Category Archives: News

Pune Teen’s Selfless Act: Organ Donation Turns Her 17th Birthday Into a Lifesaving Miracle

Pune, January 31st, 2025: In moment of grief, the parents of 17-year-old Aanchal Shinde from Narayangaon made a brave decision to donate her organs after she was declared brain dead at Manipal Hospital, Baner.

Aanchal, on the night of January 25th met with a road accident on her birthday while returning home, which caused a serious brain injury. She was immediately rushed to a local hospital, where doctors put her on ventilator to stabilize her condition. However, due to the severity of her injuries, she was shifted to Manipal Hospital, Baner, on January 27th. Despite the best efforts of the medical team her condition continued to deteriorate, and she was declared brain-dead after performing the required tests.

The team of doctors counselled the family for organ donation and after receiving consent from the parent, the Zonal Transplant Coordination Centre (ZTCC) was immediately informed. The officials swiftly allocated her organs as per the waiting list.

One kidney was allocated to Manipal Hospital, Baner, while the other kidney, along with pancreas, was allocated to Jupiter Hospital. For the liver transplant, a split donation was performed where one portion of liver was transplanted into a child at Sahyadri Hospital in Deccan, while the other portion was transplanted into a adult at Sahyadri Hospital, Nagar Road. Lungs were allocated to Dr D.Y. Patil Medical College.

Dr. Bhushan Nagarkar, Consultant and Head of Critical Care, Manipal Hospital, Baner said, “Our team closely counselled and supported the girl’s family, helping them to make an informed and courageous decision. The generosity of the donor’s family in the face of loss is truly commendable and serves as an inspiration for many to consider organ donation. Managing brain-dead patients has a different set of challenges, including hormone replacement and stabilization of vital parameters to maintain important organ function in an optimal state.”

Mr. Anand Mote, Cluster Director, Manipal Hospital, Baner said, “Even after receiving the best possible medical treatment, she could not be saved. This was a tragic incident for the Shinde family, who lost their daughter at such a young age. But the generosity shown by her parents, despite their grief is truly remarkable. Their selfless decision has saved many lives, ensuring that Anchal stays alive in others.”

Varsha and Ravindra Shinde, Doners Parents Said, “We have lost our daughter, but we knew that her passing should not be in vain. Our daughter was the light of our lives, and though we have lost her, knowing that she is alive in others brings us some comfort. We believe that organ donation is the greatest gift one can give. It is our hope that her story will encourage more families to take this noble step.”

PVR INOX’s ‘Timeless Classics’ Celebrates Cinema’s Most Iconic Films and Their Lasting Impact

National, January 30, 2025: PVR INOX, India’s largest and most premium cinema chain, is set to take cinephiles on a nostalgic journey with the launch of Timeless Classics, aimed at reintroducing some of the most iconic Indian and international films to the big screen. Beginning on January 31st, this property offers audiences the unique opportunity to rediscover and celebrate cinematic masterpieces that have had a profound influence on audiences and the industry alike and continue to inspire a whole new generation of creators and viewers.

The Timeless Classics series will begin with the iconic romantic drama Kabhi Kabhie, directed by Yash Chopra—a film that has become an integral part of India’s cinematic history. The celebration continues in February with two more timeless romances by the legendary filmmaker: Silsila and Chandni, both of which have left an indelible mark on romantic cinema.

February will also feature the restored version of Awara, a timeless classic by Raj Kapoor, and Aradhana, a much-loved film starring the iconic duo Rajesh Khanna and Sharmila Tagore, directed by Shakti Samanta. These meticulously restored editions of landmark films offer audiences a chance to experience their cultural and cinematic significance in a contemporary setting. With a diverse range of romantic films that have defined the genre, February promises to be a celebration of love and nostalgia on the big screen.

Curated exclusively for discerning audiences, Timeless Classics will feature limited re-releases at select premium PVR INOX cinemas, offering an immersive experience with superior sound and visual quality. As part of this initiative, a new lineup of classics will be introduced every Friday, ensuring fresh selections for movie lovers to enjoy each week.

