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The festive spirit of Navratri is in full swing, and everyone is making the most of it. Actor Lakshay Khurana, who plays Aditya in Sun Neo’s popular show Ishq Jabariya, recently shared how he enjoys the festival and highlighted the positivity it brings to the environment.

Talking about the significance of the festival, Lakshay said, “Navratri is a time of positivity and celebration. It’s about spreading good vibes and connecting with the people around you. I don’t actively play Garba or Dandiya, but I enjoy watching others take part in it. The music, the colourful outfits, and the excitement remind me of the fun and drama we create on Ishq Jabariya on Sun Neo.”

Sharing his plans for celebrating the festival this year, Lakshay added, “I haven’t done any fasting or special rituals, but I’ve made sure to set aside time to enjoy the festivities. This year, I’m focusing on balancing my shoot schedule for Ishq Jabariya while spending evenings with friends at local Garba nights.”

Lakshay also recalled his memorable visit to Gujarat to celebrate the festival, adding, “I’ve been to Gujarat once during Navratri, and it was an unforgettable experience! The energy of the Garba nights was unlike anything I’d ever seen. Thousands of people danced together in perfect sync, the vibrant colours, and the music—it was magical. I remember thinking that the whole celebration felt like one big family coming together.”

Finally, talking about how he relates to Goddess Lakshmi, Lakshay said, “She symbolises abundance, success, and positivity—all things I aim to cultivate in my life. Lakshmi’s grace and focus on prosperity resonate with me, especially when it comes to balancing my career and personal growth. Even on the set of Ishq Jabariya, I try to bring that same positivity and drive to every scene I perform.”

Ishq Jabariya, airing on Sun Neo at 7:30 PM from Monday to Saturday, has become a fan favourite. The lead duo, Lakshay Khurana as Aditya and Siddhi Sharma as Gulki, are winning audiences’ hearts with their on-screen chemistry, as friendship and love slowly bloom between their characters. As their relationship evolves, viewers are eagerly awaiting the twists and turns their journey will take.

National, 9th October 2024: It seems to be the perfect end to a five-day long Lakmē Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI 2024, with a sale that brings with it jaw-dropping prices of designer wear you always dreamt of owning. The Fashion Design Council of India, is organising its annual designer Stockroom sale, for one day you can shop till you drop!

The Grand Hotel, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi, on October 13, is the venue to encash these deals, from 11 am to 7 pm, now you can affordably don that embroidered jacket, ikkat floor-caressing dress or brocade jumpsuit, for your BFF’s December wedding. Bonus: some ensembles are up to 70% off, and believe it or not this is coveted designer wear.

This year like always, you will be spoilt for choice as almost 70 designers are participating, and there is everything that can rev up your wardrobe from diffusion for a mehendi, sangeet, pret for everyday needs as well as lightweight trousseau.

“We have seen huge success over the years with the designer Stockroom as it caters to all age groups and offers easy-on-the-pocket prices. The key is the variety of options that come, making it a destination where there is something for everybody,” shares Mr. Sunil Sethi, Chairman of the Fashion Design Council of India.

You get a heady mix of emerging talents and iconic designers who have ruled the fashion world with their innovative styles, making the FDCI Designer Stockroom a must-attend event. This year, among many others, the lineup includes Ashish Soni, Namrata Joshipura, Geisha Designs by Paras & Shalini, Samant Chauhan, Pankaj & Nidhi, Shruti Sancheti, Anju Modi, Nitin Bal Chauhan, and 60 other remarkable designers, offering all under one roof.

New Delhi, 9 October 2024: To promote dialogue on the role of youth in shaping the future of UAE-India relations, H.E. Abdulnasser Alshaali, Ph.D., the UAE Ambassador to India, held an exclusive session in Delhi with 40 Legislative Assistants to Members of Parliament (LAMP) Fellows.

The session aimed to inspire the next generation of leaders and provided LAMP Fellows with the opportunity to engage in an open dialogue with the Ambassador on a range of key topics. During the event, Ambassador Alshaali provided an overview of the UAE’s priorities for youth empowerment and education, emphasising that youth play a crucial role in fostering innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development.

