marriage and of rearing kids and cannot also meet the challenges and demands of their profession. Their marriages end in separation or divorce, and they get no satisfaction at their workplaces. Finally, many of them are compelled to commit suicides,” said the renowned motivational speaker, who urged parents and guardians to give their children the guidance and grooming that will make them a perfect human being. Noted columnist and theatre personality Partha Pratim Mitra, who agreed with Biswas, said that the increasing frustration among the new generation was largely attributable to the increasing lust for consumerism, which was a definitive outcome of the race for a rapid globalization since the start of this century. “It is a pity that children these days are suffering from many psychological and physical ailments, which were common, till recently, among aged adults. Parental and familial conflicts and a penchant for all that is occidental in origin, including fast food, are killing the future of our children. It is high time that we stopped teaching children with electronic aids and began using the primitive way of imparting knowledge and imbibing morals in them through the art of storytelling,” he advised. 43rd North Bengal Book Fair 2025 in the Kanchenjungha stadium at Siliguri in West Bengal on December 12, 2025 The renowned psychological counselor and behavior manager of north Bengal, Moitrye Sen, who shared the sentiments of both Biswas and Mitra, felt that a lack of patience among today’s parents and guardians was spoiling the future of their children. “People these days prefer to bring up their children using short-cut methods as they do not have the time and patience to bear the hassles of rearing kids. And that is why, they give their children their mobile phones, whenever they disturb their parents, without realizing in the least that it was killing the power of imagination in their kids and their ability to do an activity properly,” said the senior psychologist, who urged parents and guardians not to allow their children to use electronic gadgets abundantly and indiscriminately. The next panelist Mr Samsul Alam, a senior educationist and Headmaster of Muraliganj High School in the Darjeeling district, cautioned people against the rat race of success. “The relentless pursuit for success in life is putting a mammoth pressure on our kids. They are badly reeling under the demands of their parents and teachers, and they very often, feel badly suffocated under the persistent pressure to do the best in their lives. Even while they are playing, it is always at the back of their minds that their parents may soon call them back to their homes and ask them to sit and study for more hours in order to achieve higher grades. It is a pity that due to such cut-throat competition, children have stopped asking questions and are not learning to live in harmony with each other,” lamented the senior academician, who advised that parents should encourage the innate instinct of inquisitiveness in their children and should generate awareness in them about the need to live together and help each other. The famous writer and journalist of Bengal, Alok Sarkar, who spoke next, emphasized the role of literature in shaping the future of children and boosting their imaginative faculty. “I grew up under the able guidance and tutelage of the elders in my family. My love for the moon and the nature was enhanced as much by the stories told to me by my grandma during my childhood as much as by the immortal creations of literature such as Jatindramohan Bagchi’s great poem, ‘Kajla Didi’ (Elder Sister) and the poems of the great Indian poet Sukanta Bhattacharya. It is a pity that the children these days are missing that childhood,” Sarkar regretted. The two visual artists present at the discussion, Rathindranath Saha and Shiben Chattopaddhyay, claimed that “imagination” was fast taking a backseat in the field of art. “Almost no aspiring painter is able to draw a picture from their imagination nowadays. If you ask a kid to draw a landscape they will draw a picture, which their art teacher has taught them to draw and which they have practiced several times. During our school days, we used to draw pictures of our choice at sit-and-draw competitions. Nowadays, the organizers themselves assign a topic to the contestants. And that is why perhaps we are no more getting any Jamini Roy, Nandalal Bose, Pablo Picasso or Leonardo Da Vinci these days,” they explained. The secretary of a renowned welfare society in Siliguri, Mr Anindya Mukherjee highlighted the role of social welfare societies and non-governmental organizations in ensuring that people focus on the psychological needs of their kids. Joy Sarkar, the programme head of a popular FM channel in Bengal and Sikkim, who begged to differ with the other speakers at the discussion, made a very pertinent point at the end. He refused to accept that children were losing their power of imagination and pointed out that the biggest danger lay in the fact that “good imagination” was getting supplanted with “bad imagination” in children. The founder and secretary of the Big I Art Foundation, Dipayon Ghosh, who moderated the discussion, did a marvelous job. The panelists were all awarded attractive certificates by the organizers at the end to acknowledge their participation in the discussion. E.O.M.

