Om Power Transmission Limited Gears Up for ₹ 150 Crore IPO; Subscription Opens April 9

MUMBAI – Om Power Transmission Limited, a Gujarat-based specialist in high-voltage power infrastructure, is set to enter the primary market with its Initial Public Offering (IPO) on Thursday, April 09, 2026. The company has established a price band of ₹ 166 to ₹ 175 per equity share, aiming to raise approximately ₹ 15,006.25 lakhs at the upper end of the price spectrum.

Offer Structure and Timeline

The public issue consists of a fresh issue of up to 75,75,000 equity shares and an offer for sale (OFS) of up to 10,00,000 equity shares by existing shareholders.

Investors can bid for a minimum of 85 equity shares and in multiples thereof. The three-day subscription window will close on Monday, April 13, 2026, while the anchor investor bidding is scheduled for April 08. The shares are proposed to be listed on both the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the BSE Limited.

A Decade of Infrastructure Excellence

Founded in 2011, Om Power Transmission has carved a niche in the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) segment. The company focuses on high-voltage (HV) and extra-high voltage (EHV) transmission lines, substations, and underground cabling.

To date, the firm has commissioned over 1,000 circuit kilometers (CKM) of transmission lines and 11 substations. Its expertise spans the full EPC value chain—from design and engineering to commissioning and long-term operation and maintenance (O&M) services.

Cinematic Brilliance that defines ‘Dhurandhar – The Revenge’

Financial Performance: A Growth Story

The company’s financial trajectory has seen a sharp upward curve. Between Fiscal 2023 and Fiscal 2025, Om Power’s revenue from operations surged from ₹ 12,023.63 lakhs to ₹ 27,943.51 lakhs, representing a CAGR of 52.45%. Even more impressive is the bottom-line growth; profit for the year grew at a CAGR of 88.17% over the same period.

For the nine-month period ending December 31, 2025, the company reported a robust revenue of ₹ 27,454.28 lakhs and a profit after tax of ₹ 2,336.80 lakhs, signaling sustained momentum heading into the IPO.

Strategic Roadmap

The net proceeds from the fresh issue are earmarked for critical growth drivers:

• Capital Expenditure: Purchasing advanced machinery and equipment to enhance execution capacity.
• Debt Management: Pre-payment or repayment of certain outstanding borrowings to strengthen the balance sheet.
• Working Capital: Supporting the long-term operational needs of increasingly complex projects.

"The IPO is expected to support our next phase of growth by strengthening operational capabilities and supporting participation in larger projects," said Kalpesh Dhanjibhai Patel, Chairman and Executive Director.

Market Participation

The offer is structured to cater to diverse investor classes:

• Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIB): Up to 42,87,175 shares.
• Non-Institutional Investors (NII): At least 12,86,475 shares.
• Retail Individual Investors (RII): At least 30,01,350 shares.

Beeline Capital Advisors Private Limited is acting as the Book Running Lead Manager, with MUFG Intime India Private Limited serving as the Registrar to the issue.

- Paresh B. Mehta

Autism Awareness: Dr Ketan Patel Homeopathic Physician Highlights Diet & Exercise as Key Recovery Tools

On this World Autism Awareness Day, Dr. Ketan Patel of Specialty Homeopathy stated that 80% of autism cases can be managed through diet and exercise alone. He noted that the remaining 20% may require medicinal support alongside lifestyle changes due to metabolic or genetic factors.

Gujarat doctors earmark Rs. 5 lakh for needy children with autism

Homeopathy has proven to be very effective in treating in such genetic, metabolic & mitochondrial autism (Syndromic AUTISM). Genetic effects can be largely eliminated or controlled through homeopathic medicines.

Dr Ketan Patel said that the effects of genes affecting sodium channel, potassium channel, aqua channel, epileptic, Encephalopathy, intellectual and other protein disruption can be eliminated up to 90 percent with homeopathic medicines along with diet and exercise. The research of these experts has found that only 10 percent of genes cannot be improved.

Dr Ketan Patel further said that “The protocols for autism treatment of Western countries do not show the effect of treatment in a certain time. There is a shortage of doctors trained to treat autism in India. Therefore, it is necessary for us to improve the protocols of Western countries and formulate our own new protocols. Indian doctors are far ahead in the treatment of autism, compared to Western countries. Therefore, it is necessary for us to implement a new protocol with diet, exercise and individual treatment plan in the treatment of autism.”

Cinematic Brilliance that defines ‘Dhurandhar – The Revenge’

Dr Jayesh Sheth said that autism is a type of disease in which children are not mentally retarded, but due to some obstruction or disturbance in the wiring of neurons in their brain, their ability to speak and think is affected. Such a gene problem is found in 50 percent of autism cases. The earlier such children are diagnosed, the more effective the treatment and guidance is.

Dr Patel and Dr Sheth further said that currently, doctors are providing up to Rs. 5,00,000 annually for the treatment, genetic testing and related therapy of more than 100 needy children suffering from autism. In the coming time, doctors from all branches like Allopathic, Homeopathic, Ayurvedic, who are doing treatment and research in the field of autism in Gujarat, are committed to jointly work with the therapists and bring about rapid treatment and improvement.

1 in every 36 children born worldwide is affected by autism. This figure is considered extremely alarming, as the number of children suffering from autism is higher than the percentage of children suffering from life-threatening diseases such as cancer, diabetes and HIV worldwide.

What is autism?

