26, May 2025
Surrender And Serenity: The Hidden Joy Of Letting Go
By-AiR Atman in Ravi – Happiness Ambassador and Spiritual Leader
In a world that constantly urges us to strive, achieve and control every aspect of our lives, the idea of surrender may feel counterintuitive and even frightening. We are taught to hold on tightly to our goals, relationships, identities and even our pain and suffering. But there is a quiet, transformative power in surrender that leads one not to defeat but to serenity. Letting go, when done consciously and spiritually, is not a loss—it is a liberation.
Most of us spend our lives trying to manage outcomes, people and even the future. We think that life is unpredictable. We experience change, loss and challenges that are beyond our understanding. When we resist these moments, we suffer. Resistance creates tension, anxiety and disconnection. In the path of Spirituality, we will realize the truth that we are not this body, mind and ego. We are the Soul, the Spark Of Unique Life, the Atman or the life power that makes the physical body function. We all realize the profound truth that our lives are controlled by Karma, our very own actions and all the situations that are occurring in our lives are due to past Karma. When we realize that everything is happening as per the Law of Karma and the Divine Will, we will realize that our constant effort to control life is exhausting and often futile. Thus, when we choose surrendering to the Divine Will, we align with life rather than fight it. We accept every situation with gratitude to the Divine and this leads to calmness, peace, tranquillity and serenity.
Much of what we cling to is rooted in ego – the part of us that seeks validation, success and control. But the ego thrives on fear and separation. Surrender is the act of loosening the ego’s grip and returning to our true nature, our Soul, which is already whole, peaceful and a part of the Divine, the Supreme Immortal Power, SIP. So, when we let go of the need to prove ourselves or to be right, we rediscover a quiet joy that exists beneath all striving. In Spirituality, surrender is often the key to transformation. It is the gateway to deeper prayer, meditation and communion with the Divine. When we release our agendas, we open ourselves to Divine timing, unexpected blessings and to the flow of grace and guidance from the Supreme Power.
There is a hidden joy in letting go, not because we know what will happen next but because we no longer need to know because we have trusted in the Divine Will. Having TRUST, Total Reliance and Unconditional Surrender To the Almighty or the Divine, is one of the most freeing experiences that a Soul can have. It is where faith becomes real. FAITH means Full Assurance In The Heart. We realize that we are held and taken care of by a Supreme Power even when we do not understand it. We feel supported and protected, even in the midst of uncertainty and adversity. This joy is subtle, yet powerful. It is the joy of resting in something greater than ourselves, of knowing that we do not walk alone. It is the joy that comes from no longer needing to figure everything out. In surrender, we find serenity. And in serenity, we discover that life is not something to be conquered, but something to be embraced and realized. The purpose of this life is to realize ourselves and consequently, realize the Divine.
Spiritual surrender is not passive. It is an active choice to trust – a trust in something greater than ourselves, the Supreme Immortal Power, SIP, that we call God. Surrender, in Spirituality, is shifting from fear to faith, from grasping to openness that leads to serenity in life. Serenity is not about escaping pain or bypassing emotions, rather, is about being fully present with whatever arises, without judgment.
Concluding the discussion, surrender is not a one-time event. It is a daily, moment-to-moment practice. It is the willingness to soften, release and choosing to trust, even when it’s hard to trust and have faith. It may look like a deep breath in the middle of a storm, a whispered prayer of acceptance or a quiet decision to stop forcing and start allowing. On the spiritual path, surrender becomes less about letting go of the world and more about Self-Realization and God-Realization, realizing the profound truth of life, death, Karma and everything. It means coming home, our real home, to the Divine. And in that sacred return, we find a serenity that the world can neither give nor take away.
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- By Neel Achary
26, May 2025
1st 1000 Days: United Way Bengaluru’s Born Learning Campaign Lays Foundation for a Brighter Future
May 26, 2025: The first 1,000 days of a child’s life—from conception to their second birthday—are widely recognized as the most critical period for a child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development. United Way Bengaluru (UWBe) has championed this vital cause through its flagship initiative, the Born Learning Campaign (BLC).