Niharika Bijli, Lead Strategist at PVR INOX, commented on the new launch, “Timeless Classics at PVR INOX is a celebration of cinema. Our goal is to not only revive these classic films but to provide a dedicated platform for these cinematic masterpieces. This curated series offers audiences a rare chance to experience iconic films on the big screen, appreciate their timeless relevance, and acknowledge their continued and lasting impact on our legacy as moviemakers and moviegoers.”

India’s Premier Cake and Bake Expo, Cakeology 2025, Kicks Off in Guwahati on Jan 31

Guwahati, January 30, 2025: Cake enthusiasts, baking professionals, and industry buyers are in for a treat as Cakeology 2025, India’s premier Cake & Bake Expo, is set to make its debut in Guwahati. Scheduled to take place from January 31 to February 2, 2025, at the Maniram Dewan Trade Centre, this much-anticipated event promises to be a game-changer for the baking and hospitality industries in Northeast India.

Having begun its journey eight years ago in Mumbai, Cakeology has grown into India’s most successful baking expo, hosting multiple successful editions. Now, for the first time, it is expanding to Guwahati, offering an unparalleled platform for cake artists, home bakers, industry professionals, and food entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and showcase their talents.

The event is tailored for a diverse audience, including baking professionals, industry buyers, cake artists, home bakers, bakery cafés, pastry chefs, restaurant owners, caterers, hotel purchase managers, F&B managers, sweet and snack shop owners, hotel management institutes among others.

“Attendees can look forward to an array of exciting activities, including stalls and exhibits where top brands are showcasing ingredients, tools, and baking equipment. Also, there will be free hands-on workshops led by expert bakers and chefs and live theatre demonstrations,” said Khushi Malani, the Founder of Cakeology.

Cakeology 2025 is more than just an exhibition – it is a celebration of the art of baking and cake decorating. The event aims to bring together everyday cake enthusiasts, professional bakers, chocolatiers, retailers, and food lovers to network, learn, and elevate their craft.

Aakash Invictus by AESL: A Groundbreaking JEE Prep Program for Aspiring Engineers

Mumbai/New Delhi, January 30, 2025: Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL), the national leader in test preparatory services, proudly announces the launch of Aakash Invictus, a groundbreaking and first-of-its-kind Advanced program for JEE preparation designed for the best and brightest engineering aspirants. This elite, high-intensity, personalized, AI driven and result-oriented initiative is engineered to enable students preparing specifically for IITs or reputed Universities abroad.

Aakash Invictus brings together around 500 best JEE Faculty, offering unparalleled mentorship backed by a track record of success in guiding over one lakh students to IITs. The curriculum is cutting-edge and meticulously designed for ambitious students aiming for top IIT ranks. The program features integrated phygital learning and exclusive study resources, ensuring precision-focused, AI-enabled, and adaptive preparation for JEE Advanced.

The rigorous program includes a comprehensive revision and testing module that emphasizes targeted preparation during the final stages before the JEE (Advanced) exam. Students will benefit from specialized curriculum, doubt-clearing sessions and a meticulously crafted test series aimed at maximizing their performance. Aakash Invictus will have small batches so as to give more personalized attention to students.

Mr. Deepak Mehrotra, MD & CEO of Aakash Educational Services Limited, emphasized the program’s significance, stating, “Aakash Invictus is not just a coaching program; it is a transformational journey for students aiming to secure top IIT ranks. This program brings together top-notch faculty with decades of experience, cutting-edge teaching methodologies and personalized, AI and tech-driven learning. Over the years, our educators have successfully mentored millions of students to secure admissions in top IITs. The study material has been completely revamped, covering the entire curriculum and developed by some of the best experts in the industry. We firmly believe this is the best—if you can create better material, we will award you and welcome you to our team.”

He further added, “This programme, which started a few months ago has already attracted 2500+ top students. Built on three key pillars – innovative pedagogy and courseware, expert faculty and advanced AI tools – Aakash Invictus will set new benchmarks in JEE preparation. All these brand-new features are backed by the credibility, trust, and technical expertise of Aakash.”