It is a disease affecting the neurological, endocrinal, and gastrointestinal systems, diagnosed in children between the ages of 18 and 24 months and its symptoms are as follows.

- The child does not speak on time or does not speak at all cannot use sentences after speaking a few words.

- Does not make eye contact with family members such as mother, father, brother, sister.

- Does not play with children of the same age group when they are playing and prefers to go away and play alone.

- Laughs and cries for no reason.

- Plays with a toy, object or piece of clothing for a long time, sleeps with it.

- Wiggles fingers, jumps, keeps moving around in one place.

- Holds hands over ears in fear of the sound of mixers, vacuum cleaners, firecrackers.

- Throws things and screams.

- Hurts body with teeth, hits head against wall.

It is advisable that if two or more of the above symptoms are observed in a child take your child to a doctor to get diagnosed with autism and get proper treatment. The earlier your child is diagnosed with autism or a similar condition, the greater the child's chances of recovering from these symptoms.

- Scientists, doctors, universities, pharmaceutical and diagnostic companies around the world are working to diagnose autism more quickly.

In order to make people aware of this disease, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day every year and the entire month of April as Autism Awareness Month to spread awareness and information about autism. During this month, famous places around the world are decorated with blue lights. Such as Sydney Opera - Australia, Burj Khalifa - Dubai, Leaning Tower - Italy, London Bridge - UK, Pyramids of Giza - Egypt, Eiffel Tower - France (Paris) are decorated with blue lights.

Diagnosis of autism

This disease, which is seen in children from the age of 18 months to 30 months, cannot be detected by any single test or other medical report such as CT SCAN, MRI SCAN, PET SCAN or EEG so apart from the above report the diagnosis can be made in the following two stages.

In the first stage, to know whether the physical and mental development of the children is happening according to their age or not, the child's learning ability, his way of speaking, words and sentences along with his facial expressions are studied and recorded and the development rate of the children (Physical & Mental Development) is kept in mind at a certain time interval such as 12 months, 18 months or 24 months i.e. at the age of 2 years. In this above study, the diagnosis is made on the basis of the answers of scientifically prepared questionnaires to the child's parents, his doctors and the child's caregivers.

The second stage is diagnosed by doctors who specialize in this disease such as a Developmental Paediatrician, Child Neurologist, Child Psychiatrist/Psychologist (specialist in child neurology and behavioural disorders), and DAN (Defeat Autism Now) doctors.

Causes of autism spectrum disorder

Doctors and scientists around the world are trying to find out the causes of this disease but have not been able to come up with a specific cause. However based on the medical history records of old cases/new cases and the similarities and differences in them, they have come to the following conclusions.

- Chronic infection in the mother's body that affects the mental development of the child during pregnancy, such as Torch Infection.

- Hormonal imbalance due to the endocrine gland in the mother, thyroid deficiency.

- Pollution in the atmosphere, pollution in drinking water

Genetic disorder

- Tuberculosis disease in family members

- Epilepsy & Seizure Disorder

- Serotonin and neurotransmitter related disease

Many children develop autism after receiving the MMR vaccine, and doctors around the world have differing opinions on the matter. According to the CDC USA (CDC – Centre for Disease Control & Prevention), 1 in 31 children born worldwide are affected by autism, and this figure is considered alarming, as it is more than the combined incidence of cancer, diabetes, and HIV.

Treatment

Both Doctors have 35 Years of experience: Dr Ketan Patel is in Treatment Part And Dr Jayesh Sheth In Genetic Metabolic & Mitochondrial Diagnostic Part

DR KETAN PATEL +91989800535454   https://specialityhomeopathy.com

DR JAYESH SHETH +91 9426001227   https://geneticcentre.org

The Osho Conspiracy: A ₹2,200 Crore Empire, Two Mysterious Deaths and a Faked Diagnosis

The death of Osho (Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh) in 1990 remains one of India’s most enduring mysteries, shrouded in allegations of coercion, greed, and cover-ups as mentioned in the book Who Killed Osho? Central to the scandal is a bombshell confession from the doctor who signed the death certificate, admitting he was forced to fake a "heart attack" diagnosis without even examining the body. This suspicion is fueled by a chilling timeline: both Osho and his soulmate, Ma Prem Nirvano—who died just 41 days prior—were hurriedly cremated before any investigation could begin, leaving behind a global empire and intellectual property valued at over ₹2,200 crore.

WHO KILLED OSHO?

Abhay Vaidya’s 2017 book, Who Killed Osho?, is a rigorous investigative account that challenges the official narrative surrounding the death of the controversial spiritual leader Osho (formerly Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh). Based on nearly three decades of reportage, Vaidya uses recorded interviews, affidavits, and official documents to piece together a story of "power, greed, intrigue, and manipulations" within the Osho movement.

Key Investigations and Revelations in Who Killed Osho?

The book focuses on the inconsistencies and suspicious circumstances of Osho’s death on January 19, 1990, at his ashram in Pune.

The Medical Certificate: A central piece of evidence is an interview with Dr. Gokul Gokani, the ENT surgeon who issued the death certificate. Gokani later signed an affidavit stating he was pressured by Osho’s inner circle (specifically Swami Prem Amrito and Swami Anand Jayesh) to list "myocardial infarction" (heart attack) as the cause of death without actually examining the body for such signs.

