All posts by rekha nair

May 26, 2025: The first 1,000 days of a child’s life—from conception to their second birthday—are widely recognized as the most critical period for a child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development. United Way Bengaluru (UWBe) has championed this vital cause through its flagship initiative, the Born Learning Campaign (BLC).

More than just a program, “1st 1000 Days” is a nationwide movement under BLC, built on the belief that early childhood care not only shapes individual lives but also defines the future of our society. In alignment with key government frameworks such as the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS), Poshan 2.0, Saksham Anganwadi, and the Aspirational Districts Program, the campaign is transforming how communities nurture their youngest members.

Transformative Impact at Scale

With over 20 lakh lives touched and 11,000+ Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) impacted across Bengaluru, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra, the campaign’s targeted interventions ensure every child gets a fair start in life:

Key Interventions:

Maternal Health & Nutrition: Hygiene awareness, exclusive breastfeeding education, and immunization drives.

Community Education: Engaging parents—especially mothers—in their child’s growth through regular health and nutrition meetings.

Frontline Worker Training: Empowering Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Helpers (AWHs) with Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) best practices.

Tangible Health Support: Distribution of nutrition kits, neonatal kits, and essential teaching-learning materials to improve care environments.

Fast Facts:

Geographic Reach: Bengaluru Urban (Karnataka), Patna (Bihar), Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), Osmanabad (Maharashtra)
AWWs Trained on First 1000 Days: 1,122
Neonatal Children Reached (0–3 months): 4,264
Parents Engaged in Child Development: ~84,000
AWWs and AWHs Trained in ECCE: 5,189
Nutrition Kits Distributed: 589
Neonatal Kits Distributed: 5,555
Anganwadis Equipped with Teaching & Learning Materials: 1,649

“Every Anganwadi transformed, every mother empowered, and every child supported marks a step toward a healthier, brighter future. When we nurture our youngest, we build a stronger tomorrow,”

United Way Bengaluru’s “1st 1000 Days” campaign proves that collective action, aligned with policy, and driven by grassroots involvement, can shape generations.

20th May, 2025, New Delhi – Kanika Tekriwal, Founder & CEO of JetSetGo Aviation and a trailblazing force in India’s private aviation sector, made a striking red carpet appearance at the 78th Cannes Film Festival.

Wearing a regal creation by iconic Indian designer Anamika Khanna, Kanika stunned in a hand-embroidered gold Durga cape paired with a structured gharara. The look steeped in symbolism and finesse, was brought to life with a bold mix of jewellery by Roma Narsinghani and Studio Metallurgy.

The ensemble paid homage to tradition while exuding fearless modernity.

As the visionary behind JetSetGo, often dubbed the “Uber of Indian skies,” Kanika’s debut at Cannes is a celebration of both cultural identity and entrepreneurial spirit. Her red carpet presence marks a compelling moment where design, ambition, and representation converge on a global platform.

Bold, dynamic, and unapologetically original, Kanika’s Cannes appearance reinforces her role as a new-age leader redefining luxury, mobility, and the global narrative of Indian women in business and culture.

20th May, 2025 – New Delhi —Managing Director of Aza Fashions, Devangi Nishar Parekh, made a historic debut at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, spotlighting the strength and sophistication of Indian fashion entrepreneurship on a global stage.

More than a moment of personal achievement, Devangi’s red carpet appearance at Cannes was a bold affirmation of India’s evolving Design — and the critical role women are playing in driving it forward. As a second-generation entrepreneur and one of the most influential voices in India’s luxury fashion industry, Devangi brought with her not just style, but purpose. Under her leadership, the platform has become a launchpad for emerging designers and a powerful
advocate for homegrown talent.

Wearing a custom handcrafted metallic cord concept saree by acclaimed designer Rimzim Dadu, Devangi’s look blended sculptural innovation with timeless elegance — a fitting metaphor for her journey with Aza Fashions, India’s premier multi-designer platform that champions homegrown labels and emerging talent. Complementing her outfit, Devangi adorned sustainable, lab-grown diamond jewellery from Araiya by Aza, reflecting her commitment to responsible luxury and modern craftsmanship.

