6, Aug 2025
Yoga for Men’s Mental Health

By – Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Author, Columnist, Founder – Akshar Yoga Kendraa
Work – Yoga and Spiritual Leader

YOGA FOR MEN

In today’s fast-paced and high-pressure world, men are silently grappling with rising levels of stress, anxiety, burnout, and emotional fatigue. While traditional masculinity has long glorified emotional suppression and resilience, the modern man is beginning to realise that true strength lies in healing, self-awareness, and mental well-being. Yoga, especially when rooted in the Himalayan yogic lineage, is emerging as a transformative solution for men seeking mental clarity, emotional stability, and spiritual grounding.

Breaking the Silence Around Men’s Mental Health

Historically, mental health discussions have been more accessible to women, while men often shy away due to social conditioning. This silence leads to an internal build-up of emotional stress, eventually resulting in depression, addiction, or physical illness. Here is where yoga serves as a safe, non-judgmental, and deeply effective method of addressing men’s mental wellness from the inside out.

Through consistent yoga practice at your schedule, men can learn to pause, reflect, and build awareness of their inner worlds. The teachings of the Spiritual Yoga Masters of India, especially those descending from Himalayan yogic traditions, offer ancient methods that go beyond physical postures, guiding men to connect with their breath, mind, and higher consciousness.

The Role of Pranayama and Breathwork Training

Breathing is often taken for granted, but it’s also the first system to get disturbed under stress. The Himalayan approach to Pranayama and breathwork training teaches men to harness their breath to manage their minds. Techniques like Anulom-Vilom, Bhramari, and Kapalbhati stimulate the nervous system, reduce cortisol levels, and restore emotional balance. This is especially beneficial for working professionals, athletes, and entrepreneurs who operate under constant pressure.

By integrating breathwork into their daily routine, men can develop a powerful tool to manage anger, anxiety, and impulsive behaviour — thus nurturing a balanced and composed mind.

Mudra and Mantra: Tapping into Inner Power

The practice of mudra and mantra is an essential part of yoga for healing and wellness. Mudras—symbolic hand gestures—channel energy to different parts of the body and mind, while mantras use sound vibration to clear mental clutter. For men, incorporating these practices helps awaken latent energy, enhance concentration, and build emotional resilience. The sacred sounds and vibrations offer not only spiritual elevation but also psychological strength in dealing with day-to-day challenges.

Healing through Online Platforms

Thanks to technology, yoga is no longer limited by geography. Men from around the world can now access authentic Himalayan teachings through virtual yoga training platforms. These include online meditation classes, online healing classes, and remote yoga teacher training — all tailored to fit a busy lifestyle. Whether it’s early morning breathwork before work or guided meditation at night, these platforms offer flexibility without compromising quality.

Many men who start with an online session often progress into more structured learning through best online yoga certifications or even immersive residential yoga teacher training programs in India. These experiences deepen their understanding of yogic philosophy, mental conditioning, and self-care.

Yoga Therapy for Deep Psychological Healing

For those struggling with deeper mental health issues such as trauma, chronic stress, or depression, a yoga therapy course in India offers a therapeutic, holistic pathway to healing. These courses combine physical postures, meditation, lifestyle practices, and psychological counselling — rooted in the wisdom of the Himalayas and the compassion of seasoned masters.

The therapeutic lens of yoga emphasises self-acceptance and gradual transformation. Through personalised attention and ancient techniques, men can identify and release limiting beliefs, address emotional blocks, and cultivate a sustainable state of inner peace.

Reclaiming the Masculine Spirit through Yoga

Yoga redefines masculinity by teaching men that strength is not just about physical prowess but emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and spiritual awareness. It equips them to be better leaders, fathers, partners, and friends. The teachings of the Modern Himalayan Yogi guide them toward balance — where action is rooted in awareness, and ambition is tempered by wisdom.

In conclusion, yoga is not merely a tool for flexibility or fitness; it is a powerful path for healing and mental wellness. With the rise of accessible, high-quality online and offline training opportunities, there has never been a better time for men to embrace yoga — not just to cope with mental health challenges but to truly thrive.

