Archives June 2024

27th June 2024, Mumbai, India: In Modern times, mental health has become important and individuals have been encouraged to talk about it and should express their emotions freely. But when it comes to mental health issues in men particularly depression and anxiety remains challenging due to societal expectations of masculinity. Our goal is to promote understanding and find solutions by tackling the obstacles men encounter in accessing mental health support. A recent report shows that 77% of men experience mental health issues, yet 40% avoid discussing about it due to societal pressures. Additionally, 29% feel embarrassed to talk about depression and anxiety.

Understanding depression and anxiety in men

Depression and anxiety are mental health conditions that can affect anyone, but men sometimes find it difficult to talk about these feelings openly because of societal expectations about masculinity. Men often struggle with mental health due to family, financial, and work pressures. It’s crucial to create an open environment where men feel comfortable discussing their emotions and mental well-being.

Societal expectations

Men are often expected to hide their feelings of sadness or fear and appear emotionally strong. They feel pressured to handle their problems alone because of societal expectations. This makes it hard for them to admit they need help, fearing they might seem weak or less masculine when talking about their mental health. These pressures limit how men express their emotions, making it difficult for them to discuss their mental health and seek support.

Breaking the stigma

The goal is to make seeking help easy and judgment-free. This means teaching about mental health, ensuring understanding, and encouraging open talks. We want a culture where everyone feels accepted and supported in getting the help they need for their mental well-being.

Strategies for coping

For managing depression and anxiety professional help is necessary, some of the strategies men can include in their daily routine to improve their mental well-being.

Physical Health: Men should exercise regularly, eat balanced meals, and get enough sleep. Exercise boosts mood by releasing feel-good chemicals in the brain.

Emotional Well-being: It’s important for men to acknowledge and validate their feelings. Relaxing activities like hobbies, meditation, or spending time outdoors can help reduce stress.

Social Connections: Maintaining good relationships with friends, family, and community helps men feel supported and less lonely. Regular socializing can improve mental well-being.

Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help men manage stress and think more clearly.

Setting Boundaries: Learning to say no when necessary and prioritizing personal needs without feeling guilty is crucial for maintaining balance and avoiding exhaustion.

Seeking Support: Men should not hesitate to seek professional help or talk to trusted people when facing challenges or struggling with their mental health.

Conclusion

In summary, supporting men with depression and anxiety requires breaking down societal barriers and stigma around mental health. It’s important to promote awareness and provide adequate support. Creating safe environments where men feel comfortable discussing their emotions and seeking help is crucial. Encouraging openness about mental health ensures that everyone receives the necessary support for emotional well-being. Simple methods such as relaxation techniques can also aid in reducing anxiety. By educating, advocating, and offering support, we aim to build a society that values and prioritizes mental health for everyone.

Step into the ring with Filmfare’s newest and most captivating interview series, ‘In the Ring with Filmfare.’ This groundbreaking talk show, hosted by Jitesh Pillai, Editor-in-Chief, Filmfare, presents in-depth and unfiltered conversations with the brightest stars of film and OTT. Each episode is recorded in front of a live audience, providing a unique and engaging atmosphere. The second episode, featuring the talented Bhumi Pednekar, is available on Filmfare’s YouTube channel from 26th June, 2024.

‘In the Ring with Filmfare’ is more than just an interview series; it’s a bold and energetic platform that delves into the true essence of the artists. By pushing boundaries and exploring raw, unfiltered conversations, this show offers a unique and intimate look into the lives and minds of your favorite celebrities, providing fresh insights into the entertainment industry and sparking meaningful dialogue.

The highly anticipated second episode featuring the fearless Bhumi Pednekar, is available on Filmfare’s YouTube channel from 26th June, 2024. In this episode, Bhumi opens up about her journey, sharing powerful insights on body shaming, work-life balance, social responsibilities, and her admiration for a co-star. Here are some highlights from her candid conversation:

Expressing about body shaming and her first film, Bhumi Pednekar said, “Since my first film, my weight has been a constant topic of conversation. Whether the comments were good or bad, I have developed a certain appreciation for it, especially given the message of my debut film. However, I no longer wish to discuss my weight—there has been enough said about it. I have made a conscious decision to stop abusing my body.”

Speaking about work-life balance Bhumi said, “I believe that you should do everything in moderation, including working. Unfortunately, in India, there is a culture that makes us feel guilty for asking for a holiday. It’s as if requesting a break implies, we are not dedicated to our work. This mindset overlooks the reality that burning out means we genuinely need time to rest and recharge.”

