Category Archives: News

Glaucoma Awareness Month: A Closer Look at the Silent Thief of Sight

By-Dr. Ashwin Santosh Shetty, Consultant – Ophthalmology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore

January is recognized as Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time dedicated to spreading knowledge about this sight-threatening disease. Often called the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma progresses without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making awareness and early detection crucial. This article explores its causes, prevention, diagnostic methods, notable cases, and how the healthcare industry is addressing this condition.

Understanding Glaucoma
Glaucoma encompasses a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which is vital for good vision. This damage is often caused by abnormally high pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure). If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to irreversible blindness. According to the World Health Organization, it is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide, affecting millions of people.

Causes of Glaucoma
While the exact cause of glaucoma remains unknown, several risk factors contribute to its development:
1. Elevated Intraocular Pressure (IOP): The primary risk factor is increased pressure in the eye due to improper drainage of aqueous humor.
2. Age: People over the age of 60 are at a higher risk.
3. Family History: Genetics play a significant role; a family history of glaucoma increases one’s likelihood of developing the disease.
4. Ethnicity: African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians are at higher risk for certain types of glaucoma.
5. Existing Health Conditions: Diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases can contribute to the development of glaucoma.
6. Prolonged Use of Steroids: Extended use of corticosteroids can also increase the risk.

 Prevention: A Proactive Approach
While glaucoma cannot always be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk:
• Regular Eye Exams: Comprehensive eye exams, especially for individuals over 40, can help detect glaucoma early.
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking can reduce the risk.
• Eye Protection: Wearing protective eyewear during activities that could result in eye injury is essential.
• Managing Other Health Conditions: Keeping diabetes and blood pressure under control can mitigate risks.

 Diagnosis: Spotting the Silent Thief
Timely diagnosis is critical to preventing vision loss. Common diagnostic tests include:
1. Tonometry: Measures intraocular pressure.
2. Optic Nerve Examination: Assesses the optic nerve for signs of damage.
3. Visual Field Test: Detects peripheral vision loss.
4. Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness, which can influence IOP readings.
5. Gonioscopy: Examines the drainage angle in the eye to identify blockages.

 Industry Cases and Innovations
Several prominent cases and advancements highlight the importance of addressing glaucoma:
• Celebrity Advocacy: Public figures like Bono have raised awareness about living with glaucoma.
• Technological Innovations: The introduction of advanced diagnostic tools like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) has revolutionized early detection.
• Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): New surgical techniques provide safer and more effective treatment options.
• Awareness Campaigns: Organizations like the Glaucoma Research Foundation actively promote education and resources.

Glaucoma Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder of the importance of eye health. By spreading awareness, encouraging regular screenings, and supporting advancements in research and treatment, we can collectively combat this silent thief of sight. Remember, early detection is key—an eye exam today could save your vision tomorrow.

STAGE OTT Hosts Rohidi Music Festival in Sheo, Barmer: A Grand Tribute to Rajasthan’s Musical Heritage

Jan 17, 2025 Sheo | Barmer, India

STAGE OTT hosted the Rohidi Music Festival, a grand celebration of Rajasthan’s cultural and musical heritage, in the picturesque desert town of Sheo, Barmer. This landmark event brought together over 400 Manganiyar artists who showcased the timeless rhythms, soulful vocals, and traditional instruments that define the region’s rich folk traditions. The festival began with a powerful rendition of the National Anthem, followed by the stirring performance of Dharti Dhora Ri, setting the tone for an evening filled with artistry and cultural pride.

Among the highlights were spellbinding performances by Virasat Lok Sansthan, the Joga Dhol Party from Bisala, and Akala Dariya, who mesmerized the audience with the iconic track “Ghani Re Ghani Khamba” from the movie Padmavat. The event also featured an extraordinary lineup of celebrated artists, including Padma Shri awardees Ustad Sakar Khan’s family and Ustad Lakha Khan, alongside other luminaries such as Shakur Khan, Jasu Khan Bissu, Jasu Khana Meer, Hakam Khan Nimbla, Moti Khan, and R Khan. Their stellar performances not only captivated the audience but also honored the Manganiyar community’s centuries-old legacy.