The "Hasty" Cremation: Vaidya highlights the suspicious speed with which Osho's body was disposed of. Osho was declared dead at 5:00 PM, the news was broken at 7:00 PM, and his body was cremated shortly after, allowing for only 10–15 minutes of public darshan (viewing).

The Forged Will: The book delves into the 2013 emergence of a "will" allegedly signed by Osho, which surfaced 23 years after his death during a trademark battle in a European court. Forensics later suggested the signature was forged, and the inner circle eventually withdrew the document.

The Death of Nirvano: Vaidya draws parallels between Osho’s death and that of his longtime companion and soulmate, Ma Prem Nirvano (Christena Woolf Smith). She died under similarly suspicious circumstances just 41 days before Osho and was also hurriedly cremated without a thorough investigation.

Cinematic Brilliance that defines ‘Dhurandhar – The Revenge’

Themes of Power and Rebranding

Beyond the mystery of the death itself, the book explores a "palace coup" by a small group of Western associates who sought to control Osho's massive financial and intellectual property.

Financial Control: The investigation suggests that Osho's death was used as a catalyst to rebrand the movement, commoditize his teachings, and siphon royalties to offshore foundations, effectively sidelining his original Indian followers.

A Call for Action: Vaidya concludes by advocating for a court-monitored Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the criminal conduct of the Osho International Foundation’s top management and the handling of the public trusts' assets.

For those interested in reading the detailed investigation in the book Who Killed Osho -

https://amzn.in/d/0ecWL5lS

Critical Reception of Who Killed Osho?

While some critics argue the book relies on speculation and "what-ifs," it has been widely praised by many former disciples and readers for its forensic-level detail and commitment to uncovering a "journalistic account" of a history largely written by devotees. It is often compared to Truman Capote's In Cold Blood for its chilling, non-fiction crime narrative.

Was Osho murdered for his empire? 

From faked heart attacks to forged signatures, Abhay Vaidya’s investigation uncovers a "palace coup" that rebranded a movement and sidelined thousands of followers. Two deaths, 41 days apart, and a legacy worth ₹2,200 crore.

Read the full story behind the world's most mysterious ashram. 

#Osho #TrueCrime #Mystery #BhagwanShreeRajneesh #WhoKilledOsho

Entrepreneurs’ Organization EO Unveils New South Asia Borderless Chapter

Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) is expanding its reach with a dedicated borderless chapter for South Asian founders, providing a unique platform for first-generation business leaders to connect and grow

The chapter was formally launched at Hyatt Regency New Delhi, bringing together founding members from multiple cities and countries within South Asia. Designed as a borderless community, the chapter transcends geography to unite entrepreneurs connected not by location, but by shared experience.

This pioneering initiative is uniquely structured for founders who have built their businesses independently, without inherited enterprises or generational business backing. It aims to create a high-trust, peer-driven environment grounded in resilience, ownership, and long-term value creation.

The launch evening began with an interactive ice-breaking session, followed by a fireside conversation with Anupam Mittal, who shared insights on leadership, conviction, and the realities of building enduring enterprises from the ground up.

Cinematic Brilliance that defines ‘Dhurandhar – The Revenge’

Regional leaders
Ayush Bansal, Jital Shah, Uddhav Poddar, John Harrington and Marco Gloria addressed attendees and reflected on their own EO journeys, highlighting the power of structured forums, peer accountability, and transformational learning within the organization.

The formal induction ceremony marked the chapter’s official entry into the EO network. In the Presidential Address, Rohit Gadia - the Chapter President outlined the vision for the year ahead and announced the founding Board, including Pooja Chadha, Neha Modi, and Raghav Dhoot, reinforcing the chapter’s commitment to strong governance and meaningful member engagement. The evening concluded with a networking social that fostered early connections among members across borders.

A Community Built for Builders

First-generation founders often navigate limited access to early capital, absence of legacy networks, personal financial exposure, cultural barriers, and the responsibility of creating generational wealth for the first time.

This borderless chapter provides a confidential peer forum, leadership development opportunities, and access to EO’s global learning ecosystem, within a community that deeply understands the first-generation entrepreneurial journey.

With this launch, EO continues to expand its footprint in South Asia while reinforcing its commitment to diversity of entrepreneurial experience and transformative growth through connection.

Founded in 1987, EO is a global network of more than 18,000 influential business owners across 220+ chapters in over 75 countries. Through peer-to-peer learning, curated programs, and shared experiences, EO empowers entrepreneurs to achieve both personal and professional growth.

Meghna Singhania Honoured with UK Science & Sustainability Award

 

The British Council hosted the 12th edition of the Study UK Alumni Awards 2026 in Bengaluru, celebrating the global achievements of UK graduates. These awards highlight the transformative power of UK higher education and the significant contributions alumni continue to make in their respective fields.

The event was attended by Alison Barrett MBE, Country Director India, British Council, and Janaka Pushpanathan, Director South India, British Council, who opened the evening with remarks. Dr. M.C. Sudhakar, Honourable Minister of Higher Education, Government of Karnataka, was the Chief Guest, who recognized this year’s award finalists and winners.

Among the awardees was Meghna A. Singhania, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Medical Dialogues, who was honoured with the Science and Sustainability Award for her exceptional work in medical journalism. Singhania’s platform, Medical Dialogues, is dedicated to providing credible health information while combating medical misinformation and simplifying science for the masses.

