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Kadambari Vyas Yoga Certification Board Lvl 3 Yoga Teacher and Evaluator Instagram ; WhatsApp Group Today, in major cities like Mumbai , we have a very fast paced life. We are constantly surrounded by chaos, we live too sedentary lifestyles, and do not pay attention to what our bodies tell us. Some of us do not have time for our physical, mental, and emotional fitness. Many people assume they need a yoga teacher or a studio to begin their practice, but that’s not always true. To beat the stress and constant pressure we face, the best way is to decompress by practicing yoga . This article presents a simple, effective 30-minute routine—either in the morning or before bed , a yoga routine that anyone can follow at home—no special equipment, class, or instructor required. Your 30-Minute Yoga Plan   5 Minutes – Warm-up 🏃‍♂️ 5 Minutes – Asanas (6-Way Spinal Movement) 🧘‍♀️ 10 Minutes – Shavasana (Relaxation) 🛏️ 10 Minutes – Pranayama (Breath Control) 🌬️ You must make sure your stomach is empty when you do these practices. Even without the philosophical or spiritual aspects of yoga , the physical fitness and well-being can be achieved by doing some warm up (5 Mins) from your neck to your feet. This is followed by t he six-way movement of the spine, Shavasana, and Pranayama. The Foundation: Six-Way Movement of the Spine 🧘‍♀️( 5 Mins) Your spine: It needs to be moved in six different directions everyday for it to remain healthy and supple. A supple spine means longevity in movement that lasts you a lifetime.  Upward Lengthening: Decompresses the spine after a long night’s rest or day’s work. The lateral bend (Side to Side) of the spine stretches, develops, tones the muscles of the sides, and stimulates the nervous system.  Forward bend helps you stretch the superficial and deep muscles of the legs, ankles, and shoulders, along with bringing flexibility to the spine. It also helps improve digestion, and reduces fat deposits on the abdomen. Backward bend of the spine tones the deep muscles supporting the spinal column and trunk. Helps in resolving minor slip disc, and constipation.  Torsion (Twists): Release back tension, improve digestion, and help relax the nervous system. A flexible spine supports better posture, reduces back pain, and enhances everyday movements. It’s a small daily habit with long-term benefits. Shavasana – The Art of Relaxation ( 10 Mins) 🛏️ Relaxation: After spinal movement, it’s essential to allow the body to rest and reset. There are several relaxation techniques, but nothing beats the Shavasana or corpse pose . You need to consciously relax all your muscles, none of them should be engaged. Your spine, from the cervical to the coccyx, needs to be as flat on the floor as possible. Hands away from the body and feet comfortably apart. Release tension in every part of the body. It relieves muscular nervous tension, and provides relief from headaches, fatigue, and insomnia. It also has restorative benefits to the body, reduces anxiety and calms the mind. Pranayama – Breathing with Awareness ( 10 Mins) 🌬️ We often notice that when we are angry, or anxious, our breath is wavering, unsteady, shallow, or uneven. This is a reflection of our state of mind. In your everyday life you do not need to do some very great breathing techniques. Breath work : Prana (breath) + Ayama (regulation) = Pranayama (regulation of breath). ( 5 Mins ) You can sit with your legs crossed, arms placed gently on the thighs, palms on the knees and facing upwards. Breathe in slow rhythmic patterns on counts that are comfortable to you, just remembering to inhale and exhale for the same counts. (e.g., inhale for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds). This steadies the mind and reduces stress. Brahmari Pranayama (Humming Bee Breath) (10 breaths) Take a deep inhale and, while exhaling, make a soft humming sound ("hmmmm") like a bee. The vibration helps relax the nervous system and reduce anxiety. After the pranayamas, just sit by yourself for the remaining time, let the thoughts come and pass. Do not dwell on them or react to them. You might have noticed life coaches and psychologist tell people to take deep breaths when they are anxious about something, ever wondered why? The Hatha Yoga Pradipika , one of the most renowned text on Hatha Yoga states “चले वाते चलं चित्तं निश्चले निश्चलं भवेत् ।” (Which means, when the breath  is disturbed the mind is disturbed; when the breath is steady, the mind is steady.) Final Thoughts You don’t need a teacher or a studio  to begin yoga. Just 30 minutes a day  with mindful movement, deep relaxation, and conscious breathing can transform your physical and mental well-being. For EI residents navigating a busy urban life, this simple practice offers a grounded way to reconnect with your body and mind —right from the comfort of your home. If you’d like to know more such simple and practical yoga titbits, feel free to reach out to me ( WhatsApp ) —I’d be happy to share! Try it today! Your body and mind will thank you. 😊

Harinath Strategy & Growth – Reliance Retail; EI Outlook Editor Linkedin Profile The Hidden Game of Quick Commerce: Are We Really Winning? Introduction: What’s Really Happening? Quick commerce has changed the way we shop. Need milk for your morning tea? Get it in 10 minutes. Forgot an ingredient while cooking? No problem, just tap and order. These platforms offer incredible convenience, saving us time and effort. No more waiting in lines, no more last-minute store runs. But while the benefits are undeniable, the hidden costs often overshadow them. Ever noticed how a simple order turns into a shopping spree? Or how delivery fees and dynamic pricing creep up on you? The same technology that makes life easier also nudges us into spending more—sometimes without us even realizing it. So, are we really winning with quick commerce, or are we just playing along in a well-designed game? Let’s break it down. How These Apps Play the Pricing Game You open an app to buy milk. But suddenly, you