The Manganiyars have long been the storytellers of Rajasthan, weaving music into every aspect of life, from births and weddings to festivals and harvest celebrations. Their music, which is passed down through generations, reflects a deep connection to the cultural and spiritual fabric of the region. The Rohidi Music Festival beautifully celebrated this rich tradition, emphasizing how music in the Manganiyar community transcends mere entertainment to become an integral part of their daily lives and rituals.

Mr. Vinay Singhal, CEO & Co-Founder, STAGE OTT and Mr. Parveen Singhal, CCO & Co-Founder, STAGE OTT, reflected on the success of the festival, stating, “The Rohidi Music Festival was an opportunity to showcase the vibrant soul of western Rajasthan. By bringing together esteemed artists, we aimed to present the heart of Rajasthan’s folklore to a larger audience. This festival was not only a celebration of music but also a step toward empowering local communities and preserving their cultural treasures.” The event served as a platform to uplift Manganiyar artists, creating economic opportunities while fostering pride among performers and attendees alike.

The Rohidi Music Festival was a historic cultural gathering, blending tradition with a vision for progress. STAGE OTT demonstrated its unwavering commitment to preserving Rajasthan’s cultural legacy while supporting its local artists. The event set a benchmark for future initiatives aimed at celebrating and promoting the rich artistic heritage of the region.

Ninad Pardeshi to Launch ELM Art Gallery – An Exclusive Art Gallery Redefining Luxury

Jan 17, 2025 Mumbai, India

Renowned architect and designer Ninad Pardeshi, the visionary force behind ELM Designs, is proud to announce the launch of ELM Art Gallery, an exclusive art gallery dedicated to luxury and heritage. Under its brand Moksha Sutra, the gallery will feature an exclusive collection of art masterpieces dedicated to timeless elegance and cultural sophistication. Located in the heart of Mumbai, ELM Art Gallery promises to be a sanctuary for art connoisseurs and collectors.

Mr. Ninad Pardeshi, ELM Designs

As the Principal Architect and CEO of ELM Designs, Ninad Pardeshi has built a legacy of creating transformative spaces that marry tradition with contemporary luxury. With over two decades of experience and a philosophy rooted in the belief that “Life is Luxury,” Ninad’s latest endeavor pushes the boundaries of artistic expression, showcasing a curated collection of high-end masterpieces crafted by India’s finest artisans and emerging talents from institutions like JJ School of Art.

ELM Art Gallery aims to preserve and celebrate India’s rich artistic heritage while offering a platform for innovation. The gallery will feature an exquisite range of paintings, sculptures, and installations that reflect maximalist aesthetics and intricate craftsmanship-hallmarks of the ELM Designs brand.

“Our mission with ELM Art Gallery is to create a space where art meets soul,” said Ninad Pardeshi. He further added, “This gallery is not just about displaying art; it’s about connecting people to the stories, emotions, and traditions that define our culture. We want our patrons to experience luxury not just as opulence but as a deeper connection to beauty and heritage.”

This ELM Art Gallery designed to cater to high-net-worth individuals and art lovers reflects ELM Designs’ core values of excellence, creativity, and sustainability. Its debut collection under Moksha Sutra will highlight works that integrate vastu principles and eco-conscious materials, offering visitors a sensory journey through India’s artistic legacy.

In addition to its Mumbai location, Ninad Pardeshi has ambitious plans to expand ELM Art Gallery internationally, with future galleries envisioned in Milan and Dubai, further positioning ELM Designs as a global leader in luxury design and artistry.

