Archives 2023

New Delhi, 26th December 2023 The Gratitude Conclave, an invaluable celebration embracing all facets of an individual’s beauty, was scheduled on December 23, 2023, at PHD Chambers Hauz Khas. This noteworthy soirée was an alchemy of insightful conversations and enlightening showcases of timeless beauty, emphasizing the beauty that exists internally and resonates outside.

Eminent specialists including Dr. Jai Madan, delivered two insightful talks at the conclave, “Beautifying Humans Internally and Externally,” which started at 11 a.m. and explored the subtleties of fostering inner radiance and accepting various interpretations of external appearance.

Liza Verma, Aman Yatan Varma, Dr. Sanjana Jon, Rita Gangwani, Varun Khathiyal, Amit Talwar, and Preeti Ghai were among the jury members. Audiences got the chance to participate in intriguing discussions that explored the various facets of external appearance as well as the beauty within.

Aashmeen Munjaal, CEO of Star Academy and founder of Shukrana Gratitude Education, tried to transcend traditional notions of beauty through this conference. The Gratitude Conclave was intended to be an evening of realness, inclusion, and the many ways that people could express their essence.

Hyderabad,26th December 2023: In the heart of exclusivity, 17 Degrees North Club, the recently launched gem in the crown of APARNA Constructions in Mokila, Hyderabad, hosted an unforgettable Christmas event. The club, known for its discerning selection of members, curated a celebration mirroring the sophistication and diversity of its elite audience.

On the eve of Christmas, 17 Degrees North Club transformed into a winter wonderland, hosting an exclusive Christmas event that set a new standard for holiday celebrations in the city. The members were treated to an enchanting evening filled with a Live Concert, DJ band, festive decorations, and an array of engaging activities that added an extra layer of merriment.

As the night unfolded, members revealed in the festive spirit, dancing to the beats of the DJ band and participating in joyous celebrations. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as the club’s commitment to providing an unparalleled experience was evident in every detail.

The most happening members-only club prides itself on being a sanctuary for the chosen few, a haven for those who appreciate exclusivity. A niche-specific audience is the hallmark of 17 Degrees North, and the stringent filtration process ensures that only the most elite minds find their place within its walls.

Mr. R Ramakrishna, Vice President – operations of the club, expressed excitement about the future, highlighting that 17 Degrees North Club is not just a venue; it’s a lifestyle. He quoted “17 Degrees North is not just a club; it’s a carefully cultivated community of the best minds.” Regular events are set to become the norm, promising a continuous stream of curated experiences for its members. The club has enlisted renowned and experienced chefs in the culinary world to guarantee a fine dining experience like no other.

“Our goal is to create an unparalleled community. We are not just a club; we are a family of like-minded individuals. Whether it’s the realms of health, technology, finance, IT Sector, hospitality, or real estate, each sector is prominently featured in the distinguished gathering of events like the one that happened for Christmas.” While talking about the members’ acceptance, “ The selection process is rigorous, ensuring that we have the right minds that contribute to the diverse tapestry of our community. The journey ahead holds even more spectacular events, and we are thrilled to see 17 Degrees North Club grow to the next level,” Mr. Ramakrishna remarked.

The Christmas event was just a glimpse of what’s to come. The club has already planned a series of exclusive activities for its members to ring in the New Year and celebrate Makar Sankranti with style and grandeur. Additionally, the recent launch of a state-of-the-art Bowling Alley and cutting-edge VR Gaming facility further exemplifies the club’s commitment to adding unparalleled value to its members’ experiences. 17 Degrees North Club members can anticipate a calendar full of sophisticated events that reflect the club’s unwavering dedication to offering a lifestyle beyond compare.

In the world of 17 Degrees North Club, every event is an opportunity to create memories, foster connections, and celebrate life in the company of the best minds. As the club grows from strength to strength, its members can undoubtedly look forward to a future filled with excitement, sophistication, and the epitome of exclusivity.

New Delhi,26th December 2023 Uni Discovery, a leading higher education mentorship platform, has witnessed a notable surge in university education applications from 7-8 lakh Indian students. This surge is particularly evident among those aspiring to pursue studies in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Remarkably, there is a discernible upward trend in applications directed toward Eastern European countries, including Lithuania, Finland, and Sweden. This surge is attributed to the appeal of these countries’ affordable tuition, reasonable living expenses, and streamlined visa procedures.

