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Amla Navami and Radha Pada Darshan: A Divine Glimpse of Devotion and Nature in Odisha

The sacred month of Kartik holds immense significance in Odisha’s spiritual calendar. Among its many divine observances, Amla Navami, also known as Radha Pada Darshan, stands out as a festival that beautifully blends devotion, mythology, and reverence for nature. Celebrated on the ninth day (Navami) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of Kartik month, the day is believed to bring endless prosperity, purity, and blessings to devotees.

The Sacred Tree of Immortality

On this auspicious day, devotees worship the Amla (Indian Gooseberry) tree, considered a sacred embodiment of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that any act of charity or devotion performed under an Amla tree on this day yields Akshaya Punya—merit that never diminishes. This belief gives the festival another revered name, Akshaya Navami.

In traditional Odia households, especially among Habisyalis (women observing Kartik vows), special rituals are performed under the shade of the Amla tree. Devotees bathe the image of Lord Vishnu with holy water beneath the tree, cook simple sanctified food (Habisya Anna), and partake in it as prasada. Circumambulating the tree is believed to grant longevity, good health, and divine blessings. The day is thus not only a religious observance but also a celebration of nature’s generosity — expressing gratitude to the life-giving environment.

The Legend of Radha Pada Darshan

Beyond its ecological symbolism, Amla Navami holds a deeply spiritual connection in Odisha, particularly at the Sakhigopal Temple, near Puri. Here, the festival coincides with the Radha Pada Darshan Yatra, a day when devotees are granted a rare glimpse of Maa Radha’s sacred feet — a vision believed to absolve one of countless sins and bless the devotee with eternal bliss.

According to the temple legend, Lord Krishna once appeared in the form of Sakhigopal (Witness Gopal) to defend the honor of a humble devotee. Over centuries, the divine idol journeyed from Vrindavan to Kanchi, and eventually to Odisha, where King Purushottama Deva enshrined Him near Puri. But when the Lord took residence there, His beloved Radha remained in Vrindavan, leading to their separation. To fulfill this divine longing, Radha was later reborn in human form as Lakshmi, the daughter of the temple priest Beleswar Mahapatra of Satyabadi. Each night, the Lord would secretly visit her — their reunion celebrated in the sacred groves known as Bakula Ban, often described as “Gupta Vrindavan” or the hidden Vrindavan of Odisha.

When the king mistakenly accused the priest of wrongdoing, Lord Sakhigopal appeared in the king’s dream, revealing the divine truth and commanding that a golden idol of Radha be created and installed beside Him. The day this idol was consecrated, Lakshmi left her mortal body, and her tomb was later transformed into a Mahavir Temple, which still stands near the shrine.

The Divine Vision and the Odia Attire

The story further tells that, in memory of Radha’s human incarnation, her idol remained draped year-round in long garments — concealing her divine feet. But once a year, on Amla Navami, she appears in her Odia attire (Odiani Besha), and devotees are blessed with the rare opportunity of Radha Pada Darshan — the sacred sight of her lotus feet.

On this day, both deities are dressed in resplendent attire. Lord Gopal is adorned in the Natabara Besha (the charming dancer form), wearing a golden crown and holding a golden flute, while Maa Radha is decorated with traditional Odia ornaments — paunji (anklets), kundala (earrings), chandrika, nose ring, and the sacred Amla mala (necklace made of gooseberries). The temple resonates with devotional songs, rituals, and the fragrance of flowers and incense, as thousands gather for a glimpse of the divine pair.

Outside the temple, devotees tie red threads smeared with vermilion around Amla trees, praying for the fulfillment of their wishes, marital happiness, and the well-being of their children.

A Celebration of Nature, Faith, and Eternal Love

While the legends and rituals give the day its deep spiritual essence, Amla Navami also stands as a reminder of India’s ancient tradition of living in harmony with nature. Worshipping the Amla tree signifies gratitude to the environment that sustains life. Sitting beneath its shade or partaking of food there is believed to heal the body and calm the mind.