see an offer: Free delivery above ₹99! You think, “Okay, I’ll add something else.” Then there’s another banner— Super Saver! Buy for ₹1000 and save ₹150! Now you’re thinking, “Should I stock up on Surf and Comfort while I’m at it?” Before you know it, you’ve bought three packs of detergent, five fabric softeners , and a bunch of snacks you didn’t plan on getting. Sound familiar? Yes, my maid gives me that look. Meanwhile, a different version of this happens on ride-hailing apps. Two people, same route, same time—yet different fares. Why? Because algorithms analyze everything—from your location to how desperate you seem (did you check the fare five times? Now it’s higher!) Or as they were accused, if you are an iPhone user, you might be charged more, since you can afford it. Who Is Driving Whom? AI or the Firm? With AI-driven pricing, the question arises: do companies truly control these algorithms, or have they set in motion systems they can no longer fully govern? Quick commerce platforms often employ pricing strategies that appear tailored but can sometimes feel misleading. The Delivery Charges That Keep Creeping Up Remember when delivery was free? Then came the small basket fee , service charge , GST , and extra fees for bad weather . That ₹45 item? By checkout, it’s ₹125 . And unlike your neighborhood kirana store, where ₹10 actually means ₹10 , here you’re paying for convenience—plus a little extra, always. Quality? What Quality? Ever ordered half a kilo of tomatoes and received a mushy 350 grams? Or found half your groceries missing? Who’s checking? Recently, dark stores of quick commerce platforms were raided for failing quality standards. When you complain, they just throw some money at you through confusing coupons and refunds. But what if you miss spotting a bad-quality product someday? Compensation isn't the solution—fixing the system is. There have been many incidents where food inspectors and FSSAI found violations in compliance and hygiene. Changing How We Shop—For Better or Worse? These apps have rewired our brains. We used to plan grocery lists. Now, we order on impulse. You want a snack? Order. Need sugar? Order. Craving a dessert? Order. It’s a culture of instant gratification, but at what cost? On the flip side, local kirana stores, which thrived on personal relationships, are shutting down. At least 2 lakh stores have closed in the past year, especially in metro cities, where quick commerce is booming. The irony? Many kirana stores are now joining these platforms to survive, but they lose control over pricing and profits. So, What’s the Solution? Be aware of these tactics. Next time you see a flashy deal, pause and ask—do I really need this? Slow down on unnecessary orders. Convenience is great, but mindful shopping is better. Customer is king. This is the fundamental rule of any business. Customers are smart and won’t like to be cheated. Push for transparency. Companies need to be upfront about pricing and hygiene standards. Support local stores when possible. Many now offer home delivery and digital payments. Take WalkToMart (Ph. no. 99301 21565 ) , for example. They deliver within half an hour—on any basket value—if given permission at the gate. No hidden fees, no gimmicks. Just good old kirana service, but faster. Maybe the future of shopping is a mix of both worlds? Quick commerce isn’t going anywhere, but we can be smarter about how we use it. The real win? Knowing when to play—and when to walk away. Next time you open an app for “just one thing,” ask yourself—do I need it, or is the app just playing me? 😉 Sources: INC42 ; Forbes ; ET

Smita Shetty Chartered Accountant (CA);   FINANSYS LinkedIn ; Beyond Boardrooms by Smita Shetty April isn't just about heatwaves and mangoes, it’s the start of a brand-new financial year. Whether you're 35 and planning for your child's education or 65 and focusing on wealth protection, this is the time to pause, review, and refresh your financial strategy. Here’s a guide to help you understand what you can do right now to optimize your finances. But first, one important disclaimer: Check with your Chartered Accountant (CA) or tax advisor to determine whether the Old or New Tax Regime is more beneficial for you. Many of the deductions listed below apply only to the old regime. Once you choose your regime, some of these may or may not apply to your situation — so plan accordingly. Paying Rent? Claim HRA the Right Way If you are salaried and your employer provides House Rent Allowance (HRA), you can claim an exemption under the Income Tax Act. This helps reduce your taxable salary. To ensure your claim is valid: Keep a valid rent agreement in place. Collect and submit monthly rent receipts. If the total annual rent exceeds ₹1 lakh, you must provide the landlord’s PAN card …. Always pay rent through traceable methods like bank transfer, UPI, or cheque — it helps if your claim is ever scrutinized. If you do not receive HRA from your employer, you can claim a deduction under Section 80GG , subject to following conditions You must not own a home in the city of residence. The deduction is capped at ₹5,000 per month or 25% of your total income, whichever is less. To claim the deduction, you must file Form 10BA along with your income tax return. This is especially useful for consultants, freelancers, retirees, or business owners living on rent. HRA exemption is available in both regimes, but 80GG is only under the Old Regime Have a Home Loan? Claim Interest and Principal If you’ve bought a property using a home loan, you can benefit in two ways: Interest paid on the loan is deductible up to ₹2 lakh per year under Section 24(b) for self-occupied homes. If the house is rented out, there is no cap on the interest amount, but you can only adjust ₹2 lakh of loss under “ Income from house property ” in the current year; any additional loss is carried forward for 8 years. Principal repayment is covered under Section 80C , within the ₹1.5 lakh limit . This also includes stamp duty and registration costs in the year of purchase. In