Category Archives: News

Mission DDLJ: Girnar Foundation Spreads Love and Happiness with Heartwarming Campaign

Gurugram, 8th March 2025 – Girnar Foundation, the CSR arm of CarDekho Group, launched ‘Mission DDLJ’ (Donate & Deliver Love & Joy) to spread kindness and strengthen community bonds in Jaipur and Gurugram. Throughout February, the initiative impacted over 1,000 children and senior citizens through thoughtfully curated programs designed to create meaningful change.

Girnar Foundation organized a series of initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity and spreading joy within the community. The ‘Gift a Smile’ initiative was launched to fulfill the aspirations of school children by addressing their essential needs. Wish boxes were placed at Bambala Government School (Jaipur) and Dream Girl NGO (Gurugram), allowing students to submit handwritten requests for learning aids and recreational items such as geometry sets and upskilling board games. These wishes were fulfilled with an aim to bring happiness and motivation to the young children.

We also shared a meal together through our ‘Love in a Meal’ program, serving warmth on a plate and fostering a sense of togetherness by providing freshly prepared, nutritious meals to hundreds of children and senior citizens at Prem Niketan Ashram (Jaipur) and Dream Girl NGO (Gurugram). This initiative contributed to nourishment and also created moments of warmth and connection, reinforcing the joy of sharing a meal as a community. The campaign concluded with ‘Shaam-e-Khaas’, a heartfelt musical evening and dinner at Prem Niketan Ashram, offering senior citizens a warm and memorable experience filled with music, laughter, and a shared sense of community.

Speaking about the initiative, Mrs. Pihu Jain, Head of Girnar Foundation, commented, “Mission DDLJ is our heartfelt effort to spread love, warmth, and a sense of belonging. Our goal was to bring moments of joy to those who need it most, and February, the month of love, was the perfect time to do so. At Girnar Foundation, we strive to build a more inclusive society by driving meaningful change at the grassroots level. Small acts—whether fulfilling a child’s wish or sharing a warm meal—can create impact, strengthening the bonds within our communities.”

The Foundation aims uplifting communities—especially children, women, and marginalized groups—by equipping them with the resources to build a brighter future. Through meaningful initiatives and innovative approaches, Girnar Foundation continues to strive to create lasting social impact.

How 5% Weight Loss Can Transform 30s Fertility in Overweight Women

By-Dr. Zareena A Khalid, Senior Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology- Aster Medcity-Kochi

Times are changing. Women marrying as early as their 20s is no longer the norm. They are steadfast, work, earn, and achieve. Bearing children can stay on the back burner, but it’s crucial to understand the basic reproductive issues they may face. For women planning a pregnancy later in life, knowledge is power.

Preparing for Pregnancy in mid-30’s : What Check-Ups Are Essential?

A 34-year-old woman planning her first pregnancy should begin with a comprehensive health check-up. This includes assessing blood pressure, diabetes risk, and thyroid function. Crucially, reproductive health needs evaluation. This involves checking for regular menstrual cycles. If irregularities exist, hormone tests and ultrasounds can detect conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), ovarian cysts, and fibroids. Given her age, an Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) test is advisable. It provides insight into her ovarian reserve, particularly if she plans to delay pregnancy further.

Common Reproductive Health Challenges Women Face Today

Infertility is a prominent reproductive health concern, defined as the inability to conceive after a year of trying. With couples marrying later, often between 30 and 35, the timeline for seeking fertility advice has shortened to six months. Even couples marrying in their mid-20s frequently delay childbearing, which can be problematic in conditions like endometriosis. Recurrent miscarriages are another growing concern.

Lifestyle’s Impact on Fertility: The PCOS Example

Lifestyle significantly affects reproductive health, notably in PCOS. This condition is often linked to excess weight and inactivity. The modern lifestyle, with its reliance on processed foods, sugary drinks, and sedentary work habits, exacerbates this. The good news? Losing just 5% of body weight can regulate periods and improve fertility in women with PCOS.

Recognizing Early Signs of Reproductive Issues

The most apparent sign of a reproductive problem is the inability to conceive after a year of trying (or six months for older couples). Other indicators include irregular periods, symptoms of PCOS, and endometriosis. Male factor infertility, indicated by low or poor-quality sperm, should also be considered.