The spiritual significance of the day — the union of Radha and Krishna, nature and divinity, devotion and gratitude — makes Amla Navami a celebration of love and balance. Whether one believes in the myths or cherishes the symbolism, the festival’s essence remains universal: to honour the divine in nature, to find purity in devotion, and to live in harmony with all that sustains us.

Conclusion

Amla Navami and Radha Pada Darshan together remind us that faith is not separate from nature — it flows through the trees, rivers, and traditions that define our culture.

Jaipur Literature Festival 2026 Unveils Second Round of Speaker Announcements

Jaipur Literature Festival 2026, Presented by Vedanta, Announces More Names in Second Speaker Announcement

Jaipur, 30th October 2025: The Jaipur Literature Festival, celebrated globally as an iconic celebration of books, ideas and storytelling, announces another set of distinguished speakers for its upcoming 19th edition. The Festival will take place from 15th to 19th January 2026 at Hotel Clarks Amer, Jaipur, and continue its tradition of bringing together diverse voices that shape literary and cultural landscapes.

This year’s announcement introduces an array of authors, thinkers, and artists who represent a rich variety of perspectives and disciplines. The confirmed names include Senior Physicist at CERN Geneva Archana Sharma; former Chief Economic Adviser to the Government of India Arvind Subramanian; Nobel Prize-winning economist Esther Duflo; Nobel Prize-winning economist Tanya Talaga; former Taoiseach of Ireland Leo Varadkar; noted art historian and curator Debra Diamond; editor of Private Eye and renowned satirist Ian Hislop; celebrated poet and novelist Jeet Thayil; Booker Prize-winning author Kiran Desai; award-winning nature poet Alice Oswald; art critic and broadcaster Andrew Graham-Dixon; bestselling novelist Ashwin Sanghi; pathbreaking writer Kunzang Choden Roder; historian and biographer Narayani Basu; acclaimed nutritionist and author Rujuta Diwekar; award-winning writer and chronicler of the Himalaya Stephen Alter; disability rights activist and writer Tarini Mohan; literary advocate and publisher William Sieghart; and Telugu feminist writer Volga.

Namita Gokhale, Co-Director of the Jaipur Literature Festival, shared: “Come January, the greatest literature festival on earth returns to Jaipur! It provides a crucial cross-fertilisation of ideas and literary narratives in our fractured world. The multilingual lineup of writers and speakers is as diverse and eclectic as ever, showcasing the best of recent writing from across the Indian languages and the globe. With themes that are classic, radical and timeless the 19th edition of our festival provides windows to many worlds and glimpses into the future.

William Dalrymple, Co-Director, added: “This year we present one of our most extraordinary line-ups since the festival began, including many of the world’s most celebrated writers, thinkers, poets and satirists. Do not miss Jaipur ’26- it’s going to be completely astonishing.”

Sanjoy K. Roy, Managing Director of Teamwork Arts, said: “The Jaipur Literature Festival is more than an event; it’s a celebration of free expression, diversity, and the power of narrative to build bridges. As we approach our 19th edition, we’re proud to offer a platform where voices from around the world can engage, inspire, and transform audiences through the art of storytelling.”

Priya Agarwal, Director, Vedanta Resources, said: “At Vedanta, our partnership with the Jaipur Literature Festival reflects our belief that when creativity and conversation come together, they can shape a more connected and compassionate world. As the Festival enters its 19th edition, we are proud to support a platform that celebrates diverse voices and the timeless power of storytelling to drive progress.”

Alongside its literary sessions, Jaipur Literature Festival 2026 will present a diverse programme including the much-loved Heritage Evenings, set against the historic backdrop of Jaipur, featuring music, poetry, and performance. The Jaipur Music Stage will showcase leading Indian and international musicians in performance alongside the festival. The industry-focused Jaipur BookMark (JBM) will once again provide a premier platform for publishers, agents, authors, and other stakeholders to network and collaborate. Now in its 19th year, the Jaipur Literature Festival remains committed to being an accessible, inclusive space where writers, thinkers, and audiences come together to celebrate ideas and the universal love for stories.