Talking about the social responsibilities and trolls on that, Bhumi said, “I can completely understand that we are doing this for PR. Of course, we are doing this for PR because I want people to be inspired by what I am doing. Every time we release something, it is cause and action-related. If I am the face of power, my greatest soft power is influence. I strive to reflect this in my films as well.”

Speaking about a co-star who shares similarities with her, she reveals, “I think Rajkummar and I have very similar value systems. His journey has been truly remarkable, and I resonate with it deeply. The way he approaches each role, with such dedication and hard work, is truly brilliant. He is someone who understands my insecurities and complexities as an actor.”

Don’t miss this captivating episode of ‘In the Ring with Filmfare’ featuring Bhumi Pednekar. Tune in to Filmfare’s YouTube channel from 26th June, 2024, for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation that promises to challenge norms and offer fresh insights into the world of entertainment.

Delhi: Ambrane, a leading Indian brand in consumer electronics and mobile accessories, has announced its latest innovation – the AeroSync Duo MagSafe 2-in-1 Wireless Charger Stand. This cutting-edge product offers dual magnetic charging with a total output of 20W, enabling simultaneous charging of iPhone and Apple AirPods.

Lightweight and portable, the AeroSync Duo is an ideal dual charging solution for desks, enhancing workspace efficiency with its elegant design. Crafted from premium metal and featuring stylish LED indicators, it adds a touch of sophistication to any setup. Powered by Ambrane’s trademarked BoostedSpeed™ technology, the AeroSync Duo delivers up to 15W for MagSafe-compatible devices and 7.5W for other Qi-enabled devices, making it versatile for charging various gadgets, including mobile phones and TWS earbuds. Its high-powered 27W Type-C PD input ensures fast and efficient power transfer.

Equipped with SafeCharge Technology, Aerosync Duo ensures safety against over-voltage, over-current, overheating, and short-circuiting for reliable operation. The Charging Station offers versatile charging orientations with its rotating charging pad and adjustable wand, supporting charging in both landscape and portrait orientations for added convenience.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Ashok Rajpal, Founder of Ambrane India, stated, “With the increasing use of mobile and connected devices, charging solutions must be adaptable and efficient. The AeroSync Duo Wireless Charger Stand is a one-stop solution for organization and efficiency. Our goal is to enhance user convenience by integrating advanced technology with elegant design.”

Additionally, the wireless charger includes an extra magnetic ring, enabling any Qi-compatible Android device to become MagSafe-compatible.

27th June 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India TIDL, America’s fastest-growing pain relief brand, will shortly enter the Indian market with cricket superstar Virat Kohli to offer next-generation pain relief solutions.

This partnership, in association with the Baidyanath Group, will change the way India understands pain. TIDL’s range of innovative products are formulated to not only address pain effectively but also empower consumers to take control of their own pain management.

In 2021, Conor McGregor, World-Class UFC Champion, joined hands with team TIDL. In response to the upcoming India launch, McGregor said, “TIDL isn’t just about pain relief; it’s about changing the game. Bringing TIDL to India with Virat Kohli is an incredible honor. The energy, passion, and resilience of the Indian people remind me of my own journey. We’re here to show India what real recovery looks like. Get ready because we’re just getting started!”

TIDL’s revolutionary approach combines clinically proven ingredients with natural plant extracts to directly target the source of pain. The result is fragrant, and soothing, and brings instant relief.

“TIDL’s solutions are going to change the way Indians understand and deal with pain. Pain is not only uncomfortable, but it also affects us on a deeper level, damaging our sleep quality, mental health, focus and energy. Pain restricts our ability to achieve our highest potential. With TIDL, these barriers are broken, and we can get back to doing the things we love – be it fitness, family, or work!” said Prashant Raj, Co-founder and COO, TIDL.

TIDL products are ideal for ‘everyday life,’ capable of delivering relief anytime, anywhere whether that’s daily activity, overnight, fitness, or even clinical strength applications. The brand’s flagship products include Cryotherapy Spray, Heat Therapy Spray, Cryotherapy Joint Cream, Numbing Pain Patch, and Heat Therapy Roll On.

“As a sportsperson, you learn to adapt to a higher pain threshold. I’ve taught myself to live with it without compromising on my goals. Pain is a constant challenge, hindering quality of life. TIDL is a game-changer letting you reclaim the joy of living by changing the way you find relief. I’m delighted to represent this brand as the ambassador. Looking forward to making India pain-free. No Pain, No Limits!” said Virat Kohli.