ALF 4.0: Alliance University Hosts Grand Celebration of Asia’s Art and Culture in ‘The Asian Century

MUMBAI/BENGALURU | January 30, 2025: Alliance University proudly presents the fourth edition of the Alliance Literary Festival (ALF 4.0), a three-day extravaganza celebrating literature, culture, and intellectual dialogue, scheduled from February 13 to February 15, 2025. This year’s theme, “The Asian Century”, highlights Asia’s profound impact on global culture, politics, economy, and art, offering an exceptional platform for literary enthusiasts, academicians, policymakers, diplomats, and cultural connoisseurs to engage in meaningful conversations and immersive experiences.

The festival promises an extraordinary lineup featuring over 120 speakers, including voices from over 25 countries. Esteemed participants include Javed Akhtar, celebrated Indian screenwriter and lyricist; Asako Yuzuki, renowned Japanese author; Palki Sharma Upadhyay, India’s voice of the Asian Century; Anil Kumble, one of Asia’s greatest sportsmen; Sanjay Patel, Indian American animator, director at Pixar, and Oscar nominee; Rajdeep Sardesai, renowned Indian journalist; and Perumal Murugan, distinguished Indian author.

Asia, often hailed as the cradle of civilizations, has long been a hub of innovation, storytelling, and wisdom. From ancient philosophical texts to contemporary narratives challenging power structures and exploring identity, Asian literature and culture have consistently illuminated the essence of the human experience. ALF 4.0 celebrates this legacy while exploring Asia’s dynamic rise as a global powerhouse.

Dr. Anirudh Sridhar, Dean of Thought Leadership, Department of Language & Literature, Alliance University, remarked, “The theme of The Asian Century embraces Asia’s resurgence as a dominant economic and cultural force on the global stage. Hosting this festival in Bangalore, a city at the forefront of this transformation, underscores our commitment to fostering intellectual dialogue and cultural celebration.” He added that ALF aligns with Alliance University’s mission to position Bangalore as India’s intellectual capital and establish the university as a hub for art, culture, and ideas.

The festival will open with insightful sessions on regional literature and translation, highlighting Kannada and Tamil literary traditions. A mesmerizing performance of Chhau dance, rooted in the traditions of West Bengal, will further enrich the cultural tapestry of the event. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in interactive sessions, including Q&A discussions, meet-the-author events, and book signings, fostering deeper connections with literary luminaries.

Expanding its reach, ALF 4.0 incorporates modernity with live-streamed sessions and curated digital highlights, ensuring accessibility for audiences worldwide. This initiative underscores Alliance University’s commitment to promoting intellectual and cultural dialogue across both physical and virtual platforms.

The festival will explore timely themes such as Asia’s economic ascendancy, the rise of Asian athletes, the intersection of migration, diaspora, and belonging, as well as environmental and demographic challenges. Sessions will also examine Asia’s pivotal role in shaping the future of education, sports, and innovation on the global stage. Cultural showcases, including musical performances, film screenings, and exhibitions, will conclude the festival, celebrating Asia’s illustrious past and its promising future.

MAHE Bengaluru Introduces Groundbreaking Program for Enhancing Students’ Mental and Emotional Wellbeing

Bengaluru; 30th January 2025: Manipal Academy of Higher Education Bengaluru (MAHE), a leading institution in higher education, is proud to announce the launch of Manam, a pioneering program designed to prioritize and support the mental and emotional wellbeing of its students. The initiative is part of MAHE’s continued commitment to fostering a holistic learning environment. This revolutionary program will be one of its kind in the country which will support workplace readiness for students. The program will enhance student’s emotional intelligence a much-required skill in any field of work.

