12, Feb 2024
This Valentine’s day indulge in a sustainable love affair at Malaka Spice Pune
Pune, India February 12, 2024 – This Valentine’s Day, Malaka Spice, known for its culinary excellence and commitment to sustainability, invites couples to experience a romantic evening like never before. Presenting Lights Out! – the Valentines Day Edition, an enchanting celebration that combines sustainability with love.
On the 14th of every month, Malaka Spice transforms its ambiance by switching off all nonessential lights and embracing the warm glow of re-used candles, creating a luminaria-inspired atmosphere. In the spirit of sustainability, the restaurant not only saves on electricity but also repurposes wax from used candles for this special night.
On February 14th, Malaka Spice takes this eco-friendly romance to the next level. The restaurant will be exclusively illuminated by candlelight, providing an intimate setting for couples to celebrate their love. The evening features delectable desserts crafted from produce sourced directly from Malaka Spice’s Cherish Farm, as well as tantalizing cocktails made with meads from Moonshine Meadery.
As part of the Valentine’s Day celebration, Malaka Spice is also offering its Winter Menu to keep lovebirds warm and satisfied. The curated menu boasts an array of mouth-watering dishes like The Midnight Chicken Soup, Yellow Raya Curry with Crispy Vermicelli, Laab Chicken With Nachani Crackers, Miang Kham made with Evolved Plant Meat, Kaffirlime-salt Dusted Soft Shell Crab, Malaka Tab Tim Krob that are sure to delight every palate.
So, head to Malaka Spice in celebrating love in a sustainable and romantic way this Valentine’s Day. Create memories that are as enduring as the glow of candlelight.
What: Valentines Day Celebration
Where: Malaka Spice, Koregaon Park and Kharadi
When: 14 th February, 07:00 pm onwards
Price: A La Carte
Contact:
For Koregaon Park: 7507011226 & 7769875755
For Kharadi: 9158884188
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- By Rabindra
12, Feb 2024
Unlock Your Potential: The Power of Posture in a Digital World
By
Dr. M. Kamalakannan., PhD., MPT(Ortho)., COMT., PgDip (Bioethics & Human rights)., MIAP.
In today’s fast-paced, digital world, we’re constantly bombarded with screens – from smartphones and tablets to laptops and desktop computers. As we immerse ourselves in this digital landscape, we often neglect one crucial aspect of our health and well-being: our posture. But what if I told you that proper posture is not just about sitting up straight? It’s about unlocking your full potential – physically, mentally, and emotionally. Let’s delve into the transformative power of posture in our modern, digital age.
The Impact of Digital Devices: Picture this: you’re scrolling through your smartphone, engrossed in social media updates or replying to emails. Hours pass by, and before you know it, your neck is stiff, your shoulders are tense, and your lower back aches. Sound familiar? This phenomenon, known as “tech neck,” is just one of the many consequences of poor posture in the digital era.
Research shows that the average person spends hours each day hunched over digital devices, leading to a host of musculoskeletal issues, including neck pain, back pain, and headaches. The constant strain on our bodies not only affects our physical health but also takes a toll on our mental well-being, contributing to stress, fatigue, and even mood disorders.
Understanding Good Posture: So, what exactly is good posture, and why does it matter? At its core, good posture involves aligning your spine, shoulders, and hips in a neutral position, maintaining a natural curve in your spine, and keeping your head balanced atop your shoulders. This alignment allows your muscles and joints to work efficiently, reducing the risk of strain and injury. But good posture is not just about standing or sitting up straight; it’s a dynamic balance that adapts to different activities and movements. Whether you’re sitting at your desk, walking down the street, or exercising at the gym, practicing good posture is essential for optimal health and performance.
The Benefits of Good Posture: The benefits of maintaining good posture extend far beyond physical health. When you stand tall with confidence, you exude an air of self-assurance andpoise that commands attention. Good posture can boost your self-esteem, improve your body language, and enhance your professional presence in social and professional settings.
From a physical standpoint, good posture helps prevent musculoskeletal pain and discomfort by reducing the strain on your muscles and joints. It improves your breathing and circulation, ensuring that your body receives an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients. And let’s not forget the mental benefits – good posture can boost your mood, increase your energy levels, and sharpen your focus and concentration.