A Noise Pollution Awareness Workshop was successfully organised at Samata Vidyalaya, Uruli Devachi, run by Sane Guruji Shikshan Sanstha, on 10 January 2026 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The programme was conducted by Nisarg Srishti Welfare Foundation with the objective of creating awareness about noise pollution among students. Noise Pollution Awareness Workshop Conducted at Samata Vidyalaya, Uruli Devachi The programme began with an introductory address by Mr. Rajendra Kulkarni, Manager of Nisarg Srishti Welfare Foundation, who highlighted the organisation’s work in environmental conservation and explained the harmful effects of noise pollution on health and society. He also introduced Dr. Garima Kavthekar, Founder and Director of the Foundation, and appealed for support and participation in the NGO’s future initiatives. Noise Pollution Awareness Workshop Conducted at Samata Vidyalaya, Uruli Devachi The workshop was conducted by Dr. Garima Kavthekar, who explained the basic concepts of noise pollution, the meaning of decibel, and demonstrated the use of a decibel meter. She discussed the causes and effects of noise pollution with practical examples and conducted live demonstrations, showing methods such as controlled clapping and avoiding whistles to reduce noise in daily life. The students actively participated in the workshop, contributing to its success. Appreciating the initiative, Principal Mr. Ramchandra Ghadave praised the efforts of Dr. Kavthekar and emphasised the need for such awareness programmes. Noise Pollution Awareness Workshop Conducted at Samata Vidyalaya, Uruli Devachi The programme was attended by Mr. Rushikant Bhosale (Supervisor), Mr. Nana Zambre, Mr. Sharad More, women teachers, non-teaching staff members Mr. Bhokse, Mr. Memane, Mr. Tele, Principal Mr. Ramchandra Ghadave, and Mr. Ganpati Khot, member of Nisarg Srishti Welfare Foundation. The vote of thanks was delivered by Mr. Sadanand Narute, Art Teacher. Around 900 students and 20 teachers and non-teaching staff members participated in the programme, which was successfully conducted with the permission and support of the school administration.

In a moment of pride for Indian education, a distinguished delegation of academic leaders from India recently marked a successful and meaningful academic visit to the University of Colombo, Sri Lanka—underscoring India’s growing global footprint in educational leadership and collaboration. Indian Educators Lead Academic Engagement at University of Colombo The initiative was led by Dr. Ashwini Pansare , Principal of Abhinav Public Secondary and Senior Secondary School and a CBSE Resource Person, along with Dr. Deepali Shirgave , Principal of Vishwakalyan School, Chikhali, Pune, and a CBSE Master Trainer. Together, they spearheaded an effort that exemplified academic diplomacy rooted in shared values of quality, innovation, and cross-border knowledge exchange. The delegation brought together eminent educationists representing diverse academic and leadership roles within India’s schooling ecosystem. Among them were Dr. Suhas Tohgaonkar , Academic Director of Candid Public School, and Dr. Renu Patil , Principal of Pravara Girls English Medium School, Loni, and a CBSE Resource Person. Their collective presence reflected a strong blend of policy insight, institutional leadership, and classroom-level expertise. A Visit Anchored in Academic Purpose The visit was undertaken following formal approval and meticulous coordination through an academic liaison in Sri Lanka, highlighting the structured and strategic nature of the engagement. At the University of Colombo—one of South Asia’s most respected academic institutions—the delegation visited the Faculty of Science , where they engaged deeply with the Departments of Physics and Statistics . The interaction extended to an exploratory visit to the Zoology Museum , offering insights into the university’s approach to experiential learning, research preservation, and student engagement with scientific heritage. What distinguished the visit was not merely institutional exposure, but the quality of academic dialogue that unfolded. The Indian delegation engaged in substantive discussions with senior academicians and faculty members, including Prof. Janaka Kamalgoda , President of the International Association for Quality Education, Dr. Dinu Saha , Prof. Dr. Suratissa , and Prof. Chitralal . Conversations ranged from curriculum design and assessment frameworks to quality assurance, research culture, and the future of transnational academic collaboration. Building Bridges Through Dialogue Equally significant were the interactions with students, which fostered open dialogue on global learning pathways, comparative education systems, and the evolving role of educators in a rapidly changing world. These exchanges reinforced the shared challenges and aspirations of education systems across borders—particularly in South Asia—where equity, quality, and relevance remain central to educational discourse. The visit served as a platform to explore potential avenues for collaboration, including faculty exchange, joint academic programs, research partnerships, and best-practice sharing in school and higher education leadership. It also highlighted how Indian educators are increasingly positioning themselves as contributors to global conversations on educational quality, rather than remaining confined to domestic frameworks. Strengthening Indo–Sri Lankan Educational Relations Beyond institutional outcomes, the visit carried symbolic significance. It reinforced the long-standing cultural and intellectual ties between India and Sri Lanka, translating historical connections