The importance of educational collaboration between the UAE and India was also highlighted, especially with the recent opening of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi’s campus in Abu Dhabi. This development marks a milestone in bilateral relations and presents an opportunity to enhance knowledge-sharing between the youth of both nations.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Alshaali remarked: “Youth are at the forefront of social change, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to today’s challenges. Platforms like the LAMP Fellowship are essential for harnessing the potential of India’s young leaders, and it is an honour to interact with such a talented and motivated group of emerging professionals.”

Beyond youth empowerment, LAMP Fellows discussed a wide range of social, economic, and governance topics, exchanging ideas on the future of the UAE-India bilateral partnership.

The event underscored the close and enduring ties between the two countries, rooted in shared values of youth empowerment, education, innovation.

In today’s fast-paced world, our lifestyle plays a significant role in shaping our overall health and wellbeing. The way we live, eat, and interact with our environment can either increase or decrease our risk of developing chronic diseases, including cancer. A healthy lifestyle is not just about avoiding unhealthy habits, but also about embracing positive changes that nourish our body, mind, and spirit. By making informed choices about our diet, physical activity, stress management, and other aspects of our daily lives, we can significantly reduce our risk of developing life-threatening diseases, including oesophageal cancer.

Oesophageal cancer, also known as esophageal cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the oesophagus, which is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. It is the 8th most common cancer in the world and is more common in men than women. The symptoms of oesophageal cancer include difficulty swallowing, weight loss, chest pain, and hoarseness.

Risk Factors for Oesophageal Cancer

Several risk factors contribute to the development of oesophageal cancer. These include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and a diet low in fruits and vegetables. Other risk factors include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Barrett’s oesophagus, and a family history of oesophageal cancer.

Dietary Changes to Prevent Oesophageal Cancer

A healthy diet plays a crucial role in preventing oesophageal cancer. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce the risk of developing this disease. Foods that are high in antioxidants, such as berries, leafy greens, and bell peppers, can help protect the cells in the oesophagus from damage. Avoiding processed meat, red meat, and foods high in sugar and salt can also help reduce the risk.

The Importance of Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Obesity is a significant risk factor for oesophageal cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through a combination of a healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce the risk of developing this disease. Exercise can also help improve digestion and reduce the symptoms of GERD, which is a risk factor for oesophageal cancer.

Quitting Smoking and Limiting Alcohol Consumption

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are significant risk factors for oesophageal cancer. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can help reduce the risk of developing this disease. There are several resources available to help individuals quit smoking, including support groups and nicotine replacement therapy.

Managing Stress

Stress can exacerbate the symptoms of GERD, which is a risk factor for oesophageal cancer. Practicing stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation and yoga, can help manage stress and reduce the risk of developing this disease.

Regular Health Check-Ups

Regular health check-ups can help detect oesophageal cancer in its early stages, when it is more treatable. Individuals who are at risk of developing oesophageal cancer should undergo regular endoscopies and biopsies to detect any abnormalities in the oesophagus.

Oesophageal cancer is a deadly disease that can be prevented through lifestyle changes. By making dietary changes, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, managing stress, and undergoing regular health check-ups, individuals can reduce their risk of developing this disease. A healthy lifestyle is the key to a long and healthy life.

India, 9th October 2024: Addverb, a global leader in robotics and warehouse automation solutions, has announced a significant new partnership with Mondial Relay, one of Europe’s largest parcel delivery networks based in France. This partnership marks another milestone in Addverb’s journey to revolutionize global logistics through automation, as it introduces its cutting-edge “Zippy” sorting robots to Mondial Relay’s distribution facility in La Roche-sur-Yon.

Designed to handle Mondial Relay’s high volume of parcels for its delivery operations, these advanced robots streamline the sorting process. The parcel sorting system comprises four infeed stations, where operators load parcels onto the Zippy10 robots. Each parcel undergoes scanning via a barcode scanner before the Zippy10 robot employs sophisticated algorithms to accurately sort parcels to predefined destinations. This intricate sorting process unfolds within a system boasting 5 lanes and 28 destinations on each side, ensuring precision and efficiency at every step. This deployment in France demonstrates Addverb’s global reach, following the company’s numerous successful implementations across Asia, Europe, and North America.