Baidyanath’s President and TIDL India Director Siddhesh Sharma said, – “I am in the business of making people happy, when I say happy, I mean healthy. We dream and work towards seeing a healthier India everyday and TIDL fits into our group’s ethos seamlessly. TIDL is the future of pain relief, it’s excellent for prevention and treatment both. Baidyanath brings world class infrastructure in R&D, manufacturing and distribution giving TIDL the perfect launch pad in India. There’s no better testimony than Virat himself using TIDL everyday, and to have him as a partner in this exciting venture says it all.”

The launch of TIDL in India marks a significant milestone in the brand’s journey towards revolutionizing pain relief and empowering individuals everywhere to embrace holistic living.

27th June 2024 New Delhi, Delhi, India Tourism Malaysia is excited to announce the much-anticipated Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2024, set to take place at the enchanting Sarawak Cultural Village in Kuching, Malaysia, from June 28th to 30th, 2024. As one of the most celebrated events on the global music calendar, RWMF transcends its traditional role, embodying the theme of ‘EVOLUTION’ by seamlessly intertwining sustainability, responsible tourism, and cultural exchange.

The RWMF 2024 promises an unforgettable experience, drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of cultures that call Malaysia home. With an anticipated attendance surpassing last year’s record of 20,000 visitors from around the globe, the festival is poised to showcase the best of world music in a setting that celebrates diversity and unity.

Aligned with the festival’s dedication to sustainability and responsible tourism, RWMF 2024 embodies the vision of fostering positive change for a better, more environmentally conscious future. Through eco-friendly initiatives and advocacy for greener practices, the festival stands as a beacon of progress in cultural celebrations.

The Sarawak Tourism Board is proud to host the Rainforest World Music Festival 2024, an event that goes beyond music to promote sustainability, cultural exchange, and responsible tourism. As they celebrate the ‘EVOLUTION’ of the festival, they look forward to welcoming visitors from around the world to experience the magic of Sarawak.

As the festival enters its 27th edition, RWMF 2024 marks a significant milestone in its journey. With a renewed emphasis on sustainability and conservation, the event aims to evolve into a dynamic platform advocating for sustainable practices in tourism and conservation among key opinion leaders, environmental advocates, and youth changemakers.

Event Flow:

• Day 1 (June 28th): Opening ceremony followed by performances showcasing the diverse musical traditions of Malaysia and the world.
• Day 2 (June 29th): Workshops, cultural exchanges, and interactive sessions with musicians and artisans.
• Day 3 (June 30th): Grand finale featuring electrifying performances by international and local artists, culminating in a celebration of unity and diversity.

International Participation:

• Renowned musicians and performers from across the globe, representing diverse musical genres and traditions.
• Interactive workshops and cultural exchanges offering attendees the opportunity to immerse themselves in the music and traditions of different cultures.

Accommodation and Dining:

• Sarawak Cultural Village offers a range of accommodation options, from traditional longhouses to modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for festival-goers.
• Explore the vibrant culinary scene of Kuching, with a variety of local delicacies and international cuisine available to tantalize your taste buds.

Places to See Around the Festival:

• Explore the lush rainforests and stunning natural beauty of Sarawak, including national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural landmarks.
• Experience the rich cultural heritage of Sarawak through guided tours, traditional performances, and immersive cultural experiences.

The Sarawak Tourism Board is excited to showcase Malaysia’s cultural diversity and natural beauty through the Rainforest World Music Festival 2024. As they come together to celebrate music, culture, and sustainability, they invite travelers from around the world to join us on this extraordinary journey.

27th June 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India DeHaat, India’s largest Agri-tech company, has launched its latest brand campaign featuring renowned Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi. The campaign, ‘Ek Dukaan Sampoorna Samadhaan’, showcases an extensive range of products and services from DeHaat, designed to create a positive impact on the lives of farmers by providing tech enabled 360-degree solutions throughout the crop lifecycle. The organization operates on the ‘Farmers First’ principle that enables it to work towards the enhancement of farmers, helping them improve their agricultural practices and produce at the same time. Given its specialist rural advertising expertise, Eggfirst was the natural first choice to craft the positioning strategy and campaign for the brand.

Shyam Sundar Singh, Executive Director & Co-founder at DeHaat, said, “We are happy to have such a renowned actor onboard. His influence and credibility will undoubtedly help us further drive our ‘Farmer’s First’ vision to empower millions of farmers across the country.”

DeHaat today offers its full-stack service offerings to over 2.5Mn farmers across the country through its expansive network of 14,000 franchise retail stores across 12 Indian States, empowering them to ensure the quality & quantity of the crop yields. The company has also entered exclusive distribution tie-ups for 10+ global bio-agri-input innovators to support sustainable agriculture while also upgrading its AI enabled digital tools for personalized crop advisory.