Dirtcube Interactive & Gods and Heroes Studio Unite for World’s First 11v11 Cricket Game “Gods of Cricket”

Dirtcube Interactive joins hands with Gods and Heroes Studio to bring “Gods of Cricket” to Life  the World’s First 11v11 Cricket Gaming Experience

Mumbai, 29th October, 2025: Dirtcube Interactive LLP has joined forces with Gods and Heroes Studio Pvt. Ltd. to bring Gods of Cricket (GOC) to life, the world’s first full-scale cricket gaming experience featuring 1v1 to 11v11 real-time matches. The collaboration goes beyond a strategic investment, combining the creative strength of Gods and Heroes Studio with Dirtcube’s technical and operational expertise to jointly shape the game’s development, infrastructure, and market strategy.

Set to enter Beta on November 23, 2025, Gods of Cricket aims to redefine how cricket is played and experienced in the digital space. Blending the authenticity of international formats with the raw energy of street cricket, the game allows players to create custom characters, form teams, and compete across multiple formats, from casual matches to professional tournaments, within a connected, real-time ecosystem.

Speaking about the collaboration, Shravan Paidipala, Founder and CEO of Gods and Heroes Studio, said, “Gods of Cricket has been a dream in the making, a chance to reimagine how the sport we love could come alive in the digital world. Our goal is to give players the full experience of cricket, from gully matches to global stadiums, in a way that feels fluid, connected, and competitive. Bringing Dirtcube into this journey adds immense strength to our vision. Their investment and technical expertise allow us to scale this experience faster and better, while keeping our focus on creativity, community, and gameplay. Together, we’re building something that represents the next chapter for Indian gaming, made here, but built for the world.”

Mikhail Bhuta, Founder of Dirtcube Interactive, said, “When we first saw what Shravan and the team at Gods and Heroes were building, we immediately recognized something special, a project with global ambition but a truly Indian heart. For us, this is more than a financial move. We’re joining hands as creators, engineers, and dreamers to build the kind of gaming experience we’ve always wanted to play ourselves. Gods of Cricket is about skill, emotion, and connection, the same spirit that defines cricket in every Indian lane and living room. We’re proud to be part of shaping that experience with them.”

The game’s infrastructure will be powered by Specter, Dirtcube’s proprietary Backend-as-a-Service platform, which will handle multiplayer systems, progression mechanics, LiveOps, and the in-game economy.

Pravan Parikh, Co-founder of Dirtcube Interactive, said, “Specter was designed to empower ambitious developers to think big without being limited by backend complexity. Gods of Cricket is the perfect example of that, a large-scale multiplayer title that needs to handle real-time gameplay, progression, achievements, and LiveOps seamlessly. But more than technology, this collaboration is about shared energy and belief. It’s two teams building something extraordinary together, something that puts Indian studios at the forefront of global game development.”

The collaboration follows the successful release of GameStarz, Dirtcube’s mobile-based social gaming universe now live on iOS and Android, which showcases the company’s ability to deliver seamless, scalable player experiences. With Gods of Cricket, Dirtcube, and Gods and Heroes Studio are setting a new precedent for Indian studios, combining creative design, technology, and long-term vision to deliver globally competitive gaming products.

According to the India Gaming Report 2025 by Dentsu and IWMBuzz, India’s pure-play gaming industry is currently valued at over INR 8,248 crore, projected to grow at a CAGR of more than 23% through 2027. With over 166 million pure-play gamers, expected to reach 246 million within three years, the collaboration reflects the momentum of India’s gaming ecosystem and its growing role in shaping global entertainment.