Commenting on the partnership, Pieter Feenstra, CEO of Addverb EMEA said “Our solution, featuring 62 Zippy robots, has notably bolstered sorting rates, accuracy, and overall efficiency. We are proud to play a role in enhancing Mondial Relay’s operational excellence and look forward to further collaboration.”

Hoëlig Le Clainche, International Director of Engineering at Mondial Relay, commented, “Our collaboration with Addverb has greatly improved productivity and working conditions. The solution has enabled us to improve working conditions by reducing the risk of MSDs and increase productivity by removing final sortation at our France facility. To anticipate the peak season, we will increase to 3,000 sorts/hr just by increasing the number of robots on the same platform.”

Mondial Relay’s successful integration of Addverb’s technology is just one of many examples of how the company is reshaping logistics worldwide. In India, Addverb’s innovative solutions have been instrumental in transforming e-commerce and manufacturing sectors, providing scalable automation to address diverse operational challenges.

Kota, 09^th October 2024: Allen Career Institute, a name synonymous with excellence in test preparation, is extending its legacy from Kota to Hyderabad, South India. Known for producing top rankers and driving academic excellence, Allen continues its expansion by launching five new campuses in key locations across Hyderabad. This strategic step reflects Allen’s commitment to serving aspirants of NEET, JEE, and other competitive exams across India, ensuring that students in South India can now benefit from the same high standards that have been established in Kota.

Allen’s five new campuses in Hyderabad are part of the institute’s broader vision to serve over 20,000 students within the next three years, leveraging its 36-year legacy of excellence. These campuses will be equipped with experienced faculty members trained in Kota’s renowned classroom ecosystem, ensuring that students receive the highest level of instruction and guidance.

The Hyderabad campuses will feature star faculty members from across India, including those who have been trained in Kota’s renowned classroom ecosystem, a team of experienced academicians, ensuring a high caliber of pedagogy and instruction. Besides its impeccable focus on curriculum, Allen places a strong emphasis on student well-being. Like all our other campuses across the country, the Hyderabad campuses will also offer one-on-one sessions with faculty and psychological counselors for all students. This invaluable support helps students maintain a balanced approach to their studies and well-being.

Mr. P. Gopichand, India’s celebrated Chief National Coach of the National Badminton Team, was present at the launch event along with Mr. Nitin Kukreja, CEO, Allen, and the Allen Hyderabad team. Speaking at the event, Mr. Gopichand said, “Allen has been synonymous with success and discipline for decades. As they enter Hyderabad, they’re not just setting up centers — they’re setting a new benchmark for excellence in academics. I believe this move will not only produce more top rankers from Telangana but will inspire a generation of students to push the boundaries of what’s possible, with the right guidance and care.”

“Hyderabad represents the next chapter in Allen’s journey of empowering students across India. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on holistic development, we aim to transform not just academic outcomes, but lives. Our entry into this dynamic city is a testament to our belief that every student, with the right support, can excel at the highest levels,” said Nitin Kukreja, CEO, Allen.

Allen Career Institute’s 36-year legacy in India’s coaching industry is marked by consistent success in national exams. The institute has produced 25 All India Rank-1 holders across IIT-JEE and NEET/AIPMT over the last 15 years. In 2024, 1 in 5 students entering IITs was from Allen classrooms, with our student Ved Lahoti securing All India Rank-1 in JEE Advanced. In NEET 2024, five of our students, Mazin Mansoor, Prachita, Divyansh Jitendra, Neha Mane, and Tejas Singh secured All India Rank-1.

