Category health

June 25, 2025: At 81, most people look forward to spending peaceful time with family, but for Mrs. Shanta Roy (name changed), a spirited grandmother from South Kolkata, life took a sudden turn when she was diagnosed with sigmoid colon cancer. The news was overwhelming, especially given her advanced age and existing health conditions. Her family, naturally concerned about the risks of surgery at her age, sought expert consultation at CMRI Kolkata. There, they met Dr. S.K. Bala, Consultant – Surgical Oncology & Advanced Robotic Surgery, known for his precision in minimally invasive cancer treatment and his empathetic approach to patient care.

After a comprehensive evaluation, Dr. Bala recommended a robot-assisted sigmoid colectomy, a minimally invasive surgical technique that offers reduced pain, faster recovery, and fewer complications—particularly beneficial for elderly patients. Initially apprehensive,
Mrs. Roy’s family decided to consult other hospitals across the city. However, despite visiting several reputed institutions, they found that none could match CMRI’s expertise in robotic gastrointestinal surgery. It was the hospital’s Department of Advanced Robotic Surgery and its proven track record, combined with Dr. Bala’s experience, that ultimately brought them back to CMRI.

Just a day before the planned surgery, a routine check revealed a significant mismatch in Mrs. Roy’s blood pressure readings between her arms. Further investigation with CT angiography uncovered a left subclavian artery thrombosis, an unexpected and serious condition that dramatically increased the surgical risk. This development could have delayed or even cancelled the procedure at many centers, but CMRI’s strength lies in its integrated, multidisciplinary approach. Dr. Bala worked closely with the cardiac, vascular, and anesthesia teams to re-evaluate the plan. With careful monitoring and risk management strategies in place, they decided to proceed with the life-saving surgery.

The robot-assisted colectomy, which lasted six hours, was performed with exceptional precision. There were no complications during the procedure, and the tumor was successfully removed with clean margins. The benefits of robotic technology were immediately evident. By the next morning, Mrs. Roy was not only stable, but also cheerful—sitting up in bed and sipping her morning tea with a smile. It was a powerful moment for the medical team and her family alike, reflecting the impact of cutting-edge technology paired with expert care.

Mrs. Roy’s post-operative recovery was smooth and uneventful. She experienced minimal discomfort and required very little pain medication. On the fifth day after surgery, she was discharged from the hospital—walking, pain-free, and filled with gratitude. Her
family expressed deep appreciation for the care, transparency, and excellence they experienced at every step.

Reflecting on the case, Dr. Bala shared, “Mrs. Roy’s story reminds us that age alone should never be a disqualifier for quality treatment. With the precision of robotic surgery and the support of a dedicated, multidisciplinary team, even the most high-risk cases can have safe and successful outcomes.”

CMRI’s Department of Advanced Robotic Surgery continues to lead the way in minimally invasive oncologic procedures in Eastern India, offering hope to patients who may otherwise be considered too fragile for traditional treatment. Mrs. Shanta Roy’s journey stands as a powerful testament to how compassion, advanced technology, and expert surgical care can come together to restore life, dignity, and independence—regardless of age.

Dr. Anju Singla, Co-Founder of Singla Slimming Clinic, said: “We are thrilled to bring our transformative wellness solutions to Gurugram. At SSC, our core belief is to heal from the inside out by addressing metabolic and hormonal imbalances. With our new clinic, we aim to empower more individuals to take charge of their health in a natural, sustainable, and scientifically supported way.”

National, June 21st, 2025: RiteBite Max Protein, the flagship brand of Zydus Wellness, has launched a compelling new campaign titled “Mitti Se Majbooti” this International Yoga Day, spotlighting one of India’s most powerful yet underrepresented fitness traditions, Mallakhamb. This campaign is more than just a celebration of yoga, it is a cultural revival. “Mitti Se Majbooti” takes viewers deep into the heart of India to rediscover Mallakhamb, an ancient sport that blends yogic discipline with gymnastic strength, performed on a vertical wooden pole or suspended rope.

Set against the earthy hues of a traditional akhada, the campaign film captures the journey of young Mallakhamb athletes as they train with unwavering focus and resilience. Each frame echoes the core message: real strength isn’t bought, it’s built, from the mitti (soil) up.

To ensure authenticity, the campaign was created in collaboration with Mallakhamb federations, coaches, and national-level players. The film features real stories from real athletes, showcasing how Mallakhamb has evolved from a warrior-training discipline to a competitive sport, still thriving in local communities despite limited resources.