Reproductive Health Check-Ups: When Are They Necessary?

Routine reproductive health check-ups aren’t typically needed. However, if conception doesn’t occur within a year (or six months for older couples), a thorough evaluation is essential.

The Role of Diet and Exercise in Reproductive Health

A healthy diet plays a key role in maintaining reproductive health. Focus on reducing carbohydrates and fats, avoiding junk food, and incorporating plenty of fruits, nuts, and vegetables. Exercise is equally important, and it’s safe to continue most forms of exercise even while trying to conceive.

Common Causes of Infertility in Women

Stress, partners living apart due to work, and obesity are major contributors to infertility. PCOS, endometriosis, fibroids, obesity, stress, and declining ovarian reserve due to age also play significant roles. Rarer causes include uterine and ovarian tumors, and fallopian tube blockages. Male factor infertility, along with unhealthy food habits and lifestyles, further complicates the issue.

Natural Ways to Enhance Fertility

Improving fertility naturally involves adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, stress reduction, and regular sexual intercourse. Pre-pregnancy intake of folic acid is also recommended.

Advances in Infertility Treatments: The Rise of IVF and Egg Freezing

Medical advancements, particularly in In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), have transformed infertility treatment. Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) addresses male factor infertility, even in cases of very low sperm counts. Egg and sperm preservation are now common. Egg freezing allows women to postpone pregnancy due to age or lack of a partner, and it’s also crucial for cancer patients undergoing treatments that may affect fertility. Similarly, sperm preservation is available for men facing cancer treatments. These advancements offer hope and flexibility for individuals and couples navigating fertility challenges.

Women’s Day Quote from Xebia’s India Head, Glory Nelson

By-Glory Nelson, India Head, Xebia

“True inclusion goes beyond hiring women. It is about ensuring they thrive at every career stage. At Xebia, we’re building workplaces where women don’t just join but lead, innovate, and shape the future of technology.

Our commitment is to break the barriers to growth, from opening leadership pathways to supporting returning professionals, especially mothers, with flexibility and opportunity. Through initiatives like ‘Empowered Xebians,’ we elevate women’s voices and equip them to succeed—whether they’re starting out, advancing, or restarting.

This isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about results: empowered women drive stronger teams, bolder ideas, and faster growth. As leaders, we’re here to clear the path, amplify talent, and ensure every woman has the tools to lead with confidence. Xebia isn’t just opening doors. We are empowering women to redefine what’s beyond them.”

Women’s Day Scholarship by Simandhar Education Aims to Support the Next Generation of Female Leaders

March 8, 2025: In an effort to promote greater gender diversity in the finance and accounting sectors, Simandhar Education has announced the Women’s Day Scholarship Program. Open to women across India, this initiative provides financial assistance for globally recognized certifications such as CPA, CMA, CIA, and EA.

The scholarship program, running from March 6 to March 31, 2025, offers a ₹30,000 reduction on the CPA (2-year plan) and ₹15,000 off on CMA, EA, and CIA programs. Candidates must register and achieve a minimum score of 70% on an online scholarship test to qualify. The test assesses accounting knowledge, finance aptitude, problem-solving skills, and logical reasoning.

Poonam Jain, Co-Founder of Simandhar Education, added: “Having worked in the finance sector, I understand the challenges women face in advancing their careers. Education and certifications play a crucial role in overcoming these barriers. This scholarship program is a step toward providing women with the tools they need to succeed and thrive in leadership roles.”

“Women make up a significant portion of the workforce in finance and accounting, yet they remain underrepresented in leadership roles. Financial barriers often stand in the way of pursuing advanced certifications, limiting career growth,” said Shruti, Vice President of Simandhar Education, echoing the experiences of many women in the industry. “With this scholarship program, we aim to bridge that gap by making high-value professional credentials more accessible. By supporting women in obtaining these certifications, we hope to empower more of them to advance in their careers and step into leadership positions.”

This marks the first time Simandhar Education has introduced a dedicated scholarship initiative for women. The organization aims to support aspiring finance professionals and looks forward to the impact this program will have in fostering a more inclusive industry.