This year, 45 of our students have ranked in the top 100 in JEE Advanced and 39 students are in the top 100 in NEET—the highest from any institute in India. Students from Allen’s campuses in South India have also shown exemplary results, with four students making it to the world-renowned Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This year, five of our students made it to the top 100 in JEE Advanced 2024 with 635 students qualifying in JEE Advanced. Students from our campuses in the South have also scripted incredible success stories in the medical field, with 17 students scoring more than 700 in NEET 2024 and 599 students scoring more than 600 in this competitive exam.

All of Allen’s results are validated by world-renowned auditor Ernst & Young, making us the first educational institution to do so.

Gurugram, India, Tuesday, October 9, 2024 — Suraasa, the leading platform for teacher workforce development & global teacher mobility, has successfully closed a significant funding round led by Reach Capital, with participation from ETS and other prominent strategic investors. This investment will further propel Suraasa’s mission of enhancing teacher quality, ensuring educators are equipped to meet global standards, and get integrated into diverse educational systems worldwide.

Suraasa has been at the forefront of revolutionising teacher education by offering competency-based skilling programs that ensure teachers are not just classroom-ready but globally competitive. Its innovative approach is aimed at bridging the gap between educational systems worldwide, allowing educators to seamlessly integrate into schools globally, and raising the bar for teacher preparation and mobility. Suraasa’s comprehensive programs equip educators with the skills required to succeed in international classrooms, addressing the growing demand for qualified teachers across borders. By combining upskilling with teacher recruitment solutions, Suraasa not only ensures teachers are prepared for global challenges but also connects them to opportunities in schools worldwide.

The lead investor, Reach Capital, is renowned for its commitment to transforming the education landscape by supporting ventures that foster economic mobility and success through learning. Their backing of Suraasa highlights the importance of empowering educators and ensuring the growing concerns of skilled teacher shortages are resolved through innovative models.

Jennifer Carolan, the Managing Partner of Reach Capital shared:

“Schools in the U.S. and all over the world are facing acute teacher shortages, which Suraasa is addressing by training a global teacher workforce. Reach was drawn to Suraasa for this reason and was excited to invest when we observed how the team respects, celebrates and dignifies the teaching profession. Through training, placement and continuing education, Suraasa is a teacher-first organization that values the complex and important work of educating future generations.”

ETS, a global leader in educational assessment and research, brings decades of expertise in enhancing learning outcomes. ETS is renowned for its world class assessments such as TOEFL and GRE and has been driving forward initiatives in teacher certification and education equity. ETS has a long-standing mission to advance learning through quality assessments and their involvement with Suraasa aligns with their focus on teacher mobility, facilitating the global movement of educators.

Emal Dusst, the Managing Director of ETS Capital said “At ETS, we believe that educators are the cornerstone of any education system; they are the ultimate force multiplier that will shape the future of learning. Growing teacher shortages across the country necessitate finding new pathways into the profession, and with our investment in Suraasa, we’re excited to help schools and districts tap into a rich and highly skilled global teacher community. Together, we are creating a world where teachers are equipped to thrive across diverse educational systems.”

This investment positions Suraasa to accelerate its growth and reach in teacher education and recruitment, and create a world where educators can seamlessly move and thrive in international teaching environments, helping meet the growing global demand for quality teaching professionals.

Formovie, a Xiaomi ecosystem company jointly established by Appotronics Corporation and Xiaomi Technology has been making waves in India’s projector segment for a while. It has now launched a new path-breaking product, XMING Episode One. On 8th October, Tuesday Formovie India launched the product which is being distributed in India by Aytexcel Pvt Ltd, the official representative for the Formovie brand in the country.

All set to revolutionise the home entertainment segment in India, XMING Episode One boasts affordability with advanced features such as Auto keystone correction, Fluid user interface, Full HD resolution, Intelligent obstacle avoidance and Dolby audio technology.