“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition,” said Meghna A. Singhania. “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of my incredible team at Medical Dialogues. The success of our platform is driven by the collective efforts of doctors, journalists, and fact-checkers who work tirelessly to ensure that credible health information is accessible to the public across India. Our shared mission has always been to simplify complex science for the masses and provide clear, trustworthy health information that empowers individuals to make informed healthcare decisions.”

Cinematic Brilliance that defines ‘Dhurandhar – The Revenge’

Medical Dialogues has emerged as a leading force in medical news and fact-checking since its inception. The platform has earned recognitions from global organizations such as the Google News Initiative, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) for its efforts in delivering reliable health information and addressing misinformation.

Singhania’s academic background, with an MSc in Economics from LSE and an MSc in Finance and Economics from Warwick Business School, has been instrumental in shaping her approach to healthcare communication and public policy.

The Study UK Alumni Awards celebrate the achievements of UK alumni who have demonstrated leadership, innovation, and a commitment to making a positive difference in their industries and communities. The awards are presented annually in four categories: Science and Sustainability, Culture, Creativity and Sport, Social Action, and Business and Innovation.

Since its inception, Medical Dialogues has played a pivotal role in fighting medical misinformation in India and providing reliable, evidence-based health information to both healthcare professionals and the public.

Bollywood artists and Dignitaries attend unveiling as AI literacy-driven cricket league begins on March 26

Mumbai, India | March 2026:

STCL (Salute Tiranga Cricket League), India’s first AI literacy movement powered by sports, unveiled its official trophy and team T-shirts at a stylish launch event held in Mumbai. The inaugural edition of the league will begin on 26 March 2026, with the final scheduled for 29 March 2026 in Vapi, Gujarat.

The STCL Trophy was unveiled in a grand and stylish manner by Rajesh Jha, Founder & President of Salute Tiranga; Ravi Chikara, National Chief General Secretary and Sachidanand Pokhriyal, General Secretary of the organization.

EX. BCCI CHAIRMAN MR. CHETAN SHARMA JI is the BRAND AMBASSADOR OF STCL and MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT SHRI MANOJ TIWARI JI IS THE MENTOR OF STCL

The official team T-shirts were revealed by the respective team owners and mentors, marking the formal introduction of the participating teams for the league.

The glamorous evening was attended by Bollywood artists and prominent Page 3 personalities from across India, with guests traveling from Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Vapi, Chennai, and Assam to be part of the celebration.

The event featured performances and energetic celebrations, with all participating teams proudly cheering and waving the Indian national flag, creating an atmosphere filled with patriotism, unity, and excitement for the upcoming tournament.

STCL aims to combine the passion of cricket with a larger national mission of AI literacy and life readiness for children, preparing young Indians for a rapidly evolving technological future.

A Movement Driven by Patriotism and Service

Salute Tiranga is a nationwide movement dedicated to promoting nationalism, unity, and service to the nation. With its presence across 28 states, Union Territories, and 15 countries, the organization has grown into a global platform that honors the sacrifices of the nation’s heroes and encourages citizens to actively contribute to society.

Over the years, Salute Tiranga has organized several impactful initiatives including “A Night for Martyrs,” Tiranga Yatras, medical camps, cleanliness drives, and winter clothing distribution programs, reinforcing the belief that service to the nation is the highest form of patriotism.

Leadership of the organization Salute Tiranga is led by Rajesh Jha, the Founder & President, Manoj Tiwari, Actor and Member of Parliament, Patron of Salute Tirang, Ravi Chikara the National Chief General Secretary and Sachidanand Pokhriyal, General Secretary. 

The inaugural STCL tournament will feature four teams - 

Mumbai Warriors – Shrenik Jain (President), Dixit Jain (CEO), Renu Chikara (Mentor)

Delhi Titans – Gurdeep Singh (president), Payal Jha (CEO), Vikas Arora (mentor)

Assam Rhinos – Indrani Guha (Co-Owner), Jayashree Goswami (CEO), Ranjan Chaudhary (Mentor)

Gujarat Royal – Dhanesh Patel (President), Rajesh Patel (CEO), Charmil Parikh (Mentor)

 STCL is designed not only as a sporting event but also as a platform to promote AI awareness among young minds. The initiative aligns with the vision of preparing India for 2047, when the country celebrates 100 years of independence.

Organizers highlighted that the world children are entering is fundamentally different from previous generations, where artificial intelligence will play a significant role in education, work and everyday life.

Expected Guests of Honour for the Inauguration & Grand Finale

The grand Inauguration & finale in Vapi, Gujarat, will be attended by several distinguished dignitaries including:

Shri C.R. Patil – Hon’ble Union Minister of Jal Shakti

Shri Manoj Tiwari – Hon’ble Member of Parliament

Shri Harsh Sanghvi – Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister, Government of Gujarat

Shri Kanubhai Desai – Hon’ble Finance Minister, Government of Gujarat

Shri Dhaval Patel – Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Valsad

Shri Jairam Gamit – Hon’ble Minister of Sports, Government of Gujarat

Shri Arjun Madhwadia – Hon’ble Minister of Science & Technology, Government of Gujarat.