Ravikant Banka, the Founder and CEO of Eggfirst, said, “I’m amazed to be a part of this agri-revolution journey. Having successfully crafted many rural campaigns, DeHaat is one of a kind, as it evolves farmers’ lives with cutting-edge innovation. Talking about the campaign, I feel Pankaj Tripathi is the right and impactful personality who resonates with farmers effortlessly.”

Eggfirst is a Specialist Rural Advertising Agency with extreme digital prowess. Its true-blue advertising strategies provide a solid foundation for brands, and its digital expertise drives powerful connections with consumers while being cost-effective. Having worked with a large number of rural brands across FMCG, BFSI, Agri-inputs, building construction materials, and more, they have a deep understanding of the consumers and markets of Bharat.

27th June 2024 Hyderabad, Telangana, India Oakridge International School Bachupally welcomed students back today, marking the start of the 2024-2025 academic year and celebrating 15 years of excellence in education. This milestone year, themed the “Year of Resilience,” is a unique approach that underlines the school’s commitment to fostering strength and adaptability in its diverse student body, which now includes families from around the globe.

The Oakridge community, a vital part of our school, was brimming with excitement as students, parents, and faculty gathered to kick off the new academic journey. This year’s diverse student body, with families from Hyderabad and across the globe, is a testament to the school’s commitment to creating a truly international learning environment.

“Our focus this year is on helping our students grow academically and personally by incorporating values that build resilience,” said Ms Baljeet Oberoi, Principal of Oakridge International School Bachupally. “We are dedicated to creating a welcoming environment where every student can thrive. This year, we will continue to nurture a strong sense of community, ensuring that our students are ready to face any difficulties they might come across.”

Celebrating its 15th anniversary, Oakridge International School Bachupally reaffirms its commitment to welcoming an international community of learners. Families from Malaysia and other parts of the world have chosen Oakridge as their educational home. “The school’s focus on holistic development and the strong sense of global community particularly drew us in,” shares Hafiz, a parent who recently relocated from Malaysia. His daughters, Hanna and Hayra, are equally excited, “I can’t wait to make new friends from different cultures and learn new things at Oakridge!”

Last year’s excellent academic results (CBSE and IGCSE) reflect its dedication to high standards and holistic education. This year, we are excited to introduce a range of new initiatives, aimed at enhancing student learning and well-being and building on the previous year’s success.

The reopening day was marked by engaging activities designed to inspire and motivate students. Students from early to senior grades participated in various interactive sessions emphasizing the importance of resilience and community. The assembly was a highlight, bringing together the entire school to celebrate this significant milestone.

Parents expressed their joy and appreciation for the school’s efforts. Nivedita, a parent of a Grade 1 student, noted, “Seeing the enthusiasm in my child as she returns to school is heartwarming. The teachers’ dedication and the supportive environment have made a significant difference.”

As the new academic year begins, Oakridge International School Bachupally is set for another year of academic excellence and holistic development.

27th June 2024  Kerala, India  Sabine Hospital and Research Centre has secured $50 million in funding from CX Partners – a private equity fund in the Indian mid-market with a long track record of delivering returns through cycles and a consortium of investors.

Sharing details about the development, Dr. Sivadasan Sabine, Founder and Chairman of Sabine Hospital & Research Centre said, “CX partners and the consortium of investors share our vision of making high-end fertility, birthing and neonatal care affordable and accessible to the most remote towns of India. The investment of $50mn validates our strong clinical fundamentals, business practices and also recognised the immense need for better fertility, mother and childcare in India. We are now all set to embark on the next phase of growth with renewed passion.”

CX partners work in healthcare, financial services, consumer products and services and IT/outsourced services. With 29 portfolio companies and $1bn of assets under management across its funds and co-investors, CX partners is positive about Sabine Hospital’s potential to immense growth.

Commenting on the investment, Vivek Chhachhi, Managing Partner, CX Partners said, “Sabine Hospital and Research Centre provides accessible healthcare at affordable costs. Their world-class fertility treatments cater to the growing medical needs of people. While upholding the utmost ethical standards and clinical excellence, the organisation has demonstrated remarkable growth, with a CAGR of 25% over the last three years. We see the potential in further expanding Sabine Hospitals to adjacent markets, drawing upon our experience investing in healthcare, attracting high quality professional leadership, and putting in place systems to manage growth.”

Singapore-based Tanas Capital, a growth stage private equity firm, is part of the investor consortium. Sharing his thoughts, A Amit Sharma, MD of Tanas Capital said, “We are pleased to partner with CX and Sabine Hospital and Research Centre to aid the strategic imperatives of this franchise. The focused and nuanced approach of Sabine Hospital is a clear differentiator and is certainly well positioned for the next phase of growth.”