Finance Education for Women Sees Major Shift as 40% of Female Enrollees Are Now Working Professionals, Says Zell Education

A study conducted by Zell Education highlights a significant rise in women pursuing professional finance courses, with Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Certified Management Accountant (CMA) emerging as the most preferred programs. The study reveals a 5% year-on-year increase in women’s enrollment, signaling a growing shift toward gender inclusivity in finance education.

According to the findings, women now account for 35% of total finance course enrollments, compared to 65% male participation. While enrollment has remained consistent throughout the year, the report underscores a rising interest in structured finance education, particularly in Investment Banking. Additionally, 40% of female enrollees are working professionals, while 60% are fresh graduates, indicating that both new and experienced professionals see value in upskilling within finance.

The study also highlights a geographical shift in women’s participation, with most enrollments still coming from metro cities. However, there has been a noticeable rise in sign-ups from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, pointing toward increasing accessibility and awareness of finance careers in smaller towns.

Speaking on the report, Pratham Barot, CEO & Co- Founder, Zell Education said, “The steady rise in women’s enrollment in CFA and CMA programs is an encouraging trend. It not only reflects their growing interest in finance careers but also signals a shift toward a more diverse financial workforce. We anticipate even greater participation from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities in the coming years, particularly in short-term certification programs that allow professionals to enhance their skills while working.”

With finance emerging as a high-potential career path, Zell Education’s study predicts continued growth in female enrollments, particularly in Investment Banking, Financial Planning, and Fintech. As organizations emphasize gender diversity in leadership roles, professional finance education is set to play a crucial role in shaping the future workforce.

Celebrate World Kidney Day 2025: NephroPlus Rolls Out Free Health Screenings Across India

NephroPlus, Asia’s Largest Dialysis Care Network has commenced a large-scale kidney screening campaign across 20+ cities in India and select international locations on the occasion of World Kidney Day on March 13th, 2025. The campaign, under the theme, ‘Are Your Kidneys OK? Detect Early and Protect Kidney Health’, aims to raise awareness about preventing Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Free screening camps will take place from March 6th to March 8th, 2025, between 9 AM and 6 PM in various cities in India including Delhi, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Mangalore, Haldwani, Ranchi, Jaipur, Visakhapatnam, Rajahmundry, Dehradun, Nagpur, Vadodara, Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Patna, Lucknow, Darbhanga, Motihari, Sasaram, Jaunpur, Azamgarh, Mahbubnagar, Hisar, Panchkula and in select clinics in Nepal, Philippines and Uzbekistan.

This initiative focuses on early identification and prevention of CKD, particularly for individuals at risk due to factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and unhealthy lifestyle choices like tobacco use. In addition to the screenings, NephroPlus will conduct a comprehensive research study utilizing data gathered during the three-day event. The study will analyze key aspects such as the prevalence of elevated creatinine levels, the effects of diabetes and hypertension, regional health patterns, gender-related kidney insights, and the impact of smoking on kidney health. These findings will contribute to a groundbreaking global white paper on CKD prevention, offering critical insights for healthcare professionals and policymakers worldwide.

“We believe early detection is the key to reducing the rapidly growing future burden of kidney disease,” stated Vikram Vuppala, CEO and Founder of NephroPlus. “Prevention is the only feasible path forward. Through this campaign, we aim to equip individuals with vital health information and foster a proactive approach to kidney care. Our research findings will provide essential data to drive national and international efforts in raising CKD awareness and focusing on its prevention.”

By highlighting the importance of early detection, NephroPlus aims to drive policy changes and encourage regular kidney health evaluations. The research findings from this initiative will contribute to the first global white paper on CKD prevention, equipping healthcare professionals and policymakers with critical data to shape future public health strategies.

Krisumi Corporation Unveils Exclusive Culinary Experience with Legendary Chef Yoshinori Mizutani at Gurugram Clubhouse

New Delhi, March 07 2025: Krisumi Corporation, a trailblazer in luxury real estate, is proud to announce a landmark moment in its journey of delivering world-class living experiences. The company’s flagship development, Waterfall Residences, has officially received its Occupancy Certificate (OC), marking a new chapter of excellence. Adding to the celebrations, the iconic 36,000 sq. ft. ‘The Clubhouse’ will now host globally acclaimed Japanese Chef Yoshinori Mizutani, renowned for his mastery in crafting authentic culinary experiences that transcend boundaries.

