March 2022 - Woman's Era

BUILDS HAPPY HOMESwomansera.comVol 46, Issue No. 1123

MARCH 2022

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MIRROR, MIRROR ONTHE WALLSUJATHA RAO

JUGGLING WORKAND LIFEMALLIKA CHUGH

78CookeryRecipes with Savoury Noodles● Noodle Masala Maska Pav

Recipe

● Noodles Bombay StyleFrankie Recipe

● Methi Muthia NoodlesRecipe

● Noodles on Toast Recipe

● Vada Pav Recipe

● Cheesy Pizza Recipe

52

PURSUIT OFHAPPINESS

SUJATHA RAO

36NIGHTINGALELATA LEAVES...K.V. VENUGOPAL

42THE BEST

WOMEN-LEDNETFLIX TV

SHOWSSRIPARNA SAMAJDAR

60 STRESS ON YOURTRESSESTAPAPRIYA DUTTA

66 FIVE THINGS YOUSHOULD NOT APPLYON YOUR FACEANJALI KUMARI

68 RESTORE YOURMARITAL BLISSRANGOLI JHA

76 “DO NOT IGNOREYOUR TEEN’SMISALIGNED TEETH!”

92 I AM A SURVIVARSUJATA CHATTERJEE

98 DIET AND WORKOUTROUTINE OF ‘INDIANCRICKET QUEEN’SHASHANT SHUKLA

106 PROBIOTICS ANDPREBIOTICSDR. LOVELEEN KAUR SARAO

LEADING WOMENENTREPRENEURS18 DR PRITI V. WARKE

20 ARCHANA R.

22 DEEPIKA CHALASANI

23 SUCHITA OSWAL JAIN

24 SONAL BARMECHA

25 DR NEELAM MOHAN

26 VEENA KOHLI

28 DR VIDUSHI AGRAWAL

29 PRIYA SHAH

32 EARLY VERSUSLATE MARRIAGESRUNGEEN SINGH

35 MRS. INDIA LEGACY2021-22: ALISSHAAOHRI THE RAVINGBEAUTY

40 FAANOOS RETREAT,GOA LEISURE,WELLNESS ANDHEALING

44 DELHI GIRLS- TOMARRY OR JUST A GFGIMMICK?RUNGEEN SINGH

WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSTRANSFORMING LIVESPRERNA A JHUNJHUNWALA, SHILPA SINGHAL, DR PRIYANKA GOYAT

The names of characters used in allfiction and semi-fiction articles arefictitious.

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Features

Fash

ion

GLAM UP YOUR PARTY LOOK

CASUAL YET CHIC LITTLE ONES’ STYLE

34 BEAUTY QUERIES72 HOW I WAS DUPED83 CHILD CHALLENGES90 GREATEFULLY YOURS91 TEENACHE96 MY MOST

UNFORGETTABLEEXPERIENCE AS A PRIDE

97 MY FAMILY, MY FRIENDS AND ME...

112 KITCHEN QUERIES

114 AS YOU SAY

Fiction48 UNREQUITED LOVEMIRA PAWAR

86 GHAR GHAR KEWEBINAR KAHANISAMSKRATI GULVADY SHENOY

100 ONE FINE DAY... GHAZALA ZAIDI

74

84

EDITORIALDividing Religiously forPolitical Gain

The hijab cover story has completely changed forthe country. What, about two weeks ago, was aburning issue whether or not hijab should be allowedin the educational institutions, has now become acontentious matter for the Indian secular system todecide how radically they would want to treat theIndian society. To single out someone and kill him inthe street in the name of doctrine to practice for acertain religious faith as an act is unacceptableconstitutionally, morally, humanly and in any mannerof thinking. Activists and political leaders on bothsides of the table need to understand that studentsand youth cannot be played around with for theirpetty political goals. Such has become the menace ofreligious-political goof up that it is the young and theinnocent who are losing lives, livelihood and theirrighteous course. This is exactly what happened inShivamogga district of Karnataka recently.

And to what gain?Since time immemorial, religion has been used to

polarise votes for political gains. Here again, in theelections of UP and the other four states,polarisation by religious incidents is being doneblatantly. Since the BJP is not likely to win the samenumber of seats as it did last time the political jumlaof polarising votes in favour of Hindus has started.About two weeks back, with the hijab incident,itseems that the Hindu activists clad in saffrondeliberately instigated Muskan, a Muslim studentdressed in hijab, trolled and asked her to leavecampus or change attire if she wanted to attendclasses. She kept her faith and carried on, with thecollege authorities trying to defuse the tension byspeaking to both the sides.

Yet on the other hand, speeches of leaders onboth sides – Muslims and Hindus – provoked thestudents to be up in arms against each other,thereby virtually polarising the mandate which isbeing voted in the UP state assembly elections.Whatever will be the outcome of these elections isfar from being in sight, but yes it does create someterror in minds of voters to inspire them and vote foreither their Hindu or the Muslim leaders.

Coming to the incident of a seeming revenge bysupposedly Muslim activists against the Bajrang Dalactivist seems to have culminated into anunfortunate incident, the repercussions of whichmay reach far and wide in the present BJP regime.Quite recently, in the last week as the verdict of the2008 Ahmedabad blasts was announced wherein 38people were found guilty, 28 of them adjudged withthe death penalty.Incidentally, they all come from a

certain religious faith, which too has led topolarisation of votes and the thought. There is anundercurrent of opinion which may not be written inabsolute words, either in media or otherwise inspeeches. But we are all aware of the reality.

UP is now predominantly divided into Hindu andMuslim vote banks. And the BJP has further polarisedthe entire state, for good or for bad, into pocketswhich may vote for either the Hindus or the Muslimleadership, irrespective of the work done in thedistrict. To governsuch a large state by keeping itdivided on the basis of religion, administrativebusiness from collection of taxes to redistribution ofincomes will both suffer in such a polarised populaceand situation. Is it the beginning of anotherPulwama, which happened at the general electionsfor the BJP?

Usually, party in power tends to create areligiously volatile situation which will keep them inpower or let them back in to it. If the chips of BJP arereally down and there is a movement to create somesort of religious disturbance in the midst ofelectioneering, it could be deciphered that BJP istrying to save its position the state. Definitely, thiskilling has caused great harm for both the sides astensions in the area will simply perpetuate for a verylong time to come. The hijab and the unfortunateloss of life of the Bajrang Dal activist has thepotential of creating opinions in the voting mandate,forcing the voters to choose the leadership on thebasis of religion only. This is bad omen for thecountry, democracy and definitely for the overallgrowth.

In such a scenario SP, which has a Hindu front anda Muslim backing to a very large extent, will be atloss of words as to which vote bank to appease andthat could be the crucialfactor for BJP in the UPelections.

Celebrating InternationalWomen’s Day

…comes from a long-term campaigning by variouswomen bodies all over the world, in recognition ofthe rights and recognition of women in a moreevolved society, which we live now. The movementhas come of age and people do recognise that 8th ofMarch each year be celebrated as one. In this issue ofMarch, the magazine carries a special section onwomen who are being recognised for theirexemplary work. It may be emphasised that Woman’sEra was the first magazine to have coined the wordhomemaker, in recognition of housewife who toilsand takes on herself the onus to build a home for theentire family. It was also again Woman’s Era, whichcoined the word superwoman in recognition of thewoman who works at the office, goes back andbuilds her family and her home. Both these wordshave now come to stay in all major differences wherethere is any portrayal in the society.

Woman’s Era ● March 2022 5

[email protected]

CinePlex

Bollywood beautiful singerTulsi Kumar voices needno introduction for any

identity. She has achieved thehighest achievement in hercareer. Recently, she wasfeatured on the Times SquareBillboard of New York for Spotifyequal program. Her songbecame a global playlist. Bysharing the post on social media,Tulsi wrote in the caption,“Thrilled and honoured to befeatured on the Times SquareBillboard, New York forSpotify’s Equal Program.Gratitude, gratitude n onlygratitude. Thankyou@Spotify @spotifyindia”.

Tulsi Kumar Featured On TimesSquare Billboard In New York;Women At Full Volume!

Veteran musician BappiLahiri’s last rites wereperformed a day after his

death. As we all know, Bappi Dapassed away on the night of 15February due to sleep apnea at ahospital in Mumbai where hewas undergoing treatment forvarious ailments. He was 69years old. The funeral waspostponed on Thursday so thatthe musician’s son Bappa, wholives in Los Angeles, couldattend. After flying to Mumbaiwith his family, son Bappa Lahirireached home his father’sfuneral.

Bappi Lahiri Merged With FiveElements With His SpecialTrademark Sunglasses!

From Bollywood...

Nawazuddin Siddiqui saysthat he never longed forclaiming a rich cabin in

Mumbai, yet today, he is a gladproprietor of a ramblingproperty in suburbia of Mumbai,a city that he made his home 20years ago. The entertainer, as oflate, moved into his new multi-storeyed homestead. This movehas driven him into the regardedrundown of entertainers whoown extravagant cottages inMumbai. The mansion and itsconnecting wall are paintedobvious white with treesarranging the open air space.The front of the house has a tiledyard, which seems to go aroundthe lodge. A transcendingpassage denotes the section tothe cottage, which accompaniesconventional wooden entrywaysand windows. Rare hanginglights decorate entrances of thehouse, including overhangs.

Nawazuddin Siddiqui’sLavish Bungalow’s InsidePictures Revealed!

Aryan Khan is moreinterested in working inBollywood as a writer and

director. Speculation is rife abouthow he plans to aid filmmakersas he becomes a full-timedirector, many of these conceptscan be expanded into featurefilms and online programs,according to Aryan Khan.

One insider told thatAmazon Prime India’s web seriesand a movie produced by RedChillies Entertainment are themost essential parts of theproject. It’s similar to the filmFan’s plot and style in theAmazon Prime series. In thebeginning, it seems to focus onthe lives of a die-hard fan, with adash of suspense.

Shah Rukh Khan’s Son Aryan KhanAims To Write A Show ForAmazon Prime India

The film Gehraiyaan isdirected by Shakun Batra.There has been a mixed

response from the audienceabout this film. At the same time,some viewers have fiercelycriticised the film Gehraiyaan. Insuch a situation, now ShakunBatra has revealed that he hasreceived many abusive emailsand messages for the filmGehraiyaan. This has beendisclosed by Shakun Batrarecently in a conversation onSuchitra Tyagi’s YouTubechannel. During this, he alsotalked a lot about the filmGehraiyaan. Shakun Batra said, ‘Igot abusive mail and said that if Ido not know how to take apicture, then why does it? Wouldhave done something else.”

Shakun Batra Said After Making‘Gehraiyaan’ People Sent AbusiveMails To Me

Jeh Ali Khan’s First Birthday Bash;Mommy Kareena Kapoor KhanShares Happening Pictures

Kareena Kapoor Khancaught an extremelyvaluable second hubby

Saif Ali Khan imparted to hischildren at child Jehangir AliKhan’s first birthday festivities.“One for the collection,” theentertainer subtitled thephotograph that saw theBollywood star clustered upwith his four kids – Sara AliKhan, Ibrahim Ali Khan, TaimurAli Khan, and Jeh Ali Khan.

Shibani Dandekar &Farhan Akhtar Dance To DilChahta Hai On Their Big Day!

After months of speculations,Farhan Akhtar and ShibaniDandekar finally exchanged

vows in a low-key ceremony atJaved Akhtar and Shabana Azmi’sKhandala home. Amidst beautifuldécor and the presence of severalfamily members and friends, thecouple tied the knot lookingabsolutely stunning. To officiatetheir relationship, the duo optedfor a traditional Christian weddingceremony. For the occasion, Farhanchose a black tuxedo with amatching bow and a pair ofsunglasses, looking dapper.

Vikrant Massey Marries SheetalThakur In An Intimate Ceremony!V

ikrant Massey is a well-known actor who has beenin several critically

acclaimed films, including HaseenDillruba. His personal life, as well ashis professional life, is thriving.Vikrant Massey married hislongtime lover Sheetal Thakur. Thewedding took place in Mumbai andwas a close-knit and traditionaloccasion. The wedding ceremonyof Vikrant and Sheetal wasattended by family and closefriends. Several photos from thewedding have surfaced on theinternet. For a long time, therehave been rumours about VikrantMassey and Sheetal Thakur gettingmarried. Several fan accounts haveshared photographs and videos ofthe couple during their haldiceremony. Vikrant and Sheetalregistered their marriage earlierthis week, according to sources.


“We do Not Need any Piece ofPaper,” Said Arjun Rampal onNot Marrying Gabriella!

Arjun Rampal said thatmarriage is a big step. Iknow people will judge me

and my decision at different levelsbut regardless of what peoplethink, I want to enjoy the joys ofmy life. Meanwhile, on a questionasked about his marriage toGabriella, Arjun Rampal said thathe is already married, as theirhearts are connected. Regardingthat, Arjun Rampal further saidthat I do not need any piece ofpaper to validate my relationship.Significantly, he has twodaughters from Arjun Rampal’sfirst wife. The names of their twodaughters are Myra and Mahika.After divorce from his first wife,Arjun has started a new life withhis new relationship withGabriella.

Vaani Kapoor Wants To Do StrongActing Onscreen!

Actress Vaani Kapoor, whohas made a place in thehearts of people due to her

stellar acting, has revealed that shenow wants to act strong on screenand feels that her upcoming filmShamshera will prove to be perfectfor her. Talking about the film, theactress told that Shamshera is atheatrical experience like no otherand she’s really happy that theyhave a release date that tellsaudience that they are coming toentertain them with a story and aspectacle that will hopefully touchthe hearts of every cinema loveracross the country. We

12 Woman’s Era ● March 2022

Mirror, Mirroron the Wall

Whoʼs the fairest of them all?By Sujatha Rao

This answer to the question inthe title is what caused all thetrouble in the enduringly

popular fairytale SnowWhite andthe Seven Dwarfs.

We all grew up listening to thisfairytale of the beautiful littleprincess Snow White with a skin aswhite as snow, her jealousstepmother who tries to get rid ofher, the seven dwarfs who help herand the handsome prince she endsup marrying in the end.

The magic mirror in the fairytalein a way symbolises ‘the mentalbubble’ the queen lives in, whichmade her view ‘beauty’ as onething, and one thing only.

While fairy tales are supposedlyabout fantasy, unfortunately thisparticular question seems to keepplaying out in various versions eventoday, as the unquenchable thirstfor the ‘fair’ skin is continuing tomanifest itself in the present twentyfirst century in what is known as‘Colourism’.

Colourism is a phenomenonwherein people are discriminatedagainst the others simply owing totheir skin shade.

History of ColourismThroughout history and across

the world the colourism negativelyimpacted socio-economic statusleading to inequity, a few examplesof which are as follows:

The Global StoryA ‘brown paper bag test’ was

reported to be a common practicewhereby a slave owner wouldcompare the skin of the AfricanAmerican slave’s skin against abrown paper bag. If the skin wasdarker than the bag, the slave wasnot admitted for any indoor workand was banned from having accessto certain privileges.

The preference for a lighter skinamongst Latinos can be traced backto Spanish colonial rule wheredesire for having ‘pure’ blooduntainted with African blood led tothe issuance of certificates thatgave access to certain privileges tothe holders of the same.

“You, my queen is fair, it’s true.But little SnowWhite is fairer than you.”

The Indian StoryIn India, one of the reasons for

the darker skin deemed undesirablecan be traced back to thecolonialism of the West and theresultant exposure to the Europeanfair skin coming to be identifiedwith wealth and beauty.

Secondly in India, where castesystem is intricately interwoven intoits societal fabric, more often thannot the fair skin was normallyconnected to the upper caste onceagain leading to its bias favouringthe said skin colour.

We can see colourismmanifesting itself in differentshades across many things in ourcountry, a few of which are:● Across the matrimony classifieds

seeking ‘fair’ brides. It may not beout of place here to call theattention of the readers to thepopular Netflix reality TV series‘Indian Matchmaking’ whichsparked significant debate afterits protagonist, a globe-trottingIndian match-maker on the huntfor suitable matches for her richclients, put lighter-skinnedwomen and men on a pedestal,championing their skin tone as avery desirable and superiorattribute.

● In the advertisements of creamsthat proclaim to turn the colourof one’s skin fairer, whileshowcasing the reported dailyprogress shade by shade to lurethe prospective buyers

● In some cultural beliefs we stillhold close to our hearts makingcertain women drink milk lacedwith Saffron during theirpregnancy so as to give birth to a‘fair’ child.

The Right QuestionAs they say, it’s more important

to ask the right question to arrive atthe right answer. So, instead oftrying to find the answer to “who”in the above question, let’s delvedeep and try to answer thefollowing more appropriatequestions in connection with thistendency:

What are the reasons?Let’s examine a couple of

reasons behind this penchant for aparticular skin colour over theothers:

PrejudiceIf you’re white, you’re right,if you’re yellow, you’re mellow,if you’re brown, stick around,if you’re Black, get back,”(Parrish, 1944,).

This crude expression, coinedduring the first half of the 20thcentury, demonstrates two of themost salient aspects of colourism:

● that colourism is a hierarchicallybased phenomenon;

● and that darker skin serves as theabsolute bottom rung in thehierarchically based colourismladder.During an interview with Oprah

Winfrey, Meghan Markle, theDuchess of Sussex is quoted to havementioned that there were seriousconcerns raised by the Royal familymembers about her new born son’sskin tone.

While she declined to reveal thename of the person who madesuch a comment, the same wasmade public in the book titledBrothers And Wives: Inside thePrivate Lives of William, Kate, Harryand Meghan by ChristopherAndersen, a source close to theroyal family.

The book claims that it wasPrince Charles who asked his wifeCamilla with concern in his voice“What do you suppose theirchildren’s complexion might be?”

This incident highlights the factthat this deep rooted bias runsacross royal families too.

ProfitThe beauty industry, which has

its skin in the game (literally so),played into the insecurities andassociated biases to reap profits outof it, by stoking it up further. Thefollowing data truly support thisclaim:


1.What

2.How 3.Why

IN ADVERTISEMENTSOF CREAMS THATPROCLAIM TO TURNTHE COLOUR OF ONE’SSKIN FAIRER, WHILESHOWCASING THEREPORTED DAILYPROGRESS SHADE BYSHADE TO LURE THEPROSPECTIVE BUYERS

● Nielsen Retail MeasurementServices stated that the fairnessmarket in India is nearly worthRs.5,800 crores and is growing ata moving annual rate of 4.4% atMarch 2020 versus the previousyear. Of course, this figureincludes face moisturisers, bodylotions, face cleansers andbleaches.

● At the global level, the market forskin lighteners was worth USD8.6 billion during 2020 accordingto Global Industry Inc’s StrategyR, a research company based outof San Jose, with the forecasteddemand reaching USD 12.3 billionby 2027.

● Back home in India, about 80 percent share of India’s $1 Billionmarket for moisturisers in theyear 2019 went to the skinwhiteners as per EuromonitorInternational, a market researchcompany headquartered inLondon.As regressive as it may sound,

there is a huge market out thereinterested in keeping this fetish forfairness alive and kicking.

However, thanks to the globalprotests such as #blacklivesmatterthat erupted following the death ofAfrican American George Floyd atthe hands of the US Police, andother related campaigns, some ofthe MNCs, realising the need to fallin line initiated the followingactions:● Hindustan Uni Lever (HUL)

rechristened its best sellingproduct ‘Fair & Lovely’ to ‘Glow &Lovely’ in July, 2020. However,Kavitha Emmanuel, founder ofthe Indian advocacy groupagainst colourism named“Dark Is Beautiful” calling thisa (literal) cosmetic efforttermed it “a big farce”.

● Around the same time,Johnson & Johnson announcedthat it would halt selling certainproducts in Asia that were beingpromoted as skin whiteners.

● Neutrogena, the skin care brandowned by Johnson & Johnsonreplaced its ‘Fine Fairness’line with ‘Bright Boost’.

● L’Oreal followed suit during thesame month announcing that itwould remove the words ‘white’,‘light’ etc from some of its productlines in South Asia.

Why is Colourismunhealthy?

There is no getting away fromthe fact that colour stereotypesregulate our collective thinking inthe world we live in. This tendencyis so deep rooted in oursubconsciousness that we don'tgive a second thought to theinsulting line Buri nazar waale, teramuh kaala (an expression cursingthose with evil eyes to have a blackface) we often see on the bumperof a truck. In fact, some of us evenfind this line funny.

But then we all have ourfavourites, be it in colours or in fooditems or anything else for thatmatter. So why does it matter ifpeople prefer “fair” skin over theothers? Let’s now understand whygoing overboard over the “fair” skinis not particularly the same ashaving one’s favourite colour.

All colours are equalSreeja is not so happy about her

daughter’s dusky skin tone. Whileshe does everything in her capacityto make her pre-teen daughterappear fairer, by banning her fromgoing into the sun, prohibiting herfrom swimming etc., her fetish isleaving her daughter with aninferiority complex.

While it’s perfectly fine to havefavourite colour at an individuallevel, it’s not okay to look down ona particular colour or considercertain shades superior over theothers, especially when one is bornwith it, with no scope or reason forexercising a choice for an alternate.

Colourism is not rightUnfortunately, colourism is very

prominent in India where it alsohappens to be a gender based biasaffecting women more than men.Colourism can be obvious but moreoften than not, it is quite subtle.

Let’s consider the case ofRashmi. As a five-year-old girlgrowing up in India in a semi-urbancity, Rashmi found that all aroundher the standards of beauty weredefined as ‘fair and light skinned’.All the retail stores were sellingvarious brands of skin-lightening

creams with her favouritecelebrities were endorsing them.

Though her parents nevercommented upon her dusky skintone, her relatives and

grandparents always told her notto get too exposed to sun or goswimming during summer so as toavoid getting tanned. Even withsupportive parents Rashmi’sworldview was shaped with

colourism which she is strugglingto do away with even in heradulthood.

SREEJA IS NOT SOHAPPY ABOUT HERDAUGHTER’S DUSKYSKIN TONE. WHILE SHEDOES EVERYTHING INHER CAPACITY TO MAKEHER PRE-TEENDAUGHTER APPEARFAIRER, BY BANNINGHER FROM GOING INTOTHE SUN, PROHIBITINGHER FROM SWIMMINGETC., HER FETISH ISLEAVING HERDAUGHTER WITH ANINFERIORITY COMPLEX.

as we can see, nature has bestowedequality on all colours of itscreation. It’s time we too fall in line.

Bias that leads to any sort ofdiscrimination is not right. KavithaEmmanuel, who also founded theNGO ‘Women of Worth’ thatcrusades against this unhealthyprejudice says, “To discriminateagainst a person based on theircolour is called racism. When peopleof the same community and thesame nation discriminate againsteach other, we call that colourism.”

How can we overcomethis prejudice?

We have to constantly engagewith our own inner demons andprejudices to overcome our biasesof which colourism happens to bejust one.

In this regard, a step in the rightdirection would be to take a deepbreath and remind ourselves that:

Beauty is not skin deepAs a Yoga enthusiast, Prajakta

derived inspiration from thepictures of well chiseled tonedhealthy bodies in good Yogapostures.

The more she saw those, themore she observed that the serenityand tranquility these practitionersof Yoga exuded more often than


Rashmi is just one of the millionsof girls in India. But this trendseems to be true across the globetoo. Human beings across theworld seem to favour white or faircomplexion. British feministGermaine Greer once called ithumanity’s colour blindness.

As per the following studyconducted in 2019 by Pew ResearchCentre, about two-thirds (64 percent) of Hispanics with darker skincolour reported havingexperienced discriminationcompared with half of those with a

lighter skin tone.While the above study

highlights the experience ofdiscrimination, the impact suchdiscrimination has on a group ofAmericans’ mental health wasencapsulated as follows in a studyconducted by University of Floridain 2019.

Both the above studies clearlyhighlight that colourism can reallywreak havoc on the lives of darkskinned people.

But, such a bias seems to bequite complex in nature as theredoesn’t seem to be any uniformcultural basis or a valid scientificreason for it.

For instance, culturally blackattire is worn during funerals in theWest with white attire being

associated with bridal wear. InIndia, white saris are considered asymbol of widowhood.

As we can see, the sheerinconsistency in the culturalpractices itself highlights that suchassociations of colours with either‘good’ or ‘bad’ are ‘manmade’ andhave nothing to do with the coloursthemselves.

Science claims that all coloursare equal in photosynthesis. Black isthe absence of light and hencetechnically it’s not a colour. But so iswhite. They both are shades. Thus,

not had nothing to do either withgender, skin colour or even age forthat matter.

That made her realise thatbeauty is “what spills out fromwithin. It’s the manifestation of thewhole persona of the person thatmakes a person beautiful.”

Being ‘Fair’ is not aboutskin colour

The word ‘fair’ stands fortreating people without favouritismor discrimination. It’s sad to notethe very word is being used todiscriminate against certain sectionof human beings on the basis oftheir skin colour.

There is a need to celebrateall shades

Personally, having been born inthe 20th century, I myself have not

yet fully gotten out of thisprejudiced mindset. But I amconscious and aware of the truth inEmmanuel’s words when she said“We need to change attitudes andit’s going to take years to do that.That’s why our campaign has acelebratory attitude: in a countrywith so many different shades, weshould celebrate every singleshade.”

Every mirror can be magicalJust like the Queen in Snow

White story, most of us seem to livein our own sort of mental bubblewhich is making us surroundourselves with false realities.

The mirror on the wall against usis reflecting back to us our imageson an ‘as-is-where-is’ at an individuallevel. It’s our baggage that ismessing up with what we see.Factually, what’s staring back ateach one of us is so unique that

there is no exact copy of the samein the 7.8 billion people across theworld. It’s up to us to turn it to thebest version that each one of usdesires out of it.

ConclusionIndians are running big global

technology companies.This year, Leena Nair hit the

headlines by becoming the firstfemale and youngest ever femaleCEO of Chanel, the French LuxuryFashion House.

The growing Indian Diasporaacross the globe is structural andnot cyclical. As Parag Khanna,founder of FutureMap points outclimate change and other reasonsare likely to further prod thetalented Indians to migrate in largenumbers to lands of opportunityacross the world, rendering theworld look ‘brownish’.

Against such a backdrop, it’s hightime we learn to embrace our veryown ‘brownish’ skin tone in all itshues and colours.

Each one of us needs to focus onlearning to be ‘fair’ to otherswithout judging them for theirreligion, race, caste, creed orcolour. Such fairness emanatingfrom within has the potential tomake you ‘glow’ and render you tolook ‘lovely’. Then the image staringback at you from the mirror willtotally obviate the need to knowwho is the fairest, since all shadeswould be equally welcome.

Let me now conclude thisnarrative with the following wordsfrom Alessia Cara’s song Scars toyour beautiful that sums up thisfeeling so beautifully.

So to all the girls that's hurtingLet me be your mirrorHelp you see a little bit clearerThe light that shines withinThere's a hope that's waiting for youin the darkYou should know you're beautifuljust the way you areAnd you don't have to change a thingThe world could change its heartNo scars to your beautifulWe're stars and we're beautiful!


We

THAT MADE HERREALISE THAT BEAUTYIS “WHAT SPILLS OUTFROM WITHIN. IT’S THEMANIFESTATION OFTHE WHOLE PERSONAOF THE PERSON THATMAKES A PERSONBEAUTIFUL.”


LeadingWomenEntrepreneurs

Give us an overview about theAnimal Cell Biology business ofHiMedia Laboratories.

In HiMedia, we offer media andbioprocess optimization services toIndian companies to upscale andproduce large volumes ofbiosimilars from existing smallbioreactors economically, therebyanticipating a key role in thetransition. We have a state-of-artupstream media development andbioprocess optimization lab, whichis one of its kind in India. Receivingthe prestigious “BiotechnologyIndustry Research AssistanceCouncil (BIRAC) Innovator Award-2020” from Honourable VicePresident, M. Venkaiah Naidu lastyear, counts as the biggestachievement of our efforts.

What is your ambition regardingthe Animal & Plant cell biologybusiness?

HiMedia was established in 1976to help Indian scientists in themicrobiology arena. Due toHiMedia, Microbiology startedhappening easily in every smallcollege, institute and in the smallestof towns across India. When I alongwith my husband, Dr. Vishal G.Warke, returned from the US, wewanted to carve out a niche forourselves and do some valueaddition to HiMedia towards itsdiversification and towards thenation too. We had the vision ofAtmanirbhar Bharat in the cellculture space even back then. Todaywe are amongst the top 5 brandsglobally.

Upholding scientific innovations.

Passionate YetGraceful:Dr Priti V. Warke

Dr Priti V. Warke,MBBS, MSDirector, Cell Culture andPlant Tissue CultureHead, QA & Regulatory AffairsHiMedia Laboratories Pvt. Ltd.

With India becoming acenter of research anddevelopment, its women

leaders are already settingbenchmarks on the global reachecosystem. Dr Priti V Warke,Director, Cell Culture & Plant TissueCulture businesses, HiMediaLaboratories is one of suchexceptional entrepreneurs.

What are the contributions thathave been made by your cell biologywing during this pandemic?

COVID-19 has created anopportunity for HiMedia to becomemore agile, to take on chances thatonce appeared daunting, to revisitorganizational culture, to rethinkwork plans and productivity, tolearn from and rapidly correctmistakes and reposition for thefuture. Initially, we were the onlymanufacturers of the ViralTransport Media (VTM) in India forthe first few months of thepandemic. We worked closely withthe Department of Promotion ofIndustry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)and the PMO. We were the onlymanufacturer to have receivedquality approval from both national(ICMR and NIV) as well asinternational health authorities suchas RIVM, Netherlands (for the EU)and Dubai Health Authority. Tilldate, Our VTM kit is used as the goldstandard by governmentauthorities.

What motivates you to do worksincerely?

I learnt sincerity from my fatherand mother. My father worked forthe greater good of humanity andmy mother quietly for our family. Inever saw them cutting corners orbeing tired and bored. In my family,they never preached to us with longsermons but rather we learnt manythings, one amongst them beingwork and worship, just seeing themday in day out how they conductedtheir responsibilities.

Share some tips for workingwomen, who handle both work andhome?

For a working woman, managingboth work & home is really a verydelicate balance. First andforemost, working women shouldstop feeling guilty about working.What is important is spendingquality time & managing both yourcommitments creatively.

Second, ask for support when itdoes not come voluntarily. Modernwomen have a lot more on their

platter because life is no longersimple, the way it used to be.

Third, believe in yourself andfight for your dreams.

Share with us a piece of advicethat you would like to give to futureentrepreneurs?

Build a strong vision and believein the vision. Develop corecompetency which will fuel yourvision. Associate with like-mindedpeople and people who will supportyou. I believe the world is a globalvillage today, so create andcollaborate.

What's your take on womenempowerment in India?