into contemporary academic partnerships. At a time when education is emerging as a key pillar of soft power and international cooperation, such initiatives demonstrate how leadership-driven engagement can strengthen bilateral relations at the grassroots academic level. The successful academic visit stands as a testament to India’s proactive approach in fostering global educational linkages and to the role of visionary school leaders in shaping international collaboration. As education systems worldwide grapple with transformation, such cross-border engagements offer a roadmap for shared learning, mutual respect, and collective progress. In essence, the University of Colombo visit was not merely an academic tour—it was a forward-looking step toward deeper Indo–Sri Lankan educational synergy, driven by leadership, dialogue, and a shared commitment to excellence in education

In an era obsessed with overnight success and instant visibility, actor Vikrant Massey offered a rare counter-narrative at a compelling FLO Hyderabad session titled “Success Without Shortcuts.”  His message was clear, grounded, and quietly powerful: real success is earned through patience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to self-growth. Addressing over 250 members of the FICCI Ladies Organisation at Hotel Daspalla, Jubilee Hills, Massey spoke not as a celebrity, but as a professional shaped by discipline, setbacks, and long-term thinking. The session, moderated by Prathibha Kunda, Chairperson, FLO Hyderabad , became a reflective dialogue on ambition, resilience, and redefining success beyond material milestones. You Update Your Phone Regularly—What About Updating Yourself?Vikrant Massey on Success Without Shortcuts at FLO Hyderabad From Survival to Contentment “Money was the reason I stepped out of my home at the age of 16,” Massey shared candidly. “My goals were simple then—education, a home, and eventually earning ₹1 lakh a month.” By the age of 24, he had bought his own house. Yet, he emphasized, that version of success did not remain static. “Over time, my definition of success changed. Today, after 21 years in the industry, I can say I am the most content actor,” he said, underscoring how inner fulfillment gradually replaced external benchmarks. Success Is Built When No One Is Watching Setting the tone for the evening, Prathibha Kunda noted that success without shortcuts demands consistency and character. “It’s about doing the right things even when no one is watching. It may take longer, but it builds credibility and achievements that truly endure,” she said. Massey echoed this sentiment by reframing failure as a prerequisite rather than an obstacle. “Success is often the compound effect of repeated failures,” he explained. “It doesn’t come easily. You have to work relentlessly for it.” He was unequivocal about the realities of the industry. “I don’t have an uncle in the film industry who can produce a film for me. For every role, I have to perform, prove myself, and position myself as a strong contender.” Learn, Unlearn, Relearn One of the most resonant moments of the session came when Massey spoke about adaptability in a rapidly changing world. “Shape up or ship out,” he said plainly. “We constantly update our mobile phones, but we forget to update ourselves.” For Massey, continuous learning is non-negotiable. “Learn, unlearn, and relearn must become the new normal if you want to survive and stay relevant today,” he remarked, drawing parallels between technological upgrades and personal evolution. You Update Your Phone Regularly—What About Updating Yourself?Vikrant Massey on Success Without Shortcuts at FLO Hyderabad Health, Money, and Honest Happiness Challenging popular clichés, Massey addressed the often-romanticized idea that money does not bring happiness. “I don’t agree with people who say money doesn’t give happiness,” he said. “Money does give happiness. It gives confidence—and confidence leads to happiness.” However, he was equally clear that well-being is foundational. “Good health is a big success. No matter how expensive the clothes you wear, without energy from within, it doesn’t matter.” Roots, Integrity, and Quiet Choices Reflecting on his journey from television to cinema, the 38-year-old actor spoke with pride about his beginnings. Having started with television shows like Balika Vadhu , Massey pointed out that many of India’s most respected actors—including Shah Rukh Khan and Naseeruddin Shah—also began their careers on television. On the industry’s growing fixation with visibility and social media, his stance was refreshingly detached. “I’m not a social-media person. I don’t party, and I don’t believe that socialising gets you work,” he said. “What truly matters is what you do in front of the camera.” When asked about personal inspirations, Massey’s answers revealed his value system. “My home is sacred to me. My mother is my greatest inspiration,” he shared. Despite her not being connected to the film world, her influence remains central to his life. Beyond cinema, he cited Rahul Dravid as someone he deeply admires for his values and integrity. Drawing the Line Massey concluded the session by speaking about boundaries—an often-overlooked aspect of sustainable success. His non-negotiables include spending weekends with family and keeping his personal life away from the media glare. In a room filled with professionals, leaders, and entrepreneurs, Vikrant Massey’s reflections landed not as motivational soundbites, but as lived truths. His journey served as a reminder that success without shortcuts is slower, quieter, and far more enduring—especially when it begins with the courage to continuously update oneself.