Citrix Partners with edForce to Empower India’s Hybrid Workforce

Citrix Learning Solutions Now Available Through edForce to Empower India’s Hybrid Workforce

India, 29th October 2025 : edForce, India’s leading Workforce Upskilling Accelerator, today announced that it has become a Citrix Authorized Training Provider, delivering authorized Citrix training and certifications to enterprises and professionals across India. This development comes at a critical time when Indian organizations are accelerating adoption of hybrid work and digital workplace models.

India’s workforce is demanding more flexibility than ever before. According to the Microsoft Work Trend Index (2021), 74% of Indian employees want more flexible remote work options, placing new demands on enterprises to build secure and scalable digital workspaces. Meanwhile, NASSCOM projects India will need 3.5 million digitally skilled professionals by 2026, highlighting the urgency of reskilling in virtualization, security, and digital infrastructure.

Citrix is trusted by 400,000+ organizations worldwide and enables over 100 million users to securely access their digital work environments. By offering Citrix-authorized training through edForce, enterprises in India can: Build secure, future-ready IT infrastructures for hybrid work, Train employees to deliver seamless digital workspace experiences, Improve workforce productivity, collaboration, and resilience and equip professionals with globally recognized Citrix certifications

Ravi Kaklasaria, Co-Founder & CEO of edForce, said: “Becoming a Citrix Training Provider reinforces our commitment to Workforce Upskilling Accelerated. As enterprises across India embrace hybrid work, Citrix-certified professionals will be vital in driving both business resilience and productivity. Our role is to ensure organizations can deploy these technologies effectively and empower their people to thrive in the future of work.”

Why True Happpiness Begins With Self-Realization

 By:  AiR Atman in ravi , Happiness Ambassador and Spiritual Leader

What is True Happpiness?

True Happpiness is a simple yet profound concept. It begins when we move beyond material pleasures  beyond success, achievements, name, and fame. From childhood, we are conditioned to believe that happiness is found in these external milestones. However, on the path of Spirituality, I discovered that the happiness derived from worldly success is temporary and fleeting. It fades as quickly as it appears, often leaving us feeling empty and restless once it’s gone.

Through introspection, I realized that True Happpiness lies within, not outside. It is not something to be pursued but something to be experienced  a state of being rather than becoming.

Interestingly, I also discovered that we’ve been spelling Happiness incorrectly all this while. It should have three Ps instead of two  representing the three peaks of Happpiness. To experience True, Everlasting, and Eternal Happpiness, one must climb and embrace all three peaks.

AiR Happpiness Secret

Attaining True Happpiness is not really a secret  the world already knows how to be happy. Yet, in our fast-paced lives, amidst endless responsibilities, noise, and distractions, we often forget to live consciously. Even when we know the way, we miss the path.

To make this wisdom more accessible, I compiled the essence of spiritual understanding into a simple and memorable acronym: AiR HAPPPINESS SECRET  a 19-step guide to experiencing True Happpiness.

A – Always in Consciousness

Live in awareness. When we are conscious, our intellect awakens and helps us overcome the mind — the source of misery, anxiety, and pain.

i – Intelligence over Ignorance

Human beings are blessed with intelligence. Using it wisely instead of living in ignorance leads us closer to True Happpiness.

R – Rejoice Life

Celebrate every moment. Life is a precious gift. Rejoice even in small victories and live each day with gratitude and joy.

H – Having Enthusiasm

Enthusiasm infuses energy into everything we do. This excitement for life naturally creates a surge of True Happpiness.

A – Acceptance

Accept the Divine Will. Embrace every circumstance — pleasant or not — without resistance. Do your best and surrender the results. Acceptance is the foundation of lasting peace and Happpiness.

P – Pleasure (First Peak)

Pleasure arises from success, fame, and material achievements. Though temporary, it’s an important stage to understand that external joys are not permanent.