In India, culturally women arelooked upon as second genderrather than equal gender. This ischanging with education andemployment. Women are byinherent nature, leaders andinfluencers. It’s just that we needto reshape our own perception ofhow we view ourselves. The beliefof gender equality should beginwithin us, and we should try tochange the perception in society bybeing strong and responsible.

Tell us something about youryoga journey? What motivates youto do yoga?

I took to yoga like a fish takes towater. I was introduced to yoga by

my mother-in-law, Mrs. Saroj Warkewho is an avid yoga teacher and hasbeen practicing yoga for the last 40years. Her gentle persuasion andseeing her positive and fulfilling wayof life, made me want to emulateher and follow the path of yoga. Idedicate my yoga journey solely toher. The calmness of mind,energetic feeling of your physicalbody, the serenity you feel in yoursoul, the dimensions that youexperience beyond the reach ofyour five senses, is what motivatesme.

Would you like to give a shortmessage for the readers?

I would like to quote my guru,Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev here. Allthat matters in life is theprofoundness of your experienceand the impactfulness of youractivity.

Only if you do something largerthan yourself, will you feel foreverfulfilled. It's been a learningexperience for me to reallyunderstand the ethos behind thisstatement and bring this thought tomy daily life.


In this golden age ofglobalisation and the boomingage of startups, India is

witnessing a revolution in womenentrepreneurs. Nowadays, most ofthe entrepreneurs are women. Itwas also witnessed in the popularshow titled “Shark Tank India”.Talking about womenentrepreneurs, one can take theexample of CEO of Sugar cosmeticsor the Vice-Chairman of VardhmanTextiles. Vineeta Singh is the CEO ofSugar Cosmetics, whereas SuchitaOswal Jain is the Vice Chairman andManaging Director of VardhmanTextiles.

These women inspire otherwomen to become like them in thefuture. Today, let’s talk about Ms.Archana R, a leading femaleentrepreneur. The leadingentrepreneur aspires to provide aquality education through acomprehensive and structuredcurriculum using innovativeclassroom methods.

The education and learningcommunity is already underenormous pressure toinnovate, design andimprove a curriculum thataddresses the challengesfaced by students andprepares them to befuture-ready for anycompetitive endeavors inlife. As a change catalystin education, Archana Ris working towards

shaping future leaders who cancontribute to accelerating thecountry's sustainable economicgrowth. The inspiring leader startedher first school at the young age of23. She aims to expand holisticeducation and wants the children toalways excel and achieve theirdreams.

SAN Academy, the first in theSAN Academy Group of Schools,was launched on 9 October 2008.Today, SAN Academy isundoubtedly is growing stronglyand rapidly to attain a paramountposition in the field of academicexcellence. The environment of thisschool is a place where studentscome to learn and create freely.

The school infrastructure aims tomake the learning process anengaging curriculum for thestudents. SAN academy enhancesthe ability and aspirations to offerthe best learning environment tothe students.

The Academy follows a 'student-centered' approach by providing astimulating environment in whichstudents grow by developing boththeir intellectual and social skills.SAN Academy is a historiceducational institution in Chennaiand offers the best teachingpractices by leveraging acomprehensive and structuredcurriculum.

The motivating leader is anengineering graduate and MBAdegree holder. She was born and

Women are the pillars of societywho continuously rise against all odds!

Woman EntrepreneurWho MadeHistory At 23!

Archana R, LeadingFemale Entrepreneur In

Education.


Deepika Chalasani, the mosttrusted Clinical Nutritionist,Mind and Body

Transformation Coach started herentrepreneurial journey in 2012.

An accomplished HR professional& Behaviour Assessment Specialistfor over two decades, with a trackrecord of successes in acceleratingperformance and bringing aboutsustainable change, Deepika hasexperience across multiple sectorslike IT, ITES, Hospitality, Retail,FMCG, Pharma, Manufacturing andFinancial Services.

Deepika’s entrepreneurialjourney began when she, with herfather, cofounded Fit4Life India.She transitioned from a high-profilecorporate career into the world ofnutrition to battle obesity issuesand overcome her health challengesof diabetes, BP, psoriasis, kneepains, fatigue, mood swings etc.

Deepika equipped herself bystudying nutrition and unique mind-body related certifications. Shecoupled her learnings with theexperiential knowledge that herfather had gathered over severaldecades. Her father reversed hisheart ailment, lost 20 kgs andcontrolled her mother’s healthsugar levels.

Deepika herself, lost over 25 kgs,has sustained it over 10 years andhas reversed all her health ailments.A successful female entrepreneuralong with an all women firm,Deepika has helped over 10,000individuals and several thousand

families benefit from a sustainablehealthy and active lifestyle.Deepika’s company Fit4life India,has a few unique distinctions.● Over 2 decades of research on

unique physiological,psychological and culturalcharacteristics of Indians.

● The firm combines latestdevelopments in the field ofnutrition by following reputedorganisations like NIN, CADI,Lancet, WHO etc. along withancient Indian wisdom

● Deepika combines nutritionknowledge along with mind-bodytechniques to bring aboutsustainable change as “50% iswhat we eat and the other 50% is“who we are as an eater.”

Over the last 10 years, she hashelped Indians across the globe inthe following ways:● Sustainable & healthy weight loss.● Reverse / reduce metabolic

disorders like diabetes, BP, UricAcid, PCOD / PCOS, Fatty Liver,Thyroid etc.

● Improve digestive & gastro-intestinal health with issues suchas migraines, IBS, foodintolerances.

● Reduce inflammatory and auto-immune ailments like rheumatoidarthritis, psoriasis etc.

● Improve the fitness and recoverylevels of many athletes whoactively participate in marathons,ocean swimming, ironmancompetitions.

Deepika ChalasaniA Clinical Nutritionist,

Mind and BodyTransformation Coach

MakingIndia Healthier

● Improve skin health viz. acne,pigmentation.

● Enhance the energy & Fitness offamilies by teaching themsustainable healthy active lifestylewhile pursuing their personal &professional goals.

● Overcome eating relateddisorders like emotional eating,stress eating, binge eating,comfort eating with ease.

Deepika has achieved numerousaccomplishments. These include:● Top 10 Woman Nutritionists 2020● Most Trusted Nutritionists 2021● Forbes India, Pride of India, July

2021● India Today, Visionary Leaders,

September 2021● Business Today, Icons of

Leadership, January 2022.

With obesity and lifestyledisorders such as diabetes,cholesterol, PCOD growingsignificantly amongst Indiansglobally and has become a norm foryoung adults, Deepika Chalasani andher Fit4life India team have beencontributing to a Healthier India byhelping Indians globally be “Fit forLife”. Kudos to her!


Journey of the Most Trusted Nutritionist 2021:Deepika Chalasani.



Aleader of change who is ablytaking forward a legacy builtover five decades, Ms.

Suchita Oswal Jain is the ViceChairman and Joint ManagingDirector of Vardhman Textiles. Thedaughter of Padam Bhushan, Shri SP Oswal and the granddaughter ofShri Ratan Chand Oswal, Suchita isan epitome of grit, passion anddetermination.

Suchita is a key driving force inVardhman Textiles, committed totaking the organisation to newheights. She has taken numerousnoteworthy decisions including theinitiation of the forward integrationof Vardhman Group by venturinginto the competitive fabricsbusiness and establishing theidentity of the organisation as theprovider of unparalleled variety,choice of customisation, best-in-class services and quality, besidesan unflinching emphasis oncustomer satisfaction.

She joined the Group in early ’90sas an Executive Director andworked through differentdepartments to learn the intricaciesof business and streamlineprocesses while doing so. Suchitahad envisioned the dream ofmaking Vardhman a one-stopsolution for textile industry at anearly age. Her decision of joining thefamily business was taken during

the times when she used to visit thefactories as a kid, fascinated by thecolours and textures of textiles,aspiring to contribute to it. For thesame, she prepared herself at globalinstitutions like London BusinessSchool, UK and INSEAD, Paris.Alongside, she learnt from herfather and mentor who laid thefoundation of the Group, nurturedthe organisation for over 5 decadesand emphasises the need tocontinuously grow while remainingsteadfast – holding to the roots.

Rooted in values and deliveringworld class textiles, Vardhman isthe leading manufacturer andexporter of yarns and fabrics. Otherbusiness divisions of the Group areacrylic fibre, threads, garments andspecial steels. The largest verticallyintegrated textile manufacturer inIndia, Vardhman has a capacity ofspinning 2,40,000 metric tons ofyarn, weaving over 220 millionmetres of fabric every year,processing 180 million metres of itand providing direct employment toabout 30,000 people, out of which35 per cent are women. The Grouphas 20+ state-of-the-artmanufacturing facilities spreadacross four states – Punjab,Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradeshand Gujarat – and is catering to over75+ countries across the globe. Thecredit of taking the organisation to

Women Entrepreneur Inspiring Change in theTextile Industry.

such dizzying heights goes toSuchita who has lead theorganisation from the front,remaining actively involved in long-term strategy, corporategovernance, policy decisions, CSRinitiatives, expansion plans, newdevelopments etc. It is for herendeavors that Vardhman today isthe common thread behind some ofthe biggest apparel brands in USA,Europe, Asia and several otheremerging markets.

Suchita follows inclusivemanagement and focuses onholistic development. Frombusiness decisions to philanthropicinitiatives and human capitaldevelopment, she has nurturedevery aspect of the organisation.Her thrust on Sustainabledevelopment and digitalisation iscoupled with employee focuseddrives like Swasth Raho Mast Rahoand Respect for All.

Suchita believes in giving back tothe society and has won numerouslaurels including the OutstandingWomen Leadership Awardconferred by the World WomenLeadership Congress, Times of IndiaPower Icons 2021, and EconomicTimes Leaders of Change 2021. Herdynamic approach, goal-orientedoutlook, long-term vision andstrategies power Vardhman Group’spursuit of excellence.

BusinesswomanBreaking Stereotypes

Ms. Suchita Oswal Jain

Ms. Suchita Oswal JainVice-Chairman &

Joint Managing Director ofIndia's leading textile conglomerate –

Vardhman Textiles Limited


Sonal Barmecha is an avidfitness and health freak. Shewas constantly looking out for

healthy food options while diningout. Healthy eating should alwaysbe about enjoying everything in abalanced manner. She believed thatwhen you use good ingredients inthe right proportions to make yourfood you will have an honestlyhealthy meal. Failing to find suchplaces where she could enjoy ahealthy meal, the entrepreneurialjourney of Sonal Barmecha beganand Santé Spa Cuisine & La Magiawas born.

Being an outsider in thehospitality industry, Sonal beganher quest to find like-minded peoplewho could help her execute thisconcept to its best potential. Herentrepreneurial zeal led her to learnabout everything she knows aboutrestaurants today. Purely based onher perseverance, hard work and anability to create an incredible team,Sonal went on to expand thisconcept from a 40 seater restaurantto a 100 seater in just 1 year andthen across the country in 6 metrocities. She ended up developing afranchise model to empowerwomen with a similar thoughtprocess.

Following the success of SantéSpa Cuisine, Sonal curated a brandto elevate South Indian food withYumma Swami and a highly evolvedVegetarian Italian restaurant tobring about a magical experience –La Magia. At Santé, she ensures the

use of freshest ingredients sourcedfrom local farmers. Moreover, thereis no use of any refined product, beit flour, oil, salt, or sugar. Therestaurant uses organic ingredientsand prepares #HonestlyHealthyfood filled with love.

Motto and BeliefsSanté Spa Cuisine & La Magia is a

concept by virtue of which we planto promote her core beliefs –vegetarianism, veganism,environmentalism, awareness, andan idea of minimalism amongst thenew generation. In the grandscheme of mankind, the organiccourse of nature is far moremeaningful than we define it to be.This awareness about theexploitation of one's body and thatof our planet is the need of thehour. We believe that the planetneeds to be cared for, and we doour bit by procuring the freshest oforganic ingredients in their mostnatural course – not chemicallyengineered. The art of Santé living isan idea of a shared planet, andhence we promote vegetarianismand veganism.

The JourneySonal Barmecha, a Chartered

Accountant by qualificationemphasises on the fact that it’snever too late to discover yourcalling and that every womanshould strive towards purpose andindependence. She goes by hermantra to empower women in

“Empowered women empower women.”Lindsey Leifken

EntrepreneurialJourney OfSonal Barmecha

whatever ways possible andbelieves that it can create a rippleeffect to bring about a positiveimpact on the globe in the long run.She also collaborates and supportsbudding and upcoming women-ledbusinesses by providing a platformfor them to reach more people. Herrecent effort for the same is toshowcase 10 women entrepreneursat the restaurant this Women’s Day.

AwardsDuring this journey with Santé,

Sonal was awarded with accoladesfor my entrepreneurial abilities andleadership skills, and some of themare:● Forbes India – Power Woman of

The Year.● Time Food Guide Awards: Last

four years for best vegetarian &health food.

● Mid Day Awards: Best HealthFood Restaurant Mumbai.

● Women Entrepreneur of the Year:Crème Magazine.

● Best Restaurant of the Year:Crème Magazine.

● What's Hot: Best Health FoodRestaurant in India.

● Santé Spa Cuisine & La Magia isalso the most consistent onlinerating, with an average of 4.8/5on Zomato for the last four years.


Sonal BarmechaFounder Of Santé Spa

Cuisine & La Magia


Dr Neelam Mohan is a pioneerin the medical field and iscredited with the evolution

and establishment of the PaediatricLiver Transplant programme in ourcountry. She has been honouredwith the prestigious ‘Dr B C RoyAward’ by Hon’ble President ofIndia in 2016 and ‘DistinguishedTeacher Award’ by National Boardsof Examinations. Presently, she isthe Director and Chief of theDepartment of PaediatricGastroenterology, Hepatology andLiver Transplantation at Medantathe Medicity, Gurgaon.

On the occasion of InternationalWomen’s Day, renownedpaediatrician Dr Mohan shares herthoughts and views with Woman’sEra:

You created the first departmentof paediatric gastroenterology andhepatology in the country. What isunique about this?

It was my dream to provide allfacilities related to gastrointestinalliver disease and livertransplantation under one roof inIndia at an affordable cost. I am gladthis dream came true in 2010 when Imoved to Medanta the Medicity,Gurgaon to create the first suchdepartment. Equipped with State-of-the-Art infrastructure, paediatricendoscopes and specialisedmachines like manometry, EUS, we

provide comprehensive services toall medical and surgical issuesrelated to abdomen in newborn,children and adolescents. We aresupported by several NGOs and areable to provide subsidisedtreatment for the needy. I am trulyproud of my profession, as one cando a lot for the society.

How does it feel to bag severalnational credits and a fewWorldLevel Credits including the livertransplant in the lightest baby of 2kg?

I feel blessed to be in aprominent position in our countryand I am truly grateful to thesupport of my team, family, friendsand the administration of thehospital. Personally, I believe to besuccessful, you need to work hardwith dedication and passion and youwill surely achieve your dreams.Being a woman, I feel much prouderas it is a reflection that women arecreating benchmarks in society andinspiring others too.

What kind of challenges did youface in the initial days of yourcareer?

Since there’s a myth about under-performance of women they are notcredited for their accomplishments,I too had to face discrimination. Inthe starting years of my career, myperformance, achievements, and

Diligent AndDetermined:Dr Neelam Mohan

accomplishments were oftencriticised. There used to be a cold-shoulder. But I think, in the last fewyears, things have improved,especially in the medical field.

What is your motto in life thatkeeps you moving?

I have always treated everypatient of mine like my own family.The medical profession demandssuch an empathetic attitude. I alwaystry to give my best to my patientsand never hesitate going out of myway for it. “Be a good human firstthen a good professional” is what Iteach my team.

What would you suggest toyoung women about personal andprofessional aspects?

Young women need to acquirethe ability to multitask, and need togive quality time to children. Thebest way of parenting is torationalise and discuss things. Thiswill inculcate a good self-esteem inyour child. I would like to burst themyth that your education or growthin career stops after marriage. I’m aliving example of getting supportfrom my in-laws throughout myprofessional education. We canlearn to balance work and family.Also, women need to take goodcare of their physical, mental as wellas social health since they arestrong pillars of society.


Dr Neelam MohanDirector and Chief of the

Department of PaediatricGastroenterology, Hepatology and

Liver Transplantation at Medantathe Medicity, Gurgaon

A Multifaceted Leader.


An acclaimed, award-winningindustry leader andentrepreneur in the Medical

Devices sector, Veena Kohli has ledthe industry’s vision of contributingtowards making India increasinglyself-reliant, in the field of in-vitroDiagnostics (IVDs).

She is the CEO and Founder ofVanguard Diagnostics and theManaging Director of Diagon-Vanguard Diagnostics India – a jointventure between Diagon-Hungaryand Vanguard Diagnostics. Thesecompanies are engaged in thedevelopment and manufacturing ofdiagnostics products for thedetection of Covid-19, Malaria,Dengue, Chikungunya, AIDS,Hepatitis and blood disorders,amongst others.

Illustrious LeadershipVeena is an alumnus of the All-

India Institute of Medical Sciences(AIIMS), New Delhi, where sheobtained her Bachelor’s degree inHuman Biology and Master’sdegree in Pharmacology. This wasfollowed by a sparkling careerspanning 35 years, in seniorleadership roles at blue-chiporganisations like RanbaxyLaboratories Ltd; Ranbaxy FineChemicals Limited, RFCL Ltd. andAvantor-USA, where she served asthe first woman Global Head of theDiagnostics SBU, breaking severalglass ceilings, on the way.

Veena successfully led a largeteam of professionals acrossvarious functions across the US,

Europe, Asia and Mexico for fiveyears. There were great learningsthat she took while running theglobal business, which benefitedher immensely as she forayed intoentrepreneurship and foundedVanguard Diagnostics - with three ofher former Ranbaxy/RFCLcolleagues – Dr. R.P. Tiwari, AnilVirmani and Rahul Thakur.

Passion for ‘Make-in-India’Veena decided to make her

personal contribution towards‘Make-in-India’ by setting-upVanguard Diagnostics Private Ltd.,in 2015 - a manufacturing start- up atNew Delhi. For Veena, the team atVanguard Diagnostics is thecompany’s USP. The organisationhas been founded by a motivatedgroup of professionals withunparalleled skills and expertise inthe diagnostics sector. Thefounders have a complete chain ofcapabilities, ranging from R&D,Manufacturing, Quality, Marketingand Supply Chain to BusinessLeadership - Domestic and Global.

The company’s prime vision is tocontribute towards making Indiaincreasingly self-reliant in the fieldof diagnostics. And it aims toprovide high quality, affordablediagnostics tools across relevantmarkets through its manufacturingand technical capabilities. Today,the firm is the first-choice partnerfor non-manufacturing companies,thus reducing the need for importand giving an impetus to the ‘Makein India’ initiative.


Leading the Medical Devices Sector.

Ms. Veena Kohli:An ExemplaryEntrepreneur

Ms. Veena KohliCEO and Founder ofVanguard DiagnosticsManaging Director ofDiagon-VanguardDiagnostics India.

Innovation & CollaborationIn the face of the pandemic,

Veena and her team decided tochannelise their energy towards thedevelopment of high-qualitysolutions for Covid-19. They wereable to create a high-qualityformulation for the VTM (ViralTransport Medium) Kit, which theysuccessfully upscaled 400-fold in 6weeks to address the urgentdemand. They supplied 4.6 Mntests, at prices less than half of theimported product thus resulting insignificant import substitution andsaving of Forex outflow.

Additionally, Vanguardsuccessfully collaborated withDIPAS-DRDO for the developmentand manufacturing of a Covid-19ELISA antibody test, which wasacknowledged by the Hon’bleRaksha Mantri of India. The productis currently being used for sero-surveillance studies. VanguardDiagnostics received the FICCIHealthcare Excellence Award, for‘Excellence in Scaling-up ofManufacturing for COVID Demand’,in September 2020.

Veena has been recognised forher leadership through prestigiousawards such as the ‘Best WomanEntrepreneur’ by Dun & Bradstreetin 2019, ZEE Business Award, ‘CEOwith HR Orientation’, 2019 as well as

the ‘100 Most Impactful Leaders inHealthcare’ at the World MentalHealth & Wellness Congress, 2019.

Acclaimed Industry LeadershipShe was the first woman

Secretary and is now the firstwoman President, of theAssociation of DiagnosticsManufacturers of India (ADMI), thelargest association of IVDmanufacturers. She infused energyand strength into ADMI, making itemerge as the ‘Voice of theDiagnostics Industry’. Veena

represents the IVD industry atvarious Government of Indiaplatforms serving as a very effectivebridge between the governmentand the industry.

She spearheaded the formationof the first ‘Standards’ fordiagnostics products in the world incollaboration with the Bureau ofIndian Standards (BIS). Since 2018,Veena has passionately workedtowards the successfulimplementation of governmentpolicies that strongly supportincreasing the demand fordiagnostics products that are madein India. The outcome of her effortswas a definitive step towards AtmaNirbharta.

Family and ValuesShe credits her family for playing

a decisive role in facilitating hersuccess. Her family is her soundingboard. Her husband - a passionateprofessional himself, has been apillar of strength while her twochildren have helped her keep pacewith trends and technology.

Diagnostics has always been hercalling in life. She derives her senseof purpose from contributingtowards making India self-reliant inthe diagnostics domain. Veena Kohlicontinues to be an inspiration forwomen entrepreneurs, inhealthcare, and beyond.


From L to R Anil Virmani Director Sales, Dr R.P. Tiwari Director Techniical, Rahul ThakurDirector sales, and Veena Kohli Founder & CEO.

Since 2018, Veena has passionately worked towards the successful implementation ofgovernment policies.


Dr Vidushi Agrawal is oneamongst the best examplesfor honestly practising her

profession. She has always been inforefront to upgrade herknowledge, research and thenimplement the same in a scientificmanner. She believes in the quote ॐlosZ HkoUrq lq[kfu%। losZ lUrq ufjke;k%।

A result-driven, action-orientedleader with documentedachievement and remarkableexperience in field of Dietetics &Nutrition – be it with regards topractice or spreading righteducation and removing misbeliefsin the field of Nutrition throughappropriate practical examples. Shehas achieved tremendous growth inpractice through continuousobservations, research, and clinicaltrials, successfully treating over6000+ patients in last 22 years.

“I had always had a dream, tohave both client section andstudent division, so that along withauthentic treatment, I can alsoimpart right knowledge – I amalready walking on the path.”

“I practise in a hospital, have myown consultation and my studentdivision as well. I love challenges inmy practice – I love to take up thosecases, where the patient has losthope or is distressed and I treatthose cases only with Alkaline Diet.”

Dr. Vidushi Agrawal is a pioneerin “Scientific Implementation ofAlkaline Diet” globally. She hasexpertise in curing Diabetes orreducing complications in seriouscases of diabetes only with Diet.She is also an expert in reversal ofPCOD cases which is seen on a hugerise especially in young females.

During Corona period, DrVidushi also shoulderedresponsibility of counselling20000+ patients / clients / healthyindividuals and as a trial given apreventive homeopathic medicinefor Corona to more than 200+people before vaccination & all ofthose who took it, did not sufferfrom the disease. Her research waspublished in a medical journal.Before Corona, she has alsoconducted more than 100+ medicalcamps on spreading awareness onBreast Cancer and Diabetes at bothnational and international level in aperiod of 5 years for which she hasreceived recognition.

Honours and Accolades: Rightfrom 2018 to 2022 till date – she hasbeen recognised on differentplatforms both at national andinternational Level and alsowritten articles in a couple ofmagazines and featured oncoverpage of a few of them. Toname a few:

● Samman Chinh- Human RightsOrganisation - December 23, 2018.

● Most Inspiring Woman Achieverfor Excellence in Dietetics andNutrition (Mumbai)- Blinkworld -January 20, 2019.

● Conference in Germany Effect ofDiet on Diabetes– Berlin Germany– June 2019.

● Pratigya Awards for SocialAwareness in Breast Cancer –June 2019.

● Recognition by Hon’ble Memberof Parliament Shri Gopal Shettyji.She quotes a message for

society, “A healthy lifestyle (70%diet and 30% exercise) can helpprotect you from all types ofdiseases and long-term sickness.Always taking care of your health isimportant for your self-esteem aswell.” Her Tag Line is “MedicineFree Life”.


Build your Immunity with NaturalHealthy Diet -

Whatsapp – 9969526918 / write [email protected]

Dr Vidushi AgrawalDHMS (Mum), HMD (Lon),

MSc. DFSM (IGNOU)

Pioneer in ScientificImplementation ofAlkaline Diet Worldwide:Dr. Vidushi AgrawalResult-driven, action-oriented leader.


Aloving, committed, andcompaniable marriage ofminds, bodies and souls is a

thing of utter beauty and such arelationship can be liberating ratherthan enslaving. Yes, falling in love iswondrous but rising in love ispassion tempered withcompatibility. It’s the rising partthat sometimes requires assistanceand guidance. A true matchmaker,like Priya Shah, will arrange a matchwith your true, soulmate, knowingthat love is a foregone conclusion.

Celebrating 30 successful yearsof being “The Elite Matchmaker”,Priya Shah explains how digitisationhas changed the matchmakinglandscape and helped strengthenher core values and business ethicstoo. On one hand, the digital quickfix has led to a string of brokenhearts mainly due to the lack ofthorough vetting.

On the other hand, a much talkedabout reality show has made severalpeople wonder about the“compromise” that some old-schoolmatchmakers may expect of themand made them shudder at beinglabelled a “negative” or stubbornclient… simply for having anopinion or a goal.

Priya Shah started her careerbecause she understood how

antiquated the arranged marriagesystem was (back then) withcouples getting hardly any time toknow each other or meet.

Now Priya got unusually luckywith finding a loving and supportivehusband, but many in her time werevictims of this system. She chose tointervene for loved ones and helpensure that there wascommunication, transparency andsetting of expectations with thefamilies before matches were made.

The biggest plus point aboutPriya Shah is that she is the onlymatchmaker who herself handlesclients. She doesn’t leave the gruntwork to anyone else but sheadditionally spends time withparents of clients too to understandthe true family dynamics, and theirexpectations.

Her fame led her to expand herreach across India and then acrossthe globe with enterprising clientsfrom the USA, UK, Australia and thelike. Priya was the only matchmakerto innovate her approach. In a boldmove, she called 200 singles (100males and 100 females) with theirparents to a meet and greet eventat a key 5-star hotel. This was hermatrimonial version of speeddating, but the speed was limited tothe meet and greet – not thereafter.

Ms Priya Shah:A TrueMatchmaker


Priya ShahThe Elite Matchmaker

Celebrating love and companionship.

Priya after all insists on clientsthoroughly getting to know eachother before making thecommitment of a lifetime.

To help couples have a lastingmatch, Priya not only counsels thembut she also published a book thathas pearls of wisdom on marriage.Her work has been emotionally andfinancially satisfying as she has nottreated it as a business but takeneach client on as if they are family. Itis the reason why she still has callspouring in, seeking her help to findthe perfect match.

Even today, with 30 years ofmatchmaking (she started youngand has grown younger with time),18000+ clients and 9000+ matchesto her name, Priya is stilleffervescent and enthusiastic in herapproach. Time hasn’t diminishedher passion, her honesty, herintegrity, her effort, or her accuracyin matchmaking. She continues tohave a large, elite clientele whotrust her implicitly. She, in fact, hashelped matchmake several couplesin her early days whose children toofound their soulmate through her.Visit:www.priyashahthematchmaker.com

Work is a massive part ofmost people's lives. Itmight be the money that

matters to you, or theindependence, or the socialconnections that comes with theemployment. We all have dayswhen life becomes reallyexhausting due to various reasonslike work-related travel ordeadlines.

Work-life, however, can get inthe way of maintaining your mentalhealth. Sometimes, stress at workcan make it harder to deal withstress in your relationships andcommitments outside of work.

Work-life balanceLife is a see-saw. No matter how

hard we try to balance it, how muchwe give in, some things will alwaysbe out of balance. However, it isimportant to prioritise yourself overother things. Work-life balance ismore than just a cliché; it's anecessity for our long-term healthand happiness.

But balancing work, family, andother responsibilities is morecomplicated than it looks. The keyto success is learning to prioritisewhat's truly important, take controlover your career path, and simplifyyour life.

No timings?Being the first to reach the office

and the last one to leave the officeis not a healthy work ethic.Overtime can also be a sign thatyour workload is too high, and oneway to help fix this problem is toremove some of the unneededtasks. Spending more hours at theoffice than you should be can leadto exhaustion, and yourproductivity may suffer.

The great expectationsLet's face it. There are unrealistic

expectations in the workplace forall of us to be perfect employeeswho can do everything. For many,this can cause a lot of stress andanxiety when things aren't exactlyhow you want them to be.

This can also lead to feelingstressed out, which can causephysical symptoms like fatigue andheadaches. However, it is very vitalfor every individual to take a breakand take time for oneself in order tofeel more relaxed and healthier.

Low outputStress can be hazardous to your

health if you let it build up overtime. It can lead to excessiveexhaustion and apathy that makeswork unbearable, as well as misseddeadlines, unmet quotas, andsubpar work.

Complete burnoutBurnout is a fairly common trend

in modern society as we live andwork within a culture that favoursfast-paced and high expectations.But this isn't restricted to just thecorporate world; it can evenhappen in small businesses whereworkflows are usually customised,jobs are more specific, and thelifestyle is highly dependent.

Whenever you feel stressed, takea break. It is important to take timefor yourself, think about what ismaking you feel overwhelmed, itcan go a long way when trying toavoid burnout.

LIFE IS A SEE-SAW.THE KEY TO SUCCESSIS LEARNING TOPRIORITISE WHAT'STRULY IMPORTANT,TAKE CONTROL OVERYOUR CAREER PATH,AND SIMPLIFY YOURLIFE.

Juggling WorkAnd Life

Undermining your personallife in a bid to overdo.

By Mallika Chugh


We



The recent has highlighted theneed for putting women andgirls at the centre of

economies and espically in creatingan AtmaNirbhar Bharat. Let’s meetsome remarkable womenentrepreneurs who across edtech,healthtech and social enterpriseswho have done remarkable workamidst the challenges of a globalpandemic.

Dr. Priyanka is a firm believerof the fact that Dentistry is aperfect combination of

aesthetics and science and canmake a huge impact on anindividual’s look, feel and functionwhich ultimately aids in improvingtheir self-confidence. Rejove aimsto make professional and advancedorthodontic treatment accessible topeople across age groups. ‘RejovéAligners’ are next-generation clearaligners facilitating a virtuallydiscreet and removable alternativeto braces. The company recentlyreceived a USD I million funding forRejove Aligners. Rejove’s flagshipskin and haircare service SkinU isalso an industry frontrunner.Doorstep services from the safetyand convenience of one’s home arealso being offered by Rejove foreligible customers.