As 2025 gently folds into memory, I pause—not to rush ahead, but to look back with gratitude, humility, and deep appreciation. Some years pass quietly, leaving little trace. Others leave an indelible mark on your soul. For me, 2025 was unmistakably the latter—a year of profound learning, meaningful connections, bold exploration, and above all, personal transformation. If I were to sum it up in a single line: Whatever happens, truly happens for the higher good. Lessons Beyond the Classroom 2025 taught me lessons no book could ever capture. Patience when plans unraveled, courage when the path seemed uncertain, and faith when outcomes were beyond my control. I learned that growth often comes disguised as discomfort, and clarity only emerges when we dare to take the first step. Every challenge, conversation, and collaboration added layers to my understanding—not just of the world, but of myself. Networking That Meant More Than Connections This year expanded my world through people. I had the privilege of meeting inspiring leaders, dreamers, creators, and doers across industries. These weren’t mere exchanges of business cards—they were exchanges of perspective. I discovered that the right conversations open doors you didn’t even know existed. 2025 gifted me friendships, mentorships, opportunities, and a renewed faith that collective growth often surpasses individual achievement. Wins That Felt Like Milestones Among the highlights of 2025 was being crowned Mrs. India 2025 – 1st Runner Up by Diva Pageants , following my title as Mrs. Maharashtra 2024 . These accolades were more than crowns—they were affirmations of resilience, discipline, and unwavering belief. Gratitude to my mentors Anjana Ma’am and Karl Mascarenhas Sir. Each win reminded me that dreams, backed by purpose, do manifest. And that true success gains meaning when shared with those who supported you through unseen struggles. Nanditha Shenoy Chauhan -Mrs. Maharashtra 2024 , Mrs. India 2025 – 1st Runner Up Exploring, Experimenting, Evolving I gave myself permission to explore uncharted paths—venturing into new industries, embracing challenges, and stepping out of comfort zones. My work in real estate, for instance, broadened my professional outlook and honed my decision-making skills. In 2025, I learned to embrace every experience—whether it led to success or redirection—as a stepping stone toward evolution. Five Countries, Countless Perspectives Travel became a teacher of its own. Visiting five countries was more than crossing borders; it was an exercise in expanding horizons. Each culture, city, and journey deepened my perspective and strengthened my gratitude. Travel reminded me how vast the world is, yet how deeply connected we all remain—fueling inspiration, grounding my purpose, and celebrating diversity. The Strength of a Supportive Family Behind every milestone is a family that believed relentlessly. Their encouragement fortified me, their patience brought balance, and their love gave me the courage to dream bigger. No achievement is ever solitary, and I carry immense gratitude for the unwavering support that made this journey possible. Gratitude, Growth, and Grace As I thank 2025, I do so with a full heart. Thank you for the lessons, the losses that redirected me, the wins that empowered me, and the constant reminder that everything unfolds for a higher purpose. This year taught me to trust the process, honor the journey, and stay rooted in gratitude—no matter the outcome. Here’s to growth over perfection, purpose over pressure, and faith over fear. Thank you, 2025, for shaping me into a stronger, wiser, and more grounded version of myself. The journey continues—with gratitude as my compass and purpose as my path. Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nandithachauhan?igsh=N3dmMDl5b242YjJm&utm_source=qr

Contextualization, Localization, and Indigenization (CLI) are important approaches in modern education that aim to make learning relevant, meaningful, and connected to students’ real lives and cultural backgrounds. Education becomes more effective when learners can relate classroom lessons to their daily experiences, local surroundings, and cultural heritage. Many students face difficulties in understanding concepts because lessons are often abstract or disconnected from their environment. CLI bridges this gap by linking academic knowledge with real-world situations, community life, and indigenous wisdom. In the context of Philippine education in 2026, these approaches support inclusive, learner-centered, and culturally responsive education. Contextualization refers to the process of connecting academic concepts with real-life situations that learners commonly experience. When lessons are taught using familiar contexts, students can understand and remember concepts more easily. The REACT strategy—Relating, Experiencing, Applying, Cooperating, and Transferring—is commonly used to implement contextualized learning. For example, science lessons can be taught by discussing local environmental problems such as river pollution or waste management, while mathematics can be explained using market prices, transportation fares, or agricultural measurements. Contextualization helps learners develop practical knowledge, critical thinking skills, and the ability to apply what they learn beyond the classroom. Localization focuses on adapting teaching and learning materials to the local community by using locally available resources, examples, and languages. This approach emphasizes the use of familiar objects, stories, and situations in teaching. For instance, teachers can use local fruits like