But this wasn’t just about the outfit or jewellery. Devangi’s presence on one of the world’s most prestigious cultural platforms marked a significant moment for Indian retail, fashion entrepreneurship, and the representation of South Asian women in global luxury spaces. Devangi joined a cohort of global changemakers and creative leaders, spotlighting South Asia’s rising influence at one of the world’s most prestigious cultural events. In doing so, she carried forward a vision rooted in innovation, inclusion, and heritage — bringing Indian craftsmanship and entrepreneurial ambition to a world stage that is finally ready to listen.

“For me, Cannes wasn’t just a red carpet — it was a platform,” Devangi shared. “A platform to represent Indian creativity, craftsmanship, and the quiet strength of women entrepreneurs who are transforming industries from within. Walking that carpet, I carried not just a designer look and sustainable jewellery, but also the stories of hundreds of Indian designers and artisans who are ready for the world stage.”

Over the past decade, Devangi has been instrumental in shaping how luxury retail in India looks and feels — building Aza into a space that balances commercial success with community impact. Her support of innovative design, women-led labels, and ethical luxury has positioned her as a leader who understands both business and culture.

Poised, driven, and visionary, Devangi Nishar Parekh’s Cannes debut was not just a celebration of fashion, but of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. As Indian design continues to gain global recognition, voices like hers will continue to lead the way — not just with what they wear, but with what they build.

19th May, 2025- New Delhi — Devangi Nishar Parekh, Managing Director of Aza Fashions and one of India’s leading voices in luxury fashion retail, continued her Cannes journey with a series of standout looks that celebrated India’s rich textile heritage and contemporary design brilliance.

In a striking creation by Anamika Khanna, Devangi donned a refined satin pantsuit in a soft beige tone that brought an understated elegance to the Cannes stage. The look highlighted India’s lesser-known lacework traditions, with delicate handmade detailing placed along the shoulders, hem, and trouser cuffs. Accentuated by hand-painted floral motifs reminiscent of Mughal miniatures and Kalamkari art, the silhouette embodied a poetic balance between structure and softness. Modern yet steeped in heritage, the outfit brought together East and West, craft and couture—each detail a quiet ode to Indian artistry reimagined for the global stage.

Her second look, once again by the celebrated Anamika Khanna, was a vibrant, print-led celebration of India’s cultural and geographic diversity. The flowing skirt and blouse featured abstract brushstroke motifs in a palette inspired by the country’s vast landscapes—from the pinks of Jaipur to the blues of Jodhpur. Intricate embroidery around the neckline and waistband drew from traditional crafts such as Kasuti, mirror work, zardosi, and gota patti. The result was a richly layered visual narrative—each thread a reflection of India’s artisan legacy and the spirit of unity in diversity.

For her third appearance, she wore a striking creation by Nupur Kanoi: a fully embroidered bustier paired with a flowing jacket featuring signature fringe detailing and coordinated pants.

From the designer’s latest collection Maya, the look was hand-embroidered using traditional techniques like kantha, 3D beadwork, and sequin sheeting—fusing age-old craft with modern ease. A perfect reflection of the India Modern aesthetic, the outfit carried both heritage and global appeal.

Devangi Nishar Parekh said, “Wearing pieces that speak so deeply to India’s culture and craftsmanship at Cannes has been incredibly meaningful. Each look I chose was rooted in storytelling, from intricate handwork to artistic prints, and reflects what Aza stands for: bridging tradition and modernity with a global voice.”

With a discerning eye for curation and a deep respect for artisanship, Devangi’s presence at Cannes reinforces her role as a powerful ambassador for Indian fashion. Through her style, she continues to champion homegrown creativity on one of the world’s most influential cultural stages.

13th May, 2025, New Delhi — Devangi Nishar Parekh, Managing Director of Aza Fashions, is set to make her debut at the Cannes Film Festival 2025 — a milestone that reflects her commitment to showcasing India’s rich fashion heritage on a global stage.

Raised in the U.S. and now based between Mumbai and Kolkata, Devangi brings a global sensibility to her work. Her understanding of fashion as a bridge between identity and culture, particularly for the Indian diaspora, continues to shape Aza Fashions as a platform that presents Indian design in a modern, globally resonant way.