The narrative climaxes with a moment of quiet triumph, a young athlete, having finished a rigorous training session, reaches for a RiteBite Max Protein Bar, subtly reinforcing the campaign’s message. With 10g of protein, the bar provides sustained energy, seamlessly becoming part of the athlete’s journey.

“Mallakhamb trains both the body and mind in harmony. Our academy has produced national and Olympic-level athletes, and this partnership with RiteBite Max Protein brings us recognition and renewed hope,” shared Anvi Baria, National Gold Medalist – Mallakhamb.

“The roots of Mallakhamb lie in Maharashtra, yet it still lacks official recognition as the state sport. With RiteBite Max Protein’s support, we hope to bring the sport the visibility and respect it truly deserves,” said Ruturaj Shirodkar, National Player and Head Coach, Ruturaj Sports Academy.

“Mitti Se Majbooti is a celebration of discipline, heritage, and inner strength. At RiteBite Max Protein, we believe fitness is more than trends, it’s about honouring what’s always made us strong. Mallakhamb captures that spirit perfectly,” said Dr. Ravinder Varma, Senior Brand Manager, Zydus Wellness.

“We wanted to go beyond the conventional Yoga Day narratives and shine a light on an ancient discipline that truly embodies strength, physically, culturally, and emotionally, This campaign is a tribute to the untold stories of athletes and coaches who continue to keep this tradition alive against all odds.” added Shivam Tiwari, Brand Executive, Zydus Wellness.

New Delhi/Vapi, June 21, 2025: Meril Life Sciences, a leading global med-tech company, marked a significant milestone with the launch of MyClip, India’s first Transcatheter Edge-To-Edge Repair (TEER) system, on June 14. The landmark Structural Heart Innovation event, held at Meril Academy, Vapi (Gujarat) from June 13–15, brought together over 150 Indian interventional cardiologists along with cardiac imaging expert and international stalwarts, including Prof. Ottavio Alfieri (“Father of mitral valve repair”), Prof. Francesco Maisano, and Prof. Agricola, joining global pioneers in edge-to-edge mitral valve repair.

Meril is currently the world’s leading TAVI group following the success of Myval THV and first Indian company to introduce a TEER system, placing the country firmly on the map as an innovator in transcatheter heart valve therapies (with both replacement and repair technology platforms). MyClip introduction demonstrates India’s growing capabilities in structural heart solutions and reflects Meril’s commitment to accessible, cutting-edge cardiac care.

MyClip TEER System is designed for patients suffering from severe Mitral Regurgitation (MR) who are at high surgical risk due to pre-existing issues like hypertension, diabetes, obesity, advanced age, physical frailty, enlarged or weak heart, and patients with kidney, lung, and liver problems. MR, particularly if untreated, has a devastating mortality rate—over 50% of patients may not survive without timely intervention, and 1-year mortality can be as high as 57%.

The MyClip TEER System enables precise closure of the mitral valve flaps, effectively preventing the backward flow of purified blood into the lungs. The procedure is minimally invasive, & takes approximately one hour, and allows patients to return home within 3–5 days. After discharge, patients can resume daily activities like walking and non-strenuous work within a short period post the procedure.

According to the landmark COAPT Study published in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM), patients receiving device-based therapy for mitral regurgitation experienced significantly better outcomes compared to those receiving standard medical treatment. Within 24 months, the hospitalization rate for heart failure was reduced to 35.8% per patient-year in the device group, compared to 67.9% in the control group. Additionally, mortality within the same period was notably lower in the device group, at 29.1%, compared to 46.1% in the control group.

Currently, approximately 150 TEER (Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair) procedures are performed annually in India, with the majority of patients falling in the younger age group (30 – 60). These statistics bring to light a pressing need for early and effective intervention in younger demographics.

The launch of MyClip TEER System marks a transformative moment for structural heart therapy in India. Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (TEER) therapy has shown significant success over traditional Guideline-Directed Medical Therapy (GDMT). MyClip represents a major step forward in India’s cardiovascular treatment landscape.

In his inaugural speech, Sanjeev Bhatt, Senior Vice President of Corporate Strategy at Meril Life Sciences, said, “In India, around 1.5 million people are known to have severe mitral regurgitation. Of these, at least 1.2 million are post-myocardial infarction (MI or a heart attack) or due to heart failure. Introduction of the MyClip TEER system marks a pivotal shift, and we’re witnessing early adoption. Meril’s efforts in training cardiologists and building TEE-based imaging expertise are crucial steps in scaling this life-saving therapy across the country.”