Women EntrepreneursTransforming Lives

Creative Galileo started amidstthe pandemic with Prerna’sfocus being early childhood

learning while keeping it fun. TheApp is based on famous kids'characters such as Little Singham. Itrepresents a paradigm shift fromtraditional teaching practices anddelivers highly engaging storylinesof Little Singham and his friends,Babli, Lattu, Hawaldar Karate, andmany others. Since its inception inJuly 2020, the app has recordedover 6 million downloads and over 6lakh monthly active users withoutany marketing spend. HolonIQ

Prerna JhunjhunwalaFounder of Creative Galileo Little SinghamKids Early Learning App

Foundation works towardsempowering children from humblebackgrounds and marginal sectionsof the society.

Shilpa SinghalFounder of Sitare Foundation

Dr. Priyanka GoyatOrthodontist, CosmetologistCo-Founder of Rejove Aligners.

recently listed Creative Galileo ontheir annual list of the 100 mostpromising EdTech startups fromIndia & South Asia.

Sitare Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that aimsto empower talented

underprivileged children througheducation. Shilpa is a Physicist and aComputer Scientist with degreesfrom State University of New York(Binghamton) and CornellUniversity. Her deep involvementwith her children’s education, andher volunteer work in schools, gaveher a deep appreciation for what ittakes to educate a child to be aprofessional. This led to the birth ofSitare Foundation which Shilpa runsalong with her husband AmitSinghal who led the Google searchfor over fifteen years (2000-2016).

Adopting a scientific, step-by-step approach to impact lives andsocieties through education theFoundation’s mission is to“Transform fifty thousand livesthrough education by 2050”. The

Early VersusLate Marriages

Before the Sharda Act hadbeen passed it was normalfor people to get married

even when they had not reachedtheir teens. But the legislationbrought the marriageable age to 21years for boys and 18 for girls.

In December 2021, the Centralgovernment took a major step andrevised the Minimum Marital AgeAct. According to the bill, the newminimum marital age for womenhas been increased from 18 to 21years. This law shall apply to allpersonal laws and all womenregardless of their religion.

There are many reasons for thegovernment to increase the maritalage of women, one of them beingthat, at present, many girls areforced to leave their studiesget married. The minimum legalage required for this gives themtime for their studies andopportunities to pursue highereducation.

Another main reason is thatpregnancies in teenage girlsincrease the chances of high bloodpressure, anaemia, and manyother health problems in themother, and can also lead toserious pregnancy complicationsthat can lead to the death of themother.

A New York University studyfound that educated mothershelp their children succeed inschool, not only by expandingtheir academic knowledge butby modelling behaviours andsocial interactions that lead toacademic success.

Pros and cons of a delicate situation.By Rungeen Singh

Many famous couples are proofthat there is no ideal age to getmarried. You should do it when youare ready for it.

If marriage is acceptable at theage of 21, then marriage at the ageof 40 is also acceptable. Recently,Bollywood couple Katrina Kaif andVicky Kaushal got married andKatrina is older than Vicky in age butas it is said age is just a number.

Mature people these days aremore confident and know theirmind quickly. They are sure aboutwho and what type they want as alife partner.

Society has urged people tomarry up to a certain age, butmarrying late is far better thanmarrying the wrong person early.

You need to understand thatmost people change a lot duringtheir teens, twenties, and eventhirties. Imagine you're gettingmarried at 18, and you change a lotby the age 30. Imagine the sameprocess going on with your husband- how will your marriage end?

You are right, it will probably endin divorce. It is wiser to marry in theage of reason because you will havetime to find yourself

Another important factor inmarriage is children. When you getmarried early, sometimes you haveto go through different phases oflife for which you are not ready.Like, having children after one ortwo years of your marriage andneglecting them later is a muchworse thing than marrying late.

But early marriages may end upin divorce because the youngpartners may have mistakeninfatuation for love. Moreover, asclassmates are generally of thesame age, the "personal equation"may suffer as both are learning atthe same time to be more matureadults.

Whereas later, you arerefreshingly confident about thecommitments you want to make,helping you to relax through thedifficult phases of life.

Early marriages also poseproblems for the partners in settingup and stabilising careers. A lot of

time and effort is needed for this.With the changing times, we

need to understand that it is veryimportant for men and women tobe educated and make their careersbefore marriage.

One of the negative effects oflate marriage is the need to havechildren as soon as possible.

A woman can give birth to a childup to the age of 45-50 years. Like ifthe couple is already 35 or morethan 35 years old then there is notime to wait. Both feel pressurefrom their parents, friends, andsociety.

THE IDEAL AGETo be honest, finding the right

person takes a lot of time, effort,patience, and understanding andit's totally fine if people want tospend their time finding the rightperson. They should not feelpressure to marry young becausebeing married elevates you insociety, no matter how unhappy ordisliked you are in a marriage.

The ideal situation would be for aman to marry when he is already

well settled in his career and in aposition to devote time andattention to home and wife so thatshe does not feel neglected andrejected. Women should also marrywhen they already have completedtheir education and preferably havea professional degree and areworking or not working, accordingto their choice.This will give themthe security of being able tomanage independently in case themarriage falls through or they areexploited.

Marriage has its benefits and canbe secured in itself. Rather thanmanaging alone, two people canpool in their complete resources,talents, and potential. They can beready to live as one force withwhatever is necessary for the unionto survive.

A good marriage can give thetaste of a rapturous utopia while abad marriage can lead one to thedamning inferno of Hades.

The readiness of people formarriage should be considered onan individual basis. Some grown-upscan lack maturity, while someyoungsters can be moreenlightened than their seniors.Nobody should enter marriage withblinkers on as maintaining thebalance of a happy marriage is notvery easy.

What is essential is that boys andgirls should not make hastydecisions but should think abouttheir life and career first and settlefor marriage when they are over thelegal age and capable enough toface and surmount all the problemsand tensions that living togetherwith another person for a lifetimemay entail.

Marriage should be considered alifelong union and the two partnersshould have mature heads to acceptall the complexities of life and livingplus a readiness to love, care andgive. This is vital for maintaining thesanctity of a happy marriage.

Any age can be suitable formarriage if you are ready for it.More important is who you aremarrying and whether you arehappy doing so.

SOCIETY HAS URGEDPEOPLE TO MARRY UPTO A CERTAIN AGE, BUTMARRYING LATE IS FARBETTER THANMARRYING THE WRONGPERSON EARLY.

We


IAM GOING TO START MY NEW JOB SOON, AND WANT

to know what make-up I can wear for theoffice, without looking scruffy or over

made-up. I am 20 years old and have a clearsmooth complexion.

You have to present a neat, groomed look inthe office space and this is created with subtleuse of make-up.

Since your complexion is clear, you should use only amoisturiser containing sun-block. Avoid oily or creamyones as these tend to create a greasy look. If you have anysmall scars or pimples, you can blend a little concealer overthese to hide them.

Eye make-up is good but avoid heavy mascara orshadow. An eyeliner to define the eyes will be quitesufficient. Wear lipsticks which are pink, coral or lightmagenta or even a natural shade which will give yourlips an attractive glow. Even using a simple lip gloss isgood.It is advisable to avoid rouge on the cheeks unlessit is done with a very light hand. Hair should be neatlycombed and pinned to give you a look of efficiencywithout seeming prim.

ILIKE TO WASH MY HAIR FREQUENTLY BECAUSE IT BECOMES VERY

dusty and grimy, but this tends to make my hair dry. Doyou think it is a good idea to dilute my shampoo with

water before using it, so that it does not harm my hair?A better option would be to buy a mild shampoo; even a

baby shampoo works very well in cleaning without unduedrying of scalp and hair. There are also shampoos whichcontain essential oils which can leave your hair smoothand shining.

If, however, you are at present using a shampoo whichis gel-like and concentrated, you can, indeed, dilute it. Donot add water to the bottle, but take a capful in a cup andmix water in it and use it.

PLEASE SUGGEST A SAFE AND SIMPLE METHOD OF REMOVING EYE

make-up.It is very important to remove all make-up, especially of

the eyes, before going to bed, or else this will clog skinpores and cause zits and puffiness.

Always keep make-up pads handy. Dip one in make-upremover and place wet pad on closed eye for about half aminute. Wipe using downward movements, gently andfirmly, till all mascara, liner and shadow are completelyremoved. Wash your face with a face cleanser.

You can also use coconut, jojoba or olive oil to removeeye make-up. This is safe and even if some goes into theeye, it will only cause some harmless blurriness for a littlewhile. Do not pull or tug at skin around eyes, for it is verydelicate.

WHEN APPLYING KAJAL STICK OR EYELINER, SHOULD I LINE

only the outer edges of eyes or all around theeye rims? Which is appropriate?

It depends on the look you wish to create. If you darkenonly the outer edges of the eyes, you get a wide-eyed look.If you rim the whole eye with the kajal or liner, you achievea dramatic, exotic look. Normally, the former is fine forthe day; reserve the second for night times, and combine itwith mascara as well.

Kajal stick gives a smudgy look while the liner gives aclean dark colour to the eyes. Always smudge the kajaltowards the outer edges of eyes for an attractive look.

MY NECK IS A BIT SHORT AND I FEEL VERY SELF-CONSCIOUS

about this feature, for otherwise I am veryattractive. Can you suggest some ways of

lengthening my neck? I am a 16-year-old girl.Unfortunately, there is nothing much you can do about

lengthening your neck although you can adopt a goodposture to help you. Do not slouch; walk with head heldhigh and back straight, pulling in your tummy.

Choose hairstyles which are short, preferably ear or chinlength. A pony tail is a good option. The idea is to exposethe neck and not let hair cover it from the sides. Pile morehair on the top of your head with curls or top knots. Avoidhigh-necked dresses; turtle necks, scarves, etc. Garmentswith V-necks and low necks make the neck look longertoo. Avoid buttoning up shirts and blouses fully. Keep thetop buttons slightly open to reveal more neck. Avoidflounces, frills and heavy embroidery in the upper garment.Choose light neck jewellery and not heavy necklaces andchokers which will emphasise the shortness of your neck.

PLEASE GIVE ME A FEW TIPS TO LIVEN UP MY COMPLEXION. IT LOOKS

dull and sallow.Wash face first with warm water, dab-dry. Then rub

your face with ice cube and a teaspoonful of honey. Keep iton for at least 10 minutes, then wash off. You will find yourface glowing. Beat an egg white till it peaks. With a brush,paint your whole face with it, and let dry.

You will feel your skin stretching and tightening. Keep iton till completely dry and then rinse off with ice-cold water.It is a very good skin freshener and cleanser. Do make it ahabit to have a professional facial done at least once amonth, if not more frequently. This will exfoliate the skin,removing grime and dead cells. Include fresh fruit andvegetables in good measure in your daily diet. Drink at least8 glasses of water. Use a moisturiser with sunscreen whengoing out. All this will make your face lose the dullness.

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Readers are invited to send their beauty problems andquestions regarding face, complexion, hair, skin, eyes, etc tothis column.Address your letters, written legibly or typed on white paper, to:WOMAN’S ERA E-3, Jhandewala Estate, New Delhi-110 055.

Q A&Beauty Queries

The future belongs to thosewho believe in the beauty oftheir dreams. It’s never too

late to turn your dreams into realityand Mrs. Alisshaa Ohri, anentrepreneur and make-up artist byprofession has proven that right bywinning the title of Diadem MrsIndia Legacy 2021-22, organised inGurugram. Beauty has no age bar,beauty is endless and enlightens


Mrs. Alisshaa Ohri, a professional makeup artist and a mother of two who recentlybagged the title of Mrs. India Legacy 2021-22

We

your every stage of life, and thiswas proven by the alluring andcharismatic Alisshaa Ohri who washonoured with the crown as thewinner of Diadem Mrs India legacy2021. She is now relentlesslyworking towards the betterment ofsociety. She’s an inspiration forevery woman who is in her shell butaspiring for more and doesn’t wantto settle for less.

Diadem provided her with aplatform that not only gives womenthe opportunity to showcase theirbeauty, intelligence and talent butalso provides a space where theyexplore and discover themselves ina real sense. She also attendedgrooming classes by Gleam Diva, anorganisation which gave her anopportunity to transform into adiva. It was a rigorous training foralmost a year and she had to facemany challenges but she neverstopped believing in herself. Herjourney is a testimony to the factthat one can achieve their dreamsat any age with hard work, wit andperseverance. Even after achievingthe impressive feat, humility is thequality reflected in the ever-smilingbeauty.

Mrs. IndiaLegacy 2021-22:Alisshaa OhriThe RavingBeauty!

IT’S NEVER TOO LATETO TURN YOURDREAMS INTO REALITYAND MRS. ALISSHAAOHRI, ENTREPRENEURAND MAKE-UP ARTISTBY PROFESSION HASPROVEN THAT RIGHT.

Mrs Alisshaa Ohri, thepowerhouse of incrediblestrength, determination,

honesty and passion.

Nightingale LataLeaves...Her silken voice, however,will continue to live till eternity.By K.V. Venugopal

Lata Mangeshkar, consideredas a nightingale by themillions of music lovers across

the country, passed away on 6February at Breach Candy hospitalin Mumbai after suffering fromCovid-related complications for thelast two weeks. The 92-year-oldgifted singer had carved out a nichefor herself with her distinctive voicethat is still enthralling not only herfans, but the music lovers ingeneral, especially the old-timers,who would recall her golden songswith bubbling enthusiasm.

There is no iota of doubt thatmany singers would come and go,but Lata, also remembered as“Melody Queen” by the TinselWorld, would continue to shine polestar in the musical firmament ofIndia, as a large number of musiccomposers, lyricsts and heroinesbecame popular in the yesteryearonly because of the fabulous voicerendered by Lata, affectionatelycalled “Lataji” by her fans withutmost reverence.

Lata Mangeshkar’s demise is anirreparable loss, not only to the filmindustry, but also to the entirenation. Top political leaders of thecountry including the Prime MinisterNarendra Modi and Congress leaderRahul Gandhi paid condolences onher death in a gesture of obeisancefor her illustrious career thatspanned over six-decades.

Lata became a nonagenarian in2019. The fame-singer’s 90th birthanniversary went off as a simpleceremony with a large number ofpeople from various walks of lifewishing her a happy and prosperouslife. The top-most caller was noneother than the PM Narendra Modi,who himself spoke to her and hailedher stupendous achievements,

before boarding the flight to the USto meet the former AmericanPresident Donald Trump.

Lata reciprocated his gestureheartily and remarked that “shefinds some spark and ability inModi’s performance.”

Interestingly, Lata’s mother wasa Gujarati and Modi, being a Gujaratiby birth, must have been doublydelighted that she is also thedaughter of his state’s soil. Modiacknowleded Lata’s credentials byaccompanying her to the stagewhen she received the coveted‘Dada Saheb Phale’ award from thegovernment.

Lata was initially spotted by theprolific composer Naushad Ali inlate 1940s. She made the first PrimeMinister of India, Pandit JawaharlalNehru cry, as tears started rollingdown on his cheeks when sherendered the patriotic song, “Aemere watan ke logon…” just afterthe Indo-China war of 1962, similarto Rafi’s “Suno, suno ae duniyawalon, bapu ki amar kahani”…”after the assassination of MahatmaGandhi in 1948.

Many composers noted that Latahad a unique silken voice andunmatchable octave, compared toher contemporaries. The musicdirectors like Madan Mohan,

Lakshmikant Pyarelal, Sachin DevBurman, Shankar Jaikishan andKalyanji Anandji, apart fromNaushad always opted for Lata overother singers. They were ready tosacrifice their projects, if Lata wasnot around.

MESMERISING VOICEFor instance, when Raj Kapoor

insisted on replacing Lata withsome other singer for his film,Satyam Shivam Sundaram, (as bothwere not on good terms then), thecomposers Laxmikant Pyarelal wereready to quit the project, if thenightingale was not retained. Theshowman Raj Kapoor had no otheralternative, but to relent.

Madan Mohan could not dreamof composing any film without Lata,as the people were still hummingthe songs like, Lag ja Gale withutmost delight.

Likewise, both Naushad andLakshmi-Pyare duo were ready tosacrifice their favourite male singerRafi by replacing him with Mukeshto accommodate Lata in films,


PM Modi paying tribute to Lata Mangeshkar.

Lata singing ‘ae mere watan ke logon’ song.

LATA’S MOTHER WAS AGUJARATI AND MODI,BEING A GUJARATI BYBIRTH, MUST HAVEBEEN DOUBLYDELIGHTED THAT SHE ISALSO THE DAUGHTEROF HIS STATE’S SOIL.PRIME MINISTER MODIACKNOWLEDED BYACCOMPANYING HERTO THE STAGE WHENSHE RECEIVED THECOVETED ‘DADA SAHEBPHALE’ AWARD FROMTHE GOVERNMENT.

Lata Mangeshkar with Sachin Dev Burman, Shankar Jaikishan,Kalyanji Anandji, legendary Naushad.

Saathi and Milan, as Lata and Rafihad a difference of opinion on theRoyalty issue and decided not tosing together.

However, it was left to thecomposer maestro, Sachin DevBurman to pacify the duo andensured that they sing togetherafter three years.

The ardent admirers of Latawould claim that even honey wouldcave-in-meekly before the voice oftheir favourite singer. Fair enough,as Lata’s voice has mesmerised thepeople in general.

If the film, Mamata could becomea huge success due to actingprowess of the heroine SuchitraSen, part of the credit goes to Lataalso for rendering the song, Rahenna Rahen Hum in her mellifluousvoice. It is no exaggeration to saythat many of the films in those daysran for the voice of Lata, too.

Could anyone forget songs like, OBaluma (Chori Chori), Neina Barse(Woh Kaun Thi), Tera Mera, PyarAmar (Asli Naqli), Aa Jane Ja(Intaqam), Mein Tulsi, tere angan ki(Mein Tulsi Tere Angan Ki), RangeelaRe (Prem Pujari), Bachpan keMohabat ko (Baiju Bawara), Aaj phirjeene ke thamana hai (Guide), MereNaina Sawan Badon (Mehbooba)?One can go on and on. The list isendless.

Lata, however, was modest inappreciating the budding youngtalents. For example, she ratedShreya Ghosal as the best bet forfuture. She was also not averse toadmitting that versatility is not herforte, unlike her younger sister AshaBhonsle. She was magnanimous insaying that “Rafi Saheb sang betterthan me in duet-songs” and“Kishore Kumar picked up technicalnuances faster than other singers”of her era. Lata also proved hermettle in cabaret-songs like Ek BharChehera Hata De Sharabi, Dekh PhirHota Hai Kya, Aaa Jane Jaa and Ishk ebimar, among others.

Though, she sang for a largenumber of actresses with aplomb,according to Lata, the late Nutanhad emerged with better emotionto her voice than other heroines.She is quite right, as who can denyher marvellous songs for theconcerned actress in Paying Guest,Tere Ghar Ke Samne, Anari, Khandan,Gauri, Meherban, Mein Tulsi TereAngan Ki and Milan, among others.

Lata also made it known in herautobiography that she very badlywanted to sing the classical songrendered by Rafi, Madhuban meinradika nache re…that emanatedfrom the protruding neck of thelegendary actor, Dilip Kumar in thefilm, Kohinoor but, she had toaccept with a tinge of regret thatthe popular song was meant onlyfor a male voice.

LEGENDARY SINGERThe magnificent singer believed

in the policy that it is futile toappease everybody in the filmindustry, as she firmly believed inthe adage, that “if you try to pleaseeach and every one, you pleasenone.”

She had not been in talking termswith the thespian Dilip Kumar for 13years, but lauded him as the bestactor of Hindi cinema. Similarly, shedid not want to see the face of RajKapoor during the song-recordingof Satyam Shivam Sundaram.

Likewise, she did not sing a songfor the composer O.P. Nayyar, tillhis last breath, although bothacknowledged the talents of eachother, albeit indirectly.

Lata had her share of problems,too.

For instance, singer Vani Jayaramalleged that Lata and Asha were notallowing other singers to prosper inthe industry after she made herdebut with the song, Bole RePapeehara in the film, Guddi. Vanialso had the mortification ofpointing out that the composerVasant Desai had to make-shift hisrecording theatre to avoid clasheswith Mangeshkar sisters.

However, Lata’s contention was


SHE IS QUITE RIGHT,AS WHO CAN DENYHER MARVELLOUSSONGS FOR THECONCERNED ACTRESSIN PAYING GUEST, TEREGHAR KE SAMNE, ANARI,KHANDAN, GAURI,MEHERBAN, MEIN TULSITERE ANGAN KI ANDMILAN, AMONGOTHERS. SHE SANG FORA LARGE NUMBER OFACTRESSES.

Lata Mangeshkar with Asha Bhosle, Hridayanath Mangeshkar and Anand Bhosle.

that she wanted Royalty to be paidto the singers, similar to the facilityenjoyed by the lyricists andcomposers. But she found notakers. Journalist and the formerUnion Minister M.J. Akbar regrettedthat the music lovers lost threeprecious years, when they could nothear Lata and Rafi singing together.

Lata preferred Mahendra Kapoorand thus Rafi had no other choice,but to look for Asha Bhonsle,Suman Kalyanpur and Sharada for abrief period. As the composersAnandji and Pyarelal noted, Latawent out of the way to encouragethe new commers like UditNarayanan, Kumar Sanu and AlkaYagnik, among others.

Lata always had a soft corner forthe Northeast, as she loved thesongs and compositions of the well-known artist Bhupen Hazarika. "Cananyone forget his song Ganga Tumbahati ho kyun…, whichcharacterises the joining of riversfrom all over India," Latareminisced.

She often felt that the entirenortheast, if not the Eastern regionthat has produced some memorablesingers, lyricists and music directorshad been meted out a step-motherly treatment by theBollywood; the picture would havebeen different.

She also rushed to participate inthe birth-centenary of the notedsinger-composer, Hemanta Kumarin Kolkata a few years ago andhailed his performance.

Lata had varied interests. Shewas an ardent lover of cricket. Shenever missed Test matches in thepast even when she was at the peakof her career and considered themaestro Sachin Tendulkar as herson.

Her other favourite cricketersrange from Mansur Ali Khan Pataudito Sunil Gavaskar and GundappaViswanath, among others.

When the Board of Control forCricket in India (BCCI) was facingacute financial problem, and, moreso, after the victory in 1983 WorldCup at Lords in England, sheimmediately donated Rs 8 lakh to

the Board, considered to be thehuge money in those days.

She was also close to the thenBCCI president Raj Singh Dungarpurand the latter recalled how Latajiused to accompany him forimportant cricket matches in Indiaand wanted to pick up the finer-points of cricket.

Lata did not hesitate to help outfor social causes like cancerinstitutes and assisted the needypeople in the film industry. Shealways believed in the coexistenceof Bollywood with other film citiesand was shocked that prominentHindi film artistes had not attendedthe funeral of the immortalKollywood actor and her familyfriend, Sivaji Ganesan in 2001 andexpressed her displeasure withoutmincing words.

TRYING POLITICSPolitics was not Lata’s cup of tea,

although she did not hesitate toexperiment with it when shebecame a Rajya Sabha member.

However, she soon realised thefolly of entrenching herself in thecesspool of politics, especially afterthe mounting criticism emanatedfrom the actor-politician, ShabanaAzmi and a few others for herignorance on the sensitive issuesthat was causing concern to thenation. However, music was herlove and Lata ensured that manyfinancially-constrained singers wereaccommodated in the music-academy floated by her brother,Hridayanath Mangeshkar.

She attached priority to classicialsongs and it was not surprising thatshe used to proudly proclaim

herself as the disciplined student ofthe late, Kundan Lal Saigal, similarto the mercurial Kishore Kumar.

Lata rightly deserved thecoveted ‘Bharat Ratna’ that wasconferred upon her in 2001 by thethen Atal Bihari Vajpayeegovernment. Lata’s glorious songswill remain etched in the minds ofmusic fans forever. There is nodoubt that she was like a hugebanian for budding singers.

Shreya Ghosal summed up hertribute to Lata’s gifted voice.According to her, Lata wasunmatchable and other singers arefortunate enough to learn from herintrinsic ability and uncannyanticipation.

Needless to say, Shreya opineswith bubbling enthusiasm that herlife’s ambition and achievementshave been fulfilled after she waslauded by the Nightingale.

Sonu Nigam recalled how Latajisent him some albums of her oldsongs recently, much to hisimmense amazement.

To her credit, Lata was alsoawarded with Padma Bhushan,Padma Vibhubsan and Raj Kapoor’sLife Time Achievement awards,apart from four Filmfare awards andmany coveted trophies, which avery few could dream of.


We

Lata Mangeshkar receiving Bharat Ratna.

Sachin Tendulkar and Lata Mangeshkar.


Faanoos – a wellness, leisureand healing retreat, spreadover pristine and lush green 25

acres in Goa, India is a WellnessRetreat with a difference. Foundedby the couple Mr Rajiv Rai and DrAlka Mehta, this place is more of anIntegrative Medical Centre thatprovides healing and wellnessthrough integrated approach ofmodern science, Ayurveda,naturopathy, Yoga and mindfulness.The Retreat is a heaven for detox ofmind, body and soul.

Boasts Founder Mr Rajiv Rai, "Lotof research and brainstorming wentbehind curating the curativeprogrames. Dr Alka, a renownedname in skincare and health care hasdesigned these programmes in ajoint venture with the World-Famous University of S-VYASA &Vyasa Research Centre,Aroghyadham Hospital and MedicalCollege based in Bangalore. Thetreatments have been designedafter 45 years of research by theUniversity Scholars and clinicalpractice by Dr Alka for 30 years. Theresult-oriented yoga therapies wereapproved by the London School ofMedicine, the University ofManchester in the United Kingdomand the University of Stanford in theUSA. Our support team comprisesscholars and doctors from allschools of medicines, Yoga,Ayurveda Naturopath, nutrition,modern medicines, energy healing,mindfulness and others fromvarious medicinal disciplines.”

Dr Alka has treated over 1.2million patients during her career asa Dermatologist. It is a world-classwellness retreat with an aim to

Khushboo JainWellness Advocate,

Founder ofMadAboutWellness.

A place to attain creativity, solace, healing andinner happiness.

bring positivity in life of peoplesuffering from mental and physicalproblems. Quips Dr Alka, "Ourmission is to make the world betterthrough medical health andmindfulness." It is an integrativeapproach for wellness whichincludes Yoga and mindfultherapies.

Accommodation ConceptThe Retreat is based on the

concept of long-term study of careand leisure homes in Europe. Youcan choose from well appointedsuites at 5500 INR to a PrivateIndependent Villa ranging from18000 to 25000 INR per night with adedicated butler and Yoga therapistfor the family.

Curative ProgrammesThe programmes at the Retreat

focus on body and mind problemsthat need cure. This includestreatments for diabetes, body andmind detox, obesity treatment,Naturopathy treatment,endocrinology treatment,promotion of positive health,hypertension treatment,

Faanoos Retreat, GoaLeisure, Wellness AndHealing

Mr Rajiv Rai and Dr Alka Mehta,Co-Founder of Faanoos.


Organic FarmingPluck your choice of fruits and

vegetables from the wellmaintained Kitchen Garden here.The chef will cook an organic mealfor you. The food served atFAANOOS is cooked with mostorganic homegrown ingredients,herbs and spices, the Turmeric andPepper.

Vegan RestaurantIt aims at creating balance in

your lifestyle. The root cause ofmost body problems is food andlifestyle that we develop over aperiod of time. Vegan Soulscaptures the soul of a healthy bodywhere curries are cooked as amedicine for the body and the mind.The diet plans of the patients duringand after the treatment are plannedby a renowned team of doctors.The restaurant is located in theheart of FAANOOS –GOA CAMPUSoverlooking the green landscapedgarden and the Bliss Residencegiving a panoramic view and solaceto behold.

Faanoos is a vibrant journey thataims to achieve creativity, solace,healing and inner happiness.

Contact:FAANOOS,Leisure, Wellness & Healing , GoaVillage Sirvoiquepem, Goa: [email protected]+91 8080466466

conditions after an assessment bythe doctor. Body detox is practisedthrough Shodhanatherapy/detoxification (By Ayurvedaor Yoga), Shamana (Ayurvedicpalliative treatments), diet andlifestyle modifications,acupuncture, hydrotherapytreatments, various other Ayurvedaand Naturopathy therapies as perbody problem, therapeutic YogaAsanas.

Parallel work is on the MINDDETOX through meditationtechniques, counselling, mindhealing sessions, mindfulnessactivities, Naturopathy and Yogiclifestyle techniques, Yoga, cycling,meditation, creative workshopsbased on art, music and dancetherapy, aqua meditation, outdoorand indoor games.

A daily FMTG Session is giventwice a day after the guest wakesup and before he goes to sleep topay gratitude to GOD and heal yourmind.

DurationThe programmes vary from 3

days Introductory Sessions to 7days, 14, 21 days or 28 days.

Corporate WellnessDesigned for large and midsize

companies, high-level leaders, theprograme aims at rejuvenating,relaxing, increasing productivity andde-stressing the manpower.

mindfulness, corporate wellnessand others. In addition, Dr Alka whoruns a chain of Dermatology Clinicsmonitors exclusive SkincarePrograms at Faanoos that includeAuto-Immune Skin diseases likePsoriasis and Acute Skin AllergyProblems, Allergy Treatment, AntiAgeing Procedures, Acne Peels,Hollywood Laser Facial,Pigmentation Treatment andvarious other skin issues.

Admission at FaanoosIt begins with preliminary

examination, investigations/reportsand analysis by a team of Medicalconsultants. This is followed byscreening and analysis by doctorsfrom different schools of thought toprovide suitable treatment as perthe body problem. If the symptomsare acute, then they are managedthrough modern medicine. Once theacute symptoms are resolvedthrough modern medicine,Prakruthi and Vikruthi.

Assessment is done by Ayurvedicphysicians to establish Doshapredominance.

Yoga therapies are used to curemany problems besides art anddance as a therapy for thetreatment through well definedworkshops.

A Day at FaanoosThe programes are assigned to

guests as per their individual health


Winter is meant to berelished with hotchocolate, warm lights,

fuzzy socks, and all things hygge. Asthe mercury dips, it also brings withit the soul-nourishing need ofcurling up in a warm blanket,closing all the work tabs in ourheads, and cozying up with feel-good comfort watches.

So, bring those layers out as hereare some of the Netflix TV serieswhich are bound to give you thecoziest feeling and can instantly putyou in a jolly good mood.

The BestWomen-Led

TV Shows

Gilmore Girls

This is one of cult classicfeminist shows, way aheadof its time that is celebrated

and rewatched time and again forits portrayal of progressive womencharacters.

It is also a show which gives yousnug hygge vibes in the fictionalcutely-lit Connecticut town of‘Stars Hollow’ with Lorlei andRory’s own rituals of watchingmovies, eating junk shamelesslyand wisecrack banters.