Says Sushil Motwani, “As a disruptive, cost-effective product in its category, XMING Episode One has cutting-edge features that will redefine the industry by offering an unparalleled viewing experience, innovative design and technical smarts. Take the Auto Keystone Correction feature which identifies the shape of the projected image and automatically adjusts it in real time to fix any distortion. This gives the consumer a more accurate and visually stunning visual experience without requiring manual adjustments. The Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance feature enables the device to detect and navigate around obstacles in its projection path with the help of sensors and advanced algorithms. It is also the most cost-effective device in its segment and at this price, it will be tough to find so many world-class features in one package. “

He also points out how its lightweight, compact design and portability fit right into modern households. The state-of-the-art device measures just 6.9 x 4.8 x 5.6 inches and weighs a mere 1.2 kg / 2.8 lbs. For consumers looking for a user-friendly Interface, XMING Episode One offers a highly responsive design, user-friendly layouts, and customization options. It also boasts a capacious 2GB + 16GB Storage and a high-performing chip.

As for the visual quality, XMING Episode One boasts a dazzling brightness level empowered by 150 CVAI lumens. The CVAI (Colour Volume Adjusted Intensity) rating ensures not just stunningly bright images but also rich, true-to-life colours which can enhance content consumption at home as well as add new dimensions to presentations in corporate and educational settings. Its core component is the Light Engine which consists of a combination of light sources (such as LEDs or lasers), optics, and imaging technology that work together to produce images of unprecedented colour accuracy, clarity and quality.

“XMING Episode One also stands apart for its 1080 Full HD Vision and a flawless resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels for sharp, clear, detailed visuals and vibrant colours. For those seeking larger-than-life immersive entertainment, the ratio of 1.2:1 facilitates the projection of images ranging from 40 inches to 120 inches. The device additionally affords faster transmission of video and audio signals, between devices, utilizing advanced wireless technologies, like Wi-Fi 6 or Bluetooth. A DMI 2.1 Minimal Lag is just perfect for inveterate gamers and the reduced latency also streamlines not just gaming but the smooth streaming of movies and browsing,” says Motwani . The device also comes integrated with Netflix and Google and users do not need a Firestick or any external support to access their favourite content.

With an Integrated Google Assistant responsive to voice commands, XMING Episode One offers hands-free control and direct access to streaming services, Google Drive, and diverse apps. “Its bouquet of features and price make XMING Episode One a true clutter-breaker,” concludes Sushil Motwani.

Mumbai, October 2024: Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach Strengthens Culinary Leadership with the appointment of Avinash Kumar as Director of Culinary. With over 18 years of distinguished experience in the food and hospitality industry, Avinash brings a depth of knowledge, innovation, and leadership to this pivotal role.

A graduate of the prestigious IHM Mumbai with a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality & Hotel Administration, Chef Avinash has built an illustrious career across various top-tier hospitality brands. His leadership journey includes key roles at renowned properties such as Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport, Novotel Imagicaa, The Lalit New Delhi, Taj Holiday Village Goa and Taj Exotica Goa, where he was highly acclaimed for his exceptional culinary skills and strategic thinking.

Speaking of his appointment, Mr. Avinash Kumar said, “I am excited to join Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach and look forward to bringing my passion for culinary innovation to this esteemed establishment. My goal is to create unforgettable dining experiences that satisfy and exceed our guests’ expectations. I’m eager to work with the talented team here to elevate our culinary offerings and further establish Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach as a premier dining destination.”

Chef Avinash’s career has been defined by his proficiency in menu development, staff mentoring, cost optimisation, and the successful delivery of large-scale events. His keen attention to detail and passion for gourmet artistry have consistently improved guest satisfaction and enhanced profitability at the properties he has served.

Mr. Neelabh Sahay, Director of Operations, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Chef Avinash Kumar to our team. His extensive experience and innovative approach to culinary arts align perfectly with our vision to offer unparalleled dining experiences to our guests. We are confident that under Avinash’s leadership, our culinary offerings will reach new heights of excellence.”

Beyond his operational achievements, Chef Avinash has also been actively guiding properties through critical certifications, including ISO 22000 and FSSAI, ensuring compliance with the highest industry standards. His collaborations with Michelin-starred chefs and leadership in high-profile events further demonstrate his commitment to excellence and innovation in the culinary space.