“With MyClip, Meril is reshaping the country’s role in global medtech. This homegrown innovation is a testament to what Indian science, engineering, and clinical collaboration can achieve together. Meril’s nationwide public awareness campaign #TreatmentZarooriHai is in full swing, with brand ambassador MS Dhoni, to educate patients and families about the life-saving value of timely intervention in mitral valve regurgitation,” Mr. Bhatt added.

The two-day Structural Heart Innovation scientific program featured case demonstrations, interactive hands-on workshops, and presentations leading Interventional Cardiologists and Echocardiologists. The event concluded with a call to build a sustainable M-TEER ecosystem in India, focused on accessibility, clinical excellence, and continuous innovation

Hyderabad, 21th June 2025 – In a moment that blended wellness with luxury hospitality, Ridhira Group successfully hosted an exclusive celebration of International Yoga Day at the serene Ridhira Retreat, Gandipet, bringing together wellness enthusiasts, and special guests for a soulful afternoon of mindfulness and connection.

The event aligned with this year’s official International Yoga Day theme — “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, as announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasizing the role of yoga in sustainability and global well-being. The retreat echoed this sentiment, reinforcing the connection between personal wellness and planetary harmony.

The event featured a rejuvenating Soulful Yoga & Spa session conducted by Advanced Yoga Teacher, Vikas Shenoy offering guests a deeply immersive and calming experience. Participants engaged in mindful movement and breathwork amidst the natural surroundings of the retreat. Guests arrived in comfortable yoga attire, with mats provided by the organizers to ensure a seamless experience. The theme of the event “Breathe | Stretch | Reconnect” resonated across the retreat — from yoga mats arranged in harmony to the thoughtfully curated interactions between participants.

Adding to the holistic experience, guests engaged in one-on-one sessions with Health & Wellness Coach, Aamani Reddy, who offered practical wellness guidance through personalized nutrition coaching. Guests also indulged in foot reflexology and relaxing massages by Ode Spa, creating a sanctuary of rejuvenation.

An immersive Sound Healing session conducted by renowned Sound Healer Kaavya Bhagchandani introduced participants to the deep therapeutic power of sonic vibrations. Using instruments like singing bowls and gongs, Kaavya guided the group through a meditative journey aimed at emotional release, inner harmony, and deep relaxation.

The retreat ambiance was elevated by a captivating live three-piece instrumental performance featuring the sitar, santoor, and tabla—blending traditional Indian music with the tranquil setting of Gandipet. Following the sessions, participants savored a scrumptious yet healthy high tea, thoughtfully curated to nourish both body and soul.

Reflecting on the occasion, Ritesh Mastipuram, Founder of Ridhira Group shared, “Our focus is to reimagine wellness not just as an occasional escape, but as a lifestyle rooted in intentional living. This Yoga Day wasn’t just a celebration, it was a reminder — to pause, to breathe, and to reconnect deeply with ourselves. Our setting in Gandipet, close to Hyderabad yet wrapped in nature, was the perfect canvas for this experience. This is part of a larger movement. Today, we’re seeing a conscious shift toward wellness-led getaways — not just for individuals, but for professionals, influencers, and families. Ridhira is committed to creating such sanctuaries, where wellbeing is not an indulgence, but a way of life.”

The retreat reaffirmed Ridhira Group’s position as a pioneer in wellness-driven hospitality, where sustainability, personalization, and soulful luxury come together in perfect harmony. With similar experiences planned across the calendar, the Group aims to expand this wellness narrative beyond Hyderabad — building bridges between nature and modern living across India.

The experience was curated by Ridhira Group through its own verticals — Ridhira Retreat, Ode Spa Wellness and Ridhira Wellness Real Estate— each known for championing sustainable luxury and holistic wellbeing.

Noida: Ahead of the upcoming International Yoga Day, IMS Noida’s community radio station, Salaam Namaste, hosted a special session highlighting the significance of yoga in women’s health and overall well-being. During the event, women members of Sanskar Vaibhav shared insightful perspectives on how yoga serves as a powerful tool for physical, mental, and spiritual empowerment.

The “Yoga Se Nirog” session was presided over by IMS Noida’s Director General, Professor (Dr.) Vikas Dhawan. In his address, he stated that yoga is not just an exercise but a way of life. For women, it is a powerful means of self-development, health balance, and mental peace. He emphasized that yoga should be included in one’s lifestyle and made a regular part of the daily routine.