Chef Mizutani, a recipient of the prestigious “Excellent Chef de Cuisine” award from the Japanese government, brings a legacy of culinary excellence honed across luxury destinations in Beijing, Cairo, Singapore, Mauritius, Indonesia, and India. Known for his artistry and unwavering dedication to Japanese traditions, Chef Mizutani will introduce an exquisite fine-dining experience, redefining luxury lifestyle offerings at The Clubhouse, Waterfall Residences.

“This is a proud moment for Krisumi as we realize our vision of blending Japanese precision with global expertise and Indian warmth,” said Mr. Ashok Kapur, Chairman, Krisumi Corporation and Krishna Group. “The OC for Waterfall Residences is a testament to our commitment to quality and timely delivery. With Chef Mizutani leading our culinary initiatives, The Clubhouse at Waterfall Residences becomes a destination for discerning individuals who seek extraordinary experiences.”

Spanning an expansive 36,000 square feet, The Clubhouse at Waterfall Residences is a sanctuary of sophistication, designed to offer an unmatched lifestyle. Highlights include a Business Center, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, a Mini Theater, and dedicated spaces for Yoga, Zumba, and HIIT, seamlessly blending leisure and luxury.

Mr. Akash Khurana, President & CEO, Krisumi Corporation, stated, “The Clubhouse embodies our vision of delivering experiences that are second to none. The addition of Chef Mizutani further elevates our offerings, making Krisumi City a global destination for refined living.”

Waterfall Residences, the first phase of the ambitious Krisumi City, comprises 433 meticulously designed apartments that integrate Japanese aesthetics with modern functionality. With the OC in hand, residents can now experience Krisumi’s unique promise of a lifestyle that combines architectural elegance with exceptional service.

Mr. Yuji Kato, Director & Co-CEO, Krisumi Corporation, added, “The OC is more than a milestone—it’s a commitment fulfilled. By welcoming Chef Mizutani, we are not just building homes but creating a holistic ecosystem that reflects the Japanese ethos of quality and craftsmanship.”

The New Sound of Holi: Merging Traditional Ragas with EDM Beats for a Modern Celebration

Holi, the festival of colors, was once a slow, melodious affair. Imagine a crisp March morning in North India, where elders would gather in courtyards, smeared in organic gulaal, singing “Rang Barse” in their earthy voices, accompanied by the unhurried strumming of a harmonium and the gentle beat of a dholak. The air would be filled with the fragrance of tesu flowers soaked overnight, used to make natural colors, and the lingering aroma of gujiyas and thandai.

This was the Holi of our grandparents—rooted in folk traditions, where thumris, dadras, and kajris were the anthems of the festival. Whether it was the classical elegance of Kishori Amonkar’s “Piya Sang Khelo Holi” or the devotional resonance of Meera bhajans, Holi was a day where music echoed the rhythms of nature itself.

Brij Ke Rang, Bollywood Ka Dhamaka

“As Bollywood seeped into everyday life, Holi began transforming. From being a festival where classical and folk music dominated, it started syncing with the film industry’s drum beats. Amitabh Bachchan’s “Rang Barse” (Silsila, 1981) and Rajesh Khanna’s “Aaj Na Chhodenge” (Kati Patang, 1971) became Holi staples. The festival was no longer just about cultural nostalgia, it was about cinematic celebration.” says Thomson Andrews, a versatile artist and creative entrepreneur.

Soon, Holi scenes in Bollywood films became grander, more dramatic, more technicolor in both visuals and sounds. The infectious beats of “Holi Khele Raghuveera” (Baghban, 2003) and the electrifying energy of “Balam Pichkari” (Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, 2013) solidified the festival’s transition. No Holi party was complete without a Bollywood playlist blasting from speakers taking the festival from courtyards to club-style revelry.

Desi Bass and Dhol Drops

The real revolution, however, came with the DJ culture and electronic music invasion. The last decade has seen Holi evolve into a massive festival of bass-thumping, smoke-machine-blaring, neon-paint-throwing parties.