Mindfulness India Summit 2024 to Explore Groundbreaking Strategies in Mindfulness, Emotional Intelligence, and Neuroscience for Leadership and Well-being, October 17-18 in Mumbai

Mumbai, October 9, 2024: As workplace burnout and mental health crisis continue to make headlines, the 3rd Annual Mindfulness India Summit (www.mindfulnessindiasummit.com) will explore how mindfulness and emotional intelligence can reshape high-pressure work environments into spaces that prioritize well-being and empathy.

Presented by HSBC and Powered by CII, the Mindfulness India Summit (MIS 2024) taking place on October 17-18, 2024, at Novotel Juhu, Mumbai, is Asia’s largest event dedicated to Mindfulness, Emotional Intelligence (EI), and Neuroscience. Organized by the Mindful Science Centre, under the leadership of Manish Behl, a globally recognized mindfulness expert, the summit serves as a crucial resource for professionals looking to implement mindfulness practices that promote healthier, more resilient workplaces.

The Mindful Science Centre also runs the Mindfulness-Based Leadership Program and conducts research on the role of mindfulness in enhancing focus, attention, and leadership skills while maintaining overall well-being. These programs equip leaders with practical tools for navigating the complexities of modern work environments while fostering both personal and organizational growth.

Over two days there will be 3 tracks consisting panel discussions, firesides, keynotes with more than 30 global experts who will share cutting-edge insights for leaders and teams. Keynote speakers include Dr. Sara Lazar and Dr. Chris Germer from Harvard Medical School, Dr. Emma Seppälä from Yale University, and Chris Ruane, former MP in the UK Parliament. Mr. Manish Behl, along with industry leaders like Mr. Sanjay Behl, CEO & Co-Founder of Nextqore Pvt. Ltd., Mr Rajan Pental Executive Director Yes Bank, Mr. Pushp Joshi – Ex CMD HPCL, Dr. Vivek Nangia, CEO of Max Healthcare, and Mr. Shashi Sinha, MD of IPG Mediabrands, will host key sessions. Additionally, wellness coach Micky Mehta and Tibetan scholar Geshe Lakhdor will enrich the discussions with their unique perspectives.

Manish Behl, Founder of the Mindfulness India Summit, emphasizes the importance of this event:

“In today’s relentless pursuit of growth, many organizations have cultivated environments where burnout is becoming the norm. The need for a radical shift is clear. At the Mindfulness India Summit, our goal is to equip leaders with the tools to create mindful, compassionate workplaces where well-being is prioritized alongside performance. Mindfulness and emotional intelligence are no longer just ‘soft skills’—they are essential for leadership and innovation in today’s world.”

With the theme of, “Thrive in the Age of Disruption,” distinguished speakers, Founders, CXOs, and Presidents from leading organizations, will explore how mindfulness and emotional intelligence can enhance leadership, foster creativity, and promote well-being in fast-paced corporate settings. Discussions will cover crucial areas such as critical thinking, decision-making, and fostering creativity in modern business landscape through mindfulness.

Interactive workshops led by top mindfulness trainers will provide attendees with actionable strategies to improve work culture, resilience, leadership development, emotional intelligence, critical decision-making, and digital well-being—skills essential in today’s times.

Workshops at the summit will cover:

• Building Resilience: Techniques for enhancing mental strength in high-stress environments.
• Mindfulness for Leadership: Tools for fostering cultures of well-being and improving workplace performance.
• Neuroscience of Decision-Making: How mindfulness enhances cognitive function and creativity in leadership roles.
• Empathetic Leadership: Strategies for building emotionally intelligent, high-performing teams.

The summit will also feature the prestigious Mindfulness Impact Awards, honoring individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to promoting workplace well-being and productivity through mindfulness.

MIS 2024 is backed by key sponsors and partners such as HSBC, CII, The Hindu, Free Press Journal, Yes Bank, American Mindfulness Association, The Manchester Mindfulness Festival, EAMBA (European Association for Mindfulness), Uniview World, Micky Mehta, Idobro, and TiE Mumbai—highlighting the growing recognition of mindfulness as critical to leadership and organizational success.