As the driving force behind Aza Fashions — India’s leading multi-designer luxury retail platform — her appearance at Cannes highlights the growing global relevance of Indian craftsmanship.

The Cannes red carpet, known for blending cinema with couture, has become a space where fashion meets storytelling. Devangi’s participation echoes this spirit — uniting entrepreneurial vision with a deep commitment to India’s artisanal heritage, while highlighting the country’s increasing influence in the global luxury fashion landscape.

Under her leadership, Aza has evolved into a premier destination for curated Indian designer wear, featuring over 1000 labels and shipping to more than 75 countries through Azafashions.com. Her strategic vision has helped position Indian fashion in front of a discerning global audience, spotlighting both emerging talent and established designers alike.

Speaking about her upcoming appearance, Devangi Nishar Parekh said: “Cannes represents a unique intersection of creativity, culture, and global influence — and I’m truly honored to be a part of it. As someone deeply committed to championing Indian fashion, I see this as a moment to celebrate the artistry and talent our country has to offer. It’s a proud step forward, not just for me, but for the entire design community that’s shaping India’s global fashion identity.”

Her Cannes debut is a celebration of Indian creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship — inspiring a new generation to take Indian design to new frontiers.

13TH May 2025, New Delhi – Kanika Tekriwal, the dynamic Co-founder and CEO of JetSetGo Aviation Services Pvt. Ltd., is set to make her highly anticipated debut at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, marking yet another milestone in her inspiring journey.

A pioneering force in India’s private aviation industry, Kanika’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Fueled by ambition and resilience, she founded JetSetGo at the age of 22, redefining luxury air travel in India with a tech-first, customer-centric approach. Today, JetSetGo stands as India’s leading private aviation brand, serving the country’s elite with seamless, bespoke flying experiences.

Kanika’s Cannes debut is more than a moment of personal celebration—it symbolizes the growing presence of entrepreneurial voices at global cultural platforms. In a world where innovation, leadership, and influence increasingly intersect with art and culture, her appearance at Cannes reflects the evolving narrative of the modern-day changemaker.

Speaking about her Cannes debut, Kanika Tekriwal said: “Entrepreneurship, like cinema, is about the journey and telling stories that move people. To walk the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival is more than an honour — it’s a powerful reminder that leadership and creativity go hand in hand. This moment is a celebration of how far Indian entrepreneurship has come. I hope my journey inspires others to dream without limits and lead with purpose. I’m walking not just for myself, but for every changemaker daring to carve a new path.”

The Cannes Film Festival, held annually in the French Riviera, is one of the world’s most iconic celebrations of cinema and creativity. As it continues to broaden its spotlight to include global trailblazers and thought leaders, Kanika’s presence marks a growing recognition of Indian entrepreneurs in global cultural arenas traditionally dominated by film and fashion.

Chennai/April 29, 2025 — Sundaram Finance Ltd., one of India’s most trusted NBFCs, is revising Deposit Interest Rates effective 1st May 2025, in line with the RBI’s repo rate revision announced recently. Revised rates for Senior Citizens are 7.70% for 12 months and 8% for 24 and 36 months. Similarly, for others, 7.20% for 12 months and 7.50% for 24 and 36 months.

The adjustments reflect Sundaram Finance Ltd.’s measured response to broader economic conditions and market dynamics and are a part of their financial strategy to align with current economic trends.

Recently, the company introduced a Digital Deposit facility, making savings simpler, safer, and more accessible than ever. Customers can conveniently invest and manage their deposits digitally through a seamless and secure process, enjoying peace of mind and attractive returns. This online transaction can be initiated through the company portal.

ABOUT SUNDARAM FINANCE

Sundaram Finance was established in 1954, and the company has today grown into one of the most trusted and diversified financial services groups in India providing financing for commercial vehicles, cars & utility vehicles, tractors and farm equipment, construction equipment, SME finance and a range of working capital products for financing diesel, tyres, insurance.

Through its subsidiaries and group companies, the company offers home finance, loans against property, mutual funds and investment management solutions and the full range of general insurance products and services. It has a nationwide presence of over 700 branches, over 1.1 lakh depositors and over 4.75 lakh lending customers.