P – Peace (Second Peak)

Peace comes from contentment and fulfillment. It is the foundation of True Happpiness — a calm state where nothing external disturbs our inner stillness.

P – Purpose (Third Peak)

Purpose is the highest peak — achieved through Enlightenment or Self-Realization. It’s when we truly understand “Who am I, and why am I here?”

I – In the Now

Happpiness lives in the present moment. Free yourself from guilt about the past and anxiety about the future. Live Now — for the Now is all there is.

N – NEP to PEP (Negative to Positive)

Consciously replace negative thoughts with positive ones. Transformation begins in the mind.

E – Ecstasy of Divine Love

Seek Divine Love — pure, unconditional, and eternal. The ecstasy of such love brings boundless joy and True Happpiness.

S – Surrender

Surrendering to the Divine Will dissolves resistance. In surrender, we find serenity — and in serenity, we discover True Happpiness.

S – SatChitAnanda

Sat means Truth, Chit means Consciousness, and Ananda means Eternal Bliss.
When we live in Truth Consciousness, understanding life, death, and karma, we experience the fountain of Eternal Bliss — the essence of True Happpiness.

S – Smile, All the While

A smile is a simple yet profound act of transformation. Smile through every situation — it changes your energy and your world.

E – Eliminate the Mind

We are not the body, mind, or ego. The mind is merely a bundle of thoughts — mostly negative and repetitive. When we transcend the mind and live in Consciousness, the intellect filters thoughts, retaining only the positive ones. In this clarity, we experience peace and Happpiness.

C – Choose to Be Happpy

Happpiness is a choice, not a condition. Choose to be happpy — no matter what — for it is an inner state of being independent of external events.

R – Respond, Don’t React

Pause before responding. When we respond through intellect rather than react impulsively, we resolve conflict, restore peace, and preserve Happpiness.

E – Enlighten the Ego

Realize that the ego is an illusion — a creation of the mind. When the ego is enlightened through Self-Realization, it dissolves, allowing illumination and unification with the Divine.

T – Transcend Bhoga, Live in Yoga

Move beyond Bhoga (worldly indulgence) towards Yoga (union with the Divine). In this state of union, we discover the deepest and most enduring Happpiness.

The Essence of True Happpiness

These 19 steps may appear simple, but living them consistently requires Spiritual Awakening and Self-Realization.

True Happpiness begins when we realize who we truly are — beyond the body, mind, and ego. When we connect with our inner Self, we stop seeking validation from others and find peace within. This inner alignment leads to a joy that is unshakable and everlasting, unaffected by circumstances or people.

Thus, Self-Realization is the foundation of True, Eternal Happpiness — the Happpiness with three Ps: Pleasure, Peace, and Purpose.

MCOPS, MAHE Manipal Hosts Enterprize & Innovate 2025 with Record Participation

MCOPS, MAHE Manipal successfully hosts Enterprize & Innovate 2025 with record participation and entrepreneurial excellence

Manipal, 28th October, 2025: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, through its constituent unit Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MCOPS), successfully concluded the 4th edition of Enterprize & Innovate 2025. The three-day entrepreneurship fest, held from October 24-26, 2025, in a hybrid format (offline at MAHE Campus and virtual), focused on nurturing and celebrating the spirit of entrepreneurship by bringing together creative, management, and pharmacy minds on a common platform.

The fest achieved remarkable success with 200+ registered participants from various institutions across India, including both MAHE and non-MAHE colleges, participating at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. The event provided students with valuable opportunities to exhibit their business skills, creativity, and strategic thinking through a variety of interactive competitions and activities.

The event was organized by the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Committee (IEC) of MAPS, MCOPS, under the guidance of Faculty Coordinator Dr. Namdev Dhas and Co-coordinator Dr. Vignesh M. The inauguration ceremony on October 24, 2025, at the KMC Interact Hall, Manipal, was graced by Chief Guest Dr. Manesh Thomas, CEO of Manipal GoK Bioincubator, and Guest of Honour Mr. S. Varadharajan, Deputy Director of Intellectual Property Rights and Technology Transfer Office (IPTTO), MAHE, along with Dr. Srinivas Mutalik, Principal of MCOPS.