More than just a program, “1st 1000 Days” is a nationwide movement under BLC, built on the belief that early childhood care not only shapes individual lives but also defines the future of our society. In alignment with key government frameworks such as the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS), Poshan 2.0, Saksham Anganwadi, and the Aspirational Districts Program, the campaign is transforming how communities nurture their youngest members.
Transformative Impact at Scale
With over 20 lakh lives touched and 11,000+ Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) impacted across Bengaluru, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra, the campaign’s targeted interventions ensure every child gets a fair start in life:
Key Interventions:
Maternal Health & Nutrition: Hygiene awareness, exclusive breastfeeding education, and immunization drives.
Community Education: Engaging parents—especially mothers—in their child’s growth through regular health and nutrition meetings.
Frontline Worker Training: Empowering Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Helpers (AWHs) with Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) best practices.
Tangible Health Support: Distribution of nutrition kits, neonatal kits, and essential teaching-learning materials to improve care environments.
Fast Facts:
Geographic Reach: Bengaluru Urban (Karnataka), Patna (Bihar), Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), Osmanabad (Maharashtra)
AWWs Trained on First 1000 Days: 1,122
Neonatal Children Reached (0–3 months): 4,264
Parents Engaged in Child Development: ~84,000
AWWs and AWHs Trained in ECCE: 5,189
Nutrition Kits Distributed: 589
Neonatal Kits Distributed: 5,555
Anganwadis Equipped with Teaching & Learning Materials: 1,649
“Every Anganwadi transformed, every mother empowered, and every child supported marks a step toward a healthier, brighter future. When we nurture our youngest, we build a stronger tomorrow,”
United Way Bengaluru’s “1st 1000 Days” campaign proves that collective action, aligned with policy, and driven by grassroots involvement, can shape generations.
26, May 2025
Prime Video Unveils ‘The Traitors’: Karan Johar Hosts India’s Fiercest Reality Thriller Premiering June 12
Imagine working alongside your friends, colleagues or neighbours’ you laugh with, plan with, even trust — only to discover one of them is secretly plotting your downfall. Welcome to The Traitors, Prime Video’s upcoming new reality series, premiering June 12, with new episodes every Thursday at 8 PM.
An Indian adaptation of the smash-hit global phenomenon that’s won BAFTAs, Emmys, and broken friendships in over 30 countries is now landing in India. Hosted by the ever-charismatic Karan Johar, this cutthroat game of dhokha promises sass, suspense, and mind games like never before.
HOW THE GAME WORKS
20 players come together in a majestic palace — but among them lurk secret traitors chosen by the host himself. Their mission? To sabotage and eliminate the Innocents one by one, all while keeping their identities hidden.
● By day, the group completes missions to build a massive prize pot
● By night, the Traitors strike in secret, “murdering” an Innocent
● Each episode culminates in a tense Round Table (Think Mafia) where everyone votes out a suspected Traitor — but are they making the right call, or playing into the enemy’s hands?
If the Innocents unmask all the Traitors, they share the prize. But if even one Traitor survives, that player walks away with it all.
WHY THIS IS NOT YOUR TYPICAL REALITY SHOW
This isn’t about physical strength or raw talent — it’s a battle of instincts, wit, nerve, and how good one is at deception. Every smile could be a lie, every alliance a trap. The most dangerous weapon isn’t strategy — it’s trust.
WHY YOU CAN’T MISS IT
Already a global sensation, The Traitors has captivated audiences worldwide with its razor-sharp gameplay, shocking twists, and addictive storytelling. The Indian edition takes it up several notches — think full-celebrity cast, palace intrigue, stunning visuals, explosive secrets, and Karan Johar’s signature flair leading the game.
Get ready for intense drama and fights as friendships shatter and tempers flare. Loyalties will shift, alliances will crumble, and the tension will explode both on and off screen. It’s more than a reality show — it’s a pulse-pounding thriller where betrayal is the only way to survive.