Practical Tips for Better Posture: Now that we understand the importance of good posture, how can we incorporate it into our daily lives? Here are some practical tips to help you maintain better posture in a digital world:
- Take regular breaks: Set a timer to remind yourself to take breaks from digital devices every hour. Use this time to stretch, move around, and reposition your body.
- Practice mindfulness: Be mindful of your posture throughout the day. Notice how you’re sitting, standing, and moving, and make adjustments as needed to align your body properly.
- Invest in ergonomic solutions: Use ergonomic furniture and accessories, such as ergonomic chairs, standing desks, and laptop stands, to support good posture while working or studying.
- Flex and Fortify: Enhance Your Posture with Customized Exercises! Incorporate stretching and strengthening routines into your daily regimen to boost flexibility and muscle balance. Concentrate on exercises that target problem areas like the neck, shoulders, and lower back. Consult a physiotherapist for personalized workout plans tailored to your needs.
- Stay active: Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, to keep your muscles strong and flexible. Physical activity not only supports good posture but also enhances overall health and well-being.
Cultivating a Posture-Positive Lifestyle: Finally, let’s talk about cultivating a posture-positive lifestyle that extends beyond the physical realm. Embrace mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, to cultivate body awareness and relaxation. And most importantly, be patient and consistent in your posture journey – Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is perfect posture.
10, Feb 2024
Rainmaker Hosts Webinar on the Inclusion of Menstrual Leave at the Workplace
Mumbai, February 10, 2024 – Rainmaker, India’s leading culture and compliance learning solutions company, recently hosted an insightful Rainmaker All-Inclusive webinar on whether menstrual leave should be included in an organization’s leave policies. Titled “The New Era of Leave Policies: Do We Need the Period Leave?”, the webinar provided a platform for a spirited discussion aimed to dissect the discourse around menstrual leave and its relevance within organizational leave policies. The webinar recognized menstruation as a natural biological process impacting various aspects of life, including at the workplace.
Joining Rainmaker CEO, Antony J Alex, for the discussion were leading HR executive Kapil Vardhan, Head of People at Mensa Brands, legal expert Mirul Bhavsar, Head of Legal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, and DEI specialist, Supriya Rehill, Head of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility, Mahindra Logistics. Together, the panelists addressed the necessity of identifying and accommodating menstruating employees’ specific requirements.
Expressing his perspective on the matter, Antony J. Alex, Founder & CEO of Rainmaker, said, “The aim of this webinar was to draw attention to the difficulties that menstruating women endure, as well as the influence menstruation has on their emotional well-being and professional lives. It is important to create an environment that encourages open dialogue concerning menstruation, standardizing discussions about menstrual health, and enacting inclusive policies that assist employees amid the challenging menstrual cycle. It is also imperative to recognize and address these requirements within organizational frameworks to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment. Kapil, Mirul and Supriya offered insightful perspectives that ignited discussions on this relevant topic and I’m grateful for their time and expertise.”
The event also addressed concerns raised about potential implications for gender equality and workplace dynamics, with some suggesting that it may inadvertently reinforce stereotypes or create divisions.
Kapil Vardhan, Head of People at Mensa Brands, said, “Empowering organizations to embrace progressive leave policies is not just about fostering inclusivity; it’s about recognizing the diverse needs of employees and championing their well-being. The dialogue sparked during the Rainmaker All-Inclusive Webinar exemplifies our collective commitment to shaping a workplace culture that prioritizes empathy and understanding. I’m honored to have been a part of this conversation.”
Advocates further underscored the importance of acknowledging and accommodating these needs within organizational frameworks to create a more inclusive and supportive environment.
Mirul Bhavsar, Head of Legal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, shared her thoughts, saying, “In today’s rapidly evolving workplace landscape, redefining leave policies isn’t merely about implementing another good-to-have policy; it’s about adapting to change, and fostering a culture of support and understanding, while offering an all-inclusive and conducive work environment. The Rainmaker All-Inclusive Webinar served as a testament to our shared dedication to crafting environments where every individual’s needs are identified, valued and respected. I’m grateful that Team Rainmaker invited me to be a part of this exceptionally important discussion. Conversations like these provide a platform and encourage open dialogue on this crucial topic, prioritizing empathy and the normalization of challenges associated with menstruation, before we go for any formal policy or law on this.”