The program began with yoga instructor Renu Bala Singh, who highlighted the significance of yoga in women’s daily lives—focusing on hormonal balance, stress management, and the enhancement of immunity. She also guided the participants through simple yoga postures and breathing techniques (pranayama).

Station Head of Salaam Namaste, Barsha Chhabaria, shared that students, female faculty members, and women staff of IMS Noida actively participated in the “Yoga Se Nirog” program. All participants expressed that regular yoga practice not only improves physical fitness and immunity but also boosts mental alertness, self-confidence, and emotional balance. Furthermore, yoga plays a vital role in bringing positive energy, discipline, and inner peace to one’s life. The event encouraged the participants to adopt a healthy, balanced, and conscious lifestyle.

By-Piyali Chatterjee Konar, Executive Vice President, Head – CX/UX/B2B at Hansa Research Group Private Limited

Yoga has transformed into an effective and holistic lifestyle choice, that addresses the physical, mental, and emotional demands of today’s life. Insights from Hansa Cheetah, our proprietary insights platform, reveal that 88% of individuals (64% daily and 24% a few times weekly) have shown that it has a solid foothold, mostly in the 26–35 age group. Awareness of International Yoga Day is high at 95% and shows its cultural importance, as a country with a rich yoga and cultural heritage.

The benefits of yoga appear to have broken across demographics: 72% have reported a decline in stress and anxiety levels, 60% have better sleep, and 64% have relief from physical discomfort. Perhaps its effectiveness is illustrated by 75% of survey respondents believing yoga is more effective than other fitness activities. In youth engagement: 66% said they were influenced by celebrities on social media or following trends, and 61% said they began doing yoga to help with their mental health. More than 80% say they would be interested in attending a Gen Z yoga, music, and wellness event signaling a fresh, modern vibrancy.

In fact, this trend may reflect even how yoga is accessed – 82% indicated a preference for practice at home compared with 89% who have ever participated in a mass yoga activity. Digital platforms also increasingly matter, given that digital content featuring guided practices and mindfulness principles is accessed by more than half of the younger practitioners. It is also encouraging that 82% indicated a desire to join a government-sponsored yoga program, and 72% want it to be included in schools and college curricula.

Given that 73% expect yoga to gain more significance in the future, and the popularity of yoga increases in a world where digital fatigue and AI-influenced lifestyles are on the rise, we are confident that yoga is not only a tradition but a wellness movement looking ahead.

Chandigarh, 20 June 2025: The revered Naga Sadhus have brought global recognition to India through the ‘Naga Saint Eye Test’ — a powerful public health initiative that won silver lion in the Health & Wellness category at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity 2025. The campaign was led by Godrej Consumer Products Ltd. (GCPL) in collaboration with the Eyebetes Foundation, a charitable organisation committed to raising awareness about diabetes and preventable blindness.

India is home to nearly 100 million diabetics, of whom over 60% remain undiagnosed.  Diabetes is also the leading cause of preventable blindness. Conceptualized by Godrej Creative Lab, the in-house creative studio of GCPL, ‘Naga Saint Eye Test’ took a bold and culturally rooted approach to spotlight this issue of diabetes-induced blindness.

Leveraging the spiritual aura and visibility of the Naga Sadhus, the health initiative transformed them into living eye vision testing charts, with bold Hindi letters painted on their bare backs in Devanagari script. Those unable to read the letters were guided to a free eye check-up camp. The initiative was conducted at the Triveni Sangam site during the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

Swati Bhattacharya, Global Head of Godrej Creative Lab, the in-house creative studio of GCPL, said, “The most complex human problems can have the simplest of solutions. Our first win was when the Naga Sadhu community said ‘yes’ to us. This win will now make the Eyebetes foundation get visibility all over the world. Our idea has travelled from the world’s biggest spiritual festival to the world’s biggest creative festival.”

Dr. Nishant Kumar, Founder, Eyebetes Foundation, said, “Preventable blindness due to diabetes is a cause close to my heart. In collaboration with Godrej Consumer Products and Godrej Creative Lab, we transformed awareness into action at the Maha Kumbh in a way that was both culturally resonant and emotionally powerful. Using Naga sadhus as live eye charts captured public imagination and sparked thousands of on-ground vision screenings. Winning a Silver Lion at Cannes not only validates the creativity and purpose behind this campaign but also puts a global spotlight on an Indian innovation that is saving sight and lives.”

With 600 million people reached and 400,000 individuals received eye care, the ‘Naga Saint Eye Test’ became one of the largest public health interventions at Maha Kumbh 2025.

