Need to expose deceptive marketing is the right path to a tobacco-free future - Dr. Sandeep Vohra,renowned psychiatrist

31st May is observed as World No Tobacco Day. Dr. Sandeep Vohra, founder of NWNT and renowned psychiatrist, has come up with a practical suggestion on this critical issue:

"The tactics of the tobacco industry continue to endanger the next generation under the guise of innovation. In 2025, over 80% of young tobacco users globally reported being drawn in by sleek packaging and sweetened, flavored products—designed to appeal, but concealing the deadly truth. The theme this year, ‘Bright Products. Dark Intentions.’, is a stark reminder that these products are engineered not for well-being, but for addiction.
As a medical examiner, mental health professional, and de addiction specialist, I witness the devastating toll tobacco and nicotine addiction takes—not only physically, with rising cases of early-onset cancers and cardiovascular disease—but mentally, through increased rates of anxiety, depression, and dependency. A 2024 WHO study revealed that youth who use nicotine products are twice as likely to experience mental health struggles."

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Dr. Sandeep Vohra continued, "World No Tobacco Day is more than a symbolic initiative—it is a global call to action. We must expose deceptive marketing, strengthen policies, and protect young people from becoming lifelong addicts. The path to a tobacco-free future starts with awareness, support, and the courage to stand against industries profiting from harm."

Top 5 Supplements to carry in the Gym Bag

Exercise is important to boost overall health. We all know this. This is especially common for

those who go to the gym. Going to the gym has now become a culture. It is a community

where individuals share something in common: to better oneself. To aid this process the use

of supplements has become a staple. Supplements cannot replace hard work, but they can

aid in recovery and possibly boost aspects such strength, conditioning, agility and focus.

However, the problem arises as there are so many supplements to choose from.

People are carrying large gym bags filled with supplements. However, over use of

supplements can be harmful to the body, especially the kidneys. Keeping it simple and

minimum is the key. Organic and natural options are definitely better as well. In order to

help with this here is a list of the only essential top 5 supplements one needs to recover and

enhance their fitness.

1. Caffeine

Caffeine is well known throughout the world because of its presence in coffee and tea. What

caffeine primarily does is increase energy levels. It also increases focus which can come in

handy when fatigue takes its toll. It also improves blood circulation to the muscles which

might help get to extra few reps or finish the last few kilometers.

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2. Creatine

Creatine is a supplement that aids in building muscles over a long period of time. Creatine is

a well-researched supplement that boosts strength, power, and muscle growth by

increasing your muscles' ability to produce energy during high-intensity exercise. It also

supports recovery, enhances training performance, and may offer cognitive benefits, all with

a strong safety profile when taken as recommended.

3. Whey Protein:

The one supplement that almost every gym goer must possess is whey protein. The primary

purpose of this supplement is to recover and build muscle. When one exercises, they create

muscle damage. After this, recovery and nutrition are the key aspects which build the

muscle stronger than before. Whey protein helps aid the muscle recover and become better

than before. However, how much the protein helps recover completely depends on the

quality. The more premium and natural the protein the better it will aid in muscle recovery.

4. Branch Chain Amino Acids (BCAA’s)

BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids: leucine, isoleucine, and valine) help support muscle

recovery, reduce soreness, and may prevent muscle breakdown during intense or fasted

training. They can also help maintain muscle mass during the phase where one reduces

calories to lose weight and lean down.

5. L - Arginine

This is a naturally occurring amino acid which is produced by the body. Its primary goal is

building protein. It is naturally found in fish, meat, soy, whole grains and dairy products. L

Arginine is converted into a chemical called Nitric Oxide in the body. Nitric Oxide helps

improve blood flow in the body. This allows an individual to further carry on an intense

exercise.

Supplements are a great way to aid one's health and wellness. However, they cannot

replace exercise and a healthy diet. Combining exercise, a proper diet and supplements is

the best way to better oneself, increase strength, endurance and in the long term live a

healthy lifestyle.

BHOOL CHUK MAAF - movie review

Rating- **
Futile & Implausible Premise!

Inspired by Hollywood film Groundhog Day, Karan Sharma has written the story which is set in a non-metropolitan city. The sermon by Bhagwandas in the climax fails to have the desired impact or even half of it! While some comic portions are entertaining, the futility and implausibility of the drama hits the viewers, more so in the post-interval part.

If you ask me about the insipid story, I will only draw a blank. The film is about two hopeless romantics, Ranjan (Rajkummar Rao) and Titli (Wamiqa Gabbi) who are desperate to get married. When they pull all the strings to make it happen, Ranjan finds himself stuck strangely in an unbelievable time loop and keeps waking up on the same day, that too thrice -- a day prior to his wedding day.

Otherwise jobless and irresponsible, Ranjan promises his would-be father in law that he will find a government job in just about two months. This is her father’s only condition. Ranjan happily spends Titli’s money, which she borrows from her parents and doesn’t aspire to be self-sufficient until he is forced to. Having no care in the world, the couple resorts to ‘jugaad’ and succeeds until Ranjan finds himself tangled in the time loop which forbids him to proceed to his wedding day.