Rainmaker is a pioneering force in culture and compliance learning solutions, and is passionately committed to training individuals and organizations in ethical conduct. The company has a wide variety of offerings, such as workshops, e-modules and policy development, in the space of Prevention of Sexual Harassment, Anti-Bribery & Anti-Corruption, Data Protection & Privacy, Code of Conduct, Leadership Development, among others.
10, Feb 2024
Manipal Academy of Higher Education and Basketball Federation of India Forge Alliance to Propel Athletic Excellence
Manipal, Karnataka, 10th February 2024: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) and the Basketball Federation of India (BFI) have joined forces in a ground-breaking partnership aimed at nurturing athletic talent and fostering a culture of excellence within Indian basketball.
This historic collaboration between MAHE and BFI signifies a profound convergence of vision, where both entities share an unwavering dedication to not just achieving greatness but also fostering athleticism and building more resilient, empowered communities through the power of sports. It marks a pivotal moment in the trajectory of Indian basketball, where the combined expertise and resources of MAHE and BFI are poised to drive significant advancements in the sport.
In steadfast alignment with their commitment to holistic education, MAHE and BFI acknowledge the transformative role that athletics play in shaping well-rounded individuals. This partnership goes beyond merely honing basketball skills; it underscores the fundamental importance of sports in instilling resilience, discipline, and unwavering character in students. By integrating sports into the educational fabric, MAHE and BFI aim to equip students with the necessary tools not only to excel on the court but also to thrive in all aspects of life.
Dr H S Ballal – Pro Chancellor & President, Academy of General Education, MAHE emphasizes, “With the Basketball Federation of India, we are not only forming a partnership, but also fostering a common vision of greatness, athleticism, and community as we set out on this revolutionary journey. Our shared goals are to develop athletic talent, provide confidence to aspiring athletes, and motivate the next wave of champions. This partnership is a testament to our dedication to holistic education, which views athletics as a vital component in developing resilient, disciplined, and well-rounded students.
Dr Sharath Kumar Rao, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences) said that MAHE Manipal gives a lot of importance to extra-curricular activities along with curricula. With this partnership, we can achieve a significant milestone in the advancement of basketball development in India. MAHE is always ready to encourage sports and with the help of the Basketball Federation of India, we will allow our students to become successful athletes on and off the court,”
, Registrar of MAHE Manipal was present on this occasion.
The event was graced by the presence of Mr. Aadhav Arjuna, President – of the Basketball Federation of India (BFI), and Shyam Adithya, Chief Financial Officer of BFI. Aadhav Arjuna, a former professional player, leads BFI with a vision for holistic athlete development and infrastructure enhancement. Shyam Adithya, a seasoned Chartered Accountant, brings over 15 years of global experience in driving digital transformation Together, they aim to propel Indian basketball to international prominence.
Excited about the partnership, Aadhav Arjuna, President – of the Basketball Federation of India (BFI), commented, “Our objective is to promote basketball as more than just a sport, but as a means of personal development, community involvement, and national pride, our cooperation with MAHE represents a critical turning point. With this partnership, we hope to foster an environment of greatness by offering ambitious athletes access to top-notch facilities, knowledgeable coaching, and academic support to help them succeed on and off the court. Together, we’re dedicated to developing the next wave of basketball talent and giving them the tools, they need to skilfully, passionately, and honorably represent India on the world stage”.
The alliance between Manipal Academy of Higher Education and the Basketball Federation of India marks a significant milestone in the advancement of basketball development in India. Together, they are poised to revolutionize the sports landscape, empower aspiring athletes, and propel India towards athletic excellence.
10, Feb 2024
NMIMS Chandigarh SOL’s Legal Aid Camp Empowers Sarangpur Village with Legal Awareness and Support
Chandigarh, 10th February: The Legal Aid Clinic at SVKM’s NMIMS Chandigarh’s School of Law (SOL), in collaboration with the State Legal Services Authority (SLSA) of Chandigarh Union Territory (U.T.) and the Department of Social Welfare, Chandigarh, organised a Legal Aid Camp in Sarangpur Village, Chandigarh. The event was held on January 30 2024.