case of joint loans , both borrowers can claim the deduction in their individual returns, effectively doubling the benefit if both are earning. Supporting Parents or Dealing with Illness? Section 80D allows health insurance premium deductions — ₹25,000 for self/family and ₹50,000 if you're paying for senior citizen parents. Section 80DDB provides deductions for expenses incurred on treatment of specific illnesses like cancer, Parkinson’s disease, renal failure, etc. — ₹40,000 for patients below 60, ₹1 lakh if the patient is a senior citizen. Section 80DD (for disabled dependents) and Section 80U (for self-disability) allow deductions of ₹75,000 to ₹1.25 lakh based on the severity. Disabilities such as hearing impairment, blindness, mental illness, and locomotor disability are eligible. A Form 10-IA from a certified doctor must be submitted. Ensure you retain medical prescriptions, diagnostic reports, and payment receipts for all claims. Use the Full Range of Deductions Make sure to fully utilize the available deductions: 80C : ₹1.5 lakh from investments in PPF, ELSS mutual funds, life insurance, tuition fees, home loan principal, 5-year FDs. 80CCD(1B): ₹50,000 extra for NPS contributions over the 80C limit. 80D : Health insurance premiums as described above. 80TTA / 80TTB: Interest from savings accounts — ₹10,000 for those under 60, ₹50,000 for senior citizens Running a Side Hustle or Self-Employed? Save with Presumptive Taxation If you're a freelancer, consultant, or small business owner: Section 44AD (businesses) allows you to declare 8% of gross receipts (6% if digital) as your income if turnover is less than ₹3 crore. Section 44ADA is meant for professionals such as doctors, chartered accountants, architects, lawyers , and others listed under the Act. It allows them to declare 50% of gross receipts as income under the presumptive scheme if gross receipts are up to ₹50 lakh. This limit can be extended to ₹75 lakh if total cash receipts do not exceed 5% of total receipts. You are not required to maintain detailed books of accounts or get your accounts audited under these schemes. Apart from the presumptive income, you can still claim deductions under 80C, 80D, etc., like salaried individuals. This greatly simplifies tax compliance while offering substantial tax relief. Create a Hindu Undivided Family (HUF) for Smart Family Tax Planning A HUF is a separate legal entity that can help in tax planning for families. It can be created by any Hindu, Sikh, Jain, or Buddhist male who is married and forms a family unit. Benefits: HUF has a separate PAN and can file its own tax return. It enjoys a separate basic exemption limit of ₹2.5 lakh. It can invest in fixed deposits, mutual funds, or hold rental properties and pay tax separately on that income. You can claim deductions like 80C, 80D under the HUF as well. It is especially beneficial for families with ancestral property or joint investments, allowing income to be split and taxed efficiently. Start SIPs — Don’t Wait Till March to Invest .. One of the biggest mistakes is leaving tax-saving investments till the end of the year. Instead, start a monthly Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) now: ₹25,000/month at an assumed 12% annual return over 20 years could grow to ₹2.3 crore. ELSS mutual funds (under 80C), PPF, and NPS all support monthly investing. Monthly contributions are easier to manage and give better rupee cost averaging over time. Early and consistent investing is what truly creates wealth. Often Ignored but Valuable Deductions Section 80E: Interest on education loan — no upper limit, deductible for 8 years from the year repayment starts. Section 80G: Donations to eligible charitable institutions. Only donations made through non-cash modes (cheque, UPI, card, etc.) qualify. Cash donations above ₹2,000 are not allowed as deductions. Capital Gains Planning: Section 54: Exemption on capital gains from sale of a residential property if reinvested in another residential property. Section 54F : For capital gains on assets other than house property.  Section 54EC: Allows investment in specified bonds (NHAI/REC) to save capital gains tax. If you sell ancestral property , the same rules apply — the capital gain is calculated based on indexed cost from the date of acquisition, and exemptions can be claimed based on reinvestment. Form 15H / 15G : If your income is below the taxable limit, submit this to banks to avoid unnecessary TDS deductions on interest. Final Word: Financial Planning Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All Whether you're 40, navigating EMIs and school fees, or 65, focusing on wealth preservation and tax-free income — planning ahead gives you control and clarity. April is the best time to: Review last year’s spend and investments Create a tax-saving and investment plan Choose the right tax regime based on your financial goals Source: FINANSYS

Harinath Fitness Enthusiast Linkedin Profile ; EI Outlook Editor Strength training is often misunderstood, with myths surrounding muscle growth, flexibility, and overall health. To uncover the truth, I spoke with Irfan Khan ( Instagram , 8291360747 ) a Master Coach, Founder of NIFS, and Physique Transformation Specialist . With expertise in Exercise Physiology, Sports Nutrition, Strength & Conditioning, and Rehab , he delivers tailor-made programs to help individuals achieve their fitness goals. Beyond personal coaching, Irfan trains professionals to become certified Personal Trainers and Sports Nutritionists , shaping the next generation of fitness experts. At our society’s open gym , his sessions focus on evidence-based training, emphasizing strength, endurance, and recovery. In this interview, he debunks common fitness myths, shares effective training strategies, and highlights the role of nutrition in building strength. How Often Should One Train for Strength? Scientific research suggests that training three times a week is optimal for building both strength and endurance. This allows for adequate muscle recovery and progressive