The first half takes rather too long to get to the point with innumerable songs added for no rhyme or reason and it really tests your patience a lot. Though the film has elements that are obviously strikingly different, especially those that set out to follow a different template, the film sets out to deliver a relevant message of its own too.

Though Karan Sharma fails in execution with repetitive scenes, performances wise, I’d give full credit to both Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi for lending a touch of sincerity to their roles as well as Raghubir Yadav for portraying the middle class father of Rajkyummar Rao and Yashpal Sharma for depicting the role of the father of Wamiqa Gabbi.

All said and done, I’d still say that Bhool Chuk Maaf isn’t a major groundbreaking film for Rajkummar Rao that way, though he ensures that he essays the role of Ranjan with all his flaws and heart intact.

- Review by Jyothi Venkatesh

Producer- Dinesh Vijan

Director- Karan Sharma

Star Cast- Rajkummar Rao, Wamiqa Gabbi, Raghubir Yadav, Seema Pahwa, Zakir Hussain, Vineet Kumar, Sanjay Mishra

Genre- Comedy

Platform of Release- Theatres

Behind every bright light of fame, there’s a story of sleepless nights, hardwork, self belief, unshakable dedication, says actress Mansi Sharma

“SRK, Rajkummar Rao, Kangana Ranaut have proved that with hardwork, courage and self-belief, anything is possible," enumerates Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain Actress Mansi Sharma. 

These days, we often see actors opening up about the challenges behind the glamourous world of entertainment. Adding her voice to the conversation, actress Mansi Sharma, who recently stepped into the role of Tapasya in Shemaroo Umang’s ‘Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain, shared her honest take on it. 

While sharing her perspective actress Mansi Sharma said, "I believe that emotional happiness, along with being strong and active, is the true backbone of success—especially in the entertainment industry. It’s not something that just comes to you—you have to work on it every day with positivity and patience. This industry is full of ups and downs, and every actor faces their own set of challenges. But those who keep moving forward with confidence and a learning attitude are the ones who truly shine. It’s perfectly okay to feel low sometimes—we're human. But the magic lies in rising again, stronger, wiser, and full of fresh energy. That’s what takes you to the top!"

She further added, "I really look up to stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Rajkummar Rao, Kangana Ranaut, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui sir. They all started with nothing, but today, they’re icons. Their journey is proof that with hard work, courage, and self-belief, anything is possible. Behind every bright light of fame, there’s a story of sleepless nights, endless auditions, and unshakable dedication. Success doesn’t come overnight—it’s earned with grit, passion, and never giving up attitude."

The drama has peaked in Shemaroo Umang's Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain with Tapasya’s sudden and shocking entry.  Chamkili also dropped a bomb by revealing wedding photos of Tapasya and Jaiveer. But the question is - are they real, or just another one of Chamkili’s tricks? Is it love, betrayal, or a new twist? The suspense is keeping everyone hooked in Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain. 

- By Jyothi Venkatesh

The Diplomat - Movie Review

 A Scintillating Political Thriller

Rating: 4 / 5

Kudos to John Abraham for producing and his realistic portrayal in The Diplomat, a film based on true events of kidnapping of an Indian woman to Pakistan and her struggles for seeking repatriation to her motherland.

It’s Sadia Khateeb who shines in this political thriller, while John Abraham has grown up a step higher in his acting profession, without any display of his macho image... full review at: https://filmytown.com/movies/the-diplomat-movie-review/

Why are the richest 1% leaving India? Law firm boss Rishabh Shroff explains

 

Rishabh Shroff, Partner at Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, shared insights into the rising trend of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) acquiring foreign passports and moving their wealth abroad.

India's wealthy leaving for better opportunities abroad. Rishabh Shroff discusses HNWIs acquiring foreign passports as departure impacts wealth management and economic policies

Shroff spoke about why India's wealthiest individuals are choosing to leave the country despite growing at a good pace at the India Today Conclave 2025.

In a session titled "A Case for Tomorrow," moderated by Siddharth Zarabi, Editor, Business Today, he shared insights into the rising trend of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) acquiring foreign passports and moving their wealth abroad.

Shroff highlighted that while the number of people leaving may seem small in a country of 1.7 billion, the impact is significant. These individuals are business leaders, job creators, and major taxpayers. Their departure raises questions about the future of wealth management, business opportunities, and economic policies in India.

During the discussion, Zarabi pointed out that doing business in India has become easier over the years. Yet, many second-generation business families and wealthy individuals continue to migrate.

Shroff confirmed this trend, saying, "I forget the exact number, but I think in 2023-2024, something like seven thousand people left India. These are your 1% or the 1% of the 1%. They are getting passports in Dubai, Singapore, the US, and the UK."

He also mentioned that former US President Donald Trump launched a "golden card" scheme specifically targeting such individuals, allowing them to obtain residency or citizenship in exchange for investment.

This, he said, is an example of how other countries are actively attracting India's top business minds and wealthiest citizens.

WHY ARE INDIA'S WEALTHY LEAVING?