The Legal Aid Camp was conducted under the leadership of Ms. Mita Chadha, Assistant Professor and Faculty Convener, Legal Aid Clinic, SLSA and Department of Social Welfare, Chandigarh. It was attended by the members of the Legal Aid Clinic, NMIMS SOL Chandigarh; a team of esteemed delegates from the SLSA and the residents of Sarangpur village.
The event was held to create legal awareness and educate the residents of Sarangpur about the free legal aid available for the underserved. The objective was to help people understand their legal rights and access legal assistance when needed. As part of the awareness campaign, members of the Legal Aid Clinic went door-to-door to inform people about legal aid initiatives and the Legal Aid Clinic at SOL Chandigarh.
The event included a Nukkad Naatak (Street Play) performed by the members of the Legal Aid Clinic. The play raised awareness about women’s empowerment among the audience. Moreover, the event featured members of the SLSA addressing the gathering on a range of topics of social importance.
Mr. Shiv of SLSA set the tone of the event with his inspiring speech. Ms. Jasveer Kaur, Gender Discrimination Specialist, Department of Social Welfare, spoke about the existent social prejudices against the girl child in society. Addressing the audience, Ms. Sukhdev Kaur, Child Development Project Officer, walked through the various laws that could aid them. She encouraged them to openly share any legal matters they wished to discuss. Meanwhile, Ms. Mita Chadha introduced the Legal Aid Clinic to the attendees and assured them of free legal aid and assistance.
The event left the residents of Sarangpur motivated. It encouraged them to bring forward their grievances and seek assistance from the Legal Cell. The event was one of the several initiatives of the Legal Aid Clinic at NMIMS Chandigarh SOL and reflected its firm commitment to addressing issues of social importance and legal advocacy.
10, Feb 2024
Historians Swapna Liddle and Alka Pande discuss Mughal Art and Architecture
Kolkata, February 10: The first day of the Apeejay Kolkata Literary Festival presented a captivating discussion between two stalwarts from Indian history and academia. Historians Swapna Liddle and Alka Pande discuss what lives on from the legacy of Mughal art and architecture. The session, ‘The Mughals and Us’, aimed to unravel the rich tapestry of Mughal art in modern times. Both historians conversed with Husna-Tara Prakash discussing the beauty of Mughal marvels.
The event started with moderator Husna-Tara Prakash introducing the guests and drawing parallels between the Mughal cosmopolitan outlook and that of Kolkata and the region of Bengal at large. The session’s primary focus was on the impact of Mughal art and architecture in contemporary India and how assimilation lies at the heart of it.
Speaking on discussing the beautiful city of Shahajanabad, also known as Purani Dilli. Shahajanabad, as Liddle put it, was “…a microcosm or a representation of the larger empire. This was a feature that defined Delhi throughout the Mughal period.”
While discussing the confluence of cultures with moderator Husna Tara Prakash, Swapna Liddle emphasized how people tend to characterize the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire simply as “Islamic dynasties”, overlooking the hybridity and assimilation of various cultural factors lying at the centre of it. Speaking on art and architecture, she added that Mughal architecture had the tenacity to adapt to pre-existing styles, making them a testament to the same assimilation.
Celebrated art historian Alka Pande in congruence with Swapna Liddle’s observations stated, “Hybridity was in the consciousness of Mughal rulers. This is supported by the fact that most Mughal rulers had Rajput mothers.” Connecting stories of the Mughal era with Bengal, she added how Wajid Ali Shah, the Nawab of Bengal, had brought with him not just 500 men but the culture and food of Awadh, as well.
In the contemporary context, she opined how “from the food we eat to the clothes we wear, like salwar, churidars and kurta, the Mughals are relevant even today.” The speakers and moderator agreed that the Mughal Empire was a great example of assimilation between Hindu and Islamic traditions. The session ended with Alka Pandey stating, “We Indians have the power to absorb different cultures but can still retain our individuality.”