bananas, mangoes, or coconuts to teach counting, fractions, or measurements. Local folktales and legends can be integrated into reading lessons, while science classes can explore local plants, soil types, and weather conditions. Localization strengthens the connection between schools and communities, makes learning more accessible and affordable, and encourages learners to appreciate and protect their local environment. Indigenization involves recognizing, respecting, and integrating indigenous knowledge systems, traditions, values, and practices into formal education. This approach acknowledges that indigenous communities possess valuable knowledge developed over generations. Examples include teaching traditional farming methods, herbal medicine, local music and dances, storytelling traditions, and indigenous ways of resolving conflicts. Studying local heroes, elders, and community leaders also helps learners understand their cultural roots. Indigenization plays a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage, building learners’ pride and identity, and promoting respect for diversity and inclusion. Integrating Contextualization, Localization, and Indigenization for Inclusive and Meaningful Learning -Dr Pratik Mungekar . The importance of Contextualization, Localization, and Indigenization can be seen at multiple levels. For students, these approaches make learning more enjoyable, meaningful, and engaging, while improving understanding, confidence, and participation. For teachers, CLI encourages creativity, innovation, and flexibility in lesson planning, leading to stronger teacher–student relationships. For society, these approaches promote community participation, support sustainable development, and ensure the preservation of cultural and indigenous knowledge. In the current educational scenario, particularly in the Philippines from 2025 to 2026, there is a growing emphasis on culturally responsive teaching, mother tongue-based instruction, and community collaboration. Educational policies and curriculum reforms increasingly support localized and indigenous learning practices. Teacher training programs are also focusing on inclusive education and the integration of local and indigenous knowledge. At the same time, technology is being used to document, preserve, and share cultural traditions and indigenous knowledge through digital platforms, ensuring their continuity for future generations. Looking ahead, the future of Contextualization, Localization, and Indigenization in education is promising. Digital tools and artificial intelligence can be used to preserve local languages and indigenous knowledge through online archives and interactive learning resources. Continuous teacher capacity building will be essential to help educators design effective CLI-based lessons and conduct action research within their communities. Curriculum frameworks are expected to become more flexible, allowing regional adaptations and project-based learning that addresses real community issues. Strong policy support and collaboration with indigenous leaders will further strengthen the implementation of these approaches. The scope of Contextualization, Localization, and Indigenization is broad and applicable across all levels of education, from primary to higher education. These approaches can be effectively implemented in science, mathematics, humanities, arts, and vocational education. They are particularly valuable in rural, tribal, and marginalized communities, where education plays a key role in empowerment and social development. By promoting inclusive, equitable, and lifelong learning, CLI contributes significantly to national development goals. In conclusion, Contextualization, Localization, and Indigenization are not merely teaching strategies but essential foundations of meaningful education. They ensure that learning is rooted in learners’ real-life experiences, local environments, and cultural identities. As education systems move forward, especially within the Philippine context of 2026 and beyond, these approaches will help develop learners who are academically competent, culturally grounded, socially responsible, and prepared for future challenges. Education that values local wisdom alongside global knowledge creates individuals who understand their roots while confidently engaging with the wider world. References Bruner, J. S. (1966). Toward a theory of instruction. Harvard University Press. Department of Education (DepEd), Philippines. (2019). Policy guidelines on the implementation of the K to 12 basic education curriculum. DepEd. Department of Education (DepEd), Philippines. (2020). Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd) Program Framework. DepEd. Gay, G. (2018). Culturally responsive teaching: Theory, research, and practice (3rd ed.). Teachers College Press. Kolb, D. A. (1984). Experiential learning: Experience as the source of learning and development. Prentice Hall. Ladson-Billings, G. (1995). Toward a theory of culturally relevant pedagogy. American Educational Research Journal, 32(3), 465–491. McRel International. (2003). Using contextual teaching and learning strategies. McRel. Moll, L. C., Amanti, C., Neff, D., & Gonzalez, N. (1992). Funds of knowledge for teaching: Using a qualitative approach to connect homes and classrooms. Theory Into Practice, 31(2), 132–141. UNESCO. (2017). Education for sustainable development goals: Learning objectives. UNESCO Publishing. UNESCO. (2019). Indigenous knowledge and education: Policies and practices. UNESCO Publishing. Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes. Harvard University Press.