Dhurandhar - The Revenge - movie review

Dignitaries who were present at the Mumbai Launch

The launch event was attended by several notable personalities including Mr. Rajesh Jha, Mr. Ravi Chikara, Mr. Sachidanand Pokhriyal, Mr. N Shankar (Co-Owner of Chennai Team in season 1), Mr. Shrenik Jain (President, Mumbai Warriors), Ms. Renu Chikara (Mentor, Mumbai Warriors), Mr. Gurdeep Singh (President, Delhi Titans), Smt. Payal Jha (CEO, Delhi Titans), and Mr. Pawan Garg (Co-Owner, Delhi Titans), Ms. Indrani Guha (Co-Owner), Jayashree Goswami (CEO), Ranjan Chaudhary (Mentor), Dhanesh Patel (President), Rajesh Patel (CEO), Charmil Parikh (Mentor)

Prominent actors Ajay Chaudhary, Bharat Bhushan, Lokesh Tilakdhari, and Mohit Daga, along with producers Sona Jain, Sunil Tiwari, and Ashish, were also present as special guests. Senior crime journalist Vivel Agarwal attended the event as well.

The Salute Tiranga Cricket League (STCL) is a unique initiative that blends sports with social impact, aiming to promote AI literacy, youth development, and national pride through the widely loved sport of cricket.

Reading for Results: A Manager’s Literary Manifesto

Why reading that doesn’t improve your CV matters

Stories without bullet points often teach more than those with them — because not everything worth knowing fits on LinkedIn.
“So, you read fiction?” she said.

I mean, who reads fiction? The scorn and judgement in her voice was direct, cold, and, if I may, unnecessary — even uninformed.

Yet something about the way she spoke those words suggested I could not simply dismiss her reaction. I decided to dig deeper. She reads only non-fiction, for that’s helpful for her work, as she explains — how to be a better manager, how to grow the company, how to deal with people you dislike, how to stay positive, and the like. Each book, each title, teaches her something, furthering her career and nudging her personality in the right direction.

What could fiction offer? she raised a brow.

My most recent reads have been The Names by Florence Knapp (e-book), Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid (audio), and If I Could Turn Back Time by Beth Harbison (hardback). I am currently reading Must Love Books by Shauna Robinson (paperback). What could these books — about domestic violence, relationships, turning older, and a love story set in the publishing world — possibly teach me? They don’t offer bullet points or frameworks. They do not promise five habits or ten steps. But they teach me how to sit inside someone else’s fear. How to recognise loneliness before it becomes loud. How regret feels at 40, 50. How ambition sounds in a twenty-five-year-old voice. Fiction does not improve my CV, I agree.

Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri – movie review

Yes, self-help books sell a lot, but so did Harry Potter. I could have argued with her, but I think her choice of genre requires a deeper understanding. We’re taught early on to do things—and invest time in them—that bring results. Good marks = good university = good job. Eat a fruit = get the nutrients. Read a book = gain a benefit, become smarter. In all this, where do emotion, imagination, patience, wonder, and pleasure lie?

I read a variety of genres, and I love both fiction and non-fiction. Of course, I am happy that, regardless of the motivation for picking up a book, books are being picked up ‘for gain’. But in 2026, when we are always complaining of a lack of time — and always multitasking — why did I even imagine that books would be read for pure pleasure, peace, love?

We listen to podcasts as we walk, to make the most of our time. We watch Netflix while sharing a meal with our partner, to make the most of the hour. We reply to Insta stories as we wait for the cab to arrive. We fold laundry while attending Zoom calls. We want to make the most of every moment, every page.

And fiction, perhaps for some, doesn’t allow one to do that.

So then, who reads fiction? Well, a few of us — who are okay doing something “unproductive” in a very productive life.

“So, you read fiction?” Yes, this is one of the most common questions one hears — from non-readers, or rather, readers with a purpose. Fiction asks for stillness. It demands attention without promising results, and that is rare to chase. 

Authored by: Purva Grover

Purva Grover is an author, poet, playwright, stage director, TEDx speaker, and creative entrepreneur. She is the author of The Trees Told Me So, It Was the Year 2020, She (translated into seven languages), and #icouldhavebeenaninstapost.​ A journalist for over 19 years, she previously served as Associate Editor at Khaleej Times and has led multiple editorial and storytelling platforms across the region. In 2021, she was awarded the UAE Golden Visa under the People of Culture and Art—Writer category.​ Purva is the founder of The Reading Village, a Dubai-based community where stories are nurtured, encouraged, and shared. The group gathers once or twice a month to celebrate books and meaningful conversation. She has also founded and edited The Indian Trumpet (2013) and Once Upon A Table (2025), storytelling platforms centered on culture, memory, food, and human connection. She reads 52 books a year, and is committed towards building spaces that nurture stories. 

Increased styling, comfort, space optimisation: How contemporary Indian Homes are styled

With the intention of serving multiple roles that of a workplace, retreat and social space, changes in styling homes in India focused on lighting and wall decor. Wall décor adoption rises 64%, storage and organisation grows 270%, and ambient lighting increases 70% as Indian households shift toward intentional home styling. 

According to a recent report offering a data-led view of how Indian homes are evolving through everyday styling, comfort, and space optimisation choices. Built on aggregated insights from over 500,000 customers, spanning 100,000+ products, 48 home categories, and 50 million browsing sessions, the report captures behavioural shifts shaping modern Indian living.

Rather than large-scale renovations, the findings reveal a growing preference for incremental, intentional upgrades, as homes increasingly serve multiple roles — workplace, retreat, and social space.

Key Findings from the Vaaree Home Index 2025-

Wall décor adoption grew 64%, emerging as the most common entry point into home styling.

Home Storage & Organisation recorded 270% year-on-year growth, signalling a shift from hidden utility to visible design.