10, Feb 2024
Pvr Inox Introduces Italian Food Festival to Mark National Pizza Day
National, February 10, 2024: PVR INOX, the largest and the most premium cinema exhibitor in India announces the launch of its Italian Food Festival, offering a delightful culinary adventure alongside the cinematic experience. From February 9th to March 31st, indulge in authentic Italian flavors across 50+ cinemas in 100+ screens across 26 cities within the luxury of Luxe/Insignia auditoriums.
This exciting initiative goes beyond popcorn and nachos, offering a specially curated menu featuring the rich flavors and historical significance of three iconic Italian dishes Pizza Al Taglio, Tiramisu, and Ravioli e Spinaci.
Originating from the streets of Rome in the 1950s, Pizza Al Taglio, or “Pizza by the Cut” is characterized by its rectangular shape, thick crust, and diverse toppings. Offering a quick and affordable meal, it has transcended borders to become a global sensation.
Hailing from the Veneto region, Tiramisu, meaning “pick me up” in Italian, is a classic dessert crafted with layers of coffee-soaked cookie crumbled/sponge cake, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa. Born in the 1960s, it gained iconic status in the ’80s for its rich flavors and creamy texture.
Dating back to the 14th century in Genoa, Italy, Ravioli e Spinaci, or Spinach Ravioli, showcases the artistry of Italian pasta-making. Stuffed with a delightful mixture of spinach and cheese, this pasta dish has evolved over the centuries, adding a nutritional and flavorful twist.
PVR INOX sets itself apart in the realm of entertainment by seamlessly blending the worlds of fine dining and cinematic enchantment, crafting an unparalleled and memorable experience for patrons.
The convergence of exquisite cuisine with the mesmerizing magic of cinema transcends the ordinary, taking the movie-watching experience to new heights and transforming it into a truly special occasion. The fusion of sumptuous flavors and captivating visuals creates a multisensory journey, where every moment becomes a celebration of taste and storytelling. PVR INOX’s commitment to delivering this unique amalgamation ensures that each visit is not merely about watching a film but embarking on a cinematic adventure that engages all the senses, making it an unforgettable experience for movie enthusiasts and culinary connoisseurs alike.
Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Gautam Dutta, Co-CEO of PVR INOX Ltd said, “If PVR INOX is known for redefining cinema-going, it has done so by reimagining cinema F&B as well. In our endeavor to redefine the boundaries of culinary delight within the cinema space, we are thrilled to announce the launch of our captivating Italian Food Festival from February 9 to March 31. This festival promises an exquisite culinary journey featuring a curated selection of the finest and most iconic Italian delicacies skillfully crafted by our talented chefs. We extend a warm invitation to our patrons, urging them to indulge in the rich and authentic flavors of Italy while immersing themselves in the sheer joy of watching movies in our state-of-the-art cinemas.”
10, Feb 2024
Reimagining waste: From E-waste drives to Eco-Bricks-Lessons in Responsible Production & Consumption
By Mrs. Damayanti Bhattacharya, Educationist and Principal of Jasudben M L School and Bloomingdales Pre-Primary
Reimagining waste: An overview
Waste stands at the intersection of environmental challenges, serving as both a predicament and a prospect in the realms of climate change and environmental degradation. On one hand, improper waste management contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, with landfills emitting potent methane, exacerbating global warming, on the other hand, the extraction and disposal of materials, particularly in electronic waste, contribute to resource depletion and environmental pollution. However waste also holds a promise as a solution to offer avenues for energy generation while minimizing the environmental impact. By reimagining solutions to turn waste into a source of opportunities, to preserve the environment, calls for a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to waste management, through innovation in waste management.
An innovative approach to waste management
Conventional waste disposal methods are increasingly inadequate in confronting the growing challenges of escalating waste production. A shift towards a sustainable future necessitates the adoption of innovative and visionary strategies to revolutionize the waste management landscape. Rethinking our approach to waste opens doors to opportunities for both environmental conservation and economic growth. Embracing forward-thinking solutions becomes imperative in order to effectively address the complex issues associated with waste and create a more resilient and sustainable waste management system for the future.