6, Aug 2025
RBI Holds Rates Steady, Boosting Confidence in Affordable Housing Sector

Shishir Baijal, Chairman and Managing Director, Knight Frank India.

“The RBI’s decision to hold rates steady underscores its calibrated approach amidst a complex economic backdrop. While inflation has moderated, it remains uneven, and the central bank is understandably cautious given the persistent risks from global commodity prices, geopolitical tensions, and volatile capital flows.

 For the real estate sector, the continuation of stable policy rates and surplus liquidity conditions provide much-needed predictability and helps preserve affordability for homebuyers. Notably, some banks have already reduced consumer home loan rates – a move that supports housing demand, especially in the mid-income and low-income segment – and more transmission in interest rates is underway. This policy continuity, coupled with easing credit conditions and steady economic growth can provide a boost to the affordable housing categories.”

6, Aug 2025
RBI Holds Repo Rate at 5.5%: Steady Borrowing Costs to sustain momentum in the Real Estate Sector

In a widely anticipated move, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has maintained the repo rate at 5.5% during its August monetary policy review, a decision welcomed by the real estate sector. With inflation easing and economic uncertainty stemming from US trade tariffs, the RBI’s neutral stance offers much-needed stability for homebuyers and developers alike. Industry experts say that unchanged borrowing costs will continue to support demand for housing loans, ensuring sustained momentum in both affordable and premium housing segments.

Mr. Prashant Sharma, President, NAREDCO Maharashtra

“The RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.5% despite easing inflation reflects a cautious yet balanced approach to managing global headwinds and domestic stability. For the real estate sector, a status quo on rates ensures continued momentum in homebuyer sentiment and sustains the affordability factor in housing. However, given the moderating inflation and macroeconomic uncertainties, the industry looks forward to a calibrated rate cut in upcoming reviews to further support growth, especially in the affordable and mid-income housing segments.”

Mr. Kaushal Agarwal, Chairman, The Guardians Real Estate Advisory

“The real estate sector has shown resilience despite global uncertainties. With inflation under control and GDP growth projected steadily, a repo rate cut would have been the perfect catalyst to trigger festive season demand. However, the RBI’s decision to hold the rate steady keeps the environment predictable and EMIs affordable. The industry remains cautiously optimistic that a more dovish stance could follow if inflation stays within the comfort zone.”

Mr. Vikas Jain, CEO, Labdhi Lifestyle and President, NAREDCO Maharashtra NextGen

“While the RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate ensures monetary stability, the sector was optimistic about a rate cut given the drop in inflation to 2.1%. Affordable housing and first-time homebuyers remain extremely interest rate sensitive. A cut would have significantly pushed housing demand forward. Nevertheless, we hope the RBI remains open to easing rates in the upcoming cycles to spur broader economic and sectoral growth.”

Ms. Shraddha Kedia-Agarwal, Director, Transcon Developers

“With inflation easing and homebuyer interest still high, the real estate sector was hopeful for a rate cut to further catalyse housing demand. However, the RBI’s decision to maintain status quo reflects a watchful approach to global uncertainties like trade tariffs. Stability in rates does support long-term planning for both developers and homebuyers, but a softer interest rate regime would provide the real boost required for deeper market penetration, especially in urban metros like Mumbai.”

Mr. Dhruman Shah, Promoter, Ariha Group

“In a scenario where global trade dynamics are shifting and inflation has visibly moderated, the real estate industry expected some policy support via rate easing. Nonetheless, the RBI’s decision to maintain the current rate suggests that stability is being prioritized. While this helps developers plan without sudden shifts in financial costs, we anticipate a pro-growth signal in the next review, especially to give a push to the affordable housing segment.”

Mr. Nihar Jayesh Thakkar, Founder, The Mandate House Pvt. Ltd.

“The MPC’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged is a balanced one, considering the broader economic landscape. For real estate stakeholders—especially in the advisory and sales ecosystem—this offers continuity in buyer behavior and home loan affordability. That said, a future rate cut would help unlock fence-sitters and attract a new wave of aspirational buyers, especially in the mid- and premium segments.”