Adoption of lamps and ambient lighting rose 70%, reflecting a move toward mood-led living environments.

Rugs and carpets saw over 102% growth in GMV, alongside a 42% increase in average selling price of cushion covers, indicating rising investment in comfort-led upgrades.

Browsing curated “Looks” delivered 580% higher conversion compared to product-led discovery.

Indian Homes Move Toward Coordinated Styling

The report highlights a structural shift in consumer behaviour. Instead of upgrading homes product by product, households are increasingly styling spaces through coordinated, cross-category combinations that balance aesthetics with functionality.

Walls have emerged as a primary surface for expression, with art styles such as Pichwai, Madhubani, macrame, and Jharokha-inspired décor gaining prominence alongside symbolic motifs like the Lotus, Evil Eye, and Tree of Life.

Storage solutions — including racks, shelves, and organisers — are increasingly treated as visible elements within living spaces rather than purely functional additions.

Lighting adoption reflects a similar evolution, with households using lamps and ambient lighting to define zones for work, relaxation, and hosting. 

Regional Trends Reveal Emerging Design Confidence

While trends were visible nationally, the report identified strong regional variations:

Mumbai ranked highest across Style, Comfort, and Space-Saver indices.

Jaipur emerged as India’s second most stylish city, climbing four positions year-on-year.

Bangalore led adoption of space-saving and functional solutions.

Emerging cities including Indore, Lucknow, and Nagpur recorded some of the fastest growth in styling adoption.

These shifts suggest rising experimentation and design confidence beyond metro markets. 

“Indian homes today are evolving through everyday decisions rather than large renovations,” said Garima Luthra, Co-founder of Vaaree. “What we’re seeing is a move toward intentional living, where comfort, organisation, and personal expression are becoming equally important. The Home Index is our attempt to decode how people are actually shaping their spaces, based on behaviour rather than trends,” says Varun Vohra, Co-founder of Vaaree, further adding, “The data shows that Indian consumers are no longer buying décor in isolation. They are building coordinated environments. This shift has implications not just for retail, but for how the entire home industry thinks about discovery, design, and consumption.” 

Looking Ahead

The report identifies early signals likely to shape future home evolution:

Storage solutions balancing function and aesthetics becoming baseline expectations.

Modular, corner-led updates replacing full-room makeovers.

Comfort evolving into a sensory experience combining lighting, texture, and visual calm.

Tier-2 cities playing a larger role in defining home styling trends.

 

When the Bansuri Met the Blogosphere: A First-of-Its-Kind Interaction with Ronu Majumdar

Mumbai | 17 February 2026: 

In a landmark cultural evening that beautifully bridged classical heritage with contemporary digital voices, Padma Shri awardee and globally acclaimed Bansuri maestro Ronu Majumdar engaged in an exclusive, first-of-its-kind blogger interaction in Mumbai. 

Over 20 prominent bloggers from Mumbai gathered for the intimate session, making it a pioneering initiative where a classical music legend connected directly with the digital creator community through one-on-one conversations. The event marked a significant step toward bringing Indian classical music into deeper dialogue with new-age media platforms.

The evening commenced with a formal introduction highlighting Majumdar’s illustrious journey spanning over four decades. A disciple of the Maihar gharana tradition and a torchbearer of Hindustani classical music, he has performed across prestigious global stages and collaborated extensively with legendary composer R. D. Burman. His cinematic contributions include iconic films such as 1942: A Love Story, while his global compositional work for large-scale productions like Mystic India further underscores his international acclaim.

Following the introduction, Ronu Sir presented a short live flute recital, instantly immersing the room in the meditative and soulful resonance of the bansuri. The performance set the tone for what unfolded as an evening of depth, nostalgia, and heartfelt storytelling.

During the interaction, Majumdar candidly shared anecdotes from the golden era of Indian music, reminiscing about his creative journey alongside stalwarts such as R.D. Burman and the legendary Kishore Kumar. He offered rare insights into studio recordings, improvisational processes, and the discipline behind sustaining classical purity within cinematic frameworks.

A highlight of the evening was the discussion around his recently released single, You & Me. The composition, intimate and deeply evocative, reflects a soulful dialogue between artist and listener. Drawing inspiration from Kishore Kumar’s lullaby in the film Kanwara Baap, the piece carries emotional warmth while maintaining classical integrity. Through this project, Majumdar once again demonstrates his ability to blend tradition with contemporary sensibilities, ensuring the bansuri remains relevant across generations.

The session concluded with individual blogger interactions, allowing attendees to capture exclusive insights and engage in meaningful conversations. Ronu Sir’s warmth, humility, and openness left a lasting impression, transforming the gathering into more than just a media event — it became a celebration of music, memory, and mentorship.

This historic interaction not only reinforced Ronu Majumdar’s stature as a cultural icon but also highlighted the growing importance of digital creators in shaping conversations around classical arts in modern India.

About AR Rahman, Bansuri maestro Ronu Majumdar said - When AR Rahman came into picture lot of people lost their job because Dil Hai Chotasa like melodies were recorded on keyboard. But when you listen to the flute Rahman is using original flute. His original name was Dilip. It's sad that recently he gave very nasty interview. I don't agree with you, Dilip. You are not Rahman for me. You are still Dilip for me. You played under Illayaraja and we both were beginners at that time. So don't do all these things be careful what you say. It's my advice to you Dilip.