Manam encompasses several innovative measures, including access to professional counsellors, peer support groups, a user-friendly website with self-support tools, and expert-led sessions on topics such as mindfulness, [Program Highlights: Optional, non-graded program: Students can voluntarily enroll in the program, which carries no grades or academic credits. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion, a valuable addition to their resumes. Eligibility and enrollment: The pilot batch will focus on second- and third-year undergraduate students, as well as postgraduate and Ph.D. students. Interested students can register through the Manam website. No additional fees: MAHE is offering the program at no extra cost as part of its regular curriculum.] sexual wellness, and movement therapy.

The program covers essential topics such as the body-mind-spirit connection, understanding the conscious and subconscious mind, nervous system regulation, dealing with insecurities (e.g., body image), working with emotions like anger and frustration, and creating personalized wellness plans. These topics are delivered through deeply interactive and experiential sessions, blending cognitive and energy practices to provide students with practical tools for emotional resilience.

The program aims to equip students with higher self-awareness and emotional intelligence (EI), which are increasingly sought after by employers. Many organizations actively assess EI during their recruitment processes, and completing this program will serve as a tangible testament to these skills. By investing in students’ emotional intelligence, MAHE positions itself as a forward-thinking institution that prepares its graduates to excel in today’s workplace.

Prof. (Dr.) Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE, Bengaluru, highlighting the pioneering nature of the initiative and its alignment with Global best practices, said, “At Mahe, we wanted to create a safe space where students could openly express themselves and find the support they need. To truly understand their concerns, we conducted surveys and engaged in meaningful conversations with students. This is how Manam was born-a platform designed to offer practical solutions while making the experience engaging and enjoyable.

What makes Manam special is its scale and accessibility. MAHE is the first institute in the country to implement such an initiative at this level, ensuring that every student has access to the program. We recognize that mental well-being is just as important as academic success, and through Manam, we are committed to fostering a culture of support, awareness, and growth and mental wellness .”

Our goal is simple: to equip students with the right tools, create a judgment-free environment, and encourage them to prioritize their well-being. This isn’t just about addressing challenges-it’s about empowering students to navigate life with confidence. At MAHE, we believe that change begins with understanding, and Manam is a step toward building a stronger, more resilient student community”.

Maheima Kapur, Core Facilitator. Manam, said, “Manam was created to normalize conversations around mental health, breaking the stigma that often prevents students from seeking help with counsellors. Through extensive student input, we designed a program that fosters self-awareness and empowers individuals to recognize when they need support.

With more than 7,000 students today and even more tomorrow, we know that counseling services alone aren’t enough. That’s why Manam lays a foundation for self-learning, helping students navigate their emotions while ensuring expert help is available when needed. From its name to its design, Manam speaks the language of Gen Z-making mental well-being accessible, engaging, and truly relevant to this generation”.

Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu, Deputy Registrar, MAHE Bengaluru Campus, focusing on the unique aspects of the program and its relevance to students, commented,” The key objective of Manam is to normalize conversations around mental and emotional well-being on campus and strip away the taboo and stigma associated with openly sharing and reaching out for support during difficult phases.

Techno India Group Public School Garia Brings OJAS to Life with a Colorful Cultural Festival

Kolkata, 30th January, 2025: Techno India Group Public School (TIGPS), Garia, today hosted its annual cultural event, OJAS – Prakriti Naman: Nurturing Nature, Empowering Education. Held at the prestigious Jai Hind Auditorium, OJAS symbolized the flow of positive energy within individuals and highlighted the symbiotic relationship between nature and education.

The evening began with the inauguration ceremony in the presence of Prof. Manoshi Roychowdhury, Co-Chairperson, Techno India Group, Ms Tania Sen, Principal, Techno India Group Public School, Garia, Ms Pauline Laravoire, Director of Sustainability, Techno India Group and RJ Arvind which was followed by a felicitation ceremony by the principal. A heartfelt welcome and introduction by the Principal, Ms Tania Sen, who presented the school’s accomplishments over the past few years. She took a moment to recognize the collective efforts of the students, parents, staff and management in making the event a resounding success. Ms Sen spoke about how the school’s educational journey has been guided by the principles of holistic growth and the spirit of learning that embraces not only academic success but also cultural enrichment.