6, Aug 2025
RBI Holds Rates at 5.5%, Signals Confidence in Growth Amid Easing Inflation

 Mr. Umesh Revankar, Executive Vice Chairman, Shriram Finance Ltd.

“The RBI’s decision to hold the repo rate steady at 5.5% with a neutral policy stance reflects a balanced approach, prioritizing both inflation control and growth. The maintained GDP forecast of 6.5% for FY26 signals continued confidence in India’s domestic economic resilience, supported by strong rural demand and a gradual uptick in urban consumption. The downward revision of the inflation outlook to 3.1% from 3.7% is encouraging, suggesting easing price pressures and improved supply conditions.

RBI’s caution on external risks, particularly global uncertainties and geopolitical developments, could impact growth momentum. However, the policy outcome aligns well with the current economic context and provides stable business environment. We are optimistic about the credit demand outlook, especially in semi-urban and rural markets, and are well-positioned to support inclusive growth through sustained lending activity.”

6, Aug 2025
Pharmaceutical company Medistep Healthcare’s IPO Price Fixed at Rs. 43 Per Share; Issue Opens on August 8

New Delhi, August 6, 2025: Medistep Healthcare Limited, a rapidly growing player in India’s pharmaceutical and healthcare market, has fixed the price of its upcoming Initial Public Offering (IPO) at Rs. 43 per equity share. The offering comprises up to 37,44,000 equity shares with a face value of Rs.10 each. The IPO, which is being offered through a fixed price issue, will open for subscription on Friday, August 8, 2025, and close on Tuesday, August 12, 2025.

The lot size for the issue has been set at 3,000 equity shares. The shares are proposed to be listed on the Emerge Platform of National Stock Exchange of India Limited on August 18, 2025.

Of the total offer, not less than 17,79,000 equity shares are reserved for retail individual investors, not more than 17,76,000 equity shares are allocated for non-institutional investors, and 1,89,000 equity shares are reserved for the market maker portion. Fast Track Finsec Private Limited is acting as the lead manager to the issue, and Cameo Corporate Services Limited is the registrar.

Medisteps intends to raise approximately Rs 16.09 crore from the ipo. The net proceeds from the IPO will be utilised to fund capital expenditure towards the purchase of plant and machinery for expansion at the company’s existing manufacturing facility, to meet working capital requirements, to meet general corporate purposes and to meet out the Issue Expenses.

Founded in June 2023, Medistep Healthcare Limited is engaged in the manufacturing of sanitary pads and energy powders, and in the trading of pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, surgical, and intimate care products through an established distribution network. The company expanded its footprint in 2024 with the acquisition of the business of M/s MG Pharma, a proprietorship concern.

The company reported revenue from operations of Rs.4,965.48 lakh in FY25, compared to Rs.3,907.19 lakh in FY24. EBITDA stood at Rs.560 lakh for FY25, up from Rs.454.2 lakh in the previous year, while profit after tax (PAT) rose to Rs.414.42 lakh from Rs.332.76 lakh.

Following the issue, the company’s equity share capital will increase from 1,04,65,546 shares to 1,42,09,546 shares, with a post-issue implied market capitalization of Rs.61.10 crore.

Commenting on the IPO, Mr. Girdhari Lal Prajapati, Managing Director, Medistep Healthcare Limited, said, “The proceeds from the IPO will strategically support our expansion efforts and reinforce our footprint in both domestic and international markets. Our diversified and growing product portfolio positions us well to capitalize on the rising global and domestic demand for health and hygiene solutions.”

6, Aug 2025
Bimaplan Appoints Banking Veteran Anurag Mishra as CEO to Lead Global Expansion

Mumbai, India – 06 August, 2025: Bimaplan, India’s leading embedded insurance platform, has appointed seasoned international banker Anurag Mishra as its Chief Executive Officer. This strategic leadership transition comes as the company sharpens its focus on profitability and accelerates expansion into global markets.