overload, which are essential for muscle adaptation and growth. Heavy Weights vs. Lighter Weights: Which is More Effective? The choice between heavy weights with fewer repetitions and lighter weights with more repetitions depends on the goal: Lifting heavy weights (fewer reps) primarily builds strength and power. Lifting lighter weights (more reps) enhances muscular endurance. Both approaches have their benefits, and a well-balanced program may incorporate both based on training objectives. Can Strength Be Built Without Weights? While body weight exercises such as push-ups and squats can help build a certain level of strength, resistance training with weights is necessary for significant muscle development. Body weight exercises improve endurance and control but may not provide sufficient resistance for long-term strength gains. Addressing Muscle Imbalances Muscle imbalances can be corrected by focusing on deep muscle activation and incorporating unilateral exercises using dumbbells. This ensures equal development on both sides of the body and prevents injuries. Improving Grip Strength Grip strength is crucial for overall strength training. Exercises targeting the forearm muscles, such as hammer curls and grip-strengthening exercises, can significantly enhance grip endurance and power. Will Strength Training Make Me Look Bulky? Muscle bulk is influenced by calorie intake rather than training alone. A high-calorie diet leads to muscle growth, whereas a controlled intake supports a lean physique. Strength training itself does not automatically lead to bulkiness. Training with an Injury or Weakness in a Body Part Strength training can be adapted for rehabilitation purposes. By focusing on joint stability, connective tissues, and targeted exercises, strength training can help improve the condition of an injured or weak body part. Does Strength Training Stunt Growth in Kids? This is a widespread myth. Height is primarily determined by genetics and nutrition, not strength training. Properly supervised strength training can improve bone density and overall physical fitness without negatively impacting growth. Can Women Become Muscular Like Men? Another myth surrounding strength training is that women who lift weights develop a muscular physique similar to men. Muscle growth is largely dependent on genetics and hormonal differences, making it unlikely for women to develop excessive muscle mass without targeted training and nutrition. Cardio vs. Strength Training: How Do They Affect the Body? Cardio primarily improves cardiovascular endurance and burns calories. Strength training enhances muscle strength, bone density, and metabolic rate. A well-rounded fitness routine incorporates both for optimal health benefits. Does Strength Training Reduce Flexibility? Contrary to popular belief, strength training does not reduce flexibility. Instead, proper strength training improves muscle control and joint mobility. Stiffness may be perceived due to increased muscle mass, but flexibility can be maintained with stretching and mobility exercises. Does Stopping Strength Training Lead to Fat Gain? If strength training is discontinued, muscle strength may decline after approximately 45 days due to reduced muscle engagement. However, fat gain depends on overall caloric intake rather than training alone. Strength training should be viewed as a long-term lifestyle choice rather than a temporary fitness goal. Nutrition & Diet for Strength Training Pre- and Post-Workout Nutrition Pre-workout: Simple carbohydrates and proteins, such as fruits and nuts, provide quick energy. Post-workout: A combination of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, such as eggs, bread, and nuts, supports muscle recovery and replenishes energy stores. Protein Requirements for Muscle Growth For effective muscle growth, individuals require 1.2 to 1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily. This ensures adequate muscle repair and development. Are Supplements Necessary? Vegetarians may require protein supplements such as whey protein or creatine to meet protein needs. Non-vegetarians can obtain sufficient protein from dietary sources like eggs, fish, and lean meats. Losing Fat While Gaining Muscle Fat loss and muscle gain can occur simultaneously by following a calorie deficit for carbohydrates while maintaining a caloric surplus from proteins . A well-balanced diet supports this process without compromising energy levels. Best Foods for Muscle Recovery Protein-rich foods and healthy fats play a crucial role in muscle recovery. Some of the best sources include: Protein: Eggs, chicken, fish, paneer, tofu, soybeans Healthy fats: Nuts, ghee, olive oil Conclusion Strength training is an essential component of overall health and fitness. With proper training techniques, nutritional guidance, and consistency, individuals can achieve their fitness goals without falling for common myths. Whether the aim is to build strength, improve endurance, or maintain overall well-being, a structured and science-backed approach to strength training yields the best results.

Abhimanyu Singh Improviser Linkedin Profile , Instagram When was the last time you truly let go? Want to switch off your racing thoughts and feel a creative high? As per a series of studies based on fMRI (Functional MRI) results, practicing improv can get you into a flow state and even alter your brain. The studies show activity levels in different brain areas when blood flows into them. fMRIs of people who practice improv show that: Their brain's dorsolateral prefrontal cortex is less active i.e. the area connected to self judgement has quietened And the medial prefrontal cortex is more active i.e. the creative and language center is awake This brain state is associated with flow state and creative energy. Give improv a try! It's simple and fun. My wife Jasmine and our two friends Harinath and Saurabh conduct improv comedy workshops about once a month in Emerald Isle itself. To attend the next workshop join our WhatsApp group where we announce dates.