Prepare for nail-biting suspense, endless speculation, and conversations that won’t stop. This June, experience reality entertainment like never before. Because in The Traitors, trusting the wrong person could cost you everything. Produced by BBC Studios India Productions, The Traitors is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video from June 12, with new episodes every Thursday at 8 PM.
26, May 2025
Crafts Council of Odisha to Host “Master Crafters” Exhibition on May 24–25, 2025
Bhubaneswar: The Crafts Council of Odisha is proud to announce “Master Crafters”, a premier two-day exhibition of celebrating the excellence of Odisha’s traditional crafts and artisans. The event will be held on May 24 and 25, 2025, at the Banquet Hall, Bhubaneswar Club, from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
“Master-Crafters” will feature 20 master craftspersons, including national and state award winners, showcasing a diverse range of Odisha’s handicrafts. Art forms such as Pattachitra, Palmleaf Engraving, Terracotta, Stone and Wood Carving, Appliqué, Golden Grass, Sabai Grass, Silver Filigree, Seashell Art, Dhokra Casting, Tribal Painting, and Handwoven Ikat will be on display and sale.
The event aims to promote excellence in craftsmanship, provide marketing opportunities during the lean season, and encourage direct interaction between artisans and buyers. This initiative will not only support the artisans financially but also elevate the profile of Odisha’s traditional crafts.
The inauguration ceremony held at 5:00 PM on May 24, graced by Mrs. Anu Garg, IAS – Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary as Chief Guest along with Mr. Santosh Kumar Mohapatra, IAS (Retd) – Chairman, Crafts Council of Odisha, Mrs. Poonam Guha Tapas Kumar, IAS – Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Handloom, Textiles & Handicrafts Department as Guest of Honour and Mrs. Pranatee Chhotray, IAS – Director of Handicrafts.
The Crafts Council of Odisha, affiliated with the Crafts Council of India and the World Craft Council, is dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and sustainable development of the state’s rich craft traditions. The Council supports artisans through skill development, market linkage, innovation, and advocacy for inclusive growth.
This event is expected to attract craft enthusiasts, collectors, connoisseurs, and members of the public eager to experience and support the living heritage of Odisha’s crafts.
26, May 2025
Reserve Bank of India Transforms Digital Lending with WSO2, Cutting Loan Processing Time from Weeks to Minutes
Bengaluru, India – May, 26, 2025 – The Reserve Bank India (RBI) has revolutionized India’s lending ecosystem by launching the Unified Lending Interface (ULI), a secure, centralized platform that streamlines access to financial data for lenders. Powered by WSO2’s API Management and Identity solutions, the initiative has significantly reduced loan processing times from up to six weeks to just a few minutes, marking a major milestone in India’s financial sector.
Lenders in India were grappling with the challenge of accessing both financial and non-financial data needed for making informed decisions in the digital credit space. The challenges of multiple siloed data sources scattered across entities such as Central and State government authorities, Fintechs, Techfins, Account Aggregators, Credit Information Companies, and Digital Identity Authorities, led to lenders having to individually connect with each data source. This made credit underwriting highly cumbersome, time-consuming, and costly, giving rise to operational inefficiencies and hindering seamless digital lending.
Recognizing these challenges, RBI and Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) aligned their efforts with India’s broader Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) initiatives. This move aimed to build a more interconnected financial ecosystem, one that supports innovations like embedded finance, AI-driven lending models, and real-time decision-making—transforming the way credit is delivered across the country.