AS THE MERCURY DIPS, IT ALSO BRINGSWITH IT THE SOUL-NOURISHING NEED OFCURLING UP IN A WARM BLANKET, CLOSINGALL THE WORK TABS IN OUR HEADS, ANDCOZYING UP WITH FEEL-GOOD COMFORTWATCHES. SO, BRING THOSE LAYERS OUT ASHERE ARE SOME OF THE NETFLIX TV SERIESWHICH CAN INSTANTLY PUT YOU IN A JOLLYGOOD MOOD.

To cozy up with this winter season.By Sriparna Samajdar


This series is an underrated treasureNetflix has surprised us with. Itstarts slow as the three mainstream

characters of the show manoeuver theiradult lives of parenthood, divorce, andventuring into business together.

But as it progresses, you will realise thethree protagonist female characters drawstrength from each other. Just like usbonding over a sleepover with our girlsquad, these ladies bond over weeklymargarita-infused rant sessions.

It’s a refreshing, uncomplicated, andbinge-worthy watch with a very soothingand hygge worthy backdrop of the titlesong as well as the deeply introspectivecharacters portrayed.

Sweet Magnolias

The Mindy Project

We can never stop fangirlingover Mindy Kaling. The MindyProject is a funny,

empowering, entertaining rom-comseries created by the ‘The Office’ alum.This show is super binge-worthy whereyou can laugh out loud watchingambitious, successful and confident-but-always-gets-in-trouble Mindynavigate her dating life and coming toterms with her own independence andpriorities. Nothing makes it cozier thancrying with Mindy and laughing with hertoo.

Curling up on your couch withcandles becomes more fun whenyou find hot good-looking men

on the screen staring and smiling at youto turn your fantasies wild. All ladieswith me?!

This sweet heartwarming series is arepresentation of the Latin Americantelenovela concept. The show alsoportrays very strong female characterswho always speak their mind and livelife unapologetically, inspiring us too inthe process.

Jane The Virgin

We

Humiliating enigma faced by big city lasses.By Kalpna Gupta

Knots are tied up there inheaven,” said my mother tome during a lazy summer

afternoon as the consequence ofwatching the movie Rab Ne Bna diJodi. I questioned to myself aboutthe mandatory social construct ofgetting happily married till the ageof 25.

Happily married? Isn’t it anoxymoronic phrase? I laughed thethought away in the cool breeze ofmy air-conditioned room.

Like the software gets updatedin our techno world, similarly, theyouth has started updating therelationships as well. Having a girlfriend or a boy friend is not onlyrelated to feelings anymore. Ratherit has become a fashion.

Delhi Girls –To Marry Or Just AGF Gimmick?

And mind you, if you aren’tupdating your girl friend or a boyfriend in time, you are titled asbelonging to an old school ofthought. More precisely, an oldsoul. After all, who likes to be calledas an outdated version! An update ismandatory.

During the last decade, the faceof the metropolitan cities has beenartificially beautified which isfurther appreciated or ridiculed,depending upon the mood and theneed by the intelligentsia of ourcountry. Take, for example, theDelhi Metro.

We all have noticed the arousingfragrances, the technical gadgets(most updated to be mentionedhere), the trendy clothes and theskimpy dresses carried by the girlsof Delhi. The jaw-dropping faces ofour dear men must have beennoticed by all of us. The softwaregets updated; you see!

As a well-known fact, it is verymuch into our knowledge zone thatDelhi has the highest share of inter-state migrants. For instance, UttarPradesh is home to 17 per cent ofIndia’s population, but nearly half of

Delhi’s migrant population is fromthe state.

According to HT Media Ltd., theshare of migrants from states suchas Bihar and Haryana in Delhi ismore than the share of these statesin India’s total population.

Where are the Delhiites gone?And, thus, why at all the questionarises of marrying a Delhi girl or notwhen they happen to exist but onlyin few numbers? It seems the title ofthis article needs few amendments!Alas!


Youth is attractive. The peoplewho are technically sound areclubbed at one place when it comesto our offices. The older generationfeels insecure and outdated attimes. I belong to the Sapiophilegroup of women and, as a result, Ialways end up getting into theconversation with the intellectualmales.

My colleague secured that placewho is otherwise a tall, handsomeman with the degree of Doctoratein his pocket. He once said, “Ma’am,the girls of Delhi are just for hangingaround or taking to the bed. Shaaditoh mai apni hometown wali se hikarunga” (I will marry a girl from myhometown).

I am glad to mention here thattoday’s technology has an optionknown as ‘Block the contact’. And Idid it. I blocked him from my mobilephone and then from my life as well.The aforesaid incident has left a scaron my mind and heart. It is rightlysaid, thus, that words once said cannever be taken back! Never!

The Delhi girls are composed of(apologies for my scientificsentence formation here) class,

Where do migrants live?Southern districts have a higher share of migrant population

16.9 – 24.3% 24.3 – 31.6% 31.6 – 39.0% 39.0 – 46.4%

North West36.8%

West 35.7%

South West46.4%

North29.9%

NorthEast 36.3%

East 36.3%

Central16.9%

New Delhi44.7%

Source: Census 2011

In the 10 years between 2001 and 2011, Delhiʼs inter-statemigrant population has actually seen a decline in the share ofpeople who migrated for work. This is because the number ofmale inter-state migrants who came to Delhi for work orbusiness actually came down marginally, even as the totalnumber of inter-state migrants increased by a million.

South42.1%

LIKE THE SOFTWAREGETS UPDATED IN OURTECHNO WORLD,SIMILARLY, THE YOUTHHAS STARTEDUPDATING THERELATIONSHIPS ASWELL. HAVING A GIRLFRIEND OR A BOYFRIEND IS NOT ONLYRELATED TO FEELINGSANYMORE.

The illegal matrimonies arehappily materialised in thetechnically advanced city likeDelhi… The girlfriends dream ofbecoming the wives soon and fewof them succeed as well. Othersdon’t. They were intended not to bemarried but to be taken as the ‘Halfgirlfriends’ as Chetan Bhagat coinedthis phrase rightly. After all, lovehas an expiry date too!

Getting satisfied with what youhave is a matter of individual choice.Whereas few men prefer onlyhomely wives, the others choosethose women who are financiallyindependent. Financialindependence brings lot ofpriorities to be set up by theworking women. They are bound tofocus on how they look; whatclothes they carry to their officesand what educational backgrounddo they possess.

Few men also think that suchwomen do not have any need to getmarried as they have every comfortwhat a husband provides to his wifebaring the fact that they needphysical fulfillment for which theyhave plethora of options in themarket. To be precise, men havetaken the metropolitan ladies forgranted.

They will be tested and tried andwill be left with an open end – tomarry or forsake them with theexplanation that they aren’tcongenial to share their lives witheach other. The matter has becomegrave!

The depleting emotions and thestress of financial as well ashousehold responsibilities haveoverburdened the women in themetropolitan. They shoulder theduty of being a mother, a wife, adaughter-in-law along with being anemployee. Irrespective of the list ofthe above mentioned tasks, theyrespond to the advances of love,care and affection.

The Delhi girls too have a softheart and they too comprehend theword ‘commitment.

“One is not born rather becomes awoman.” Said Simone de Beauvoir.

I wish all of us the sunshine…!


Softwares or depleting ouremotions leading to the dormantpersonalities?

We all have become machines.The lonesome nights force us to beemotional while the sunrise dropsus in the market of the practicalworld.

The gizmos had made ussubservient. It is the software whichbrings the matrimonial bellsblessing the couples. “Love islooking for you, BE FOUND.” Saysjeevansaathi.com. I was also foundby a guy sitting in Bhopal, MadhyaPradesh.

His first question to me was:“What would be your say on thefact that every third girl of Delhi isgetting divorced these days?”

I wondered why then he chose meto be in conversation with knowingthe fact that I am a Delhi girl too!The thought provoking episodeskept adding to the pages of mydiary thence.

UPDATED LOVETo be loved is everyone’s right.

Who to love is an independentchoice. The heart of Delhi,Connaught Place, witnesses hugefootfall on the Valentine’s Day.Every next day of the Valentine’sDay, the newspapers carry thereport of the rise in the sale of thecondoms, the protectives, aroundthe Valentine’s Day.

language, confidence and economicindependence. They also defamethe stereotypical ideology that onlythe males are born to drive theautomobiles.

The stages of getting educatedto working independently have anindispensable role in letting womenbe seated in the cockpit. They driveon their own, work for hours, earnmoney and handle the householdchores as well.

To love is risky… not to love isfoolish. Delhi girls aren’t foolishafter all. They too love. They too getattracted. They too get emotional.They too search for their betterhalves. Unfortunately, they areshown the way to the doors ofdivorce.

It is worth mentioning here thatdivorce isn’t only legal. At times, it isgifted in the forms of breakupsamongst the girl friend and herboyfriend after all the trials havingbeen done. What are we headingtowards? Are we updating our We

THE DELHI GIRLS ARECOMPOSED OF CLASS,LANGUAGE,CONFIDENCE ANDECONOMICINDEPENDENCE. THEYALSO DEFAME THESTEREOTYPICALIDEOLOGY THAT ONLYTHE MALES ARE BORNTO DRIVE THEAUTOMOBILES THEYTOO LOVE.

Unrequited LoveBecause what ’ s worse than knowing you wan t someth ing . By Mira Pawar

ShortStory

many girls during collegeand work, he never feltthis way. His relationshipwith girls had always beencasual. Never did he evertake anyone seriously, sowhy Leena?

On the spur of themoment, a thoughtcrossed Rohit’s mind!“Why not meet Leena andask her directly as to whatshe thought about him.” Itwouldn’t be nice to meetat her hostel so what wasthe other alternate? Hecould speak to her overthe phone and confess hislove for her. What if sherejects him? He wouldprobably be disappointedbut not devastated. The

love story that neverstarted, has no future

so what was theproblem? Breakups are

difficult to handle, eventhough it is one sided, so

the first thing one cando is to breathe andtake a break.

Rohit’s first andforemost duty was to getgoing with his story and

secondly,find a

substitute forLeena. All along,

he had imaginedLeena as the heroine of

his story but now, thathad become a distantdream. It was not going tobe easy to find someoneas good as Leena. She wasa combination of bothbeauty and brains. Theplays she acted in underhis direction, were always

Rohit was gettingvery perturbedabout the fact that

Leena had taken thedecision of moving toPhiladelphia for pursuingher post-graduation atTemple University, onscholarship. Not everyonegets an opportunity of thiskind and Rohit didenvisage this reality as hehad also studied on a fullscholarship. What wasupsetting him was the factthat Leena was not goingto be around for him todiscuss every little issue.She sorted everythingwith such great élan andeased his tensionwhenever he needed it.There was nothing hecould do to stop her fromgoing. After all, everyoneis entitled to follow theirdreams, so why should hebecome a stumbling blockto her progress? After alot of thought, Rohitdecided that he must letLeena go and he shouldconcentrate on his work.

Moreover, as a matterof fact, Rohit neverprofessed his love toLeena nor did she, at anypoint give him the inklingwhich indicated that sheloved him. They were justgood friends, had a lot incommon, happy in eachother’s company and shewas the star actor of hisplays and thereforeRohit’s sentiments for herseemed prodigious. Wasthis a one sided love?After having dated so

Rohit decided that hemust let Leena go and he should concentrate

on his work.

who can be trusted andcan give a genuine pieceof advice. Likewise, Rohitwas no different, hethought of his friendMohan who hadexperienced a brokenrelationship, before hesettled with his maritallife and had sailed throughwithout much trouble.Mohan would definitely beable to throw light onRohit’s predicament and

help him get through thisordeal of Leena. Lookslike she had taken over hiscomplete being. He wasbefuddled, and somethingserious had to be donebefore he became achronic case ofdepression.

The beautiful morningwas almost turning tomidday, time was tickingand Rohit had to sort outso many issues. The firstthing he though was tocall Mohan and seek hisadvice and thendepending on whatMohan says, he will actaccordingly. He dialledMohan’s number withoutfurther delay and thephone was answeredimmediately. It was Anita(Mohan’s Wife) on the

flawlessly performed byher. Sometimes, she evenpointed out blundersmade by Rohit during therehearsals. All in all, Rohitthought he would ratherput his personal problemsbehind and focus on thework. He contemplated,should he call anadvertising agency toshortlist some candidatesand send them over for aninterview or call somefriends to help out? Afterpondering over it all night,Rohit decided in themorning that he shouldfollow his instincts andlook for a substitute assoon as possible, toreplace Leena before it’stoo late. He twirledaround his unevenly cuttrailing tresses repeatedlyuntil he was irritated withhimself. At one point, hewanted to pull out his hairbut when he recalled thatout of frustration, hisman-bun had reduced toshort tresses and now, ifhe continued to pull histresses, probably hewould be bald very soon.Very swiftly, he releasedhis fingers from thetresses, decided to take abreak from thebrainstorming and havesome coffee. This alwaysseemed to refresh hismind when it’s all cloggedup.

Sitting in his balcony,sipping hot coffee, henoticed the sun wasshining nice and bright.Just as they say that “thedarkest night will end andthe sun will rise,” hisgloomy thoughts fromprevious night seemed tohave vanished with thesunrise. The rays of thesun increased his energylevel and hence, he was ina better frame of mind. He

was humming an old songwhich he did only when hewas stress free. The dawninfluenced and evoked themusical side in him,reminding him of a songthat he had practicedmany a times but couldnever perfect the libretto.May be, he thought, on abeautiful morning likethis, he should try to singthis song and practicethe libretto a couple oftimes and then, he will begood to get on with hisdays’ work.

Rohit grabbed hisguitar and started

strumming but as hebegan to sing, he realisedthat he failed to sing onkey. Probably, he wouldhave to change the key ofthe song or practice morein order to find access tothe right notes.Throughout hisexperience as a guitarplayer, he always madeaccurate interpretationsof the song being playedas to how loud, how soft,what tempo to follow butthis was the first time hewent wrong. What washappening? A few minutesago Rohit was full ofenthusiasm andconfidence to practicesinging and suddenly,things were not goingright. This was a clearindication that he was nothis own self. He had tosnap out of this mood andmove on. As they say,“Every day is a new day,and you will never be ableto find happiness, if youdon’t move on.”

When you aredepressed and feelinglow, one tends to think ofthe friends who havealways been there, byyour side in times of need,

The beaut i f u lmorn ing was a lmosttu rn ing to m idday,t ime was t ic k ingand Roh i t had toso rt out so manyi ssues . The f i rs tth ing he thoughwas to ca l l Mohanand seek h i s adv iceand then dependingon what Mohansay s , he w i l l a ctaccord i ng l y .

other end. Afterexchanging pleasantries,Rohit expressed his desireto speak to Mohan butwas disappointed when hewas told that Mohan wasnot in town. He had goneto his village (Garhwal)and his return wasuncertain. As Rohit didnot have any contactnumber of Mohan’s villagehouse, he requested Anita(Mohan’s wife) for it andshe provided him with thenumber. One more call hethought and an importantchore of the day wouldhave been accomplished.

After trying a numberof times, an unknownvoice answered thephone. Rohit straightawayasked for Mohan and in notime, the voice on thephone enquired, ”Who isthis?” Rohit was relievedto hear Mohan’s voice.Now he would be able totalk to his friend and find asolution to his quandary.

When he identifiedhimself, Mohan wasdelighted that his friendRohit called. It had beenquite a while the twofriends had been in touch.Soon they got down toenquiring about oneanother’s wellbeing andlife in general. Withoutwasting more time, Rohitclearly stated the reasonfor calling.

When Mohan realisedthat Rohit’s love story wasone sided, very sternly, headvised him to shut hismind off completely fromthe subject, andconcentrate on his work.He also put forward theidea that Rohit shouldmeet Leena and ask herdirectly about her feelingsfor him. If her relationshipwas just platonic andrestricted just to an


employer-employeeconnection, he shouldimmediately sever thislink. Mohan also advisedthat Rohit must find asuitable girl and getmarried soon as he hadpassed his age ofmarriage, and if he didn’tget married soon, hewould regret.

Rohit thought tohimself that his friend wasright! Look at Mohan,after his breakup withParvati, he got marriedand moved on and now,he has a grown updaughter. Hearing Rohit’schanged tone ofconversation, Mohanreckoned that he hadsucceeded in puttingsome sense in his friend’smind and was happy thatRohit chose to seek advicefrom him, on such animportant issue. Thephone call was gettinglengthy, so the friendswished one another luckand decided to catch uplater.

The minute Rohit putthe receiver on the cradle,he realised that he was ina fix!! Should he first callthe advertising agency orLeena? After carefulconsideration, he decidedhe must call Leena firstand then the Agency.

The day’s work forRohit was going to berevolving around just twomajor issues. Call Leenaand the agency which wasgoing to consume hisentire day. Capriciously,he dialled Leena’s numberbut there was no answer.Probably she was stillbusy sorting out her paperwork. He could call heragain after a while but inthe meantime, he thoughtof calling the agency.Talking of advertising

agency, it had been quitea while since Rohit got intouch with CreativeSolutions. Leena was thelast candidate he hadhired from them. Theagency has the reputationof providing the bestcandidate and for surethey lived up to it. Theonly blunder in thiscase was made bynon-other, butRohit himself. Hegot so carriedaway with Leena’sperformance thathe never felt theneed to get her

to sign a contract. Had hemade Leena sign anagreement, she wouldhave to think ten timesbefore leaving. Well, whatis done can’t be changed.He can’t undo the past butmoving on was the bestsolution.

Rohit tried callingLeena again after onehour but there was noresponse. It was lunchtime, so maybe he shouldwait for a while and tryagain. Rohit was famishedby now as he had skippedbreakfast and couldn’tcontrol his hunger. Heransacked his refrigerator

in order to find somethingto eat but except for somebread and eggs, there wasnothing he could see.Beggars are no choosers!!So very remorsefully,Rohit took two eggs,

scrambled them andhad with toastedbread. He was feelingmuch better after asumptuous brunch.It was time now toget on with work,

rather veryimportant

work of callingLeena. The

phone rang acouple of times

and this time it wasanswered. “Hi!” Said

Leena on the otherend to which Rohitinstantly snapped andreplied “What Hi? I havebeen calling you allmorning.”

Leena retorted “Didn’tI tell you that I had to sortmy travel papers today,so why did you call?”Rohit pretended that hewas concerned about howher paper work was going,which is why he called.Another reason he statedwas to check when shewas meeting him. Thereare loose ends she musttie-up before she left andfew other issues he had todiscuss with her.

Rohit was relievedwhen she agreed to meethim on the following day,as her paper workwouldn’t resume until theday after.

As mutually decided byboth, it was the coffeehouse, they were to meet.This was going to be thehistoric moment in Rohit’slife.

Although Rohit waslooking forward tomeeting Leena, he was

not very anxious unlike heseemed earlier. Hisemotions were changingthe signals his brain wassending to the heart, andprobably the heart wasresponding differentlynow. He was no longerfeeling desolate aboutLeena’s decision ofleaving. The night passedby in a very pleasantmanner and the morningalso seemed delightful.Showered and dressed inhis most casual clothes,he reached the coffeehouse and to his dismay,Leena was already there.As a normal practice, theyhugged each another andsettled by a window toenjoy the morning sunwhile having coffee.

There was no change inLeena’s attitude, she

was the same like she hadalways been.Nevertheless, it wasimportant that Rohitcleared the doubts thathad been affecting him,so he could move on inlife. After settling theoffice issues with Leena,Rohit casually asked her ifand when she getsmarried, would sheconsider inviting him? Towhich, Leena said,“Yes!Of course. “What makesyou think I won’t?”

It was all crystal clear.Rohit was pleased with hisdecision of puttingforward the question toLeena. Her answer said itall!! He can be at peacenow and leave hisproblem behind never tolook back. So, afterwishing Leena goodbye,Rohit rushed to the officeto grab his computer andget on with his storywriting without wastingany more time.


The day s ’work fo rRoh i t wa sgo ing to berevo l v ing aroundjust two majo ri s sues . Ca l l Leenaand the agencywhi ch was go ing toconsume hi s ent i r eday. Capr ic ious ly ,he d i a l l ed Leena’ snumber but t he rewas no answer .

We

Is it as elusive as it is madeout to be? By Sujatha Rao

YYou ask any random personwhat he wants in life, and it’svery likely that two out of

one would answer that he or shewants to be happy. If we could dotime travel to go into the future orpast, it is most likely that this is theone statistic that might not change,no matter which era period we getinto.

Recognising its importance, theUnited Nations came up with theidea of dedicating a day incelebration of happiness.

International Day of HappinessThe first ever UN conference on

Happiness took place in 2012 andthe UN General Assembly adopted aresolution decreeing that theInternational Day of Happinesswould be observed every year on 20March calling happiness ‘afundamental human goal’.

However, it was Bhutan whichbrought ‘happiness’ onto the globalarena of recognition by introducing

Gross National Happiness (GNH)Index in its Constitution as early as2008.

The ultimate goal of thismovement is to spread awarenessthat progress is not only aboutincreasing bottom lines andencouraging economic growth, butalso about ensuring human well-being and happiness.

In the year 2015, UN launched 17sustainable development goalsencompassing the three key aspectsthat aim at well-being andhappiness across the globe viz., endpoverty, reduce inequality andprotect our planet.

Realisation of the importance ofhappiness led to the UN invitingnations to partake in a happinesssurvey resulting in the ‘WorldHappiness Report’, to steer publicpolicy.

It’s a cause for concern that Indiaranked 139 out of 149 countries inthe World Happiness Report 2021,way behind its neighbouringcountries of Pakistan (ranking at105), Bangladesh (rank 101) andChina (rank 84).

With so many people chasing it,it may not come as any surprise that‘happiness’ defies any singledefinition. Let’s now delve into thefollowing three importantdimensions to happiness.

The Science of HappinessWhen the pandemic hit the

world, Shweta reached out tovarious things to relieve her stressand mental trauma of getting stuckat home. Being a rationalist, Shwetabelieved in the scientific aspectscontributing to human behaviourincluding happiness.

When she learned about thetwo very popular courses on theonline platform, viz., ‘The Science ofWell-being’ offered by YaleUniversity and ‘A Life of Happinessand Fulfillment’ by ISB being offeredfree during the period of thepandemic, she lapped up theopportunity and enrolled for both.

‘The Science of Well-being’dispelled her misconceptions byhighlighting through data how goodjob, money, good grades etc do notnecessarily lead to happiness inhuman beings. ‘A Life of Happinessand Fulfillment’ took her throughthe seven habits and seven sinsrelated to pursuit of happinessthrough relevant examples fromscientific studies.

As the courses were offered in akind of workshop mode, requiring

her to do a lot of practice of theconcepts taught therein, by thetime she finished these courses, shefound out herself happier as shehad gotten hooked onto healthierhabits.Is it a one-off example or is itpossible to improve the “base line”of happiness, if there is indeed onesuch thing.

Ed Diener, the AmericanPsychologist, who is nicknamed “Dr.Happiness” for the pioneering workhe did in respect of positivepsychology, claims that externalconditions do little to change one’shappiness.

In support of his claim, Dr. Dienershows that over the past 50 years,though income has climbed steadilyin the United States, with the GDPper capita tripling, life satisfactionhas remained virtually flat.

The four ‘happiness hormones’ inthe human body are● Endorphins (which get released

when we exercise),● Dopamine (the feel-good

hormone that gets released withpleasurable sensations such aslearning, appreciation etc),

● Serotonin (the hormone that getsreleased when we do charitablework),

● Oxytocin (often called the “lovehormone” it gets released whenwe get close to others)The good news, according to Dr.

Diener, is that human beings areprogrammed to be generally happy,despite the poets and philosopherslamenting about the misery ofhuman existence over hundreds ofyears.

The Societal HappinessLatha and her husband Rajesh

have built a network of family andfriends around them throughpainstaking efforts, nurturing thoserelationships with a lot of care. Thecouple never found it tiresome tohost parties, organise picnics orplan travel in large groupsmeticulously as they feel very happyand at home amongst people.

Human beings are social animals.There is a strong evolutionary casefor human beings to thrive incommunities or societies. In aninterconnected modern world,societal cooperation has becomeeven more important for oursurvival as the recent pandemic hasamply demonstrated.

Even Dr. Diener found out that


‘THE SCIENCE OFWELL-BEING’ DISPELLEDHER MISCONCEPTIONSBY HIGHLIGHTINGTHROUGH DATA HOWGOOD JOB, MONEY,GOOD GRADES ETC DONOT NECESSARILY LEADTO HAPPINESS INHUMAN BEINGS. ‘A LIFEOF HAPPINESS ANDFULFILLMENT’ TOOKHER THROUGH THESEVEN HABITS ANDSEVEN SINS.

while income is not highlycorrelated with happiness, socialrelationships are. In a cross nationalstudy on the happiness of teenagersit came out that “the most salientcharacteristics shared by the 10 percent of students with the highestlevels of happiness and the fewestsigns of depression were their strongties to friends and family andcommitment to spending time withthem.”

This is very good news indeed, aseven those with geneticpredisposition for gloominess canimprove their happiness levelsthough strong ties with family andfriends. The following two scientificstudies confirm such benefits.● Pursuing happiness through

social means (e.g., spending moretime with family and friends) ismore likely to be effective thanother methods (Rohrer, Richter,Brümmer, Wagner, & Schmukle,2018).

● Happiness makes us bettercitizens – it is a good predictor ofcivic engagement in the transitionto adulthood (Fang, Galambos,Johnson, & Krahn, 2018).

The Spiritual HappinessKeshav is going through a lot in

life. While quite a few of his juniorshave grown fast and one of themhas become his demanding boss,Keshav himself seems to have gotstuck at a certain level.

At home, his teenage daughter isgoing through a phase andbehaving irrationally. She has notbeen talking to her father for a

cultivated,” as per Sri Sri RaviShankar. He also goes on to addthat in an interconnected world thatwe live in happiness is also linked tothe environment.

“Love and other-centered thingsbring happiness and not the materialthings,” said Archbishop CardinalGracias.

Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad, theGrand Mufti of India quotes “realhappiness lies in dedicating one’s lifefor the cause of others.” Thus, theunderlying theme cutting across theadvices from these spiritual gurusseems to be that happiness is aboutliving a rich, varied and purposefulhuman existence.

ConclusionWhile happiness itself is

subjective, no matter where orwhat stage of life one is, the desireto be happy is a feeling that isuniversal. Luckily, all the followingare proven to be true.● Happiness is not elusive and there

are many paths to pursue it.● Human brain is already wired

towards happiness. We are alsoequipped with tenderness filledtouch, tenor, gaze etc., to showthat we care and are trustworthy.

● Happiness is not so much aproduct of the external factors asit is about coming from within.

● Our minds are malleable andbrain pathways can bemanipulated. For instance, themore we practice gratefulness,the more we find things to begrateful for. So we can train ourbrains to be happier.So, next time, as you listen to the

‘Happy’ song by William Pharrel,feeling like you are

“the hot air balloon that could goto space”, …..

clap along if you feel happiness isthe truth

“clap along if you know whathappiness is to you”

And then figure out “what youwanna do” through your own actionplan that includes something tomake others happy, because truehappiness lies in spreadinghappiness.

HUMAN BEINGS ARESOCIAL ANIMALS.THERE IS A STRONGEVOLUTIONARY CASEFOR HUMAN BEINGS TOTHRIVE INCOMMUNITIES ORSOCIETIES. IN ANINTERCONNECTEDMODERN WORLD,SOCIETALCOOPERATION HASBECOME EVEN MOREIMPORTANT FOR OURSURVIVAL.while. At times, Keshav feels badabout not spending enough timewith his daughter while she wasgrowing up. But when you meetKeshav, you would think he is at thetop of his game with no tensionswhatsoever. He seems to exude akind of calmness that seems almostsurreal considering what he is goingthrough.

Keshav’s close friend Raghavascribes Keshav’s peacefuldemeanour and outlook to hisspiritual way of life.

Is it true? And what is the take ofthe spiritual Gurus of our timesacross religions on what happinessactually means.

Dalai Lama says “the purpose oflife is to be happy,” recommendingthe spirit of compassion as the pathto achieve happiness.

“Happiness is an attitude to be We


CasualYet Chic

Create your own visual style.

The easiest wayto wear colour-blocking outfitsis to pair a darkmaroonsweatshirt withneutral beigepants.

Keep it simple yetstylish in a yellowsweatshirt and bluedenim pair with whitesneakers.

Make youreveryday casuallook cool by addingfunky colouredshoes to yournormal sweatshirtand denim.

Black is humble andarrogant at the same

time. Carry an all-blacklook with a black and

white check jacket.

Dress up yourcasual look bypairing a red pufferjacket over a simpleT-shirt.

When in doubt, wear awhite hoodie with bluedenim, and pair it witha more stylish blackdenim jacket tocomplete your look.

Credit line:Model: Hitesh SinghaniaPhotographer: Ramesh Sharma

The hair is rightly called ‘therichest ornament of women’.Down the ages, poets and

writers have waxed eloquent on thebeauty of a woman’s hair. Nothingspells sheer feminity quite sographically as a cloud of hair thatgleams and shimmers.

Our hair frames our face and isone of the most important beautyassets. Every woman loves to styletheir hair to enhance their beauty.

Hair is made of keratin, a proteinsubstance, growing out of a poreopening in the scalp. This pocket oropening is called follicle. The baseof the follicle is called papilla, fromwhere the growth of hair begins.Hair itself is a dead substance, butthe papilla is alive. It produces andnourishes new hair.

We have approximately one lakhhairs on our head. According toestimates, if we put it all together,we grow almost 8 miles of hair ayear! Hair grows about one-thirdof a millimeter a day and half aninch a month. Hair is governedby our genes. Straight hairusually has a round hair shaftand grows evenly on all sides.Wavy hair-shafts tend to beoval and curly has almost 97per cent protein.

Hair takes its proteinfrom our body, which is oneof the important reasons to

have a balanced diet ifwe want a healthy

head of hair. Thelength to which ourhair grows is alsodetermined byheredity andhormones.

A fair treatment to maintain your ʻcrowning gloryʼ.By Tapapriya Dutta

Stress on yourTresses

No matter what kind of hair youhave — straight or curly, light ordark, dry or oily, thick or thin — thesame three rules apply if you want itto look its very best. Here they are,in order of importance:Rule 1: you have to keep it healthy.Rule 2: you have to keep it clean.Rule 3: you have to find the hairdobest suited to you.

So, how to do it?Here goes a proper hair care

routine with hair type:It is better to know one’s hair

type – oily, dry or normal.Oily hair is a type of hair that

looks limp and stringy unlessshampooed frequently. Itsometimes needs more than onelathering shampoo to become cleanand is usually accompanied by oilyskin.

Dry hair is hair that is rough andstraw like to the touch. If notconditioned, it looks dull andlifeless, breaks and splits easily, andhas lots of static electricity whenbrushed or combed.

Normal hair is shiny, soft andmanageable and moves and holds aset well. It is not overly dry or oilyand usually does need shampooingmore than 2 or 3 times a week.