Sabine Hospital and Research Centre was incorporated in 2016 as a single facility near Kochi. Now it operates 300 beds including 60 NICU beds across 2 facilities in Kerala. Sabine Hospital has an integrated model through which it offers mother and child healthcare services including IVF and other fertility treatments, birthing, newborn care and other gynaecological procedures. Conducting more than 6,000 IVF cycles and 3,000 deliveries every year, Sabine Hospital attracts patients from Maldives, Oman & Bangladesh besides Kerela. The hospital utilises cutting-edge equipment to make high-end procedures like IVF more accessible. Upholding highest ethical standards, Sabine Hospital and Research Centre records the highest success rates.

27th June 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  On the occasion of World Environment Day, car&bike proudly conducted a one-of-a-kind event that blended sustainability, and environmental stewardship. This exclusive event, presented by Kalpataru, featured a 150 km drive with 10 eclectic electric cars, that took participants from Kalpataru ParkCity township in Thane West to Kalpataru Aria, an upcoming weekend home destination, in Karjat. The highlight of this journey was a tree plantation initiative en route aimed at contributing to and preserving the environment.

The event delivered an unparalleled experience as participants drove state-of-the-art electric cars from the premium and luxury segments, leaving zero-emission, reflecting Kalpataru’s commitment to sustainable living and practices. This initiative not only showcased the convenience and sophistication of these long-range EVs but also emphasized the importance of eco-friendly actions. The event saw participation from a group of guests comprising of CXOs entrepreneurs, and, importantly, automotive enthusiasts. The group also planted saplings in Karjat.

“Automobiles and infrastructure, have always been in the news of when it comes to air pollution,” pointed out Girish Karkera, Editor-in-Chief, carandbike.com. “A lot of work is being done by the stake holders to make a positive impact. The Zero Emission Drive was one such, aimed to create awareness on the efforts. From driving a convoy of high-tech automobiles with no tailpipe emissions, to planting more trees with our partner who is a leading infrastructure company, the message was loud and clear that we all need to do our bit for a cleaner world and inspire others to follow. My special thanks to all the car brands who volunteered with their machines and an enthusiastic bunch of people who drove responsibly.”

“At Kalpataru, we are dedicated to creating communities that thrive in harmony with nature. Our collaborative efforts with car&bike, such as the Zero Emission Car Drive and Plantation Drive, exemplify this dedication. These initiatives not only enhance environmental awareness but also strengthen community engagement, forging a deeper connection to sustainability. Kalpataru’s dedication to a cleaner environment extends beyond singular events. With a rich history of partnering with Municipal Bodies and NGOs, we have consistently engaged in beautification and clean-up drives in public spaces, including local railway stations and beaches,” Tirthankar Ganguly, Director Marketing at kalpataru.

27th June 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India The Centre for Chronic Disease Control (CCDC) has successfully screened over 1.1 million individuals for high Blood Pressure (BP) as part of the May Measurement Month (MMM) initiative that was launched in 2017. CCDC is the official Indian partner for MMM, the largest global initiative to promote regular BP measurement. More than 100 countries participated in this campaign, which has screened over 6 million individuals thus far. Nearly 63% of deaths in India are due to non-communicable diseases, with 27% attributed to cardiovascular disease (CVD). High blood pressure is a key risk factor for CVDs. Through MMM and other year-round initiatives, CCDC strives to inform and empower the public to manage and prevent this chronic condition.

On World Hypertension Day (May 17), CCDC partnered with IAPEN India and organized health camps and numerous lectures and training sessions for volunteers across different cities in NCR, Maharashtra, Punjab, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Odisha. While the health camps focused on raising awareness and regular monitoring, the lecture series informed participants about the risks of hypertension and managing high BP through healthy diet and lifestyle changes. CCDC was supported by 471 volunteers from medical colleges, hospitals, and various institutions across India.

Speaking on MMM, Prof. D. Prabhakaran, Executive Director, CCDC, stated, “Managing high blood pressure is crucial to preventing heart attacks and strokes. Over seven editions of the MMM campaign, CCDC is proud to have conducted more than 1.1 million screenings nationwide. By reaching individuals nationwide, we are committed to promoting heart health and reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases in our communities.”

May Measurement Month (MMM), launched by the International Society of Hypertension, encourages people aged 18+ to regularly check their BP and understand how it affects their health. MMM offers diet and lifestyle advice for those with high BP and helps improve follow-up care. By using data on untreated hypertension, MMM urges governments across the world to enhance BP screening facilities and reduce the global burden of disease and death caused by elevated BP.