Enter Nucleya, Ritviz, and DJ Chetas, and suddenly, Holi isn’t just about throwing colors—it’s about dropping beats. Songs like “Bass Rani” and “Udd Gaye” have become the modern-day Holi anthems. Music festivals like Holi Moo, Rangotsav, and Sunburn Holi have turned the festival into a massive carnival, blending Indian folk with international EDM, techno, and trap beats.

Gujiyas and Glow Sticks: Where Do We Go from Here?

So, what’s next? Will Holi continue to be an EDM spectacle, or will there be a nostalgia-fueled return to its folk roots? With the rise of indie musicians and the revival of fusion genres, perhaps the future of Holi lies in a perfect mix of both worlds—where dholak meets dubstep, and thumri blends seamlessly with trap beats.

Whether you prefer a soothing morning raga with chai or a neon-lit EDM night with mocktails, one thing is certain: Holi will always be a festival where music reigns supreme. After all, whether it’s through a harmonium or a DJ console, Holi is, and always will be, about celebration, rhythm, and an explosion of colors.

Aditya Gadhvi Live in Ahmedabad and Surat: Tribevibe Entertainment Sets the Stage for a Memorable Performance

Surat/Ahmedabad, March 7th 2025: Tribevibe Entertainment is bringing the sensational Aditya Gadhvi to Ahmedabad and Surat for an unforgettable live concert experience, this March! Aditya Gadhvi, renowned for his mesmerising voice and folk-fusion music, will take the stage to perform his biggest hits, including ‘Khalasi’, ‘Naagar Nandji Na Lala’, ‘Hansala’ and many more. Fans can expect an immersive musical journey celebrating Gujarat’s rich heritage and contemporary rhythms.

Heading first to Surat, Aditya Gadhvi will perform at the C.B. Patel Cricket Stadium on Sunday, March 16th and then head to Ahmedabad to perform at the Savanna Party Lawn on Saturday, March 22nd, 2025.

Aditya Gadhvi shared his excitement about the upcoming concerts, saying, “Performing in Gujarat is always special for me. The energy and love from my fans here are unmatched and I can’t wait to share this musical journey with them in Surat and Ahmedabad.”

Shoven Shah, Founder & CEO of Tribevibe Entertainment, added, “At Tribevibe, we are committed to delivering unforgettable live entertainment experiences. Bringing Aditya Gadhvi’s incredible talent to Surat and Ahmedabad aligns perfectly with our vision of celebrating India’s rich musical heritage.”

International Women’s Day 2025 by Dr. Sara Varughese, Managing Trustee, CBM India Trust

By-Dr. Sara Varughese, Managing Trustee, CBM India Trust

“This year’s International Women’s Day focuses on two themes, ‘For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment’ and ‘Accelerate Action’. Both call for urgent, transformative strides toward gender equity. Achieving this requires society to ensure that all women, including women with disabilities and those from other marginalized groups, have equal voice, rights, and opportunities.

Data shows that women with disabilities face a double burden, as discrimination based on gender and disability reinforce each other. Beyond the employment gap where only 23% of women with disabilities have jobs compared to 47% of men with disabilities (UNDP), they also experience reduced access to education, healthcare, and political representation. Addressing these inequalities demands sustained efforts to create fair opportunities and participation at every level.

At CBM India, we believe that accelerating action means systematically dismantling the structural barriers excluding women and enabling their full engagement in education, health, livelihoods, and community development.

Our commitment to gender equity is demonstrated through some of our past and present initiatives. One example is an inclusive garment production unit we set up in Karnataka, which provided vocational training and employment to women with and without disabilities. Another is Sankalp, a women’s credit cooperative we established in Maharashtra with over 9,000 women members. Our humanitarian action efforts include a women-led mangrove reforestation project, while our healthcare initiatives extend to marginalized communities through an eye health program for trans women in Hyderabad.

On this International Women’s Day, we renew our dedication to advancing gender justice and disability inclusion. We are committed to creating spaces where every woman participates with dignity and autonomy. Together, we can drive collective action toward a society where rights and equity are realized for all women and girls, today and every day.”