Hair type is determined byhormones and heredity and nothingcan change these basics. Forexample, turn oily hair into dry orvice versa but you can make it moremanageable and normal inappearance by using the rightshampoo and conditioner.

ShampooingToday, a mind-boggling variety of

shampoos are available in themarket. Read the labels carefullybefore buying one, to make surethey are suited for your hair type.

Before shampooing, brush youhair to remove tangles, dirt andloose hairs. Wet hair thoroughlywith warm water. Pour a littleshampoo into the palm of yourhand. Massage the shampoo wellinto you scalp, using your finger tipsin firm, circular movements untilyou have stirred up lather. Then,work the suds down the length of

your hair – the ends are usuallymuch drier, so they don’t needmuch shampooing.

Now rinse hair thoroughly. Itshould take about 5 minutes as longto rinse it as it takes to shampoo.Suds left in your hair will dull itsshine.

If you shampoo often or yourhair is not very dirty, one lathering isusually sufficient. If necessary,though, give you hair a secondshampoo.

Finish up with a conditioner.Then blot out excess water with atowel before blow drying or settingyour hair.

Shampooing your hair in theshower is usually easiest, as there islots of water for rinsing!

Your shampoo schedule dependson your environment and hair type.If your hair is oily, you will need toshampoo more often than someonewith dry or normal hair.

Also, if you live in a metro andhave to commute long distances towork every day, you will probablyneed to shampoo more frequentlybecause of the dirt and air pollution.

However, you need to alter yourshampoo strategy from time to timedue to changes in your hair’scondition.

For example, cold weather canmake the hair drier, so you mayneed a milder shampoo.

In summer, increased humidityplus perspiration can make hair limpand oily, requiring a moreconcentrated shampoo.

Wondering, how to care yourhair after shampooing?

A Word of CautionTreat wet hair with care, as it is

very delicate. Water breaks downcertain chemical bonds in your hairwhich rejoin once in the hair is dry.It is breakdown that weakens wethair, making it susceptible tobreakage.

POUR A LITTLESHAMPOO INTO THEPALM OF YOUR HAND.MASSAGE THESHAMPOO WELL INTOYOU SCALP, USINGYOUR FINGER TIPS INFIRM, CIRCULARMOVEMENTS UNTILYOU HAVE STIRRED UPA LATHER. THEN, WORKTHE SUDS DOWN THELENGTH OF YOUR HAIR-THE ENDS ARE USUALLYMUCH DRIER, SO THEYDON’T NEED MUCHSHAMPOOING.

Comb wet hair gently from theends up, using a wide toothedcomb. Don’t brush out tangles, aswet hair breaks easily. Don’t toweldry your hair into a tangle. Don’t rubin shampoo to vigorously and avoidusing nails.

Proper ConditioningConditioners are substances that

add shine and bounce to your hair.Your hair’s elasticity that is, how farit will stretch will give you anindication of its health andcondition. Put it to the test bypulling out about 8 hairs fromdifferent areas of your head. Wrapthe hairs between two fingers andpull.

Note how many hair break, andhow quickly. If your hair breakseasily and doesn’t have muchstretch, it registers the need for anin-depth conditioning course.

If your hair has lots of give, anddoesn’t break easily, it is healthyand only requires minor, but regularconditioning.

A head of shiny hair definitelylook gorgeous. Shine is reflectedlight. When your hair is in goodcondition, the cells of the cuticle –the outer layer – lie flat, forming asmooth surface which works like amirror to reflect light.

Conditioners are of differenttypes. Crème rinses and instantconditioners help untangle hair, soit is easy to comb after shampooing.They smooth the hair shaft to addextra shine and make hair soft, lessfly-way and easier to manage.

They also help prevent frictionbetween hair and brushes or combs,as well as between the individualhairs themselves. This helpsdecrease damage and preventssplits. Crème rinses and instantconditioners are available for allhair types and should be usedregularly.

Rich in ProteinIn depth conditioners are

usually superrich in protein.They help fill in damagedareas, plus provide a shield thatprotects hair and seals in moisture

to restore shine, bounce andmanageability.

Dry or chemically-treated hairmay need an in-depth conditioningtreatment once or twice a monthand normal hair, about once every 6or 8 weeks and oily hair, rarely.

It is not necessarily to massageconditioners into your scalp, as it isthe ends that suffer the mostdamage and need the most help. Todissolve the conditioner properly,be sure to rinse conditioners awaywith warm water.

Home Care RoutineThe age-old traditional Indian

method of messaging warm oilinto the scalp is also verybeneficial. You can use methi onthe oil or else use almond oil orcoconut oil which is best suited toany hair type.

Wrap a hot towel turban styleon your head to let the oil seepthrough. Wash hair as usual thenext morning or 4-5 hours beforethe shampoo.

Henna is also considered as anexcellent conditioner since a verylong period.

The proverbial 100 strokes a daymay not be necessary, but theright brush and comb can makestyling hair easier and improve itshealth and condition.

Natural bristle brushes do thebest job of picking up dirt anddistributing oil along the hairshaft. This is great for dry andnormal hair types, but naturalbristles can increase problems foroily hair.

If, when you brush, you flickyour wrist, pick a semi-roundbrush. If you generally brush fromfront to back or straight down,choose a flatter brush.

Completely round brushes arebest for making curls and curvesafter blow-drying. Remember, thediameter of the brush willdetermine the curl size.

Match the texture of your brushto your hair texture. The heavier orcoarser your hair, the stiffer thebristles should be. Brushes withflexible plastic or nylon teeth in a

rubber base slide through haireasily with pulling. These

are ideal for using on wethair, while blow drying or for

oily, curly or permed hair.The bristle tips of your brush

should be rounded so they don’tharm your hair or scalp.

Clean your brushes andcombs every time you shampoo.

Loosen hair caught in brushbristles by pulling comb or another

brush through bristles. Swish yourbrush in warm soapy water (you canuse a capful of your shampoo).

HAVE AT LEAST TWOTYPES OF COMBS, WIDETOOTHED ONE TOCOMB OUT WET HAIRAND A NORMAL ONETO COMB AT OTHERTIMES. THE BEST COMBFOR ANY LENGTH ORSTYLE IS ONE WITHROUNDED WIDESPACED TEETH THATWILL GUIDE THROUGHYOUR HAIR WITHOUTTEARING ORSCRATCHING.

Take care to not immerserubber-cushioned or wood-backedbrushes in water. Rinse brush inclean water, then shakeout excesswater. Let bristles dry on a cleantowel; away from artificial heat.Clean combs in warm soapy water,using an old toothbrush to getbetween the teeth.

Setting Your HairCommonly available hair

helpers like blow dryers, curlingirons and hot rollers can style yourhair to look its best. However, theheat these apliances produce candistress your tresses unless youare careful. It can be proveddangerous to your hair.

As far as possible, dry yourhair naturally. If, however, youhave blow dry your hair, do notturn the heat on very high – useblow dry with temperate

controls. Excessive heat fromthe dryer may harm your hair.Blowing in the style you wantusually involves pulling andtwisting hair. Since wet hairis very fragile one should be extracareful.

Our hair has rightly been called‘crowning glory’. The generalcondition and style of hair from avital part of a woman’s charm. A

basic idea of hair care will go along way in improving your overallgrooming.

English poet John Dryden hasimmortalised the importance of awoman’s hair in the followingwords, “Her head was bare, butfor her native ornament of hair,which in a simple knot was tied;sweet negligence - unheeded baitof love.”


We

Dyson is dedicated to understanding the science of hair – it isthe very foundation underpinning all our beauty technology.In fact, a team of 30 scientists studied over 1,000 miles of real

human hair from around the world over four years. They testedDyson’s first hair dryer on different hair types and built test rigs thatmechanically simulate hair drying techniques.

Dyson learned that extreme heat damage was a top concernassociated with using hair appliances and has become a key issuethat users truly care about. One of the best ways to do this is toprotect it against excessive temperatures. A deeper analysis showedthat when it came to the issues faced during the use of hair dryers,straighteners, and curling irons were the difficulty in styling the backof the head, imprecise heat settings, appliances tangling or catchinghair, and difficulty in cleaning them as the most prevalent issues.

It was discovered that in order to prevent hair damage, intelligentheat control and the option of choosing different temperatures havebecome the top features that consumers look for when choosing hairdryers and stylers. In 2016, powered by the Dyson V9 digital motor4,Dyson marked its foray into the beauty industry with the launch ofthe Dyson Supersonic™ hair dryer – the first time a hair dryer thatwas designed for fast drying without the reliance on extra heat,while meeting everyday styling needs.

Exploring Hair Science WithIn and out ofyour hair.Dyson


Things YouShould Not ApplyOn Your FaceThese can ruin your beauty completely.By Anjali Kumari

Alot of beauty gurus arenowadays sharing their DIYtips online to achieve great

skin. While their videos lookconvincing, it is not always going todo wonders to your skin.Sometimes, the ingredients thatthey mention like lemon,toothpaste, garlic, etc can damageyour skin in more ways than one.

Different types of skins shouldbe treated differently and you mustknow yours. Here are a fewingredients that should be avoidedif you do not want breakouts andacne.

LemonWhat you shouldn’t be doing is

rubbing slices of lemon on yourface! Lemons are known to havemany benefits, but applying theirjuice on your face won’t do you anygood. Lemons contain a chemicalcalled psoralen, which can makeyour skin sensitive to light. If you goout in the sun after applying lemonjuice on your face, it can irritate oreven burn your skin.

ToothpasteMany people apply toothpaste

on their face to get rid ofblackheads and zits, but it’s notrecommended at all, as it can leadto the development of burns orinfections in the affected area. Infact, your pimples may just look abit too red after having toothpastedabbed on them.

SugarSugar is commonly used in DIY

scrubs for the face and other areasof your body. But using sugar as anexfoliant on your face can beabrasive for your skin. It can scratchyour soft skin, causing micro-tears,so it should be best avoided.

Hot WaterSteam facial works great for

your face but using warm waterthinking it will kill bacteria canrather be harmful. It can take themoisture out of the outermostlayer of the skin, leaving it dry. Youcan wash your face with lukewarmwater, or opt for a steam facial.

Coconut OilNow, this one is especially for

people with oily skin. Similar tobody lotion, coconut oil is viscous,which is why the skin on your facetakes time to absorb it. This leads tothe oil clogging your pores, leadingto breakouts and acne. So, if you arekeen on using oils on your face, useolive oil, but in limited amounts.

5

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Seven years ago, when Sujatabecame a bride her happinessknew no bounds. At that time,

she was completely unaware of thefact that for the rest of her life shewould share a strained relationshipwith the man whom she had beenso much in love with. She didn’timagine even in the worst of hernightmares that someday she wouldbe sitting in a one-on-one sessionwith a marriage counsellor andasking for help to save her maritallife.

Restore Your

Marital BlissAct now or it will be too late. By Rangoli Jha

Today, there are many coupleswho are not happy in their marriedlife. According to a survey, at leastone in every five couple needscounselling to resolve their maritalissues. The institution of marriageseems to have lost its social andreligious essence with the passageof time.

This has become a matter ofconcern today as it is one of themain reasons that are affecting themental health of people, not only inthe West but in the conservativesocieties like India too.

However, couples would berelieved to know that, with the helpof experts; they can revive theirrelationship and bring back the longlost happiness in their marital life.Studies have shown that two-thirdof the couples who sought marriagecounselling experienced positivechanges in their relationship.

An expert marriage counselloridentifies the critical aspects thatcause differences between thecouples. He advises such couples tochange their outlook towards thesituations. Couples are also advisedsome behavioural therapies thathelp them resolve the issues ontheir own.

Here are a few tips that will behelpful for the couples to maintainthe marital bliss in their life.

Focus on the good qualities ofyour partner

It is a natural human tendency tofocus on the faults and ignore thegood qualities. If you are also one ofthose people who have this habitthen sit with your partner for fiveminutes daily, and just appreciateeach other. It might feel like adrama initially but soon you willrealise that subconsciously thereare things that still make you feelgood about each other. Thismethod will surely improve yourrelationship.

Watch out on your habit ofcomplaining

Couples often fight over thesame issue every time. It is usuallyrelated to everyday stuff, be it

about their in-laws, kids, somemonetary issue or somethingrelated to their sex life.Psychologists are of the view thatsome people tend to alwayscomplain about the fault of theirpartner.

They have this habit of criticisingno matter what. Such people shouldbe aware of the fact thatcomplaining only worsens thesituation.You have the right toexpress to your partner ifsomething they have done has hurtyou but along with that you need tobecome forgiving as well.

Let the past be in the pastMany a time, the relationship of

wife and husband is affected bysome instances of the past.

Let’s understand this by anexample. A couple used to fightover the same issue everyday: ‘Whowill prepare the breakfast?’ Uponinvestigating the matter theircounsellor found that the husband’smother always used to preparefood for his father. On the otherhand, the wife told that her motherused to leave early for work so itwas their father who used toprepare breakfast for the kids.When the couple thought over theissue, they realised that it was dueto their individual past experiencesthat was making them feel this way.

Release your angerSuppressed anger is dangerous.

Similarly, if one doesn’t havecontrol over their temper, it canruin relationships. Couples mayfollow certain rules to deal withanger, for both the abovementioned situations.

For example, if the husband isfeeling angry over something, heshould let his emotion out by tellinghis wife about it. In this way whenhe will express himself taking hiswife in confidence, it won’t causeharm to their relationship. Later on,when the temper cools down, thecouple can discuss over the issueand find solution for it.


AN EXPERT MARRIAGECOUNSELLORIDENTIFIES THECRITICAL ASPECTSTHAT CAUSEDIFFERENCES BETWEENTHE COUPLES. HEADVISES SUCHCOUPLES TO CHANGETHEIR OUTLOOKTOWARDS THESITUATIONS. COUPLESARE ALSO ADVISEDSOME BEHAVIOURALTHERAPIES THAT HELPTHEM RESOLVE THEISSUES ON THEIR OWN.

Experts say that unless and untilany kind of physical violence isinvolved, not every fight is fatal forthe marriage. What matters is whatcouples do afterwards to resolvethe conflict.

Make some compromises tooThe key to a successful married

life is to give your partner what theyexpect from you. Of course, youcan’t fulfil all the expectations ofyour spouse but if you makeconstant effort by doing smallthings for them to make themhappy they will surely take noticeand will be assured that you lovethem.

Find alternatives for difficultsituations

A doctor and his wife used tofight over the same issue every daythat the husband used to comehome late from work. They went toa lady marriage counsellor to find asolution for it.

She asked the wife to engageherself in some creative activityrather than waiting for her husbandin the evening. She asked her toconsider it her free time and dothings for herself and indulge insome ‘me time’ or self-care andpampering time.

Just by changing her perspectivetowards the situation, the scenariocompletely changed. Now duringthat time, she does Yoga andexercise or talks with her friendsover phone.

Sometimes, when the husbandcomes home early then also theyenjoy that time whole-heartedlytogether. Just like other couplesthey also understood that thingsbecome easy when we focus onfinding the solution, rather thanbickering over the problem.

Find the root cause of theproblem

Often couples claim that theyknow the root cause of the issues.The reason could be many:closeness with some other person,lack of interest in sexual activities,lack of compatibility, etc. If we thinkabout it deeply we will realise thatthe above mentioned reasons arejust symptoms of the main cause.

Estranged couples shouldponder over these points deeplythat has caused them to be in thecurrent situation. It might bepossible that they have been hidingtheir emotions or have unexpressedfeelings for many years that theyhave not been able to tell eachother. They were supressed andpiled up for so long that you don’tknow from where to start now.

It could be due to some major lifechanges that happened likechanging homes or having a child.You may not have been able toadjust yourself accordingly. Or theremight be an emotional wound fromthe past that pinches your partner.

When life throws challenges andwe face difficult situations, it is inthose moments that couples canrekindle their bond and take it as anopportunity to grow together andcome out of it with a stronger andimproved relationship.

Stop hankering overpetty issues

Suppose the husband has thehabit of leaving his stuff here andthere and the wife is always afterhim thinking that he does itintentionally then it will becomevery difficult to sustain suchmarriage. Couples should askthemselves “Are these petty issuesworth fighting over?” They willrealise that they can spend theirtime and energy in somethingmeaningful rather than drainingthemselves off over such issues.

Keep analysing your behaviourfrom time to time

The main reason ofdissatisfaction amongst spouses islack of quality time. Due to lack of

THE MAIN REASON OFDISSATISFACTIONAMONGST SPOUSES ISLACK OF QUALITYTIME. DUE TO LACK OFTIME THERE IS LACK OFCOMMUNICATION ASWELL. COUPLESSHOULD FIX SOME“ME TIME” FORTHEMSELVES. DURINGTHAT PERIOD THEYCAN SIT TOGETHERAND HAVECONVERSATION OVERVARIOUS TOPICS.

time there is lack of communicationas well. Couples should fix some“me time” for themselves at leastonce a week. During that periodthey can sit together and haveconversation over various topics.

For example they can share witheach other how the week went by.If a partner is facing any personalissue the other one can help themresolve it. Or even just listening tothem can do wonders and makethem feel light. Also couples shouldtalk about their dreams, goals,expectations etc. with each other.Spending some quality time willenrich the quality of yourrelationship as well.

If your spouse is reluctant togo to a counsellor go yourself

Often, it is seen that one of thespouse is reluctant to take marital

counselling. Experts suggest that ifhusband is not comfortable sharinghis personal problems with astranger then wife should take theinitiative or vice versa. It takesefforts from both the ends tosustain the relationship.

However, if one person is notmaking enough efforts then theother one can put some extra effortsto make things work. For this theyhave to keep their ego aside. It is notalways necessary to give fifty-fifty.Sometimes, the ratio of effort can besixty-forty or even thirty- seventy.

When the other one will see thisand realise that their spouse iscompromising and making changesin their behaviour for thebetterment of their relationship,they will definitely start mendingfrom their side too.

Marriage counselling not only

helps resolve issues withinmarriage. It also helps prevent suchissues from arising. Counsellors alsoprevent couples from hurting eachother emotionally. In the fit ofanger people don’t realise whatthey are doing or saying.

During fights, just to prove themright couples end up saying suchthings to each other which damagestheir relationship to such extentthat it becomes difficult to mend.Emotional wounds have a lastingimpact; that is why it is important tofilter your words before speaking.

Counselling is like a ray of hopefor such couples who are goingthrough a rough patch in theirmarried life. It definitely helps themrevive their relationship andprovides them a whole newperspective towards leading ablissful life together.


Haircut Or Jeb CutWe had recently shifted from

the US to India. We got transferredto Bangalore. One morning, Ivisited a neighbourhood salon fora haircut. On Google, the salon hadgood reviews. The lady turns outto be very friendly and startedcutting my hair. She was also veryaffectionate towards my three-year-old daughter. I even got mykid a haircut even though shedidn’t need one.

The woman and I spoke atlength about a lot of thingsincluding our life in the US, thereason for our move, and so on.When we were done, I asked for

her fee and she said 165 rupees onlyas she did not want to charge formy daughter during my first visit. Atfirst, I asked her that if could payher through Paytm, but she said noand demanded cash. I gave her a500 rupees note while shecontinued to talk.

I was so happy with her gesturethat I even let her carry my daughterwhile I watched all the other stuffshe had displayed in the salon. Whenit was time for me to leave, shereturned me rupees 35 change. Ididn’t even realise she had to giveme 300 rupees more as I wascompletely floored by herdemeanour. I bade her goodbyepromising to visit her at least once amonth.

Later in the day, I realised themistake and rushed to her salon.Surprisingly, she was closed anddidn’t even show up for the next twodays. I checked with the other ladywith whom she runs this place andwas shocked when she said I hadgiven 200 rupees note, not 500. Shealso alleged that I was accusing themof duping. There was no way toprove I was right and so that was thelast time I visited that salon.

If you have, at antime, been taken in bya smooth-talking tricksteror a clever impostor, share yourexperience with our readers.Contributions should be about 500words typed or neatly written onone side of the paper only. `200will be paid for each acceptedand published reminiscence. Sendit to:

HOW I WAS DUPED

E-3 Jhandewala Estate, New Delhi-110055.Womansera.com

Name:

Mobile:

E-mail:

Ever since I mostly makepayments online and while makingany payment by cash, I make it ahabit to verbally mention theamount I am giving so that itreinforces my mind to receive theright change. I consider this alesson learned for a fee of 300rupees. – Chitra prasad

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NOODLEMASALAMASKA PAVRECIPEINGREDIENTS1 tsp Garlic Paste2 tbsp CheesePav

Masala pack. Add 2 tbsp cheeseand stir.

Cook and stir continuously untilthe water evaporates. In aseparate bowl add butter, garlicand Mood Masala Mix. Apply themix over a sliced pav.

Toast the buttered pav on apan. Stuff the toasted pav withcooked Noodles. Serve with hotchai.

2 tbsp Butter1 Packet MasalaMain Masala MixMood Masala Mix

METHODPour 1 ½ cups of water into a

pan and boil. Add a full pack ofMood Masala into the boilingwater. Add Main Masala Mix,which is provided inside the Mood

Noodle MasalaMaska Pav Recipe

Healthy home-made snacks.


mashed potato. Add the cookedNoodles on top. Fold the roti fromall four corners. Melt butter in apan. Cook the folded roti on bothsides. Serve hot with chutney.

METHI MUTHIANOODLESRECIPEINGREDIENTS1 pack Atta NoodlesWater1/3 cup Methi Leaves2 tbsp Besan1 tsp white Sesame Seeds¼ tsp Turmeric Powder¼ tsp Lemon Juice½ tsp Fennel Seeds Salt to taste1 tbsp Oil½ tsp Mustard Seeds½ tsp Cumin Seeds


pan and boil. Add a full pack ofNoodles into the boiling water.Add Masala, which is providedinside the Atta Noodles pack. Cookand stir continuously until thewater evaporates. In a separatebowl add methi, besan, sesameseeds, turmeric powder, lemonjuice, and crushed fennel seeds.

NOODLESBOMBAY STYLEFRANKIERECIPEINGREDIENTS2 roti1 pack Mood MasalaWaterFor Filling:For filling 1 Boiled & Mashedpotato½ tsp Ginger1 tsp Tomato Ketchup1 tsp Coriander LeavesFor Assembly:1 tsp butter1 tbsp green chutneyFrankie masala2 tbsp onion sliced2 tbsp cabbage, shredded2 tbsp carrotJulienne Coriander leaves


pan and boil. Add a full pack ofMood Masala into the boiling

Noodles Bombay Style Frankie Recipe

Methi Muthia Noodles Recipe

water. Add Main Masala Mix,which is provided inside the MoodMasala pack. Cook and stircontinuously until the waterevaporates. In a separate bowladd mashed potato, ketchup,coriander leaves, ginger and mixwell. Mix in Mood Masala to thesame bowl. On a roti, evenlyspread green chutney. Placecabbage, carrot, onion on thecenter of the roti. Add salt totaste. Top the veggies up with

NOODLES ON TOAST RECIPE


Add salt to taste. Add cookednoodles to the mix. Heat a steamerand lightly grease the plate. Placethe Muthia and steam it for 10-12minutes. Heat oil in a separate pan.Add mustard seeds, cumin seedsand toss the steamed Muthia untilthey turn slightly golden brown incolour. Serve hot with chutney.

NOODLES ONTOAST RECIPEINGREDIENTS1 pack Atta NoodlesWater1 tbsp Oil¼ cup Carrot¼ cup Green Capsicum¼ cup Red Bell pepper¼ cup Yellow Bell pepper¼ cup boiled Corn½ tsp Red Chilli Flakes½ tsp Mixed Herbs1 tbsp Ketchup¼ tsp Pepper PowderSalt to tasteToasted bread sliceCoriander spring for garnish

mixed herbs and red chilli flakes.Add salt and black pepperpowder. Place this cooked fillingon top of toasted bread. Top itup with the cooked Noodles.Garnish with coriander leavesand serve hot.

VADA PAVRECIPEINGREDIENTSFor Stuffing:1 Packet Masala Noodles

400 ml Water1 Tsp Ginger Garlic Paste¼ Tsp Turmeric1 Green Chilli¼ Tsp Garam Masala½ Tsp Mustard Seeds1/8 Tsp Asafoetida2 Tbsp Mint Leaves1 Medium Sized Boiled Potato5-6 Curry LeavesSalt as per TasteFor Batter:½ Cup Besan¼ Cup Water1/8 Tsp TurmericSalt as per Taste


pan and boil. Add a full pack ofNoodles into the boiling water.Add Masala, which is providedinside the Atta Noodles pack.Cook and stir continuously untilthe water evaporates. Heat oil ina separate pan. Add carrot,capsicum, bell peppers andboiled corn to the pan. Sauté fora minute. Add tomato ketchup,

hot oil to make crunchy friedbesan. Open a pav bread andsprinkle masala powder. Place avada and serve with crispy friedbesan and fried green chilli.Repeat the same steps for theremaining vadas. Serve hot andenjoy!

CHEESY PIZZARECIPEINGREDIENTSPizza base:2 Packets Noodles350 ml Water4 Tbsp Corn flour3-4 Tsp OilTopping:¼ Cup Mozzarella cheeseSome CapsicumSome TomatoesSome OnionSome Olives

4 Tbsp Pizza Sauce/KetchupChilli FlakesOregano

METHODHeat a pan and add water.

Bring it to a boil. Add noodles andMasala. Cook the noodles andimmediately take them out in abowl. Add cornflour and mix well.Grease a plate with some oil andadd the hot noodles and give theshape of a pizza base. Let thispizza base sit for 5 min. Heat a panand add oil. Slide the pizza base inthe pan and cook till the basebecomes crispy on the bottom.Flip over the base and apply pizzasauce. Top with cheese, capsicum,onion, olives and tomatoes. Coverwith a lid and cook till the cheesemelts. Serve the pizza hot with asprinkle of oregano and chilliflakes.

CHEESY PIZZA RECIPE


We

METHOD

In a pan bring water to a boil.Add noodles and cook till theyare done. Strain the noodles andadd a little oil. Toss and keepaside. Heat a pan add oil. To thehot oil, add asafoetida, mustardseeds, curry leaves, ginger garlicpaste and sauté for 5-10 seconds.Now add turmeric, green chilliand sauté for 5 seconds. Nowadd boiled mashed potato,cooked noodles, garam masala,salt and mint leaves. Mix well.Divide this mixture into 4 equal-sized balls. Keep aside. In a bowltake besan, turmeric and salt.Add water and make a batter ofmedium consistency. Dip eachmixture ball in the preparedbatter and deep fry at mediumflame till the vada turns slightlygolden in colour. Add theremaining batter into the


a child vaccinated against them? Havenot vaccines been known to causereactions in some children?

Though an attack of measlesor chicken pox does give immunity, thediseases per se are not withoutcomplications. Pneumonia, disabilitiesand even deaths are known to occurafter an attack of diseases that couldhave been prevented byimmunisation.Though vaccines mayvery occasionally cause reactions,some of them severe, the benefits faroutweigh the risks. In fact, they areessential for the welfare of child, forimproved standards of sanitation canonly decrease the incidence of thedisease, but it can not prevent themaltogether. Moreover, diseases like TBand whooping cough are air-borne anda child can get infected from anotherchild even in school.

IHAVE A 12-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER AND A

4-year-old son. As we have acomputer at home, the elder one

plays computer games on it and surfsthe net to get useful information.

As youngsters like to ape theirelder siblings, my son clamours to siton her lap and watch the cartoons.

My daughter does not like it at alland they end up fighting. To pacifyhim I take him to the drawing roomand switch on the cartoons on the TV.

Please tell me, what is the righttime to start children on computers,how much time should a child, asyoung as my son, be allowed to sit ata computer and what are the harmfuleffects of the computer on a child?

Besides computer games,educational software has come up in abig way to help children grasp thingsquicker in a more interesting manner.Though this is commendable, andsome of the games do improve achild’s mental faculties, childrenshould not be allowed to becomecomputer addicts.

Half an hour per day should be thetime limit to follow diligently.Prolonged periods of time, spent atthe computer will lead to strain on theback and neck. Unblinking staring atthe computer screen will lead to“computer eyes” which ischaracterised by blurring of vision,itching and dryness of eyes.

More importantly, the time spentin front of the computer or, for thatmatter, the TV, will cut in on the timespent outdoors, or the time spentwith parents, friends and siblings.

All said and done, the computer isa solitary, sedentary activity, whichwill allow the growth of the child onlyin one dimension.

IHAVE AN 8-YEAR-OLD SON. HE IS A

healthy child who is growing welland fairly intelligent. The only

problem is that he complains ofstomach ache, four out of sevenmornings in a week. The pain isusually centred around his bellybutton. It does not interfere with hisappetite, and his height and weightare normal for a child of his age. Wehave shown him to various doctors,had him de-wormed regularly but tono avail. Could he be pretending tohave stomach ache to avoid going toschool? If so, how can I differentiatebetween real abdominal pain andmalingering tummy-ache?

Quite a few children complain ofstomach ache for which no cause isfound. As in the case of your son, thepain usually occurs around the bellybutton and in the mornings.

The pain disappears when the childis engrossed in activities that interesthim. Treatment is necessary only ifthe pain interferes with pleasurableactivities, keeps him awake at nightor if it is accompanied by diarrhoea,constipation or vomiting.

—Dr Amrinder Bajaj, MD.

Readers are invited to send theirproblems of child care and child rearing.WOMAN’S ERA will provide the answers,solutions to problems usuallyencountered by mothers, young and old.Address your letters (neatly written onwhite paper) to:

WOMAN’S ERA E-3, Jhandewala Estate,New Delhi-110 055.

●

Q A&Child Challenges

MY SON IS 7 YEARS OLD. THOUGH HE

IS perfectly healthy in all otheraspects, he has a skin problem

that is difficult to treat. He developswhite patches on some parts of hisbody like the face, hands and legs.This occurs only in winter. There is noitching or pain. The patches are smalland round with a rough surface.

We have shown him to manydoctors, applied a variety ofointments as advised by them, but didnot get any results.

One doctor advised massage withmoisturiser. This has helped a lotthough the patches on his faceremain. Kindly help me.

Your son is most probablysuffering from a fungal infection. It isusually a seasonal problem and tendsto recur time and again. Please showhim to a good skin specialist andfollow his advice diligently. He willmost probably prescribe local and/ororal anti-fungal drugs that have to betaken over a period of time to bringabout a complete cure. You could alsoget him de-wormed, for sometimeschildren with worm infestation alsodevelop white patches on their skin.

IHAVE DELIVERED A SECOND CHILD, A

baby girl, 12 years after the birthof my son. I am surprised to learn

of the drastic changes that have takenplace in the immunisation programmethese days. While my elder son wasgiven DPT and polio vaccine at 3months of age, my daughter wasgiven the same at birth.

Please let me know why a childshould be vaccinated against chickenpox, measles, etc, which as child weall had and were none the worse forthese. In fact, we gained lifelongimmunity after the attacks.