Industrial waste management
The proliferation of industrial establishments in developing countries, fueled by international trade and advancements in science and technology, has garnered attention from developed nations. This shift has spurred economically significant industrial developments. However, this surge in industrialization has also given rise to the pressing need for rapid advancements in waste management techniques to effectively handle the substantial volumes of waste generated across diverse industries. Waste management is crucial for collecting and treating waste emanating from all strata of society, especially for industries to manage waste from its initial generation to its final treatment and disposal phases. Adopting an industry-specific, waste management process, plays a pivotal role in addressing this challenge. Industrial waste, stemming from both the production process and the subsequent disposal of industrial products, poses a considerable threat to the environment. To mitigate the environmental impact, it becomes imperative to adopt a waste hierarchy approach—a life cycle system that aims to minimize waste generation and maximize the utilization of products derived from waste.
A circular model economy for production & consumption
The circular economy represents a paradigm shift in the way we produce and consume goods. This model emphasizes practices such as sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing, and recycling existing materials and products for as long as possible, extending the overall life cycle of products. The core objective is to minimize waste generation and maximize resource efficiency. When a product reaches the end of its life, the circular economy aims to keep its materials within the economic system through recycling, allowing them to be reused productively and creating additional value. This approach stands in contrast to the traditional linear economic model, characterized by a take-make-consume-throw-away pattern. The transition to a circular economy not only promotes sustainability by minimizing waste but also challenges the conventional notions of resource consumption and encourages a more resilient and responsible approach to economic activity.
From e-waste to eco-bricks: The future lies in effective waste management
Electronics manufacturers like Apple, Dell, and HP have initiated take-back programs, allowing consumers to responsibly recycle old devices and recover valuable materials. Material recovery from electronic waste is gaining traction, with companies exploring advanced recycling technologies to extract valuable metals. Sustainable product design focuses on modularity and repairability, enabling users to easily upgrade components, extending product lifespan, and reducing waste. Brands are increasingly incorporating recycled materials into manufacturing processes, minimizing environmental impact. Circular supply chain initiatives involve closed-loop systems and supplier engagement to ensure sustainability throughout production. Brands are rethinking packaging strategies with eco-friendly materials and exploring creative solutions like eco-bricks made from plastic waste for sustainable construction alternatives.
Why is the education sector important to a circular economy?
The education sector, spanning from primary to postgraduate levels, plays a crucial role in preparing students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to embrace circular thinking in their future careers. The shift from a lecture-based to a participatory education approach is crucial, with a primary focus on discussions about sustainable consumption and production. A comprehensive understanding of the consequences of our linear economy’s consumption patterns can empower young individuals to make sustainable choices as they grow older. For instance, educating children about the non-biodegradability of plastic, the impact of multi-layered plastic, and encouraging personal responsibility for waste recycling fosters a sense of civic duty. Integrating concrete examples in education ensures that children grasp from an early age how they can actively contribute to sustainability.
The goal is to achieve a harmonious balance that requires overcoming challenges such as technological barriers, economic considerations, and the need for widespread societal awareness and behavioral changes. In navigating this intricate landscape, waste emerges not just as a problem to be managed but as a potential catalyst for sustainable solutions in the face of pressing environmental concerns.
10, Feb 2024
Birla Open Minds International School, Nashik’s annual day programme
Nashik, Maharashtra, 10th February 2024 – Birla Open Minds International School, Nashik, is delighted to present its Annual Day Programme, “Tu Shakti hai: Women Empowerment,” scheduled for February 10, 2024, starting from 5:45 p.m. at the school premises. The event will witness Dr. Sangeeta Pethkar, Director of the Nritya Sadhna Kala Academy, as the chief guest. Birla Open Minds is a pioneering educational organization committed to revolutionizing global education by providing cutting-edge solutions, empowering individuals and organizations, and ensuring universal access to high-quality education. Their unique selling proposition lies in offering all-inclusive support for schools.
The event promises to be inspiring, celebratory, and a homage to women’s determined spirit. The program’s topic, “Tu Shakti hai: Women Empowerment,” aims to highlight women’s strength, tenacity, and achievements in all aspects of life. This event is made possible through the invaluable guidance and support of Director Mr. Ashish Thakur and Mr. Gulshan Thakur, members of the school’s management team.