Additionally, the recent introduction of the “University Grants Commission (Setting up and Operation of Campuses of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions in India) Regulations, 2023” by the UGC has sparked increased interest from foreign universities in India. This regulatory development signifies a positive step towards fostering collaboration and facilitating the establishment of foreign higher educational institutions in the country.

Ananya Sachdev, Founder, Uni Discovery said “The landscape of higher education is evolving, and Uni Discovery is witnessing a changing pattern in the preferences of Indian students seeking global education opportunities. In the past two years, as application numbers have risen, admission rates have experienced a decline, particularly at highly selective institutions. Harvard’s regular admission rate, for instance, decreased from 3.43% in 2020-21 to a historic low of 3.19% in 2021-22. Similarly, Boston University witnessed a drop in admission rates from 18.3% to 14% during the same period.

As we navigate this trend, it becomes imperative to underscore the growing significance of personalization in college choices. Prioritize a selection process that aligns with your unique preferences, financial circumstances, potential opportunities, and elective inclinations.”

Below are some of the tips for applying to US/Ivy Legue colleges:

1. Start early: The Sooner, the better. Most students aiming for top colleges start building their profiles through internships, social projects, and community work in Grade 9 for undergrad applications. If you intend to pursue a Master’s or MBA, ensure you allocate at least a year for exam preparation and the customization of your profile.

2. Stellar Documents: Although academic strength is crucial, top-tier universities seek to delve beyond mere grades. Personal statements, recommendations, and test scores play a significant role. Excelling in these aspects can redirect attention from lower grades, should you have any.

3. Quantitative leadership: Whether it’s an internship or an entrepreneurial venture you’ve undertaken to demonstrate leadership, emphasizing the quantifiable impact or outcomes is exceptionally important.

4. Connect with alumni: Look beyond the brochures. Connect with alumni—individuals who have experienced it firsthand. Acquire distinctive insights into campus life, programs, and the essence of what makes the university thrive. It’s akin to obtaining insider information.

5. Demonstrate Cultural Fit It’s not just about fitting in; it’s about vibing with the culture. Highlight how your values sync up with the university’s ethos. Let them see you’re not just a candidate; you’re a cultural match.

6. Showcase Independent Research: Prove you’ve done your homework. Share any independent research you’ve dug up on the university’s programs or groundbreaking initiatives. Let them know you’re not just applying; you’re invested.

Bengaluru, 26th December 2023: In a remarkable demonstration of commitment to develop an environmental stewardship experience for its students, CMR National Public School conducted a Plogging Trek to Shivagange Hills.

Drawing participation from more than 130 students across grades, this experiential learning opportunity aimed to seamlessly intertwine physical fitness with a commitment to environmental stewardship, creating a development of essential leadership qualities such as empathy, resourcefulness, and adaptability. Students actively contributed to the cause by engaging in a hillside clean-up activity during this trek. They collected more than 250kg of plastic waste from the hills leaving the hills 2% cleaner than what it was. A small step towards an uphill task of keeping our environment clean

This Plogging Trek initiative went beyond the traditional parameters of trekking as students received guidance on environmental awareness and critical leadership abilities, essential in the dynamic world of today. This trek fostered empathy and a certain perception of the impact of human behaviour on the ecosystem. Over the course of the trek, students proved their versatility in navigating different terrains.

Endeavours such as these bring much-needed action to the subject of environmental stewardship. Students who go through their paces as part of such initiatives develop qualities and understandings that are vital to becoming responsible citizens. Sustainability teachings are imparted through initiatives that combine active outdoor activity with proactive preservation. This process not only fosters a mentality change but also sets the stage for a time in the future when environmentally conscious leaders will play a critical role in determining the course of our country.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms Anamika Radhakrishnan, Head of Student Development Ekya Schools and CMR K-12, said, “The Plogging Trek embodies our steadfast dedication to delivering an education that transcends conventional boundaries, nurturing students not merely academically but in their entirety. This initiative underscores our belief in cultivating a generation that values and safeguards our environment—a fundamental aspect of our educational philosophy. The Plogging Trek isn’t just an event; it’s a transformative experience aligning with our vision to empower students as responsible changemakers and leaders.”