Shroff explained that one major reason is global diversification. Many Indian HNWIs want to expand beyond the country’s financial markets and invest in international assets like private debt, cryptocurrency, and tech stocks such as Meta and Google. However, India’s regulatory framework makes it difficult to freely invest in such assets from within the country.

"No matter how diverse your India portfolio isequity, debt, or real estateyour exposure remains limited to India. These individuals want a global footprint," he said.

To achieve this, many are setting up family offices in places like Dubai and Singapore, which offer more flexible financial regulations. Some families even position their next-generation heirs in these countries to manage overseas investments.

HOW FOREIGN MARKETS ARE ATTRACTING INDIAN WEALTH

Countries like Dubai, Singapore, the US, and the UK have created custom schemes to attract wealthy Indians. These include:

Golden Visa and Citizenship by Investment Programs Offering residency or passports in exchange for investments. Tax-Friendly Regulations Lower tax rates and easier business laws compared to India.

Global Investment Access The ability to invest freely in tech stocks, crypto, and private markets. Shroff said that Dubai and Singapore, in particular, have become hotspots for Indian family offices, allowing them to park their wealth overseas while maintaining connections with their Indian businesses.

The migration of the ultra-rich could have long-term effects on India’s economy. These individuals contribute significantly to tax revenues, business growth, and employment. Their departure may lead to a shift in investment trends, with more wealth being managed from outside India rather than within it.

Critical mentorship, market access, networking opportunities for Startups looking to scale and compete in a Global market

Universal Newsline has compiled a list of Top 5 Startup Funding and Accelerator Opportunities in India

With India’s startup ecosystem evolving rapidly, multiple funding and accelerator programs are opening doors for early and growth-stage startups. From government-backed initiatives to corporate-led accelerators, these opportunities provide capital, mentorship, and networking to help startups scale.

Here are the five most significant funding and accelerator programs currently accepting applications.

1. Startup Maha Rathi Challenge – ₹30 Crore Fund for Indian Startups

Deadline: March 7, 2025

The Startup Maha Rathi Challenge, part of Startup Mahakumbh 2025, is a flagship initiative by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) in collaboration with leading investors and industry bodies. The program offers funding, mentorship, and strategic guidance to startups across 11 key sectors.

Eligibility:

 DPIIT-recognized startups in early or growth stages.

 Sectors include AI, Fintech, HealthTech, Agritech, DeepTech, and more.

Key Benefits:

 Total prize pool of ₹30 crore.

 Guaranteed ₹1 lakh for shortlisted startups.

 ₹10 lakh for top two startups in each sector.

 ₹5 lakh for the next five startups per sector.

 Mentorship from leading VCs, investors, and industry leaders.

Grand Finale: April 3-5, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

Apply Here - https://www.startupindia.gov.in/content/sih/en/ams-application/challenge.html?applicationId=67bdbb76e4b0c167e9f99da2

 

2. Futurepreneurs Initiative – ₹1 Crore Prize Pool for Student Innovators

Deadline: March 7, 2025

About: Part of Startup Mahakumbh, this initiative invites colleges to nominate student teams to develop AI-driven solutions for local challenges.

Rewards: Top 10 teams receive funding, mentorship, and a chance to pitch at Startup Mahakumbh 2025.

Apply here: Futurepreneurs Initiative - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe0qQupFOLbidIknsevqw3Wcy29ubfOc09pti-W3MdpHXeZRQ/viewform?pli=1

 

3. PwC India Emerging Tech Startup Challenge

Applications Open: March 4, 2025

PwC India has launched an accelerator program aimed at late-stage startups in emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, and spacetech.

Eligibility:

 Startups working on AI, blockchain, data analytics, and space tech.

Key Benefits:

 Mentorship from PwC’s global leaders.

 Access to enterprise partnerships.

 Exposure to corporate clients and investors.

More Details - https://www.pwc.in/emerging-tech-startup-challenge.html

 

4. Microsoft for Startups – AI Co-Innovation Lab

Applications Open: March 2025

Microsoft’s AI-focused accelerator is designed to support startups leveraging AI for real-world applications.

Eligibility:

 Startups working in AI, machine learning, deep tech, and automation.

Key Benefits:

 Free access to Microsoft Azure cloud credits.

 Co-innovation partnerships with enterprises.

 Mentorship from Microsoft AI and business experts.

More Details - https://www.microsoft.com/en-in/startups

5. Flipkart Leap Innovation Network

Applications Open: March 2025

Flipkart Leap aims to support startups in e-commerce, supply chain, AI, and sustainability by offering

strategic partnerships and business scaling opportunities.

Eligibility:

 Early and growth-stage startups working on tech-driven retail and logistics solutions.

Key Benefits:

 Funding and collaboration opportunities with Flipkart.

 Business scaling support.

 Mentorship from e-commerce and logistics experts.

More Details - https://www.flipkartleap.com/

With increasing investor interest and government support, these initiatives offer more than just capital. They provide critical mentorship, market access, and networking opportunities, making them vital for startups looking to scale and compete in a global market.

Startups should act fast and apply before deadlines to maximize their chances of securing funding and strategic support.