Ramagya School recently showcased the power of storytelling, creativity, and experiential learning through a series of three captivating theatrical productions based on timeless literary classics— The Adventures of Tom Sawyer , Matilda , and Alice in Wonderland . Performed by students, the plays highlighted not only exceptional stagecraft but also the school’s commitment to holistic education through the arts. The stage adaptation of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer , based on Mark Twain’s beloved novel, transported audiences to the lively world of a mischievous young boy growing up along the Mississippi River. Through Tom’s adventures with his best friend Huckleberry Finn, the performance beautifully captured themes of childhood innocence, friendship, courage, and moral growth, resonating strongly with viewers of all ages. Ramagya School Brings Literary Classics to Life Through Three Powerful Stage Performances The second production, Matilda , adapted from Roald Dahl’s iconic story, celebrated intelligence, resilience, and kindness. The play followed the journey of a gifted young girl who, despite neglect from her parents and intimidation at school, remains confident and compassionate. The students brought to life Matilda’s courage as she stood up against injustice, discovered her special powers, and helped her teacher Miss Honey reclaim happiness—sending a powerful message about standing up for what is right. The theatrical series concluded with Alice in Wonderland , Lewis Carroll’s enchanting fantasy. The performance took the audience on a whimsical journey through a magical world filled with eccentric characters such as the Mad Hatter, the Cheshire Cat, and the Queen of Hearts. With imaginative sets, vibrant costumes, and expressive performances, the play highlighted curiosity, imagination, and the joy of embracing the unexpected. Adding a distinctive and intellectually engaging dimension to the series was Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy, The Importance of Being Earnest – A Trivial Comedy for Serious People . Set in the Victorian world where social manners mattered more than truth, identities were delightfully negotiable, and honesty was hilariously complicated, the play showcased sharp wit, satire, and refined humour. Through clever dialogues and polished performances, students brought alive Wilde’s critique of societal norms, marriage, and morality—demonstrating remarkable understanding, timing, and theatrical maturity. Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Utkarsh Gupta, Managing Director, Ramagya Group , said, “At Ramagya, we strongly believe that education goes beyond textbooks. Theatre plays a vital role in nurturing creativity, confidence, communication skills, and emotional intelligence among students. Through these classic stories, our children not only explored literature but also imbibed values such as courage, empathy, imagination, and integrity. It is inspiring to see our students bring such meaningful narratives to life on stage.” The performances were met with enthusiastic applause from parents, teachers, and guests, reinforcing Ramagya School’s focus on blending academics with arts, culture, and values-based learning. By reimagining literary masterpieces through theatre, the school continues to create enriching platforms that encourage students to express themselves, think critically, and grow into well-rounded individuals.

Why The New Year Resolution Pressure Is a Nervous System Issue and How Gentle Support Can Help. Every January arrives with the same familiar message: This is your chance to start over.
New habits. New goals. A new version of yourself. For some, this promise feels energizing. For many others, it feels heavy—triggering anxiety, fatigue, procrastination, or a quiet sense of failure before the year has truly begun. Across psychology, holistic health and everyday wellness conversations, a shared insight is emerging: struggling with New Year resolutions may have far less to do with motivation and far more to do with the nervous system. Why The New Year Resolution Pressure Is a Nervous System Issue and How Gentle Support Can Help The Science: When “Fresh Starts” Trigger Stress Behavioral psychology describes the motivation spike that accompanies milestones like New Year’s Day , Monday , Birthdays , Anniversary as the fresh start effect. In theory, these moments help people mentally separate from past mistakes and imagine change more clearly. But neuroscience tells a more nuanced story related to the nervous sytem . The nervous system is wired first for survival, not self-improvement. When goals are framed with urgency, comparison, or self-criticism—“I must fix myself this year” - the brain can interpret them as threats. This activates stress responses such as fight, flight, or freeze, making focus, consistency, and emotional regulation more difficult. Rather than increasing discipline, resolution pressure can impair it. Suffering from the “Fresh Start Effect” This New Year? : Rakshaa Chhabriaa Can you believe that 61.7% of people feel pressured to set New Year resolutions? This statistic alone reveals something important: for many people, the New Year doesn’t feel like inspiration , it feels like expectation. It tells a deeper story of not heading for a clean slate but an obligation. Over the past few weeks, this question has come up repeatedly in my consultations and client questions . Why do New Year resolutions matter so much to us—and why do they so often fall apart? Such over rated new start moments give us hope that the “old version” of ourselves can be left behind and replaced with something better, more disciplined, more successful. And yes this works for a short time maybe few days or weeks or even few months. The fresh start effect is excellent at helping us begin. But in my experience, it rarely helps anyone to continue and stay on it . When goals are ambitious which they are meant to be or emotionally loaded or disconnected from our real capacity, motivation quickly fades. The nervous system senses pressure rather than possibility and responds by pulling the brakes. If you’ve ever dropped a resolution and wondered what’s wrong with you, you already know this pattern. Client Case Example 1 : 