The cultural extravaganza captivated the audience with a beautifully woven script that incorporated a stunning array of performances by students and their mentor teachers. The performances were a true celebration of Indian culture, emphasizing its deep connection with nature and the ethos of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The evening was filled with traditional dances, musical performances, and theatrical acts that seamlessly blended the themes of environmental consciousness and educational empowerment.

“We are proud to witness the flourishing of our students, whose talents are showcased in every performance tonight. This event is a testament of their dedication, creativity, and the nurturing environment at TIGPS Garia that promotes both academic and personal growth. Our commitment to the values of NEP 2020 is reflected in this celebration of nature and education,” said Ms Tania Sen, Principal, Techno India Group Public School, Garia.

“In today’s rapidly changing world, it is essential that we not only focus on academic excellence but also nurture the values of sustainability, creativity, and emotional well-being. OJAS exemplifies our commitment to holistic education, where we empower students to think beyond the classroom, to appreciate the beauty of nature and to contribute meaningfully to society,” said Prof Manoshi Roychowdhury, Co-Chairperson, Techno India Group.

RJ Arvind, shared his insights on the power of education in transforming lives. Additionally, Ms Pauline Laravoire, Director of Sustainability, Techno India Group, delivered a thought-provoking address on the significance of sustainable practices and their role in shaping a better future.

In a special segment, the alumni members of the school were felicitated for their outstanding contributions and achievements, further inspiring the current generation of students to pursue excellence in all their endeavors.

Understanding Leprosy Colonies: Groundwork Brings Hidden Realities to Light

By- Mr. Gaurab Sen is the Chief Executive Officer of the Sasakawa-India Leprosy Foundation (S-ILF)

 Leprosy is curable, yet its impact on individuals and families extends far beyond the disease itself. In India, over 750 leprosy colonies are home to thousands of people who have faced not only physical challenges but also the enduring stigma and isolation associated with the disease. To address their needs effectively, understanding their realities is essential. This is why the Sasakawa-India Leprosy Foundation (S-ILF) undertook a monumental task: physically verifying and documenting the conditions of every leprosy colony in the country.

 This endeavour was no ordinary data collection exercise. Our team travelled to remote corners of India, often to locations that were hard to reach due to poor roads, limited connectivity, and challenging terrain. But these difficulties did not deter us. We were driven by a simple belief—true change begins with understanding the ground reality.

 Through this process, we uncovered not just numbers but the human stories behind them. We saw colonies where basic amenities like clean water and electricity were a luxury. We met families struggling to make ends meet because employment opportunities were almost non-existent. We also saw children eager to learn but held back by the weight of prejudice and limited access to quality education.

 This firsthand data is now the most comprehensive and accurate record of leprosy colonies in India. It includes information on the population, living conditions, access to healthcare, education levels, and economic opportunities in these colonies. By physically visiting each location, we ensured that the data truly reflects the lives of the people we are committed to supporting.

 This initiative has already begun to make a difference. Armed with this knowledge, S-ILF has been able to design targeted interventions that address the specific needs of these communities. For example, we now know which areas lack schools or healthcare facilities and can advocate for improvements. Similarly, our skill development and livelihood programs are tailored to the unique challenges faced by residents in different regions.

 The process also highlighted the resilience and determination of the people living in these colonies. Despite the hardships, many families expressed a strong desire to break free from the cycle of poverty and stigma. This determination inspires us to push harder in our mission.

 The government has been a strong ally in this journey. Initiatives like the National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP) have laid the groundwork for progress. However, our data shows that there is still much to be done at the societal level, especially in bridging gaps in infrastructure and ensuring social inclusion.

 Leprosy colonies are not just places on a map; they are communities of people with aspirations and potential. By physically visiting and documenting these colonies, we have laid the foundation for more effective interventions. But this is only the beginning.

 India’s fight against leprosy is not just about eliminating a disease—it is about ensuring dignity, equality, and opportunity for all. With accurate data, stronger collaboration between government and civil society, and the resilience of the people themselves, we can make this vision a reality.