As improved standards of livingand sanitation have reduced theincidence of communicable diseasesdrastically, is it still necessary to get

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Ghar ghar kiwebinar kahani

Fat i gued by webinar? Va ishnav i i s no t a l one. By Samskrati Gulvady Shenoy

ShortStory

And in this unprecedentedsituation, the fear of losingjobs was lurking ineveryone’s minds.

In a few days, peoplerealised that life would bemeaningless at this rate.Schools and collegesembarked on an onlineteaching-learningexpedition. Employersasked their staff to workfrom home. People had toremind themselves thatthey had to live a new wayof life until… Until when?No one had an answer tothis question.

At Vaishnavi’s place, allof them scurried to

get their electronicdevices functional and getready for the new routineof working and learningfrom home. Vaishnavi hadkept her cool amidst theentire hullabaloo –continuing with her onlineclasses, attending to herloving children andhusband’s little favours ofmaking their weekendghee masala dosa or theoccasional round ofkajubadam milk. It was herregular yoga practice andevening bhajans whichkept Vaishnavi’s thoughtsaway from the negativitythat was being bombardedfrom various directions –TV channels, newspapers,Facebook, WhatsApp,Twitter, and phone callsfrom friends and relatives– whose main topic of

with a sweet smile. Thedoting mother could notrefuse her little daughter’srequest and set out toprepare the dish.Deendayal also joinedVaishnavi in preparing themeal. Satvika’s face lit uplike a 200-watt bulb whenshe saw her favouritedishes laid out on thedining table. This littlemoment of happinessmade Vaishnavi forget herlong day at work.Vaishnavi was interestedin gardening too and hadgrown a few plants in herbackyard. There wereflowers and some veggiestoo. However, due tohectic schedules, shewasn’t able to tend to herplants as much as shewished to.

Their lives changedsuddenly when the entireworld was engulfed by adeadly virus. Schools andcolleges closed. Shopsshut doors. Curtains camedown on cinema halls.Malls stopped entry. Thenormal life suddenly cameto a grinding halt. Noschool and no work hadmeant fun previously. Butnow, no school and nowork did not mean thesame. Weekdays andweekends looked alike.The world order hadchanged. Physicaldistancing laws were inplace. Lockdowns wereimposed to restrict themovements of people.

breakfast and lunch in theearly morning, packsnacks and lunch boxes forherself, Deendayal,Satyadev, and Satvika.Deendayal would drop offthe kids to school on hisway to the office.Vaishnavi would leaveafter seeing off herhusband and kids, as she

had to commute to herworkplace which was inthe other end of the town.Come evening, all fourwould return home andunwind themselves afterthe long day at school andwork, by sharing somestories of school and theirrespective offices.

Spiritually inclinedVaishnavi would chant herevening shlokas, recite herfavourite bhajans and thenhead to the kitchen toprepare dinner. “Amma, Ifeel like eating paneertoday. Can you pleaseprepare paneer buttermasala and roti for dinnertonight?” asked Satvika

Vaishnavi worked asa lecturer at ABCCollege. Husband

Deendayal was anaccountant in a privatecompany. They had twochildren – a son Satyadevaged 10, and a daughterSatvika aged 8. They led apeaceful simple middle-class life in a cozy houselocated in a small townnestled in the foothills ofthe Western Ghats.

Deendayal had amedium ranking job in hiscompany. His bosses werehappy with his sincerity atwork. Satyadev andSatvika were veryobedient children, doingwell in their school withtheir studies and otherextracurricular activities.There was never acomplaint about either ofthem from their teachersduring the parent-teachermeetings. And Vaishnavitoo was well appreciatedby her management andstudents for being adedicated lecturer. Thefoursome four led a simplelife without indulging inany glamour or glitz.Rather, they spent theirtime and money in helpingthe needy in their ownway, and always wishinggood for the world. ‘Sarvejanaa sukhino bhavantu’was the mantra of theirlives.

They followed a normalweekday routine –Vaishnavi would prepare

Va ishnav i worked asa lecture r at ABCCol l ege. HusbandDeendaya l was anaccountant i n apr i vate company.They had twoch i ld ren – a sonSat yadev aged 10,and a daughte rSat v ika aged 8.


prepared her laptop anddownloaded the necessaryvirtual platforms to enableher to attend the sessionuninterruptedly.

As she logged into thesite, she saw otherparticipants and feltgrateful to Amita throughwhom she got thisopportunity to register forthis webinar and alsoattend on a first come firstserve basis due tolimitation on the entries.The webinar began andVaishnavi was all ears,noting down theimportant points sharedby the resource persons.At the end of the session,the organisation asked theattendees to fill up a

discussion was theincreasing number of virusaffected cases in theirapartments, gully ortowns. There were alsolots of advice whichappeared like‘Ashareervani’ from thedoctor know-it-all aunts inthe family, or from variousexperts claiming immunityif one ate a specific herb ordrank a concoction with amix of some other herbsand spices. Thanks to theYouTube and WhatsAppUniversities who providedunsolicited gyaan onimmunity boosters.Vaishnavi only gave herlovely smile to brush awaythe negative news aboutthe ‘positive’ cases. Shespent time in her backyardgarden pruning, cleaning,and spending time withher plants. She lovedtalking to her plants as she

watered them, and theyresponded well to herconversations with themwhile they swayed in thebreeze and cheered herwhen they grew buds orthe tiny tomatoes andgreen chillies.

One day Vaishnavireceived a call from

her friend Amita, “HeyVaish, do you know thatthis East-West College isconducting a freewebinar? The best part isthat all participants wouldget a participationcertificate. Don’t you thinkthis is a wonderfulopportunity to learnsomething from thewebinar and also earn acertificate from thecomfort of our homes?”

Vaishnavi thought thatthis was a productive wayof utilising her time. She

Deendayal, Satyadev, andSatvika did not complain a

wee bit out of love andrespect for Vaishnavi.

feedback form whichwould automaticallygenerate an e-certificateof attendance. WhenVaishnavi received herfirst certificate her joyknew no bounds. She tooka colour print out and filedit carefully – it was indeeda badge of honour for her!Little did she know howsuch webinars would steerher normal life in the daysand weeks to come.

Vaishnavi’s WhatsAppmessage beeped. Hercollegemate wasorganising a two-daynational level webinar andhad sent an invitation.“Oh, my good old friend isconducting and I have toattend this, lest she feelsdisappointed or evenoffended,” Vaishnavi toldDeendayal. In turn, heasked her, ”Is the webinartheme related to your

subject?” “Oh, don’t youworry Deenu, these daysinterdisciplinary studiesare trendy. I will gainknowledge and that iswhat is important.”

The day of the nationalwebinar came. Vaishnaviwas all set to attend it as alistener. She quickly madesome upma for herbreakfast and boiled milk.“Satyadev, Satvika,breakfast is ready in thekitchen. Please helpyourselves, as I have toattend an importantwebinar now” anddiligently made herselfcomfortable in front of herlaptop. During thewebinar, she texted hercollegemate that shehadn’t missed a singlesession and alsocongratulated her onorganising such awonderful online event. Inbetween Vaishnavithought of checking theposts on Facebook andTwitter, to keep herself‘updated’ on the currentglobal happenings.

Attending webinars tokeep herself updated

and connected with fellowfraternity from academicbecame a favourite andregular activity forVaishnavi. During one ofthe sessions, Vaishnavi’sinternet was fluctuatingand the audio-videoquality was reduced.Vaishnavi was gettingrestless that she mightmiss out on somethingimportant mentioned bythe speaker. Her sonSatyadev came in andasked, “Amma, what areyou planning to make forlunch today?” Vaishnavi,who was already upset dueto the poor internetconnectivity, vent out her

anger on her son,screamed, “All that youcan think about is food,food, and food. Do I looklike a food vendingmachine that keeps rollingout food at the click of abutton?”

Satyadev wasperplexed at her suddenrage for asking such asimple question. He saidsorry, put his head down,closed the door, and wentback to his study room.Vaishnavi did not realisethat her words had hurther innocent son. She wasunaware that she hadtangled herself like thegreedy barber’s pots ofgold coins gifted by aYaksha. Here, she was likethe barber of the story,and instead of gold coins,she was trying to fill herpots… sorry files weregiven by the ‘WebinarYaksha’ with certificates.

A message onWhatsApp, anannouncement onLinkedIn, a post onFacebook or Twitter….Vaishnavi wanted to graball that was laid out on thewebinar buffet platter.Here a webinar, there awebinar, everywhere awebinar… regional, state,national, international...and the list seemedendless. The e-certificateslured her so much that shewas now on a certificatecollection spree. Sheregistered in any andevery webinar that cameher way. To add to her‘joy’ she received twocertificates from webinarswhich she had registeredbut could not attend dueto an overlap of timingwith another webinar.

Deendayal’s favouriteghee masala dosa – whichwas the family’s weekend

treat, was soon forgottenas Vaishnavi was busyattending webinars fromearly morning. Webinarinvitations had beenpouring in plenty from allsources and social mediagroups.

One day, Deendayalwas surprised to hearvoices coming from theirkitchen. Who could havevisited them during thelockdown; he wonderedand slowly peeped into thekitchen. But Vaishnavi wasin the living room with herlaptop attending awebinar. When she saw apuzzled look on his face,she said, “Don’t worry mydear. I have logged into awebinar from my phonealso separately so that Ican get certificates forthat as well!” she said withpride.

The next day,Deendayal wanted to sendan email from Vaishnavi’slaptop as there were somenecessary documentsthere. She hesitatinglygave him her laptop, like a

child who gives the TVremote when the fatherasks for it. Deendayalfinished his work andreturned the laptop toVaishnavi. When sheopened her webinarplatform, she wasdisappointed to see thatthe session had ended,because of which shecould not fill the feedbackform, and in turn, lost achance of bagging herbadge of honour – thecertificate of attendance.All hell broke loose. Sheyelled at her husband,“You snatched my laptopat a very crucial point, andsee, now I have missedgetting a preciouscertificate. It is all myfault, I should not havegiven you my laptop atthat time.” Deendayalremained silent while shewas fuming. She could notforgive herself that day.

It was evening, andlittle Satvika politelyrequested, “Amma, shallwe make poori shrikhandtomorrow? It’s been many

months since we had thedelicious shrikhand thatyou were making.”

“Let me check myschedule and I will plan themenu accordingly,”Vaishnavi responded. Hernext few days were tightlypacked with aninternational summit inthe mornings and onlinesatsangs in the evenings.During the interval inbetween these multiplesessions, Vaishnavimanaged to prepare somedal khichdi or puliogare(tamarind rice), lemonrice, or curd ricealternatively. So Satvika’srequest of poori shrikhandwas shelved.

Her close friendmessaged her that a

very famous motivationalspeaker was giving anonline talk. Vaishnavijumped on hearing thisand added it to herschedule. Another friendupdated her about amonthly Satsang. This alsogot added to her calendar.

Vaishnavi believed thatshe should not let go offsuch ‘goldenopportunities’ ofattending online sessions– be it professional,motivational, or spiritual.She may not get suchopportunities again whenthings switch back to theold normal, so make haywhile the sun shines, shetold herself.

Her mornings andevenings were so tightlypacked that she couldhardly spare time to talkto her kids or husband.Something was amiss. Shewas not the same livelyand smiling Vaishnavianymore. Herconversations werelimited to talking about

her next webinar,speakers, and theircontents. Her yogapractice slowly began todecrease as her laptop andmobile asanas increased.Her evening routine ofsinging bhajans andchanting shlokas slowlyshifted to attending onlinebhajan sessions. Hergardening hobby took abackseat. She wouldhardly get time to waterthem daily. Vaishnavi wastoo busy to notice that thegreen leaves were turningpale; flowers were wiltingand missing her presence.The buds and the babyvegetables started towither away slowly.

Deendayal, Satyadev,and Satvika did notcomplain a wee bit out oflove and respect forVaishnavi. Instead, theyadjusted their life to herschedule. Sometimes, thethree of them gottogether to delightthemselves with makingsome instant noodles orsnacks when they werebored of eating upma orpoha which had becomeVaishnavi’s favourite overthe last few weeks.

One evening,Vaishnavi was doing somelaundry work and all of asudden felt a shootingpain in her head. She feltas though she was beinghammered on either sideof her forehead. Shescreamed in pain.Deendayal and the kidsrushed to see what hadhappened. She was cryingout in pain like a littlechild and felt helpless.Satyadev immediatelydirected her to lie downon the bed and beganapplying a pain balm.Satvika rubbedVaishnavi’s feet to soothe

her. Deendayal waslooking for a painkiller. Allthe three were panickedas they had not seen hercomplaining of anyailments otherwise.Deendayal thought tohimself that the excessiveuse of a laptop andsmartphone for extendedhours may have been thereason for Vaishnavi’sheadache.

The painkiller gavetemporary relief to theacute pain but recurredconstantly. There was a

tensed atmosphere athome. Satyadev andSatvika were consolingtheir mother, “Amma,don’t worry you will befine soon” in unison, “wewill not bother you tomake shrikhand or suchspecial items. Amma, weare sorry,” they said witha sorry look on their faces.

Deendayal could notsee his dear Vaishu inpain. She meant the worldto him. He would go any

stretch to see her dimpledsmile. He rushed her tothe hospital to consult adoctor. She underwentdifferent types of testswith various specialistsincluding a CT scan. Thedoctors were puzzled thatall her medical reportswere showing normalwhen her headachepersisted. When thephysician was trying torule out all complications,Deendayal mentionedabout Vaishnavi’s laptopusage. Now the doctor

had found the answer tohis million-dollarquestion. Vaishnavi wassuffering from gadget-

induced headachesphysically, andpsychologicallyundergoing informationoverload as well as a newcondition among thenetizens called FOMO –Fear Of Missing Out.

She was unknowinglycaught in the web of

FOMO when the worldwas going online. She wasunable to know that shewas getting fatigued fromlong exposure of screentime. Gradually, she hadcompromised not only hermental and physicalwellbeing but that of herfamily members too.

The physician handedher a couple of painkillersand said, “Vaishnavi, youhave to take this medicineand along with that youshould undergo a strictdiet…” Vaishnaviinterrupted him, “butdoctor, I don’t have anyweight-related orstomach-related issues togo on a diet…. only aheadache!” The doctorsmiled and said, “I wasexpecting this question.But did I ask you to go on


Va ishnav ibe l ie ved t ha tshe shou ld no tle t go o f f such‘go ldenoppor tun i t i es ’ o fat tend i ng on l inesess ions – be i tp ro fess i ona l ,mot iva t iona l , orsp i r i tua l . She maynot ge t s uchoppor tun i t i es aga inwhen th i ngs sw i tchback to t he o ldnormal , so makehay wh i le t he sunsh ines , she t o ldher se l f .

a food restriction?”Vaishnavi could notunderstand her doctor,“Then what do you expectme to do?” she asked.

“This is what you needto do – follow a very strictdigital detoxification dietfor at least a week. Avoidusing laptop, smartphone,and social media if there isno situation of emergency.Disconnect digitally toconnect with yourself andyour family. Only this Digi-detox diet will be yourtreatment,” he saidassertively.

It was an eye-opener forVaishnavi. All thehappenings of the past fewweeks rolled in front of hereyes. She assured “DoctorJi, I have realised my fault.I now understand that Iwas doing the right thingbut in the wrong way…. Ipromise to abide by your

diet prescription.” She hadrealised that she hadjumped on a bandwagonwithout knowing where itwas heading. She wascollecting her ‘badges ofhonour’ in exchange of herhappiness and peace ofmind. Deendayal,Satyadev, and Satvikahad been missing hersmiles which weresparkling their lives.

Dendayal thanked thedoctor, and headed to thebilling counter, and settledthe bill of Rs. 34,000/-.Vaishnavi understood thatthe ‘free’ webinars whichshe had been attending allthese weeks were actuallynot free. She and herfamily members had topay a price.

Vaishnavi was now anenlightened soul. She wasall set on her new detox dietand digitally disconnected

herself. She wasn’tenamored by webinarinvitations or onlineSatsangs anymore. Shewanted to reconnect withherself and her lovingfamily. She made sure tomute all notifications on hermobile phone and laptop,and used it sparingly.She had learned it thehard way.

She remembered herplants in the backyard. Itbore a dull look, making itvery obvious that theymissed her love and care.She began talking to herdrooping plants andapologised for theircondition, “I am so sorrymy colourful beauties. Ipromise to never neglectyou again. It was not onlyyou, but I had alsowithered away. Let usbounce back to lifetogether.” The plants

seemed to nod inagreement and feltrelieved to have her backamidst them.

Ghee masala dosaappeared on the weekendmenu again. Satvika’sdesire to eat poorishrikhand was alsofulfilled. Deendayal andthe kids were happy tosee their dear Vaishnaviwith her twinkling eyesand dimpled smile.

He whispered in herears, “Actually Vaishu, Iwas the one who wasexperiencing FOMO – Fearof Missing Out mysweetheart. I am happy tosee you like this,” andheaved a sigh of relief.Vaishnavi hugged himtightly. Satyadev andSatvika came runningto kiss both of themand to get that specialfamily hug.


We were busy with our workand it was difficult to spendtime with each other in such ahectic schedule. So, in summer,we took some time off from ourwork and went to Nainital. Myhusband and I were enjoyingthe weather a lot and werehappy. We had booked ourhotel online for our comfortablestay. It was on a hilltop. In order

to reach there, we wererequired to climb a number ofstairs. We were goingsightseeing daily, but oneevening we kept it reserved forshopping.

That evening we did a lot ofshopping. After the shopping,we returned to the hotel room,with both hands full withpackets. In the hotel room, whenwe started checking andappreciating our purchases, toour horror, we found that onepacket which contained themost expensive items worthrupees 25,000, was missing.Obviously, we left it either at oneof the shops we visited or in thecab we booked. We called thecab driver and were assured thatthere is no packet in the cab.

So, now the shop was left tocheck. However, at that time ofthe evening we were very muchexhausted. Climbing down fromthe hotel room, walking to the

shops, and again climbing upwas just not possible for us.Very reluctantly, we had topostpone our visit to the shopfor the next day. In the morningitself, we first went to the shopwhere we might have left ourpacket.

We had lost all hopes ofgetting it back. But on inquiryabout the leftover packet, theshopkeeper asked us somequestions and then took out ourpacket from one of theshowcases, and handed it to us.Thus, we recovered the lostpacket which we least expectedto in the present era of crime,carelessness and cheating.Exceptions are there, of course.We wanted to reward theshopkeeper. He politely refusedwith folded hands.

Even today, we rememberthat honest shopkeeper; he wasthe true example of humanity.

– Mandakini Gupta, Indore

HONEST SHOPKEEPERS

We

Q A&Teenache

really loves you and promises not tocheat again, you could give himanother chance, if you want to. If youpretend that you do not know abouthis waywardness, and look the otherway, you may be able to keep yourboyfriend. But at what cost. Hisbehaviour will hurt you terribly. Soonyou will hate him and yourself too,and fall in your own self-esteem forbeing such a coward. Make it clearto your boyfriend that if he does notmend his ways, you will stop beinghis special friend. A healthyrelationship should be built on trustand confidence, not lies and deceit.

IHAVE TAKEN THE SCIENCE STREAM IN

school because I want to become adoctor. I have changed my mind,

as the course is too long and requiresa lot of study. Nevertheless, I stillwant to serve people and solve healthproblems. Can I become a nurse? I ama 15-year-old schoolgirl.

If you feel daunted by study andthe very long medical course, it isgood that you have opted out of it.Nursing is a noble profession but itmay not suit your temperament. It isusually the lower middle-class girlswho choose this. You will also have tobe prepared to roll up your sleevesand do a lot of work both in the wardsand the operation theatres.

You Can consider any of themedical subsidiary courses – likemicrobiology, physiotherapy, specialcare of the disabled and spastics. Theseare shorter and very satisfying if youare keen to help sick people. Consult acareer specialist or your schoolcounsellor for detailed information.

THE MOST POPULAR GUY IN COLLEGE

has made me his specialgirlfriend. I am the envy of all

the girls as he is smart and handsome.I am in a dilemma now. A friend ofmine told me that he is flirting withother girls, and in fact, secretly datingthem. He assured me, however, that Iam his only girlfriend. I am confusedand unhappy. I hate to confront himwith proof of his philandering, which Ihave, because I do not want to losehim. He knows this and is continuingwith his infidelity. I feel likecommitting suicide. I am so unhappy.Please advise me on what to do.

If you are certain that he isunfaithful and lying, you must tellhim this. If he gets angry and breaksyour relationship, it will mean goodriddance to bad rubbish! In case he

MY BOYFRIEND AND I LOVE EACH

other a lot. I am a 19-year-old college girl and he is 4

years older, an engineer and wellemployed. The only snag is that he is2” shorter than me.

He does not allow me to wear highheels (which I love) and often remarksthat we would be looking very oddtogether. Frankly, I do not mind at all.I keep wondering whether thisdiscrepancy will cause problems inour relationship if we marry. Pleaseadvise.

There is nothing wrong if the girltowers over the boy... you see it allthe time, especially in Westerncouples. Your boyfriend seems to besensitive about this.

His attitude could cause nigglingirritants in your married life but if youare able to keep your cool, sense ofhumour, and your affection for him,you can tide over these. You shouldhave a serious talk with him over thematter, and remove his complex nowitself. When he knows that you do notcare about this difference, andneither does anyone else, he willrelax.

IAM A COLLEGE STUDENT, 18 YEARS OLD,attractive and intelligent. Myboyfriend is the president of the

students’ council, a very popular guy– but only I know how cruel he can be!He behaves like a god in public and inprivacy; he is a devil, rude, bullyingand a physical and mental torturer. Ihoped he would change if I wereloving and patient. This was a vainhope. Still, I do not want to give himup because my prestige has risenafter he became mine. Please advise.

It is obvious that your boyfriend ismaking a doormat of you – and youare allowing him to do this. If he hasnot changed with your patienthandling, drop him.

Why do you want to inflictconstant pain on yourself? Maybe,people will talk and presume he hasdumped you, but at least you will becomfortable with yourself, for you willknow the truth. It is unwise to live lifeto gain other’s admiration andesteem. This kind of self-worth isbarren.


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Iwas having terrible abdominalcramps with intermittentbleeding episodes. Terrified, I

confided in one of my friends, whoadvised me to consult aGynaecologist. Being a doctor, I hadno doubt about it. It was time forme to consult a Gynaecologist.

Along with these symptoms, Iwas experiencing reduced appetiteand bloating of abdomen aftermeal. I read up all the text books ofGynaecology and also Oncology, assymptoms were suggestive of aGynaecological Cancer.

My son was in class 11, then, onestep away from his board exams ofclass 12. He used to study and I usedto pour over the medical books,which would give a better definitionof my symptoms.

Finally, I consulted my husband,who is an Oncologist, and headvised me to get a TVG (TransVaginal) Ultrasound done. Myabdominal girth had increased bynine inches by then, and it wasdifficult to walk for me.

My lower abdomen felt like a tonof bricks; it was so heavy. Iexplained my scenario to myGynecologist, who advised aHysteroscopy (Visualise theGynaecological organs with acamera), to be done. Before that,he also advised a TVG.

The day I had the TVG to bedone, my husband and I walked intothe Diagnostic laboratory for theultrasound. The radiologist pacifiedmy nerves and started asking mequestions, as she was doing theTVG.

I winced in pain and screamed.She tried again. I kicked like a madperson. Finally, holding myself bygritting my teeth, I allowed her todo the TVG. When I asked her whatshe saw, she replied, “The wholething is the endometrium.”

“Look here;” she told me, “I amgoing to tell your husband that youwere uncooperative and that I couldsee nothing. I shall give my reportson the basis of the abdominal USG.”

I wondered, what she meant byall that. She told my husband allthat stuff, but I had a different story

The 14-day ordeals of hospitalstay have lifelong imprint on me.

By Dr. Sujata Chatterjee

to tell, which none believed as thereport showed only “Bulky uterus,”which is present in every alternatelady in her forties.

But my uterus was enlarged toalmost one and a half time and sinceI was having problems, it was betterto consult a Gynaecologist. Iconsulted my friends along with myhusband and they referred me to asenior Gynecologist, who suggestedHysteroscopy, after seeing thereports and hearing my history.

16th March 2014. It was the dayafter Holi. The day dawned warmand clear. On this day, I wassupposed to undergo Hysteroscopyunder general anesthesia. I waswheeled to the operation theatre ina drowsy state, as I was alreadypremeditated with sedatives andpain killers.

I spoke to my Anesthetist, whowas known to me. Soon afterwards,I was given anesthesia and theHysteroscopy began. Here, basedon hearsay, from my husband, whowas present in the OT, I later oncame to know that the scope couldnot be negotiated inside and therewas a bleeding and tear in the wall.

The tear was repaired and thescope withdrawn. My husbandcould easily reach the Cervix,whereas the gynecologist wasunable to do so, due to bleeding.The procedure had to beabandoned.

Hence, it was decided to do totalabdominal hysterectomy withbilateral salphingo oophorectomywith frozen section biopsy, at alater date (Hysterectomy withexcision of tubes and ovaries onboth sides).

5th April, 2014, was theappointment date for the surgery. Iwas taken to the operation theatrein a stretcher. A few of my friendsalso were in the operation theatre.They cheered me and boosted upmy courage. I was first given spinalanesthesia and then given generalanesthesia.

Based on the documentalevidence and what subsequentlythe others present in the OT had tosay, I was aware of the fact that it

was a very difficult surgery due to alot of adhesions and previous twosurgeries, LUCS and Appendectomy.

An Onco surgeon had also beencalled in to assist the Gynecologistand it took them almost 4 hours tocomplete the surgery. In between,the frozen section was sent and thereport was benign. No malignancywas detected. That was the goodnews.


I was shifted to my cabin room,where I was sedated and left in postoperative care. My husband stayedback at night with me. He answereda number of phone calls, which Ioverheard. He said, “There was alump of all the organs together andit was a rather difficult surgery.”

I had a pain free night as I sleptand so did my husband.

Next day, the Gynecologist camefor the rounds early in the morningand said that it was a rather difficultcase that I presented and that hehoped everything was well. Inodded in agreement. But as themorning advanced, many doctorsentered my room and spoke inhushed tones.

They examined me, asked mewhere I had the pain, which Ishowed them, was in the epigastricregion (upper abdomen). A USGwas also done, and I hardly recallanything, as I was in a stuporousstate.

STATE OF DILEMMAThen a Gastroenterologist

entered my room and spoke to mein loud overtones, “You are havingAcute Pancreatitis,” he said.

I was confused. Had I not beenoperated for Hysterectomy? Thenhow come I had Acute Pancreatitis?Was I operated or not? I again fellinto a drowsy state. Later on, I wasmade abreast of my condition.

I had Acute Post OperativePancreatitis, as my Amylase andLipase levels shot upto 11,000, whilethe normal limit is below 50! Thiswas a post operative complication.It was usually fatal with a 100%mortality rate.

I asked my Anesthetist, “Whatchances I have for living?”

He evaded my question and saidthat I was being transferred toApollo Gleneagles Hospital, whichhad a Gastro dedicated ITU. I waswheeled to the ITU, where I saw theanxious countenance of myhusband, father, son and friendsand physicians.

After sometime, after arrangingfor a bed in ITU of in Apollo

THE TEAR WASREPAIRED AND THESCOPE WITHDRAWN.MY HUSBAND COULDEASILY REACH THECERVIX, WHEREAS THEGYNECOLOGIST WASUNABLE TO DO SO, DUETO BLEEDING. THEPROCEDURE HAD TO BEABANDONED.

Hospital, I was wheeled to a CriticalCare Ambulance, which would takeme to the Apollo hospital. My sonand father accompanied me in theambulance, my husband and hisfriends following in the cars andbike.

Every little jerk, made me moanwith pain, as my son tried to tell theambulance driver to slow down. Iwas coming in and out ofconsciousness and could hardly liftup my head. As we entered thegates of the hospital, I was againtransferred to a drowsy state.

I do not remember whathappened after that, because, Icould not see my son and fathersubsequently. But I gathered frombits and pieces of conversation ofthe staff later on, that I sufferedfrom cardiorespiratory arrest andthat I had been resuscitated andintubated (I had heart failure and Iwas in ventilation).

By this time, a CT scan was doneand the Pancreatitis was Grade 4 E,which was pretty serious. Alongwith it, I had Pleural Effusion (Fluidcollection in the Pleura, the

covering of the lungs), around thepancreas and Ascites (fluidcollection in the abdomen).

I was shifted to the ITU and puton ventilation. I could see theworried faces of my friends and allthe doctors. A bond was signed bymy husband that he knew mycondition was critical and that itmay result in death, but he wasgiving consent for ventilation andother procedures which would bedone on me.

I had a Central Venous Line done,(a channel in the vein of the neck,which goes straight to the right sideof the heart), through which I hadTPN (Total Parenteral Nutrition) andother fluids and vitamins andelectrolytes. My CVP (Centralvenous pressure) was being

really painful. In addition, myoxygen saturation, pulse rate, heartrate, end tidal carbon dioxide levelsand blood pressure were also beingmonitored. The monitors wereconstantly bleeping, which gave menightmares even after beingdischarged later on.

Throughout my body, varioustubes and needles were sticking outand it was almost impossible tomove my torso. I lay helpless on myback, as the ventilator heaved mychest up and down. I was givenoxygen by the tube, which wassticking out of my mouth andreached upto my bronchus(airways).

TERRIBLE DAYSFirst few days of my stay at ITU

were terrible. On the 4th day, I wasextubated. I still remember thepoking of the suction machine in mythroat and me becoming consciousand the ETT (endotracheal tube)was pulled out of my throat.

I was suffering from pain, but assoon as the pain killers were given, Ibecame drowsy and my saturationdropped. Twice I aspirated my ownsecretions (I inhaled my secretions)and had to be put on Bipap.

Many modern antibiotics weregiven intravenously and I was beingnebulised regularly withbronchodilators (antiasthmatics)and steroids. I had bizzarenightmares and used to get up fromsleep screaming. The nightmareswere so convincing that I began tofear going to sleep.

Without mask and oxygen, Icould not maintain my saturationand I was breathless and gasping.My friends who would come to visitme were reduced to tears at myplight.

Every night one of my inmates ofthe ITU would suffer from cardiacarrest and the staff would try toresuscitate the patients. Most ofthem expired. I was horrified at this.The ITU was almost empty within 3-4 days, with the patients dying oneby one. When they thumped thechest to resuscitate, I would cry out,


monitored, which gave theindication, how much fluids shouldbe given to me.

I was also catheterised, throughwhich the urine output had to bemeasured, as I could not pass urineby myself. Next, I was taken to theGastro OT, where the doctorsintroduced a nasojejunal tube,through my nose, to give menutrients and fluids. The fluids hadto be given in a measured way,based on my intake and outputchart.