Dr. Narendra Palan Site Occupational Health Physician. B.A.S.F India Ltd LinkedIn Profile Heat stress is the leading cause of weather-related deaths and can exacerbate underlying illnesses including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, mental health, asthma, and can increase the risk of accidents and transmission of some infectious diseases. How does heat impact health? The amount of heat stored in the human body is determined by a combination of (a) An inability to eliminate internally generated heat from metabolic processes due to environmental heat stress (for example, high temperature, high humidity, low wind, high thermal radiation), (b) Clothing creating a barrier to heat loss, (c) External heat gain from the environment. The body’s inability to regulate internal temperature and eliminate heat gain in such conditions increases the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke . Tips to remain healthy in heat/ summer climate: Watch your meal. Freshly cooked and properly stalked . Eat fibrous vegetables and fruits with high water content- tomatoes, watermelons, oranges, cucumber, papaya etc. Stay hydrated- take 2 to 3 litres of water , fresh fruit juice, lemonade, butter milk, coconut water etc. minimize alcohol, coffee, fizzy drinks Avoid going out in afternoons Maintain good hygiene . Take cold water bath 2-3 times to avoid body odour and fungal infections. Wear daily washed white loose fitting cotton clothes Cultivate active lifestyle. Take care of your eyes. Wash eyes with cold water often. Avoid direct sunlight. Wear sunglasses when you got out in hot sun. Ensure skin care. Use sunscreen of minimum SPF 30 , hats, alovera and turmeric may be applied on skin. Fortify diet with vitamins and micronutrients - citrus fruits and vitamin b complex if feeling weak. Guard against injuries – wear appropriate sportswear and keep first aid kit ready. Consult doctor when needed.

Abhimanyu Singh Marketing strategist and ghostwriter Linkedin Profile Hi EI entrepreneurs, If you want revenue traction as a 0-1 business owner , hiring a marketing agency is one of the worst things you can do. I’ve been Head of Marketing , leading big budgets and teams, and I can tell you much of the money gets wasted. That's because there's no quality feedback on your products and services before pumping in big marketing money. Content marketing on text-first social platforms like LinkedIn, X, Medium, and Quora can help founders like you get the much-needed initial feedback and traction. Here are 5 reasons why: 1. You don’t need a big team You don’t need a video team, graphic designer, or account manager to write. 2. You don’t need any equipment Writing doesn’t require paying for cameras, audio equipment, or a studio setup. 3. You don’t need media spends Social platforms are free. No need to raise crores of rupees to fund paid ads. 4. Fast time to delivery and feedback loop Idea-to-publish happens in days, not months. Feedback is in real-time. 5. You can do founder-led marketing You have the chance to build a personal brand and deep audience connect. Conclusion: 1 text-first marketer can substitute your entire marketing team. It’s the smartest investment in your business till you find initial traction.

Shwetanjali Rai Trailblazing Filmmaker; Cine Literacy imdb.com ; nettv4u.com ; Email In today’s world, we are constantly surrounded by visual media—films, television, online videos, and advertisements. But how often do we stop to think about how these images shape our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs? My Cine Literacy Program is designed to help people move beyond passive watching and become active interpreters of visual narratives. As a filmmaker and educator , I believe that Cine literacy is more than just understanding films – it's a fundamental tool for developing critical thinking and navigating life with greater awareness. Through this program, I want to equip people with the skills to analyse and engage with visual media in ways that enhance their understanding of both storytelling and life itself. Why Cine Literacy Matters? Films are more than entertainment. They reflect cultures, challenge perspectives and social conditioning , and influence our emotions. By learning how to critically analyse films, we can: View life’s situations more objectively and find creative solutions to problems. Develop essential life skills such as empathy, resilience, leadership, ownership and effective communication. Understand the filmmaking process, helping aspiring artistes and filmmakers to confidently explore many different careers in this field. Navigate the film industry better by understanding its high-risk nature, uncertainties, and lack of job security, equipping individuals with strategies to sustain and thrive. Use the filmmaking process as a tool to learn how to handle uncertainties in life, pursue dreams fearlessly, and maintain integrity without compromising on personal values . Who Is It For? The program is designed for everyone, making cine literacy accessible and impactful across different fields. It is beneficial for: Aspiring filmmakers and creative professionals who want to gain a deeper understanding of film language, techniques, and storytelling methods. Corporate professionals and leaders seeking to develop critical thinking, decision-making, and effective communication skills. Individuals on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth who want to use film as a tool for introspection, emotional intelligence, and perspective-building. Therapists, educators, and life coaches exploring innovative methods to enhance their practice and help clients understand emotions and human behaviour through storytelling. Students and young adults who want to sharpen their analytical skills and navigate media influence more consciously. Anyone who loves films and wants to engage with them beyond entertainment, gaining insights into how they shape our worldviews and emotions. The Power of Film Analysis One of the most transformative aspects of this program is the ability to recognise how films shape our emotions, thoughts, and values. By understanding how filmmakers use visuals, sound, and narrative techniques to influence us, we become more aware of how media affects our perceptions of the