By introducing the social initiative at one of the world’s largest spiritual gatherings, GCPL and Eyebetes Foundation brought this urgent public health issue to the forefront—using tradition and faith to connect with people in a way that was both meaningful and memorable.

By Dr. Vamsidhar Kedar, Consultant Paediatrician, Paediatric & Adult Allergist, Asthma Specialist, Ankura Hospital for Women and Children

The rainy season is finally here, bringing joy with its cool breezes, pleasant weather, and that simple, wonderful feeling of walking in the rain. Kids especially can’t get enough of it — they gaze up at the sky, mesmerised by the tiny droplets falling all around, and love jumping into puddles, sailing paper boats, and playing with pure joy.

Monsoon Fun vs. Health Concerns

It’s all about laughter and carefree fun. But is the monsoon only about enjoying the weather? That’s the question many parents quietly ask themselves. Is it really safe for kids to play outside when it’s raining? Beneath the happy splashes, there’s often a little worry about the illnesses and infections that tend to come along with the rains. During this season there is a 20-25% increase in the number of patients in the clinics as there is a sudden increase in the rate of infection.

Hidden Health Risks of the Monsoon

While the monsoon brings a welcome break from the heat, it also quietly brings health challenges, especially for children with sensitive immune systems. Damp walls, musty corners, and windows that stay shut tight can become trouble spots, triggering sneezes, coughs, and stuffy noses. These could cause just the common cold or more severe allergies caused by the increased presence of allergens in the atmosphere.

When a Cold is More than Just a Cold

Many parents quickly think it’s just a common cold and reach for paracetamol. But when symptoms don’t go away, the worry starts to grow. Is it really just a cold, or is something else going on? Sometimes, even a mild cough can be a sign that the child’s body is reacting to something more than a simple virus. Never self-medicate; always consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Cold or Allergy: How to Tell the Difference

This is where things get confusing. Colds and allergies can look very similar — runny noses, sneezing, watery eyes, and feeling tired all show up in both. But a cold usually develops gradually and may come with a fever, while allergies strike suddenly, last longer, and don’t cause a fever at all. During the monsoon, triggers like dust mites and mould can easily spark allergies without anyone realising.

Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

So, when should parents begin to worry? If your child keeps coughing without relief, sneezes mostly in the mornings, or wakes up congested day after day, it might not be just a cold. It could be an allergy which needs to be treated appropriately. Do not ignore this, immediately consult a paediatrician.

The Power of Prevention

Prevention begins with small changes at home and in daily habits. Avoid taking children to crowded places when there’s a known outbreak. Make sure they stay warm and dry — changing out of wet clothes immediately can go a long way. Protective gear like raincoats and waterproof shoes helps reduce exposure to sudden weather changes.

Creating a Healthier Indoor Space

Clean air inside the home is just as important as staying warm outside. Try to keep windows slightly open when it isn’t raining to allow fresh air to circulate. Avoid dampness in the house, especially in corners or storage areas, as mold thrives in such spaces and can worsen allergies and breathing problems. If your doctor recommends, antihistamines can ease symptoms — but they should always be given under guidance.

Sleep and Temperature Matter

A strong immune system depends on good rest. Children need about 8 to 10 hours of quality sleep every night, especially during changing weather. Also, avoid using the air conditioner at very low temperatures — instead, maintain a comfortable and balanced room climate that helps the body adjust smoothly.

Flu Vaccine Helps

Vaccination is a simple and effective way to protect children from flu strains that tend to rise during the rainy season. We at Ankura Hospitals especially recommend annual flu shots for children under five or those with asthma or existing respiratory issues. This helps keep the family safe.

Natural Care and Doctor’s Advice

Parents can try gentle remedies at home, like saline nasal sprays or warm fluids, to ease discomfort. Maintaining hand hygiene, especially after sneezing or coming in from outdoors, is a simple habit that prevents viruses from spreading. Washing bedding often and avoiding dust-collecting toys or rugs can also help.

Simple immunity boosters like seasonal fruits and warm soups can also help children feel better and recover faster. Under supervision, even steam inhalation may ease blocked noses. If symptoms linger, consult a doctor without delay.

Ankura Hospital: A Trusted Partner for Children’s Health

Ankura Hospital stands as a dependable guide for parents during challenging seasons like the monsoon. With specialised paediatric care and a compassionate team, Ankura offers not just treatment but also the reassurance every parent seeks. Whether it’s an allergy, a cold, or simply a seasonal concern, Ankura is just a step away to support your child’s health journey.