The abdominal girth and pressurewere also monitored and it was

EVERY LITTLE JERK,MADE ME MOAN WITHPAIN, AS MY SON TRIEDTO TELL THEAMBULANCE DRIVERTO SLOW DOWN. I WASCOMING IN AND OUTOF CONSCIOUSNESSAND COULD HARDLYLIFT UP MY HEAD. ASWE ENTERED THEGATES OF THEHOSPITAL, I WAS AGAINTRANSFERRED TO ADROWSY STATE.

feeling the thumps on my chest. Itold the sisters that I felt they wereresuscitating me. One night, I wasthe only patient left in the huge ITU.There were 2 sisters working andmaking notes.

All of a sudden, I started havingsevere rigors (shivering). The sistersloaded the blankets on me, theystarted the warmer, but I wasslowly sinking. I looked at themonitor and could see the numbers19, 20, 21 and 22. God only knows,whether, these were the pulse rateor the saturation, but soon I blackedout.

I do not remember whathappened after that and I have nomemory whatsoever subsequently.But the very fact I am alive now,meant, I must have responded totheir attempts in reviving me. Iwould have visitors, but my visionwas blurred and I could not evenspeak to them.

The doctors throughout thosedays tried their best to revive me, asmany times I nearly sank the ship.Numerous injections and medicineswere being given to me. Theinjections caused bruising of myskin and painful blisters.

13 days, I spent in the ITU, till onthe 14th day, I was put up for a CTscan again. The most painful part ofthe Contrast CT scan is the ingestionof the colourless contrast. I wasmade to drink 2 litres of contrast.Not satisfied, they injected thecontrast in my rectum and also gaveintravenous contrast.

The whole procedure was sopainful, that it brought tears to myeyes. Then I was supposed to laystill in the CT scan machine. I wasnauseated and I vomited all over myclothes. I also involuntarily passedstools in the machine, soiling myclothes and myself.

The sister, God bless her,managed to clean me and myclothes and gave me a warmsponge. I passed stools near my bedalso. Since it was a holiday, thecleaners came pretty late and I hadto stay in this stinking condition.

But the sister was verycompassionate and she managed to

clean me up and dress me up. Allthis while, my father was waitingoutside to learn about the CT scanreport. My husband was runninghere and there with the CT scanreport, as they suspected a string ofnecrosis in the pancreas.

We were all deeply saddened. Allour hopes dashed to the ground.We were thinking of shifting me tothe HDU (High dependency unit),which was a step down from theITU. But with a lot of meetings andconversations and conference calls,it was decided that the necrosis wasnot there, it was just a little shadowand I could be safely transferred tothe HDU.

Our joy knew no bounds. At last,I had a chance of recovery, afterfighting the battle for 14 days in theITU.

Soon, I was shifted to the HDU.There were many serious patients inthe HDU. All were gastro patients.One was a Cervical Cancer withrectal involvement. One young boyhad Pancreatic Cancer. There wasone with Gall bladder cancer. Therewas an old man with Cirrhosis ofLiver.

SONG OT THE LIFEHe was very much interested in a

sister, whom he was determined tomake his daughter-in-law. He was ofa very jovial nature and he wouldsing many songs. We all hadbecome very friendly with eachother. We shared our experiencesand feelings with each other.

One day, some young sistersarrived and said they would behaving their semester exams. Eachsister was allotted a patient andthey took our history, ourmedications and treatment and alsohow we responded to them.

I was very excited and helped thesisters with the details ofmedications and treatments. After along time, I was finally on the otherside of the table. I was overjoyed.

I would take walks in the corridorand in the hall where the beds were


THE WHOLEPROCEDURE WAS SOPAINFUL, THAT ITBROUGHT TEARS TO MYEYES. THEN I WASSUPPOSED TO LAY STILLIN THE CT SCANMACHINE. I WASNAUSEATED AND IVOMITED ALL OVER MYCLOTHES. I ALSOINVOLUNTARILYPASSED STOOLS IN THEMACHINE, SOILING MYCLOTHES AND MYSELF.

kept. The physiotherapist used tocome and help me with breathingexercises and spirometry. They alsoshowed me how to do leg exercisesto prevent thromboembolism.

I had to wear long stockings forthis reason and also had to takesubcutaneous injections. By thistime, due to my recovery, I couldfeel the pain more sharply. I wasaware of the constant gnawing painin my abdomen and back and acolleague, who was anAnaesthesiologist used to visit meto give me painkillers. Slowly, Irecovered.

I had made many friends by then,and one of the sisters took me tovisit the Balaji Temple and theGanesh Temple in the premises, in awheelchair, to offer my prayers.

After 2-3 days, I developed fever.My husband was very tensed up. Wehad to do the septic profile and thecounts were increased to 23,000,when the normal count was 3000 to11,000. Antibiotics had to bechanged and an antifungal wasadded. I was still on TPN and Naso-jejunal feed, which bypassed the

pancreas. Slowly with medications,my fever subsided, till I was ready tobe shifted to a single room. Now, Ienjoyed the visits from my guests. Icould now speak to them and tellthem my experiences.

Slowly, all my ornaments werebeing withdrawn. The nasojejunaltube, the central line, the peripheralline etc (IV line).

I was in a single room where Icould look outside the window andenjoy the sun and the birds. I couldwatch TV. I could speak oncellphone, to those who wereconcerned about me.

The day I would be discharged,arrived soon. Packing my clothes, Ihad a nice surprise from the ApolloHospital. They gifted me with abook and I had to write feedbackabout my experiences. They eventook photographs of me, to remindthem how I had escaped theclutches of death.

By now, I had started oral feedsand enjoying the cuisines. Thedietitian prepared a chart for me,which I was to follow at home. Myhusband and his friend came to

accompany me in a wheel chair.In 18 days, I had lost 13 kgs. My

dresses were all loose and danglingfrom my shoulders. I arrived at mymom's place, where my mothertook good care of me. Even athome, I dreamt of sister giving mewater and I still had nightmaresabout the constant bleep ofmonitors. This was, in short, how Ibecame a survivor. Following thisepisode, I was re-admitted to ApolloHospital Gastro ITU, twice, in 2016and 2019. I still had episodes of painin abdomen, vomiting anddistention of abdomen quite often.Both the times, the amylase andlipase were in thousands, thoughnot like 2014. I had ascites, pleuraleffusion and nasojejunal feed.

Presently, I underwentEndoscopic USG to find out whethergallstone precipitated thepancreatitis or not. But nothingconclusive could be found. Till nowthe whole ordeal is mystery to me.The only thing which matters now,that I am hale and hearty andenjoying the second lease ofmy life.


LOVE BLOSSOMSI had completed my post-

graduation and was doing a jobin a very reputed company. Myparents asked me to get married;they even asked that if I likedsomeone. But dating was nevermy thing, in past. I even triedonline dating apps but all in vain.

So, I told them I would preferarranged marriage.

A lot of proposals came but Irejected most of them because Ijust didn’t feel that I had somefuture with them. But then therecame a very nice proposal and Imet him. In our first meeting only,our vibes matched. Though, it wasan arranged proposal, we starteddating each other. After 6 months,we got engaged and in the nextyear, tied in the nuptial knot aswell. After the reception, I wastaken up to my room by my sister-in-law. I was feeling famishedbecause I had eaten very little atthe reception. After a long wait,my husband came to the room andgave me a packet.

When I looked inquisitively athim, he said, “I know you didn’t eatproperly because you were feelingshy. That is why I’ve brought thisfood for you.”

His actions filled my heartwith gratitude and love for him.

– Meen Tanwar

Has somethinghappened in your lifethat has left an indelibleimpression on your mind?Some experience that gladdens yourheart or which makes you shudderwith pain or embarrassment even afteryears! Why not share your experiencewith the readers of Woman’s Era? Allpublished incidents will be paid`200. Please type or write neatly onwhite foolscap paper and send it to:MY MOST UNFORGETTABLEEXPERIENCE AS A BRIDE


Name:Mobile:E-mail:

We

IN AN ARRANGED MARRIAGE WHO SHOULD BE MY PRIORITY – MY

in-laws or my husband? I have been married for sixmonths and am unable to satisfy both – if I pay attention

to my husband my MIL says mean things and if I work in thekitchen my husband feels neglected. I am a working womanand don’t want to give up my job, but I also want peace. Whatshould I do?

In any marriage – love or arranged – your duty as a wife isto your husband and as a daughter-in-law to your in-lawsand, with time, as a mother it will be to your child. A womancan never be just one person in a family; she has to beeverything to everybody that is needed at that time. Youshould feel confident to first approach your husband anddivide your time equally.

As a working woman, you have limited time and if you donot sort out the problem soon, your giving up the job willalso not solve the problem automatically. List your MIL’sexpectations and then see what you can fulfil withoutcompromising the time with your husband – being married isall about juggling all your duties – and try to have fun as well.

IAM BEGINNING TO WONDER IF I AM ADDICTED TO SHOPPING. I AM

26-year-old single girl and earning well, but I have noassets and no savings. I am constantly buying clothes and

shoes and then regret it. My rented room is full of clothesand shoes I never wear but still buy more. What should I do?

Yes, addiction to shopping is definitely an acknowledgedproblem that people suffer. Normally, they show all the signsyou are talking of – buying for the sake of it and themomentary euphoria spending money gives. You have totake control of your life, take assistance from life stylemanagement personnel if you need and start by making smallsavings and promising yourself periods of time when you willbuy nothing. When you go out shopping decide in advancethe amount you will spend and what you want to buy insteadof just mindlessly purchasing.

IHAD BEEN MARRIED FOR 20 YEARS AND HAVE TWO CHILDREN (14and 11). My husband was ill-tempered and used to beatme and, when I could take it no longer, I left as I was

financially independent. I did not care about divorce and myhusband visits our children once every 10 days and sometimestakes them out. He behaves himself well. My mother, whonow lives with me since my father died, always says I havemade a mistake and tells my children I am responsible formy father not living with us. I know that it will all change backto him beating me if we live together. What should I do?

You stayed long enough in your marriage and must havetried every possible way to make the marriage last. Yet, it


failed and you have moved out of the house. Yourchildren are lucky that their father is staying intouch with them and while he is visiting you, healso behaves well. Your mother might not beaware of your suffering as she would have onlyseen the improved version. However, yourchildren might remember the pain of themarriage you suffered. Your main concern should

be your children and not to expose them to family violence.You have to take a firmer stand with your mother.

IAM 26 AND WORKING IN A GOOD JOB. FIRST MY BOSS WAS normalbut slowly we came close, although he is married. He nowsays he wants to marry me without divorcing his wife. He

does not want me to get married and says he will kill himself ifI leave him. I don’t want to be second wife. What should Ido?

You are making a big mistake by thinking that he will killhimself if you leave him. You are young and have your wholelife ahead of you. Do not pay for your mistake of getting closeto him by further pandering to his ego. How can he marryyou if he does not want to divorce his first wife? It would beillegal and you will have no rights at all. Your best actionwould be to start again somewhere else without the shadowof this man.

IAM ALMOST 50 AND COME FROM A VERY BACKWARD FAMILY whereI was not allowed to even cycle or wear western clothes.Now, I see my 17-year-old daughter cycling and doing

horse riding and I am full of happiness for her and myself.But have I done a wrong thing and will her husband expecther to be a virgin who bleeds? Sometimes, I am confused.What should I do?

Breakage of the hymen is not loss of virginity and youshould rightfully be proud of the upbringing you have beenable to provide to your daughter giving her the freedom thatwas denied to you. Ensure that your daughter is aware ofsexual activity to secure her from any wrong decision ortaking a step out of curiosity. Keep a watchful eye and enjoyyour daughter blossoming into a woman from a nice girl.

I’M 30, STILL LIVING WITH MY PARENTS FOR ECONOMIC REASONS.We have a good relationship. All my life they have beensupportive and loving, with the ups and downs. We aren’t

perfect, we argue and squabble and make up and move on.It is absolutely aright if you are living with your parents.

Every family has ups and downs but dealing with it andmoving on is what a perfect family is. It is normal to haveissues in life. Just go with the flow.

I AM DEPRESSED. I HATE BEING A MOM. I ALSO HATE BEING A STAY AT

home mom too!It is natural to feel that way. Basically, you don’t hate

your kid, its just that you get bored doing the same thingevery day. Indulge yourself in a hobby or join a club. Dowhat makes you happy and liberated. When your kid willgrow up a little, join a job and you will feel blessed for beinga working woman.

Q A&My Family, My Friends and Me...

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Twenty five years old, theBeauty Queen of Indiancricket, Smriti Mandhana is

one of the best players of Indianwomen's cricket team.

Left hand batter and gorgeousicon Smriti Mandhana is the firstIndian woman batter to score adouble ton in One Day match, forMaharashtra against Gujarat in WestZone Under-19 tournament in 2013.

She has many awards, medalsand accolades in her bag at start ofher cricket carrier. She has a hugefan base on the field and off thefield too. She has more than fivemillion followers on Instagram.

Smriti Mandhana has got ICCWomen's Cricketer of The YearAward for the year 2018.

Beauty Queen Smriti Mandhanahas also got the ICC Women's ODIPlayer of The Year for 2016.

‘Indian CricketQueen’

How athletes maintain their fitness.By Shashant Shukla

Smriti Mandhana; during a breakfast.

Smriti Mandhana, in aworkout session.

Smriti Mandhanain beautifultraditional look.

Diet And WorkoutRoutine Of

Her diet planSmrit says, “Team nutritionist

takes care of our diet. But I don'teat meat, so I have to take care myprotein intake."

As left handed beauty doesn'tconsume meat. So, being asportsperson, she has to take careof her protein diet. However, sheconsumes eggs, soybean and take alot of protein shakes in her diet tomaintain protein intakes.

She is fond of eating salad andsoup before the match and bananasduring the match to boost energy.She also prefers to drink a particularenergy drink.

How she prevents sunburnSmriti Mandhana says when she

practises outdoor on the cityground, there is so much pollutionand hot sun. So, before going outfor the net session and in order toprevent sunburn she uses a lotion

which comes with SPF 24 PA++ withpollution protection formula.

Her workout planMandhana always follows strict

exercise regimes to boost herstamina, endurance and heavyworkout to maintain strength.

But she has a new plan for Year2022. Accordingly, she is planning toadd some new exercises in herroutine workout.

Her goal for 2022● Goal for the first quarter.● Goal for this year.● Her wantings in Cricket.● New exercises from January.● From where I get motivation for

workout.● How to track my progress.● When may I need wings.

Smriti follows the workoutroutine of American Tennis StarSerena Williams for strength and

endurance. But before starting aroutine workout she does somebasic stretch exercises to warm-upher body.

These are the some basicstretching exercises which SmritiMandhana engages in.

She says, “I start with the easiestsoldier strech and after this shedoes triceps stretch." She says,” Ifyou are working on your upper bodyin gym then triceps stretches arevery important to increase stretch.”After warming up upper body shedoes Standing Quad Stretch towarm-up lower body.

She says if you are running orexercising in the gym you have touse your quads so quad stretch is amust.

After these two, she doesHamstring Stretch and Saddle SquatGroin Stretch. After these stretchesshe does Jogging and then followsher workout routine.


SHE HAS TO TAKE CARE OF HER PROTEINDIET. HOWEVER, SHE CONSUMES EGGS,SOYBEAN AND TAKE A LOT OF PROTEINSHAKES IN HER DIET TO MAINTAINPROTEIN INTAKES. SHE IS FOND OFEATING SALAD AND SOUP BEFORE THEMATCH AND BANANAS DURING THEMATCH TO BOOST ENERGY.

We

Cricket Queen Smriti Mandhana during a net practice session.

Smriti Mandhana,during a match.

One Fine Day...I s t i l l r emember c lea r ly . By Ghazala Zaidi

ShortStory

It was very hot thatafternoon. I stillremember clearly. I

was frantically trying to callthe driver to pick me upfrom the mall I have beenshopping at but it seemedthe heat had got the cellphone network too. “Ma’m,please listen to me, pleasema’m! My child has gotlost. Please look after mybags and I’ll be back in aminute. He must havestopped by the ice-creamstall. I can’t carry all theseagain through the crowd.”She said it all in one breath.A good looking lady drapedin silk sari and perspiration,had dropped her fourshopping bags at my feetand with a last pleadinglook and a confidence ofhaving my consent, she wasgone! It was getting latebut I had no choice but towait there for either mydriver to have a good senseto look for me or for thatlady to come back and takeaway the burden she hadunceremoniously dumpedon me. I was wondering onher simplicity to trust astranger like me. I wasgetting concerned abouther missing child and wasfeeling sympathetic.

“There she is! Search thebags, it must be here only.”I was jolted out of myreverie by a policeman whowas now throwing out thecontents of the bags thatlady had left in my charge.“Hey what are doing?These are not mine! Letthat lady come back thenyou search them. By theway, what are you

searching for?” I reacted.“This!” the constablepicked out several smallpackets. Some of themlooked like having currencyand others had some whitepowder. “Come on, it’sover.” He lookedmenacingly at me then heasked the accompanyinglady constable, “Take careof her!” Some sense ofwhat was happening was

creeping inside my mindbut like in a nightmare Icould not control my actionand the happenings. I triedto speak but only fewwords tumbled out. “No it’snot mine! A woman, herchild, lost, left the bags.These not mine. She...shemust be around...no it’s notme it must be her. Believeme.” Suddenly I realisedwhat a mess I was in. That

lady constable was tryingto fix handcuffs and I triedfrantically to call myhusband. God! Thenetwork!! It had to bejammed at this time. Myplea to call my husband gotthem thinking that I wastrying to contact my aidesand the cell-phone waspromptly taken away fromme. In a few minutes I wasbehind the bars. Mercifully I

There were cheers allaround and people started

congratulating us. I wasthanking the Almighty

and Laxmi.

shouting in spite of myself.The policemen lookedbored as if they hadexpected this scene andwere used to such kinds ofliterary showers. Theinspector said “Release thislady. Let her out and lockup this woman.” Now, thewoman was subdued andwas merely grumbling.Ashmit, who had arrivedthis early morning with mytea, had to restrain me

from pouncing on her.Inspector was also by myside immediately. “Ma’mlet her go. Please go homeand relax. Sometimes, wealso do make mistakes. Youcan see yourself that youtwo look so similar. When Ibought you here, I couldunderstand that you werenot the one we werelooking for. So, I did not doany paperwork. You realisethat, don’t you? We havegot to do such thingssometimes to intimidatefirst-timers or teenagers.Makes them wary, yetkeeps their record clean. Iwas just waiting for thiswoman to get caught.

I must ha ve dozedof f because I d idnot see or hearthem coming . Thetwo hav i ldars wereho ld ing a womanand she wasf i ght ing o f f tore l ease he r se l f f r om the i rg ra sp .“ S i r , t h i s i sthe woman we werelook ing f or . Whatto do s i r , they lookso s imi la r ! ” sa idone o f thehav i ldar s .

Yeah, we knew she wasaround here somewhere.So now that we have gotthe right person, you cango. Sorry abouteverything.” I againwanted to barge in withchoicest profanities butAshmit caught hold of meand pulled me out of thepolice station. “EnoughRishita! Thank God we areout of this place. At leastthe inspector had the sensenot to put anything onpapers. Now, we are freefrom all the trouble.” Toosoon he had uttered thesewords. We had steppedright out of the frying paninto the fire. Straight awaywe were swarmed down bythe TV crew and reporters.With zooming and clickingcameras their words werelike lancets. “How was thenight ma’m?” “Didn’t youreally know what was inthose bags?” “Were theyreally not your bags? Howcan you be sure?” “Shelooks exactly like you, areyou some lost sisters?” “Areyou all mad?”

My reaction at thatmoment was volcanic. Hadthere not been Ashmit andhis support, I would havebanged their headstogether. I was always afiery woman and thisincident had made mefurious. I wanted to poundall the questioning eyes andsmash the waggingtongues. “Just leave mealone.” I roared. We tookrefuge in our car and droveaway. Once in the confinesof privacy of our car, Istarted crying. “I am sorryAshmit, I should have beenwiser and not let anybodymake a fool of me. I cannotever trust anybody now.”“It’s alright. Just relax.” Heconsoled me but now hisface was creased with

was the only occupant atthat time. Eventually,because of all my pleadingand crying, I was allowedone phone-call. The phoneof Ashmit kept ringing. Ihad to spend the nightthere. And the night spentin that lock-up changed allthe aspects of my life.

Ashmit looked haggardand relieved at the sametime when he saw me. Hehad left his cell-phone in hisoffice and when he realisedmy prolonged absence anddriver’s message about mydisappearance, he wentback to his office to retrievethe phone, but by then itwas too late. He explainedthat he couldn’t doanything now as the courtswere closed next day due toa public holiday. My agonywas prolonged but at leastthe behaviour of the policewas becoming better, ormaybe now I was gettingused to it! I just could notthink clearly, and feltclaustrophobic in the cell. Itcan’t be happening to me. Iwas confined like a

criminal. What will peoplesay if and when I’ll get out?I forcibly shut away suchthoughts and tried toconcentrate on the buzzingmosquitoes which hadsettled down on theexposed parts of my body.

Imust have dozed offbecause I did not see or

hear them coming. The twohavildars were holding awoman and she wasfighting off to releaseherself from their grasp.“Sir, this is the woman wewere looking for. What todo sir, they look so similar!”said one of the havildars. Irealised that they werereferring to me also. Thiswoman they had broughtwas wearing sari similar tothat I was wearing. Oh! Shewas the same womanbecause of whom I washere. “Sir, sir! Yes, yes thisis the woman who had leftthe bag with me. You liar,cheat, bitch, ##$##$, youhave literary spoiled mylife. I am here because ofyou! You f****!” I was


and let’s watch someromantic movie.” We satwatching the TV on whichan English romantic moviewas showing. Anyway,both of us were not actuallyseeing anything, just staredat TV while sipping theinsipid coffee. We wereconfined to our own worlds,struggling with our owndemons. Finally, Ashmitswitched off the TV set andsaid, “Let’s go out to havesome dinner. I am feelingsuffocated here.” “Therewas no need to add the lastsentence”. I wanted to sayaloud but kept it to myself.

The neighbourhoodrestaurant where we visitedoften was crowded withteenagers. Obviously, itwasn’t dinner time. Rathercoffees and sundaes werebeing ordered around.“Hey, see that Aunty. She isthe one, isn’t she?”Somebody whispered butthat was enough to shakemy self –confidence. Iclenched my fist andmarched ahead bravely.Our favourite table wasmercifully empty. As wewere going to sit there, thewaiter came abruptly. “Sir,could you please sit in thatcorner? Somebody hasalready reserved this.” “Butthere is no reservationsystem in here, is there?”Ashmit enquired. “No Sir,but somebody hasrequested us for this table,so I request you to shift tothat corner” replied thewaiter. Few other tableswere lying vacant but hekept pointing to the mostfar off corner. We didn’t sayanything and stood up. “Wewill have our food packed.”Ashmit said. “Oh yes, fineSir. It will be ready in aminute,” he said with arelief in his tone. And only aminute it took for the food

up from his slumber andperched on his arm. He wasalso as surprised as I was.“But the inspector had saidthat it was a mistakenidentity only!” heexclaimed. “How couldthese media people saysuch things?” In the nextscene, I was shouting at thereporters, “Are you mad?”and then the havildar, wholooked as if he hadappended Osama himself,was explaining. “Well, therewas no evidence againsther so we have to let hergo, but such people whohelp the criminals are athreat to the society. We allmust be cautious and keepour eyes open for suchconspiracies. Soon, we

will be able to catch all themiscreants of this gang.”These scenes keptrepeating in all thechannels we flippedthrough. No, no! PleaseGod, stop all this nonsense.One moment’s negligencecouldn’t be such a bigmistake. I needed to tellsomebody that I wasinnocent. No, I had to telleverybody that I was notinvolved in any illegal deal.

“Ashmit, we have to tellthe reporters! We will call apress conference and I’ll tellthem the truth. They can’tcrucify me like this fornothing.” “Stop it Rishita. Ido not want to get involvedagain in this. You shouldhave behaved properlythere at the police station.You were shouting at thereporters as if they had yourestrained. Just sit tight andin a day or two everybodywill forget what hadhappened. Now, let us havesome coffee. “But!” I triedto intervene. “Rishita,please, I am not in a moodto discuss it any more.Please make some coffee

visitor of the jail was askingme this question.Goodness, now I was at parwith these people whosedaily brush with police andlaw had made them sohabitual to the dreary lifethat my endeavour lookedlike a usual strolling to apark to her. She looked atme with understandingeyes and went about herwork. After Laxmiwas gone, both

Ashmit and I dozed off. Theday ended quietly but I wasgetting little restless. Whydidn’t any of our distantrelatives who lived in thesame city or any othercolleagues, or any friendhad called us? I checked mycell-phone. It was fine. Iswitched on the TV andthere was the answer. Themedia had branded me asco-conspirator of thecriminal woman. This can’tbe true. This was nothappening to me. I couldn’tbelieve it. Ashmit also got

worry. He looked as muchshaken as I was. Media canmake you or break you.

My ill fated story hadreached theneighbourhood before Ireached my home. I couldsense the cautious looks ofthe people we chancedupon to meet on our way toour apartment. Thank God!The guard had not seen anyTV early in this morning, sohis good morning wish wasas crispy and honest asother days. We steppedinto our apartment andeverything was where itshould have been. I wantedto shut off the worldoutside. Unfortunately, theworld had entered myhome and all the homes weknew and did not know.

Ashmit prepared thebrunch while I took

shower. It was a holiday, sohe would be with me forthe rest of the day. Thatwas a comfort. He had putthe delicious spread on thetable by the time I hadchanged into salwaar-kameez from my bathrobe.He smiled when I came andsaid, “The food is ready myQueen.” As we wereserving the food, the bellrang. “That must beLaxmi!” He said. “She hadcome in the morning when Iwas going to meet you. Ihad asked her to come lateron.” And there she was.She smiled and asked “Sohow are you now didi? Didthey bother you toomuch?” “Fine!” I mumbled,“No, they were good.” Icouldn’t conceal thebitterness in my voice. Itwas partly because of therecent experience andpartly because this woman,a paltry worker in myhouse, whose drunkhusband was the regular

I wa s at parw i th thesepeop le whoseda i l y brushwi th po l i ceand law hadmade them sohab i tua l t o thed reary l i f e t ha t myendeavour lookedl i ke a usua ls t ro l l i ng to a pa rkt o he r.She lookeda t me w i thunder s tanding eyesand went about he rwo rk. A f te r Laxmiwas gone , bothAshmit and I dozed of f .

no point in asking himabout his day. I could guesswhat he must have facedout there. Next two dayswent by without friendsand sympathy. It was goingto be a long nightmare.

Fifth day I was feelingsick, but I did not tellanything to Ashmit. Helooked a little composednow as if he had reachedsome decision. “Rishita,

let’s go to our nativevillage for a while. Weboth need a break. I’lltry to arrange the

house there to be cleanedand stocked. You startpacking. We will move assoon as I get the permissionfrom the boss.” He said.“But, the schools are goingto open shortly and I haveto apply for leave! Give mesome time.” I pleaded. “Doyou really expect them tohave you back this session?That’s a prestigious privateschool where children ofinfluential people study. Idon’t think there is anychance for you now.” Heexplained and went outwithout breakfast. This wasthe last blow. Now, myidentity, my job was beingsnatched away from me.

Besides, there was acuteshortage of electricity inthe village. The sound andsmell of that old generatorwas too much for me tobear for more than twodays. How could I staythere for long period?Moreover, I was retchingthe whole day. I was sickand couldn’t call anybody,not even Ashmit. I haddozed off on the sofa.Laxmi was calling out myname when I woke up witha start and realised thatsomeone was at the door.Due to the power-cut, doorbell was not working. I gotup and opened the door

Kumar, I am sorry, I’m in alittle hurry. Can we talksome other time?” Shehurriedly went to the lift. Idid not even bother tonotice to which floor shewas going to. She hadnever addressed me withmy surname before.She used to call meRishu lovingly. I feltdeserted. Howcould thesepeople ignoreme? I returned

home. Maybe, I can go andsee some movie but justthe thought of again goingto a public place made mesick. I locked myself in, andfelt very lonely. How could Icope with this kind of life? Iwas desperate to talk tosomeone. I again tried tocall my friends but to noavail. When I called upAshmit, he cut off myphone after two rings.What must he be goingthrough? His deadpanexpression was enough tosilence me when Ashmitreturned home. There was

packet, she commented,“You did not take dinneryesterday!” I was irritated.“Just do what I told you andgo away.” I shouted.“Alright didi.” She lefthurriedly. It was a long dayahead. I tried to think ofdoing somethingworthwhile. I switched onthe TV and turned tocartoon channel. I did notdare to switch to any newschannel. The cartoon showwas also the repeated one;or maybe my mind was notabsorbing it. I felt restless. Itook up my cell phone andcalled Aditi, my friend. Shedid not pick up the phone.

Next was Shammi onmy list, then Narang andthen Shobita. None ofthem picked up the phone.Was everybody busy at thesame time? I sent themSMS “Please call me whenyou are free”. Only Aditisent a message. “Sorry, mout of city. Will call u whenm back.” I felt like talking tosomebody. I went to Mrs.Narain’s. After full jingle ofthe door bell, her servantcame out and said, “Ma’mis not at home now. Is thereany message?” “She is nothere! Oh! No, no message.Just tell her I was here.” Imumbled. I did not want togo back home. I went to thenext floor and pressed thedoorbell of Mrs. Ibrahim.Her daughter–in-law was ofmy age group and was agood chatter-box. I rangthe bell two more times butnobody responded. I wasgetting disturbed. Maybe,they were not home. Butthey had many servants.Some body could’veopened the door!Woebegone, I was turningback when I saw Mrs.Rawat coming up the stairs.“Hello Mrs. Rawat, how areyou? Could I...?” “Hello Mrs.

to get packed. It was dosaand never was the serviceso fast earlier whenever wehad to order the take-homemeals. It was quite obviousthe restaurant peoplewanted to get rid of us asearly as possible. I wassilently watching Ashmit’sreaction. He was sort ofexpecting all this and wastrying his best to tackle itwith dignity. We came backhome silently. One incidentwas enough to buildcompartments in my home.Ashmit started surfing thenet, completely ignoringme. “At least I can write abook about thisexperience,” I tried tocommunicate, but hissarcasm was like pouringcold water on any attemptof mine to make uscheerful. He simply said,“Experience is the nameevery one gives to theirmistakes.” I was chokedwith emotions. I took up abook and pretended toread it. The dosas rested inthe package.