Smartworld Certifies as ‘Great Place to Work’ for Fourth Consecutive Year

Jan 17, 2025 Gurugram, India

Smartworld Developers has been certified as a “Great Place to Work” for the fourth consecutive year. This prestigious recognition underscores the company’s commitment to cultivating a workplace culture centred around employee satisfaction, inclusivity, and collaboration. Based in Gurgaon, Smartworld is a pioneering real estate developer who has significantly impacted the residential real estate sector with its innovative luxury projects.

Commenting on the recognition, Vivek Singhal, CEO, Smartworld Developers, said, “This certification is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to our employees. They form the foundation of our organisation’s culture and values, and this achievement underscores their contributions to our success. We remain committed to providing an environment where our employees can thrive both professionally and personally. It is this dedication that allows us to grow as a company while nurturing our dynamic workforce.”

At Smartworld Developers, fostering an open and inclusive work culture is a priority. The company adopts a flat decision-making structure, ensuring clear communication of its vision and goals to all employees. Regular dialogue between management and staff enables effective two-way communication, fostering a culture of collaboration over competition.

Cross-functional teams are formed to achieve objectives through teamwork, while continuous feedback mechanisms ensure alignment with business goals and motivate employees to perform at their best. Smartworld’s workplace philosophy is rooted in equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender. The company ensures a merit-based approach in areas such as remuneration and responsibility. A strong reward and recognition program further sets Smartworld apart, celebrating achievements at individual, team, and organizational levels.

The Great Place to Work Institute is a global firm that recognises employers creating outstanding employee experiences through a rigorous evaluation process.

According to the Institute’s research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the company’s profits and have a fair chance at promotion.

MMTC-PAMP Celebrates One Year of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha in Ayodhya with Ram Lalla Gold and Silver Bars

Jan 17, 2025 Ayodhya, India

MMTC-PAMP, India’s only London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) Good Delivery gold and silver refiner, is proud to commemorate the first anniversary of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha in Ayodhya with its exclusive Ram Lalla Gold and Silver Bars. This celebration pays homage to the divine spirit of Lord Ram and affirms the enduring legacy of faith, devotion, and righteousness.

MMTC-PAMP’s Ram Lalla Silver Bar (50g) and Ram Lalla Gold Bar (10g, 24K, 99.99%+ purity, featuring an embossed image of Ram Lalla)

The specially crafted Ram Lalla Bars, made from the purest 24K gold (99.99%+ purity) and 99.99% silver, have been cherished symbols of devotion since their launch. The 10-gram gold bar and 50-gram silver bar both feature 3D embossed of the Ram Lalla idol, inspired by the divine sculpture installed at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya, alongside a detailed depiction of the iconic Ram Mandir on the reverse.

As part of the three-day grand celebrations in Ayodhya, MMTC-PAMP joins devotees in the spiritual and cultural activities that resonate with the essence of Lord Ram’s teachings.

The celebrations commenced on January 11, 2025, with the Abhishek of Ram Lalla by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath, followed by a cultural program featuring Usha Mangeshkar and Mayuresh Pai. On January 12, 2025, Raga Seva included performances by Sonu Nigam, Shankar Mahadevan, and Malini Awasthi. The event concluded on January 13, 2025, with spiritual rituals and devotional activities.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Vikas Singh, Managing Director & CEO of MMTC-PAMP remarked, “As we celebrate the first anniversary of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha, we are honoured to offer devotees the Ram Lalla Gold and Silver Bars. Crafted with 99.99%+ purity, these bars are a testament to our commitment to excellence and our deep respect for Indian culture and traditions. They symbolize faith and devotion, serving as cherished keepsakes of this historic moment. Since the launch of our Ram Lalla collection, these bars have been a cherished treasure amongst our customers.”

Wordswork Celebrates 5 Years of Service Excellence, Client Trust, and Family Values

Jan 17, 2025 New Delhi, India

Wordswork, an award-winning digital marketing agency specializing in strategy, social media marketing, content development, and more, proudly announces its 5th anniversary. This milestone is more than a celebration of time—it’s a powerful testament to the rare and enduring relationships that have defined the agency’s success.