Sundaram Finance’s vision is to be the most respected NBFC in the country and its mission is to deliver the Sundaram experience to all customers, big and small, in keeping with the ethos of the Company. Sundaram Finance embraces a philosophy that balances Growth with Quality and Profitability and remains rooted in its ideal of protecting and enhancing shareholder value. The founding philosophy of the company is that everything begins with the customer. Our founder, Late Sri T S Santhanam, enshrined in the company its core values – The Sundaram Way – that have been the company’s guiding light over the decades. The company is deeply rooted in its values and proud of its heritage, also constantly innovating in terms of technology and processes to deliver the unique Sundaram experience to its customers and stakeholders.

Bangalore, India – April 28, 2025: Knowledgeum Academy, one of Bengaluru’s leading IB World Schools, marked the Graduation Day of its IBDP cohort (2023–2025) with a grand ceremony in Jayanagar Called Transcendence 2025, the event represented not only the completion of a chapter but the beginning of a new journey—one where learners step forward as thinkers, leaders, and global citizens.

This year’s theme, ‘The Beginning of Becoming’, reflects Knowledgeum Academy’s belief that education is an ongoing journey of growth, curiosity, and purpose. It mirrors the core of the IB Diploma Programme, which encourages learners to explore deeply, think independently, and lead with confidence.

The ceremony welcomed Dr Ramya Sethuram, a distinguished astrophysicist and Project Senior Scientist at the India-TMT Centre, Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bengaluru. With an illustrious career spanning India, China, and France, Dr Sethuram’s work in galaxy formation and astronomical instrumentation resonated deeply with the learners’ own journeys of exploration and discovery. Her presence and address inspired the graduating cohort to pursue their ambitions with curiosity, courage, and clarity.

The event was further enriched by the presence of the Academy’s founders, Dr Chenraj Roychand and Ms Aparna Prasad, whose vision has helped establish Knowledgeum Academy, backed by the JAIN Group, an educational leader with over 30 years of legacy as a forward-thinking, learner-centred international school. Sharing her thoughts at the ceremony, Ms Prasad stated:

“Transcendence is about more than academic success – it is about resilience, reinvention, and readiness for the unknown. Our learners have grown not just in knowledge, but in character, and today they stand ready to make meaningful contributions to the world. This is the beginning of who they are becoming.”

The event included a ceremonial procession, the lighting of the lamp, the transfer of leadership from the graduating cohort to their juniors, award felicitations, the yearbook reveal, and a surprise musical performance. Educators, families, and well-wishers joined in the celebration, capturing the pride and promise of the moment through heartfelt reflections.

While the graduating cohort was the focus, the Academy also celebrated its academic achievements from the previous year. In 2024, Knowledgeum Academy recorded an 81.25% pass rate, a top score of 39/45, and most learners performing above the global IB average. These results show the strength of the Academy’s academic framework, personalised learning environment, and the dedication of both learners and educators.

The graduating cohort, too, has much to celebrate. Several learners have secured early placements at prestigious institutions across the USA, UK, Italy, Switzerland, Europe, and India. From Ivy League universities to premier design, liberal arts, and technology schools, these pre-admissions affirm the Academy’s commitment to academic and career readiness. Knowledgeum’s dedicated University Guidance Programme and personalised mentorship have played a pivotal role in shaping this success.

Knowledgeum Academy continues to redefine accessibility in international education. Located in Jayanagar, Bengaluru, it offers a robust IBDP framework rooted in inquiry, interdisciplinary learning, and global citizenship. With small cohorts, experienced IB educators, and a values-driven approach, the Academy nurtures critical thinkers who are equipped not only with knowledge but with the empathy, adaptability, and leadership skills needed in the 21st century.

Transcendence 2025 was not only a celebration of what has been achieved – it also marked the beginning of what lies ahead. As the graduates step into the world, they carry forward the Knowledgeum Academy spirit: a love for learning, a sense of purpose, and the drive to help shape a better future.

Missouri Humanities awards funding for nonprofit’s upcoming 30th annual event.

(St. Charles, Mo., March 19, 2025): Mosaics Fine Art Festival recently received a $10,000 grant from Missouri Humanities, marking the first time the festival has been awarded funding from the organization.