Mishra brings nearly 30 years of experience in global banking and financial services, most recently serving as Regional Head for Global Trade, Commodity & Supply Chain Finance at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank Group, managing complex financial operations across emerging markets. Previously, he spent 15 years at Standard Chartered Bank, including a tenure as CEO of Standard Chartered Bank, Nepal, where he led transformative initiatives and built strong institutional relationships across regulatory and diplomatic circles.

“Anurag’s deep expertise in financial services and emerging markets makes him the ideal partner for Bimaplan’s next phase of growth,” said Vikul Goyal, Founder of Bimaplan. “While I continue to focus on product innovation and strategic partnerships, Anurag will drive operational excellence and business expansion.”

The leadership change coincides with Bimaplan’s growing global ambitions. Following the successful launch of its first international program in Zambia, in partnership with a local microfinance institution, the company is now actively expanding across the Middle East and Africa. These regions represent significant opportunities for Bimaplan’s technology-first approach to embedded insurance, designed to seamlessly integrate coverage into financial platforms.

“The global embedded insurance market holds immense potential to enhance financial inclusion,” said Anurag Mishra, CEO, Bimaplan. “I look forward to leveraging my experience to forge strategic partnerships and navigate regulatory landscapes across key emerging markets.”

Since its founding, Bimaplan has delivered insurance solutions to nearly 5 million customers by embedding policies into digital journeys at the point of transaction. This model has proven especially effective in reaching underserved segments traditionally left out by conventional insurance distribution.

Operating under Purple Umbrella Fintech Private Limited, Bimaplan has built partnerships with leading insurers and digital platforms in India. The company is backed by marquee investors including Orios Venture Partners, Y Combinator, and Finsight Ventures, having raised $6 million across two funding rounds.

“Bimaplan’s leadership transition marks a pivotal moment in its evolution into a global insurtech leader,” said Sukhmani Bedi, Partner at Orios Venture Partners. “Anurag’s international experience, combined with Vikul’s entrepreneurial vision, sets the stage for sustainable growth across emerging markets.”

With a scalable platform that requires minimal localization, Bimaplan is poised to replicate its success in international markets, starting with Zambia and extending to other underserved geographies where microfinance institutions play a critical role.

6, Aug 2025
Alt’s new campaign Featuring World Chess Champion Gukesh highlights the importance of portfolio diversification through alternative investments

Bengaluru, August 06th 2025: Alt, India’s leading platform for alternative investments, has rolled out its latest digital-first brand campaign, ‘Zugzwang-Proof Your Portfolio’, featuring the youngest world chess champion Gukesh D. This innovative campaign draws parallels from the game of chess to build awareness on the importance of portfolio diversification for long term wealth generation and the role played by alternative investments in building a well-diversified portfolio.

In chess, zugzwang (German for “compulsion to move”) describes a situation where a player is at a disadvantage because they are forced to make a move wherein any legal move that they make in this position would further worsen their situation, often leading to a loss or significant disadvantage.

Similar zugzwang situations could also arise in any investor’s financial investments. When an investment portfolio relies entirely on only one asset class, it is left exposed to market volatility and potential zugzwang situations during unfavorable conditions.  The film brings this concept to life by portraying these potential zugzwang situations in investments and how portfolio diversification into alternative assets can avoid them.

Gukesh takes center-stage in the film, demonstrating how preparation, foresight, and a multi-faceted strategy are equally critical for success in both chess and investing.

Commenting on the campaign launch Mr. Kunal Moktan, Co-founder, Alt said, ‘‘We are excited to feature chess prodigy Gukesh D in our latest digital campaign. The campaign aims to educate investors at all levels about the advantages of building a well-balanced portfolio by leveraging private market alternative assets like commercial real estate, AIF funds, REITs, and private credit. Gukesh’s journey is proof that thinking ahead changes the game, and that’s exactly what we at Alt want to help investors do.”

6, Aug 2025
Four Ways to Strengthen Your Medical School Application

6th August 2025: With schools coming to an end, aspiring medical students from India are facing the critical step of preparing for their medical school applications. This process requires lots of planning, dedication, and a strategic approach to stand out in the competitive field of medicine. Prospective students must focus on academic excellence, and develop strong personal statements that reflect their passion for healthcare. With the right preparation, students from India can position themselves for success in their medical school journey, paving the way for a future in medicine that aligns with the region’s growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals.