Wordswork Celebrates 5 Years of Service Excellence, Client Trust, and Family Values

In an industry where change is constant, it’s incredibly rare to see clients and employees stay with an agency for the long haul. Yet, wordswork has achieved this remarkable feat, with long-term partnerships from esteemed clients such as BLS International, Jio-bp and Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO). Past collaborations with leading brands like Sarovar Hotels Pvt. Ltd. and Tao Paris further underline the agency’s exceptional ability to deliver results and build trust. These relationships are not just business agreements—they are shared journeys of growth, trust, and mutual success.

Equally remarkable is the agency’s ability to retain its original team members, many of whom joined at wordswork’s inception. In an era where turnover is often high, the agency’s strong family-oriented culture and unwavering support for its employees have fostered a sense of belonging, loyalty, and purpose that keep the team intact. These enduring relationships, both with clients and within the agency, are the emotional heart of wordswork’s success.

Key Milestones Over the Past Five Years

Long-Term Client Loyalty: Wordswork has built lasting relationships with clients like EO, Jio-bp, and BLS International. These partnerships reflect trust, shared values, and consistent results, setting a benchmark for client retention.

A Family-Oriented Culture: From day one, Wordswork has fostered a sense of belonging where employees feel valued and supported. This connection has cultivated a passionate team, with many members staying since the agency’s founding.

Award-winning Excellence: Wordswork’s innovative campaigns, such as the 100th store launch of Jio-bp, have earned accolades, including the Elets INDIA Digital Marketing Awards 2024, showcasing its creativity and impact.

Creative Legacy: Over the years, Wordswork has successfully delivered impactful campaigns for clients like Sarovar Hotels Pvt. Ltd. and Tao Paris. These campaigns have gone beyond marketing, building meaningful connections with audiences.

Community Commitment: Wordswork has consistently supported local causes through corporate social responsibility initiatives, ensuring its impact extends beyond digital campaigns.

“We’re celebrating more than just five years—we’re celebrating a journey that’s been marked by incredible bonds with our clients and a team that feels like family,” said Ms. Sudha Maheshwari, Founder and CEO of wordswork. “In a world where relationships often feel transactional, we’ve built something deeply emotional. Our clients have stayed with us because they believe in our vision, and our team members have stayed because they feel truly part of the wordswork family. This is a rare gift, and we treasure it every day. As we look to the future, we are driven by the same passion and commitment that have gotten us here.”

Truecaller Appoints Hemant Arora as New Global Head of Its Substantial Ad Sales Business

Jan 17, 2025 Bengaluru, India

Truecaller, the leading global communications platform, today announced the appointment of Hemant Arora as Vice President, Global Ad Sales Business. With this strategic addition to its leadership team, Truecaller aims to further strengthen its position in the ads business and double down on its largest revenue stream, redefining its global ad sales strategy.

Truecaller Appoints Hemant Arora as Global Head of Ad Sales Business

With over 25 years of expertise in driving high-growth revenue strategies and managing global operations, Hemant has consistently delivered transformative results for top-tier media and technology companies such as TikTok, Times Network, Dainik Bhaskar Group, NDTV Media and Discovery Networks South Asia. In his previous role at TikTok, Hemant was heading global accounts for Europe, APAC and METAP regions.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Hemant Arora, Vice President, Global Ad Sales Business, Truecaller said, “With a global active user base of over 425 million people, Truecaller is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology, trust, and communications. I am excited to join the team and look forward to driving impactful growth and deepening our partnerships, globally.”

“Hemant’s proven track record of building scalable revenue models and his deep understanding of global markets make him the ideal leader to drive Truecaller’s ad sales strategy,” said Rishit Jhunjhunwala, CEO, Truecaller. “His appointment will further strengthen our vision to revolutionize how brands connect with consumers and unlock the full potential of our platform for advertisers across the globe.”