Dr. Srinivas Mutalik, Principal, MCOPS Manipal remarked, “Enterprize & Innovate 2025 represents MAHE’s commitment to developing entrepreneurial mindsets among pharmaceutical professionals. By bridging innovation with practical business intelligence, we are empowering our students to become not just skilled pharmacists, but also future leaders who can transform healthcare through entrepreneurial ventures and innovative solutions.”

The fest featured eight diverse competitive events designed to test multiple dimensions of entrepreneurship, including business case solving, marketing strategies, debating, pitching, and creative decision-making. The events included Quiz (testing entrepreneurial and business knowledge), Corporate Conundrum (business case study competition), Word Dealers (debate on contemporary business and ethical issues), Price is Right (market valuation challenge), Pitch Tank (flagship pitching event for innovative business ideas), Brand Race (brand strategy and marketing competition), Ad-Wit (creative advertising challenge), and Logo Bingo (visual branding and recognition game).

The fest offered substantial rewards and opportunities for participants, including a total cash prize pool worth Rs. 30,000, exciting prizes and trophies for winners across all events, and pre-incubation support from Manipal Government of Karnataka Bioincubator for top performers from Pitch Tank. All participants received comprehensive registration kits containing a laptop sleeve, customized cap with IEC logo, notebook and pen, participation certificates, and lunch on the final day. Virtual participants received their registration kits via courier, ensuring an inclusive experience for all attendees. Dr Mohammed Zubair, Chief Innvotaion Office, MAHE  supported the Cash prizes through Innovation Centre, MAHE and was the Chief Guest in the valedictory function.

The resounding success of Enterprize & Innovate 2025 reinforces MCOPS’s commitment to developing well-rounded pharmaceutical professionals equipped with entrepreneurial skills. By encouraging innovation, strategic thinking, and exposure to real-world business challenges, the fest continues to play a vital role in shaping future healthcare entrepreneurs and leaders, contributing to MAHE’s mission of fostering innovation that creates meaningful impact in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors.

Comfort First, Care Always: Krvvy Urges Women to Rethink Lingerie as Part of Breast Well-Being

Grihshobha Inspire Awards 2025 to Honour Women Achievers on November 3 in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, October 27, 2025: The Grihshobha Inspire Awards, instituted by India’s iconic women’s magazine Grihshobha, returns with its Bengaluru edition on Monday, November 3, 2025, at the Bangalore International Centre (BIC). The awards night will celebrate exceptional women achievers from across diverse fields – from STEM, arts, entrepreneurship, grassroots leadership, and business to social change, public service, and culture.

The Inspire Awards shine a spotlight on women who have broken barriers, challenged conventions, and led with purpose – redefining what leadership and inspiration mean in today’s India. The Bengaluru edition will bring together eminent personalities, thought leaders, and changemakers in an evening that honours excellence and resilience while also celebrating art and expression through a special musical performance.

Following the success of its inaugural edition in Delhi (March 2025), the Inspire Awards are now expanding to new regions to celebrate diversity and regional representation. Each edition aims to uncover powerful stories of women who are transforming their communities and industries through courage, creativity, and conviction.

Anant Nath, Editor of The Caravan and Executive Publisher of Delhi Press, said,

“The Inspire Awards began as a celebration and have now become a movement. The incredible response to our first edition reaffirmed that India is full of stories that deserve to be told. By expanding the awards to new regions, we hope to recognize the depth of talent and leadership across the country. These awards are about shining a light on women who inspire others to lead with purpose and leave behind a legacy of change.”