world—and of ourselves. Through film analysis, we also gain deeper insights into our own emotions and decision-making processes. When we learn to question how a story is told, we start to question the stories we tell ourselves about life. This shift in perspective can lead to better personal choices, improved relationships, and stronger emotional intelligence. A Lifelong Passion My 24-year journey in filmmaking has been about more than just creating films; it has been about understanding human nature through storytelling. Having an understanding that film is not merely entertainment but a powerful mirror and window into our shared humanity. The Cine Literacy Program is my way of sharing this knowledge, helping others navigate the world with intelligence and heart. I have seen the impact of cine literacy firsthand—when a student realises how a filmmaker has shaped their emotions through specific techniques, or when a participant applies film analysis to understand a personal conflict, I know this work is making a difference. This program is my legacy project —an effort to distill years of experience into something meaningful that outlasts any single film production. In an era where we are bombarded with images, helping others think critically about what they see is not just important; it is essential. My hope is that this program sparks curiosity, deepens awareness, and creates a ripple effect of thoughtful engagement with the visual world. Because when we learn to read films, we learn to read life itself. I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback! Feel free to share your reflections, experiences or questions with me in the comment section below or you can reach me at tarashwetanjali@gmail.com With immense gratitude, Shwetanjali Rai

Jasmine Chabria Speaker & Trainer Linkedin Profile When you think about high-performing teams, what comes to mind? Is it a group of experts? Is it enough to have experts? I wish to share a spoiler - the most successful teams aren’t necessarily the ones filled with the brightest minds—but the ones that truly collaborate. EI is made up of leaders across different fields, and I hope this insight empowers each of you to instill true collaboration within yourself and your teams The Marshmallow Challenge An engineer Peter Skillman set up a challenge. 2 groups were tasked with building the tallest possible tower using: • One marshmallow (which must sit at the top) • Spaghetti • Tape • String There was Group A: business school students . And Group B: kindergarten students . Now, pause for a second. Which group do you think built the taller tower? Take a guess! The Unexpected Outcome The winners? The KG kids built a taller tower. Simply, because they were truly collaborating. True collaboration = working together towards a shared goal, without status games or ego. People within a team focus on the task/ problem at hand. They focus on making the task happen together. (𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘨𝘩𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘺 𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘴𝘩𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸? 𝘓𝘦𝘵'𝘴 𝘵𝘳𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘥𝘢𝘢..') Meanwhile, the biz students were busy proving how they were the smartest in the group, playing status games instead of just building. (𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘐 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐'𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰s𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘱? 𝘞𝘩𝘰 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦, 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘺...? 𝘞𝘩𝘰 𝘪𝘴 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯g 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘢𝘮𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘴𝘵 𝘶𝘴? 𝘊𝘢𝘯 𝘐 𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘲𝘶𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘱?) The Lesson: Collaboration Over Individual Intellect Winning teams aren’t made of the smartest people in the room but of those who can set aside ego and work toward a shared goal. The next time you’re in a team, ask yourself: are we focused on solving the problem together, or are we playing status games? The answer could make all the difference in whether your team builds a tall, sturdy tower—or one that collapses under the weight of its own complexity. “Biz School Students & Kindergarten students”

Aniruddha Mehta Business Consultant, Music Enthusiast, and Lifelong Learner. LinkedIn ; Profile India is recognized as the " pharmacy of the world ," with a robust generic medicine industry that provides affordable healthcare solutions globally. Generic drugs are bioequivalent to branded drugs in dosage, safety, strength, route of administration, and quality. However, variations in efficacy among different brands raise concerns. This article explores why these differences occur, the role of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), supply chain dynamics, and cost variations in India's pharmaceutical industry. WHY DO GENERIC DRUGS HAVE VARYING EFFECTS? Although generics contain the same API, several factors contribute to differences in patient response: Excipients and Formulation : Inactive ingredients like binders, fillers, and coatings influence absorption, stability, and bioavailability. Variations in excipients can alter how the drug dissolves and is absorbed in the body. Manufacturing Processes and Quality Control : Differences in equipment, temperature control, and quality assurance impact drug consistency. Minor deviations, such as compression force during tablet production, can influence drug dissolution rates. Bioequivalence Standards : Generic drugs must meet bioequivalence criteria, but minor variations within regulatory limits can lead to differing patient responses. Patient-Specific Factors : Individual metabolism, genetics, and health conditions affect how a drug works. What is effective for one person may not be for another. API MANUFACTURING AND ITS IMPACT ON EFFICACY APIs, the core components of drugs, determine therapeutic effects. Their production process is critical to drug safety and efficacy: Synthesis and Purification : APIs undergo multi-step synthesis, requiring high purity. Even minor impurities can impact drug safety and effectiveness. Scale-Up Challenges : Industrial-scale production must maintain precise reaction times, temperature, and pressure to ensure consistency. Polymorphism : APIs can exist in different crystalline forms, affecting solubility, stability, and bioavailability. A less soluble polymorph may lead to slower absorption and reduced efficacy. Quality Control and Testing : Strict testing ensures compliance with regulatory standards. Differences in testing protocols can affect final drug quality. India is a leading API producer, known for cost-effectiveness. However, API quality varies between manufacturers, influencing final drug efficacy. SUPPLY CHAIN DYNAMICS OF GENERIC MEDICINES The Indian pharmaceutical supply chain is complex, involving multiple stakeholders: Raw Material Sourcing : APIs and excipients are primarily imported, with a heavy reliance on China. This dependency creates supply vulnerabilities, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Manufacturing and Packaging : Drug formulation and packaging impact stability and shelf life. Cost-effective packaging materials can sometimes compromise drug quality. Distribution Network : India’s fragmented distribution system includes wholesalers, retailers, and online pharmacies. Weak cold chain infrastructure can degrade temperature-sensitive drugs. Regulatory Oversight : The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) oversees quality, but counterfeit drugs and regulatory gaps pose challenges. Cost Variations : Prices vary due to manufacturing costs, marketing strategies, and distribution channels. For example, a generic paracetamol can cost ₹10 for a local brand and ₹50 for a reputed one, despite identical APIs. WHY DO GENERIC MEDICINES HAVE DIFFERENT PRICES? Several factors influence the cost of generics: Brand Value and Marketing : Established brands charge premiums due to reputation and advertising, while smaller brands prioritize affordability. Economies of Scale : Large manufacturers lower costs through bulk production, while smaller ones incur higher expenses. Quality of Excipients and Packaging : Higher-quality ingredients and advanced packaging increase costs, enhancing drug reliability. Regulatory Compliance : Meeting international standards like USFDA and WHO-GMP raises production expenses, leading to higher prices. Distribution Margins : Wholesalers and retailers add markups. Online pharmacies, with lower overheads, often offer discounted prices. CONCLUSION India's generic medicine industry is vital in providing cost-effective healthcare worldwide. While variations in efficacy arise from formulation differences, manufacturing processes, and patient-specific factors, stringent quality control ensures generics remain a reliable alternative. API manufacturing, supply chain complexities, and pricing structures further shape the industry. Strengthening regulatory frameworks and investing in advanced manufacturing will enhance accessibility and effectiveness, securing India's position as a global pharmaceutical leader. Understanding these nuances enables consumers to make informed choices and helps policymakers address industry challenges for sustainable growth.

Vasudevan Ramaswami Partner, Verts Management Consulting LLP Linkedin Chess is a game often associated with strategic thinking and planning, coupled with tactical interventions to opponent moves and most importantly a reflection of the choices one makes at different points of time to stay ahead in the game. It could well be associated with the kind of choices and plans one makes in life generally but is quite similar to the competitive business world where one has to carefully plan and execute the following Business Strategy and Corporate goal Organization Structure and Team Building Capabilities to execute the strategy Tactical interventions and Change management Management of milestones and success metrics Success transfers to ensure learnings are transferred to the next project or game. As a keen chess player , I have also pondered on how this can teach us the skills of patience to do the right move, adaptability to sudden changes, course correction, out of the box thinking and the concept of agility which is so important in today’s fast changing market environment. I have often seen how we start a game of chess with a certain plan in mind but based on the opponent’s interventions , have to quickly evaluate and execute alternate strategies/ moves. Chess intrinsically comes with well defined roles and responsibilities of the pieces starting with the King and Queen and of course the bishop, rook and knight but often one underestimates the power of the frontline pawns who play a significant role in the game opening as well in tricky situations where they could be a game changer either by their ability to support a strong offence or their ability to protect through a strong defensive action. It would not be wrong to draw this analogy to the importance of a trained frontline team in the corporate world who execute the actions on the ground based on a well thought through business strategy. Chess also teaches the power of sacrifice to attain larger goals which could mean letting go of something to achieve an even more powerful outcome. In a well-matched game, which resonates with a healthy market landscape where market players and regulators enable a level playing performance to satisfy customer needs, you not only end up thinking many moves ahead but are constantly challenging yourself on the planes of Innovation, Execution and Consolidation. Successful and sustainable businesses have to focus on getting their business strategy, structure, talent and capabilities right and must be willing to adapt/course correct to market changes in an agile manner. Please do reach us at partners@vertsconsulting.com to set up a conversation with us. We do look forward to the same.