The Plogging Trek this year is part of a series of such outbound learning programmes the school has been undertaking. Last year, 130 students used trekking to gather 250 kilos of single-use plastic along their trail, meaningfully contributing to the global campaign for a cleaner, greener environment. The school has undertaken similar initiatives in the past and has plans to continue with them in the coming months across all Ekya campuses.

It is a common belief that Hemp is a harmful substance but this is just a myth. In reality, Hemp has numerous uses, when it comes to medicines and wellness.

Despite Hemp originating from the plant of Cannabis, it will not get you “High”, something that people associate Cannabis with

Cannabis has 2 compounds, CBD and THC. Hemp mainly consists of CBD, which will not get you “High” and has several medical benefits. Benefits of CBD include anxiety relief, boosted immunity, aid in sleep, overcoming lower back and joint pain, and addressing sports injuries while also improving the condition and focus of the consumer.

Over the recent years, Hemp has started gaining the attention of several pharmaceutical companies and its usage has increased significantly.

Entering this market is HempKart which has been working for the past year to provide customers Hemp-based products.

This month, HempKart announced services like Free Delivery for orders above ₹1,000 and is now offering Free Ayurvedic Doctor consultations to all its customers to help build awareness and grow the industry in India.

The wide range of hemp-based products that HempKart puts up for sale include CBD Oils, Consumables, Hemp Nutrition, Hair and Skin products, Pet Care products, and much more. Some of the top brands in the country like Qurist, Noigra, India Hemp Organics, and Cannazoindia have listed their best-selling hemp products for those looking to buy CBD Oil online on HempKart.

“The market for medicinal cannabis in India and globally is rapidly expanding. The CBD market is predicted to experience a 16.8 percent compound annual growth rate in the next 10 years, reaching a value of USD 22.05 billion by 2030. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for cannabidiol (CBD) for medical and wellness purposes due to its healing properties,” says the Managing Director of HempKart, Mr. Krishn Anand Tripathi.

HempKart CEO, Nishant Choudhry added that, “At HempKart, we make sure the customers find all the required Hemp-based products under one roof coupled with an exceptional standard of customer service ensuring a seamless shopping experience.”

People all over the world must change their perception of Hemp as a product and accept the medicinal benefits it provides us with. HempKart has recognized the potential ups of Hemp and encourages the sale of Hemp-based products through its website.

26th December 2023, DELHI- NCR: DPS R.N. Extension organised Disney Wonderland – a Carnival on Sunday, 24 December 2023. It was a spectacular event that brought the enchantment and wonder of Disney to life. The carnival aimed to create a magical experience for students, parents, and the entire school community.

The school playground transformed into a Disney Kingdom with vibrant decorations inspired by the famous Disney characters. From beautiful castles to princess-themed arches, every corner of the school exuded the magical essence of Disney.

The carnival featured a wide array of game booths, each inspired by a different Disney character. Students had the opportunity to test their skills at games like ‘Pin the Nose’, ‘Treasure Hunt’ and ‘Game of Fortune’. The interactive nature of these games ensured that everyone had a chance to participate and enjoy themselves.

The carnival also included performances by talented students showcasing their singing prowess. These performances aptly showcased the spirit of Christmas & the fervour of the blessed season. The audience was captivated by the incredible talent and the magical renditions.

To keep everyone energised and satisfied, a variety of food stalls were set up, offering lip-smacking snacks and treats. From Pizzas to South Indian delicacies, the food stalls added to the overall festive experience and provided a delightful culinary adventure.
The added highlight at the carnival was the Adventure Zones that were curated for kids and adults alike.

The Disney Wonderland Carnival was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved. The event fostered a sense of community and unity among students, parents, and teachers as they came together to celebrate the magic of Disney & Christmas. It provided a platform for creativity, self-expression, and teamwork, allowing students and teachers to showcase their talents and build confidence. Moreover, the carnival served as a reminder of the importance of imagination, dreams, and the power of storytelling. It encouraged students to believe in themselves and embrace the magic that lies within each of them. It was an unforgettable experience that brought the enchantment of Disney to life within the school community. The carnival successfully transported everyone into a world of magic and wonder through its vibrant decorations, engaging activities, and captivating performances. This event will be inscribed in the minds of all as a cherished memory for years to come, reminding students of the power of dreams and the importance of coming together as a community.