The Bengaluru event will also feature a musical tribute, a two-part tribute curated and performed by Ananyaa Gaur:

• Curtain Raiser: A Tribute to Feminist Icon Begum Akhtar
• Curtain Call: Celebrating Feminine Voices in Folk Culture

The jury panel for the Grihshobha Inspire Awards 2025 comprises accomplished women leaders who bring credibility, expertise, and cross-sectoral insight to the selection process. Leading the jury is Sathya Saran, former Editor of Femina, joined by Richa Shah, Director of Delhi Press; Padmapriya Janakiraman, Actor;Nuriya Ansari, Education & Social Impact leader; Dilshad Master, Media Veteran & Adventure Enthusiast; Surabhi Kanga, Web Editor of The Caravan; Sobha Narayan, Auhtor & Journalist; and Suparna Mitra, former CEO of Titan Watches & Wearables Division.

The Inspire Awards follow a rigorous, transparent selection process, moving from a longlist of over 200 nominations across India to final awardees chosen by the distinguished all-women jury. This process reflects Grihshobha’s commitment to celebrating leadership that transcends region, industry, and background – embodying its philosophy of empowerment and progress.

About Grihshobha

Published by Delhi Press, Grihshobha is India’s most-read Hindi women’s magazine with over one million readers, published in eight languages – Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Kannada, Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, and Bangla. For over 45 years, Grihshobha has informed, inspired, and empowered readers through its rich blend of stories on home, lifestyle, health, and relationships.

Delhi Press is one of India’s largest and most diverse publishing houses with 36 magazines in 10 languages, spanning women’s interest, current affairs, family, and children’s segments.

Divine Surrender’: Buddhist Anthem of Peace and Compassion Unveiled in Mumbai

‘DIVINE SURRENDER’  A Buddhist Anthem of Peace, Awakening and Compassion Unveiled in Mumbai

Mumbai, 27th October, 2025: An evening of music, mindfulness, and spiritual reflection unfolded in Mumbai as ‘DIVINE SURRENDER’ The Buddhist Anthem of Peace, Awakening and Compassion” was officially launched at Downtown 20 Hall, Churchgate.

Penned by Shri Rajkumar Badole, former Minister and current MLA, the anthem carries a profound message of peace, self-realization, and compassion — values central to Buddhist philosophy. The project features internationally acclaimed actor Gagan Malik in a symbolic role, with music composed and sung by Pawa, a renowned Buddhist musician known for blending meditation, melody, and mindfulness into one transcendent experience. The anthem is directed by Niraj Prabhakar, who adds a cinematic depth to this spiritual creation and Produced by Mr. Aniket Badole of Yugandhar Creations. The song will also be launched in multiple languages like Thai, Vietnamese, Sri Lankan, Cambodian & Bangladeshi & many more”.

Recorded at Studio 28, Bangkok one of Southeast Asia’s most prestigious studios ‘Divine Surrender’ was brought to life with a grand symphony orchestra, creating a majestic fusion of Eastern spirituality and global orchestral soundscapes. The anthem serves as an artistic bridge between cultures, celebrating the timeless teachings of the Buddha through the universal language of music. Presented by Yugandhar Creations, ‘Divine Surrender’ stands as a heartfelt artistic offering that unites music, spirituality, and global harmony on one stage

The launch event was graced by several distinguished dignitaries, making it a truly memorable evening. Mr. Donnawit Poolsawat, Consul-General of the Royal Thai Consulate in Mumbai, and Shri Sanjay Savkare, Minister of Textiles, Government of Maharashtra, attended as Chief Guests. The Guests of Honour included Ms. Shirani Ariyarathne, Consul-General of Sri Lanka in Mumbai; Shri Dinesh Waghmare, Chief Election Commissioner, Maharashtra; Ms. Koushalya Wickramasinghe, Chairperson of Siddhivinayk Cine Arts (Pvt) Ltd.; and Act. Captain Nattakit Chaichalermmongkhon, Thai businessman and researcher, Mr. Aniket Badole, Producer, Yugandhar Creations. The event also saw the presence of Pawa, the composer and singer of the anthem; Gagan Malik, acclaimed actor; and Niraj Prabhakar, director of the ‘Divine Surrender’ music video.