Alokya a 17-year-old student, set a New Year’s resolution to wake up early every day and study consistently. The new year felt like a “clean slate,” and Alokya was highly motivated on January 1st, experiencing the fresh start effect—the belief that a new time period would create lasting change. What Happened:
For the first week, Alokya followed the plan. However, by mid-January, he began oversleeping, procrastinating and feeling overwhelmed. Alokya reported racing thoughts, fatigue, and a sense of “shutting down” when thinking about studying. Underlying Issue:
The resolution failed not because of laziness or lack of motivation or will Power but due to nervous system dysregulation. Alokya’s nervous system was frequently in a stress response (sympathetic activation), likely from ongoing academic pressure and poor sleep habits. When stressed, Alokya’s brain prioritized survival and emotional regulation over long-term goals. Why The New Year Resolution Pressure Is a Nervous System Issue and How Gentle Support Can Help Outcome:
Each time Alokya attempted to restart the resolution, his dysregulated nervous system made consistency difficult. The fresh start effect created short-term motivation, but without addressing regulation like sleep, stress, emotional safety , the behavior change was not sustainable. 
The client’s failure to maintain the New Year’s resolution was not a willpower or motivation issue. It was a physiological limitation—a dysregulated nervous system that could not support consistent habit formation, even when motivation was high. 1. Set Believable Goals We reduced Alokya’s resolutions to goals that felt genuinely believable from where he was—not where he thought he should be. Instead of aiming for a complete overhaul, he focused on improving his existing choices by about 15–20%. This shift alone lowered his internal resistance and restored a sense of agency. 2. Be Prepared to Fail intentionally We normalized failure as part of the process. Alokya made an agreement with himself to look at failure head on , confront it ,eradicate all the shame , guilt and helplessness with Bach remedies and practice returning without self-criticism. This removed the emotional charge from setbacks and kept him engaged rather than discouraged. 3. Support the Emotional State Behind Change Here’s where growth mode truly switched on. Alokya noticed that his inner dialogue was harsh and unforgiving, especially when he felt behind. Alongside Bach Flower Remedies he also supported himself with our reflective practices during this transition. Rather than trying to “push through,” the remedies were used as a gentle reminder to soften self-judgment, reduce pressure, and stay emotionally available to learning. Over time, he reported feeling less reactive, more patient with himself , and more able to stay consistent—even when progress was imperfect. The change wasn’t dramatic. It was subtle—and sustainable. Bach remedies supported and worked on these subtle nervous sytem nuances to help him thrive instead of survive . Case Example 2 : The High Achiever Who Shut Down Mira , a 34-year-old professional, began the year with a meticulously planned list: daily workouts, strict nutrition changes, and ambitious productivity goals. Within weeks, she experienced insomnia, irritability, and an inability to start tasks she normally handled with ease. Viewed through a nervous-system-informed lens, Mira wasn’t failing—she was overwhelmed. Bach remedies support helped her goals reduce to a slower pace and framed around safety and sustainability, her energy and motivation gradually returned. Case Example 3 : The Spiritual Seeker Who Lost Her Rhythm Lina, a yoga practitioner in her early forties, noticed a pattern: every January she committed to new spiritual routines—earlier mornings, longer practices, stricter discipline—only to abandon them by February. Over time, she realized her body associated New Year commitments with rigidity and self-punishment. When she shifted towards gentler intentions with Bach remedies allowing her practices to evolve naturally rather than forcing them—her sense of connection and consistency returned. Case Example 4 : The Burned-Out Parent Nilesh , a parent of two, vowed to overhaul his health and career in January. Early mornings, strict meal plans, and ambitious professional goals quickly led to exhaustion. When he replaced rigid resolutions with supportive routines—short walks, realistic meals, and intentional rest—his energy stabilized, and habits began to stick. Such small important nervous sytem resets are only achieved with Bach remedies which help us move forward with a balanced nervous sytem. A takeaway from all th above case