Missouri Humanities is a nonprofit dedicated to enriching lives and strengthening communities by connecting Missourians with the people, places, and ideas that shape society. Founded by Congress in 1971, Missouri Humanities is one of the 56-state and territorial humanities councils that receives support from the National Endowment for the Humanities. The organization offers programs that explore Missouri’s Cultural Heritage, share Veteran’s stories, preserve Native American and Civil War history, and showcase local communities through podcasts and videos.

The grant will fund Mosaics’ 30th annual event scheduled for September 12 through 14. The three-day festival will feature over 100 juried artists from 15 states who will exhibit artwork available for purchase. The family-friendly event is free and open to the public, taking place along several blocks of North Main St. in Historic St. Charles, Mo. where more than 30 restaurants and over 75 shops are located.

“We are deeply grateful to Missouri Humanities for this very generous first-time grant,” said Mosaics Fine Art Festival president Denise Wulff. “Missouri Humanities’ commitment to fostering cultural enrichment and community engagement aligns perfectly with our mission, and we are honored to be among the recipients of their support, which will help us continue to celebrate the arts in our region.”

The nonprofit Mosaics Fine Art Festival showcases local and regional artists while educating the community about how art can enhance their lives. The festival features a diverse range of artwork from emerging, mid-career, and established artists across all media.

New Delhi, March 19, 2025 – In a press conference organized by HIIMS (Hospital and Institute of Integrated Medical Sciences), cancer patients who were once declared incurable by leading hospitals shared their extraordinary recovery journeys. These patients, who had been advised chemotherapy and radiation, healed through Fever Therapy, the DIP Diet, Zero-Volt Therapy, Panchakarma Therapy, Time as Medicine, along with Ayurveda and homeopathy at HIIMS—without undergoing conventional treatments. Led by Dr. Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury and Acharya Manish, the event highlighted the institute’s holistic therapies, which have enabled patients to heal naturally.

Speaking at the event, Acharya Manish emphasized the need to rethink conventional cancer treatments, stating, “Conventional medicine often focuses on symptom suppression rather than root cause healing. Our approach at HIIMS is to strengthen the body’s natural ability to fight diseases like cancer, ensuring long-term wellness without harmful side effects.”

During the event, Dr. Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury presented his book, “Rabbit-Tortoise Model for Cancer Cure,” which provides scientific evidence on why chemotherapy and radiation often worsen cancer instead of curing it. He stressed, “The medical industry has conditioned people to believe that cancer is a death sentence unless treated with toxic chemicals. Our research and real-life patient recoveries prove otherwise—cancer can be reversed naturally.”

The highlight of the event was the testimony of five former cancer patients who defied the odds and fully recovered through HIIMS’ holistic treatments:

• Nishamani Behera from Odisha was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer and advised chemotherapy and surgery. Instead, she chose HIIMS’ approach, following a strict DIP diet, Fever Therapy, and Zero-Volt Therapy. Within months, her tumor shrank, and she was declared cancer-free without a single chemotherapy session.
• Prativa Samal, a professional working in Dubai, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and given a grim prognosis. Opting for HIIMS’ natural therapies, she followed a detox regimen, Panchakarma, and Ayurvedic medicines. Today, she leads a healthy life with no sign of cancer recurrence.
• Chander Wati from Haryana was diagnosed with lung cancer and given just a few months to live. After undergoing HIIMS’ holistic treatments, including breathing exercises, herbal therapies, and immune-boosting nutrition, she made a miraculous recovery.
• Ambika Puri from Chandigarh was suffering from leukemia (blood cancer), and doctors had ruled out any chance of survival. However, through HIIMS’ specialized therapies focusing on herbal detox and a plant-based diet, her blood reports gradually normalized, and she regained her health.

HIIMS’ innovative therapies focus on detoxifying the body, boosting immunity, and restoring cellular health, using treatments like Panchakarma therapies, the DIP diet, Zero-Volt Therapy, yoga, and sunlight exposure. The conference also drew a parallel between HIIMS’ mission and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s fight for freedom, emphasizing that just as Netaji fought against colonial oppression, HIIMS is fighting against the dominance of toxic medical treatments. The event concluded with a powerful message—cancer is not a disease but a metabolic disorder that can be reversed naturally.