Speaking at the launch, Shri Sanjay Savkare, Minister of Textiles, Government of Maharashtra, said, “Today, this beautiful song ‘Divine Surrender’ has been launched with collaborations from Thailand, and I am truly happy to witness it. In politics too, we have artists who appreciate culture and creativity, and I feel proud to see such initiatives coming from our own leaders. I extend my best wishes to the entire team behind this anthem.”

Mr. Donnawit Poolsawat, Consul-General, Royal Thai Consulate in Mumbai said, “It is truly heartening to see a project like Divine Surrender emerge as a bridge between Thailand and India, two nations who are deeply connected through the shared wisdom of Lord Buddha. This anthem reflects the timeless message of peace and compassion that our cultures have cherished for centuries, now expressed through the universal language of music.”

Shri. Rajkumar Badole shared, “Divine Surrender’ is more than just music — it is a prayer for global harmony, a surrender to the divine truth within. When I penned these verses, I envisioned a message of peace that transcends borders. With Pawa’s soulful music recorded in Thailand and Gagan Malik’s profound presence bringing it to life, this anthem has truly become a bridge of compassion between India and the world.”

Adding to the reflection, Pawa said, “Through this anthem, I wanted to create an experience that helps people pause, breathe, and reconnect with the compassion that lives within us all as Buddha music is not just music but about meditation. 

Mr. Gagan Malik, who has featured in the anthem, shared, “This world, in the phase it is going through today, needs peace more than ever. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar was a true visionary he had foreseen this long ago, understanding that only compassion and equality can guide humanity forward. I feel grateful that through ‘Divine Surrender,’ I can carry this message of peace and awakening ahead.”

The evening witnessed an inspiring confluence of culture, art, and spirituality. Dignitaries, monks, artists, and members of the creative fraternity came together to celebrate the message of peace and awakening that the anthem embodies. The atmosphere was serene and contemplative, with live performances and moments of silence that invited introspection and harmony.

The event marked a significant milestone in the journey of Buddhist art and music from India to the world a harmonious confluence of philosophy, creativity, and devotion that left the audience deeply moved. 

PVL 2025: Mumbai Meteors book a spot in the final with a dominant win over Goa Guardians

25th October, 2025: Mumbai Meteors defeated the Goa Guardians 15-8, 15-8, 16-14 to book a spot in the final of the RR Kabel Prime Volleyball League powered by Scapia at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium, Hyderabad on Friday. Shubham Chaudhary was named the Player of the Match. Mumbai will play the winner of the second semifinal between Bengaluru Torpedoes and Ahmedabad Defenders.

Goa showcased their attacking intent early on with Nathaniel Dickinson’s spike and Rohit Yadav’s power-packed serve. But Goa’s defence struggled against consistent attacks from Mumbai’s Shubham Chaudhary and Amit Gulia. Dickinson’s spike helped Goa win the super point, but Mumbai’s disciplined formation edged the Meteors ahead.

Prince tried to counter-attack for Goa from the middle zone, but Karthik kept Mumbai stable. Smart play from Shubham minimised Mumbai’s errors. Goa made a change in formation, bringing on setter Aravind to turn the momentum. A super serve from LM Manoj provided a moment to celebrate for the Guardians. But Prince’s overhit shot cost Goa a super point, helping Mumbai take a two-set lead.

Amit’s super serve continued Mumbai’s dominance while adding more pressure on Goa’s shoulders. Petter Ostvik won the battle against Prince in the third set, helping Mumbai dominate the middle zone. Vikram won a super point, giving a glimmer of hope to the Goa fans. But just when it looked like Goa would be able to fight back, Karthik blocked Chirag Yadav’s spike, helping his side win the game and reach the final.