Leveraging WSO2 API Manager and WSO2 Identity Server, RBIH was able to
- Cut down loan processing time from 4-6 weeks to a few minutes with the integration of real-time data across varied sources and automated workflows significantly reducing the time consumed for loan processing
- Establish a unified all-encompassing platform, eliminating the need for individual, complex connections with various data providers and minimizing operational costs and complexity
- Bridge the financial gap for underserved communities by leveraging alternative credit data beyond traditional credit scores and fostering greater financial inclusion
- Implement a simplified and seamless user onboarding process by enabling hassle-free self-registration, making it easier for underserved communities to access lending services
- Leverage analytics for actionable insights into user behavior, allowing RBIH to fine-tune the platform for better user experience, spot trends in usage and facilitate informed data-driven decisions
- Reinforce data security and compliance with secure API traffic management and encryption, ensuring all borrower data is handled safely, while adhering to data protection regulations
26, May 2025
Muthoot FinCorp Reports 39.86% Net Profit Growth in FY25 with Y-O-Y Revenue Up by 38.22%
Trivandrum, May 26, 2025: Muthoot FinCorp Limited, the flagship company of the 138-year-old Muthoot Pappachan Group, also known as Muthoot Blue, reported a net profit growth of 39.86% for FY25, reaching ₹787.15 crore, up from ₹562.81 crore in FY24. Year-on-year (Y-O-Y) revenue stood at ₹5,550.53 crore, a 38.22% increase from ₹4,015.77 crore. Disbursements for the year were ₹66,277.31 crore, reflecting a 32.11% growth Y-O-Y.
Revenue for the quarter reached ₹1,478.59 crore, marking a 23.49% increase from ₹1,197.31 crore in Q4 FY24. Assets Under Management (AUM) stood at ₹32,055.17 crore, up 46.22% from ₹21,922.70 crore in the same quarter of the previous year. The standalone net profit for the quarter was ₹191.67 crore, compared to ₹239.79 crore in Q4 FY24, while disbursements rose to ₹19,648.29 crore from ₹14,130.08 crore, a 39.05% increase.
| MUTHOOT FINCORP LIMITED – FINANCIAL RESULTS HIGHLIGHTS – STANDALONE | |
| As on March 31, 2025, VS March 31, 2024 | |
| Disbursements (including Co-lending) | 66277.31cr, up by 32.11% |
| AUM | 32055.17cr, up by 46.22% |
| Loan Assets | 26031.65cr, up by 19.89% |
| Revenue | 5550.53cr, up by 38.22% |
| PAT | 787.15cr, up by 39.86% |
| ROTA | 3.30%, up by 44bps |
| ROE | 22.02%, up by 363bps |
Thomas John Muthoot, Chairman of Muthoot FinCorp Limited, said: “FY25 has been a deeply fulfilling year for us. The 39.86% growth in net profit and over 38% increase in revenue are not just financial achievements—they reflect the enduring trust of our customers, the strength of our purpose, and the dedication of our Muthootians across India. As our non-gold portfolio continues to expand and more households benefit from our inclusive offerings, we remain firmly committed to transforming lives by improving their financial wellbeing. Our journey forward is guided by this purpose and a deep responsibility to serve India’s aspiring millions.”
Mr. Shaji Varghese, CEO of Muthoot FinCorp added: “FY25 was a year of substantial progress, marked by the effective execution of our growth strategy. Our diversified product portfolio, comprising over three dozen offerings beyond our flagship gold loan, enabled us to serve a larger customer base, addressing their varied lifecycle needs. Notably, non-gold revenue now accounts for over 15% of our total revenue, underscoring the value proposition we bring to our customers. As we move forward, our focus remains on sustaining this momentum and cementing our position as a trusted financial partner for India’s lower-middle-income segment, ultimately contributing to our purpose of transforming lives through improved financial well-being.”
The Board of Directors has also approved the raising of up to ₹8,000 crore through the issuance of Non-Convertible Debentures (NCDs), Subordinated Debt, Perpetual Debt, and Commercial Papers (CPs) during the current financial year, to support the Company’s growth and capital requirements.
26, May 2025
Anupam Rasayan India Limited Reports Q4 & FY25 Results
Surat/ Mumbai, May 26, 2025: Anupam Rasayan India Ltd., one of India’s leading custom synthesis and specialty chemical player, has announced its financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2025.
Consolidated Financial Highlights for year ended March 31, 2025:
- Total revenue for FY25 was at ₹14,485 million as compared to ₹15,053 million in FY24; down 4% YoY.
- EBITDA (incl. other income) was at ₹4,123 million in FY25 as compared to ₹4,109 million in FY24, this would translate into 28% EBITDA margin in FY25.
- Profit After Tax was at ₹1,600 million in FY25 as compared to ₹1,674 million in FY24.