Kayana Monga of India Named Asia-Pacific Winner of the IB’s First Community Inspiration Award

Mumbai, 17 February 2026 – The International Baccalaureate (IB) is delighted to announce Kayana Monga, a Diploma Programme (DP) student at Shiv Nadar School Noida in India, as the Asia-Pacific recipient of its first-ever IB Community Inspiration Award. This global award recognises members of the IB community who have made extraordinary contributions to advancing the IB’s mission and values in their local communities.

Representing the Asia-Pacific region, Monga was recognised for founding Project Muskan, a rural mental health initiative that has reached more than 500 children in and around Delhi and identified over 40 cases of suicidal ideation, connecting them to timely care. She has worked closely with psychologists and local partners to design structured interventions for children who might otherwise have limited access to professional mental health support.

Her work has helped bring conversations about children’s mental health into administrative and policy discussions in India, including recognition from the Delhi Health Ministry and the Chief Minister, underscoring the urgency of expanding access to care beyond urban centres. Beyond mental health, Monga has contributed to UNICEF’s State of the World’s Children report and led initiatives in sustainability, Model United Nations and community service, demonstrating outstanding youth-led leadership with measurable impact.

Commenting on receiving the IB Community Inspiration Award, Monga said:

“To receive this award is to be reminded that awareness carries obligation, and that meaningful change begins when care deepens into responsibility. For me, Project Muskan grew from my own experiences with anxiety into a way of ensuring that children in rural India are seen, heard, and supported without stigma or financial barriers. I hope this recognition encourages more young people to trust that their questions, compassion, and courage can drive real change in their communities.”

“Kayana embodies the very best of what an IB education aims to nurture: compassionate, reflective individuals who care deeply about their communities and apply their learning to create solutions that address broader societal challenges. Her work with Project Muskan shows remarkable leadership, empathy, and a strong sense of responsibility," said Mahesh Balakrishnan, Business Development Senior Manager, India and Nepal at the IB. 

Kayana Monga will be honoured at the upcoming Asia-Pacific IB Global Conference, which will take place in Mumbai in March 2026. For more information about the IB Community Inspiration Award and the inaugural winners, please visit here.

 

The IB was founded in 1968, the International Baccalaureate (IB) pioneered a movement of international education and now offers four high-quality, challenging educational programmes to students aged 3-19. The IB gives students distinct advantages by providing strong foundations, critical thinking skills, and proficiency for solving complex problems while encouraging multiculturalism, curiosity, and a healthy appetite for learning and excellence. In a world where asking the right questions is as important as discovering answers, the IB champions critical thinking and flexibility in study by crossing disciplinary, cultural, and national boundaries. Supported by world-class educators and coordinators, the IB currently engages with more than two million students in over 6,000 schools across more than 160 countries. To find out more, please visit www.ibo.org/. 

Bengaluru Buzzes with Happpy AiR Parade Celebrating Joy and Mental Well-Being

Bengaluru recently came alive as Happpy AiR and Bengaluru Traffic Police joined forces for the Happpy AiR Parade — a vibrant public movement spreading smiles, joy and awareness about conscious happiness.

What started as a simple idea—to remind people to be happpy—soon blossomed into a joyful movement that touched thousands. As the parade wound through the city, smiles spread, laughter reverberated, and ordinary moments became unexpected bursts of joy.

The parade commenced around noon at Kemp Fort Mall on Old Airport Road, where energetic flash mobs, spirited dance performances, music, and cheerful interactions set the tone. Thousands of smiley balls, happpiness caps, happpiness bands, umbrellas, soft toys, and posters were distributed to passers-by. Shoppers paused, motorists slowed down, and commuters smiled back — some even joined in, embracing a rare moment of lightness amid the rush of daily life.

Nearly 100 enthusiastic volunteers, along with Bengaluru-based influencers, participated wholeheartedly, adding warmth and momentum to the initiative. Their collective energy helped carry the message of happpiness far beyond the streets the parade travelled.

From Old Airport Road, the Happpy AiR Parade moved through some of Bengaluru’s busiest and most iconic areas — Indiranagar, Koramangala, Brigade Road, Commercial Street, and MG Road. At every stop, the message remained simple and relatable: happpiness is a choice, and joy is truly contagious.

A mixed bag of films at the Bengaluru International Film Festival 2025

The parade reflected this philosophy in action. Happpy AiR — an awakened Soul, Global Happpiness Ambassador, author, and philanthropist — encouraged people to choose to be happpy, make the best of every moment, and live each day as a new life. Sharing his thoughts with gentle humour, he said, “If we choose to be sad when we can be glad, aren’t we mad?”

Incidentally, Happpy AiR spells happpiness with three ‘p’s, as he believes true happpiness is a combination of pleasure, peace, and purpose — the three keys to a fulfilled life.

The Bengaluru Traffic Police played an active role throughout the event, ensuring smooth movement and safety across all locations through careful planning, clear routes, and seamless coordination.

What made the initiative especially meaningful was its presence in everyday public spaces — markets and busy roads where stress and impatience often dominate. The flash mobs became joyful interruptions, inviting people to pause, smile, and reflect, even if only for a moment.

By early evening, the parade drew to a close, leaving behind more than memories of dance and celebration. It left a quiet inspiration — a reminder to make conscious choices to be happpy.

In a city known for its pace and pressure, the Happpy AiR Parade gently reinforced a powerful truth: happpiness need not be complicated. It doesn’t require grand gestures or extraordinary efforts. Sometimes, it simply begins with a smile — and the realization that joy is always within reach.