SGU STUDENT

It’s no secret that admission to medical school can be competitive. You’re likely pretty familiar with the basic requirements such as maintaining a good GPA, achieving a strong ILETS score, and writing a compelling personal statement.

But if you want to push your medical school application beyond the ordinary, you’ll need to learn how to make each element as strong as possible.

St. George’s University, School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies had a discussion with Dr. Ryan Gray, founder of Medical School Headquarters, on ways students can strengthen their medical school applications. Dr. Gray has advised countless students who’ve gained acceptance to medical school and here, provides some of his best application tips.

How to make your medical school application stand out

Dr. Gray explains that the best way to build an impressive application is to avoid looking at medical school requirements as a rigid list of boxes you’ll need to check.

The following strategies can make a big impact during the MD program application process:

1. Focus on school first

The road to medical school is long. There are several aspects that make up a completed application, and some of them take a considerable amount of time. One of the most helpful pieces of advice Dr. Gray offers to pre-med students is to pace yourself.

Medical schools seek students capable of handling the program’s rigorous academic demands. While GPA isn’t the sole factor, it remains significant, with 3.5 being the average GPA for regional students accepted into medical students. To improve or maintain your GPA, Dr. Gray advises learning effective time management and study methods early on. Once you have strong grades, you can focus on other application requirements.

2. Demonstrate what you’re passionate about

Realistically, you know you’ll be applying to medical school among a sea of other students who have also obtained strong GPAs, impressive test scores, and have a range of related experiences. In that environment, you can let your unique passions and interests shine through to stand out from the other applicants. Your personal statement can be a great place to highlight the things you’re passionate about and demonstrate your leadership and analytical skills.

Dr. Gray advises students to try to focus more on what they enjoy and that will make the application and interview a little different and create conversation.

Medical schools look for a range of different qualities in promising applicants, from social skills to critical-thinking abilities to cultural competence. Whether you’re interested in music, sports, working with children, supporting community issues, or anything in between, there are numerous ways you can showcase the characteristics they’re seeking.

3. Embrace Imperfection:

There are many unwritten rules pre-med students think they need to abide by, but it’s helpful to maintain some perspective. While schools scrutinize your grades and test scores, that doesn’t mean you need to be perfect. In fact, an increasing number of medical schools have been adopting a holistic review process. If you happen to have a bad semester or a bad year because you’re away from home, you can still make the best out of your medical career and thrive through the challenges.

4. Importance of English Proficiency:

For international applicants, one other key element to consider is the performance on an English language test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam. Your IELTS score can have an impact on your MD program admission because it demonstrates the ability to use English competently – critical for the study and practice of medicine in an international setting.

Prepare for your future as a physician

There’s no denying how challenging it can be to get into medical school. But with this advice on how to make your medical school application stand out, you should feel ready to put your best foot forward.

6, Aug 2025
My Office Radio: Transforming Workplace Communication with AI-Powered Radio Engagement

Office radio

August 6, 2025: As businesses seek smarter, more engaging ways to connect with their teams, My Office Radio has emerged as a game-changer in the internal communications landscape. This AI-powered radio platform transforms everyday office communication into an immersive audio experience that builds culture, boosts engagement, and strengthens organizational alignment.

My Office Radio seamlessly integrates a wide range of internal communication formats, from live town-hall to immersive POSH stories, learning & development content, and Code of Business Conduct, to compliance messages, and leadership talks live via our virtual studios. It also delivers news & updates, fosters interactive team engagement through Q&A sessions, re-purposing podcasts and brings the workplace to life with celebrations, seasonal content, and internal messaging. Streamed securely on mobile, intranet, factory floors, and fulfillment centers. There’s no need for outdated streaming boxes or bulky setups.

Employees can listen anytime, anywhere.

“The future of workplace communication isn’t just about delivering messages, it’s about making people feel connected. My Office Radio brings emotion, culture, and clarity into every conversation, no matter where your team is,” says Binoy Joseph, Founder & CEO of My Office Radio.”