Consolidated Financial Highlights for Quarter ended March 31, 2025:
- Total revenue for Q4FY25 was at ₹5,057 million as compared to ₹4,130 million in Q4FY24; up 22% YoY.
- EBITDA (incl. other income) was at ₹1,500 million in Q4FY25 as compared to ₹1,047 million in Q4FY24, up 43% and this would translate into 30% EBITDA margin in this quarter.
- Profit After Tax was at ₹629 million in Q4FY25 as compared to ₹405 million in Q4FY24; up 56% YoY.
Speaking on the performance, Mr Anand Desai, Managing Director, Anupam Rasayan commented, “Consolidated revenue for the quarter Q4FY25 stood at INR 506 crores registering a growth of 22% YoY and 31% QoQ. Consolidated revenue for the full year FY25 stood at INR 1,448 crores registering a degrowth of 4% YoY. This performance was supported by growth in pharma and polymer coupled with strong performance from Tanfac. Margins have remained consistent this quarter, reflecting our focus on operational efficiency and a favourable product mix.
While H1 FY25 was subdued due to weak macro conditions, I am pleased to share that H2 has shown clear signs of recovery — particularly in Q4 FY25 where we have seen meaningful improvement with sales increasing both year- on-year and sequentially. We remain confident in our ability to return to the historical growth rates achieved prior to the recent slowdown.”
26, May 2025
S Chand delivers best Q4 Working Capital metrics in the company’s history in FY25
New Delhi, May 26th, 2025. S Chand Publishing, India’s leading education content publisher and book publisher reported its results for the fourth quarter & for the financial year ending 31st March 2025.
HIGHLIGHTS OF FY25 RESULTS
Some of the highlights of the FY25 results are as follows:
Improved Gross Margins by over 500bps in the past 5years,
Improved EBITDA Margins by 590bps in the past 5years,
Consistently generated Operating Cash flows of ~Rs1,000m every year over the past 5 years,
During FY25, delivered EBITDA Margin of 18.8% which is at the higher end of our guided range of 17%-19%,
During FY25, Operating income of Rs798m (Up 65%YoY),
Best Q4 Working Capital Efficiency in the company’s history,
Announces Interim dividend of Rs4/share (vs. Final Dividend of Rs3/share in FY24)
Mr. Himanshu Gupta, Managing Director of S Chand and Company Limited, commented on the successful results and said,
“FY25 sales season saw a relatively minor impact from the new NCERT books based on the NCF syllabus since NCERT books based on the new syllabus were launched for only 2 classes (3rd & 6th) during this year.
Looking ahead, we are quite optimistic for FY26 since CBSE has released a circular in March, 2025 stating that new NCERT books would be launched for 4 Classes –4th,5th, 7th and 8th during the next few months. On back of this development, we expectFY26 and FY27 to see complete adoption of the new syllabus books for the K-12 segment which should strongly support our growth trajectory over the next 2 years.
We are proud to say that we continued to be a net debt-free company at the end of FY25 through consistent efforts on working capital management. Our strategic partnerships and collaborations have allowed us to expand our offerings and meet the changing needs of our customers. Our commitment is to continue this positive trend and enhance our financial position over the long term.”
Mr. Saurabh Mittal, Group CFO of S Chand and Company Limited, commented on the annual results and said,
“Our consolidated revenues reached Rs7,197 million, EBITDA of Rs1,350 million and PAT of Rs602 million. We showed healthy revenue growth and achieved the Highest level of Gross Margins, EBITDA Margins, Operating Income and PAT in the past 5 years. OurOperating income increased to Rs798m (vs. Rs484m in FY24), an increase of 65%YoY.
All this resulted in generation of strong operating cash flows at Rs999m for FY25. We Have increased our dividend to Rs4/share (vs. Rs3/share in FY24) and have remainedNet Debt free at year end with a positive net cash balance of Rs1,036m.
One of the strongest features of the company’s results is our liquidity position and strong cash flows. We remain focused on building sustainable long-term value for all our stakeholders, and we believe that our unwavering commitment towards operational excellence and delivering value to our customers will continue to drive our success in the coming years.”