examples: Growth Mode Isn’t About Becoming Someone Else Bach flower remedies don’t force transformation. They are traditionally used to support emotional states that often block growth—such as fear of failure, rigidity, overwhelm, and excessive self-criticism. When these states soften, mindset shifts become easier to access. Growth mode isn’t something you discipline yourself into. It emerges when the nervous system feels supported enough to try again. Switching On Growth Mode Gently Growth mode isn’t about becoming a new person overnight but through gentle nervous sytem alignment . The Real Issue Isn’t Willpower—It’s Capacity Lifestyle and wellness culture often promote dramatic transformation at the start of the year. Social media feeds fill with “New Year, New You” messaging that suggests change should be immediate and visible. But the nervous system prefers gradual adaptation. When demands exceed capacity, the body may respond with procrastination, fatigue, or rebellion not because a person doesn’t care, but because the system is overloaded. What we often call “lack of discipline” is actually a sign that the system is overloaded. Sustainable change requires a nervous system that feels safe enough to explore, experiment, and recover from setbacks. So the real question becomes: How do we switch from PRESSURE MODE INTO GROWTH MODE ? Regulation Before Resolution Is The Answer : Across disciplines, a shared conclusion emerges: nervous system regulation is a prerequisite for sustainable change. When the body feels relatively safe and supported, the nervous system can access states associated with curiosity, learning, and consistency. This is where real long term growth occurs - not through force, but through attunement. The Inner Experience: When the Body Resists Change From a holistic and spiritual perspective, this resistance is not a flaw—it is communication. While the mind declares renewal, the nervous system remembers past exhaustion, disappointment, and pressure. When resolutions are rooted in self-judgment rather than self-compassion, the body responds with contraction. Anxiety, avoidance, or shutdown are not signs of weakness; they are protective responses but do not help you grow . Hence changing these energies with Bach is absolutely important for a healthy balanced mind and body . Bach Flower Remedies are A Gentle Emotional Adjunct needed by all living things at some time or the other . Redefining the New Year What if the New Year didn’t demand reinvention—but regulation?
What if success wasn’t measured by how much we change, but by how well we support ourselves? When safety comes first, change becomes less about fixing what’s “wrong” and more about allowing what’s already possible. Growth unfolds gradually, honestly, and sustainably. Perhaps the most meaningful resolution is not to push harder—but to listen more closely. Practitioner Insight “When people struggle with New Year resolutions, it’s rarely because they lack commitment. It’s because their nervous system doesn’t feel safe enough to sustain the pace of change they’re demanding of themselves.”
 Heres how we coach and train people in leadership to achieve goals : 1. Set Believable Goals Instead of asking, “What should I fix about myself?”, ask:
“What feels genuinely doable from where I am right now?” Believable goals might mean improving your current choices by just 10–20%. The nervous system responds positively to success it can trust. Small, realistic changes build momentum far more effectively than dramatic reinventions. 2. Be Prepared to make changes if things don’t work out Failure isn’t a sign that growth isn’t happening—it’s part of how growth works. When you are not afraid to fail there’s no reaction that affects you actually . 3. Support the Emotional State Behind Change This is where many people overlook an essential piece. When the emotional state is overwhelmed, self-critical or fearful of getting it wrong, mindset work alone often isn’t enough. The nervous system needs reassurance before it can engage with change The simple, humble Bach flower remedies— not as a quick fix, but as a gentle emotional companion during transitions. I call Bach flower remedies the modern day adaptogens which will soon become the necessity just like your D3 and B12 vitamins helping you to support the ever changing conditions in the world with ease namely : * Corporate Pressure from high targets and expectations * Fear of failure or self-doubt * Struggling to adapt to change * Harsh inner dialogue. True growth doesn’t come from rejecting who you’ve been. It comes from creating enough inner safety to evolve naturally. Bach Flower Remedies don’t force growth. Instead, they are often described as helping soften the emotional resistance that keeps us stuck in old patterns making it easier to stay curious, compassionate, and open to learning. When growth is supported rather than demanded, it tends to last. If you would like to chat more about these solutions , workshops and sessions on the remedies, she would be delighted to chat with you about them. Follow me on Linkedin : @rakshaa Chhabriaa http://linkedin.com/in/rakshaa-chhabriaa-bb8b52388 Insta link : rakshaachhabriaa https://www.instagram.com/rakshaachhabriaa?igsh=ZTN6MDl2cXdicnoz&utm_source=ig_contact_invite Facebook : Rakshaa Chhabriaa https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068836840546&mibextid=LQQJ4d You Tube : RakshaaChhabriaa https://youtube.com/@RakshaaChhabriaaa?si=2Gsu5TZsUsf0joZe