Aniruddha Mehta Business Consultant, Music Enthusiast, and Lifelong Learner. LinkedIn ; Profile Brahma: The Unseen Architect of Innovation Vedic Roots: The Nasadiya Sukta (Rig Veda 10.129) begins with uncertainty: "There was neither existence nor non-existence then..." Brahma, the creator, emerges from this void, embodying the chaos of raw creativity. Yet, Brahma is rarely worshipped—a paradox mirrored in corporate R&D, where innovation is celebrated only in hindsight. In the Shatapatha Brahmana, Brahma’s creation is flawed; he spawns asuras (demons) before devas (gods), symbolizing the trial-and-error of ideation. Corporate Parallel: In 1991, when India liberalized its economy, the Tata Group faced a Brahma-like dilemma. Ratan Tata envisioned the Indica—India’s first indigenously developed car. Critics mocked it as a "Tata Nano prototype," but the Indica’s challenges became a crucible for learning. Like Brahma’s cursed creations, Tata’s early missteps in automotive R&D laid the groundwork for the Nexon EV, now India’s top electric SUV. Brahma’s lesson? Creation demands tolerance for imperfection. Unexplored Dimension: Brahma’s four heads, often reduced to "multitasking," symbolize the Chaturvarga—four pursuits of life: dharma (ethics), artha (wealth), kama (desire), moksha (liberation). Infosys embodies this: its Ethical AI framework (dharma) balances profit (artha) with employee well-being (kama), aspiring to industry leadership (moksha). Yet, like Brahma, Infosys faces criticism for "ivory tower" strategists disconnected from ground realities. Vishnu: The Sustainer Who Wears Many Masks Upanishadic Wisdom: The Bhagavad Gita (3.20–24) defines Vishnu’s essence: Krishna urges Arjuna to act without attachment, sustaining cosmic order (dharma). Vishnu’s ten avatars, from Matsya (fish) to Kalki (horseman), are not mere stories but metaphors for adaptive leadership. The Kurma Purana describes Vishnu as the tortoise bearing the weight of the universe—a nod to operational resilience. Corporate Parallel: In 2016, when demonetization shook India, Anand Mahindra faced a Vishnu moment. His company, Mahindra & Mahindra, pivoted from tractors to cashless financing overnight. Like Vishnu’s Varaha (boar) avatar lifting Earth from chaos, Mahindra’s Trringo app digitized tractor rentals for rural farmers. Yet, Vishnu’s duality bites: the same adaptability trapped Hindustan Unilever in 2020. Its supply chain, praised for sustaining during COVID, struggled to shed legacy distributors—a Kurma (tortoise) burdened by its own shell. Unexplored Dimension: Vishnu’s Ananta Shesha—the serpent he rests upon—symbolizes infinite time. ITC’s 100-year journey from Imperial Tobacco to Aashirvaad atta mirrors this. Yet, like Vishnu’s overlooked Balarama avatar (Krishna’s brother), ITC’s silent pivot to sustainability—planting 1 million trees—remains unsung. Vishnu teaches that preservation isn’t static; it’s dynamic equilibrium, as Flipkart shows by balancing Walmart’s global algorithms with local kirana partnerships. Shiva: The Destroyer Who Dances in Boardrooms Upanishadic Contradictions: The Isha Upanishad (Verse 18) warns: "Renounce and enjoy—do not covet others’ wealth." Shiva, as Nataraja, dances in a ring of fire, destroying illusion (maya). But in the Shvetashvatara Upanishad, Shiva is Rudra—the howling storm, feared yet vital for renewal. Modern management worships Shiva’s disruption (layoffs, pivots) but forgets his Ardhanarishvara form—merging masculine logic with feminine empathy. Corporate Parallel: In 2020, Reliance Jio’s Mukesh Ambani performed Shiva’s tandava. He demolished debt by selling stakes to Facebook and Google, then rebuilt Reliance as a digital titan. Like Shiva swallowing poison during the Samudra Manthan, Ambani absorbed criticism for monopolistic practices to "save" India’s telecom sector. Yet, Shiva’s third eye—symbolizing foresight—blinds those who misuse it. By 2023, Jio’s predatory pricing eroded competitors like Aircel, mirroring Shiva’s destructive potential when unchecked. Unexplored Dimension: Shiva’s Dakshinamurti form—the silent teacher—holds a flame in one hand (destruction) and a book in the other (wisdom). Biocon’s Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw embodies this. She shut down unprofitable drug lines (destruction) but reinvested in mRNA vaccines (creation), guided by the "book" of ethical biotech. Contrast this with Byju’s—Shiva without wisdom—whose aggressive acquisitions (WhiteHat Jr, Aakash) burned $22 billion in valuation. The Cosmic Dance: When Trinity Collides Mythological Synthesis: The Devi Bhagavata Purana recounts a cosmic debate: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva argue over supremacy. The goddess intervenes, revealing they’re facets of one truth. Similarly, India’s corporate titans thrive when the trinity coexists. Case Study: Amul’s Eternal Cycle Brahma: Verghese Kurien’s 1948 experiment—turning buffalo milk into cheese—was ridiculed as "Brahma’s folly." Vishnu: Amul’s cooperative model (3.6 million farmers) became Vishnu’s chakra—sustaining rural India. Shiva: In 2021, Amul killed its 50-year-old mascot campaign to launch NFTs—a controversial but necessary rebirth. Vedic Echo: The Brihadaranyaka Upanishad (1.4.10) states: "From the unreal, lead me to the real." Amul’s journey—from unrealized milk ponds to real global dairy dominance—mirrors this. The Shadow Trinity: When Gods Stumble Brahma’s Arrogance: Kingfisher Airlines’ Vijay Mallya, like Brahma, dreamed of "flying palaces." His unchecked creation (fleet expansion) ignored Vishnu’s sustenance (cash flow) and Shiva’s pruning (debt management). The result? Collapse. Vishnu’s Complacency: Nokia’s Chennai plant was once India’s Vishnu—employing 8,000 and dominating mobile markets. But clinging to Symbian OS (over-preservation) let Shiva (Apple/Android) destroy its empire. Shiva’s Ruthlessness: Patanjali’s Baba Ramdev, the yogi-Shiva, disrupted FMCG giants but faltered when his "herbal" claims faced regulatory poison—a lesson in unwise destruction. Conclusion: The Eternal Wheel The Vedas and Upanishads offer no "best practices"—only cycles. Brahma’s ideas must burn in Shiva’s fire to be refined by Vishnu’s chakra. Indian companies like Tata, Amul, and Mahindra succeed not by idolizing one god but by dancing with all three. As the Mundaka Upanishad (3.1.7) whispers : "Know that creation and destruction are but a game—the wise play without attachment." In boardrooms and factory floors, this is the ultimate yagna (sacrifice)—balancing creation, sustenance, and destruction to fuel the eternal wheel of dharma.