26, May 2025
Bhuvan Bam and AMD collaborate to promote their latest Ryzen AI 300 Processors
Mumbai/Bangalore: 26th May, 2025: AMD launches its latest campaign with Bhuvan Bam, bringing together his iconic characters to show how the new AMD Ryzen AI processors seamlessly fit into our everyday lives. The new AMD RYZEN ™ AI 300 meets every need, from turning text prompts into real images to translating over 46 languages & much more – just like Bhuvan, it’s versatile & effortlessly switches into any role you want it to take up.
Adding to the fun, Anup Soni steps in as the cop investigating a “missing laptop” only to return it with a dose of humour and a growing curiosity to get one for himself.
The new campaign strikes the perfect balance between entertainment and innovation, using humour and storytelling to highlight that AMD Ryzen AI 300 isn’t just smart tech – it’s smart, fun, and made for everyone.
“AMD Ryzen AI 300 is built to make AI feel real and useful in everyday moments. It is not just about performance, but about how naturally it fits into the way we live and work. This campaign brings that idea to life through Bhuvan’s world, making advanced tech feel simple, smart and relatable” said Mukesh Bajpai, Marketing Head, AMD India.
“The new AMD Ryzen AI is packed with brains, speed, and serious multitasking mojo — just like Bhuvan in all his avatars. From creator to entertainer to tech geek, he switches roles as smoothly as Ryzen AI handles tasks. This campaign is a celebration of that shared versatility, using Bhuvan’s charm to bring the magic of AMD Ryzen AI to life.” – Gaurav Arora, Co-Founder, Social Panga.
26, May 2025
Malaka Spice Showcases Authentic Indonesian Flavours with Indonesian Consulate
Malaka Spice, Pune’s iconic Southeast Asian dining destination, is proud to present a three-day culinary celebration in collaboration with the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia, showcasing the vibrant, soulful flavours of West Java’s Sundanese cuisine. Taking place from May 30 to June 1, this food festival marks one of the most significant international gastronomic collaborations hosted in the city.
Curated with guidance from the Indonesian culinary and cultural experts, the festival will feature a carefully crafted menu of traditional dishes rarely seen on Indian plates — from comforting street snacks to wholesome Sundanese staples. Guests can indulge in specialties like Sorabi, the rice-flour pancake cooked over charcoal and served with palm sugar coconut sauce, Tongseng Kambing, a heartwarming goat stew simmered with coconut milk, cabbage, and tomatoes, Pepes Tahu – spiced tofu wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection, or Nasi Lengko – a wholesome Javanese rice dish topped with tempeh, sprouts, and savorypeanut sauce.
Adding to the authenticity of the experience, the menu has been crafted with inputs from Chef Sudaryanti, the Private Chef to the Indonesian Head of Mission. With decades of experience across diplomatic missions in the USA, Philippines, Korea, and now India, Chef Sudaryanti brings with her the culinary richness and cultural nuances of traditional Indonesian cuisine, ensuring a truly immersive dining experience.
This unique event celebrates not only the diversity of Indonesia’s culinary heritage but also deepens the cultural and diplomatic ties between Indonesia and India through food.
“Indonesia and India share centuries of cultural and trade relations, and food remains a powerful medium to foster these bonds. We are delighted to partner with Malaka Spice to bring the warmth and depth of Indonesian cuisine to Pune. This festival is a celebration of friendship, flavour, and shared heritage.”— The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia, Mumbai
“At Malaka Spice, our culinary journey has always been about celebrating Southeast Asia. This collaboration is truly special — a rare chance for our guests to experience authentic Indonesian flavours, many of which are being presented in Pune for the very first time. We are honoured to host this festival with the Indonesian Consulate and bring the unique dining practices of the West Java region to our tables.” — Ilvika Chandawarkar, Manager – Research and Business Development, Malaka Spice
The festival will be hosted at the Malaka Spice, Koregaon Park outlet, with special lunch and dinner menus available for all three days. Guests are encouraged to book in advance to secure their seats for this limited-time cultural and culinary showcase.