The result is a hyper efficient multilingual communication tool that saves time, enhances message retention, and scales effortlessly across large, distributed teams.

At the helm is Binoy Joseph, a name synonymous with innovation in the Indian radio industry. With over two decades of experience, Binoy has helped shape the country’s FM radio landscape across two decades through stints at Radio Mirchi, BIG FM, Radio City, and Worldspace Satellite Radio. He led the launch of India’s first digital radio streams at Radio City and later founded Spooler Podcasts, a global

podcast consulting firm for enterprises. His expertise in audio storytelling, compliance messaging, and digital infrastructure is what powers My Office Radio’s cutting edge offering today.

In a world where inboxes are overflowing and attention spans are shorter than ever, My Office Radio offers a refreshing way for companies to connect with their teams. By tapping into the power of audio and passive listening, it enables communication that feels authentic, creative, and impactful. It’s a smarter, more human way to keep employees informed and engaged.

6, Aug 2025
Apsara Launch Wows Music Fans

Apsara” Takes Over the Music World — A Spectacular Launch by Mahesh Matkar Featuring Stellar Performances by Mukul Phate & Sakshi Kamble

apsara

Mumbai, 6th August 2025, 2025 : Within hours of its grand release, Apsara, the newest visual marvel under the Matkar Musics banner, has taken the Indian music and film world by storm. Produced by the visionary Mahesh Matkar, directed by the talented Suniel Waghmare, and crafted with a dream team of artists and technicians, Apsara has quickly transformed from a song into a cinematic experience. At the core of this soaring success is Mukul Phate, whose magnetic charisma, fiery energy, and soulful performance have captivated audiences across regions. His portrayal of a man enchanted by the divine beauty of the “Apsara” is filled with depth, passion, and artistic flair. From start to finish, Mukul keeps the screen alive, proving himself as a powerhouse of expression and presence.

Bollywood film director and legendary acting coach Mr. Nabhkumar Raju remarked, “Mukul’s performance was truly up to the mark. His screen energy is magnetic; he doesn’t just act, he commands attention.” Standing shoulder to shoulder is Sakshi Kamble, whose natural elegance and effortless grace add emotional texture to the video. Her performance, grounded and genuine, beautifully complements Mukul’s intensity, making their chemistry one of the video’s strongest highlights. Director Suniel Waghmare deserves praise for his brilliant storytelling and precise direction, which bring every emotion, dance, and detail to life. His vision ensures that Apsara not only entertains but leaves a lasting impact. The song’s stunning visual appeal is crafted by Director of Photography (DOP) Suraj Rajput, whose expert camera work gives Apsara its cinematic richness. From warm village frames to vibrant dance shots, Suraj’s lens adds soul, rhythm, and texture to every moment, making each frame a visual delight. Supporting the creative journey are Creative Directors Prachetan Potadar and Neel Deshpande, whose artistic touch helped shape the overall look and mood of the video. Their attention to detail and design sense brought a fresh aesthetic that audiences are loving.

Beyond Maharashtra, Apsara has resonated strongly with audiences in the Tamil and Malayalam film industries. Notably, the Malayalam industry has showered special praise on Mukul Phate for his supernatural yet rooted portrayal of a village boy. Critics and artists alike admired how Mukul carried his signature charm even while staying true to the character’s earthy essence. His nuanced movements, expressive gestures, and strong emotional hold brought the character to life in a way that felt authentic and magical.

Moreover, Mukul’s dance performance is another major highlight. His footwork, rhythm, and on-screen energy show a rare versatility, effortlessly blending Marathi folk flavour with Tollywood vibrance. Every step, every move reflects his ability to transcend regional styles and appeal to pan-Indian sensibilities. With such an overwhelming response and love pouring in from all corners, Apsara stands tall not just as a music video but as a celebration of talent, culture, and cinematic expression. With a dream team at its helm and rising stars shining brighter than ever, this is only the beginning. Matkar Musics, with Apsara, has raised the bar, and Mukul Phate, Sakshi Kamble, and the entire team have announced their arrival on a national stage with absolute brilliance.