Ms. Pallavi Upadhyaya, Principal, DPS Raj Nagar Extension, stated, “We extend a heartfelt thanks to all the students and parents who became a part of the event and made it a grand success. We also appreciate the enthusiastic participation of our students, who showcased their skills. We are committed to fostering cultural enhancement and providing students a diverse and enriching educational experience. We believe that a strong cultural foundation is integral to shaping well-rounded, empathetic leaders of tomorrow, ready to impact the world positively”.

Gurugram: M3M Foundation proudly announces thier support to YMRD’s Team Kaizel into the uncharted territories of NASA’s Human Exploration Rover Challenge 2024 to be held from 18th-20th April 2024. M3M Foundation’s commitment to innovation and passion for science exploration sets the tone for this historic journey.

M3M Foundation, an organization committed to promoting education, healthcare, and skill development in communities across India. The foundation is determined to nurture talent with interest in science and technology.

The NASA’s Human Exploration Rover Challenge (HERC) is an annual engineering design competition that challenges students from around the world to design, build, and test human-powered rovers capable of traversing challenging terrains and completing mission-focused tasks.

Following their commitment for fostering and promoting science education, the M3M Foundation is supporting YMRD’s “Team Kaizel,” (an organization for supporting young scientists and researchers). This is the only team supported by an NGO out of 8 selected teams from India comprises of group of exceptionally talented students from Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Bihar & Mahatastra. The team has earned the honor of representing India at the Human Exploration Rover Challenge (HERC) hosted by NASA from 18th-20th April 2024. This prestigious event focus on emphasizing the design, construction, and testing of technologies for traversing unique environmental terrains.

In conjunction with their support to “Team Kaizel,” M3M Foundation is collaborating with the district administration to identify and select students within the selected districts (Panipat, Faridabad, Noida, Gurugram & Nuh) who share a passion for science and innovation through organizing science exhibitions and STEM engagement one student will be selected and will be a part of Team Kaizel providing them with an unparalleled international exposure opportunity.

Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson, and Trustee of M3M Foundation, shared her insights on the mission, stating, “At M3M Foundation, we believe in empowering young minds to reach for the stars. Gopal Jee’s leadership exemplifies our commitment to nurturing talent and fostering science education. The journey of Team Kaizel is not just a scientific exploration; it’s a testament to the boundless possibilities that arise when passion meets support.”

Fueled by the dynamic synergy of M3M Foundation, Team Kaizel is not merely chasing stars; they are propelling dreams into the vast expanse of the universe.

Gopal Jee expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This isn’t just a mission; it’s a chance for young minds to redefine possibilities. We’re not only building rovers; we’re building bridges to the future.”

The mission aligns with M3M Foundation’s commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting science education,” said Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, President at M3M Foundation.

The NASA Human Exploration Rover Challenge 2024 is not just a competition; it’s a testament to the collaborative spirit of young minds and the support of organizations like M3M Foundation. Join us in this cosmic symphony as YMRD’s Team Kaizel to pioneer the future of space exploration.

Gurugram,26th December 2023: Iris Broadway Mall in Gurugram’s sec 85 & 86 hosted a two-day Christmas celebration that drew in significant crowds and reflected the festive spirit. The mall organized a variety of activities and entertainment programs for people of all ages.

The highlight of the celebration was the live band musical performance which was enjoyed by the visitors thoroughly. Besides, the mall had the tallest Christmas tree in the region, standing at approximately 35 feet. Various other activities like arts and crafts, anchor activities, magic tricks, a genie, a mirror Dressman, a clown, jugglers, and even a visit from Santa Claus kept people enthralled at the celebration. It was a wonderful event that kept visitors entertained and engaged throughout.

Aman Trehan, Executive Director of Trehan Iris, said “We believe that customer engagement and experience are crucial factors in malls. Festivals and holiday celebrations are the times when people look forward to spending quality time with their loved ones and creating memories. On each occasion, we aim to enhance the customer experience by introducing unique attractions. To win the hearts of the masses, we strive to present new and exciting forms of entertainment. The grand decor and 35-foot-tall Christmas tree at our mall captured the attention of visitors.”