Truecaller continues to evolve as a trusted global communications platform, leveraging its expansive user base of over 425 million active users worldwide. With Hemant’s leadership, the company aims to expand its ad sales portfolio, deliver cutting-edge solutions, and deepen its footprint in global markets.

Encubay Amplifies the Dialogue on Women and Wealth at Davos, During World Economic Forum, 2025

Jan 17, 2025, Mumbai, India

The largest wealth transfer in history is underway, and women are positioned at the center of this systemic shift. By 2025, women will control over 50% of global wealth, an estimated $30 trillion—a transformative opportunity to redefine leadership, investing, and economic impact. Encubay, the Shecosystem of change, is pioneering in this movement, catalyzing conversations, actions, and opportunities for women entrepreneurs to lead the charge.

Encubay Panel at Davos 2025

At Davos, Encubay will bring together global leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers to address this unprecedented wealth shift through their curated dialogue:

“The Great Financial Shift: A Dialogue on Wealth, Diversity, and Leadership”

Encubay sees the 2025 wealth shift as more than a transfer of assets—it’s a reallocation of power, purpose, and potential. With women driving purpose-driven investments and reimagining financial strategies, this shift presents unparalleled opportunities to advance gender equity, innovation, and sustainable impact.

“This isn’t just about wealth—it’s about creating a legacy of empowered women reshaping industries, driving diversity, and leading the global economy forward,” said Deeksha Ahuja, Founder of Encubay. “Women controlling over 50% of global wealth by 2025, is not just about numbers; it’s about redefining leadership and economic impact.”

“Women are expected to receive $34 trillion by 2030 due to a massive wealth transfer, highlighting the growing financial power of women. They are championing financial independence, purpose-driven investing, and sustainable wealth creation. The 2025 wealth shift will be a historical moment where we will see a significant shift in investment trends,” added Avneet Kohli, Co-founder of Encubay.

“The percentage of female ultra-high-net-worth individuals worldwide rose to 11% in 2023 from just 6.5% in 2010. By recognizing and embracing this wealth shift, we can unlock new opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and growth. This is an opportunity to empower more women and shape a prosperous future for all,” said Archana Jahagirdar, Founder & Managing Partner, Rukam Capital.

Progility Technologies Revamps Brand Identity on New Year 2025

Mumbai, India

Progility Technologies Pvt. Ltd, a leading provider of enterprise technology solutions, today announced a major refresh of its corporate identity, including new brand colours and company logo.

With a roster of 1,500 active customers in India and a net promoter score of 100%, the new identity brings a sharper and more modern feel to the company’s visual identity and reflects the high degree of confidence and trust that Progility enjoys in its markets. The primary brand colouring will switch to blue, emphasising trust and security, and the new logo incorporates the words “Trusted Technology.”

This brings the Progility corporate identity into line with the company’s stated aim of being “the most trusted and valued technology innovation partner in its chosen markets.”

Progility Technologies provides a broad portfolio of enterprise technology solutions and services to its corporate and government customer base that include Data Networks, Voice and AV Collaboration Systems, Cybersecurity Solutions, Camera Surveillance Systems and Managed Services.

Announcing the launch, Julian Wheatland, CEO of Progility Technologies said, “We are excited to unveil this new branding and corporate identity which more accurately reflects our customers’ needs and expectations. In a fast paced and ever-changing technology world, now becoming superpowered by AI, our customers need a technology innovation partner who they can trust and rely on. This new brand identity better reflects what we mean to them.”

Surya Sarees Expands to Omaxe Chowk: Grand Opening on January 12, 2025

Jan 17, 2025  New Delhi, India

Surya Sarees, a renowned name in ethnic wear, celebrated a significant milestone with the grand opening of its new store at Omaxe Chowk on January 12, 2025. With a legacy spanning over four generations, Surya Sarees has long been a trusted destination for timeless elegance and exquisite designs. This expansion brings the brand closer to a wider audience, reinforcing its commitment to blending traditional Indian fashion with modern sensibilities.