Itried to shake away thefeeling of settling

depression. Summerholidays were going on inthe school where I taught,so my days were going tobe long. In the morning, Icarried out usual work andprepared breakfast andpacked lunch for Ashmit.He ate breakfast in silenceand left for office. I couldsense that he wasapprehensive about facingpeople at office. Laxmicame and went to thekitchen directly. After anhour, she asked me whileleaving “I’ve finished all thework. Is there anythingmore?” “Yes. Laxmi, pleasetake out Dosa packet fromfridge and throw it out.” Isaid. As she took out the

No message . Ju s tte l l he r I was he re. ”I mumbled . I d idnot want to go backhome. I went t o thenex t f loor andpressed thedoorbe l l o f Mrs .Ibrah im. Herdaughte r–i n- lawwas o f my age-group and was agood chatte r -box . Irang the bel l twomore t imes butnobody responded.I was ge tt ingd i s tu rbed .


and again slumped on thesofa. “Didi, the bar has gotfinished. Should I take thedetergent?” Laxmi calledfrom the kitchen “Yes, no,please go and get one fromthe shop in front of thegate.” I had forgotten myown shopping bag whichwas left at the police-station. It had the monthlygrocery. Oh no! Now wewill have to buy everything.

“Laxmi please also gettoothpaste, soaps and…”“What happened didi?” Shewas standing near me andcould see my glisteningeyes. “Laxmi, I have left mymonthly grocery at thepolice-station. Please getfew necessary things.Ashmit will be back verylate and by that time shopswill be closed. And, I, I donot want to go again….”Isobbed. “It’s alright didi, I’llget your things. Do notworry. If you need anythingmore, please write it down,I’ll bring them tomorrowwhen I’ll be coming here.” Iwas startled by herkindness. She was thewoman who wouldn’t evenwash a single handkerchiefif it wasn’t her day and nowshe was offering to do mygrocery shopping? “Why,thank you Laxmi.” “Iunderstand didi. People arenot kind when you are introuble. Didi, many peopleasked me about you. And itwasn’t about your wellbeing. They all think youare somehow responsiblefor your arrest. I know youare innocent. Sometimes,we become hostage ofcircumstances, the victimwithout our consent.” Shesat down on the carpet. Icould see that she wascrying. I had neverexpected this woman to bemy only solace. Now withher words she was fast

You have helped me somuch by talking to me. Iwill do all other work.” Itook away the broom fromher hand. “Just take the listwhen you will be leavingthe building.” “No didi, I’llsweep the house quickly.You take rest or go to adoctor. I’ll bring the bar andrinse the utensils.” Shecleaned the floor and as sheopened the door to go shewas surrounded by threereporters. “Is Mrs. RishitaKumar in?” “Do you workhere?” “Is the apartment inher name?” “Her husband isalso involved? They askedher. They were trying topeek inside my house.“Who are you and how didthe guard allow you toenter the building?” Shestood sturdily at the door.

“You all seem to be verywise; don’t you understandthat didi was framed? Youyourself have seen thatwoman looks like didi,that’s why this mistake wasmade. Was there any reportor complain in the policestation? None! You shouldbe after the havildar whoharassed a good lady likedidi and instead ofapologising, was makingher look like a criminal!!You better talk to theinspector. I can bet thathavildar must have gotsuspended for giving suchinformation on TV. Now,please go and do not harassthe fine lady anymore. Doher some good and bringthe truth in front ofeverybody.” I wastransfixed by her boldnessand choice of words. Whatmy husband could not do inmy defence, this seeminglyilliterate woman had done.I was cowering like an idiotin my own home and let herhandle the situation. Thereporters were taken

brother, and the only truefriend nearby turned out tobe this woman. “I am sorryLaxmi,” I faltered. I alwaysdisdained you because ofyour husband’s deeds.Many times, I had askedAshmit to do away with youbut he always praised yourgood work and sincerity.Now, I understand he wasright. Laxmi, I am reallysorry about my behaviourtowards you. I should haveunderstood your plight.”

“Arre didi” she saidsmilingly, “Now I am usedto it, but now when I sawyou suffering because of nofault of yours, I felt bad.You will see that wherever Iwill go for my work in thisbuilding, people will ask meto stop working at yourplace!” “Why! Why?” Ibecame agitated. “Ithappens, didi. Thesepeople are like that. Theyhang the person before theverdict is out. Anyways inyour case you wereabsolutely innocent. By theway, what had happened?”I had finally got a shoulderto cry on. I told her all thedetails. “Poor didi, youwanted to help and seehow you got framed. Donot worry. Truth alwaysprevails.” “Hey Laxmi, it’salready late for your nextassignment.” “Arre, I didn’trealise about the time whilewe were talking. Anyway I’llfinish the work here thenonly I will go.” She saidholding the broom. “No,you go now. Do not worry.

becoming my oasis in thedesert of suspectingpeople. “Laxmi, thanksagain for trusting me. But Ican’t go on explainingeverybody about myinnocence. Hey, Laxmi,why are you crying?”“Nothing didi, old woundshave got opened. I was alsofrom a good family, but gotmarried to this guy.Drinking, brawls, police-station, all were alien tome. At first, I used to beterrified of all these things.My parents live quite faroff. I had nobody to turn to.I took up this job of maid sothat I can get away from myhusband for some time andearn some money also. Butdidi, even after so manyyears, I am not able toforget the humiliation Ifaced when the first timemy husband went to jail.Our basti-wallahs are muchbetter than these colonypeople. Everybody wassympathetic and eventuallyhelped me to get this job.”Ashmit’s parents were nomore and my parents weresettled abroad with my

aback. They mumbled andlike the flies after thehoney, went buzzing out ofthe building. Laxmi thenturned towards me. “Didi,keep the door closed. Theguard must have dozed offor these people might havegiven him some bribe.” andhurriedly went away. I wastrembling but nowsomebody was there todefend me. I was justwondering about my socalled friends who had notcalled for the past twodays. They had their ownfamilies to think about butstill one phone call wouldhave been very helpful.Anyway, now nothing canmake any difference. Istarted getting worriedabout my job and theattitude of the colleagues.What must be happening atAshmit’s office? I tooksome antacid. I did not likegetting up anymore, butlife has to go on. Laxmicame after three hours orso and finished her work.She was smiling all thewhile.

It was late afternoonwhen the bell rang. I

started. Who this could be,I wondered. Hopefully, nota reporter! I cautiouslyasked “who is it?” “Rishitait’s me, Mrs. Rawat.” I wasrelieved. I opened the door.She hugged me and said,“Sorry Rishu, I should’vecome earlier.” “Come insideplease” I said. I had not yetlowered my guard. Therewas an awkward silence.“Rishu, I knew you had notreturned home thatevening as Ashmit hadasked about you. When wesaw that footage on TV wewere little apprehensive.Children asked us awkwardquestions, you know. Totell you the truth, we did

not want to get involved.But for Laxmi we couldhave never known thetruth.” “Laxmi?” I did notunderstand. “Yes, she toldus the whole story and alsomade us realise ourmistake. We should havestood by you. I am reallysorry that we ever doubtedyou.” “It is alright Mrs.Rawat. Maybe, I wouldhave done the same thing.”Before I could finish mysentence the door bell rangagain. This time it was Mrs.Das. She also said almostthe same thing and showedremorse for not supportingme. Doorbell rang again.Mrs. Talwar and Mrs. Reddyalong with Mrs. Narainwere standing at the door.

Their arrival wasfollowed by almost all theladies I knew in theneighbourhood. It lookedas if I was throwing a party.Everyone said more or lessthe same thing and showedsolidarity with me. Itseemed the Laxmi-network worked muchmore efficiently than theTV network. Mrs. Ibrahimwas the eldest amongst usand had brought herdaughter–in-law. Shecalled up her home and in afew minutes her servantscame with packets ofsweets, chips, pakoras andcold drinks. Soon eateriesbegan to arrive fromgoodness knows whereand it was party time now.Eventually theenvironment changed tomore cheery one andeverybody was bondingwith each other. Ashmitarrived early and wasflabbergasted. With himarrived the male crowd andwhen everybody jokinglycongratulated on beinglucky to be on TV andgetting rid of the problem

so easily, you should haveseen him grinning. He wasalso enjoying all theattention. I also forgotabout my illness. Amidst allcommotion, I managed toask him how his day was.“It was fine; people reactedbetter and withsensitivity.” He said.Meanwhile somebodyswitched on the TV. Thebreaking news was that the

concerned havildar wassuspended for speaking tothe media unauthorised.The police spokespersonwas explaining that thelady, Mrs. Rishita Pawarwas merely detained dueto mistaken identity. Shewill be sent a writtenapology. There werecheers all around andpeople startedcongratulating us. I wasthanking the Almighty andLaxmi. I wonder whethershe was watching TV. Thedoorbell rang again. Thistime it was the guard.“Memsaab, Laxmi’shusband has stabbed herand fled. Poor girl, she is

bleeding profusely. Herneighbours have taken herto the nearby hospital butdoctors are refusing totreat her. Her friend hascome asking for your help.”“Where is herfriend?”Asked Mrs.Shambho. Some otherladies had joined me onhearing Laxmi’s name.“She’s downstairs. Youwere having party, so I didnot allow her to come up”he explained. “It’s fine.Please send her up. We willdo something about it.” Isaid. Shanti came upstairsand told us the name of thehospital. Mrs. Shambhoworked in the secretariat inthe health department.One phone call to thehospital worked wondersand the concerned doctorpromised to start thetreatment immediately. Bynow everybody had heardabout the incident. “Let’sgo to the hospital and seehow she is doing”,somebody suggested. Ipicked up my handbag andmade sure that the ATMcard was there and few ofus left together after tenminutes.

Laxmi is fine now. Shelives with us as her woundshave not healed yet. Herhusband was nabbed in theneighbouring town withthe help of a phone call ofMr. Ibrahim who was veryclose to our MLA sahib.Laxmi will be filing fordivorce soon. Our guardhas already proposed toher. Good, she will live inthe premises of thebuilding. Moreover, I amgoing to need her to lookafter my baby when she orhe arrives after 6 months.In these Indian cities ofchaos, we women needeach otherto grow together.

With him ar r i vedthe male c rowd andwhen eve rybodyjok ing lycongratulated onbeing lucky to be onTV and ge tt ing r idof the prob lem soeas i l y , you shou ldhave seen h imgr inning . He wasa lso en joy ing a l l theattent ion. I a l soforgot about myi l lness .Amid st a l lcommot ion , Imanaged to ask h imhow h is day was.


We

All that you need to know about their health benefits.By Dr. Loveleen Kaur Sarao

PROBIOTICS

Probiotics are livingmicroorgansims which, whenconsumed, confer a health

benefit on the host. Consumption ofprobiotics helps in overall body andbrain functions, besides beingbeneficial for the skin. They areknown to improve the digestive andcardiac health as well as help inreducing depression and anxiety.

Though several probioticsupplements are availablecommercially and floating in themarket, fermented foods are alwaysbetter option to obtain the requiredamount of probiotics. There areseveral healthy probiotic foods suchas fermented soybeans, dairy andvegetables which can be consumedto gain the beneficial effects.

Probiotics, from both foods andsupplements, can have powerfuleffects on health. Some of theprobiotic foods which are quiteeasily available have been discussedbelow:-

Probiotics AndPrebiotics

Yoghurt

YoghurtOne of the best sources of

probiotic bacteria is yoghurt, whichis a fermented milk productcomprising the friendly bacteria,lactic acid bacteria andBifidobacteria. Consumption ofyoghurt by children helps incombating antibiotic induceddiarrhea and irritable bowelsyndrome besides improving bonehealth.

It is good for people havinglactose intolerance besides theones dealing with high bloodpressure. Consumption of yoghurtalso helps tame gas, diarrhea, andother tummy troubles.

So, in order to obtain theprobiotic benefits, it’s important tomake sure that the yoghurt beingconsumed contains the livebacterial cultures as in certaincases, the live bacteria gets killedduring the processing phase.

SauerkrautSauerkraut is one of the oldest

traditional fermented foodscomprising finely shredded cabbagefermented by lactic acid bacteria. Itis popular in many countries,especially in the European regionhaving a sour, salty taste and can bestored for months in an airtightcontainer.

Besides providing the probioticeffects, it is a rich source of fibre,sodium, iron, manganese andantioxidants such as lutein andzeaxanthin. It is also rich in VitaminsC, B and K.

Sauerkraut has to be consumedin unpasteurised form else theprobiotics cultures will get killed.The pasteurising process, which isused to treat most supermarketbrands, kills active and goodbacteria.

KefirThe word kefir comes from the

Turkish word keyif, which means“feeling good” after eating.

Kefir is a fermented probioticmilk drink which is prepared byadding kefir grains to cow’s orgoat’s milk. Kefir grains appear like

cauliflower. They are not cerealgrains, but rather cultures of lacticacid bacteria and yeast.

Kefir consumption is known toimprove digestive health, preventsagainst infections besidesimproving bone health. Kefir is adiverse and potent probiotic, goodfor lactose intolerant people as itcontains many important strains ofbeneficial bacteria and yeast.

TempehTempeh is a fermented product

of soyabean having its origin inIndonesia but has gained popularityall over the globe.

It is a high protein meatsubstitute having a nutty, earthyflavour just like a mushroom. Itsnutritional profile is enhanced byfermentation as the amount ofphytic acid is lowered in soyabeanswhich ultimately leads to increase inabsorption of minerals such as ironand zinc by the body.

Fermentation also leads toproduction of vitamin B12, which isnot contained in soyabeans. So, thisvitamin which is actually found infoods such as dairy, meat, fish andeggs makes this food an excellentchoice for vegetarians as it’s a highprotein substitute for meat.

MisoMiso comes from Japan and is

prepared by fermenting soyabeanswith salt and a fungus called koji.Other ingredients such as rice,barley and rye can also be usedalong with soyabeans.


KEFIR CONSUMPTION ISKNOWN TO IMPROVEDIGESTIVE HEALTH,PREVENTS AGAINSTINFECTIONS BESIDESIMPROVING BONEHEALTH. KEFIR IS ADIVERSE AND POTENTPROBIOTIC, GOOD FORLACTOSE INTOLERANTPEOPLE AS IT CONTAINSMANY IMPORTANTSTRAINS OF BENEFICIALBACTERIA AND YEAST.THEY ARE CULTURES OFLACTIC ACID BACTERIAAND YEAST.

Miso

Kefir

Sauerkraut

Kimchi made from cabbage ishigh in some vitamins and minerals,including vitamin K, riboflavin(vitamin B2) and iron and is knownto benefit digestive health.

KombuchaKombucha is consumed in many

parts of the world, especially inAsia. It is black or green tea drinkfermented by bacteria and yeast. Itis known to have probiotic effects.

Pickled cucumbersCucumbers are pickled in a

solution of salt and water. They arealso known as gherkins. These areallowed to ferment on their ownusing the naturally present lacticacid bacteria which renders themsour.

Consumption of these pickledcucumbers aid in improving thedigestive health as they are a richsource of probiotic bacteria.Though they are high on sodium,they serve as a source of vitamin K.

It is important to note thatpickles made using vinegar, do notimpart a probiotic effect.

ButtermilkA wide range of fermented dairy

drinks fall under the termbuttermilk. There are generally twomain types of buttermilk, namelythe traditional buttermilk andcultured buttermilk.

Traditional buttermilk is mainlyconsumed in India, Nepal andPakistan and refers to the liquid leftover after making butter and thiscontains the probiotics. This is alsosometimes referred to grandma’sprobiotic.

Buttermilk is low in fat andcalories but is a good source ofseveral important vitamins andminerals, such as vitamin B12,riboflavin, calcium and phosphorus.

Cultured buttermilk is popular inthe American supermarkets, but itdoes not impart any probioticbenefits.

Acidophilus milkThe milk which has been

fermented with bacteria is one ofthe easiest ways to get probiotics.This is available in supermarketslabelled as sweet acidophilus milk.

Selected Cheese varietiesCheese is a highly nutritious milk

product which serves as a goodsource of protein. It is a goodsource of calcium, vitamins andminerals. Even though majority ofthe cheese are fermented, they alldo not serve as the probiotics.

Miso is salty and is used in misosoup, a popular breakfastcomponent of Japan. It is availablein several varieties such as white,yellow, red and brown.

Consumption of miso wasassociated with a lower risk ofbreast cancer in middle-agedJapanese women and a reduced riskof stroke as it is a good source ofprotein, fibre, vitamins andminerals.

KimchiKimchi is a fermented spicy side

dish made of cabbage, havingKorean origin. Other vegetables canalso be used to prepare kimchi.Garlic, ginger, scallion red chillipepper flakes and salt are used toflavour it.


Kimchi

Sourdough Bread

Pickled cucumbers

Kombucha

Buttermilk

Hence, it is important to check thefood labels for the presence of liveand active cultures.

The aging process is survived bysome bacteria in cheeses such asmozzarella, cheddar and cottagecheese. Consumption of cheese islinked to lowering the risk of heartdisease and osteoporosis.

NattoNatto is a staple food in

Japanese households. It is afermented product of soyabean justlike tempeh and miso. It is generallyserved for breakfast along with rice.It has a slimy texture, a distinctsmell and a strong flavour.

It helps in improving bone andcardiovascular health as it is a goodsource of protein and vitamin K2. Asper some studies, consumption ofNatto is known to preventosteoporosis in women.

Sourdough BreadThe famous sourdough bread of

San Francisco is packed with aprobiotics that may help digestion.

SupplementsNot only foods, but there are

several other supplements availableto get the beneficial effects ofprobiotics. The supplements areavailable in capsule, tablet, powderand liquid forms. Thesesupplements are easy to use eventhough they don’t provide thenutrition that food provides inoriginal.

PREBIOTICSPrebiotics are fibres and natural

sugars which help in the growth ofbeneficial bacteria in the gut. Theywork in coordination withprobiotics and impart healthbenefits. Prebiotics, still need a lotof exploration as majority of thework done in this context has beenon probiotics.

Prebiotics can be increased by intake of high fibre breakfast cereals,nuts and seeds. Consuming soupsand snacks can also help.

Many prebiotic foods are

suitable for vegans and peoplefollowing other diets, making itpossible for them to eat a varied,healthful diet that also promotesgood gut health. Some of theprobiotics have been discussedahead:-

GarlicGarlic promotes the growth of

useful gut bacteria and inhibits thegrowth of harmful bacteria. It isfibrous and contains Vitamin B-6,and serves as a good source ofprebiotics.

Onions, shallots andspring onions

Consumption of Onions, shallotsand spring onions helps indigestion, have an antioxidant andenhance the growth of beneficialgut bacteria and serve as a goodsource of prebitoics.

ChicoryChicory root has high content of

inulin, a prebiotic fibre. This makesit a big source of prebiotics. Chicoryroot has antioxidant properties, canalleviate constipation and also helpsin digestion.

Jerusalem artichokesJerusalem artichokes have high

fibre content and serve as a richsource of prebitoics and consumingthis fibrous vegetable enhances theamount of useful bacteria in thegut.

Savoy cabbageSavoy cabbage is high in fibres

and is a very good source ofnaturally occurring prebioticsbeneficial for the gut. It containsvitamins B and C as well.

LeeksLeeks are a member of the onion

family which is high on fibres andserve as a prebiotic.


MANY PREBIOTICFOODS ARESUITABLE FORVEGANS ANDPEOPLE FOLLOWINGOTHER DIETS,MAKING IT POSSIBLEFOR THEM TO EAT AVARIED, HEALTHFULDIET THAT ALSOPROMOTES GOOD GUTHEALTH.

Garlic

Onions

Savoy cabbage

Red kidney beans, bakedbeans and soyabeans

Beans are rich in fibres, serve as asource of potassium and are high onproteins. Consumption of beanshelps the good bacteria to grow.

ChickpeasBesides being rich in fibres,

chickpeas are rich in protein, iron,and B vitamins and serve as a sourceof prebiotics.

LentilsLentils, be it red or pink, are a

rich source of fibre, easy to digestand beneficial for the health. Theyhelp in digestion and aid the growthof useful bacteria.

BananasBananas are a source of naturally

occurring fibres and are beneficialfor the gut. They help in curbingbloating as they aid the growth ofgood bacteria.

WatermelonWatermelon is a hydrating fruit

which contains prebioticsingredients which help the growthof good bacteria in the gut.

Custard appleCustard apples have

naturally occurring fibreswhich aid the growth of

healthy bacteria in the gut. Ithas antioxidant properties that

make it beneficial for theheart and brain.

GrapefruitThe high fiber content

of grapefruit is good for guthealth, besides being rich in

vitamin A and C.

FlaxseedsFlaxseeds are rich in fibres which

help in maintaining gut health andhelp in digestion.

AlmondsAlmonds are rich in dietary fiber,

they are popular as a healthy snack,and are a good source of prebioticsbesides being a good source ofcalcium.

Almonds are high in fibres andserve as a good source ofprebiotics. In addition to their fibrecontent, almonds are also a goodsource of calcium for vegans.

BANANAS ARE ASOURCE OFNATURALLYOCCURRING FIBRESAND ARE BENEFICIALFOR THE GUT. THEYHELP IN CURBINGBLOATING AS THEY AIDTHE GROWTH OF GOODBACTERIA.

Red kidneybeans, bakedbeans andsoyabeans

Chickpeas

Bananas

Grapefruit

PistachioPistachios are rich in protein,

fibre, vitamins and minerals. Theyhelp stimulate good gut bacteria asthey are excellent source ofprebiotics.

OatsOats have antioxidant and anti-

inflammatory properties and arequite beneficial for health.

BranBran contains fibre that helps the

beneficial gut bacteria grow. Branalso promotes regular bowelmovements and may help inreducing cholesterol.

BarleyBarley is a very good source of

prebiotic fibre, protein, iron and Bvitmains. It has immune systemboosting properties and it serves asan antioxidant powerhouse.


Health benefits of probioticsand prebiotics

Consumption of probiotics andprebiotics helps in dealing withthe following health conditions:-● Lactose intolerance● Diarrhea● Prevention of constipation● Immunomodulation● Obesity● Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)● Inflammatory bowel disorder

(IBD)● Cardiovascular diseases and

lipid metabolism● Enhancement of antibacterial

activity● Anti-inflammation● Changes in a bile salt

conjugation● Synthesis of nutrients and

improving their bioavailability● Alleviating symptoms of allergy,

cancer, AIDS, respiratory andurinary tract infections

● Bioavailability and uptake ofminerals

Myths about probiotic foodsThere are several myths about

probiotic foods.● All yoghurts do not contain live

and active cultures. So, we needto check the labels for the onesthat do have the active cultures.

● Not all fermented foods containlive cultures. The processingstages they go through such asbaking, filtering, pasteurisation,

etc. rip them off the probioticcultures.

● Beer, chocolate, wine, soyasauce, sourdough bread aresome of the fermented foodswhich do not contain probiotics.

Things to take care withprobiotics● Prior consultation with a doctor

is recommended beforeinitiating a probiotic diet in caseyou have a compromisedimmune system, you arepregnant, or are on a specialdiet owing to a pre-existinghealth condition.

● A diet expert can helpincorporate the appropriatetype and amount of probioticinto the regular diet.

● The side effects can beminimised by including one ortwo probiotics in diet at a timein controlled amount.

● Consumption of probiotics mayresult in nausea in some people.

All You Need To Know About Your Food

The prebiotic intake can beenhanced by consuming high-fibrebreakfast cereals along with nutsand seeds, snacking on nuts andseeds, consuming soups and saladshaving legumes, preferring whole-grain bread. Making a change inyour diet is all you need to do toboost your prebiotic and probioticintake. But eating the wrong thingscan feed the bad bacteria in yourgut and give them an advantageover the good guys.

We

Barley

BARLEY IS A VERYGOOD SOURCE OFPREBIOTIC FIBRE,PROTEIN, IRON AND BVITMAINS. IT HASIMMUNE SYSTEMBOOSTING PROPERTIESAND IT SERVES AS ANANTIOXIDANTPOWERHOUSE.

Q A&Kitchen queries

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THERE IS NOW ANOTHER VARIANT OF

coffee on the scene- thebulletproof or simply the bullet

coffee. Please tell us more about it.A mug of piping hot coffee is what

many of us require to begin our day.Some prefer it with sugar, some evenditch milk and take the Espresso way.However, a new variant bullet coffeehas come up where people are addingghee or butter to black coffee. Thishigh-calorie concoction keeps oneenergetic throughout the day. Formore flavour cinnamon or cardamompowder can be added. However,everything in extreme is bad, so thiscoffee when consumed frequently cando more harm than good as it is heavyon oil, ghee, coconut oil or butter.

●

Some people have even begun to saythat this coffee is a substitute forbreakfast, but this is not true asbreakfast comprises so many nutrientsthan just fat.

IDLIS AS WE ALL KNOW, ARE SOFT AND

round – may be big or small – thatis all. Can we make idlis of any

other shape to make the meal moreinteresting?

Of course, by using a littleimagination you can make idlis ofdifferent shapes. Steam the batter ina large, round dish and cut out shapeswith a biscuit cutter. You can alsomake cone-shaped idlis. Take a bananaleaf the size of your palm, twist it intocone shape and hold it in place using atooth pick. Pour the batter into the leafcone and place it in the steam cookeror idli-maker and steam.

IN CERTAIN RECIPES WE COME ACROSS

“Bird’s-eye chillies” as one of theingredients. What is it like and can

we substitute some¬thing for it?The “Bird’s-eye chillies” are a type

of chillies. These are really tiny, butvery fiery in nature. So, it is better touse a standard red chilli in its place.

WHAT SHOULD WE DO TO AVOID

over-salting of vegetables thatshrink considerably after

cooking?All green leafy vegetables and the

likes of cabbage tend to shrink oncooking. To avoid over-salting of thesevegetables, add salt when thevegetables have shrunk after cooking.

HOW CAN WE MAKE OUR CHINESE

dishes more authentic whilecooking at home?

To get an authentic platter of‘Chinese dishes’ at home, one shouldget a wok, wine and peanut oil. Cookfood on a very strong flame. Seasoning

●

●

●

●

too is also important, while salt,pepper, soy sauce, sugar and cookingwine are the essentials. The wok is afavourite cooking accessory of theChinese as it preserves the nutrientsand lends a unique flavour to the food.

WHAT IS THE RIGHT METHOD OF

making vaghar or tadka forour various dishes?

Vaghar or Tadka is the signature ofIndian cooking, be it dal or dhokla, itdefines the dish. You have to select thespices according to your dish and keepthem handy. Toss them in oil or gheethat’s just hot enough and wait for thecrackling sound and then check thecolouring before you pour this mixtureon top of the dish.

How can we clean a burnt non-stick pan without scraping andgetting scratches?

Put a few onion peels in it; add oneteaspoon of white vinegar and half acup of water. Bring to boil, cover andleave for 10 minutes. Clean as usual.

CAN YOU PLEASE TELL US THE BENEFITS OF

coconut?The coconut is highly nutritious. Its

fresh meat is used as a tonic for peopleof poor health. Fresh coconut waterand its meat contain huge amounts ofpotassium, phosphorus, iron,magnesium and zinc. It is also high infibre, making it a perfect snack. It isgood for acidity and nausea and alsorecommended to fight dehydrationbecause of its cooling property.

GIVE US A FEW TIPS TO MAKE HOME-MADE

juices more enjoyable.Making juices at home can be made

more enjoyable if you use yourimagination. You can make juices ofvarious combinations according toyour taste and then garnish them withfreshly ground black pepper, rock salt,lime, parsley or mint. Use organic fruitsas far as possible. Wash the fruits,removing the seeds, leaves anddamaged portions. To get the fullbenefit of nutrients from the juice, itshould be consumed without delay.Cleaning the equipment or the juicer isalso important to avoid contamination.

— SAVITA BHARGAVA

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invites readers’opinions andreactions on articles,short stories andfeatures published inWoman’s Era. The best letterwill be given a prize of`500. Address your letters byE-mail to: [email protected] by post to:

WOMAN'S ERA

The prize is awarded to:Dr. Sunil Chopra

The editorial 'Education hascome a full circle, Jan 22)has hit the nail.

Covid pandemic hasnot only wreaked havocwith health, economy buton education too; leavingstudents at the mercy ofOnline learning. Trulyspeaking Online learning isnot our students' cup of tea;taking it as a fun most ofthem have had a field's day in pastseveral months. Millions got promoted

'Teenage suicides: Its Causes andCure' by Jaidev Sharma, January

2022, addressestroubles faced byteenage kids thesedays. Suicide is oneof the leadingcauses of death inlate childhoodand adolescenceworldwide. Thisnot only leads to a

direct loss of many younglives but also has disruptivepsychosocial and adverse socio-economic effects. From theperspective of public mental health,suicide among young people is animportant issue to be discussed. We,therefore, need a good insight intothe risk factors that contribute tosuicidal behaviour in youth.

–Suresh , Himachal

ADDRESSING TEEN ISSUES

without appearing in actualexams. This type of teaching justcan't replace the near perfectclassroom teaching to which ourchildren are so accustomed. Atthe most, we can integrate thetwo. A human teacher is theultimate and in no case besubstituted by a computerteacher. The love, compassion,touch and understanding with

which a teacher teaches can neitherbe compared nor surpassed.

– Dr.Sunil Chopra

The article published in January 2022issue, “Infertility: NotHer Choice” brings outa most importantpoint that has tobe noticed andimplicated in eachone of us lives. Thething which is said,“Responsibility of asociety to stopplanning our lives;

as it is our life and we can plan it outefficiently,” makes a sense that need tobe prevailed in a society. Infertility issomething which occurs withoutanybody’s wish, and it is natural bodyphenomena that can happen to anyone.It should not be blamed, forced toanyone. People should stop tauntingothers for this, especially to thosewomen who can’t conceive. Not onlythat they should be encouraged tomove on in their lives and try otheroptions to have kids if the couple reallywants. We should take stand for othersand encourage them to be who theyare and not, what they cannot. Thisarticle actually enlightens us as asociety. –A.Kartikeyan, Kerela

ACCEPTANCE FOR HER

HAVOC OF ONLINE LEARNING

The article 'How to Be Happy' inJanuary 2022 issue wasa reminder to us thatwe all have a lot ofproblems. It isimportant to remindourselves to be happyand positive in difficultsituations. We knowthat happiness canpredict health andlongevity, but

happiness is not something that justhappens to you. Everyone has thepower to make small changes in our dayto day life which can make us happy.

– Kamlesh Sharma

TO HEALTHY AND HAPPY LIFE

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Statement of ownership and other particulars aboutWOMAN’S ERA

FORM IV, See Rule 81. Place of publication: New Delhi. 2. Periodicity of publication: monthly.

3, 4, & 5. Printer’s, Publisher’s, and Editor’s name: Divesh Nath. Nationality:Indian, r/o E-3, Jhandewala Estate, New Delhi-110 055. 6. Names andaddresses of individuals who own the newspaper and partners or shareholdersholding more than one per cent of the total capital: Divesh Nath, Rohit Nath, r/oE-3, Jhandewala Estate, New Delhi-55.

I, Divesh Nath, hereby declare that the particulars given above are true tothe best of my knowledge and belief.

Sd. Divesh Nath, Publisher.

March 2022 - Woman's Era

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