Priyanka Choube, the esteemed Principal of Birla Open Minds International School in Nashik, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, “Our Annual Day Programme is significant because it not only showcases our students’ talents and achievements but also serves as a platform to champion important societal issues. This year, we are proud to center our celebrations around the theme of women empowerment, recognizing the invaluable contributions of women to our society and emphasizing the importance of gender equality and inclusivity.”
The Annual Day Programme will include a range of performances, such as cultural dances, musical renditions, theatrical presentations, and inspirational talks, all of which will celebrate the spirit of femininity and promote gender equality. Birla Open Minds International School extends a warm invitation to all members of the community to join in this memorable celebration of Women’s Empowerment.
10, Feb 2024
SYNAPSE 2024: A unique, first-of-its-kind gathering of global genius in India
New Delhi February 10th, 2024: SYNAPSE is a pathbreaking and unprecedented science tech society conference, founded and curated by award-winning journalist Shoma Chaudhury. Being hosted on 24 – 25 February 2024 at The Futures Hangar, Le Meridien, Gurgaon, SYNAPSE is bringing together an extraordinary and unique combination of global genius – from Nobel Laureates to superstars, technologists to ethicists, philosophers to inventors, artists to economists — who will decode powerful forces reshaping the world, debate the most urgent questions of our time, and explore the intersections between nature, humans, and technology.
SYNAPSE is driven by a unique vision. It seeks to place science and tech at the center of public engagement, excitement – and debate. AI. Gene editing. Age reversal. Big Data. Big Tech. Biotech. Quantum computing. These innovations are impacting society at an exponential pace.
From geopolitics to genes. Business to behavior. Politics to parenting. Work to war. Democracy to markets. Media to mental health. Cities. Cells. Climate. Cosmos. Creativity. Cinema. SYNAPSE will be focusing on all of this and will present science and tech not as difficult topics for subject experts, but as urgent ideas and innovations that everyone can understand and relate to.
As Shoma Chaudhury, Director-Curator of SYNAPSE, explains, “Science and tech is literally the new ‘Hand of God’ in our lives. From birth to death itself, it is reshaping everything while we sleep. We cannot afford not to engage, celebrate, adapt, debate. We wanted to create a platform that would retrieve science from the lab and place it in all its beauty, power, drama, and vividness at the heart of society. We wanted to create a new visual language around science and bring together the most unusual combination of cutting-edge minds to discuss its promise and peril. We are at several simultaneous tipping points. These innovations have the power to change humanity as we know it. So how do we harness their potential and guardrail the harm? Is it time to create a ‘constitution for technology’?”
Rajan Anandan – MD, Peak XV Partners, one of India’s most prominent tech investors who formerly led Google South Asia and Microsoft in India – heartily endorses this vision. “I am excited to come for SYNAPSE,” he says, “because it’s a first-of-its-kind conference in India – possibly the world.”
Anandan will be speaking at SYNAPSE and the timeliness and significance of the vision are reflected in the galaxy of 40 other cutting-edge frontier minds who will be gathering at the conference.
Among them are Nobel Laureate Roger Kornberg, whose breakthrough discoveries enabled the vaccine revolution; 3-time Pulitzer Winner Thomas Friedman, one of the world’s most astute trend-spotters; Michael Sandel, legendary Harvard political philosopher who fills stadiums; Rumman Chowdhury, tech ethicist named by Forbes as 1 of 5 shaping AI; Elizabeth Parrish, a biohacker & longevity entrepreneur reversing age; Eric Daimler, former Obama adviser on AI; Martin Green, father of solar Technology, whose invention accounts for 90% of global solar cells; Vedanta master Swami Sarvapriyananda; star director Raju Hirani; India’s lead quantum physicist Urbasi Sinha, India’s national cyber security chief Lt Gen MU Nair; mood and mind scientist Vidita Vaidya, working on stress and psychedelics. And many more.
Investigators of body & mind. Entrepreneurs, ethicists, economists. Politicians. Investors. Creators.
The excitement of the conference is drawing 1,000 thought leaders from across the country on the ground as audience – ranging from political and policy leaders to industrialists, entrepreneurs, C-suite executives, scientists, educators, YPOs, and top-notch professionals from every walk of life. Students from 50 universities will be watching the livestream.