Bengaluru Airport launches "Care by BLR" — personalised premium assistance

Offering a full range of premium assistance across Terminals 1 and 2, Bengaluru Airport introduces a personalised passenger-service brand transforming the airport experience

Bengaluru, January 28, 2026: Airports today are far more than transit points, they have evolved into vibrant destinations and social spaces that shape how people meet, work, shop and unwind. At Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport), we remain committed to crafting delightful journeys and elevating customer experience by offering services and experiences that blend ease and efficiency with warmth and thoughtful human connection.

Building on this commitment, we are happy to introduce Care by BLR, a personalised passenger service brand of BLR Airport. Designed to meet the evolving needs of modern travellers, this platform offers a comprehensive suite of assistance and premium support services that enhance comfort and ease airport navigation. From seamless guidance to end‑to‑end support, these services are available across both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

Rediscover the underrated Bollywood Films of 2025

The Care by BLR portfolio includes Meet & Assist, Porter and Luggage Service, Valet Parking, Luxury Limousine, Arrival Lounge access, Flower Services and more, available across departures, arrivals, and transit. These offerings are designed to support passengers at every touchpoint, making travel through BLR Airport more seamless, convenient, and experiential.

These service are available across Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, supporting both domestic and international travel. The services operate round‑the‑clock in alignment with flight schedules and can be booked via the Pulse App, the official BLR Airport website (www.bengaluruairport.com/carebyblr), or at designated Care by BLR counters located in both terminals. Each counter is manned by trained Customer Service professionals who provide personalised, on‑ground support throughout the airport journey.

Commenting on the initiative, Kenneth R. Guldbjerg, Chief Commercial Officer, Bangalore International Airport Limited, added, “Passengers today seek more than just point to point travel – they want to feel cared for and supported from the moment they arrive at the airport. At BLR Airport, the travel experience is shaped across multiple touchpoints, and Care by BLR brings essential services to these touchpoints under a unified, airport led platform that is simple to access and dependable to use. As passenger expectations continue to evolve, this approach allows us to deliver consistent, high quality experiences while giving passengers the flexibility to choose how they travel through BLR Airport.”

Delhi Literature Festival 2026 to Celebrate “Sahitya, Sanskriti aur Samriddhi” at IGNCA

New Delhi, January 28, 2026: The 14th edition of the annual Delhi Literature Festival (DLF) returns with renewed purpose and intellectual vibrancy, reaffirming its position as one of India’s most inclusive and dynamic platforms for ideas, dialogue, and cultural exchange. To be held from 6–8 February 2026 at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), Janpath, the festival will bring together some of the most influential voices from literature, culture, public life, and the arts. The festival will be inaugurated on Friday, 6 February 2026 at 6:00 PM by Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Union Minister for Culture & Tourism as the Chief Guest.

Rooted in the theme “Sahitya, Sanskriti aur Samriddhi”, the festival celebrates the enduring power of literature to shape culture and contribute meaningfully to societal progress. Bringing together eminent authors, thinkers, poets, policymakers, artists, and young voices from across India and the world, the Delhi Literature Festival seeks to foster thoughtful conversations that bridge tradition and modernity. Through engaging sessions, discussions, readings, and performances, the festival aims to inspire critical thinking, nurture creativity, and highlight the vital role of literature and culture in building a more informed, empathetic, and prosperous society.

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Over three days, the festival will host authors, poets, jurists, policymakers, diplomats, artists, and young thought leaders from India and abroad, offering a rich confluence of conversations, readings, performances, and reflections that explore the intersection of literature, culture, and societal progress. The theme underscores the belief that literature (Sahitya) and culture (Sanskriti) together form the bedrock of holistic prosperity (Samriddhi) - one that extends beyond material wealth to include intellectual depth, social harmony, and creative abundance.

The 2026 edition also coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Spain, being commemorated as the India–Spain Dual Year of Culture, Tourism, and Artificial Intelligence, adding a significant global dimension to the festival’s cultural dialogue.

Guests of Honour include Smt. Rekha Gupta, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Delhi; Shri Kapil Mishra, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister for Culture & Tourism, Delhi; Sushri Bansuri Swaraj, Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha); and Dr. Meenakshi Jain, Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha).

Keynote addresses will be delivered by Shri Keshav Chandra, Hon’ble Chairman, NDMC; Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary and Executive & Academic Head, IGNCA; and Shri K. Satish Nambudiripad, Director General, Doordarshan. A special address will be delivered by Mr. Tim Curtis, Director and Representative, UNESCO India.

The festival will culminate in the Delhi Literature Festival Author Awards 2026, recognising outstanding contributions to literature and thought leadership.

The speaker lineup for Delhi Literature Festival 2026 comprises some of the most revered voices of our time, such as Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, former Chief Justice of India; Vinod Kumar Shukla; Acharya Prashant; Rahul Pandita; Shalini Passi; Lakshmi Murdeshwar Puri; Rahul Bhattacharya; Dr. Mani Rao; Nilotpal Mrinal; and Shambhu Shikhar, among others - representing a powerful amalgamation of literature, law, spirituality, journalism, art, and social thought.

With its expansive vision, distinguished speakers, and strong cultural ethos, the Delhi Literature Festival & Author Awards 2026 promises to be a landmark celebration of ideas, one that reinforces the enduring relevance of literature and culture in building a more endearing, thoughtful, compassionate and thriving society.