 Anti-Leprosy Day reminds us of the importance of action rooted in empathy and understanding. At S-ILF, we are committed to walking that extra mile—both literally and figuratively—to support the communities we serve. Together, let us ensure that every individual affected by leprosy has a chance to lead a life of dignity and hope.

New Partnership Between IIM SKILLS and DSAFS Aims to Elevate Data Science Skills

IIM SKILLS, a leader in global ed-tech, has professional courses operating all over the world. In this regard, it is with great pleasure to announce its partnership with DSAFS, being a certificate-issuing body and a leading authority concerned with maintaining competency standards and their examination in data science and analytics.

By collaborating with DSAFS, IIM SKILLS reasserts its leadership in professional education with value. This partnership reflects its consistent pursuit of fulfilling the gap between industry demands and academic curriculums. By fusing theoretical knowledge with real-world insights, IIM SKILLS and DSAFS are looking to create a transformative learning experience for aspiring professionals.

DSAFS certification and credentialing services for individuals, organizations, and educational institutions make sure their offerings meet industry expectations and global best practices.

This is the revolutionary and fresh approach that IIM SKILLS’ collaboration with DSAFS gives to the youth for redirection of their career streams by providing them with the skill sets required to meet industry trends. Advanced decision-making skills are what is currently sought after in the data science and analytics sector, and this powerful partnership in itself is a certificate of validation of the most reliable and pertinent advice to succeed in this area.

This partnership creates a benchmark and lends additional credibility to IIM SKILLS with high-quality training, including the authenticity of trainers’ knowledge confirmed by DSAFS specialists. This ensures the quality of education and confirms the institution’s relevance and the standard of its courses. It also shows the carefully planned curriculum, which is in line with industry developments and offers a combination of theoretical and practical instruction from knowledgeable and experienced teachers.

Students should be certain that they are investing in the right place; therefore, this is a very important step that ensures that students receive quality education at industry associations accredited institutions. These two abilities have a very powerful impact on promoting education and ensuring that valuable content is utilized only.

“This partnership is further strengthening our training delivery and certification trust and will empower thousands of people around the world” said Mr. Vaibhav Kakkar, CEO of IIM SKILLS.

India’s Artistic Legacy Takes Center Stage at the Gurugram Festival This February

GURUGRAM, 30th January 2025: The thriving metropolis of Gurugram is all set to come alive with rhythm, colour and creativity as it hosts the inaugural Gurugram Festival, an arts and cultural extravaganza bringing together the best creative performers from the fields of music, dance, visual arts and culture. Scheduled to take place on February 8th and 9th this year at the Epicentre, Apperal House, it seeks to provide a platform for cultural exchange and encourage dialogue among artists and audiences.

Acclaimed artists such as Sarod maestro Pandit Partho Sarothy, trained under Ustad Dhyanesh Khan and the legendary Pandit Ravi Shankar, Pandit Uday Bhawalkar, among the foremost Dhrupad vocalists, sitar virtuoso Samanwaya Sarkar, vocalist Debapriya Adhikari and Kathak exponent Guru Sandip Mallick will headline this captivating soirée with their accomplished and mesmerizing performances. Accompanying these artists, we have Pandit Vinod Lele, Debjit Putitundi, Madhurjya Barthakur on tabla.

Vikram Dutta, Festival Curator and Co-founder, Gurugram Festival, said, “The Gurugram Festival is more than an event. It is a vibrant celebration of India’s artistic spirit and legacy. Offering an eclectic lineup of artistic and classical music performances, the two-day event will provide people an opportunity to soak in an atmosphere which is bound to leave them mesmerised.”

In addition to music, the festival creates a space for literature sessions, workshops for children, poets, painters, and photographers. Whether you’re an art lover, music enthusiast, an aspiring litterateur or simply looking for a festive outing, the Gurugram Festival, in its next chapter, promises an experience that will entertain and inspire audiences of all ages.