The celebration was designed to offer visitors a joyful and enchanting experience and create lasting memories during the festive season. The ambiance was infused with cheer and enticing vibes from the bright lights, colorful balloons, and glittery star decorations.

Spread across 2.8 acres, Iris Broadway is the most sought-after neighborhood shopping center amidst an established and aspirational ecosystem of more than 3,00,000 people residing in the catchment. Located in the heart of New Gurugram, it is a vibrant and sought-after neighborhood shopping center. The mall has 40 plus operational brands across categories and houses the biggest food hub of New Gurugram.

Hyatt Centric, Dehradun, one of the leading five-star hotels in India, has appointed Mr. Ajit Singh Gandhi as their new General Manager. Mr. Gandhi made this switch from The Oberoi Group, where he was heading the MICE Sales vertical for India and Overseas.

In his exceptional career spanning two decades, Mr. Gandhi has worked with some of the best hotels in the country, including The Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Taj Hotels & Resorts and Le Meridian, New Delhi, and The Lalit, Goa (erstwhile Intercontinental).

He commenced his journey with The Lalit, Goa, in 2002 as a chef and later moved to Le Meridian, New Delhi, at the front desk. Over the years, he has worked in all hospitality verticals and facets, building a reputation as an empathetic leader in the hospitality circuit. “It was in 2005 that I started my career in sales and marketing. Over the years, I have worked closely with every department, from the kitchen to guest relations and sales and marketing, which prepared me to understand the business nuances and deliver exceptional service to patrons and also help teams optimize their offering while maintaining the precarious work-life balance,” said Gandhi.

In his current role, Mr. Gandhi is expected to drive up sales for the hotel and add to its brand value. He will be responsible for executing strategic goals for Hyatt and ensuring that the staff is working in alignment with those goals. “Hyatt already enjoys the reputation of being one of the finest in the business. It would be challenging to drive up the popularity of an already popular brand but I am all for the challenges,” Gandhi said, adding, “Hyatt has an extraordinary management team that uniquely aims to capitalize on the growing hotel environment.

Stressing that it is the right time to grow for Hyatt, Gandhi said, “Destination weddings and corporate MICE is growing at a rapid pace. Dehradun is an upcoming destination and at the recent investment summit held in Dehradun PM Modi also stressed “Wed In India” and encouraged people to promote Uttarakhand as a wedding destination. The timing is great!”

Gandhi hopes to deliver a customised and tailor-made wedding solution to stay ahead in the game. “We, at Hyatt Centric, aim to host the wedding in a very customised and personalized manner. Our wedding specialist works closely with the family to deliver the ceremony they want, personalised to their need, culture and style”, Gandhi said.

A former cricketer who played at the national level for his state, Gandhi is known to be punctual, disciplined and a creative leader. “My work philosophy is to ensure guests become lifelong friends of the hotels and employees become family,” he added.

Hyatt Centric Dehradun is nestled in the lush green environs of Uttarakhand. “ Not only we have the advantage of being at the heart of the city surrounded by the beauty of the Himalayan mountains but also our team promises to deliver personalized service and an unforgettable dining experience. I am focused on ensuring Hyatt Centric, Dehradun, stays on top of the game,” said Gandhi.

Bengaluru 26th December 2023: Nidhika and Sonali Loomba will be presenting their Kathak duet on Friday 29th December, 6:30 pm at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Bengaluru. This event is organized and supported by ICCR under Every Friday Cultural Evening Program (EFCEP).

The duo are students of renowned Kathak artists Shri Hari and Smt Chethana Hari, Noopur Performing Art Center, Bengaluru . The dancing duo began their journey in 2006 and consider their Guru’s as their greatest blessings.

With the support and encouragement from their gurus, the dancing sisters have established themselves as soloists and as duet performers on various prestigious platforms across the globe. Through their dance school “Kaladharaa Dance” – established in the United States, they preserve and promote Indian classical Arts through regular trainings, performances and collaborative works.

The duo has performed in TEDx, the New York Kathak Festival, Kerala Arts and Crafts Village, NCPA Varkala to name a few.

With their rigorous training and exposure to Kathak, they wish to delve deeper into its nuances and aims to present its works that communicate beyond cultures and languages.

Most recently, the dancing sisters presented their latest production “Anhad- A Journey of a Seeker” at the Erasing Borders Dance Festival in New York, in September 2023 and received rave reviews.