Bollywood diva Malaika Arora launching New Surya Saree Showroom at Omaxe Chowk

A Grand Celebration Unfolds

The opening event was a grand affair that seamlessly combined tradition, culture, and glamour. The festivities began with a ceremonial lamp lighting, symbolizing positivity and prosperity. This ritual marked the start of a new chapter for Surya Sarees. Guests were then treated to a Director’s Talk, where the visionary leader behind the brand Mr. Raghav Mittal, Managing Director of House of Surya, shared insights into its rich history, remarkable journey, and aspirations for the future. The speech highlighted the brand’s dedication to preserving Indian craftsmanship while embracing contemporary trends.

Reveling new Surya Saree Showroom

The event’s highlight was the presence of Bollywood diva and style icon, Malaika Arora, who graced the occasion as the special guest. Malaika, a long-time fan of ethnic wear, expressed her admiration for the vibrant energy of Chandni Chowk and praised Surya Sarees for its stunning collection. She also engaged with fans during an exclusive meet-and-greet session, making the event even more memorable.

The event was further honored by the presence of distinguished guests such as Mr. Jatin Goel, Executive Director of Omaxe Limited and Mr. Neeraj Gupta, Founder of House of Surya.

The celebration didn’t end with the formalities. Guests were treated to an array of authentic Chandni Chowk street food, which recreated the area’s renowned culinary culture. The aromas of chaat, parathas, and other local delicacies filled the air, adding to the festive atmosphere. The excitement continued with live music performances, creating an electric ambience that kept the mood lively throughout the day.

Guests also participated in fun activities such as games, quizzes, and surprise giveaways. The lively interactions and sense of community made the event truly special, ensuring that everyone left with unforgettable memories.

A Legacy of Elegance and Craftsmanship

Surya Sarees, also known as the House of Surya, is more than just a fashion destination; it is a cultural institution. Specializing in bridal, couture, and prêt fashion, the brand offers a wide range of sarees, lehengas, and other ethnic garments perfect for weddings, festivals, and special occasions. With a legacy spanning over four generations, Surya Sarees has earned its reputation as a trusted name in Indian ethnic wear.

What sets Surya Sarees apart is its unwavering commitment to high-quality fashion, ensuring a sophisticated and inclusive shopping experience for all customers. The brand’s mission extends beyond offering beautiful garments; it aims to showcase the unparalleled artistry of Indian karigars (craftsmen) and weavers on a global stage. By promoting the incredible craftsmanship of these artisans, Surya Sarees helps elevate their recognition and value in the fashion world.

Why Omaxe Chowk?

The decision to expand to Omaxe Chowk was a strategic move, reflecting Surya Sarees’ desire to make its exquisite designs more accessible to a growing clientele. Omaxe Chowk, located in the heart of Delhi, is a modern retail and cultural hub that combines the old-world charm of Chandni Chowk with the convenience of contemporary shopping. This location offers the perfect blend of tradition and modernity, allowing Surya Sarees to bring the rich heritage of Chandni Chowk to a fresh, contemporary setting. The expansion is not just about opening a new store; it’s about making the legacy of Surya Sarees available to more people, in a space that reflects both the brand’s history and its forward-thinking vision.

Find your next masterpiece

The grand opening of Surya Sarees at Omaxe Chowk was more than just the unveiling of a new store. It was a celebration of tradition, culture, and style. Whether you’re a bride-to-be, a fashion enthusiast, or someone looking to explore the best of Indian ethnic wear, this event was an unmissable occasion. The day was filled with glamour, excitement, and unforgettable moments that will be cherished by everyone who attended.

Surya Sarees continues to be a key player in the Indian fashion landscape, offering timeless elegance and exceptional craftsmanship. The opening at Omaxe Chowk marked a new chapter in the brand’s illustrious journey, bringing the best of Indian ethnic wear to a whole new audience. For those who missed the grand opening, Surya Sarees promises even more exciting experiences and collections in the future.